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Tourist Season
A summer by the ocean promises new beginnings—until old secrets resurface.
Ismay Chalmers is ready for a relaxing summer reconnecting with her fiancé at his family’s luxurious beachfront cottage. But before Remy can join her, a hurricane bears down on Mariners Island. Alone in the large house, Ismay makes a disturbing discovery in Remy's childhood closet. She's not sure what to make of it, but is relieved when the property’s caretaker, Bo, checks in on her.
Bo's home is damaged, so they temporarily shelter together, and Ismay is comforted by his quiet strength. But the unannounced arrival of a family member puts Bo back at his place and changes Ismay's summer into something other than what she wants—or ever expected. With so many reasons to feel unsettled, Ismay finds herself turning to Bo, who gives her more than a sense of security; there’s something about him that makes her feel alive, stirring her to wonder what life might be like if she chose a different path…
As Ismay grows closer to Bo, she begins to hope the reclusive caretaker might eventually let down his guard. But when she finds out that he has secrets, too, she begins to question how well she knows any of the men in her life—and how well she can trust her own heart.
Ismay Chalmers is ready for a relaxing summer reconnecting with her fiancé at his family’s luxurious beachfront cottage. But before Remy can join her, a hurricane bears down on Mariners Island. Alone in the large house, Ismay makes a disturbing discovery in Remy's childhood closet. She's not sure what to make of it, but is relieved when the property’s caretaker, Bo, checks in on her.
Bo's home is damaged, so they temporarily shelter together, and Ismay is comforted by his quiet strength. But the unannounced arrival of a family member puts Bo back at his place and changes Ismay's summer into something other than what she wants—or ever expected. With so many reasons to feel unsettled, Ismay finds herself turning to Bo, who gives her more than a sense of security; there’s something about him that makes her feel alive, stirring her to wonder what life might be like if she chose a different path…
As Ismay grows closer to Bo, she begins to hope the reclusive caretaker might eventually let down his guard. But when she finds out that he has secrets, too, she begins to question how well she knows any of the men in her life—and how well she can trust her own heart.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2024
844 people are currently reading
12905 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Novak
238 books6,985 followersIt was a shocking experience that jump-started Brenda Novak’s bestselling author career.
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 576 reviews
April 11, 2024
Tourist Season by Brenda Novak is a women’s fiction title that takes a contemporary romance story and weaves in a mystery for the characters to solve. The story in Tourist Season is one that is told by changing the point of view between the characters giving both sides to the story.
Ismay Chalmers has headed to Mariners Island for a long relaxing break after all of her years of studying to become a lawyer. Ismay is going to be staying in her fiance’s family’s beachfront cottage for a few weeks by herself until her fiance finishes medical school exams. What Ismay didn’t count on was a strong storm heading through just after her arrival.
With the power out and the storm swirling around her in the cottage Ismay goes in search of anything that may help. In her fiance’s room she finds a hidden panel and while hoping for some kind of light instead she finds a mysterious duffel. As Ismay puzzles the discovery help arrives in he form of Bo, the family’s cottage and property caretaker. After Bo helps Ismay he in turn ends up in need of a hand dealing with the storm damage to his own cottage so Ismay offers dry shelter for the night with her.
Several years back Brenda Novak quickly became a go to author for me when I just need to know I’m going to enjoy a novel. None of her books have rated below four stars for me and Tourist Season wasn’t an exception to that at all. I think the fact one thing that isn’t high on my list is starting a romance with someone already in a couple is the theme to this story and I still absolutely loved the book is probably all that I need to say. I will however add that the setting was great, the main characters enjoyable while the side characters are questionable to say the least with the mystery so all that combination had me flying through this latest Brenda Novak release!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Ismay Chalmers has headed to Mariners Island for a long relaxing break after all of her years of studying to become a lawyer. Ismay is going to be staying in her fiance’s family’s beachfront cottage for a few weeks by herself until her fiance finishes medical school exams. What Ismay didn’t count on was a strong storm heading through just after her arrival.
With the power out and the storm swirling around her in the cottage Ismay goes in search of anything that may help. In her fiance’s room she finds a hidden panel and while hoping for some kind of light instead she finds a mysterious duffel. As Ismay puzzles the discovery help arrives in he form of Bo, the family’s cottage and property caretaker. After Bo helps Ismay he in turn ends up in need of a hand dealing with the storm damage to his own cottage so Ismay offers dry shelter for the night with her.
Several years back Brenda Novak quickly became a go to author for me when I just need to know I’m going to enjoy a novel. None of her books have rated below four stars for me and Tourist Season wasn’t an exception to that at all. I think the fact one thing that isn’t high on my list is starting a romance with someone already in a couple is the theme to this story and I still absolutely loved the book is probably all that I need to say. I will however add that the setting was great, the main characters enjoyable while the side characters are questionable to say the least with the mystery so all that combination had me flying through this latest Brenda Novak release!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
March 31, 2024
The hurricane heading for Mariner’s Island isn’t the only one that Ismay Chalmers will have to face this summer! A storm of a different type is heading her way - will it leave devastation in its wake, too?
Things I loved:
✔️new beginnings
✔️hidden secrets
✔️surprises
✔️family drama
✔️mystery to solve
✔️enclosed location (shelter during the storm)
✔️learning to trust one’s heart
✔️seaside setting
✔️light on romance
Ismay Chalmers thinks she has control over her present and future until a hurricane affects Mariners Island and gives her time and opportunity to think about her future. A hidden secret and a caring individual prove to be speedbumps in the path Ismay has laid out for herself.
I could relate to Ismay and the anguish of indecision as she weighed up her choices. I’m hoping we see more of these characters and I appreciated the ‘more mystery than romance’ direction this book took. It’s always good to be reminded that things may not always be as they seem.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Things I loved:
✔️new beginnings
✔️hidden secrets
✔️surprises
✔️family drama
✔️mystery to solve
✔️enclosed location (shelter during the storm)
✔️learning to trust one’s heart
✔️seaside setting
✔️light on romance
Ismay Chalmers thinks she has control over her present and future until a hurricane affects Mariners Island and gives her time and opportunity to think about her future. A hidden secret and a caring individual prove to be speedbumps in the path Ismay has laid out for herself.
I could relate to Ismay and the anguish of indecision as she weighed up her choices. I’m hoping we see more of these characters and I appreciated the ‘more mystery than romance’ direction this book took. It’s always good to be reminded that things may not always be as they seem.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 18, 2024
3.5 Stars-
~~~~~~~~~~
I have to say I was pleasantly surprised when I started diving into the story. I was not expecting some of the darker and slightly psychological twists that she threw in this book.
The plot is great and totally works with the scenarios that she adds. There is tension, a slow buildup, and enough of a creep factor to get that uncomfortable feeling now and again.
The characters that Novak develops are diverse and definitely draw you in. The twins have a dark side to them and you’re really not sure what to expect, keeping you on edge as she builds the story.
Tourist Season is a well-developed book that keeps you a bit off balance. With drips of foreshadowing and a building romance, Novak continues to draw you into the story.
One part that was not a hit for me is the ending. After the buildup she delivered, the ending could have been so much more. A big missed opportunity, in my opinion. I really wanted more.
~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/tourist-seas...
~~~~~~~~~~
I have to say I was pleasantly surprised when I started diving into the story. I was not expecting some of the darker and slightly psychological twists that she threw in this book.
The plot is great and totally works with the scenarios that she adds. There is tension, a slow buildup, and enough of a creep factor to get that uncomfortable feeling now and again.
The characters that Novak develops are diverse and definitely draw you in. The twins have a dark side to them and you’re really not sure what to expect, keeping you on edge as she builds the story.
Tourist Season is a well-developed book that keeps you a bit off balance. With drips of foreshadowing and a building romance, Novak continues to draw you into the story.
One part that was not a hit for me is the ending. After the buildup she delivered, the ending could have been so much more. A big missed opportunity, in my opinion. I really wanted more.
~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/tourist-seas...
March 30, 2024
I wish I could understand the high ratings that so many have given to this book. I feel like they must have read a different book than me because this is not a 4 or 5 star book. This is why I think this:
- a small point but still a negative... the book cover and title are deceiving. This book had nothing to do with a tourist season.
- soooo many "50 cent" words used in this book that do not fit to the style of the story. I'm hoping that the final edit changes many of them to something more appropriate.
- the book needs a final edit. Some of the speech lines did not fit to what the other person was saying.
- too many scenes were not realistic. For example, a character showed up "driving a small Toyota" and then preceded to fit many (more than possible) boxes and big items in that vehicle. Or there was mention of a picture taken at a funeral. Who takes pictures at a funeral?! And the wording in some of the texts did not fit with the age-group of the characters. As well, some of what the detective did and shared with other characters was not something police would do in real life. They would not give away this information.
- or actions did not flow in the right order, for example "he started to sweep the debris on the floor into a pile" but the floor was still covered in flood water. Or the mention that it was harvest season in Utah but it was not even summer yet (what could possibly be harvested in May/June in Utah?). Or that a text was sent early enough that the receiver stewed about it "all day" but in another scene the text sender said they sent it "after you went to bed".
- timelines moved extremely fast
- I dislike all of the characters and their decisions although I understand that I wasn't suppose to like a couple of them. Unfortunately even the 2 main characters were not liked by me based on their personalities. They were too accommodating and very rarely voiced an opinion or stood up for themselves.
- the location of the story was not described very well. There was more dialogue and character movement than description of the scenery around them. I could not picture myself there like I can with so many other books. This is important to many readers. Such a wonderful location but it was not given justice.
The story line was enticing and I did keep reading to just find out what the outcome was. There were many great parts of this book that could have stood out more if there was just a better amount of editing done and some addition of description. This romance mixed with a thriller element could have been so much more!!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book. I so wish I could be like so many others and give it 5 stars but it just was not to that level for me.
- a small point but still a negative... the book cover and title are deceiving. This book had nothing to do with a tourist season.
- soooo many "50 cent" words used in this book that do not fit to the style of the story. I'm hoping that the final edit changes many of them to something more appropriate.
- the book needs a final edit. Some of the speech lines did not fit to what the other person was saying.
- too many scenes were not realistic. For example, a character showed up "driving a small Toyota" and then preceded to fit many (more than possible) boxes and big items in that vehicle. Or there was mention of a picture taken at a funeral. Who takes pictures at a funeral?! And the wording in some of the texts did not fit with the age-group of the characters. As well, some of what the detective did and shared with other characters was not something police would do in real life. They would not give away this information.
- or actions did not flow in the right order, for example "he started to sweep the debris on the floor into a pile" but the floor was still covered in flood water. Or the mention that it was harvest season in Utah but it was not even summer yet (what could possibly be harvested in May/June in Utah?). Or that a text was sent early enough that the receiver stewed about it "all day" but in another scene the text sender said they sent it "after you went to bed".
- timelines moved extremely fast
- I dislike all of the characters and their decisions although I understand that I wasn't suppose to like a couple of them. Unfortunately even the 2 main characters were not liked by me based on their personalities. They were too accommodating and very rarely voiced an opinion or stood up for themselves.
- the location of the story was not described very well. There was more dialogue and character movement than description of the scenery around them. I could not picture myself there like I can with so many other books. This is important to many readers. Such a wonderful location but it was not given justice.
The story line was enticing and I did keep reading to just find out what the outcome was. There were many great parts of this book that could have stood out more if there was just a better amount of editing done and some addition of description. This romance mixed with a thriller element could have been so much more!!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book. I so wish I could be like so many others and give it 5 stars but it just was not to that level for me.
June 18, 2024
Another fabulous book by one of my favorite authors, Brenda Novak. She's woven a story that had me guessing right to the end. I couldn't put it down but didn't want it to end either! The main characters were all so different from each other, this added an additional bonus to the story.
March 31, 2024
Author Brenda Novak, a comfort read for me, knowing her style with small town romance and how she wraps it up into a pretty bow at the end keeps me coming back for more.
Set on Mariner’s Island, a luxurious beach cottage awaits Ismay and Remy for a much needed glorious summer of relaxing and rekindling. While Remy is finishing his studies Ismay ventures ahead of Remy and a hurricane storms the island and she is left to the rescue of Bo, the caretaker.
Ismay discovers a creepy finding in her fiances childhood room. Unsure of what to do with her discovery she trusts and befriends Bo who showed up with flashlights and helped fix the generator. Unable to return to his own cottage due to hurricane damage, he stays with Ismay and their relationship develops into something more than it should be.
Ismay’s soon to be brother in law arrives on the island unannounced, throwing a wrench into her summer plans.
Between the secrets, peculiar behavior and tight lipped responses, Ismay is questioning her soon to be family and even Bo who she thought she could trust!
Another Brenda Novak summer read you won’t want to put down. Flirty! Edgy! Emotional and current.
I highly recommend this novel for anyone who loves a small town romance, summer vibe with some twists and a dark secret. A 3.5 star read for me , I rounded up to 4, I just love Brenda’s novels .
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Set on Mariner’s Island, a luxurious beach cottage awaits Ismay and Remy for a much needed glorious summer of relaxing and rekindling. While Remy is finishing his studies Ismay ventures ahead of Remy and a hurricane storms the island and she is left to the rescue of Bo, the caretaker.
Ismay discovers a creepy finding in her fiances childhood room. Unsure of what to do with her discovery she trusts and befriends Bo who showed up with flashlights and helped fix the generator. Unable to return to his own cottage due to hurricane damage, he stays with Ismay and their relationship develops into something more than it should be.
Ismay’s soon to be brother in law arrives on the island unannounced, throwing a wrench into her summer plans.
Between the secrets, peculiar behavior and tight lipped responses, Ismay is questioning her soon to be family and even Bo who she thought she could trust!
Another Brenda Novak summer read you won’t want to put down. Flirty! Edgy! Emotional and current.
I highly recommend this novel for anyone who loves a small town romance, summer vibe with some twists and a dark secret. A 3.5 star read for me , I rounded up to 4, I just love Brenda’s novels .
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 2, 2024
TOURIST SEASON
by Brenda Novak
Release date April 2, 2024
A definite WOW!! Intrigue, and mystery. Don’t let the cover fool you !
This is definitely not your quick and easy summer beach read.
Ismay has just finished law school, and her fiancé Remi is finishing up medical school. They plan to spend the summer on Mariners island resting and reconnecting with each other. They have been so busy with school that they feel they’ve drifted apart a bit.
Ismay heads to Mariners Island ahead of Remy.
On her first night there a storm hits the island, and she is left with no power. No, lights no heat. While looking for a way to light some candles she stumbles across some very suspicious paraphernalia hidden behind the wall in Remy’s bedroom. Then the caretaker Bo shows up at the door, and that scares her too. Even though she’s scared she feels she has an immediate connection to the caretaker.
Then Remy twin brother shows up unexpectedly. Ismay has never met him before. Then Jack, Ismay’s brother calls, very upset, because he is going through a divorce. Ismay encourages him to come to the island. Definitely not the quiet summer Remy and Ismay had planed.
This is definitely a book of mystery, intrigue, and who done it. I am definitely a Brenda Novak fan and I can say this is probably one of my top five books that she has written. And I have read all of her books!
I highly recommend this book !!
by Brenda Novak
Release date April 2, 2024
A definite WOW!! Intrigue, and mystery. Don’t let the cover fool you !
This is definitely not your quick and easy summer beach read.
Ismay has just finished law school, and her fiancé Remi is finishing up medical school. They plan to spend the summer on Mariners island resting and reconnecting with each other. They have been so busy with school that they feel they’ve drifted apart a bit.
Ismay heads to Mariners Island ahead of Remy.
On her first night there a storm hits the island, and she is left with no power. No, lights no heat. While looking for a way to light some candles she stumbles across some very suspicious paraphernalia hidden behind the wall in Remy’s bedroom. Then the caretaker Bo shows up at the door, and that scares her too. Even though she’s scared she feels she has an immediate connection to the caretaker.
Then Remy twin brother shows up unexpectedly. Ismay has never met him before. Then Jack, Ismay’s brother calls, very upset, because he is going through a divorce. Ismay encourages him to come to the island. Definitely not the quiet summer Remy and Ismay had planed.
This is definitely a book of mystery, intrigue, and who done it. I am definitely a Brenda Novak fan and I can say this is probably one of my top five books that she has written. And I have read all of her books!
I highly recommend this book !!
May 5, 2024
No thank you! Listened to the audiobook and was going to give up 30 min in and I thought maybe it’ll get better, no it did not. Narrator was not my favorite so that could be why my rating is much lower than others.
I really could not stand how much the characters had to explain every thought or decision, like over and over again. I am following the plot, you are over explaining, it’s annoying.
I hated pretty much all the characters except Honey. They were all whack jobs and I really couldn’t get into any of this. I finished the book though, so I should get a prize.
I really could not stand how much the characters had to explain every thought or decision, like over and over again. I am following the plot, you are over explaining, it’s annoying.
I hated pretty much all the characters except Honey. They were all whack jobs and I really couldn’t get into any of this. I finished the book though, so I should get a prize.
April 8, 2024
There's so much crammed into this book, Ismay, (that name?), her backstory and romance with fiance, Remy(?), and caretaker, Bo. Then, There's Bo, incarcerated for murder, yet, able to get a job. He's got a juicy backstory. There's the pervert twins, including a Bastion, who stole her panties and tried her door during one night. There's a story of the parents of the weird twins and their crumbling marriage. There's Ismay's brother Jack, who joins the Bo household after his wife left hum fir Jessica. There's the old neighbor, Honey, and her photographic memory for faces from the past.
Naturally, anyone would question the judgments of lawyer, Ismay. She plans to spend an entire summer at her finances parents' cottage. She's got no money and no actual job. Her guy is studying at ucla for some reason having to do with medical school. He wouldn't be at the cottage until done. Meanwhile, when the brother, Bastion, (?), appears, Ismay, caught with caretaker, Bo, stays at the cottage. He's really strange. Ismay had found a duffel bag with creepy, crime momentos. Anyone else would leave. But, I'm not sure she's got a place to return to. With no money, you can't rent in Westwood or Brentwood or just about any decent neighborhood there. She won't work for a law firm, but believes she can start one from her computer.
I was okay with the first part of the book. With Bastion's arrival and all the lies that Ismay told about her and her brother, Jack's whereabouts, it became too ridiculous not to skim. There's no way Ismay doesn't have a mountain of debt from university. No one spends two months in Cape Cod's vicinity, totally broke with no aid from immediate family. I can't see how she's hiding her brother from pesky twin. He's right on the property at the caretaker's, not at a hotel. She takes an Uber to avoid Bastion from fighting this out. Despite that, Jack is at Bo's fixing the cottage, damaged in the storm. No insurance adjustors came to appraise that.
Naturally, anyone would question the judgments of lawyer, Ismay. She plans to spend an entire summer at her finances parents' cottage. She's got no money and no actual job. Her guy is studying at ucla for some reason having to do with medical school. He wouldn't be at the cottage until done. Meanwhile, when the brother, Bastion, (?), appears, Ismay, caught with caretaker, Bo, stays at the cottage. He's really strange. Ismay had found a duffel bag with creepy, crime momentos. Anyone else would leave. But, I'm not sure she's got a place to return to. With no money, you can't rent in Westwood or Brentwood or just about any decent neighborhood there. She won't work for a law firm, but believes she can start one from her computer.
I was okay with the first part of the book. With Bastion's arrival and all the lies that Ismay told about her and her brother, Jack's whereabouts, it became too ridiculous not to skim. There's no way Ismay doesn't have a mountain of debt from university. No one spends two months in Cape Cod's vicinity, totally broke with no aid from immediate family. I can't see how she's hiding her brother from pesky twin. He's right on the property at the caretaker's, not at a hotel. She takes an Uber to avoid Bastion from fighting this out. Despite that, Jack is at Bo's fixing the cottage, damaged in the storm. No insurance adjustors came to appraise that.
August 27, 2024
(I still can’t stop thinking about this book ツ bumped from 4 to 4.5 stars)
I really enjoyed Brenda Novak’s latest release that has some bite to it.. it’s part light-romance, part mystery, with all the feels of a thriller. ツ Ismay Chambers is staying alone at her fiancées family beachfront cottage on Mariners Island.. as a hurricane bears down causing a power outage. While looking for matches she finds something bizarre and quite scary in her fiancées childhood bedroom closet. Then a knock at the door, it’s the property’s year round caretaker Bo to help (who’s hiding secrets of his own). We find out about several deaths from the past that had me guessing Ismay’s fiancé, his twin brother or both had to be involved? This is gripping, creepy, and captivating with its many layers that I couldn’t stop reading. Loved Novak’s build-up foreshadowing the possibility of this not ending well for Ismay or Bo; -there’s Ismay’s relationship indecision she’s shared with her fiancé and his twin, along with both twins being bad apples with a devilish dark side, and Ismay + Bo falling for the one person they shouldn’t. There’s so much more going on but no spoilers. ❥ 4.5 stars — Pub. 4/2/24
I really enjoyed Brenda Novak’s latest release that has some bite to it.. it’s part light-romance, part mystery, with all the feels of a thriller. ツ Ismay Chambers is staying alone at her fiancées family beachfront cottage on Mariners Island.. as a hurricane bears down causing a power outage. While looking for matches she finds something bizarre and quite scary in her fiancées childhood bedroom closet. Then a knock at the door, it’s the property’s year round caretaker Bo to help (who’s hiding secrets of his own). We find out about several deaths from the past that had me guessing Ismay’s fiancé, his twin brother or both had to be involved? This is gripping, creepy, and captivating with its many layers that I couldn’t stop reading. Loved Novak’s build-up foreshadowing the possibility of this not ending well for Ismay or Bo; -there’s Ismay’s relationship indecision she’s shared with her fiancé and his twin, along with both twins being bad apples with a devilish dark side, and Ismay + Bo falling for the one person they shouldn’t. There’s so much more going on but no spoilers. ❥ 4.5 stars — Pub. 4/2/24
April 2, 2024
This is a book set on a gorgeous beach in a wonderful house, but that is as far as the light beach reading goes. TOURIST SEASON is a multi-layered book about relationships, secrets, and intrigue that captivated me from the beginning. The setting is inviting and the characters are relatable; even the ones that I didn’t particularly like were well-developed and dynamic. I really enjoyed getting to know Ismay Chalmers and her warm hearted desire to help people find happiness, especially her brother who has just had a shock in his own relationship. Ismay is not afraid to risk helping others, but she is a little slow to recognize when she herself needs help in the relationship department. Enter swoon worthy hero, Bo the caretaker, who is there to help Ismay weather a hurricane and discover some truths about the family she is planning to marry into. The story is intricate and well-woven around the setting and the characters. The plot moves at a moderate pace at first, then picks up and races to the end as more and more secrets are uncovered and Ismay is hard pressed to make some difficult choices. I really enjoyed how tightly woven together the plot was and the chemistry between the main characters. With complex family dynamics, an edgy mystery and a satisfying story, this book is a brilliantly written slam dunk for me!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
February 18, 2024
What appears to be a light-hearted beach read takes a darker turn. Brenda Novak's #TouristSeason provides choppy waters at Mariner's shore.
Ismay arrives for a relaxing vacation but a storm is raging Having completed her boards, Ismay's taking the summer off before opening her practice. Bo, the estate's caretaker swoops in to fix the cottage and they bond during the squalls. .
The meet-cute turns into an unexpected friendship that provides safe shores when her fiancé's actions appear sinister. Does Ismay really know the man she's about to marry? Filled with twists and turns, family relations and cold cases receiving their dues, this tourist season isn't the day at the beach the vacation promised.
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. When a cover up is revealed, readers will find themselves hunting for the truth. Curl up on the couch with a steaming cup of coffee or relaxing glass of wine as you won't leave your seat until the book ends.
Merged review:
What appears to be a light-hearted beach read takes a darker turn. Brenda Novak's #TouristSeason provides choppy waters at Mariner's shore.
Ismay arrives for a relaxing vacation but a storm is raging Having completed her boards, Ismay's taking the summer off before opening her practice. Bo, the estate's caretaker swoops in to fix the cottage and they bond during the squalls. .
The meet-cute turns into an unexpected friendship that provides safe shores when her fiancé's actions appear sinister. Does Ismay really know the man she's about to marry? Filled with twists and turns, family relations and cold cases receiving their dues, this tourist season isn't the day at the beach the vacation promised.
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. When a cover up is revealed, readers will find themselves hunting for the truth. Curl up on the couch with a steaming cup of coffee or relaxing glass of wine as you won't leave your seat until the book ends.
Ismay arrives for a relaxing vacation but a storm is raging Having completed her boards, Ismay's taking the summer off before opening her practice. Bo, the estate's caretaker swoops in to fix the cottage and they bond during the squalls. .
The meet-cute turns into an unexpected friendship that provides safe shores when her fiancé's actions appear sinister. Does Ismay really know the man she's about to marry? Filled with twists and turns, family relations and cold cases receiving their dues, this tourist season isn't the day at the beach the vacation promised.
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. When a cover up is revealed, readers will find themselves hunting for the truth. Curl up on the couch with a steaming cup of coffee or relaxing glass of wine as you won't leave your seat until the book ends.
Merged review:
What appears to be a light-hearted beach read takes a darker turn. Brenda Novak's #TouristSeason provides choppy waters at Mariner's shore.
Ismay arrives for a relaxing vacation but a storm is raging Having completed her boards, Ismay's taking the summer off before opening her practice. Bo, the estate's caretaker swoops in to fix the cottage and they bond during the squalls. .
The meet-cute turns into an unexpected friendship that provides safe shores when her fiancé's actions appear sinister. Does Ismay really know the man she's about to marry? Filled with twists and turns, family relations and cold cases receiving their dues, this tourist season isn't the day at the beach the vacation promised.
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. When a cover up is revealed, readers will find themselves hunting for the truth. Curl up on the couch with a steaming cup of coffee or relaxing glass of wine as you won't leave your seat until the book ends.
April 2, 2024
Romance with a little mystery.
Ismay (I love the name) is staying at her fiance, Remys parents' place on the beach. It's a small town where not a lot happens. Ismay and Remy are going to relax there together after Remy is done with his last tests.
When Ismay arrives, it's a terrible storm, and for Ismay (who's from Utah), it's really scary. She gets some help from the caretaker of the place, Bo. Who's goodlooking... kind... and Ismay can't help but feel safe when she's around him.
Bo's been taking care of the place for 2 years, and he's not a fan of Remy or his brother, Bastian (not a fan, poor guy needs to be checked out!) And Bo has his own reasons and knowledge of people who aren't on the up and up.
So when Ismay finds something very unsettling in the cottage, she turns to Bo. There's a mystery in what Ismay finds. And honestly, most of the book I kept flip-flopping! I couldn't figure out who it was.
I really felt for Ismays brother too. He'd definitely gotten hurt, but to be so kind in the midst of all that betrayal! I don't know if I could have.
It left me guessing to the very end.
Ismay (I love the name) is staying at her fiance, Remys parents' place on the beach. It's a small town where not a lot happens. Ismay and Remy are going to relax there together after Remy is done with his last tests.
When Ismay arrives, it's a terrible storm, and for Ismay (who's from Utah), it's really scary. She gets some help from the caretaker of the place, Bo. Who's goodlooking... kind... and Ismay can't help but feel safe when she's around him.
Bo's been taking care of the place for 2 years, and he's not a fan of Remy or his brother, Bastian (not a fan, poor guy needs to be checked out!) And Bo has his own reasons and knowledge of people who aren't on the up and up.
So when Ismay finds something very unsettling in the cottage, she turns to Bo. There's a mystery in what Ismay finds. And honestly, most of the book I kept flip-flopping! I couldn't figure out who it was.
I really felt for Ismays brother too. He'd definitely gotten hurt, but to be so kind in the midst of all that betrayal! I don't know if I could have.
It left me guessing to the very end.
September 17, 2024
“Tourist Season” by Brenda Novak. I found it more suspenseful than the last book I read of this authors but I still really enjoyed it and read in one day. A summer by the ocean promises new beginnings—until old secrets resurface.
The story follows Ismay, she’s vacationing on Mariners Island at her fiancés family home but things start to spiral as she suspects her fiancé of unspeakable things.
It had everything you could want in a story, suspense, friendship, forgiveness, love and family however that might look.
I found the characters to be well developed, and multi-dimensional. There were multiple sub-plots to keep you engaged and interested. I liked how the author wrapped everything up neatly and didn’t leave us hanging.
I will definitely read other books by this author.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Harlequin and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story follows Ismay, she’s vacationing on Mariners Island at her fiancés family home but things start to spiral as she suspects her fiancé of unspeakable things.
It had everything you could want in a story, suspense, friendship, forgiveness, love and family however that might look.
I found the characters to be well developed, and multi-dimensional. There were multiple sub-plots to keep you engaged and interested. I liked how the author wrapped everything up neatly and didn’t leave us hanging.
I will definitely read other books by this author.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Harlequin and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 19, 2024
I'm not sure what to say about this book because I'm not really sure what it was trying to be. A romance? A mystery? A psychological thriller? A beach read? A cautionary tale, i.e. don't snoop in other people's closets?? Be careful who you marry? Add to that the main character, Ismay Chalmers, is a bright woman, sensing quickly who can be trusted -- Bo, convicted murderer ?-- and who can't -- Bastian, rude, nasty chameleon of a man -- but has spent 3 years with her fiancé and not found his controlling, arrogant ways a red flag. . . until she unearths the mystery duffle bag in a back closet? The whole thing just felt "off", unsettling from the first few pages, but it never seemed to really go anywhere. And then there was the book title. I've no clue at all how the title -- The Tourist Season -- relates to the events of this novel. I've only read one other Novak novel and I gave it a similar rating. I'm thinking I can give this author a pass.
September 16, 2024
This book makes zero sense. The cover and the title have NOTHING to do with the actual story. I finished because I had to know, but not because I actually liked it. There are no tourists. There really is no season. This is just one main character who is marrying into a very rich, very awful family who makes some very odd choices when she goes to the island early. And the brother is an incredibly strange character. I really don’t understand what the author was thinking. Why??
The sad part is that I love most of her books, but this one went off the rails & missed all the marks.
The sad part is that I love most of her books, but this one went off the rails & missed all the marks.
August 31, 2024
Zero stars for this horrid book. The longer I read it the lower its rating got until I got to the end and couldn’t even justify one star, but I’ll put it on here so my review shows up. Truly one of the worst books I’ve ever read!!!!! Save your time—skip this stinker.
June 16, 2024
Quite literally the worst book I’ve ever read
April 11, 2024
Tourist Season is the story of Ismay Chalmers and identical twin, Remy Windsor. They are a successful young couple finishing post-graduate school in California and newly engaged to be married. Remy and Ismay are looking forward to a relaxing summer away, on Mariners Island, She will unwind after passing the State Bar, and he will decompress after taking his Medical Boards. The only problem: Remy sends Ismay alone, ahead of him, to the island retreat Once she gets to Mariners Island, she meets the good-looking, kind, and attentive caretaker of Remy's family vacation home. She is immediately attracted to Bo. Soon after Ismay arrives a massive storm hits the island, and they are thrust together, overnight, to ride it out. Ismay struggles with her feelings, as Remy seems distant and unconcerned for her lately. She beings to question her relationship and her attraction to the mysterious Bo when Bastian, Remy's identical twin shows up at the vacation home to stir things up even more!
Although Tourist Season seems as if it is going to be a nice little romance, it turns into more of a mystery than anything. All the male characters have some intense secrets they are keeping from Ismay. She doesn't quite have the summer she's planned for. When Ismay discovers the 'bag of goodies' hidden in her fiancé's bedroom wall, this is when she begins to confide in Bo and their relationship takes a new direction. Oh, the tangled web we weave!
Will Ismay and Remy stay together once she discovers his deeply hidden secrets (and not so deeply hidden ones too)? How did an innocent young girl die in this beachside town, many years back, and does it have any connection to any of Mariners Island's current residents? These are the question readers will be asking themselves, throughout the whole story.
Brenda Novak did an excellent job of building an interesting story that kept me glued to my Kindle. There were enough characters to keep this book entertaining, while not too many to confuse. I loved being surprised that this turned into a Mystery, and it kept me guessing about how she would tidy up the plot in the end. Looking forward to reading more from Brenda, especially since I've seen her on Book Tour and found her absolutely adorable in person!
Thanks Net Galley, Brenda Novak and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this eARC, in exchange for my honest opinion, It was a very entertaining read! Make sure you get your copy now, Publish date April 2, 2024!
Although Tourist Season seems as if it is going to be a nice little romance, it turns into more of a mystery than anything. All the male characters have some intense secrets they are keeping from Ismay. She doesn't quite have the summer she's planned for. When Ismay discovers the 'bag of goodies' hidden in her fiancé's bedroom wall, this is when she begins to confide in Bo and their relationship takes a new direction. Oh, the tangled web we weave!
Will Ismay and Remy stay together once she discovers his deeply hidden secrets (and not so deeply hidden ones too)? How did an innocent young girl die in this beachside town, many years back, and does it have any connection to any of Mariners Island's current residents? These are the question readers will be asking themselves, throughout the whole story.
Brenda Novak did an excellent job of building an interesting story that kept me glued to my Kindle. There were enough characters to keep this book entertaining, while not too many to confuse. I loved being surprised that this turned into a Mystery, and it kept me guessing about how she would tidy up the plot in the end. Looking forward to reading more from Brenda, especially since I've seen her on Book Tour and found her absolutely adorable in person!
Thanks Net Galley, Brenda Novak and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this eARC, in exchange for my honest opinion, It was a very entertaining read! Make sure you get your copy now, Publish date April 2, 2024!
July 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars. I did really like this book. I honestly thought it was a pure romance novel but instead I would say it is mainly suspense / thriller with some romance on the side. I was surprised in the best way! Summer read with lots of twists and turns. I loved Ismay’s character and I also absolutely loved Bo.
October 6, 2024
Funny how I accidentally started this book. I thought I was starting something else then I was too invested to stop. It wasn’t a bad read. It was fast and light. This book was also not at all what I expected.
April 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Great character development, mystery, romance and it kept me interested the whole way through!
June 16, 2024
It was okay. I listened to it on audio and really did not like the narrator. I also felt like the author made the main character stupid and unwilling to speak up for herself. That is one of my biggest pet peeves.
June 30, 2024
A captivating read with many layers. The setting is a character in itself. There are hidden secrets, family drama, a bit of romance, and a big mystery. I liked the chemistry with all the characters. The twins were just bad apples but I enjoyed their role in the story. Bo was my favorite; he is very caring while trying to keep to himself. Ismay gives everyone the benefit of the doubt and truly looks for the good. A perfect beach read.
April 18, 2024
What an awesome book! So many surprises that keep you wondering what will happen next. I loved every minute and hated to see it end. Hoping for a sequel.
May 29, 2024
This was so bad. I believe I added it to my "to-read" from a Real Simple recommendation or the like and it was so highly rated. In retrospect, I think it was so highly rated because it was so new so the only ratings were from super fans. Five pages in, I had to suspend reality to keep reading. The entire premise starts with a seemingly normal, intelligent woman INSISTING the caretaker on the property she is vacationing in stay in the home with her the FIRST NIGHT and they sleep on couches in the living room because the power went out. There is no way this happens. Then there's little details like an otherwise intelligent ex-convict who served 12 years who "doesn't even have a diploma." They literally don't let you go without a diploma/GED while incarcerated unless you are actually unable to pass, and I know not everyone knows this but it's mentioned multiple times.
Nearly every character in the book has some quirky, odd name. Just a nitpicky element I couldn't get past when more and more were added. And the overly complex descriptions of the food that was consumed in every chapter. You can just say she brought lunch. It felt like I was waiting for the "skip to recipe" link to show up at every turn.
There is LITERALLY a line at the end, "Then he kissed her, and everyone in the restaurant started to clap." LOL
2 stars because there was a semblance of a plot that made me finish it.
Nearly every character in the book has some quirky, odd name. Just a nitpicky element I couldn't get past when more and more were added. And the overly complex descriptions of the food that was consumed in every chapter. You can just say she brought lunch. It felt like I was waiting for the "skip to recipe" link to show up at every turn.
There is LITERALLY a line at the end, "Then he kissed her, and everyone in the restaurant started to clap." LOL
2 stars because there was a semblance of a plot that made me finish it.
May 6, 2024
I loved how this book is a mysterious romance with a little thriller. Keeps you guessing from the beginning!
Thank you, NetGalley, for a review copy.
Thank you, NetGalley, for a review copy.
April 8, 2024
I've been reading Brenda Novak books for 4 years now and I have to say with each new stand alone book they just keep getting better and better.
This one had mystery, romance, heartbreak, family, murder and a new aspect that totally threw me for a loop at the end.
If I could critique one thing it would be when Ismay found the evidence, she should have spoke up sooner. No matter who it belonged to. If I had found something like that I would have ran as far as I could.
Her fiance's brother was just plain creepy with how he wanted to know where she was going all the time and how he would check on her at odd times in the night. Definitely another reason for me to cut and run! Plus he was always drinking.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It only took me 2 days to read it.
Thank you Brenda for the advance copy of the book, this is my honest review.
This one had mystery, romance, heartbreak, family, murder and a new aspect that totally threw me for a loop at the end.
If I could critique one thing it would be when Ismay found the evidence, she should have spoke up sooner. No matter who it belonged to. If I had found something like that I would have ran as far as I could.
Her fiance's brother was just plain creepy with how he wanted to know where she was going all the time and how he would check on her at odd times in the night. Definitely another reason for me to cut and run! Plus he was always drinking.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It only took me 2 days to read it.
Thank you Brenda for the advance copy of the book, this is my honest review.
April 11, 2024
As others have mentioned, there’s quite a dichotomy between the title and cover of this book and the story itself. The story is much darker than the title and cover would lead one to believe.
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