Book Review: One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
The moment I heard that Carley Fortune was releasing One Golden Summer, I felt a flutter of excitement reminiscent of summer love and childhood nostalgia. Having devoured her previous works, I was eager to return to the enchanting setting of Barry’s Bay and experience another richly woven tale of heart and connection. What I didn’t expect was to find a story that mirrored my own journey of rediscovery, ultimately leaving me with a full heart and hopeful spirit.
At its core, One Golden Summer follows Alice, a photographer who has spent years hiding behind her lens, preferring to capture the world rather than be part of it. When her beloved grandmother, Nan, faces a health challenge, Alice decides to escape to Barry’s Bay—the very place that holds her most treasured memories. There, she reconnects with her past and, unexpectedly, encounters Charlie Florek, a charming figure from her teenage years. Their chemistry ignites the summer, causing Alice to evaluate her approach to life and love.
Carley Fortune excels at crafting vivid imagery, and her descriptive prose transported me straight to the sun-drenched shores of the lake. I could practically hear the laughter of Alice, Charlie, and Nan, feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, and taste the summer’s sweetness in the air. The setting is almost a character in itself, embodying the promise of new beginnings and joyful encounters.
One of the highlights of the book is the dynamic between Alice and Charlie, underscored by their playful banter and deep-seated fears. I found myself rooting for them, reflecting on my own experiences of love and vulnerability. As Charlie, the playful flirt with a heart of gold, encourages Alice to step outside her comfort zone, I felt a sense of warmth and familiarity. Alice’s transformation is beautifully portrayed; I could resonate with her quest for self-discovery and the yearning to break free from self-imposed boundaries.
What struck me was Fortune’s ability to weave light-hearted moments with emotional depth. A passage that resonated deeply with me was when Alice realizes, “Good things happen at the lake.” It serves as a reminder that sometimes, we just need to take the leap, shake off our fears, and embrace life head-on. The romantic tension is artfully crafted, with suspenseful moments leaving me breathless—much like the summer romances we all reminisce about.
If you’re someone who enjoys stories infused with summer vibes, exploring the essence of friendships, and the romance of discovering yourself alongside a loved one, then One Golden Summer is a must-read. Each page felt like a comforting embrace, reminding me of the beauty in vulnerability and the magic of second chances.
In conclusion, I found One Golden Summer to be more than just a book; it was an ethereal escape that rekindled my faith in love and self-acceptance. The characters felt like old friends, and their journey has left a note of hope in my heart. If you crave a beautifully crafted summer read that dances between light and profound, don’t miss this gem from Carley Fortune. I, for one, am already counting the days until my next visit to Barry’s Bay!