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Just Another Summer Escape
He’s a charming Coconut Beach bartender allergic to forever. I’m the runaway bride with a ticking marriage deadline I can’t ignore…
Cal Bennett was supposed to be a solution. I need to be married before my thirtieth birthday, or I lose my family’s billion-dollar company. He needs nothing from me except honesty and maybe a little fun. So we make a deal. A fake marriage. Simple. Temporary. Safe. What could go wrong?
Except there is nothing fake about this chemistry between us.
Between family dinners and early-morning surf lessons, I’m falling for a man who feels nothing like the cold boardrooms waiting for me back in Manhattan. I fall for his family and his friends. The messy, beautiful island life I was never meant to keep.
Everything seems manageable until I step into my role as CEO and the headlines start circling. New York expects its heiress back. Coconut Beach wants me to stay. And my fake husband is starting to feel dangerously real.
Now I have to decide if this was just Just Another Summer Escape…
Or the one love I’m brave enough to fight for.
Just Another Summer Escape is a small-town summer romcom with a runaway bride and a marriage of convenience. Each book in the Coconut Beach series is a standalone, and you can read the books in any order! Grab some sunscreen and an iced coffee and get ready to live the sweet life in Coconut Beach!
Cal Bennett was supposed to be a solution. I need to be married before my thirtieth birthday, or I lose my family’s billion-dollar company. He needs nothing from me except honesty and maybe a little fun. So we make a deal. A fake marriage. Simple. Temporary. Safe. What could go wrong?
Except there is nothing fake about this chemistry between us.
Between family dinners and early-morning surf lessons, I’m falling for a man who feels nothing like the cold boardrooms waiting for me back in Manhattan. I fall for his family and his friends. The messy, beautiful island life I was never meant to keep.
Everything seems manageable until I step into my role as CEO and the headlines start circling. New York expects its heiress back. Coconut Beach wants me to stay. And my fake husband is starting to feel dangerously real.
Now I have to decide if this was just Just Another Summer Escape…
Or the one love I’m brave enough to fight for.
Just Another Summer Escape is a small-town summer romcom with a runaway bride and a marriage of convenience. Each book in the Coconut Beach series is a standalone, and you can read the books in any order! Grab some sunscreen and an iced coffee and get ready to live the sweet life in Coconut Beach!
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2026
About the author
Erin Branscom
66 books944 followersSign up for Erin’s newsletter so you don’t miss any freebies: https://bit.ly/42KXO30
Erin Branscom is a creator of happily-ever-afters, crafting spicy, Hallmark-like romances that make readers fall head over heels for charming small towns. When she's not writing heart warming stories, Erin can be found anywhere there are dogs, with a cup of coffee in hand, or lost in a good book. As a passionate Scorpio, she brings intensity and heart to everything she does. Dive into her world and discover love, warmth, and a touch of spice in every story.
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Erin Branscom is a creator of happily-ever-afters, crafting spicy, Hallmark-like romances that make readers fall head over heels for charming small towns. When she's not writing heart warming stories, Erin can be found anywhere there are dogs, with a cup of coffee in hand, or lost in a good book. As a passionate Scorpio, she brings intensity and heart to everything she does. Dive into her world and discover love, warmth, and a touch of spice in every story.
FOLLOW ERIN:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erinbranscoma...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinbranscom...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 8, 2026
Oh my gosh I had the best time listening to this story & I feel so ready for summer?? ALSO, WHO DOESNT LOVE A MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE!!!! This is a perfect example of a summer romcom at its finest
Silvie is looking for an escape after finding out (ON HER WEDDING DAY) that her awful sister & fiancé have been hooking up behind her back so she books it out of there, with the help of her dad, to a tropical oasis. Still in her wedding dress, she stops at a bar and meets a hunk of a bartender named Cal & a fun group of locals and is able to decompress more than she has in years. With time working against her, she needs to find a way to say her family’s company and become the CEO before it’s too late & ends up getting transferred over to her sister or sold off. The pressure is on ladies & gents
Type: audio (thanks must love audio)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
☀️ Runaway Bride
☀️ Opposites attract
☀️ Forced Proximity
☀️ Small town beach community
☀️ Found family
☀️ Summer Fling
☀️ Marriage of Convenience
Silvie is looking for an escape after finding out (ON HER WEDDING DAY) that her awful sister & fiancé have been hooking up behind her back so she books it out of there, with the help of her dad, to a tropical oasis. Still in her wedding dress, she stops at a bar and meets a hunk of a bartender named Cal & a fun group of locals and is able to decompress more than she has in years. With time working against her, she needs to find a way to say her family’s company and become the CEO before it’s too late & ends up getting transferred over to her sister or sold off. The pressure is on ladies & gents
Type: audio (thanks must love audio)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
☀️ Runaway Bride
☀️ Opposites attract
☀️ Forced Proximity
☀️ Small town beach community
☀️ Found family
☀️ Summer Fling
☀️ Marriage of Convenience
June 10, 2026
ALC REVIEW
I AM OBSESSED!
🎧I’m going to chat about narration first because oh my, I am smitten! Marcio Catalano & Vivienne LaRue were fantastic. The performance was dual-style, yet I didn’t really feel that. They are both so versatile with their voices that it was kinda seamless. I am very impressed with both of them and a little obsessed, if I’m being honest. It’s refreshing to come across new-to-me performers that I can go back and devour more of their work and hype them up in all the ways! After a bit of sleuthing, I found that I already own a few audiobooks narrated by both Marcio & Vivienne which makes my audiobook loving heart very happy!
📚Now about this story … swoony, happy, entertaining, sexy, endearing, heartwarming are just a few words my brain just came up with without a second thought. I really enjoyed this story SO so much! It was emotional but not angst-driven. It had the perfect small town found family vibe I love in my romances and Cal & Sylvie were truly likeable characters that I rooted for from the very beginning. Nothing happens in the story that isn’t predictable in some way but yet it was all fresh and exciting at the same time. I think the found family vibe wins above all else in that department. These side characters just amplified the story’s heart, and they had me fully entertained from beginning to end, even when the story had pockets of emotional angst.
This was a new(ish)-to-me experience all around and I am highly impressed and satisfied! I hope to see a lot more stories come out of Coconut Beach!
I AM OBSESSED!
🎧I’m going to chat about narration first because oh my, I am smitten! Marcio Catalano & Vivienne LaRue were fantastic. The performance was dual-style, yet I didn’t really feel that. They are both so versatile with their voices that it was kinda seamless. I am very impressed with both of them and a little obsessed, if I’m being honest. It’s refreshing to come across new-to-me performers that I can go back and devour more of their work and hype them up in all the ways! After a bit of sleuthing, I found that I already own a few audiobooks narrated by both Marcio & Vivienne which makes my audiobook loving heart very happy!
📚Now about this story … swoony, happy, entertaining, sexy, endearing, heartwarming are just a few words my brain just came up with without a second thought. I really enjoyed this story SO so much! It was emotional but not angst-driven. It had the perfect small town found family vibe I love in my romances and Cal & Sylvie were truly likeable characters that I rooted for from the very beginning. Nothing happens in the story that isn’t predictable in some way but yet it was all fresh and exciting at the same time. I think the found family vibe wins above all else in that department. These side characters just amplified the story’s heart, and they had me fully entertained from beginning to end, even when the story had pockets of emotional angst.
This was a new(ish)-to-me experience all around and I am highly impressed and satisfied! I hope to see a lot more stories come out of Coconut Beach!
June 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.25 Stars
Just Another Summer Escape is the perfect book to toss in your beach bag or read by the pool this summer. I honestly wish I could escape to Coconut Beach because it is the epitome of a charming summer town that feels like a vacation all on its own.
I will always be a sucker for a story where the bride runs away at the beginning, and the fact that this turned into a marriage of convenience made it even better.
Cal is the ultimate book boyfriend. From the moment he saw Silvie, he was completely enamored with her and wanted to do whatever it took to protect her. He was absolutely down bad, and I loved every second of it. I also adored watching Silvie become part of Cal’s world and seeing how much she loved his mom. Their relationship was so sweet, and I loved that she was accepted and cherished for exactly who she was.
The side characters, Birdie and Wilby, were such fantastic additions to the story. They brought so much fun, warmth, and laughter to moments that could have felt much heavier.
If you’re looking for a sweet, swoony romance filled with small-town charm, lovable characters, and all the summer vibes, Just Another Summer Escape is one to add to your TBR.
Just Another Summer Escape is the perfect book to toss in your beach bag or read by the pool this summer. I honestly wish I could escape to Coconut Beach because it is the epitome of a charming summer town that feels like a vacation all on its own.
I will always be a sucker for a story where the bride runs away at the beginning, and the fact that this turned into a marriage of convenience made it even better.
Cal is the ultimate book boyfriend. From the moment he saw Silvie, he was completely enamored with her and wanted to do whatever it took to protect her. He was absolutely down bad, and I loved every second of it. I also adored watching Silvie become part of Cal’s world and seeing how much she loved his mom. Their relationship was so sweet, and I loved that she was accepted and cherished for exactly who she was.
The side characters, Birdie and Wilby, were such fantastic additions to the story. They brought so much fun, warmth, and laughter to moments that could have felt much heavier.
If you’re looking for a sweet, swoony romance filled with small-town charm, lovable characters, and all the summer vibes, Just Another Summer Escape is one to add to your TBR.
April 23, 2026
Just Another Summer Escape
By: Erin Branscum
I couldn’t not notice her here. Even when she’s not around, she takes up my thoughts. That realization makes me clear my throat and focus very hard on unlocking the door.
“Silvie, you’re wife material. And that asshole? He wasn’t worthy.”
“She keeps calling me hot bartender,” he tells Wilby.
Wilby looks at me, his eyes widening, and mutters. “Well, if the shoe fits.”
Cal and Sylvie’s story is so freaking cute and I was sucked in from the beginning! We meet Sylvie at her wedding only to find out some shady business has been going on and she runs away and goes straight to Coconut Beach where she meets Cal. Sylvie is a badass CEO and to keep that titled she must marry before her 30th birthday. Cal steps up to be her fake husband and what happens after is a whole lot of family drama and some surprises! I loved this read and the setting and can’t wait to go back!
Tropes:
Small Town
Runaway Bride
CEO x Bartender
Marriage of Convenience
Opposites Attract
Summer Romcom
Spice starts at: 73%
Spice: 1.5/4
Stars: 4.5/5
Available on May 28, 2026
By: Erin Branscum
I couldn’t not notice her here. Even when she’s not around, she takes up my thoughts. That realization makes me clear my throat and focus very hard on unlocking the door.
“Silvie, you’re wife material. And that asshole? He wasn’t worthy.”
“She keeps calling me hot bartender,” he tells Wilby.
Wilby looks at me, his eyes widening, and mutters. “Well, if the shoe fits.”
Cal and Sylvie’s story is so freaking cute and I was sucked in from the beginning! We meet Sylvie at her wedding only to find out some shady business has been going on and she runs away and goes straight to Coconut Beach where she meets Cal. Sylvie is a badass CEO and to keep that titled she must marry before her 30th birthday. Cal steps up to be her fake husband and what happens after is a whole lot of family drama and some surprises! I loved this read and the setting and can’t wait to go back!
Tropes:
Small Town
Runaway Bride
CEO x Bartender
Marriage of Convenience
Opposites Attract
Summer Romcom
Spice starts at: 73%
Spice: 1.5/4
Stars: 4.5/5
Available on May 28, 2026
June 3, 2026
Just Another Summer Escape is a delightful small town romance. On the day of her wedding, Silvie discovers her fiancé is having an affair with her sister. She leaves and goes to Coconut Beach to visit her childhood nanny, Birdie. While there, she meets Cal and they become friends. He offers her a marriage of convenience-to save her family’s business. Will the high finance woman and the bartender last?
The dual narration by Vivienne Larue and Marcio Catalano was phenomenal. Vivienne Larue was magnificent as sweet, kind, brilliant Silvie. All of her disbelief, disappointment, dissatisfaction, uncertainty, vulnerability, strength, sass, determination, passion and love were clearly evident in her voice. Marcio Catalano was spectacular as charming, caring, loving, protective Cal. The deep, sultry tone he used with Silvie was divine. Their chemistry was electric. I highly recommend listening to this fantastic audiobook.
Thanks to the author and Ear Candy Promos for the ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 5 stars Narration 5 stars
The dual narration by Vivienne Larue and Marcio Catalano was phenomenal. Vivienne Larue was magnificent as sweet, kind, brilliant Silvie. All of her disbelief, disappointment, dissatisfaction, uncertainty, vulnerability, strength, sass, determination, passion and love were clearly evident in her voice. Marcio Catalano was spectacular as charming, caring, loving, protective Cal. The deep, sultry tone he used with Silvie was divine. Their chemistry was electric. I highly recommend listening to this fantastic audiobook.
Thanks to the author and Ear Candy Promos for the ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 5 stars Narration 5 stars
June 10, 2026
This small town romance has an easygoing charm that fits the small town romance vibe perfectly. Silvie is an NYC finance exec who bolts from her life and lands in a sleepy beach town. Cal, a genuinely good guy and local bartender, falls first and falls hard. Their fake marriage setup turns into a slow burn with great beachy atmosphere. Both leads feel well developed, and Cal is especially easy to root for. The side characters add warmth and depth without stealing the spotlight. It’s a sweet, steady story with a satisfying emotional payoff. Marcio Catalano and Vivienne Larue did a great job with the narration.
Huge thanks to Ear Candy Promos and Erin Branscom for the ALC!
Huge thanks to Ear Candy Promos and Erin Branscom for the ALC!
June 18, 2026
This book was sent to me as an ARC and I was supposed to give a review back in April but I hadn't had time to read it.
I like that this book is a little connected with "The Wisteria Cove" series and it was great to read a story with the "Marriage of convenience" trope.
I like that this book is a little connected with "The Wisteria Cove" series and it was great to read a story with the "Marriage of convenience" trope.
June 22, 2026
This follows Silvie, a runaway bride who escapes her wedding after a betrayal, alongside a tense family and business situation. With nowhere else to go, she runs to Coconut Beach, never expecting to meet Cal, a handsome bartender who becomes the person she turns to for help. The catch is that they need to marry, but how long can they resist temptation?
This was such a funny, heartfelt, and vulnerable read. I love a character driven story, and I’m a huge fan of small beach town settings with a strong cast of side characters. There’s plenty of family and business drama woven in, alongside themes of self discovery and figuring out what they truly want from life and their careers.
I loved Silvie, she’s a total badass as a CEO of a major financial company. She faces challenges, but she stands her ground. She’s fierce, kind to everyone in Coconut Beach, and you can really see how safe and at peace she feels around Cal. Her relationship with Cal’s mum was also incredibly sweet.
Cal is more mysterious, but he treats Silvie with so much respect and would do anything for her. From the start, you can tell there’s more beneath the surface, and as his story unfolds, it just makes you love him more. Silvie brings out a different side of him, and I loved how much he appreciated everything she did for his mum. Their chemistry was fantastic.
The only part I struggled with was Silvie’s family. Each of them played a role in her distress, but it felt chaotic. While I didn’t mind her father’s redemption play out, the sister was awful, the mother needed a reality check, and it didn’t feel like a singular family conflict they all seemed to act separately without really communicating. It personally felt a little odd and was a lot.
Lastly, I really enjoyed the dual narration by Marcio and Vivienne. They did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life, and I’d definitely recommend picking this one up in audiobook format.
This was my first book by Erin, and it won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 10hrs 29mins
Narrators: Marcio Catalano and Vivienne Larue - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Apart Of The Coconut Beach
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Runaway Bride, Opposites Attract, Marriage Of Convenience, Accidental Pregnancy, Found Family, Slow Burn, Chemistry, Betrayal, Cheating Ex, Family Drama, My Wife, Mine, Sexual Content, Praise, Dirty Talk and Plane Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Margins | Pagebound | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
This was such a funny, heartfelt, and vulnerable read. I love a character driven story, and I’m a huge fan of small beach town settings with a strong cast of side characters. There’s plenty of family and business drama woven in, alongside themes of self discovery and figuring out what they truly want from life and their careers.
I loved Silvie, she’s a total badass as a CEO of a major financial company. She faces challenges, but she stands her ground. She’s fierce, kind to everyone in Coconut Beach, and you can really see how safe and at peace she feels around Cal. Her relationship with Cal’s mum was also incredibly sweet.
Cal is more mysterious, but he treats Silvie with so much respect and would do anything for her. From the start, you can tell there’s more beneath the surface, and as his story unfolds, it just makes you love him more. Silvie brings out a different side of him, and I loved how much he appreciated everything she did for his mum. Their chemistry was fantastic.
The only part I struggled with was Silvie’s family. Each of them played a role in her distress, but it felt chaotic. While I didn’t mind her father’s redemption play out, the sister was awful, the mother needed a reality check, and it didn’t feel like a singular family conflict they all seemed to act separately without really communicating. It personally felt a little odd and was a lot.
Lastly, I really enjoyed the dual narration by Marcio and Vivienne. They did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life, and I’d definitely recommend picking this one up in audiobook format.
This was my first book by Erin, and it won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 10hrs 29mins
Narrators: Marcio Catalano and Vivienne Larue - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Apart Of The Coconut Beach
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Runaway Bride, Opposites Attract, Marriage Of Convenience, Accidental Pregnancy, Found Family, Slow Burn, Chemistry, Betrayal, Cheating Ex, Family Drama, My Wife, Mine, Sexual Content, Praise, Dirty Talk and Plane Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Margins | Pagebound | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
May 1, 2026
Just finished reading an advanced copy of a book that was just recently released called, Just Another Summer Escape. This is about Silvie, when her world crumbles on her wedding day and she needs to get out of there fast, she escapes to the one place she always felt safe and happy, Coconut Beach. When she gets there she meets Cal, the handsome and kind-hearted bartender at Cocktails & Chaos, and their connection is instant. As the days go by and they spend time together, the pull between them is absolutely undeniable. He isn't looking for anything serious but she is going to lose the family business, a billion dollar company, her legacy if she doesn't marry by the time she's 30 and she's almost out of time. So Cal offers to marry Silvie so she doesn't lose the company, it's just temporary, a fake marriage. But the attraction between them is anything but fake. And then suddenly their hearts are involved and it's all become very real. And this life Silvie created for herself to escape, has become something she wants to keep. She is being pulled in two different directions.
I'm a total beach girly so I absolutely adored this story! This is the perfect summer read! It gives all the tropical, beachy vibes, has a sweet love story, fantastic humor and banter, the best side characters, and even an emotional support iguana! I felt like I stepped into Coconut Beach while reading this story and I didn't want to leave! This was a small beach town summer romcom, with a runaway bride, opposites attract, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and found family. And of course, as soon as Silvie shows up at Cocktails & Chaos and has a "sex on the beach" cocktail, I knew I had to make myself one to enjoy while reading this story! I absolutely loved this book! 💜📚
Thank you to the author and her team for this physical ARC and eARC of Just Another Summer Escape, in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a total beach girly so I absolutely adored this story! This is the perfect summer read! It gives all the tropical, beachy vibes, has a sweet love story, fantastic humor and banter, the best side characters, and even an emotional support iguana! I felt like I stepped into Coconut Beach while reading this story and I didn't want to leave! This was a small beach town summer romcom, with a runaway bride, opposites attract, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and found family. And of course, as soon as Silvie shows up at Cocktails & Chaos and has a "sex on the beach" cocktail, I knew I had to make myself one to enjoy while reading this story! I absolutely loved this book! 💜📚
Thank you to the author and her team for this physical ARC and eARC of Just Another Summer Escape, in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2026
꧁𝒂 𝒖 𝒅 𝒊 𝒐 𝒓 𝒆 𝒄 & 𝒓 𝒆 𝒗 𝒊 𝒆 𝒘꧂
🌟:4 🌶️:2 🎧:5
This was so cute!! 🥰
My first book by Erin, and definitely not my last.
Cal is such a sweetheart and he’s the definition of “love at first sight”. There’s nothing that man wouldn’t do for Silvie. Including fake marrying her to help her secure her company. 🤭 He was ALL IN, and definitely leaned into it.
Silvie escaped her wedding to her loserrrrrr ex and found her way to coconut beach where she meets bartender Cal at the local bar. They hit it off immediately, but Silvie has sworn off men after her disastrous recent relationship. So Cal and her became friends and instead got to know each other over time. But when she needs someone to help make sure her company doesn’t fall into the hands of the two people in the world who couldn’t deserve it less, Cal is there and more than willing to make her his wife.
This was such an easy, and cozy summer themed romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! 💖
The audio was so good. I love Vivienne LaRue and always love having her in my ears. She did incredible with Silvie’s character! Marcio Catalano is new to me, and I really loved what he did with Cal! I’ll be keeping my ears out for more from him.
If you’re looking for a low angst summer romance, you definitely need to pick this one up on audio!! ✨
🌟:4 🌶️:2 🎧:5
This was so cute!! 🥰
My first book by Erin, and definitely not my last.
Cal is such a sweetheart and he’s the definition of “love at first sight”. There’s nothing that man wouldn’t do for Silvie. Including fake marrying her to help her secure her company. 🤭 He was ALL IN, and definitely leaned into it.
Silvie escaped her wedding to her loserrrrrr ex and found her way to coconut beach where she meets bartender Cal at the local bar. They hit it off immediately, but Silvie has sworn off men after her disastrous recent relationship. So Cal and her became friends and instead got to know each other over time. But when she needs someone to help make sure her company doesn’t fall into the hands of the two people in the world who couldn’t deserve it less, Cal is there and more than willing to make her his wife.
This was such an easy, and cozy summer themed romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! 💖
The audio was so good. I love Vivienne LaRue and always love having her in my ears. She did incredible with Silvie’s character! Marcio Catalano is new to me, and I really loved what he did with Cal! I’ll be keeping my ears out for more from him.
If you’re looking for a low angst summer romance, you definitely need to pick this one up on audio!! ✨
May 31, 2026
This was the perfect summer romance audiobook—beachy, sweet, spicy, and full of tropical charm. The fake marriage setup and runaway bride storyline immediately pulled me in, but what really worked was how naturally Cal and Silvie’s relationship developed. He’s a laid back surfer bartender, she’s a work focused heiress trying to save her future, and somehow they balance each other perfectly. The small town setting and gossipy island community added so much fun to the story and made Coconut Beach feel like somewhere I’d happily spend a summer.
Vivienne LaRue and Marcio Catalano were wonderful together, bringing warmth, chemistry, and just the right amount of passion to the romance. Their performances made it easy to get swept up in Cal and Silvie’s journey from a convenient arrangement to something much more real. I really enjoyed the authors writing style I’ll definitely be picking up more from her in the future.
Vivienne LaRue and Marcio Catalano were wonderful together, bringing warmth, chemistry, and just the right amount of passion to the romance. Their performances made it easy to get swept up in Cal and Silvie’s journey from a convenient arrangement to something much more real. I really enjoyed the authors writing style I’ll definitely be picking up more from her in the future.
April 22, 2026
Just Another Summer Escape is the third book in Coconut Beach series, a set of four books that can be read in any order or as standalones. The story is set in a fictional small island town of Coconut Beach, Florida. At the beginning we find the FMC Sophie running away from her wedding when she finds our her fiancé has been screwing her sister. She flies to lick her wounds at Birdie’s, her childhood nanny who lives in Coconut Beach. Cue in Cal, the hot bartender at the local tiki bar she meets on her first night there. Add in the fact that Sophie is running a successful finance company in Manhattan and stands to lose it all if she doesn’t get married by her 30th birthday… which is in a few months. What do we get? One fake marriage that starts feeling not so fake, a lot interesting side characters, an iguana, and a few surprises as well.
I enjoyed listening to the book playlist while reading. This would make a perfect summer read with sunrise and a tumbler of sangria.
This book is for you if you like
📖 runaway bride
📖 small town romance
📖 beach vibes
📖 fake marriage
📖 he takes care of her
📖 slow burn
📖 CEO x bartender
📖 opposites attract
📖 found family
🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed listening to the book playlist while reading. This would make a perfect summer read with sunrise and a tumbler of sangria.
This book is for you if you like
📖 runaway bride
📖 small town romance
📖 beach vibes
📖 fake marriage
📖 he takes care of her
📖 slow burn
📖 CEO x bartender
📖 opposites attract
📖 found family
🌶️🌶️
April 21, 2026
Loved this so much. Cal and Sylvie couldn’t be anymore opposite than what they were. Cal lives the island life. Laid back, surfing, runs the bar. Sounded so relaxing and wonderful. Silvie on the other hand, works in the big city, corporate lifestyle. Deadlines. Little fun to be had. So when she gets to the island to get in some relaxation, things take a twist. Fake marriage it is so Cal doesn’t lose his inheritance.
This was so much fun. So sweet, and satisfying seeing the two of them spend time together. They relaxed and surfed. She fell in love with his family. But her time there was almost done. She needed to make a decision.
I loved seeing these two blossom, their banter, their moments. It was so genuine between them. So much fun, and I loved her decision. It was perfect.
This was so much fun. So sweet, and satisfying seeing the two of them spend time together. They relaxed and surfed. She fell in love with his family. But her time there was almost done. She needed to make a decision.
I loved seeing these two blossom, their banter, their moments. It was so genuine between them. So much fun, and I loved her decision. It was perfect.
April 20, 2026
“I can breathe again. It’s safe to be…me.”
5 ⭐️
Upon learning that her fiancé has been cheating on her with her sister, Silvie flees from her wedding to the only safe place she’s ever known- Coconut Beach.
Needing a drink, Silvie goes to the local bar. Cal, the tattooed hot bartender, is immediately drawn to the beautiful but depressed woman in a wedding dress.
Learning she must be married by her 30th birthday or else she loses her family’s company, Cal volunteers to be her fake husband.
But what starts as a fake marriage, quickly becomes something very real.
What to expect:
👰🏼♀️ Small town
🌅 Runaway bride
👰🏼♀️ CEO x bartender
🌅 Marriage of convenience
👰🏼♀️ Opposites attract
🌅 Summer romcom
Thoughts:
This was sweet. Might be my favorite Erin Branscom romcom yet.
5 ⭐️
Upon learning that her fiancé has been cheating on her with her sister, Silvie flees from her wedding to the only safe place she’s ever known- Coconut Beach.
Needing a drink, Silvie goes to the local bar. Cal, the tattooed hot bartender, is immediately drawn to the beautiful but depressed woman in a wedding dress.
Learning she must be married by her 30th birthday or else she loses her family’s company, Cal volunteers to be her fake husband.
But what starts as a fake marriage, quickly becomes something very real.
What to expect:
👰🏼♀️ Small town
🌅 Runaway bride
👰🏼♀️ CEO x bartender
🌅 Marriage of convenience
👰🏼♀️ Opposites attract
🌅 Summer romcom
Thoughts:
This was sweet. Might be my favorite Erin Branscom romcom yet.
May 11, 2026
I picked this up after having read and enjoyed Lyra Parish’s Just Another Summer Crush (The Vacation Situation) the first book in this series. Cal and Silvie’s story was so easy to read and enjoyable. From runaway bride to a fake (not so fake) marriage, this has feel good vibe written into every chapter. You can’t help but love Cal, it’s no wonder Silvie falls so hard for him. I also really loved her bestie Wilby, he brings so much to the story!
Loved this story from new to me author Erin Branscom.
Loved this story from new to me author Erin Branscom.
May 2, 2026
This book was totally a summer vibe! I loved the throw back to Erin’s other series too. Runaway bride meets bartender for a summer fling that leads to fake dating to try to save her family’s company but with some secret identities involved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2026
Runaway bride
Opposites attract
Forced proximity
Found family
Small town romance
Swearing off relationships…until her
Sizzling summer fling
Marriage of convenience
Dual POV - 1st person
Dual narration - Vivienne Larue & Marcio Catalano
I love Vivienne's voice! Marcio was fantastic as well. These two made dual narration barely even noticeable. Wonderful performance.
Book #3 Coconut Beach series
*Interconnected stand alone*
This may be book 3 and I have not read the first two books but i did not feel like that impacted my enjoyment of this book. I really enjoyed this book. From the fun plot to the narration it was a good listen.
"You always take care of me' I moan. "You feed me, hold me... Why are you so good to me?"
"Baby' he stopes for a second, his eyes darkening "If a man doesn't check to see if you've eaten or need to be eaten? He's not taking care of you"
This man is hot! He is tall, dark, and handsome with tattoos oh and he loves his momma! Cal takes amazing care of Silvie. She has come to coconut beach to recover after running away from her wedding. He family is INSANE. They except her to marry a terrible man after he cheats on her like Um excuse me? That is crazy! The only member that is some what ok and trying to be decent is her father.
This book is such a sweet and fun book. There is spice but not super detailed but fits the story perfectly.
Opposites attract
Forced proximity
Found family
Small town romance
Swearing off relationships…until her
Sizzling summer fling
Marriage of convenience
Dual POV - 1st person
Dual narration - Vivienne Larue & Marcio Catalano
I love Vivienne's voice! Marcio was fantastic as well. These two made dual narration barely even noticeable. Wonderful performance.
Book #3 Coconut Beach series
*Interconnected stand alone*
This may be book 3 and I have not read the first two books but i did not feel like that impacted my enjoyment of this book. I really enjoyed this book. From the fun plot to the narration it was a good listen.
"You always take care of me' I moan. "You feed me, hold me... Why are you so good to me?"
"Baby' he stopes for a second, his eyes darkening "If a man doesn't check to see if you've eaten or need to be eaten? He's not taking care of you"
This man is hot! He is tall, dark, and handsome with tattoos oh and he loves his momma! Cal takes amazing care of Silvie. She has come to coconut beach to recover after running away from her wedding. He family is INSANE. They except her to marry a terrible man after he cheats on her like Um excuse me? That is crazy! The only member that is some what ok and trying to be decent is her father.
This book is such a sweet and fun book. There is spice but not super detailed but fits the story perfectly.
May 19, 2026
I absolutely loved this book after reading the others set in Coconut Beach. The lead FMC Silvie pulled a runaway bride after finding out her fiance was sleeping with her sister. She runs to the only person she can think of, her old nanny Birdie on Coconut Beach. While there she meets tiki bar manager Cal. The chemistry between them is fire but Silvie's still licking her wounds. When she needs a marriage license to keep her place in her company, Silvie and Cal enter into a fake marriage. I loved all of the characters in this story. Birdie and the Bees were the little old ladies I hope to become one day. There's even an iguana that Silvie talks to like a pet. Once things become real with Cal, both of their lives change. Silvie ends up being pulled in two directions. She loves the life she's begun to create with Cal and the people of Coconut Beach but there's also her family's company in New York. This was really good and if you are looking for a beach read this summer then escape with this one.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️
June 10, 2026
This fake marriage romance completely hooked me from the start! Silvie and Cal were so easy to root for, with Cal being the sweetest, most supportive hero and exactly what Silvie needed as she fought to save her family's company. I loved the Coconut Beach setting, the adorable relationship between Silvie and Cal's mom, and the side characters added so much fun to the story as well. There was a moment where I wanted to shake both main characters for their choices, but the payoff was worth it. Sweet, funny, and full of heart, this was impossible to put down. I definitely recommend the duet audio with Marcio Catalano and Vivienne LaRue were perfectly cast for their roles!
May 6, 2026
how could I not love a book written by Erin?? JUST PERFECT OMG 😭😭😭
May 2, 2026
I am absolutely reeling after finishing Just Another Summer Escape by Erin Branscom. If you’re looking for a book that perfectly captures the "burn it all down to find yourself" energy, this is it. It is a high-stakes, fake-marriage romance that actually manages to feel grounded in real emotional stakes, and honestly, I haven't been this obsessed with a lead couple in a long time.
The story kicks off with Silvie Montclair, a high-powered, career-driven woman who is literally seconds away from walking down the aisle to secure her inheritance, her family’s billion-dollar empire, aka her Boardroom Prison. She’s "sewn into" a dress that feels like a prison, starving herself on a diet her "almond mom" forced on her, and drowning in chemical warfare levels of hairspray.
Then, the bomb drops. Minutes before the ceremony, Silvie discovers her fiancé, Tyler the Turd (the only appropriate nickname for him), has been sleeping with her socialite sister, Belladonna, for five months. The betrayal isn't just a plot device, it's a catalyst. Watching Silvie confront them with a "terrifying calm" was one of the most satisfying things I've read all year. She doesn't just cancel the wedding, she flees to Coconut Beach, aka Island Freedom, to find herself.
Enter Cal Bennett. He’s the local bartender/surfer/fixer who is the antithesis of the "cold boardrooms" of Manhattan. The deal is simple: a fake marriage to satisfy the terms of her grandmother’s will so she can still become CEO. But it’s the people of Coconut Beach that really bring this story to life.
We have to talk about Birdie! She is such a massive character in this book, the kind of soul who anchors the community. And then there’s Wilby, the absolute star who we simply cannot leave out of this review. The local flavor is rounded out by The Bees, whose adventures and constant presence make the island feel lived-in and hilariously meddlesome.
One of my favorite moments of Silvie’s integration into island life is her interaction with Iggy, the Iguana who famously doesn’t like men. Watching Silvie talk to him felt like such a sweet, grounded contrast to her high-stress New York life.
But here’s where Erin Branscom excels: the chemistry. Between early-morning surf lessons and family dinners, the lines don't just blur, they vanish, making this "fake" marriage feel dangerously real. Cal isn't just a "beach guy." He’s a former NYU finance student who left the rat race to care for his mother, Carly. Seeing him handle Silvie’s intimidating father, Charles Montclair, with drinks and lunch like it was just another Tuesday was a major "swoon" moment.
Erin Branscom doesn't shy away from the "spicy" side of things. The transition from "we need to talk" to "we bang each other senseless" (Cal’s words, not mine!) was electric. There is a vividness to their intimacy, from a "slow and devastating" sex dream Silvie has to the real-world chemistry that leaves her "practically drooling" at the sight of his arms. It’s high-heat, on-page adult content, but it always feels rooted in their growing emotional connection.
What I loved most was the exploration of "identity" versus "role":
* Silvie’s Transformation: She goes from a woman who didn't recognize her own hollow-eyed reflection in a wedding mirror to someone who stands barefoot in her New York penthouse, realizing she’s "homesick for a man at a beach in a tiki bar," solidifying the complexity of home.
* Cal’s Vulnerability: He’s a man who "built his family from scratch" and is terrified of Silvie being "just another summer escape." His fear that her love is just a "vacation from real life" adds a poignant layer to the typical small-town romance tropes.
Is It Worth the Escape? Absolutely. The dialogue is unhurried and comfortable, the setting is lush (the map of Coconut Beach Island is such a cute touch!), and the emotional payoff is earned. It’s a story about realizing that you don't have to follow a plan to save an empire if that empire is actually a prison.
4/5 stars for the absolute boss move of catching your fiancé, ditching the "Turd," and still managing to secure the bag, and a much better man, all by the end of the summer.
The story kicks off with Silvie Montclair, a high-powered, career-driven woman who is literally seconds away from walking down the aisle to secure her inheritance, her family’s billion-dollar empire, aka her Boardroom Prison. She’s "sewn into" a dress that feels like a prison, starving herself on a diet her "almond mom" forced on her, and drowning in chemical warfare levels of hairspray.
Then, the bomb drops. Minutes before the ceremony, Silvie discovers her fiancé, Tyler the Turd (the only appropriate nickname for him), has been sleeping with her socialite sister, Belladonna, for five months. The betrayal isn't just a plot device, it's a catalyst. Watching Silvie confront them with a "terrifying calm" was one of the most satisfying things I've read all year. She doesn't just cancel the wedding, she flees to Coconut Beach, aka Island Freedom, to find herself.
Enter Cal Bennett. He’s the local bartender/surfer/fixer who is the antithesis of the "cold boardrooms" of Manhattan. The deal is simple: a fake marriage to satisfy the terms of her grandmother’s will so she can still become CEO. But it’s the people of Coconut Beach that really bring this story to life.
We have to talk about Birdie! She is such a massive character in this book, the kind of soul who anchors the community. And then there’s Wilby, the absolute star who we simply cannot leave out of this review. The local flavor is rounded out by The Bees, whose adventures and constant presence make the island feel lived-in and hilariously meddlesome.
One of my favorite moments of Silvie’s integration into island life is her interaction with Iggy, the Iguana who famously doesn’t like men. Watching Silvie talk to him felt like such a sweet, grounded contrast to her high-stress New York life.
But here’s where Erin Branscom excels: the chemistry. Between early-morning surf lessons and family dinners, the lines don't just blur, they vanish, making this "fake" marriage feel dangerously real. Cal isn't just a "beach guy." He’s a former NYU finance student who left the rat race to care for his mother, Carly. Seeing him handle Silvie’s intimidating father, Charles Montclair, with drinks and lunch like it was just another Tuesday was a major "swoon" moment.
Erin Branscom doesn't shy away from the "spicy" side of things. The transition from "we need to talk" to "we bang each other senseless" (Cal’s words, not mine!) was electric. There is a vividness to their intimacy, from a "slow and devastating" sex dream Silvie has to the real-world chemistry that leaves her "practically drooling" at the sight of his arms. It’s high-heat, on-page adult content, but it always feels rooted in their growing emotional connection.
What I loved most was the exploration of "identity" versus "role":
* Silvie’s Transformation: She goes from a woman who didn't recognize her own hollow-eyed reflection in a wedding mirror to someone who stands barefoot in her New York penthouse, realizing she’s "homesick for a man at a beach in a tiki bar," solidifying the complexity of home.
* Cal’s Vulnerability: He’s a man who "built his family from scratch" and is terrified of Silvie being "just another summer escape." His fear that her love is just a "vacation from real life" adds a poignant layer to the typical small-town romance tropes.
Is It Worth the Escape? Absolutely. The dialogue is unhurried and comfortable, the setting is lush (the map of Coconut Beach Island is such a cute touch!), and the emotional payoff is earned. It’s a story about realizing that you don't have to follow a plan to save an empire if that empire is actually a prison.
4/5 stars for the absolute boss move of catching your fiancé, ditching the "Turd," and still managing to secure the bag, and a much better man, all by the end of the summer.
May 28, 2026
Enthralling & Fabulous➞ Story & Narration🎧
Just Another Summer Escape
By: Erin Branscom
Narrated by Marcio Catalano, Vivienne LaRue
Erin Branscom welcomes you to Coconut Beach for an enthralling small-town romance, putting her own unique spin on the runaway bride, marriage-of-convenience trope. A charming and heartwarming story that grabs your attention immediately and holds it captive the entire time. I adored the two lead characters, Sylvie and Cal, and there are some fabulous side/secondary characters too, including her assistant, Wilby and her former nanny, Birdie, who is a hoot in Coconut beach along with her friends, the B’s. Thanks to a stipulation made by her grandmother, Sylvie must marry before she is thirty, or the family will lose control of their company, which is worth billions. On her wedding day, she learns her fiancé and sister have been having an affair, and she fled, not knowing where she was going and wound up going to visit her former nanny, Birdie, who was always there for her, even more so than her own mother. Knowing Birdie was busy, her first stop in Coconut Beach, still wearing her wedding dress, was the local bar, Cocktails & Chaos, where Cal was working. In small towns, everyone knows everyone and their business, and they take care of their own, so Sylvie was in good company and hands to make sure she stayed safe and got to their destination safely. Those two hit it off, and it was the start of something good, a friendship at first, and after Wilby’s suggestion, steps up to save her day and family business. While I was not a fan of her mother, sister or the turd, and was on the fence about her father who redeems himself somewhat by the end, I was so happy how she stood up for herself and held her ground, Sylvie was fierce. This is a fabulously entertaining story has multiple layers and the perfect balance of drama, angst, witty dialogue and humor, heartfelt emotions and a slow burn, but so worth the wait romance. The writing, plot, and world-building are fantastical, as are the character growth and development. “Just Another Summer Escape” is a perfect escape for anytime of the year, a story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face whether you are beachside or fireside. Erin Branscom, thank you for another fantastic story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous audiobook listen, performed by two wonderfully talented voice artists, Marcio Catalano and Vivienne LaRue, who did an amazing job voicing the characters. I loved how they took each role and made it their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Both were naturals in their roles and nailed it as the two leads, Catalano as Cal and LaRue as Sylvie, and they were just as wonderful performing the roles of the side/secondary characters, young and old. They set the ideal tone for the story, and their expressive delivery conveyed all the characters’ emotions, making you feel each one. These two are a fantastic team, with voices and talent that complement each other and a captivating performance that keeps you glued to the story. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
Just Another Summer Escape
By: Erin Branscom
Narrated by Marcio Catalano, Vivienne LaRue
Erin Branscom welcomes you to Coconut Beach for an enthralling small-town romance, putting her own unique spin on the runaway bride, marriage-of-convenience trope. A charming and heartwarming story that grabs your attention immediately and holds it captive the entire time. I adored the two lead characters, Sylvie and Cal, and there are some fabulous side/secondary characters too, including her assistant, Wilby and her former nanny, Birdie, who is a hoot in Coconut beach along with her friends, the B’s. Thanks to a stipulation made by her grandmother, Sylvie must marry before she is thirty, or the family will lose control of their company, which is worth billions. On her wedding day, she learns her fiancé and sister have been having an affair, and she fled, not knowing where she was going and wound up going to visit her former nanny, Birdie, who was always there for her, even more so than her own mother. Knowing Birdie was busy, her first stop in Coconut Beach, still wearing her wedding dress, was the local bar, Cocktails & Chaos, where Cal was working. In small towns, everyone knows everyone and their business, and they take care of their own, so Sylvie was in good company and hands to make sure she stayed safe and got to their destination safely. Those two hit it off, and it was the start of something good, a friendship at first, and after Wilby’s suggestion, steps up to save her day and family business. While I was not a fan of her mother, sister or the turd, and was on the fence about her father who redeems himself somewhat by the end, I was so happy how she stood up for herself and held her ground, Sylvie was fierce. This is a fabulously entertaining story has multiple layers and the perfect balance of drama, angst, witty dialogue and humor, heartfelt emotions and a slow burn, but so worth the wait romance. The writing, plot, and world-building are fantastical, as are the character growth and development. “Just Another Summer Escape” is a perfect escape for anytime of the year, a story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face whether you are beachside or fireside. Erin Branscom, thank you for another fantastic story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous audiobook listen, performed by two wonderfully talented voice artists, Marcio Catalano and Vivienne LaRue, who did an amazing job voicing the characters. I loved how they took each role and made it their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Both were naturals in their roles and nailed it as the two leads, Catalano as Cal and LaRue as Sylvie, and they were just as wonderful performing the roles of the side/secondary characters, young and old. They set the ideal tone for the story, and their expressive delivery conveyed all the characters’ emotions, making you feel each one. These two are a fantastic team, with voices and talent that complement each other and a captivating performance that keeps you glued to the story. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
May 15, 2026
Just Another Summer Escape is Book three is the Coconut Beach series and this is Silvie and Cal’s story. Silvie is a billionaire heiress who, due to the terms of her grandmother’s will must marry before she is 30 to become CEO and retain ownership of the company, the book begins on her wedding day, and she is having a bad feeling, not just wedding day nerves, a real feeling something is wrong, then she discovers her fiancé Tyler, has been cheating on her for almost the whole length of their engagement with her younger sister! She runs out on the wedding there and then and heads straight to Coconut Beach to stay with her childhood nanny, Birdie. When she arrives Birdie is off playing bingo, so Silvie drops into the local hot spot Cocktails & Chaos. There she meets the incredibly handsome bartender Cal, they chat while he makes her cocktails, he doesn’t question why she is in a wedding dress, she spots a bachelorette party on the other side of the bar and she goes to join them, dancing and drinking, at the end of the night she is completely drunk and he has to carry her to Birdie’s and put her to bed. Silvie finds herself at Coconut Beach, she is relaxing and embracing the casual, friendly lifestyle, she is enjoying the early morning yoga classes, she is learning surfing with Cal, ignoring the increasingly frantic phone calls from her father and toxic texts from her ex. Her assistant, Wilby, is in Coconut Beach to help her catch up with what’s happening back at work, he presses her about the deadline for her to marry before she is 30 for the company to remain in the family, she said she is aware, but Wilby gets a call while Silvie, Cal and Wilby are sitting eating a meal and he comes back from taking the call with the news, that Tyler the Turd and her skanky sister are getting married, he also points out that if they’re married and you’re not married by the time you’re 30 you will lose the company! Cal says I will marry you, Silvie says I can’t ask that, Cal said I offered you didn’t ask! Silvie agrees and Cal just asks her to meet his mum, she doesn’t leave the house, he picks up groceries for her and he takes a couple of romance novels when he takes the groceries every Tuesday. Silvie is excited to meet Cal’s mum Carly and they get on so well she is excited to meet Silvie and overjoyed at the two huge bags of books Silvie bought her!
The story was captivating, the characters are beautifully written and engaging, Cal and Silvie faced many doubts, prejudices, jealousy and a huge media frenzy. Will they find love or will their fake marriage stay fake?
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book via BookFunnel and I am writing this review voluntarily
The story was captivating, the characters are beautifully written and engaging, Cal and Silvie faced many doubts, prejudices, jealousy and a huge media frenzy. Will they find love or will their fake marriage stay fake?
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book via BookFunnel and I am writing this review voluntarily
May 31, 2026
Just Another Summer Escape by Erin Branscom is the ultimate, small-town tropical rom-com and the perfect beach read just in time for summer. The story instantly transports you straight to Coconut Beach, a vibrant island paradise with immaculate beachy vibes that will make you want to move there immediately.
The plot follows Silvie, a Manhattan heiress whose world crumbles on her wedding day when she catches her fiancé cheating on her with her sister. Needing to escape the fallout, she flees to the one place she always felt safe and happy: Coconut Beach, where she stays with her former nanny, Birdie. The stakes are incredibly high for Silvie; she must be married by her thirtieth birthday or lose her family's billion-dollar company and her entire legacy. Enter Cal Bennett, a handsome, kind-hearted, and charming bartender at Cocktails & Chaos whom readers might recognize from Hexes & Honeysuckle. While Cal is typically allergic to forever and not looking for anything serious, their connection is instant and the pull between them becomes undeniable. To save her company, Cal offers a solution: a temporary, fake marriage of convenience. It’s supposed to be simple, safe, and strictly business, but their electric chemistry and top-tier banter prove to be anything but fake.
As the days turn into family dinners and early-morning surf lessons, Silvie finds herself falling hard for Cal and the messy, beautiful island life that stands in stark contrast to the cold boardrooms waiting for her in New York. The story is packed with incredible tropes, including opposites attract, forced proximity, and found family. Birdie and her group of friends, the Bees, are hilarious, meddling romantics you'll desperately want to be a part of, and there is even an emotional support iguana that adds a wonderful touch of humor.
Eventually, the reality of her life catches up when she steps into her role as CEO and the headlines start circling. With New York expecting its heiress back and Coconut Beach wanting her to stay, Silvie is pulled in two directions, forced to decide if this was just a temporary getaway or if she is brave enough to fight for the life and love she really wants.
I absolutely adored this story from start to finish. As soon as Silvie showed up at the bar and ordered a "Sex on the Beach" cocktail, I knew I had to make myself one to enjoy right along with the book! Grab some sunscreen and an iced coffee, because this standalone romance delivers a beautiful happily-ever-after. The dual narration performed by Marcio Catalano and Vivienne LaRue was next-level, bringing the characters to life perfectly and making it a truly fantastic audiobook experience.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot follows Silvie, a Manhattan heiress whose world crumbles on her wedding day when she catches her fiancé cheating on her with her sister. Needing to escape the fallout, she flees to the one place she always felt safe and happy: Coconut Beach, where she stays with her former nanny, Birdie. The stakes are incredibly high for Silvie; she must be married by her thirtieth birthday or lose her family's billion-dollar company and her entire legacy. Enter Cal Bennett, a handsome, kind-hearted, and charming bartender at Cocktails & Chaos whom readers might recognize from Hexes & Honeysuckle. While Cal is typically allergic to forever and not looking for anything serious, their connection is instant and the pull between them becomes undeniable. To save her company, Cal offers a solution: a temporary, fake marriage of convenience. It’s supposed to be simple, safe, and strictly business, but their electric chemistry and top-tier banter prove to be anything but fake.
As the days turn into family dinners and early-morning surf lessons, Silvie finds herself falling hard for Cal and the messy, beautiful island life that stands in stark contrast to the cold boardrooms waiting for her in New York. The story is packed with incredible tropes, including opposites attract, forced proximity, and found family. Birdie and her group of friends, the Bees, are hilarious, meddling romantics you'll desperately want to be a part of, and there is even an emotional support iguana that adds a wonderful touch of humor.
Eventually, the reality of her life catches up when she steps into her role as CEO and the headlines start circling. With New York expecting its heiress back and Coconut Beach wanting her to stay, Silvie is pulled in two directions, forced to decide if this was just a temporary getaway or if she is brave enough to fight for the life and love she really wants.
I absolutely adored this story from start to finish. As soon as Silvie showed up at the bar and ordered a "Sex on the Beach" cocktail, I knew I had to make myself one to enjoy right along with the book! Grab some sunscreen and an iced coffee, because this standalone romance delivers a beautiful happily-ever-after. The dual narration performed by Marcio Catalano and Vivienne LaRue was next-level, bringing the characters to life perfectly and making it a truly fantastic audiobook experience.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2026
Just Another Summer Escape by author Erin Branscom is outlandish, ridiculous, hilarious and delightfully, completely, totally, absolutely satisfying.
Just as Silvie is about to walk down the aisle, she learns the man she is to marry has been having an affair with her sister. The favorite in the family, the pampered one. Silvie didn’t really want to get married right now anyway, but she needs to marry by age 30 to save the family company and time is running out. Well, what’s running now is Silvie. When she confronts her sister Belladonna and fiancé Tyler he is a little sheepish but her sister is as rude and self-centered as always. Her father tells her they don’t have time for this nonsense and her mother says don’t embarrass the family, be the bigger person, we’ll handle it later. Not exactly a show of support from anyone.
Nope, this marriage is not happening. But Silvie has always been the business-focused one – not the princess – and she understands how important keeping the business is. So she does the only sensible thing: starts a fake marriage with the guy she met in a bar after running away from Tyler and her family. This marriage doesn’t need to be real, doesn’t need to feel real, doesn’t need to mean anything; it will only be for a little while and then everyone will go away better and richer for it.
This kind of arrangement always works out just fine, doesn’t it?
Just Another Summer Escape takes you through all the feels: sympathy for Silvie and anger at her family and ex-fiancé at the beginning, but it then becomes a story of a strong woman. A woman who has always tried to be responsible and do the right thing, to do what is expected of her for the benefit of others, but has now had enough. She can continue to be just as she has always been, or become the Silvie she was meant to be.
Her relationship with her fake husband Cal is romantic, messy, complicated. Silvie is experiencing feelings she’s never had before, but she’s still a career woman and that balance will be tricky. And remember all this is fake so why would Cal want to hang around, anyway?
I received an advance listening copy of Just Another Summer Escape from Ear Candy Promos. Erin Branscom’s stories are meant to be listened to, and talented narrators Marco Catalono and Vivienne LaRue make your earbud experience magical with perfect pace, timing, tone and just the right emotion at the right time. A pleasure first word to last. I recommend this book without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Just as Silvie is about to walk down the aisle, she learns the man she is to marry has been having an affair with her sister. The favorite in the family, the pampered one. Silvie didn’t really want to get married right now anyway, but she needs to marry by age 30 to save the family company and time is running out. Well, what’s running now is Silvie. When she confronts her sister Belladonna and fiancé Tyler he is a little sheepish but her sister is as rude and self-centered as always. Her father tells her they don’t have time for this nonsense and her mother says don’t embarrass the family, be the bigger person, we’ll handle it later. Not exactly a show of support from anyone.
Nope, this marriage is not happening. But Silvie has always been the business-focused one – not the princess – and she understands how important keeping the business is. So she does the only sensible thing: starts a fake marriage with the guy she met in a bar after running away from Tyler and her family. This marriage doesn’t need to be real, doesn’t need to feel real, doesn’t need to mean anything; it will only be for a little while and then everyone will go away better and richer for it.
This kind of arrangement always works out just fine, doesn’t it?
Just Another Summer Escape takes you through all the feels: sympathy for Silvie and anger at her family and ex-fiancé at the beginning, but it then becomes a story of a strong woman. A woman who has always tried to be responsible and do the right thing, to do what is expected of her for the benefit of others, but has now had enough. She can continue to be just as she has always been, or become the Silvie she was meant to be.
Her relationship with her fake husband Cal is romantic, messy, complicated. Silvie is experiencing feelings she’s never had before, but she’s still a career woman and that balance will be tricky. And remember all this is fake so why would Cal want to hang around, anyway?
I received an advance listening copy of Just Another Summer Escape from Ear Candy Promos. Erin Branscom’s stories are meant to be listened to, and talented narrators Marco Catalono and Vivienne LaRue make your earbud experience magical with perfect pace, timing, tone and just the right emotion at the right time. A pleasure first word to last. I recommend this book without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
June 10, 2026
Sylvie is a runaway bride that finds herself in Coconut Beach after her entire family tried to coerce her into a marriage that would've been horrible for her. When she meets Cal, the tall sexy bartender, she is at her lowest, in her dirty worn-out wedding dress and puffy eyes from hours of crying, but Cal recognizes how special she is despite all of that. Sylvie is a powerful NYC CEO that left everything behind to lick her wounds and heal from escaping the almost disastrous marriage, but when her real life catches up with her in paradise, she is on the verge of losing her company if she doesn't marry soon. Since Sylvie landed in Coconut Beach, Cal has been enthralled with her. Watching her start to heal from everything she ran from and build a connection to all the residents of his hometown, he is enamored with her and would do anything to help her. He offers himself up for a marriage of convenience so that she can keep her company with no other motive other than to help the woman that he can't seem to get out of his mind or heart.
As they navigate this next stage in their relationship, the line of real vs fake relationship starts to blur and the insanity of Sylive's life in NYC start to infest and disrupt the peaceful life on Coconut Beach, the strain of it all puts Sylvie and Cal through their paces. Their attraction and connection to each other is strong, but can that hold them together as they navigate how to make their fake marriage a real one and if they can blend their opposite lives as seamlessly as they are hoping. They both have to face their pasts and fears so that they can learn to show up as the best versions for one another.
I had a great time with this book from start to finish. I love Erin's writing and the way she can balance the humor with the emotional moments makes her stories so easy to read and almost impossible to put down. She has a way of humanizing her characters that make them relatable but still a great escape. Just like these characters found their own escapes and pockets of peace, books like these do the same for us readers. Vivianne LaRue and Marcio Catalano delivered fantastic performances and were able to embody the complexities of their characters. I have never listened to a title with them on it together and they complement each other so well.
As they navigate this next stage in their relationship, the line of real vs fake relationship starts to blur and the insanity of Sylive's life in NYC start to infest and disrupt the peaceful life on Coconut Beach, the strain of it all puts Sylvie and Cal through their paces. Their attraction and connection to each other is strong, but can that hold them together as they navigate how to make their fake marriage a real one and if they can blend their opposite lives as seamlessly as they are hoping. They both have to face their pasts and fears so that they can learn to show up as the best versions for one another.
I had a great time with this book from start to finish. I love Erin's writing and the way she can balance the humor with the emotional moments makes her stories so easy to read and almost impossible to put down. She has a way of humanizing her characters that make them relatable but still a great escape. Just like these characters found their own escapes and pockets of peace, books like these do the same for us readers. Vivianne LaRue and Marcio Catalano delivered fantastic performances and were able to embody the complexities of their characters. I have never listened to a title with them on it together and they complement each other so well.
April 25, 2026
It's official I'm moving to Coconut Beach 🌴🌺
This book was such a feel-good romcom read to start off my summer reading that I'm actually excited to read the rest in the series. It was also my first from this author and I'm such a fan I cant wait to read some of her other books!!! Some spoilers ahead.....
This story is based around Silvie, a billionaire heiress trying to save her company. In the first chapter, she finds out her fiance and sister were having a secret affair behind her back for almost the entirety of their engagement while she was planning the wedding and working crazy work hours. She was having a bad feeling all day and when she confronts them both it gets even worse, she runs aways from her own wedding and flies under the radar to stay with her childhood nanny in Coconut Beach. She stays there for the foreseeable future while trying to find herself again eating the food she wants and doing things shes never thought she would do. She's care free and living her best life and everything feels right again especially when you add a hot bartender in the mix.
Cal is hands down one of my favorite "book husband" he's such a laid back kind of guy that you just can't help falling for him. When Silvie happens to stumble into his bar in her tattered wedding dress he's instantly attracted to her even if she looked like a total train-wreck. He can't explain the connection, it just happens and he knows he's screwed. When Cal agrees to "fake" marry Silvie to save her position/company they both fight so hard to keep their feelings in check constantly reminding themselves that it's all fake. But when they can't help falling for each other more and more the slow-burn is sooooo good that when they finally get to the finish line it's completely worth it!!
Overall, I loved this book from the beginning to end. From the roller coaster of a ride of Silvie and Cal's relationship and all the side characters, Birdie, Wilby and lets not forget Iggy. I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy so I can come back to Coconut Beach and read it over and over again.
****I received a Advance Readers Copy from the author and these opinions are my own****
This book was such a feel-good romcom read to start off my summer reading that I'm actually excited to read the rest in the series. It was also my first from this author and I'm such a fan I cant wait to read some of her other books!!! Some spoilers ahead.....
This story is based around Silvie, a billionaire heiress trying to save her company. In the first chapter, she finds out her fiance and sister were having a secret affair behind her back for almost the entirety of their engagement while she was planning the wedding and working crazy work hours. She was having a bad feeling all day and when she confronts them both it gets even worse, she runs aways from her own wedding and flies under the radar to stay with her childhood nanny in Coconut Beach. She stays there for the foreseeable future while trying to find herself again eating the food she wants and doing things shes never thought she would do. She's care free and living her best life and everything feels right again especially when you add a hot bartender in the mix.
Cal is hands down one of my favorite "book husband" he's such a laid back kind of guy that you just can't help falling for him. When Silvie happens to stumble into his bar in her tattered wedding dress he's instantly attracted to her even if she looked like a total train-wreck. He can't explain the connection, it just happens and he knows he's screwed. When Cal agrees to "fake" marry Silvie to save her position/company they both fight so hard to keep their feelings in check constantly reminding themselves that it's all fake. But when they can't help falling for each other more and more the slow-burn is sooooo good that when they finally get to the finish line it's completely worth it!!
Overall, I loved this book from the beginning to end. From the roller coaster of a ride of Silvie and Cal's relationship and all the side characters, Birdie, Wilby and lets not forget Iggy. I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy so I can come back to Coconut Beach and read it over and over again.
****I received a Advance Readers Copy from the author and these opinions are my own****
May 3, 2026
I loved Silvie and Cal and their relationship! I could not put this book down once I started it.
Silvie just wants to save her families company but she needs to be married to do it. Cal is a bartender she meets after running away from her wedding. Now they are getting fake married to save her company but will the marriage stay fake or will it become real?
I loved Cal he was such a sweetheart and the perfect person for Silvie. He might be a bartender at a bar on an island but he fits into the crazy New York life she lives too. He lifted her up and helped her become the person she needed to be.
Silvie comes to Coconut Beach to get away from the nightmare she experienced. She never expected to meet someone like Cal while running around in a ruined wedding dress.
I loved her relationship with his mother it was so stinking sweet! She deserved someone because her family isn’t always the best.
I absolutely loved Wilby! He might be her assistant and best friend but he was an absolute joy to read about. That guy is a mastermind both with fashion and Silvie and Cal’s relationship.
I have to mention Iggy too because that little guy was funny with what seemed to be his hatred for men.
There was one point where I wanted to punch both of them because they weren’t thinking and were being stupid. I’m just glad it worked out in the long run because I was worried for a second on what was going to happen.
Can I just say I hate her sister. I’m sorry but you don’t do what she does that is wrong and I don’t just mean the one thing she did I mean everything she does. A sister should support you not do what she did.
Overall I really liked this book and I’m in love with this whole world. I love seeing all the characters from the other books and of course the Bees and their shenanigans. One of my favorite quotes from this book was the Bees before going to cause some trouble. Those old ladies never fail to make me laugh. I read this book as an arc.
Silvie just wants to save her families company but she needs to be married to do it. Cal is a bartender she meets after running away from her wedding. Now they are getting fake married to save her company but will the marriage stay fake or will it become real?
I loved Cal he was such a sweetheart and the perfect person for Silvie. He might be a bartender at a bar on an island but he fits into the crazy New York life she lives too. He lifted her up and helped her become the person she needed to be.
Silvie comes to Coconut Beach to get away from the nightmare she experienced. She never expected to meet someone like Cal while running around in a ruined wedding dress.
I loved her relationship with his mother it was so stinking sweet! She deserved someone because her family isn’t always the best.
I absolutely loved Wilby! He might be her assistant and best friend but he was an absolute joy to read about. That guy is a mastermind both with fashion and Silvie and Cal’s relationship.
I have to mention Iggy too because that little guy was funny with what seemed to be his hatred for men.
There was one point where I wanted to punch both of them because they weren’t thinking and were being stupid. I’m just glad it worked out in the long run because I was worried for a second on what was going to happen.
Can I just say I hate her sister. I’m sorry but you don’t do what she does that is wrong and I don’t just mean the one thing she did I mean everything she does. A sister should support you not do what she did.
Overall I really liked this book and I’m in love with this whole world. I love seeing all the characters from the other books and of course the Bees and their shenanigans. One of my favorite quotes from this book was the Bees before going to cause some trouble. Those old ladies never fail to make me laugh. I read this book as an arc.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I just want you, Silvie. All of you. CEO you. Beach you. Every version of you that you’ll give me. I want the whole damn thing.”
Ok first of all F. That guy. And a couple others too but I won't spoil the drama! The family that's been built though 🥹
I was hooked on this one well before the first chapter ended. Reeled in so quickly. I absolutely love this author and I must say this one might of become my favorite book by her. (I'll prob say that about every book I read from her but hey it was THAT GOOD)
Silvie- runaway bride. With excellent reason by the way. She heads to Coconut Beach to escape her reality. She has to get married before her birthday in order to take over the families billion dollar company. Clearly since she ran away from her wedding the clock is ticking.
Cal- bartender. Has pretty much sworn off relationships because he wants something deeper than surface level. (Swoon 😍) Makes a deal for a fake marriage with Silvie. I swooned. A lot. He is 🥵
This slow burn is scrumptious! Erin Branscom is seriously the spicy Hallmark queen. She writes these characters that you can't help but falling in love with and not just the MC's! Can we talk about the Bees for a second? #goals they are FUNNY and I want to be like them when I grow up 🤣 and Wilby! Such an amazing bestie to Silvie 😍 Every book she writes I get so invested in all the characters.
I couldn't put this one down. All the feel good vibes, perfect amount of spice, humor, sprinkled with some drama, characters that you absolutely fall in love with. This book is absolute perfection!! Highly recommend! 🫶
✔️Runaway Bride
✔️Opposites attract
✔️Found family
✔️Small town romance
✔️Swearing off relationships.. until her
✔️Sizzling summer fling
✔️Marriage of convenience
Ok first of all F. That guy. And a couple others too but I won't spoil the drama! The family that's been built though 🥹
I was hooked on this one well before the first chapter ended. Reeled in so quickly. I absolutely love this author and I must say this one might of become my favorite book by her. (I'll prob say that about every book I read from her but hey it was THAT GOOD)
Silvie- runaway bride. With excellent reason by the way. She heads to Coconut Beach to escape her reality. She has to get married before her birthday in order to take over the families billion dollar company. Clearly since she ran away from her wedding the clock is ticking.
Cal- bartender. Has pretty much sworn off relationships because he wants something deeper than surface level. (Swoon 😍) Makes a deal for a fake marriage with Silvie. I swooned. A lot. He is 🥵
This slow burn is scrumptious! Erin Branscom is seriously the spicy Hallmark queen. She writes these characters that you can't help but falling in love with and not just the MC's! Can we talk about the Bees for a second? #goals they are FUNNY and I want to be like them when I grow up 🤣 and Wilby! Such an amazing bestie to Silvie 😍 Every book she writes I get so invested in all the characters.
I couldn't put this one down. All the feel good vibes, perfect amount of spice, humor, sprinkled with some drama, characters that you absolutely fall in love with. This book is absolute perfection!! Highly recommend! 🫶
✔️Runaway Bride
✔️Opposites attract
✔️Found family
✔️Small town romance
✔️Swearing off relationships.. until her
✔️Sizzling summer fling
✔️Marriage of convenience
April 20, 2026
*Just Another Summer Escape* by Erin Branscom was such a refreshing, feel-good read that completely pulled me into its warm, sun-soaked atmosphere. It has that perfect blend of light romance, emotional depth, and personal growth that makes it hard to put down. What starts as an escape quickly turns into something much more meaningful, and I loved every step of that journey.
Cal is such an easy character to get invested in. He has that calm, steady presence that makes him instantly likable, but there’s also a quiet depth to him that unfolds over time. He’s clearly been through things that shaped how he approaches life and relationships and watching him slowly open up especially around Silvie was really satisfying. There’s a sincerity to him that makes all his actions feel genuine.
Silvie is equally compelling in her own way. She comes into the story looking for a break, but it’s obvious she’s carrying more than just everyday stress. I loved how her character balances strength with vulnerability she’s independent and determined, but also learning how to let her guard down. Her growth feels natural, and you really root for her as she starts to rediscover herself.
Together, Cal and Silvie have such a soft but undeniable chemistry. Their connection builds gradually, which makes every shared moment feel more meaningful. There’s a comforting, almost peaceful quality to their relationship, but it’s still filled with emotional tension as they both navigate their pasts and what they want moving forward.
Overall, this was such a heartwarming and engaging read. If you’re looking for a romance that feels like a true escape with lovable characters, emotional depth, and a beautiful slow-burn connection *Just Another Summer Escape* is definitely worth picking up.
Cal is such an easy character to get invested in. He has that calm, steady presence that makes him instantly likable, but there’s also a quiet depth to him that unfolds over time. He’s clearly been through things that shaped how he approaches life and relationships and watching him slowly open up especially around Silvie was really satisfying. There’s a sincerity to him that makes all his actions feel genuine.
Silvie is equally compelling in her own way. She comes into the story looking for a break, but it’s obvious she’s carrying more than just everyday stress. I loved how her character balances strength with vulnerability she’s independent and determined, but also learning how to let her guard down. Her growth feels natural, and you really root for her as she starts to rediscover herself.
Together, Cal and Silvie have such a soft but undeniable chemistry. Their connection builds gradually, which makes every shared moment feel more meaningful. There’s a comforting, almost peaceful quality to their relationship, but it’s still filled with emotional tension as they both navigate their pasts and what they want moving forward.
Overall, this was such a heartwarming and engaging read. If you’re looking for a romance that feels like a true escape with lovable characters, emotional depth, and a beautiful slow-burn connection *Just Another Summer Escape* is definitely worth picking up.
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