If Only You Knew

Oakwood Bay #3

by Ellie K. Wilde

In the highly anticipated final installment of the Oakwood Bay series—“packed with sizzling tension, heat, and sweet, swoon-worthy moments” (Peyton Corinne, USA TODAY bestselling author)—childhood best friends Parker and Summer agree to matchmake each other, to disastrous results, all while fighting the fact that they’ve been each other’s soulmate all along.

Summer Prescott and Parker Woods have been best friends since they were three years old. Now thirty, neither of them feels like they have a good handle on adulthood. While their friends are coupled up and thriving, they’re struggling through career crises and disastrous dates, and frequenting the same old bars and surf spots they’ve been going to for years—until, on a whim, Summer decides to hand over her love life to Parker. After all, who better to help find her soulmate than the person who knows her best?

But when the date Parker introduces her to goes from husband material to dead end in one publicly humiliating swoop, Summer is so devastated that she breaks up with both men. And she decides to embrace a fresh start away from home by entering a surf competition that’ll have her chasing waves around the world.

Parker soon realizes the troubling truth—he’s spent nearly thirty years by Summer’s side and has only just realized that he’s in love with her. Now he’s on a mission to win back not just her trust but her heart, before she slips away for good.

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, Sports Romance, Small Town Romance, Found Family, Forced Proximity, Contemporary

416 pages, Paperback

Expected publication February 17, 2026

About the author

Ellie K. Wilde is a Canadian writer of contemporary romance and romantic comedies that make you laugh, swoon... and maybe require a cold shower or two to recover. She enjoys writing stories with dirty-mouthed cinnamon roll heroes and the fiery women who bring them to their knees.

When she's not daydreaming about her next book, you'll find her devouring other romance novels, bingeing reality TV and snuggling with fur babies.

Follow Ellie on Instagram and TikTok @EllieKWildeAuthor

Reviews

[aira]

can't believe I got the arc for this. The first two books have been good, especially the second one, so I'm hoping this one is too.

[Kandi Steiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marvelous! If You Only Knew is brimming with tension, sharp writing, and irresistible charm. Ellie K. Wilde has crafted a friends-to-lovers romance that is as captivating as it is unforgettable.

[Shannai]

Pre read: June 2025: MR BONDAGE KINK PARKER, allegedly delivers 12 orgasms Woods; I’m going to be so feral by the time this book releases. no because, i’m not joking when i say i need this book like i need air. i don’t think anyone actually understands how feral i am for them. the crumbs that were in Only Between Us, were like crack! mrs ellie k. wilde has saved the best couple for last and i fear of the woman i will become when i get to read about Parker and Summer!!

[kelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE CHILDHOOD FRIENDS TO LOVERS!!!!
RTC

[Kimberly Del Cid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gosh, 5 big delicious juicy beautiful stars to the end of an amazing series. I am devastated to say goodbye to oakwood bay but this was the perfect send off. This is likely my new favorite in the series!!

There is SO MUCH depth to these characters that I hadn’t seen at all in the first two books. They seemed like two loving, kind best friends but there was so much more underneath it brought me to tears. Parker messes up big time and sets up Summer for heartbreak. Even worse, he doesn’t know how in love he is until he’s lost her trust. Summer is a heartbroken, loveable person who just wants people to stay. She has one constant, which is Parker, and him hurting her really changes how she views herself and her future.

Their love runs so deep, it’s sweet and devastating. (Their spice and chemistry is also off the charts!!) The yearning, as always, was positively diabolical and it made me want to rip my heart out of my chest. Parker’s journey to become summer’s dream man??? I had to be sedated.

There is just so much I love about this book, I can’t wait for the audiobook to release and reread it. Thank you Atria for the ARC!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhhh, this book was totally worth the wait, it was so sweet and also very spicy. I've been looking forward to Parker and Summer's story, and it did not disappoint. I may be biased since friends to lovers is my favorite trope, but I absolutely loved the friendship between Parker and Summer. This story was just really sweet, their friendship, their realizations, their struggles, and their road to realizing their feelings for each other. Summer's relationship with her parents really heartbreaking to read and I really wanted to give her a hug. Oh, Parker, you sweet man. Where do I even start with this MMC? Parker was sweet, attentive, unknowingly driven, adoring, and just overall so swoony. The spicy scenes were great, and this story made me so happy. :)

Only In Your Dreams - 3 stars
Only Between Us - 4 stars

*Childhood friends to lovers
*Small town
*Physical therapy/Surfing

Format: ebook

Thank you so much NetGalley, Ellie Wilde, and Atria Books for the ARC!

[Jenn (burlingtonbiblio) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review
If Only You Knew by Ellie KWilde

Genre: Romance
Publisher : @simonandschuster
Publishes: Feb 17 2026
Oakwood Bay series

What Its Got
✅ Cameos from Melody, Zac, Brooks,Siena and Noah
✅ childhood friends to Lovers
✅ Surfing
✅ kinda Mid life crisis - turning 30
✅ an FMC who is certified people pleaser longing for a partner in life she can rely on
✅ an MMC who is a completely oblivious lovestruck fool
✅ small town vibes (Oakwood)
✅ friends as family

Thoughts
This was such a slow burn 🔥 Talk about edging…. Throw in some play kink play and DAMN!! Parker is charming and I adored his friendship with Summer- he is soo supportive and present! I enjoyed the tension between these two as they figured out whats been in front of them the whole time . Each struggles in their own way between work issues, personal challenges, and self doubt but together- they find their way and their happily ever after.

Thanks to @netgalley and @simonandschusterca for my digital ARC in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.

[tinny · Rating 3 out of 5]

i really loved the chemistry between summer and parker in “only between us” and in this book, i enjoyed summer and parker’s love story unfolding for the most part but my biggest hang-up was kinda summer’s whole imminent tour departure (and by extension her fraught relationship with her dad that didnt feel truly explored) and idk it felt a bit too messily included for me to really feel the stakes and at the end it kinda just felt like a roundabout way to arrive at the conclusion that since they had grown up together, they would benefit from time apart before getting together romantically (but like not really!)

i do also kinda wish we got more insight to parker’s pre-realization thought process when he clocked that he’d always loved summer like the way it stands feels a bit like his realization that he loved summer was slightly glazed over (and i kinda hated whatever fight they had about denny anyway bc it barely made sense and I had to remind myself that sometimes childhood friends to lovers only works if they are like lowkey bad friends to each other)

i also am not huge on ongoing sports romance series so 1) the surfing comp backdrop was nice but ultimately felt like not much stakes 2.) my eyes did glaze over at some mentions of characters from other books (even though I’ve read Siena & Brooks book)…though it did have the effect of making me curious about Melody and Zac’s book

also no shade but i feel like parker and the rumor mill talked a lot of game and did not entirely deliver but like happy for these crazy kids nonetheless! this was a super easy & quick read also so no harm no foul

thank you so much to netgalley and atria books for this arc to review!

[Chiara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie couldn’t have ended Oakwood Bay series any better than this.

Parker and Summer’s story is incredible and unforgettable. It was sweet and so freaking spicy you have no idea, and I definitely had no idea when I met Parker in ‘Only in your dreams’.

I love everything about this book. Parker was so oblivious of his feelings at the beginning, but the moment he realized he did everything he could do make Summer see what she had had in front of her. But aside from this, what I loved the most was the way Parker was supportive of Summer in everything she wanted to do, even though he had no clear idea why she wanted to do some things in the first place.

He was always there, helping her, encouraging her, fighting for her even when she felt like quitting.

My heart broke for Summer. The way she felt throughout most of the book pushed her into finding ways the leave Oakwood Bay and it killed me to see her not realizing what a great support system she has had all her life.

I can’t wait for everybody to read this book when it comes out next year and I wanted to thank Atria Books marketing for inviting me to read this book and Ellie K Wilde for creating these beautiful characters that I’ve loved from book 1

[Hailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer and Parker!!!! Ughh my favorite duo finally got their book! I loved this book so much!!! Ellie really knows how to write the most perfect characters! This was for sure my favorite book in the series, I cannot recommend reading these books enough! I’m so sad oakwood bay won’t have any more books but this was the perfect ending!!

Thank you NetGalley, Atria books, and the amazing author Ellie K. Wilde for the eARC.

[Alicia (Alicia Reads It) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 STAR
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Wow, I genuinely loved Summer and Parker’s story. It was such a beautifully done friends to lovers. You could feel their love for each other oozing out of each page. I also really enjoyed the conflicts in the story and how they played out. Summers character and the things she struggled with were very relatable to me. I also loved how Parker was finally able to help her see through those insecurities and really truly accept the love being given to her by so many.

Overall I highly recommend this series, and had a blast reading about this fun friend group! Many thanks to the author and publisher for the advanced copy for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kelsie ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Atria for letting me read and review this book early. All thoughts are my own!!

If Only You Knew is the final book in the Oakwood Bay Series, and I’m so sad that this series is over!! I read this book in one day after reading the second book in one day, and I didn’t want it to end!!

Summer and Parker are best friends and have never been interested in each other romantically, until the time that this book takes place. I have to say that it was really funny to watch Parker at the beginning be so blind to his feelings for Summer. He truly is just a goofball.

I really loved how Summer and Parker’s friendship was the foundation for their relationship. I am a friends to lovers super fan, like to my core, and I was so pleased with how their friendship was written into a romantic relationship. They knew each other down to their bones and cared about each other so deeply.

Summer is an angel of a character, and her struggle with feeling loved and allowing herself to accept the love she deserved was so emotional!! Her friends and chosen family supported her, and watching her grow to let them did make me tear up a little bit.

The found family was FOUND FAMILYING IN THIS BOOK OH MY GOD!! That was a big part of what I loved about the first two books, and I was so happy to see how involved all of the characters were in this book!! I won’t spoil the epilogue, but just know I cried seeing where they all ended up.

Parker was so down bad and he let Summer figure it out at her own pace. I don’t want to give away too much, but there were so many good moments between them that had me going between crying and laughing at how much they love each other and tease each other. I will say that Parker getting glasses part way through this book made me giggle so much!!

I’m so sad this series is over, but I’m very excited to see what Ellie K. Wilde writes next!!

[Kerri Wells Goetzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was everything I wanted and so much more. I've become an Ellie K. Wilde fangirl. She's quickly becoming a Berlin Wick, Jennifer Hartmann, Kandi Steiner...automatic read. It's emotional, funny, and romantic.

Gawd...I was hooked on Parker and Summer’s story. Best friends who try to play matchmaker for each other… only to realize they’ve been each other’s soulmate all along? Freaking perfection. The slow burn tension between them was delicious.

Ellie K. Wilde captures friendship and love so beautifully. Her writing always feels warm and real, like coming home to people you’ve known forever. The small town charm is great, even when Summer feels like everyone has neglected and betrayed her.

Parker completely stole my heart. He's protective, patient, and finally realizing that what he’s been looking for has been standing right beside him for years. Summer is brave, passionate, and ready to chase her dreams, even when it means taking a risk. Their chemistry and emotional connection made this story unforgettable.

This finale truly felt like a love letter to fans of the series. It wrapped everything up beautifully but still left me wanting more. Ellie K. Wilde has such a gift for creating heartfelt, swoon worthy stories that make you believe in soulmates and second chances.

Please, Ellie, don’t stop writing! I've said it before...This author is something else! Read the books. Just do it.

Thank you to Ellie K. Wilde, NetGalley, and Atria Books for an advanced reader copy. These are my honest reviews and opinions.

[Tanisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing Only Between Us, the second book in the Oakwood Bay series, I could not wait to see what came next. So when I found out that the final book, If Only You Knew, was coming out, I was basically counting down the days. I have been on such a sports romance kick lately, so this one was right up my alley, and I am so happy to say it did not let me down.

I already liked Summer and Parker back in Only Between Us, so I was more than ready for their story. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. The chemistry between them was so good, and there were moments that made me smile, swoon, and maybe even hold my breath a little. Knowing this was the last book in the series, I definitely took my time reading it because I didn’t want to say goodbye to Oakwood Bay just yet.

Overall, I absolutely loved this book. It gave me all the feels and wrapped everything up perfectly. This is a tiny spoiler, but the epilogue? So satisfying. I am a total sucker for a good one, and this one left me grinning from ear to ear. I am seriously going to miss this series, but what a great way to end it.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Alanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer and Parker 🧡 I have been waiting to read this story since Mel and Zac’a story and it did not disappoint. This was my favourite of the three Oakwood Bay books and I am incredibly sad they are over. The story was so relatable and watching Parker and Summer realize their love for each other and fall into this new stage was so beautiful (and a little more than that too IYKYK).

Ellie writes the most beautiful stories that encompass so many different emotions, experiences, and discoveries. She is able to create a world and characters you want to be in yourself and feel as if you’ve become friends with the characters by the end of each novel.

I cannot wait to see what Ellie does next!

[Martine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. The longtime best friends to lovers angle was so well done, and the chemistry felt real. Both characters had so much heart, and their banter made me smile more than once. The small-town setting was cozy without feeling cheesy, and the story had a nice balance between sweet and emotional.

It didn’t hit quite the 5-star mark for me because a few parts felt a bit predictable, but honestly, I didn’t mind much. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling when you close it. A lovely, feel-good read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Suellynn Keil · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

My heart is so full. (I think this one might be my favorite) I was rooting for these two since book one and finally getting to read their story is such a good feeling. I’m absolutely obsessed with Parker and Summer. (Finding out why he wears Hawaiian shirts🤭) Childhood/best friends to lovers- 1000% so good. Parker is a new book boyfriend for sure!

I’m so sad this series is over. I’ve loved each and every book and I truly think this was the perfect way to end the series!


I’m super grateful to Atria Books & NetGalley for the arc copy.

[ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 but i will round up. this was a cute and short read. i obviously love the best friends to lovers aspect of it, but i think something in it fell short to me. also too many sex scenes, not enough romance.

thank you to NetGalley and publishers for this arc.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review:
Ellie K. Wilde knows how to write a MMC. If Only You Knew is a friends to lovers romance that was a very easy read. Overall the storyline was enjoyable, some side plot points such as the dad relationship and the impact it had on her surfing career and Parker’s eventual employment pivot didn’t develop for me. I also enjoyed the other books’ characters being prevalent throughout this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the digital ARC.

[Bb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this for its unconventional structure and subversion of expectations.

We got A LOT of set-up in the prior book, so I knew to expect some sort of bondage. Which I don’t love. Mainly because the accompanying dirty talk makes me cringe and all those knots seem like too much work. Plus, when an MC has a kink it’s usually their entire personality (we get it, the Good Girl would look really good tied up on your bed). Fortunately (for me), Wilde held back. In fact, it wasn’t clear whether Parker was actually into that stuff or it was just a rumor for quite a while. Which kept me intrigued, and was also a great way to explain why this handsome, charming, small-town personal trainer was still single (every date wanted to skip straight to the restraint part of the evening).

I also thought Parker’s character development and explanation as to why he hadn’t been (consciously) pining for Summer was really well done. And the scene where he realizes he is, in fact, into his gorgeous best friend was fucking hilarious ( wait, you don’t also picture our friend naked on a regular basis? )

Summer’s storyline and development were a little…iffier. The abandonment issues made sense (plus, cheers for acknowledging that adult children can still experience emotional neglect). But(unless I missed something), I never figured out whether she had been actively pining for Parker. And if she hadn’t been, why the hell not? She also spends much of the story stressing about going away for a year on a surf tour. But–and granted, I know nothing about professional surfing–I was never really convinced that she was good enough to get on the tour. Plus, like, what about your job and apartment? So all the angst and tension she was feeling fell a little flat for me.

I loved the unconventional structure (“third-act break-up” happens early and is a catalyst for the relationship). But the catalyst for the break-up depended on a character 180 that didn’t feel earned.

All that being said, I think EKW is a fantastic writer and I love the friendships she’s created and maintained in this series. I know I’ve spent much of this review criticizing, but I still really enjoyed this and think it’s one of the better and more interesting BFFs-to-Lovers out there.

TLDR: Recommended, but I prefer (and loooooved) the first two in the series .

[Tatiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually shy away from childhood best friends-to-lovers stories because the “missed years” always frustrate me, but this one? It worked. It wasn’t years of pining—it was two people so naturally, deeply connected they didn’t even realize what they had was love. From the first page, their chemistry is undeniable, and it’s hilarious how oblivious they are to it while the reader is screaming "DUH!" - they orbit each other constantly, prioritize each other unconsciously, and build their lives around one another without even noticing. You don’t get the feeling that they’re in denial—it’s more like they’ve been living inside a love story for decades and only now realize it has a name.

Parker and Summer’s dynamic is packed with swoony tension, emotional wounds, and the kind of messy, real history that makes their love story feel earned. The inciting conflict is clever and emotionally charged: Parker sets Summer up on a blind date that felt right but ended up being ooooh so wrong, triggering not only public humiliation but deeply rooted abandonment trauma from her past. That betrayal cuts deep—not because of romantic jealousy, but because she trusted Parker to protect her. Watching her walk away from him cracks the narrative wide open, giving him the space to confront his feelings, his fears, and eventually, the truth of what Summer means to him. Watching them figure out their feelings while also fumbling through betrayal, insecurity, and big life pivots made for a book I couldn't put down. The pacing dragged a little with how long he "hid his feelings" - really it wasn't super hidden since he was obvious but she doesn’t believe she’s worthy of it. I wanted him to show his cards sooner so we could bask in them as a couple - I feel like I didn't get enough time (even though what we did get was great).

Ellie K. Wilde blends emotional healing, sexual tension that has you in knots (and yes, has Summer tied in knots as well), and personal growth in such a satisfying way. A strong close to the Oakwood Bay series—equal parts angsty, tender, and joyful.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you I devoured this book - no lies were told. I’ve been completely obsessed with the Oakwood Bay series from the start. I thought Only in Your Dreams and Only Between Us had already stolen my heart… but If Only You Knew? Yeah, that one stole my soul.

Ellie put her whole being into this story - it’s emotional, funny, romantic, and the perfect conclusion to a series I never wanted to end. No notes. None.

We’ve been getting little hints of Parker and Summer’s dynamic since Book 1 - those bestie vibes that just hit different. Then there was that moment Shy pointed out in Book 2 (iykyk 👀), and I remember thinking… oh, this could be something. When Book 3 was announced, I was hyped and refreshing NetGalley like a madwoman waiting for the ARC drop.

And when I finally got it? I read it in one sitting. I laughed, cried, swooned, and felt every emotion in between. This is the ultimate best-friends-to-lovers story - equal parts heartwarming and heart-wrenching. When it ended, I just sat there, wishing I could read it again for the first time.

My favorite scene (no spoilers, promise) takes place during a video chat when Parker finally realizes his feelings. I was full-on cackling and had to reread the page multiple times - everyone’s reactions, especially his, were comedy gold and so endearing.

Ellie has this rare gift for creating characters with depth. You don’t just read about them - you root for them like they’re your own friends. And yes, I’m still mad at Summer’s dad… and Denny can stay gone.

If you love stories with humor, heartbreak, beachy vibes, and slow-burn payoff that’s so worth it - If Only You Knew is everything.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

*arc review* Getting the invite to read this arc on a Friday afternoon completely made my weekend! I was in such a reading slump and this took me out of it. I love Ellie Wilde's writing and have been impatiently awaiting Summer and Parker's story since I read the first book of this series. I was so happy to dive back into this world.

Friends to lovers can be very hit or miss for me, and while this wasn't a miss at all, it wasn't necessarily a homerun either. Summer and Parker were both enjoyable characters and I loved revisiting the prior books' couples as well. Parker was such a softy for Summer and Summer alone. Of course, it was obvious to every member of their friend group, families, and community that they were in love with each other but not obvious to themselves.

Unfortunately I find it off putting when we see main characters of a romance novel be with other people during their book's timeframe and unfortunately we saw that with Summer. Parker too, but certainly more continuous on Summer's end. It took away from their story and it made my heart hurt with how hard Parker was trying but Summer wasn't.

Overall, I did really enjoy this book! They were the perfect couple to close out the series. I appreciate the epilogue where we got subtle updates on all the couples.

I can't wait to see what Ellie has in store for the future! Thank you Atria for the invite to read this ARC and Netgalley for making it possible! And Ellie for writing this book of course:)

[Natalie Intihar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three things happened simultaneously while I was reading If Only You Knew. One: I wanted to burst into tears at the love story between Parker and Summer. Two: I wanted to go tell my partner (and former best friend) how much I love him. And three: I wanted to sit down and write. Good books have me leaving them with one or two of those feelings. This book was on a whole separate level.

Having read Only in Your Dreams and Only Between Us, Parker and Summer were familiar characters whose love story I was so excited to read. There’s something about the best friends to lovers arc that always hits for me, so I knew this would be no exception. Their story of realizing the love was always there just hit like a sucker punch in the best way. It’s the “it was always you” at its very finest.

It’s hard for me to put into words how much I loved this story and what it meant to me. Ellie’s books have always been a favorite of mine and an easy sports romance recommendation for my friends, but If Only You Knew might be my favorite book I’ve read in 2025. It had me kicking my feet and squealing, laughing out loud, and tearing up all at once. This book was simply everything to me, and I cannot wait for you all to read it as well.


Thank you to Atria Books for the opportunity to read and review this book! I received a free advance copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Lisa Villarreal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie is my instant must read immediately, or I'll throw rocks and cry, author. And she blew me away yet again! I cried reading the ending acknowledgment because I too am going to miss all of these characters and Oakwood Bay.

I am obsessed with Summer and Parker's story. It is a TRUE FRIEND to lovers. I need to go back and re read all the books to live it all again. Their story was so emotional, real, and sexy hot. The tension and he falls first trope, so good. One bed had me cackling in Greed waiting for their relationship to kick off. The tension was perfectly drawn out and the actual narrative was excellent.

Summer with her goals to Surf and compete and Parker being a true friend and supporting her through every single page. Meanwhile Parker has his own struggles and I loved seeing how he manages it and gets help from Summer and his friends. He seems like such an amazing guy and has such a huge heart. I was rooting for their happiness all the way through.

This was slightly more spicy than I usually read but I enjoyed it. It never felt cliche or boring. The main reasons I tend to not like overly spicy books. It held the plot and the story was continuing right with the spice.

[Jennie Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW 4.5⭐️’s! I have been waiting for Parker and Summer’s story, and it did not disappoint. Probably my favorite book in the series and a perfect way to wrap up the Oakwood Bay series.

Parker and Summer are life-long platonic soulmates. The book starts with them both struggling to date and deciding to set each other up on blind dates. Well, summer took the assignment seriously. Parker forgot and ended up setting her up with a random person he met in the bar.
Summer and Denny hit it off and Parker is not thrilled about it. After a couple weeks Parker learned Denny has a secret, sees red and confronts him in front of their small gossipy town. This leads to a huge rift between Parker and Summer, but also starts are a lot of realizations.

This is a slow (but necessary) burn. Watching these two finding their way to each other in a different way than before was done so incredibly well. The relationship between summer and her dad was heartbreaking. Summer had created a family with her friends and people in town but still felt unloved and unwanted. Her journey to finding herself without making concessions was beautifully written.

Thank you NetGalley and Atria books for letting me get my hands on this ARC.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5
Loved it! Classic, good-ol' friends to lovers story, where everybody around the couple knows they're meant for each other except themselves. Summer and Parker are both initially in denial, but Parker officially falls first and hard. Prepare for top-notch yearning and spice as Summer tries to deny her true feelings. Their friendship is beautiful and supportive, and it was no trouble to see how it would translate to their romantic relationship. They truly see and love each other for who they truly are. I love how Parker is able to see through Summer's defenses and hardened exterior.
Summer just wants to belong, but feels like she's easily discarded by the people and community around her. Parker opens her eyes so that she sees her chosen community and family and helps her realize that she needs to let go of people who don't put in the effort. On that note, I wished the conflict between Summer and her father was more thoroughly explored.
Loved seeing the cameos from the other couples in the series and how everybody is still in love and thriving. I thought the epilogue of this book was the perfect ending to the whole series and really tied up everything very well.

Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC!

[Rebi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was cute, and we finally got to see Parker and Summer’s story unfold.

Summer and Parker decide to challenge themselves and find that perfect person for the other. Parker forgets and finds someone, without too much vetting, and things start going pretty well, until Parker finds out thus guy is married after dating Summer for weeks. Understandably, this destroys her and continues to point her anger with Parker.

Parker comes to the realization that he’s in love Summer, after knowing each other their whole lives. Summer is slower to fully come to terms that she’s also in love with Parker, but isn’t too hard to convince. They’re definitely made for each other and suit each other well. This book was also pretty spicy.

Summer and Parker not only realize that they love each other, but have their roads to more self discovery. Summer decides to find herself by competing in surfing competitions again and figures out that her relationship with her father is horrible. Parker realizes he needs a change. He does impulsively quit his job in anger, but it’s clear it’s one of his best decisions so he could start out on his own. Together, they support each other and grow.

I received an eARC from Atria Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Micheala · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Atria and NetGalley for the early copy. All thoughts are my own.

I've been counting down the days for this one and it did not disappoint. The author has been posting teasers on Instagram and each post had me even more excited for Summer and Parker's story.

Okay, I adore childhood friends to lovers and this one definitely hit the mark. Summer and Parker were everything. The tension between them was off the charts and I loved watching them figure out their feelings for each other and then seeing how their friendship evolved from that. I really enjoyed their dynamic and I loved the mix of sweet and spicy. They both had their own struggles to overcome and I love how they worked through it all together. Not by solving each other's problems, but by being present and believing in each other. Literally, their whole friendship and relationship had me giddy.

Parker is officially one of my favourite MMCs. He was so unbelievably sweet and supportive and I'm pretty sure I visibly swooned at everything he said and did. Like the shirts, the fort, the notes, the list. Just all of it. And he wears glasses!

Honestly, everything about it was just perfect. I'm already tempted to reread it.

[Brittney · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌊✨ I’m so excited, but also a little sad to share an ARC review of If Only You Knew by Ellie K. Wilde, the final book in the Oakwood Bay series! 💙

This series has been full of small-town charm, heart-tugging friendships, and the kind of love stories that make you believe in fate and Parker and Summer’s story feels like the perfect goodbye. 🥹

In this highly anticipated finale, childhood best friends Parker and Summer decide to play matchmaker for each other… only to discover they might’ve been each other’s soulmate all along. Expect plenty of laughter, swoony moments, and the kind of slow-burn tension that’ll leave you screaming “just kiss already!”

🏄‍♀️ Best friends to lovers
🏄‍♀️ Small-town romance
🏄‍♀️ Surf competitions + second chances
🏄‍♀️ All the feels of a perfect beach read

Thank you @AtriaBooks and @elliekwildeauthor for this early copy, I’m not ready to say goodbye to Oakwood Bay, but what a way to end this series. 💫

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