One Golden Summer

One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune was a really enjoyable read, even for someone who doesn’t always gravitate toward contemporary romance. The Ontario cottage setting is vivid and warm, and the story focuses on emotional growth, belonging, and revisiting places that shaped you. Alice’s arc, from outsider to finally feeling like she fits, was especially well done. This book can be read as a standalone, but some characters appear in Every Summer After, and I think reading that first would enhance the experience. That said, I still found this story engaging and satisfying. A great choice for readers looking for a nostalgic, character-driven summer romance.

This is the first book that I have read and listen to by this author. I did not realize that there were a few books previously that I could have read before reading this book that had these characters in them. I'm not sure if it took away from my experience by not having read the previous books however, I find that I really loved this book! When I started the book I wasn't 100% sure what I was going to think, however, as I continued on I was definitely drawn into the story. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. I was hoping that the main characters would have a happily ever after even though there were a few times that I was worried that would not happen. And I'm not going to say if it did or didn't but the ending was definitely satisfying. I just felt the entire book was very well written, the storyline was engaging and drew the reader in, I definitely had a lot of emotions and feelings that I experienced with the book, and I'm glad that I read and listened to the book. I ended up getting the ebook and audible version. The narrator did a great job and I like how the audible version had the extra information that was in the back of the e-book because sometimes the audible doesn't include that and this time it did. I'm thinking I may go back and check out more of this author's books.

One Golden Summer creates an enchanting escape where love conquers life's toughest challenges. Carly Fortune has crafted another winner with Charlie Florek - a character so compelling he'll set impossibly high standards for future book boyfriends. This novel masterfully balances heartbreak and hope, creating that bittersweet reading experience where even the painful moments feel beautifully crafted. It's the perfect summer read for anyone seeking emotional depth alongside romantic escapism. While it stands alone perfectly, readers familiar with Fortune's "Every Summer After" will appreciate the shared setting and character connections that add extra richness to the story. The lakeside backdrop provides a gorgeous, nostalgic atmosphere throughout both books. Fortune continues to demonstrate her talent for creating immersive romantic fiction that lingers long after the final page. Her writing style draws you in completely, making it impossible to put down. Book arrived in excellent condition. Highly recommend for fans of contemporary romance seeking their next emotional journey.

This was the perfect summer read for me. To look at and long for summers past and even things we wish we had the courage to do. To find that fate really does have a way of working out even when we least expect it. Alice Everly may be known as the shy type with her family but her grace, beauty, and courage are able to shine through when she meets her match. Completing her bucket list she wished she could have down at 17 a while later, closer to 30, is such a fun way to get to know her and get her out of her comfort zone. Throw Charlie Florek into it and the adventure is full of laughs, good memories and some extra emotions. Things may not always be what they seem, but you can't deny when you meet your match.

This was a very cute summer read. I loved the banter between the two main characters, at times I was laughing and at times I was even mad at them both. I related to the relationship Alice had with her grandmother as it felt like my Mimi and I. If you like slow burn then this is very much slow burn with a little spice mixed in. It does have a food twist in the story and the love between Charlie and Alice was adorable. It had me hooked by the fourth chapter and the only reason it was not a five star read for me was because it seemed to be a little drawn out for my liking. Would I recommend it still , yes.

I love that we get to hear how Charlie’s story turned out. Definitely read Every Summer After first. I think that’s still my favorite of hers, but One Golden Summer is a close second. It does the storyline and Barry’s Bay justice. A perfect summer read that transports you to the lake and its nostalgic cottages. It was impressive how nostalgic the story was without us knowing Alice before this. The grandmother’s story woven in and her relationship with Alice and Charlie are just perfect and make the book so much better than just a romance. The romance is great too, with a very drawn out seduction that had me finishing the book in less than a day. You want them to get together so badly but also love that it’s work and that they worry about jeopardizing a meaningful, fast forming friendship for sex. Her self discovery journey is also emphasized throughout and you are really cheering for her to stand up for herself professionally and reclaim her identity. I loved it!

Read this book in 3 days! Couldn’t put it down. 100% recommend this book. Loved the authors style of writing and all the characters

Beste boek van Carley Fortune, een must read!

Si te gustó “Every Summer After”, “One Golden Summer” te encantará. Es un libro perfecto para la época veraniega. Fácil de leer y muy entretenido. Te enamorarás de cada uno de los personajes.

I was completely engrossed in this book and loved Alice and Charlie's story. All the experiences in nature by the water: I felt like I was right there with them. Sensitively told. Wonderful!

Lovely vacation read.