Opening Thoughts: When Curses Become Blessings
You know that feeling when you’re reading a book and you just can’t put it down? Like, you’re supposed to be adulting—doing laundry, meal prepping, maybe even sleeping—but instead you’re curled up on the couch, completely lost in the story? That’s exactly what happened to me with Abby Jimenez’s latest gem, “Just for the Summer.”
This book, y’all. It’s like a warm hug for your soul, wrapped up in witty banter and sprinkled with moments that’ll make you laugh out loud one minute and reach for the tissues the next. Jimenez has this magical ability to tackle heavy topics with a light touch, creating characters that feel so real you’ll swear you’ve met them before.
The Plot: A “Cursed” Summer Romance
So, here’s the deal: Justin and Emma both have this weird “curse” where everyone they date finds their soulmate right after breaking up with them. Sounds like a rom-com setup, right? Well, it kinda is, but in the best possible way.
These two decide to date each other for the summer, thinking they’ll break the curse and move on to find their own happily ever afters. But, as you might guess, life has other plans. Emma’s toxic mom shows up (ugh, more on her later), and Justin suddenly becomes guardian to his three siblings. Talk about a summer shakeup!
What starts as a fun fling turns into something deeper, more complicated, and absolutely beautiful to watch unfold. It’s like watching two puzzle pieces realize they fit together perfectly, even though they come from totally different boxes.
Characters That Feel Like Friends
Justin is the kind of guy you’d want as your best friend, your brother, and yeah, definitely your boyfriend. He’s funny, caring, and has this amazing ability to step up when life throws curveballs. Watching him navigate sudden guardianship of his siblings while falling for Emma?
Emma, oh Emma. Her journey is the heart of this story. She’s a traveling nurse with some serious commitment issues, thanks to a childhood that would make anyone want to keep running. But seeing her slowly open up, face her fears, and realize that maybe, just maybe, she deserves to be loved? It’s like watching a flower bloom in real-time.
And can we talk about the supporting cast? Maddy, Emma’s ride-or-die best friend, is the kind of friend we all need in our lives. The kids – Alex, Sarah, and little Chelsea – each bring something special to the story. Even Brad the dog (named after Justin’s best friend in a hilarious act of petty revenge) becomes a character you can’t help but love.
Tackling Tough Topics with Heart
Here’s where Jimenez really shines. She doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. Emma’s relationship with her mom, Amber, is a masterclass in writing about toxic family dynamics. It’s messy, it’s painful, and it feels so real it hurts.
The book dives deep into themes of abandonment, trauma, and the ways our childhood shapes us. But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s hope here, and healing, and the beautiful message that it’s never too late to work on yourself and find your home.
Writing Style: Like Chatting with Your Bestie
Reading Abby Jimenez is like having a heart-to-heart with your best friend. Her writing style is so natural, so effortless, you’ll find yourself laughing at the witty exchanges one moment and tearing up at the emotional revelations the next.
She has this knack for creating dialogue that feels authentic. You know those conversations you have with your friends where you’re half-joking, half-serious, and somehow end up having a deep talk about life? That’s what reading this book feels like.
The Perfect Balance of Humor and Heart
Let’s be real, tackling heavy topics like childhood trauma and toxic relationships could easily veer into depressing territory. But Jimenez walks that tightrope like a pro, balancing the heavier moments with humor that’ll have you snorting with laughter.
From Justin’s epic unicorn floatie rescue mission to Emma’s adventures in small-town life, there are plenty of moments that’ll make you grin. And don’t even get me started on the running gag with the Toilet King billboards. It’s ridiculous in the best possible way.
Themes: Finding Home and Healing
At its core, “Just for the Summer” is about finding your place in the world. It’s about realizing that home isn’t always a place – sometimes it’s a person, or a group of people who love you unconditionally.
Emma’s journey from someone who keeps her whole life in two suitcases to someone who’s willing to put down roots is beautifully portrayed. It’s a reminder that healing is possible, that we’re not doomed to repeat the patterns we learned in childhood.
The Power of Chosen Family
One of the strongest themes in the book is the idea of chosen family. Justin’s dedication to his siblings, Emma’s relationship with Maddy, and the way they all come together to form this beautiful, messy, loving unit – it’s heartwarming to see.
It’s a powerful message about how family isn’t just about blood. Sometimes, it’s about the people who show up for you, who choose to love you even when it’s hard.
Comparisons to Other Works
If you’ve read Jimenez’s other books, you’ll recognize her signature style here. Like “Part of Your World“, “Yours Truly“, “The Friend Zone” and “Life’s Too Short,” this book tackles serious issues with humor and heart.
Fans of Emily Henry and Christina Lauren will find a lot to love here. Jimenez has that same ability to create characters that feel like real people and relationships that make you believe in love.
Final Thoughts: A Summer Read That’ll Stay With You
“Just for the Summer” is the kind of book that’ll make you laugh, cry, and then immediately want to call your best friend to talk about it. It’s a perfect summer read, but the themes and characters will stick with you long after the last page.
Jimenez has outdone herself with this one. It’s a testament to the power of love – not just romantic love, but the love of friends, family, and most importantly, learning to love yourself.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Anyone who loves a good rom-com with depth
- Readers who enjoy characters with real flaws and growth
- Anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit in
- Those who appreciate stories about chosen family
- Fans of Emily Henry, Christina Lauren, or Jimenez’s previous works
“Just for the Summer” is a heartwarming, hilarious, and deeply moving read that proves once again why Abby Jimenez is a rising star in the world of contemporary romance. It’s the perfect blend of humor and heart, tackling tough topics with sensitivity while still delivering the warm fuzzies you want from a romance novel.
So grab a copy, find a comfy spot (preferably with a view of a lake, but your couch will do), and prepare to fall in love with Justin, Emma, and the whole crazy, lovable crew. Just don’t blame me if you end up staying up way too late to finish it. Trust me, it’s worth the lack of sleep.