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Seasons of the East Coast #1
Summer Kind of Love
It’s I’m spending a full month on the ocean shores of Cape Breton.
Alone.
Avery is usually hunched over a laptop, writing the kind of words that end up on website homepages and glossy brochures. But ever since “The One” turned out to be the one who smashed her heart to bits, the page has been relentlessly blank. And blank pages mean an empty bank account.
When an up-market retreat center offers Avery a major project, she jumps at the chance to pay next month’s bills. But taking the job means committing to a change of scenery to jumpstart her failing creative spark. A cottage by the sea won’t be lonely...right?
Actually, it’s anything but. Because Logan, once the only person in the world Avery could rely on, is working the front desk. And just like that, Avery’s past catches up to her. It’s too much and too wonderful all at once. Too...everything.
But with Logan beside her, it might not be too late — if Avery can make peace with their past.
Alone.
Avery is usually hunched over a laptop, writing the kind of words that end up on website homepages and glossy brochures. But ever since “The One” turned out to be the one who smashed her heart to bits, the page has been relentlessly blank. And blank pages mean an empty bank account.
When an up-market retreat center offers Avery a major project, she jumps at the chance to pay next month’s bills. But taking the job means committing to a change of scenery to jumpstart her failing creative spark. A cottage by the sea won’t be lonely...right?
Actually, it’s anything but. Because Logan, once the only person in the world Avery could rely on, is working the front desk. And just like that, Avery’s past catches up to her. It’s too much and too wonderful all at once. Too...everything.
But with Logan beside her, it might not be too late — if Avery can make peace with their past.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
About the author
Charlène Boutin
9 books53 followersCharlène Boutin writes swoon-worthy stories that will make you laugh, cry, but most of all, warm your heart.
Originally from Val-d’Or, Québec (Canada), she spent 6 years in Red Lake, Ontario and 6 more years in Montréal, Québec, which has given her fodder for both small-town AND city-driven love stories. She now lives in Granby, Québec, with her partner, son, and cat.
When she’s not reading or writing, you’ll find her boulder climbing or spending quality time with her family.
Originally from Val-d’Or, Québec (Canada), she spent 6 years in Red Lake, Ontario and 6 more years in Montréal, Québec, which has given her fodder for both small-town AND city-driven love stories. She now lives in Granby, Québec, with her partner, son, and cat.
When she’s not reading or writing, you’ll find her boulder climbing or spending quality time with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
May 31, 2024
↬ review: unsure 3 stars ☾ ❦
this charming love story transports readers to a beautiful vacation setting, perfect for a summer read, and it blends lighthearted romance with just a touch of serious themes. the author beautifully captures the essence of summer, making you feel the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze of the vacation locale.
❀ what i loved:
one of my personal highlights of the book is the ending. the conclusion of the story is executed perfectly, delivering a heartwarming and satisfying resolution. the healing journey of the characters is depicted with sensitivity and care. avery's best friend's unwavering support and honesty add an extra layer of warmth and depth to the story, showcasing the importance of friendship in the healing process.
❀ what i disliked:
➵ avery's character: she is a complex character who can be extremely exhausting. her tendency to make everything about herself and her inability to listen to others can be infuriating. while her anxiety is understandable and adds important depth to her character, it often results in selfishness, making it incredibly hard to emphasise with her.
➵ the romance: the romance feels extremely rushed and unrealistic. transitioning from childhood friends to strangers and then to immediate lovers after 17 years of no contact stretches believability. there's zero room for the development of a convincing and deep connection. over the past 17 years, the characters appear not to have changed or grown, and they assume they still know each other intimately.
➵ the lack of chemistry: another significant drawback is the lack of chemistry between the characters. their interactions often feel flat, and their romance lacks the spark that makes love stories engaging.
➵ how avery dealt with a breakup: it's frustrating how avery jumps into a new relationship right after a five-year one ends. while moving on is commendable, her immediate leap into romance feels impulsive and unconvincing. it would have been more believable if the story showed her taking time to heal and grow before diving into a new relationship, not after.
❀ conclusion:
overall, as you can see, i had more issues with this book than compliments. however, it offers a summer escape with its beautiful setting and lighthearted narrative. if you're looking for a quick, feel-good read to accompany you on a sunny day, this book might be for you.
thank you, netgalley and charlène boutin, for the arc in exchange for my honest review. it means a lot to me, and i appreciate it.
this charming love story transports readers to a beautiful vacation setting, perfect for a summer read, and it blends lighthearted romance with just a touch of serious themes. the author beautifully captures the essence of summer, making you feel the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze of the vacation locale.
❀ what i loved:
one of my personal highlights of the book is the ending. the conclusion of the story is executed perfectly, delivering a heartwarming and satisfying resolution. the healing journey of the characters is depicted with sensitivity and care. avery's best friend's unwavering support and honesty add an extra layer of warmth and depth to the story, showcasing the importance of friendship in the healing process.
❀ what i disliked:
➵ avery's character: she is a complex character who can be extremely exhausting. her tendency to make everything about herself and her inability to listen to others can be infuriating. while her anxiety is understandable and adds important depth to her character, it often results in selfishness, making it incredibly hard to emphasise with her.
➵ the romance: the romance feels extremely rushed and unrealistic. transitioning from childhood friends to strangers and then to immediate lovers after 17 years of no contact stretches believability. there's zero room for the development of a convincing and deep connection. over the past 17 years, the characters appear not to have changed or grown, and they assume they still know each other intimately.
➵ the lack of chemistry: another significant drawback is the lack of chemistry between the characters. their interactions often feel flat, and their romance lacks the spark that makes love stories engaging.
➵ how avery dealt with a breakup: it's frustrating how avery jumps into a new relationship right after a five-year one ends. while moving on is commendable, her immediate leap into romance feels impulsive and unconvincing. it would have been more believable if the story showed her taking time to heal and grow before diving into a new relationship, not after.
❀ conclusion:
overall, as you can see, i had more issues with this book than compliments. however, it offers a summer escape with its beautiful setting and lighthearted narrative. if you're looking for a quick, feel-good read to accompany you on a sunny day, this book might be for you.
thank you, netgalley and charlène boutin, for the arc in exchange for my honest review. it means a lot to me, and i appreciate it.
June 7, 2024
I wanna thank netgalley for this ARC in exhange of an honest review. And I also wanna thank the author for this copy of the book:
I absolutely loved this book. It had something that just grabbed me. Loved the characters, the scenario, the descriptions, everything.
Avery lives with a lot, it can't be easy but she does the best she can. Fighting with your own head and body is nearly impossible, and she loses that figth nesrly everytime. Logan was her saving grace, he helped in any way he could, he was there for her and that's the most important thing. He didn't judge her and listened to her, he loved her wholeheartedly and that was beautiful. Logan too was battling something and it wasn't easy, but having Avery with him was more than enough. Loved this couple and how they loved and supported each other
I absolutely loved this book. It had something that just grabbed me. Loved the characters, the scenario, the descriptions, everything.
Avery lives with a lot, it can't be easy but she does the best she can. Fighting with your own head and body is nearly impossible, and she loses that figth nesrly everytime. Logan was her saving grace, he helped in any way he could, he was there for her and that's the most important thing. He didn't judge her and listened to her, he loved her wholeheartedly and that was beautiful. Logan too was battling something and it wasn't easy, but having Avery with him was more than enough. Loved this couple and how they loved and supported each other
May 29, 2024
4.5 ✨
I want to thank Charlène and NetGalley for allowing me an ARC of this book!
I loved this book so much! The writing was so lyrical and perfect that sometimes I just stared at the phrases.
This book is about Avery, who gets out of a relationship and needs a little time to herself, so she decides to book a month away at a cabin. When she gets there, she encounters Logan, her childhood best friend whom she hasn't spoken to in 17 years. Sooner or later, Avery realizes there’s still something between her and Logan.
The mental health representation in this book is unlike anything I’ve ever encountered. The way the panic attacks were described—as someone who has mental health issues, I could not relate more to them. They were described in a perfect and realistic way that I appreciate so much.
I thought the ending was a bit rushed, and I would have loved to see more of Avery’s journey by herself.
I want to thank Charlène and NetGalley for allowing me an ARC of this book!
I loved this book so much! The writing was so lyrical and perfect that sometimes I just stared at the phrases.
This book is about Avery, who gets out of a relationship and needs a little time to herself, so she decides to book a month away at a cabin. When she gets there, she encounters Logan, her childhood best friend whom she hasn't spoken to in 17 years. Sooner or later, Avery realizes there’s still something between her and Logan.
The mental health representation in this book is unlike anything I’ve ever encountered. The way the panic attacks were described—as someone who has mental health issues, I could not relate more to them. They were described in a perfect and realistic way that I appreciate so much.
I thought the ending was a bit rushed, and I would have loved to see more of Avery’s journey by herself.
April 15, 2025
4.5 ✨ actually!
First of all, thank you so much to the author and to netgalley for sending me the arc of this book!
I started this book thinking it would be another simple cute romance book, but boy was I wrong! It talks about so many deep and real experiences and feelings... I got so into the story and I cried somewhere near the end due to the AMAZING description of a particular scene (no spoilers here)!
Just trust me, go read this, you won't regret it! 🤩
AND I WANT THE NEXT BOOK ASAP 🤩
First of all, thank you so much to the author and to netgalley for sending me the arc of this book!
I started this book thinking it would be another simple cute romance book, but boy was I wrong! It talks about so many deep and real experiences and feelings... I got so into the story and I cried somewhere near the end due to the AMAZING description of a particular scene (no spoilers here)!
Just trust me, go read this, you won't regret it! 🤩
AND I WANT THE NEXT BOOK ASAP 🤩
June 17, 2024
I was drawn to this book by its setting in Cape Breton in Canada.
Avery suffers from crippling anxiety and panic attacks which has affected her throughout her life. She is going through a really tough time after a break up and to help her concentrate on work, books a break away.
Her childhood friend, Logan, is manning the reception when she arrives, and they are shocked to see one another again.
I liked both main characters, especially Logan. He came across as such a kind-hearted man. I felt Avery was quite complicated. The addition of her best friend, Sophie, was great as she was a good opposite to Avery.
This is a second chance romance with some serious topics, so it's not really a lighthearted read. Some topics may be triggering and these include anxiety, panic attack, loss, grief, parental abandonment, as well as stress and burnout. I did feel the author dealt with them very well and with sensitivity.
I enjoyed the book despite the rollercoaster of emotions I went through.
Avery suffers from crippling anxiety and panic attacks which has affected her throughout her life. She is going through a really tough time after a break up and to help her concentrate on work, books a break away.
Her childhood friend, Logan, is manning the reception when she arrives, and they are shocked to see one another again.
I liked both main characters, especially Logan. He came across as such a kind-hearted man. I felt Avery was quite complicated. The addition of her best friend, Sophie, was great as she was a good opposite to Avery.
This is a second chance romance with some serious topics, so it's not really a lighthearted read. Some topics may be triggering and these include anxiety, panic attack, loss, grief, parental abandonment, as well as stress and burnout. I did feel the author dealt with them very well and with sensitivity.
I enjoyed the book despite the rollercoaster of emotions I went through.
June 9, 2024
This was a heartwarming, second chance romance dealing with severe mental ill-health in an absolutely gorgeous setting.
It had me smiling, laughing, tearing up, and thinking hard.
If you are looking for a light-hearted romcom, this is not the book for you, but if you want your romance with a side of serious adult issues, then crack this one open.
There are trigger warnings for anxiety, panic attacks, parental abandonment, burnout, stress, loss, and, briefly, suicidal ideation. I felt that all of these topics were handled incredibly sensitively and appropriately.
I really liked the friendship between Sophie and Avery, Sophie was unafraid to call Avery out on her self-sabotage, but not getting in touch after the blow-up didn't feel inkeeping with Sophie's character.
Logan was a lovely book boyfriend, though going through his own misery, he was incredibly caring.
I loved having the epilogue, a happily ever after is just what I expect in these books.
I'd definitely read more by this author.
It had me smiling, laughing, tearing up, and thinking hard.
If you are looking for a light-hearted romcom, this is not the book for you, but if you want your romance with a side of serious adult issues, then crack this one open.
There are trigger warnings for anxiety, panic attacks, parental abandonment, burnout, stress, loss, and, briefly, suicidal ideation. I felt that all of these topics were handled incredibly sensitively and appropriately.
I really liked the friendship between Sophie and Avery, Sophie was unafraid to call Avery out on her self-sabotage, but not getting in touch after the blow-up didn't feel inkeeping with Sophie's character.
Logan was a lovely book boyfriend, though going through his own misery, he was incredibly caring.
I loved having the epilogue, a happily ever after is just what I expect in these books.
I'd definitely read more by this author.
June 11, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! The author did a really great job of letting us in on the inner workings of Avery’s mind. You could feel her inner turmoil and her heartbreak so you were right along side her throughout the story. As someone that has an anxiety disorder myself I can say that the author did a fantastic job of portraying what that’s really like.
This is a really great love story filled with lots of tension, ups and downs and angst. The characters are all extremely loveable.
My only criticism is that this story has made me want to go to the place for a month but it’s in fantasy land!!!
This is a really great love story filled with lots of tension, ups and downs and angst. The characters are all extremely loveable.
My only criticism is that this story has made me want to go to the place for a month but it’s in fantasy land!!!
July 3, 2024
Summer Kind of Love is Charlène Boutins debut novel, and is the first book in the Seasons of the East Coast series.
I love a second-chance romance and this was cute but not the best. It felt very rushed as they soon became lovers. The story is easy to follow and written nicely. The way Charlène portrays anxiety and panic attacks is the best I've seen in a book. The fear and constant worry of anxiety is shown throughout the book and I could relate so much. She didn't shy away from showing how panic attacks and constant anxiety can overtake your life and interfere with everyday things. I loved Sophie's relationship with Avery. I love how she is a support for her and would be there for her at the drop of a hat.
I've seen a few reviews talking about how self-absorbed the main character is with her anxiety and panic attacks and I understand that it is hard for someone who hasn't felt this way to understand how this affects you. It takes over your life and stops you from enjoying anything. You cannot see anything other than how you are feeling and this may look selfish to someone who doesn't suffer from this but that is the reality of it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love a second-chance romance and this was cute but not the best. It felt very rushed as they soon became lovers. The story is easy to follow and written nicely. The way Charlène portrays anxiety and panic attacks is the best I've seen in a book. The fear and constant worry of anxiety is shown throughout the book and I could relate so much. She didn't shy away from showing how panic attacks and constant anxiety can overtake your life and interfere with everyday things. I loved Sophie's relationship with Avery. I love how she is a support for her and would be there for her at the drop of a hat.
I've seen a few reviews talking about how self-absorbed the main character is with her anxiety and panic attacks and I understand that it is hard for someone who hasn't felt this way to understand how this affects you. It takes over your life and stops you from enjoying anything. You cannot see anything other than how you are feeling and this may look selfish to someone who doesn't suffer from this but that is the reality of it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2024
This was such a beautiful novel. It was very well-written with an easy to follow story and a brilliant cast of characters. I couldn't put it down. It was the perfect book to read through the summer months. Even though there were some sensitive subjects, they were handled with care. Other romance fans will love this, I highly recommend it. I can't wait to read more by the author.
💖 Thank you to @lovebooktours and the author, Charlene Boutin for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
💖 Thank you to @lovebooktours and the author, Charlene Boutin for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2024
Thank you so much to Charlène Boutin for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. As always, these opinions are honest and mine!
Summer Kind of Love stars Avery, a woman in Montreal that had her heart broken by Jeremy. As a freelance copywriter, she decides to splurge on a one month stay at a cottage resort in Cape Brenton to find inspiration post heartbreak. She doesn't count on finding her childhood friend Logan, a computer programmer by trade, working at this resort. As the summer progresses, Avery and Logan bond and kindle something a little more than friendship, however to get the life she has always wanted, she has to face some difficult challenges to mend her mind and heart.
Charlène Boutin has written a wonderful story. I think there are a lot of people struggling with anxiety that can find themselves in Avery. Avery is a kind, sweet, and protective person that is able to touch my heart. Logan is written to be just as kind and caring as Avery, depsite his challenges with his own demons. Charlène has written such a thoughtful backstory that is able to tie into present time. This novel was a perfect length- it did not drag out.
If I had any suggestions it would be maybe to have some of Logan's POV so we could growth with both lead characters. I think it would have garnered some more empathy for Logan. I would have also loved to read some sort of description into those few months that we skipped towards the end. I am curious on that part of Avery's journey.
All in all, I am excited to see what comes next for Charlène. If you are looking for a beach read (or cottage read, or any vacation read) this story is for you. I am glad I was able to read this Canadian author's work and look forward to more stories.
Summer Kind of Love stars Avery, a woman in Montreal that had her heart broken by Jeremy. As a freelance copywriter, she decides to splurge on a one month stay at a cottage resort in Cape Brenton to find inspiration post heartbreak. She doesn't count on finding her childhood friend Logan, a computer programmer by trade, working at this resort. As the summer progresses, Avery and Logan bond and kindle something a little more than friendship, however to get the life she has always wanted, she has to face some difficult challenges to mend her mind and heart.
Charlène Boutin has written a wonderful story. I think there are a lot of people struggling with anxiety that can find themselves in Avery. Avery is a kind, sweet, and protective person that is able to touch my heart. Logan is written to be just as kind and caring as Avery, depsite his challenges with his own demons. Charlène has written such a thoughtful backstory that is able to tie into present time. This novel was a perfect length- it did not drag out.
If I had any suggestions it would be maybe to have some of Logan's POV so we could growth with both lead characters. I think it would have garnered some more empathy for Logan. I would have also loved to read some sort of description into those few months that we skipped towards the end. I am curious on that part of Avery's journey.
All in all, I am excited to see what comes next for Charlène. If you are looking for a beach read (or cottage read, or any vacation read) this story is for you. I am glad I was able to read this Canadian author's work and look forward to more stories.
May 29, 2024
I was given this eARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Avery has just been dumped. In an attempt to get herself back together, she books a month-long stay at a coastal resort to reset herself, and to also work on a copy writing project. Her best friend Sophie approves of Avery's decision, and off she goes to be alone.
When Avery gets to the resort, her best friend from 17 years ago is working the desk. Avery has a panic attack, and Logan is brought back into Avery's life again the same way he left it; without notice and because of Avery's anxiety. Logan stays with Avery until her panic attack has subsided, and asks if she would like to reconnect with him during the month she is there. Avery says yes, and her month-long work-cation begins.
.
.
.
I have a lot of thoughts about this novel but my very basic review is that Avery needs to learn to set boundaries and stand up for herself. She does it a little bit at the very end, but she back steps significantly and it was extremely frustrating as a reader.
Sophie needs to let her friend do her own thing and stop barging in because what Avery is doing is "bullshit" in her eyes. Let her be alone for 5 seconds.
And Logan. You need to communicate with this woman you're supposedly in love with.
This book was filled with tropes I'm not a fan of (looking at you, miscommunication). I did like the writing, which is why I'm giving it 3 stars. However, this book was not written for me so I feel like rating it lower is doing the author a disservice. Do yourself a favor and read the trigger warnings before you start this book.
Avery has just been dumped. In an attempt to get herself back together, she books a month-long stay at a coastal resort to reset herself, and to also work on a copy writing project. Her best friend Sophie approves of Avery's decision, and off she goes to be alone.
When Avery gets to the resort, her best friend from 17 years ago is working the desk. Avery has a panic attack, and Logan is brought back into Avery's life again the same way he left it; without notice and because of Avery's anxiety. Logan stays with Avery until her panic attack has subsided, and asks if she would like to reconnect with him during the month she is there. Avery says yes, and her month-long work-cation begins.
.
.
.
I have a lot of thoughts about this novel but my very basic review is that Avery needs to learn to set boundaries and stand up for herself. She does it a little bit at the very end, but she back steps significantly and it was extremely frustrating as a reader.
Sophie needs to let her friend do her own thing and stop barging in because what Avery is doing is "bullshit" in her eyes. Let her be alone for 5 seconds.
And Logan. You need to communicate with this woman you're supposedly in love with.
This book was filled with tropes I'm not a fan of (looking at you, miscommunication). I did like the writing, which is why I'm giving it 3 stars. However, this book was not written for me so I feel like rating it lower is doing the author a disservice. Do yourself a favor and read the trigger warnings before you start this book.
May 28, 2024
Firstly, Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this beautiful summer read in exchange for an honest review!
3.5/5* rounded up to 4*
I really enjoyed this book. The author handled the topic and depictions of anxiety and panic attacks beautifully, in such a way that I suspect perhaps the author has personal experience with it. The setting and scenery were so easy to picture in my head with how she described them and made me want to be there myself. My only con is that I wish there had been more build up to Avery and Logan’s relationship, or that maybe we had a dual POV so that we could know Logan better and what’s going on inside his head. I would’ve loved to know more about him so that we could see how well the characters fit together. But overall, I think this book was beautifully done!
3.5/5* rounded up to 4*
I really enjoyed this book. The author handled the topic and depictions of anxiety and panic attacks beautifully, in such a way that I suspect perhaps the author has personal experience with it. The setting and scenery were so easy to picture in my head with how she described them and made me want to be there myself. My only con is that I wish there had been more build up to Avery and Logan’s relationship, or that maybe we had a dual POV so that we could know Logan better and what’s going on inside his head. I would’ve loved to know more about him so that we could see how well the characters fit together. But overall, I think this book was beautifully done!
June 11, 2024
Most times I enjoy a book just because it feels like an escape from day to day life. It gives you a sense of vacation from the comfort of your home or favourite reading spot. 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 did just that by creating a sense of getaway with its beautiful Canadian settings and wholesome moments while also addressing realistic elements such as anxiety. The story felt so real and relatable and I was really invested in Avery’s exploration of her life, her relationships and her career. I definitely think this novel is a great summer read, with its important themes, romance and friendships!
✵𝖬𝖺𝗇𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗄𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝖢𝗁𝖺𝗋𝗅𝖾̀𝗇𝖾 𝖡𝗈𝗎𝗍𝗂𝗇 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗀𝗂𝖿𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖠𝖽𝗏𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾𝖽 𝖱𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋’𝗌 𝖢𝗈𝗉𝗒 𝗂𝗇 𝖾𝗑𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗀𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗆𝗒 𝗁𝗈𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐.✵
✵𝖬𝖺𝗇𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗄𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝖢𝗁𝖺𝗋𝗅𝖾̀𝗇𝖾 𝖡𝗈𝗎𝗍𝗂𝗇 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗀𝗂𝖿𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖠𝖽𝗏𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾𝖽 𝖱𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋’𝗌 𝖢𝗈𝗉𝗒 𝗂𝗇 𝖾𝗑𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗀𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗆𝗒 𝗁𝗈𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐.✵
June 19, 2024
Summer Kind of Love by Charlene Boutin is book one in the Seasons of the East Coast series. It is a sweet, childhood friends to lovers romance with a hint of spice, a small beachy town feel, a cinnamon roll MMC and an anxious FMC who just spent $4000 on a seaside cabin in Cape Breton to get out of the apartment that reminds her of her ex for a month.
This is the first book that I have read by Charlene. When I saw that this book was based in Canada and written by a Canadian author, I wanted to read it.
❤️ Canadian locations: Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia; Red Lake, Ontario; and Montreal, Quebec.
❤️ East Coast feels: an oceanfront cottage, pebbly beaches, the sound of waves, sunsets that paint the sky purple and orange, a wooden bench that looks out toward the ocean, hiking trails, and friendly locals.
❤️ Friends who truly, deeply get you
❤️ Found family
❤️ Mental health representation in both the female and male characters
❤️ A healing journey
❤️ Character development
I appreciate how genuinely Charlene wrote about Avery's anxiety disorder, the 'family curse'. My heart was thumping along with hers on multiple occasions. I also appreciate how well Charlene wrote the characters of Logan and Sophie.
A huge thank you to Charlene for writing this book in Canadian spelling.
I am now excited for the second book in this series, Fall into You, about 'supermom' Sophie.
This is the first book that I have read by Charlene. When I saw that this book was based in Canada and written by a Canadian author, I wanted to read it.
❤️ Canadian locations: Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia; Red Lake, Ontario; and Montreal, Quebec.
❤️ East Coast feels: an oceanfront cottage, pebbly beaches, the sound of waves, sunsets that paint the sky purple and orange, a wooden bench that looks out toward the ocean, hiking trails, and friendly locals.
❤️ Friends who truly, deeply get you
❤️ Found family
❤️ Mental health representation in both the female and male characters
❤️ A healing journey
❤️ Character development
I appreciate how genuinely Charlene wrote about Avery's anxiety disorder, the 'family curse'. My heart was thumping along with hers on multiple occasions. I also appreciate how well Charlene wrote the characters of Logan and Sophie.
A huge thank you to Charlene for writing this book in Canadian spelling.
I am now excited for the second book in this series, Fall into You, about 'supermom' Sophie.
June 12, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I was drawn to this book since it was a summer romance based off the title and the cover. Though there are trigger warnings I didn’t expect the book’s conflict to be so heavy and deep as I was expecting more of a lighthearted second chance summer romance. However, I did enjoy reading the book. I loved seeing the growth that Avery went through and how Logan was there for her. He wasn’t trying to solve her problems but as someone to just be there and listen. I look forward to the next book in the series
Tropes:
Second chance romance
Friends to lovers
Mental health rep
Tropes:
Second chance romance
Friends to lovers
Mental health rep
September 29, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️.5
On the heels of a bad break up and struggles at work, Avery books a month long stay at a cabin in Cape Breton to find herself again. Upon arrival Avery encounters the last person she ever expected to see, Logan, her childhood best friend whom she hasn’t seen in 17 years. Logan and Avery share a deep connection that’s clear to everyone around them, can Avery work through her personal struggles and accept an unexpected love ?
When I started this book I was expecting a light hearted summer romance and in some aspects it was but it also contained dark themes relating to mental health that I wasn’t anticipating. This book seriously had me both smiling, giggling, and crying which for anyone who knows me knows I am NOT a crier! I honestly loved the rawness of experiencing Avery’s struggles with anxiety and loving herself while navigating a childhood friendship growing into more!
This story is definitely not light and fluffy like some summer romance reads are so keep that in mind before venturing in but I highly recommend this book! I was hooked from beginning to end!
Spice: 🌶️.5
On the heels of a bad break up and struggles at work, Avery books a month long stay at a cabin in Cape Breton to find herself again. Upon arrival Avery encounters the last person she ever expected to see, Logan, her childhood best friend whom she hasn’t seen in 17 years. Logan and Avery share a deep connection that’s clear to everyone around them, can Avery work through her personal struggles and accept an unexpected love ?
When I started this book I was expecting a light hearted summer romance and in some aspects it was but it also contained dark themes relating to mental health that I wasn’t anticipating. This book seriously had me both smiling, giggling, and crying which for anyone who knows me knows I am NOT a crier! I honestly loved the rawness of experiencing Avery’s struggles with anxiety and loving herself while navigating a childhood friendship growing into more!
This story is definitely not light and fluffy like some summer romance reads are so keep that in mind before venturing in but I highly recommend this book! I was hooked from beginning to end!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2024
This is a cute quick read about dealing with anxiety and a second chance at love. I loved the representation of anxiety and panic attacks in this book. I felt it was handled in a realistic and respectful way. I also loved seeing the journey of Avery and Logan reconnecting and relearning about each other after being apart for years, as well as the transition from friends to lovers. Avery’s personal growth post-breakup and learning who she is and how to deal with anxiety and how to be a good partner was absolutely wonderful.
Note: I did receive an ARC via NetGalley.
Note: I did receive an ARC via NetGalley.
May 30, 2024
Thank you Charlene for giving me the opportunity to read this arc ! I loved the story and the characters I appreciated the mental health aspect of it as well . Such a cute summer read for sure ! I gave it a 3.5 but rounded to 4 stars .
June 13, 2024
What an rollercoaster of emotions! I could literally feel all the emotions of Avery. The sadness, the anxiety, the love.
I would definitely recommend this book. It deals with real life problems and you can relate to book.
Moral of the story - true love can overcome anything!
I would definitely recommend this book. It deals with real life problems and you can relate to book.
Moral of the story - true love can overcome anything!
June 11, 2024
A must read this summer!!! Charlène’s writing is beautiful. I love how well she is able to describe à scenes. The description of the places made me tangly inside like if I was also on vacation. The emotion of Avery are so well described that I went through so many feeling while reading this book! This book made my heart happy and I can’t wait to read more of Charlene books!
October 6, 2024
I actually cried a bit during this book! Loved it and can't wait to read the next book in this series.
July 7, 2024
Really lovely romance. Its giving childhood best friends to strangers to lovers. Both struggle mentally, with especially good anxiety representation. I really love the characters and their development really shows. I also love the way it promotes a kind of slow living over the rushed working lives we all seem to have now. It was honestly such a vibe that i managed to finish in one evening. Recommend!!
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
June 3, 2024
4.5
Absolutely adored this! Usually I lose interest in romance novels by 40% and I'm a slow reader but I read this super fast because I needed to know it so that's how I know this is GOOD. It reminded me in a sense of Emily Henry because of the heartfelt writing and the setting. Also, the anxiety representation was accurate and not icky at all. Logan was an absolute babe and I love how he handled Avery's panick attacks and she is super relatable for an anxiety and overthinker girlie. The third act conflict and breakup was very real and believable and didn't annoy me (which most of the time does) and the epiloge was really sweet (it almost made me tear up). Can't wait for Fall into you!!
Absolutely adored this! Usually I lose interest in romance novels by 40% and I'm a slow reader but I read this super fast because I needed to know it so that's how I know this is GOOD. It reminded me in a sense of Emily Henry because of the heartfelt writing and the setting. Also, the anxiety representation was accurate and not icky at all. Logan was an absolute babe and I love how he handled Avery's panick attacks and she is super relatable for an anxiety and overthinker girlie. The third act conflict and breakup was very real and believable and didn't annoy me (which most of the time does) and the epiloge was really sweet (it almost made me tear up). Can't wait for Fall into you!!
May 30, 2024
I received this as an arc for review, and I didn't know much about it and haven't ever heard of this author previously. I finished the book in 2 days, and I LOVED it! The main character is a copywriter who had just been dumped and goes on vacation to get inspired to work on a new project. She runs into her old best friend (male, of course) and they reconnect as they are both working on themselves.
This is the most honest portrayal of mental health, specifically social anxiety, and panic attacks that I've ever read in my entire life. I really cared about the characters and the story as I was reading this and I was rooting for them the whole time. For a book to be a 5 star for me it needs to make me feel something, and this one did. I could relate to the main character so much as I do have some minor level of social anxiety.
I highly, highly recommend this one if you're looking for a great contemporary romance that has some depth to it.
Thank you so much to the author for the advanced reader copy!
This is the most honest portrayal of mental health, specifically social anxiety, and panic attacks that I've ever read in my entire life. I really cared about the characters and the story as I was reading this and I was rooting for them the whole time. For a book to be a 5 star for me it needs to make me feel something, and this one did. I could relate to the main character so much as I do have some minor level of social anxiety.
I highly, highly recommend this one if you're looking for a great contemporary romance that has some depth to it.
Thank you so much to the author for the advanced reader copy!
June 5, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is such a beautiful story by Charlène and a big anxiety rep!!!!
Avery after heartbreak leaves Montreal for a workcation as a freelance copywriter to a resort in Cape Brenton
Logan a childhood friend, computer programmer working at the resort
Their bonds rekindle but face some challenges. Such a wonderful story
This is such a beautiful story by Charlène and a big anxiety rep!!!!
Avery after heartbreak leaves Montreal for a workcation as a freelance copywriter to a resort in Cape Brenton
Logan a childhood friend, computer programmer working at the resort
Their bonds rekindle but face some challenges. Such a wonderful story
June 13, 2024
This is a perfect summer read, in the garden enjoying the sunshine or lounging on the beach would be perfect!
I really enjoyed the both main characters journey through the book and the anxiety rep was perfect, definitely written by someone who understands how my anxiety brain works lol!
I thought the romance was sweet and liked the connection they had if it was a little bit too quick to reform for me. Logan is perfect though. The setting was picturesque and I could completely imagine it and wished I was there too.
A nice summer read, with an easy well flowing writing style.
May 28, 2024
This book is far more than a fluffy romance. It’s a beautiful, realistic, honest love story. I felt all of the emotions reading this novel by Charlène Boutin. I laughed, I cried, I blushed and giggled and kicked my feet, I wanted to yell at the FMC, Avery at one point. I really loved that Avery has anxiety and felt myself bonding with her pretty quickly because of it. The MMC, Logan is a complete cinnamon roll and so much like my own husband so I fell for him right off the bat. Much like Avery and Logan, my husband and I are also childhood friends to lovers so the parallels were uncanny. I gobbled up their love story! I cherished this book and had to have a physical copy in my hands so ordered a signed copy before I even finished reading it. As a Canadian, I LOVE that the setting for this romance is Cape Breton! I can’t wait for the next books in the Seasons of the East Coast series!
Thank you, Charlène for the eARC! I highly recommend this for anyone who loves romance and enjoys a bit of spice!
Thank you, Charlène for the eARC! I highly recommend this for anyone who loves romance and enjoys a bit of spice!
July 22, 2025
I was so pleasantly surprised be this beautiful Summer Romance! The characters had so much depth, it was raw and emotional, but it also gave me that satisfying HEA!
I would definitely recommend this book!!
4.5⭐ rounded up!!
I would definitely recommend this book!!
4.5⭐ rounded up!!
May 26, 2024
Thank you so much for this ARC! What a great debut Charlène!
Way to make me cry over my daddy issues though 🤣🤣🤣
Such a sweet story. Avery resonates with me deep in my soul. The good and bad, honestly. Made me not feel alone in it. That someone could write something so similar to my own anxieties. It also makes me grateful that I have my own Logan.❤️
P.s I also have to love this as it hits so close to home. I love Montreal, and I live in the Maritimes so I'll hold this one close! I'll be buying a copy to read it when I go to the Cabot trail!
Way to make me cry over my daddy issues though 🤣🤣🤣
Such a sweet story. Avery resonates with me deep in my soul. The good and bad, honestly. Made me not feel alone in it. That someone could write something so similar to my own anxieties. It also makes me grateful that I have my own Logan.❤️
P.s I also have to love this as it hits so close to home. I love Montreal, and I live in the Maritimes so I'll hold this one close! I'll be buying a copy to read it when I go to the Cabot trail!
May 19, 2024
This is such a beautifully written book. The relationship between the main characters was so cutee...Logan gives such golden retriever energy. He is definitely in my top list for book boyfriends. The way in which the main character's anxiety and insecurity were displayed were well-done. The angst... heartbreaking but it allowed the characters to grow so much. I'm excited to read more from this author especially book 2.
Thank you Charlene for this E-ARC.
Thank you Charlene for this E-ARC.
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