It's a nice, harmless love story, but the Christian part of it stayed way in the background. It's so harmless that even the great reveal of the mystery man stays harmless. Don't expect suspense.

Maggie lost her husband Ethan in combat while pregnant with their daughter. His brother Josh was there for her all along the way. When she spots a young man who is the spitting image of her husband, she needs to find answers. Maggie and Josh investigate for months. They find clues, make assumptions, but finally learn the truth. I enjoyed this book very much. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

After a slow start, this book takes readers on a roller coaster ride of emotional plot twists. I really liked the characters, and even though the plot became a little unbelievable, it was an entertaining read. I just couldn't get past the idea of Josh being Maggie's brother-in-law, especially since they had known each other a long time. It was just awkward. I'm not sure how the author could have made the plot work without this detail, but it would have been a 4-star if not for that fact.

Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of the book.

The story of a young widow ready to venture into the world of dating again, when she thinks she sees her dead husband. She's still close with her brother-in-law, who has had feelings for her for half his life, even when she was married to his brother. Maggie turns to Josh to help her discover the identity of the man who resembles, Ethan, her deceased husband who died on a tour of duty.

The book explores the unknown man, a developing relationship between Maggie and Josh, and the dynamics their relationship has on others.

The book fell a little flat for me. It was a little slow, and the relationship between Maggie and Josh felt a little basic and also a little forced to me. There wasn't any one thing that made me feel that way, but I just didn't feel their relationship was authentic.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an eARC of this novel.

The book is a little different from others I've read from Denise Hunter. It was a little "slower" reading for me , trying to keep track of everything happening and in what time frame.
That being said, it is another good story that I enjoyed. It has all the "feels" to it and keeps you reading so you can find out how it all comes together and turns out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book . Thank you to the publisher for the chance to read and review.

Maggie Reynolds was raised by a narcissistic woman, who had driven her husband away and he abandoned his daughter. She has self esteem issues. But she befriends Erin Reynolds in high school and spends as much as she can at the Reynolds home, because they are such a warm family. The first time Erin's little 13 year old brother, Josh, saw Maggie he fell in love. But it was big brother Ethan that stole Maggie's heart. Josh survived lymphoma, but his heart never strayed from Maggie, for years playing the playboy, and a failed marriage, because no one could match her. Ethan went into the military and was killed in Pakistan while Maggie was pregnant with their first child. So it was Josh who was there for her during labor and ever since. As the five year anniversary of his death approaches and Maggie is finally ready to move on, Josh hopes with him, she spots a man that looks exactly like a younger version of Ethan. With Josh's help they track down the man and find a mystery. How can he look so much like Ethan.

I admit, my guess was close, but no cigar. Fabulous characters, and an intriguing quest for the truth.
I read an Advanced Reader's Copy from the publisher via NetGalley.com. This dismay honest, unbiased and voluntary review. I recommend the book for a spellbinding read.

Denise Hunter crafts a tender, beachside romance in The Summer of You and Me, a story of second chances, healing, and the power of love to mend broken hearts. Perfect for fans of small-town charm and heartfelt storytelling, this book captures the essence of summer and the bittersweet pull of unresolved pasts.

The chemistry between the protagonists is undeniable, with their shared history adding emotional depth to their journey. Hunter’s ability to weave themes of faith, forgiveness, and personal growth into a compelling narrative shines through. The characters feel authentic, with flaws and struggles that make their eventual connection all the more rewarding.

The coastal setting is beautifully described, evoking the carefree yet contemplative mood of summer. It’s the perfect backdrop for a story that explores both the joy and heartache of love. While the pacing slows in a few areas, the emotional payoff and satisfying resolution make it worth the wait.

The Summer of You and Me is a moving story about letting go of the past and embracing the possibilities of the future. Denise Hunter delivers a heartfelt read that’s as refreshing as a day at the beach.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

At the start of the summer holidays, this book came at the perfect time. A summer read, a story of new love, past hurts, a touch of mystery and the delightful, never-let’s-you-down writing of Denise Hunter.

This summer is a chance for Maggie to finally find closure after her husband’s death five years ago. It’s time to find a fresh start and she does it better retuning to the place she and her husband created so many memories. But as she and her daughter are enjoying themselves at the carnival, the last things she expects to see is her husband, or at least the spitting image of him. Her first instinct is to call Josh, her husband’s brother, her friend and rock through the years of grief. Together they start to piece together the mystery of the man she spotted and the implications for their family. Working together helps her see Josh in a new light, a way he’s been hoping for, but never daring to try, for years.

As usual, Denise Hunter pens a delightful romance, with heartfelt connection, authentic reasons for the love interests to connect and spend time together. The mystery of the man who looks like Maggie’s husband should seem far fetched but it is just the perfect emotional addition to the story. And it really kept me guessing right up until the end.

Josh is a fantastic guy, loyal, faithful and continually there for Maggie. His long burn love for her has changed many things in his life but he never wavers from not pressuring her and being there for her in any way he can.

Maggie’s five-year-old daughter, Zoey is a vibrant addition to the story and brings many smiles and laughter to the page.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

I devoured this book and found it the perfect way to unwind and start the summer.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*

Wow, such a great book! I think this is my favorite Denise Hunter book so far! A mysterious sighting of who she believes is her deceased husband leads Maggie Reynolds into a far more adventurous summer than she’d bargained for! From heartache to swoony romance, suspenseful mystery to shocking revelations, this book does NOT disappoint!! It kept me flipping the pages clear up until the end! The coastal setting was the perfect touch to make this a magical story that you don’t want to miss!

This book was. . .odd. Personally, I didn’t care for the whole falling for your husband’s brother part. The plot was good, although a little slow, as things took a long time to percolate before anything really went anywhere. I did like the message of forgiveness and love and how counseling played a part in getting over past hurt. All in all, it was middle of the road for me.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A charming story with an interesting premise. This book is gentle and easy to read, with characters that are realistic. Maggie and Josh are both very likeable and relatable, and the character of Zoey is beautifully written. Part mystery, part romance, The Summer of You and Me is hard to put down.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

**Thank you so much to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! These thoughts are my own.**

The Summer of You and Me had some sweet romantic parts and was very clean, but I also have some issues with it.

First, the writing style just wasn't for me. I didn't like it, and I don't think it flowed very well. I also had a hard time keeping track of when different parts of the plot were happening. The time jumps were pretty jarring.

Second, the plot. I was just uncomfortable for most of the book because of the dating-your-brother-in-law plot. It was just... weird. The romance was sweet, but I just couldn't get over the fact that it was her brother-in-law.

Third, the weird subplots. There were some CRAZY subplots that just made the book even more, in my opinion, ridiculous and hard to believe. A lot of them actually deal with some tough subject matter, and I think the book needed to pick a point to focus on because I was just in disbelief about how wacky it was. There needed to be more depth to them, too.

Fourth, the Christian aspect. There were, like, seven mentions of God and/or church/and/or prayer in the whole thing. I honestly kind of forgot the book was Christian rather than just clean romance because it was so minimal (and then it was jarring when it popped up). It was a really clean book, though, so yay for that!

Honestly I was just weirded out and vaguely uncomfortable for most of the book. I don't hate it though, and there were a few things I liked, which is why I give it three stars.

This book was a little bit different than Denise's normal books, but I liked it! The first few chapters had me hooked and I was so torn on what i wanted to be true or not true! Romance and some intrigue and all the feels. Immediately yes. Sign me up. I will read anything of hers! This is not your typical romance novel but in a very good way, it keeps you on your toes!

#TheSummerofYouandMe #NetGalley
Maggie Reynolds and her four year old daughter come to Seabrook Norh Carolina for the summer. Maggie's husband died while on tour in the military. After five years, Maggie has decided to see where life takes her.
Josh Reynalds, Maggie's brother-in-law, has had a crush on Maggie's since he was a teenager. The crush has turned into something more. He's decided to see where things go this summer.
While taking a picture of her daughter, Maggie's sees someone who looks like her dead husband. She follows him, but he disappears. When Maggie brings it up to Josh, he decides to help her find him.
A book that gripped me with its emotions and twists in the plot.

This book was super sweet. I wish it had been written in first person instead of third is really my only complaint and it was a little slow to start but once the story kicked up it was great. Very sweet story about love that never gives up and was truly meant to be. Stars had to align just right for circumstances to work out. The characters were sweet and although I did predict some parts as they were happening I still enjoyed the book. ☺️

I really enjoyed the story. It was a romance and mystery mixed into one. I loved the romance story and the dynamics among the whole family. The few twist kept it interesting.

I Received an advanced copy from Netgalley.

I’m mixed on this book. On one hand, I felt it was so respectful of the complex situations it navigated, the ending tied things up nicely without feeling rushed or random, and I appreciated the cast of supporting characters having their own depth. On the other hand, it felt a bit slow paced and I found it hard to get really invested for about 75% of the book.

Maggie Reynolds is ready to love again after the death of her husband five years ago. When she decides to return to Seabrook for the closure she needs she discovers she has romantic feelings for her brother in law Josh. Josh has been in love with Maggie since the first time he saw her but she was in love with his brother. When Maggie spots someone who looks exactly like her dead husband, the two go a journey to discover the connection. Can they solve the mystery and will it lead to a relationship for the two of them. Great book with romance and a mystery.



Thank you to Denise Hunter and Thomas Nelson Fiction!

I absolutely loved the story of Maggie and Josh! A story of unrequited love wrapped in awe and wonder was hard to put down. So many feelings to catalog and finally own was revealed in a multitude of ways. I did not want the story to end! Many side events to keep you guessing and hoping to the very end. I hope there is a future installment to this series!

My thoughts:  The Summer of You and Me is a romance by acclaimed author Denise Hunter.  I enjoyed meeting and getting to know this couple is they navigated a new relationship to hopefully find lasting love. The characters interacted very well together and there was even a mystery to solve when  someone from the past seemed to have come alive. Would they find out the answers? Would it change anything between them? Will they be able to work out the obstacles before them? This book is a must read and and like all Ms Hunter's books your  attention will be snagged and you won't be able to put the book down. Recommended. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.