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Effie Olsen's Summer Special
These childhood best friends swore they’d never speak again. But that was before a surprise summer reunion gives them a chance to turn up the heat.
Effie Olsen thought she’d never settle down on the tiny Maine island where she grew up, but she’s returning from a whirlwind sixteen years as a professional chef in far-flung countries for one summer and one summer only. Her hometown boasts one of the best restaurants in the US, and lucky for her, Brown Butter needs a sous chef. Effie is eager for a chance at redemption after her last job went up in flames, but reluctant to set down roots in a place that reminds her of the ghosts of her past.
Until, that is, she runs into Ernie Callahan, her onetime best friend who now works in the very same restaurant. Early morning swims and late-night games of truth or dare with Ernie remind her of what she’s been missing while traveling the world. He knows her better than anyone, and it doesn’t hurt that his smile lights her up brighter than the lighthouses dotting the craggy coastline.
But Brown Butter has a secret that’s bursting at the seams, and if Effie doesn’t keep it, her job will vanish into the foggy Maine air. As summer draws to a close, she realizes a second chance at her dream job and the perfect guy are both within reach. The salty seaside town of Alder Isle is the key to Effie’s sweet ending.... All she has to do now is learn to let her heart lead the way.
Effie Olsen thought she’d never settle down on the tiny Maine island where she grew up, but she’s returning from a whirlwind sixteen years as a professional chef in far-flung countries for one summer and one summer only. Her hometown boasts one of the best restaurants in the US, and lucky for her, Brown Butter needs a sous chef. Effie is eager for a chance at redemption after her last job went up in flames, but reluctant to set down roots in a place that reminds her of the ghosts of her past.
Until, that is, she runs into Ernie Callahan, her onetime best friend who now works in the very same restaurant. Early morning swims and late-night games of truth or dare with Ernie remind her of what she’s been missing while traveling the world. He knows her better than anyone, and it doesn’t hurt that his smile lights her up brighter than the lighthouses dotting the craggy coastline.
But Brown Butter has a secret that’s bursting at the seams, and if Effie doesn’t keep it, her job will vanish into the foggy Maine air. As summer draws to a close, she realizes a second chance at her dream job and the perfect guy are both within reach. The salty seaside town of Alder Isle is the key to Effie’s sweet ending.... All she has to do now is learn to let her heart lead the way.
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2024
30 people are currently reading
10277 people want to read
About the author
Rochelle Bilow
7 books223 followersRochelle Bilow is a food and romance writer who previously worked as the social media manager at Bon Appétit and Cooking Light magazines. A graduate of The French Culinary Institute, she has also worked as a line cook, a baker, and a wine spokesperson. Her first book, The Call of the Farm, a swoony farming memoir, was published in 2014. Raised in Syracuse, New York, Rochelle now lives in northern Vermont.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
December 6, 2023
Buckle up for a hilarious and heartwarming rollercoaster ride because "Effie Olsen's Summer Special" by Rochelle Bilow is like a lobster roll for your soul! I picked up this book on a whim (thank you, Berkley, for the unexpected gem!), and boy, was I in for a treat.
Effie and Ernie, childhood friends with more history than a library, reunite after a whopping sixteen years, and folks, it's more entertaining than a game of bingo at the retirement home. Their bucket list dates are pure genius, and I've officially added "summer island escapades" to my own must-do list.
Now, onto the nitty-gritty. I'm giving mad props to Bilow for steering clear of the dreaded third-act breakup. No tear-stained tissues here—just gratitude and a vow to read everything she writes as a token of appreciation. This is an absolute delight—a clean slate, second-chance romance combined with the friends-to-lovers trope.
In the grand banquet of "Effie Olsen's Summer Special," you'll feast on heartwarming hometown vibes, savor the romantic reunion of Effie and Ernie, and nibble on a mystery that keeps you guessing. Rochelle Bilow's recipe for a summer read blends nostalgia, romance, and a dash of intrigue—all served with a side of small-town charm. So, dear readers, dig into this delightful dish and let the flavors of love and rediscovery dance on your palate. Your summer escapade awaits!
Again, special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this heartwarming book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
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Effie and Ernie, childhood friends with more history than a library, reunite after a whopping sixteen years, and folks, it's more entertaining than a game of bingo at the retirement home. Their bucket list dates are pure genius, and I've officially added "summer island escapades" to my own must-do list.
Now, onto the nitty-gritty. I'm giving mad props to Bilow for steering clear of the dreaded third-act breakup. No tear-stained tissues here—just gratitude and a vow to read everything she writes as a token of appreciation. This is an absolute delight—a clean slate, second-chance romance combined with the friends-to-lovers trope.
In the grand banquet of "Effie Olsen's Summer Special," you'll feast on heartwarming hometown vibes, savor the romantic reunion of Effie and Ernie, and nibble on a mystery that keeps you guessing. Rochelle Bilow's recipe for a summer read blends nostalgia, romance, and a dash of intrigue—all served with a side of small-town charm. So, dear readers, dig into this delightful dish and let the flavors of love and rediscovery dance on your palate. Your summer escapade awaits!
Again, special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this heartwarming book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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April 24, 2024
Effie Olsen’s Summer Special by Rochelle Bilow is a new contemporary romance novel. The story in Effie Olsen’s Summer Special is one of a second chance for life long friends turning into lovers.
When Effie Olsen left her hometown of Alder Isle, a tiny Maine island, Effie never thought she’d be living there again. Effie had big dreams of becoming a top chef and traveling the world. Well, some of that has come true as Effie has spent the last sixteen years abroad working in some great restaurants.
Now however, Effie is forced to return home after her last job did not go so well and needs a job on island to save for her next adventure. For a tiny island Alder Isle does have a Michelin starred restaurant for Effie to apply to work but what Effie didn’t expect was for her ex-best friend Ernie Callahan to also work at Brown Butter. To Ernie Effie was the one that got away which broken down their friendship when she left.
Effie Olsen’s Summer Special is the first book I’ve read from author Rochelle Bilow so I wasn’t sure what to expect but let’s face it that cover drew me in and wouldn’t let me pass it by. I’m such a sucker for a lovely beachy setting whatever the genre is so I certainly settled right into the island life with our resident chef in action. This was a slow burn relationship as the main character wants nothing more than to leave for most of the book but the story was a fun one while waiting out the slow burn. When finished I’d definitely give this author another try in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
When Effie Olsen left her hometown of Alder Isle, a tiny Maine island, Effie never thought she’d be living there again. Effie had big dreams of becoming a top chef and traveling the world. Well, some of that has come true as Effie has spent the last sixteen years abroad working in some great restaurants.
Now however, Effie is forced to return home after her last job did not go so well and needs a job on island to save for her next adventure. For a tiny island Alder Isle does have a Michelin starred restaurant for Effie to apply to work but what Effie didn’t expect was for her ex-best friend Ernie Callahan to also work at Brown Butter. To Ernie Effie was the one that got away which broken down their friendship when she left.
Effie Olsen’s Summer Special is the first book I’ve read from author Rochelle Bilow so I wasn’t sure what to expect but let’s face it that cover drew me in and wouldn’t let me pass it by. I’m such a sucker for a lovely beachy setting whatever the genre is so I certainly settled right into the island life with our resident chef in action. This was a slow burn relationship as the main character wants nothing more than to leave for most of the book but the story was a fun one while waiting out the slow burn. When finished I’d definitely give this author another try in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 30, 2024
Unofficial chaotic blurb:
Reading a Rochelle Bilow book means steeping yourself in every sensation—taste, touch, feel, sight. When you open the first page of this book, I swear you’ll feel a sea breeze and smell salt in the air, and then you’ll fall fully into this gorgeous second chance romance (that started as best friends to loverssssssss HELLO!!!!). Effie is tough and tender and Ernie is the softest, sweetest man (except when he 😏texts😏) and watching (yes watching bc Rochelle writes like you’re viewing the most delicious movie) these two dance around each other before finally giving in? Perfection. Think the grown up vibes of TSITP without the love triangle, think The Bear (Effie is a chef) while your stomach growls over the unbelievable descriptions of food. Think Taylor Swift’s august and Novo Amor’s Anchor and Djo’s End of Beginning, but instead of Chicago it’s coastal Maine. It is, imho, the perfect way to start off the summer.
Official blurb:
“Effie Olsen’s Summer Special is what summer romance dreams are made of. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, warmth, and complex emotions that made my heart ache, with breezy seaside magic threaded through every word. Rochelle Bilow writes so evocatively that I could feel the salt air on my skin as I read, could taste every mouthwatering meal described, and had no choice but to hold my breath while the tension between Effie and Ernie boiled over and then melted beautifully into a second chance at love. An instant addition to my favorites shelf.”
Reading a Rochelle Bilow book means steeping yourself in every sensation—taste, touch, feel, sight. When you open the first page of this book, I swear you’ll feel a sea breeze and smell salt in the air, and then you’ll fall fully into this gorgeous second chance romance (that started as best friends to loverssssssss HELLO!!!!). Effie is tough and tender and Ernie is the softest, sweetest man (except when he 😏texts😏) and watching (yes watching bc Rochelle writes like you’re viewing the most delicious movie) these two dance around each other before finally giving in? Perfection. Think the grown up vibes of TSITP without the love triangle, think The Bear (Effie is a chef) while your stomach growls over the unbelievable descriptions of food. Think Taylor Swift’s august and Novo Amor’s Anchor and Djo’s End of Beginning, but instead of Chicago it’s coastal Maine. It is, imho, the perfect way to start off the summer.
Official blurb:
“Effie Olsen’s Summer Special is what summer romance dreams are made of. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, warmth, and complex emotions that made my heart ache, with breezy seaside magic threaded through every word. Rochelle Bilow writes so evocatively that I could feel the salt air on my skin as I read, could taste every mouthwatering meal described, and had no choice but to hold my breath while the tension between Effie and Ernie boiled over and then melted beautifully into a second chance at love. An instant addition to my favorites shelf.”
June 4, 2024
This is a tough one to review because I can't exactly pinpoint what I didn't like. The Maine island setting was so warm and inviting—a perfect vibe for the upcoming summer months. And nestled within is Brown Butter, the delectable restaurant where Effie Olsen takes a temporary position as sous chef.
I very much enjoyed seeing Effie confront a tough decision and use her voice to overturn the toxic management within Brown Butter. In her corner is Ernie Callahan, her coworker AND former best friend. With lots of history between Effie and Ernie, their developing romance was cute! There was plenty of push and pull while also incorporating mature communication throughout.
But I don't know. It was missing something for me. I had similar feelings about Ruby Spencer's Whisky Year. Overall a nice story, but I struggled to emotionally connect with it.
(heat level: a couple open-door scenes, moderate details)
I very much enjoyed seeing Effie confront a tough decision and use her voice to overturn the toxic management within Brown Butter. In her corner is Ernie Callahan, her coworker AND former best friend. With lots of history between Effie and Ernie, their developing romance was cute! There was plenty of push and pull while also incorporating mature communication throughout.
But I don't know. It was missing something for me. I had similar feelings about Ruby Spencer's Whisky Year. Overall a nice story, but I struggled to emotionally connect with it.
(heat level: a couple open-door scenes, moderate details)
May 1, 2024
Effie Olsen's Summer Special is a sweet and heartwarming book by Rochelle Bilow and after reading this one I want to read more of her books. First and foremost, this book is set in Maine during summer. I grew up going to Maine in the summers so reading about it was nostalgic for me. Secondly, this book as one of my FAVORITE tropes >> 𝗖𝗛𝗜𝗟𝗗𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗕𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦. To me, there is nothing sweeter than two former best friends falling in love, so this book put a huge smile on my face. Finally, I love books set during summer. Summer is my favorite season so being able to live through the season vicariously through these characters was amazing.
All in all, I adored this book. It’s sweet, has great character development, a charming love story, and characters who I want to hug and squeeze. This is the perfect beach read so I recommend grabbing it and throwing it in your beach bag!
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
All in all, I adored this book. It’s sweet, has great character development, a charming love story, and characters who I want to hug and squeeze. This is the perfect beach read so I recommend grabbing it and throwing it in your beach bag!
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 26, 2024
3.75 ⭐️ the setting of this was PERFECT FOR A SUMMER READ! My only complaint is I just kinda felt like Effie (FMC) was so withdrawn for no reason? I didn’t dislike her she just wasn’t my fav! Overall a cutie read! The restaurant drama had me at the edge of my seat!!
May 3, 2024
4.5 Stars
Effie’s back in her hometown of Alder Island, Maine after sixteen years roaming the globe as a chef. Effie’s there just for the summer to earn money and move on to her next assignment.
The small town holds a mix of good and bad memories for Effie. The good ones with her best friend, Ernie, until the night of their graduation, when he told her he didn’t want to speak to her again. Being on the island also brings back memories of her mother leaving. Effie had no choice but to tackle the feelings of abandonment caused by her mother’s actions. Her sister, Ingrid, was a great sounding board and source of wisdom for Effie.
I was thrilled that Ernie and Effie slipped back into friendship right away, and things weren’t super angsty. They just got each other. Their bucket list outings made it hard for Effie to ignore the love and attraction between them. It also highlighted some of the things she forgot she loved about Alder Island, which sounded so quaint and picturesque! Soon leaving Alder Island isn’t such an attractive prospect.
There’s drama at Brown Butter, the Michelin star restaurant they both work at. The head chef, Jared, is a jerk and there’s some shady practices gaining attention. I enjoyed how Effie bonded with all the other staff and made new friends along the way. Ms.Bilow's background as a chef comes through in her food descriptions and everything sounded delicious!
Effie Olsen’s Summer Special was such a wonderful story of healing, personal growth, and finding your niche in life. It was also a sweet, swoony, slow burn romance; the friends-to-lovers variety, that made my heart soar with joy!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for a honest review.
Effie’s back in her hometown of Alder Island, Maine after sixteen years roaming the globe as a chef. Effie’s there just for the summer to earn money and move on to her next assignment.
The small town holds a mix of good and bad memories for Effie. The good ones with her best friend, Ernie, until the night of their graduation, when he told her he didn’t want to speak to her again. Being on the island also brings back memories of her mother leaving. Effie had no choice but to tackle the feelings of abandonment caused by her mother’s actions. Her sister, Ingrid, was a great sounding board and source of wisdom for Effie.
I was thrilled that Ernie and Effie slipped back into friendship right away, and things weren’t super angsty. They just got each other. Their bucket list outings made it hard for Effie to ignore the love and attraction between them. It also highlighted some of the things she forgot she loved about Alder Island, which sounded so quaint and picturesque! Soon leaving Alder Island isn’t such an attractive prospect.
There’s drama at Brown Butter, the Michelin star restaurant they both work at. The head chef, Jared, is a jerk and there’s some shady practices gaining attention. I enjoyed how Effie bonded with all the other staff and made new friends along the way. Ms.Bilow's background as a chef comes through in her food descriptions and everything sounded delicious!
Effie Olsen’s Summer Special was such a wonderful story of healing, personal growth, and finding your niche in life. It was also a sweet, swoony, slow burn romance; the friends-to-lovers variety, that made my heart soar with joy!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for a honest review.
May 29, 2024
A top contender for favorite summery book of 2024! Tied with This Summer Will Be Different ~ we'll see which title ends up winning my totally random prize! I adored this book for the setting, mature characters, and most of all, the mature romance that includes COMMUNICATION. The small Maine island and the restaurant and the perfect summer vibes absolutely won my heart, but the fact that the characters didn't keep ridiculous secrets and have nonsensical misunderstandings is what truly sealed my love here. I want more, more, more books like this!
Source: purchased Kindle edition
Source: purchased Kindle edition
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April 16, 2024The chef-y parts were good but I refuse to believe that the Michelin committee would give a star to a restaurant named Brown Butter.
May 2, 2024
4.5 stars
Effie returns home, the one place she cannot stand and rarely visits, to shore up her bank account before going off into the world again. Her last job went up in smoke. Luckily, her tiny hometown in Maine features an incredible restaurant. Keeping her head down as the new sous chef is paramount to escaping after the summer is over. Only trouble walks in, both with the head chef and Effie's once-upon-a-time best friend, Ernie, refusing to ignore what they once meant to each other.
Friends to Lovers is not my favorite but @rochellebilow did the best job reminding me why any trope can be incredible with the right author behind it. The communication level was chef's kiss! And I could not be more in love with how everything pans out for Effie and Ernie. Rochelle is an auto-read author and I'm eager to see what's next.
Thank you to @berkleyromance and @netgalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Effie returns home, the one place she cannot stand and rarely visits, to shore up her bank account before going off into the world again. Her last job went up in smoke. Luckily, her tiny hometown in Maine features an incredible restaurant. Keeping her head down as the new sous chef is paramount to escaping after the summer is over. Only trouble walks in, both with the head chef and Effie's once-upon-a-time best friend, Ernie, refusing to ignore what they once meant to each other.
Friends to Lovers is not my favorite but @rochellebilow did the best job reminding me why any trope can be incredible with the right author behind it. The communication level was chef's kiss! And I could not be more in love with how everything pans out for Effie and Ernie. Rochelle is an auto-read author and I'm eager to see what's next.
Thank you to @berkleyromance and @netgalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
March 26, 2024
What a sweet read! (despite the MCs being named Ernie & Effie...good god why!?)
Boy meets Girl. Boy and Girl become besties for life. Boy confesses love for Girl on the night of graduation. Girl runs away for more than a decade. Girl becomes top chef then her career kind of crashes and burns. Girl returns to hometown and Boy is hot hot HOT. A love story ensues!
I really enjoyed this read. It's very much a hallmark type romance with a simple straight forward main plot and romance. The characters are understated but relatable. Not too deep, but interesting enough to keep you going. I enjoyed the small town vibe and the influx of side characters that kept the story light and fun. There's a good bit of spice that was surprising but welcomed. And overall, it's a great mindless beachy romance that I'm sure others will love!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy in exchange of my honest review.
Boy meets Girl. Boy and Girl become besties for life. Boy confesses love for Girl on the night of graduation. Girl runs away for more than a decade. Girl becomes top chef then her career kind of crashes and burns. Girl returns to hometown and Boy is hot hot HOT. A love story ensues!
I really enjoyed this read. It's very much a hallmark type romance with a simple straight forward main plot and romance. The characters are understated but relatable. Not too deep, but interesting enough to keep you going. I enjoyed the small town vibe and the influx of side characters that kept the story light and fun. There's a good bit of spice that was surprising but welcomed. And overall, it's a great mindless beachy romance that I'm sure others will love!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy in exchange of my honest review.
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January 7, 2025Def a 4.5!! Loved the summer vibes, I want to visit Maine now and Ernie sounds hot as f*ck 🤤
November 21, 2023
Someone better explain why I am kicking my feet and squealing over a man named ERNIE.
It's rare I get to be the first written review for a book on this site, so I will instantly assure you that I loved this! Maybe it was just the palate cleanser I needed, but I inhaled this book faster than any of the shorter ones I've read this month. It was well-written, nicely paced, had a neat food industry angle, and was perfectly atmospheric with a small-town second chance seaside romance.
I'm genuinely shocked by how much I loved Effie and Ernie. I requested an early copy on a whim (many thanks to Berkley for approving me for once!) and not gonna lie, if I had read the description beforehand I probably would have skipped over a book with characters named after senior citizens. That said, I really did like these two. They have a big history together as childhood friends, and it was so entertaining seeing them come back together almost two decades later and get reacquainted with each other. Their little bucket list dates were a great vessel for that. The explicit scenes were admittedly not the best, but there was a sexting scene that literally every other romance author needs to take notes on.
What kept this from being a five star read for me, however, was the ending. Don't get me wrong, mad respect for the no third act break up. Like, I will read everything Bilow puts out after this as a way to show my gratitude for that not happening here. However, there were some decisions made in the last ten percent that I did not jive with. It felt a little confusing given how the story had unfolded, but that's just me.
Definitely popping back into Bilow's backlist to read her debut now!
It's rare I get to be the first written review for a book on this site, so I will instantly assure you that I loved this! Maybe it was just the palate cleanser I needed, but I inhaled this book faster than any of the shorter ones I've read this month. It was well-written, nicely paced, had a neat food industry angle, and was perfectly atmospheric with a small-town second chance seaside romance.
I'm genuinely shocked by how much I loved Effie and Ernie. I requested an early copy on a whim (many thanks to Berkley for approving me for once!) and not gonna lie, if I had read the description beforehand I probably would have skipped over a book with characters named after senior citizens. That said, I really did like these two. They have a big history together as childhood friends, and it was so entertaining seeing them come back together almost two decades later and get reacquainted with each other. Their little bucket list dates were a great vessel for that. The explicit scenes were admittedly not the best, but there was a sexting scene that literally every other romance author needs to take notes on.
What kept this from being a five star read for me, however, was the ending. Don't get me wrong, mad respect for the no third act break up. Like, I will read everything Bilow puts out after this as a way to show my gratitude for that not happening here. However, there were some decisions made in the last ten percent that I did not jive with. It felt a little confusing given how the story had unfolded, but that's just me.
Definitely popping back into Bilow's backlist to read her debut now!
May 22, 2024
If you’re looking for a heartwarming read to kick off your summer reading, I highly recommend Effie Olsen’s Summer Special. It’s a small town, friends to lovers romance, that also features a wonderful journey of personal growth and healing for the main character, Effie.
Effie has reluctantly returned home to Maine after over 15 years of traveling around the globe in her capacity as a chef. Her last job ended abruptly and she has come home to work at Brown Butter, a local Michelin-starred restaurant. Her goal is to replenish her bank account so that she can continue her rootless, globetrotting ways. That is, until she encounters Ernie, her former childhood best friend.
Their friendship went a bit sideways when they graduated from high school, so Effie returning home gives them not only the opportunity to mend their broken friendship but to realize that they actually have more than just friendly feelings for one another. I thought the chemistry between Ernie and Effie was amazing and I enjoyed the fun banter between them.
In addition to the romance, which was both sweet and spicy, I also found myself deeply invested in Effie’s personal journey, especially as her experiences once she returns home have her rethinking what she wants out of her life, especially as old wounds finally start to heal.
The vivid Maine setting, some shady drama at Brown Butter, and a fabulous cast of secondary characters all come together to make this the perfect beach read so be sure to pick up a copy!
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via the Publisher. All opinions are my own.
Effie has reluctantly returned home to Maine after over 15 years of traveling around the globe in her capacity as a chef. Her last job ended abruptly and she has come home to work at Brown Butter, a local Michelin-starred restaurant. Her goal is to replenish her bank account so that she can continue her rootless, globetrotting ways. That is, until she encounters Ernie, her former childhood best friend.
Their friendship went a bit sideways when they graduated from high school, so Effie returning home gives them not only the opportunity to mend their broken friendship but to realize that they actually have more than just friendly feelings for one another. I thought the chemistry between Ernie and Effie was amazing and I enjoyed the fun banter between them.
In addition to the romance, which was both sweet and spicy, I also found myself deeply invested in Effie’s personal journey, especially as her experiences once she returns home have her rethinking what she wants out of her life, especially as old wounds finally start to heal.
The vivid Maine setting, some shady drama at Brown Butter, and a fabulous cast of secondary characters all come together to make this the perfect beach read so be sure to pick up a copy!
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via the Publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2024
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: E-book/Audio
4.25🌟 - I enjoyed it!
Thank you @berkleyromance for the #gifted copy and @prhaudio for the complimentary audiobook!
When I saw this book was set in coastal Maine, I knew I wanted to read it around my trip and bring it with me! Second chance childhood friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes in a romance book!
I haven’t seen The Bear, but it’s giving some of those vibes!! Overall is full of pining, small town charm, foodie moments, self-discovery, and overall a lot of swoony moments!
Effie and Ernie are truly just meant to be 💕. Loved reading a romance without a third-act breakup also 🙌🏻.
Flirty and fun, this was such an easy summer read!
Format: E-book/Audio
4.25🌟 - I enjoyed it!
Thank you @berkleyromance for the #gifted copy and @prhaudio for the complimentary audiobook!
When I saw this book was set in coastal Maine, I knew I wanted to read it around my trip and bring it with me! Second chance childhood friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes in a romance book!
I haven’t seen The Bear, but it’s giving some of those vibes!! Overall is full of pining, small town charm, foodie moments, self-discovery, and overall a lot of swoony moments!
Effie and Ernie are truly just meant to be 💕. Loved reading a romance without a third-act breakup also 🙌🏻.
Flirty and fun, this was such an easy summer read!
July 12, 2024
Aweeee Ernie and Effie were just so adorable. How much he loved her.. how long he waited for her to be ready. I just loved Ernie he was so gone for her as soon as he saw her again, but just wanted to make sure she was all in. Effie was always one foot out the door from Alder, but she realized, finally, that her heart had been here the whole time. With him.
June 27, 2024
I could go on for awhile about what I didn’t enjoy about this book but im just gonna say ERNIE?!?
August 25, 2024
Friends to strangers to lovers has become one of my favorite tropes and Rochelle Bilow truly executed the “will they won’t they” dance in Effie Olsen’s Summer Special.
This book was like eating a warm, nurturing bowl of your favorite comfort food. It was warm, but had a lot of serious elements (think women in a male-dominated industry - cooking/chefs, Me Too movement, and [in my opinion a fairly light] portrayal of restaurants during the pandemic. Jessica Joyce (a fave auto buy author of mine) dubbed the book adult version of The Summer I Turned Pretty without the love triangle meets The Bear and I think that’s a great description.
There was just something familiar and comforting about Alder Island to me, as well as Effie’s chaotic nature and Ernie’s steadfastness. I won’t even talk about what he’s like when he texts, you deserve to discover that yourself. Plus there are fun side characters in Ingrid, Sixto, and Dahlia.
I adored the ending. It was a perfect summer read and one I’d like to read again. I’ll definitely be checking out Bilow’s past and future work!
Spice level about two 🌶️ 🌶️ (some open door scenes but not super explicit)
This book was like eating a warm, nurturing bowl of your favorite comfort food. It was warm, but had a lot of serious elements (think women in a male-dominated industry - cooking/chefs, Me Too movement, and [in my opinion a fairly light] portrayal of restaurants during the pandemic. Jessica Joyce (a fave auto buy author of mine) dubbed the book adult version of The Summer I Turned Pretty without the love triangle meets The Bear and I think that’s a great description.
There was just something familiar and comforting about Alder Island to me, as well as Effie’s chaotic nature and Ernie’s steadfastness. I won’t even talk about what he’s like when he texts, you deserve to discover that yourself. Plus there are fun side characters in Ingrid, Sixto, and Dahlia.
I adored the ending. It was a perfect summer read and one I’d like to read again. I’ll definitely be checking out Bilow’s past and future work!
Spice level about two 🌶️ 🌶️ (some open door scenes but not super explicit)
April 28, 2024
It’s been said you can’t go home again but what if you can? Effie left her tiny island after high school and barely looked back. She lost her best friend after a friendship ending fight and had her goal set on becoming a chef.
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When she returns home sixteen years later she promises herself it’s just for the summer. Lucky for her, her hometown now is the home of the one of the most famous restaurants in the country and they are in need of a sous chef. Everything is falling into place, including reconnecting with her best friend Ernie and allowing them to make peace. She soon finds herself drawn to Ernie like she never was before and everything she ever thought she wanted is suddenly a giant question mark.
.
I loved this one. I got sucked into the story, loved the setting, the cast of characters and oh my goodness did this book make me so hungry! This is a fun one for some summer reading!
Huge thank you to @berkleypub @berittalksbooks @thephdivabooks @dg_reads and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
.
When she returns home sixteen years later she promises herself it’s just for the summer. Lucky for her, her hometown now is the home of the one of the most famous restaurants in the country and they are in need of a sous chef. Everything is falling into place, including reconnecting with her best friend Ernie and allowing them to make peace. She soon finds herself drawn to Ernie like she never was before and everything she ever thought she wanted is suddenly a giant question mark.
.
I loved this one. I got sucked into the story, loved the setting, the cast of characters and oh my goodness did this book make me so hungry! This is a fun one for some summer reading!
Huge thank you to @berkleypub @berittalksbooks @thephdivabooks @dg_reads and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2024
Effie Olsen is back home. She is a professional chef, but after an incident, she lost her job. Now she is back in her hometown, an island in Maine. She plans on it being temporary, but fate has other ideas, including the boy she left behind.
A wonderful love story. A love story that emcompasses love in many forms. The romantic kind, the friendship kind, the parent and child kind and the hometown kind. Great writing, story, and characters. She nailed the scenery perfectly. You could almost feel the saltwater splashing up on shore.
A wonderful love story. A love story that emcompasses love in many forms. The romantic kind, the friendship kind, the parent and child kind and the hometown kind. Great writing, story, and characters. She nailed the scenery perfectly. You could almost feel the saltwater splashing up on shore.
May 28, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the audiobook of Effie Olsen’s Summer Special! I’m a sucker for second chance/friends-to-lovers, small towns, & anything with food…so, this was basically the perfect scenario. The main thing keeping this from being 5 stars for me was it felt a little too similar to other books I’ve read before. That said, it was delightful & I need a trip to Maine with some lobster now ☀️🦞💛
August 15, 2025
(4.25⭐️)This was such a cute book! I read it really fast and it was a really nice quick summer read. I love the way that the author incorporates cooking/food into her novels. I now plan on reading her other novel as well bc I really liked her writing style. I really didn’t like the names of the main characters tho lol.
May 20, 2024
Ernie and Effie’s spontaneity as best friends was the cutest thing about this book. Cozy small town in Maine vibes with lots of back-of-house restaurant talk. Red headed MMC with an absolute heart of gold. Perfect summer read.
August 19, 2024
3.5 - enjoyed this one but it needed to be 60 pages shorter.
April 29, 2024
4.25 🌟 This was a perfect summer romance. I honestly wish I had saved it for my beach trip in June!! The setting was so atmospheric I actually felt like I was in Maine with these characters and I loved that.
I enjoyed Effie and Ernie’s best friends to strangers to friends to lovers story. It felt real bc of how they handled it as adults instead of being childish about things that happened in high school. Their story was entertaining, fun, and fast paced.
I was also really invested in all the restaurant drama lol I felt like that really added entertainment to the story. It was just so fun, sweet, and summery and I had a really great time with this book 🫶🏼
I enjoyed Effie and Ernie’s best friends to strangers to friends to lovers story. It felt real bc of how they handled it as adults instead of being childish about things that happened in high school. Their story was entertaining, fun, and fast paced.
I was also really invested in all the restaurant drama lol I felt like that really added entertainment to the story. It was just so fun, sweet, and summery and I had a really great time with this book 🫶🏼
May 24, 2024
This book made my little Maine loving heart so happy
August 25, 2024
I read this while in Maine and mostly in Acadia and I’m proud to say I had a ton of locally sourced meals 🤣
This book was super cute and I loved Effie and Ernie together and they had great communication with each other because they are ADULTS lol
This book was super cute and I loved Effie and Ernie together and they had great communication with each other because they are ADULTS lol
July 15, 2024
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Effie Olsen’s Summer Special
Author: Rochelle Bilow
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Sapphic side couple, Mexican side character
Recommended For...: adult book readers, romance, contemporary
Publication Date: April 30, 2024
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 18+ (romance, sexual content, harassment, sexual harassment, language, alcohol consumption, COVID)
Explanation of Above: This is an adult romance book, so there is romance and sexual content including sexting and sex scenes. There are mentions and showings of harassment and sexual harassment. There is some strong language. There are scenes of alcohol consumption. There is a mention of COVID.
Spice: 3/5
Publisher: Berkley
Pages: 384
Synopsis: These childhood best friends swore they’d never speak again. But that was before a surprise summer reunion gives them a chance to turn up the heat. Effie Olsen thought she’d never settle down on the tiny Maine island where she grew up, but she’s returning from a whirlwind sixteen years as a professional chef in far-flung countries for one summer and one summer only. Her hometown boasts one of the best restaurants in the US, and lucky for her, Brown Butter needs a sous chef. Effie is eager for a chance at redemption after her last job went up in flames, but reluctant to set down roots in a place that reminds her of the ghosts of her past. Until, that is, she runs into Ernie Callahan, her onetime best friend who now works in the very same restaurant. Early morning swims and late-night games of truth or dare with Ernie remind her of what she’s been missing while traveling the world. He knows her better than anyone, and it doesn’t hurt that his smile lights her up brighter than the lighthouses dotting the craggy coastline. But Brown Butter has a secret that’s bursting at the seams, and if Effie doesn’t keep it, her job will vanish into the foggy Maine air. As summer draws to a close, she realizes a second chance at her dream job and the perfect guy are both within reach. The salty seaside town of Alder Isle is the key to Effie’s sweet ending.... All she has to do now is learn to let her heart lead the way.
Review: Maybe I'm just in a romance mood, but this book was so cute and I liked it a lot. In this book we follow our main character whose name is Effie. Our main character is a professional chef and she has went to a lot of different countries , but she finds herself back home in Maine due to a mysterious reason that the reader finds out along the way. Her plan is to only stay one summer and she plans to work at this restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced food. There. She reconnects with an old flame and they end up working together but also Effie finds out that locally sourced apparently does not mean local in this restaurant and she ends up investigating what is actually going down in this restaurant. This character is a little older then normal romance books which I really liked. I am in my thirties and while I do love YA and middle grade and the college age crowd, I like seeing myself and my age group in books LOL. I really liked the character development and the story that went along with this book. I like that the romance was there and a focal point at the book but it wasn't the main thing about this book. I also really liked the world building and I would gladly come back to this book world.
The only thing that I found just a little off-putting was a little bit of plot gaps here and there and some pacing issues, but again I had an early ARC so they have probably been resolved.
Verdict: I loved it so much.
Book: Effie Olsen’s Summer Special
Author: Rochelle Bilow
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Sapphic side couple, Mexican side character
Recommended For...: adult book readers, romance, contemporary
Publication Date: April 30, 2024
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 18+ (romance, sexual content, harassment, sexual harassment, language, alcohol consumption, COVID)
Explanation of Above: This is an adult romance book, so there is romance and sexual content including sexting and sex scenes. There are mentions and showings of harassment and sexual harassment. There is some strong language. There are scenes of alcohol consumption. There is a mention of COVID.
Spice: 3/5
Publisher: Berkley
Pages: 384
Synopsis: These childhood best friends swore they’d never speak again. But that was before a surprise summer reunion gives them a chance to turn up the heat. Effie Olsen thought she’d never settle down on the tiny Maine island where she grew up, but she’s returning from a whirlwind sixteen years as a professional chef in far-flung countries for one summer and one summer only. Her hometown boasts one of the best restaurants in the US, and lucky for her, Brown Butter needs a sous chef. Effie is eager for a chance at redemption after her last job went up in flames, but reluctant to set down roots in a place that reminds her of the ghosts of her past. Until, that is, she runs into Ernie Callahan, her onetime best friend who now works in the very same restaurant. Early morning swims and late-night games of truth or dare with Ernie remind her of what she’s been missing while traveling the world. He knows her better than anyone, and it doesn’t hurt that his smile lights her up brighter than the lighthouses dotting the craggy coastline. But Brown Butter has a secret that’s bursting at the seams, and if Effie doesn’t keep it, her job will vanish into the foggy Maine air. As summer draws to a close, she realizes a second chance at her dream job and the perfect guy are both within reach. The salty seaside town of Alder Isle is the key to Effie’s sweet ending.... All she has to do now is learn to let her heart lead the way.
Review: Maybe I'm just in a romance mood, but this book was so cute and I liked it a lot. In this book we follow our main character whose name is Effie. Our main character is a professional chef and she has went to a lot of different countries , but she finds herself back home in Maine due to a mysterious reason that the reader finds out along the way. Her plan is to only stay one summer and she plans to work at this restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced food. There. She reconnects with an old flame and they end up working together but also Effie finds out that locally sourced apparently does not mean local in this restaurant and she ends up investigating what is actually going down in this restaurant. This character is a little older then normal romance books which I really liked. I am in my thirties and while I do love YA and middle grade and the college age crowd, I like seeing myself and my age group in books LOL. I really liked the character development and the story that went along with this book. I like that the romance was there and a focal point at the book but it wasn't the main thing about this book. I also really liked the world building and I would gladly come back to this book world.
The only thing that I found just a little off-putting was a little bit of plot gaps here and there and some pacing issues, but again I had an early ARC so they have probably been resolved.
Verdict: I loved it so much.
August 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨(3.5)
This was my very first book by the author, so I did not know what to expect but I was definitely attracted by the vibrant cover with beachy summer vibes!
It’s a sweet slow burn, second chance romance between estranged best friends Effie & Ernie and is beautifully set in a small Maine island where everyone knows everyone. The writing and pace is the kind you would like to read by the beach, warm and sweet, not too fast paced.
Effie returns to her hometown as the chef for the prestigious Michelin restaurant in her town, we see her re-establish her friendship with Ernie, the best friend who was once her everything. We see them spend time together, doing a kind of bucket list of island activities, reliving their youth. I was expecting some initial confrontation or angst between them, but it didn’t go like that. Also, my one complaint was probably the names - I did not somehow like these names & at times I was confused, if it was Effie or Enie who was the guy? 😜
There were some nice side characters and a restaurant politics sub plot that kept it interesting. There is lot of food talk as expected, but I did not personally relate to it. By the end, I realised the author is from the food industry, so makes sense.
Ernie is a sweet sweet guy who had always loved & cared for Effie. I could not love Effie too much though, she once hurt him & never tried to contact her best friend for 16 years and then she is ok to spend time with him now, while still thinking of leaving. There are some sweet & spicy moments when they come together towards the end. Overall, it was a decent read, you can give it a try on a lazy summer day!
Follow for more @ booklover_swii
This was my very first book by the author, so I did not know what to expect but I was definitely attracted by the vibrant cover with beachy summer vibes!
It’s a sweet slow burn, second chance romance between estranged best friends Effie & Ernie and is beautifully set in a small Maine island where everyone knows everyone. The writing and pace is the kind you would like to read by the beach, warm and sweet, not too fast paced.
Effie returns to her hometown as the chef for the prestigious Michelin restaurant in her town, we see her re-establish her friendship with Ernie, the best friend who was once her everything. We see them spend time together, doing a kind of bucket list of island activities, reliving their youth. I was expecting some initial confrontation or angst between them, but it didn’t go like that. Also, my one complaint was probably the names - I did not somehow like these names & at times I was confused, if it was Effie or Enie who was the guy? 😜
There were some nice side characters and a restaurant politics sub plot that kept it interesting. There is lot of food talk as expected, but I did not personally relate to it. By the end, I realised the author is from the food industry, so makes sense.
Ernie is a sweet sweet guy who had always loved & cared for Effie. I could not love Effie too much though, she once hurt him & never tried to contact her best friend for 16 years and then she is ok to spend time with him now, while still thinking of leaving. There are some sweet & spicy moments when they come together towards the end. Overall, it was a decent read, you can give it a try on a lazy summer day!
Follow for more @ booklover_swii
April 12, 2024
Effie Olsen’s Summer Special by Rochelle Bilow
Narrator: Nikki Massoud
Rating: 5 stars
Pub date: 4/30
Thank you so much, Berkley Pub for my advanced copy and PRH Audio, for my complimentary audiobook.
Effie returns home after sixteen years of world traveling and culinary escapades with dreams of redemption. But what awaits her is more than just a job opportunity at the renowned Brown Butter restaurant; it's a chance encounter with her childhood best friend, Ernie Callahan, that reignites a spark she thought had long fizzled out.
I adored this beautiful story! Olsen weaves a tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery against the beautiful backdrop of coastal Maine. Effie's journey from a world-traveling chef to a hometown sous chef is full of nostalgia, heartwarming moments, and a hint of mystery lurking beneath the surface of Alder Isle.
The chemistry between Effie and Ernie crackles with intensity, and their witty banter had me cackling. Effie is bold, loud, and knows exactly what she wants. Ernie is the perfectly depicted childhood best friend with just the right amount of pining and “it’s always been you” energy. I loved watching them navigate the complexities of their past and their uncertain future.
This story is a love letter to the restaurant industry, and as a bartender of twenty years, I could relate to every moment spent at Brown Butter. And as someone who spent her childhood summers in Maine, the nostalgia was real with this one! The vivid imagery made me feel like I was dining oceanside and walking on the beautiful beaches of Alder Isle.
I went back and forth between the ebook and the audiobook, and Nikki Massoud did an incredible job with the narration. It was easy to forget that she was the only narrator because all of the voices sounded so different!
With its perfect pacing and heart-melting happily-ever-after, this book earns its spot as a favorite of the year. It’s a journey of love, laughter, and second chances you don’t want to miss!
Read if you like:
*childhood friends to lovers
*slow burn
*restaurant setting
*small-town beachy vibes
*second chances
Narrator: Nikki Massoud
Rating: 5 stars
Pub date: 4/30
Thank you so much, Berkley Pub for my advanced copy and PRH Audio, for my complimentary audiobook.
Effie returns home after sixteen years of world traveling and culinary escapades with dreams of redemption. But what awaits her is more than just a job opportunity at the renowned Brown Butter restaurant; it's a chance encounter with her childhood best friend, Ernie Callahan, that reignites a spark she thought had long fizzled out.
I adored this beautiful story! Olsen weaves a tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery against the beautiful backdrop of coastal Maine. Effie's journey from a world-traveling chef to a hometown sous chef is full of nostalgia, heartwarming moments, and a hint of mystery lurking beneath the surface of Alder Isle.
The chemistry between Effie and Ernie crackles with intensity, and their witty banter had me cackling. Effie is bold, loud, and knows exactly what she wants. Ernie is the perfectly depicted childhood best friend with just the right amount of pining and “it’s always been you” energy. I loved watching them navigate the complexities of their past and their uncertain future.
This story is a love letter to the restaurant industry, and as a bartender of twenty years, I could relate to every moment spent at Brown Butter. And as someone who spent her childhood summers in Maine, the nostalgia was real with this one! The vivid imagery made me feel like I was dining oceanside and walking on the beautiful beaches of Alder Isle.
I went back and forth between the ebook and the audiobook, and Nikki Massoud did an incredible job with the narration. It was easy to forget that she was the only narrator because all of the voices sounded so different!
With its perfect pacing and heart-melting happily-ever-after, this book earns its spot as a favorite of the year. It’s a journey of love, laughter, and second chances you don’t want to miss!
Read if you like:
*childhood friends to lovers
*slow burn
*restaurant setting
*small-town beachy vibes
*second chances
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