A Heartfelt Dive into Nostalgia: A Review of Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
From the very first page of Every Summer After, Carley Fortune wrapped me in a blanket of nostalgia and longing, drawing me back to those sun-drenched days of childhood that often linger just beyond our grasp. Having heard rave reviews about this debut novel, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. And let me tell you, it absolutely did.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Barry’s Bay, the story follows Persephone Fraser—a woman returning to her childhood lake house after years of avoidance. This return isn’t just physical; it forces her to confront the biggest mistake of her life—a heartbreak that has haunted her for a decade. Here, we meet Sam Florek, her childhood friend and first love, whose very presence reverberates with echoes of a love that might have been. The dual timelines interspersed throughout the novel masterfully weave their youthful summers spent swimming and dreaming together alongside the complex, emotionally charged present where secrets are laid bare.
What resonated with me most was the exploration of love’s complex layers—how it can bloom beautifully but also lead to deep scars. Fortune artfully examines the sweet and painful intersections of friendship and romance. Percy’s journey is one of self-discovery, revealing how choices shape not only our relationships but our identities. This duality struck a chord with me, reminding me of my own summers filled with friendships and the naïve hope that love could bridge any distance.
The writing itself is lyrical yet grounded. Fortune paints vivid scenes of lakefront sunsets and cozy book nooks that almost invite the reader to join in. I found myself inhaling the scent of pine trees and the crispness of the water as if I were living those moments alongside Percy and Sam. One of my favorite quotes encapsulates this beautifully: “Feelings, like summer storms, can change in an instant—sudden and memorable.” This sentiment perfectly captures the heart of the narrative, pulling at the strings of my own memories.
Readers have noted that this book offers a profound emotional depth, with some even stating it could bring them to tears—something I can wholeheartedly affirm. The interplay of hope, regret, and the possibility of second chances resonates deeply throughout the pages. As Percy grapples with her past and the consequences of her choices, I found myself cheering for her, wishing for her redemption and happiness in a way that felt genuinely personal.
In conclusion, Every Summer After is not just a summer read; it’s a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of nostalgia. If you have ever loved deeply or felt the sting of a lost opportunity, this book will surely ignite those memories. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance and coming-of-age stories, Fortune’s debut will linger in your heart long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a story I won’t soon forget, and I suspect you’ll feel the same. So, grab a drink, find a cozy spot, and get ready for a journey that feels like a warm embrace on a summer evening.