Ok. Back up to 4 stars for Elle Kennedy's Avalon Bay books. I was not sure if I would read this one when it came out, but I was ok with reading it for a NetGalley review. Mainly because it would push me to give the series another chance, because without this, I'm not sure I would have picked up the book and kept reading. I do not DNF books so starting is basically a commitment to finish no matter how much I like or dislike the book. So, I'm very happy to have gotten this opportunity because I truly enjoyed this book. The characters are well developed, and I truly liked both Tate and Cassie as well as Cassie's two best friends and grandmother. Her dad's family was pretty cool too as you got to know them, but they weren't the focus. I also appreciated that we got glimpses into the other previous couples in the series without, well, too much focus on them. I feel like they were around the edges just enough for someone who really liked their stories, but not so much that you were pulled out of the primary romance.

Tate had come across in the previous books as someone I didn't really want to read about, but he is written as such a fun character that it's hard not to get sucked in. Sure, there were some things that I thought were a bit far fetched, but all in all, I was happy that Tate and Cassie's romance was handled the way it was. There were no testosterone fuelled fights and really drunken blow ups. The conflict and how it was resolved was handled the way many couples would handle things and really without any misunderstandings on either side. It was just very real for me and appealed to my "please don't punch someone because that makes you a jerk even more than them" romance novel preference. Maybe things have changed, but in my late teens and early twenties, I had many male friends who got drunk, and fighting was never something that devolved out of that. So, the twins always getting into it with others seemed OTT. Tate, despite the potential for him to be just like his friends, seems just a bit more controlled and aware of himself which also translated to how his relationship with Cassie developed and how he handled the things that got in their way.

There were no real surprises, except maybe I didn't see quite what happened with Cassie's mom playing out the way it did. But overall, a fun quick read. Summer read potential for sure. Because, well, it's set in a beach town over summer break.

If you like Elle Kennedy, you'll like this one. And if, like me, you weren't a big fan of the previous book in this series, I am pretty sure you'll find this one redeems it.

The Summer Girl is by far my favorite book in the Avalon Bay series out of the three! I immediately connected with the main character, Cassie. Her sense of humor, the struggles she’s gone through/ is going through, everything. I loved her banter and connection with Tate right off the bat too, and throughout the whole story. It’s always fun seeing the characters so involved from the previous two books. This book also didn’t have your typical third act break up, and the author handled the events of the book so well, I had no idea what she had coming! I can’t wait to purchase the physical copy for my shelves.

I can’t remember the last time I sat up all night to finish a book, but I did with “Summer Girl.” In fact I read it in one sitting. I also can’t remember the last time I rated a book 5 stars—but I did with this one.

You know all those book descriptions claiming “Laugh out loud funny”? Well, I’ve never found it to be true. Seems the author is trying too hard. And that’s not funny at all. “Summer Girl” doesn’t claim to be funny, but I did actually laugh out loud, chuckle and smile, the whole way through.

That’s not to say the book doesn’t have its share of conflict and drama. It was all touchingly resolved and I appreciated that although the main characters are young (early 20s) they are mature enough we don’t have to suffer through a Big Misunderstanding and pages of tears and lamentation. (Is everybody out there crying all the time? I hope not.) They are also incredibly supportive of each other, also rare. Even best, each one helps the other to change in good ways. Yes, H&h have communication issues in the beginning and sometimes leap to conclusions, but overall they are quick to forgive and apologize. That’s probably rare at ANY age.

By far my favorite of the series, for Elle Kennedy fans, “Summer Girl” is a must-read. For those yet to discover her work, it’s time and this book is a terrific introduction to her witty banter, riveting story-telling and signature heat.

I received this ARC with no obligation to write a positive review.

Great characters, great story, just when you thought it was predictable, you were proven wrong! Can not wait to read another Elle Kennedy book!

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Elle Kennedy for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is the best book of the Avalon Bay series yet! I’m obsessed with Tate and Cassie and I don’t care who knows it! The chemistry between Cassie and Tate was there right from the beginning, making their friendship full of banter and wit. The tension was constantly there between these two, but they also created and maintained a solid friendship that progressed throughout the book. I quickly fell in love with Tate’s character. I loved that he was so different from both the Hartley twins, which really made him stand out. Cassie was such a great FMC, and I loved that the story really developed her family issues and worked that into the plot throughout the story. Cassie’s mom is awful and I practically cheered when Cassie finally stood up for herself and cut her mom off. The third act conflict was heartbreaking. While I usually am not a fan of a 3rd act break-up, I thought this was a unique way to use that plot device. And when Gemma asked for Cassie’s forgiveness j definitely had tears in my eyes. I loved the cameos from our previous Avalon Bay couples, and I really loved the friendships Cassie formed with both Gen and Mac. The steam was just the right amount in this book: several scenes but not overbearing in a way that took away from the rest of the story. This series has gotten better with each book and I honestly hope there is more coming in this series from Elle Kennedy!

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for a review.

This is definitely my favorite if the Avalon Bay series so far, which is saying something because I adored the first two.

Cassie and Tate are so great for each other. I love their relationship and how he helps build up her confidence. Tate is definitely ranking high on my book boyfriend list. He is not at all what I expected him to be from the previous books. This was so good.

Thank you NetGallery for sending my this e-arc in return for an honest review.

ALL THE STARSSS. Ok. So I think this is my fave. Tate is such a cutie and I loved his and Cassie's friends to lovers story. It was so adorable with a great plot twist that I didn't see coming. It almost hurt me to wonder what was going to happen, but I absolutely loved how it went. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, and fell in loved. 10/10 recommend. I can't wait to for this to come and and to have the physical copy cause I NEED IT.

Thanks, NetGalley!

I enjoyed this one. Truth? The story is reminiscent of early Elle Kennedy, but in a good way. I didn't LOVE the plot twist, perhaps for personal reasons, but I adored the chemistry between the love interests.

I loved returning to the world of Avalon Bay! We get glimpses of some of our favorite couples from previous books, which is a nice touch. Out of all three books, I have to say that Tate and Cassie’s is my favorite. I loved both of their arcs throughout the book. It was wonderful to be along for the ride as these two fell in love. The window scene took the spice factor to another level! I can’t wait for the rest of the world to set sail with Tate and Cassie when Summer Girl releases. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for an advanced copy of this book!

5 stars - I loved The Summer Girl by Elle Kennedy. This is part three of the Avalon Bay series from the author. While it can be read as a stand-alone book, I think that reading the first two books adds more flavor and understanding about the group dynamics and Avalon Bay setting.

Cassie and Tate meet during an awkward situation and become more involved as Cassie sets her sights on Tate to be her summer fling. Cassie is not naïve even though she is still a virgin and the banter between them is cute as their relationship progresses. There are some other family story lines that become entwined into their relationship that are interesting wrenches thrown into the mix. Dual POVs and the strong chemistry between the two main characters made this hard to put down.

Overall, Avalon Bay is a great series of books, and I really enjoyed The Summer Girl. I look forward to the author’s publishing.

A big “Thank You” to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an advance copy in return for an independent, honest review.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! This was a great read! 5 stars for me! I did not read the first 2 books in this series, and I don't feel I missed out on anything so this could be read as a stand-alone. I fell in love with Cassie and Tate right way! This had the perfect blend of first love and spice for me! Must read!
College student Cassie Soul hasn’t spent an entire summer in Avalon Bay in years, not since her parents divorced and her mother spitefully whisked her away to Boston. Now that her grandmother is selling the boardwalk hotel that’s been in their family for five decades, Cassie returns to the quaint beach town to spend time with family, ring in her twenty-first birthday…and maybe find herself a summer fling.

On her first night in town, she finds the perfect candidate: Tate Bartlett, Avalon Bay’s fun-loving golden boy.

Tate, sailing instructor and lovable player, is no stranger to flings. In fact, he’s always down for a good time. But the moment he meets Cassie, he knows she’s not the girl you play games with. Cassie is gorgeous, hilarious, and, frankly, the coolest person he’s ever met. The last thing he wants to do is risk breaking her heart, and so he reluctantly puts her in the friend-zone…only to realize he made a huge mistake. Soon, his attraction to Cassie becomes impossible to ignore. He wants that fling now. Big-time.

And maybe even something more.

As Cassie and Tate walk the line between friends and lovers, they’re about to discover that their situation is the least complicated part of this equation. Because Avalon Bay is full of secrets—and their relationship might not survive when those secrets come to light.

The Summer Girl is the third book in the Avalon Bay Series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. Elle Kennedy's ability to write spicy scenes is unmatched and her latest novel does not disappoint. The story revolves around Cassie Soul who is visiting her old hometown, Avalon Bay, to spend time with her infamous grandmother, Lydia Tanner. At almost 21, Cassie is still a virgin and is looking for a summer fling when she meets Tate Bartlett, the most attractive man she's ever seen. Their friendship develops and Tate realizes he wants more, but their families are more intertwined than they realize.

The characters are well-written, especially Tate, who is surprisingly sensitive and had me swooning throughout the novel. Cassie, on the other hand, is frustrating at times, as she gets walked all over by her mother and doesn't always stand up for herself. However, she is so likeable that it's no wonder she quickly makes friends. The banter between Cassie and Tate's texts is delightful, and their relationship is endearing, even though it's far from wholesome.

The conflict in the book is hefty and revolves around family dynamics, which can be tough. Cassie's mother is a piece of work, and I found myself genuinely wanting to punch her in the face. The conflict is realistic and it's clear that Elle Kennedy did her job in creating a character that readers will love to hate. The storyline is relatable, but it may not be as relatable for those who haven't experienced similar family drama. However, once the conflict part of the book starts, it's difficult to put down.

Overall, The Summer Girl is an amazing book with well-written characters, a relatable storyline, and a conflict that will leave readers with a pain in their chest. Kennedy's writing is a treat to read, and I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good friends-to-lovers romance with a healthy dose of spice.

I want to start by saying thank you to Net Galley and Saint Martins Griffin Publishing for an ARC of this book.

Avalon Bay is my happy place! Each book set here is like taking a vacation to paradise while you read it.

In the third book we follow the story of town playboy Tate, and newcomer Cassandra. Cassie wants to have a summer fling with Tate, but he immediately shuts her down. Can she change his mind? And if she can how will their fling make it through the summer, after some shocking family news rocks their world. I especially loved watching Cassie grow and experience so much during her summer in Avalon Bay.

As always, an amazing whirlwind of a read from Elle Kennedy, and getting to catch up with all our past Avalon Bay favorites. I haven’t heard about a fourth book in the series yet, but I am already crossing my fingers for it!

This was a cute easy read. Really light and beachy, nothing too heavy, just enough family drama and a whole lot of fun. I haven’t read many of Kennedy’s books, this might be the second actually. It was cute. It was a little too much on the lighter side of everything for me to get sucked into it but it was a nice escape. I really enjoyed Tate and Cassie’s chemistry. It was apparent from the beginning and the way they jumped into it was unexpected and hot as hell. Cassie and Tate had great supportive family and friends ask minus a certain someone. But I loved the relationships they built throughout the book.

This was a really great college-age summer romance. A light, easy read. Easily recommend for those needing an escape to a summer beach.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.

Cassie is in Avalon Bay for the summer before her senior year. She’s staying with her grandma, Lydia, who sold her hotel to Mackenzie in Good Girl Complex. Cassie has seen all of her friends have casual flings, and she’s set on having a summer fling herself while in Avalon Bay. It almost seems too easy when the hottest guy she’s ever seen, Tate, is housesitting next door for the summer and they are instantly attracted to each other. But Tate suggests they keep things platonic before they can get too far.

This is my favorite of the three Avalon Bay books. I laughed, I cried. The friends to lovers trope usually isn’t my fave, but I really enjoyed this one. It was pretty light reading for a fun beach read until the end, and then the drama just kind of gets thrown at you out of nowhere in quite the plot twist.

It isn’t the spiciest book, but Tate and Cassie have great chemistry. And there are certainly a few spicy moments. The window scene? Damn 🥵

Thank you Netgalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Elle Kennedy for letting me read this ARC of The Summer Girl in exchange for an honest review.

Look no further for your next perfect beach read! The Summer Girl has all the makings of my favorite kind of beach read: a heated summer fling, a great friend group, small coastal town vibes, the charming and drop-dead gorgeous local boy, secrets, and more!

Overview: → Cassie Soul is travelling down from Briar University to spend the summer in the small South Carolinian town of Avalon Bay. She’s got one goal: a passionate summer fling. Cassie’s got a whole summer ahead of her relaxing at her grandmother’s beachfront property, lounging at the country club with her friends, and celebrating her 21st birthday before she heads back to campus for her senior year of university.

Tate is the classic beach town golden boy, he’s athletic, intelligent, has great friends, and happens to be quite the ladies man. He’s always down for a no-strings-attached good time, but is also always genuine and is well liked by everyone in town.

Seems to Cassie like she’s run into her perfect summer fling candidate on night 1! What could be better?

🌟 My review: I’ve just worked by way through the Off Campus series by Elle Kennedy which I really enjoyed. I was so eager when I saw this come up as I’ve had the Avalon Bay series on my TBR for a while now. I read this first out of this series, which I think was totally fine and I didn’t feel like I was missing any information. I’m excited to go back and read the first two books now.

💖what I liked:

- The setting and friend dynamics gave me major ‘Outer Banks’ vibes but if they were in college and less drama/action. I’ve been excited for OBX season 3 next week, so this was perfect timing!

- Cassie and Tate both had great back stories and plenty of time in the book apart from each other so you really get to know them as individuals. I can’t stand when the entire book is the two MCs together and you only get their romance, it makes it harder to connect with them and believe their connection.

- It was different and more dynamic than the classic no-strings-attached to lovers trope. I liked that they were genuinely friends first and the drama wasn’t coming from miscommunication.

- I did not see the twist coming!

- Easy, feel good read but still had many deep elements.


🤔what I didn’t like:

- Nothing, I really enjoyed this one!

- I do wish we had more of Lydia and more of Tate & Cassie’s just hanging around, but not necessary to the plot, I just love those kinds of scenes.

I loved the Avalon Bay series and this book was no exception! This book is the love story of Tate, Avalon’s golden boy, and Cassie, a girl who spends summers in the town. In this book we watch these two start off as friends until they find out they both want more from each other. As their relationship evolves, things get more complicated— especially with their families involved. This was a book that I just couldn’t put down. I found the characters captivating and loved their chemistry together. It was also fun getting updates on the couples in the previous two books in the series. I only wish there were more in this series because I fell in love with the town and its many characters!

I was septic at first on the theme of summer fling, and finally the story was a nice surprise!
I loved the relationship between the two characters, what they bring to each other.
Cassie is so cute, funny and endearing.
A feel good reading to put on the list for the next summer!

This book was sent to me electronically by Netgalley for review. Thanks also to the publisher and the author. Summer romance…friends and family dynamics. The protagonist visits her grandmother for the summer. She makes friends and falls for a gorgeous guy. Romance ensues. Trials and tribulations of relationships move the story quickly. This would make a good television show or a movie. A quick read for an afternoon by the ocean. Enjoy this book while curled up on the beach.

My heart is so happy after reading Cassie and Tate’s story. 💕

Cassie is back in Avalon Bay to stay with her grandmother for the summer; while some might consider her a “summer girl,” her family’s root in the town are long (her grandparents built and ran The Beacon Hotel before selling it to Mac) and her dad, stepmom, and stepsisters still live there. Cassie has some deep-rooted self-confidence issues, mostly stemming from her narcissistic, overly-critical mother.

Tate is a laid-back guy who loves women. He’s never been a relationship kind of guy and, when he considers a summer fling with Cassie, talks himself out of it because he’s worried she’ll catch feelings. Life keeps tossing these two together and things start to get spicy, despite Tate trying to keep Cassie in the friend zone.

This book includes a farting turtle, beach bonfires, champagne, fast boats, a scandalous admission, a children’s book, plenty of spice, and a competitive beach games competition.

This series is another masterpiece by Elle Kennedy. The world she creates in Avalon Bay is funny, sexy, loving, and full of the trials and tribulations of her characters. Tears may have been involved. I couldn’t put this book down and I’m already ready for a re-read!