Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan

A Delightful Blend of Humor, Heart, and Hope

You know that feeling when you slip into your favorite pair of soft, well-worn sweatpants after a long day? That’s exactly the vibe Annabel Monaghan’s latest novel, “Summer Romance,” gives off. It’s comfortable, familiar, and oh-so-satisfying. But don’t let that fool you—this book is anything but ordinary.

Monaghan, who previously charmed readers with “Nora Goes Off Script” and “Same Time Next Summer,” has done it again. She’s crafted a story that’s as warm and inviting as a summer breeze, yet as refreshing as a dip in the ocean on a scorching day. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to cancel all your plans, curl up in a cozy nook, and lose yourself in its pages.

A Messy Life, A Clean Slate

Meet Ali Morris, our protagonist and, let’s face it, a bit of a hot mess. She’s a professional organizer whose own life is in desperate need of tidying up. Her mom passed away two years ago, her husband recently left her, and she’s been living in sweatpants for longer than she cares to admit. Oh, and her pantry? It’s a disaster zone that would make even the most lenient health inspector cringe.

But here’s the thing about Ali – she’s real. She’s flawed. She’s struggling. And that’s precisely what makes her so darn likable. We’ve all been there, right? Maybe not exactly in Ali’s shoes (or sweatpants), but we’ve all had those moments where life feels like it’s spiraling out of control.

Enter Ethan: The Unexpected Catalyst

Just when Ali thinks her life couldn’t get any more chaotic, enter Ethan. Or rather, enter Ali’s dog, who decides to introduce himself to Ethan in the most embarrassing way possible—by peeing on him. It’s a meet-cute that’s as awkward as it is hilarious, and it sets the tone for their relationship perfectly.

Ethan is like a breath of fresh air in Ali’s stagnant life. He’s charming, he’s kind, and he looks at Ali like she’s the most beautiful woman in the world—sweatpants and all. Their chemistry is palpable, and Monaghan does a fantastic job of building their relationship in a way that feels both realistic and swoon-worthy.

More Than Just a Romance

But “Summer Romance” isn’t just about Ali and Ethan’s budding relationship. It’s about Ali’s journey of self-discovery and healing. It’s about learning to let go of the past and embrace the future. And it’s about finding the strength to start over, even when it feels impossible.

Monaghan weaves in themes of grief, parenthood, and self-worth with a deft hand. Ali’s relationship with her children, particularly her daughter Greer, is beautifully portrayed. The way Ali navigates her role as a single mother, trying to balance her own needs with those of her kids, is both relatable and touching.

A Cast of Colorful Characters

While Ali and Ethan are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the supporting cast is equally delightful. From Ali’s quirky neighbor Phyllis to her best friend Frannie, each character adds depth and flavor to the story. Monaghan has a knack for creating characters that feel like real people—the kind you’d love to have a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine) with.

Laughter Through Tears

One of the things I love most about Monaghan’s writing is her ability to balance humor and heart. “Summer Romance” had me laughing out loud one moment and reaching for the tissues the next. The dialogue is snappy and witty, peppered with pop culture references that add an extra layer of fun to the story.

Take, for instance, this gem of a line: “I have never in my life had so much to look forward to.” It’s simple, yet it captures the essence of Ali’s transformation perfectly. It’s these little moments of insight and humor that make the book such a joy to read.

A Love Letter to Second Chances

At its core, “Summer Romance” is a love letter to second chances. It’s about finding the courage to open your heart again, even when you’ve been hurt before. It’s about realizing that it’s never too late to start over, to reinvent yourself, and to fall in love.

Monaghan’s writing style is engaging and accessible, with a conversational tone that makes you feel like you’re chatting with a close friend. She has a gift for capturing the nuances of everyday life—the small moments of joy, the crushing disappointments, and the unexpected bursts of laughter.

A Perfect Summer Read

If you’re looking for a book to throw in your beach bag this summer, look no further. “Summer Romance” is the perfect companion for lazy days by the pool or cozy evenings on the porch. It’s light enough to be a fun escape, yet substantial enough to leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.

The Verdict

What Worked

• The chemistry between Ali and Ethan is off the charts
• Monaghan’s wit and humor shine throughout the book
• The exploration of grief and healing is handled with sensitivity and depth
• The supporting characters are well-developed and add richness to the story
• The pacing is spot-on, keeping you engaged from start to finish

What Could Have Been Better

• Some readers might find the resolution a bit too neat and tidy
• A few plot points feel a tad predictable, though they’re still enjoyable

Final Thoughts

“Summer Romance” is a warm, funny, and heartfelt novel that reminds us of the power of love, both for others and for ourselves. It’s a story about finding joy in the mess of life, about embracing imperfection, and about daring to hope for a happier future.

Annabel Monaghan has once again proven herself to be a master of the contemporary romance genre. With its blend of humor, heart, and hope, “Summer Romance” is sure to be a hit with fans of authors like Emily Henry, Christina Lauren, and Josie Silver.

So, go ahead. Slip into your comfiest sweatpants, pour yourself a glass of wine, and dive into “Summer Romance.” Trust me, you won’t regret it. And who knows? It might just inspire you to take a chance on your own summer romance. After all, as Ali learns, sometimes the messiest parts of life lead to the most beautiful outcomes.

A delightful, heartwarming read that’ll leave you with a smile on your face and a spring in your step. Annabel Monaghan has done it again!