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Kat's Greek Summer
For fans of Jenna Evans Welch and Barbara Dee, a timely and uplifting contemporary YA story of a young girl risking all for self-truth, family, and first love over one sun-drenched Greek summer.
Ready—set—look out, world! Kat Baker is about to explode . . . onto the high school scene, that is. All she has to do? Spend July and August training with New Canaan High’s cross-country team, become a running goddess and, come fall, claim her place as the team’s star freshman runner.
When her mom shocks her with the unwelcome news that the family will spend the summer exploring their roots in the rustic Greek village of Paralia, Kat’s sure her high school popularity plan is toast. Once in Paralia, punishing heat and cultural clashes force her to launch a risky and covert training strategy to keep her running-star dreams alive. And it is during these hidden sessions that Kat is swept into late-night encounters with Theofilus Zafirakis, a beautiful but off-limits Greek boy.
As Kat’s lies mount, her secret odyssey spirals out of control, finally putting one of her cousins in danger. In the end, it takes the unexpected meddling of a village full of crazy, wonderful—and not so wonderful—Greeks for her to open up to her Greek side and stand strong, discovering at last that the key to belonging anywhere is belonging first to herself.
Ready—set—look out, world! Kat Baker is about to explode . . . onto the high school scene, that is. All she has to do? Spend July and August training with New Canaan High’s cross-country team, become a running goddess and, come fall, claim her place as the team’s star freshman runner.
When her mom shocks her with the unwelcome news that the family will spend the summer exploring their roots in the rustic Greek village of Paralia, Kat’s sure her high school popularity plan is toast. Once in Paralia, punishing heat and cultural clashes force her to launch a risky and covert training strategy to keep her running-star dreams alive. And it is during these hidden sessions that Kat is swept into late-night encounters with Theofilus Zafirakis, a beautiful but off-limits Greek boy.
As Kat’s lies mount, her secret odyssey spirals out of control, finally putting one of her cousins in danger. In the end, it takes the unexpected meddling of a village full of crazy, wonderful—and not so wonderful—Greeks for her to open up to her Greek side and stand strong, discovering at last that the key to belonging anywhere is belonging first to herself.
- GenresYoung AdultRomance
248 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2025
6 people are currently reading
2384 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 26, 2025
thank you so much to Netgalley and SparkPress, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, for an arc in exchange for a review!!
❀° ┄───╮
review
╰───┄ °❀
✨✨✨ - 3 stars rounded to 3
𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓪𝓵𝓵:
💣 violence: 1/10 (young male adolescents overpowering a young woman [2x])
🌶️ spice: 5/10 (intense kissing, removal of a swimsuit top [found by an adult later])
🤬 language: 0/10 (none that I caught)
➕ other content: 2/10 (sexual harassment)
👩🏼 age rating: 14+
𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼:
↠ found family
↠ secret place/person
↠ forbidden love
↠ vacation
*SPOILER WARNING*
𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼:
kat:
↠ wanted to join the cross-country team, but forced to go to greece to see her family, snuck out to run and see a guy, got caught, apologized and then it was all okay (typical)
↠ she felt left out because she didn't look greek, but also she should have said something earlier because her family loves her for who she is, not what she looks like
↠ love that she told herself to "love the running. love it!" while she was running. that was cute and something I think a lot of athletes should tell themselves as motivation
↠ she also had a checklist on how to make the x-country team which was really smart
↠ she was kinda funny, like when she used her period as an excuse to get away from some boys who were harassing her
↠ the athena part was also really interesting to read about, just like how she's a greek god and stuff. loved kat's bag!!
theofilus:
↠ okay, so he had no personality, like all he did was fish with his grandpa, draw (wants to become an artist) and make out with kat
↠ I feel like he should've stood up to his grandfather more, but also he did go behind his back a lot so it was probably good he felt guilty about letting him down
↠ not much else to say tbh
yorgia:
↠ she was so sweet! I loved her and how nice she was
↠ my only problem was how often she had to cover for kat and had to lie for her
↠ she's got #goals!! girlie wants to be a pilot and I'm sure she would be a great one
↠ she's really good with kids and I felt bad for her when she
mom:
↠ she really should have paid more attention bc kat was clearly sneaking out, like her being tired all the time was actually so obvious
↠ I love that she finally got to reunite with her family after so long! glad she got divorced so she wasn't being held back
↠ overall a really good mom, though she should have realized what kat was doing
yiayiá:
↠ literally a typical strict grandma
↠ she was really welcoming to everyone, especially kat, and also really understanding
↠ omgosh I want to try her food and also help her cook bc she's so good at it!! yummm
𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼:
↠ I loved james-excuse me, dimitri! he was so cuteee
↠ manolis was a jerk, fr what was his problem?? he needed a good spanking from his grandma
↠ theofilus' grandfather also need a good whack, though he was nicer to theofilus and kat at the end which I appreciated
𝓮𝓭𝓲𝓽𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓪𝓵 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼:
↠ there were some spots when a character was talking and it should have been the next paragraph
↠ random spots when the name of the book/author's name was inserted (not sure why, unless it was a little reminder about the title/author)
↠ at some points when there were descriptions like "brown-and-white goats" there was a '-' missing
𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷:
this was a cute book! I'm not sure I would read it again only because it was kind of plotless, like all she wanted to do was make the x-country team in the beginning, but that basically when nowhere since we never found out if she did. basically it ended with her accepting that she is half-greek and being okay with that, nothing further about her running...
overall, I would probably recommend if you wanted a more summer-y vacation vibe, rather than a running one, bc while there was some running, not as much as what was advertised.
thanks for reading my review! 🫶🏼💜
❀° ┄───╮
pre-read
╰───┄ °❀
eeee I got a second arc!! tysm netgalley and publisher for this opportunity, I'm so excited!
❀° ┄───╮
review
╰───┄ °❀
✨✨✨ - 3 stars rounded to 3
𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓪𝓵𝓵:
💣 violence: 1/10 (young male adolescents overpowering a young woman [2x])
🌶️ spice: 5/10 (intense kissing, removal of a swimsuit top [found by an adult later])
🤬 language: 0/10 (none that I caught)
➕ other content: 2/10 (sexual harassment)
👩🏼 age rating: 14+
𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼:
↠ found family
↠ secret place/person
↠ forbidden love
↠ vacation
*SPOILER WARNING*
𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼:
kat:
↠ wanted to join the cross-country team, but forced to go to greece to see her family, snuck out to run and see a guy, got caught, apologized and then it was all okay (typical)
↠ she felt left out because she didn't look greek, but also she should have said something earlier because her family loves her for who she is, not what she looks like
↠ love that she told herself to "love the running. love it!" while she was running. that was cute and something I think a lot of athletes should tell themselves as motivation
↠ she also had a checklist on how to make the x-country team which was really smart
↠ she was kinda funny, like when she used her period as an excuse to get away from some boys who were harassing her
↠ the athena part was also really interesting to read about, just like how she's a greek god and stuff. loved kat's bag!!
theofilus:
↠ okay, so he had no personality, like all he did was fish with his grandpa, draw (wants to become an artist) and make out with kat
↠ I feel like he should've stood up to his grandfather more, but also he did go behind his back a lot so it was probably good he felt guilty about letting him down
↠ not much else to say tbh
yorgia:
↠ she was so sweet! I loved her and how nice she was
↠ my only problem was how often she had to cover for kat and had to lie for her
↠ she's got #goals!! girlie wants to be a pilot and I'm sure she would be a great one
↠ she's really good with kids and I felt bad for her when she
mom:
↠ she really should have paid more attention bc kat was clearly sneaking out, like her being tired all the time was actually so obvious
↠ I love that she finally got to reunite with her family after so long! glad she got divorced so she wasn't being held back
↠ overall a really good mom, though she should have realized what kat was doing
yiayiá:
↠ literally a typical strict grandma
↠ she was really welcoming to everyone, especially kat, and also really understanding
↠ omgosh I want to try her food and also help her cook bc she's so good at it!! yummm
𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼:
↠ I loved james-excuse me, dimitri! he was so cuteee
↠ manolis was a jerk, fr what was his problem?? he needed a good spanking from his grandma
↠ theofilus' grandfather also need a good whack, though he was nicer to theofilus and kat at the end which I appreciated
𝓮𝓭𝓲𝓽𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓪𝓵 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼:
↠ there were some spots when a character was talking and it should have been the next paragraph
↠ random spots when the name of the book/author's name was inserted (not sure why, unless it was a little reminder about the title/author)
↠ at some points when there were descriptions like "brown-and-white goats" there was a '-' missing
𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷:
this was a cute book! I'm not sure I would read it again only because it was kind of plotless, like all she wanted to do was make the x-country team in the beginning, but that basically when nowhere since we never found out if she did. basically it ended with her accepting that she is half-greek and being okay with that, nothing further about her running...
overall, I would probably recommend if you wanted a more summer-y vacation vibe, rather than a running one, bc while there was some running, not as much as what was advertised.
thanks for reading my review! 🫶🏼💜
❀° ┄───╮
pre-read
╰───┄ °❀
eeee I got a second arc!! tysm netgalley and publisher for this opportunity, I'm so excited!
April 9, 2025
Kat is about to start high school and has just moved to a new town after her parents got divorced. As if these were not life-changing events at all, Kat is surprised by her mother's plan for them to go to her home village in Greece to visit her family for the entire summer, derailing the girl's plan to train with her new school's cross-country team.
From the book description and some random reviews I looked at before deciding to read this, I gathered that this would be a simple, almost middle-grade story about the importance of reconnecting with one's roots, family, and culture, despite initial reluctance, because that's where growth and self-discovery take place. Only maybe with some first love motifs to make it more YA than middle grade.
But I should say that this story of discovering cultural diversity is much more disturbing than that. Because it turns out that cultural differences are not just about ✨embracing diversity✨ and fun local customs and delicious cuisine. It can also mean that something that's perfectly normal in one place is frowned upon as indecent behavior in another - to the point where a person labeled as engaging in such "indecent behavior" is no longer physically safe. And what's worse, the person, who is objectively culturally alien and could not have known better, is simply scolded for not being a "good Greek girl" instead of being informed about how the expectations of a more patriarchal rural culture are creating an unsafe space for her. Okay, I should spell that out, because it doesn't happen that far into the plot, so it can't be considered a huge spoiler: Kat goes running around the village, which is already weird for a girl by the standards of Greek rural culture, according to the book, but she also does it in running clothes that are totally appropriate by American standards, but she gets dirty looks from the local men and is stalked and then almost assaulted [*] because the rural boys combine these observations with "knowledge" from pop culture that American girls are available. These kinds of disturbing aspects of cross-cultural encounters. Unfortunately, as a woman, you don't have to actually be in a "foreign place" to be harassed, but here the creeps are especially at ease because the girl is thrown into a context where she lacks linguistic and cultural codes by someone she had reasons to trust the most. And I think this is an important theme that Mima Tipper is trying to explore here, but I am also not sure that she is putting all the right accents for the actual YA audience while exploring it. For one thing, I would like to see more validation of the protagonist's anger at being put in this situation, for the sake of those readers who might find it relatable.
[*] nothing graphical happens, so that's YA-appropriate
Another thing I was not sure about, in terms of the message to the reader, was the portrayal of Kat falling in love. It's a genre romance, I get it, but twice in the novel she falls in love with someone she sees for the first time in her life, to the point of obsession and willingness to change her entire life's routine just because of their looks? That it literally happens twice to her might suggest an ironic commentary on the idea. But I am not sure that 14-year-old girls need more literary role models like this. I remember, when I was about that age, being bothered by the fact that this was not what happened to me naturally, and trying to model my experiences on such portrayals. So maybe more critical engagement would be good here as well.
But this is clearly and interesting and thought-provoking piece, even for someone who is obviously not anymore 14.
Thanks to the publisher, SparkPress, for providing me with a free eARC through NetGalley. The opinion above is my own.
Publication date May 13, 2025.
From the book description and some random reviews I looked at before deciding to read this, I gathered that this would be a simple, almost middle-grade story about the importance of reconnecting with one's roots, family, and culture, despite initial reluctance, because that's where growth and self-discovery take place. Only maybe with some first love motifs to make it more YA than middle grade.
But I should say that this story of discovering cultural diversity is much more disturbing than that. Because it turns out that cultural differences are not just about ✨embracing diversity✨ and fun local customs and delicious cuisine. It can also mean that something that's perfectly normal in one place is frowned upon as indecent behavior in another - to the point where a person labeled as engaging in such "indecent behavior" is no longer physically safe. And what's worse, the person, who is objectively culturally alien and could not have known better, is simply scolded for not being a "good Greek girl" instead of being informed about how the expectations of a more patriarchal rural culture are creating an unsafe space for her. Okay, I should spell that out, because it doesn't happen that far into the plot, so it can't be considered a huge spoiler: Kat goes running around the village, which is already weird for a girl by the standards of Greek rural culture, according to the book, but she also does it in running clothes that are totally appropriate by American standards, but she gets dirty looks from the local men and is stalked and then almost assaulted [*] because the rural boys combine these observations with "knowledge" from pop culture that American girls are available. These kinds of disturbing aspects of cross-cultural encounters. Unfortunately, as a woman, you don't have to actually be in a "foreign place" to be harassed, but here the creeps are especially at ease because the girl is thrown into a context where she lacks linguistic and cultural codes by someone she had reasons to trust the most. And I think this is an important theme that Mima Tipper is trying to explore here, but I am also not sure that she is putting all the right accents for the actual YA audience while exploring it. For one thing, I would like to see more validation of the protagonist's anger at being put in this situation, for the sake of those readers who might find it relatable.
[*] nothing graphical happens, so that's YA-appropriate
Another thing I was not sure about, in terms of the message to the reader, was the portrayal of Kat falling in love. It's a genre romance, I get it, but twice in the novel she falls in love with someone she sees for the first time in her life, to the point of obsession and willingness to change her entire life's routine just because of their looks? That it literally happens twice to her might suggest an ironic commentary on the idea. But I am not sure that 14-year-old girls need more literary role models like this. I remember, when I was about that age, being bothered by the fact that this was not what happened to me naturally, and trying to model my experiences on such portrayals. So maybe more critical engagement would be good here as well.
But this is clearly and interesting and thought-provoking piece, even for someone who is obviously not anymore 14.
Thanks to the publisher, SparkPress, for providing me with a free eARC through NetGalley. The opinion above is my own.
Publication date May 13, 2025.
May 6, 2025
This was a heartfelt and engaging young adult coming-of-age story that explores identity, ambition, and the complexities of family and first love. The story follows Kat as she deals with cultural differences, intense heat, and the challenge of maintaining her fitness goals in secret. As her web of secrets grows, Kat faces situations that test her values and relationships. Her journey is not easy but it's real, and heartwarming! With its vivid setting and compelling character development, and a refreshing take on the journey to self-acceptance it's a great read for our young readers! Thank you, Books Forward PR, Spark Press and Mima Tipper for sharing this book with me!
November 4, 2025
Mima Tipper has written a story that will resonate and capture the hearts of all people of any age. We all remember the vacations with family that brought apprehension and trepidation but also gave us magical moments, our first crush, and a deep sense of freedom. Mima Tipper captures the heart and soul and vibrant spirit of Kat who lives in the memories of all of us and will light the imagination of young readers. Truly a classic in the making.
November 5, 2025
Wonderful heartfelt story. Mima captures the essence of the trials and tribulations of being a young female adult and the complications with cultural differences.
Beautiful fun read, page turner even for adults
Bravo
Annika Falkenstrom
Beautiful fun read, page turner even for adults
Bravo
Annika Falkenstrom
November 5, 2025
A frustrated teen is transformed as she embraces her inner Artemis -
I love the way Tipper's story brings Kat face to face with her perception of what she had thought she wanted versus the deeper layers of what she needs in order to be true to herself, and to be more open with others.
Nicely done, with lots of fun and plenty of sparks!
I love the way Tipper's story brings Kat face to face with her perception of what she had thought she wanted versus the deeper layers of what she needs in order to be true to herself, and to be more open with others.
Nicely done, with lots of fun and plenty of sparks!
December 12, 2025
Loved this YA book! Kat is a believable and inspiring character. Well-written.
May 13, 2025
Great book for anyone who’s ever felt a little out of place and is trying to figure out purpose and belonging. A great read and a great addition to your book shelf!
July 7, 2025
Even though I am 50-years-plus over the recommended reader’s age, I read Tipper's novel, Kat’s Greek Summer, and loved it! I found it very engaging and well written, and was delighted to be surprised at how the story turned out. Congratulations!
March 18, 2025
Copy provided by the publisher
Katina (Kat) is not happy to move from her longtime home with her mother and younger brother James, but has decided to start running in order to join the high school cross country team in the fall. She doesn't love running yet, but she has a massive crush on Mike, who is a senior on the team, so keeps at it. Then her mother delivers even worse news; they are going to spend the summer in Paralia, Greece, with her yiayia. Kat doesn't want to be away from her new home, and worries that she won't be able to run, but is eager to get a feel for what Greece is like. She is a little dismayed that it is very hot, necessitating early morning runs, and the fact that the house has no wifi and limited utilities, including an outdoor shower. Her extended family seems nice, and most, like her cousin Yeorgia, speak a little bit of English. While out in the town, she catches a glimpse of a young fisherman and is instantly smitten. She investigates and finds out that his name is Theofilus. When she is on the beach, supposedly watching her brother and cousin, two boys her age, Efthimious and Michalis distract her by telling her they know "all about" American girls. The boys get pulled out to see but are rescued by... Theofilus. Kat is in trouble with her family, and Yeorgia's mother calls her a "bad girl" and doesn't want Yeorgia to hang out with her cousin. Yiayia invites Theofilus' family over for a thank you dinner, but Theofilus' father doesn't approve of Kat either. Theofilus, who speaks little Greek, and Kat have hung out a bit after her runs, and have met in secret, and like each other a lot despite the language barrier. Kat tries to appease Theofilus' father, to no avail. Yeorgia, who wants to be a pilot, models the behavior of a proper young lady, baking baklava and acceding to the wishes of the men, so she doesn't want Kat to tell anyone about her career aspirations. Kat continues to run at night, despite Yiayia's ban, and has several negative encounters with the local young men, although she is fortunately never attacked. As her time in Greece draws to a close, she decides that she shouldn't have to keep her relationship with Theofilus secret, and stands up to her father. Emboldened by her summer experiences, Kat heads back home to face her future in high school.
Strengths: I know exactly the readers to hand this to; two 8th grade girls came in and asked for romances by a certain author that they had found at the public library, but I didn't have them because they were more Young Adult. They both said that they really hadn't read much that they liked (despite my best efforts) until they found these mildly spicy romances. Kat's teen grumbling at being told how to spend her summer, her obsession with the cross country runner Mike, and her push back against the stricter Greek social norms are all things that older middle school students will understand. There is a brief mention of her father, who didn't share her mother's Greek heritage and who lived with his new family, which included a young daughter. Kat had some issues dealing with this. It was good to see her want to please her grandmother, and to see her attempt to learn some Greek, cook with her grandmother, and try to navigate a new set of societal rules. Her breathless pining over Theofilus is the real draw of the book, and I loved that she eventually came to enjoy running.
Weaknesses: Having been 14 a long time ago, I understand why Kat would want to change for a boy she had a crush on, but it also made me a little angry! She and Theofilus don't have much in common, and their relationship seems mainly based on making out, some of it under the shirt. For actual teens, this is great stuff, but I just wanted to slap some sense into her!
What I really think: This is a great choice for readers who like Welch's Love and Olives or Zeitlin, Meredith. Sophomore Year is Greek to Me, and had the feel of a classic romance, like Dessen's Along for the Ride (2009) which is still popular in my library. I would definitely purchase this for a high school or 7-8 intermediate school library!
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
Katina (Kat) is not happy to move from her longtime home with her mother and younger brother James, but has decided to start running in order to join the high school cross country team in the fall. She doesn't love running yet, but she has a massive crush on Mike, who is a senior on the team, so keeps at it. Then her mother delivers even worse news; they are going to spend the summer in Paralia, Greece, with her yiayia. Kat doesn't want to be away from her new home, and worries that she won't be able to run, but is eager to get a feel for what Greece is like. She is a little dismayed that it is very hot, necessitating early morning runs, and the fact that the house has no wifi and limited utilities, including an outdoor shower. Her extended family seems nice, and most, like her cousin Yeorgia, speak a little bit of English. While out in the town, she catches a glimpse of a young fisherman and is instantly smitten. She investigates and finds out that his name is Theofilus. When she is on the beach, supposedly watching her brother and cousin, two boys her age, Efthimious and Michalis distract her by telling her they know "all about" American girls. The boys get pulled out to see but are rescued by... Theofilus. Kat is in trouble with her family, and Yeorgia's mother calls her a "bad girl" and doesn't want Yeorgia to hang out with her cousin. Yiayia invites Theofilus' family over for a thank you dinner, but Theofilus' father doesn't approve of Kat either. Theofilus, who speaks little Greek, and Kat have hung out a bit after her runs, and have met in secret, and like each other a lot despite the language barrier. Kat tries to appease Theofilus' father, to no avail. Yeorgia, who wants to be a pilot, models the behavior of a proper young lady, baking baklava and acceding to the wishes of the men, so she doesn't want Kat to tell anyone about her career aspirations. Kat continues to run at night, despite Yiayia's ban, and has several negative encounters with the local young men, although she is fortunately never attacked. As her time in Greece draws to a close, she decides that she shouldn't have to keep her relationship with Theofilus secret, and stands up to her father. Emboldened by her summer experiences, Kat heads back home to face her future in high school.
Strengths: I know exactly the readers to hand this to; two 8th grade girls came in and asked for romances by a certain author that they had found at the public library, but I didn't have them because they were more Young Adult. They both said that they really hadn't read much that they liked (despite my best efforts) until they found these mildly spicy romances. Kat's teen grumbling at being told how to spend her summer, her obsession with the cross country runner Mike, and her push back against the stricter Greek social norms are all things that older middle school students will understand. There is a brief mention of her father, who didn't share her mother's Greek heritage and who lived with his new family, which included a young daughter. Kat had some issues dealing with this. It was good to see her want to please her grandmother, and to see her attempt to learn some Greek, cook with her grandmother, and try to navigate a new set of societal rules. Her breathless pining over Theofilus is the real draw of the book, and I loved that she eventually came to enjoy running.
Weaknesses: Having been 14 a long time ago, I understand why Kat would want to change for a boy she had a crush on, but it also made me a little angry! She and Theofilus don't have much in common, and their relationship seems mainly based on making out, some of it under the shirt. For actual teens, this is great stuff, but I just wanted to slap some sense into her!
What I really think: This is a great choice for readers who like Welch's Love and Olives or Zeitlin, Meredith. Sophomore Year is Greek to Me, and had the feel of a classic romance, like Dessen's Along for the Ride (2009) which is still popular in my library. I would definitely purchase this for a high school or 7-8 intermediate school library!
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
April 25, 2025
Reaching goals clashes with family expectations to allow secrets, romance, and bitter-sweet moments to flood in.
Kat is about to start high school, and thanks to a guy on the team, she's determined to become the next track team goddess. As she's ramping up her training to, hopefully, impress and catch her heart's attention, her mother drops a bombshell and the family heads to Greece for the entire summer...which means no team summer training for Kat. Worse yet, Yiayia, the grandmother, lives in the most remote fishing town possible, where there's no internet, no real door to the bedroom, and the most old-fashioned expectations ever. Not only does Kat's running outfit constantly catch attention and Yiayia's criticism, but she's soon seen as a bad influence on her cousins. Especially when she constantly seeks to meet a fisherman, who has caught her interest. A possible relationship between her and the handsome teen isn't catching anyone's approval, which means they need to meet in secret. In other words, the entire summer is turning into a huge mess.
This is a wonderful read for fans of high school romance, who enjoy forbidden love and a character who's trying to find her way. The family life of Kat is already in a bit of an upset thanks to the divorce, and her mother's desire to reconnect with her family in Greece rocks everything a bit more. Kat's disappointment at having to give up of her plans of training with the team during the summer are understandable as is her disappointment and irritation at spending months in a foreign atmosphere under somewhat rustic circumstances...especially when she doesn't speak Greek and few speak English. She does carry some sass, especially in the beginning, which makes her a bit prickly, at times. Yet, there's enough family love shining through to draw in sympathy. Her decisions aren't always great, but it's fitting for her age...and readers will see that, maybe, things could go a bit differently if she'd just step back from her emotions for a moment.
While readers get a feel for the culture, landscape, and lifestyle of the town and people, the descriptions never weigh down. Rather, there's just enough to create the scenes and give a little depth as the tale flows along. The culture differences are also reflected in the relationships between Kat and her family members. These aren't always easy, and there are more than a few hurdles to smooth out, while other moments are touching and inspiring. Even the romance displays the cultural differences as the father of Kat's crush disapproves right along with Kat's own family. This leads to more bad decisions as Kat allows herself to be driven by the moments.
Fans of high school romance are sure to want to pick this one up as a summer read because it doesn't disappoint...if you enjoy characters, who make mistakes, and lessons about life, which need to be learned. I especially see tweens enjoying this one (the younger end of the young adult audience), and it should be noted that there is light intimacy in the romance, which upper middle graders, who are peering at this one, might want to be aware of.
Kat is about to start high school, and thanks to a guy on the team, she's determined to become the next track team goddess. As she's ramping up her training to, hopefully, impress and catch her heart's attention, her mother drops a bombshell and the family heads to Greece for the entire summer...which means no team summer training for Kat. Worse yet, Yiayia, the grandmother, lives in the most remote fishing town possible, where there's no internet, no real door to the bedroom, and the most old-fashioned expectations ever. Not only does Kat's running outfit constantly catch attention and Yiayia's criticism, but she's soon seen as a bad influence on her cousins. Especially when she constantly seeks to meet a fisherman, who has caught her interest. A possible relationship between her and the handsome teen isn't catching anyone's approval, which means they need to meet in secret. In other words, the entire summer is turning into a huge mess.
This is a wonderful read for fans of high school romance, who enjoy forbidden love and a character who's trying to find her way. The family life of Kat is already in a bit of an upset thanks to the divorce, and her mother's desire to reconnect with her family in Greece rocks everything a bit more. Kat's disappointment at having to give up of her plans of training with the team during the summer are understandable as is her disappointment and irritation at spending months in a foreign atmosphere under somewhat rustic circumstances...especially when she doesn't speak Greek and few speak English. She does carry some sass, especially in the beginning, which makes her a bit prickly, at times. Yet, there's enough family love shining through to draw in sympathy. Her decisions aren't always great, but it's fitting for her age...and readers will see that, maybe, things could go a bit differently if she'd just step back from her emotions for a moment.
While readers get a feel for the culture, landscape, and lifestyle of the town and people, the descriptions never weigh down. Rather, there's just enough to create the scenes and give a little depth as the tale flows along. The culture differences are also reflected in the relationships between Kat and her family members. These aren't always easy, and there are more than a few hurdles to smooth out, while other moments are touching and inspiring. Even the romance displays the cultural differences as the father of Kat's crush disapproves right along with Kat's own family. This leads to more bad decisions as Kat allows herself to be driven by the moments.
Fans of high school romance are sure to want to pick this one up as a summer read because it doesn't disappoint...if you enjoy characters, who make mistakes, and lessons about life, which need to be learned. I especially see tweens enjoying this one (the younger end of the young adult audience), and it should be noted that there is light intimacy in the romance, which upper middle graders, who are peering at this one, might want to be aware of.
April 28, 2025
Fourteen year old Kat Baker plans to burst onto the high school scene by using her summer to get in shape for the track team. Her mother, however, derails these plans by announcing that the whole family will be visiting Greece for the summer. Kat's mother is from the small village of Paralia on the coast of the Mediterranean, where technology hasn't exactly caught up yet. Upon her arrival in Paralia, Kat immediately feels out of place. Kat never learned Greek, she doesn't know the customs and everything that she wants to do, including running, isn't fit for a "good Greek girl". Kat's brother, James, fits in immediately, furthering Kat's frustration. Kat finally decides to take matters into her own hands and go running at night. On her night runs, she meets with Theofilus, a Greek boy who she saw on her first day in town. Theofilus only speaks Greek, but he and Kat make it work. Kat's night visits become dangerous and keeping secrets from the adults doesn't work out for very long.
Kat's Greek Summer is a charming and lighthearted read, perfect for the summer. The setting of Paralia is vividly portrayed, and the book offers a glimpse into Greek culture, both its appealing and less appealing aspects. Kat's initial struggles with feeling out of place as she navigates the social dynamics of a new environment felt authentic for a teenager on the cusp of high school. Her disappointment at having her summer plans changed and the lack of preparation for the cultural norms she encountered were understandable. I appreciated how Kat found a way to stay true to her passion for running, even if her methods were somewhat dangerous. While I enjoyed the overall story, I would have liked to see a deeper exploration of Kat's connection with Artemis and Greek stories. The stark contrast in expected behavior for teenage boys and girls in Greece was also quite striking and, at times, highlighted underlying misogyny. Ultimately, Kat's summer in Greece allows for personal growth as she learns to embrace the Greek aspects of her heritage that resonate with her. Although her relationship with Theofilus developed quickly and seemed somewhat superficial, their language barrier interestingly forced them to connect on a different, perhaps more fundamental, level of shared interests. As an adult reader, I did find it slightly concerning that Kat, a fourteen-year-old in an unfamiliar place, made numerous questionable decisions with limited adult guidance from either her mother or her Greek relatives. Overall, Kat's Greek Summer is an enjoyable and easy read with a lovely Greek backdrop.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Kat's Greek Summer is a charming and lighthearted read, perfect for the summer. The setting of Paralia is vividly portrayed, and the book offers a glimpse into Greek culture, both its appealing and less appealing aspects. Kat's initial struggles with feeling out of place as she navigates the social dynamics of a new environment felt authentic for a teenager on the cusp of high school. Her disappointment at having her summer plans changed and the lack of preparation for the cultural norms she encountered were understandable. I appreciated how Kat found a way to stay true to her passion for running, even if her methods were somewhat dangerous. While I enjoyed the overall story, I would have liked to see a deeper exploration of Kat's connection with Artemis and Greek stories. The stark contrast in expected behavior for teenage boys and girls in Greece was also quite striking and, at times, highlighted underlying misogyny. Ultimately, Kat's summer in Greece allows for personal growth as she learns to embrace the Greek aspects of her heritage that resonate with her. Although her relationship with Theofilus developed quickly and seemed somewhat superficial, their language barrier interestingly forced them to connect on a different, perhaps more fundamental, level of shared interests. As an adult reader, I did find it slightly concerning that Kat, a fourteen-year-old in an unfamiliar place, made numerous questionable decisions with limited adult guidance from either her mother or her Greek relatives. Overall, Kat's Greek Summer is an enjoyable and easy read with a lovely Greek backdrop.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2025
Kat’s Greek Summer opens and closes with Kat running, which is an apt metaphor. The plot sprints out of the starting gate and never slows. We move quickly from suburban Connecticut, where Kat has a plan about how to fit in better by making the cross country team, to her Mom’s hometown in Paralia, Greece, where it’s hot and humid, no good for running during the day, and where girls don’t go out alone at night. In addition to having to sneak out at night to run, Kat also has to get through many other roadblocks to feeling comfortable and happy in Paralia. In her grandmother’s house, she has no privacy in her tiny room with a door of hanging beads. She’s thrown together with her younger brother and cousins for company, and when she does meet older kids, they assume she’s a fast American girl and make unwanted advances. When Kat falls headlong into her first love with Theofilus, the handsome fishman, not only does he not speak English, but his grandfather doesn’t approve of him seeing an American girl. But as she conquers one complication after another, Kat grows stronger, not only in her ability to run to the top of the mountain but in her sense of herself.
In addition to the hard driving plot, the novel has vivid characters. I especially love Kat’s yiayia, who, though she speaks only Greek, still manages to communicate very effectively and who seems to understand Kat better than anyone. Theofilus is a knockout from Kat’s first glimpse of him as he emerges from a swim in the sea, but he is also kind and talented and very respectful, in sharp contrast to the villains in the story, the boys and men who judge, belittle and mistreat Kat and her younger cousin. There are some sexy moments between Kat and Theofilus and Tipper writes them well, evoking the passion and heat of a first, strong, young love without getting graphic. In fact the writing is really masterful, handling problems like lack of a shared language between the two lovers with creativity and ease. Can you tell I enjoyed this book immensely? No matter what time of year, who doesn’t want to spend a few days in Greece?!
In addition to the hard driving plot, the novel has vivid characters. I especially love Kat’s yiayia, who, though she speaks only Greek, still manages to communicate very effectively and who seems to understand Kat better than anyone. Theofilus is a knockout from Kat’s first glimpse of him as he emerges from a swim in the sea, but he is also kind and talented and very respectful, in sharp contrast to the villains in the story, the boys and men who judge, belittle and mistreat Kat and her younger cousin. There are some sexy moments between Kat and Theofilus and Tipper writes them well, evoking the passion and heat of a first, strong, young love without getting graphic. In fact the writing is really masterful, handling problems like lack of a shared language between the two lovers with creativity and ease. Can you tell I enjoyed this book immensely? No matter what time of year, who doesn’t want to spend a few days in Greece?!
June 13, 2025
Secrecy is one of the first things adolescents possess that did not come from their parents. In this crystalline YA debut novel, Kat resorts to an undesired situation with several deceptions and secrets that enable her to develop and grow in a family that does not listen. Her character is so precisely rendered, we cannot help rooting for her with every misdeed.
The stakes in this book are not cataclysmic. But they are familiar, ones we remember from our teen years, if we're lucky. Her angst and efforts to learn who she truly is have the loud and clear ring of accuracy.
Kat's parents have divorced, her dad is fully engaged with his new marriage and infant child, and her mom is trying to stabilize her new life by revisiting her family's origin, in Greece. In the process of meeting those needs, the mom becomes blind to her daughter's maturing, and deaf to her pleas for some consideration.
A trio of forces shape Kat's days on the island: her crush on a local boy (who is also making his way, as a fledgling artist), the sexist teasing and physical aggression of other local boys (I wanted to wallop every one of them), and her desire to run every day, so she can make the cross country team when she starts high school in the fall. The running comes to represent her strong will, her determination, and the classic adolescent challenge of growing whether the adults help or not.
One of the best things about this book is the minor characters, who are the beneficiaries of high craft. Don't worry about their names being Greek; their personalities are radiant and accurate in every detail.
I don't read much YA fiction, but this one is a great way to start the summer.
The stakes in this book are not cataclysmic. But they are familiar, ones we remember from our teen years, if we're lucky. Her angst and efforts to learn who she truly is have the loud and clear ring of accuracy.
Kat's parents have divorced, her dad is fully engaged with his new marriage and infant child, and her mom is trying to stabilize her new life by revisiting her family's origin, in Greece. In the process of meeting those needs, the mom becomes blind to her daughter's maturing, and deaf to her pleas for some consideration.
A trio of forces shape Kat's days on the island: her crush on a local boy (who is also making his way, as a fledgling artist), the sexist teasing and physical aggression of other local boys (I wanted to wallop every one of them), and her desire to run every day, so she can make the cross country team when she starts high school in the fall. The running comes to represent her strong will, her determination, and the classic adolescent challenge of growing whether the adults help or not.
One of the best things about this book is the minor characters, who are the beneficiaries of high craft. Don't worry about their names being Greek; their personalities are radiant and accurate in every detail.
I don't read much YA fiction, but this one is a great way to start the summer.
September 11, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley for offering the opportunity to review this book. It was a wonderful book, and I really enjoyed all the characters. We meet Kat as she is off to Greece to spend the summer with her mom and brother. She didn’t really want to go as she wants to practice3 her running for the upcoming school year’s track team. But going to Greece really opened her eyes to several things in life.
She rebels against her family by running through the night so no one can tell her she can’t, and she finds herself in certain situations. It’s really an experience for her. She falls for a boy whose grandfather is so old fashioned he can’t stand non-Greek girls. It’s sweet watching their love blossom into something special, the kind of special that leaves lasting memories well into adulthood.
All the characters are quite young, just getting into high school or younger, so you can tell their inexperience and innocence, it’s sweet.
There were times I really loved Kat and others (being a mother I know how kids are) just wanted to knock some sense into her. But I feel like she got it in the end, she understands what needs to be done. Remember, honesty is always best. You’d be surprised to find out how things can turn out when you tell the truth.
I enjoyed the book and really wanted to find out what was going to happen with Kat and her family.
She rebels against her family by running through the night so no one can tell her she can’t, and she finds herself in certain situations. It’s really an experience for her. She falls for a boy whose grandfather is so old fashioned he can’t stand non-Greek girls. It’s sweet watching their love blossom into something special, the kind of special that leaves lasting memories well into adulthood.
All the characters are quite young, just getting into high school or younger, so you can tell their inexperience and innocence, it’s sweet.
There were times I really loved Kat and others (being a mother I know how kids are) just wanted to knock some sense into her. But I feel like she got it in the end, she understands what needs to be done. Remember, honesty is always best. You’d be surprised to find out how things can turn out when you tell the truth.
I enjoyed the book and really wanted to find out what was going to happen with Kat and her family.
April 10, 2025
Imagine being surprised with a summer vacation - a whole summer in Greece!
Now, imagine being a teenager who wants to be home for the summer.
That's the main conflict in the story.
As expected, Kat learns to love Greece, and also becomes more prepared to be herself in the new school year. What she imagines will be a boring experience becomes fun and worthwhile. And, of course, an interesting love interest helps.
The best thing about this story? Kat is a runner! I love runner-focused plots (and there aren't nearly enough). Training for cross-country is a big deal.
"She ran on, her brain clearing and her body humming. Everything faded except the road under her pounding shoes and the twinkling of a couple of tiny lights marking Paralia ahead. She couldn't stop now. Losing that need to keep running - even for a second - hurt, a physical pain. She wouldn't be one of those girls who gave up plans."
"Her running. That was still safe. Still hers."
Now, imagine being a teenager who wants to be home for the summer.
That's the main conflict in the story.
As expected, Kat learns to love Greece, and also becomes more prepared to be herself in the new school year. What she imagines will be a boring experience becomes fun and worthwhile. And, of course, an interesting love interest helps.
The best thing about this story? Kat is a runner! I love runner-focused plots (and there aren't nearly enough). Training for cross-country is a big deal.
"She ran on, her brain clearing and her body humming. Everything faded except the road under her pounding shoes and the twinkling of a couple of tiny lights marking Paralia ahead. She couldn't stop now. Losing that need to keep running - even for a second - hurt, a physical pain. She wouldn't be one of those girls who gave up plans."
"Her running. That was still safe. Still hers."
November 2, 2025
I love reading stories set in other countries, especially Greece. Mima Tipper has written a FUN and beautifully crafted romantic novel about a high school freshman who dreams of joining the cross-country team—even though her mother has other plans for her. Kat faces the challenge of training in the intense Greek summer heat, all while navigating a budding crush.
The narrative is engaging, and Tipper’s vivid descriptions of running are especially compelling for anyone who’s ever laced up their shoes. I gave this novel to my niece, and she loved it too. It would make a wonderful pick for a mother–daughter book club, as there are many thought-provoking topics to discuss such as mother/daughter and granddaughter/grandmother relationships, cultural identity, risks and courage. Highly recommended!
The narrative is engaging, and Tipper’s vivid descriptions of running are especially compelling for anyone who’s ever laced up their shoes. I gave this novel to my niece, and she loved it too. It would make a wonderful pick for a mother–daughter book club, as there are many thought-provoking topics to discuss such as mother/daughter and granddaughter/grandmother relationships, cultural identity, risks and courage. Highly recommended!
May 2, 2025
Kat has her summer planned out! When high school starts, she plans to join the cross-country running team, and she knows she has to prepare. Extending her practice runs every day, no matter how tired she feels, is what will land her a place.
What she didn’t plan was spending those three months in Greece with her mom’s very extended family…and learning that family heritage is a wonderful thing.
I laughed at Kat’s mantra to keep herself running the distances-“Love running, love running, love running!” (Maybe I should try that while on my stationary bike, panting!)
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
What she didn’t plan was spending those three months in Greece with her mom’s very extended family…and learning that family heritage is a wonderful thing.
I laughed at Kat’s mantra to keep herself running the distances-“Love running, love running, love running!” (Maybe I should try that while on my stationary bike, panting!)
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
May 7, 2025
Honestly this one just felt kind of gross. It feels weird to have an ongoing plot railing about incredibly sexually inappropriate teenage boys who assume American girls are easy when the MC is obsessive about and actively stalks the two boys she is interested in (one of whom she has never met and only seen a photo of, but is nonetheless obsessed with to the point of adopting an entirely new sport so she can spend time with him). If the MC was male, this book would be rightly castigated for normalizing stalking behaviors and reducing people to their sexual appeal, but because the MC is a woman we're supposed to find this, what, empowering? Very unsettling and disappointing.
June 17, 2025
What Would Artemis Do?
Though the story is intended for YA readers, Mima Tipper takes adults on a nostalgic journey back to their young adult mindset. Transported to a time when a kiss meant everything, inspiration was an exciting fresh sensation, and taking risks was deliciously thrilling, we are reminded of the essence of who we are and always were.
Kat’s experience of many firsts–the peculiar feeling of unwanted male attention, a thread of connection with a dissociated cultural identity, the triumph of a new athletic achievement, and first love blooming despite language and cultural barriers–kindles the idea that infinite possibilities exist for all ages. Opa!
Though the story is intended for YA readers, Mima Tipper takes adults on a nostalgic journey back to their young adult mindset. Transported to a time when a kiss meant everything, inspiration was an exciting fresh sensation, and taking risks was deliciously thrilling, we are reminded of the essence of who we are and always were.
Kat’s experience of many firsts–the peculiar feeling of unwanted male attention, a thread of connection with a dissociated cultural identity, the triumph of a new athletic achievement, and first love blooming despite language and cultural barriers–kindles the idea that infinite possibilities exist for all ages. Opa!
March 12, 2025
Having both a running as well as a romantic focus and only 230 pages will make this an appealing choice for many in jr high to early high school.
Summer has just begun and rising 9th grade Kat is singularly focused on being good enough to make the high school cross country team and catch the eye of handsome Mike Doherty. Her mom, however, has decided that the family (Mom, Kat and younger brother James) need to spend the time off in Greece discovering their family heritage. James, who looks just as Greek as his mother and her olive-skinned, dark-haired relatives, takes to the life and language of the hot, sleepy fishing town but Kat balks at every aspect of Greek life and can only focus on the lack of privacy in her grandmother’s home, the heat that doesn’t allow her to train and the fact that she cannot speak the language. That is, until she sees gorgeous Theofilus step out of the ocean.
Debut author Mima Tipper does an excellent job of leaving readers with a clear picture of the town of Paralia, right down to the blue of the water and the look of the lines of fishing boats on the docks. The food, dress, and language of Greece as well as the old-fashioned views of how girls should present themselves and the goals they should setting are also firmly established. However, the pace of the plot is slow and steady with the occasional burst of speed as Kat’s secret is revealed and again when cousin Manoli’s true colors show themselves. There will be some who enjoy the pacing but others may not stick around for the end.
Text is free of profanity. Kat and Theofilus’ physical relationship moves past kissing and into a topless make out session and the sexual and/or violent intent of several older boys from town is implied as Kat is confronted early in the book and her cousin Yeorgia is cornered by the same teens near the end.
If romance & running are needs for libraries serving grades 7-10, this title may be worth considering.
Summer has just begun and rising 9th grade Kat is singularly focused on being good enough to make the high school cross country team and catch the eye of handsome Mike Doherty. Her mom, however, has decided that the family (Mom, Kat and younger brother James) need to spend the time off in Greece discovering their family heritage. James, who looks just as Greek as his mother and her olive-skinned, dark-haired relatives, takes to the life and language of the hot, sleepy fishing town but Kat balks at every aspect of Greek life and can only focus on the lack of privacy in her grandmother’s home, the heat that doesn’t allow her to train and the fact that she cannot speak the language. That is, until she sees gorgeous Theofilus step out of the ocean.
Debut author Mima Tipper does an excellent job of leaving readers with a clear picture of the town of Paralia, right down to the blue of the water and the look of the lines of fishing boats on the docks. The food, dress, and language of Greece as well as the old-fashioned views of how girls should present themselves and the goals they should setting are also firmly established. However, the pace of the plot is slow and steady with the occasional burst of speed as Kat’s secret is revealed and again when cousin Manoli’s true colors show themselves. There will be some who enjoy the pacing but others may not stick around for the end.
Text is free of profanity. Kat and Theofilus’ physical relationship moves past kissing and into a topless make out session and the sexual and/or violent intent of several older boys from town is implied as Kat is confronted early in the book and her cousin Yeorgia is cornered by the same teens near the end.
If romance & running are needs for libraries serving grades 7-10, this title may be worth considering.
August 6, 2025
I read this on a very hot New England weekend and was totally transported to an island in Greece and back to my teens -- how had I forgotten how important and alive it feels to be learning about love and life at that age? This was a wonderfully thoughtful reminder, and a delightful journey to take with Kat. I highly recommend for anyone who wants to escape their reality and be fully immersed in the struggles and joys of an endearing young woman.
November 3, 2025
I so enjoyed this contemporary YA. Kat was such a believable, relatable character, both for her hopes and dreams (running team) and her struggles to connect with the Greek side of her family because of not knowing the language. The author's attention to detail made the setting come alive, and, writing this in early November, I can still feel the heat of the Greek summer sun.
May 1, 2025
Children may relate to Kat's desire to fit in with the popular crowd and how participating on the cross-country team helps her to connect with her peers, in navigating relationships with boys and in adapting to high school life. Kat's trip to the small Greek village led to her confronting a new set of social norms she doesn't understand and a language barrier. It also is a way for her to understand a new to her culture and how she fits into it. Kat identifies being Greek as mostly being olive skinned and dark haired like her mother and brother. She's often wondered about how she fits in with her family. What characteristics make her Greek?
I loved that the story included three generations of Greek woman and Kat received insights from each of these women. Kat's relationship with her grandmother/Yiayia is really sweet. I love that she learned a few words in Greek so they could communicate together and even became involved in preparing a meal together. Not only was she learning about Greece, but she was also able to form some wonderful memories. (I'll never forget making cherry pancakes with my Oma.) Kat also spent time with her cousin, Yeorgia and even encouraged her to follow her own dreams to be a pilot. Kat learned that one's ethnicity or nationality isn't about our physical characteristics, as her mom said, it's about our "blood and bone" and that she is both Greek and American.
Overall, Kat's Greek Summer is a lovely coming of age story about first loves, complex feelings, standing up for yourself, and finding one's cultural identity. Kat returned from her trip to Greece having developed a deep connection to her Greek heritage, a newfound confidence and an understanding of what it means to own our choices.
**A huge thank you to Books Forward for the paperback ARC in exchange for an honest review**
I loved that the story included three generations of Greek woman and Kat received insights from each of these women. Kat's relationship with her grandmother/Yiayia is really sweet. I love that she learned a few words in Greek so they could communicate together and even became involved in preparing a meal together. Not only was she learning about Greece, but she was also able to form some wonderful memories. (I'll never forget making cherry pancakes with my Oma.) Kat also spent time with her cousin, Yeorgia and even encouraged her to follow her own dreams to be a pilot. Kat learned that one's ethnicity or nationality isn't about our physical characteristics, as her mom said, it's about our "blood and bone" and that she is both Greek and American.
Overall, Kat's Greek Summer is a lovely coming of age story about first loves, complex feelings, standing up for yourself, and finding one's cultural identity. Kat returned from her trip to Greece having developed a deep connection to her Greek heritage, a newfound confidence and an understanding of what it means to own our choices.
**A huge thank you to Books Forward for the paperback ARC in exchange for an honest review**
June 27, 2025
Kat's interest in running and getting on the track team leads to her resisting spending the summer in Greece. Will she accept her Greek roots and find a place among her family and the villagers? And what about her summer romance?
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December 21, 2025This was a sweet book and well-written. I'm not the target audience, but I think young teenage girls experiencing their first crush will like it. Be aware that there is a lot of unwanted male attention included in this book, and Kat is in some situations that could have ended very badly.
June 17, 2025
A masterful debut YA novel, relatable and vivid.
July 16, 2025
I got this book at an author signing and loved it. I thought it might be more into the thread of Greek then romance but I was pleasantly surprised. The author was incredible. I would recommend.
August 6, 2025
Great book for a summer read whether you are a young adult or an older one! Tipper has caught that special coming-of-age time in this story. Highly recommend.
September 2, 2025
Loved it
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