I have not stopped thinking about this book since I finished it. i don't know how Cara Bastone does it, but this book made me laugh one page and then cry the next and then make me homesick for new York and also made me want to fall in love with my husband again. this book is honestly in a league of its own. i have so many parts of this book highlighted and I can't wait to share more when it gets closer to release day.
I know I said this in my mini review, but if you have read this, message me so we can play quote roulette and gush about how amazing this book is.
this brought me so much comfort, especially With the
state of the world rn. grief is so tricky to get right and this felt so raw and also so beautiful. you will NOT regret picking this one up.

Thank you NetGalley and Dial Press for gifting me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

The best books make you feel something, and Promise Me Sunshine made me feel EVERYTHING. This beautiful story about the nuances of grief and love, was so potent and filled with every emotion imaginable. It had me crying on a Wednesday afternoon, fully ensconced in catharsis and appreciation.

This story follows Lenny, in the midst of her grief, as she begins a new job where she meets Miles. Miles has experienced grief in his own life, and offers to help Lenny through hers in exchange for her help. As they navigate grief and a myriad of human emotions, their genuine connection is what allows the emotions to translate off paper.

Cara Bastone always makes me feel like I am reading her story at exactly the right time in my life. I felt the same way when I picked up Ready or Not. And Promise Me Sunshine was no different. I saw myself in Lou, in Lenny, and in Miles. The way each character so perfectly embodied their experience allowed me to identify with them on a deeper level. Thank you, Cara, for the heart that you put into this book. It was an honor to get to read it early🤍

thanks NetGalley for the ARC.

I have not had a 5 star read in about 4 months and I am obsessed with this book.

It was such a beautiful story, I could not put it down.

I know I love a book if I have to pause all my regular activities for the day to read.

The way it tackles grief and love at the same time is so seamless. I think it makes so much sense since life is messy and a ton of emotions happen simultaneously, but wow I have not read anything so beautiful in so long.

My favorite part of the writing was that the start of each chapter really drew me in and I had to keep reading. Those hook sentences really got me.

This was also my first Cara Bastone novel, so I 100% plan to read her others :)

I finished this one a while ago, and somehow I never posted about it. Every book by Cara Bastone is amazing, and this one fits on that list. It took me a little bit to get into the story, but it was worth it! This book is heavy (dealing with the death of loved ones) and shows characters helping each other through dark moments. I loved the way the relationships were built and grew throughout the story. Grab this one, and be ready to smile, laugh, and maybe get a little teary-eyed, as you go.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The first 3/4 of the book were enjoyable but didn’t really speak to my rom-com loving heart. This portion focuses more on the process of grief and how that affects one’s day to day life. It also focuses on friendship and how Lenny (our protagonist) befriends Miles, who subsequently helps her embark on a journey of grief recovery. This is truly the slowest of slow burns, and I was dyyyyinnnngggg for them to FINALLY be together as more than friends. It was truly chemistry-laden and filled with sparks once it finally happened. I just wish I would have had more time to enjoy it! It felt like the lead up was soooo long, but then the final portion of the book was a bit rushed. Otherwise, I really loved this story.

Thank you NetGalley!

Earlier this year, I picked up Ready or Not by Cara Bastone and ended up adding it to my Favorites shelf. So when I got the chance to read an ARC of her upcoming release, Promise Me Sunshine, I was thrilled, and am pleased to report it did not disappoint.

Lenny is a nanny in NYC who is reeling from the loss of her lifelong best friend; at work, she is on top of things as always, but the rest of her life is in shambles. Her newest charge's uncle, Miles, a gruff and seemingly grumpy man, recognizes her grief because he's lived through his own tragic past, and offers to help her process her grief and get through it. In exchange, she'll help him learn how to relate to his niece and sister.

I enjoyed so many things about this novel. The New York City setting, the main characters, pretty much all of the side characters, the dialogue that felt real and not cheesy. Bastone's writing just speaks to me, and I could have easily read this in one sitting if I'd had the time - and that is even with the heavier subject matter. It's balanced with enough light that it didn't bog me down at all, while at the same time had me truly feeling heartache for Lenny's pain. Lenny and Miles were both relatable and lovable, and I was rooting for them all the way. And I loved the ending.

It earned an easy 5 stars for me, and is one of my favorite reads of the year. Cara Bastone is going on my must-read authors list, and I already can't wait for her next one. A huge thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was exactly what I needed to read at the exact moment I needed to read it. It was so touching and emotional and just so raw with the grief aspect, but at the same time it was heartwarming and hopeful. I loved every second of it.

3.25 ⭐️

I really loved the concept of this one but the middle of this book seemed to drag on and I found myself not wanting to pick it up for a bit, hence why it took me a bit longer than I would have liked for me to finish.

I really enjoyed the last 30% or so when it began to pick back up a bit but would've loved another chapter or two from where we leave our main characters off. I usually love a slow burn but on that front it didn't hit the mark for me.

Still enjoyed and am looking forward to reading other books from this author in the future! Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Wow, this book hit me with all the feels, cringe, and humor I guess I needed! What a punch!

Now, I enjoyed the book a majority of the time, but I will warn you it does involve some saddening moments that had me put it aside more than I’d like. This book was the story of one woman’s grief of their favorite person ever and it shows. Every moment was an incredible experience for the reader to share with our dear Lenny & I loved it. So much laughter that I truly loved about Cara’s debut!


I will say the end felt a bit rushed but it was well worth the time for me. I’m so freaking grateful to Dial Press for giving me the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review!

“’I took it second by second. Sometime soon you’ll be getting from minute to minute and then day by day. And so on. But… the point isn’t trying to get where you’re not. The point is just… enduring.’”

Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone is a heart wrenchingly beautiful journey from the he depths of grief to finally experiencing joy in life’s day to day activities again. Lenny’s best friend/soul mate Lou dies, plunging her into a deep depression. Unable to care for herself properly or function day to day, she throws herself into caring for Ainsley, a 7 year old who Lenny nannies for. Through caring for Ainsley she meets Miles who helps her figure out how to live (and love) again.

Despite never losing a best friend, I was able to relate to Lenny’s struggle with depression. Bastone was able to capture how the weight of depression feels in the body and mind without being too triggering. I was worried this book would be too heavy for me to read, but she did a great job at conveying how much Lenny was struggling without upsetting the reader.

Lenny is charming and relatable. I love how she has a brief, imagined love affair with almost every new man she meets. I also love to imagine the inner workings of people’s lives I meet in passing. Miles is the perfect balance of bossy and compassionate. He is steadfastly there for Lenny through the good, bad, and ugly moments of her journey. The spicy parts are also realistic in that they’re not perfectly staged and choreographed; they’re a bit awkward and raw while still being passionate.

I loved the Ethan cameo (Ready or Not was one of my top favorite reads of 2024) and I especially loved the list at the end of things to try if you’re trying to “Live Again” like Lenny.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and honestly review this beautiful novel. I can’t wait to read more from Cara Bastone in the future!

4.5 stars

Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone is a poignant and heartwarming exploration of grief, friendship, and love. Lenny, the protagonist, is reeling from the loss of her best friend, Lou, and finds solace in the unlikely friendship of the grumpy yet kind-hearted Miles.

She beautifully captures the complexities of grief, painting a realistic and empathetic portrait of Lenny's journey. The depth of her friendship with Lou is truly touching, highlighting the enduring power of platonic love.

The slow-burn romance between Lenny and Miles is equally compelling. Their connection, rooted in shared experiences and mutual understanding, is both tender and invigorating. Bastone masterfully builds the tension, making the eventual realization of their feelings all the more satisfying.

A standout aspect of the book is the way it portrays the healing power of friendship. Miles' unwavering support and gentle guidance are instrumental in helping Lenny navigate her grief and emerge stronger. His presence in her life is a testament to the transformative impact of genuine human connection.

Promise Me Sunshine is a must-read for anyone seeking a poignant and uplifting story. It's a reminder that even in the darkest of times, love, friendship, and hope can prevail.

What to say about this book...it was everything! Lenny is going through grief of her best friend and when she least expects it, meets Miles through her temp nanny job for Ainsley. Miles is there for her at any point of time Lenny needs in exchange for helping him in his relationship with Ainsley.
With time. Miles and Lenny grow closer, through Ainsley, through grief, through experiences to help each other in a specific problem. Their chemistry since the start jumps out of the pages.
Lenny is witty, quick, smart and weird. She holds it all together in front of everyone but Miles is able to see right through that and tells her to let go and allow him to help her. And she's grown to be my favorite book character of all time.
The characters? New York is a character in itself. And it's beautiful. Seeing Lenny and Miles love for each other grow slowly in this book is executed perfectly. Grief? A character. Seeing a glimpse of Lenny's life before, during and after. I was extremely immersed in this book since page 1.


I want to live in this book and give Lenny and Miles a big hug and tell them everything will be okay. I will always remember this book.

Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for an early copy in exchange for an honest review!

Cara Bastone writes the most fluid and funny dialogue and I will never not enjoy a romance by her for this reason alone. Promise Me Sunshine is her most emotionally mature and gut wrenching novel yet, but even when she had me in tears she had me laughing or swooning on the next page.

This is a romance that defines odds, looks at real life, has real conversations and approaches relationships in grown up ways. It was refreshing. No problems here, just two people getting through it and finding something in the rubble.

This books is a romantic and healing slice of life. It’s an absolutely beautiful representation of grief with realistic and relatable characters. There’s no 3rd act break up. It’s just a sweet slow burn, friends to lovers romance with lots of hard hitting life lessons sprinkled throughout. It’s just one giant warm hug. I may even love it more than Ready or Not, which says a lot because I love that book so much! There’s just something extra special about this one. I can’t wait until it releases and the rest of the world can love it, too.

This book is a heartwarming journey that beautifully blends romance, friendship, and the power of second chances. The characters feel like old friends, and their struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. I was particularly drawn to the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and healing—her growth throughout the story is both inspiring and uplifting.

The chemistry between the leads is electric! Their banter is witty and charming, making every interaction a joy to read. I found myself laughing, swooning, and even tearing up at some of the more poignant moments. The way Bastone captures the complexities of love and relationships is truly remarkable.

If you’re looking for a feel-good read that warms your heart and leaves you with a smile, "Promise Me Sunshine" is a must! It’s the perfect book to curl up with on a cozy afternoon. Grab your favorite blanket and get ready to be swept away by this delightful story! 💖✨

In Promise Me Sunshine, Lenny is drowning; she lost her best friend, roommate, partner in crime, and soul mate, Lou to cancer. Now, Lenny rides the Staten Island Ferry all night to avoid going home to the apartment she shared with Lou. She carries around a backpack filled with all her clothes, so she doesn’t have to return to their place. She hasn’t talked to her parents in months. To keep her head above water, Lenny takes short-term nanny assignments. While on assignment, she meets single mom, Reese; her daughter Ainsley; and the uncle, Miles, each of whom will help Lenny navigate the terrain of grief.

Promise Me Sunshine had me crying buckets of tears for the loss that Lenny is trying to learn to live with. It was a heart wrenching novel, but I didn’t feel hollow or depressed when I finished it. Instead, reading it felt like a warm hug. Yes, it was sad, but the themes of love, friendship, laughter, and hope ran strongly throughout the narrative. The characters were interesting, zany, kind, and fully fleshed out. I fell in love with Lenny and wanted to offer to be her new best friend. The book offers a real look at what it means to lose a loved one and to grieve that loss. Overall, it was a beautiful story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for sharing this advanced review copy with me in exchange for my honest feedback!

Lenny is a mess after her best friend, Lou, dies from cancer. She avoids her family, sleeps on the ferry, and cries all the time. Her life changes when she meets Miles, a stern and shy man, and the uncle of the young girl she nannys. Miles becomes her closest friend and helps her through her blinding grief.

'Promise Me Sunshine' is a beautiful book about loss and finding oneself again. This book envelopes the healing process after tragedy. The friendships, love, and grief described are endearing and lifelike. I laughed out loud at the banter and teasing between the main characters. I loved the friendships Lenny gained and the meet cutes that started them. I found Miles adorable and someone I would want on my team. My heart ached for Lenny and I couldn't help but cheer her on as she achieved goals and did things that were hard.

The only issue I have with the book is that the pacing during the first quarter felt choppy. However, this may have been intentional to portray the extreme grief Lenny was feeling. Overall a book I would definitely recommend!

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group for the ARC!

Cara Bastone’s voice is always very lovely and fun. This book was heavy on my heart in the best way, as stories that deal so genuinely with grief often are. Miles is too good for this world!

Thank you for the ARC! This was absolutely spectacular! I really appreciated how Cara Bastone wrote about such a big topic and was able to pull every emotion out of you. The book had me laughing, smirking, crying, and kicking my feet! The characters are so lovable and we see them develop so much throughout the story. This was very easy to follow and I can't wait to tell everyone to read it!

Infinity Stars!

It is always hard for me to write a review for a book that changed my life but here I go:

wow! Cara Bastone has quickly become one of my all-time favorite writers and Promise Me Sunshine is her best book yet!

This was my first time physically reading Cara's work (I had previously only experienced her writing via audio) and it was so fucking cool to see how much care she puts into every sentence. She is such a stylized writer and it pays off. Lenny's voice is clear and consistent and she manages to develop the other main character Miles, and the side characters all through Lenny's eyes too, which is not easy to pull off. Every literary device and punctuation choice held purpose and drove the story forward.



One of my favorite things about the book is that it didn't shy away from the ugly parts of grief and instead embraced it in full force. I've never read a grief journey that forced the reader to travel rock bottom in real-time alongside the main character. Lenny's pain over losing her best friend was so raw and honest. We were with her every step of the way as she clawed her way back to life too. I learned so much about myself and even picked up some copying strategies from Lenny and Miles along the way. (Something good for you, something bad for you, and a change of scenery <3)

and the ROMANCE!!!!!!! Cara Bastone is so good at writing about non-sexual intimacy. The slow burn between Miles and Lenny was so delicious. I love that Miles was as equally flawed as Lenny and that they both grew into the people each other needed before they dived into a romantic relationship. Every moment between these two has been imprinted on my brain. Some of the best romantic gestures I've ever read in my entire life. By the time these two do have sex, I was bursting with pure joy!!! Cara is so good at writing sex scenes that feel authentic and at times a little awkward (in the best way). Often with smut in trad-published romances the language and tone switch so abruptly that the smut will feel unnecessary and out of character for the leads. But again Cara is so good at keeping things copacetic!

Cara Bastone is such a gift to the romance genre and I'm so grateful to have read her work. Her commitment to her craft does not go unnoticed and is such a breath of fresh air in a genre where craft can get lost in the sauce at times. And the preview for her next book????? INSANE!!!! I am seated!