Booked for Summer by Kathryn Freeman

ABOUT THE BOOK

A love story she didn’t see coming…

When book lover Jade Taylor applies to manage the Little Bay Book Shack on Nantucket Island over the summer, the last thing she needs is the distraction of billionaire resort owner, Liam Haven.

But things take an unexpected turn when Liam becomes Jade’s boss – a man who only reads contracts for pleasure…

In a bid to save the bookshop from being absorbed into the Haven resort, Jade is determined to teach Liam that there’s more to life than acquiring real estate. And if she can make him realise happily ever afters do exist, might she be able to save the island’s bookshop in the process?

MY REVIEW

Jade is fearless as she takes on the challenge of managing a quaint little bookstore on Nantucket Island for the summer. Sounds like a dream job, right? But, hold on because this tale takes an unexpected twist that will keep you turning pages.

Jade’s summer gig turns into a whirlwind of surprises when she discovers that the charming bookstore she’s come to love is slated for demolition by the not-so-charming resort owner Liam. And, oh, by the way, she and Liam did the down and dirty before either of them knew who the other really was. Oops!

I really wanted to love this book. I mean, the premise was super cute and had all the makings of a fun romance. But as much as I tried to dive into this story, there were some things that just didn’t sit right with me.

For one, the whole insta-lust thing felt rushed and a bit unrealistic and Liam wasn’t even that likeable and he was definitely not available emotionally. Then there were those moments where the characters seemed to overreact to the tiniest things. I get it, we all have our quirks, but the unnecessary miscommunications and immaturity just drove me a little nuts. It felt like a lot of drama could’ve been avoided with a simple conversation. The plot seemed to run on a treadmill with lots of movement but not really going anywhere emotionally.

But hold on let’s not give up on this book yet! The last couple of chapters of the story totally made up for the angst with some empowering decisions (you go, Jade!) and a swoon-worthy grand gesture that was worth the wait.

Overall, Booked for Summer is a good pick for a beach read list. Set against the backdrop of stunning Nantucket, it’s the perfect escape for the start of summer. Even though the slow angsty build-up wasn’t my absolute favorite thing, the charming setting and sweet moments toward the end made it worthwhile.

Thank you to Ms. Freeman for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A former pharmacist, Kathryn now writes romantic comedies. Feel good books that are sexy and sweet, funny yet heart-warming. Mr Right Across the Street won the RNA Award for Romantic Comedy in 2022.

With a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to buy a card (yes, he does), the romance in her own life is all in her head. Then again, his unstinting support of her career change proves love isn’t always about hearts and flowers – and heroes come in many disguises.

Follow Kathryn on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and her website.