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One Summer Before
One night they never talk about. Six weeks they'll never forget.
Last summer, Siena and Nate collided and no one but them knows what really happened. Now, one year later, they have no choice but to work together.
Siena arrives in Paros with her perfect opportunity finally within reach: a marketing role on a luxury villa project. There's just one problem and he's tall, dark and obnoxiously handsome.
Nate is determined to keep his world safe and predictable for his daughter, Rae. As a single dad, he doesn't have room for complications and Siena Blake with her sass and wit, is the biggest one of all.
Forced proximity turns what starts as mutual resistance into something dangerously hot and neither of them can ignore the chemistry that keeps bringing them back together.
Last summer, Siena and Nate collided and no one but them knows what really happened. Now, one year later, they have no choice but to work together.
Siena arrives in Paros with her perfect opportunity finally within reach: a marketing role on a luxury villa project. There's just one problem and he's tall, dark and obnoxiously handsome.
Nate is determined to keep his world safe and predictable for his daughter, Rae. As a single dad, he doesn't have room for complications and Siena Blake with her sass and wit, is the biggest one of all.
Forced proximity turns what starts as mutual resistance into something dangerously hot and neither of them can ignore the chemistry that keeps bringing them back together.
- GenresRomance
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2026
About the author
Anya Elizabeth
3 books46 followersI write heartfelt, romantic fiction with all the things I love most: slow burns, found family, emotional depth, and a little bit of spice. My romance motto is: flirt first, kiss later.
My debut novel, The Imperfect Plan, released in 2023. My newest novel, Six Summers Apart, is the first in The Summer Hearts Series—a swoony, sun-drenched romance about old friends, missed chances, and unforgettable summers.
When I’m not writing, you’ll probably find me daydreaming about beach picnics, rereading my favourite love stories, or working on a third-act twist in a café somewhere.
Follow me for updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive extras or sign up to my newsletter here: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Instagram: @anyaelizabethauthor
My debut novel, The Imperfect Plan, released in 2023. My newest novel, Six Summers Apart, is the first in The Summer Hearts Series—a swoony, sun-drenched romance about old friends, missed chances, and unforgettable summers.
When I’m not writing, you’ll probably find me daydreaming about beach picnics, rereading my favourite love stories, or working on a third-act twist in a café somewhere.
Follow me for updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive extras or sign up to my newsletter here: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Instagram: @anyaelizabethauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 8, 2026
ARC REVIEW:
I enjoyed reading this book! It was heartwarming and fulfilling. I love Rae Rae so much. She's the most adorable person ever! I love how good Nate and Siena are for each other. It seemed like they were made for each other. Kinda like the red string theory. They didn't expect to be back in each other's lives again, navigating the same feelings they had a year before, but this time they were ready to have a proper conversation. I mean there were some twists and turns that made me want to pull my hair out because of Nate like I would just shake my head in disappointment, but I am glad they had their happy ending. Especially Rae. She deserves the world tbh!! I recommend this book!!
I enjoyed reading this book! It was heartwarming and fulfilling. I love Rae Rae so much. She's the most adorable person ever! I love how good Nate and Siena are for each other. It seemed like they were made for each other. Kinda like the red string theory. They didn't expect to be back in each other's lives again, navigating the same feelings they had a year before, but this time they were ready to have a proper conversation. I mean there were some twists and turns that made me want to pull my hair out because of Nate like I would just shake my head in disappointment, but I am glad they had their happy ending. Especially Rae. She deserves the world tbh!! I recommend this book!!
April 22, 2026
One Summer Before is the second of three books in the Summer Hearts series and follows Siena and Nate’s love story – and honestly, I was hooked from the start.
If you’ve read book one you’ll remember Siena is Cece’s best friend and Nate is Theo’s brother. This one is packed with some of my favourite tropes: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and second chance romance 👩❤️👨
The Greek setting was absolutely dreamy. Anya does such a beautiful job bringing it to life, and I felt like I was right there with the characters, soaking up the sun and atmosphere.
I flew through this in just over 24 hours – I didn’t want to put it down. Siena’s sass was everything. I loved how confident and fearless she is, always going after what she wants. Nate, on the other hand, is more guarded. As a single dad, he’s especially protective of his daughter, Rae, after losing her mother so young.
And Rae? Absolutely adorable. Her bond with Siena melted my heart, and their relationship felt so genuine and full of warmth.
What I really appreciated was the balance in this story. There are deeply emotional moments that hit you right in the feels, but they’re perfectly offset with flirty banter and sizzling chemistry… especially Chapter 23 – IYKYK 🥵
Overall, this is another standout from Anya and everything I love in a romance. There’s only one book left in the series and I’m not ready for it to end. Calling it now… I think it’ll be about Siena’s sister, Talia – but we’ll see.
A huge thank you to Anya and her team for the ARC.
If you’ve read book one you’ll remember Siena is Cece’s best friend and Nate is Theo’s brother. This one is packed with some of my favourite tropes: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and second chance romance 👩❤️👨
The Greek setting was absolutely dreamy. Anya does such a beautiful job bringing it to life, and I felt like I was right there with the characters, soaking up the sun and atmosphere.
I flew through this in just over 24 hours – I didn’t want to put it down. Siena’s sass was everything. I loved how confident and fearless she is, always going after what she wants. Nate, on the other hand, is more guarded. As a single dad, he’s especially protective of his daughter, Rae, after losing her mother so young.
And Rae? Absolutely adorable. Her bond with Siena melted my heart, and their relationship felt so genuine and full of warmth.
What I really appreciated was the balance in this story. There are deeply emotional moments that hit you right in the feels, but they’re perfectly offset with flirty banter and sizzling chemistry… especially Chapter 23 – IYKYK 🥵
Overall, this is another standout from Anya and everything I love in a romance. There’s only one book left in the series and I’m not ready for it to end. Calling it now… I think it’ll be about Siena’s sister, Talia – but we’ll see.
A huge thank you to Anya and her team for the ARC.
February 13, 2026
Ahh this book was seriously everything! I don’t as speechless and in love and laughed out loud while reading this book! It truly was perfect in every way and oh my lanta the spicy scenes!! Truly 🔥🔥🔥 I loved reading about these two and how sassy and powerful Siena is and how she’s so caring and loving towards Nate’s daughter as if she’s her own! It’s a truly special bond and I love them. The tension these too have jsut makes you so hooked you can’t stop reading because you have to know how it ends! You will not be disappointed!! This book is the perfect spicy enemies to lovers romance book !
May 7, 2026
“One night they never talk about. Six weeks they'll never forget.”
What else can I say? One Summer Before hit all the spots. I absolutely loved Six Summer Apart and I couldn't get enough of Cece’s best friend Siena and her personality and the little moments I was noticing between Siena and Nate. So when I found out book two was Siena and Nate’s story, I was sold. I was begging to ARC read, to beta read even. I was lucky enough to be able to do both.
Siena and Nate have a constant back and forth that just builds so much yearning. Their banter had me kicking my feet and screaming. There’s clearly attraction and a spark there but they both try to resist it. I love a forced proximity trope, because you know that cool calm and collected facade has to hit its breaking point.
Siena is ambitious and driven, confident, but also doubts how truly talented she is. She gets the opportunity to work on an exciting new project and travels to Greece only to find out the man she’s been trying to get out of her head is also working on the same project. Nate is a single dad who cares deeply about the people in his life but is afraid to let anyone in. I didn’t think Anya Elizabth could write a MMC that made me blush harder than Theo, but big brother Nate, oh my my. Officially on my list of book boyfriends.
This story is full of beautiful imagery. The writing really transports you to the location with the descriptions of the sights and the smells. This book is full of tension with two people trying to hide that they had a moment in the past, and try to deny wanting it to happen again. An adorable little girl that will steal your heart. The emotions are raw, the life experiences are crazy relatable. I felt so connected to Siena, having so much in common with her, it was cathartic reading a story where someone with so much in common with me finds the love she deserves. I went on an emotional roller coaster from yelling at these characters to falling in love alongside them.
I can’t wait to book my next literary “flight” to wherever book three will take me. Keep em coming. I’ll read them all.
What else can I say? One Summer Before hit all the spots. I absolutely loved Six Summer Apart and I couldn't get enough of Cece’s best friend Siena and her personality and the little moments I was noticing between Siena and Nate. So when I found out book two was Siena and Nate’s story, I was sold. I was begging to ARC read, to beta read even. I was lucky enough to be able to do both.
Siena and Nate have a constant back and forth that just builds so much yearning. Their banter had me kicking my feet and screaming. There’s clearly attraction and a spark there but they both try to resist it. I love a forced proximity trope, because you know that cool calm and collected facade has to hit its breaking point.
Siena is ambitious and driven, confident, but also doubts how truly talented she is. She gets the opportunity to work on an exciting new project and travels to Greece only to find out the man she’s been trying to get out of her head is also working on the same project. Nate is a single dad who cares deeply about the people in his life but is afraid to let anyone in. I didn’t think Anya Elizabth could write a MMC that made me blush harder than Theo, but big brother Nate, oh my my. Officially on my list of book boyfriends.
This story is full of beautiful imagery. The writing really transports you to the location with the descriptions of the sights and the smells. This book is full of tension with two people trying to hide that they had a moment in the past, and try to deny wanting it to happen again. An adorable little girl that will steal your heart. The emotions are raw, the life experiences are crazy relatable. I felt so connected to Siena, having so much in common with her, it was cathartic reading a story where someone with so much in common with me finds the love she deserves. I went on an emotional roller coaster from yelling at these characters to falling in love alongside them.
I can’t wait to book my next literary “flight” to wherever book three will take me. Keep em coming. I’ll read them all.
April 3, 2026
The summer-romance book you need to read🩵
ᴛʀᴏᴘᴇs:
• enemies to lovers
• single dad
• second chance
• age gap
• forced proximity
• workplace
I just read the cutest romance book and I can’t stop thinking about it. Firstly, thank you to @anyaelizabethauthor & @lovenotes.pr for the ARC! And secondly, congrats on the release of One Summer Before! I’m in love with this series and I’m so excited to see what more you write🩵.
One Summer Before features Sienna, a young woman in her twenties breaking into the marketing world. When she finally receives the job opportunity of her dreams, she’s flown to Greece to start on a luxury villa project. She’s excited and full of hopes for her new role, thinking nothing could go wrong. That is until she sees Nate again, a gentleman who’s not only her new collegue but also the man who she had a summer fling a year before🫢.
The amount of times I was grinning while reading this should honestly be studied, lol. There are so many fun, cute, and spicy moments that made it hard not to, ESPECIALLY if it included our little Rae🥹🩵. Sienna is truly my spirit animal, she loves marketing, she’s spontaneous, and a woman with a stunning backbone. Tempt her and she will bare her claws😏.
I’m so excited for book three! I know Anya loooves to tease so my eyes are open for any sneak peak, hehe✨.
With Summer nearing, this book is one you cannot go without reading!😍
ᴛʀᴏᴘᴇs:
• enemies to lovers
• single dad
• second chance
• age gap
• forced proximity
• workplace
I just read the cutest romance book and I can’t stop thinking about it. Firstly, thank you to @anyaelizabethauthor & @lovenotes.pr for the ARC! And secondly, congrats on the release of One Summer Before! I’m in love with this series and I’m so excited to see what more you write🩵.
One Summer Before features Sienna, a young woman in her twenties breaking into the marketing world. When she finally receives the job opportunity of her dreams, she’s flown to Greece to start on a luxury villa project. She’s excited and full of hopes for her new role, thinking nothing could go wrong. That is until she sees Nate again, a gentleman who’s not only her new collegue but also the man who she had a summer fling a year before🫢.
The amount of times I was grinning while reading this should honestly be studied, lol. There are so many fun, cute, and spicy moments that made it hard not to, ESPECIALLY if it included our little Rae🥹🩵. Sienna is truly my spirit animal, she loves marketing, she’s spontaneous, and a woman with a stunning backbone. Tempt her and she will bare her claws😏.
I’m so excited for book three! I know Anya loooves to tease so my eyes are open for any sneak peak, hehe✨.
With Summer nearing, this book is one you cannot go without reading!😍
March 22, 2026
☀️🌊 GIVE ME A NATE FINCH OR GIVE ME NOTHING 🌊☀️
I just finished and I am officially kicking my feet, giggling, and emotionally booking a one-way ticket to Greece 🇬🇷✈️😭
From the very first page, this book swept me away into the dreamiest, sun-soaked escape. The villa, the coffee, the food, the markets, it all feels so warm and homey, like a breath of fresh air you can disappear into. It’s giving full Mamma Mia energy and I genuinely never wanted to leave ☕️🐚✨
The forced proximity? ELITE. Watching them work together while clearly feeling everything had me grinning nonstop. The tension was TENSIONING and the chemistry?? Playful, electric, and absolutely undeniable 🫦
Now let’s talk about Nate Finch… because SIR. Sleeves rolled, glasses on, wet hair…..he knew EXACTLY what he was doing 🤤The romance in this book is passionate, messy, and full of that delicious tension that builds into the most swoony, heart-racing moments. Think heated arguments, longing you can feel, and declarations that will have you MELTING 😮💨🔥
But what truly made this story special for me was the heart behind it all. The friendships are just as beautiful as the romance - loyal, honest, and full of so much love. Rae and Siena’s bond melted me, Cece is the kind of best friend everyone deserves, and Leo?? Elite hype-man energy. You can feel the history, the support, and the way they push each other to be better 🥹
And don’t even get me started on that flashback… Nate, you beautiful idiot 😭 Watching walls come down and seeing them find a sense of “home” in each other was honestly the sweetest, most satisfying journey.
This book is pure sunshine in story form, warm, escapist, steamy, and full of heart. The perfect feel-good, “summer leading to forever” romance that leaves you smiling like an absolute fool 💛
Grab a cold drink, a seashell bracelet, and add this to your summer TBR immediately 🌸✨
Vibe: Sun-kissed, steamy, and pure happiness
I just finished and I am officially kicking my feet, giggling, and emotionally booking a one-way ticket to Greece 🇬🇷✈️😭
From the very first page, this book swept me away into the dreamiest, sun-soaked escape. The villa, the coffee, the food, the markets, it all feels so warm and homey, like a breath of fresh air you can disappear into. It’s giving full Mamma Mia energy and I genuinely never wanted to leave ☕️🐚✨
The forced proximity? ELITE. Watching them work together while clearly feeling everything had me grinning nonstop. The tension was TENSIONING and the chemistry?? Playful, electric, and absolutely undeniable 🫦
Now let’s talk about Nate Finch… because SIR. Sleeves rolled, glasses on, wet hair…..he knew EXACTLY what he was doing 🤤The romance in this book is passionate, messy, and full of that delicious tension that builds into the most swoony, heart-racing moments. Think heated arguments, longing you can feel, and declarations that will have you MELTING 😮💨🔥
But what truly made this story special for me was the heart behind it all. The friendships are just as beautiful as the romance - loyal, honest, and full of so much love. Rae and Siena’s bond melted me, Cece is the kind of best friend everyone deserves, and Leo?? Elite hype-man energy. You can feel the history, the support, and the way they push each other to be better 🥹
And don’t even get me started on that flashback… Nate, you beautiful idiot 😭 Watching walls come down and seeing them find a sense of “home” in each other was honestly the sweetest, most satisfying journey.
This book is pure sunshine in story form, warm, escapist, steamy, and full of heart. The perfect feel-good, “summer leading to forever” romance that leaves you smiling like an absolute fool 💛
Grab a cold drink, a seashell bracelet, and add this to your summer TBR immediately 🌸✨
Vibe: Sun-kissed, steamy, and pure happiness
April 3, 2026
Second Chance, Tension!
5🌟 2.5🌶
This book has it ALL, the tension the feels and an such a heartful ending!
Siena and Nate are thrown together after the not so great ending from last summer in Nice. We've also got Rae and her loveable shining self. She really is my fave character.
The tension is top tier, as things were never addressed from last summer. Lo and behold, they are almost not addressed as Nate loses it. Even the boss man, Leo, can tell.
Siena and Rae - Rae is enamored with Siena and Siena adores Rae. Siena loves Rae and it pulls at the heartstrings.
Of course this ends as an HEA with so much love, but you gotta read this for the tension breakdown and all the feels.
Thank you LoveNotesPR and Anya Elizabeth. I really enjoyed this read!
5🌟 2.5🌶
This book has it ALL, the tension the feels and an such a heartful ending!
Siena and Nate are thrown together after the not so great ending from last summer in Nice. We've also got Rae and her loveable shining self. She really is my fave character.
The tension is top tier, as things were never addressed from last summer. Lo and behold, they are almost not addressed as Nate loses it. Even the boss man, Leo, can tell.
Siena and Rae - Rae is enamored with Siena and Siena adores Rae. Siena loves Rae and it pulls at the heartstrings.
Of course this ends as an HEA with so much love, but you gotta read this for the tension breakdown and all the feels.
Thank you LoveNotesPR and Anya Elizabeth. I really enjoyed this read!
April 2, 2026
This was such a quietly addictive read for me. One Summer Before leans into that almost-relationship tension in the best way; two people who almost crossed the line the year before, only to be thrown back together in a completely different context. That lingering “what if” hangs over everything, and it makes every interaction feel charged without needing big dramatic moments.
The dynamic really carried this story. The grumpy single dad trope is done so well here. He’s guarded, a bit emotionally unavailable at first, but never in a way that feels frustrating or overdone. Instead, it’s layered with responsibility, softness, and that underlying vulnerability that slowly starts to show through. And their history gives everything more weight, you can feel that unfinished business simmering beneath the surface.
The summer setting and forced proximity added that cosy, slightly escapist vibe, but what stood out most was how easy it was to get invested. It’s not overly dramatic, but it sneaks up on you emotionally, especially as their walls start to come down.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me—comforting, romantic, and full of that aching second-chance energy that just hits every time.
The dynamic really carried this story. The grumpy single dad trope is done so well here. He’s guarded, a bit emotionally unavailable at first, but never in a way that feels frustrating or overdone. Instead, it’s layered with responsibility, softness, and that underlying vulnerability that slowly starts to show through. And their history gives everything more weight, you can feel that unfinished business simmering beneath the surface.
The summer setting and forced proximity added that cosy, slightly escapist vibe, but what stood out most was how easy it was to get invested. It’s not overly dramatic, but it sneaks up on you emotionally, especially as their walls start to come down.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me—comforting, romantic, and full of that aching second-chance energy that just hits every time.
March 28, 2026
Review of Advance Copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved this book! The writing was so incredibly well done and descriptive I felt like I was in Greece enjoying a summer while actually commuting to work in a cold train.
If second chance romance and workplace dynamics are your thing, you are going to fall head over heels for this story. The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, the slow burn, the push and pull was fun and frustrating (in the best way) at the same time. Dual POV allowed me to really get to know both characters. Overall I’m very satisfied with this read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved this book! The writing was so incredibly well done and descriptive I felt like I was in Greece enjoying a summer while actually commuting to work in a cold train.
If second chance romance and workplace dynamics are your thing, you are going to fall head over heels for this story. The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, the slow burn, the push and pull was fun and frustrating (in the best way) at the same time. Dual POV allowed me to really get to know both characters. Overall I’m very satisfied with this read!
April 28, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
April 10, 2026
This book did not disappoint! I don't think Nate was ready for Siena 😏 This book had me begging my partner for a trip to Greece. I felt like I was there, and now I want to experience the magic for real 😭
What I loved most about book one, Six Summers Apart, was the connection between the characters. I love the relationships Anya Elizabeth creates between her characters and how emotional and raw it is. I was already invested in their story after book one, and I was DESPERATE for it as soon as I started this book. I'm not normally a fan of the single dad trope, but there was something about their connection that just had me hooked. I felt every emotion alongside them and was shouting at Nate throughout this book 😂
I knew there was going to be tension, but my god. It was in full force, and I ate up every last bit of it. The way she pushed his buttons had me giggling and Nate losing control had me blushing so hard! Everything about them screamed power couple. They were definitely a force to be reckoned with, but there tender moments were just as incredible. It was nice seeing Nate let someone else in. Siena helped him let go and see he was allowed to be more than just a father. Don't even get me started on the heart-warming relationship between Rae and Siena. Rae is just the most adorable human on the planet and deserves all the pancakes she wants ❤
If you want a feel-good romance, second chance romance with some forced proximity then pick this baby up! You will not be disappointed.
I already have an idea who book 3 is about and I can't wait! If it's anything like the two books Anya has released in the series so far, then I already know I am going to be obsessed!
Thank you so much to the author and The Heartstrings Press for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
What I loved most about book one, Six Summers Apart, was the connection between the characters. I love the relationships Anya Elizabeth creates between her characters and how emotional and raw it is. I was already invested in their story after book one, and I was DESPERATE for it as soon as I started this book. I'm not normally a fan of the single dad trope, but there was something about their connection that just had me hooked. I felt every emotion alongside them and was shouting at Nate throughout this book 😂
I knew there was going to be tension, but my god. It was in full force, and I ate up every last bit of it. The way she pushed his buttons had me giggling and Nate losing control had me blushing so hard! Everything about them screamed power couple. They were definitely a force to be reckoned with, but there tender moments were just as incredible. It was nice seeing Nate let someone else in. Siena helped him let go and see he was allowed to be more than just a father. Don't even get me started on the heart-warming relationship between Rae and Siena. Rae is just the most adorable human on the planet and deserves all the pancakes she wants ❤
If you want a feel-good romance, second chance romance with some forced proximity then pick this baby up! You will not be disappointed.
I already have an idea who book 3 is about and I can't wait! If it's anything like the two books Anya has released in the series so far, then I already know I am going to be obsessed!
Thank you so much to the author and The Heartstrings Press for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
March 31, 2026
Another gorgeous love story from Anya! I absolutely loved following Siena and Nate’s journey. They’re such a sweet couple, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic was done so well. Rae completely stole my heart; she’s such a little ray of sunshine. Her bond with “Senna” is incredibly heartwarming and easily one of the cutest relationships in the book.
If you’re looking for the perfect spring or summer romance, or just a light, feel-good escape, this is definitely one to pick up!
If you’re looking for the perfect spring or summer romance, or just a light, feel-good escape, this is definitely one to pick up!
April 9, 2026
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Anya Elizabeth for the ARC opportunity.
After reading the first in the series, I was really looking forward for Siena's story. I love her fiery personality and how she is always there for her those who she cares about. This is shown in her pep talks with her sister about her modeling career and even with Rae when she asks if her dad will ever get married. Siena can always make the best out of a situation, and lucky for her - that led to one of my favorite tropes in this (Forced proximity).
I like many others wanted to punch Nate at times 😋. He is so infuriating when he undermines Siena's abilities at work and often pulls the age card, but I think most of that was a front because he assumed the role of the overprotective dad and didn't want to get hurt. I kept eagerly reading to find out the reason as to why the two were on such bad terms, the flashback scenes were just enough of a glimpse to keep me saying "just one more chapter". Plus the setting in Greece didn't hurt either, it was so beautiful and the perfect place to rekindle a romance.
I don't read the age gap trope often but I really ended up loving the relationship between Siena and Nate. The way that Rae bonded with Siena was so special and I love that she was able to bring the two together again. This one should definitely be added to your summer romance TBR list.
After reading the first in the series, I was really looking forward for Siena's story. I love her fiery personality and how she is always there for her those who she cares about. This is shown in her pep talks with her sister about her modeling career and even with Rae when she asks if her dad will ever get married. Siena can always make the best out of a situation, and lucky for her - that led to one of my favorite tropes in this (Forced proximity).
I like many others wanted to punch Nate at times 😋. He is so infuriating when he undermines Siena's abilities at work and often pulls the age card, but I think most of that was a front because he assumed the role of the overprotective dad and didn't want to get hurt. I kept eagerly reading to find out the reason as to why the two were on such bad terms, the flashback scenes were just enough of a glimpse to keep me saying "just one more chapter". Plus the setting in Greece didn't hurt either, it was so beautiful and the perfect place to rekindle a romance.
I don't read the age gap trope often but I really ended up loving the relationship between Siena and Nate. The way that Rae bonded with Siena was so special and I love that she was able to bring the two together again. This one should definitely be added to your summer romance TBR list.
April 11, 2026
This one is beautiful, emotional and the kind of story that slowly sneaks up on you and then refuses to let go.
Siena and Nate have that 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 history and being forced back into each other’s orbit a year later? The tension was 𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦. The banter, the resistance, the undeniable pull between them… it’s all there, and it builds into something that feels both messy and real in the best way.
But what really made this story stand out for me was Rae. The relationship between Siena and Rae was so soft and genuine and seeing it through Nate’s POV – his protectiveness, his hesitation, his internal conflict – just added so much depth. Nothing felt overdramatic for the sake of it; his reactions 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦, and that made everything hit harder.
“𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.” - we LOVE friends that smack sense into the MMCs. Because yes. We love a good “get your act together” moment, and this one delivered.
The writing itself is super accessible, clear, engaging and easy to get lost in. The dual POV works really well here, giving you both sides of the emotional push-and-pull without ever feeling repetitive. The pacing is smooth, the structure is solid and it just flows.
Overall, this is one of those romances that balances heat with heart really well. It’s emotional without being heavy, swoony without losing its grounding, and just incredibly satisfying to read.
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.
Siena and Nate have that 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 history and being forced back into each other’s orbit a year later? The tension was 𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦. The banter, the resistance, the undeniable pull between them… it’s all there, and it builds into something that feels both messy and real in the best way.
But what really made this story stand out for me was Rae. The relationship between Siena and Rae was so soft and genuine and seeing it through Nate’s POV – his protectiveness, his hesitation, his internal conflict – just added so much depth. Nothing felt overdramatic for the sake of it; his reactions 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦, and that made everything hit harder.
“𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.” - we LOVE friends that smack sense into the MMCs. Because yes. We love a good “get your act together” moment, and this one delivered.
The writing itself is super accessible, clear, engaging and easy to get lost in. The dual POV works really well here, giving you both sides of the emotional push-and-pull without ever feeling repetitive. The pacing is smooth, the structure is solid and it just flows.
Overall, this is one of those romances that balances heat with heart really well. It’s emotional without being heavy, swoony without losing its grounding, and just incredibly satisfying to read.
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.
March 28, 2026
Príležitosť, ktorá sa naskytne snáď len raz za život. Presne to sa prihodilo mladej Siene Blake, ktorá dostala možnosť pracovať ako marketingová špecialistka pri výstavbe luxusných víl na gréckom ostrove Paros. Čo však nečakala bolo opätovné stretnutie so šesťročnou Rae a jej otcom Nateom Finchom. Presne s tým Nateom, ktorého pred rokom vášnivo bozkávala v jeho kuchyni. Budú vo svojom vzťahu-nevzťahu pokračovať tam, kde prestali alebo ich pracovné nezhody vrazia medzi nich kôl?
Toto bolo tak príjemné, oddychové čítanie! Do prostredia gréckeho Parosu sa okamžite zamilujete – normálne mám sto chutí si tam teraz booknuť letenky a ubytko, obzvlášť, keď je dnes vonku tak otrasne. 😄
Hlavné aj vedľajšie postavy si hneď obľúbite. Sú napísané jednoducho, bez zbytočných komplikácií, no s dôrazom na ich citovú hĺbku. Chémie medzi hlavnými postavami by som prijala viac, no ich vývoj bol naozaj pekný a celkom dobre spracovaný. V knihe nájdete banter aj spice, preto nepochybujem, že vás táto sladká romantika bude baviť.
Jediné, čo by som vytkla je fakt, že autorka uvádza ako jeden z trópov enemies to lovers. A táto kniha okolo toho ani nešla. Celé enemies to lovers je vlastne len nezhoda v pracovných názoroch. Niečo typu „učiteľ výtvarnej si myslí, že jeho predmet je dôležitejší než hudobná“. Iné výhrady nemám, ja som bola s touto knihou vcelku spokojná a až na toto splnila moje očakávania. 🥹
Kniha vychádza už 2. 4. 2026!❗️Ak sa chcete naladiť na leto, určite si knihu zadovážte čo najskôr. A ak ju budete čítať priamo v Grécku, pošlite fotky a dajte vedieť, ako sa vám kniha páči. 😁
Toto bolo tak príjemné, oddychové čítanie! Do prostredia gréckeho Parosu sa okamžite zamilujete – normálne mám sto chutí si tam teraz booknuť letenky a ubytko, obzvlášť, keď je dnes vonku tak otrasne. 😄
Hlavné aj vedľajšie postavy si hneď obľúbite. Sú napísané jednoducho, bez zbytočných komplikácií, no s dôrazom na ich citovú hĺbku. Chémie medzi hlavnými postavami by som prijala viac, no ich vývoj bol naozaj pekný a celkom dobre spracovaný. V knihe nájdete banter aj spice, preto nepochybujem, že vás táto sladká romantika bude baviť.
Jediné, čo by som vytkla je fakt, že autorka uvádza ako jeden z trópov enemies to lovers. A táto kniha okolo toho ani nešla. Celé enemies to lovers je vlastne len nezhoda v pracovných názoroch. Niečo typu „učiteľ výtvarnej si myslí, že jeho predmet je dôležitejší než hudobná“. Iné výhrady nemám, ja som bola s touto knihou vcelku spokojná a až na toto splnila moje očakávania. 🥹
Kniha vychádza už 2. 4. 2026!❗️Ak sa chcete naladiť na leto, určite si knihu zadovážte čo najskôr. A ak ju budete čítať priamo v Grécku, pošlite fotky a dajte vedieť, ako sa vám kniha páči. 😁
April 6, 2026
Yet another fabulous, fantastic, & Beautiful read by the Author. I absolutely enjoyed this one. I love her way of writing and the characters she creates. It’s like you, the reader, is also in the story. I really loved reading about Nate & Sienna. Plus how could I forgot little Rae? This story definitely has all the feels. All the emotions and is truly just a beautiful story. I absolutely loved it.
April 4, 2026
loved!
Ohh I really enjoyed this story. I couldn’t wait for these three and what a wonderful story we got.
Nate and Sienna had a night together once. And then everything changed. Now each of them are at a new site together and Nate has brought Rae with him. These two have such a push and pull. The tension between them is very strong. But Nate always has wants to play it safe. But inevitably the tension breaks and a love like no other is born.
So entertaining, emotional at times and these three become such a sweet and amazing little family.
Highly recommended.
Ohh I really enjoyed this story. I couldn’t wait for these three and what a wonderful story we got.
Nate and Sienna had a night together once. And then everything changed. Now each of them are at a new site together and Nate has brought Rae with him. These two have such a push and pull. The tension between them is very strong. But Nate always has wants to play it safe. But inevitably the tension breaks and a love like no other is born.
So entertaining, emotional at times and these three become such a sweet and amazing little family.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book had me hooked from the very beginning with some of my favorite tropes: single dad, forced proximity, and enemies to lovers. It already felt like the perfect combination, and somehow it still exceeded my expectations.
Anya’s writing style is so vivid and immersive. The way she describes scenes makes it incredibly easy to picture everything, almost like you are right there with the characters. There’s so much attention to detail that it creates this warm, cozy atmosphere throughout the story. I’ve never been to Paros, but the descriptions were so beautiful that I could imagine it all so clearly.
As the story unfolds, what really stood out to me was the soft, domestic vibe woven into everything. The little everyday moments, the comfort, the feeling of “home” in such a beautiful setting… it all felt so warm and real. And the matching seashell bracelets? So cute, I genuinely couldn’t handle it.
Then you get to the characters, and that’s where this book truly shines. Nate is honestly one of the best fictional dads I’ve read about. The love he has for Rae feels so genuine and pure, and the way he interacts with her is just adorable. Rae completely stole my heart. It was impossible not to love her.
I also really appreciated the relationship between Siena and Talia. Their bond feels real, supportive, and refreshing. I loved how they genuinely care for each other, worry about each other, and always show up for one another.
And can we talk about the cats? I loved how many there were. It honestly made me wish I could be there in Paros surrounded by them.
As Nate and Siena are pushed together, the tension starts building, and it was everything. The flirting, the teasing… it was actually killing me in the best way. And a jealous Nate? Yes please. Add the glasses and the stubble, and I was completely sold.
Age gap tropes aren’t usually my thing, but here it was done perfectly. It felt natural, balanced, and added to the emotional depth instead of taking away from it.
I also loved seeing Cece and Theo again and how they were basically their biggest shippers. It made everything feel even more fun and connected.
But what really made this book stand out is how much it made me feel. One moment I was laughing, completely caught up in the light, playful moments, and the next I was heartbroken.
“Nate Finch would always close the door. And I… I don’t know how many times I could pretend it didn’t hurt.” That line genuinely broke my heart.
“For once in my life, maybe a man could meet me halfway.” Okay… who hurt my girl?
Even the tension between them builds into scenes that had me blushing. “Would you stop being such a gentleman? Take what you want. And. Fuck. Me!” You tell him, girl. And everything that came after that… yeah, I was not okay.
And honestly, some moments had me so frustrated I wanted to strangle Nate because he can be so infuriating at times. But that’s what made it feel real.
And the ending… I loved it so much.
“Be with me. Be with Rae. Be with us.”
Rae calling Siena “mummy” and finding out she’s going to be a big sister… I genuinely couldn’t have wished for a better ending.
You know a book is good when it makes you feel everything, and this one definitely did that for me. It was cozy, emotional, and completely addictive, with characters that stay with you long after you finish.
Also… can we please get a story for Talia or Leo?
Anya’s writing style is so vivid and immersive. The way she describes scenes makes it incredibly easy to picture everything, almost like you are right there with the characters. There’s so much attention to detail that it creates this warm, cozy atmosphere throughout the story. I’ve never been to Paros, but the descriptions were so beautiful that I could imagine it all so clearly.
As the story unfolds, what really stood out to me was the soft, domestic vibe woven into everything. The little everyday moments, the comfort, the feeling of “home” in such a beautiful setting… it all felt so warm and real. And the matching seashell bracelets? So cute, I genuinely couldn’t handle it.
Then you get to the characters, and that’s where this book truly shines. Nate is honestly one of the best fictional dads I’ve read about. The love he has for Rae feels so genuine and pure, and the way he interacts with her is just adorable. Rae completely stole my heart. It was impossible not to love her.
I also really appreciated the relationship between Siena and Talia. Their bond feels real, supportive, and refreshing. I loved how they genuinely care for each other, worry about each other, and always show up for one another.
And can we talk about the cats? I loved how many there were. It honestly made me wish I could be there in Paros surrounded by them.
As Nate and Siena are pushed together, the tension starts building, and it was everything. The flirting, the teasing… it was actually killing me in the best way. And a jealous Nate? Yes please. Add the glasses and the stubble, and I was completely sold.
Age gap tropes aren’t usually my thing, but here it was done perfectly. It felt natural, balanced, and added to the emotional depth instead of taking away from it.
I also loved seeing Cece and Theo again and how they were basically their biggest shippers. It made everything feel even more fun and connected.
But what really made this book stand out is how much it made me feel. One moment I was laughing, completely caught up in the light, playful moments, and the next I was heartbroken.
“Nate Finch would always close the door. And I… I don’t know how many times I could pretend it didn’t hurt.” That line genuinely broke my heart.
“For once in my life, maybe a man could meet me halfway.” Okay… who hurt my girl?
Even the tension between them builds into scenes that had me blushing. “Would you stop being such a gentleman? Take what you want. And. Fuck. Me!” You tell him, girl. And everything that came after that… yeah, I was not okay.
And honestly, some moments had me so frustrated I wanted to strangle Nate because he can be so infuriating at times. But that’s what made it feel real.
And the ending… I loved it so much.
“Be with me. Be with Rae. Be with us.”
Rae calling Siena “mummy” and finding out she’s going to be a big sister… I genuinely couldn’t have wished for a better ending.
You know a book is good when it makes you feel everything, and this one definitely did that for me. It was cozy, emotional, and completely addictive, with characters that stay with you long after you finish.
Also… can we please get a story for Talia or Leo?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2026
As always, thank you to Anya and Heartstrings for the opportunity to ARC read for her again! Six Summers Apart fully exceeded all of my expectations, and I was so excited to jump back into the universe of Summer Hearts. Safe to say, this series has absolutely captured my heart, and Anya will undoubtedly continue to be an auto read and auto buy author for me.
You are Siena f'cking Blake, and you don't need a goddamn man to prove your worth.
SIENA BLAKE
From her introduction in SSA, Siena has always been a standout character for me. She knows who she is, what she deserves, and will never settle for less than that. While she's described as fiery, chaotic and spontaneous, theres also a strong sense of emotional intelligence that I feel got overlooked at so many points. There were moments where she shined so brilliantly, especially when it came to her vision on what marketing for the villas should look like, and I felt so captivated by her. She's a character that you can't help but root for, and connect to, especially in the moments that she's underestimated.
And for the first time in my life, i'm sitting in the middle of something that feels whole. Like home.
NATE FINCH
Okay. Nate definitely got on my nerves sometimes, and fully left me frustrated. I won't sugarcoat the way that I wanted him so badly to get out of his own way and to allow himself to have just a sliver of happiness - something reserved only for him. At the same time though, I think that's why he worked so well for me. He's a single dad. So much of his identity is wrapped up in responsibility. Whether that be for his career or his daughter Rae, so much weighed on him, and his struggles, fears, frustrations and mistakes never felt surface level. So much of every choice he made was heavily filtered through the pressure of raising his daughter, and making sure their lives stayed stable and fully controlled in every aspect of his life. What I loved about Nate, was how deeply he cared. All of his pushing back against Siena was never to maliciously hurt her. He's careful and controlling, but only for the sake of Rae.
FINAL THOUGHTS
All in all, I always know a book is going to be a 5 star for me when it elicits an emotional response, and when it's so immersive and addictive that I can't put it down. One Summer Before did both of those things for me, and there were so many things that I loved about it. I'm going to sound like a broken recored, but I loved the tension between these two. I loved that it built and built until it finally broke, and they had no choice but to act on the chemistry that was so clearly there. I loved that we got a little peak into the relationship Siena had with Talia, and the way that Siena has always been one of the most loyal characters. She's fiercely dedicated to those she cares about, and we get perfect insight into that as well with Rae. While Siena never intended to take the place of Rae's mom, it always felt so natural in the little moments between them. She listened to her, cared for her, and felt that same protectiveness we see from Nate (even going as far as literally walking through broken glass for her). I think what Anya does exceptionally well is fully immersive descriptions. Ive never traveled to Paros, but I could see it as if I was there through the depictions of the villas, and the little markets, bars and tavernas. I fully enjoyed every moment of this book. From the escapism of Paros, to the banter between Nate and Siena, to the heart that we see from the side relationships between Siena and Rae/Talia, and the friendship between Nate and Leo.
Im so thankful I've gotten the chance to ARC read, and I'm so excited to see where this series will go next!
You are Siena f'cking Blake, and you don't need a goddamn man to prove your worth.
SIENA BLAKE
From her introduction in SSA, Siena has always been a standout character for me. She knows who she is, what she deserves, and will never settle for less than that. While she's described as fiery, chaotic and spontaneous, theres also a strong sense of emotional intelligence that I feel got overlooked at so many points. There were moments where she shined so brilliantly, especially when it came to her vision on what marketing for the villas should look like, and I felt so captivated by her. She's a character that you can't help but root for, and connect to, especially in the moments that she's underestimated.
And for the first time in my life, i'm sitting in the middle of something that feels whole. Like home.
NATE FINCH
Okay. Nate definitely got on my nerves sometimes, and fully left me frustrated. I won't sugarcoat the way that I wanted him so badly to get out of his own way and to allow himself to have just a sliver of happiness - something reserved only for him. At the same time though, I think that's why he worked so well for me. He's a single dad. So much of his identity is wrapped up in responsibility. Whether that be for his career or his daughter Rae, so much weighed on him, and his struggles, fears, frustrations and mistakes never felt surface level. So much of every choice he made was heavily filtered through the pressure of raising his daughter, and making sure their lives stayed stable and fully controlled in every aspect of his life. What I loved about Nate, was how deeply he cared. All of his pushing back against Siena was never to maliciously hurt her. He's careful and controlling, but only for the sake of Rae.
FINAL THOUGHTS
All in all, I always know a book is going to be a 5 star for me when it elicits an emotional response, and when it's so immersive and addictive that I can't put it down. One Summer Before did both of those things for me, and there were so many things that I loved about it. I'm going to sound like a broken recored, but I loved the tension between these two. I loved that it built and built until it finally broke, and they had no choice but to act on the chemistry that was so clearly there. I loved that we got a little peak into the relationship Siena had with Talia, and the way that Siena has always been one of the most loyal characters. She's fiercely dedicated to those she cares about, and we get perfect insight into that as well with Rae. While Siena never intended to take the place of Rae's mom, it always felt so natural in the little moments between them. She listened to her, cared for her, and felt that same protectiveness we see from Nate (even going as far as literally walking through broken glass for her). I think what Anya does exceptionally well is fully immersive descriptions. Ive never traveled to Paros, but I could see it as if I was there through the depictions of the villas, and the little markets, bars and tavernas. I fully enjoyed every moment of this book. From the escapism of Paros, to the banter between Nate and Siena, to the heart that we see from the side relationships between Siena and Rae/Talia, and the friendship between Nate and Leo.
Im so thankful I've gotten the chance to ARC read, and I'm so excited to see where this series will go next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 💫💫💫💫💫
I just don't know how but this story made a home in my heart ❤️ There are so many special moments that I can't choose any single one. 🥹🎀
Review:
This story was one of the most spicy 🔥 (beyond my imagination) yet it was reallyyy raw and emotional.
We have our FMC "Siena" who is smart, free spirited, strong, Independent & badass women I have ever seen. She knows what she wants & she knows how to make that happen ✨ She don't request, she rules & she don't ask, she gets. Still beyond everything she is the most kind, pure & emotional person I have seen.
On the other hand we have our MMC " Nate" who is single dad who is calm, composed, control freak, possesive & protective person. But his heart just melts around his daughter. Despite his busy schedule he makes sure that his daughter "Rae" gets all the love, attention & care in the world ✨🤗🥰
& Lastly we have The most cute & prettiest girl in the world our Rea. Who carries stars with her, her giggles & laughter makes the whole world more bright 🎀😭 throught this entire story I just wanted to hug her tightly 🥹🥰
One summer before it's story about Seina & Nate who had one secret moment which they don't talk about... That moment changed everything before a year but after ignoring each other for one year destiny has brought them together in Greece for work. You will see arguments, fights, flirting, misunderstanding, romance ( lot of it) & finallyyyyy a happy ending ✨💫 There is so much back & forth that at one point I was reading book without blinking to make sure I am not missing anything but yeahhh it was greatttt ❤️
Throughout the story I was on roller coaster ride of emotions I laughed, I was blushing, giggling, hold my breath,cried & finallyyyyy felt that happiness in my heart 💜
If you are someone who lovesss Enemies to lovers, Force Proximity, Second chance with lot of spice you should definitely read this book 📚
I just don't know how but this story made a home in my heart ❤️ There are so many special moments that I can't choose any single one. 🥹🎀
Review:
This story was one of the most spicy 🔥 (beyond my imagination) yet it was reallyyy raw and emotional.
We have our FMC "Siena" who is smart, free spirited, strong, Independent & badass women I have ever seen. She knows what she wants & she knows how to make that happen ✨ She don't request, she rules & she don't ask, she gets. Still beyond everything she is the most kind, pure & emotional person I have seen.
On the other hand we have our MMC " Nate" who is single dad who is calm, composed, control freak, possesive & protective person. But his heart just melts around his daughter. Despite his busy schedule he makes sure that his daughter "Rae" gets all the love, attention & care in the world ✨🤗🥰
& Lastly we have The most cute & prettiest girl in the world our Rea. Who carries stars with her, her giggles & laughter makes the whole world more bright 🎀😭 throught this entire story I just wanted to hug her tightly 🥹🥰
One summer before it's story about Seina & Nate who had one secret moment which they don't talk about... That moment changed everything before a year but after ignoring each other for one year destiny has brought them together in Greece for work. You will see arguments, fights, flirting, misunderstanding, romance ( lot of it) & finallyyyyy a happy ending ✨💫 There is so much back & forth that at one point I was reading book without blinking to make sure I am not missing anything but yeahhh it was greatttt ❤️
Throughout the story I was on roller coaster ride of emotions I laughed, I was blushing, giggling, hold my breath,cried & finallyyyyy felt that happiness in my heart 💜
If you are someone who lovesss Enemies to lovers, Force Proximity, Second chance with lot of spice you should definitely read this book 📚
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This story swept me to the sun‑bleached cliffs of Paros, and I loved every minute of Siena and Nate’s tangled, tender, maddening journey.
Siena and Nate meet during a week in Nice. Siena’s best friend Cece is dating Nate’s brother Theo. On the trip she spends time with Nate and his daughter. Nate’s a grumpy, guarded single dad to the sweetest little girl, Rae. Siena is a warm, steady presence who fits into their world far too easily for Nate’s liking. Their chemistry is slow‑burn perfection: soft glances, shared moments, and that quiet emotional pull that builds until you feel it in your chest.
But they part on a sour note, and honestly… Nate doesn’t always handle things well. His assumptions about Siena and the way he speaks to her at times frustrated me. He’s clearly protecting old wounds, but it still stings.
A year later, fate throws them together again, this time on Paros, working a job for Leo, Nate’s best friend. The tension is immediate. The feelings never died. As they work together you can feel the emotions bubbling. Nate’s daughter Rae is so excited to see Siena again, she was truly missing her after Nice. Her bond with Siena is absolutely adorable; she’s the heart of this book for me. I loved seeing Nate open up and admire the bond that Siena had with his daughter. Siena loves Rae like her own and that made Nate fall even harder for her.
The slow burn in the second half is delicious: longing, miscommunication, emotional push‑pull, and Nate trying (sometimes failing) to get out of his own way. His grovel at the end is necessary and satisfying, even if I wanted him to get there sooner.
As a lover of single dad romances, this one hit the spot. There’s loads of tension and the spice is utterly perfect. One Summer Before delivers a heartfelt, sun‑soaked love story with just enough ache to make you feel it without it being too painful.
A huge thank you to Anya Elizabeth & The Heart Strings Press for the early copy!
Siena and Nate meet during a week in Nice. Siena’s best friend Cece is dating Nate’s brother Theo. On the trip she spends time with Nate and his daughter. Nate’s a grumpy, guarded single dad to the sweetest little girl, Rae. Siena is a warm, steady presence who fits into their world far too easily for Nate’s liking. Their chemistry is slow‑burn perfection: soft glances, shared moments, and that quiet emotional pull that builds until you feel it in your chest.
But they part on a sour note, and honestly… Nate doesn’t always handle things well. His assumptions about Siena and the way he speaks to her at times frustrated me. He’s clearly protecting old wounds, but it still stings.
A year later, fate throws them together again, this time on Paros, working a job for Leo, Nate’s best friend. The tension is immediate. The feelings never died. As they work together you can feel the emotions bubbling. Nate’s daughter Rae is so excited to see Siena again, she was truly missing her after Nice. Her bond with Siena is absolutely adorable; she’s the heart of this book for me. I loved seeing Nate open up and admire the bond that Siena had with his daughter. Siena loves Rae like her own and that made Nate fall even harder for her.
The slow burn in the second half is delicious: longing, miscommunication, emotional push‑pull, and Nate trying (sometimes failing) to get out of his own way. His grovel at the end is necessary and satisfying, even if I wanted him to get there sooner.
As a lover of single dad romances, this one hit the spot. There’s loads of tension and the spice is utterly perfect. One Summer Before delivers a heartfelt, sun‑soaked love story with just enough ache to make you feel it without it being too painful.
A huge thank you to Anya Elizabeth & The Heart Strings Press for the early copy!
April 6, 2026
Book: One Summer Before
Author: Anya Elizabeth
My Rating: 4/5 ⭐️ Spice Level: 3/5 🌶️
Genre: Romance
Release date: April 3rd, 2026
Tropes:
- Single father
- Miscommunication
- Enemies to lovers
- Second chance
- Age gap
- Forced proximity
My thoughts:
I honestly don't know what to feel about this book. It made me laugh, shout (I'm not proud of it), and I might've shed a few tears... The characters of this book have such bad communication skills, honestly Rae and Leo carried their relationship at the start... but the ending was so wholesome so I HAD to give it a 4/5 rating (it's also because of the tears that I shed). Oh and Rae is a darling and the sweetest kid ever— I love her so much 🫶🏻
Blurb:
One night they never talk about. Six weeks they'll never forget.
Last summer, Siena and Nate collided and no one but them knows what really happened. Now, one year later, they have no choice but to work together.
Siena arrives in Paros with her perfect opportunity finally within reach: a marketing role on a luxury villa project. There's just one problem and he's tall, dark and obnoxiously handsome.
Nate is determined to keep his world safe and predictable for his daughter, Rae. As a single dad, he doesn't have room for complications and Siena Blake with her sass and wit, is the biggest one of all.
Forced proximity turns what starts as mutual resistance into something dangerously hot and neither of them can ignore the chemistry that keeps bringing them back together.
Spicy chapters:
18
21
23
25
30
Author: Anya Elizabeth
My Rating: 4/5 ⭐️ Spice Level: 3/5 🌶️
Genre: Romance
Release date: April 3rd, 2026
Tropes:
- Single father
- Miscommunication
- Enemies to lovers
- Second chance
- Age gap
- Forced proximity
My thoughts:
I honestly don't know what to feel about this book. It made me laugh, shout (I'm not proud of it), and I might've shed a few tears... The characters of this book have such bad communication skills, honestly Rae and Leo carried their relationship at the start... but the ending was so wholesome so I HAD to give it a 4/5 rating (it's also because of the tears that I shed). Oh and Rae is a darling and the sweetest kid ever— I love her so much 🫶🏻
Blurb:
One night they never talk about. Six weeks they'll never forget.
Last summer, Siena and Nate collided and no one but them knows what really happened. Now, one year later, they have no choice but to work together.
Siena arrives in Paros with her perfect opportunity finally within reach: a marketing role on a luxury villa project. There's just one problem and he's tall, dark and obnoxiously handsome.
Nate is determined to keep his world safe and predictable for his daughter, Rae. As a single dad, he doesn't have room for complications and Siena Blake with her sass and wit, is the biggest one of all.
Forced proximity turns what starts as mutual resistance into something dangerously hot and neither of them can ignore the chemistry that keeps bringing them back together.
Spicy chapters:
18
21
23
25
30
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beautiful. Invigorating. Heartwarming.
The heat of the sun doesn't compare to how dreamy and hot this summer story is! This story is tension, hot, sunny and heart swelling magic that truly makes you want to drop everything and runaway to a sunny Greek island.
Siena and Nate unknowingly take on a job together but their past comes back full force and the ache of the sting haunts them as they try to balance the line of professionalism and romance. Despite the constant jabs, remarks and constantly getting on each other's nerves, they share one thing - the love they feel for Rae, Nate's daughter. This slow burn is set to high heat as they are given much needed time and space to figure out what they are and how it can work while also trying to figure out how to get past the past. Nate is scared and closed off while Siena is ready to run full speed into the arms of the man her heart is beating for but she's not going to beg, or make herself smaller. She knows her worth and while her heart breaks each time they take steps backwards, she still hasn't given up yet. The only people blind to their glaringly obvious attraction is themselves and it's chaotically adorable.
One last time to get it right or he may possibly lose the love of his life and Rae's for good and this time Nate doesn't know how deep her love goes for him until it slaps him in the face. Will the love they have for each other conquer this complicated dynamic or will it be lost to the winds of the island?
The heat of the sun doesn't compare to how dreamy and hot this summer story is! This story is tension, hot, sunny and heart swelling magic that truly makes you want to drop everything and runaway to a sunny Greek island.
Siena and Nate unknowingly take on a job together but their past comes back full force and the ache of the sting haunts them as they try to balance the line of professionalism and romance. Despite the constant jabs, remarks and constantly getting on each other's nerves, they share one thing - the love they feel for Rae, Nate's daughter. This slow burn is set to high heat as they are given much needed time and space to figure out what they are and how it can work while also trying to figure out how to get past the past. Nate is scared and closed off while Siena is ready to run full speed into the arms of the man her heart is beating for but she's not going to beg, or make herself smaller. She knows her worth and while her heart breaks each time they take steps backwards, she still hasn't given up yet. The only people blind to their glaringly obvious attraction is themselves and it's chaotically adorable.
One last time to get it right or he may possibly lose the love of his life and Rae's for good and this time Nate doesn't know how deep her love goes for him until it slaps him in the face. Will the love they have for each other conquer this complicated dynamic or will it be lost to the winds of the island?
Review of advance copy
I picked up the first book in the series before starting this one, and I’m so glad I did. While this could stand alone, the first book adds just enough depth to the storyline and their initial encounter to make the experience even better.
I really enjoyed how Nate was portrayed. As a parent, his perspective felt incredibly relatable—the hesitation of letting someone into your child’s world, the fear that can sometimes come out as anger, and the overwhelming emotions that can surface louder than intended. That need for stability and control within the chaos of parenthood was portrayed so well.
Siena was a thoughtful and grounded FMC. While she has her own life and priorities, she approaches the idea of a “ready-made family” with a level of honesty and awareness that felt refreshing. Her empathy stood out, but so did her boundaries. She trusts herself, makes intentional decisions, and thinks things through in a way that made her character feel strong and realistic.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and emotionally grounded read with characters that felt genuine and easy to connect with.
I really enjoyed how Nate was portrayed. As a parent, his perspective felt incredibly relatable—the hesitation of letting someone into your child’s world, the fear that can sometimes come out as anger, and the overwhelming emotions that can surface louder than intended. That need for stability and control within the chaos of parenthood was portrayed so well.
Siena was a thoughtful and grounded FMC. While she has her own life and priorities, she approaches the idea of a “ready-made family” with a level of honesty and awareness that felt refreshing. Her empathy stood out, but so did her boundaries. She trusts herself, makes intentional decisions, and thinks things through in a way that made her character feel strong and realistic.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and emotionally grounded read with characters that felt genuine and easy to connect with.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review ❤
5 hearts ❤❤❤❤❤
oh what a book I read.... it's packed up with everything that a romance reader can ask for.... slow burn, enemies to lovers, age gap, child involvement.... oh my! I loved this book from the beginning till the last page and it stays with me even after the last page. the raw emotions, the funniest parts, the emotional parts, oh I feel everything.... you can imagine clearly everything while you are reading this story
I loved the bond between Siena and Rae and it tugged my heart 💕 and slow burn at the beginning between Nate and Siena is undeniable and the spice 😽😽😽 #TeNa
Anya has a special way of writing and making the story come alive. I admire how she showed Siena strong, professionally and personally and Nate being a considerable gentleman, lovable dad. And don't make me start with Rae, I loved her and she is the top loved character for me and I adored her part whenever she is in the book.
I'm very thankful that I was given an ARC to explore this cutest story before hand 😍
5 hearts ❤❤❤❤❤
oh what a book I read.... it's packed up with everything that a romance reader can ask for.... slow burn, enemies to lovers, age gap, child involvement.... oh my! I loved this book from the beginning till the last page and it stays with me even after the last page. the raw emotions, the funniest parts, the emotional parts, oh I feel everything.... you can imagine clearly everything while you are reading this story
I loved the bond between Siena and Rae and it tugged my heart 💕 and slow burn at the beginning between Nate and Siena is undeniable and the spice 😽😽😽 #TeNa
Anya has a special way of writing and making the story come alive. I admire how she showed Siena strong, professionally and personally and Nate being a considerable gentleman, lovable dad. And don't make me start with Rae, I loved her and she is the top loved character for me and I adored her part whenever she is in the book.
I'm very thankful that I was given an ARC to explore this cutest story before hand 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
Set against the dreamy backdrops of Paris in Greece, the story felt like pure escapism. Having visited Paros and other parts of Greece myself last year, I could picture the sunlit streets, the sea views, and the vibrant energy so vividly while reading, it made the whole experience even more immersive.
The romance was full of tension and longing, with that perfect mix of playful banter and emotional depth. I loved how Siena was written, confident, fiery, and unapologetically herself. Her dynamic with Nate had me hooked, especially in those moments where their chemistry was undeniable but complicated by circumstance.
The supporting characters added warmth and humour, making the story feel layered and real. It wasn’t just about love, it was about connection, trust, and finding a sense of home in unexpected places.
The writing was descriptive without being heavy, and the pacing kept me engaged throughout.
The romance was full of tension and longing, with that perfect mix of playful banter and emotional depth. I loved how Siena was written, confident, fiery, and unapologetically herself. Her dynamic with Nate had me hooked, especially in those moments where their chemistry was undeniable but complicated by circumstance.
The supporting characters added warmth and humour, making the story feel layered and real. It wasn’t just about love, it was about connection, trust, and finding a sense of home in unexpected places.
The writing was descriptive without being heavy, and the pacing kept me engaged throughout.
May 3, 2026
i am so honoured to say i have received both of anyas books as arcs, her writing is so beautiful and captures the essence and beauty of where ever the destination is perfectly 💗 - i was highlight away, i swear half of the quotes are highlighted now lol
i always am a sucker for a good single parent romance, they touch me in such lovely ways seeing the relationship and the other character grow to love each other, and that was no different with rae and siena.
rae is the sweetest little girl, and i was smiling every time she was there, and i do relate to her love of pancakes (minus the syrup 😂)
now omg, siena and nate are to die for.
i truly love how different they are and siena being the one to call nate out on some of his choices, they fit together so well and im actually obsessed!!
also, i lovveeddd all the references to six summers before, and seeing cece and theo in all their newlywed glory was so so special!!
definitely recommend this one! 💗🤭
i always am a sucker for a good single parent romance, they touch me in such lovely ways seeing the relationship and the other character grow to love each other, and that was no different with rae and siena.
rae is the sweetest little girl, and i was smiling every time she was there, and i do relate to her love of pancakes (minus the syrup 😂)
now omg, siena and nate are to die for.
i truly love how different they are and siena being the one to call nate out on some of his choices, they fit together so well and im actually obsessed!!
also, i lovveeddd all the references to six summers before, and seeing cece and theo in all their newlywed glory was so so special!!
definitely recommend this one! 💗🤭
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review: One Summer Before by Anya Elizabeth
Okay, I’m still screaming over this one! 😱 I just finished an early copy of One Summer Before and Anya Elizabeth absolutely crushed it.
The FMC is everything. 👑 I’m so obsessed with how sure of herself she is. There’s nothing better than a character who actually speaks her mind and doesn't play games.
The Niles memory. 🔥🔥🔥 If you know, you know. If you don’t... just be prepared. That scene was actually out of this world.
The Spice? 🌶️ 4/5. Perfectly written, high tension, and just chef’s kiss.
The Ending. 🥹 It was literally perfect. I closed the book feeling so satisfied—no notes!
If you love a confident lead and top-tier chemistry, you need to get this on your TBR immediately.
Thanks to the author for the ARC! All thoughts are my own.
Okay, I’m still screaming over this one! 😱 I just finished an early copy of One Summer Before and Anya Elizabeth absolutely crushed it.
The FMC is everything. 👑 I’m so obsessed with how sure of herself she is. There’s nothing better than a character who actually speaks her mind and doesn't play games.
The Niles memory. 🔥🔥🔥 If you know, you know. If you don’t... just be prepared. That scene was actually out of this world.
The Spice? 🌶️ 4/5. Perfectly written, high tension, and just chef’s kiss.
The Ending. 🥹 It was literally perfect. I closed the book feeling so satisfied—no notes!
If you love a confident lead and top-tier chemistry, you need to get this on your TBR immediately.
Thanks to the author for the ARC! All thoughts are my own.
April 4, 2026
Nate and Siena
* Forced proximity
* Enemies-to-more
* Second chance
* Workplace romance
* Single dad
* Age gap
So much tension, back and forth and drama.
There were times, I didn’t think they were going to get there….
I had moments where my heart was so overloaded with their cuteness and sweetness. Then, the steam…. Nate is like the OG dad(dy). He’s dominant, a little dirty and can be very sweet. Yet, his fears keep getting in the way and Siena doesn’t know where she stands.
But what I loved the most in this???
The Rae and Siena dynamic. They were gorgeous and I was so happy to see this sweet little girl find her new mummy….
Thanks Anya for the opportunity to read this. Such a delight.
* Forced proximity
* Enemies-to-more
* Second chance
* Workplace romance
* Single dad
* Age gap
So much tension, back and forth and drama.
There were times, I didn’t think they were going to get there….
I had moments where my heart was so overloaded with their cuteness and sweetness. Then, the steam…. Nate is like the OG dad(dy). He’s dominant, a little dirty and can be very sweet. Yet, his fears keep getting in the way and Siena doesn’t know where she stands.
But what I loved the most in this???
The Rae and Siena dynamic. They were gorgeous and I was so happy to see this sweet little girl find her new mummy….
Thanks Anya for the opportunity to read this. Such a delight.
April 7, 2026
If you have read the first book, you will know that there was already tension, and it continued when they ended up working together on a project in Greece. The tension grew more, and this time it clashed. Nate is a very good father to Rae, worrying that his daughter's attachment to Sienna would hurt her when Sienna would leave, but deep down, she wanted to stay, and so did Nate. There were moments when it felt that maybe she would move on, and there were moments where it required that he chase her because she was the best mother Rae could have, and she was already their family; only what was required was acceptance.
Want to know what happens? Go read and find out because you will love it!
Want to know what happens? Go read and find out because you will love it!
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