It Happened One Summer (2021)After socialite and influencer Piper lands in jail, her stepdad sends her to a small town in Washington to prove that she's more than just a pretty face and learn some responsibility. There, she reconnects with her late father's family and friends and meets sea captain Brendan, who may just have her giving up her partying ways for a slower-paced life. I wish it hadn't taken me so long to finally read this book, because I just absolutely loved it! At first I was a little unsure of Piper - she seemed so naive, but underneath that innocent exterior turned out to be a heart of gold and a cute sense of humor. I loved watching her grow and learn things about herself, that she's more than just an "it girl." Brendan was the perfect foil for her - a widower totally set in his routines, he learns to loosen up a bit while giving Piper the stability she needed. Although their relationship was a bit on the fast track, I was here for all of it - their chemistry had me turning the pages late into the night. There's humor, there's lots of heart, and there are some seriously steamy scenes to keep readers satisfied! 5 stars
When aspiring journalist Elise finds herself stuck in a cable car with three strapping men, she never thought it would lead to the most unconventional relationship of her life, but now she's juggling three boyfriends while also trying to break a big story. LMAO, what did I just read?? I thought maybe this was about a woman who is actually dating three men separately, but it turned out to be a reverse harem/polyamorous romance. I've read lots of different types of romances, but never one like this! It was so hard to reconcile in my mind how all four of these people felt an instant connection and understand how the men would make it work for Elise. I mean, it must be nice to be completely adored, cherished, and admired by three guys! I did enjoy how Bailey showed that the relationship brought out the best in each of them and how the men (and Elise) grow over the course of the book, but the sex scenes were maybe a little much for me? Sometimes it seemed like that was the driving factor behind the relationship. The bits of political intrigue were a nice (and needed) addition, breaking up some of the overwhelming lust and love between the four. 3.5 stars
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You nailed why It Happened One Summer was such a hit for me too. It was Piper and her tremendous growth that really won my heart. I loved the town as a whole too.
ReplyDeleteAhh, I know! It was such a good mix of small-town and romance and fun and heart!
DeleteIt happened one Summer might be more my cup of tea than a reverse harem novel, even if the author is superb :) Piper and her growth sound wonderful! — Verushka from Pop. Edit. Lit.
ReplyDeleteHaha, yes, agreed!
DeleteYay, so glad to see you loved It Happened One Summer. That was a book that far exceeded my expectations last year. The second book in the series is really good too. :)
ReplyDeleteI haven't read that one yet!
DeleteI also recently read and loved It Happened One Summer! I was afraid I wouldn't like Piper, but just like you I loved her growth and heart of gold.
ReplyDeleteYes!!
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