‘You’re never too old to explore where you come from, Tilla. Remember that.’

Hi friends, and happy Sunday!

I hope you all have been doing really well these past few weeks (considering I kind of accidentally disappeared for a month). I’m so excited to be participating in my first ever Blog Tour, and even more excited to share with you Hurricane Summer by Asha Bromfield!

Before we get into it, I want to give a huge thank you to Wednesday Books for providing me with an ARC and for letting me join this blog tour!

trigger warnings: sexual assault; physical, emotional, and verbal emotional abuse; rape; racism; classism; death.

Synopsis: Tilla has spent her entire life trying to make her father love her. But every six months, he leaves their family and returns to his true home: the island of Jamaica.

When Tilla’s mother tells her she’ll be spending the summer on the island, Tilla dreads the idea of seeing him again, but longs to discover what life in Jamaica has always held for him.

In an unexpected turn of events, Tilla is forced to face the storm that unravels in her own life as she learns about the dark secrets that lie beyond the veil of paradise―all in the midst of an impending hurricane.

Hurricane Summer is a powerful coming of age story that deals with colorism, classism, young love, the father-daughter dynamic―and what it means to discover your own voice in the center of complete destruction.

Right from the beginning of Hurricane Summer, it’s clearly going to be a story about strength and resilience. Even before diving into Tilla’s Jamaican summer adventures, the book starts with an absolutely gorgeous note from Asha herself. She provides some more background information about where Tilla’s story came from and how it grew, and what she experienced while writing it, along with her hopes of what readers will gain from it. Like I said, from the get go, it’s obvious that Hurricane Summer is going to tug at your heartstrings; Asha Bromfield noticeably put her heart and soul into this book. And, I think that’s one of the elements that helps make the book stand out.

When we first meet Tilla, she’s standing in a crowded airport, anticipating having to jump on a plane with her little sister Mia, heading towards her estranged father while leaving her mother behind. Now, Tilla has had a rocky relationship with her dad. As his daughter, she can’t help but adore and admire him. But, as a human being, she can’t help but notice his flaws and shortcomings. As she gets older, she started to realize that her dad wasn’t who she looked up to as a young girl, but he’s a man who had deserted her family again and again. Suffice it to say, she isn’t exactly looking forward to spending a summer in Jamaica with him and his side of the family.

"There is beauty in destruction."

I think that one of the best things about this book is Asha’s writing style and her ability to capture just about everything under the sun. Because we’re following an almost-18-year-old, there is bound to be a couple of emotional rollercoaster rides, and Tilla’s emotions were written so well. Even from just that first scene of Tilla in the airport, it’s easy to catch on to how she’s feeling about leaving Canada to visit a country she hasn’t been to since she was about 6; she’s not exactly excited about it, and that’s putting it lightly. Similarly, Tilla’s feelings towards her father and her emotions in that regard were really well done. It just felt like Asha perfectly captured that strange world where you love your dad as his daughter but despise him as a human. And something that is so great about Tilla’s emotions is that they never felt out of reach for her. She always came across as a normal 17-year-old, experiencing and feeling normal 17-year-old things; there weren’t any moments where it felt fake or arbitrary. Her emotions also weren’t clean; she may have come to terms with something, accepting it with disdain, but she would still feel hurt by it too. It was never black or white with Tilla, and I think that in and of itself is a huge factor of being a teenager in general.

The way that the Jamaican culture was included within Hurricane Summer is absolutely next level. From climbing orange trees to people selling produce in the streets to the differences between living in the city and living in the country, Tilla’s time in Jamaica was so easy to see. There were paragraphs drowning in color and peoples’ passion for their way of life, and then a few paragraphs later, there would be sadness and despair. And, not to mention, everyone Tilla meets in Jamaica speaks in the Patois dialect, which adds a whole new layer to the story. Like Tilla, at the beginning, the dialect may be a little difficult to interpret. But, thanks to spending more time with the characters and referring to the dictionary included at the very beginning, you’re able to catch on really quickly. Asha’s writing style is so immersive, it’s hard to imagine you’re not actually there.

"Sometimes little girls must become their own heroes."

Hurricane Summer opens up the door for so many different conversations.

Because Tilla is from Canada, which is seen as place of privilege to her Jamaican family, she’s automatically tagged as “rich.” But, when she’s in Canada, her mom sometimes struggles to pay the bills. In Jamaica, her clothes are made from fancy fabrics and she owns more shoes than the typical Jamaican family, but in Canada, the amount of clothing she has is seen as ‘normal.’ Even just this small facet of Tilla’s life brings up the conversation of privilege and classism across different countries and different groups of people. And, as Tilla spends more time in Jamaica, she becomes more aware of these issues.

Similarly, Asha paints a really beautiful picture of not really fully existing anywhere. In Canada, Tilla isn’t Canadian enough and in Jamaica, she isn’t Jamaican enough. In Canada, as a young girl, she wanted to get a perm to straighten her curly locks. In Jamaica, her afro is accepted as the norm. She’s bullied back at home for being different, but she doesn’t feel like she fits in in Jamaica either, even though she’s from there. Asha Bromfield opens up this really conversation about not quite feeling like you belong in any singular, physical place, and this bleeds into other characters as well. Andre has lived in the country in Jamaica his whole life, helping to provide and care for his family, but even they think his skin is too dark. He’s constantly mocked if he spends too much time out in the sun because he’ll get darker, and this mockery and name-calling is normal for them. To Tilla, it’s an absolute abomination. There are so many interesting dichotomies set up within the pages of this book, and it opens up countless doors.

Then, what is probably obvious a huge theme running through the story, is exploring the dynamics in a tension-filled relationship between a father and his daughter. Essentially, the story explore what happens when we hit the realization that maybe our parents aren’t the best people; they maybe aren’t even the people we thought they were.

Hurricane Summer is a book about self-discovery. It’s about sexuality and faith and finding yourself. And that self-discovery isn’t linear in any sense of the word. There is constant back and forth, which is absolutely realistic to what happens in the real world. Finding out who you are and becoming comfortable with that isn’t an overnight change for anyone, and it certainly isn’t for Tilla.

Again, this story is a strong one. It feels very much like a traditional YA coming-of-age story, as you watch Tilla grow and change overtime. Tilla was such an enticing main character, that I only wanted to know more about her. Don’t get me wrong: I enjoyed learning about her and her story, but I only wish there was more. Maybe then, I could have connected with her—and the other characters—just a bit more.

You'll like this book if...
- you enjoy traditional coming-of-age stories
- you’re in the market for a raw, emotional book
- you love visualizing sights, sounds, and smells while reading
Overall: 3 orange trees out of 5 – ★★★☆☆.

A Q&A with Asha Bromfield!

Me: Hi there, Asha! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some of my questions today; I really appreciate it, and I am so excited to chat with you! I wanted to start off with learning more about your inspiration behind Hurricane Summer. In the opening of the book, you include a beautiful note about what you found while writing and what you hope readers gain from reading. Can you tell us a little more about that inspiration and what drove you to tell Tilla’s story?

Asha Bromfield: Absolutely! I was really driven by my desire to see more three-dimensional stories about young women of color. Being an actress, I had grown tired of a lot of the limited material I was auditioning for. I wanted to tell a story that expanded beyond race and focused on the humanity of a young black woman. Our lives are so rich and filled with deep nuance, and I was just really passionate about creating art that reflected that. From there, I knew I wanted to explore the father/daughter dynamic, and the implications that that relationship can have on a young woman’s sense of self. Too often in this society, we shame young women for their choices – especially sexually. I wanted to write a story that took an in-depth look at a young girl’s journey and autonomy, and how the lack of the father foundation could shape a lot of her choices. It was important to me to show the way that society treats young, sexualized women. Oftentimes we judge and shame them, and I wanted to eradicate that idea. Young women deserve a safe space to step into themselves, their sexuality and their pleasure. I believe this book is a celebration of that, because it takes a look at the ways society gets it wrong.

Me: Speaking of Tilla, character and character development is HUGE in this story. When you started writing, did you know where your characters would end up? Or, do they tend to reveal themselves as you spend more and more time with them during your writing process?

AB: They revealed themselves throughout the writing process. When I sat down to write this story, I had no idea how it would end or where my characters would take me. Even after selling the novel to Wednesday books, I wasn’t entirely sure how I would close out Tilla’s journey. But the characters definitely spoke through me, and concluded themselves naturally. They all feel so human to me, and it was one of my favorite parts of writing the book. It was important to me that everything in this book feel deeply real – I didn’t want a perfect happy ending, because in real life, most of us don’t get that. Life is complicated, messy and sometimes incomplete – and I felt that should be reflected in YA.

Me: I always find myself so fascinated by different writing processes! Did you have any writing rituals/techniques while writing this story to help you get into the zone or get into Tilla’s head and take on her voice?

AB: I called on God every time I sat down to write. I asked the universe to use me as a vessel to speak truth and be of service with this story. I asked, constantly, what story I was being called to tell. I called on my ancestors as well. And then, I just allowed myself to be open to whatever came through. I trusted the process, even on days where I didn’t like what I wrote or I didn’t feel like writing. I just kept writing anyway, and I trusted that there was a higher purpose for this story. I trusted in God.

Me: Similar to writing processes, I’m also so interested by different authors’ publishing journeys. What did your publishing journey look like for Hurricane Summer?

AB: It was tough! I shopped my story for months and got lots of rejection. Being an actress, I’m used to that – but it was hard stepping into a new arena. I learned quickly how subjective this business is, and that rejection is just God’s redirection. And more times than not, it’s also protection. It’s so important to believe in yourself, because the same ones who tell you “No” and the same ones who come back around and tell you how proud they are. You can’t base your worth or talent on the thoughts of others. Some people just don’t have the vision you do. Believe in the call that was placed inside of your spirit. Keep going and never give up!

Me: Before we get to my last question, I wanted to quickly thank you again for taking the time to answer these! I’m loving learning so much about how Hurricane Summer came to be. But, finally, what was your favorite part about writing Tilla’s story?

AB: My favorite part about writing Tilla’s story was amplifying the message of forgiveness. I believe that when we forgive, we set ourselves free to live the lives we always deserved. It’s so much easier said than done though, as forgiveness can be such a deeply complicated process. But I loved showing readers that ultimately, all of Tilla’s power came from her – not her father or any of the people around her. When she learned that she is responsible for her happiness, it set her free from her father and allowed her to start living life on her own terms. That’s what I want for my readers. To set themselves free.

Hurricane Summer officially hits shelves on May 4, 2021!

So, what do you think? Will you be reading Hurricane Summer? Is it already on your TBR? Have you ever spent a summer abroad? Let’s chat!

You know, the more I reflect on Hurricane Summer, the more I feel like this book wasn't very fun to read. Most of the events in the story involve our main protagonist getting abused in some way, both physically and mentally, and I wasn't for it. The ending was satisfying - and by that I mean the last page was satisfying. The main character reflecting on her "storm" of a summer and the realization she makes at the end left me feeling like the book had some meaning... but that didn't change my mind about the rest of the story being unenjoyable.

I can manage to read a book involving emotional and even physical turmoil if there's some redemption for the main character or if there's a bad ending for the abuser, but I didn't feel that I got that with Hurricane Summer.

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC digital copy. I have not been compensated for my opinion and this is an honest review.

Unfortunately, I was unable to finish reading this ARC digital copy before needing to switch to other books that were being archived. The book remains on my Goodreads "want to read" list, and I will update my review to reflect an updated opinion when I finish it at a later date.

A coming of age novel that shows not everyone has the happy life they pretend to have. This book is devastating, it's passionate, it's raw, it's hurtful. It has ups and downs. When it's up, it's beauty, love, and adventure; but when it's down, it's sick, it's nasty and painful. Also, Trigger Warnings are a thing, and this book has too many to count. 99% are on-page and not hinted at, so if you are squeamish this is not the book for you.

Bromfield, an author of Afro-Jamaican descent, wrote this beautiful story set in Jamaica. While it is not the main focus, I learned a lot about the island and Jamaican culture by reading this novel. Hurricane Summer is a bit of a slow starter. I found the early chapters to be a little boring, but once the plot picks up, it doesn't stop. Many heavy topics are addressed in this novel including (but not limited to) colorism, sexual assault, the sexualization of girls of color, and classism. I would recommend this book to others, but also make sure that they were ready to tackle such an emotionally taxing story before they started this one.

I was not a fan of this book, the premise makes you think that you’re reading a coming of age family story but as I was reading I had a hard time even getting through it. The family was cold and rude the entire time. It wasn’t a enjoyable read.

This was definitely a heavier book. Its a heartbreaking story that brings to life the struggles and danger of becoming a woman. This was a story of growing up and finding a way to love yourself when no one else seems to. You hardly ever see these types of novels and I am glad that I got to read this one because it was so beautifully written that I could not put it down. Society as a whole seems to put a lot o restraints on women, particularly women of color and this book really brings these issues to light. I think that this novel is a good bridge way to use to have these discussions and also a good way to broach these topics with younger readers so that they know that they are not alone in their feelings.

The main character, Tilla, really annoyed me because she was so naive and she never spoke up for herself. I hated how everyone was so mean to her and I really didn't like the ending. I just feel like no one got the ending they deserved? Another issue I have is that the description makes it seem like this book is going to be deep but also happy and it really isn’t. I spent most of this book feeling really sad and tearing up a lot and honestly i suggest not reading this unless you are in the mood to cry. I’m giving it 3 stars I did enjoy how beautifully Jamaica was described but also discussed the poverty.

**Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-arc in exchange for an honest review**

i love that this is an own voices novel and i understand the amount of heart the author put into this story, but that is unfortunately where my appreciation for this book ends.

this is such a negative story. i understand that the aim of this novel is to handle heavy topics, but wow. this is just too much of a downer.

I wish to thank NetGalley and Wednesday Books for providing me with a digital galley of Hurricane Summer by Asha Bromfield. The novel was published May 4, 2021, and I am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily.

The book is dedicated, in part, to Ms. Bromfield herself, as “Little Asha,” who spent several summers during her childhood in Jamaica. The novel encompasses one momentous summer in the life Tilla, who seems to me to be young Asha’s alter ego. During this summer 18 year old Tilla survives a devastating hurricane that hits the island and wreaks havoc on the people and place that she loves. She also survives and becomes stronger from the hurricane inside herself. She is a whirlwind of emotions and learns who she is deep inside after her internal hurricane finally subsides.

Ms. Bromfield’s descriptive prose paints beautiful pictures of the island, her extended family’s home, and the people with whom she interacts during this fateful summer. Although I found some of the allusions between Tilla’s experiences and the actual hurricane overly dramatic and repetitive, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the novel and cared deeply for some of the characters, including Tilla herself, her sister Mia, and especially her cousin Andre. The majority of the other characters in the book are either despicable people or people who are terribly disappointing human beings. All of them make for an interesting, evocative read.

I. Am. A. Wreck! This was such a beautiful, powerful story. All of the characters are flawed and complex, even the setting of Jamaica - the paradox of cruel things happening in paradise was beautifully portrayed. Tilla is a fierce, powerhouse of a heroine and I think whether or not you’ve been through the kinds of experiences she encounters on her journey, readers will feel everything right along with her, because honestly the writing is just that good. The symbolism between Tilla’s summer and the hurricane is not subtle but it doesn’t need to be and your emotions will feel like they are getting swept up in the hurricane with the rest of the debris. This was a poignant, brilliantly written story and I highly recommend it. It’s not a light read but you’ll be glad you read it. And that cover! Perfection.

I could not connect with this book and ended up DNF'ing it. I will NOT be posting a review on Goodreads since I did not read the entire book. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC. I have decided will not be requesting YA books; MG books yes, but YA no.

Gorgeously written, Asha Bromfield’s Hurricane Summer is a very heavy read. It delves into so many difficult subjects, all happening on our main character during the span of two months—the metaphorical hurricane met with a real one pummeling her parents’ native Jamaica.

This book can serve two audiences very well. Readers who have been through the things the main character has gone through might appreciate knowing that they are not alone and that there is a way out. Readers who have not been through these things can gain a glimpse into what someone around them might be going into.

The main topic that came to mind are the difficulties related to intra-family relationships when jealousy sets in, and the effect of perceived advantages on feeding said jealousy. The main character lives in Canada, which means that, to her family still in Jamaica, her life seems lavish and luxurious. Of course those of us who live in Canada know that life in Canada is luxurious and lavish only for a select number, and recently arrived immigrants can have a very hard time financially, living lives that are well below “luxurious”.

Ultimately, any book that offers insight into another person’s suffering can lead to a better world, where action and policy center around the common good and the betterment of our communities, rather than money and power. Perhaps readers of Hurricane Summer will be inspired to arise and ensure that wealth is shared more equally both within the country they reside in, and between all the countries in the world.

this is a gorgeous book. Well written and I couldn't put it down. heartbreaking then heartfelt. Overall a very good story@

This book is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside (I mean, that cover is gorgeous). Asha Bromfield is so freaking talented it's hard to believe this is a debut. The story centers on Tilla as she spends the summer with her sister Mia visiting their father who left them a year ago to return to his home in Jamaica. This book is so excellent at interrogating complicated family dynamics and your heart just breaks over and over again for Tilla -- it's an emotional rollercoaster but this book is so worth the ride.

Wow this book is heartbreaking and stunningly beautiful. It made me weep several times and also made my angry. So many thoughts and emotions.

LOVED! Loved the main character, felt like she jumped off the page. I felt her every emotion. I hated her family so much I caught myself physically tense through a lot of this. What a beautiful book.

Tilla and her sister Mia are going to Jamaica for the summer to visit their father. The girls live in Canada, but every six months their father leaves Canada to go home to Jamaica. Tilla is not excited about going to Jamaica, but hopes this will be a chance to connect with her father, and get a feel for why he always leaves. Constantly facing disappointment from her father Tilla, is hoping for the best once and for all. Upon Tilla’s arrival in Jamaica she is met with disdain from her other family members who have very negative thoughts about being from “foreign” as they call her. Tilla is subjected to constant verbal abuse from her family and takes a lot.Tilla meets Hassan who she instantly feels an attraction to, but the relationship comes with complications. Tilla also develops a close bond with her cousin Andre who is also sort of an outcast within the family due to his dark skinned complexion. On her journey Tilla finds out a lot of family secrets, and endures a lot of pain. A hurricane is set to it Jamaica which will change Tilla’s life forever.
I really struggled not only with how Tilla was treated, but also how she just took abuse and was so naive. I literally wanted to scream at how Tilla was just so gullible. There were times Tilla literally could not see the forest for the trees. I wanted to give up a few times because it was infuriating reading this and the character kept putting herself in situations that she could clearly see and feel were not safe! It also felt a little unbelievable that Tilla went from someone who seemed clueless to someone who was such a deep thinker with so much insight at the end. It was made to seem as if the hurricane had such a profound effect on her, but no hurricane is going to take you from clueless to deep thinker in a matter of days. Other then those two things this was a touching coming of age story and I really enjoyed the love and friendship between Tilla and Andre.
Thank you NetGalley and St Martins press for this ARC.

Wow...it's hard to believe this was a debut. The book was beautifully written, and heartbreakingly emotional. This coming of age story is one of my favorites of 2021 thus far. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my review copy!

When she was a young girl, Tilla, her mother and sister lost her father to the draw of his native Jamaica. Now at 17, she is sent to spend the summer with him on the island. Tilla hopes this summer will be a turning point in her relationship with her father, but is saddened by the secrets she discovers on the island instead.

Hurricane Summer is a scary, emotional, coming of age young adult novel that is beautiful and heartbreaking. Exposed and awakened, Tilla learns the weight of secrets and the risks of love and jealousy. In the end, she also realizes the beauty in the aftermath of a storm.