Discover the allure of forbidden love amidst the scenic beauty of Prince Edward Island in ‘This Summer Will Be Different’ by Carley Fortune, a tale woven with passion, family dynamics, and personal growth.
Length: 10 hours 30 minutes.
Narrator: AJ Bridel.
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to Penguin Audio and Libro.fm for the ALC of this audiobook. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
From The Publisher:
Lucy is the tourist vacationing at a beach house on Prince Edward Island. Felix is the local who shows her a very good time. The only problem: Lucy doesn’t know he’s her best friend’s younger brother. Lucy and Felix’s chemistry is unreal, but the list of reasons why they need to stay away from each other is long, and they vow to never repeat that electric night again.
It’s easier said than done.
Each year, Lucy escapes to PEI for a big breath of coastal air, fresh oysters and crisp vinho verde with her best friend, Bridget. Every visit begins with a long walk on the beach, beneath soaring red cliffs and a golden sun. And every visit, Lucy promises herself she won’t wind up in Felix’s bed. Again.
If Lucy can’t help being drawn to Felix, at least she’s always kept her heart out of it.
When Bridget suddenly flees Toronto a week before her wedding, Lucy drops everything to follow her to the island. Her mission is to help Bridget through her crisis and resist the one man she’s never been able to. But Felix’s sparkling eyes and flirty quips have been replaced with something new, and Lucy’s beginning to wonder just how safe her heart truly is.
My Thoughts:
In “This Summer Will Be Different,” Carley Fortune crafts a tale of forbidden love against the backdrop of picturesque Prince Edward Island. Lucy finds herself entangled in a whirlwind romance with Felix, her best friend Bridget’s brother, sparking a passionate connection that defies reason. While the chemistry between Lucy and Felix sizzles on the page, I couldn’t help but yearn for the emotional depth I found in Fortune’s previous works.
The narrative unfolds through alternating timelines, weaving together Lucy’s present-day predicament with glimpses of their past encounters. While this storytelling technique adds depth to the plot, I found myself occasionally disconnected by the repetitive nature of the memories: there were just too many of them. However, Fortune’s vivid descriptions of PEI’s coastal beauty and the floral industry serve as a captivating backdrop to the unfolding drama. As Lucy rushes to Bridget’s side amidst wedding chaos, the tension escalates, drawing Lucy and Felix closer despite their best intentions.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the personal growth evident in each of the main characters. Throughout the novel, Lucy and Felix navigate their feelings and responsibilities, grappling with the consequences of their actions. Their journey towards self-discovery adds depth to the story, resonating with readers on a profound level.
The Narration:
A.J. Bridel’s narration brings the characters to life with youthful vibrancy, making the audiobook format a delightful choice for readers seeking an immersive experience. I loved her ability to provide convincing voices to both female and male characters.
My Final Thoughts:
While “This Summer Will Be Different” may not have resonated with me as deeply as Fortune’s previous works, its blend of romance, family dynamics, and scenic charm offers an enjoyable escape into the complexities of love and loyalty.
Other Books I’ve Reviewed Written by Carley Fortune:
Jonetta | Blue Mood Café
Wonderful review, Jodie💜 I have it in the queue.
thathappyreader
I look forward to reading your thoughts on the book Jonetta!
Molly | Transatlantic Notes
This books seems like it has a decent story that is quite entertaining even if it does not connect as deeply as other similar titles that you have read. I like anything set in picturesque places so I could see myself diving into this. Thanks for this balanced review!
thathappyreader
Thanks for reading Molly!
aimee can read
I’m thinking of skipping this one bc books with alternating timelines are hard for me to enjoy. On the other hand, I do love forbidden romances… Maybe I should check out this author’s other books instead. 🙂
thathappyreader
I hope you do decide to read one of her books Aimee!
Her Digital Coffee
Great review Jodie! I’m glad you enjoyed this book despite the alternating timelines. I find myself disconnected from storylines that do that too often as well, especially if it’s repetitive. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
thathappyreader
Thanks for reading Winnie.
Carla @ CarlaLovesToRead
Wonderful review, Jodie. I like the idea of forbidden love and personal growth. I am usually okay with dual timelines or memories, but do worry about the repetitiveness. I am in the queue for this at the library.
thathappyreader
I hope that you enjoy it Carla.