One Week of July

by Melissa Mastro

Emily Henry’s Book Lovers meets K.L. Walther’s The Summer of Broken Rules, in this swoony, tender, small-town coming-of-age romance with a dash of bookish nostalgia.

One week. One girl. One love story worth writing about.

Leighton Prescott’s future has been mapped out for him since he was a child. There are expectations and reputations to uphold. Unlike his sister, who didn’t go to college, following her dream of opening a bakery instead, Leighton has a prestigious scholarship spot at his parents’ dream school. And he’s looking forward to it… sort of.

He spends his last summer of freedom before he steps onto hallowed university grounds, tending to the Twice Upon a Time bookstore, a childhood sanctuary the whole picturesque town cherishes.

His life is damn near perfect—loving family, loyal friends, big opportunities—but you don’t know what you’re missing until you find it. When July wanders into the charming little bookstore, she not only steals his heart but also challenges him to confront what he’s been avoiding.

Still, she’s only passing through, on her way down to Florida to reconnect with her father. Every day could be their last together, and it’s too much for sweet, nerdy, golden retriever Leighton to bear.

Leighton must make a choice: follow the narrative that was written for him or become the author of his own story.

Will Leighton get his happy ending or are all happy endings just a work of fiction?

One Week of July is about finding your voice, falling in love, and becoming who you were always meant to be, for fans of summer flings, sweet tension, and “he falls harder” small-town romances.

Genres: Summer Reads

270 pages, ebook

First published July 1, 2025

About the author

Melissa was born and raised in New York but now calls North Carolina home. A lifelong lover of words, she has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Stony Brook University, where she graduated with honors. When she’s not writing, Melissa enjoys reading, red wine, and Pilates.

Reviews

[Alya ( 20 comments restriction ) · Rating 5 out of 5]

UPDATE: NOW AVAILABLE

✨️ ARC REVIEW ✨️
One week of July by Melissa Mastro
Publication date: July 1st 2025
One week. One girl. One love story worth writing about.
Thoughts
New comfort read for the summer unlocked? This was such a beautiful story for how short it was, it honestly took me by surprise! The writing was easy to follow, the characters were loveable. The character developments and confrontation scenes were so well done in full transparency I cannot find faults I loved it from start to end, fun fact when I got to the end I loved the tittle even more🫠 highly recommend! Pick this up if you love reading about characters who love books

Plot Summary
Leighton seems to have it all lined up—college, supportive family, and a safe plan for the future. But as his last summer at home ticks by, he can’t shake the feeling that he’s living someone else’s dream. Then a mysterious girl, July shows up at the bookstore where he works, and suddenly he’s questioning everything. Now Leighton has one summer to decide: follow the life planned for him, or finally write his own story

Tropes
▪︎ Summer fling
▪︎ Loves books and writing
▪︎ Healing together
▪︎ Small town romance / long distance
▪︎ He falls harder
▪︎ Black cat , golden retriever
▪︎ Personal growth

Thanks to the author for the early copy

[Savannah Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was great and SO cute!!

The description of the settings reminded me of the writing in They Both Die at the End, and while they writing at the beginning of the book may have read just a little choppy, it quickly improves.

Leighton and July were so so so lovable I would def recommend if anyone’s in need of a quick summertime feel good story!

[Christy Acc · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cute, heartfelt story! It was refreshing to read a book that wasn’t complex and was just a sweet genuine, well- written story. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to review this book for the author!

[Terah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It gave me Virgin River meets Sweet Magnolia vibes and is a great YA read. While covering some serious topics, it also tells a wonderful first, young-love story that sends you back in time. I enjoyed this book by a first time author and friend! Preorder here: http://melissamastro.com/booklinks

[Michael Melius · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 👏 of 👏 the 👏 summer!

This book was so cute, a perfect cozy ya romance. It’s a well written story, broken part by the days and I truly did not want the week to end.

Highly recommend this book for all who enjoy a summer vibes romance, while not afraid for some deep messages and the growth/changes/life lessons that our characters go through.

[lex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: One Week of July by Melissa Mastro
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5 stars)

Melissa Mastro’s One Week of July is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you—in the best way. What starts as a light-hearted escape quickly unfolds into something deeper, more thoughtful, and surprisingly moving. It’s a perfect blend of swoony romance and emotional insight, wrapped in a breezy, summer setting that makes it nearly impossible to put down.

The story hinges on insta-love—but don’t let that scare you off. This is insta-love done right. The chemistry is palpable, the connection feels genuine, and the pacing strikes a sweet balance between fast attraction and meaningful development. The characters are well-drawn and believable, each carrying their own emotional baggage, but handled with such care that their vulnerabilities only make them more lovable.

Overall, One Week of July is a heartfelt, charming, and emotionally intelligent read. Whether you’re in it for the romance, the depth, or just a good time, this one delivers. A near-perfect summer love story.

[Mftodd29 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the absolute pleasure of reading One Week of July, and I was immediately swept into its warm, heartfelt world. As a debut novel, it’s truly impressive… beautifully written and emotionally resonant in all the right ways.

What stood out most to me were the characters. I fell in love with each one of them who were flawed, passionate, and deeply relatable. Their journeys felt incredibly real, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. This is a story that gracefully explores the tension between following one’s heart and meeting the expectations of family, something so many of us can connect with.

At its core, One Week of July is a celebration of love in its many forms: romantic love, self-love, and the complicated, enduring love that exists within families. It’s a story about choosing your own path, even when it’s hard, and about the courage it takes to listen to your own voice.

Melissa Mastro has crafted something truly special, which is a tender, insightful, and uplifting novel that lingers long after the last page. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!!!

[Samantha Boothe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy a good small town romance, but add in a meet cute at a bookstore and I’m ALL in! Leighton was such a great MMC (sweet, kind, honest and loyal.. such a breath of fresh air!) and I loved that it was from his POV!

I love that we got to dive into the relationship with Leighton and his family. Also, sweet Greta and Ivan’s love story then turning to July and Leighton’s was just the cherry on top!

It was a beautifully written story of love and loss and all of the things in-between. I can’t wait to (hopefully) read more of July and Leightons story!

Thanks SO much to the author Melissa for the last minute arc copy! I appreciate you going out of your way to get me in, and I’m so glad you did because this book was just the best!

[Samantha Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is SO CUTE! But also it did make me cry lol. Definitely enjoyed a lot of ideas in the book like the narcissistic parents, grief, individuality, etc. It didn’t end how I was expecting, but I’m so glad it ended the way it did. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but I have wondered for a while if there were any books written from this specific perspective that’s revealed at the end. It was perfectly executed! I could definitely see this story becoming a little romance movie someday! The only thing I wasn’t a fan of was the parents and how they seemed to do a complete 180 halfway through the book, but I can definitely see why it was done this way.

[Penner · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~One Week Of July By: Melissa Mastro Review~~
“One Week.One Girl.One love story worth writing about”

Leighton works at the bookstore in his home town! July shows up at the bookstore one day! Leighton takes a leap and asks July to go a bite to eat. She accepts. That one dinner dates takes them into a week long of hanging out. Both July and Leighton did a lot of soul searching,healing and growing up. This was a well written story and I loved everything about it! Thank you to Melissa Mastro for letting be apart of your ARC team for this book! I can’t wait to see what else you write!

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

My friend wrote a book, and she shared it with her book club! Melissa wrote a wonderful story with a lovable MMC! She tackled some big issues from Leighton’s
POV from drugs and alcohol to making big life decisions when you reach a fork in the road. It’s incredible watching a friend put herself out there by writing and sharing a book, and I loved reading this story. A wonderful YA book written by a wonderful human!

[Goldee Payton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes all you need in life is to read a good love story! This book was everything you want from a YA romance. Enjoyed that this was from Leighton’s (MMC) POV. The parallel bookstore romance love story of Leighton/July’s & Greta/Ivan was fantastic. I loved it & I'm ready for the next book!

[Gina 🥰 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute heart warming read! I recommend to anyone! Melissa’s writing is absolute perfection and she tells the story so well you feel like you’re in the book!!

[Jenia · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to the author, Melissa Mastro for ARC, in exchange for an honest review*

4.5 ⭐️

A beautiful story of friendship, love, and recovery.

One Week Of July is the kind of story I love reading. I'm so grateful to my friend Melissa for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful story. I adored July and Leighton, and the bond that they shared. Every chapter left me wondering what would happen next, if the two of them would stay together. I was curious about the title. It all made much more sense after I got into the book. Naturally, I was curious about what would happen at the end of that week. There was part of me that hoped that July would end up staying. July drew me in from the moment she stepped into Leighton's bookstore. Besides Leighton and Kennedy, she was my favorite character. I can't imagine what she went through. My heart broke for her on several occasions, and I'm glad she met Leighton; the two of them were destined to meet.

I loved that it took place in a small town. Those stories will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will read any story that take place in a small town. It’s not often that you will come across a story that is told from male’s perspective. Melissa did an excellent job of capturing the story from Leighton's perspective. However, there were a few occasions when I wondered what July was thinking, especially when she wasn't with Leighton. I adored the name of Leighton’s bookstore. I also loved that July’s favorite book was The Outsiders, which is also one of my favorite books. I felt that the tension between Leighton and his mother was resolved a little too quickly. In overall, I couldn't get enough of this novel, and it took me through a variety of emotions. I loved Kennedy and the relationship that she had with her brother. The emotions portrayed in this novel were outstanding and I felt as if I was there with Leighton.

I loved how July encouraged Leighton to pursue his dreams. It reminded me of my closest friends and parents. I liked how the book addressed anxiety, something I've struggled with since I was a teenager but has improved with time. If it weren't for school, I'd have finished the book much faster. I already know that Melissa Mastro is the author to watch out for, and I cannot wait to see what she has for us next. I highly recommend this book. This is a story you will never forget.

[Chloe - Lolos.literary.nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

- 5/5 Stars 🌸
- 1/5 Fade to black 🌶️
- Content: Grief, parental death, anxiety
- Summer romance, small town, he falls first & harder, bookstore meet cute
- “Because once I met her, I knew that I couldn't live without her.”

🌸 This held on to me right till the very end. It is a summer romance that brings all sorts of feelings with it. It was such a fun but also deep and thought provoking read!

I instantly fell in love with the MCs and continued to relate to them both while their characters changed. The character development here was stunning. I’m not always in the mood for something “YA”, but this didn’t feel particularly juvenile. The growth, development, format, and topics this book held made it incredibly engaging.

I related to it so deeply. It brought me back to my teen years, the times of falling in love, special and confusing relationships with adults/parents, all of the heartaches, and growing into the person I am today. It was such a beautiful reminder of who I used to be, and the growth that has happened since. Any book that can pull these feelings and emotions out of me will be a forever favorite.

🌶️ I would classify this as a fade to black/closed door romance. Absolutely nothing explicit.

This is a must in my opinion. I think everyone could relate to this in some way. This is the sweet, special, and insightful LitFic/Romance you’ve been looking for. Her story and writing style gave me Annabel Monaghan vibes but was completely unique (as contradictory as that is LOL it makes sense if you read it OKAY?!?). PLUS, the author is one of the sweetest humans out there, I am so excited for her Debut. She and her book are SO special 🥹

Thank you to Melissa Mastro for the ARC of this book! Congrats on your BEAUTIFUL debut

[Sarah Mathewson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of One Week in July in exchange for an honest review.

The book starts with a slower pace, and in the early pages, I found myself with a few unanswered questions—like why Leighton inherits a bookstore while still in high school. But as the story unfolds, those questions are addressed, and by the final quarter, the pacing picks up and the emotional heart of the story truly shines.

Leighton’s journey is the emotional anchor of the book. He’s just graduated high school, about to head off to college, and is under intense pressure to follow the life his parents planned for him. Throughout the story, he learns how to set healthy boundaries, break free from expectations, and start making courageous choices for himself. He grows from cautious and uncertain to confident and self-assured—and that growth feels honest and hard-earned.

July’s story adds an equally compelling layer. She’s a mystery at first—independent, guarded, and grieving the loss of her mom. Over time, she opens up, learning to share her pain with someone new and beginning the difficult process of rebuilding a relationship with her estranged father. Her emotional arc is rooted in vulnerability, communication, and quiet strength.

Together, their stories highlight how essential it is to have honest conversations, set boundaries, and choose the life that feels right for you—not just the one others expect.

With tropes like instant like, found family, summer romance, and fate, One Week in July is a beautiful story about grief, healing, and growing up. If you love YA books with heart, growth, and emotional resonance, this one is absolutely worth adding to your summer reading list.

I liked this book so much that I already preordered it for its release tomorrow! 😍😍😍😍

Here is the link for ordering it: http://melissamastro.com/booklinks

[Lindsey West · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC for this book!! This was such a cute, feel-good read! I loved the summer vibes because it’s summer of course. This was a slow burn romance and I really like how the story unfolded over one week. This is perfect if you want something quick, fun with summer vibes and a little nostalgic!!

[powerlireads · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 3.5 STARS ⭐️

I kindly received the ARC for A Week of July from Melissa Mastro.

Release Date: 3rd July 2025. You can preorder here https://www.melissamastro.com/booklinks

This was a very slow building young romance, that although took me a while to get into, soon hooked me in once the story started to progress. 
 
I enjoyed the character developments, especially the main protagonist Leighton. The story is told from his POV which was refreshing, and it follows him as he not only deals with first love, but also his own internal conflicts. 
 
Leighton is 18 years old, but I felt the writing made him come across a lot younger. This was for a few reasons, but primarily the way in which his family treat him. With grounding and curfews etc, he didn’t come across as someone who is in fact, a young adult. I also found the way he handled situations added to this. For me, this made the romantic element harder to buy into, as I didn’t take those feelings as seriously as I would have done if he was older. Although, I’m not sure if this was intentional to show the control his family has on him.
 
His sister Kennedy is very strong-willed and fun, which is a nice contrast to Leighton, who is more of an over-thinker. Greta is such an endearing character, I really liked her relationship with Leighton. I particularly enjoyed the sweet story of how her and her husband Ivan met.  
 
The chapters are longer in this book, as it is split into seven sections that cover the Days from when July and Leighton first meet, which I really enjoyed, and there are natural breaks in the narrative that allow you to easily pause reading. There were times when I felt the pacing was a little rushed, this was mainly at times of friction, where I felt the conflict between the characters was resolved too easily, which made it harder to feel emotionally invested in the outcome. 
 
Overall, I did enjoy this book. The Romance was very sweet and there were so many elements that brought a little more depth to the story. The topic of grief was handled beautifully too. I would definitely read more from this author.

[Savannah Snoddy · Rating 3 out of 5]

One Week Of July is a portrait of newly graduated Leighton and his journey of self discovery. The novel is not only a love story; you'll walk alongside Leighton through family drama, internal conflict, and grief as he pursues his (authentic self) in opposition of the expectations placed on him.

Sounds like a great story?! Pick it up and give it a read!! And support this indie author's debut novel!!

Everything I loved about the book! 🩵📖🧡
* I loved following Leighton's story. He is such a heart first person, that would give you the world if he knew how.
* I appreciated how the dynamic of his family was written and the author demonstrating how it affects Leighton's every day life.
* I loved Kennedy and the zest she brought to the book. (always gotta love a good side character!)

The dislikes for me😢
(And as you read on further please don't misunderstand me!! I think this is a cute book and worth picking up!! These are just a couple things that fell short for me!)
* A lot of the time the emotional side of the characters seemed unrealistic. For example, it seemed as soon as their was a conflict, little to no time, or explanation would go by, and it was resloved. Moments with Leighton internally, with his mom, and with the love interest.
* Because of the above, the romance just didn't hit for me unfortunately. It just seemed unrealistic in the quickness and little to no depth with eachother before they were "in love." Instant attraction makes sense and all, but after attraction must come depth and it just seemed like their love story was built all off of infatuation rather than true love. So for this readon the romance just didn't hit for me.

I did love the story! Especially the sweet ending!
A solid debut novel! So proud of you Melissa for this amazing accomplishment!!
I'd recommend to anyone looking for a fun beach read! I mean, sunsets, roller skating, late summer nights, cozy bookshop, sweet kisses... need I say more?!

[Liv Weaver · Rating 4 out of 5]

~ ARC Review ~

First off, thank you SO much to Melissa for trusting me as one of her ARC readers/reviewers! Being given such an incredible opportunity isn’t something I take lightly, as anyone publishing a debut novel puts more blood, sweat, & tears into their work than anyone I know. So again, thank you and congratulations!! ❤️

Leighton & July - what a pair of incredibly sweet, endearing, and soft characters. While I don’t often gravitate towards stories where the characters are teens, I so enjoyed these two and how their story took me right back to young love of my own. While I would’ve liked to have gotten to know July a little more like we did Leighton, I still found her to be incredibly relatable.

This story is filled with so many important lessons; each of them being so carefully curated my Melissa. Being true to yourself, finding the courage to speak up, & never being too afraid to start over. How heartwarming is that?

This novel reminded me so much of those 90’s/early 2000’s comfort shows (in all of the best ways), like Gilmore Girls or Boy Meets World. Like sipping a warm cup of coffee or a hug from someone you love. If you’re a sucker for nostalgia like me, you’ll love this. I think anyone who was lucky enough to experience a strong, all-consuming first love will absolutely appreciate Leighton & July’s story.

Overall, I absolutely recommend adding this to your TBR & am so looking forward to seeing everyone else fall in love with this story as much as I did. It’s cute, fast-paced, & the perfect summer read for romance lovers!

[Chelsea Cauley · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Week of July is a hidden summer gem—quietly powerful and completely unforgettable. This isn't just a romance; it’s a deeply tender exploration of love, loss, and the courage it takes to find your own voice.

Told from Leighton’s perspective (a refreshing rarity in YA/NA romance!), the story balances soft introspection with magnetic chemistry. July is an absolute standout—vulnerable yet strong, mysterious but full of heart—and the way she and Leighton push each other toward growth is so beautifully done.

Their week together may be brief, but it’s full of longing, hope, and emotional weight. Set against the cozy charm of a small town and anchored by richly drawn characters, One Week of July feels both personal and universal.

If you love emotionally resonant reads, character-driven stories, or romances that linger long after the last page, add this to your summer TBR immediately.

The small-town setting adds so much charm and familiarity giving us the most cozy backdrop!
If you enjoy emotional reads, realistic romance, or books that make you pause and reflect on your own dreams and expectations, this one is for you!

Thank you so much for the ARC Melissa all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Alexandria Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off I would love to give a big thank you to Melissa Mastro for letting me be apart of her arc team omg when I saw this on my tiktok fyp I knew I just had to read it. If I’m being honest this book is definitely one of a kind in my opinion definitely with how it is separated in to days I stare of chapters I loved that about the book the small town romance to me is everything but what can I say I am a sucker for love. This book is definitely like a good old tv show of how young love is and it reminds me of a nice cup of coffee on a fall morning.It reminds you of good love how it should be. The character growth is amazing and the book was beautifully written especially for a debut. I definitely recommend reading this book it is fast paced and a cutesy romance but you may tear up that’s all I will say. 🩷
Again thankyou for letting me and trusting me with your book 🩷


So, let's talk tropes!
These are a few:

🩷Insta-love (done right, I promise! Insta-attraction is a better way to describe it)
🩷Black cat, golden retriever
🩷Small town romance
🩷Summer fling
🩷He falls harder
🩷Different worlds
🩷Personal growth journey
🩷Healing together

[Karen Johnston · Rating 2 out of 5]

'One week of July' was an advanced reader copy as a beta tester for this debut work. First of all, I loved the instagram marketing and the way Melissa approached the ask for readers.
As many reviews have said, it's a cute romance coming of age novel. It feels a bit like a Hallmark movie, predictable, a bit cutesy and some element of drama. I felt a lot of the plot happened quite quickly, boy meets girl and immediately falls in love. Boy has family drama and immediately resolves it so the speed and quickness felt lacking to me. There also was no real resolution, one uncomfortable conversation and problem solved. I'm trying to be diplomatic about this review. Some books aren't for everyone, although I did resonate with the being the 'good child' and not disappointing your parents. It felt a bit similar to 'A Sweet Possibility' by Natalie Charles with the female character opening a bakery in a little quaint town. They are, of course, very different stories. 'One week of July' might make a cute film. I'd be excited to support her work later in her career and see how she develops as an author but, for me this book just didn't excite me.

[Becky Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a truly beautiful book 🥹

The story follows Leighton, just turned 18, son of the highly respected Mayor and living his last summer before heading off to collage. Everything is meticulously planned out ahead - scholarship secured, and ready to follow in his father's footsteps.
But when July, a city girl just passing through, walks into the bookshop he works at, his life is turned upside down.

If anyone is looking for a heart warming, comfort read then this is the book for you! The story flows so beautifully, leaving you just begging to read the next page. It completely drew me in, and had me laughing, crying and smiling like an idiot at my kindle.

The characters are so easy to love, and so well written - each one has been thoroughly thought through and crafted. One of the best small town romances I have ever read.

One Week of July takes you on a journey of love, tragedy and personal growth and will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy by the end.

Absolutely recommend this book to everyone and anyone!! 📚✨️

[Karla Cuthbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a small town romance
If you love a meet cute
If you love a golden retriever mc
If you love a relatable fmc
If you like a summer romance
you will love this book


I loved reading this book and I recommend to any fellow romance lovers , imagine meeting your future boyfriend in a bookstore every girls dream right ?

When July walks into twice upon a time Leighton is bewildered with her a girl who loves to read as much as him , they get to taking and it all goes from there

First proper love , first proper heartbreak , family challenged , expectations it’s all in This book , it’s extremely well written and I’m extremely shocked that this her debut book considering how amazingly it flows , I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next , hopefully more from the town of montclaire


P.s I have never seen anyone capture the description of a Georgia sunrise in a book so perfectly without seeing one truely incredible

[Laura Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

July has recently gone through a traumatic life event which has led her to travel from New York to Florida to pursue a relationship with her estranged father.
On the journey she stops off in Montclair and visits a second hand bookstore, where she meets Leighton the son of the mayor of Montclair. They instantly click and July decides to stick around for a while, the book follows the two main characters over the following days as their relationship develops.
This book has such a powerful message, that the right person can walk into your life and have such a huge impact in such a short space of time and that although it's natural to seek the approval of your parents and to want to make your family happy, it should never be at the expense of your own happiness.
you should always follow your heart and chase your dreams ❤️.

[Paige Livingston · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a heart warming & breath of fresh air novel! 🌸 It reeled me in from the very first 2 sentences in the prologue. I absolutely love Leightons character. It was so nice to come across a novel with a male character who is sweet, innocent, sincere, and honestly loving. The ending took me by complete (loving) surprise with the name of the book that Leighton writes! I loved that detail so much! Each character in the book was special in their own way. I loved Ken's support constantly towards Leighton no matter what! Even loving July from the get go, even though she didn't really know her. There was so much more I love about this book but I would just continue and endlessly blab. 🤣


Melissa you did such an outstanding job on your first novel. 💕

[Andie Luna · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review: 4.5⭐️
Thank you Melissa Mastro for selecting me to be part of your ARC team for your debut novel!
Publishing date 01/07/2025.
‘A Week Of July’ is a beautifully written story surrounding the instant love connection between Leighton (mmc) and July (fmc). Each chapter depicts a day of the week since the two met, drawing upon their emotions & reactions regarding love at first sight, character building relationships, tragedy & trauma, loss, family dynamics, rich/poor, addictions, sexual chemistry & ultimately love. The story was an easy comfort read (and yes I did sob at parts!!), and the character’s actions, dialogue and descriptions are really realistic (LOVE that).
I am looking forward to reading more from Melissa & HOPEFULLY a sequel to this book, maybe A Year Of July!?😜

[craftysmutstudio · Rating 3 out of 5]

🧡One Week of July🧡
‌
I’m so enjoying the world of ARC reading! My second ARC read was for @authormelissamastro debut book, One Week of July, coming out, you guessed it, on 7/1!
‌
Leighton and July have a sweet meetcute at a bookstore that Leighton is managing the summer before he starts college. His father is the mayor of the town and he’s grappling with the expectation that he’ll follow in his political footsteps. July is mid-roadtrip to reconnect with her father after she experiences a tragic loss. Their friendship blooms quickly over a week, and they bond over their coming of age feelings and life paths.
‌
This book was mostly spice free until the very end, and even then was mild (for me). This wasn’t my usual read but it was sweet! It gave me Dawson’s Creek nostalgia vibes! ✨

[Alexa Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine strolling into a cozy little bookstore, and instead of just grabbing your usual rom-com, you accidentally trip and fall headfirst into one of the most unexpectedly beautiful YA love stories you’ve ever read. That’s One Week of July.

The romance is so swoon-worthy, I wanted to hug my Kindle. The pacing? Chef’s kiss. The emotions? All over the place—in the best way. One minute I was laughing, the next I was tearing up like I’d just watched the final episode of a comfort show.

Every character feels intentionally crafted, not just filler and I devoured this book in one sitting.

Five stars, no notes. I’m emotionally ruined in the best possible way.