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Underneath Sunset Skies: A Summer Romance
Ellie Carrington’s life was fairly simple. She lived in a world surrounded by her first love a.k.a coffee. Dated Falmouth, Massachusetts's most popular jock, and spent her summers in her most treasured place—Sunset Bay. However, after her breakup, which marked the most humiliating day of her life, Ellie finds herself spiraling into uncertainty.
Encouraged by her best friend and her insistent mother, Ellie reluctantly returns to Sunset Bay, a small fishing town that once felt like home. Just when she believes things couldn’t get more complicated, the arrival of her ex’s mysterious brother, Asher Reeves, threatens to push her over the edge. Sharing a house with him for the entire summer awakens emotions Ellie would rather keep buried.
In this delightful romcom, Ellie discovers that the journey to recovery often takes unexpected turns, leading her to places where hope blossoms anew. Filled with laughter and heartfelt moments, she learns that while healing isn’t always straightforward, love might just be the pathway to a brighter tomorrow.
Encouraged by her best friend and her insistent mother, Ellie reluctantly returns to Sunset Bay, a small fishing town that once felt like home. Just when she believes things couldn’t get more complicated, the arrival of her ex’s mysterious brother, Asher Reeves, threatens to push her over the edge. Sharing a house with him for the entire summer awakens emotions Ellie would rather keep buried.
In this delightful romcom, Ellie discovers that the journey to recovery often takes unexpected turns, leading her to places where hope blossoms anew. Filled with laughter and heartfelt moments, she learns that while healing isn’t always straightforward, love might just be the pathway to a brighter tomorrow.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun summery read! I really loved the town of Sunset Bay and am excited there will be more stories in this series so I can visit again! The Reeves family and the townspeople made such a fun small town community!!
Asher and Ellie were really cute. I loved watching Ellie’s journey finding herself and what she wanted out of life after a breakup and feeling lost. And I also loved how Asher was a little mysterious but also confident in pursuing Ellie in their relationship.
Read if you love…
🌊 Cozy beach towns
🏠 Forced Proximity
🚫 Forbidden Love
👦🏽 He falls first
☕️ Coffee
👙 The Summer I Turned Pretty vibes
Content: no language, detailed kissing
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC!
Asher and Ellie were really cute. I loved watching Ellie’s journey finding herself and what she wanted out of life after a breakup and feeling lost. And I also loved how Asher was a little mysterious but also confident in pursuing Ellie in their relationship.
Read if you love…
🌊 Cozy beach towns
🏠 Forced Proximity
🚫 Forbidden Love
👦🏽 He falls first
☕️ Coffee
👙 The Summer I Turned Pretty vibes
Content: no language, detailed kissing
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC!
May 13, 2026
I received an ARC from BookSirens and want to thank Makenzie Hinkemeyer for letting me read Underneath Sunset Skies before release day.
This book was so easy to fall into from the very beginning. Being in Ellie’s point of view made it incredibly easy to connect with her emotions, insecurities, and everything she was struggling with after her breakup. She felt so real to me—strong in some moments, but also deeply unsure about herself, her future, and where life was taking her.
One of my favourite parts of this story was definitely Sunset Bay itself. The small-town atmosphere was absolutely lovable. It felt exactly like the kind of community people dream about—supportive townspeople, cozy weekends together, and that comforting feeling of everyone looking out for each other. I genuinely wanted to pack my bags and spend a summer there myself.
And then there is Asher Reeves… honestly, how am I ever supposed to have normal standards again with book boyfriends like him? He completely stole my heart. Every time he appeared on the page, I found myself smiling and giggling because he was such an unbelievable green flag. Caring, supportive, thoughtful, dependable—he was basically the definition of the perfect man.
What I especially loved was that the story did not feel overly predictable. Even though Ellie and Asher had amazing chemistry, I genuinely kept wondering how everything would work out for them and if they would actually find their way to each other. That emotional uncertainty kept me completely invested in their journey.
Watching Asher help Ellie slowly discover what she truly wanted and deserved made my heart melt. Her character development throughout the story felt emotional and authentic, and seeing her slowly heal and grow more confident was beautiful to read.
This was such a lovely summer romance filled with heart, healing, small-town charm, and the ultimate green flag handyman book boyfriend. I truly loved reading it and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy, romantic summer read that leaves you smiling long after finishing it.
This book was so easy to fall into from the very beginning. Being in Ellie’s point of view made it incredibly easy to connect with her emotions, insecurities, and everything she was struggling with after her breakup. She felt so real to me—strong in some moments, but also deeply unsure about herself, her future, and where life was taking her.
One of my favourite parts of this story was definitely Sunset Bay itself. The small-town atmosphere was absolutely lovable. It felt exactly like the kind of community people dream about—supportive townspeople, cozy weekends together, and that comforting feeling of everyone looking out for each other. I genuinely wanted to pack my bags and spend a summer there myself.
And then there is Asher Reeves… honestly, how am I ever supposed to have normal standards again with book boyfriends like him? He completely stole my heart. Every time he appeared on the page, I found myself smiling and giggling because he was such an unbelievable green flag. Caring, supportive, thoughtful, dependable—he was basically the definition of the perfect man.
What I especially loved was that the story did not feel overly predictable. Even though Ellie and Asher had amazing chemistry, I genuinely kept wondering how everything would work out for them and if they would actually find their way to each other. That emotional uncertainty kept me completely invested in their journey.
Watching Asher help Ellie slowly discover what she truly wanted and deserved made my heart melt. Her character development throughout the story felt emotional and authentic, and seeing her slowly heal and grow more confident was beautiful to read.
This was such a lovely summer romance filled with heart, healing, small-town charm, and the ultimate green flag handyman book boyfriend. I truly loved reading it and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy, romantic summer read that leaves you smiling long after finishing it.
May 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 stars
Underneath Sunset Skies by Mackenzie Hinkemeyer
📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance
❤️ Intimacy: Closed Door (descriptive making out)
🙊 Language: Mild
✨ Vibes: flirty, fun, charming, low drama, HIGH yearn
👩❤️👨 Tropes: ex’s brother, forced proximity, he falls first, one house, found family, small town charm, slow burn, strangers to more, single POV
My Thoughts
Did I just become a romcom girl?! I think I did ☀️
This book was PERFECTION. Like genuinely everything I want in a summer romance.
It was sweet, flirty, charming, hilarious, full of yearning, and somehow managed to make me feel completely giddy the entire time I was reading it. I was literally smiling like an idiot through half this book.
And if I'm being honest, “love at first sight” or instant connection stories are usually NOT my thing (at all). But Mackenzie somehow made this feel like both an instant connection AND a slow burn at the same time, and I honestly don’t even know how she pulled it off so well. Because yes, Ellie and Asher are immediately drawn to each other, but the actual foundation of their relationship is built so intentionally throughout the story. It’s not just attraction or chemistry carrying the romance.
It’s their shared values, humor, kindness, the way they naturally care for people, the ease between them, the friendship. It all felt so genuine and REAL.
Asher
Can we talk about Asher for a second??? This man was literally engineered in a lab (or an incredible author's beautiful brain) to make women swoon.
Hard working ✅
Flirty, but not in an icky way ✅
Intentional ✅
Confident ✅
Thoughtful ✅
Protective without being overbearing ✅
And THE YEARNING?!?!? ✅ ✅ ✅
I absolutely loved him. He felt mature in a way that made the romance feel so comforting and satisfying instead of overly dramatic.
Ellie
Hands down, Ellie’s inner monologue was my favorite part of the entire book 😂
I cannot explain how many times I laughed (excuse me... cackled) out loud while reading this because her thoughts felt SO real and unfiltered in the best way. Like truly the kind of inner thoughts you’d NEVER say out loud, but absolutely think. She was funny, warm, relatable, and had such a good balance of confidence and vulnerability.
The Romance
The chemistry in this book was AMAZING. Not in this super heavy, angst-filled way, but in this fun, flirty, blushy kind of way that just made me ridiculously happy.
And THE NOTE UNDER THE DOOR?!?!? I genuinely cannot.
Honorable mentions include:
🩷 late nights in the kitchen
💛 pasta dates
🧡 car rides together
🩷 the town cookout
💛 meddling family/townspeople
🧡 trying to murder someone with a corkscrew
I loved ALL of it.
And one thing I appreciated SO much was that this story stayed relatively low drama while still keeping me completely invested the entire time. That honestly feels rare these days.
The “Ex’s Brother” Trope
If the ex’s brother trope normally scares you a little, I genuinely don’t think it should here. It is painfully obvious from the beginning that Ellie and Grayson were never supposed to be together, and there’s no weird love triangle energy hanging over the story. Honestly, everyone (including Grayson himself) seems to realize Ellie and Asher make way more sense together.
Final Thoughts
This book felt like summer in the absolute best way. Warm, fun, comforting, flirty, hopeful... It made me want to spend the summer in a tiny New England coastal town eating pasta, flirting in kitchens, and leaving notes under doors!
I loved literally every second of this story.
Huge thank you to Mackenzie Hinkemeyer for the ARC copy and for apparently making me a romcom girl now 😂
Underneath Sunset Skies by Mackenzie Hinkemeyer
📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance
❤️ Intimacy: Closed Door (descriptive making out)
🙊 Language: Mild
✨ Vibes: flirty, fun, charming, low drama, HIGH yearn
👩❤️👨 Tropes: ex’s brother, forced proximity, he falls first, one house, found family, small town charm, slow burn, strangers to more, single POV
My Thoughts
Did I just become a romcom girl?! I think I did ☀️
This book was PERFECTION. Like genuinely everything I want in a summer romance.
It was sweet, flirty, charming, hilarious, full of yearning, and somehow managed to make me feel completely giddy the entire time I was reading it. I was literally smiling like an idiot through half this book.
And if I'm being honest, “love at first sight” or instant connection stories are usually NOT my thing (at all). But Mackenzie somehow made this feel like both an instant connection AND a slow burn at the same time, and I honestly don’t even know how she pulled it off so well. Because yes, Ellie and Asher are immediately drawn to each other, but the actual foundation of their relationship is built so intentionally throughout the story. It’s not just attraction or chemistry carrying the romance.
It’s their shared values, humor, kindness, the way they naturally care for people, the ease between them, the friendship. It all felt so genuine and REAL.
Asher
Can we talk about Asher for a second??? This man was literally engineered in a lab (or an incredible author's beautiful brain) to make women swoon.
Hard working ✅
Flirty, but not in an icky way ✅
Intentional ✅
Confident ✅
Thoughtful ✅
Protective without being overbearing ✅
And THE YEARNING?!?!? ✅ ✅ ✅
I absolutely loved him. He felt mature in a way that made the romance feel so comforting and satisfying instead of overly dramatic.
Ellie
Hands down, Ellie’s inner monologue was my favorite part of the entire book 😂
I cannot explain how many times I laughed (excuse me... cackled) out loud while reading this because her thoughts felt SO real and unfiltered in the best way. Like truly the kind of inner thoughts you’d NEVER say out loud, but absolutely think. She was funny, warm, relatable, and had such a good balance of confidence and vulnerability.
The Romance
The chemistry in this book was AMAZING. Not in this super heavy, angst-filled way, but in this fun, flirty, blushy kind of way that just made me ridiculously happy.
And THE NOTE UNDER THE DOOR?!?!? I genuinely cannot.
Honorable mentions include:
🩷 late nights in the kitchen
💛 pasta dates
🧡 car rides together
🩷 the town cookout
💛 meddling family/townspeople
🧡 trying to murder someone with a corkscrew
I loved ALL of it.
And one thing I appreciated SO much was that this story stayed relatively low drama while still keeping me completely invested the entire time. That honestly feels rare these days.
The “Ex’s Brother” Trope
If the ex’s brother trope normally scares you a little, I genuinely don’t think it should here. It is painfully obvious from the beginning that Ellie and Grayson were never supposed to be together, and there’s no weird love triangle energy hanging over the story. Honestly, everyone (including Grayson himself) seems to realize Ellie and Asher make way more sense together.
Final Thoughts
This book felt like summer in the absolute best way. Warm, fun, comforting, flirty, hopeful... It made me want to spend the summer in a tiny New England coastal town eating pasta, flirting in kitchens, and leaving notes under doors!
I loved literally every second of this story.
Huge thank you to Mackenzie Hinkemeyer for the ARC copy and for apparently making me a romcom girl now 😂
May 15, 2026
Well, wow! This book was fantastic and I can hardly wait for the next one to come out in the series.
I loved that the story was told entirely from Ellie's perspective because it really helped me experience everything as she was experiencing it. The attraction between Ellie and Asher was perfect and I loved the way everything played out between them. They were so good together!
The author did a great job of creating a small town community and a family that I wish was real. I enjoyed this story so much!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I loved that the story was told entirely from Ellie's perspective because it really helped me experience everything as she was experiencing it. The attraction between Ellie and Asher was perfect and I loved the way everything played out between them. They were so good together!
The author did a great job of creating a small town community and a family that I wish was real. I enjoyed this story so much!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2026
I received Underneath Sunset Skies as an ARC from the author and was initially hooked. I loved Ellie’s twin brothers, the gorgeous setting, and that the story is told in first person. The setting really is the best part, in my opinion, and I ended the book excited for summer and wanting to take a trip to Sunset Beach. However, I almost didn’t finish it because I became a bit uncomfortable as the story took a turn away from what I would define as a “clean read.”
While there are no explicit scenes or language (which I definitely appreciate!), the story does have a strong emphasis strictly on physical attraction, which I am not a huge fan of. The bodily description of the MMC was repeated often throughout the novel, and there were several sensual lines, such as Asher undressing Ellie with his eyes. The first kissing scene was also a bit more graphic than I was expecting.
I know what is defined as a “clean romance” varies from person to person, but I was not prepared for the amount of sensuality in this novel, or the focus on physical attraction over emotional connection. I did enjoy the story, but the romance aspect was not for me, which is why I am rating it 3 stars.
While there are no explicit scenes or language (which I definitely appreciate!), the story does have a strong emphasis strictly on physical attraction, which I am not a huge fan of. The bodily description of the MMC was repeated often throughout the novel, and there were several sensual lines, such as Asher undressing Ellie with his eyes. The first kissing scene was also a bit more graphic than I was expecting.
I know what is defined as a “clean romance” varies from person to person, but I was not prepared for the amount of sensuality in this novel, or the focus on physical attraction over emotional connection. I did enjoy the story, but the romance aspect was not for me, which is why I am rating it 3 stars.
May 18, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This is a cannot put down the book kind of story. I was able to read the book in two days, but that’s just because life got in the way. Really wanted to read it in one setting. It was a summer romance set in a small town with wonderful characters that you can’t help fall in love with. There’s so many characters that I hope get their own book in the series. There’s also a bit of a side mystery happening in the story, but it will unfold more in other books in the series.
The chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts. It was a really believable love story. There was no Insta love, but rather becoming friends and truly seeing each other progression into love. I love the hard work ethic and sense of community that this book promoted.
Best of all is that this is a kisses only clean romance with no swearing and highlights good values.
Rating: PG
The chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts. It was a really believable love story. There was no Insta love, but rather becoming friends and truly seeing each other progression into love. I love the hard work ethic and sense of community that this book promoted.
Best of all is that this is a kisses only clean romance with no swearing and highlights good values.
Rating: PG
May 21, 2026
First of all, I thought Ellie was so fun and funny! Her inner monologue felt like mine LOL which just made her all the more relatable. Asher is a little flirt (but only with her) and I loved their chemistry and banter grow from their first interaction. The small beach town was charming, as was its residents, and I wanted to be a part of that found family so badly! Ellie dates Asher’s brother in the past, so I found it kind of weird they never met before this summer. It was explained in a fairly believable way, though! I came for the beach vibes, but stuck around for the romantic tension. I’m invested in these characters and can’ wait to see what happens next in Sunset Bay! Would be a great summer read!
May 15, 2026
Small town, Summer vibes, great friendships, coffee and of course, love, make this book worth every minute of reading!
Ellie has been through heartbreak and is just trying to find where she fits and feels happy in life. I really liked seeing her character growth as she began to trust her own choices and gain confidence in herself along the way.
Asher is just such a great guy, willing to do anything he can for those he cares for. The way he shows his growing love for Ellie is just so sweet and loved watching their friendship slowly grow and begin to turn into more.
This is such a beautiful summer romance with healing and growth along the way! I cannot wait to read more in the series!
Ellie has been through heartbreak and is just trying to find where she fits and feels happy in life. I really liked seeing her character growth as she began to trust her own choices and gain confidence in herself along the way.
Asher is just such a great guy, willing to do anything he can for those he cares for. The way he shows his growing love for Ellie is just so sweet and loved watching their friendship slowly grow and begin to turn into more.
This is such a beautiful summer romance with healing and growth along the way! I cannot wait to read more in the series!
May 4, 2026
underneath sunset skies by makenzie
hinkemeyer
ARC review
4⭐️
tropes:
small town romance
he falls first
forced proximity
slow burn
forbidden love
what a cute summer romance! ☀️ i loved the beach town setting and i immediately felt so at home reading about sunset bay 🌊
asher and ellie were adorable. i also loved the he falls first trope in this. asher was steady, patient, and had great communication which we love! 👏
i also loved the personal journey that ellie went on throughout this book and the exploration of career and life purpose.
overall this was a quick, heartwarming read and i would recommend if you are looking for a sweet closed door book to pick up this summer! 💗
content warnings ⚠️
- this book was closed door. there were quite a few kissing scenes that were in detail and a few sensual mentions, but nothing past that.
- no language.
thank you so much to the author for an ARC copy!! 🫶🏻
hinkemeyer
ARC review
4⭐️
tropes:
small town romance
he falls first
forced proximity
slow burn
forbidden love
what a cute summer romance! ☀️ i loved the beach town setting and i immediately felt so at home reading about sunset bay 🌊
asher and ellie were adorable. i also loved the he falls first trope in this. asher was steady, patient, and had great communication which we love! 👏
i also loved the personal journey that ellie went on throughout this book and the exploration of career and life purpose.
overall this was a quick, heartwarming read and i would recommend if you are looking for a sweet closed door book to pick up this summer! 💗
content warnings ⚠️
- this book was closed door. there were quite a few kissing scenes that were in detail and a few sensual mentions, but nothing past that.
- no language.
thank you so much to the author for an ARC copy!! 🫶🏻
May 21, 2026
Loved this book, loved the town, loved the families, such a great start to a series that I cannot wait to continue reading.
May 15, 2026
Tropes:
* Starting over
* Small beach town
* Twenty-three years old
* Family friends
* Banter
* Chemistry
* Sass
* Off-limits love
This book is a great summer read! I read it on a rainy day and it took me to the beach and made me want to go to a small New England beach town every summer. Also, the banter and chemistry between Ellie and Asher will have you laughing the whole time.
I related to a number of Ellie’s struggles as a twenty-three year old feeling like you should have more of your life figured out than you do, or feeling like some parts of your life (or all of it) look different than you always imagined they would. Each of the characters in this book are so good! I love the close-knit small town community and how many characters you get to know pretty well throughout the story. I will definitely be tuning into book two to see what’s next in this series!
Content warnings:
* No spice
* No language
* Complex family dynamics
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
* Starting over
* Small beach town
* Twenty-three years old
* Family friends
* Banter
* Chemistry
* Sass
* Off-limits love
This book is a great summer read! I read it on a rainy day and it took me to the beach and made me want to go to a small New England beach town every summer. Also, the banter and chemistry between Ellie and Asher will have you laughing the whole time.
I related to a number of Ellie’s struggles as a twenty-three year old feeling like you should have more of your life figured out than you do, or feeling like some parts of your life (or all of it) look different than you always imagined they would. Each of the characters in this book are so good! I love the close-knit small town community and how many characters you get to know pretty well throughout the story. I will definitely be tuning into book two to see what’s next in this series!
Content warnings:
* No spice
* No language
* Complex family dynamics
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Did Not Finish
May 6, 2026DNF @ 45% Too many plot holes. How has Asher and Ellie never met?? It kind of explained... But wasn't believable to me. Why did Grayson and her break up?? How had Grayson's family never talked about Asher?? She didn't know what he looked like? There are no pictures of Asher in the house??
Instalust is just not my jam. There was no emotional connection and it was all physical lust.
Also, it was REALLY similar to The Summer I turned Pretty.
Instalust is just not my jam. There was no emotional connection and it was all physical lust.
Also, it was REALLY similar to The Summer I turned Pretty.
May 21, 2026
Sunset Bay feels like the kind of summer romance you curl up with in a single weekend - warm, emotional, a little messy, and full of the kind of chemistry that sneaks up on you slowly before completely taking over the story.
Ellie is an easy FMC to root for because her heartbreak feels genuinely humiliating rather than overly dramatic. The story doesn’t rush her recovery either. She starts the book stuck between embarrassment, anger, and uncertainty about who she is without the relationship that defined so much of her life. That emotional vulnerability gives the romance real weight from the beginning.
The setting absolutely carries part of the magic here. Sunset Bay isn’t just a backdrop - it feels alive. The small fishing town atmosphere, summer routines, cozy coffee moments, ocean air, and familiar locals create the perfect environment for Ellie to slowly rebuild herself. The book captures that specific feeling of returning somewhere tied to childhood comfort and realizing you’re no longer the same person who left.
And then there’s Asher Reeves.
The “ex-boyfriend’s brother” dynamic could have easily become overly dramatic, but the author handles it with surprising tenderness. Asher isn’t written as the stereotypical rebellious bad boy there purely to create tension. Instead, he comes across as thoughtful, emotionally perceptive, and quietly carrying burdens of his own. The forced proximity from sharing a house all summer creates some genuinely great scenes - awkward, funny, emotionally charged, and eventually deeply romantic.
What makes the romance work especially well is that Ellie and Asher feel like people who actually help each other heal instead of simply distracting each other from pain. Their connection builds gradually through conversations, shared moments, teasing banter, and mutual understanding. The emotional progression feels natural, which makes the payoff incredibly satisfying.
The book also balances humor and emotion nicely. Ellie’s interactions with her best friend and mother add warmth and personality, and there are plenty of lighthearted moments that keep the story from becoming too heavy. At the same time, the novel never loses sight of its central theme: learning how to move forward after life forces you to let go of the version of yourself you thought was permanent.
Overall, this is a charming, comforting summer romcom with emotional depth beneath the sweetness. Fans of small-town romances, slow-burn tension, forced proximity, and healing-after-heartbreak stories will probably fall in love with Sunset Bay. It’s cozy, heartfelt, and leaves you with that bittersweet “end of summer” feeling long after the final chapter.
Ellie is an easy FMC to root for because her heartbreak feels genuinely humiliating rather than overly dramatic. The story doesn’t rush her recovery either. She starts the book stuck between embarrassment, anger, and uncertainty about who she is without the relationship that defined so much of her life. That emotional vulnerability gives the romance real weight from the beginning.
The setting absolutely carries part of the magic here. Sunset Bay isn’t just a backdrop - it feels alive. The small fishing town atmosphere, summer routines, cozy coffee moments, ocean air, and familiar locals create the perfect environment for Ellie to slowly rebuild herself. The book captures that specific feeling of returning somewhere tied to childhood comfort and realizing you’re no longer the same person who left.
And then there’s Asher Reeves.
The “ex-boyfriend’s brother” dynamic could have easily become overly dramatic, but the author handles it with surprising tenderness. Asher isn’t written as the stereotypical rebellious bad boy there purely to create tension. Instead, he comes across as thoughtful, emotionally perceptive, and quietly carrying burdens of his own. The forced proximity from sharing a house all summer creates some genuinely great scenes - awkward, funny, emotionally charged, and eventually deeply romantic.
What makes the romance work especially well is that Ellie and Asher feel like people who actually help each other heal instead of simply distracting each other from pain. Their connection builds gradually through conversations, shared moments, teasing banter, and mutual understanding. The emotional progression feels natural, which makes the payoff incredibly satisfying.
The book also balances humor and emotion nicely. Ellie’s interactions with her best friend and mother add warmth and personality, and there are plenty of lighthearted moments that keep the story from becoming too heavy. At the same time, the novel never loses sight of its central theme: learning how to move forward after life forces you to let go of the version of yourself you thought was permanent.
Overall, this is a charming, comforting summer romcom with emotional depth beneath the sweetness. Fans of small-town romances, slow-burn tension, forced proximity, and healing-after-heartbreak stories will probably fall in love with Sunset Bay. It’s cozy, heartfelt, and leaves you with that bittersweet “end of summer” feeling long after the final chapter.
May 20, 2026
All the love for Underneath Sunset Skies! I adored this sweet forbidden romance between a reluctant-to-fall FMC & her ex’s brother, who gives major superhero vibes. Set in the charming coastal town of Sunset Bay, Massachusetts, Makenzie Hinkemeyer delivers a swoonworthy closed-door romance filled with delicious romantic tension, family secrets, endearing characters, & the perfect summertime beach feel.
When Ellie Carrington isn’t obsessing over crafting the perfect coffee or chasing her twin brothers, she dreams of returning to Sunset Bay, where she spent her summers & fell for Falmouth, Massachusetts’ perfect jock. After her breakup with Grayson, that dream feels impossible until her mother & best friend convince her to return, especially since Grayson’s living in Europe. What she doesn’t expect is Grayson’s handsome, mysterious brother, Asher Reeves, to be there. Sharing a house with him & his family is challenging enough, but when the man seems almost too perfect, can Ellie risk opening her heart to another Reeves brother all while trying to figure out her future & whether college is really the path she wants?
I quickly fell in love with these characters & setting. The small-town charm was delightful, from Benny’s mouthwatering ice cream & Antonio’s pasta to Meg Mooney’s wise advice & famous scones. I adored Ellie & Asher. Ellie’s still sorting through what went wrong with Grayson, but Asher completely gets under her skin. I loved how she connected with Asher’s family, especially his fantasy-obsessed younger brother, Luca.
Asher Reeves absolutely gives Superman vibes. He’s dependable, caring, & always helping others, especially Meg & Earl on their farm. Ellie shares that same heart, making them such a perfect match. Their romance was filled with aching longing, witty banter, romantic tension, & sweet kisses. Some favorite moments include: that almost first kiss, kitchen counter kisses, caring for her when she’s sick, Antonio’s restaurant, & so much more!
Though the main couples’ story has a HEA, there’s a cliffhanger ending when a long-held family secret is revealed. I already can’t wait for the next book!
Recommend to sweet romance fans! I received an advanced copy, but also purchased the ebook. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
When Ellie Carrington isn’t obsessing over crafting the perfect coffee or chasing her twin brothers, she dreams of returning to Sunset Bay, where she spent her summers & fell for Falmouth, Massachusetts’ perfect jock. After her breakup with Grayson, that dream feels impossible until her mother & best friend convince her to return, especially since Grayson’s living in Europe. What she doesn’t expect is Grayson’s handsome, mysterious brother, Asher Reeves, to be there. Sharing a house with him & his family is challenging enough, but when the man seems almost too perfect, can Ellie risk opening her heart to another Reeves brother all while trying to figure out her future & whether college is really the path she wants?
I quickly fell in love with these characters & setting. The small-town charm was delightful, from Benny’s mouthwatering ice cream & Antonio’s pasta to Meg Mooney’s wise advice & famous scones. I adored Ellie & Asher. Ellie’s still sorting through what went wrong with Grayson, but Asher completely gets under her skin. I loved how she connected with Asher’s family, especially his fantasy-obsessed younger brother, Luca.
Asher Reeves absolutely gives Superman vibes. He’s dependable, caring, & always helping others, especially Meg & Earl on their farm. Ellie shares that same heart, making them such a perfect match. Their romance was filled with aching longing, witty banter, romantic tension, & sweet kisses. Some favorite moments include: that almost first kiss, kitchen counter kisses, caring for her when she’s sick, Antonio’s restaurant, & so much more!
Though the main couples’ story has a HEA, there’s a cliffhanger ending when a long-held family secret is revealed. I already can’t wait for the next book!
Recommend to sweet romance fans! I received an advanced copy, but also purchased the ebook. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
May 15, 2026
In Underneath Sunset Skies, Makenzie Hinkemeyer wrote a cozy, sweet, romantic, small town based summer book that is almost guaranteed to make you smile and make you hungry.
This first novel in a series focuses on Ellie who has recently been unceremoniously dumped by her boyfriend and who is having a bit of an existential crisis as she is working in her friend's coffee shop. She is convinced by her friends and family to spend the summer in Sunset Bay, a small town that she has enjoyed summers with her family before. Things in Sunset Bay are a little bit different than what Ellie expects and cuteness ensues.
I should have been warned to have snacks around me when reading. This book made me hungry because there are so many descriptions of delicious sounding food and drinks. It also contains what I can only describe as an ode to root beer. The food sounded so good, that I wish some recipes had been included.
I really liked Ellie as the main character and also liked the friendships that were prominent in this book. I hope these friendships will be further explored in future books along with getting to meet more people in Sunset Bay. While I did find the book to be a little bit long and the descriptions a little bit repetitive at times, the author did a good job of setting the scene, and making me interested in everything that was happening.
Underneath Sunset Skies is the summer equivalent of a Hallmark Christmas movie: a charming small town, cozy vibes, beloved older people, and special traditions. A sweet and handsome love interest doesn't hurt either. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you very much to Makenzie Hinkemeyer for providing an advance reader copy of this book via BookSirens, My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This first novel in a series focuses on Ellie who has recently been unceremoniously dumped by her boyfriend and who is having a bit of an existential crisis as she is working in her friend's coffee shop. She is convinced by her friends and family to spend the summer in Sunset Bay, a small town that she has enjoyed summers with her family before. Things in Sunset Bay are a little bit different than what Ellie expects and cuteness ensues.
I should have been warned to have snacks around me when reading. This book made me hungry because there are so many descriptions of delicious sounding food and drinks. It also contains what I can only describe as an ode to root beer. The food sounded so good, that I wish some recipes had been included.
I really liked Ellie as the main character and also liked the friendships that were prominent in this book. I hope these friendships will be further explored in future books along with getting to meet more people in Sunset Bay. While I did find the book to be a little bit long and the descriptions a little bit repetitive at times, the author did a good job of setting the scene, and making me interested in everything that was happening.
Underneath Sunset Skies is the summer equivalent of a Hallmark Christmas movie: a charming small town, cozy vibes, beloved older people, and special traditions. A sweet and handsome love interest doesn't hurt either. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you very much to Makenzie Hinkemeyer for providing an advance reader copy of this book via BookSirens, My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
May 11, 2026
Underneath Sunset Skies is a sweet, feel-good, summertime romance full of small town charm and an endearing cast of side characters. While there is a bit of instant attraction/ love at first sight vibe, I felt like Mackenzie did a great job building their connection throughout the story. Asher and Ellie are very similar and have so much in common, it’s easy to see them as soulmates. They are perfect for one another.
I love the growth Ellie showed regarding her relationship and breakup with Grayson. Even though Asher is Grayson’s brother, Grayson is off page for the majority of the book so there aren’t really any jealousy or love triangle vibes. Ellie’s inner dialogue cracked me up, and some of her awkward moments gave me slight secondhand embarrassment.
Asher is a total green flag. He’s charming, confident, and kind with a tender heart of gold. He is invaluable to the older men, fussed over by the older ladies, isn’t afraid of manual labor, and has the muscles to prove it. I could easily picture his smirk and flirty winks. I loved their playful teasing and swoony banter.
There are some parts of the plot that may be a stretch for some readers but that doesn’t bother me. There is also a side plotline that isn’t completely resolved that seems like it will unfold in future books. If you like lighthearted, low angst, cotton candy reads with fun sibling dynamics and lovable small town relationships, add this one to your TBR.
✨Includes:✨
Her Ex’s Brother
Strangers To More
Small Town Charm
Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Found Family
One House
He Takes Care Of Her
Fun Sibling Dynamics
He Calls Her Eleanor
She Calls Him Superman
Slow Burn
Closed Door
Single POV
💕Favorites:💕
Flirty Asher
Their close sibling relationships
Ellie and Luca bonding over books
Forehead kisses
Surprise pasta date
Sizzling counter kisses
Infinity symbol
Asher and the twins
Seed and Scone
Thank you Mackenzie Hinkemeyer for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love the growth Ellie showed regarding her relationship and breakup with Grayson. Even though Asher is Grayson’s brother, Grayson is off page for the majority of the book so there aren’t really any jealousy or love triangle vibes. Ellie’s inner dialogue cracked me up, and some of her awkward moments gave me slight secondhand embarrassment.
Asher is a total green flag. He’s charming, confident, and kind with a tender heart of gold. He is invaluable to the older men, fussed over by the older ladies, isn’t afraid of manual labor, and has the muscles to prove it. I could easily picture his smirk and flirty winks. I loved their playful teasing and swoony banter.
There are some parts of the plot that may be a stretch for some readers but that doesn’t bother me. There is also a side plotline that isn’t completely resolved that seems like it will unfold in future books. If you like lighthearted, low angst, cotton candy reads with fun sibling dynamics and lovable small town relationships, add this one to your TBR.
✨Includes:✨
Her Ex’s Brother
Strangers To More
Small Town Charm
Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Found Family
One House
He Takes Care Of Her
Fun Sibling Dynamics
He Calls Her Eleanor
She Calls Him Superman
Slow Burn
Closed Door
Single POV
💕Favorites:💕
Flirty Asher
Their close sibling relationships
Ellie and Luca bonding over books
Forehead kisses
Surprise pasta date
Sizzling counter kisses
Infinity symbol
Asher and the twins
Seed and Scone
Thank you Mackenzie Hinkemeyer for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 18, 2026
Underneath Sunset skies is the perfect way to start your summer reading if you like forbidden love in a small coastal town full of charm where love can creep up on you and you finally feel like you’re home.
I was fortunate to read an early copy of Underneath Sunset Skies, and it has had free space in my head for a few months. I wasn’t sure how I felt about it involving an ex’s brother, but the author did a wonderful job of not making it awkward and weird. Asher and Ellie were adorable! Ellie was a lost soul when she returns to Sunset Bay, but she had so many people there to support her. Asher was everything – he was charming, genuine, patient, caring, thoughtful, Flirty, and supportive. I could not get enough of him! Ellie and Asher had undeniable chemistry and the tension created because he was her ex’s brother kept me guessing if they would really end up together. Underneath Sunset Skies is a quick read with plenty of heartfelt moments, things that made me laugh, and a depth that made me invested in the charming people of Sunset Bay. Can’t wait for the next book!
Tropes: Romcom = forbidden love = ex's brother = small beach town = he falls first = found family = forced proximity = delightful banter
My favorite things:
Beach meet cute
Kitchen meet cute
He's a gentleman
Dinner at Antonio's
Cookout Day
Asher and the twins
Bonding over books
He takes care of her
Their first kiss
The family
Quotes:
“You know you make me a man of many hats. First serial killer, then intruder, now I’m a detective? Oh! And you saluted me at the beach, so does that make me some kind of commander?
“If you let yourself experience what life has to offer, I promise you will reap the rewards.”
Happy reading!
I was fortunate to read an early copy of Underneath Sunset Skies, and it has had free space in my head for a few months. I wasn’t sure how I felt about it involving an ex’s brother, but the author did a wonderful job of not making it awkward and weird. Asher and Ellie were adorable! Ellie was a lost soul when she returns to Sunset Bay, but she had so many people there to support her. Asher was everything – he was charming, genuine, patient, caring, thoughtful, Flirty, and supportive. I could not get enough of him! Ellie and Asher had undeniable chemistry and the tension created because he was her ex’s brother kept me guessing if they would really end up together. Underneath Sunset Skies is a quick read with plenty of heartfelt moments, things that made me laugh, and a depth that made me invested in the charming people of Sunset Bay. Can’t wait for the next book!
Tropes: Romcom = forbidden love = ex's brother = small beach town = he falls first = found family = forced proximity = delightful banter
My favorite things:
Beach meet cute
Kitchen meet cute
He's a gentleman
Dinner at Antonio's
Cookout Day
Asher and the twins
Bonding over books
He takes care of her
Their first kiss
The family
Quotes:
“You know you make me a man of many hats. First serial killer, then intruder, now I’m a detective? Oh! And you saluted me at the beach, so does that make me some kind of commander?
“If you let yourself experience what life has to offer, I promise you will reap the rewards.”
Happy reading!
May 3, 2026
Content: kissing only, no language or violence
Genre/Tropes: Contemporary RomCom, first in series, small town romance, ex’s older brother, instant attraction
My thoughts: This one had me hooked from the beginning and you just love Asher from the moment you meet him (even though Ellie is clueless that the random guy on the beach is her ex’s older brother seeing as how they had never met). And when they finally kiss! 🔥🔥🔥 They’ve got great tension throughout, too, which I love.
You get to know many of the other people in the small town, and reading this will make you want to go to the beach and the farmer’s market!
Because there’s no swearing, it felt like some of the phrases used instead (in dialogue and narrative) were a little goofy. I am all for no swearing in books (and prefer my books that way), but that just felt off for me. I also thought Ellie’s 12 year old twin brothers were a little too crazy. Not that it isn’t possible, that just didn’t line up with my experience of twelve year olds. They read more like 7-9 year olds for me 🤷🏼♀️ (definitely not a big deal though).
There’s some storylines left open-ended as this is a series. Ellie and Asher are solid, and the next book won’t be about them (though I am sure they will show up), but there are definitely going to be things you want to know about for the other characters.
Some favorite moments:
☀️ recovering from food poisoning
☀️ bookstore visit with Luca
☀️ when they meet on the beach
☀️ the Lara Jean and Peter moment
☀️ when they finally kiss
☀️ calling her Eleanor
☀️ all the family bonding and friendships
Genre/Tropes: Contemporary RomCom, first in series, small town romance, ex’s older brother, instant attraction
My thoughts: This one had me hooked from the beginning and you just love Asher from the moment you meet him (even though Ellie is clueless that the random guy on the beach is her ex’s older brother seeing as how they had never met). And when they finally kiss! 🔥🔥🔥 They’ve got great tension throughout, too, which I love.
You get to know many of the other people in the small town, and reading this will make you want to go to the beach and the farmer’s market!
Because there’s no swearing, it felt like some of the phrases used instead (in dialogue and narrative) were a little goofy. I am all for no swearing in books (and prefer my books that way), but that just felt off for me. I also thought Ellie’s 12 year old twin brothers were a little too crazy. Not that it isn’t possible, that just didn’t line up with my experience of twelve year olds. They read more like 7-9 year olds for me 🤷🏼♀️ (definitely not a big deal though).
There’s some storylines left open-ended as this is a series. Ellie and Asher are solid, and the next book won’t be about them (though I am sure they will show up), but there are definitely going to be things you want to know about for the other characters.
Some favorite moments:
☀️ recovering from food poisoning
☀️ bookstore visit with Luca
☀️ when they meet on the beach
☀️ the Lara Jean and Peter moment
☀️ when they finally kiss
☀️ calling her Eleanor
☀️ all the family bonding and friendships
Review of advance copy received from Author
Underneath Sunset Skies
by Makenzie Hinkemeyer
@makenzie.h_author
••I give 4 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~A journey to recovery often takes unexpected turns, leading her to places where hope blossoms anew…
-Underneath Sunset Skies, is a delightful story with heart. It is absolutely a story blended with laughter and heartfelt moments, where growth comes in learning that while healing isn’t always straightforward, love might just be the pathway to a brighter tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed the small town vibes, delightful humor, sparking forced proximity, and the characters’s presences who felt real, steady, and endearing had my full attention. I loved how this story delightfully shows how love has the ability to lurk around every corner whether you are looking for it or not. It’s when you do find it and hold onto it, is where there is power to change perspectives and hearts for the better. This is a wonderful story to read anytime but also has such fun summer vibes weaved throughout. Worth the read, my friends!🙌🏻📚🌅
•Content: Some feelings of loss (ex boy friend situation, some lack of purpose in not knowing future plans, and realization that life doesn’t always go planned, some insecurities, no language, no violences, a good amount of kisses (some make outs, some descriptions).
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
#underneathsunsetskies
#makenziehauthor
#closeddoorromcom
#allaboutthebestreads
by Makenzie Hinkemeyer
@makenzie.h_author
••I give 4 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~A journey to recovery often takes unexpected turns, leading her to places where hope blossoms anew…
-Underneath Sunset Skies, is a delightful story with heart. It is absolutely a story blended with laughter and heartfelt moments, where growth comes in learning that while healing isn’t always straightforward, love might just be the pathway to a brighter tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed the small town vibes, delightful humor, sparking forced proximity, and the characters’s presences who felt real, steady, and endearing had my full attention. I loved how this story delightfully shows how love has the ability to lurk around every corner whether you are looking for it or not. It’s when you do find it and hold onto it, is where there is power to change perspectives and hearts for the better. This is a wonderful story to read anytime but also has such fun summer vibes weaved throughout. Worth the read, my friends!🙌🏻📚🌅
•Content: Some feelings of loss (ex boy friend situation, some lack of purpose in not knowing future plans, and realization that life doesn’t always go planned, some insecurities, no language, no violences, a good amount of kisses (some make outs, some descriptions).
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
#underneathsunsetskies
#makenziehauthor
#closeddoorromcom
#allaboutthebestreads
May 16, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a sweet, clean, summer romance that is a delight to read. I loved the relationships between Ellie and the Reeves family. The side characters were so much fun and I'm hoping to get more of their stories in the next book.
I loved Sunset Bay, her home away from home, and the imagery Hinkemeyer painted was beautiful. I enjoyed seeing Ellie grow throughout the story and truly learn about herself. Her chemistry with Asher was immediate and so sweet. Asher is so patient and kind with Ellie, that I fell for him and his adorable personality immediately. The banter between Asher and Ellie made me smile, as well as a few of her mishaps. If you want a fast, cute, summer read, this book is for you!
Thank you Makenzie Hinkemeyer for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Quotes:
"But now I know what it's like to imagine yourself in a different place in your current phase of life. Wondering what might have changed based on past decisions."
"Dusk is just setting in, and we make our way underneath sunset skies."
"I think that might have been the best kiss of my life, and our lips didn't even touch."
"I'm not leaving you, Eleanor. It's no longer possible for me to let you go."
"Sometimes you just need to believe in what's happening around you before you lose out on what could have been the best."
This is a sweet, clean, summer romance that is a delight to read. I loved the relationships between Ellie and the Reeves family. The side characters were so much fun and I'm hoping to get more of their stories in the next book.
I loved Sunset Bay, her home away from home, and the imagery Hinkemeyer painted was beautiful. I enjoyed seeing Ellie grow throughout the story and truly learn about herself. Her chemistry with Asher was immediate and so sweet. Asher is so patient and kind with Ellie, that I fell for him and his adorable personality immediately. The banter between Asher and Ellie made me smile, as well as a few of her mishaps. If you want a fast, cute, summer read, this book is for you!
Thank you Makenzie Hinkemeyer for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Quotes:
"But now I know what it's like to imagine yourself in a different place in your current phase of life. Wondering what might have changed based on past decisions."
"Dusk is just setting in, and we make our way underneath sunset skies."
"I think that might have been the best kiss of my life, and our lips didn't even touch."
"I'm not leaving you, Eleanor. It's no longer possible for me to let you go."
"Sometimes you just need to believe in what's happening around you before you lose out on what could have been the best."
Review of advance copy received from Author
*small town summer romance
*forbidden love
*he falls first and harder
*slow burn
*HEA
*closed-door
I LOVED this book! At the beginning, I was a bit hesitant to the ex's brother as the love interest, but as we got more context and got to know the characters, I was all for it! Reading this book just felt like summer and all of the good things that come with it! The tension that was building throughout the book had me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for them to just give in! Asher is just the definition of a green flag and seeing him and Ellie get their happily ever was so fulfilling. The fact that the book revolved around personal development too and not just the relationship was such a plus for me! I liked the other plot lines weaving throughout the book and how each character got the attention they deserved, everyone had their moment for the readers to get to know them better and fall in love with each one. I think this is good moving forward in the series, because you're already invested in their lives and want to see how things turn out for them! I would 100% recommend this book if you love summer, community, love, figuring out who you are, and maybe even a little bit of meddling. I can't wait to see what happens in Sunset Cove next!
*forbidden love
*he falls first and harder
*slow burn
*HEA
*closed-door
I LOVED this book! At the beginning, I was a bit hesitant to the ex's brother as the love interest, but as we got more context and got to know the characters, I was all for it! Reading this book just felt like summer and all of the good things that come with it! The tension that was building throughout the book had me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for them to just give in! Asher is just the definition of a green flag and seeing him and Ellie get their happily ever was so fulfilling. The fact that the book revolved around personal development too and not just the relationship was such a plus for me! I liked the other plot lines weaving throughout the book and how each character got the attention they deserved, everyone had their moment for the readers to get to know them better and fall in love with each one. I think this is good moving forward in the series, because you're already invested in their lives and want to see how things turn out for them! I would 100% recommend this book if you love summer, community, love, figuring out who you are, and maybe even a little bit of meddling. I can't wait to see what happens in Sunset Cove next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review for Underneath Sunset Skies – Makenzie Hinkemeyer
This was such a good cozy, summery read with all the small-town charm and emotional growth you want in a romcom.
You could really feel Ellie’s journey as she navigates heartbreak, healing, and stepping back into a place that once felt like home.
And Asher… the tension, the banter, the chemistry! 👀🤌 Makenzie definitely delivered on that type of connection that keeps you turning pages!
I loved the lighthearted moments mixed with deeper themes of growth and what starting over can look like. There’s something so sweet about watching walls come down in a setting that feels both familiar and a little bit uncertain. Especially with that forced proximity + ex’s brother tension woven in.. 👀 😜
If you enjoy:
☕ small-town summer vibes
💬 Strong banter & chemistry
🏡 Forced proximity
👀 Ex’s brother
💛 Healing + second chances
✨ He falls first
This is one you’ll definitely want to pick up! 🌅
💛 Content note for my clean reader friends:
Firstly, this is closed-door!! It leans a bit more on the swoony/sizzle side. I’d personally place it around a 2–2.5 on the scale from @closeddoorromance . There are some descriptive make-out scenes and light physical descriptions of the MMC (nothing graphic and nothing beyond kissing!! ☺️❤️), but it’s worth noting if you prefer strictly minimal on-page intimacy.
This was such a good cozy, summery read with all the small-town charm and emotional growth you want in a romcom.
You could really feel Ellie’s journey as she navigates heartbreak, healing, and stepping back into a place that once felt like home.
And Asher… the tension, the banter, the chemistry! 👀🤌 Makenzie definitely delivered on that type of connection that keeps you turning pages!
I loved the lighthearted moments mixed with deeper themes of growth and what starting over can look like. There’s something so sweet about watching walls come down in a setting that feels both familiar and a little bit uncertain. Especially with that forced proximity + ex’s brother tension woven in.. 👀 😜
If you enjoy:
☕ small-town summer vibes
💬 Strong banter & chemistry
🏡 Forced proximity
👀 Ex’s brother
💛 Healing + second chances
✨ He falls first
This is one you’ll definitely want to pick up! 🌅
💛 Content note for my clean reader friends:
Firstly, this is closed-door!! It leans a bit more on the swoony/sizzle side. I’d personally place it around a 2–2.5 on the scale from @closeddoorromance . There are some descriptive make-out scenes and light physical descriptions of the MMC (nothing graphic and nothing beyond kissing!! ☺️❤️), but it’s worth noting if you prefer strictly minimal on-page intimacy.
May 15, 2026
The premise was interesting enough to keep me reading, and there were definitely moments I enjoyed — the kitchen “burglar” scene genuinely made me laugh and was one of the standout moments of the book.
That said, the story felt fairly surface-level overall. There were several points where I wanted more depth, both emotionally and in the plot itself. The drama had potential but never fully developed, and the climax felt a little anticlimactic. I kept expecting more tension or conflict to come from Grayson and the relationship dynamic, especially with the setup that was there, but it never quite delivered the payoff I was hoping for.
The writing also showed some areas that could use refinement. At times, the flow between scenes felt choppy, with small gaps in action or transitions that made certain moments confusing. Some metaphors felt overused, which occasionally pulled me out of the story rather than adding to it.
That being said, this is only the author’s second book, and there’s definitely promise here. The storyline itself was engaging enough to hold my attention, and I can see the potential for growth in future books as the pacing and depth continue to develop.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That said, the story felt fairly surface-level overall. There were several points where I wanted more depth, both emotionally and in the plot itself. The drama had potential but never fully developed, and the climax felt a little anticlimactic. I kept expecting more tension or conflict to come from Grayson and the relationship dynamic, especially with the setup that was there, but it never quite delivered the payoff I was hoping for.
The writing also showed some areas that could use refinement. At times, the flow between scenes felt choppy, with small gaps in action or transitions that made certain moments confusing. Some metaphors felt overused, which occasionally pulled me out of the story rather than adding to it.
That being said, this is only the author’s second book, and there’s definitely promise here. The storyline itself was engaging enough to hold my attention, and I can see the potential for growth in future books as the pacing and depth continue to develop.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 24, 2026
Underneath Sunset Skies by Makenzie Hinkemeyer
ARC Review 🤍
This was such an easy, cozy read with all the small town charm and the kind of happy ending you hope for ☀️ If you’re in the mood for something light, comforting, and feel good, this is definitely one to pick up.
Ellie Carrington, our FMC, is so relatable. She’s just a girl trying to figure life out, and watching her grow emotionally was one of my favorite parts 🥹 She really reminds you that it’s okay to take chances on yourself and choose happiness. And yes, she’s a little sassy, but honestly… dealing with twin brothers, I don’t blame her 😂
Asher Reeves completely won me over. He’s funny, quick with his comebacks, and just easy to love. At the same time, he’s patient, dependable, and genuinely caring 🤍 There’s more depth to him than you expect, which made his character even better.
What stood out the most for me is that this isn’t just a romance, it’s also about healing 💫 It’s about choosing to stay when it would be easier to run, and choosing something that’s complicated but right.
This was a 4 star read for me ⭐️
Tropes ✨
Small town romance
He falls first
Forced proximity
Slow burn
Forbidden love
ARC Review 🤍
This was such an easy, cozy read with all the small town charm and the kind of happy ending you hope for ☀️ If you’re in the mood for something light, comforting, and feel good, this is definitely one to pick up.
Ellie Carrington, our FMC, is so relatable. She’s just a girl trying to figure life out, and watching her grow emotionally was one of my favorite parts 🥹 She really reminds you that it’s okay to take chances on yourself and choose happiness. And yes, she’s a little sassy, but honestly… dealing with twin brothers, I don’t blame her 😂
Asher Reeves completely won me over. He’s funny, quick with his comebacks, and just easy to love. At the same time, he’s patient, dependable, and genuinely caring 🤍 There’s more depth to him than you expect, which made his character even better.
What stood out the most for me is that this isn’t just a romance, it’s also about healing 💫 It’s about choosing to stay when it would be easier to run, and choosing something that’s complicated but right.
This was a 4 star read for me ⭐️
Tropes ✨
Small town romance
He falls first
Forced proximity
Slow burn
Forbidden love
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ellie is struggling with life not being where she thought it would be at this point. After some pushing from her friend and family, she decides to go back to the one place that always makes her happy. Unfortunately that same place holds the family she’s been avoiding since breaking up with her boyfriend. The family that she has come to love and miss. Turns out their older son Asher has a lot going for himself, and despite her best efforts, Ellie can’t stay away from him. Maybe things are beginning to look up.
What I loved:
🏖️ The witty banter between Ellie and Asher
🏖️Supportive siblings and parents
🏖️A little bit of drama- but not too much
🏖️Personal growth for Ellie
🏖️Perfect beach read
🏖️The connection between Ellie and Asher’s younger brother
🏖️Small town community
This was a quick read with some depth. There’s a lot of layers to the families and their connections. Some things are left unresolved—on purpose for the upcoming books in this series. I’m interested to see how all of this is going to play out in future books. Grab this one if you’re looking for small town, beach vibes.
What I loved:
🏖️ The witty banter between Ellie and Asher
🏖️Supportive siblings and parents
🏖️A little bit of drama- but not too much
🏖️Personal growth for Ellie
🏖️Perfect beach read
🏖️The connection between Ellie and Asher’s younger brother
🏖️Small town community
This was a quick read with some depth. There’s a lot of layers to the families and their connections. Some things are left unresolved—on purpose for the upcoming books in this series. I’m interested to see how all of this is going to play out in future books. Grab this one if you’re looking for small town, beach vibes.
May 15, 2026
I don't even know how to explain what I'm feeling, but I'm feelinggg😭😭. This book left me utterly speechless🥹😫
There's just something about a sweet awkward girl that everyone loves finally ending up with the town's superhero that fills me with so much joy.
Their banter at the beginning was absolutely hilarious, and the tension that kept building had me wanting to snap! Literally everyone could tell they belonged together… they just needed a little time to catch up😂
Ellie was so effortlessly funny, I found myself full out laughing at so many moments. Her mind is such an interesting place to be in😂
And Asher😭 I loved how intentional he was with her. Every single time that calm smirk of his showed up, I could picture it perfectly in my head😂 Side note… I too would like an Asher please😂
One of my favorite things was watching the whole town be her home. The way they accepted her and wrapped her into their lives felt so warm and comforting.
This entire book felt like a cup of hot chocolate on a winter night.... cozy, comforting, and impossible to put down. But be warned😭 with the amount of heat in this book, you just might burn. All doors closed, but trust me… you will FEEL it!
There's just something about a sweet awkward girl that everyone loves finally ending up with the town's superhero that fills me with so much joy.
Their banter at the beginning was absolutely hilarious, and the tension that kept building had me wanting to snap! Literally everyone could tell they belonged together… they just needed a little time to catch up😂
Ellie was so effortlessly funny, I found myself full out laughing at so many moments. Her mind is such an interesting place to be in😂
And Asher😭 I loved how intentional he was with her. Every single time that calm smirk of his showed up, I could picture it perfectly in my head😂 Side note… I too would like an Asher please😂
One of my favorite things was watching the whole town be her home. The way they accepted her and wrapped her into their lives felt so warm and comforting.
This entire book felt like a cup of hot chocolate on a winter night.... cozy, comforting, and impossible to put down. But be warned😭 with the amount of heat in this book, you just might burn. All doors closed, but trust me… you will FEEL it!
Review of advance copy
This was such a cute and wholesome summertime romance read. I absolutely loved the small beach town setting and the tight-knit community in Sunset Bay. I’m always a sucker for small towns where everyone cares about each other, like one big family, and this book delivered that perfectly.
Ellie and Asher were so sweet together. I really liked that their relationship felt natural and not overly dramatic. They just kind of let things happen while fully embracing each other, and I thought that made their romance even more lovable.
The subplots also completely hooked me, and now I need answers because I’m dying to know what’s going to happen next. I’m already excited for book two.
My only complaint is that I wish the story had been a little longer and more detailed because I wasn’t ready to leave these characters or Sunset Bay behind.
Overall, this was a heartwarming, cozy, feel-good romance that’s perfect for summer reading.
Thank you to BookSirens and Makenzie Hinkemyer for an eARC copy of this sweet story.
Ellie and Asher were so sweet together. I really liked that their relationship felt natural and not overly dramatic. They just kind of let things happen while fully embracing each other, and I thought that made their romance even more lovable.
The subplots also completely hooked me, and now I need answers because I’m dying to know what’s going to happen next. I’m already excited for book two.
My only complaint is that I wish the story had been a little longer and more detailed because I wasn’t ready to leave these characters or Sunset Bay behind.
Overall, this was a heartwarming, cozy, feel-good romance that’s perfect for summer reading.
Thank you to BookSirens and Makenzie Hinkemyer for an eARC copy of this sweet story.
May 23, 2026
Well, that was just summer romance at its best! This story was such a great read it was so easy to fall into the world of Sunset Bay and the lives of those who live there. It just sounded like the sweetest place to live and a wonderful community - I kinda want to move there myself now!
The story focuses on Ellie who is a bit lost after being broken up with unexpectedly the previous year. She doesn’t know where life is taking her but finally ends up back in her favourite place, Sunset Bay, with her ex boyfriend’s family. More than this, her ex’s brother is staying and he is far too perfect to be ignored!
And Asher. Well, Wow, he was just the definition of perfection! I loved how sweet he was to Ellie and such a selfless, caring soul. Their relationship develops and blossoms naturally and sweetly and I loved how Asher helped Ellie heal and find her way again.
The story is a perfect cozy summer read with a chilled vibe and I can’t wait to return to Sunset Bay for subsequent books and read more about the amazing characters and their lives.
The story focuses on Ellie who is a bit lost after being broken up with unexpectedly the previous year. She doesn’t know where life is taking her but finally ends up back in her favourite place, Sunset Bay, with her ex boyfriend’s family. More than this, her ex’s brother is staying and he is far too perfect to be ignored!
And Asher. Well, Wow, he was just the definition of perfection! I loved how sweet he was to Ellie and such a selfless, caring soul. Their relationship develops and blossoms naturally and sweetly and I loved how Asher helped Ellie heal and find her way again.
The story is a perfect cozy summer read with a chilled vibe and I can’t wait to return to Sunset Bay for subsequent books and read more about the amazing characters and their lives.
Review of advance copy
Sweet, Coming of Age Summer Romance
This was a cute summer beach read, although I have to admit in the begining it did take me a while to actually like or relate to Ellie because I was so frustrated with her inability to get herself together and find direction. Once she got the Sunset, she seemed to lose the malaise of Baltimore and began to seek some direction in life and meeting Asher didn't hurt. He brought a fun taste of mystery, but also goodness and maybe a sense of "always meant to be"? I did love the town, the people, and the way they all pitched in to help each other and then I really enjoyed the book and characters. I especially enjoyed Ellie's relationships with her younger twin brothers and Asher's brother Luca. This was a first read for me by this author but I look forward to reading the next book in the series - Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was a cute summer beach read, although I have to admit in the begining it did take me a while to actually like or relate to Ellie because I was so frustrated with her inability to get herself together and find direction. Once she got the Sunset, she seemed to lose the malaise of Baltimore and began to seek some direction in life and meeting Asher didn't hurt. He brought a fun taste of mystery, but also goodness and maybe a sense of "always meant to be"? I did love the town, the people, and the way they all pitched in to help each other and then I really enjoyed the book and characters. I especially enjoyed Ellie's relationships with her younger twin brothers and Asher's brother Luca. This was a first read for me by this author but I look forward to reading the next book in the series - Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
May 13, 2026
A clean summer romance? Sign me up and don’t let me stop reading til it’s done. This book took me out of my slow reading month when I discovered how hard it was to put this book down.
Maybe I have a bias because I loved this authors last story, but can you blame me when she perfectly writes every romance with both care and love?
Realising you are falling in love with one brother while the other is already your ex? Maybe a messy situation, but Eleanor couldn’t help falling for him, and honestly I think I fell for Asher Reeves a little myself while reading.
Book boyfriend, Peeta Mellark energy with a hint of Tobias Eaton. Literally give me any cozy romance story with men of the vibes of our dystopian book boyfriends.
Genuienly finished this book wrapped up in e heated blanket with cozy instrumentals in the background and a diet coke on the side and highly recommend you read it yourself in a similar way.
Maybe I have a bias because I loved this authors last story, but can you blame me when she perfectly writes every romance with both care and love?
Realising you are falling in love with one brother while the other is already your ex? Maybe a messy situation, but Eleanor couldn’t help falling for him, and honestly I think I fell for Asher Reeves a little myself while reading.
Book boyfriend, Peeta Mellark energy with a hint of Tobias Eaton. Literally give me any cozy romance story with men of the vibes of our dystopian book boyfriends.
Genuienly finished this book wrapped up in e heated blanket with cozy instrumentals in the background and a diet coke on the side and highly recommend you read it yourself in a similar way.
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