The Summer with Annagale

by Colleen Smith

Can a summer change a life? Can a moment last forever?
Aidan’s life is falling apart – everything he thought he knew has been shattered. Now he’s forced to spend the summer at his mom’s aunt’s house in a small seaside town.
Angry and hurt, he plans to avoid everyone and everything. But when a local girl passes him multiple times with large baskets of yellow flowers, he can’t stop his curiosity. The decision to follow her might not only change his summer but his life as well.
Is there more than meets the eye to a Caesar salad, a yellow flower, or a seashell? Can hope and friendship be found in a seemingly broken and confused world? The Summer with Annagale is a reminder that there is magic in everyday life, and even in dark times hope can still exist.

111 pages, Paperback

Published May 23, 2023

Reviews

[Charity Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book by someone who knew I loved reading. Looking at the book it wouldn’t be the typical type of book I would pick up, but I read it anyways.

This is a very quick read aimed towards the youth. It’s not a romance. Yes there is a relationship developing, but not a romantic relationship. It’s mainly a story being told from the point-of-view from the guy and he reflects back to a summer he had that started rough but ended great and the lessons he learned during that time. It helps the youth know that there will always be sunsets and sunrises.

If your teen needs that reminder or yourself, then consider this book by Colleen Smith.

[Naish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was actually pretty good and nice to read. It's nice to see a relationship - a lifelong friendship - be formed. Although it did take a bit to get into reading it, by midway, I got the drift and I managed to get more into the book as I read.

It's a definitely interesting take on life and I did find myself wanting to be like Annagale and thanks to Aidan, realizing how tough it was. But it's a note to always at least try.

It was good to see progress through the book and it definitely showed to be a good novella.
If you want something short and sweet, I'd definitely recommend this book.

[Hananya le Clercq · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book truly makes you think. It puts life into this perspective that is hopeful and positive.

Going through it myself, I enjoyed the book immensely. It really does outline that it is important to enjoy the small moments, to cherish them and store that happiness for when life gets rough.

The fact that this is Colleen Smith's first published book, makes me think there is more greatness to come. She has been able to make me think about life and that is impressive.

Looking forward to what else is to come from this author.

[Hayley Barr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This debut novella was a joy to read. I found the story and characters relatable and inspiring. An engaging, coming of age story, The Summer with Annagale is a short and sweet read with a heartwarming ending that left me smiling. The novella has a truly positive message and unique perspective on life. I found Annagale’s perspective of life one of a kind.
Colleen Smith has created a well written story that transports the reader away and likeable characters that leave an impact. I look forward to seeing what comes next.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm blown away that this is a debut novel. I liked the characters and felt like they were their own people. I also felt like the plot was sweet but realistic. Nothing annoys me more than characters or plot lines that feel forced, and this one did not do that. The reactions and emotions between the characters felt natural and logical. I would recommend this novella to anyone wanting an innocent and sweet read.

[Bre - justbookvibes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a heartwarming story about friendship and making a difference. It is not very long but the lessons within it can be for everyone. It does not take much effort to be nice, all it takes are little acts of kindness. I feel like that is was this book was trying to get across and I loved it!

[Karin Van duuren · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet coming-of-age novella. If you need a gentle reminder that life, while imperfect, still possesses beauty and hope, as long as you are open to it, then this is the book for you.

[Mae Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a lovely little read! I've been in such a reading slump lately and this sweet little book brought me so much joy! I definitely recommend it!

[Caitlin O'Neill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really cute and uplifting story that I binged quickly which is surprising because this is not a genre i usually enjoy. Its got a really good message with some really interesting characters. I really enjoyed Annagale and Aidens unique friendship and was very pleased with the ending. I would've also enjoyed a longer more in depth version as well but this is a really well written quick mood booster.