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Chapel Springs #1
Barefoot Summer
Madison's heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.In the years since her twin brother's drowning, Madison McKinley has struggled to put it behind her. Despite the support of her close-knit family and her gratifying job as a veterinarian in their riverside town, the loss still haunts her.To find closure, Madison sets out to fulfill her brother's dream of winning the town's annual regatta. But first she has to learn to sail, and fast.Beckett O'Reilly knows Madison is out of his league, but someone neglected to tell his heart. Now she needs his help--and he'll give it, because he owes her far more than she'll ever know.Madison will do anything--even work with the infamous Beckett O'Reilly--to reach her goal. And as much as she'd like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying. As summer wanes, her feelings for him grow and a fledgling faith takes root in her heart.But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their new love. Can their romance survive summer's challenges? And will achieving her brother's dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2013
391 people are currently reading
4378 people want to read
About the author
Denise Hunter
85 books4,788 followersDenise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest and four beautiful grandchildren.
Denise gives away books and gifts cards in every monthly newsletter! Subscribe here to be eligible: https://www.denisehunterbooks.com
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest and four beautiful grandchildren.
Denise gives away books and gifts cards in every monthly newsletter! Subscribe here to be eligible: https://www.denisehunterbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 427 reviews
August 5, 2022
I really liked this. Sometimes I'm wary to read romance because I don't like the "fall in love, misunderstanding, break up, get back together after misunderstanding is cleared" plots. I'm glad that this was anything but that.
Maddison and Beckett was easy to connect with and love, both individually on their own but also together. Maddison's struggle with her twin's death felt so real and raw. Beckett's own struggle with his messy heritage and how it could affect his future was heartbreaking to see, because as an outsider, you can clearly see what a great guy he is. I loved that Maddison wasn't one of those girls who waited for the guy to reach out but also took the courage to confront and get answers. I loved Beckett's gentleness in helping her overcoming her fear of water.
I really loved the message "The truth shall set you free" - for Maddison this was true in realizing just how God felt about her, but both she and Beckett also received freedom when the truth about Micheal's death came to light.
I adored the McKinley family and are really looking forward to the rest of the series, which luckily I have. And I really hoped Layla (Beckett's sister) will feature again and will also find love, I really loved her.
Maddison and Beckett was easy to connect with and love, both individually on their own but also together. Maddison's struggle with her twin's death felt so real and raw. Beckett's own struggle with his messy heritage and how it could affect his future was heartbreaking to see, because as an outsider, you can clearly see what a great guy he is. I loved that Maddison wasn't one of those girls who waited for the guy to reach out but also took the courage to confront and get answers. I loved Beckett's gentleness in helping her overcoming her fear of water.
I really loved the message "The truth shall set you free" - for Maddison this was true in realizing just how God felt about her, but both she and Beckett also received freedom when the truth about Micheal's death came to light.
I adored the McKinley family and are really looking forward to the rest of the series, which luckily I have. And I really hoped Layla (Beckett's sister) will feature again and will also find love, I really loved her.
July 5, 2017
~⭐4.5⭐~
December 27, 2022
This book was too cute!! I loved Beckett and Madison. They were so sweet together. I liked how they both grew from their pain and mistakes. Overall it was an enjoyable, summer read.
August 13, 2018
This was sooo good. Loved everything about it! That’s all :)
January 1, 2016
SUMMARY: Madison’s heart closed the day her twin brother died.
Since losing her twin, Michael, in a drowning incident, Madison has rejected the faith he lived by. Instead, she’s devoted her life to fulfilling Michael’s dream—winning the River Sail Regatta in their small Indiana town, Chapel Springs.
As she trains for the regatta, Beckett O’Reilly is teaching Madison to swim. But he’s keeping a painful secret from her—and as they grow closer, that secret threatens to upend their lives . . . and the lives of both their familie
REVIEW: This was the first book I have read by Denise Hunter. I found it easy to read with both storyline and characters that kept my attention. I thought it was very interesting that although Madison is surrounded by Christian people she hadn't really developed a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Therefore, letting go of her pain and grief over her brother's death was impossible for her. The author did a good job of portraying the realism of this difficult situation for Christians who don't have that relationship. I loved Beckett, his kindness, caring, and strength after all he had gone through and was still fighting. Yet he still felt real as he continued to struggle with his occasional bouts of temper. Madison's family was wonderful with all their different and unique personalities. The analogy for barefeet was a nice touch in the ending. I felt this was a strong intro for the Chapel Springs series and plan to read the other books.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "God's grip never slips."
"when something awful happens, it helps to know there's a God and that He knows what He's doing. That He has a purpose we might not see, might never understand."
"Life is filled with difficulties. This isn't heaven. We have these big mountains, set right in front of us, and we have no choice but to climb."
"But death is part of life. Not my favorite part, not by a long shot. But God does not owe us ninety years on this earth. Life is a gift, however long it lasts. It's God's to give and take away as He sees fit."
Since losing her twin, Michael, in a drowning incident, Madison has rejected the faith he lived by. Instead, she’s devoted her life to fulfilling Michael’s dream—winning the River Sail Regatta in their small Indiana town, Chapel Springs.
As she trains for the regatta, Beckett O’Reilly is teaching Madison to swim. But he’s keeping a painful secret from her—and as they grow closer, that secret threatens to upend their lives . . . and the lives of both their familie
REVIEW: This was the first book I have read by Denise Hunter. I found it easy to read with both storyline and characters that kept my attention. I thought it was very interesting that although Madison is surrounded by Christian people she hadn't really developed a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Therefore, letting go of her pain and grief over her brother's death was impossible for her. The author did a good job of portraying the realism of this difficult situation for Christians who don't have that relationship. I loved Beckett, his kindness, caring, and strength after all he had gone through and was still fighting. Yet he still felt real as he continued to struggle with his occasional bouts of temper. Madison's family was wonderful with all their different and unique personalities. The analogy for barefeet was a nice touch in the ending. I felt this was a strong intro for the Chapel Springs series and plan to read the other books.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "God's grip never slips."
"when something awful happens, it helps to know there's a God and that He knows what He's doing. That He has a purpose we might not see, might never understand."
"Life is filled with difficulties. This isn't heaven. We have these big mountains, set right in front of us, and we have no choice but to climb."
"But death is part of life. Not my favorite part, not by a long shot. But God does not owe us ninety years on this earth. Life is a gift, however long it lasts. It's God's to give and take away as He sees fit."
August 12, 2015
I enjoyed this book very much! Looking forward to the rest of the series!
August 23, 2022
3.5-4 ⭐️ I never know how to rate contemporary reads since they’re generally not my thing lol. This is a solid DH read. I enjoyed the romance between the two MCs. Very Hallmark-y.
October 30, 2013
Denise Hunter is an author I love to love. She has the incredible ability to get inside her characters so deeply! And her plots! Oh my! I oftentimes need to sit down and prepare myself to read her books because I know my emotions will be put through the ringer by the time I’m finished with it!
The blurb below isn’t lying when it says “the chemistry between them (Madison and Beckett) is electrifying”! This story between them is compelling. Rich. Everything I ask for in a book.
Denise Hunter books are the kind I’m quite frankly addicted to... and cannot find enough of. Sure, there are plenty of books out there—more than ever since now anyone with the internet can publish their work on Amazon. But I can’t help but notice that there just aren’t many of those that have the ability to win my affections as much as tried and true author who have made it in the ever-changing traditional publishing world in the last ten years.
If you want to be swept off your feet and have your heart tumbled around in your chest because of the words in front of you, look up Denise Hunter’s books. Every single one of them.
I received a complimentary paperback version of Denise Hunter’s Barefoot Summer by Thomas Nelson publishers in order to give a review containing my honest opinion.
The blurb below isn’t lying when it says “the chemistry between them (Madison and Beckett) is electrifying”! This story between them is compelling. Rich. Everything I ask for in a book.
Denise Hunter books are the kind I’m quite frankly addicted to... and cannot find enough of. Sure, there are plenty of books out there—more than ever since now anyone with the internet can publish their work on Amazon. But I can’t help but notice that there just aren’t many of those that have the ability to win my affections as much as tried and true author who have made it in the ever-changing traditional publishing world in the last ten years.
If you want to be swept off your feet and have your heart tumbled around in your chest because of the words in front of you, look up Denise Hunter’s books. Every single one of them.
I received a complimentary paperback version of Denise Hunter’s Barefoot Summer by Thomas Nelson publishers in order to give a review containing my honest opinion.
May 27, 2016
This is one of those books that I kept hearing was amazing, over and over again. So why three stars? I think my expectations had been built to high and came crashing down quickly.
Issue #1 ~ I found the romance shallower than I had expected. I had expected a lot more development in the relationship before the characters started kissing, and that wasn't the case
Positive #1 ~ The characters were amazingly well done. Hunter's talent in that regard was amazing.
Issue #2 ~The story felt a little slow at times. Some things felt like an information dump, other things I figured out what had happened and just wish the author would spell it out instead of pretending like it was a secret.
Positive #2 ~ I loved depth and realismf the characters.
Positive #3 ~ I loved the setting and the family.
I plan to read more by this author with more realistic expectations.
Issue #1 ~ I found the romance shallower than I had expected. I had expected a lot more development in the relationship before the characters started kissing, and that wasn't the case
Positive #1 ~ The characters were amazingly well done. Hunter's talent in that regard was amazing.
Issue #2 ~The story felt a little slow at times. Some things felt like an information dump, other things I figured out what had happened and just wish the author would spell it out instead of pretending like it was a secret.
Positive #2 ~ I loved depth and realismf the characters.
Positive #3 ~ I loved the setting and the family.
I plan to read more by this author with more realistic expectations.
March 30, 2021
The title of this book might lead one (me) to believe that this is a fun, light summer 'beach read'. Such is not the case. While there is definitely fun to be had, there are also layers of meaning throughout this novel, including the title itself.
I really liked both Madison and Beckett. I liked how they were portrayed as real people, struggling with difficult situations. I liked how their story was woven together, not just in the present day scenes, but in the memories of both characters.
There were a couple of quotes that I found particularly meaningful to me in my journey:
"Life was full of discomfort and hurt. But pain wasn't fatal." (p.256)
"I choose to believe that there's always hope, that with God all things are possible." (p.259)
4.5 stars
I really liked both Madison and Beckett. I liked how they were portrayed as real people, struggling with difficult situations. I liked how their story was woven together, not just in the present day scenes, but in the memories of both characters.
There were a couple of quotes that I found particularly meaningful to me in my journey:
"Life was full of discomfort and hurt. But pain wasn't fatal." (p.256)
"I choose to believe that there's always hope, that with God all things are possible." (p.259)
4.5 stars
February 11, 2026
3.4 stars ⭐️
Age rating: 14+
Dual pov book 👩❤️👨
Bad boy turned good vibes 🧔♂️
I think this book had a good story behind it but I just didn’t like it a lot. It could be partially because I might not have been in the right mood for this book or because I was listening to the audiobook instead of reading it but I just didn’t feel it. Not loving that the eldest brother was divorced. (Doesn’t even try to give a good reason that I noticed) It just seemed like the family was a little too secular, which, yes, someone could make the argument that it’s more realistic but, 🤷♀️ it’s fiction for a reason. Also some lack of regard for kissing. A character gave another character their first kiss together bc of guilt for not thinking about them enough after like the third date. The fmc mentioned comparing one kiss to ‘all the others after it’ implying in this instance she’d kissed several other ppl. Which I just didn’t like. It seems like they treat dating casually and not as much to find your partner for life. And personally I don’t think you should just date anyone you don’t dislike. I think you should be friends first and think you actually have a good chance of working out together before dating. She half cheats bc she kissed one guy then said that her and another guy are “hardly exclusive.” (They’ve been on a few dates and she gave him a brief kiss) She does tell him that she can’t go out with him anymore afterwards but. 🤷♀️ I did start enjoying it a bit more towards the end but I just don’t think this deserves a 4 star on Goodreads from me personally. If you like this book then I think that’s great but it just didn’t capture me.
Spice: light/mild/none
Character wonders if another character works out to get his muscles. Falling in love. A man changes into a swimsuit, girl looks away. Mentions a previous kiss. Character holds another character in the water while teaching them to swim. Boy and girl dance together. Girl can feel his breath on her hair. Boy’s hand is at a girl’s waist. A quick kiss. Thumb brushes lower lip. Second kiss - longer. Semi detailed. Girl falls and guy catches her. Lightly described. Affected by each other’s touch. Kiss. Implied that fmc has had multiple kisses before. Kissing - semi-detailed. Wanting to kiss someone (“aching”). Looking over the shape and features of someone’s face. Kiss (semi-detailed. Hand kiss. Short kiss. “Romantic” hug. (A few paragraphs) Flirting/teasing. Kiss (about a paragraph) Man kisses a woman’s head then hugs her. A long hug. Character comforts another character, stroking hair, holding her, wiping tears, etc.
Character caries another character to bed after they fell asleep. Kiss (one/two sentences. A “quick peck.” Side hug, then kiss. Watching a man give a woman a kiss on the head. Kissing (implied long but only about a sentence). Character looks at another character and memorized their features. Kiss on stage. Mentions kisses. Caressing circles with thumb (on hand or arm I think). Kissing. Legs go weak with wanting during a kiss. Couple holds each other. Walking holding hands.
Drugs/alcohol:
- drinking/alcoholism present. (Someone connected to a main character)
Trigger warnings:
• Dealing with grief after the death of a family member (drowning)
• Grief after loss of a twin
Age rating: 14+
Dual pov book 👩❤️👨
Bad boy turned good vibes 🧔♂️
I think this book had a good story behind it but I just didn’t like it a lot. It could be partially because I might not have been in the right mood for this book or because I was listening to the audiobook instead of reading it but I just didn’t feel it. Not loving that the eldest brother was divorced. (Doesn’t even try to give a good reason that I noticed) It just seemed like the family was a little too secular, which, yes, someone could make the argument that it’s more realistic but, 🤷♀️ it’s fiction for a reason. Also some lack of regard for kissing. A character gave another character their first kiss together bc of guilt for not thinking about them enough after like the third date. The fmc mentioned comparing one kiss to ‘all the others after it’ implying in this instance she’d kissed several other ppl. Which I just didn’t like. It seems like they treat dating casually and not as much to find your partner for life. And personally I don’t think you should just date anyone you don’t dislike. I think you should be friends first and think you actually have a good chance of working out together before dating. She half cheats bc she kissed one guy then said that her and another guy are “hardly exclusive.” (They’ve been on a few dates and she gave him a brief kiss) She does tell him that she can’t go out with him anymore afterwards but. 🤷♀️ I did start enjoying it a bit more towards the end but I just don’t think this deserves a 4 star on Goodreads from me personally. If you like this book then I think that’s great but it just didn’t capture me.
Spice: light/mild/none
Character wonders if another character works out to get his muscles. Falling in love. A man changes into a swimsuit, girl looks away. Mentions a previous kiss. Character holds another character in the water while teaching them to swim. Boy and girl dance together. Girl can feel his breath on her hair. Boy’s hand is at a girl’s waist. A quick kiss. Thumb brushes lower lip. Second kiss - longer. Semi detailed. Girl falls and guy catches her. Lightly described. Affected by each other’s touch. Kiss. Implied that fmc has had multiple kisses before. Kissing - semi-detailed. Wanting to kiss someone (“aching”). Looking over the shape and features of someone’s face. Kiss (semi-detailed. Hand kiss. Short kiss. “Romantic” hug. (A few paragraphs) Flirting/teasing. Kiss (about a paragraph) Man kisses a woman’s head then hugs her. A long hug. Character comforts another character, stroking hair, holding her, wiping tears, etc.
Character caries another character to bed after they fell asleep. Kiss (one/two sentences. A “quick peck.” Side hug, then kiss. Watching a man give a woman a kiss on the head. Kissing (implied long but only about a sentence). Character looks at another character and memorized their features. Kiss on stage. Mentions kisses. Caressing circles with thumb (on hand or arm I think). Kissing. Legs go weak with wanting during a kiss. Couple holds each other. Walking holding hands.
Drugs/alcohol:
- drinking/alcoholism present. (Someone connected to a main character)
Trigger warnings:
• Dealing with grief after the death of a family member (drowning)
• Grief after loss of a twin
September 5, 2021
Such an awesome book! Oh to have a kiss leave such an impression on you that no other kiss can even compare to! Now that's totally worth it for sure!!
June 10, 2013
Where do I begin other than to say I loved this book?! Ever since I read The Convenient Groom years ago I've been a fan of Denise Hunter. While I've enjoyed all of her books since that first experience in Nantucket, none quite lived up on the romance side of things until her latest book, Barefoot Summer.
Beckett O'Reilly is just one of those heroes and by "one of those" I mean a bit roguish, tall, dark, and handsome and oh so easy to fall in love with (*dreamy sigh* he has coal colored eyes). I could definitely see why Madison McKinley could hardly resist him! While not a perfect story, I was thoroughly engaged in the story and finished the book from cover to cover in one sitting. I thought it was a little far fetched that Madison learned to swim, restore a boat, and learn to sail all in such a short time but the rest of Madison and Beckett's story is so unique (love the setting!) and romantic that it is definitely one of my favorite story's of the year. Even with the sizzling chemistry between both characters, it was more than just a romance. As with any Christian fiction Madison and Beckett struggle with their faith and heartaches, both past and present.
Barefoot Summer is the perfect read to take with you to the beach or just to grab when you want to hole up in your reading chair with a good book! If you've read and enjoyed Denise's books in the past, you won't be disappointed. If you aren't familiar with this author this is a great book to start out with!
~ My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ~
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
Beckett O'Reilly is just one of those heroes and by "one of those" I mean a bit roguish, tall, dark, and handsome and oh so easy to fall in love with (*dreamy sigh* he has coal colored eyes). I could definitely see why Madison McKinley could hardly resist him! While not a perfect story, I was thoroughly engaged in the story and finished the book from cover to cover in one sitting. I thought it was a little far fetched that Madison learned to swim, restore a boat, and learn to sail all in such a short time but the rest of Madison and Beckett's story is so unique (love the setting!) and romantic that it is definitely one of my favorite story's of the year. Even with the sizzling chemistry between both characters, it was more than just a romance. As with any Christian fiction Madison and Beckett struggle with their faith and heartaches, both past and present.
Barefoot Summer is the perfect read to take with you to the beach or just to grab when you want to hole up in your reading chair with a good book! If you've read and enjoyed Denise's books in the past, you won't be disappointed. If you aren't familiar with this author this is a great book to start out with!
~ My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ~
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
August 5, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1TN1N8J...
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
It's no secret that contemporary romance is not one of my favorite genres, so I didn't know how much I'd enjoy Barefoot Summer. I ended up really liking it and definitely plan on reading the next Chapel Spring novel.
The characters were great and I loved the McKinley family. Beckett would probably be my favorite character - because of all the things he went through and had to overcome - but all of the characters were, as I said, great. :)
I loved the whole sailing aspect to Barefoot Summer. It definitely made this a unique read for me. Also, the romance was so sweet!
Overall, Barefoot Summer was a wonderful read - perfect for summer! I recommend it if you enjoy these types of books.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
It's no secret that contemporary romance is not one of my favorite genres, so I didn't know how much I'd enjoy Barefoot Summer. I ended up really liking it and definitely plan on reading the next Chapel Spring novel.
The characters were great and I loved the McKinley family. Beckett would probably be my favorite character - because of all the things he went through and had to overcome - but all of the characters were, as I said, great. :)
I loved the whole sailing aspect to Barefoot Summer. It definitely made this a unique read for me. Also, the romance was so sweet!
Overall, Barefoot Summer was a wonderful read - perfect for summer! I recommend it if you enjoy these types of books.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
February 12, 2018
Aw this was a really cute and deep meaning Christian romance. The inclusion of faith wasn’t cheesy but actually added to the story in a great way.
I really enjoyed it as my first book by this author!
I really enjoyed it as my first book by this author!
April 14, 2020
Madison and Beckett just easily made the list of my all time favorite literary couples. This was such a perfectly heart-wrenching story that combines elements of faith, love, and family to create an achingly sweet tale. A solid 5/5 stars
December 31, 2015
I loved this book! This one is tied with the third book The Wishing Season for my favorite of the series so far! I ended up reading this series totally out of order, I read the novella A December Bride first, then the second and third books Dancing With Fireflies and The Wishing Season and then finally reading this one which is the first book of the series, while I did experience some minor spoilers by reading them in that order, I didn't have a problem following the storyline. Though these books don't have to be read in order I would recommend starting with Barefoot Summer if you can, simply because it was just soooo good! I loved finally getting to read Madison and Beckett's story, it was even better than I had dreamed it would be! I'm having difficulty trying to think of anything else to say without spoiling something so I will just say that this was one of the few books where I found myself relating on some level to the spiritual struggles of both the hero and heroine, I felt invested in their story and was cheering for them every step of the way! I love this series and the McKinley family! I can't wait to read the fourth book Married 'till Monday when it releases!
June 19, 2013
This author sure knows how to pack emotion, tender moments, and passion within the pages of each book she writes. I loved this book. It was compelling and interesting. I appreciated how there were so many lessons about secrets, forgiveness, and knowing God in a personal way inserted into the story line. I also loved how the author showed that a relationship with the living Savior does change the way someone lives their life and eventually people who long for similar peace will seek the same relationship.
The romance was delectable. I adored the hero. He was very heroic and delightful. The way he sacrificed his time to help Madison was admirable. I loved how he taught her to swim so she wouldn't be so afraid to be on the water. The tension was tastefully written, but palpable and intense at the same time. There was true love going on within the pages of this book. It flowed smoothly and naturally and I had a hard time putting it down once I got wrapped up in the story.
The romance was delectable. I adored the hero. He was very heroic and delightful. The way he sacrificed his time to help Madison was admirable. I loved how he taught her to swim so she wouldn't be so afraid to be on the water. The tension was tastefully written, but palpable and intense at the same time. There was true love going on within the pages of this book. It flowed smoothly and naturally and I had a hard time putting it down once I got wrapped up in the story.
December 10, 2015
I was immediately drawn to care for Madison and her family. The McKinleys are a charming brood; they may have their warts, but the parents show their love for their children in many ways. The small-town feel is a delight, and I loved the details about the regatta and how Beckett helps her face down her fear of water.
March 13, 2021
So, so good!! In this, book 1of Denise Hunter’s Chapel Springs series, Madison and Beckett are an unlikely couple - until they’re not. I sighed, I swooned, I smiled, I cried. And I finished it in 2 days. Now I’m on the hunt for book 2.
January 11, 2014
I figured out a few years ago that I am a fan of Denise Hunter’s writing. I have not read all of her books, but I am trying to rectify that! I have a few sitting on my bookshelf and a few waiting on my kindle. But, of those that I have read, I have loved each one. Barefoot Summer is definitely no exception to this.
Madison McKinley is a successful veterinarian and the member of a wonderful family. But there is something eating away at her. Years ago, she lost her twin brother and the pain just has never lessened. She suffers from intense nightmares that are affecting how she functions during the day. She hopes that by fulfilling her brother’s biggest dream and winning the sailing Regatta, she can finally put the nightmares behind her.
To achieve her brother’s dream, Madison needs the help of Beckett O’Reilly. Once the town bad boy, Beckett is now a very different man. He struggles with an alcoholic father and a grandfather with Alzheimer’s. To train Madison for the Regatta, Beckett will spend hours and hours in Madison’s company. He has been drawn to her since high school, but has never felt worthy of her because of his family’s history.
Barefoot Summer has all of the elements I need in a romance. These are elements that one or both of the main characters must work through in the course of the story. There is pain that needs to be worked through, feelings of unworthiness and guilt that need to be overcome, love that has been simmering for years and just now might have the chance to break through and be real, wonderful attraction that is sweet and a romance that builds throughout the story.
I am really enjoying this Chapel Springs series. I have read Barefoot Summer and A December Bride (novella). I am really looking forward to reading Dancing with Fireflies.
You can read my review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
Madison McKinley is a successful veterinarian and the member of a wonderful family. But there is something eating away at her. Years ago, she lost her twin brother and the pain just has never lessened. She suffers from intense nightmares that are affecting how she functions during the day. She hopes that by fulfilling her brother’s biggest dream and winning the sailing Regatta, she can finally put the nightmares behind her.
To achieve her brother’s dream, Madison needs the help of Beckett O’Reilly. Once the town bad boy, Beckett is now a very different man. He struggles with an alcoholic father and a grandfather with Alzheimer’s. To train Madison for the Regatta, Beckett will spend hours and hours in Madison’s company. He has been drawn to her since high school, but has never felt worthy of her because of his family’s history.
Barefoot Summer has all of the elements I need in a romance. These are elements that one or both of the main characters must work through in the course of the story. There is pain that needs to be worked through, feelings of unworthiness and guilt that need to be overcome, love that has been simmering for years and just now might have the chance to break through and be real, wonderful attraction that is sweet and a romance that builds throughout the story.
I am really enjoying this Chapel Springs series. I have read Barefoot Summer and A December Bride (novella). I am really looking forward to reading Dancing with Fireflies.
You can read my review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
August 31, 2016
This is another good book by Denise Hunter. This was a little slow going at first but it was certainly worth hanging on until the end. Madison has never gotten over the death of her twin brother in a drowning after hitting his head. If she can just get his sailboat refurbished and learn to sail in the local Regatta, she thinks she will get over the grief and nightmares that plague her. But, and it's a big but, she has to get over her fear of the water. She wins an auction for sailing lessons with an sailing expert but he has work to come up that will take him out of town some weekends and she has to split the lessons between him and local bad boy, Beckett. Beckett won't teach her to sail until she gets over her fear of the water. Lots of barriers stand between the two of them...he is the son of a drunk and she is from what Beckett perceives as a normal, upstanding family. He has been in tons of trouble in the past and she is a high achiever and is now a veterinarian. One thing from their past is that he kissed her at a high school dance when she was a sophomore and he was a senior. They have each had a little bit of a crush on the other but nothing ever came of it. And there was a recent misunderstanding between the two concerning Madison's sister, who left town abruptly. Now they have to work together on getting Madison ready for the sailing regatta. Talk about awkward. But Beckett has changed his life around and is going to church and doing a Bible study. Madison has always gone to church but can't understand why God would allow her twin, a Christian, to die at seventeen years old. Both have to face their pasts so that they can see the future and what is in store for them. This is a sweet story with characters that are realistic and have real life issues.
March 28, 2016
This book brought me out of a book slump, but it ended up being just ok for me. I liked it to start with, but I thought it just dragged on a little too long. A lot of repetition. And this is the first book in a series and I've already read the last book in the series and there are some continuity issues with the character who the last book focuses on which annoyed me a little.
Overall, though, it was a sweet romance with likable characters and a good message woven in.
Overall, though, it was a sweet romance with likable characters and a good message woven in.
July 15, 2016
It was a little weird to finally read this first book in the Chapel Springs series after having read all the others, and I think knowing some of the stories to come affected my enjoyment of this initial story a tad. But it still had all the sizzling romance and character depth I love about Denise's writing l, and now I'm dying to reread the rest of the series!
June 30, 2017
Denise Hunter has quickly become one of my favorite authors. There is a scene about halfway through this book when one of the characters says "Mercy, Woman." and I answered back "Mercy, Indeed". She can write those moments like nobody else. Can not wait to get the next book!
April 24, 2015
probably more of a 3.75 stars, I enjoyed it for the most part but I had a couple issues with it. Cute, contemporary romance, and I I look forward to reading the next in the series.
April 29, 2017
Fabulous!! Everything I read by Denise Hunter is superb!
March 27, 2017
literally the only time I would read this is while I'm laying on the beach and there's nothing better to read... WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT I DID
September 5, 2022
This is the first Denise Hunter book I’ve actually enjoyed. It was rich with emotion, a solid faith thread, and a wholesome, sweet, mostly respectable romance. There was a little too much focus on the physical aspect early on, particularly focusing on a man’s muscles and physical reactions to one another, but thankfully that ceased and the real romance came to the surface and shone.
The opening auction scene was such fun! I loved that it was sailing lessons that were up for grabs. I hadn’t seen that before. And I loved how those lessons were used and what the motivation was for the gal’s wanting them. It was amazing to see her determination outwork her fear. That was a wonderful example of how to face life with courage.
Deep grief and sufficient healing were on display in this beautifully written story. The complex, twist-filled plot cued up the spotlight onto those aspects and others. I loved that the leading man showed his love to his father by quietly demanding he rise to the challenge to get sober. It wasn’t an easy journey by any stretch, but it was a good one, one that mattered.
Oh, and I didn’t even mention the adorable cover yet! It’s so precious! Now, I don’t recall there being a model boat in the story, but the tone definitely reflects that of the story and that the leads connected over a boat, though of the life-size variety. I’m glad the story held up to the charming quality of the cover.
Content: drunkenness, alcohol, one expletive
The opening auction scene was such fun! I loved that it was sailing lessons that were up for grabs. I hadn’t seen that before. And I loved how those lessons were used and what the motivation was for the gal’s wanting them. It was amazing to see her determination outwork her fear. That was a wonderful example of how to face life with courage.
Deep grief and sufficient healing were on display in this beautifully written story. The complex, twist-filled plot cued up the spotlight onto those aspects and others. I loved that the leading man showed his love to his father by quietly demanding he rise to the challenge to get sober. It wasn’t an easy journey by any stretch, but it was a good one, one that mattered.
Oh, and I didn’t even mention the adorable cover yet! It’s so precious! Now, I don’t recall there being a model boat in the story, but the tone definitely reflects that of the story and that the leads connected over a boat, though of the life-size variety. I’m glad the story held up to the charming quality of the cover.
Content: drunkenness, alcohol, one expletive
February 6, 2025
All I can say is wow. This book is more than just a romance. It dives into the deeper troubles of growing up knowing of God but not knowing God. It shows the power of forgiveness. It shows that the truth can be hard but also so so so important. Loved this book and definitely will be reading it again. I'm so glad this is a series and hope to jump into the next book soon. Also even though there were quite a few kissing sense they were not overly sensual and actually focused on the feelings and inter thoughts of the characters rather than the actions being done. Extremely well written and would like every book I read to be like this one. Is there a way to rate it a 6/5???
Also side note this is one of the only books I’ve read that brought me to tears
Also side note this is one of the only books I’ve read that brought me to tears
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