Set in a cozy Galway hostel, the story follows a main character who’s trying to reset her life—emotionally and mentally—by escaping her routine. What she finds is a whole cast of colorful locals, stunning scenery, and one particularly charming Irishman who slowly becomes something more than just a friend. Their romance unfolds gently, with subtle tension and sweet moments rather than dramatic sparks.

The Irish setting is a character in itself—Perkins paints it beautifully, from the rain-slicked cobblestone streets to cliffside views and cozy pub nights. The pacing is definitely slow at times, especially in the middle, but the emotional payoff is worth it if you enjoy character-driven stories over plot-heavy drama.

This isn’t a sweeping, steamy romance—it’s soft and grounded, more about finding peace than passion. If you liked Anna and the French Kiss but are in a different season of life now, this might be the grown-up version you didn’t know you needed.

This is a lovely book that features self=realization and character growth. With the unexpected loss of a job, Chelsea's life is turned upside down. When the opportunity to leave Boston for a summer to work in a hostile in Ireland is presented to her, she reluctantly accepts the position. Although she is not excited to be in Ireland, she warms during her time there and builds connections within the hostile staff and community. While predictable, this book is enjoyable, making it the perfect book to cozy up with.

The perfect summer romance book! I loved the messages of found family and finding what you truly want in life. It made me want to travel to Ireland ASAP, and I would definitely recommend if you like romance

I really wanted to like this book, but the main character grated on my last nerve. She complained nonstop about having to be in Ireland and yearning to go back to Boston. Everyone seemed to fawn over her and love her regardless and be fighting to keep her there. Also, I got annoyed by the constant “crimson locks” references to her red hair. I’m glad towards the end Chelsea changed her tune and became a bit more believable, but it was too little too late for me.

The narrator was fantastic and did so many accents well!

I listened to the audiobook of AN IRISH SUMMER, written by Alexandra Paige. Narrator Sarah Mollo-Christensen does a credible job of conveying the story (and the Irish accents), but after listening to about twenty percent, almost nothing had happened. The main character, named Chelsea, was just whining about the opportunity to spend a summer in Ireland. I really felt that this character, in her late twenties, was so lost; an adult with nothing to do and no real career or focus. Fortunately, she evolves, eventually admitting that life in Ireland, "wasn't for the version of me was when I arrived, but now I'm not even sure who she is anymore. That version of myself is unrecognizable and I have no intention of bringing her back." The final scene, in an Irish pub with romantic interest/tour guide Collin, has her formally changing her tune, but any of us could have guessed that from the beginning. An interesting idea (finding oneself in a "foreign" environment), but the pace was way too slow.

I enjoyed this debut summer romance that has a Boston girl's life get uprooted when the owners of the BnB she works at decide to sell leaving her without a home or a job. As a stop gap, she flies to Ireland for the summer to work a hostel where she slowly falls in love with both Ireland and a sexy Irish coworker. Great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Alexadra Kiley or Kat Mackenzie. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.

"An Irish Summer" is definitely a great summer cozy read. The side characters will make you feel like you are part of the family. I want to go to an Irish pub and have a pint with these characters! I also enjoyed the little Easter eggs of Irish history that are woven throughout the book. There is little spice in this book, but the angst makes up for it. You will find yourself cheering for the main couple, Collin and Chelsea.

I highly recommend listening to this book as an audiobook. The Narrator is amazing! Just one narrator does the voices of at least 6 characters, male and female, and with different accents!

Thank you, Harper Audio and Netgalley for allowing me to listen to this ALC! It is much appreciated!

This is a cute and lighthearted summer rom com! I loved the Irish setting and the characters. It makes me want to have my own Irish summer.

I enjoyed this adorable audiobook. The narration was top notch! Character development was really good. This was a cute, quick read.

Engaging, escapist, and well-narrated. A recommended purchase for collections where contemporary romance is popular.

Thank you to #NetGalley and #HarperAudio for an advance listening copy of #AnIrishSummer. Take a trip to Ireland and fall in love. Four stars.

This book was okay. I listened to the whole thing without losing interest, but it wasn't wonderful. Pretty mediocre.

Chelsea has had the same job since graduating college. She worked and lived in the same B&B for years. Her family, best friend and all things familiar have been around her. That is until the owners of the B&B tell her they are selling the B&B and she will be out a job and living space.

She is beyond devastated. This is not how life was supposed to go. The owners tell her that she could spend the summer at the sister's hostel in Ireland. Chelsea doesn't know if she can do it. She loves Boston and going somewhere else is not in her cards. She reluctantly takes the job. Instead of enjoying every moment to the fullest all she can think is she needs to find a full-time job in the states.

There are times I wanted to shake Chelsea and say "enjoy the moment" it will be ok. It got a little tiresome after a bit. It was a quick read.