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Have a Great Summer
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50 copies available
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Set against a vibrant Jersey Shore backdrop and bursting with summertime romance, hometown nostalgia, smart humor, female friendship, and millennial angst, TODAY Show journalist Francesca Cocchi’s dual-timeline teenage-crush-to-adult-lovers debut is the perfect beach read for fans of Anabel Monaghan, Carley Fortune, and Emily Henry.
If time is supposed to heal all wounds, Lina Mariano’s broken teenage heart never quite got the message—but 15 sunny, sandy, angsty Jersey Shore summers later, she finds herself unexpectedly facing her old crush, getting a new perspective—and maybe even a hopeful glimpse of the future . . .
Lina Mariano is stuck—in her hometown, in her job, and in the past. And after six years of writing up local weddings as a columnist for a popular lifestyle website, she’s wholeheartedly sick of nuptials. Worse, the next one on her list is none other than Sebastian Nikolaou’s.
Working high school summers with sweet, handsome Sebastian at his mother’s iconic beach restaurant, teenage Lina was totally wrapped up in the way he made her feel—until the night that everything changed. Even so, she’s embarrassed to admit how often she still thinks of him, and now, comparing their present lives is wrenching. It will take a careful look at her younger self, and some wisdom from the best friend who was there for it all, to see that making her dreams come true is up to her alone—whether or not those dreams still include Sebastian . . .
Poignant, engaging, and insightful, Have a Great Summer is an ode to the confused teenager in all of us, and a reminder of the blissful, excruciating, delicious days of summers gone by.
If time is supposed to heal all wounds, Lina Mariano’s broken teenage heart never quite got the message—but 15 sunny, sandy, angsty Jersey Shore summers later, she finds herself unexpectedly facing her old crush, getting a new perspective—and maybe even a hopeful glimpse of the future . . .
Lina Mariano is stuck—in her hometown, in her job, and in the past. And after six years of writing up local weddings as a columnist for a popular lifestyle website, she’s wholeheartedly sick of nuptials. Worse, the next one on her list is none other than Sebastian Nikolaou’s.
Working high school summers with sweet, handsome Sebastian at his mother’s iconic beach restaurant, teenage Lina was totally wrapped up in the way he made her feel—until the night that everything changed. Even so, she’s embarrassed to admit how often she still thinks of him, and now, comparing their present lives is wrenching. It will take a careful look at her younger self, and some wisdom from the best friend who was there for it all, to see that making her dreams come true is up to her alone—whether or not those dreams still include Sebastian . . .
Poignant, engaging, and insightful, Have a Great Summer is an ode to the confused teenager in all of us, and a reminder of the blissful, excruciating, delicious days of summers gone by.
304 pages, Paperback
Expected publication May 26, 2026
11865 people want to read
About the author
Francesca Cocchi
1 book73 followersFrancesca is a writer and editor with more than nine years of experience at national outlets, such as NBC’s TODAY and Food Network Magazine. A proud Jersey native, she grew up down the shore in Monmouth County and currently lives in Jersey City with her husband, dog, and an overflowing bookcase. Have a Great Summer is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re looking for an atmospheric beach reach packed with emotion and nostalgia a la Carley Fortune and Elin Hilderbrand … I wrote this book for you <3 (Bonus points if you love millennial references, second chance romance, or have spent any time on the Jersey Shore!)
“Set against a vibrant Jersey Shore backdrop and bursting with summertime romance, hometown nostalgia, smart humor, female friendship, and millennial angst, journalist Francesca Cocchi’s dual-timeline teenage-crush-to-adult-lovers debut is the perfect beach read for fans of Annabel Monaghan, Carley Fortune, and Emily Henry.
If time is supposed to heal all wounds, Lina Mariano’s broken teenage heart never quite got the message—but 15 sunny, sandy, angsty Jersey Shore summers later, she finds herself unexpectedly facing her old crush, getting a new perspective—and maybe even a hopeful glimpse of the future . . .
Lina Mariano is stuck—in her hometown, in her job, and in the past. And after six years of writing up local weddings as a columnist for a popular lifestyle website, she’s wholeheartedly sick of nuptials. Worse, the next one on her list is none other than Sebastian Nikolaou’s.
Working high school summers with sweet, handsome Sebastian at his mother’s iconic beach restaurant, teenage Lina was totally wrapped up in the way he made her feel—until the night that everything changed. Even so, she’s embarrassed to admit how often she still thinks of him, and now, comparing their present lives is wrenching. It will take a careful look at her younger self, and some wisdom from the best friend who was there for it all, to see that making her dreams come true is up to her alone—whether or not those dreams still include Sebastian . . .
Poignant, engaging, and insightful, Have a Great Summer is an ode to the confused teenager in all of us, and a reminder of the blissful, excruciating, delicious days of summers gone by.”
“Set against a vibrant Jersey Shore backdrop and bursting with summertime romance, hometown nostalgia, smart humor, female friendship, and millennial angst, journalist Francesca Cocchi’s dual-timeline teenage-crush-to-adult-lovers debut is the perfect beach read for fans of Annabel Monaghan, Carley Fortune, and Emily Henry.
If time is supposed to heal all wounds, Lina Mariano’s broken teenage heart never quite got the message—but 15 sunny, sandy, angsty Jersey Shore summers later, she finds herself unexpectedly facing her old crush, getting a new perspective—and maybe even a hopeful glimpse of the future . . .
Lina Mariano is stuck—in her hometown, in her job, and in the past. And after six years of writing up local weddings as a columnist for a popular lifestyle website, she’s wholeheartedly sick of nuptials. Worse, the next one on her list is none other than Sebastian Nikolaou’s.
Working high school summers with sweet, handsome Sebastian at his mother’s iconic beach restaurant, teenage Lina was totally wrapped up in the way he made her feel—until the night that everything changed. Even so, she’s embarrassed to admit how often she still thinks of him, and now, comparing their present lives is wrenching. It will take a careful look at her younger self, and some wisdom from the best friend who was there for it all, to see that making her dreams come true is up to her alone—whether or not those dreams still include Sebastian . . .
Poignant, engaging, and insightful, Have a Great Summer is an ode to the confused teenager in all of us, and a reminder of the blissful, excruciating, delicious days of summers gone by.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Although set on the Jersey Shore, this book is for anyone looking for a fun, nostalgia-inducing read that will transport you right back to your teenage years, regardless of where you spent them. Francesca's voice is second to none that makes this a very funny, very relatable and very easy read.
This book hits you in all the right places, with an amazing dual timeline romance...and an even better subplot about our most important friendships that will make you want to pick up the phone and catch up with an old friend.
This book hits you in all the right places, with an amazing dual timeline romance...and an even better subplot about our most important friendships that will make you want to pick up the phone and catch up with an old friend.
January 19, 2026
I had so much fun reading Francesca Cocchi’s debut novel! I really enjoyed the dual timelines and the nostalgia of the earlier timeline (2010’s), during which I was a college student having my own coming of age moments. I also enjoyed the writing style and personality of this book - I found myself laughing out loud and highlighting multiple quotes from both the main and supporting characters. This story fits the vibe of some of my other favorite love stories by Abby Jimenez, Jenny Han, and Emily Henry. It’s perfect for a beach read, dropping right around Memorial Day Weekend. Get ready for your own great summer with HAGS!! Now to put the finishing touches on my companion playlist that I put together while reading to keep myself in this world until actual summer is here!Thank you to NetGalley for my first ARC.
September 26, 2025
Absolutely adorable and filled with so many NJ Easter eggs it will make every Jersey Girl heart sing! 😍 Grab yourself a bagel from your favorite spot and enjoy a tale that captures millennial nostalgia and the unspeakable joy spent at the Jersey shore so lovingly that you’ll find yourself packing your beach bag and gladiator sandals before you know what hit you. Or, if you’re like me, it will transport you right back to high school and you’ll feel weirdly stressed about what to write in your crush’s yearbook. Loved it and cannot wait for more from Francesca Cocchi!
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January 9, 2026Have a Great Summer is not only a love letter to the Jersey Shore, but to friendship, family, and the importance of following your heart. This book was immediately on my radar when I saw a Tiktok posted by Francesca Cocchi saying that her debut novel was about a summer romance that took place at the Jersey Shore. As someone who grew up minutes from the Shore, I absolutely needed to give it a read and it exceeded any expectations. I highlighted so much of this book because I related to a whole lot. Having to go to work super early in the summers because of the Shore traffic, Paisley Vera Bradley bags, the Abercrombie skinny jeans & Uggs combo. So nostalgic!! I loved that she mentioned real establishments like Rook and the attention to detail. All the details Francesca Cocchi provides are so atmospheric that I really felt like I was there and she really sums up the Jersey Shore experience (not the MTV version!) perfectly.
In the book, we have dual timelines that alternate from now to 14 years ago when Angelina (Lina) Mariano was a high schooler working at Brantley Beach’s legendary restaurant, Bubba’s, which is where we meet her love interest, Sebastian. While their relationship can be a little complicated at times, the story focuses on so much more. We not only see their relationship dynamic change, but we see Lina’s character development which was very enjoyable. High school is such an impressionable time, but so is your 20s when you feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Even if you’ve never been to the Jersey Shore, there is something you will relate to or connect with in this story. Whether you attach to the characters or whether you can relate to what they’re going through, this is a perfect beach read for anyone.
Thank you to Kensington Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
P.S. Where can I get a copy of “Beach Bites: A Culinary History of the Jersey Shore”?!
In the book, we have dual timelines that alternate from now to 14 years ago when Angelina (Lina) Mariano was a high schooler working at Brantley Beach’s legendary restaurant, Bubba’s, which is where we meet her love interest, Sebastian. While their relationship can be a little complicated at times, the story focuses on so much more. We not only see their relationship dynamic change, but we see Lina’s character development which was very enjoyable. High school is such an impressionable time, but so is your 20s when you feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Even if you’ve never been to the Jersey Shore, there is something you will relate to or connect with in this story. Whether you attach to the characters or whether you can relate to what they’re going through, this is a perfect beach read for anyone.
Thank you to Kensington Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
P.S. Where can I get a copy of “Beach Bites: A Culinary History of the Jersey Shore”?!
January 7, 2026
“Sebastian had shone his light on me, and I let myself melt from the warmth.” 💙
I couldn’t have picked a better book for my first read of 2026! Have a Great Summer made me feel all the feels, and I found myself smiling so often as I read. There are so many different relationship dynamics to love and appreciate in this story, and I found myself reflecting on my own life and the people I am grateful for as I made my way through the story. Truly relatable and wholesome.
This book had me wishing I grew up on the Jersey Shore. The setting is so dreamy, cutesy, and cozy. Even better, the nostalgia brought about through all of the mid-2000s references had me reminiscing on my own teenage years. Also, we love a dual timeline. This was such an easy and refreshing read, and I couldn’t put it down! I didn’t want the story to end, but I think Francesca wrapped it up beautifully. My heart is happy!
I couldn’t have picked a better book for my first read of 2026! Have a Great Summer made me feel all the feels, and I found myself smiling so often as I read. There are so many different relationship dynamics to love and appreciate in this story, and I found myself reflecting on my own life and the people I am grateful for as I made my way through the story. Truly relatable and wholesome.
This book had me wishing I grew up on the Jersey Shore. The setting is so dreamy, cutesy, and cozy. Even better, the nostalgia brought about through all of the mid-2000s references had me reminiscing on my own teenage years. Also, we love a dual timeline. This was such an easy and refreshing read, and I couldn’t put it down! I didn’t want the story to end, but I think Francesca wrapped it up beautifully. My heart is happy!
December 18, 2025
How do I convince every romance genre-lover to read this novel?! We all know I’m a little biased towards a second chance romance, which is what Francesca kept hinting at before I was able to get this book in my hands. Not only does it tell the page-turning story of Lina and Sebastian, navigating their now-adult feelings for one another despite breaking one another’s heart in high school, but also gives way to let another relationship and love shine through by way of her best friend. This book reminds me of the Olivia Dean song, “I’ve Seen It,” due to the myriad of ways love shows up throughout Lina’s life (or the small glimpse we see of it throughout the book). Thanks for letting me read it in advance, Francesca! I’m so excited to see it officially out in the world next May.
December 15, 2025
Have a Great Summer is a perfect beach read that will transport you back in time in the best way, especially if you are from the tri-state area and used to blast playlists filled with Boys Like Girls on repeat with the windows down on the way to the beach.
Filled with millennial angst and brimming with hope and emotion, the story's dual timeline second chance premise is unique as it is teenage crush to lovers. Lina and Sebastian's connection is obvious pretty immediately when they are younger but you know she harbors resentment towards him now. Although you'd think there might be a power imbalance when they accidentally reunite years later, their dynamic was a lot sweeter and more wholesome than I expected which really drew me in. So much so, that I finished the book in one sitting.
Have a Great Summer is nostalgic, breezy, emotional and swoony and will have you itching to visit the Jersey Shore. A stunning debut from Francesca Cocchi, I'd recommend to all romance readers. Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Filled with millennial angst and brimming with hope and emotion, the story's dual timeline second chance premise is unique as it is teenage crush to lovers. Lina and Sebastian's connection is obvious pretty immediately when they are younger but you know she harbors resentment towards him now. Although you'd think there might be a power imbalance when they accidentally reunite years later, their dynamic was a lot sweeter and more wholesome than I expected which really drew me in. So much so, that I finished the book in one sitting.
Have a Great Summer is nostalgic, breezy, emotional and swoony and will have you itching to visit the Jersey Shore. A stunning debut from Francesca Cocchi, I'd recommend to all romance readers. Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
December 27, 2025
This book had me laughing out loud multiple times, my favorite type of humor. It was so cute & extremely nostalgic, especially if you went to high school in the 2010s, I appreciated all the throw backs. dare I say it got me missing payless ???
perfect summer read 🫶🏻 may or may not have to be an annoying tourist next summer 🤭
perfect summer read 🫶🏻 may or may not have to be an annoying tourist next summer 🤭
March 31, 2026
It finally happened… I won my first goodreads giveaway!!! I could not have asked for a better book to win, especially as an obsessive giveaways enterer that runs on vibes and cover art, mostly.
“Have a Great Summer” by Francesca Cocchi is set to release June 2026 and I suggest you go ahead and put this one on your TBR if you love summer beach reads, nostalgia (it is quite literally HAGS), strong female friendship, teen-to-adult love stories, and classic rom-com vibes. The style definitely reminded me of Carley Fortune and, just like her books, was an easy 5 star for me. I’ll definitely be recommending this to my friends!
I loved the dual timeline, especially because the teen moments felt so embarrassingly, yet endearingly truthful. The amount of dissecting every word and interaction with a crush as a teenager was so real and hilarious.
I also loooove when a “rom-com” isn’t just about the romance. This book is full of reminders of the good things in life - the joy of a small beach town (aka: wherever you grew up and became who you are now) - the awkwardness both as a teen and as an adult of accepting yourself and finding confidence - good and believable friendships - misunderstandings explained - and so much more!
When deciding to read a new book, especially a new author, I always search “spice” in the comments to try and get a gauge. So whatever your particular flavor, this is a delightful closed door romance. There is some lead up language and then the scenes fade to black, essentially.
I found everything about this book enjoyable and I couldn’t be more grateful to have had early access to this story!
Thank you Goodreads and Between the Chapters.
HAGS!
“Have a Great Summer” by Francesca Cocchi is set to release June 2026 and I suggest you go ahead and put this one on your TBR if you love summer beach reads, nostalgia (it is quite literally HAGS), strong female friendship, teen-to-adult love stories, and classic rom-com vibes. The style definitely reminded me of Carley Fortune and, just like her books, was an easy 5 star for me. I’ll definitely be recommending this to my friends!
I loved the dual timeline, especially because the teen moments felt so embarrassingly, yet endearingly truthful. The amount of dissecting every word and interaction with a crush as a teenager was so real and hilarious.
I also loooove when a “rom-com” isn’t just about the romance. This book is full of reminders of the good things in life - the joy of a small beach town (aka: wherever you grew up and became who you are now) - the awkwardness both as a teen and as an adult of accepting yourself and finding confidence - good and believable friendships - misunderstandings explained - and so much more!
When deciding to read a new book, especially a new author, I always search “spice” in the comments to try and get a gauge. So whatever your particular flavor, this is a delightful closed door romance. There is some lead up language and then the scenes fade to black, essentially.
I found everything about this book enjoyable and I couldn’t be more grateful to have had early access to this story!
Thank you Goodreads and Between the Chapters.
HAGS!
February 24, 2026
I’m so sad this is over! I loved this story so much and I don’t want to leave this bookverse. The feeling I got reading this is the same heartwarming joy I get watching every nostalgic romcom that we Millennials all love.
Francesca’s writing is relatable and funny - it feels like you’re talking to a friend. Lots of relatable themes of young love and crushes, adulthood not being as simple as it seemed when you were little, and the importance of friendship & community.
This is the perfect book to add to your summer reading list ☀️😎⛱️🌊
Francesca: I need a sequel and a Maren-focused book ASAP! Please 😇
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Francesca’s writing is relatable and funny - it feels like you’re talking to a friend. Lots of relatable themes of young love and crushes, adulthood not being as simple as it seemed when you were little, and the importance of friendship & community.
This is the perfect book to add to your summer reading list ☀️😎⛱️🌊
Francesca: I need a sequel and a Maren-focused book ASAP! Please 😇
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2025
okay so here is the book of summer 2026! i was smiling, giggling and kicking my feet the whole entire time. i loved this story and i love new jersey!!!!
February 25, 2026
This was sweet and atmospheric. Maybe too low stakes and telling over showing for me, but I recommend it!
December 18, 2025
If you’re a fan of Emily Henry, Carley Fortune or any classic romcom, you need to read this!! I couldn’t believe this was Francesca’s first book. Oftentimes in debuts there is some expected stumbling as the author find their footing as a writer, but there’s none of that here. The way she writes and the characters she created have you hooked from the start and never let you go. I absolutely devoured this book over the course of a few of the coldest days we’ve had in NYC this season and I was totally transported from my chilly apartment to this sunny beach town in Jersey. It was just what I needed right now, though it’s also the kind of book you’ll want to bring along for a day at the beach or your next vacation. If you’re looking for great love story, you’ll be more than satisfied. But beyond that, there’s also heartwarming friendships, plenty of laugh out loud moments and a whole lot of nostalgia that every millennial will appreciate. May needs to come faster so I can tell all my friends to read this book!!
January 8, 2026
A delicious beach read from an amazing debut author 💯
December 6, 2025
Beach read that got me through the first part of winter
January 7, 2026
3.5 Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. This book had so much and was such a cute romance story. At the beginning I wasn’t sure if this was going to lead more towards regular women’s fiction over your true and true romance come but around the 30% mark I was sure what I was getting into. For me what makes the perfect second chance romance is the yearning between the two main characters in the “now” timeline. This book unfortunately did not have too much of that in my opinion. The two main characters didn’t really have any tension in my opinion and I was never really worried that they wouldn’t get together because there was no real reason for them not to. The conflict is more so introduced in the last act of the novel but I feel like the dynamic of the characters was too underdeveloped for it to make a lot of sense or to make me feel anything . The past timeline was more interesting to me personally and varied parts of the novel for me. The atmosphere of the novel as a whole all made a huge impact on my enjoyment of the novel. Down to the side characters everyone felt so real and helped to move the plot along. This book is going to make a great summer read and I would recommend picking this up.
December 27, 2025
Have a Great Summer is a poignant, heartfelt debut that beautifully captures love, loss, and the quiet truth that what’s meant for us has a way of finding us, no matter how messy the path. I flew through this book; it’s equal parts fun, emotional, and deeply relatable.
Sebastian and Lina’s story felt so real!! It’s tender, frustrating, and achingly honest in the way only the most meaningful relationships are. Their connection stayed with me long after I turned the final page. And as someone familiar with the Jersey Shore, the local references felt like little Easter eggs woven perfectly into the story, adding an extra layer of charm.
I also loved how thoughtfully the novel highlighted the importance of female friendship. The bonds between the women felt just as impactful as the romance, grounding the story and reminding you how essential those connections are in every season of life.
A moving, nostalgic read that reminds you of first loves, missed chances, and the summers that shape who we become. Highly recommend!
Sebastian and Lina’s story felt so real!! It’s tender, frustrating, and achingly honest in the way only the most meaningful relationships are. Their connection stayed with me long after I turned the final page. And as someone familiar with the Jersey Shore, the local references felt like little Easter eggs woven perfectly into the story, adding an extra layer of charm.
I also loved how thoughtfully the novel highlighted the importance of female friendship. The bonds between the women felt just as impactful as the romance, grounding the story and reminding you how essential those connections are in every season of life.
A moving, nostalgic read that reminds you of first loves, missed chances, and the summers that shape who we become. Highly recommend!
December 14, 2025
Rather than judging a book by its cover, I always judge a book by how quickly I read it. The fact that I finished this in less than 2 days while caring for an 8 month old speaks volumes. This book checks a lot of things I look for in romance books: second chance love, dual timeline, Jersey setting, and the world of weddings. But what I loved the most wasn’t the traditional romantic love plot but the subplots of self love and the power of female friendships. Cocchi was intentional about every choice she made, from the witty banter to the powerful imagery. This is a stunning debut and I can’t wait to see more.
January 2, 2026
For anyone that has ever lived, visited, or vacation anywhere along the Jersey Shore, this book is for you! You can tell the author knows the area personally and infuses her local passion and personal experiences into the fabric of the story. Adorable, fun, relatable and overall the perfect beach read.
January 28, 2026
a vivid vacation to the jersey shore that makes you ache, reliving the pains of young love, while also inspiring you with friendship and all the dreams you can realize in adulthood. it offers this with a side of good coffee plus a porkroll, egg, and cheese with SPK, obviously. HAGS is your next favorite beach read that’ll bring the beach to you too.
March 4, 2026
The only thing better than a summer rom com is a summer rom com set on the Jersey Shore! Loved all the references to the areas and businesses all around me. Had me reminiscing about my own teen years!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington and Francesca Cocchi for giving me the opportunity to read this book early. It’s going to be a huge hit this summer!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington and Francesca Cocchi for giving me the opportunity to read this book early. It’s going to be a huge hit this summer!
December 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! From the first chapter, it hooked me with laugh-out-loud millennial references that felt nostalgic and fun. This is truly a girl’s girl book—the kind that celebrates friendship, growth, and romance in a way that feels relatable and empowering.
The Jersey Shore setting is done right. It’s vibrant, charming, and vivid enough to turn any reader into a wannabe tourist, dreaming of boardwalks, beach days, and summer nights by the water. The setting felt like a character all on its own.
Most of all, this was such an easy, engaging read. It kept me hooked and excited to find out how Lina and Sebastian’s love story would play out. Their journey kept me invested from start to finish, making this the perfect book for anyone looking for a feel-good romance with heart, humor, and beachy vibes.
The Jersey Shore setting is done right. It’s vibrant, charming, and vivid enough to turn any reader into a wannabe tourist, dreaming of boardwalks, beach days, and summer nights by the water. The setting felt like a character all on its own.
Most of all, this was such an easy, engaging read. It kept me hooked and excited to find out how Lina and Sebastian’s love story would play out. Their journey kept me invested from start to finish, making this the perfect book for anyone looking for a feel-good romance with heart, humor, and beachy vibes.
February 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the early copy of this book. Here is my honest review.
This was a cute, beachy second chance childhood friends to lovers story.
I liked all of the jumps back in time with the cute little High school crushes an the teenage job. It dropped me right into that space and in wished I could take a walk through that world and visit bubbas for lunch.
I also enjoyed the romance sparking back up between Sebastian and Lina. I loved the wedding scene and the swooney vibes in those chapters.
Spoiler-I didn’t like the third act breakup and the long time lapse though. I feel like it was lost time over a terrible misunderstanding and I didn’t like the best friend interfering the way she did but I’m glad they still got their happily ever after.
Will her best friend get her love story next? I’d be happy to read it.
This was a cute, beachy second chance childhood friends to lovers story.
I liked all of the jumps back in time with the cute little High school crushes an the teenage job. It dropped me right into that space and in wished I could take a walk through that world and visit bubbas for lunch.
I also enjoyed the romance sparking back up between Sebastian and Lina. I loved the wedding scene and the swooney vibes in those chapters.
Spoiler-I didn’t like the third act breakup and the long time lapse though. I feel like it was lost time over a terrible misunderstanding and I didn’t like the best friend interfering the way she did but I’m glad they still got their happily ever after.
Will her best friend get her love story next? I’d be happy to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2026
What a debut novel for Francesca Cocchi! I absolutely loved this book, and had a hard time putting it down. This is a perfect summer read, and will give you all the feels. This is a must read!
Read
February 18, 2026Ugh NOSTALGIA 💕 this made me so homesick for a jersey shore summer
December 6, 2025
Love this book so much. I thought about Lina and Sebastian long after it was over! The perfect Jersey Shore summer read. No notes!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lina Mariano is still in her hometown (admittedly in holiday destination New Jersey but still...), writing about weddings when she really wants to branch out to other journalism - when her boss says she will consider giving Lina a promotion after the next wedding on her list, but this is the kicker, the nuptials include the boy who broke her heart 15 years ago - Sebastian Nikolaou. Not awkward...at...all... Lina had a major crush on Sebastian and obsessively analysed all interactions with him with her best friend Maren - looks like not much has changed! Can Lina suck up her feelings and get through this union to gain her promotion or will she fall head over heels for the unobtainable Sebastian all over again?
The Pros:
1) I was a big fan of the dual timeline - flashing back to when the main characters are teens
2) I so related to Lina and Maren obsessively discussing their crushes as teens - this was a great part of the story
3) I liked all the characters in the book - even the side ones, which is very rare lol
4) I liked the author’s acknowledgements etc. It gave great insight into her inspiration behind the story
5) The Jersey shore backdrop was really appealing - especially as Lina lived there full time and not just for a holiday
The Cons:
1) Without spoiling anything... I could have down without some of the third act
2) I felt like the book was a bit too calm? I think a bit more action/a shock/surprise etc would have elevated the story
3) It’s made me want to go on holiday! The book had such lovely summery holiday destination vibes
The Quotes:
1) Everyone assumes the worst thing about living in a beach town year-round is the off season lull. The truth? It’s those glorious summer days filled with constant reminders that other people are on vacation and you are not.
2) Once you’ve written about enough weddings - and seen “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles listed in the recessional song at least two dozen times - you realize how impersonal and interchangeable it all actually is.
3) Sebastian texted me the next morning. His message said, Overthinkers’ Support Group with a little “TM” next to it, the trademark emoji.
I responded: Not to immediately overthink, but we need a better name.
The Summary:
I can’t believe Have a Great Summer is the authors debut novel - it reads like an established author who’s been doing it for years. I loved the story, Lina, still living in her hometown, bumps into Sebastian who broke her heart all those years ago and now she has to be included in their nuptials. I found the characters - especially the main characters and Lina’s best friend Maren, so likeable and especially relatable when the girls are teenagers and obsessing over their crushes’ every interaction. The dual timeline worked really well in the story. There isn’t really much I could fault in the book except I could have done without some of the 3rd act... and I felt like maybe it was a bit TOO calm? A shock/surprise around this sort of time in the story would have elevated the plot I think.
I just wanted to include this sweet message in the acknowledgements of the book:
I wrote the majority of this book on my couch between the hours of 8.00pm and 10:00pm. Huge thanks to my dog, Stevie, for the emotional support cuddles, and for forcing me to touch grass.
Summed up in a sentence?:
Lina’s all time crush comes back to town to get married
I rated the book 4.25 stars (rounded down to 4)
The Pros:
1) I was a big fan of the dual timeline - flashing back to when the main characters are teens
2) I so related to Lina and Maren obsessively discussing their crushes as teens - this was a great part of the story
3) I liked all the characters in the book - even the side ones, which is very rare lol
4) I liked the author’s acknowledgements etc. It gave great insight into her inspiration behind the story
5) The Jersey shore backdrop was really appealing - especially as Lina lived there full time and not just for a holiday
The Cons:
1) Without spoiling anything... I could have down without some of the third act
2) I felt like the book was a bit too calm? I think a bit more action/a shock/surprise etc would have elevated the story
3) It’s made me want to go on holiday! The book had such lovely summery holiday destination vibes
The Quotes:
1) Everyone assumes the worst thing about living in a beach town year-round is the off season lull. The truth? It’s those glorious summer days filled with constant reminders that other people are on vacation and you are not.
2) Once you’ve written about enough weddings - and seen “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles listed in the recessional song at least two dozen times - you realize how impersonal and interchangeable it all actually is.
3) Sebastian texted me the next morning. His message said, Overthinkers’ Support Group with a little “TM” next to it, the trademark emoji.
I responded: Not to immediately overthink, but we need a better name.
The Summary:
I can’t believe Have a Great Summer is the authors debut novel - it reads like an established author who’s been doing it for years. I loved the story, Lina, still living in her hometown, bumps into Sebastian who broke her heart all those years ago and now she has to be included in their nuptials. I found the characters - especially the main characters and Lina’s best friend Maren, so likeable and especially relatable when the girls are teenagers and obsessing over their crushes’ every interaction. The dual timeline worked really well in the story. There isn’t really much I could fault in the book except I could have done without some of the 3rd act... and I felt like maybe it was a bit TOO calm? A shock/surprise around this sort of time in the story would have elevated the plot I think.
I just wanted to include this sweet message in the acknowledgements of the book:
I wrote the majority of this book on my couch between the hours of 8.00pm and 10:00pm. Huge thanks to my dog, Stevie, for the emotional support cuddles, and for forcing me to touch grass.
Summed up in a sentence?:
Lina’s all time crush comes back to town to get married
I rated the book 4.25 stars (rounded down to 4)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First, I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Have a Great Summer is a nostalgic and touching second-chance summer romance. Lina, a journalist stuck writing wedding pieces, is assigned to cover the wedding of Sebastian, none other than the boy who broke her heart in high school. Their story unfolds through a dual timeline between the present day and flashbacks to their teenage summers.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book as a relaxed holiday or beach read. It’s an easygoing, wholesome, and charming story that captures the magic of summer and young love.
I particularly loved the dual timeline and the nostalgic return to their teenage years. There’s something so magical and tender about teenage love that we rarely experience again as adults. It’s the culmination of so many vulnerable firsts, and Francesca beautifully captures the yearning, angst, excitement, and heartbreak of young love. The early-2000s references added another layer of nostalgia and instantly transported me back in time. While the story is set on the Jersey Shore, the emotions surrounding first love feel universal and will appeal to all.
The writing style read effortlessly and the whole story is set in an atmospheric summer setting on the Jersey Shore, making this one a real "easy breezy book" with great potential for being a holiday or beach read. The summer atmosphere was seeping through the pages and I felt like I was right there on those warm evenings too.
I also really appreciated the strong representation of female friendship. Romance novels sometimes overlook this dynamic or portray other women as rivals, but here friendship is shown as a pillar of support, which felt refreshing and genuine.
The book hit me in all the right places, from the romance to the importance of friendship - it made me want to pick up my phone and call all my old high school friends to catch up. I think this book will especially appeal to readers who enjoy low-stakes, heartwarming romances with a strong sense of nostalgia.
What you can expect:
• Second-chance romance
• Teenage crush → adult love
• Dual timeline
• Nostalgia / coming-of-age elements
• Strong female friendships
Returning to your hometown
Have a Great Summer is a nostalgic and touching second-chance summer romance. Lina, a journalist stuck writing wedding pieces, is assigned to cover the wedding of Sebastian, none other than the boy who broke her heart in high school. Their story unfolds through a dual timeline between the present day and flashbacks to their teenage summers.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book as a relaxed holiday or beach read. It’s an easygoing, wholesome, and charming story that captures the magic of summer and young love.
I particularly loved the dual timeline and the nostalgic return to their teenage years. There’s something so magical and tender about teenage love that we rarely experience again as adults. It’s the culmination of so many vulnerable firsts, and Francesca beautifully captures the yearning, angst, excitement, and heartbreak of young love. The early-2000s references added another layer of nostalgia and instantly transported me back in time. While the story is set on the Jersey Shore, the emotions surrounding first love feel universal and will appeal to all.
The writing style read effortlessly and the whole story is set in an atmospheric summer setting on the Jersey Shore, making this one a real "easy breezy book" with great potential for being a holiday or beach read. The summer atmosphere was seeping through the pages and I felt like I was right there on those warm evenings too.
I also really appreciated the strong representation of female friendship. Romance novels sometimes overlook this dynamic or portray other women as rivals, but here friendship is shown as a pillar of support, which felt refreshing and genuine.
The book hit me in all the right places, from the romance to the importance of friendship - it made me want to pick up my phone and call all my old high school friends to catch up. I think this book will especially appeal to readers who enjoy low-stakes, heartwarming romances with a strong sense of nostalgia.
What you can expect:
• Second-chance romance
• Teenage crush → adult love
• Dual timeline
• Nostalgia / coming-of-age elements
• Strong female friendships
Returning to your hometown
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
For a debut novel, I was really impressed. The writing is confident and honestly gave off strong Emily Henry vibes. I enjoy Emily Henry so that definitely worked in its favor.
That said, I had some issues.
My biggest issue was Lina. She felt immature to me and I found it hard to root for a protagonist who spends years with this emotional scar from a guy who kissed her once in high school. Is Sebastian impossibly gorgeous, the guy every girl wants, and somehow also the kindest person in the room? Sure. And to be fair, he is described really well, but the whole dynamic of this school-girl crush that crushed her heart didn't fully connect for me. The humiliation that is supposed to drive Lina and Sebastian's whole arc just did not hit the way I had hoped. I thought it would be way worse, but it was just a kiss and some rude comments. I didn't even think they were all that mean and she's what, 16 at the time? Young but not young enough to not see he was clearly not in the right headspace. She's known this boy for 2 summers, gotten very close to him, and couldn't tell he was not doing okay...? Had he been her first, or had the boys actually been more cruel about it, I would have understood why it followed her into adulthood. But a kiss? It felt a little thin.
The timeline also got to me. These two go to the same school and yet somehow only exist in each other's worlds during summer? And then after their falling out we get a 9 month time jump and his big move to win her back is... calling her best friend for advice. That's it. Come on. It always felt like she was the one chasing after him, quite literally.
Oh and the interview where Sebastian implies he named The Jetty for her, but then his own chapter tells us he was always going to name it that anyway? Small thing but it got me.
Then the ending. He doesn't fully propose but kind of does...? Sir. You two have all of this history together. What is the hold up? Just go for it!
Am I glad I read it? Yes.
Would I recommend it? As a fellow Jersey girl, sure. It is a fun, quick summer read and a really promising debut.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to Kensington for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
That said, I had some issues.
My biggest issue was Lina. She felt immature to me and I found it hard to root for a protagonist who spends years with this emotional scar from a guy who kissed her once in high school. Is Sebastian impossibly gorgeous, the guy every girl wants, and somehow also the kindest person in the room? Sure. And to be fair, he is described really well, but the whole dynamic of this school-girl crush that crushed her heart didn't fully connect for me. The humiliation that is supposed to drive Lina and Sebastian's whole arc just did not hit the way I had hoped. I thought it would be way worse, but it was just a kiss and some rude comments. I didn't even think they were all that mean and she's what, 16 at the time? Young but not young enough to not see he was clearly not in the right headspace. She's known this boy for 2 summers, gotten very close to him, and couldn't tell he was not doing okay...? Had he been her first, or had the boys actually been more cruel about it, I would have understood why it followed her into adulthood. But a kiss? It felt a little thin.
The timeline also got to me. These two go to the same school and yet somehow only exist in each other's worlds during summer? And then after their falling out we get a 9 month time jump and his big move to win her back is... calling her best friend for advice. That's it. Come on. It always felt like she was the one chasing after him, quite literally.
Oh and the interview where Sebastian implies he named The Jetty for her, but then his own chapter tells us he was always going to name it that anyway? Small thing but it got me.
Then the ending. He doesn't fully propose but kind of does...? Sir. You two have all of this history together. What is the hold up? Just go for it!
Am I glad I read it? Yes.
Would I recommend it? As a fellow Jersey girl, sure. It is a fun, quick summer read and a really promising debut.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to Kensington for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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