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Murphy Family #1
A Thousand Sunsets
A shy recent college grad is looking forward to a calm family vacation until a game of twenty questions with the new tall, dark, and tattooed lifeguard goes further than either of them intended in this hot summer rom-com.
Sidney Murphy is trying to make her last summer vacation count before moving across the country from New York to LA; the only thing she didn’t count on was falling in love. Ready to use this family vacation as a chance to step out of her comfort zone, Sidney surprises herself—and her family—when she starts spending more and more time with the new tattooed lifeguard.
Zach Moretti thinks he finally has his life under control, making some extra cash before leaving for culinary school in New York. Then he meets a girl that has him throwing all his plans out the window. It turns out that taking a last-minute lifeguard position this summer might have been the best thing that happened to him.
Summer days turn into summer nights, and the more Sidney learns about Zach, the more she realizes how much trouble she is in. By the end of the trip, she knows his heart isn’t going to be the only one that she has to break. But time is no match for love, and when the vacation comes to its inevitable end, will Sidney and Zach’s love be enough to conquer the coast-to-coast distance? Or will they leave their summer together where it started by the river?
Sidney Murphy is trying to make her last summer vacation count before moving across the country from New York to LA; the only thing she didn’t count on was falling in love. Ready to use this family vacation as a chance to step out of her comfort zone, Sidney surprises herself—and her family—when she starts spending more and more time with the new tattooed lifeguard.
Zach Moretti thinks he finally has his life under control, making some extra cash before leaving for culinary school in New York. Then he meets a girl that has him throwing all his plans out the window. It turns out that taking a last-minute lifeguard position this summer might have been the best thing that happened to him.
Summer days turn into summer nights, and the more Sidney learns about Zach, the more she realizes how much trouble she is in. By the end of the trip, she knows his heart isn’t going to be the only one that she has to break. But time is no match for love, and when the vacation comes to its inevitable end, will Sidney and Zach’s love be enough to conquer the coast-to-coast distance? Or will they leave their summer together where it started by the river?
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
67 people are currently reading
1413 people want to read
About the author
Kayla Martin
3 books66 followersKayla Martin (she/her) lives in Upstate New York with her husband and Neptune—her tuxedo cat and writing assistant. As an avid reader and audiobook lover, Kayla loves to write swoon-worthy stories that will pull at your heartstrings. Using her big family as inspiration, there is no shortage of hijinks and family meddling involved in each character's story. She believes in writing love stories that help you find joy while also exploring different human experiences about sexuality, mental health, and everything in between.
Connect with Kayla on her website at www.kaylamartinauthor.com to sign up for her newsletter and get early access to news about her latest book! Find Kayla on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Connect with Kayla on her website at www.kaylamartinauthor.com to sign up for her newsletter and get early access to news about her latest book! Find Kayla on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
May 21, 2024
I honestly don’t have words to explain the way I love this book. Fans of Tessa Bailey will LOVE A Thousand Sunsets! If you’re looking for a steamy, fun, summer romance, Kayla Martin’s debut is the book for you! This book had me giggling, swooning, and even crying. I can’t wait to read more of The Murphy Family.
June 23, 2024
I AM FERRAL!!!! **pls hold while I gather my thoughts but know this is a must **
April 9, 2024
I grew up in the Thousand Islands region. Having spent many of my summers lounging at the very park at which this is based, my heart was full from page one. The descriptions of The River, the experience of summer weekends on the water with family, it all felt like coming home. I have walked and swam and lounged the very areas Sid &Co. did and that just did something for me because I have felt what they’re feeling even without Kayla’s incredible writing.
I loved the main characters and their internal monologues. The ANGST. Zach is a perfect cinny roll tattooed misunderstood bf. Sid’s just a girl trying to make her way through big changes. Their chemistry is 🥵🌶️
THANK YOU, KAYLA.
I loved the main characters and their internal monologues. The ANGST. Zach is a perfect cinny roll tattooed misunderstood bf. Sid’s just a girl trying to make her way through big changes. Their chemistry is 🥵🌶️
THANK YOU, KAYLA.
February 17, 2024
Absolutely loved A Thousand Sunsets!! Incredibly grateful to have received an ARC because Zach and Sidney’s summer romance was the perfect read to make me feel better while I was stuck inside thanks to the freezing winter.
You’ll want to add this one to your tbr now, because everyone will be wanting to live vicariously through these two on your summer vacation!
If you love books about characters who feel like real people, boats, or Taylor Swift, you’ll love Kayla Martin’s debut novel as much as I did!
You’ll want to add this one to your tbr now, because everyone will be wanting to live vicariously through these two on your summer vacation!
If you love books about characters who feel like real people, boats, or Taylor Swift, you’ll love Kayla Martin’s debut novel as much as I did!
July 17, 2024
Calling all summer romance fans! 🛟🏕️
✨hot lifeguard! who wants to be a chef 🧑🍳
✨family vacation and hijinks
✨INSTA love!
✨bisexual rep🌈
✨spiiiccyy - but don’t worry she provides a guide if you want to skip those chapters🌶️
✨”Princess”
Listen Kayla knows it’s a BOONDOGGLE and NOT a lanyard so for that alone she started off the book RIGHT!👏🙂↕️ it was definitely *insta* love + had some pacing issues but I’m super proud of this debut novel!! 💞
✨hot lifeguard! who wants to be a chef 🧑🍳
✨family vacation and hijinks
✨INSTA love!
✨bisexual rep🌈
✨spiiiccyy - but don’t worry she provides a guide if you want to skip those chapters🌶️
✨”Princess”
Listen Kayla knows it’s a BOONDOGGLE and NOT a lanyard so for that alone she started off the book RIGHT!👏🙂↕️ it was definitely *insta* love + had some pacing issues but I’m super proud of this debut novel!! 💞
May 19, 2024
Kayla Martin’s debut novel is phenomenal!
It is a *perfect* summer read (and if it’s not summer, you will vicariously experience 80 degree days).
The eloquent descriptions of life on a 10-day vacation to The Islands made me want to buy a camper and head out there this summer, even though the closest thing to camping I’ve done is sleep in a tent in my backyard as a child.
Sidney is a bisexual queen on the cusp of a life change and a firm belief in a dessert stomach and Zach is a tattooed lifeguard who paints his own nails and will braid your hair (and is also bi!). Their instant attraction is TANGIBLE and I will forever be obsessed with them.
A Thousand Sunsets brought me joy, peace, and a sense of belonging to the Murphy family that I don’t feel in many books. The cast of characters is full of lovely siblings, cousins, and lifeguards and will make you crave the rest of the Murphy family’s stories.
This was an outstanding debut full of smiles, laughs, and tears. I loved every second of it. This book has everything you want including a family tree, a map, an aspiring chef making you tiramisu, and spice scenes on a boat and in a bookstore 😏
I am incredibly grateful for Kayla giving me an ARC of ATS. All opinions are my own and I highly encourage you to pick this one up!
Bravo, Kayla 💕
It is a *perfect* summer read (and if it’s not summer, you will vicariously experience 80 degree days).
The eloquent descriptions of life on a 10-day vacation to The Islands made me want to buy a camper and head out there this summer, even though the closest thing to camping I’ve done is sleep in a tent in my backyard as a child.
Sidney is a bisexual queen on the cusp of a life change and a firm belief in a dessert stomach and Zach is a tattooed lifeguard who paints his own nails and will braid your hair (and is also bi!). Their instant attraction is TANGIBLE and I will forever be obsessed with them.
A Thousand Sunsets brought me joy, peace, and a sense of belonging to the Murphy family that I don’t feel in many books. The cast of characters is full of lovely siblings, cousins, and lifeguards and will make you crave the rest of the Murphy family’s stories.
This was an outstanding debut full of smiles, laughs, and tears. I loved every second of it. This book has everything you want including a family tree, a map, an aspiring chef making you tiramisu, and spice scenes on a boat and in a bookstore 😏
I am incredibly grateful for Kayla giving me an ARC of ATS. All opinions are my own and I highly encourage you to pick this one up!
Bravo, Kayla 💕
December 7, 2023
A Thousand Sunsets is the perfect summer beach read - full of family, hot lifeguards with tattoos, and spice!
I’ve had the privilege of alpha/beta reading this book for Kayla, and it is such a burst of sunshine to life every time I’ve laid eyes on it! Sid and Zach feel like real people with real problems, and their affection for one another is authentic and glorious to witness. I also absolutely love the Murphy cousins, modeled after Kayla’s own family, who provide both comic relief and the ride-or-die support of family who would do anything for their girl Sid.
And if you’re here for the spice, you will NOT be disappointed. Zach is very much a giver, and the man KNOWS how to please 😏Sidney is a lucky lady.
From the moment these two lay eyes on one another and feel the immediate attraction, to the delicious epilogue, this whole book is just so FUN and swoony and spicy, and I can’t wait until it’s out in the world in May!
If you like Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, and Chloe Liese, you’ll love ATS!
Aspiring chef MMC
Tattooed MMC
Bisexual MCs
Shy FMC
Meddling family
Summer vacation
Insta-attraction
Ten days to fall in love
Takes place on the St. Lawrence River
Something fun happens in a bookstore 😉
I’ve had the privilege of alpha/beta reading this book for Kayla, and it is such a burst of sunshine to life every time I’ve laid eyes on it! Sid and Zach feel like real people with real problems, and their affection for one another is authentic and glorious to witness. I also absolutely love the Murphy cousins, modeled after Kayla’s own family, who provide both comic relief and the ride-or-die support of family who would do anything for their girl Sid.
And if you’re here for the spice, you will NOT be disappointed. Zach is very much a giver, and the man KNOWS how to please 😏Sidney is a lucky lady.
From the moment these two lay eyes on one another and feel the immediate attraction, to the delicious epilogue, this whole book is just so FUN and swoony and spicy, and I can’t wait until it’s out in the world in May!
If you like Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, and Chloe Liese, you’ll love ATS!
Aspiring chef MMC
Tattooed MMC
Bisexual MCs
Shy FMC
Meddling family
Summer vacation
Insta-attraction
Ten days to fall in love
Takes place on the St. Lawrence River
Something fun happens in a bookstore 😉
April 15, 2024
first of all i want to thank the author (Kayla Martin) and book funnel for an advanced copy of the book, i'm so excited to have gotten to read it early!
a thousand sunsets is a dual pov romance that follows sidney and zach when they meet for the first time on the annual murphy family vacation. the murphy family has a great rapport with the campsite and the lifeguards, and zach is their newest addition! we get to see sidney and zach be absolutely smitten with each other, meanwhile sharing their hopes and dreams with one another, all while trying to stay away from the meddling cousins.
THIS WAS SO CUTE! i went into this SUPER excited, but i will admit i was a little bit nervous in the beginning. this reads like a debut novel particularly in the beginning, but i was sucked in anyway. sometimes the insta love trope doesn't work, but here it really did! with the nature of the story being that sidney had a week for her vacation, the love at first sight and insta love was fun! i loved how easily sidney and zach connected and their adventures were so cute and something that i would find fun if i were just getting to know someone. i also want to mention how EXTREMELY grateful i am for the bi x bi representation we had going!!!! i want more of this!!!!
this was very easy to read and while some of it was corny, it was all extremely enjoyable. i was crying in the last few chapters, too! i hope that if you like a nice summer romance with a good handful of spice, that you purchase and read this when it releases on may 21, 2024!!! happy reading!!
p.s. i am a sucker for a taylor swift reference, but there was one part when they were talking about her concerts that felt very personal to me (where are my philly swifties at?!).
a thousand sunsets is a dual pov romance that follows sidney and zach when they meet for the first time on the annual murphy family vacation. the murphy family has a great rapport with the campsite and the lifeguards, and zach is their newest addition! we get to see sidney and zach be absolutely smitten with each other, meanwhile sharing their hopes and dreams with one another, all while trying to stay away from the meddling cousins.
THIS WAS SO CUTE! i went into this SUPER excited, but i will admit i was a little bit nervous in the beginning. this reads like a debut novel particularly in the beginning, but i was sucked in anyway. sometimes the insta love trope doesn't work, but here it really did! with the nature of the story being that sidney had a week for her vacation, the love at first sight and insta love was fun! i loved how easily sidney and zach connected and their adventures were so cute and something that i would find fun if i were just getting to know someone. i also want to mention how EXTREMELY grateful i am for the bi x bi representation we had going!!!! i want more of this!!!!
this was very easy to read and while some of it was corny, it was all extremely enjoyable. i was crying in the last few chapters, too! i hope that if you like a nice summer romance with a good handful of spice, that you purchase and read this when it releases on may 21, 2024!!! happy reading!!
p.s. i am a sucker for a taylor swift reference, but there was one part when they were talking about her concerts that felt very personal to me (where are my philly swifties at?!).
April 9, 2024
First of all, I’m so proud of my friend Kayla for publishing her debut novel! Thanks for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book had such a nostalgic feel to it for me. I’m sure I’m not the only person who, as a young adult, went on annual family vacations convinced that *this summer* was the summer I was going to meet the love of my life 😂 for me, it was in the ADKS and on family trips to Maine. I had crushes galore!
In this story, Sidney is going to the Thousand Islands with her extended family. Sidney’s sister and her cousins especially are heavily featured in this romance novel, and I adored the family closeness (and meddling)! The family is well-known by the lifeguard staff at the beach since they are “regulars” and play an annual game of vball against the lifeguards. Sidney meets the newest lifeguard, Zach, and they have instant chemistry.
It was so fun for me to read about a local vacation place (now I really need to go myself)! The story was flirty, tender, funny, and spicy. Along with the romance, Kayla approached biphobia that was experienced by Zach head-on, as well as some other tough topics that dive below surface level and gave this romance depth, even on a shorter timeline. I also loved all the special little details, like the nail painting, bracelets, hat & hoodie stealing, MC signature scents, and nicknames 👑
You’ll love this story especially if you enjoy these tropes/features: insta-love, bi-4-bi, summer fling/vacation romance, Taylor Swift references, open door, cinnamon roll MMC.
This book will be out May 21, 2024. If you pre-order now, you get all kinds of goodies with your book!
This book had such a nostalgic feel to it for me. I’m sure I’m not the only person who, as a young adult, went on annual family vacations convinced that *this summer* was the summer I was going to meet the love of my life 😂 for me, it was in the ADKS and on family trips to Maine. I had crushes galore!
In this story, Sidney is going to the Thousand Islands with her extended family. Sidney’s sister and her cousins especially are heavily featured in this romance novel, and I adored the family closeness (and meddling)! The family is well-known by the lifeguard staff at the beach since they are “regulars” and play an annual game of vball against the lifeguards. Sidney meets the newest lifeguard, Zach, and they have instant chemistry.
It was so fun for me to read about a local vacation place (now I really need to go myself)! The story was flirty, tender, funny, and spicy. Along with the romance, Kayla approached biphobia that was experienced by Zach head-on, as well as some other tough topics that dive below surface level and gave this romance depth, even on a shorter timeline. I also loved all the special little details, like the nail painting, bracelets, hat & hoodie stealing, MC signature scents, and nicknames 👑
You’ll love this story especially if you enjoy these tropes/features: insta-love, bi-4-bi, summer fling/vacation romance, Taylor Swift references, open door, cinnamon roll MMC.
This book will be out May 21, 2024. If you pre-order now, you get all kinds of goodies with your book!
February 20, 2025
A decent debut novel, and I think the series has great potential.
April 8, 2024
Right from the start, I even loved the Authors Note; I felt like it really gave you a peak into her personality a bit, even that showed how kind Kayla is, asking for us to only read her book if we thought it would be good for us mentally. Of course there had to be a playlist too, expected nothing less than that and these fun songs on it for Kaylas book! This book really is a total Summer read, I really felt like I was there camping with the family, gossiping with the cousins about the lifeguards. My reading experience was certainly better than any real tent camping that I ever did growing up. I loved all the "subtle details" that show you the tension between the two main characters as their instant attraction developes; like the small nudge Maeve gave Sidney with the hand under her arm, when Zach was telling them his age. You just know something is brewing between these two. I giggled when Sidney walks to the water one night when she cant sleep and who better to show up than our guy Zach, then there's skinny dipping?! I cackled when Allison walked in on them at one point. Zach has a big heart, you can tell throught the book, hes a big softie, even just him letting Gracie paint his nails, I loved it. Loved his pet name for her. Loved their ability to communicate and how easily they seemed to have this chemistry about them. Even Zachs nervous habit of playing with his bracelets pulled at my heart strings, and him being accepting and in touch with his emotions. Loved it. And Sidneys "Whats a meal without dessert?" Girl, yes, say no more. A girl after my own heart.
I even teared up at at least one point in their story. I found myself so engrossed in this book. Highly recommend.
I can tell the other books in the Murphy Family series will be great, and I can't wait to learn more about all of the members wet met!
Readers who enjoy Chloe Liese, Tessa Bailey, Abby Jimenez and others will want to pick up this book! Seriously, this totally reminded me of Bergman Brothers with the big tight knit family meddling vibes.
Awesome job, Kayla! YOU DID THAT!
I even teared up at at least one point in their story. I found myself so engrossed in this book. Highly recommend.
I can tell the other books in the Murphy Family series will be great, and I can't wait to learn more about all of the members wet met!
Readers who enjoy Chloe Liese, Tessa Bailey, Abby Jimenez and others will want to pick up this book! Seriously, this totally reminded me of Bergman Brothers with the big tight knit family meddling vibes.
Awesome job, Kayla! YOU DID THAT!
October 21, 2024
I really, really enjoyed this dual POV, bi4bi open door summer vacation indie romance debut. Set during a week-long extended Murphy family vacation, Sidney finds herself falling hard for lifeguard and aspiring chef Zach. The two have a whirlwind romance that while a bit insta-love for my usual tastes was filled with swoony dates and steamy nights. The Murphy cousins were a fun cast of side characters and this was an easy book to speed through with a great deal of emotional depth and good mental health rep. Highly recommended for fans of authors like Elle Kennedy. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books about the Murphy family!
CW: biphobia, toxic parental relationships
CW: biphobia, toxic parental relationships
May 7, 2024
Read this if you like:
•big families
•lake life/river life
•camp
•summer romance
This was a DEBUT??? I’m blown away. This book was perfection. I could vividly imagine the camp the whole Murphy family was at. I love when characters step out of their comfort zone and Sidney did just that her last summer on vacation with her family before she moved across the country. And Zach, such cinnamon roll energy and so so perfect. And the steam was chefs kiss. Sidney and Zach have such good chemistry! I truly cannot wait to read the next books in the series!
Thank you Kayla for the eARC!
•big families
•lake life/river life
•camp
•summer romance
This was a DEBUT??? I’m blown away. This book was perfection. I could vividly imagine the camp the whole Murphy family was at. I love when characters step out of their comfort zone and Sidney did just that her last summer on vacation with her family before she moved across the country. And Zach, such cinnamon roll energy and so so perfect. And the steam was chefs kiss. Sidney and Zach have such good chemistry! I truly cannot wait to read the next books in the series!
Thank you Kayla for the eARC!
August 4, 2024
The two things I loved about this book:
1. It took place in my favorite place in the world, the Thousand Islands ❤️
2. The Murphy family. As someone who is also from a big family I loved their cousin dynamic.
1. It took place in my favorite place in the world, the Thousand Islands ❤️
2. The Murphy family. As someone who is also from a big family I loved their cousin dynamic.
May 8, 2024
This was a cute, insta-love, summer romance, set at a campground. The epilogue made me cry.
June 5, 2024
I loved this book so much. It had me giggling and kicking me feet the whole time. Sidney and Zach’s chemistry was off the charts from page one. My only complaint (which isn’t even a complaint) is I want more. I can’t wait to read more about the Murphy family!
May 21, 2024
A Thousand Sunsets is a perfect book to read at the pool or beach this summer. It’s nostalgic and modern - all the warm fuzzy feelings with finding your person in the most unlikely place, as well as the reality of cherishing the moment even if it’s fleeting. Even though Zach and Sidney are in their early 20’s, they both are in stages of their lives where their futures are on the line and they grapple with having very big feelings for each other even though their romance was a whirlwind. I don’t want to give anything away but I was happily surprised with the twists and turns this story took. I literally read the book in an afternoon because I couldn’t put it down.
Thank you to the author for the review copy
Thank you to the author for the review copy
March 18, 2025
was pretty good for the first 40% then got so boring and repetitive and just really bad so I dnf at like 80% :)
May 21, 2024
HAPPY PUB DAY!!!!!
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A Thousand Sunset
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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I love when my friends write books. It is something I could never imagine doing! I love getting the opportunity to read them, and in this case read it early! However, I am always SO SCARED because like what if it’s bad??? What do I say???
•
Let me just tell you that this is one of the best romance books I have EVER read!
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I shouldn’t be surprised because Kayla is a lover and critic of romance novels. But holy cow! You would think that this was a seasoned writer and not a debut!
•
The banter is top notch. The nagging family is just so fun and relatable! I’ve never had the desire to camp at a river but now I do!
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To me this book read as a fun, summer Rom-Com BUT HOLY STEAM 🔥🥵 Let me just say there is a steamy scene in a bookstore and I never knew I needed it.
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The way the story comes together at the end is so realistic and heart warming and that’s everything I need in a romance.
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I am SO proud of you Kayla and I cannot wait to see where this series goes and where your career goes! Your talent shines so bright in this debut!
•
A Thousand Sunset
•
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
I love when my friends write books. It is something I could never imagine doing! I love getting the opportunity to read them, and in this case read it early! However, I am always SO SCARED because like what if it’s bad??? What do I say???
•
Let me just tell you that this is one of the best romance books I have EVER read!
•
I shouldn’t be surprised because Kayla is a lover and critic of romance novels. But holy cow! You would think that this was a seasoned writer and not a debut!
•
The banter is top notch. The nagging family is just so fun and relatable! I’ve never had the desire to camp at a river but now I do!
•
To me this book read as a fun, summer Rom-Com BUT HOLY STEAM 🔥🥵 Let me just say there is a steamy scene in a bookstore and I never knew I needed it.
•
The way the story comes together at the end is so realistic and heart warming and that’s everything I need in a romance.
•
I am SO proud of you Kayla and I cannot wait to see where this series goes and where your career goes! Your talent shines so bright in this debut!
October 2, 2024
I really struggled to get through this book and I had to keep reminding myself that this is a self published debut. I wanted to love it, it’s set in a popular vacation area I’m familiar with and I love a good summer romance. However, I found myself cringing at the characters behavior and inner dialogues way too frequently and the whole thing was very insta love. It felt very much like a summer fling and not a happily ever after.
April 13, 2024
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews: “A Thousand Sunsets” by Kayla Martin
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily
Sydney Murphy has accepted a new job in LA! She hasn't told her family yet, but she hopes to spend her last moments with her family before the big move on a fun island getaway and trips to the beach. When the new life guard, Zach Moretti, catches her eye, sparks immediately fly! But the more they spend time together, the more her time to move grows near! Will their summer lovin’ last when Sydney has to take the big flight or will their love end slowly like the sun setting on the water's horizon?
This is Kayla Martin's debut novel, and it was such a lovely read! Picture a Cozy Summer Romance film; two lovers meet on a bright summer's day, instantly fall hard for each, and as they spend more time together, you as the viewer are immersed into the tango that is beachside intimacy, culinary wholesomeness, ocean breeze, tropical getaways, and best of all..Bookstore trips!
This was the exact feeling I got while reading this book as I was relaxed by the overall atmosphere while also eating up the tension between Sydney and Zach! Their chemistry was filled with both care and passion as they are unafraid to communicate their feelings and trust one another. They are not afraid to try new experiences together and when they set boundaries and rules of consent, they respect and support one another! If you’re looking for a Contemporary Romance book that would be the perfect introduction to your upcoming summer reading, then don't miss out on this book when it hits online and in-store shelves on May 14, 2024!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 5/5🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
-Tropes to Expect: Summer Romance, Beach Vibes, Cozy Romance, Culinary Narrative, Family Get Togethers, Insta-Love, Only One Bed, Dating and Making Memories, Self Discovery Narrative, and Contemporary Romance.
-Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Biphobia, Mentions of Past Family Conflicts, Moving Anxiety, Intimacy Shaming, Discussions of Depression, Underage Drinking,
and Mentions of Death of Family Members.
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily
Sydney Murphy has accepted a new job in LA! She hasn't told her family yet, but she hopes to spend her last moments with her family before the big move on a fun island getaway and trips to the beach. When the new life guard, Zach Moretti, catches her eye, sparks immediately fly! But the more they spend time together, the more her time to move grows near! Will their summer lovin’ last when Sydney has to take the big flight or will their love end slowly like the sun setting on the water's horizon?
This is Kayla Martin's debut novel, and it was such a lovely read! Picture a Cozy Summer Romance film; two lovers meet on a bright summer's day, instantly fall hard for each, and as they spend more time together, you as the viewer are immersed into the tango that is beachside intimacy, culinary wholesomeness, ocean breeze, tropical getaways, and best of all..Bookstore trips!
This was the exact feeling I got while reading this book as I was relaxed by the overall atmosphere while also eating up the tension between Sydney and Zach! Their chemistry was filled with both care and passion as they are unafraid to communicate their feelings and trust one another. They are not afraid to try new experiences together and when they set boundaries and rules of consent, they respect and support one another! If you’re looking for a Contemporary Romance book that would be the perfect introduction to your upcoming summer reading, then don't miss out on this book when it hits online and in-store shelves on May 14, 2024!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 5/5🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
-Tropes to Expect: Summer Romance, Beach Vibes, Cozy Romance, Culinary Narrative, Family Get Togethers, Insta-Love, Only One Bed, Dating and Making Memories, Self Discovery Narrative, and Contemporary Romance.
-Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Biphobia, Mentions of Past Family Conflicts, Moving Anxiety, Intimacy Shaming, Discussions of Depression, Underage Drinking,
and Mentions of Death of Family Members.
April 14, 2024
ARC review:
📖 - A Thousand Sunsets
✍🏻 - Kayla Martin
⭐ - 5/5
🌶️ - 4/5
I received an ARC, and anything shared in this review is solely my opinion! Thank you, Kayla, for the ARC copy of 'A Thousand Sunsets'.
Oh my goodness, this debut was an absolute banger for me! With the work of art that she has produced in A Thousand Sunsets, Kayla, you are certainly a genius! For me, this is the first time that I have read a debut in ten days.
With Kayla's writing, you are immediately drawn into her world, which she has created for the readers to dive into. Her writing is easy to get into, and you immediately start to envision all that is happening in the story. A Thousand Sunsets' characters, storyline, setting, and drama are all so masterfully written that you can't help but become engrossed in it from the moment you start reading. The book was becoming more and more juicy with each new chapter, so I had spent a lot of nights reading late and couldn't stop.
In her first novel, Kayla presents us with a cast of individuals who I would dearly love to be friends with and part of their family. They captured my heart from the moment I started reading A Thousand Sunsets, and the story Kayla wrote demonstrates how much preparation she put in before making her debut. I fell head over heels in love with Sidney and Zach, who are the greatest characters. I could immediately identify with the circumstances they were facing. I loved the family and conversations that all the other family members had, and they were all really well written.
As someone who identifies as part of the LGBTIQ+ community, I applaud Kayla for the representation aspect of her debut in A Thousand Sunsets. As readers, we want to see ourselves represented in various mediums, and Kayla does a fantastic job of doing so by using a variety of characters in her novel to represent both myself and other people of society.
Lastly, I should mention that her debut novel's spice sequences were so masterfully written that I flushed and gasped several times. But Kayla has a way of gradually bringing the characters from a state of tension and angst to that moment. A Thousand Sunsets by Kayla Martin is a great summer read that I would highly suggest you check out!
📖 - A Thousand Sunsets
✍🏻 - Kayla Martin
⭐ - 5/5
🌶️ - 4/5
I received an ARC, and anything shared in this review is solely my opinion! Thank you, Kayla, for the ARC copy of 'A Thousand Sunsets'.
Oh my goodness, this debut was an absolute banger for me! With the work of art that she has produced in A Thousand Sunsets, Kayla, you are certainly a genius! For me, this is the first time that I have read a debut in ten days.
With Kayla's writing, you are immediately drawn into her world, which she has created for the readers to dive into. Her writing is easy to get into, and you immediately start to envision all that is happening in the story. A Thousand Sunsets' characters, storyline, setting, and drama are all so masterfully written that you can't help but become engrossed in it from the moment you start reading. The book was becoming more and more juicy with each new chapter, so I had spent a lot of nights reading late and couldn't stop.
In her first novel, Kayla presents us with a cast of individuals who I would dearly love to be friends with and part of their family. They captured my heart from the moment I started reading A Thousand Sunsets, and the story Kayla wrote demonstrates how much preparation she put in before making her debut. I fell head over heels in love with Sidney and Zach, who are the greatest characters. I could immediately identify with the circumstances they were facing. I loved the family and conversations that all the other family members had, and they were all really well written.
As someone who identifies as part of the LGBTIQ+ community, I applaud Kayla for the representation aspect of her debut in A Thousand Sunsets. As readers, we want to see ourselves represented in various mediums, and Kayla does a fantastic job of doing so by using a variety of characters in her novel to represent both myself and other people of society.
Lastly, I should mention that her debut novel's spice sequences were so masterfully written that I flushed and gasped several times. But Kayla has a way of gradually bringing the characters from a state of tension and angst to that moment. A Thousand Sunsets by Kayla Martin is a great summer read that I would highly suggest you check out!
April 16, 2024
This book! THIS BOOK! Did Kayla write it just for me?! Let me just get this out of the way… 5⭐️!
There’s an annual family camping trip, bisexual representation from both main characters (I felt so seen!), a steamy romance, and an absolutely incredible crew of side characters. I ate this book up!
Here’s the bottom line: The entire extended Murphy family goes on a week long camping trip every year, for decades. The family is nosy, boisterous, and a lot of fun. Sidney is the quiet cousin, and she’s feeling a lot of guilt because she just accepted a job across the country and isn’t sure if she’ll be able to make the annual trip anymore. This could be her last Murphy camping summer for a while, and she wants to savor it.
Then she meets the insanely attractive and thoughtful new lifeguard, Zach, and they hit it off, but they both know this relationship has a time limit due to her upcoming move. Their “right person, wrong time” relationship runs the gamut of emotions: tender, spicy, hilarious, wholesome, and gut wrenching.
I openly cried in two different coffee shops while reading this DEBUT NOVEL, and I am dying to read more about the Murphy family. I already can’t wait for Kayla’s next book!
Thank you to the author, Kayla Martin, for the e-arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
Sidenote: My honest opinion was that I loved it so much that I immediately pre-ordered a signed copy of this book after I finished it. 🥹 Go read it if you love camping, if you are bisexual, or just if you love a solid summer romance novel!
There’s an annual family camping trip, bisexual representation from both main characters (I felt so seen!), a steamy romance, and an absolutely incredible crew of side characters. I ate this book up!
Here’s the bottom line: The entire extended Murphy family goes on a week long camping trip every year, for decades. The family is nosy, boisterous, and a lot of fun. Sidney is the quiet cousin, and she’s feeling a lot of guilt because she just accepted a job across the country and isn’t sure if she’ll be able to make the annual trip anymore. This could be her last Murphy camping summer for a while, and she wants to savor it.
Then she meets the insanely attractive and thoughtful new lifeguard, Zach, and they hit it off, but they both know this relationship has a time limit due to her upcoming move. Their “right person, wrong time” relationship runs the gamut of emotions: tender, spicy, hilarious, wholesome, and gut wrenching.
I openly cried in two different coffee shops while reading this DEBUT NOVEL, and I am dying to read more about the Murphy family. I already can’t wait for Kayla’s next book!
Thank you to the author, Kayla Martin, for the e-arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
Sidenote: My honest opinion was that I loved it so much that I immediately pre-ordered a signed copy of this book after I finished it. 🥹 Go read it if you love camping, if you are bisexual, or just if you love a solid summer romance novel!
April 6, 2024
This is an amazing debut novel! This the perfect summer read and I just loved everything about Sidney and Zach and the entire Murphy family. Sidney has accepted a job in LA, and is attending her family's annual summer vacation before moving cross country. Zach is a tattoed lifeguard and aspiring chef, and when they meet, the sparks fly! They have an instant connection and even though they have limited time together, it's clear how much they are invested in each other. Zach is such a sweetheart, but he is so hot and is a GIVER, if you know what I mean! The spice in this is so good, and had me hot and bothered for sure. I also loved the LGBTQIA+ representation, as both main characters are bisexual. The author also includes a map and family tree so you can really get to know the characters and the setting. The dual POV was awesome because I really got to see what Sidney and Zach thought of each other and their journey from each of their perspectives. This was so well written and I still cannot fathom that it's a debut novel because Kayla knocked it out of the park. I also love when authors include a playlist in a book because it really helps me connect with the characters and the setting, and I really enjoyed Kayla's picks for ATS. There's so much to love about this book and it's perfect for fans of Carley Fortune, Chloe Liese, Abby Jimenez and Emily Henry. A huge thank you to Kayla Martin for an ARC of this wonderful book!
June 13, 2024
HONESLTY the way this book just touched me, im not sure that 5 stars is even enough.
Kayla writes ina way where the relationships, surroundings, love - all of it is TANGIBLE. You’re at the river, in the tent, at the party. You’re watched Sid and Zach see each other for the first time. The writing is captivating and the absolute perfect summer read.
I adored the Dual POV. I loved the setting - i love the fact that i’m going to get to come back to the Murphy Family because truly i loved them all. There are a lot in this pod of cousins, but honestly i felt each of them had such a destinct personality that it was easy to keep straight who was who.
I adored the ending. They both followed their dreams but also found each other again.
It’s steamy, sassy, has depth, alllll the bi representation, family vacation, and insta love (but done well).
If you want a feel good romance that still has depth this is the one for you! I absolutely will be going back to all of Kayla’s books as they release and cannot wait to return to the Murphy squad!
Kayla writes ina way where the relationships, surroundings, love - all of it is TANGIBLE. You’re at the river, in the tent, at the party. You’re watched Sid and Zach see each other for the first time. The writing is captivating and the absolute perfect summer read.
I adored the Dual POV. I loved the setting - i love the fact that i’m going to get to come back to the Murphy Family because truly i loved them all. There are a lot in this pod of cousins, but honestly i felt each of them had such a destinct personality that it was easy to keep straight who was who.
I adored the ending. They both followed their dreams but also found each other again.
It’s steamy, sassy, has depth, alllll the bi representation, family vacation, and insta love (but done well).
If you want a feel good romance that still has depth this is the one for you! I absolutely will be going back to all of Kayla’s books as they release and cannot wait to return to the Murphy squad!
April 10, 2024
A Thousand Sunsets was an absolutely cozy, sweet beach summer read. I was immediately drawn in with the nostalgia of summers camping, when family were your best friends and love was hopeful and promising. The characters drew me in with the clever wit, hilarious antics and loyalty to their people. The Murphy’s are the loud, large crazy family everyone wants to be part of.
Sidney was a woman becoming her own and finding out who she was. It was easy to relate to her journey and to be caught up in her throughout the book.
Zach was so endearing and a perfect balance of what we all want and need in a partner. His struggles and goals complemented Sidney so well that you knew they were two pieces of a puzzle fitting together.
This story is beautiful, sweet and a joy to read. The complex characters that reflect a modern world with represent of so many made the coming of age story memorable.
Sidney was a woman becoming her own and finding out who she was. It was easy to relate to her journey and to be caught up in her throughout the book.
Zach was so endearing and a perfect balance of what we all want and need in a partner. His struggles and goals complemented Sidney so well that you knew they were two pieces of a puzzle fitting together.
This story is beautiful, sweet and a joy to read. The complex characters that reflect a modern world with represent of so many made the coming of age story memorable.
May 17, 2024
First off, thanks so much to Kayla for an ARC of this absolute summer perfection of a read :)
Y'all this one is FUN! This is one of those books that brings you into the setting. I was over here living my best life drinking my margarita on the beach getting the absolute TEA from the Murphy family while staring at hot tatted lifeguards. Like, EXPERIENCE!
Ok the romance...PERFECT. Guuuuurl I was SWEATING, but had no intention of changing that. Want smut? Here you gooooooo :) I'm usually not an insta-love person but THIS insta-love I'm 100% on board with. The pining. The angst. The teasing. The family talks. Ugh I LOVED the romance in this books so much. And then when it started romancing...Zach knows EXACTLY what tf he is doing. I'll just live vicariously through you Sidney because gurl you looking SATISFIED! Also the fact that they are both bi, while also leveling with each other on the struggles the bi community faces was just so awesome to see!
I freakin love the Murphy family so much and am so excited this series is gonna be based on them! It's giving The Bergmann Brothers and I absolutely want to hang with every single one of them. They all very much came boasting their own personalities and quirks that made the entire family so lovable! Nobody faded to the background and everyone just fit so well into the story and the plot! Tight-knit families like this one just give me all the warm fuzzies :) And then seeing that this trip is an annual thing and even the lake staff knowing the Murphy family is just CUTE! I just wanna squeeze all these cute little beans (especially Zach)
You're also kept on edge the entire time because Sidney is harboring a little secret that she intends to dish at the end of the trip so the atmosphere is TENSE (in a good way). Especially since it's a sort-of life altering secret so not only does it have the potential to mess with the family dynamic, but it also puts some high stakes on the romance! And you know I love the tea. We STAN the drama mama.
So impressed with this debut and will ABSOLUTELY be subscribing to the rest of this series :)
Y'all this one is FUN! This is one of those books that brings you into the setting. I was over here living my best life drinking my margarita on the beach getting the absolute TEA from the Murphy family while staring at hot tatted lifeguards. Like, EXPERIENCE!
Ok the romance...PERFECT. Guuuuurl I was SWEATING, but had no intention of changing that. Want smut? Here you gooooooo :) I'm usually not an insta-love person but THIS insta-love I'm 100% on board with. The pining. The angst. The teasing. The family talks. Ugh I LOVED the romance in this books so much. And then when it started romancing...Zach knows EXACTLY what tf he is doing. I'll just live vicariously through you Sidney because gurl you looking SATISFIED! Also the fact that they are both bi, while also leveling with each other on the struggles the bi community faces was just so awesome to see!
I freakin love the Murphy family so much and am so excited this series is gonna be based on them! It's giving The Bergmann Brothers and I absolutely want to hang with every single one of them. They all very much came boasting their own personalities and quirks that made the entire family so lovable! Nobody faded to the background and everyone just fit so well into the story and the plot! Tight-knit families like this one just give me all the warm fuzzies :) And then seeing that this trip is an annual thing and even the lake staff knowing the Murphy family is just CUTE! I just wanna squeeze all these cute little beans (especially Zach)
You're also kept on edge the entire time because Sidney is harboring a little secret that she intends to dish at the end of the trip so the atmosphere is TENSE (in a good way). Especially since it's a sort-of life altering secret so not only does it have the potential to mess with the family dynamic, but it also puts some high stakes on the romance! And you know I love the tea. We STAN the drama mama.
So impressed with this debut and will ABSOLUTELY be subscribing to the rest of this series :)
May 20, 2024
I got the opportunity to read A thousand sunsets as an arc and I can only recommend it to everybody that is still looking for a fun, swoonworthy, hot and honestly hilarious summer read!
I cannot wait to read more about the Murphy’s! Both Sidney and Zach were two walking (both bi!!) green flags. I also loved the mental health representation. When the story was almost at its ending I was *clutching* my pearls, wondering how their lovestory would end and even though at first I wasn’t a huge fan of how their relationship evolves towards the end (won’t be spoiling it in the review) after having thought about it more this made the best sense and is also very realistic. I just kind of want to insert myself into this big, warm family and go on adventures with them!
Overall; this was a great debut from Martin and I’m looking forward to her future work!
I cannot wait to read more about the Murphy’s! Both Sidney and Zach were two walking (both bi!!) green flags. I also loved the mental health representation. When the story was almost at its ending I was *clutching* my pearls, wondering how their lovestory would end and even though at first I wasn’t a huge fan of how their relationship evolves towards the end (won’t be spoiling it in the review) after having thought about it more this made the best sense and is also very realistic. I just kind of want to insert myself into this big, warm family and go on adventures with them!
Overall; this was a great debut from Martin and I’m looking forward to her future work!
May 12, 2024
This was adorable! Such a fun romance with a diverse cast of characters. I really enjoyed the romance plot (the tension and banter were great from the beginning) as well as the personal growth storylines. It's always so sweet when the characters support each other's goals. Sidney's family was a blast and their camping trip totally reminds me of my family's annual camping trip. If only we'd had hot lifeguards to flirt with! This is a great pick for a lighthearted summer romance. I flew through it! Such a great debut!!!
Thank you to Kayla for the eARC in exchange for my honest review! Can't wait to read more from you!
Thank you to Kayla for the eARC in exchange for my honest review! Can't wait to read more from you!
June 4, 2024
Summer days turn into summer nights, and the more Sidney learns about Zach, the more she realizes how much trouble she is in.
This is a truly adorable read, and hard to believe its a debut novel for Kayla.
The characters were beautifully written including the tight knit charming but meddling family.
The bi-sexual representation was written with such care and creativeness, something I'd love to see more of in books.
I adored both MC's, but Zach truly stood out because he was so in touch with his emotions.
The chemistry between Sidney and Zach was so good and the spicy scenes were hot!
Tropes:
- Bi-sexual MC's
- Holiday romance
- Insta-love
- Cinnamon roll MMC
This is a truly adorable read, and hard to believe its a debut novel for Kayla.
The characters were beautifully written including the tight knit charming but meddling family.
The bi-sexual representation was written with such care and creativeness, something I'd love to see more of in books.
I adored both MC's, but Zach truly stood out because he was so in touch with his emotions.
The chemistry between Sidney and Zach was so good and the spicy scenes were hot!
Tropes:
- Bi-sexual MC's
- Holiday romance
- Insta-love
- Cinnamon roll MMC
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