A Journey Through Heart and Lens: Review of One Golden Summer
When I first heard about One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, I was instantly intrigued. As an avid lover of summer romances, the enchanting setting of Barry’s Bay just felt like the perfect escape. Fortune’s previous work, Every Summer After, had left a warm mark on my reading heart, so I absolutely had to dive into this new companion novel. Little did I know, I was about to embark on a journey that would resonate deeply with my own experiences of self-discovery, love, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
At its core, One Golden Summer centers around Alice Everly, a shy photographer grappling with the complexities of adulthood as she reenters the idyllic Barry’s Bay with her grandmother, Nan. Their shared history of summers spent at the lake lays a nostalgic groundwork, and Fortune paints the setting in such vivid detail that I could almost feel the sun-kissed breezes and hear the laughter of children splashing in the water. Alice’s character is beautifully relatable; she’s a woman caught between the beautiful memories of her youth and the sometimes harsh realities of adulthood. Her journey back to the lake isn’t just a physical one but an emotional exploration of reclaiming her passion and identity.
Enter Charlie Florek, the charming man from her past, now an irresistible force of energy and flirtation. Their banter is electric, filled with moments that made me chuckle and others that had my heart racing. Fortune’s ability to craft realistic chemistry between characters really shines here, and Charlie—both a source of encouragement and a catalyst for Alice’s growth—serves as a wonderful foil to her reserved nature. One moment that particularly resonated with me is when Alice reflects, “I’ve spent so long behind the lens, afraid to step into the frame.” This sentiment caught me off guard, forcing me to confront my own hesitations about stepping into the unknown.
Fortune weaves in the emotional depth of Alice’s relationships—especially her connection with her grandmother, whose wisdom and warmth radiate through the pages. Nan’s encouragement for Alice to embrace life, reminiscent of her advice that "good things happen at the lake," adds layers of comfort and nostalgia, making it more than just a romantic tale; it’s a story about family, resilience, and rediscovery.
As I turned each page, I found myself rooting for Alice—not just to win Charlie’s heart but to reclaim her own sense of self-worth and creativity. The slow-burn romance had me flipping through the chapters rapidly, all while savoring the moments of danger and vulnerability entwined in their budding relationship. Fortune’s writing style is fluid, with an engaging pace that balances romance and introspection, making the reading experience both delightful and thought-provoking.
One Golden Summer is an ideal read for anyone seeking a tale filled with warmth and emotional resonance. It’s perfect for beach days, cozy evenings, or a transformative weekend escape. If you find joy in stories that not only tug at your heartstrings but also offer a journey of growth and self-acceptance, then this book is for you.
In retrospect, my time spent alongside Alice and Charlie at the lake has left me feeling rejuvenated and introspective. Carley Fortune has a true gift for storytelling, and One Golden Summer is a reaffirmation of the beauty of love, family, and the importance of facing our fears. This book will undoubtedly linger in my thoughts long after the last page, and I can’t wait to see what Fortune conjures up next!