Een zomer vol belofte

by Jenny Hale

In Een zomer vol belofte van Jenny Hale groeide Meghan Gray op bij haar grootvader in een cottage aan het strand. Het is nu tien jaar geleden dat hij is overleden en Meghan keert terug naar het eiland op zoek naar een nieuwe start. In een envelop uit zijn nalatenschap vindt Meghan een oude foto en een vreemde sleutel. De sleutel leidt naar een jarenlang verborgen familiegeheim. Kan dit familiegeheim de loop van Meghans leven veranderen?

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Summer, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Summer Reads, Mystery

324 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 9, 2022

About the author

Jenny Hale is a USA Today, Amazon, and international bestselling author of romantic contemporary fiction. Her books have sold worldwide, have been translated into multiple languages, and adapted for television. Her novels Coming Home for Christmas and Movie Guide Epiphany Award winner Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses are Hallmark Channel original movies.

She was included in Oprah Magazine’s “19 Dreamy Summer Romances to Whisk You Away” and Southern Living’s “30 Christmas Novels to Start Reading Now.” Her stories are chock-full of feel-good romance and overflowing with warm settings, great friends, and family.

Jenny is at work on her next novel, delighted to be bringing even more heartwarming stories to her readers. When she isn’t writing, or heading up her romantic fiction imprint Harpeth Road, she can be found running around her hometown of Nashville with her husband, two boys, and their labradoodle, taking pictures—her favorite pastime.

Visit www.itsjennyhale.com to get my latest book! You can also chat with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jennyhaleauthor, Twitter: www.twitter.com/jhaleauthor, and IG: www.instagram.com/jhaleauthor

See all my books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jenny-Hale/e/B...

Reviews

[Sandysbookaday (taking a step back for a while) · Rating 3 out of 5]

EXCERPT: Walking over to the kitchen sink, she turned on the water. It spit and sputtered before letting out a stream. She turned it back off. "How am I supposed to be a chef in the middle of nowhere?" She laughed out loud now at the ridiculousness of her choices.

If she were being honest with herself, there were many more opportunities in New York. There were a handful of culinary schools in the city nearby and she could've researched grants or scholarships, but she'd come to Hatteras Island instead. What was she thinking, planning to build a new life here?

ABOUT 'AN ISLAND SUMMER': In the summer, everything feels possible… A heartwarming small-town romance about new beginnings, old secrets and how home is truly where the heart is. Fans of Susan Mallery, Pamela Kelley, and Mary Alice Monroe will fall head over heels for this romantic page-turner.

All that Meghan Gray has left of her beloved Pappy is his cottage on the edge of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean. Longing to feel close to her grandfather, she returns to the golden sands of Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks for the summer, clutching the manilla envelope he gifted her tightly in her hand.

On her first night on the sun-drenched island, she meets brooding Toby Meyers, a local businessman. She might feel lost without Pappy, but looking into Toby’s sparkling blue eyes feels like coming home.

The beach house where she spent her childhood is just how she remembers: a shingled bungalow with two rocking chairs on the porch and shutters on the windows. As Meghan strolls along the sand with Toby, breathing in the salty air, she realizes she is making new memories…

When Meghan opens the envelope, she finds a black-and-white photograph of someone she doesn’t recognize. If she can find out its meaning, and why Pappy gave it to her, she’ll unlock a secret that has been hidden for decades. The truth has the power to change everything Meghan and Toby thought they knew about their lives—and it will either bring them together, or break their hearts…

MY THOUGHTS: An Island Summer is a quick, light read about a young woman trying to find her place in the world after her career hopes are dashed. There's some romance, and a little mystery involved.

Now, I have read a few of Jenny Hale's books, and they have all been 4 - 5 star reads, but An Island Summer just didn't work that same magic on me. I couldn't connect with Meghan's character - I felt absolutely nothing for her. She raised all sorts of questions for me (probably totally irrelevant to the storyline, but once they lodge themselves in my brain there's no getting rid of them!), like if she and Tess have been doing the same job, why does Tess have savings and Meghan doesn't, especially as she hasn't spent the money on cooking courses? Her first day in her new job, she gets $200 in tips, so over the course of her six-day-week, she'd earn $1200 give or take, plus her base wage. She has no accommodation costs, only food and utilities - half of which would be covered by Tess - and fuel, so is she just bad at managing her money? Oh, yes, and no one is going to take a waitress and put her in a chef's position. You got to work your way up. And cooking the same dish for a handful of people is vastly different to cooking for a large number of people all eating different things.

I loved Rupert, Toby's grandfather, who lives in a care facility and who has dementia. When he meets Meghan, he thinks that she's someone from his past, someone he once loved. This is a lovely story with an element of mystery as Meghan slowly pieces together Rupert's story and makes a startling discovery that affects her own life.

And now I'm going to put my medical hat on. Rupert's doctors talk about him withdrawing inwards and 'indulging in his fantasies', which made me a little cross. Rupert has Alzheimer's. Most of the time he honestly believes he is twenty years old, and that's the life he's living. It's not fantasy. To Rupert, it's very real, and I don't believe any doctor these days, when we know so much more about the ravages and effects of Alzheimer's, would say that.

Although this was a disappointing read for me, I still love Jenny Hale's writing and continue to look eagerly for her next title. I love the cover.

⭐⭐⭐.3

#AnIslandSummer #NetGalley

I: @jhaleauthor @bookouture

T: @jhaleauthor @Bookouture

#christmasread #contemporaryfiction #familydrama #mystery #romance

THE AUTHOR: Jenny Hale is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic contemporary fiction. Her novels Coming Home for Christmas and Movie Guide Epiphany Award Winner Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses are Hallmark Channel original movies. Her stories are chock-full of feel-good romance and overflowing with warm settings, great friends, and family.

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of An Island Summer by Jenny Hale for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com

This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming soon.

[Jonann loves book talk❤♥️❤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The novel An Island Summer by Jenny Hale is a warm book that will capture your heart. It's about showing love and kindness to people around you, something the world needs more of right now. Readers looking for a wholesome romance free from graphic sex scenes won't want to miss An Island Summer!

Synopsis:
Meghan Gray's loving grandfather "Pappy" raised her in a fishing cottage on picturesque Hatteras Island. It's been ten years since Pappy passed away, and Meghan returns to the island searching for a new start. Meghan opens the envelope Pappy left for her and finds an old picture and an odd key. The key leads to a family secret hidden for many years. Can this family secret change the course of Meghan's life?

An Island Summer is a book that, once you begin reading, you will not want to put down. Jenny Hale's descriptive writing makes you feel like you are in the story with them. There is a charm to the main characters that mesmerizes the reader. Every page is delightful and a joy to read.
(5 Huge ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

An Island Summer is available on June 9th.

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the pleasure of reviewing An Island Summer. Kudos to Jenny Hale for writing this fabulous novel!

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Whatever’s going on in your life, calm is within you. Sometimes, you just have to wade through the deep waters to find it.”

This book has everything I look for in a good beach read! It’s part small-town romance and part mystery, all packaged up in a heartwarming and page-turning story. It was easy to imagine the sun shining on my face and my toes sinking into the white sand beach as the seagulls and breaking waves competed for my attention.

Jenny Hale will sweep you away to Hatteras Island in The Outer Banks, a thin stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, in her newest wholesome romantic contemporary fiction novel.

Meghan Gray’s life is falling apart at the seams, so she does the only thing she knows will help her get back on track - head back to her Pappy’s fishing cottage on Hatteras Island. Although she hasn’t been back in the ten years since he died, she is confident she’ll find the answers she’s looking for. Since being orphaned in her teens, this fishing cottage is all she has left and it holds special memories. Meghan stuffs everything she owns into her old car and heads off to the island for the summer.

You’ll read about:
1) an old man in a nursing home who thinks Meghan is a famous movie star, so she plays along with it each time she visits him.
2) an envelope her Pappy left her containing a faded photo and a set of keys
3) a family secret
4) an attraction to an enigmatic entrepreneur

In addition to examining the definition of home, Hale explores the importance of finding your own happiness, creating new beginnings, uncovering family secrets to help you move on with your future. It contains Hale’s signature hug between the pages and is one you’ll want to put on your summer reading list immediately!

“I spent my entire life chasing happiness, and I didn’t know it was right in front of me the whole time. Be ruthless in finding your own.”

I was gifted this advance copy by Jenny Hale, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story! The perfect 2022 beach read! I enjoyed the support the two best friends gave each other. The elderly man with Alzheimer’s was handled gently and respectfully. I liked all the characters, actually, and the setting was lovely. Loved the dog, too!

[Kelli Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started this book, I thought it was going to be a typical "girl returns to her roots in a small beach town when her life needs a new direction and falls in love in the process", but it was so much more. There is small town living and romance, and also mystery, caring for family, and unraveling the past in order to move forward. The writing brings summer in the Outer Banks to life, and the heartwarming story will bring a smile to your face. Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advance digital copy!

[Shelley Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars
An Island Summer, by Jenny Hale, is a sweet, beach-worthy story with a clean, small town romance, a strong, lifelong friendship, and a bit of mystery shrouded in the past.

Meghan Grey makes a long overdue return to Hatteras Island on the Outer Banks to her pappy’s old home, full of fond, but bittersweet memories. She brings along her long-time friend to spend the summer regrouping and possibly realizing her dream of becoming a chef. While there, she meets the enigmatic Toby Meyers and his dementia-riddled grandfather who mistakes her for a movie starlet he presumably used to know. As his delusions become quite detailed and specific, the mystery grows, alongside it a new mystery appears. Meghan finds an envelope from her pappy with a key and a photograph that beg questions of their own. As Toby and Meghan are drawn together, connections of many kinds are discovered.

An Island Summer is a charming, easy-to-read, feel good story that is perfect for the lazy days of summer.

[Lori · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book, y’all. It has a gorgeous cover, and the synopsis seemed right in my wheelhouse—

This is the blurb. I would not usually include that, but the problems start here;;

“All that Meghan Gray has left of her beloved Pappy is his cottage on the edge of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean. Longing to feel close to her grandfather, she returns to the golden sands of Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks for the summer, clutching the manilla envelope he gifted her tightly in her hand.

On her first night on the sun-drenched island, she meets brooding Toby Meyers, a local businessman. She might feel lost without Pappy, but looking into Toby’s sparkling blue eyes feels like coming home.

The beach house where she spent her childhood is just how she remembers: a shingled bungalow with two rocking chairs on the porch and shutters on the windows. As Meghan strolls along the sand with Toby, breathing in the salty air, she realizes she is making new memories…

When Meghan opens the envelope, she finds a black-and-white photograph of someone she doesn’t recognize. If she can find out its meaning, and why Pappy gave it to her, she’ll unlock a secret that has been hidden for decades. The truth has the power to change everything Meghan and Toby thought they knew about their lives—and it will either bring them together, or break their hearts.”

First of all, whomever wrote the blurb has obviously not read the book, because the black and white photograph in the envelope is of Meghan herself and her beloved grandfather. It is a photo she has never SEEN, but that doesn’t mean that she doesn’t recognize herself.

Unfortunately, the rest of the book is full of contradictory nonsense just like that. Couple examples—

Megan is summering in Cape Hatteras with her best friend since she was ten. Her entire childhood was spent with her grandfather teaching her how to cook. She wants to open a restaurant, and plans to use her grandfather’s recipes. So why when they are making dinner does the best friend say “Wow—your grandfather has a lot of tools in his kitchen. With all these gadgets, I’m guessing he shared your love of cooking.” Her best friend since she was ten—how would she not know that her grandfather taught her to cook?
There is a sentence where they pull an already-open bottle of wine out of the refrigerator, then grab a corkscrew to open it.
There is a paragraph where they let the dog out, he runs up to them “tail wagging” then they all sit down on the porch and reach back to open the door for the dog. Who is sitting next to them. On the porch.
There is a dog toy on the beach, which is sliding toward the water in the undertow. The undertow is in the water—not on the beach.
Look, this was a cool story, a light romance with a twisty mystery, but it was so poorly executed that I kept getting pulled out off the story by error after error. In the hands of a more skilled writer, or a team of better editors, this could have been really special. As it was, it was just a mess.

[Justin Lee · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't want to yuck other people's yum but this was awful. Some of the laziest writing and researching I've ever read. It made me feel bad for straight people. Like, people enjoy this and think this is great when it's just not. I'll keep y'all in my prayers. Y'all need better. It's the only way to improve as a society.

This book made me extremely happy to be gay. It made me thrilled that I don't have to participate in straight culture. This book also made me question why I haven't written a book when this passes as a book. If you're a lover of this author, demand better. The bones are there. The research, character development, editing, romance, and well written characters are not.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer reads are my jam! There is absolutely nothing that makes me smile bigger than the creek, sunshine, and a new summer romance. This one was truly a delight!

Feeling like her life is going nowhere,, Meghan quits her dead end waitressing job in New York and heads to her grandpas cottage on Hatteras Island. Shes spent a decade running from his memory, and coming back opens up old wounds shes never allowed to heal. Finally opening the manilla envelope he left for her, she finds a photograph and an old key. With no idea what either of them mean, she sets out on an adventure that teaches her not just about her beloved Pappy but also about herself.

This isn't just a summer romance. Part love story. Part drama, with a little mystery thrown in. This book takes you on a ride through Hatteras Island from the Golden Age of Hollywood era all the way until the present. Each supporting character has their own story and all are just as important as the next. This one kept me up at night in a good way. Highly recommended!!!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Jenny Hale for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Julia · Rating 3 out of 5]

An Island Summer by Jenny Hale was a relaxing read!

Meghan Gray returns back to Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks with her best friend Tess Fuller, after quitting her unfulfilling waitressing job in New York. While missing her deceased Pappy, she moves into the cottage he left for her, and begins to reacquaint herself with the area and locals. Upon meeting Toby Meyers and his grandfather Rupert, Meghan gets swept up into old family secrets and a mystery waiting to be discovered.

While I did enjoy elements of the story, the pacing was really slow for me. There were a lot of descriptions that definitely added to the scenery and made it more of a beach read, but for anyone that doesn't like too many descriptive elements, it was a bit much at times. Along with this, while the synopsis and genres categorize this book as a romance or a contemporary romance, I feel as though the family history and Meghan's relationship with Rupert was the main story line, whereas the romance was more of a subplot.

While there were a lot of coincidences, I think the overall conclusions to the family secrets were well written, and Meghan was able to grow back into herself. I loved her friendships with both Tess and Rupert, they were such fun characters and I think they really made the book. I would've liked to see more of Meghan with Toby!

Overall, I enjoyed the scenery and plot, but the pacing of the book makes this a 3 star read for me. While this is the first Jenny Hale book I've read, I would be interested in reading more from her!

Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the eARC!

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jenny Hale writes the nicest stories.
Meghan and her friend Tess head to her Pappy’s beach house. She meets Toby and Rupert who thinks Meghan is really an old movie star Hester he used to know.
It’s a nice feel good book with a touch of mystery. Perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed my trip to the island. Meghan and Toby were the perfect hosts. I can't forget about the other guest Meghan's friend Tess she was a true friend. This was such a great getaway for me this summer.
I highly recommend this fun, fast, 5 star read.

[~lucy bridges~ · Rating 2 out of 5]

yea no.
why did the romance appear out of nowhere at the end.

[Emily Christopher · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Island Summer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 6/9/22
Author: Jenny Hale
Publisher: Bookouture
Pages: 283
Goodreads Rating: 4.33

I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Bookouture and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.

Synopsis: All that Meghan Gray has left of her beloved Pappy is his cottage on the edge of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean. Longing to feel close to her grandfather, she returns to the golden sands of Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks for the summer, clutching the manilla envelope he gifted her tightly in her hand. On her first night on the sun-drenched island, she meets brooding Toby Meyers, a local businessman. When Meghan opens the envelope, she finds a black-and-white photograph of someone she doesn’t recognize. If she can find out its meaning, and why Pappy gave it to her, she’ll unlock a secret that has been hidden for decades. The truth has the power to change everything Meghan and Toby thought they knew about their lives—and it will either bring them together, or break their hearts…

My Thoughts: This is the perfect summer beach read, it is light, has romance, and even an sense of mystery. Hale’s story has an important message to it, discover your happiness, get closure on old wounds, and live your life to the fullest, or at least that is that I got out of it. The story is primarily narrated by Meghan, from her perspective in a third person narration. For me, the chapters were average length and I could read a few at lunchtime or before bed. The characters are well developed with depth, some mystery, passionate, and creative. Meghan and Toby had a connection with great chemistry and the supporting characters really strengthened the story. The author does an amazing job at describing the scenes, so much so, that you feel a part of it and can clearly envision them. The author’s writing style is complex, has some drama, some mystery, and a little romance. I felt the storyline, plot, and ending worked well for this story.

[Nienke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Na een afwijzing voor promotie op haar werk, neemt Meghan ontslag en keert ze terug naar het strandhuis van haar overleden opa. Toen ze op jonge leeftijd haar ouders verloor, heeft haar opa haar opgevangen en na zijn overlijden tien jaar geleden heeft hij haar het strandhuis nagelaten. Tijdens een etentje met haar beste vriendin Tess ontmoet ze Rupert, een oude man die denkt dat hij 20 jaar is en Meghan denkt te kennen. Zijn kleinzoon Toby is bij hem en er lijkt iets te ontstaan tussen Meghan en Toby. Maar dan lijkt Meghan op een geheim te stuiten en is Rupert wel zo dement als iedereen denkt?

Er hangt het hele boek door een mysterieuze sfeer. Waarom doet Toby zo mysterieus? Er gaan geruchten rond over hem en zijn bedoelingen. Meghan raakt hiervan van slag, want wat moet ze over hem geloven. Zo zie je maar wat een gerucht kan doen voor de reputatie van iemand. Ook hangt er een mysterieuze vibe rondom het geheim waar Meghan op lijkt te stuiten. Waarom noemt Rupert Meghan bij de naam van een vroegere actrice? Beetje bij beetje kom je er als lezer samen met Meghan achter.

Een zomer vol belofte is een feelgood met diepgang. Er komen onderwerpen aan bod zoals dementie en rouw. Daarnaast speelt vriendschap een belangrijke rol in het boek. De beste vriendin van Meghan, Tess, zegt ook haar baan op en volgt haar naar het strandhuis om samen een nieuw leven op te bouwen. Daarnaast ontstaat er een mooie vriendschap tussen Meghan en Rupert, je voelt de warme band tussen deze twee.

Het boek speelt zich af in de zomer, dus heerlijk om in de warme sferen te komen op een druilerige dag. Of perfect om te lezen op vakantie als je zelf kan genieten van de zon!

@lsamsterdam , dankjewel voor het recensie-exemplaar!

[Apryl (inmybookishgirlera) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! It’s was a heartwarming summer romance. It was also about showing kindness and love something we need more of in this world. I loved the mystery element it had along with the historical treasures sprinkled throughout. The ending was so good! 4⭐️gives all the summer romance vibes!

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meghan Grey leaves pretty everything behind after the loss of her grandfather. She had a dead-end waitressing job in New York but now she is headed to the ocean to where she remembered the years where she lived with her grandparents after the loss of her parents. It is Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks and Meghan is joined by her friend for the summer and they both find jobs as waitresses, but this is not Meghan’s dream. Her dream is to one day become a chef.

One of the things in her possession is a note from her grandfather Pappy. She was very close to him as a child and longs to be close to him again as he has now passed. He did gift her an envelope with a cryptic note as well as a photo and this leads to her trying to sort out his past. She soon meets a businessman named Toby Meyers and she also meets his grandfather. Toby’s grandfather is suffering from dementia and every time he sees Meghan he calls her Hester, an actress of decades ago.

Meghan feels in undeniable bond with Toby‘s grandfather and starts regular visits with him at his assisted-living facility, and snippets of his past mixes old memories with new. Those old snippets, as well as that photo left to her by her grandfather, a secret that has been buried for several decades starts to become revealed.

This touching story brings together family drama, pieces of the past, a gentle romance and a bit of mystery, all combined to treat readers to a wonderful summer read.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

Please also enjoy the following YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/YiGPt_ix2Oo

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meghan Gray is living in New York City working as a waitress. She has dreams of being a chef, but can’t seem to make her dream come true. She is fed up with her job and the city life. So, she quits her job, packs her bags and moves to a small and quaint cottage on Hatteras Island. The cottage is all she has left of her lovely Grandpa. The first night that Meghan is on the island she meets Toby Meyers, a local businessman. Their immediate attraction to each other helps Meghan through the memories she has of her Grandpa while making new memories with Toby. She feels like she is finally home again. Finding her new path in life is exactly what she needs, and easy with Toby by her side.

I enjoyed this story so much. This was a true escape to the beautiful Hatteras Island. The warmth of the summer sun and the sweet cozy romance was very engrossing. I felt like the author completely transported me to the sandy beach, relaxing and listening to the ebb and flow of the ocean. The author's beautifully detailed description of the sights and sounds of the island were phenomenal. This ‘read in one sitting’ book is the perfect beach read! Make sure it is packed inside your beach bag. It captured my heart from the very first page to the last. I absolutely loved it.

Thank you Jenny Hale for such a wonderful and sweet story, you never disappoint. I needed the escape to the beach. I highly recommend this book.

[Karen Axnick · Rating 2 out of 5]

I requested this book based on the promotional synopsis, but found reading it was a disappointment. The author’s writing style was just not a match for me.

Meghan Gray returns to her grandfather’s home on Hatteras Island after failing to achieve her dream of becoming a chef in New York City. Accompanied by her best friend, Tess, Meghan confronts her unresolved grief over her grandfather’s death ten years ago as well as her lack of direction in life.

Once on the island, she meets Toby and his grandfather, Rupert, who is suffering from delusions and dementia. When Rupert mistakes Meghan for his lost love, she is drawn to spend time with him because it seems to have a calming effect on him.

The story unfolds with two mysterious aspects. First, there seems to be growing evidence that Rupert’s descriptions of his relationship with his lost love may indeed have been factual. Secondly, Toby’s motives in expanding his business and caring for his grandfather may be less than honorable. Since Meghan is attracted to him and has become protective of Rupert, she feels conflicted and committed to finding the truth.

The storyline was mildly interesting; however, the pacing was so agonizingly slow that I gave up half way through the book. I am reluctant to ever label a book DNF, but I could only read a few pages, or a short chapter at the most, before I lost interest. My investment in these characters and their dilemmas was so lacking that each time I resumed reading I had to go back a page or two to refresh my memory on what was happening. The only character I found engaging was Rupert. Meghan’s repeated lamenting about her missing her grandfather and her indecision on a career became tedious since she seemed to lack any real commitment to change her circumstances.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Laci Hargis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my this was the perfect book to kick off my summer!! I absolutely fell in love with this book and the characters!! I hope there will be another one.

Meghan Gray has not returned to Outer Banks since her beloved Pappy passed away. When Meghan’s dreams were crushed in New York she decided to move back with her best friend Tess. On their first night back in Outer Banks, Meghan meets Toby and his grandfather. Thank you so much to NetGalley for this advanced copy!

[nicole_ash · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was the worst book I read so far this year. There were so many things that I did not like.

Firstly, I felt like the relationship between her and Rupert was uncomfortable. I understand it was suppose to be sweet, but in the end when she said she didn't have the heart to tell him that she wasn't marrying him when he walked her down the isle, that just did me in.

Second, she wanted to be a chef and cook like her "pappy". Meghan was told on many occasions (except for one) that her food was amazing! That one bad review sent her into a spiral, and I felt like that was a bit dramatic. What really got me was the random muffin cart. WTF! She is now the muffin lady? I get it dreams can change but it just felt so off balance for me.

Lastly, Her and Toby's relationship started out like I would expect. I know he was suppose to be mysterious and he pulled it off well. The entire time, he never let on to having feelings for Meghan. All of a sudden though, when he thinks they found her grandmothers Will he then professes his love, and secrets to her. It just seemed sleazy to me. He was about to lose $45 mil and figured he'd just marry her to keep it.

Almost DNF'd but I thought it had potential, plus it had some great moments, but it just wasn't it for me.

[Bookworm86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'An Island Summer' by Jenny Hale.

Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Jenny Hale, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous

Publication date 9th June 2022.

This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'The Beach House' which I would highly recommend.

I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching beaitiful cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of Susan Mallery, Pamela Kelley, and Mary Alice Monroe will fall head over heels for this romantic page-turner'. I am a huge fan of 'Susan Mallery' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I have also previously read 'The Beach House' by Jenny Hale and loved it so if this is half as good as this was its guaranteed to be a page turner! I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).

This novel consists of a prologue, 26 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!

The storyline is set in North Carolina, USA 🇺🇸.

This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Meghan Gray. The benefits of third person perspective with are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.

OMG!!! Well Done Jenny!!! An absolutely stunning addictive page turner!!! Beautiful!! This is a beautifully written story with vivid descriptions. The synopsis, title and cover suited the storyline perfectly.

This book is beautifully written and I was completely absorbed throughout and was devasted when I came to the last page and realised I had to "unpack my suitcase" as it genuinely felt like I had been whisked away to Hatteras Island. The vivid descriptions made me feel the sun on my face and the sand beneath my feet and times and feeling the waves splash over me. Jenny emerges her readers into the storyline as well as the settings and actions and emotions of the characters. This book is fascinating and gloriously intriguing, a devastating, beautiful, heartbreaking, compelling and riveting page turner. It is packed with love, family, secrets, shocks, surprises, friendship, sadness, happiness, joy and loss with a few twists thrown in. The ending was absolutely perfect!!! It is perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult and Nicholas Sparks stories. I for one am looking forward to reading her previous and next books!!!

The characters are absolutely fantastic as well as intriguing, unique and realistic. I loved discovering and delving into their history and background. I loved watching Meghan and Toby's relationship develop as well as getting to know Tess, Rupert and Hester's history along with other friendships and we can't forget the adorable Charlie! I am so happy how it all turned out for Megan, Toby and Tess!! All of the characters in this book are well defined, realistic and will stay with me for a long time.

Congratulations Jenny on a stunning novel and here's to many more!!! This is why your one of my favourite romance authors!!

Overall an absolutely gorgeous, heartwarming while heartbreaking yet uplifting page turner that will whisk you away

Genres covered in this book include Romance Novel, Domestic Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary Religious Fiction, Contemporary American Fiction, Family Sagas, Women's Fi and Holiday Fiction amongst others.


I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jodi Picoult, Nicholas Sparks, Susan Mallery, Pamela Kelley, and Mary Alice Monroe and anyone looking for a heartwarming getaway.


283 pages.

This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at Time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!

Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.

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[uma 🎀 · Rating 3 out of 5]

the romance was definitely lacking…idk there were like four characters and one of them was an old man. i would’ve wanted more like found family and summer vibes. also tess has apparently been meghan’s friend since the 5th grade but doesn’t know her grandpa at all and acts like they’ve been friends for two months?? serious plot hole like what….tess in general just felt like a filler character to take care of meghan and make her feel better about herself. probably won’t think about this but it was cute for what it is 🫶🎀

[Amanda Walters · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Your dreams are just your future stretching out in front of you. It's up to you to act on them." - Pappy

An Island Summer is a quick summer read with likeable characters. Jenny Hale does a great job of painting the scenery in all of her books. I can easily imagine myself there at the cabin or building the muffin cart.

It was fun watching Meghan evolve and find herself. Her relationship with Rupert was precious. Her relationship with Toby was inevitable. She had a great friend by her side in Tess... And Charlie.

The mystery element was interesting. It was enough to keep you on your toes... But not so much that it takes over the overall meaning of the book.

Even with the multiple dimensions of the book, everything comes together at the end. No loose strings.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC!

[Deema]

DNF @ 32%

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another winner from Jenny Hale...She truly writes those books that are just perfect for the beach. I have to say, this one is not nearly as romance-y as her other ones, but I loved the mystery and somewhat historical spin to this one. It was a little different than her usual which made it easy to read. I felt that the romance piece actually felt a little forced in this one and could've been left out entirely, but it didn't make or break the book.

Thank you Netgalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Island Summer by Jenny Hale is a beautiful story about following your dreams, remembering family, and new beginnings. I enjoyed this book very much! Meghan Gray had planned to become a successful chef in one of the prestigious restaurants in New York but was passed over for the chance. Meghan decides that serving tables for ten years while she knows she could do much more is too frustrating to continue. So, what could be better than having your best friend Tess join you on a trip home to Hatteras Island? Megan has the old envelope with items left to her with the old home when Pappy died. She feels confident that she and Tess will be able to find jobs while they stay in the old fishing cottage and decide what to do with their lives.
Meghan meets Toby Meyers with his grandfather one evening and is surprised when the older man calls her Hester and becomes distraught. It is soon apparent that Rupert, who is experiencing dementia, thinks Meghan is his best friend from years ago. I loved this whole storyline and how it links the past with the present.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the opportunity to read this book! The publication date is June 9, 2022.

[Dara · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.75⭐️

⛔️ Toby had zero charisma, zero draw, zero romanticism. He made her uncomfortable and/or upset and confused for every single interaction and yet she felt drawn to him? Be so for real. 🚩 All we know about how he looks, too, was that he had “gold flecks” in both his eyes AND his hair. ✨dreamy✨

⛔️ Everyone may grieve in their own ways, but she was *obsessed* with Pappy. He was in her ear for every other thought she had, and not letting ice cream drop off her cone made her tear up with memories of him????? Absolutely not.

⛔️ Tess was every hallmark bff ever. No substance, no depth. Just a carefree, overly supportive, margarita girlie! 🤪

⛔️ Continuing to pretend to be her husband’s grandfathers love interest is straight up weird. I get it, but no.

⛔️ The entire premise is her wanting to be a chef, and she ends up being a baker. Not that you can’t be both by any means, but they’re 2 totally different skills. Especially at the level she wanted to be at. You don’t just immediately switch lifetime dreams…and to top it off, becoming “THE MUFFIN LADY”????? How climactic and brave!! 🙄

⛔️ The plot… Miranda Priestly said it best: By all means move at a glacial pace, you know how that thrills me.

⛔️ Every single hallmark movie cliche in existence packed into 248 pages.

✅ Some aspects of the writing were objectively good. The atmosphere was definitely nailed. You could feel the beach and the vibe, smell the old house, and feel Charlie next to you but the descriptions made up like 70% of the story also… also ⛔️

[Courtney Rivera · Rating 1 out of 5]

The one star is for the laughter it brought me as we absolutely ROASTED this book.