What do you think?
Rate this book
Just for the Summer
Ginny Masters manages a popular boutique hotel in Seattle and manages it with aplomb. But the daily challenges and irritations of a fast-paced job and a demanding boss are starting to get to her. Jacqueline Potter manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho because it was the only job she could find after graduating with her hospitality degree. She's grateful for the work but longs for a more sophisticated and cosmopolitan life she's just not going to find in this backwoods town.
The solution to both their problems seems obvious. Just for the summer, they'll swap jobs and lifestyles. But they never anticipated swapping love interests . . .
In this fabulous new twist on an age-old fable, award-winning and bestselling author Melody Carlson introduces you to two career-focused women who are about to discover that there's more to finding happiness than just switching up the scenery.
The solution to both their problems seems obvious. Just for the summer, they'll swap jobs and lifestyles. But they never anticipated swapping love interests . . .
In this fabulous new twist on an age-old fable, award-winning and bestselling author Melody Carlson introduces you to two career-focused women who are about to discover that there's more to finding happiness than just switching up the scenery.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published March 1, 2024
157 people are currently reading
9738 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
417 books3,210 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews
January 12, 2025
When two hotel/lodge managers decide to swap jobs for the summer months things get interesting. I thought this was a cute story that drew me in from the start. There was a touch of romance for each of the managers at their new jobs. I thought it was cute and entertaining . The characters were great and added so much to the story. Enjoyed the time I spent with this book.
There are two main characters. Ginny Masters is a manager at an upscale hotel in Seattle. She has worked at this place for ten years. She worked her way up from the laundry to the top manager position. Her boss Diana Jackson is a hard person to work for but Ginny rarely loses her temper. Lately she is feeling like a change would be good. She joins a Job Swap web site just for the heck of it. A sports resort catches her eye and she wonders what it would be like to work there for the summer.
Jacqueline Potter works as the manager at her Grandpa’s fishing Lodge. She is drop dead gorgeous but also very manipulative and seems like a spoiled brat. She has a college degree in hotel management. She hates working at the lodge. She wants out as soon as possible. She signs up on a Job Swap Web site hoping to find a place in the city where she can work for the summer. Then she sees an opportunity to go to a hotel in Seattle. This is just what she wants. Could this work for these gals and possibly become a permanent switch after the two months are up?
I recommend this book to readers of women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and fans of Melody Carlson. It is a standalone book. This book is scheduled to be released on 3/19/24
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts
and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#JustfortheSummer #NetGalley
There are two main characters. Ginny Masters is a manager at an upscale hotel in Seattle. She has worked at this place for ten years. She worked her way up from the laundry to the top manager position. Her boss Diana Jackson is a hard person to work for but Ginny rarely loses her temper. Lately she is feeling like a change would be good. She joins a Job Swap web site just for the heck of it. A sports resort catches her eye and she wonders what it would be like to work there for the summer.
Jacqueline Potter works as the manager at her Grandpa’s fishing Lodge. She is drop dead gorgeous but also very manipulative and seems like a spoiled brat. She has a college degree in hotel management. She hates working at the lodge. She wants out as soon as possible. She signs up on a Job Swap Web site hoping to find a place in the city where she can work for the summer. Then she sees an opportunity to go to a hotel in Seattle. This is just what she wants. Could this work for these gals and possibly become a permanent switch after the two months are up?
I recommend this book to readers of women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and fans of Melody Carlson. It is a standalone book. This book is scheduled to be released on 3/19/24
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts
and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#JustfortheSummer #NetGalley
March 18, 2024
2.5 stars, personally.
About this book:
“Ginny Masters manages a popular boutique hotel in Seattle and manages it with aplomb. But the daily challenges and irritations of a fast-paced job and a demanding boss are starting to get to her. Jacqueline Potter manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho because it was the only job she could find after graduating with her hospitality degree. She's grateful for the work but longs for a more sophisticated and cosmopolitan life she's just not going to find in this backwoods town.
The solution to both their problems seems obvious. Just for the summer, they'll swap jobs and lifestyles. But they never anticipated swapping love interests . . .”
Series: As of now, no. It seems to be a stand-alone novel.
Spiritual Content- A Scripture is remembered & thought over; We see that Ginny has a faith, but no hints to Jacqueline having one (besides a mention of her sending a prayer for a new job); Ginny knows that she loves God and God loves her, but longs for being able to love and be loved in a human form as well; Mentions of God & His will; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of churches, church going; A mention of purgatory;
*Note: The words ‘miracle’ and ‘heaven’ are used loosely (wanting a miracle for a job-related thing and thinking a place is heaven); The phrase “when hell freezes over” is said once; A mention of Jacqueline being almost “worshipful” to a new boss to get on her good side; Jacqueline teasingly calls Ginny a “saint”; Mentions of luck, being lucky, & lucky stars; A few mentions of magic & someone being a magician (not seriously); A mention of someone who has passed “looking down” with approval over someone; A mention of a child wondering if a place is haunted.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘doggone’, a ‘give a hill of beans’, an ‘idiot’, a ‘shoot’, a ‘shut up’, a ‘stinking’, a ‘ticked’, a ‘witch’ (calling a woman that), a ‘what the devil’, two ‘dad-burned’s, two ‘good grief’s, two ‘hurts like the dickens’, three ‘crummy’s, three forms of ‘dang’, four forms of ‘darn’, and five forms of ‘stupid’; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Drinking (with others, both Ginny and Jacqueline; Jacqueline plans to win a guy over with acting helpless and alcoholic beverages); Ginny’s boss manipulates her at work; Jacqueline lies, manipulates, looks to blame others for her mistakes, and has a bad attitude about working at her grandfather’s place (complaining, avoiding responsibilities, not being helpful; It’s said she has an “entitled superiority complex going on”); *Spoiler* ; Ginny tells a lie (not being truthful about her feelings); A father makes his teen daughter tell a lie “for a good reason” (to be able to be alone with a woman); A teenager makes comments about not being happy in her family, yells at her mom, talks about being emancipated from her parents, & is hurt and bitter from her parents’ divorce; Mentions of a young son drowning & the possibility of others drowning (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths from cancer (a mother and a wife, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of injuries, pain, & a broken bone; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & bars; Mentions of an out-of-control party; Mentions of throwing up; Mentions of lies, lying, liars, & manipulation; Mentions of fathers leaving their families, divorces, & the daughter of a divorced couple being upset (due to her mom “dumping her” on her father); A few mentions of jealousy & hatred; A few mentions of rumors; A couple mentions of a war; A couple mentions of a wife loving her husband’s money and family name more than him; A mention of death row; A mention of an abduction; A mention of thieves; A mention of arrests; A mention of a teenager “pranking” her stepfather by keying his car; A mention of a fire; A mention of cigarettes; A mention of a nightmare; A mention of hunting;
*Note: A man makes comments against cancer doctors due to losing his wife to cancer & hating doctors and medicine because of it; Both Jacqueline & Diana mention their therapists & what they’ve been told (such as Jacqueline being told that she overcompensates with guys because her father left her when she was little); Mentions of brand names, items, & stores (Keds, Carhartt, Ralph Lauren, Coco Chanel, Adidas, Louis Vuitton, T-Mobile, Jell-O, iPad, Safeway, & Goodwill); Mentions of authors (Stephen King & John Grisham); Mentions of Disneyland; Mentions of a baseball team; A couple mentions of anxiety; A mention of PTSD (Ginny being concerned over fish who were released after getting caught would have PTSD); A couple mentions of celebrities (Chris Hemsworth & Margot Robbie); A couple mentions of a song (‘The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night’); A couple mentions of car brands; A mention of Google; A mention of the Oscars; A mention of a magazine (Glamour).
Sexual Content- An almost kiss, a not-detailed kiss, and two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Touches & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (up to semi-detailed); Jacqueline enjoys receiving attention from male guests & purposely dresses to get guys’ attention (including showing off her legs and waist); a ‘hunky’; Many mentions of dates, dating, secretly dating behind someone’s back, girlfriends/boyfriends, exes, & broken hearts; A few mentions of a kiss (that Jacqueline initiated with a guy); A few mentions of a bachelorette party (with a man there as well); A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of flirting; A bit of love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Genevieve “Ginny” Masters, age 37
-Jacqueline Potter, age 27
P.O.V. switches between them
288 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
Funny thing, this book felt like a throwback for me. Melody Carlson was one of the first (if not the very first) author I read when I got into Christian Fiction 13+ years ago and I really enjoyed her contemporary, usually drama-filled books. That’s not to say that I liked every book (or would recommend them now, I’d have to reread most of them), but this book definitely reminded me of that style. I probably would have enjoyed it much more when I was in the 13-15 age range (as this is the style of books I enjoyed then), but wasn’t fully my cup of tea now in my mid-twenties.
I liked Ginny, but I found Jacqueline to be insufferable, so I was holding out hope for her character development. I forgot how well this author writes shallow, superficial, self-centered characters who only care about themselves and designer brands. (This author does it very well were you want to smack some sense into her.) Brace yourself. If you like drama, have at it, but brace yourself for that girl. The change does happen but it happens very fast towards the end, which was a little disappointing. I would’ve like to see it more gradually, but it was good to see the change regardless.
Ginny has a faith that we see some of, but Jacqueline doesn’t show anything expect a prayer once for something good to happen to her. Both of the potential love interests have no faiths shown or discussed which made me wonder why Ginny was interested in either of them. To be fair, she was really only interested in one and the other just followed her around, but still, it was strange to see no faith discussions or confirmations before they started falling for the other. It felt more like a clean fiction book in that regard.
While I enjoyed parts of this book and it was a distraction for a few hours, I wouldn’t call it spectacular by any means. Jacqueline was pretty frustrating, the ending was rushed, the faith content was light, and there was casual drinking by main characters. It’s an overall very clean and summer-y read, but not one I’ll be recommending often nor thinking about much.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.
About this book:
“Ginny Masters manages a popular boutique hotel in Seattle and manages it with aplomb. But the daily challenges and irritations of a fast-paced job and a demanding boss are starting to get to her. Jacqueline Potter manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho because it was the only job she could find after graduating with her hospitality degree. She's grateful for the work but longs for a more sophisticated and cosmopolitan life she's just not going to find in this backwoods town.
The solution to both their problems seems obvious. Just for the summer, they'll swap jobs and lifestyles. But they never anticipated swapping love interests . . .”
Series: As of now, no. It seems to be a stand-alone novel.
Spiritual Content- A Scripture is remembered & thought over; We see that Ginny has a faith, but no hints to Jacqueline having one (besides a mention of her sending a prayer for a new job); Ginny knows that she loves God and God loves her, but longs for being able to love and be loved in a human form as well; Mentions of God & His will; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of churches, church going; A mention of purgatory;
*Note: The words ‘miracle’ and ‘heaven’ are used loosely (wanting a miracle for a job-related thing and thinking a place is heaven); The phrase “when hell freezes over” is said once; A mention of Jacqueline being almost “worshipful” to a new boss to get on her good side; Jacqueline teasingly calls Ginny a “saint”; Mentions of luck, being lucky, & lucky stars; A few mentions of magic & someone being a magician (not seriously); A mention of someone who has passed “looking down” with approval over someone; A mention of a child wondering if a place is haunted.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘doggone’, a ‘give a hill of beans’, an ‘idiot’, a ‘shoot’, a ‘shut up’, a ‘stinking’, a ‘ticked’, a ‘witch’ (calling a woman that), a ‘what the devil’, two ‘dad-burned’s, two ‘good grief’s, two ‘hurts like the dickens’, three ‘crummy’s, three forms of ‘dang’, four forms of ‘darn’, and five forms of ‘stupid’; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Drinking (with others, both Ginny and Jacqueline; Jacqueline plans to win a guy over with acting helpless and alcoholic beverages); Ginny’s boss manipulates her at work; Jacqueline lies, manipulates, looks to blame others for her mistakes, and has a bad attitude about working at her grandfather’s place (complaining, avoiding responsibilities, not being helpful; It’s said she has an “entitled superiority complex going on”); *Spoiler* ; Ginny tells a lie (not being truthful about her feelings); A father makes his teen daughter tell a lie “for a good reason” (to be able to be alone with a woman); A teenager makes comments about not being happy in her family, yells at her mom, talks about being emancipated from her parents, & is hurt and bitter from her parents’ divorce; Mentions of a young son drowning & the possibility of others drowning (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths from cancer (a mother and a wife, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of injuries, pain, & a broken bone; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & bars; Mentions of an out-of-control party; Mentions of throwing up; Mentions of lies, lying, liars, & manipulation; Mentions of fathers leaving their families, divorces, & the daughter of a divorced couple being upset (due to her mom “dumping her” on her father); A few mentions of jealousy & hatred; A few mentions of rumors; A couple mentions of a war; A couple mentions of a wife loving her husband’s money and family name more than him; A mention of death row; A mention of an abduction; A mention of thieves; A mention of arrests; A mention of a teenager “pranking” her stepfather by keying his car; A mention of a fire; A mention of cigarettes; A mention of a nightmare; A mention of hunting;
*Note: A man makes comments against cancer doctors due to losing his wife to cancer & hating doctors and medicine because of it; Both Jacqueline & Diana mention their therapists & what they’ve been told (such as Jacqueline being told that she overcompensates with guys because her father left her when she was little); Mentions of brand names, items, & stores (Keds, Carhartt, Ralph Lauren, Coco Chanel, Adidas, Louis Vuitton, T-Mobile, Jell-O, iPad, Safeway, & Goodwill); Mentions of authors (Stephen King & John Grisham); Mentions of Disneyland; Mentions of a baseball team; A couple mentions of anxiety; A mention of PTSD (Ginny being concerned over fish who were released after getting caught would have PTSD); A couple mentions of celebrities (Chris Hemsworth & Margot Robbie); A couple mentions of a song (‘The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night’); A couple mentions of car brands; A mention of Google; A mention of the Oscars; A mention of a magazine (Glamour).
Sexual Content- An almost kiss, a not-detailed kiss, and two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Touches & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (up to semi-detailed); Jacqueline enjoys receiving attention from male guests & purposely dresses to get guys’ attention (including showing off her legs and waist); a ‘hunky’; Many mentions of dates, dating, secretly dating behind someone’s back, girlfriends/boyfriends, exes, & broken hearts; A few mentions of a kiss (that Jacqueline initiated with a guy); A few mentions of a bachelorette party (with a man there as well); A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of flirting; A bit of love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Genevieve “Ginny” Masters, age 37
-Jacqueline Potter, age 27
P.O.V. switches between them
288 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
Funny thing, this book felt like a throwback for me. Melody Carlson was one of the first (if not the very first) author I read when I got into Christian Fiction 13+ years ago and I really enjoyed her contemporary, usually drama-filled books. That’s not to say that I liked every book (or would recommend them now, I’d have to reread most of them), but this book definitely reminded me of that style. I probably would have enjoyed it much more when I was in the 13-15 age range (as this is the style of books I enjoyed then), but wasn’t fully my cup of tea now in my mid-twenties.
I liked Ginny, but I found Jacqueline to be insufferable, so I was holding out hope for her character development. I forgot how well this author writes shallow, superficial, self-centered characters who only care about themselves and designer brands. (This author does it very well were you want to smack some sense into her.) Brace yourself. If you like drama, have at it, but brace yourself for that girl. The change does happen but it happens very fast towards the end, which was a little disappointing. I would’ve like to see it more gradually, but it was good to see the change regardless.
Ginny has a faith that we see some of, but Jacqueline doesn’t show anything expect a prayer once for something good to happen to her. Both of the potential love interests have no faiths shown or discussed which made me wonder why Ginny was interested in either of them. To be fair, she was really only interested in one and the other just followed her around, but still, it was strange to see no faith discussions or confirmations before they started falling for the other. It felt more like a clean fiction book in that regard.
While I enjoyed parts of this book and it was a distraction for a few hours, I wouldn’t call it spectacular by any means. Jacqueline was pretty frustrating, the ending was rushed, the faith content was light, and there was casual drinking by main characters. It’s an overall very clean and summer-y read, but not one I’ll be recommending often nor thinking about much.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.
September 27, 2025
4 stars
Melody Carlson can be a hit or miss author for me. She was actually one of my favorite authors as a teen. Her ‘Diary of a Teenage Girl’ series had me in a chokehold. Fortunately, this was a good one for me. Ginny was great, and I loved her chapters. Jaqueline, not as much, but I appreciated her character more at the end. I love how the book wrapped up.
Melody Carlson can be a hit or miss author for me. She was actually one of my favorite authors as a teen. Her ‘Diary of a Teenage Girl’ series had me in a chokehold. Fortunately, this was a good one for me. Ginny was great, and I loved her chapters. Jaqueline, not as much, but I appreciated her character more at the end. I love how the book wrapped up.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Stephanie Cozart
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary
Length: 8h 52m
April 10, 2024
This was a breezy, light read—perfect for the summer!
Ginny Masters has been managing a posh boutique hotel in Seattle for years—and tolerating her insufferable manager for much too long. Meanwhile, Jacqueline Potter feels like a fish out of water managing her grandfather’s old fishing lodge in Idaho Falls.
Frustrated with their jobs, the two decide to make profiles on a job-swapping website and agree to a 60-day contract to trade management positions. These two women couldn’t be more different—work ethic included. And when things begin to fall apart earlier than anticipated, it leaves them both wondering if they’ll fall back together again.
Like I said earlier, this was a quick and easy read, but man, I had some strong feelings about one of the MCs. I don’t think I’ve ever disliked a character more than I disliked her. (You’ll figure out which one quickly.) Whew!! 😮💨 But clearly my strong feelings about her meant that I was invested in the story—and I was!
It was a clean read with a light faith theme. And there was character growth which I always enjoy—even though it came a bit later than I would have liked.
I’m giving this one 3.5 stars (rounded down). I enjoyed it overall, but I much preferred one storyline over the other.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Ginny Masters has been managing a posh boutique hotel in Seattle for years—and tolerating her insufferable manager for much too long. Meanwhile, Jacqueline Potter feels like a fish out of water managing her grandfather’s old fishing lodge in Idaho Falls.
Frustrated with their jobs, the two decide to make profiles on a job-swapping website and agree to a 60-day contract to trade management positions. These two women couldn’t be more different—work ethic included. And when things begin to fall apart earlier than anticipated, it leaves them both wondering if they’ll fall back together again.
Like I said earlier, this was a quick and easy read, but man, I had some strong feelings about one of the MCs. I don’t think I’ve ever disliked a character more than I disliked her. (You’ll figure out which one quickly.) Whew!! 😮💨 But clearly my strong feelings about her meant that I was invested in the story—and I was!
It was a clean read with a light faith theme. And there was character growth which I always enjoy—even though it came a bit later than I would have liked.
I’m giving this one 3.5 stars (rounded down). I enjoyed it overall, but I much preferred one storyline over the other.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 29, 2024
Found this on Libby when I was looking for a light read, definitely not for me. Dialogue isn’t believable, one dimensional characters, SUPER cheesy plot points/dialogue/thoughts/everything, characters that did show growth were unrealistic, romance storyline was also pretty bad. Initial premise of swapping jobs seemed fun and full of potential but the author definitely did not follow through with it. Probably would have DNF’d if it wasn’t such a fast read. Don’t read this one 😂
November 1, 2024
A cute story of switching places and discovering joy and romance in the journey. Would make a great Hallmark movie.
April 27, 2024
Entertaining, minimalist read. Good, clean fiction. A pleasant way to pass the time.
March 6, 2024
While initially entertaining, unfortunately, the characters didn't click with me as a reader. Also, I didn't realize it was a Christian Romance, which isn't my usual category. Ginny was the only character I cared about, and Jackie was horrible with no growth.
Ben and Adrian were not good love interests, and that definition of them is a stretch. There are no actual "romance" scenes (not even a bit of kissing). Some of the book was wasted with Ginny's sister, which could have had a more significant part, but that opportunity was missed. The only characters with any growth were Ginny (she learned to chill out) and Diana,
Ben and Adrian were not good love interests, and that definition of them is a stretch. There are no actual "romance" scenes (not even a bit of kissing). Some of the book was wasted with Ginny's sister, which could have had a more significant part, but that opportunity was missed. The only characters with any growth were Ginny (she learned to chill out) and Diana,
April 5, 2024
Splendid flexibility brings an unlikely redemption through love, in this pure delight!
November 1, 2024
This was a solid two star read for me. I took a chance on this story, hoping for a fun, new beach read. I looked forward to the idea of job swapping, the hospitality industry and the beautiful settings of the city of Seattle and a rustic fishing lodge in Idaho.
I enjoyed Ginny's work ethic and her backstory as it spoke volumes of her character. I love how she brought light and life into Jack's world/lodge, sweetly cheered on those around her and in general, was a good person. I didn't love that her work-ethic was downplayed as a workaholic, or the implied idea she needed a man in her life for it to be complete, but did understand her hopes for something "more" in her life.
Jacqueline, however, was a character that I found manipulative, immature and generally annoying. I kept hoping to see her character change but it came a little too late and was without remorse. Because of her character in 75% of the story, her romance with Adrian wasn't believable. (I actually felt bad for him, a sweet guy dealing two manipulative women in his life.)
The romance between Ginny and Ben was subtle and came late in the story. I'd been hoping for more flirting, a few romantic scenes maybe, and felt there were several missed opportunities for them to have deepen their connection.
Other noteworthy elements were a touch of faith on Ginny's part, and a bit of humor in Jack's scenes that made me smile. There were several mentions of alcohol and the characters engaged in casual drinking which surprised (and disappointed) me for this publisher. There were a handful of times that the dialogue fell flat, felt stiff, or used phrases that didn't suit the young characters of a contemporary romance. I found myself skimming over certain pages because nothing was grabbing my interest in the scene.
Overall, a clean, light romance that offers an interesting plot wherein two FMCs swap jobs and step into each other's lives with one girl headed towards big city living and the other towards a rustic, riverfront lodge. If you're looking for a summer afternoon read, this may be a book you'll enjoy. Be prepared to not love a few characters very much, but keep in mind, there's a reason and some growth to be had.
CW & TW: Losing a loved one to cancer, casual drinking, several uses of "clean" swearing (darn, dad-burned, etc), divorce, toxic character traits.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review. Thank you to the publisher for sharing this book!
I enjoyed Ginny's work ethic and her backstory as it spoke volumes of her character. I love how she brought light and life into Jack's world/lodge, sweetly cheered on those around her and in general, was a good person. I didn't love that her work-ethic was downplayed as a workaholic, or the implied idea she needed a man in her life for it to be complete, but did understand her hopes for something "more" in her life.
Jacqueline, however, was a character that I found manipulative, immature and generally annoying. I kept hoping to see her character change but it came a little too late and was without remorse. Because of her character in 75% of the story, her romance with Adrian wasn't believable. (I actually felt bad for him, a sweet guy dealing two manipulative women in his life.)
The romance between Ginny and Ben was subtle and came late in the story. I'd been hoping for more flirting, a few romantic scenes maybe, and felt there were several missed opportunities for them to have deepen their connection.
Other noteworthy elements were a touch of faith on Ginny's part, and a bit of humor in Jack's scenes that made me smile. There were several mentions of alcohol and the characters engaged in casual drinking which surprised (and disappointed) me for this publisher. There were a handful of times that the dialogue fell flat, felt stiff, or used phrases that didn't suit the young characters of a contemporary romance. I found myself skimming over certain pages because nothing was grabbing my interest in the scene.
Overall, a clean, light romance that offers an interesting plot wherein two FMCs swap jobs and step into each other's lives with one girl headed towards big city living and the other towards a rustic, riverfront lodge. If you're looking for a summer afternoon read, this may be a book you'll enjoy. Be prepared to not love a few characters very much, but keep in mind, there's a reason and some growth to be had.
CW & TW: Losing a loved one to cancer, casual drinking, several uses of "clean" swearing (darn, dad-burned, etc), divorce, toxic character traits.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review. Thank you to the publisher for sharing this book!
March 27, 2024
There is something about getting cozy with a Carlson book. You know you are getting a clean read, and the characters are always so well rounded. I loved the fishing lodge, I would have thought it a dream job. This was a fun read and I recommend it.
Read
April 30, 2024WNF-Will Not Finish! I have to be honest, I do not really like either main character, this story is really dragging and I’m not enjoying myself.
May 24, 2024
Had to abandon this book even being 70% done. The random God stuff at the end was odd. The characters were all terrible, but the main one was painted as perfect with no flaws. I didn’t even want her to end up with Ben because he wasn’t painted as likeable. I have no idea if they ended up together. Didn’t get that far. Bleck.
June 26, 2024
Just for the Summer by Melody Carlson – Story Enjoyment Rating: 8/10 Christian Faith Rating: 1.5/3
This is a contemporary romance novel following two female hotel managers who swap jobs for the summer. I enjoyed the story as it broke my expectations and t was refreshing to see a different take on this trope. Some of the characters were quite unlikeable (I think deliberately so). The romance wasn’t cheesy and the plot was unexpected. However, the ending was longer than it needed to be. There was one instance of Christian faith content. The rest of the book read more like a clean romance.
This is a contemporary romance novel following two female hotel managers who swap jobs for the summer. I enjoyed the story as it broke my expectations and t was refreshing to see a different take on this trope. Some of the characters were quite unlikeable (I think deliberately so). The romance wasn’t cheesy and the plot was unexpected. However, the ending was longer than it needed to be. There was one instance of Christian faith content. The rest of the book read more like a clean romance.
May 12, 2024
Usually a fan of Carlson’s spring books, I was kinda let down with this story. I like the job/home swap theme, but there just wasn’t much to the characters and there was minimal faith lived out. I kept reading for the fishing lodge…I’d love to go to a place like that!
January 24, 2024
The storyline caught my attention initially. The premise - people switching jobs, and locations, reminded me of the job - version of the movie The Holiday with Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet and Jude Law.
I love the idea of being able to switch jobs with someone else, try something new and know that I didnt have to give up anything. My job and life at home would be waiting for me if I wanted to go back. What is not to love about that idea? In this story by Melody Carlson, Ginny, who manages a high-end hotel in Seattle switches jobs with Jacqueline who is in the middle of Idaho managing her grandfather's fishing lodge. Both characters are likable and while the idea of the book was great. As you would guess the personalities of the guests in each establishment match their surroundings. That was fun, but I cant say that I ever felt connected to the story. I really wanted to, but it never happened. There was too much going on throughout the book and I found myself losing interest early on. It is too bad. I really wanted to like this story.
I love the idea of being able to switch jobs with someone else, try something new and know that I didnt have to give up anything. My job and life at home would be waiting for me if I wanted to go back. What is not to love about that idea? In this story by Melody Carlson, Ginny, who manages a high-end hotel in Seattle switches jobs with Jacqueline who is in the middle of Idaho managing her grandfather's fishing lodge. Both characters are likable and while the idea of the book was great. As you would guess the personalities of the guests in each establishment match their surroundings. That was fun, but I cant say that I ever felt connected to the story. I really wanted to, but it never happened. There was too much going on throughout the book and I found myself losing interest early on. It is too bad. I really wanted to like this story.
May 27, 2024
A cute summertime book. 3.5⭐
As I started reading it I wasn't a fan of one of the characters personalities. But I actually really love where both of the girls' journeys went. I felt like they both grew and learned some hard lessons along the way. I was really invested in the parts with the fishing lodge. I felt there were some cute moments and that the lodge employees were like a found family at times. One of the main characters was a little self centered and all about her self image, but I feel like the author did a good job at explaining why she felt that way.
I really loved seeing the business of two hotels with two different families. How they treated family and employees in two environments that were completely different. I really enjoyed seeing both of those stories fold out.
*thank you to Baker Publishing for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
As I started reading it I wasn't a fan of one of the characters personalities. But I actually really love where both of the girls' journeys went. I felt like they both grew and learned some hard lessons along the way. I was really invested in the parts with the fishing lodge. I felt there were some cute moments and that the lodge employees were like a found family at times. One of the main characters was a little self centered and all about her self image, but I feel like the author did a good job at explaining why she felt that way.
I really loved seeing the business of two hotels with two different families. How they treated family and employees in two environments that were completely different. I really enjoyed seeing both of those stories fold out.
*thank you to Baker Publishing for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
August 17, 2024
Ginny Masters was devoted to her job, managing a boutique hotel in Seattle. She turned the place around in her tenure as manager, but her boss doesn't appreciate her, and never lets her forget that she had no training before working her her. As well, her boss' son has asked her to marry him, but she knows he is not the one for her. She is just not happy. Jacqueline Potter manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho because it was the only job she could find after graduating with her hospitality degree. She also longs for a relationship with the handsome guide and friend, but he's happy with a friendship. The shine is off and she longs for a job managing a high end hotel in a busy city. Both women stumble on a job-swapping website and agree to a 60-day contract to trade management positions. It sounds perfect, but things don't work out as planned. With a very different work ethic and attitude, the swap doesn't work out as planned and if they can't work things out, both women will be unhappy once again.
I do enjoy Melody Carlson's stories and this was no exception. The expression, "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence" comes to play in this book, but does it work out that way. I really liked Ginny, her attitude, her work ethic, her caring and kind personality and her outlook on life. She fit it easily at that lodge and was able to get things done. Jacqueline, on the other hand, was not easy to get along with. She was like a fish out of water at the hotel, but was more interested in the city life and her new friendship. Although the job was just for the summer, I think both women were hoping it would be longer than that. There were a few twists that I liked, and a lot of personal growth for both women. There is a bit of romance, but the story is more about finding where you belong and growing to be the person you were meant to be. I enjoyed this story and recommend it as an entertaining summer read.
I do enjoy Melody Carlson's stories and this was no exception. The expression, "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence" comes to play in this book, but does it work out that way. I really liked Ginny, her attitude, her work ethic, her caring and kind personality and her outlook on life. She fit it easily at that lodge and was able to get things done. Jacqueline, on the other hand, was not easy to get along with. She was like a fish out of water at the hotel, but was more interested in the city life and her new friendship. Although the job was just for the summer, I think both women were hoping it would be longer than that. There were a few twists that I liked, and a lot of personal growth for both women. There is a bit of romance, but the story is more about finding where you belong and growing to be the person you were meant to be. I enjoyed this story and recommend it as an entertaining summer read.
February 2, 2024
Ginny has worked at the luxury Hotel Jackson in Seattle for ten years, starting out in laundry, housekeeping, working up to the General Manager of the hotel. She quit college to raise her ten-year-old sister when their mother died. The relationship with her boss, is challenging and she often feels that no matter what she does, it is never enough. She would love a quieter environment and a slower pace life.
Jacqueline is managing the Frederickson’s Fishing Lodge, in Idaho, owned by her grandpa, Jack. She longs for a job at a real, upscale hotel in a thriving city. She does as little as possible just to get by because her heart just is not in the fishing lodge.
When the idea of a job-swap comes up, it seems the perfect solution for both Ginny and Jacqueline. They sign a contract for 60 days and the switch is made. Jacqueline loves the beautiful, luxurious Hotel Jackson, but soon she is on the wrong side of her new, disagreeable boss. Ginny loves the challenge of sprucing up and making the lodge more attractive and family friendly. She is happy to help with the laundry, the cooking and cleaning. She is even learning how to fish.
Ginny does not look forward to the 60 days ending as she is incredibly happy at the lodge. Jacqueline cannot wait to get out from under the demanding and unreasonable boss at the hotel.
This is a delightful, heartwarming story, with some surprising twists, as well as a measure of romance thrown in. When the last page was turned, this charming story left me feeling good. Melody Carlson’s books have always left me with a good, satisfied feeling.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.
Jacqueline is managing the Frederickson’s Fishing Lodge, in Idaho, owned by her grandpa, Jack. She longs for a job at a real, upscale hotel in a thriving city. She does as little as possible just to get by because her heart just is not in the fishing lodge.
When the idea of a job-swap comes up, it seems the perfect solution for both Ginny and Jacqueline. They sign a contract for 60 days and the switch is made. Jacqueline loves the beautiful, luxurious Hotel Jackson, but soon she is on the wrong side of her new, disagreeable boss. Ginny loves the challenge of sprucing up and making the lodge more attractive and family friendly. She is happy to help with the laundry, the cooking and cleaning. She is even learning how to fish.
Ginny does not look forward to the 60 days ending as she is incredibly happy at the lodge. Jacqueline cannot wait to get out from under the demanding and unreasonable boss at the hotel.
This is a delightful, heartwarming story, with some surprising twists, as well as a measure of romance thrown in. When the last page was turned, this charming story left me feeling good. Melody Carlson’s books have always left me with a good, satisfied feeling.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.
April 28, 2024
(Audio) Meh. Fluffy, but not even a charming story. Wouldn't recommend, unfortunately.
May 7, 2024
This started out pretty well, but at about 60%, I was getting very bored. Not a lot happening. I'm debating not finishing as I can see how this is going to end. And I thought there would be more romance aspect to this and at 70%, nothing has happened other than the fmc turning down her boss son, constantly. This is just meh for me.
April 18, 2024
A light hearted and enjoyable summer read about two women who decide to swap jobs for the summer. Ginny is the manager of a high end hotel in Seattle and is in dire need of a break. Her job is demanding and her boss is a tyrant. Jacqueline is sick of running her grandfather's fishing lodge and is ready for the finer things in life. The two women both reply to an ad about a job swap and then the two switch places. Jacqueline is in awe of the glitz and the glamour but is in way over her head; she may have lied a bit about her managerial experience. Ginny on the other hand is happy for the first time in years. The scenery is beautiful, the job is less stress and more rewarding, and the hunky fishing guide is starting to win her over. This is a sweet clean read with a happy ending. I do feel the ending was a little rushed and that Jacqueline was a little two dimensional; but other than that I really enjoyed it. I loved the hotel management aspects of the book - it sounded fun!
August 13, 2024
3.5 Stars. It was good, but I didn't love it. :)
Ginny and Jacqueline are both in the hospitality business. But as far apart as you can go--Ginny is a fancy high end hotel and Jacqueline at her grandpas "rustic" lodge in the woods. Both are unsatisfied with their work and at their wits end--and end up applying for a summer job swap. Problem is that Jacqueline may have misled into the place she's been working and Ginny is unprepared for HOW rustic it is. But Jacqueline is in her dream job location when she lands in Ginny's job. But--quickly finds out how OVER her head she is.
As each of them struggle to understand the "grass on the other side of the fence" they learn more about themselves and their desires for the future.
It may be just for the summer--but it will give them a LIFETIME of lessons.
I really wanted to smack Jacqueline. That is all.
Ginny and Jacqueline are both in the hospitality business. But as far apart as you can go--Ginny is a fancy high end hotel and Jacqueline at her grandpas "rustic" lodge in the woods. Both are unsatisfied with their work and at their wits end--and end up applying for a summer job swap. Problem is that Jacqueline may have misled into the place she's been working and Ginny is unprepared for HOW rustic it is. But Jacqueline is in her dream job location when she lands in Ginny's job. But--quickly finds out how OVER her head she is.
As each of them struggle to understand the "grass on the other side of the fence" they learn more about themselves and their desires for the future.
It may be just for the summer--but it will give them a LIFETIME of lessons.
I really wanted to smack Jacqueline. That is all.
March 26, 2024
Just for the Summer was a quick read. I did have fun reading but towards the end I was ready for it to wrap up.
The story follows two women, Ginny and Jacqueline, who end up switching jobs temporarily. Ginny works as a hotel manager in Washington and Jacqueline works at her grandfather’s fishing lodge in Idaho. The two get the opportunity to swap jobs for 60 days.
I liked Ginny and her storyline for the most part but was not a fan of Jacqueline and her story. Jacqueline was very annoying and manipulative.
I wasn’t a fan though how Ginny let people bully her into doing something she didn’t want to do. I can’t say too much because I don’t want to give spoilers.
For the most part it wasn’t too bad but definitely not a favorite.
The story follows two women, Ginny and Jacqueline, who end up switching jobs temporarily. Ginny works as a hotel manager in Washington and Jacqueline works at her grandfather’s fishing lodge in Idaho. The two get the opportunity to swap jobs for 60 days.
I liked Ginny and her storyline for the most part but was not a fan of Jacqueline and her story. Jacqueline was very annoying and manipulative.
I wasn’t a fan though how Ginny let people bully her into doing something she didn’t want to do. I can’t say too much because I don’t want to give spoilers.
For the most part it wasn’t too bad but definitely not a favorite.
April 19, 2024
I will never get over how much I absolutely love that it feels like I’m reading a Hallmark Movie when reading one of Melody Carlson’s books! 💕
This book has been moved to the reread pile, because of how much I related to Ginny! Her job is one of my dream jobs: family owned inn (lodge), fixing it up to help it reach its full potential and efficiency, friendly relaxed environment, and truly helping people and making those connections! 🥰
I love the small town feel and want to move to the fishing lodge immediately. 😍 The minor characters at the lodge were fun to read and I loved the connection and family-like feel of the place. I enjoyed the sweet romance and truly finding where you belong and are happy and appreciated. 🥰
There were a few characters that I wasn’t the biggest fan of at first, but then we got to see some major character growth and I was so happy! It was realistic and refreshing to see. The only problem I have with reading Carlson’s books is that they end, when I always want to jump inside the story and stay with the characters! 💕
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This book has been moved to the reread pile, because of how much I related to Ginny! Her job is one of my dream jobs: family owned inn (lodge), fixing it up to help it reach its full potential and efficiency, friendly relaxed environment, and truly helping people and making those connections! 🥰
I love the small town feel and want to move to the fishing lodge immediately. 😍 The minor characters at the lodge were fun to read and I loved the connection and family-like feel of the place. I enjoyed the sweet romance and truly finding where you belong and are happy and appreciated. 🥰
There were a few characters that I wasn’t the biggest fan of at first, but then we got to see some major character growth and I was so happy! It was realistic and refreshing to see. The only problem I have with reading Carlson’s books is that they end, when I always want to jump inside the story and stay with the characters! 💕
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 20, 2024
I love everything about this book! I love the settings, the characters, and the plot! The fishing lodge brought back many good childhood memories to mind.
Ginny is someone I'd like to emulate! She's a hard worker, organized, caring, compassionate, and a great listener. Ben is amazing! He's accomplished, and more importantly, he knows how to relax. My two absolute favorites are Jack and Margie. They both seem like crusty old coots, but their wonderful personalities shine bright. Jacqueline kind of annoyed me, but she really changed, and I grew to like her.
Melody Carlson is an exceptional author! She's versatile and creative! I look forward to reading many more books by her!
Ginny is someone I'd like to emulate! She's a hard worker, organized, caring, compassionate, and a great listener. Ben is amazing! He's accomplished, and more importantly, he knows how to relax. My two absolute favorites are Jack and Margie. They both seem like crusty old coots, but their wonderful personalities shine bright. Jacqueline kind of annoyed me, but she really changed, and I grew to like her.
Melody Carlson is an exceptional author! She's versatile and creative! I look forward to reading many more books by her!
July 27, 2024
This book was everything I hoped it would be! And honestly it exceeded my expectations! I went into it thinking it would be similar to The Holiday, except instead of a house swap it’s a job swap.
BUT there is a twist.
I kinda liked the twist. And even though I don’t normally like miscommunication, this one wasn’t too bad and made for an interesting ending!
This was the perfect easy summer read and highly recommend it!
BUT there is a twist.
I kinda liked the twist. And even though I don’t normally like miscommunication, this one wasn’t too bad and made for an interesting ending!
This was the perfect easy summer read and highly recommend it!
February 3, 2024
"Just for the Summer" by Melody Carlson is a truly charming read. It brought back memories of my family managing a fishing resort. The story follows Ginny, working at a high-end Seattle resort, and Jacqueline, at her family's fishing lodge in Idaho. Both discontent with their jobs, they decide on a 60-day job swap for the summer. With romances budding and challenges from their bosses, the question arises: What happens when their contracts end?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it provided a delightful escape. In the midst of more intense reads, "Just for the Summer" is the perfect feel-good interlude. Highly recommended for those seeking a charming and uplifting novel to break up their literary journey.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it provided a delightful escape. In the midst of more intense reads, "Just for the Summer" is the perfect feel-good interlude. Highly recommended for those seeking a charming and uplifting novel to break up their literary journey.
March 31, 2024
Ginny Masters devoted her days to running a top-end hotel in Seattle, the hotel which brought her success but deprived her of any other kind of happiness. Jacquelyn had a dream of managing a five-star resort rather than her grandfather’s decrepit fishing lodge.
Driven by a desire for change, the two women informally traded jobs for 60 days – Ginny did the fishing lodge while Jacquelyn did the hotel, without disclosing certain details about their previous performances.
Ginny found that she is able to adjust to her new rhythm of life and duties she had to perform, and understood that life is not all work. It is in this that the novel appeals – with the growth of Ginny and the blossoming romances for both women.
The end was a bit flat, but the book is hard to put down – Ginny’s change is incredibly interesting. I highly recommend this book to all romance book lovers!
I want to thank Revell and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Driven by a desire for change, the two women informally traded jobs for 60 days – Ginny did the fishing lodge while Jacquelyn did the hotel, without disclosing certain details about their previous performances.
Ginny found that she is able to adjust to her new rhythm of life and duties she had to perform, and understood that life is not all work. It is in this that the novel appeals – with the growth of Ginny and the blossoming romances for both women.
The end was a bit flat, but the book is hard to put down – Ginny’s change is incredibly interesting. I highly recommend this book to all romance book lovers!
I want to thank Revell and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
April 18, 2024
I have read a lot of books by Melody Carlson and they never cease to be enjoyable reads. I can always count on her for clean books and she writes books in just about every genre under the Christian fiction umbrella.
Just for the Summer is a fun story that reminds me of the old reality show "Wife Swap"...2 women who are disenchanted with their job situations trade careers for a period of 90 days. You follow Jacqueline, a very bratty woman who manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho but longs for more glamour and Ginny, who manages a swanky hotel in Seattle but is tired of the fast paced, workaholic life...not to mention her mean and demanding boss.
It was a lot of fun to see these 2 women experience each other's jobs with a new set of eyes. I always enjoy camping stories so I preferred the fishing lodge setting. Ginny was a sweet character and it was impressive to see how she could improve things with little to no money. Jacqueline was a nightmare and at times her character took away from my enjoyment of the book. There was romance in the story that was sweet and paced well.
It was a very fun story and everything resolved in a satisfying conclusion. There was very little faith content but it was very clean. I also love the cover of this book, it's very cute.
Overall, this was a fun, fluffy story. Another hit by Melody Carlson!
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Just for the Summer is a fun story that reminds me of the old reality show "Wife Swap"...2 women who are disenchanted with their job situations trade careers for a period of 90 days. You follow Jacqueline, a very bratty woman who manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho but longs for more glamour and Ginny, who manages a swanky hotel in Seattle but is tired of the fast paced, workaholic life...not to mention her mean and demanding boss.
It was a lot of fun to see these 2 women experience each other's jobs with a new set of eyes. I always enjoy camping stories so I preferred the fishing lodge setting. Ginny was a sweet character and it was impressive to see how she could improve things with little to no money. Jacqueline was a nightmare and at times her character took away from my enjoyment of the book. There was romance in the story that was sweet and paced well.
It was a very fun story and everything resolved in a satisfying conclusion. There was very little faith content but it was very clean. I also love the cover of this book, it's very cute.
Overall, this was a fun, fluffy story. Another hit by Melody Carlson!
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews