Summer of Fortune

Fortune Bay #1

by Judith Hudson

When life gives you lemons…

Maddie’s making lemonade again. When her absentee ex-husband swoops in and invites their daughter to live with him for the summer, robbing Maddie of possibly their last summer together, she decides to take advantage of the unexpected freedom and accepts the offer of her first solo photography show. Leaving Seattle and the safety of her job, she heads to Washington State’s Majestic Lake.

Jake Murphy has been raising his six-year-old daughter in Fortune Bay with the help of his extended family ever since his wife left five years ago. Although he can’t take a chance on a relationship with a woman who is only in Fortune Bay for the summer, he soon finds he’s breaking all of his rules.

In a rustic cabin on the lake, Maddie finds the inspiration she needs, sets up her dark room and sets to work on the photographs for show. A traumatic childhood has left her a loner. It’s always been safer that way. But maintaining her distance is almost impossible in a town like Fortune Bay, and slowly she begins to make new friends—her first real friends—and meets the man and family she’s always wished for but never thought she could have.

But will the people of Fortune Bay still accept her when they find out who she really is?

Welcome to Fortune Bay

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 20, 2020

About the author

Judith writes romantic women's fiction, women's fiction and mystery under the name of J.M. Hudson.

Her latest book came out in October 2024, Italian Murder Mystery , the second Rocky and Bernadette travel mystery.
This time, Rocky and Bernadette are in Cremona Italy the violin capital of the world. It should be a fun week full of scrumptious Italian food, beautiful medieval architecture and wonderful music, Until Rocky's old friend Hamish turns up dead in the Piazza. Rocky owes Hamish his life, so he has to step in.

The Secret of Elk Horn Lodge , is women's fiction rich with family mystery beginning decades ago.
Holly thought she was alone in the world since the recent death of her mother, but then she receives a curious letter from the lawyers of a Grandfather she didn't know she had. It requests her attendance at the reading of his will in the town of Skookum on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island. What she discovers here will change her life forever - a new family who wants to claim her inheritance, an abandoned but quite wonderful hunting lodge, and a half-sister she has never known.
Grandad has given her three months to find her sister, the co-inheritor of the lodge, or the whole thing goes to the grasping cousins with their unscrupulous plans.

Judith's romantic women's fiction series, the seven Fortune Bay books , is set on Washington State's Olympic Peninsula. In each book, someone at a crossroads of their life moves into a ramshackle cabin on Majestic Lake. While there, they work through their problems with the help of friends and family, and with the occasional nudge from the friendly spirit of Aunt Augusta, the cabin's previous owner. If a romance grows in the process, and it always does, well, so much the better.

Judith grew up in Toronto Canada, went to high school in St. Louis MO, then moved to the Pacific Northwest where she now lives on beautiful Vancouver Island.

As an landscape artist and photographer, the setting of the story is very important to Judy. "I've painted in the area for many years and I think it helps me make the setting real for the reader. Helps draw them into the story. My characters are often artists, like Maddie, the darkroom photographer in Summer of Fortune who is at Fortune Bay for the summer to work on her first professional show, and Stephanie, the widowed matriarch of the clan who is finding a new life as a painter." She has also done some work as a travel writer and photographer.

All books are available in paperback and eBook formats, and the Fortune Bay books Temple of the Jaguar are available in audio as well.

Reviews

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on iBooks today (11/14/2018)!💝

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer of Fortune is book one of the Fortune Bay series*. It completely stands completely alone and does not end on a cliffhanger. There are a few very mild curse words, and some sexy kisses, but there are no f-bombs or anything curses of that nature, and the sex happens behind closed doors. (*There is a prequel novella available that is sweet and introduces the sister of the main male character of this book. It does not need to be read before this one, but is a quick fun little read.)

This book was so great. From the quirky Aunt Augusta to the sweet little Sarah, the characters in this book were all really wonderfully written and are the heart of the book. There were parts that made me laugh out loud, gorgeous descriptions of places and things that made me feel like I was actually there, some things that made me tilt my head (the tarot reading, which is not my thing), and a couple of characters that I wanted to smack some sense into (Mark and Cindy) but at it's core this book was about friendship and acceptance and I loved that. I really want to move to Fortune Bay.

I have to admit that I started off this book not sure how I felt about about Maddie. Thankfully, every little thing about her that made me frown at the beginning started making perfect sense as we got to know about Maddie and her past. The more we got to know her, the more I found myself really rooting for her to find the self-confidence she so badly needed and for her to be brave enough to live the live she wanted and deserved. I actually was more impressed by her than expected because she did a couple of things that I personally wouldn't have been strong enough to do and that showed amazing strength on her part.

Jake was great. He was the epitome of a crusty-on-the-outside-but-soft-on-the-inside book hero. In this day and age of men in books acting like total jerks and being labeled 'alpha' as if to excuse that, finding seriously good guy heroes like Jake is so refreshing. I absolutely loved the way that Jake loved Sarah, the way that he was an amazing father to her despite how hard being a single father to a little girl (especially one who acts just like him) must be, and how he fell for Maddie despite the fact that he knew that her leaving could hurt him worse than Rena's leaving him had. Without spoiling anything, the grand gesture in this book was perfect in an understated but incredibly important way, and I absolutely LOVED the end of this book.

If you enjoy a novel that is not only just a love story between two people, but a book about real people dealing with real life problems in a wonderful, tiny town where the people are good at heart, you should definitely read this book. This was the first full-length novel that I have read by Ms. Hudson, but I very much look forward to reading more from her and my next 'trip' to Fortune Bay.

[Helena Korin]

Maddie runs away to a cabin on Majestic Lake, on the Olympic peninsula, to gather new photos for her first solo art show in the fall, but she's hurting. Her daughter, Jenny, has chosen to spend her last summer before grade twelve with her father, Maddie's ex-husband. Maddie has tried so hard to be a good parent despite her own background, the child of an alcoholic. Now she feels abandoned. She plunges into her photography loving the breathtaking mountain lake and pristine forest scenery. Slowly she makes friends with the locals of Fortune Bay. One local, her gorgeous landlord, Jake, tries to keep his distance but the chemistry is too strong. Then there's the friendly ghost of his Aunt Augusta...I found this a wonderful read with visual imagery reminiscent of Susan Wiggs.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maddie dedicates her life to her daughter Jenny. She raises her child alone as her marriage didn't work out as she had hoped. When Jenny decides to spend the summer with her father and his wife, Maddie takes the opportunity to break away from her old life and head for Fortune, an island off the coast of Seattle. Her aim is to spend the summer taking photos in preparation for a one woman showing in a gallery in the Fall. She meets Jake and his family and finally learns how important love and friendship is. She however must meet her demons from the past head on and once done she can move on. The story is romantic with a vivid and emotional portrait of a woman who must see her worth and her capacity to love,
Very well written and realistic dialogues that make it a very pleasant read.

[Margaret Fraleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by this author. And it won't be the last.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book - the first in the Fortune Bay series.

This story is of Maddie and the past that she felt was controlling her. Raising her
daughter Jenny on her own. Trying to make ends meet to keep them afloat.

She had put her dream on hold after her divorce to raise her daughter. Jenny's father
asked Jenny to visit with him for the summer. Jenny jumped at the opportunity, leaving
Maddie wondering if her daughter would come home at the end of the summer.

Maddie's stay at Fortune Bay changed everything for Maddie and Jenny and Maddie's
friendship with Jake.

Can't wait to read book #2 in the series - the Good Neighbour

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up until almost 3 am to finish this. I kept thinking I'll put it down at the end of this chapter, but would then take a peek at the beginning of the next one. And kept doing this until the book was done. Oh, well, sleep is overrated! This book is excellent and I loved the characters and the story. One thing I also loved is that the relationship wasn't a weekend fling or instalove. The author showed a realistic timeline for these characters and their growing feelings. Even though there's not much on-page steam, the feelings and emotions are there, front and center.
While reading I realized I had read one of the others in this series. There's a cute little cottage with some great history and magic involved. I will definitely be checking out more in this series!

[Leona Ennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author and this is my honest review. This was a great read! The setting is beautiful and the characters are likable as well as interesting. Despite being raised by an alcoholic mother and a divorce, Maddie is doing a good job raising her teenage daughter. Jake, raised by a loving family, finds himself struggling to raise his baby daughter who is now 6 years old. The two meet and this is their story which kept my interest the entire time I was reading. I am looking forward to reading the other books of this series!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a difficult time setting this book down to do anything. I couldn't wait to have a chance to read about Maddie and her life in Fortune Bay. I thoroughly enjoyed the development of each character and how they related to each other. Reading about Maddie's growth and change as she lived in Fortune Bay was entertaining and enlightening. I loved the slow nurturing of her relationship with Jake. I wish I could visit Fortune Bay!

[Kathryn Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved, loved, loved this book. It took me on a journey in my mind's eye to the Olympic Peninsula and had me completely enmeshed in the lives of the characters. I laughed and cried through Judith's thoughtful and loving portrayal of difficult relationship dynamics between friends and family members. What a great story of self discovery and overcoming barriers to grab on to a second chance at happiness and true love.

[Lucinda Race · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not even sure where to begin other than to say read this book- single father, single mother, they've both been hurt in previously relationships and approaching their future with caution.
I love all the characters of Fortune Bay and would love to spend the summer there with a stack of books and the residents. I could see the mama bear and her cub and feel the chill of the lake- it was a wonderful escape.

[Patricia (Irishcharmer) Yarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddie, Maddie, Maddie!! I just loved this character..Judith gave us a wonderful heroine with her. We got to peek into her heart, hear its beating and feel her pain that's deep rooted. We were also introduced to Maddie's mother (if we could possibly see her as a mother) Cindy...who doesn't want to be recognized as "Mom"....but more on her later.
This was a sweet look into romance that isn't a slam BAM thank you ma'am kinda romance..it's a story that's going to keep you late reading this. With you wanting to know, what's going to happen..yeah sure, there's a taste of a sexual content- but it's your imagination that has to fill in the blank as Judith does write it with decorum..they're behind closed doors and it wasn't over the top in your face...And there isn't any foul language..it's implied..especially when we get introduced to Maddie's ex.( He's a snotty shot that thinks he's" all that" because he's got money! Spoiler -- his new wife is also a snot..) An ex that apparently left Maddie with no support as she's got to skrimp and save to make the rent, to pay for her daughter's well being and things she may need, and feeling the guilt of her mother who always asks(and guilt trips ) into getting money( which takes away from putting food on the table)..
As you get further into Maddie, Jenny, Jake ( the landlord, and sexy, lip smacking , heart thumping hunk) you find yourself n not wanting to close the book and turn off the light..I stayed up to close to 3 am a couple times before I finished, cause it was "one more chapter" . .
I understand there's a prequel to this, but I couldn't tell you the title..but I will say, I enjoyed this book. I'm sure you will too..so go grab a snack or two, a tall glass of iced tea and get comfy..And enjoy a good read..--P/

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first experience with Judith Hudson's work, and it won't be my last. The story was charming and romantic. The characters were complex and compelling. I enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to acquiring more in the series. I recommend this story to others who enjoy this genre. Susheela Dawn's narration was pleasing and enjoyable. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily posted this review.

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely delightful read. This story will take you on a journey of self-discovery, friendship and family. There's a scene reminiscent of Captain America chopping wood, and some of that small-town charm that grabs you and won't let go. A lovely story woven together very compellingly by the author.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful book, full of romance, a bit sad at times. Maddie's ex decides to invite their daughter to stay with him for the summer. This leaves Maddie on her own, sad to be missing a summer with her daughter. She decides to take a cabin and work on her project. Just delightful. Enjoyable reviewing of the ARC and first time for this author.

[Coffee Chat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful small town story. With great characters that you can't help but fall in love with.. Maddie and Jake have a great chemistry that developed into more than friendship. The story line is well developed and interesting. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more books in this series.

[Holly J Sullivant · Rating 5 out of 5]

stunning and wise and lovely

I wish I could give this book ten stars. I haven’t read anything by this author before but I will be reading more. Thus whole story was so well written but also completely drew me in. I felt my heart aching and hoping with the main character and was left feeling like I’d changed a little inside just from reading it.

[Nati · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddie and Jake had suffered through live and are determined to not change their planned life, but they met in Fortune Bay and are drawn together. But life is not easy and they have to figure it out if they can build a family. A very touching story bout love, friendship and what really matters in life. And you really want to go to fortune Bay.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer of Fortune

The past is an ever present reminder of how it can impact our present. Maddie finds that letting it control her own outlook on her life is something she must confront if she is to let love find her. Beautiful story.

[Carol Gil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet romantic story

Maddie decided that she wanted to really try to sell her photography and went to Fortune Bay for the summer while her daughter went to stay with her dad. She meets Jake and they slowly fall in love. It was a great story.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. Lately I have been reading stories like this one about a woman from a damaged background learning how to live and love. Maybe one day I will do the same.

[Evelyn Goughnour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the characters and small town feel

It’s hard to let go of the past that forms us into adults. But this lovely lady concord her demons and found love.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read. Nice story and likable characters. Will read the rest in the series.

[Satin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story of two people who have been hurt before learning that they can be fully accepted for who they are and finding love again.

[Karen Lester · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel reminded me of a Hallmark movie which is very predictable, therefore I could only give it 3 stars.

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book in my opinion was OK maybe if I read the printed copy I'd feel differently but this book is an enjoyable read
recommend this book & hope to read book in print format
Will Read again

[Jo-Ann Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Life Hands You Lemons ...
Summer of Fortune is a sweet, small-town romance set in the Pacific Northwest. Filled with vivid imagery, a trademark of Judith Hudson's writing, it makes you want to pack your bags and head for the country.
The heroine, Maddie Tadesco, is a mature woman coming into her own, shaping her life that has in the past imprisoned her with shackles of expectations and disappointment. Pursuing her love for photography, she finds herself and falls in love with Jake Murphy her handsome, blue-eyed neighbor.
My very favorite line in the book comes when Jake describes Maddie's work as an artist. It's, "...part of being a photographer - being intuitive and insightful. Seeing what other people didn't know they saw, then putting it out there for them to recognize and appreciate."
If you want to feel the gentle, summer breeze off the lake,sunshine filtering through the forest canopy and the taste of a first kiss, this is the book for you.

[Rosalind Villers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books that capture the heart of small-town life are always a favourite of mine, and Summer of Fortune didn’t disappoint. Maddie Tedesco is quickly accepted into the lakeside community of Fortune Bay when she rents a cabin for the summer to shoot photographs of the area. She finds herself welcomed into a new circle of friends, something she’s never had before. She also begins to form a friendship with her landlord Jake, and as the summer progresses, her love for the area deepens as does her attraction to Jake. Along the way, her confidence and belief in herself grows, not only as a talented photographer, but as someone deserving of love. With beautiful descriptions throughout and a cast of colourful characters, Summer of Fortune was a pleasure to read.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this. Maddie & Jake are a great match, they both have issues and have to decide if what they found in each other is worth fighting for. Maddie is running scared and Jake is used to a woman leaving him. The author did a great job describing the peace and tranquility of the bay area, the supporting characters are just what Maddie needs to come to terms with her past. Some of their scenes were hilarious. Jake is a good man and tries to resist Maddie but his heart has other plans.

[Mary Laycock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellently drawn, wonderfully engaging and believable characters make this a must for summer reading. Family relationships and small town intrigues drive the story line, which entertains until the last page. Furthermore, though an impressive photographic lens, the author captures beautifully observed images of the Pacific North West landscape.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

the woman in this book continues to think that she can only raise her daughter and that's her life. she learns to change.