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Booked for the Summer
A sweet and sizzling summer romance about a woman who takes a job at a bookstore in Nantucket and gets involved with the man who turns out to be her a billionaire bent on knocking the store down.
When book lover Jade Taylor applies to manage the Little Bay Book Shack on Nantucket Island over the summer, the last thing she needs is the distraction of billionaire resort owner, Liam Haven.
But things take an unexpected turn when Liam becomes Jade’s boss—a man who only reads contracts for pleasure…
In a bid to save the bookshop from being absorbed into the Haven resort, Jade is determined to teach Liam that there’s more to life than acquiring real estate. And if she can make him realize happily ever afters do exist, might she be able to save the island’s bookshop in the process?
When book lover Jade Taylor applies to manage the Little Bay Book Shack on Nantucket Island over the summer, the last thing she needs is the distraction of billionaire resort owner, Liam Haven.
But things take an unexpected turn when Liam becomes Jade’s boss—a man who only reads contracts for pleasure…
In a bid to save the bookshop from being absorbed into the Haven resort, Jade is determined to teach Liam that there’s more to life than acquiring real estate. And if she can make him realize happily ever afters do exist, might she be able to save the island’s bookshop in the process?
384 pages, Paperback
Published July 29, 2025
183 people are currently reading
9739 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Freeman
28 books447 followersI was born in Wallingford, England and have spent most of my life living in a village outside Windsor. A former pharmacist, former pharmaceutical industry employee I’m now a self-employed medical writer who also loves to write romance. Some days a racing heart is a medical condition, others it’s the reaction to a hunky hero…
I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises
I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 350 reviews
April 19, 2025
3 ˖⁺‧✮
the synopsis of this book was so good, but unfortunately the other parts of it didn’t live up to the expectations.
«Another minute and I wouldn’t have been able to, either.’ She watched the sensuous glide of his Adam’s apple as he swallowed. ‘I know all about making mistakes. I don’t want to be one for you.’»
the mmc has serious issues, which is very understandable when looking at his childhood. he’s traumatized but for some reason he doesn’t want to change? he believes that jade is the person to change him, but is she? she’ll suffer because liam is mentally unstable.
for this reason i don’t understand why people were pushing jade to get together with liam. wrongggggg!! maybe later they’d match again but now i just don’t see the connect
«He nodded towards her. ‘I’ll see you around.’ She gave him a stony look in return. ‘Not if I see you first.»
i enjoyed most scenes of them together because the chemistry was incredible. i truly like how the author writes about emotions and feelings, especially in 3rd pov.
pre-read
a book lover and a billionaire duo? i’m so here for it🧍♀️
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins/One More Chapter for the arc
the synopsis of this book was so good, but unfortunately the other parts of it didn’t live up to the expectations.
«Another minute and I wouldn’t have been able to, either.’ She watched the sensuous glide of his Adam’s apple as he swallowed. ‘I know all about making mistakes. I don’t want to be one for you.’»
the mmc has serious issues, which is very understandable when looking at his childhood. he’s traumatized but for some reason he doesn’t want to change? he believes that jade is the person to change him, but is she? she’ll suffer because liam is mentally unstable.
for this reason i don’t understand why people were pushing jade to get together with liam. wrongggggg!! maybe later they’d match again but now i just don’t see the connect
«He nodded towards her. ‘I’ll see you around.’ She gave him a stony look in return. ‘Not if I see you first.»
i enjoyed most scenes of them together because the chemistry was incredible. i truly like how the author writes about emotions and feelings, especially in 3rd pov.
pre-read
a book lover and a billionaire duo? i’m so here for it🧍♀️
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins/One More Chapter for the arc
March 5, 2025
I received a free copy of, Booked for Summer, by Kathryn Freeman, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Jade Taylor loves book, she decides to work at The Little Bay Book Shack for the summer on Nantucket Island, but her boss, Liam is not a book lover. I thought this was a light summer read.
May 12, 2025
Mñeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
Una de pueblito encantador con soñadora inglesa que llega y, jatetú la suerte, lo primero que hace es encontrarse con un ricachón que acabará siendo su jefe y su principal impedimento para lograr su sueño. No hace falta que cuente mucho más porque esto es carne de teleflín y de peli de Hallmark, así que ya podéis suponer cómo va la cosa.
Es un nadismo de mono con platillos y de nada de nada de nada porque cuenta la nada más absoluta. La poca tensión que hay la misma autora se la carga en un plis ya que, a pesar de todo, estos no llegan a ser enemigos nunca y no te crees nada de lo que pasa entre ellos. Además, están rodeados de secundarios que no valen para nada y que son un cliché con patas.
Esta autora es de esas que está ahí ahí pero pocas veces llega a hacer un libro que me satisfaga. Pero bueno, la leo porque le tengo cariño y te despeja la cabeza XD.
Una de pueblito encantador con soñadora inglesa que llega y, jatetú la suerte, lo primero que hace es encontrarse con un ricachón que acabará siendo su jefe y su principal impedimento para lograr su sueño. No hace falta que cuente mucho más porque esto es carne de teleflín y de peli de Hallmark, así que ya podéis suponer cómo va la cosa.
Es un nadismo de mono con platillos y de nada de nada de nada porque cuenta la nada más absoluta. La poca tensión que hay la misma autora se la carga en un plis ya que, a pesar de todo, estos no llegan a ser enemigos nunca y no te crees nada de lo que pasa entre ellos. Además, están rodeados de secundarios que no valen para nada y que son un cliché con patas.
Esta autora es de esas que está ahí ahí pero pocas veces llega a hacer un libro que me satisfaga. Pero bueno, la leo porque le tengo cariño y te despeja la cabeza XD.
March 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for allowing me to read the ARC of Booked for Summer in exchange for my honest opinion.
I wanted to like this book. The premise for this book was very cute but it was a bit problematic for me. The insta lust, Liam giving up his celibacy so fast after meeting Jade, the way the characters had so many overreactions and and unnecessary miscommunications throughout the story, and focusing so much on the physical part of their relationship and not emotional. It just wasn’t for me unfortunately.
2.5 stars rounded up.
I wanted to like this book. The premise for this book was very cute but it was a bit problematic for me. The insta lust, Liam giving up his celibacy so fast after meeting Jade, the way the characters had so many overreactions and and unnecessary miscommunications throughout the story, and focusing so much on the physical part of their relationship and not emotional. It just wasn’t for me unfortunately.
2.5 stars rounded up.
April 30, 2025
Jade is taking a leave from her life and heading to Nantucket to run a bookstore. Liam is the wealthy businessman who runs the locale where the bookstore is located and he hasn't told anyone that he's planning on tearing it down to make room for condos and such for the tourists because it will make more money than the bookstore.
They meet the day Jade arrives in town not knowing that they will soon be facing off over the bookstore amd have a super steamy encounter. Jade quickly comes to regret it once she finds out who Liam is, but they can't deny their chemistry and their attraction seems to get in the way of their professional stand, which leads to fun banter and conflicts.
What was even better about this story was diving into each of the MC backstory and watching them grow and develop. especially Liam who has a real love/hate relationship with Nantucket and the people who live there after a tough childhood and he just wants to prove everyone wrong
Jade surprises herself and her family by proving herself to be a strong and capable business woman despite being known as the pretty sister while her sister, the doctor, is the smart one.
If you're looking for a steamy beach read look no further than this one!
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
They meet the day Jade arrives in town not knowing that they will soon be facing off over the bookstore amd have a super steamy encounter. Jade quickly comes to regret it once she finds out who Liam is, but they can't deny their chemistry and their attraction seems to get in the way of their professional stand, which leads to fun banter and conflicts.
What was even better about this story was diving into each of the MC backstory and watching them grow and develop. especially Liam who has a real love/hate relationship with Nantucket and the people who live there after a tough childhood and he just wants to prove everyone wrong
Jade surprises herself and her family by proving herself to be a strong and capable business woman despite being known as the pretty sister while her sister, the doctor, is the smart one.
If you're looking for a steamy beach read look no further than this one!
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
April 15, 2025
2 ⭐️
Thank you so much to Netgalley, One More Chapter and the author for providing me with an arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jade is a book lover, and when she gets the opportunity to spend her summer in Nantucket managing a bookstore she immediately takes it. Liam is the billionaire that owns the resort just next door to the bookstore.
Unfortunately this wasn't for me. The premise was interesting, I'm usually very fond of books about books and I wanted to enjoy this so much. I didn't like the way the story developed, it felt a bit rushed but at the same time it felt dragged. I didn't care about the characters, so it was even harder for me to get fully into the story.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, One More Chapter and the author for providing me with an arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jade is a book lover, and when she gets the opportunity to spend her summer in Nantucket managing a bookstore she immediately takes it. Liam is the billionaire that owns the resort just next door to the bookstore.
Unfortunately this wasn't for me. The premise was interesting, I'm usually very fond of books about books and I wanted to enjoy this so much. I didn't like the way the story developed, it felt a bit rushed but at the same time it felt dragged. I didn't care about the characters, so it was even harder for me to get fully into the story.
August 26, 2025
1 star
~
For three months, Jade Taylor will work as the store manager for Little Bay Book Shack in Nantucket. This is her chance to prove to herself that she can make a difference and show her family that she can be successful. However, plans change when Jade hooks up with the man who becomes her new boss only days into her job. Liam Haven, the owner of Haven resorts, has had his eye on the bookstore, hoping to tear it down and build new cottages to achieve his dreams. In a bid to save the bookstore, Jade attempts to show Liam its importance to the community and hopes to show him that there is more to life than business.
Booked for the Summer is a light summer read of new beginnings. It was quite entertaining at the start with the fmc being funny but a bit childish at times. I enjoyed learning about the reasons behind Jade’s decision to move to another country for three months to take over a bookstore. It hinted at some character development and at the fact that she was tired of being seen as the dumb blonde. I also liked the trope where the relationship went from hookup to boss/employee relationship, because I thought there would be some good tension. However, I found it lacking. Jade hates being seeing as the dumb blonde yet clearly acts that way promoting people to view her as such. There was immediate insta lust and the relationship seemed to be centered around sex. Not to mention that they spoke about loving each other when their relationship was mostly physical. The mmc was only interested in three things: money, revenge, and sex. His point of view really drove it home that he was interested in her sexually and at one point even offered her consolation sex . . . to comfort Jade after she learned about the bookstore’s future. Yeah, that’s a hard pass.
Despite my rating for the story, I enjoyed the audiobook in terms of quality and tone. The narrator did a great job at bringing the characters to life in the way they were written with Jade being bubbly and Liam being more aloof. I wasn’t bored with the audio and was kept engaged the whole time. I would definitely listen to more of their work.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the audiobook arc.
~
For three months, Jade Taylor will work as the store manager for Little Bay Book Shack in Nantucket. This is her chance to prove to herself that she can make a difference and show her family that she can be successful. However, plans change when Jade hooks up with the man who becomes her new boss only days into her job. Liam Haven, the owner of Haven resorts, has had his eye on the bookstore, hoping to tear it down and build new cottages to achieve his dreams. In a bid to save the bookstore, Jade attempts to show Liam its importance to the community and hopes to show him that there is more to life than business.
Booked for the Summer is a light summer read of new beginnings. It was quite entertaining at the start with the fmc being funny but a bit childish at times. I enjoyed learning about the reasons behind Jade’s decision to move to another country for three months to take over a bookstore. It hinted at some character development and at the fact that she was tired of being seen as the dumb blonde. I also liked the trope where the relationship went from hookup to boss/employee relationship, because I thought there would be some good tension. However, I found it lacking. Jade hates being seeing as the dumb blonde yet clearly acts that way promoting people to view her as such. There was immediate insta lust and the relationship seemed to be centered around sex. Not to mention that they spoke about loving each other when their relationship was mostly physical. The mmc was only interested in three things: money, revenge, and sex. His point of view really drove it home that he was interested in her sexually and at one point even offered her consolation sex . . . to comfort Jade after she learned about the bookstore’s future. Yeah, that’s a hard pass.
Despite my rating for the story, I enjoyed the audiobook in terms of quality and tone. The narrator did a great job at bringing the characters to life in the way they were written with Jade being bubbly and Liam being more aloof. I wasn’t bored with the audio and was kept engaged the whole time. I would definitely listen to more of their work.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the audiobook arc.
April 24, 2025
2.5*
Thank you to One More Chapter for providing me with an ARC of the eBook.
So, I think Kathryn Freeman was the first author to introduce me to spicier books back in 2020 and I have loved so many of her books in the past. This one just missed the mark for me.
I loved the setting of this book, I had never heard of the island of Nantucket and also haven't read any other books set here before.
I liked Lucy and Liam as our main characters, but I didn’t feel overly attached to them or any of the side characters. I just wanted a bit more from the plot I think. Some sections felt a bit rushed or glossed over and then some sections dragged on a bit. I did feel like we were going in circles with the relationship at times.
Thank you to One More Chapter for providing me with an ARC of the eBook.
So, I think Kathryn Freeman was the first author to introduce me to spicier books back in 2020 and I have loved so many of her books in the past. This one just missed the mark for me.
I loved the setting of this book, I had never heard of the island of Nantucket and also haven't read any other books set here before.
I liked Lucy and Liam as our main characters, but I didn’t feel overly attached to them or any of the side characters. I just wanted a bit more from the plot I think. Some sections felt a bit rushed or glossed over and then some sections dragged on a bit. I did feel like we were going in circles with the relationship at times.
August 19, 2025
The definition of a summer romance! This book was just soo good! From the location to the setting to the banter👌🏽
One night stand, enemies to lovers, dual pov, spicy summer romance - everything you need in a really good summer read!
This was a new author for me, and I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed the writing style, relatable characters and the storyline. The banter was also just the right amount without it being cheesy. The location is Nantucket Island and I don’t think there could’ve been a better summer location for a book! And even cuter - one of the main characters works in a bookstore!
One night stand, enemies to lovers, dual pov, spicy summer romance - everything you need in a really good summer read!
This was a new author for me, and I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed the writing style, relatable characters and the storyline. The banter was also just the right amount without it being cheesy. The location is Nantucket Island and I don’t think there could’ve been a better summer location for a book! And even cuter - one of the main characters works in a bookstore!
July 28, 2025
This was a spicy, one night stand turned enemies to lovers, dual POV summer romance between a book loving Brit looking for an escape and the billionaire determined to close the Nantucket bookstore she’s come to work in.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this one by a new to me author! I went in with low expectations and was captivated by the great banter and relatable characters.
Good on audio and recommended for fans of books like Book lovers by Emily Henry or Beach rivals by Georgie Tilney. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this one by a new to me author! I went in with low expectations and was captivated by the great banter and relatable characters.
Good on audio and recommended for fans of books like Book lovers by Emily Henry or Beach rivals by Georgie Tilney. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 9, 2025
Booked for the Summer was a cute and spicy read. I like how the narrator did both the British accent for Jade and American accent for Liam. I liked Liam and Jade’s witty banter and how the story had a HEA from the enemies to lovers trope. Overall, this book was an enjoyable read for the Summer. Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Audio, and Kathryn Freeman for the opportunity to read and listen to this book. Happy Reading 😉
August 11, 2025
I had such high hopes for this book but it fell a bit short. I was a little shocked that a book with a cute summer cover was so focused on the two characters having sex, but even more shocked when they had only known each other for three seconds (no shame on one night stands but it felt like a weird choice for the plot). I was again shocked to read about how much Liam liked Jade's boobs SEVERAL times because AGAIN cute fluffy summer romance was the expectation!!! I legitimately grimaced reading about how attracted he was to her and her to him because?? Duh I get that they are attracted to each other but there felt like ZERO attraction or connection past anything physical. I can support a good smutty romance but it felt like there was such a focus on sex that it took away from the book overall and their connection. Additionally, I felt that it was a little strange that a grown man (who I believe is in his thirties) had not gotten over the bullying he experienced as a child which turned him into a ruthless business man with no regard for other people. I get that the bullying had a severe impact on his life, but it made him a very nasty, heartless person that I could not sympathize with. However, I LOVED THE SETTING AND THE OTHER ASPECTS OF THE PLOT! The setting in Nantucket was incredible and I truly felt immersed in the story. What's not to love about a young woman working in a cute bookshop who falls in love with the grumpy new owner? I enjoyed the inclusion of aspects of Nantucket and tourist attractions, and loved how the beauty of the area was highlighted. And the cover of the book is just so cute I was obsessed!! BRB while I deal with the heartbreak of this book letdown...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
A frustratingly familiar sentiment swept over me while I listened to Booked for the Summer: how had I not read or listened to Kathryn Freeman before? Booked for the Summer was lovely. Yes, maybe the wee-ist bit predictable, but still lovely. Jade arrives in Nantucket to run the local bookstore for three months, not knowing that the big, bad, local millionaire plans to shut it down and put up luxury accommodations. And yes, Jade is drop-dead gorgeous, with bit tits and tight clothes (which apparently no one in her small English hometown ever noticed), and big, bad, Liam is equally drop-dead gorgeous, and of course, Jade turns out to be a brilliant business strategist and maybe, just maybe, Liam turns out to have a secret heart of gold. But aside from all that predictability, it truly is a delightful book! Both Jade and Liam are complex, interesting figures (aside from all that physical beauty), and the cast of well-developed secondary characters bring depth and a wonderful sense of belonging and comfort. I'll happily settle in with another Kathryn Freeman title any time, especially one expertly narrated by the great Mary Jane Wells. I am grateful to NetGalley for an early review copy of this terrific audiobook.
August 11, 2025
When I find myself laugh-snorting and 'awwww'-ing through a romance, you KNOW its good. Jade and Liam make a stunning and spicy pair, and the character development throughout was surface-level enough to keep this lighthearted all the way through. A bookstore in Nantucket, a billionaire boss, a savvy business woman, and plenty of nosy small-town gossips kept me on my toes and the laughs rolling.
And what incredible work from our narrator, Mary Jane Wells! Her voice work, inflection, and commitment to her craft made this audio really stand out to me. A thoroughly enjoyable experience!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio for this Advance Reader's Copy (audio) in exchange for an honest review!
And what incredible work from our narrator, Mary Jane Wells! Her voice work, inflection, and commitment to her craft made this audio really stand out to me. A thoroughly enjoyable experience!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio for this Advance Reader's Copy (audio) in exchange for an honest review!
August 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me access to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This was so cute and summery! The scene was set so well I felt like I was on Nantucket myself. I found it a fun combination of grumpy-sunshine and billionaire romance, and despite being a bit insta-lovey, I found both characters engaging and fun to follow. The reasons this wasn’t 4 stars for me was that it did drag on a little longer than necessary, and the POVs were all over the place within the chapters. The voice actor did a great job, but since she would change characters within the same chapter, I just found this format more challenging to follow.
February 22, 2025
I really wanted to enjoy this book, but unfortunately, I did not.
The premise was exciting and I really looked forward to getting an ARC of this book.
Let’s start with what I did enjoy; the vivid and beautiful descriptions of Nantucket. I can see why this book will be the perfect summer read.
However, I did not like either of the main characters. Personally, I found them and their relationship to be unlikeable and hard to connect with. It felt too focused on their physical relationship.
I do recommend this book to those looking for a cute summer read, but this one was just not for me.
The premise was exciting and I really looked forward to getting an ARC of this book.
Let’s start with what I did enjoy; the vivid and beautiful descriptions of Nantucket. I can see why this book will be the perfect summer read.
However, I did not like either of the main characters. Personally, I found them and their relationship to be unlikeable and hard to connect with. It felt too focused on their physical relationship.
I do recommend this book to those looking for a cute summer read, but this one was just not for me.
May 11, 2025
A charming beach read.
I loved the setting of Nantucket the best because it has such a special place in historical and beach books.
I thought Jade did a valiant effort to safe the bookstore and sparred with Liam.
I didn’t like Liam Initially but as his layers were peeled back and I understood the reasons behind his attitude and actions he won me over. A vulnerable boy who had been rejected too many times just needed a strong woman to break his walls down.
I loved Liam’s Grandma and Jeremy. They almost stole the limelight from Jade and Liam.
Don’t let this one slip by without reading it.
Thanks NetGalley and One More Chapter for the advance copy.
I loved the setting of Nantucket the best because it has such a special place in historical and beach books.
I thought Jade did a valiant effort to safe the bookstore and sparred with Liam.
I didn’t like Liam Initially but as his layers were peeled back and I understood the reasons behind his attitude and actions he won me over. A vulnerable boy who had been rejected too many times just needed a strong woman to break his walls down.
I loved Liam’s Grandma and Jeremy. They almost stole the limelight from Jade and Liam.
Don’t let this one slip by without reading it.
Thanks NetGalley and One More Chapter for the advance copy.
May 10, 2025
This one was so disappointing for two reasons: the writing and the mmc
The writing just didn’t click with me. I’m not sure exactly what it was but the writing wasn’t for me. I also didn’t like how the author used words with “nigg” (sniggle, niggle, snigger…..) it felt very wrong to me. And maybe it’s because the author isn’t American but the world is so connected these days, surely someone would have pointed out better words to use??
As for the mmc, sure he was a grumpy billionaire, but his grumpy stemmed from the fact he was bullied as a child which made all his actions and thoughts feel childish. It was such a pain reading his pov. Like you’re 30ish years old and still think daily about your childhood bully? Go to therapy omfg
The spice was alright, but the romance was kinda lacklustre. I skimmed like the last 40% because I just didn’t care anymore. I probably should have dnf-ed
Thank you netgalley and publisher for a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
The writing just didn’t click with me. I’m not sure exactly what it was but the writing wasn’t for me. I also didn’t like how the author used words with “nigg” (sniggle, niggle, snigger…..) it felt very wrong to me. And maybe it’s because the author isn’t American but the world is so connected these days, surely someone would have pointed out better words to use??
As for the mmc, sure he was a grumpy billionaire, but his grumpy stemmed from the fact he was bullied as a child which made all his actions and thoughts feel childish. It was such a pain reading his pov. Like you’re 30ish years old and still think daily about your childhood bully? Go to therapy omfg
The spice was alright, but the romance was kinda lacklustre. I skimmed like the last 40% because I just didn’t care anymore. I probably should have dnf-ed
Thank you netgalley and publisher for a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2025
I loved this book!! It had my two favorite things … books and the beach! Loved the characters and the setting. The banter between the two mani characters was great and I even enjoyed the side characters too! Highly recommend
September 6, 2025
A cute read! Thanks to Harper audio for the ALC!
November 13, 2025
I love Kathryn Freeman's romcoms. This one is her average. Cute sunshine bubbly female lead x angsty rich male lead. Enjoyable read 🙂
June 2, 2025
2.5 stars
I’ve read another book by Kathryn (my first ever ARC 🥹) which I really enjoyed but unfortunately this one just didn’t hit the mark for me. I do think this book is for you if you like very light, easy summer reads with a brooding man and instant chemistry. Unfortunately those just aren’t my favourite things in books.
Jade wants to escape her ‘boring admin publishing job’ (queue offending the book industry in quite an extreme way) so moves to Nantucket to run a bookstore which she has zero qualifications or skills to do. She meets Liam and has a steamy moment with him on her first night there and is battling feeling like a tart whilst realising she really likes him. But she’s only there for three months and isn’t sure what that will mean for their friendship, especially when he won’t open up and let her in.
This is VERY insta love, like smut scene in chapter 3 insta love. The book is very top heavy (bottom heavy?!) in that way which does make for quite a dissatisfying middle while you wait for them to sort themselves out again and rekindle their interest in each other. They are sexually attracted to each other ALWAYS and it was kind of frustrating to not get the pay off for that again for a long time. The pacing seems off - ultimately 3 months is long enough to fall in love (I should know) but given how long they spend fighting or poorly communicating it makes it harder to go along with. The MMC also describes himself as celibate for not having sex in a couple of months and that’s an immediate no for me in books as that’s not what the word means.
Both characters have a lot of back story that stops them from being able to communicate well with each other and to doubt themselves often and whilst I respected this it does get a bit repetitive and frustrating when the third act break up rolls around. It’s also meant to serve as ‘it’s not just about sex and how they look’ but also, it really does feel this. Jade’s boobs are mentioned at least once a chapter and I get it’s the point that she’s more than her boobs but I felt we bordered on Liam not feeling that a lot of the time.
I liked the side characters and honestly would love to read a book about Jeremy and Leroy getting together.
The whole Jade moving to run a bookstore part is madness. I don’t understand why she couldn’t be a bookseller in the UK rather than a publishing assistant so at least she’d have some credentials. We’re meant to not judge Jade for being a ‘dumb blonde’ but she does need a lot of help with the business stuff as she just doesn’t have the skills. And how does she have and ideas on book events to run?!
The writing was unfortunately repetitive and I think would have served from greater editing. I’ve never read ‘globes of the Ass' before but have now read it at least 6 times. And globes of tits. The author is trying to differentiate between British and American which means we get a lot of silly fake British things we don’t say (nincompoop?!?! I read this word in a book for real?!?!) and Americans correcting her on how they’d phrase a word instead.
In the author’s note we learn that the book was going to be set in the Maldives but it was recommended it moved to Nantucket. I honestly don’t get why. I don’t feel any wiser about what Nantucket looks like or the feel of it, and the ‘small town’ vibes could have been handled as easily in the Maldives, somewhere more people have heard of and would have probably made more sense to be set in.
It’s a quick, easy read and whilst I could have DNF’d it was definitely easy enough to get through and enjoyable enough that I didn’t feel a need to.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I’ve read another book by Kathryn (my first ever ARC 🥹) which I really enjoyed but unfortunately this one just didn’t hit the mark for me. I do think this book is for you if you like very light, easy summer reads with a brooding man and instant chemistry. Unfortunately those just aren’t my favourite things in books.
Jade wants to escape her ‘boring admin publishing job’ (queue offending the book industry in quite an extreme way) so moves to Nantucket to run a bookstore which she has zero qualifications or skills to do. She meets Liam and has a steamy moment with him on her first night there and is battling feeling like a tart whilst realising she really likes him. But she’s only there for three months and isn’t sure what that will mean for their friendship, especially when he won’t open up and let her in.
This is VERY insta love, like smut scene in chapter 3 insta love. The book is very top heavy (bottom heavy?!) in that way which does make for quite a dissatisfying middle while you wait for them to sort themselves out again and rekindle their interest in each other. They are sexually attracted to each other ALWAYS and it was kind of frustrating to not get the pay off for that again for a long time. The pacing seems off - ultimately 3 months is long enough to fall in love (I should know) but given how long they spend fighting or poorly communicating it makes it harder to go along with. The MMC also describes himself as celibate for not having sex in a couple of months and that’s an immediate no for me in books as that’s not what the word means.
Both characters have a lot of back story that stops them from being able to communicate well with each other and to doubt themselves often and whilst I respected this it does get a bit repetitive and frustrating when the third act break up rolls around. It’s also meant to serve as ‘it’s not just about sex and how they look’ but also, it really does feel this. Jade’s boobs are mentioned at least once a chapter and I get it’s the point that she’s more than her boobs but I felt we bordered on Liam not feeling that a lot of the time.
I liked the side characters and honestly would love to read a book about Jeremy and Leroy getting together.
The whole Jade moving to run a bookstore part is madness. I don’t understand why she couldn’t be a bookseller in the UK rather than a publishing assistant so at least she’d have some credentials. We’re meant to not judge Jade for being a ‘dumb blonde’ but she does need a lot of help with the business stuff as she just doesn’t have the skills. And how does she have and ideas on book events to run?!
The writing was unfortunately repetitive and I think would have served from greater editing. I’ve never read ‘globes of the Ass' before but have now read it at least 6 times. And globes of tits. The author is trying to differentiate between British and American which means we get a lot of silly fake British things we don’t say (nincompoop?!?! I read this word in a book for real?!?!) and Americans correcting her on how they’d phrase a word instead.
In the author’s note we learn that the book was going to be set in the Maldives but it was recommended it moved to Nantucket. I honestly don’t get why. I don’t feel any wiser about what Nantucket looks like or the feel of it, and the ‘small town’ vibes could have been handled as easily in the Maldives, somewhere more people have heard of and would have probably made more sense to be set in.
It’s a quick, easy read and whilst I could have DNF’d it was definitely easy enough to get through and enjoyable enough that I didn’t feel a need to.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 26, 2025
A huge thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK (One more chapter) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story took me on such a fun and emotional ride!
Jade completely won me over — she’s the kind of heroine you instantly connect with: funny, relatable, and grounded. I loved being in her world, and her job at the charming bookshop honestly felt like living a dream.
Liam, on the other hand, really got under my skin at the beginning. He was so frustrating that I almost wanted to reach into the pages and shake him! But as the story developed, I started to understand him more, and of course, I eventually fell for his broody charm.
The Nantucket setting was dreamy and made me want to visit all over again. The touch of luxury combined with the small-town feel created the perfect backdrop for the story.
The chemistry between Jade and Liam was electric — full of tension, banter, and moments that had me flipping pages as fast as I could. I loved how their relationship kept evolving, making me genuinely invested in where they would end up.
The ending brought everything together beautifully. It was emotional, satisfying, and left me with the biggest smile (and maybe a few happy tears).
This story took me on such a fun and emotional ride!
Jade completely won me over — she’s the kind of heroine you instantly connect with: funny, relatable, and grounded. I loved being in her world, and her job at the charming bookshop honestly felt like living a dream.
Liam, on the other hand, really got under my skin at the beginning. He was so frustrating that I almost wanted to reach into the pages and shake him! But as the story developed, I started to understand him more, and of course, I eventually fell for his broody charm.
The Nantucket setting was dreamy and made me want to visit all over again. The touch of luxury combined with the small-town feel created the perfect backdrop for the story.
The chemistry between Jade and Liam was electric — full of tension, banter, and moments that had me flipping pages as fast as I could. I loved how their relationship kept evolving, making me genuinely invested in where they would end up.
The ending brought everything together beautifully. It was emotional, satisfying, and left me with the biggest smile (and maybe a few happy tears).
October 19, 2025
Booked for the Summer by Kathryn Freeman (2025)
Kathryn Freeman Romcom Collection #10
iii+378-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-366
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Beach Read
Featuring: Books About Books, Bookstore Manager, Nantucket, Massachusetts; Summer Job, Adversaries Trope, Motor Yacht, Billionaire Trope, Brit vs American, Dual POVs, Sex, Lovers-to-Enemies-to-Lovers Trope, Family Dynamics, Grandma, Insecurities, Resorts, Workplace Setting, Author's Links, Bibliography for Kathryn Freeman, Publisher's Links
Rating as a movie: R for strong language and adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "I'm Dreamin'" by Christopher Williams, "I Want Your Sex" by George Michael
Books and Authors mentioned: Jerry Maguire by Cameron Crowe
My rating: ⭐️⭐️½🏝🏰📚🏴❤️🇺🇸
My thoughts: This was a nearly single-session read. The blurb sounds much better than the actual story. The plot was okay but the execution was very weak. The characters were horny for no reason and I didn't believe their chemistry. The most annoying thing about this story is that it's set in Nantucket, which I normally love as I've read several different authors who set books in Nantucket, but this story did not feel like Nantucket. It could have been set in any fictional coastal town from Connecticut to Florida. So why was I not surprised to read in the acknowledgments that the author had never heard of Nantucket until someone suggested she change the setting of this book from the Maldives to Nantucket? Write what you know.
Recommend to others: Not likely, but you never know.
Kathryn Freeman Romcom Collection
1. The New Guy (2020)
2. Up Close and Personal (2020)
3. Strictly Come Dating (2020)
4. Mr Right Across the Street (2021)
5. The Beach Reads Book Club (2021)
6. The Italian Job (2022)
7. Nobody Puts Romcoms In The Corner (2023)
8. Was It Good For You? (2023)
9. Thank You, Next (2024)
10. Booked for the Summer (2025)
11. A Nantucket Fling (2026)
Memorable Quotes: Okay, maybe a teeny bit of her still wished she was heading to a tropical island because, duh, what sane, sun-worshipping, book-obsessed person wouldn’t want to spend three months in a place where they could read steamy romances on perfect white sandy beaches? This Nantucket place though, the one she’d never heard of a few months ago . . . well it certainly wasn’t Twickenham. In the guidebook she’d devoured on the plane to Boston, she’d seen pictures of sandy beaches, though they did look a bit windswept. Also, marinas with long wooden pontoons, lighthouses and deep blue waters dotted with white sailing boats. Nantucket had a small-town vibe, so the book said, but with a heavy dose of glamour, taste and style. She’d had a little snigger to herself when she’d read that. In her twenty-five years on the planet, she’d managed Devon, Margate and a week in Spain. A culturally sophisticated island in the Atlantic off Cape Cod was not a place she’d ever expected to find herself. Especially one that she’d read wasn’t the playground of millionaires, but of billionaires.
Oh, my God, was he interested? ‘I don’t think you need it. To be honest, you had me at the yacht.’ He stilled, and belatedly she realised how that must have come across. ‘Oh, God, that was meant to be a joke, you know, Jerry Maguire…’ She hung her head, feeling the hot flush of embarrassment creep up her neck. ‘I told you I was terrible at this. Way to seduce a hot guy, Jade. First barge onto his boat, then sit next to him smelling of rotting fruit juice and finally insult him by implying he’s only attractive because he has a big boat. And no, that wasn’t a euphemism. Not that I think you don’t have a big… I mean I’m sure you do have… Oh fuckity fuck.’ Beyond embarrassed now, she rose to her feet. ‘Clearly, it’s time I called it a night. Thanks for the drink and sorry about my word vomit. I wish I could blame the cocktail, but unless it’s absorbed through the skin I think that was all me.’ ‘Wait.’ His hand wrapped round her arm, giving it a gentle tug until she dropped back onto the sofa. ‘Are you trying to seduce me?’ Her tongue felt too big for her mouth, the words she wanted to say getting stuck as his inscrutable gaze raked hers. ‘I think I was, or at least I was trying to flirt with you, which is probably a dumb idea but I’m the queen of dumb ideas.’ His eyes narrowed, leaving her feeling unbalanced. She wished she was as good at hiding her thoughts as he was. ‘It would help me hugely if you said something now because your face is kind of hard to read.’ His gaze went from cool grey to so inferno-hot, it scorched her insides. ‘If you could read my thoughts, you’d be scared.’ Her heart thumped, but she ignored it and raised her chin. ‘I don’t scare easily. Try me.’ ‘Are you sure? Because for what I’m about to say to you, I need you to be really, really sure.’ Arousal burned through her. It didn’t matter that getting tangled with a guy on her first night was the last she needed. She felt achy, giddy with lust. Just uncomfortable enough that it felt exciting. The thrill that came with being naughty. ‘I’m sure.’ The air between them fizzed with an energy that was pure sexual tension. ‘I’m wondering what it would be like to take you back to my boat and fuck you where I first laid eyes on you.’
‘You know, fast cars are driven by men with small dicks.’ Her hand ran up and down his length, her soft touch a direct contrast to his raging hardness. ‘But fast boats are clearly driven by men with frigging enormous ones.’ Christ, he was laughing, despite the fact his balls were ready to burst. ‘Not drive,’ he rasped. ‘We established that.’ ‘Yes, sorry. It must be the fact I have this steel rod in my hands, it’s making me forget.’
He ran a finger down the soft skin of her cheek. ‘I’ve never been with a woman who says holy macaroni when she comes.’ She smirked. ‘I bet the women you’re used to wear perfume instead of “eau de stale cocktail” and know that boats are sailed not driven. Though why have a steering wheel if you’re not going to drive?’
‘Okay. I hope you don’t regret asking though because when I get onto this subject…’ She grinned. ‘I have this obsession with books, and when I say obsession I mean crazy, over-the-top passion for them. Obviously, I’m addicted to reading them, but I also love touching them, smelling them. God, there is nothing better than the smell of a new paperback. Well, maybe some things are as good. Like whatever aftershave you wear, that’s a real belly flutterer.’ He almost choked on his drink and she giggled. ‘Nobody’s ever told you how good you smell? Well, books also smell amazing but in a different way. Comforting, yet with a hint of promise because you know when you open it, you’re going to be transported somewhere thrilling. And then there’s the covers. There is nothing prettier than a stack of books.’ She glanced around her and laughed. ‘Okay, again you’ve got me there because this beach, in this peachy light, is probably the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen. In fact, it looks like it could be the backdrop to a raunchy romance novel. It just needs a tall, dark, handsome guy on the front wearing nothing but his shorts and a broody smile.’ Her eyes caught his, mischief dancing in their blue depths.
Kathryn Freeman Romcom Collection #10
iii+378-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-366
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Beach Read
Featuring: Books About Books, Bookstore Manager, Nantucket, Massachusetts; Summer Job, Adversaries Trope, Motor Yacht, Billionaire Trope, Brit vs American, Dual POVs, Sex, Lovers-to-Enemies-to-Lovers Trope, Family Dynamics, Grandma, Insecurities, Resorts, Workplace Setting, Author's Links, Bibliography for Kathryn Freeman, Publisher's Links
Rating as a movie: R for strong language and adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "I'm Dreamin'" by Christopher Williams, "I Want Your Sex" by George Michael
Books and Authors mentioned: Jerry Maguire by Cameron Crowe
My rating: ⭐️⭐️½🏝🏰📚🏴❤️🇺🇸
My thoughts: This was a nearly single-session read. The blurb sounds much better than the actual story. The plot was okay but the execution was very weak. The characters were horny for no reason and I didn't believe their chemistry. The most annoying thing about this story is that it's set in Nantucket, which I normally love as I've read several different authors who set books in Nantucket, but this story did not feel like Nantucket. It could have been set in any fictional coastal town from Connecticut to Florida. So why was I not surprised to read in the acknowledgments that the author had never heard of Nantucket until someone suggested she change the setting of this book from the Maldives to Nantucket? Write what you know.
Recommend to others: Not likely, but you never know.
Kathryn Freeman Romcom Collection
1. The New Guy (2020)
2. Up Close and Personal (2020)
3. Strictly Come Dating (2020)
4. Mr Right Across the Street (2021)
5. The Beach Reads Book Club (2021)
6. The Italian Job (2022)
7. Nobody Puts Romcoms In The Corner (2023)
8. Was It Good For You? (2023)
9. Thank You, Next (2024)
10. Booked for the Summer (2025)
11. A Nantucket Fling (2026)
Memorable Quotes: Okay, maybe a teeny bit of her still wished she was heading to a tropical island because, duh, what sane, sun-worshipping, book-obsessed person wouldn’t want to spend three months in a place where they could read steamy romances on perfect white sandy beaches? This Nantucket place though, the one she’d never heard of a few months ago . . . well it certainly wasn’t Twickenham. In the guidebook she’d devoured on the plane to Boston, she’d seen pictures of sandy beaches, though they did look a bit windswept. Also, marinas with long wooden pontoons, lighthouses and deep blue waters dotted with white sailing boats. Nantucket had a small-town vibe, so the book said, but with a heavy dose of glamour, taste and style. She’d had a little snigger to herself when she’d read that. In her twenty-five years on the planet, she’d managed Devon, Margate and a week in Spain. A culturally sophisticated island in the Atlantic off Cape Cod was not a place she’d ever expected to find herself. Especially one that she’d read wasn’t the playground of millionaires, but of billionaires.
Oh, my God, was he interested? ‘I don’t think you need it. To be honest, you had me at the yacht.’ He stilled, and belatedly she realised how that must have come across. ‘Oh, God, that was meant to be a joke, you know, Jerry Maguire…’ She hung her head, feeling the hot flush of embarrassment creep up her neck. ‘I told you I was terrible at this. Way to seduce a hot guy, Jade. First barge onto his boat, then sit next to him smelling of rotting fruit juice and finally insult him by implying he’s only attractive because he has a big boat. And no, that wasn’t a euphemism. Not that I think you don’t have a big… I mean I’m sure you do have… Oh fuckity fuck.’ Beyond embarrassed now, she rose to her feet. ‘Clearly, it’s time I called it a night. Thanks for the drink and sorry about my word vomit. I wish I could blame the cocktail, but unless it’s absorbed through the skin I think that was all me.’ ‘Wait.’ His hand wrapped round her arm, giving it a gentle tug until she dropped back onto the sofa. ‘Are you trying to seduce me?’ Her tongue felt too big for her mouth, the words she wanted to say getting stuck as his inscrutable gaze raked hers. ‘I think I was, or at least I was trying to flirt with you, which is probably a dumb idea but I’m the queen of dumb ideas.’ His eyes narrowed, leaving her feeling unbalanced. She wished she was as good at hiding her thoughts as he was. ‘It would help me hugely if you said something now because your face is kind of hard to read.’ His gaze went from cool grey to so inferno-hot, it scorched her insides. ‘If you could read my thoughts, you’d be scared.’ Her heart thumped, but she ignored it and raised her chin. ‘I don’t scare easily. Try me.’ ‘Are you sure? Because for what I’m about to say to you, I need you to be really, really sure.’ Arousal burned through her. It didn’t matter that getting tangled with a guy on her first night was the last she needed. She felt achy, giddy with lust. Just uncomfortable enough that it felt exciting. The thrill that came with being naughty. ‘I’m sure.’ The air between them fizzed with an energy that was pure sexual tension. ‘I’m wondering what it would be like to take you back to my boat and fuck you where I first laid eyes on you.’
‘You know, fast cars are driven by men with small dicks.’ Her hand ran up and down his length, her soft touch a direct contrast to his raging hardness. ‘But fast boats are clearly driven by men with frigging enormous ones.’ Christ, he was laughing, despite the fact his balls were ready to burst. ‘Not drive,’ he rasped. ‘We established that.’ ‘Yes, sorry. It must be the fact I have this steel rod in my hands, it’s making me forget.’
He ran a finger down the soft skin of her cheek. ‘I’ve never been with a woman who says holy macaroni when she comes.’ She smirked. ‘I bet the women you’re used to wear perfume instead of “eau de stale cocktail” and know that boats are sailed not driven. Though why have a steering wheel if you’re not going to drive?’
‘Okay. I hope you don’t regret asking though because when I get onto this subject…’ She grinned. ‘I have this obsession with books, and when I say obsession I mean crazy, over-the-top passion for them. Obviously, I’m addicted to reading them, but I also love touching them, smelling them. God, there is nothing better than the smell of a new paperback. Well, maybe some things are as good. Like whatever aftershave you wear, that’s a real belly flutterer.’ He almost choked on his drink and she giggled. ‘Nobody’s ever told you how good you smell? Well, books also smell amazing but in a different way. Comforting, yet with a hint of promise because you know when you open it, you’re going to be transported somewhere thrilling. And then there’s the covers. There is nothing prettier than a stack of books.’ She glanced around her and laughed. ‘Okay, again you’ve got me there because this beach, in this peachy light, is probably the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen. In fact, it looks like it could be the backdrop to a raunchy romance novel. It just needs a tall, dark, handsome guy on the front wearing nothing but his shorts and a broody smile.’ Her eyes caught his, mischief dancing in their blue depths.
March 27, 2025
This story follows Jade Taylor a girl in need of some soul-searching who takes a temporary job managing a bookstore next to a resort on Nantucket. On her second day, her boss sells the bookstore out from under her to the wealthy (and hot) owner of the resort next door. But he wants to shut the whole store down and expand his resort empire. Jade just can’t accept that, this was her big comeback! Her moment to prove to herself that she was more than just a pretty blonde.
Oof ok. Let’s start by saying that I really really wanted to love this book. It looked like it was going to be a super cute rom com type book with all the best tropes. Unfortunately, it just didn’t get there for me. There wasn’t much substance beyond the physical relationship of the two main characters. The story started pretty rough for me and while it did get a bit better when the plot was introduced at around 30%, it just wasn’t a book I was excited to read. Everything happened too quickly and with no tension or build-up to speak of, it was just not super enjoyable for me as a reader. This is my first Kathryn Freeman book and I’m convinced that maybe her style just isn’t for me and you know what? That’s ok! I have friends who would have enjoyed this book, but it really wasn’t my thing.
A huge thank you to Harper Collin’s UK, One More Chapter for offering this title for review via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Oof ok. Let’s start by saying that I really really wanted to love this book. It looked like it was going to be a super cute rom com type book with all the best tropes. Unfortunately, it just didn’t get there for me. There wasn’t much substance beyond the physical relationship of the two main characters. The story started pretty rough for me and while it did get a bit better when the plot was introduced at around 30%, it just wasn’t a book I was excited to read. Everything happened too quickly and with no tension or build-up to speak of, it was just not super enjoyable for me as a reader. This is my first Kathryn Freeman book and I’m convinced that maybe her style just isn’t for me and you know what? That’s ok! I have friends who would have enjoyed this book, but it really wasn’t my thing.
A huge thank you to Harper Collin’s UK, One More Chapter for offering this title for review via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2025
This was my first book by Kathryn Freeman, and let me tell you—I absolutely flew through the pages! It is the perfect lighthearted summer romance, with just the right amount of spice and depth to keep you hooked.
The setting was absolutely perfect—Nantucket’s charm added an extra layer of magic to the story. It has this magical quality that enhances any story, whether it’s a romance or a thriller, and this book is no exception. A bookstore on Nantucket? Say no more—it's everything I could have hoped for! Now I just need to book a trip there myself.
Jade and Liam have such great chemistry, but what I loved most was how their relationship wasn’t just an instant, easy love story. Both are shaped by their pasts, and we really get to see them work through their emotions. The depth in their struggles made their romance feel all the more real in the end. And Liam’s grandma was absolutely precious. She added such a heartwarming touch to the story.
Also, can we talk about Jeremy (and Leroy, of course)? Jeremy is the kind of friend everyone wishes they had—funny, loyal, and full of personality. He brought so much humor and warmth to the book.
Overall, Booked for the Summer was a delightful read, and I can’t wait to dive into more of Kathryn Freeman’s books.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The setting was absolutely perfect—Nantucket’s charm added an extra layer of magic to the story. It has this magical quality that enhances any story, whether it’s a romance or a thriller, and this book is no exception. A bookstore on Nantucket? Say no more—it's everything I could have hoped for! Now I just need to book a trip there myself.
Jade and Liam have such great chemistry, but what I loved most was how their relationship wasn’t just an instant, easy love story. Both are shaped by their pasts, and we really get to see them work through their emotions. The depth in their struggles made their romance feel all the more real in the end. And Liam’s grandma was absolutely precious. She added such a heartwarming touch to the story.
Also, can we talk about Jeremy (and Leroy, of course)? Jeremy is the kind of friend everyone wishes they had—funny, loyal, and full of personality. He brought so much humor and warmth to the book.
Overall, Booked for the Summer was a delightful read, and I can’t wait to dive into more of Kathryn Freeman’s books.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 15, 2025
A lighthearted summer romance. I’ll say this story took me a lot longer to get into than typical for a Kathryn Freeman story but that might just be me.
Booked for Summer follows Jade as she embarks on a new adventure in Nantucket, trying to make her mark and find something of her own running a small bookstore for the summer. She doesn’t count on meeting Liam and after an instant attraction on both parts she comes to find out he plans to bulldoze her store. Liam on the other hand is infatuated with Jade but is grappling with his own past traumas not feeling worthy or good enough, as he grew up as the poor kid in a wealthy crowd who never was accepted.
The majority of the book is a push and pull of both Jade and Liam struggling with their feelings for one another and insecurity on how the other feels. In theory I was really excited for this story but I think the struggle was a bit too long or that there was a little too much of the coldness from Liam and not enough of his feelings for Jade. The last 20% or so definitely picked up and had some swoonworthy grand gestures.
Overall though a good summer romance read and set in beautiful Nantucket!
Thank you Kathryn, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC!
Booked for Summer follows Jade as she embarks on a new adventure in Nantucket, trying to make her mark and find something of her own running a small bookstore for the summer. She doesn’t count on meeting Liam and after an instant attraction on both parts she comes to find out he plans to bulldoze her store. Liam on the other hand is infatuated with Jade but is grappling with his own past traumas not feeling worthy or good enough, as he grew up as the poor kid in a wealthy crowd who never was accepted.
The majority of the book is a push and pull of both Jade and Liam struggling with their feelings for one another and insecurity on how the other feels. In theory I was really excited for this story but I think the struggle was a bit too long or that there was a little too much of the coldness from Liam and not enough of his feelings for Jade. The last 20% or so definitely picked up and had some swoonworthy grand gestures.
Overall though a good summer romance read and set in beautiful Nantucket!
Thank you Kathryn, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC!
April 30, 2025
Meet cute that wasn’t so cute but had me hooked.
📚 grumpy millionaire
📚 boss x employee
📚 small town
📚 dual POV
🌶️🌶️
|Thoughts|
A cute summer romance which is also a partial love letter to Nantucket. Like the dynamic between the two main characters and felt that they complimented each other.
The initial conflict does make you question the integrity of Liam but can’t spend too long frustrated with him as he starts to shed off his grumpy exterior and let Jade in.
“But in the books, the heroine resists the billionaire hero because he’s a bastard, then finds out he’s a good guy”
He does seem to fall first and hard for her which was fun to see him begin to come to terms with.
“…have I not made it clear enough that I want to spend as much time as I can with you? That I’m borderline obsessed with you?”
Did find her family dynamic fairly infuriating, but was glad there was some resolution there.
This is also one to pick up if you’re a fan of stories about books (and attempting to save a bookstore).
“I’m willing to come back, to fight for us. But I deserve a man who’s willing to fight in return”
🟢 For more bookish content follow me on Instagram
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
📚 grumpy millionaire
📚 boss x employee
📚 small town
📚 dual POV
🌶️🌶️
|Thoughts|
A cute summer romance which is also a partial love letter to Nantucket. Like the dynamic between the two main characters and felt that they complimented each other.
The initial conflict does make you question the integrity of Liam but can’t spend too long frustrated with him as he starts to shed off his grumpy exterior and let Jade in.
“But in the books, the heroine resists the billionaire hero because he’s a bastard, then finds out he’s a good guy”
He does seem to fall first and hard for her which was fun to see him begin to come to terms with.
“…have I not made it clear enough that I want to spend as much time as I can with you? That I’m borderline obsessed with you?”
Did find her family dynamic fairly infuriating, but was glad there was some resolution there.
This is also one to pick up if you’re a fan of stories about books (and attempting to save a bookstore).
“I’m willing to come back, to fight for us. But I deserve a man who’s willing to fight in return”
🟢 For more bookish content follow me on Instagram
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. The banter between Jade and Liam was sharp and fun, and their chemistry pulled me in right away. He was grumpy and guarded, she was determined and open-hearted, and the way they pushed each other out of their comfort zones made their story so compelling. The spice was perfectly balanced, emotional and heated without ever taking away from the depth of their relationship.
The Nantucket backdrop was gorgeous and gave the whole story a dreamy summer feel. I could picture the bookshop, the ocean, and the small-town charm with every page. It added so much atmosphere to their journey.
Jade’s career path stood out to me too. Watching her take a chance on something new and fight for what she believed in gave the story even more heart. She was not only discovering love but also proving her strength and courage to herself.
Liam’s vulnerability made him unforgettable. Seeing him let down his walls and open himself up to Jade gave this romance real weight. Together they showed that love is about more than attraction. It is about trust, honesty, and letting yourself be seen.
This story had everything. Banter, spice, heart, vulnerability, and a setting that felt like an escape. A beautiful and powerful romance about overcoming guards and letting love in.
The Nantucket backdrop was gorgeous and gave the whole story a dreamy summer feel. I could picture the bookshop, the ocean, and the small-town charm with every page. It added so much atmosphere to their journey.
Jade’s career path stood out to me too. Watching her take a chance on something new and fight for what she believed in gave the story even more heart. She was not only discovering love but also proving her strength and courage to herself.
Liam’s vulnerability made him unforgettable. Seeing him let down his walls and open himself up to Jade gave this romance real weight. Together they showed that love is about more than attraction. It is about trust, honesty, and letting yourself be seen.
This story had everything. Banter, spice, heart, vulnerability, and a setting that felt like an escape. A beautiful and powerful romance about overcoming guards and letting love in.
August 25, 2025
I got an ALC copy of this book, and reading the synopsis I was super excited to listen to it.
For some reason the promise of the synopsis with the bookstore, the billionaire hot guy that becomes the boss didn't pay off when it came together in writing. I liked bits and pieces of this book but they weren't enough to make me love it overall.
Unfortunately, the single-narrator situation made understanding who the POV was very hard. The chapters weren't clearly separated to "his" and "hers" POVs, which would've been perfectly fine reading to with the separation of paragraphs but listening to it with the narrator not changing their narration according to the FMC and MMC made it almost impossible to understand whose POV we were listening to until certain words were used and made it obvious to the listener. Maybe it was my bad for not paying attention to the entire book to understand if the paragraph started with the FMC's name or MMC's name to understand whose POV it was, but the narration didn't change the entire book unless the MMC was talking, even when we were in their mind, listening to what they are thinking about.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for the chance to listen to this book as an ALC.
For some reason the promise of the synopsis with the bookstore, the billionaire hot guy that becomes the boss didn't pay off when it came together in writing. I liked bits and pieces of this book but they weren't enough to make me love it overall.
Unfortunately, the single-narrator situation made understanding who the POV was very hard. The chapters weren't clearly separated to "his" and "hers" POVs, which would've been perfectly fine reading to with the separation of paragraphs but listening to it with the narrator not changing their narration according to the FMC and MMC made it almost impossible to understand whose POV we were listening to until certain words were used and made it obvious to the listener. Maybe it was my bad for not paying attention to the entire book to understand if the paragraph started with the FMC's name or MMC's name to understand whose POV it was, but the narration didn't change the entire book unless the MMC was talking, even when we were in their mind, listening to what they are thinking about.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for the chance to listen to this book as an ALC.
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