One Golden Summer

One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune was a really enjoyable read, even for someone who doesn’t always gravitate toward contemporary romance. The Ontario cottage setting is vivid and warm, and the story focuses on emotional growth, belonging, and revisiting places that shaped you. Alice’s arc, from outsider to finally feeling like she fits, was especially well done. This book can be read as a standalone, but some characters appear in Every Summer After, and I think reading that first would enhance the experience. That said, I still found this story engaging and satisfying. A great choice for readers looking for a nostalgic, character-driven summer romance.

This is the first book that I have read and listen to by this author. I did not realize that there were a few books previously that I could have read before reading this book that had these characters in them. I'm not sure if it took away from my experience by not having read the previous books however, I find that I really loved this book! When I started the book I wasn't 100% sure what I was going to think, however, as I continued on I was definitely drawn into the story. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. I was hoping that the main characters would have a happily ever after even though there were a few times that I was worried that would not happen. And I'm not going to say if it did or didn't but the ending was definitely satisfying. I just felt the entire book was very well written, the storyline was engaging and drew the reader in, I definitely had a lot of emotions and feelings that I experienced with the book, and I'm glad that I read and listened to the book. I ended up getting the ebook and audible version. The narrator did a great job and I like how the audible version had the extra information that was in the back of the e-book because sometimes the audible doesn't include that and this time it did. I'm thinking I may go back and check out more of this author's books.

One Golden Summer creates an enchanting escape where love conquers life's toughest challenges. Carly Fortune has crafted another winner with Charlie Florek - a character so compelling he'll set impossibly high standards for future book boyfriends. This novel masterfully balances heartbreak and hope, creating that bittersweet reading experience where even the painful moments feel beautifully crafted. It's the perfect summer read for anyone seeking emotional depth alongside romantic escapism. While it stands alone perfectly, readers familiar with Fortune's "Every Summer After" will appreciate the shared setting and character connections that add extra richness to the story. The lakeside backdrop provides a gorgeous, nostalgic atmosphere throughout both books. Fortune continues to demonstrate her talent for creating immersive romantic fiction that lingers long after the final page. Her writing style draws you in completely, making it impossible to put down. Book arrived in excellent condition. Highly recommend for fans of contemporary romance seeking their next emotional journey.

Wonderful character development. Beautiful imagery within the storyline. Nothing is wasted in words or in storyline. Delightful and memorable plot.

This book was chosen as a book club read. I have never read a Carley Fortune book before this one but I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised by her writing style. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Alice and Charlie are truly end game. I enjoyed their banter from the first phone conversation. It was cute and gave you time to watch their chemistry and personalities evolve together. I also loved how Alice is written—she thinks she is this shy woman who doesn’t know how to speak up for herself but she’s actually very strong willed and knows who she is. Charlie just gives her more confidence in herself. Her relationships with her family are also fun and heartwarming. This is definitely a slow-burn book but it does have a little spice about halfway in. It’s also important to note that this book is about a 33 year old woman and a 35 year old man. So it was refreshing to read about adults. This can be read as a standalone but Charlie’s brother Sam, his story is another book that can be read before this called “Every Summer After”.

Beste boek van Carley Fortune, een must read!

Si te gustó “Every Summer After”, “One Golden Summer” te encantará. Es un libro perfecto para la época veraniega. Fácil de leer y muy entretenido. Te enamorarás de cada uno de los personajes.

I was completely engrossed in this book and loved Alice and Charlie's story. All the experiences in nature by the water: I felt like I was right there with them. Sensitively told. Wonderful!

Lovely vacation read.

Amazing!! Charlie is such a beautiful character