What do you think?
Rate this book
Lyon Family #4
The Sky in Summer
Listening time 5 hours 56 minutes
Goodbye Montana,
It’s me, not you. I’m getting out. Moving on. Specifically? To Paris where an apartment I inherited is waiting for me. I pretty much have perfected the art of being single and nothing is going to keep me here. Especially not a gorgeous single-mom of two, I have no business thinking about.
In all humility,
Van Lyon
Dear dating app,
I don’t know how to write a dating profile, but if I were to give it a try, I guess I’d start with:
Thirty-eight, slightly sarcastic mother of teenage twins, anchored in Billings, Montana. Into sweatshirts, sweatpants, and eating out of a pan. NOT interested in any BS.
My hotter than hell friend Van Lyon, need not apply.
Yours in sexual frustration,
Layla Silver
Under THE SKY IN SUMMER, old friends remember the spark.
Thirty-three years ago in Kindergarten,
He showed her his wiener,
She showed him her buns,
It was love at first sight.
A standalone novel, set in the family saga LYON FAMILY SERIES.
Goodbye Montana,
It’s me, not you. I’m getting out. Moving on. Specifically? To Paris where an apartment I inherited is waiting for me. I pretty much have perfected the art of being single and nothing is going to keep me here. Especially not a gorgeous single-mom of two, I have no business thinking about.
In all humility,
Van Lyon
Dear dating app,
I don’t know how to write a dating profile, but if I were to give it a try, I guess I’d start with:
Thirty-eight, slightly sarcastic mother of teenage twins, anchored in Billings, Montana. Into sweatshirts, sweatpants, and eating out of a pan. NOT interested in any BS.
My hotter than hell friend Van Lyon, need not apply.
Yours in sexual frustration,
Layla Silver
Under THE SKY IN SUMMER, old friends remember the spark.
Thirty-three years ago in Kindergarten,
He showed her his wiener,
She showed him her buns,
It was love at first sight.
A standalone novel, set in the family saga LYON FAMILY SERIES.
6 pages, Audible Audio
Published November 18, 2021
40 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
December 19, 2021
**Audiobook Review**
The Sky In Summer by Leslie Pike was a fun, flirty, and swoony romance! I love how each sibling in the Lyon family has their own unique and heartfelt story. Each book gets better and better, and I adored Van and Layla's story!
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter narrate this audiobook, and were a great pairing to bring Van and Layla to life. Van is such a lovable guy full of life. Zachary Webber did the best job portraying all of Van's charismatic, goofy (love the singing), and light-hearted qualities. Stella Hunter was amazing conveying all of the Layla's doubts, wants, and finally her determination to go after what her heart truly desired. Van and Layla have this magnetic chemistry that is so youthful and passionate at the same time.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! If you love a romance about young friends reuniting, a hunky hero with all the witty banter, a single somewhat sarcastic mom seeking her own happiness, visiting and catching up with the whole Lyon family, supportive teenage twins, super hot steamy times, a tiny bit of angst, first date fun, and the perfect HEA even when it seems you aren't looking for it, then you will love Van and Layla's story! I'm looking forward to more from Leslie Pike.
The Sky In Summer by Leslie Pike was a fun, flirty, and swoony romance! I love how each sibling in the Lyon family has their own unique and heartfelt story. Each book gets better and better, and I adored Van and Layla's story!
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter narrate this audiobook, and were a great pairing to bring Van and Layla to life. Van is such a lovable guy full of life. Zachary Webber did the best job portraying all of Van's charismatic, goofy (love the singing), and light-hearted qualities. Stella Hunter was amazing conveying all of the Layla's doubts, wants, and finally her determination to go after what her heart truly desired. Van and Layla have this magnetic chemistry that is so youthful and passionate at the same time.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! If you love a romance about young friends reuniting, a hunky hero with all the witty banter, a single somewhat sarcastic mom seeking her own happiness, visiting and catching up with the whole Lyon family, supportive teenage twins, super hot steamy times, a tiny bit of angst, first date fun, and the perfect HEA even when it seems you aren't looking for it, then you will love Van and Layla's story! I'm looking forward to more from Leslie Pike.
November 18, 2021
To be honest, this is my first book that I have ever read from Leslie Pike. And my first form the Lyon's family.
In the beginning of the book, when Van first made appearance I really thought that he will be the typical playboy. And he was...but only for the first couple of chapters. His attitude after that changed completely. And i loved it.
I liked Layla as a heroine. She was a good mother, good person and so sexy that it was impossible for a man not to fall in love with her.
The pace of the book was good and kinda fast for me (even soo that I couldn't read it for couple of days, because of work).
What I particularly liked the most within the book is that both main characters were a bit older. Don't get me wrong, but the last couple of years i don't enjoy the YA books that much. What I do enjoy is if the hero and heroine to be a bit older than 20 something years old.
I also liked that there wasn't that much of a drama when it came for the MC to admit their feeling to each other. And i loved the ending and the epilogue.
I received an ARC from the author and Valentine PR for my honest opinion. And it is honest as It can be. I love this book.
P. S. I have not read the rest of the books from the Lyon's family series, but I will fix that as soon as I can 🥰.
In the beginning of the book, when Van first made appearance I really thought that he will be the typical playboy. And he was...but only for the first couple of chapters. His attitude after that changed completely. And i loved it.
I liked Layla as a heroine. She was a good mother, good person and so sexy that it was impossible for a man not to fall in love with her.
The pace of the book was good and kinda fast for me (even soo that I couldn't read it for couple of days, because of work).
What I particularly liked the most within the book is that both main characters were a bit older. Don't get me wrong, but the last couple of years i don't enjoy the YA books that much. What I do enjoy is if the hero and heroine to be a bit older than 20 something years old.
I also liked that there wasn't that much of a drama when it came for the MC to admit their feeling to each other. And i loved the ending and the epilogue.
I received an ARC from the author and Valentine PR for my honest opinion. And it is honest as It can be. I love this book.
P. S. I have not read the rest of the books from the Lyon's family series, but I will fix that as soon as I can 🥰.
August 2, 2022
This is book 4 in the Lyon Family series. While Van & Layla’s relationship is fully covered in this book - the series is best enjoyed in order starting with The Beach in Winter.
I adore how much I connect with Pike’s writing. Again - she’s amazing at having all the emotions in a book. The Lyons are such a fun family and I continue to love hearing each of their stories.
So cute that these two knew each other in Kindergarten but haven’t been together since. This is also one of my favorite tropes - single parent. Layla’s 16yo twins, Tyler & David, were such a fun addition to the story. I like that there really wasn’t any antagonism between them and Van. This is more a “friends with benefits turns to love but neither fills the other in” situation. I got to know Van and Layla and see their relationship grow into something more. And shake my head when they couldn’t get on the same page.
Lots of laughs, steamy sex, fun dates, and big family announcements make this such a delight to listen to.
I can’t wait for Aargon’s story, The Leaves in Autumn.
Narration:
The casting here is wonderful. I truly enjoyed Stella Hunter and Zachary Webber as Layla and Van. They both did a great job bringing Pike’s writing and the Lyon family to life.
While I borrowed the ebook via Kindle Unlimited, I did receive a copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
I adore how much I connect with Pike’s writing. Again - she’s amazing at having all the emotions in a book. The Lyons are such a fun family and I continue to love hearing each of their stories.
So cute that these two knew each other in Kindergarten but haven’t been together since. This is also one of my favorite tropes - single parent. Layla’s 16yo twins, Tyler & David, were such a fun addition to the story. I like that there really wasn’t any antagonism between them and Van. This is more a “friends with benefits turns to love but neither fills the other in” situation. I got to know Van and Layla and see their relationship grow into something more. And shake my head when they couldn’t get on the same page.
Lots of laughs, steamy sex, fun dates, and big family announcements make this such a delight to listen to.
I can’t wait for Aargon’s story, The Leaves in Autumn.
Narration:
The casting here is wonderful. I truly enjoyed Stella Hunter and Zachary Webber as Layla and Van. They both did a great job bringing Pike’s writing and the Lyon family to life.
While I borrowed the ebook via Kindle Unlimited, I did receive a copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
November 18, 2021
So when I started this book I was a bit skeptical it seemed like Van was a bit of a playboy. But as the story continued I quickly changed my mind and became totally infatuated with the story…
Layla is single mother with a successful business and she is ready to start dating but also not sure if she is ready. Van is living his 'best bachelor life' and can’t wait to move to Paris to start his new job. So when he meets Layla, things start to change for him. But will he give up Paris for Layla and her boys or will he give up his chance for happiness…
What a sweet and adorable fund romantic story 😊 Like I said I thought that Van would be a player for most of the book, but he surprised me and I have to say I fell in love with him. Van was just what Layla and her boys needed in their lives and Layla and her boys gave Van more meaning in his life. I loved every character in this story, and I am so reading the previous stories in this series 😊 ❤ ❤
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Layla is single mother with a successful business and she is ready to start dating but also not sure if she is ready. Van is living his 'best bachelor life' and can’t wait to move to Paris to start his new job. So when he meets Layla, things start to change for him. But will he give up Paris for Layla and her boys or will he give up his chance for happiness…
What a sweet and adorable fund romantic story 😊 Like I said I thought that Van would be a player for most of the book, but he surprised me and I have to say I fell in love with him. Van was just what Layla and her boys needed in their lives and Layla and her boys gave Van more meaning in his life. I loved every character in this story, and I am so reading the previous stories in this series 😊 ❤ ❤
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
November 18, 2021
n ‘The Sky in Summer’ we meet Layla and Van. Almost thirty years ago they were in kindergarten together, but they lost contact and never saw each other again. Now Layla and Van meet again, and they have an instant chemistry between them that flies off the pages. But Van is a playboy, and Layla is a single mom of teen twins. They have nothing in common, but after all these years they can’t deny they’re curious about each other. And soon they realize there chemistry definitely makes for a intense ‘friendship’. But Van is leaving for Paris only a few months, and he has never the guy for one woman.
‘The Sky in Summer’ was definitely a book I really enjoyed. It is a standalone, but we also get glimpses of the other Lyon siblings whose books are already out there. Yes, it can be read as a standalone. But I do think it will be even better when you’ve read the previous books too. It sure made me very curious about the other books in the series. So my TBR is getting bigger again. LOL!
The relationship between Layla and Van was very fun to read. They made me laugh out loud several times. And their chemistry was definitely something I could feel coming of the pages. I loved there characters, and enjoyed getting to know them. Especially since this book is written through both there point of few. Van was a bit to crude for me at times. But I can look through it.
What I loved most of all about this book, was the fact that these characters where a bit older than most main characters in romance books. Layla is thirty-eight and has two teenaged boys. I loved that. It was really refreshing to read a book about two people who aren’t more than a decade younger than me. LOL!
The writing itself wasn’t my favorite, it felt a bit rushed at times. But the characters and the romance made up for that, and I look forward to reading more books in this series.
‘The Sky in Summer’ was definitely a book I really enjoyed. It is a standalone, but we also get glimpses of the other Lyon siblings whose books are already out there. Yes, it can be read as a standalone. But I do think it will be even better when you’ve read the previous books too. It sure made me very curious about the other books in the series. So my TBR is getting bigger again. LOL!
The relationship between Layla and Van was very fun to read. They made me laugh out loud several times. And their chemistry was definitely something I could feel coming of the pages. I loved there characters, and enjoyed getting to know them. Especially since this book is written through both there point of few. Van was a bit to crude for me at times. But I can look through it.
What I loved most of all about this book, was the fact that these characters where a bit older than most main characters in romance books. Layla is thirty-eight and has two teenaged boys. I loved that. It was really refreshing to read a book about two people who aren’t more than a decade younger than me. LOL!
The writing itself wasn’t my favorite, it felt a bit rushed at times. But the characters and the romance made up for that, and I look forward to reading more books in this series.
November 20, 2021
Layla and Van met in kindergarten, it was quite the racy meet cute LOL. They didn’t grow up together, so it’s not exactly your typical second chance or friends to lovers. It is a very cute aspect to their story though.
Van is living the bachelor life, ready to leave Montana for Paris, France.
Layla is a single mom who is hoping she’s ready to date again.
They reconnect/meet and have pretty instant chemistry. Their goals and lives don’t seem to favor a relationship, though.
Van seemed like a player, I’ve did win me over and change my mind.
I love the funny, warm and steamy relationship they develop. Their chemistry is undeniable. They are fun and sexy.
The secondary characters are familiar from previous books in the series. I love this family and I was happy to get little glimpses of them and their lives.
This author knows how to write families that I love and feel connected to. They are warm and accepting. It feels like coming home.
I love the changes that happen for the characters. I love what Layla’s kids bring to the story.
It’s a fast, warm and sexy romance! I love the extended family and the way family is at the heart of the story.
Van is living the bachelor life, ready to leave Montana for Paris, France.
Layla is a single mom who is hoping she’s ready to date again.
They reconnect/meet and have pretty instant chemistry. Their goals and lives don’t seem to favor a relationship, though.
Van seemed like a player, I’ve did win me over and change my mind.
I love the funny, warm and steamy relationship they develop. Their chemistry is undeniable. They are fun and sexy.
The secondary characters are familiar from previous books in the series. I love this family and I was happy to get little glimpses of them and their lives.
This author knows how to write families that I love and feel connected to. They are warm and accepting. It feels like coming home.
I love the changes that happen for the characters. I love what Layla’s kids bring to the story.
It’s a fast, warm and sexy romance! I love the extended family and the way family is at the heart of the story.
August 10, 2022
ALC Review
The Sky in Summer was just what I needed to end the summer!
So fun and so swoony!
I loved Van and Layla!
I loved the friends finding each other aspect of the book!
I loved this narration duo!
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter are some of my absolute favorites and they do an incredible job here!
Webber's performance as Van was all I could of wanted for the character! All the charm and charisma!
Hunter was amazing! I loved her performance!
The banter between the two was so well realized just great!
Overall this is a must have! Not only is the story amazing the narrators are phenomenal!
Thank-you Homecooked Books for the chance to review this ALC!
The Sky in Summer was just what I needed to end the summer!
So fun and so swoony!
I loved Van and Layla!
I loved the friends finding each other aspect of the book!
I loved this narration duo!
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter are some of my absolute favorites and they do an incredible job here!
Webber's performance as Van was all I could of wanted for the character! All the charm and charisma!
Hunter was amazing! I loved her performance!
The banter between the two was so well realized just great!
Overall this is a must have! Not only is the story amazing the narrators are phenomenal!
Thank-you Homecooked Books for the chance to review this ALC!
November 30, 2021
ARC for honest review with no compensation Received from Greys PR
The Sky in Summer is book 4 in the Lyon Family series by Leslie Pike, a new to me author and someone I will read again.
A divorced mom of teenage twin boys is back in Billings, a town she lived til she was 5, then moved away..she wonders if she will see her kindergarten crush Van Lyon again. When they reconnect by ways of her sons and his nephews, sparks ignite but he is only home for a few months before heading to Paris. What happens next will keep you turning the pages to see where it all leads…
The Sky in Summer is book 4 in the Lyon Family series by Leslie Pike, a new to me author and someone I will read again.
A divorced mom of teenage twin boys is back in Billings, a town she lived til she was 5, then moved away..she wonders if she will see her kindergarten crush Van Lyon again. When they reconnect by ways of her sons and his nephews, sparks ignite but he is only home for a few months before heading to Paris. What happens next will keep you turning the pages to see where it all leads…
March 24, 2022
I loved this! It was funny, sweet, poignant, and French. The family dynamic here is fabulous and the two love interests were great. I liked the ending; happy but realistic. And oddly, I'd never have thought it takes place in Montana.
It's the characters here that really shine. So much quick romance like this errs on the side of a lack of development; the pacing is too fast or the characters too shallow. But here, it's perfect.
And of course Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter only made it better.
It's the characters here that really shine. So much quick romance like this errs on the side of a lack of development; the pacing is too fast or the characters too shallow. But here, it's perfect.
And of course Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter only made it better.
March 17, 2024
The Sky In Summer- Leslie Pike
Narrated by Stella Hunter and Zachary Webber
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
I think this has been my favorite of the Lyon Family series. The banter between Van and Layla was so good. It had me cracking up so much. Plus the interaction between Layla’s twins and their best friends/Van’s nephews were so fun.
Stella and Zachary are two of my all time favorite narrators so it’s no wonder this has been my favorite. The story itself was fantastic by the way Stella and Zachary bring these characters to life made it that much better!
Narrated by Stella Hunter and Zachary Webber
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
I think this has been my favorite of the Lyon Family series. The banter between Van and Layla was so good. It had me cracking up so much. Plus the interaction between Layla’s twins and their best friends/Van’s nephews were so fun.
Stella and Zachary are two of my all time favorite narrators so it’s no wonder this has been my favorite. The story itself was fantastic by the way Stella and Zachary bring these characters to life made it that much better!
November 5, 2021
Such an incredible read. Even though I have not read the previous books in the series I feel as though I know their stories. Leslie Pike does such an amazing job with her secondary characters as well as her primary ones.
Layla and Van decided to treat each other as friends with benefits instead of a relationship mainly because Van was taking a job in Paris in a few months. Why start something you know has an end date. Just enjoy the time you have together with no expectations. Both did not want to admit feelings started to grow for fear the other did not feel the same way. Instead, they just ignored their true feelings and enjoyed their time together. But what happens when its time for Van to leave for Paris. Will they admit their feelings or just miss out on something both want but are too afraid to admit?
I enjoyed this story so much. Besides the romance of Van and Layla, the close-knit family Van is from and its importance. How they all support one another and how they accepted Layla and her sons into their own. A truly enjoyable read.
Layla and Van decided to treat each other as friends with benefits instead of a relationship mainly because Van was taking a job in Paris in a few months. Why start something you know has an end date. Just enjoy the time you have together with no expectations. Both did not want to admit feelings started to grow for fear the other did not feel the same way. Instead, they just ignored their true feelings and enjoyed their time together. But what happens when its time for Van to leave for Paris. Will they admit their feelings or just miss out on something both want but are too afraid to admit?
I enjoyed this story so much. Besides the romance of Van and Layla, the close-knit family Van is from and its importance. How they all support one another and how they accepted Layla and her sons into their own. A truly enjoyable read.
Read
December 18, 2021DNF
November 24, 2025
Audiobook ALC Review
Listened on Book Funnel
The Sky in Summer book 3
**Favorite of the series**
Narrated by:Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter
Characters: Van Lyon and Layla Silver
The Lyon Family returns with the playboy of the family, Van. Hilarious, sexy, hard working and the best fun uncle. And Layla, Van’s first childhood school friend. Van and Layla met in kindergarten when they played a little “you show me yours and I’ll show you mine”. Unfortunately after kindergarten Layla and her family moved away. Years later, Layla is back in Montana, with an ex husband and teenage twin boys. Now, running into Van he doesn’t recognize her, but the moment he realizes who she is, everything changes and in an instant, Van is working his magic to keep Layla in his life for good this time. The fact that Van gave me chills the moment he realized who Layla was in Chapter 2, I knew this second chance, friends to lovers romance was going to be my favorite. This was such a fun story. The banter and sexual chemistry between Van and Layla was unmatched. They were both extremely witty and it was easy to see the connection between these two was going the distance. Layla is working hard to be an incredible single mother to teenage boys and Van has plans to move to Paris when his house renovation there is completed. This is part of the story where things take a turn and even when Layla and Van continue to tell each other they are “just friends”, love gets real and true feelings are put to the test. But wouldn’t you change everything when the girl you fell in love with in kindergarten gave you a second chance at forever?
Zachary Webber was the absolute perfect Van. You could feel his humor, his wit, his love for his family and appreciation for Layla in every word Zachary spoke. Stella Hunter was also the most perfect Layla, she also brought the banter, she was self aware, and a confident mother, but also couldn’t hold back her desires towards Van and Stella brought those emotions to life as Layla.
This book had more spice than the other two and for that I was swooning over Van and Layla and there HEA.
THANK YOU Home Cooked Books
For the opportunity to listen and review this series
Listened on Book Funnel
The Sky in Summer book 3
**Favorite of the series**
Narrated by:Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter
Characters: Van Lyon and Layla Silver
The Lyon Family returns with the playboy of the family, Van. Hilarious, sexy, hard working and the best fun uncle. And Layla, Van’s first childhood school friend. Van and Layla met in kindergarten when they played a little “you show me yours and I’ll show you mine”. Unfortunately after kindergarten Layla and her family moved away. Years later, Layla is back in Montana, with an ex husband and teenage twin boys. Now, running into Van he doesn’t recognize her, but the moment he realizes who she is, everything changes and in an instant, Van is working his magic to keep Layla in his life for good this time. The fact that Van gave me chills the moment he realized who Layla was in Chapter 2, I knew this second chance, friends to lovers romance was going to be my favorite. This was such a fun story. The banter and sexual chemistry between Van and Layla was unmatched. They were both extremely witty and it was easy to see the connection between these two was going the distance. Layla is working hard to be an incredible single mother to teenage boys and Van has plans to move to Paris when his house renovation there is completed. This is part of the story where things take a turn and even when Layla and Van continue to tell each other they are “just friends”, love gets real and true feelings are put to the test. But wouldn’t you change everything when the girl you fell in love with in kindergarten gave you a second chance at forever?
Zachary Webber was the absolute perfect Van. You could feel his humor, his wit, his love for his family and appreciation for Layla in every word Zachary spoke. Stella Hunter was also the most perfect Layla, she also brought the banter, she was self aware, and a confident mother, but also couldn’t hold back her desires towards Van and Stella brought those emotions to life as Layla.
This book had more spice than the other two and for that I was swooning over Van and Layla and there HEA.
THANK YOU Home Cooked Books
For the opportunity to listen and review this series
November 18, 2021
Van Lyon first met Layla in kindergarten, their friendship culminating in a little non-PG show and tell in the janitor's closet. But then Layla moved away. Now, thirty plus years later, Layla is back in Montana, divorced with teenaged twins. Both Layla and Van are in very different places in their lives: Layla is a single mom running her own staging business. Van is very much a playboy, looking forward to relocating to Paris in a few months where a whole new crop of women will surely faun all over him. But then Van and Layla run into each other, and their friendship reignites. But with undeniable chemistry, their "friendship" is about to become a whole lot more.
When I first started reading The Sky in Summer, I initially thought I wasn't going to be able to stand Van. He was such a player; multiple characters even refer to him as a "f*ckboy." Those are not my type of love interests, so I started off thinking this was going to be a hard book to get through. Luckily, all it took for Van to turn himself around was the love (or the thought of love) of a good woman. As soon as Layla and Van started hanging out, you could immediately see the changes starting to happen in Van. At first, they were subtle but the gestures just got bigger the more Van realized he only wanted Layla. The shift from player to one-woman man actually happened quicker than I expected them to, but I guess when you know you've found the one, you know. Layla was a strong example of a single mother balancing work and raising kids, though it was almost heartbreaking the number of times she put her own happiness and emotional wellbeing last in order to make sure the men in her life - her twins and Van - were living their best lives.
I loved all the characters in The Sky in Summer. This is part of an interconnected series, but Pike does give you enough information about the other members of the Lyon family to easily read this one as a standalone. Even if you haven't read any of the other Lyon family books, there was a great amount of history and references to their own stories. It's safe to say, if you haven't read the other Lyon stories you will want to after reading Van and Layla's book.
The Sky in Summer was a touching, moving story about embracing what you love and being there for the ones you care for. As Van and Layla demonstrate, keeping your feelings to yourself - and assuming you know how others feel - only makes things harder on everyone.
I loved how heartfelt Layla and Van's story felt, but there was also no shortage of steam between the two. These two former kindergarten crushes definitely had chemistry in spades as adults. So, if you're looking for a touching story about family and love, but still want some spice, I definitely recommend the newest Lyon family story, The Sky in Summer.
A huge thank you to Grey's Promotions for providing an advanced review copy of The Sky in Summer!
When I first started reading The Sky in Summer, I initially thought I wasn't going to be able to stand Van. He was such a player; multiple characters even refer to him as a "f*ckboy." Those are not my type of love interests, so I started off thinking this was going to be a hard book to get through. Luckily, all it took for Van to turn himself around was the love (or the thought of love) of a good woman. As soon as Layla and Van started hanging out, you could immediately see the changes starting to happen in Van. At first, they were subtle but the gestures just got bigger the more Van realized he only wanted Layla. The shift from player to one-woman man actually happened quicker than I expected them to, but I guess when you know you've found the one, you know. Layla was a strong example of a single mother balancing work and raising kids, though it was almost heartbreaking the number of times she put her own happiness and emotional wellbeing last in order to make sure the men in her life - her twins and Van - were living their best lives.
I loved all the characters in The Sky in Summer. This is part of an interconnected series, but Pike does give you enough information about the other members of the Lyon family to easily read this one as a standalone. Even if you haven't read any of the other Lyon family books, there was a great amount of history and references to their own stories. It's safe to say, if you haven't read the other Lyon stories you will want to after reading Van and Layla's book.
The Sky in Summer was a touching, moving story about embracing what you love and being there for the ones you care for. As Van and Layla demonstrate, keeping your feelings to yourself - and assuming you know how others feel - only makes things harder on everyone.
I loved how heartfelt Layla and Van's story felt, but there was also no shortage of steam between the two. These two former kindergarten crushes definitely had chemistry in spades as adults. So, if you're looking for a touching story about family and love, but still want some spice, I definitely recommend the newest Lyon family story, The Sky in Summer.
A huge thank you to Grey's Promotions for providing an advanced review copy of The Sky in Summer!
July 24, 2022
I can't get enough of the Lyon Family series, and Leslie Pike! I flew through the first 4, and now I can't wait for 5. If you haven't read or listened to this series yet - what are you waiting for!! It's absolutely incredible! Book 4 is my fave so far, by a lot!
Van Lyon is the baby of the family, of 5 kids (3 boys, 2 girls) - tragedy struck and they lost a sister, and he's like a big brother to her son, Sam. Van is the kid who never really grew up, even though he's 33 now. He goes from woman to woman, and will never commit. He's not that kind of guy. The thought of a relationship, settling down, and kids, has never been one for him. In fact, he's just about to move to Paris and stay in his grandparent's old place, which he's just finished having fixed up! Until... he meets the mother of one of Sam and Teddy's (his nephew's) twin friends - a girl he actually knew from kindergarten but had moved away back in the 80's. The girl that got away when they were 5! Has he really been thinking of this girl ever since?
As Van and Layla reconnect after nearly 30 years, they remember a lot of stories, and make some new ones - knowing it will be short-term as he's about to leave. This is his typical M-O, but as a mother of 2 teen boys, divorcee and non-dater, Layla isn't used to growing feelings and leading to nothing. Things are getting real but there is one foot out the door. Kids are involved. Family is involved. This is not the Van that anyone is used to.
This was complete brilliance and so far and above the other stories in this series, that I didn't want it to end! The steam level was just right, the writing was superb, but I just wish that it was longer! Other than being shorter than I would have liked, it was more than a 5-star rating for me.
Also, having the audio and KU version to read-along together, with 2 of my absolute top fave narrators, was the best way to read. Zachary Webber is so very hard to top, and Stella Hunter, as always, fit the character of Layla so well! A great team and the perfect voices for the book. Brilliant performances - couldn't have picked better! 5-stars for both of them as well.
I absolutely, completely and totally recommend this book to absolutely everybody, whether or not you have read the previous books in the Lyon Family series (though it will definitely help with the background)! It is perfection! It's a quick read, too.
I received an advance listen copy from Home Cooked Books, and this is my honest feedback - thank you!
Van Lyon is the baby of the family, of 5 kids (3 boys, 2 girls) - tragedy struck and they lost a sister, and he's like a big brother to her son, Sam. Van is the kid who never really grew up, even though he's 33 now. He goes from woman to woman, and will never commit. He's not that kind of guy. The thought of a relationship, settling down, and kids, has never been one for him. In fact, he's just about to move to Paris and stay in his grandparent's old place, which he's just finished having fixed up! Until... he meets the mother of one of Sam and Teddy's (his nephew's) twin friends - a girl he actually knew from kindergarten but had moved away back in the 80's. The girl that got away when they were 5! Has he really been thinking of this girl ever since?
As Van and Layla reconnect after nearly 30 years, they remember a lot of stories, and make some new ones - knowing it will be short-term as he's about to leave. This is his typical M-O, but as a mother of 2 teen boys, divorcee and non-dater, Layla isn't used to growing feelings and leading to nothing. Things are getting real but there is one foot out the door. Kids are involved. Family is involved. This is not the Van that anyone is used to.
This was complete brilliance and so far and above the other stories in this series, that I didn't want it to end! The steam level was just right, the writing was superb, but I just wish that it was longer! Other than being shorter than I would have liked, it was more than a 5-star rating for me.
Also, having the audio and KU version to read-along together, with 2 of my absolute top fave narrators, was the best way to read. Zachary Webber is so very hard to top, and Stella Hunter, as always, fit the character of Layla so well! A great team and the perfect voices for the book. Brilliant performances - couldn't have picked better! 5-stars for both of them as well.
I absolutely, completely and totally recommend this book to absolutely everybody, whether or not you have read the previous books in the Lyon Family series (though it will definitely help with the background)! It is perfection! It's a quick read, too.
I received an advance listen copy from Home Cooked Books, and this is my honest feedback - thank you!
February 20, 2022
Beautifully Heartfelt & Charming! Amazing Story & Listen🎧
The Sky In Summer
Lyon Family Series, Book 4
By: Leslie Pike
Narrated by: Zachary Webber, Stella Hunter
Leslie Pike continues to wow me with another charming and beautifully heartfelt novel set in her “Lyon Family” series. Each book in this series features a different member of the Lyon family, they all stand on their own and I highly recommend them all. The stories captured not only my attention but my heart too, captivating both for the entire book. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are easy to care about and even fall in love with. This book is Van Lyon and Layla Silver’s story, they met in grammar school and Layla was the first girl who impressed him enough to show her his wiener and she his buns. Van was even a player in kindergarten, even more so thirty-three years later when they meet again. Van loved the ladies and never wanted to settle down, but Layla was stirring different feelings and thought in his mind. The chemistry between these two is through the roof, neither could deny it or deny themselves. Neither wanted a serious relationship since Van was moving to Paris, but their lives fit perfectly together. Her kids were friend with his nephews and his family already met Layla and they were all for the relationship, it was great to see the Lyons again. This wonderfully plotted romance novel contains the perfect balance of drama, heartfelt and heartwarming moments, charming ones too, as well as some steamy romance. Leslie Pike, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Stella Hunter and Zachary Webber were the perfect cast to bring these characters and their story to life. They had a complete understanding of the characters they portrayed, giving each a voice is the perfect fit for that character’s persona to a tee, sounding believable and just as I pictured the characters to sound. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and projected them into their performance. These mega talented voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
The Sky In Summer
Lyon Family Series, Book 4
By: Leslie Pike
Narrated by: Zachary Webber, Stella Hunter
Leslie Pike continues to wow me with another charming and beautifully heartfelt novel set in her “Lyon Family” series. Each book in this series features a different member of the Lyon family, they all stand on their own and I highly recommend them all. The stories captured not only my attention but my heart too, captivating both for the entire book. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are easy to care about and even fall in love with. This book is Van Lyon and Layla Silver’s story, they met in grammar school and Layla was the first girl who impressed him enough to show her his wiener and she his buns. Van was even a player in kindergarten, even more so thirty-three years later when they meet again. Van loved the ladies and never wanted to settle down, but Layla was stirring different feelings and thought in his mind. The chemistry between these two is through the roof, neither could deny it or deny themselves. Neither wanted a serious relationship since Van was moving to Paris, but their lives fit perfectly together. Her kids were friend with his nephews and his family already met Layla and they were all for the relationship, it was great to see the Lyons again. This wonderfully plotted romance novel contains the perfect balance of drama, heartfelt and heartwarming moments, charming ones too, as well as some steamy romance. Leslie Pike, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Stella Hunter and Zachary Webber were the perfect cast to bring these characters and their story to life. They had a complete understanding of the characters they portrayed, giving each a voice is the perfect fit for that character’s persona to a tee, sounding believable and just as I pictured the characters to sound. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and projected them into their performance. These mega talented voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
August 1, 2022
Book 4 in the Lyon Family Series. The story stands alone but if you read in sequence some of the moments with the family have more depth and will hit in a more emotional way. Everything you need is provided, but if you've experience the full impact of the previous stories, those special moments will mean so much more.
This is the cutest meet cute I've read and the most adorable second chance. They were in a kindergarten relationship! Awwwwwwwww (where is my heart eyes emoji? I need it here). 30+ years later they have both moved on to completely different lives but then end up back together entwined by a quad of teenage boys. Her twin sons and his pair of nephews.
Van has always been a no-strings kind of guy. He can pick-up, get off and get gone without any second thoughts. But one day while helping his nephews and their friends at the beach he meets the hot mom of the friends and there's no looking back. He will find any acceptable way to bring her and her twins into his family's sphere so that he can have more time with her. He's moving at the end of the summer, but they can have an amazing summer on the down low until his flight leaves for Paris... right? there are no holes in this plan, none at all.
Layla has resigned herself to being a single mom, that is her identity. But when Van wants to be friends, maybe with benefits, she thinks its a line she can hold. She comes alive with him, she has fun and laughs... it's so much more than friends.
Van & Layla's story brings with it some amazing family scenes with all of the Lyon clan. I adore their game nights and wish my family had fun like that.
The audiobook for this one was performed by Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter. Stella was amazing as Layla. Her emotional spectrum as a single mom and a woman is fantastic. She just reached into my chest and made me love her so much. Zach as Van was a delight. Zach can always bring the full range of emotions to life for me. He's so talented. And there are moments from both of them that I just couldn't split my attention. It was all on Stella and Zach, Van and Layla... eyes closed, hands still, not doing anything else because I was so engrossed in the story.
I requested and was provided with a copy of the audiobook. These are my honest thoughts and reactions.
This is the cutest meet cute I've read and the most adorable second chance. They were in a kindergarten relationship! Awwwwwwwww (where is my heart eyes emoji? I need it here). 30+ years later they have both moved on to completely different lives but then end up back together entwined by a quad of teenage boys. Her twin sons and his pair of nephews.
Van has always been a no-strings kind of guy. He can pick-up, get off and get gone without any second thoughts. But one day while helping his nephews and their friends at the beach he meets the hot mom of the friends and there's no looking back. He will find any acceptable way to bring her and her twins into his family's sphere so that he can have more time with her. He's moving at the end of the summer, but they can have an amazing summer on the down low until his flight leaves for Paris... right? there are no holes in this plan, none at all.
Layla has resigned herself to being a single mom, that is her identity. But when Van wants to be friends, maybe with benefits, she thinks its a line she can hold. She comes alive with him, she has fun and laughs... it's so much more than friends.
Van & Layla's story brings with it some amazing family scenes with all of the Lyon clan. I adore their game nights and wish my family had fun like that.
The audiobook for this one was performed by Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter. Stella was amazing as Layla. Her emotional spectrum as a single mom and a woman is fantastic. She just reached into my chest and made me love her so much. Zach as Van was a delight. Zach can always bring the full range of emotions to life for me. He's so talented. And there are moments from both of them that I just couldn't split my attention. It was all on Stella and Zach, Van and Layla... eyes closed, hands still, not doing anything else because I was so engrossed in the story.
I requested and was provided with a copy of the audiobook. These are my honest thoughts and reactions.
November 16, 2021
'I didn't think it was possible to fall this hard and fast for a fictional man, but mon dieu, I've fallen hook, line and sinker for Van Lyon!
I was kindly sent a copy by Grey's Promotions to read and review this novel, here is my honest review.
-------------------------------------------------------------
This was my first time reading a Leslie Pike novel and ladies and gentlemen, this lady served it up and did not disappoint! I always love reading new authors for the first time, seeing if my first read from them is going to be a hit or a miss and I'm thrilled to report that Ms Pike was a huge hit!
At the moment when we're in the thick and throes of all things Christmas and festive, comes a eye-watering, hilarious summer second chance romance story that will have you--as it did me--laughing so much you'll have to set down what you're reading it from to enjoy the laugh created especially for you. At the risk of leaving a spoiler which I would never do, I'm just going to issue a laughter warning for Chapter Four. Much giggle-snorting happened in that chapter.
The storyline, once I got the gist of who's who--as there's quite a few players in this novel--tells a story many a person in the real world can relate to. Ultimately, soulmates finding their way back to one another while showing all the realistic road bumps, hiccups and barriers that couples find on the way to their happily ever afters.
Focusing now on the characters, we were completely spoiled for choice with both main and sub-characters. For this being my first introduction to the Lyon family and to a Leslie Pike read, it wasn't too overwhelming to get to know them all this late into the game. I felt as if I had known them since book one, and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them all and work out the connections as to who belonged to whom and so on. My favourite character as hinted at the beginning of my review, was Van. Charming, cheeky, childish, he was a delight to read and to see develop into a mature, yet still goofy, adult thanks to Layla. Layla herself was a character that many a reader will admire when reading this novel. This book does not gloss over or make use of the single mother/divorced mother in a derogatory way or for pure plot point, but rather encapsulates many of the struggles, emotions and experiences and I tip my hat to Leslie for creating a compelling character through Layla.
This truly is a wonderful read that I highly recommend people pick up at any point of the year. The story focuses less on the usual drama that goes on between people in the situations that take place within the novel, and more on the characters themselves and their development as well as the world around them.
I'm hopefully going to go back and read the first three books in this series because if they're anything like this one, then I know I'm going to love them.
5 stars for The Sky in Summer & for Leslie!
I was kindly sent a copy by Grey's Promotions to read and review this novel, here is my honest review.
-------------------------------------------------------------
This was my first time reading a Leslie Pike novel and ladies and gentlemen, this lady served it up and did not disappoint! I always love reading new authors for the first time, seeing if my first read from them is going to be a hit or a miss and I'm thrilled to report that Ms Pike was a huge hit!
At the moment when we're in the thick and throes of all things Christmas and festive, comes a eye-watering, hilarious summer second chance romance story that will have you--as it did me--laughing so much you'll have to set down what you're reading it from to enjoy the laugh created especially for you. At the risk of leaving a spoiler which I would never do, I'm just going to issue a laughter warning for Chapter Four. Much giggle-snorting happened in that chapter.
The storyline, once I got the gist of who's who--as there's quite a few players in this novel--tells a story many a person in the real world can relate to. Ultimately, soulmates finding their way back to one another while showing all the realistic road bumps, hiccups and barriers that couples find on the way to their happily ever afters.
Focusing now on the characters, we were completely spoiled for choice with both main and sub-characters. For this being my first introduction to the Lyon family and to a Leslie Pike read, it wasn't too overwhelming to get to know them all this late into the game. I felt as if I had known them since book one, and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them all and work out the connections as to who belonged to whom and so on. My favourite character as hinted at the beginning of my review, was Van. Charming, cheeky, childish, he was a delight to read and to see develop into a mature, yet still goofy, adult thanks to Layla. Layla herself was a character that many a reader will admire when reading this novel. This book does not gloss over or make use of the single mother/divorced mother in a derogatory way or for pure plot point, but rather encapsulates many of the struggles, emotions and experiences and I tip my hat to Leslie for creating a compelling character through Layla.
This truly is a wonderful read that I highly recommend people pick up at any point of the year. The story focuses less on the usual drama that goes on between people in the situations that take place within the novel, and more on the characters themselves and their development as well as the world around them.
I'm hopefully going to go back and read the first three books in this series because if they're anything like this one, then I know I'm going to love them.
5 stars for The Sky in Summer & for Leslie!
September 12, 2023
I don't know how I feel about this book, to be honest. Van at the beginning of the story felt WIDLY different than the Van that met Layla one chapter later. You meet Van as he's playing the 38 year old playboy player - checking out anything with breasts and a pulse; not into the serious; into the fun & feels good right now - definitely not interested in long term, marriage, or kids. Then he reconnects with Layla, a friend from kindergarten who had moved away and it's almost like an instalove connection... suddenly he's all in and wants the HEA with Layla but refuses to tell her how he feels because she's insistent this is JUST a friend with benefits situation. Their connection has an end date from the beginning - they've got 4 months together before he's relocating his entire life to Paris. She won't acknowledge her feelings for him to anyone but herself and when questioned she vehemently denies there's anything more happening.
While I enjoyed their playful banter (the kindergarten Olympics thing they played was freaking hilarious), all of it left me feeling a little like... but what of the guy we were first shown? I think the author wanted us to see Van as a reformed cocky player but it felt fake - it simply didn't jibe with the character of him she actually painted.
Anyway, I had no idea this was book 4 in a series. I found in on Scribd and you know I snagged it cuz my book boyfriend narrator narrates it ;) While it's billed as a standalone, I disagree. There are family dynamics that come into play that I was totally lost on (a dead sister, an orphaned nephew, a love story with a famous singer - I had NO idea what was going on). If that doesn't bother you (because they do gloss over the points), then go for it. It's not SO intertwined with the others in the series because it absolutely does highlight the Van & Layla story, but Van's family is hugely important and the frame of reference would have been nice going into this one.
Cover matches the story told, mid level spice (the spice is explicit but not drawn out & some of it is actually cringey), 3rd act breakup (but you saw it coming, so you shouldn't be surprised).
While I enjoyed their playful banter (the kindergarten Olympics thing they played was freaking hilarious), all of it left me feeling a little like... but what of the guy we were first shown? I think the author wanted us to see Van as a reformed cocky player but it felt fake - it simply didn't jibe with the character of him she actually painted.
Anyway, I had no idea this was book 4 in a series. I found in on Scribd and you know I snagged it cuz my book boyfriend narrator narrates it ;) While it's billed as a standalone, I disagree. There are family dynamics that come into play that I was totally lost on (a dead sister, an orphaned nephew, a love story with a famous singer - I had NO idea what was going on). If that doesn't bother you (because they do gloss over the points), then go for it. It's not SO intertwined with the others in the series because it absolutely does highlight the Van & Layla story, but Van's family is hugely important and the frame of reference would have been nice going into this one.
Cover matches the story told, mid level spice (the spice is explicit but not drawn out & some of it is actually cringey), 3rd act breakup (but you saw it coming, so you shouldn't be surprised).
Read
November 19, 2021I've read a few of Leslie Pike's books and The Sky in Summer is the first book that I've read in her Lyon Family series. I was very happy that I did not need to read the other books to throughly enjoy reading The Sky in Summer. Since I finished reading the book in probably three hours I will definitely be going back and read the other three books in this series.
Van Lyon is saying goodbye to Montana to live and work in France and that is his life long dream and while some would see his bachelor lifestyle at 38 sad he love's his life. He likes that he doesn't have anything or anyone (other than his loving family) holding him back. Just as he's months away from leaving for France he runs into someone he never thought he'd meet again, his first love, his kindergarten crush, Layla. While he didn't recognize her right off the bat, she recognized him, and gave him shit for not recognizing her in a way that only a true friend can. So not only is he shocked to see her again he's also shocked to find out that her twin boys are best friends with his nephews. While he's not looking for anything serious, he's happy to find out that Layla isn't either after her divorce and he's going to spend all the time with Layla that he can before he leaves for France.
After her divorce Layla Silver didn't think she'd ever find love again and when she ran into Van Lyon after 33 years, she still doesn't think she'll find love. She thinks it'll just be a fling until he leaves for France and she'll move on with her life with her twin boys. But as the summer goes on and they spend more and more time together Layla realizes that this isn't a fling but she knows that Van is a bachelor for life and he's leaving so she keeps it to herself, even though it breaks her heart more than her divorce. Can love persevere when two stubborn people won't admit that they truly love one another?
Van Lyon is saying goodbye to Montana to live and work in France and that is his life long dream and while some would see his bachelor lifestyle at 38 sad he love's his life. He likes that he doesn't have anything or anyone (other than his loving family) holding him back. Just as he's months away from leaving for France he runs into someone he never thought he'd meet again, his first love, his kindergarten crush, Layla. While he didn't recognize her right off the bat, she recognized him, and gave him shit for not recognizing her in a way that only a true friend can. So not only is he shocked to see her again he's also shocked to find out that her twin boys are best friends with his nephews. While he's not looking for anything serious, he's happy to find out that Layla isn't either after her divorce and he's going to spend all the time with Layla that he can before he leaves for France.
After her divorce Layla Silver didn't think she'd ever find love again and when she ran into Van Lyon after 33 years, she still doesn't think she'll find love. She thinks it'll just be a fling until he leaves for France and she'll move on with her life with her twin boys. But as the summer goes on and they spend more and more time together Layla realizes that this isn't a fling but she knows that Van is a bachelor for life and he's leaving so she keeps it to herself, even though it breaks her heart more than her divorce. Can love persevere when two stubborn people won't admit that they truly love one another?
August 2, 2022
The Sky In Summer is the 4th book in the Lyon Family series from Leslie Pike. I broke my rule of reading books in a series in order for this series as I started with books 3 and 4, and really didn't feel lost as each book really does stand on its own well.
Van Lyon is pretty much a manwhore, and makes no excuses or feels the need to change how he lives. He has never had a relationship and never really sees himself wanting one. Layla Silver is a single mom of twin teenage boys and not looking for a relationship, as she has just returned to Montana.
I absolutely adored this story! Van and Layla were both laugh out loud funny with all their different nicknames for one another through out the book. I'm pretty sure I giggled at work while listening to the book on my lunch at work. I liked that Van was respectful of her boys, and made sure to talk to them about their mom and other stuff along the way. The fact that this was supposed to be a short-term fling only made it sweeter when the families spent so much time together.
I'll be honest and say I wondered what woman would be special enough for Van to change his ways to a one-woman man, and loved that feisty Layla was the woman he had been waiting to come back into his life.
I really though both narrators did a wonderful job with not only the story, but all the various characters. The Lyon clan alone is lots of different voices. Add in Layla, her boys, and even their dad, and it was a lot of voices to keep straight. I never felt pulled away from the story between narrator transitions, and I was engaged with the story the entire time.
Leslie Pike is a new to me author, and I look forward to reading more of her stories in the future. She pulled a myriad of emotions from me in this book, and I can't wait to read the rest of the Lyon Family books.
Rating: 4.5 Stars(B+)
Review copy provided by publisher
Van Lyon is pretty much a manwhore, and makes no excuses or feels the need to change how he lives. He has never had a relationship and never really sees himself wanting one. Layla Silver is a single mom of twin teenage boys and not looking for a relationship, as she has just returned to Montana.
I absolutely adored this story! Van and Layla were both laugh out loud funny with all their different nicknames for one another through out the book. I'm pretty sure I giggled at work while listening to the book on my lunch at work. I liked that Van was respectful of her boys, and made sure to talk to them about their mom and other stuff along the way. The fact that this was supposed to be a short-term fling only made it sweeter when the families spent so much time together.
I'll be honest and say I wondered what woman would be special enough for Van to change his ways to a one-woman man, and loved that feisty Layla was the woman he had been waiting to come back into his life.
I really though both narrators did a wonderful job with not only the story, but all the various characters. The Lyon clan alone is lots of different voices. Add in Layla, her boys, and even their dad, and it was a lot of voices to keep straight. I never felt pulled away from the story between narrator transitions, and I was engaged with the story the entire time.
Leslie Pike is a new to me author, and I look forward to reading more of her stories in the future. She pulled a myriad of emotions from me in this book, and I can't wait to read the rest of the Lyon Family books.
Rating: 4.5 Stars(B+)
Review copy provided by publisher
August 11, 2022
*I received a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
The fourth book in Leslie Pike’s Lyon Family series, The Sky in Summer provides a closer look at the youngest child, Van. I’d been looking forward to his story since he was introduced in Book 2, The Beach in Winter. On the surface, he seems like a cocky playboy, satisfied with no strings attached hookups. When his long lost kindergarten girlfriend, Layla, returns, we become aware of his sensitive, complex soul that yearns for genuine connection.
As a single mom to teenage twin boys, Layla’s routine is very different from Van’s carefree lifestyle. Now, approaching 40 and suddenly falling in love, Van gives in to his secret desire for a meaningful, long-term commitment.
Van and Layla’s connection is natural and made me feel nostalgic for my own first love. Despite them being 38, it was like witnessing excited teens discovering love for the first time.
This story has little angst and a well-deserved HEA. It’s different from the earlier stories in the series, where characters are persevering after trauma. This show’s Leslie Pike’s versatility when crafting a story with a variety of characters and conflicts. I’ll certainly continue with the series when Aargon’s story is released.
The narrators, Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter are perfectly cast as this couple. Zach captures Van’s laidback, young at heart spirit wonderfully. Stella seamlessly transitions between Layla’s worries as a mother to her self confidence as a woman, to her enthusiasm while falling in love with the boy who took a piece of her heart in the closet of their kindergarten classroom.
Overall this story is worth a credit or cash. You’ll be hooked on the series and eager to enjoy the rest of the standalone installments in any order.
The fourth book in Leslie Pike’s Lyon Family series, The Sky in Summer provides a closer look at the youngest child, Van. I’d been looking forward to his story since he was introduced in Book 2, The Beach in Winter. On the surface, he seems like a cocky playboy, satisfied with no strings attached hookups. When his long lost kindergarten girlfriend, Layla, returns, we become aware of his sensitive, complex soul that yearns for genuine connection.
As a single mom to teenage twin boys, Layla’s routine is very different from Van’s carefree lifestyle. Now, approaching 40 and suddenly falling in love, Van gives in to his secret desire for a meaningful, long-term commitment.
Van and Layla’s connection is natural and made me feel nostalgic for my own first love. Despite them being 38, it was like witnessing excited teens discovering love for the first time.
This story has little angst and a well-deserved HEA. It’s different from the earlier stories in the series, where characters are persevering after trauma. This show’s Leslie Pike’s versatility when crafting a story with a variety of characters and conflicts. I’ll certainly continue with the series when Aargon’s story is released.
The narrators, Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter are perfectly cast as this couple. Zach captures Van’s laidback, young at heart spirit wonderfully. Stella seamlessly transitions between Layla’s worries as a mother to her self confidence as a woman, to her enthusiasm while falling in love with the boy who took a piece of her heart in the closet of their kindergarten classroom.
Overall this story is worth a credit or cash. You’ll be hooked on the series and eager to enjoy the rest of the standalone installments in any order.
November 20, 2021
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The beginning of this book took me back to a fraternity party. And not in a good way. The crude way Van’s inner dialogue was made me not want to go past the first chapter. But I pushed on and on. I truly wanted to love this book. But it seemed as though the author was trying to hit a word count (a lot of separate words and foregoing conjunctions) instead of developing the characters more. A lot of the descriptions were too descriptive. I started skimming the chapters because of how lengthy the actual descriptions were. With that said, onto how I felt about the main characters themselves.
Did I see any like able qualities in Van? Not really, no. His playboy persona really threw off the whole read for me. And with that, it wasn’t even stated that he was a playboy. Do I like dirty talking males in books? Yes. Do I like males talking crudely about women’s body’s and then treating them like objects and not actual people? No. Van did that repeatedly through the first half of this book (especially the beginning) and it was almost enough to not make me read anymore. Did I think Layla focused too much on comparing her body (that birthed twins!) to women a decade younger than her? Yes! For a book to be up-to-date on the 2020- lingo, I’m wondering if the author specifically ignored that women’s bodies that birth babies are powerhouses. Also, if you don’t like books because of miscommunication, this isn’t the book for you. The “going-away” chapter was exactly that. TALK!!! With that being said, this was my first read from this author, and to be quite honest I’m not sure I’d consider reading more of her work.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The beginning of this book took me back to a fraternity party. And not in a good way. The crude way Van’s inner dialogue was made me not want to go past the first chapter. But I pushed on and on. I truly wanted to love this book. But it seemed as though the author was trying to hit a word count (a lot of separate words and foregoing conjunctions) instead of developing the characters more. A lot of the descriptions were too descriptive. I started skimming the chapters because of how lengthy the actual descriptions were. With that said, onto how I felt about the main characters themselves.
Did I see any like able qualities in Van? Not really, no. His playboy persona really threw off the whole read for me. And with that, it wasn’t even stated that he was a playboy. Do I like dirty talking males in books? Yes. Do I like males talking crudely about women’s body’s and then treating them like objects and not actual people? No. Van did that repeatedly through the first half of this book (especially the beginning) and it was almost enough to not make me read anymore. Did I think Layla focused too much on comparing her body (that birthed twins!) to women a decade younger than her? Yes! For a book to be up-to-date on the 2020- lingo, I’m wondering if the author specifically ignored that women’s bodies that birth babies are powerhouses. Also, if you don’t like books because of miscommunication, this isn’t the book for you. The “going-away” chapter was exactly that. TALK!!! With that being said, this was my first read from this author, and to be quite honest I’m not sure I’d consider reading more of her work.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2025
Van and Layla’s hot summer romance reunites a strikingly handsome connoisseur of every woman he sees and his divorced former kindergarten crush who meet again when a stolen bottle of whiskey, four teenagers and rough housing on the beach lead to disaster. I loved the wonderful camaraderie and mischief making that grows between Van’s nephews and Layla’s twins who provide a whole lot of laughs to the soundtrack of summer. I loved Van’s swagger, Layla’s spunk, their endlessly entertaining banter, and the steamy sexual chemistry that lights their summer nights on fire. Layla’s older matchmaking sister Barbara is well meaning as she encourages Layla to live a little, and embrace her inner vixen, and admit her feelings for Van who is moving to France at the end of the summer. Van’s brothers love every opportunity to dish out the dirt and the verbal jousting among them provided endless laughs and lovable camaraderie that is appealing. It’s an often used trope of temporary lovers who want a permanent relationship but won’t be the first to admit it lest they be wrong but Van and Layla’s inner angst at their coming separation is compelling. I fell in love with Gaston, Aurora and the entire Lyon family who love with everything they have and never fail to make me giggle at their antics and feel warmth at their endless love of family. I really loved this book, Zachary Webber’s French accent, his drunken rendition of Eric Clapton’s hit single Layla, their drunken kindergarten Olympics, and Erin Mallon’s delightful rendition of Layla’s love for her children and her stellar sense of humor. It’s a coming of age story, a barrel of laughs, an unforgettable romance, and a family affair that I won’t soon forget.
November 16, 2021
OMG this book!!! How have I never read a book by Leslie Pike before this one?! I could not put this one down. Like still reading at 2am kind of loved this one!
Layla Silver is an almost 40 year old divorced mom to two teenage twin boys. She is living in Billings, Montana where she lived when she was a little kid but moved away after kindergarten. However, she has never forgotten her first crush. She little boy she had her first harmless moment of "I'll show you if you show me" with when they were in kindergarten together -- Van Lyon. It just happens that Van's nephew is friends with her sons and they run into each other one day and reconnect. The problem is, Van is only in town still for a few months as he is renovating a place in Paris with plans to move. Their plans to remain "just friends" fails miserably as they grow closer and spars fly. But what will happen when Van inevitably has to leave?
Van and Layla were so great. Their banter, their sweet moments -- I loved them so much. I loved the whole cast of characters in this book and then realized this is book 4 in the Lyons family series! So of course, as soon as I finished this book in the wee hours of the morning, I downloaded book 1 of the series and started from the beginning. These characters will make you want to stay with this family and in this world. I loved the writing and the fun witty banter.
This was just a great, easy read that will keep a smile on your face. I would definitely recommend it.
Thank you for Grey's Promo for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Layla Silver is an almost 40 year old divorced mom to two teenage twin boys. She is living in Billings, Montana where she lived when she was a little kid but moved away after kindergarten. However, she has never forgotten her first crush. She little boy she had her first harmless moment of "I'll show you if you show me" with when they were in kindergarten together -- Van Lyon. It just happens that Van's nephew is friends with her sons and they run into each other one day and reconnect. The problem is, Van is only in town still for a few months as he is renovating a place in Paris with plans to move. Their plans to remain "just friends" fails miserably as they grow closer and spars fly. But what will happen when Van inevitably has to leave?
Van and Layla were so great. Their banter, their sweet moments -- I loved them so much. I loved the whole cast of characters in this book and then realized this is book 4 in the Lyons family series! So of course, as soon as I finished this book in the wee hours of the morning, I downloaded book 1 of the series and started from the beginning. These characters will make you want to stay with this family and in this world. I loved the writing and the fun witty banter.
This was just a great, easy read that will keep a smile on your face. I would definitely recommend it.
Thank you for Grey's Promo for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 19, 2021
Layla and Van had a special bond while in kindergarten. Her family moved away shortly after that. She returned 30+ years later, divorced, with twin teen boys.
Van Lyon is known as a player. He always wondered what happened to his Kindergarten crush. When he reconnected with Layla, it's only going to be for the summer. He is moving to Paris for his dream job.
As time gets closer to moving, his feelings changed towards Layla. He wonders does she feel the same?
Layla didn't want to be the one to hold him back from moving. She didn't want to tell him how she really felt towards him. She will have the memories of their sneaking around, their night of drunken obstacle course, the many gatherings with the Lyons.
Leslie Pike story is fun, romantic, sexy. and, at times, had me laughing out loud, The antics, the teasing, family game nights were so much fun . oh the drunken obstacle course is hilarious. Leslie writes with so much passion, emotion, and love.
The Lyons instilled in their children the strong family bond that in turn is passed onto the grandchildren. Even though they may sometimes be apart. They are a family that loves, is there for each other, offer their opinions, to celebrate life, and offer support in sorrow.
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter are excellent storytellers and superb narrators. They emote every feeling of love, anger, angst, fear, pain, humor and sarcasm of every character in this story. Bringing all the characters to life. Brilliant , I loved listening to it! I was gifted this audio by the author and offered my honest review.
Van Lyon is known as a player. He always wondered what happened to his Kindergarten crush. When he reconnected with Layla, it's only going to be for the summer. He is moving to Paris for his dream job.
As time gets closer to moving, his feelings changed towards Layla. He wonders does she feel the same?
Layla didn't want to be the one to hold him back from moving. She didn't want to tell him how she really felt towards him. She will have the memories of their sneaking around, their night of drunken obstacle course, the many gatherings with the Lyons.
Leslie Pike story is fun, romantic, sexy. and, at times, had me laughing out loud, The antics, the teasing, family game nights were so much fun . oh the drunken obstacle course is hilarious. Leslie writes with so much passion, emotion, and love.
The Lyons instilled in their children the strong family bond that in turn is passed onto the grandchildren. Even though they may sometimes be apart. They are a family that loves, is there for each other, offer their opinions, to celebrate life, and offer support in sorrow.
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter are excellent storytellers and superb narrators. They emote every feeling of love, anger, angst, fear, pain, humor and sarcasm of every character in this story. Bringing all the characters to life. Brilliant , I loved listening to it! I was gifted this audio by the author and offered my honest review.
November 24, 2021
4.5 Sweet & Emotional Stars!
This is a fun, heartfelt, and sizzling friends to lovers romance! Van and Layla's story started thirty years ago in a kindergarten closet. They were close friends and never forgot their innocent role playing then. Layla and her family moved away after that, but now she is back with a single mom to her twin teen boys. Her boys are friends with Van's nephew so Van and Layla quickly reconnect. Van has never taken a relationship seriously, but Layla calls to him like none other. Layla isn't interested in a relationship either, especially to a player like Van. But she likes his wit and charm and is open to a friends only connection. But the more time they spend together, the more they enjoy each other and soon realize their feelings have grown into more, and their chemistry is explosive! Unfortunately, Van is moving to France soon, and that will break both their hearts. I really adored everything about this touching, and sizzling story. I really liked the way that Van and Layla discovered who they each grew to be today, making them fall even harder now. It was also fun catching up with family from other books who are so loyal and supportive and fun!
Zachary Webber, and Stella Hunter did an amazing job bringing this heartwarming and sizzling story to life, immersing me in their world, and making this a captivating listen.
I really enjoyed this sweet, emotional and steamy romance. I really love this passionate and fun Lyon family and would love to have Aargon's story next!
This is a fun, heartfelt, and sizzling friends to lovers romance! Van and Layla's story started thirty years ago in a kindergarten closet. They were close friends and never forgot their innocent role playing then. Layla and her family moved away after that, but now she is back with a single mom to her twin teen boys. Her boys are friends with Van's nephew so Van and Layla quickly reconnect. Van has never taken a relationship seriously, but Layla calls to him like none other. Layla isn't interested in a relationship either, especially to a player like Van. But she likes his wit and charm and is open to a friends only connection. But the more time they spend together, the more they enjoy each other and soon realize their feelings have grown into more, and their chemistry is explosive! Unfortunately, Van is moving to France soon, and that will break both their hearts. I really adored everything about this touching, and sizzling story. I really liked the way that Van and Layla discovered who they each grew to be today, making them fall even harder now. It was also fun catching up with family from other books who are so loyal and supportive and fun!
Zachary Webber, and Stella Hunter did an amazing job bringing this heartwarming and sizzling story to life, immersing me in their world, and making this a captivating listen.
I really enjoyed this sweet, emotional and steamy romance. I really love this passionate and fun Lyon family and would love to have Aargon's story next!
November 13, 2021
The Sky In Summer
Lyon Family Series, Book 4
By: Leslie Pike
Narrated by: Zachary Webber, Stella Hunter
Books that warm my heart as I listen are my favorite kind of romance. Van and Layla's story does just that! What happens when the love from your kindergarten class comes back into your life? Layla is first to recognize Van when they have a chance meeting but quickly the two are inseparable. Layla isn't looking for a relationship. She has twin boys, and ex-husband and no time for it. Good thing Van is leaving for Paris in a couple of months. Right? Talk about romantic! I was completely pulled into their story. Between getting to know Van and Layla, the twins, Van's nephews, and the extended Lyon family, I felt like I had become part of the family and was rooting for them! Leslie Pike has a way of writing that is so soothing to the heart. I love her, this family and I can't wait to hear more from them!
Pike also picks the best narrators for her characters. Zachary Webber as Van comes at us with his charm. Easy going, yet can be vulnerable, Webber uses his wiles to worm into our hearts. Stella Hunter is always fabulous. Each time I hear her, I know I am in for a treat and as Layla, she pulls out all the motherly stops, but has that inner voice for the romantic side of her. Love these two together for this story!
Lyon Family Series, Book 4
By: Leslie Pike
Narrated by: Zachary Webber, Stella Hunter
Books that warm my heart as I listen are my favorite kind of romance. Van and Layla's story does just that! What happens when the love from your kindergarten class comes back into your life? Layla is first to recognize Van when they have a chance meeting but quickly the two are inseparable. Layla isn't looking for a relationship. She has twin boys, and ex-husband and no time for it. Good thing Van is leaving for Paris in a couple of months. Right? Talk about romantic! I was completely pulled into their story. Between getting to know Van and Layla, the twins, Van's nephews, and the extended Lyon family, I felt like I had become part of the family and was rooting for them! Leslie Pike has a way of writing that is so soothing to the heart. I love her, this family and I can't wait to hear more from them!
Pike also picks the best narrators for her characters. Zachary Webber as Van comes at us with his charm. Easy going, yet can be vulnerable, Webber uses his wiles to worm into our hearts. Stella Hunter is always fabulous. Each time I hear her, I know I am in for a treat and as Layla, she pulls out all the motherly stops, but has that inner voice for the romantic side of her. Love these two together for this story!
July 24, 2022
**Audiobook Review**
“The Sky in Summer” is a fun, steamy, and wonderful addition to the “Lyon Family” series. Van and Layla were such a fun read and I loved their story.
Van Lyon is the fun uncle. He has perfected being the bachelor of the family and with an upcoming move to Paris, his life is right where he wants it. Until a girl from his childhood, his first crush, Layla, is back in town. She’s now a single mom of teenage twin boys and is trying to get back into the dating pool. When she proposes a friends with benefits arrangement with Van, he’s all in. But when they spend time together, feelings start to develop.
I loved Van from the previous books and so happy he finally got his story. I love that he was the fun uncle and was okay with that because it was what he wanted. But like any member of the Lyon family, he would do anything for them and he’s incredibly close with every member. Layla was so sweet and I loved how her and her sons fit seamlessly in with the family. She’s a great mom wanting to put her son's happiness over hers and I’m so glad she was able to find her HEA. One particular part had me crying happy tears because it was long overdue.
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter were just perfect as Van and Layla. Zachary brought his fun way of narration into bringing Van’s story to life. I love all of Stella’s work and she was so wonderful as Layla.
“The Sky in Summer” is a fun, steamy, and wonderful addition to the “Lyon Family” series. Van and Layla were such a fun read and I loved their story.
Van Lyon is the fun uncle. He has perfected being the bachelor of the family and with an upcoming move to Paris, his life is right where he wants it. Until a girl from his childhood, his first crush, Layla, is back in town. She’s now a single mom of teenage twin boys and is trying to get back into the dating pool. When she proposes a friends with benefits arrangement with Van, he’s all in. But when they spend time together, feelings start to develop.
I loved Van from the previous books and so happy he finally got his story. I love that he was the fun uncle and was okay with that because it was what he wanted. But like any member of the Lyon family, he would do anything for them and he’s incredibly close with every member. Layla was so sweet and I loved how her and her sons fit seamlessly in with the family. She’s a great mom wanting to put her son's happiness over hers and I’m so glad she was able to find her HEA. One particular part had me crying happy tears because it was long overdue.
Zachary Webber and Stella Hunter were just perfect as Van and Layla. Zachary brought his fun way of narration into bringing Van’s story to life. I love all of Stella’s work and she was so wonderful as Layla.
November 18, 2021
The Sky In Summer is a childhood friend to lovers book one which is guaranteed to put a smile on your face while you soak up a fast-paced grown-up romance story. I was so excited to sit back and be able to read a book with a couple both in their late 30's, Highly Recommend.
At 38 Van is on the cusp of moving to Paris, never one to do relationships although his siblings around him have steadily found their HEA, Van is excited for the next stage of his life, spending time at home before he leaves, he wasn't expecting to run into the woman who at the age of 5 had left a mark on him that he never truly forgot. Divorced mom of teenage twin boys, Layla is now living back home, what I surprise when she runs into Van and the sparks fly, knowing that he is leaving soon the pair know there is an end date to anything they might start, but that doesn't stop them from embarking on some great hot moments as well as some equally great funny moments that made me thank Leslie Pike for writing a story with a slightly older couple, don't get me wrong I love all genre, but sometimes it's nice to get back to a bit more real-life and The Sky in Summer felt like that for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews