THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME by DENISE HUNTER is a most enjoyable romance novel with interesting characters and a clever story, with many twists and turns.
Maggie Reynolds and her four year old daughter Zoey are on holiday in Seabrook, North Carolina, a place which is full of bittersweet memories of her late husband, Ethan, the love of her life. Her best friend Erin, Ethan’s sister and his younger brother Josh live there, and, together with his parents Becky and Brad, they are planning to scatter his ashes on the fifth anniversary of his death, when the unthinkable happens! While at the fair Maggie sees Ethan’s double in the distance. Did the army make a mistake - could her husband possibly still be alive? Maggie and Josh set out to find the truth without involving the rest of the Reynolds family……
There is so much more to the strory as the author takes us through her characters’ emotions and relationships, but I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I cannot recommend this lovely novel highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

This book has quite the emotional and surprising plot twists! Hunter is a master at carefully and sparingly dropping hints, and even when she did, I didn’t figure out the implications! There’s lots of swoony romance, fun at the beach and the carnival, cute kids, and more. I didn’t want to stop reading to go to bed, and could easily have stayed up all night reading this book.

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

The Summer of You and Me was the second book by Denise Hunter that I’ve read. I loved it as much as her previous book.

This book is written by a talented popular author, a favorite. Family and friends come together to grieve a beloved husband and are wanting closure.
The husband’s brother lives his widow but trials happen. Red herrings kept me guessing and often,
hoping. Was her husband really dead? Is the mystery man her loved one? Questions waiting for answers. Enjoy.
Thanks Netgalley.

Another epic story from Denise Hunter. The characters and their story were so real that they felt like old friends. This is what I have come to enjoy about Denise and her storytelling. If you prefer what could be real versus mushy gushy with no real story behind it, this story is for you.

I received an advanced reader’s copy from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. Opinions are my own.

When Maggie's husband dies in combat her life is turned upside for her and her infant daughter. Will she ever be able to heal from her grief of losing her high school sweetheart. It isn't until a few years after his passing she is at the carnival with her daughter she spots her husband. she thinks she must be going crazy and in an instant he is gone. Could he still be alive? Maggie spends the summer trying to find answers and finally healing from the past. I loved Before we were us so when I saw this new book I was so excited and it did not disappoint!

five years after her husband's death Maggie returns to Seabrook, North Carolina to find closure. she doesn't realize her brother in law has been in love with her for years. will they have a happy ending?

Denise Hunter, this book was absolutely darling! I can not get over how precious it was. I loved the main characters and the sweet moments they shared. I had all the feels, and couldn't put it down, but also didn't want it to end! Highly recommend any book by Denise Hunter.

Another Denise Hunter 5 star book for me! I loved this sweet story, the raw and flawed characters with normal fears and hesitations. I loved that Denise didn't push characters together unrealistically, but showed an accurate picture of a slow burn, friends to lovers, and where therapy can be needed amongst all that for a strong foundation. The mystery guy and how that plot works out and wasn't predictable was an added touch- I could not put this book down!

Really enjoyed reading this book. I was unable to put it down. The family issues covered were so true to life and much I have experienced. A real encouragement to keep walking forward step by step.

I absolutely loved this book! It was so good, I stayed up late to finish it! I just had to know how it ended! There were so many twists and turns, no wonder Maggie was confused when she saw her deceased husband’s doppelgänger in the crowd at the NC amusement park! Her husband’s brother, Josh, her supporting friend for so long, helps in the search for the mysterious man. There are so many questions and surprises along the way! I never figured it out! There is mystery, grief, angst, faith, romance and so much more! I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the complimentary ARC of this e-book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This is a sweet romantic read with plenty of twists and turns.
A summer of healing and moving on sends Josh and Maddy on an unforeseen path chasing down a look-a-like.
The relationship issues are very genuine and past traumas must be dealt with.
Healing takes time and this read takes that into account.
The characters are well developed.
I received a complimentary copy of the this book. My opinions are my own.

The Summer of You and Me, by Denise Hunter, tells of Maggie Reynolds returning to Seabrook, North Carolina. She plans to spend the summer with her young daughter at her in-laws beach house. However, when they visit a local carnival, Maggie catches sight of a man who looks just like her husband Ethan, who died five years ago!

It is interesting to watch Maggie and her former brother-in-law Josh attempt to track down this man who actually may be her former husband. When they discover that this look-a-like is much younger than her husband, they must change the focus of their search!

When Maggie makes contact with the mother of this man, you will be surprised at what she learns. This tale will turn on a dime with this new information!

I have always loved Denise Hunter’s books but had not read one in a while. This book reminded me why I have always enjoyed her stories. Maggie is a window with a young daughter who is visiting with her in laws for the summer. They are planning a memorial for the anniversary of her husbands death but before that can happen she sees someone who could be her husbands twin and has all the emotions that comes with that. Her brother in law, Josh, who has loved her since his teens, agrees to help her solve the mystery. I thought that I had the mystery all figured out but then a twist popped up. I really enjoyed reading the book as Maggie and Josh worked to not only figure out the mystery man but work through the feelings they had for each other as well.

This is the story of a widow and her deceased husbands brother. They have been friends for years, but that is starting to change to more. There are several complications that pop up, that involve a bit of mystery and difficult family members. I enjoyed the story very much and it has a little surprise in the end that I hadn’t guessed. I was given this book to review and I would recommend it.

What a beautiful story about family dynamics!
Hunter is at her best here for sure. I love her stories so this one is no exception. In fact, it will be my favorite by her.
There's a little bit of everything to keep you from putting the book down. From grief to mystery to solving it's an excellent guessing game.
Maggie and Josh's journey was quite the adventure.
I loved figuring out along with them on who the mystery man was. They definitely got the surprise of their lives when they did!
5 stars from me for an exciting adventure. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

I’m always excited at the opportunity to read one of Denise Hunter’s books. Her small-town stories about love, forgiveness, and second chances are always so uplifting. This time, I loved the invitation to step into Maggie Reynold’s world and walk with her through grief and struggles of taking a chance at love while single parenting.

Widowed Maggie Reynolds has returned to Seabrook, NC for the summer with her tenacious 4-year-old, Zoey. When she sees her deceased husband’s doppelganger at the carnival, her heart stops and her mind races with ‘what ifs’.

I instantly connected to the characters and felt all the emotions as they discovered if love was a risk worth taking. Hunter’s exploration of unrequited love, abandonment, trust, and forgiveness kept me spellbound. I especially loved the examination of where we belong and who we consider ‘home’. Although I didn’t find myself in the book, I came away with a deeper commitment to be more welcoming and understanding. I’m quick to judge and Hunter always reminds us that her characters have more to them than meets the eye.

Maggie and Josh’s quest for the truth made for a compelling read - one that I’ll remember for quite some time!

I was gifted this copy by Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

Denise Hunter has written another delightful story. Seabrook Island, South Carolina is the setting of a mystery that leaves everyone pondering.

Josh and Maggie are best friends. Maggie thinks she has seen her deceased husband at the carnival, and is determined to find him. Josh offers to help with a stranger than life outcome. It turns out to be quite the adventure.

Without giving away the story, the complicated romance that develops concludes with a surprise ending. Denise Hunter is a master storyteller. Writing well rounded characters, she is able to convey her characters deep feelings and emotions. Publication is in April so you need to put this on your TBR list.

I received a complimentary an e-copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I had read one of Denise Hunter’s works before and hadn’t noticed that I had requested another one of “the author who writes lighthearted books with not much content” (or so I thought.) I’m glad I made this mistake because this story is unlike the previous one. Lots of mystery with some very unexpected twists. It keeps you guessing (your guess will probably be wrong) and you wonder where this is going to end up. True to life characters with problems you can relate to and some good advice in between. The story is both intense and lighthearted, and relaxing to read. It goes much deeper than a beach read and touches on issues that I’m sure some of us struggle with like loss, abandonment, manipulative parents, lack of self-esteem and daring to set boundaries. You’ll feel right at home with the Reynolds family. I highly recommend this enjoyable and clean book,

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing me with a free complimentary copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was another great book from this author. If you are needing a new read I recommend this book. You won’t be disappointed.

Mystery, romance, family relationships, and suspense all blend into a beautiful story. This plot is full of surprises. The wonderful characters and beach town location add depth to the book. Definitely worth the read. This book was provided by @Denise Hunter, her publisher and #NetGalley for me to read. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts.

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.

This is a touching story of Maggie, who makes the decision to finally live again, and maybe even love again. Nearly five years have passed since the death of Maggie’s husband, and Maggie, along with her four-year-old daughter, Zoey, is back in Seabrook, North Carolina, for the summer. This is where her late husband’s family lives, including his sister, Erin, and brother, Josh. Both are close friends of Maggie’s, and Josh, especially, has been there for her and Zoey whenever they needed anything.

Just as Maggie feels like she is getting better at accepting the untimely death of her husband, a young man crosses her path at a carnival who looks exactly like Ethan, her late husband. She sees him disappearing into the crowd and, although she tries to follow him, he is not to be found.

Josh agrees to help Maggie track the unknown man down, and after an exhaustive search, they find he works at the carnival. Josh is also startled at the resemblance this young man has to his brother.

This is a fascinating story, complicated by the fact that Josh, Maggie’s brother-in-law, who both she and her daughter adore and are thankful for, has secretly been in love with Maggie since they were teenagers. However, she was always his brother’s girlfriend. The unreciprocated love Josh has for Maggie has destroyed his ability to love anyone else, and he has bounced around dating many, always quickly moving on to the next one.

Such a heartfelt, fascinating story with a few astonishing revelations that made it impossible to put this book down. I neglected my entire to-do list so I could keep reading until I turned the last page. Each of Denise Hunter’s books is always my new favorite. They have lovable, relatable characters that get right into my heart from the start. Denise is a gifted storyteller who brings a warm, cozy feeling of coming home each time I open one of her books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

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!

After 5 years of Maggie's husband Ethan's death she and her daughter Zoey go back to Seabrook to spread his ashes. Maggie is finally ready to get on with her life. Josh, Ethan's brother has always been a big help to her and his sister Erin and her are like sisters. Maggie was brought up by a very narcistic type mother . The first night Maggie is back and she and Zoey are at the carnival, she sees a man who is the spitting image of Ethan. She tells Josh about it and they go on a search to find him and find out who he is. The results is a shocker. Join Maggie and Josh on their search, Josh has always loved Maggie. See what happens with them. A GREAT READ.

What a beautiful story! I could not put the book down even reading well into the night as I couldn't sleep for wanting to know what happens. Loved the characters too.

The Summer of You and Me is heartwarming and family oriented. This is a story that deals with grief, feelings of abandonment, the possibility of infidelity, but also the love of family. Maggie is shocked to see her late husband, Ethan’s, doppelganger at a carnival. Her brother-in-law, Josh, helps her search for him as they both grapple with the possibility of Josh’s dad fathering another son years earlier. In the process, Josh and Maggie explore the possibility of moving their friendship to the next level. After a slow start, the story evolves into a heartwarming conclusion as the mystery of Ethan’s lookalike is revealed.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC of this book for the opportunity to read and give a honest review. This is not my first book I have read by Denise Hunter and wont be my last. She is a amazing author that I always recommend! I have read many of her books and have loved a lot of them. This one was by far one of my favorite. This book gives a bit of a mystery twist that leaves you wondering all the way up to the end. Then the romance just adds to the story. In this book we follow Maggie who was married to Ethan but Ethan sadly passed away at war. I felt a deep connection to this story since my husband also served as a solider in Iraq and sadly he lost one of his friends from his unit in a close similar fashion. So I could relate all the feelings Maggie felt. In this story its been 5 years since Ethan has passed and she comes back "home" for the summer with her daughter. There at the county fair she see someone who looks like her dead husband. That brings in the mystery of this story as she tries to find out is this her husband or is it someone who looks just like him. I wont give spoilers since it was very interesting and I didn't guess the answer at all. I loved reading to find out!

What a great book! Josh was my favorite character because of his extreme patience with Maggie. He’s also such a great father figure for Zoey. I was definitely caught off guard when the identity of Will’s father is revealed. I can’t really say much more without giving spoilers. Suffice it to say, when I see a Denise Hunter book I know I will enjoy reading it!

The Summer of You and Me is emotional and heartwarming. There are plenty of twists, as Maggie and Josh work together to discover the identity of a young man who is the spitting image of Maggie’s late husband, Ethan. They also navigate the changing relationship between themselves, and deal with the 5th anniversary of Ethan’s death. The story was a bit slow in parts, but it all came together in a very real, touching, and delightful way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Summer of You and Me is the first book I’ve read by Denise Hunter. This book is a very sweet Christian romance.

Five years after her husband's death, Maggie is back for the summer in Seabrook to spend time with her late husband’s family, the Reynoldses, and is ready for closure. While at the amusement park with her daughter Zoey, Maggie runs into a man who looks exactly like her late husband Ethan. She immediately calls her brother-in-law, Josh, and tells him that she thinks he could be alive. Josh meets up with her that night and they discuss a plan moving forward. However, their search leads to more questions than they could have ever imagined.

Josh Reynolds has had feelings for Maggie since he met her many years ago, but his brother Ethan ending up wining her heart. Maggie has always regarded Josh as a best friend and has always felt very comfortable with him. He was always there for her and helped her through Ethan’s passing. Josh realizes that he has to tell her how he really feels about her before it’s too late. He knows Maggie is ready to move on and he’s hoping she will move on with him.

Maggie and Josh have undeniable chemistry. Their relationship was truly heartwarming. I love how they were so comfortable and always gravitated towards one another. I was rooting for them from the beginning because they balance each other out so well.

Overall, I highly recommend this book! There were so many twists and turns that I was not expecting. I honestly couldn’t put it down!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you so much NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this eARC.

I really enjoyed this installment from Denise, it felt different from her previous books but not in a negative way. I appreciated the way that she explored grief, but also the second chance at love that life can throw your way when you're least expecting it. Maggie and Josh were enjoyable characters to read and their love story was a satisfying one.

I really enjoyed this cozy romantic mystery. The plot twists kept me engaged. The characters were strong and likeable. I was surprised and delighted. Definitely want to read more from this author. Well done.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 loved this story so much, it might be my favorite story of hers! I love how each of her stories are written with such heart and realism. The characters are perfectly flawed like all of us and you feel all the emotions they feel!

Maggie is a war widow and coming to terms with living without her husband. It’s been almost 5 years and her and her 5 year old daughter are visiting her in-laws seaside town for the summer. While at the carnival she sees someone how is the spitting image of her deceased husband. She immediately calls her husband’s brother Josh, and he rushes to the carnival to try to help her find the guy. What is going on? Why is there someone in their town that looks exactly like her husband who supposedly died 5 years ago.

Denise Hunter is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her latest, The Summer of You and Me was a winner.

Denise Hunter's latest book, The Summer of You and Me is a total home run—an absolute winner from start to finish. It's a beautifully romantic read, with all the warmth and charm you'd expect from Hunter, yet refreshingly clean and wholesome. Denise Hunter masterfully weaves in an air of mystery that keeps you engaged without overshadowing the tender relationships at its heart. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy a heartwarming story with a touch of intrigue. I always love to read this author and enjoy that so many of her books are based in North Carolina. This one may be the top of Hunter's works - it's definitely one of my favorites.

Thanks NetGalley for the preview.

Five years ago, Maggie's husband, Ethan, died while serving in the army. Need to confront her grief and let Ethan go, she decided to spend the summer in Seabrook, which is also Maggie and Ethan’s hometown. One day, when she and Zoey, her daughter, were at a carnival, she saw her husband. With Ethan's brother, Josh, she spent the summer searching for answers and unexpectedly found healing and the answers she needed.

I guess my lack of reading romance books affects how I see the plot. I can’t help thinking about husband-lookalike plot leading to a mystery thriller one. Lol. Thankfully, the romance, relationships between characters, and character development overcame my odd thoughts. I had no trouble connecting with the characters and I enjoyed Hunter's exploration of unrequited love, trust, forgiveness, and abandonment issues.

One aspect of adult fiction that I have always appreciated is the way characters deal with their emotions and problems. They are willing to take a step back and breathe, and ask for permission from the other person to process their emotions. It’s wonderful. We need to normalize it in our society. Understanding ourselves and our limits. Having boundaries. Taking space. Choose to think carefully before speaking when we’re in emotional turmoil, as our emotional words can hurt people unintentionally.

It was such a compelling and uplifting read.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Today, I want to share my quick review of The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter. This story is about Maggie, a widowed single mom and teacher, who unexpectedly spots someone at a local fair who looks exactly like her late husband, Ethan. The shock sends her on a journey with her brother-in-law Josh to uncover the truth about this mystery man.

Josh, a boat tour business owner and all-around great guy, has been harboring feelings for Maggie since childhood, adding a layer of unspoken tension and hope to their search. As Maggie balances her grief, the possibility of new love, and the mystery of the man who might be Ethan, the story weaves a heartfelt tale of second chances and moving forward.

If you love summer vibes, a touch of mystery, love triangles, and stories about personal growth and healing, The Summer of You and Me is a must-read.

This was such a good book. So many things happened and I couldn't figure out where it was going. I had to put it down for a few days once because I got emotional with the story. Such a good story and so glad I was able to read it!

This book has a twist that I didn't see coming, but I loved it. Without spoiling it, the twist leads to deeper relationships and eventually more trust. While this is a great beach romance read, it's more than that. Give it a try!

Loved this. Fell in love with the characters, loved the mystery and the plot twists. Just all around loved this. I imagined Maggie’s mom as Emily Gilmore from Gilmore girls. Less lovable than Emily for sure but that’s who I pictured.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this ebook.

THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME is another winner from prolific author Denise Hunter. I have been a longtime fan of her work, which, in my humble opinion, does a better job of exploring the psychology of characters so much better than the majority of romance authors. There is more "why" here than in some "cardboard" romances. The same is true with this new novel. There are just enough twists and turns to keep us interested without the plot devolving into soap opera territory. We are lucky to have a new work from Denise Hunter, who is clearly a fabulously talented author with real insights into the human psyche. I also appreciate the spiritual message, which never becomes preachy. Maggie and Josh are on a captivating journey, and it's a privilege to be on it with them.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-galley; all opinions in my review are 100% my own.

This is the touching story of Maggie, who must decide the path for her life after losing her beloved husband, Ethan. It’s been nearly five years since his passing and Maggie, along with her four-year-old daughter, Zoey, are back in Seabrook, North Carolina, for the summer. This is where Ethan's family lives, including his sister, Erin, and his brother, Josh. Both are close friends of Maggie’s, and Josh, especially, has been there for her and Zoey.

Maggie is slow to accept the untimely death of her husband, so when she glimpses a young man at a carnival who looks exactly like Ethan, she thinks it could be her late husband. She sees him disappearing into the crowd and, although she tries to follow him, he is not to be seen again, at least not that evening.

Josh agrees to help Maggie track the unknown man down, and after an exhaustive search, they find he works at the carnival.. Josh, though skeptical, is also startled at the resemblance this young man has to his brother. Is this Ethan’s doppelgänger or something much more personal?

This is a fascinating story of unrequited love by Josh, Maggie’s brother-in-law, who both she and her daughter adore and are thankful for. Josh has secretly been in love with Maggie since they were teenagers. Still, the fact remains, she was always his brother’s girlfriend.and later wife. The unreciprocated love Josh has for Maggie has interfered with his ability to love anyone else, and he has bounced around dating many, always quickly moving on to the next one. For this reason Maggie thinks he’s a man who can’t commit too one person.

This a heartfelt, story of love leaving readers yearning for the two to enter into a more intimate relationship.

Denise Hunter is a gifted storyteller who evokes feelings of warmth, security and love between wonderful characters.

This book has a very interesting plot! It’s sort of a slow burn romance, but that makes sense once you get to know Maggie and Josh. The author did a great job navigating the grief involved and all of the character’s relationships within the story. Most of this book felt very realistic.

I can’t wait to read more books by Denise Hunter!

Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction, Denise Hunter, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book.

I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of this book. I’ve read Denise Hunter’s books for years and they just get better. I love a good romance with a little mystery thrown in and this story doesn’t disappoint. It’s a story about learning it’s alright to love again after losing a spouse and letting go of lifelong disappointments.

The Summer of You and Me is a fascinating story. It is much more than a romance.
It is a story of family dynamics, of loss and hope; of manipulation and self esteem and of yearning and love. It is a unique story to be sure.
There are lots of twists and unpredictable turns. And lots of lessons learned. It kept me guessing the whole time what was going to happen next. I was never right until close to the end.
Josh, Maggie and Zoey stole my heart.
I did feel the story began slow but the ending was perfection.
I highly recommend!
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book.. The opinions are entirely my own.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter is definitely going to be your must read this summer! I couldn’t put it down. Hunter has a way of writing that connects you to the characters and makes you invested in the story. Maggie Reynolds is a widow with a 4 yr old daughter Zoey. Her husband and High School sweetheart Ethan was killed which triggers her abandonment issues. Josh is her brother-in-law who has always been there for her sans Zoey. Unbeknownst to Maggie, Josh has been in love with her since they met. Coming back to Seabrook,NC she sees someone that looks exactly like her husband. Could he still be alive? Who is this look a like? Will Josh finally win her heart? You don’t want to miss this book. Thank you to #NetGalley, #Thomas Nelson Fiction and #Denise Hunter for the Arc book. This is my honest review.

I was hooked from the first chapter of this book. The complicated family dynamic, rocky romance, and suspense of the story began early on and stayed strong throughout the entire novel. I found myself way too invested in Maggie’s search for her husband and feeling the layers of pain that went along with her journey. This book is begging to be talked about and dissected with friends, so I was happy to discover discussion questions at the end; it would be a great story for a book club to read together. In fact, I wish I could read it for the first time again with others!

This booooookkkkk🥹🫶💔
I read it in one sitting. Which says alot. Because I was on outreach in indigenous mexico with very limited free days. But this book was an excellent use of a free day. I loved it so much😭
The romance, the suspense, the sweet characters.
I already want to reread it

The Summer of You and Me
by Denise Hunter

What a great story! One element really took me by surprise. I won’t spoil it.
Maggie has been a widow for about 5 years but still misses her husband, Ethan. She is a teacher and out the summer so she returns to the town of Seabrookl with her daughter, Zoey. The story starts they are walking through a carnival when suddenly she sees a man in the distance who looks just like Ethan. She knows it was reported by military that he died in a bomb attack.
Maggie contacts the man who has been her faithful friend through her grief, Ethan’s brother Josh. He has comforted her and Zoey and been there for them. Maggie doesn’t realize it but he loved her since teenage years. He never let his love be known, but kept his integrity through the years.
Together they set out to find this man. The only thing they had to go on was a grainy picture she had taken The book is exciting, and you will fall in love with the characters. Denise Hunter has never let me down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Denise Hunter sure does know how to write a great book and The Summer of You and Me was no exception. This book showed just how important it is to be surrounded by people who love you. People who will pick you up and be there for when you need it through life’s ups and downs. Every single character was written so well. It was full of heart, some drama, and had a little bit of mystery, too. I loved reading this story so much!!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction for the advanced copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed above are my own.

Wow! What a unique story — a “sort of” second chance romance, an intriguing mystery, and a beautiful, slow burn romance.

I love Josh. He’s the younger brother who never measures up to his perfect older brother (now deceased). Josh is definitely charming and yet rather insecure as well… and he’s loved Maggie since forever.

Maggie is five years into mourning the loss of her husband, Josh‘s older brother Ethan, but she’s also feeling ready to move on. Josh has been her rock for years and a dear friend, but she has never thought of him as more.

This is their story, which is beautiful, somewhat heart wrenching, and with a great intriguing mystery to solve.

I loved their relationship, even though my heart went out to Josh frequently. And I absolutely loved the ending and the revelation of the mystery. So well told!

I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley with a request to give my honest opinion.

This book was written by an author that was new to me and I’m delighted to find out that this was her 40th book! Plenty of books for me to go back and read! This book was a beautiful clean romance story that has some twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages to find out how all the threads weave together. A quick read that has strong character development and a very good plot.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction as I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Summer of Me and You is an upcoming novel from Denise Hunter. It was my first read by this author and it won’t be my last!

As I hunkered down here in Minnesota, my mind was on the beach in North Carolina where we meet Maggie Reynolds and her daughter Zoey. Maggie is a widow of five years, having lost her husband while he was serving oversees in the military. She is still close with his family, especially her sister-in-law and best friend Erin and her brother-in-law Josh.

When Maggie returns to Seabrook for the summer and sees her late husband’s look-a-like at the pier, she becomes determined to find out if her husband really died five years ago or if there’s another reason he has a doppelgänger wandering his hometown.

While this novel is no thriller, I couldn’t help myself from turning the page over and over to get one step closer to figuring out who this guy is and how all the puzzle pieces fit together.

There’s also a very sweet love story woven throughout Maggie’s summer. I want to spoil everything for you but I won’t! Add The Summer of You and Me to your TBR immediately and prepare for it to be your favorite easy beach read after its release on April 21st 📖⛱️

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Denise Hunter for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

#thesummerofyouandme #northcarolina #beach #beachread #reel #bookreview #ARC #netgalley #denisehunter #novel #romance #bookish #arcreview #beachaesthetic

This was a great book about unfolding what you think you know! Maggie and Josh think they know they truth, at least the truth that appears to be right in front of them, but they really don't. And are they going to let that truth come between them and their happiness?

Denise Hunter has hit the mark again!
Maggie Reynolds has experienced great joy and love as well as great loss and sorrow. She's spent five years mourning the loss of her husband Ethan while raising their daughter Zoey who he never had a chance to meet. She's shouldered all the burden and feels that she's done an okay job being on her own and raising her daughter. She's finally in a place in her life where she might be open to a new relationship but she needs to be sure and she needs to be sure that Ethan's family is ready for that.
Josh Reynolds owns his own business and has reached success in his life. He's set for everything except for watching his sister-in-law mourn the loss of his brother Ethan and raise their daughter on her own. He's done everything he can to be there for both of them and help Maggie through losing Ethan and putting herself back together. He's excited for her and Zoey to spend the summer in Seabrook, North Carolina, and be closer to family. He's also ready to take a step to happiness for his future. But just as he thinks it's time, Maggie makes a startling discovery that will change their lives.
Reader, you will love Maggie and Zoey; you will cheer in Josh's corner; you will be delighted by Erin, Josh's sister and Maggie's sister-in-law; you will silently wish Maggie's mother be sent to a land far far away. Reader, you will discover love, heartache, compassion, honesty, forgiveness and rediscovery. Reader, you will not be disappointed!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is my first Denise Hunter book.

It’s been 5 years since Maggie lost her husband in the war. Josh his brother has also been there to help her get through everything. She has no idea that Josh has always been in love with Maggie. After 5 years as a widow will she be able to move on with her life. Will she fall in love with Josh her best friend.

Denise Hunter never fails to deliver captivating and unique love stories that will keep me intrigued from start to finish... and this one was certainly no exception. To be honest, a war widow and her deceased husband's brother is one of those things that maybe shouldn't work or would be very difficult to pull off in a way that feels okay... but I couldn't help but love this story. The two had such a fantastic chemistry and I didn't think that it ever came across as taking away from that previous love or betraying it in any way. It was a complicated relationship, without a doubt, but one that I really enjoyed just the same. The added mystery of who the man that looked just like her late husband was only made the story more intriguing. It kept me guessing right through to the very end... with a twist that I certainly did not see coming. You'll definitely want to read it to see what happens! If you enjoy Christian romance, you absolutely won't want to miss this one!

**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.

This was such a beautiful read to get lost in, a page tuner, and a story that will pull on your emotions!
A story of rebirth, but the journey there is full of questions and a mystery!
With her in-laws on a life time adventure, Maggy and her four year old daughter are enjoying their beach house in Seabrook, and spending time with her sister-in-law and family, and brother-in-law. I loved how Zoey's uncle was so good to her and "cupcake" felt loved!
There are questions that arise after a visit to the local amusement park, with a picture on her phone, who is this person?
Never would have guessed whom the mystery person was! Wow, what a story, and what a pleasure to be absorbed into this read and guess for answers.
This story has a lot of family dynamics, some very sweet romance, and some darling and precocious children. I loved that there was an epilogue!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

The premise of this book is so intriguing and full of plots twist I couldn't figure out how it could be positively resolved. The levels of emotional energy were deep and written with amazing deftness and heart. I could rhapsodize on and on but one needs to actually read and live the words of Denise Hunter to understand the story. Please do, you will be rewarded.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

BOOK REVIEW: “The Summer of You and Me” by Denise Hunter

Maggie is finally heading back to Seabrook in hopes of closure. It’s been five long years since Maggie lost her husband Ethan, the father to their sweet Zoey. All of Maggie’s in-laws live in Seabrook, including her best friend, Erin, and her closest confidant, Josh, who are both Ethan’s siblings.

Maggie is barely in town for a day when she stumbles upon a man at the pier who looks exactly like Ethan. Maybe a little younger than she remembered him, but a definite resemblance. Even though she knows it’s impossible that it could be Ethan, she has to get to the bottom of it and find out who this man is. She enlists the help of Josh, the one person who has been there for her through it all. Her best friend. What she doesn’t know is that Josh has been in love with her for all these years. Is he ready to tell Maggie how he feels? And is it even the right time with this new mystery to solve?

When I say I will read anything by Denise Hunter, I mean I will read ANYTHING by her! I was first introduced to her books many years ago with her Chapel Springs series, and I instantly fell in love with her writing. This book was like coming back home to those first books!

“The Summer of You and Me” is one of those cozy, feel-good reads that you don’t want to put down! I read it in a matter of just 2 days because I had to know how it ended! Readers will instantly fall in love with Josh, Maggie and Zoey, and become invested in their story! I love that it’s a low spice, clean romance and that I can share it with my teenage girls! I highly recommend and can’t wait to read the next @deniseahunter novel!

I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for my honest unbiased opinion. I rate this book as 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This one is 5⭐️ for me since I really didn’t know where it was going and I really enjoyed the ride!

Maggie is a single mom and widow and lost her husband in the military, though his body was never recovered. Unbeknownst to Maggie, her brother in law, Josh, has been in love with her for years.

One day Maggie is at a carnival in her husband’s hometown and she sees a man who looks just like her missing/deceased husband.

Come for the mystery and stay for some romance!

What a perfect read for a rainy weekend! Denise Hunter has a beautiful way of bringing a story to life and her characters feel like friends. Highly recommend this one.

The Summer of You and Me was an unexpected pleasant surprise. This was my first Denise Hunter book and I can see why she has been so successful with over 40 books to her name. This story is about a young single mother who has to grapple with what it means when she all of a sudden sees her late husband in her hometown. At first I thought the answer was pretty obvious but it actually took me by surprise. Along her journey of discovery she also has to deal with the revelation that her brother in law has been in love with her since they were teenagers. I know that may sound strange but this was done so beautifully. I was really rooting for Maggie and Josh throughout the whole story. Denise Hunter was able to capture me within the first chapter and had me excited to keep going. I will definitely be reading more from her.

Enjoy!

Clean, Christian romance with a bit of mystery.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publising for an eARC of this story. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

I loved it! Read it in less than 24 hours. The Summer of You and Me is beautiful story of love, loss, a mystery that kept me turning pages, a sweet romance, family, and a twist I did not see coming!

This is one of my favorite stories by author Denise Hunter. She deftly works through abandonment and trust issues, and family dynamics in this story, and her characters are real, relatable and add so much to the story.

From Maggie Reynolds coming up on the five year anniversary of her husband Ethan's death, their precocious 4 year old daughter Zoey, and Ethan's family who is more of a family to Maggie than her own. I was hooked! Josh Reynolds has loved Maggie since she came home from school with his sister and her best friend Erin all those years ago. He has been a best friend to Maggie too, for years. Even when she married his brother.

Maggie is finally getting ready to move on when she sees her deceased husband's doppleganger. Which leads Maggie and Josh on a wild goose chase to find him and figure out who he is. This quest for the truth kept me turning pages. What a compelling story!

I highly recommend The Summer of You and Me!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

Maggie and her daughter Zoey are retiring to Seabrook for the whole summer, for the first time since Maggie’s husband Ethan passed almost five years ago. Maggie is already nervous with anticipation of what the summer holds, but one their first night back her world goes through a tail spin of grief, wonder, mystery and adventure. What do you do when you see a man in your dead husbands home town that looks exactly like him, but then he disappears. Maggie and her brother-in- law that who has been secretly in love with her since they were teenagers set off to find this man and get answers. In the end they will be surprised what they find out. I was truly surprised myself.

This was my third Denise Hunter book and it was just as good as the other two I read. Denise has a way of writing that makes you able to feel all of the characters emotions. I love the romance, the mystery and the ending of this book. I can’t wait to continue to dive into her expanse library of title and n the future.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction in trusting me with this eARC in return for my genuine review.

I was completely engrossed in this story of family and friendship, lost and found, loss and love.
It's a unique story line and I couldn't figure it out until Denise's story unfolded the truth before my eyes. I loved every moment of reading this lovely romance.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Summer of You and Me did NOT disappoint. I have always enjoyed Hunter's works, but this one shined. Masterful plot twists, an unexpected ending, dealing with grief and forgiveness, and looking toward a hopeful, joyful future. So much packed into this novel.

Releases Apr 22nd. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

#TheSummerofYouandMe #NetGalley.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter had me yearning for sunshine weather and the joy of a book I couldn’t put down. Absolutely fell in love with the characters as they took me along with them in life’s struggles and unpredictable outcomes. I recommend reading this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opinions are my own.

Denise Hunter tackles a variety of issues in this heart-warming and uplifting story. Maggie, a young widow with a five-year-old daughter, Zoey, has gone to spend the summer at her in-law’s beach house. Maggie’s brother-in-law, Josh, lives near the beach house, and he has been her friend and a great support person since the death of her late husband Ethan. Their summer takes on a whole new look as the days go by. Intrigued by a mysterious person and heartache from grief and loss and unknowns are wreaking havoc on what was supposed to be simply a delightful summer by the sea leading up to the 5th anniversary of Ethan’s death. Don’t worry, the story basically has a happily ever after in the end, but it is hard to make it to that point. Lots of tears and hardship are in store for Maggie, Josh, and their families. However, what I appreciated a lot about this book, besides the wonderful characters, the excellent plot, and the multiple conflict points, is how Denise Hunter tackles difficult inter-personal relationships, specifically, difficult family relationships. She does not dodge them or make them pretty on the outside, rather she delves in and walks the characters through situations that we likely encounter with loved ones or close friends in our own lives. Maggie’s mother is narcissistic and the author walks her through those interactions and that situation quite well, with Maggie needing to set boundaries and talk things through with someone else. Josh also has a difficult relationship in his life, and the author again walks Josh through some difficult conversations and the reader can see the results of that. This is something that has been lacking in Christian fiction for a long time, and it is so refreshing to see it and learn from it. I highly recommend this book. It is a great, summer-themed literary escape and it is also a great personal growth book too. Read it. You won’t regret it!

First 5 star read of the year! Wow, at first I was put off by the relationship dynamic of the MMC & FMC but the storyline was so good I was able to look past it. The FMC was married to the MMC brother who has passed away some years back making the love interests former in-laws.

The story also had some mystery elements as a young man who happens to look like the FMC deceased husband randomly pops up in town. So they go on a mission to find out who this man is and why does he look like her husband.

The writing was spectacular. I was intrigued from beginning to end. This was definitely a page turner. I stayed up all night reading this because I just couldn't put it down. The way the author was able to use her words and writing style was indescribable. I felt like I was watching a Hallmark movie in my mind. This was my first book by this author, however it won't be my last. The chapters were short and easy to read as well. This is a 10 out of 10 will recommend.

The Summer of You and Me
Denise Hunter
April 22, 2025


Maggie is heading home to Seacrest, North Carolina. Each visit is difficult. Ethan´s family is there. She promised to come back for the summer. School is finished and her 4 year old daughter is ready to see her grandparents. They will be staying in their guest cottage. Each year since Ethanś death is almost as tough as the first year. She was pregnant when he left. He never met his beautiful baby girl. His folks still pressure her to dwell on his existence. Her sister in law, Erin has become her best friend. She helps but the only person who cares about her needs is Joshua, his brother.
The Summer of You and Me will be published on April 22, 2025 by Thomas Nelson. I was able to read and review Hunter´s latest novel via NetGalley. I appreciate being allowed to read the advance copy of her latest book. Once again she provides her readers with a passionate story of a family's struggles with an unfortunate loss. It is most difficult for his widow. How does she create a new life for herself and perhaps find a new father for her daughter. Family is not enough to overcome the loneliness of being alone. This excellent story is delightful. Readers will find it a welcome journey for the protagonist. Do enjoy!

This novel is the book equivalent of having the softest blanket + the best homemade hot cocoa + the coziest chair near a fireplace + an amazing mountain view. [Insert blissful, contented sigh here.]

I've read a number of Denise Hunter novels and I truly believe they keep getting better. I've read the advanced copies of her last few and I gave her last release 5 stars. Yet... I love this one even a little more. (You'll have to read it to understand!).

This wasn't an easy story. Some may look at a romance developing between a widow (Maggie) and her late husband's brother as unacceptable or weird. I wondered how the author would handle it, yet she did it so well that it was endearing. Maggie had been widowed nearly five years and they'd always been close friends. He was a huge support system to her and the baby girl born after her late husband was killed. She had no idea he had feelings for her since they had met as teenagers. She dated and married his brother so he buried it and left it alone. Rightfully so.

It's truly a beautiful story of being yourself and taking a chance. You can't help but respect Josh and Maggie both. The depth of their friendship and mutual support is incredible. The ZING between them makes you want to grin ear-to-ear in a most ridiculous fashion.

The mystery element in this book is so intriguing. Maggie spots a doppelgänger of her late husband through her camera lens while at a carnival. She shares it with Josh and they're both shell-shocked. You find yourself wondering all the plausible scenarios right along with Maggie and Josh. It is a journey of discovery in more ways than either of them ever expected. There is joy, disappointment, shock, anger, heartache, and incredulity. And the HEA...happily ever after...is OFF the charts -- arm pumps, squeals of glee, and more blissful sighing cannot be helped.

I cannot recommend this *unique romance with a twist* enough! Be prepared to read from cover to cover in an oh-so-uber-satisfactory-way!

>>> HUGE thanks to Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for providing an advanced reader copy of this novel. This is my voluntary review and in my own words.

The Summer of You and Me is a sweet, clean summer romance with a touch of mystery. A perfect read for the pool or beach!

This was my second novel by Denise Hunter and she’s amazing! In both of her books the characters are relatable and flawed, allowing the reader to connect with the story on a personal level. Pub date 4/22
This was a such beautiful story. It’s packed full of love, grief, family, friendship, forgiveness and even mystery. All of the characters (except Maggie’s mom 😅) are wonderful and so well-written, I couldn’t help connecting with them. The plot is very unique which makes the book even better.
Maggie and Josh’s friendship was so sweet, especially his enduring love for her. I really hoped they would get their “happily ever after”.
The author will take you on an emotional pursuit for answers. Along the way, you will think they have found their answers and another piece of information will change the course of their path. The twists and turns made it impossible to put this book down. I sobbed several times and even gasped out loud more than once.
Highly recommend 💕
Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity to read this complimentary advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Maggie and Ethan met and fell in love as teenagers. Ethan's brother Josh has had a crush on Maggie since they were teenagers but he has never told anyone, least of all Maggie. Maggie and Ethan marry and Ethan joins the service as a paramedic. Ethan is killed in the line of duty. Maggie is pregnant with their first child, Zoey. It's been 5 years since Ethan was killed. Maggie goes back home to stay in Josh's parents home at the beach for the summer. Josh and Maggie spend a lot of time together doing things with Zoey. When they take Zoey to the fair, Maggies see a young man that look a lot like her deceased husband. That sighting sets a search in motion. Will they be able to solve the mystery? Did Ethan cheat on Maggie and have a son? Did Ethan and Josh's dad cheat on their mother and have a son? So many twists and turns in this sweet love story. You won't want to miss it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #summerofyouandme #thomasnelsonfiction

Just let me say, I was so excited when NetGalley approved my request to read Denise Hunters new upcoming book. This book is such an emotional story about Maggie and Josh. They have been in each others lives for many years as friends. Well that is what Maggie believes. Josh is the brother of her late husband and has been there for her. It’s been five years and Maggie and her daughter, Zoey, are returning to Seabrook this Summer to spread her late husbands ashes with his family. This book will definitely pull at your heart strings with all the emotions in in this story. Hunter did a great job telling this story. I highly recommend you add to your list.

Denise Hunter is one of my favorites, and I always look forward to picking up her new titles. I had no idea what to expect when I went ahead and gave this one a try, but wow what a touching and poignant story, and it may just be my favorite book she's ever written.

The Summer of You and Me tells the story of a young man named Josh who's been in love with his brother's wife since they were teenagers. After his brother's death, he grows even closer to Maggie, but doesn't know how he'll ever be able to cross that line. When a chance encounter at a carnival with someone who shares an uncanny resemblance to Maggie's deceased husband occurs, it sends both Maggie and Josh on a quest with questions they may not actually want the answers to. Along the way, feelings begin to emerge between them that leave both dreaming of happily ever after, but can they ever move past everything between them to find their way there?

A story that left me thinking about it many days after I finished it, this wonderful romance is truly Denise Hunter at her best. The reader gets to follow along on every moment building between Josh and Maggie, while also getting to try and help them solve the mystery of who exactly is this doppelganger along the way.

The writing is heartfelt and wonderful, the romance was angsty and swoon worthy, and the mystery honestly had me second guessing everything at every turn and I still wasn't prepared for how everything was going to reveal at the end.

Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite reads of the year, and I can't possibly recommend it enough.

I applaud the author on delivering another fantastic clean romance that's truly unlike anything she's ever written before. I'd say the faith element is a little light, but it is still there and I enjoyed that fact.

Final Rating: 5/5.

I can't possibly recommend this one enough, especially if you enjoy sweet romances with a side of mystery.

Thanks so much to Thomas Nelson for allowing me to read and review this title!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Thomas Nelson) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.

This book was such a wonderful surprise. There was so much depth to the family, the things that are happening, and it's amazing when it was discovered who the person was that looked so much like Maggie's dead husband and Josh's brother. There are struggles, hope, love, secrets, that just kept me reading. Denise Hunter has another book that is wonderful, and a little different than I expected, Different is a way that ignited a spark in my soul.
I received an ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley.

I'm relatively new to Denise Hunter but I definitely will be looking for more of her books after this one. I am one of those people who tends to stay away from mystery books because I either find the ending out too soon or the story isn't logical with its ending. Not a problem with this book! Hunter grips you with the story from the beginning and keeps you guessing until the end. A great story and telling. Definitely get your hands on this one!

Denise Hunter does it again! This book was absolutely wonderful! Originally I had this book as a 4⭐️ but the last 15% of the book made that jump up to a 5! It’s so beautifully written and I didn’t want to put it down. I love how she tied it all together in the ending. I’m so glad I got an ARC for this book! It comes out 4/22/25. If you love a feel good romance story make sure to grab your copy. I promise you won’t regret it!

Thank you to NetGalley, Denise Hunter, and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC!

What a beautiful story about love and loss. Maggie is a widow coming back to her hometown to say goodbye to her husband scattering his ashes on the 5 year anniversary of his death. Josh is her brother in law, and also a man who has been in love with her forever. Just as Josh gears up to tell her how he really feels, Maggie spots someone who looks just like her deceased husband setting off a train of events and a compelling mystery. I love a good complicated love story, and this one was full of complications. A great read. I received an ARC, and this is my honest review.

Denise Hunter is one of my favorite authors. This book is a perfect example. She is a master story-teller. Her books pull so much emotion out of me.

In this book we meet a family 5 years after the death of a loved one, Ethan. The story focuses on Maggie, who was married to Ethan and Josh, his brother. The plot is excellent and I was drawn into the story immediately. I thought for a while that I knew where I was being led, but I was wrong. I truly love how the book ended and was happy that I was wrong!

The characters are perfectly developed. They definitely went straight to my heart and I care about them still, now after I finished the book.

I recommend this lovely book and hope other readers find the enjoyment I did while reading it.

A sincere thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for giving me the immense pleasure of reading a complimentary copy of this book, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This one gets five shiny, Summer stars from me. 😎

Up until I read this upcoming release, I had only picked up one Denise Hunter book. To be honest, I was a bit underwhelmed.

Not long ago I saw this one available in audio on NetGalley. Here I am just four days later -- already done. I would turn it on to walk the dog and then kept listening in the car, during other chores, etc. It was hard to put down.

Here are five elements that made this a real winner for me:

😎The summery setting with the MC Maggie staying at a beach house and enjoying outside time with her four-year-old Zoey and extended family.
😎The mysterious stranger. How could someone who looked just like her husband be walking around in the town they once lived in as a married couple.
😎A military widow representation and a look at the aftermath of losing that loved one during deployment overseas.
😎The extended family of Maggie's beloved husband Ethan rallies around her and has such a healthy and life-affirming attitude.
😎That Epilogue was simply delightful. What a heartwarming ending to Maggie's sometimes stressful Summer.

Bonus reason: That cover! 🎡

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for both an audio and digital ARC of this release scheduled for April 22, 2025. All opinions are my own.

I am never disappointed when I read a book by Denise Hunter. Her books are always quick reads. This can be a good and bad thing. I was not ready to finish this story. I will definitely read anything that Denise Hunter writes.
If you like clean romances, this book is for you.

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

OH I was drawn into this book from the beginning. I got a little disturbed in the middle - but as what usually happens with this fabulous author, I fell in love and cried with the characters! It was a wonderful book and will recommend it to everyone! Loved it and will listen to this book again!

Thank you to NetGalley for this story! All thoughts and opinions are my own!

This is the best book I have read in a long time! It has amazing characters, lots of twists and turns, family dynamics and stirs all your emotions. I could not put it down! A very well written story. I wish all books were this good.

The Summer of You and Me is an emotional roller coaster of a story that ran the gamut of feelings. Maggie and her in-laws are to spread her deceased military husband's ashes over the ocean this summer. But when someone who could be his doppelgänger is at the beachside carnival, things are upended for her and Josh, her brother-in-law. Could Ethan be alive? I honestly could not see how the story could end in a happy way. But ultimately, Denise Hunter pens a tale with twists, turns, healing, surprises, faith, and love in a way that is so sweet and heartwarming. Highly recommend this story. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my thoughts.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter

Maggie Reynolds is opening her heart again when the past slaps her in the face. She sees a man that looks like her late husband and she is thrown a wild card!

Maggie is visiting Seabrook for the summer to find closure. It was where they fell in love as kids and where Evan’s family lives. She’s never realized that Josh, her brother-in-law, has held her in his heart for many years, This unrequited love seems to have sabotaged all of his relationships.

Josh wants to lay it all out and take a chance with Maggie,

They face impossible questions as they try to unravel the mystery of this man that could be Evan’s twin. As they chase answers they are faced with more questions. Maggie isn’t sure of anything, including whether she wants answers.

What a phenomenal story! It was unexpected and so well written!

I love Denise Hunter’s ability to just walk the reader into the story. This was a beautiful experience with wonderful characters!

The prose was so well executed and the audiobook narration was wonderful! A great storyteller with a warm and telling voice! I really enjoyed it!

I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC for both the e-book and the audiobook for this novel. Both are excellent! 5/5⭐

This is my second Denise Hunter book and I'm completely sold. The summer vibes, the stranger, the hurt and all the love all in a beautiful town was stunning. Denise knocked this one out of the park.

I was excited to get early access to The Summer of You and Me, the latest release from Denise Hunter. This is the third book I’ve read by her, and once again—it’s a 5-star read. The Summer of You and Me is beautifully written. Summer, small-town charm, and a plot that keeps you guessing. What more could you want? I highly recommend it!

Publication Date- April 22, 2025
#TheSummerofYouandMe #NetGalley

The Summer of you and me, by Denise Hunter is a stand alone Christian contemporary story. This well written story is easy to read. The writing is so descriptive, it is easy to imagine the settings, people and happenings. This story is so realistic I felt like I was listening to a friend. Maggie and her daughter are spending the summer at her in-laws home while they are on vacation. While at a fair she sees someone that looks just like her late husband. Wanting to find him she turns to her late husband’s brother, Josh, for help. While the two have always gotten along nicely, this time spent together grows their relationship.

This is such a good story. I enjoyed the way Maggie gets along with her late husband’s family. I like how close she is to Josh and how he watches out for her and her daughter. I enjoyed how realistic the story is with how Josh’s parents react to Maggie and Josh’s new found relationship. This is a wonderful story of moving forward with life. I especially enjoyed the mystery behind the man Maggie sees at the fair and how he is connected to her. The ending really surprised me. This is a nice clean read story that grabbed my attention at the beginning and held it to the ends.

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

Looking for a powerful, emotive story? Look no further than The Summer of You and Me and make sure you clear your day. Maggie and Josh create such a dynamic chemistry that I found myself fully engrossed in their story. My mind was tripped up with all the possible options and explanations. I wasn’t quite sure how I wanted it to resolve and yet, when it did, it was utterly perfect, and no other outcome would have sufficed. Maggie and Josh have a beautiful friendship with long, deep roots and I love how Josh has always been there for her. Their interactions and the tender relationship with her daughter were truly heartwarming and endearing. Not to mention, all the family undercurrents created layers of complexity and realism. I genuinely loved this story and found the audio version to be even more captivating as the personalities and emotions really came through in the interactions.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book and the storyline. I loved the characters and their growth. I will definitely will be looking for more book by this author. I would recommend this book.

This story was so good! The mystery of Ethan's "twin" at the fair was so intriguing and the payoff was so worthwhile! I also loved how strongly the themes of grief, mental health, and found family played out through the story and seeing how natural the relationship between Maggie and Josh has evolved since they first met, throughout her marriage to Ethan, and since Ethan's death. Full of sweet, wholesome vibes!!

Denise Hunter's The Summer of You and Me audiobook offers a poignant and intriguing blend of second-chance romance and suspenseful mystery, all set against the charming backdrop of Seabrook. The narration beautifully captures Maggie's emotional journey as she returns to her late husband's hometown, hoping to find closure five years after his death.

The introduction of Josh, her brother-in-law who has harbored a long-standing, unrequited love for her, adds a layer of heartwarming potential for a new beginning. However, Hunter cleverly throws a compelling curveball into the mix when Maggie encounters a man who bears an uncanny resemblance to her deceased husband. This unsettling event propels Maggie and Josh on a quest for answers that quickly becomes more complex and emotionally charged than either of them anticipated.

The audiobook effectively builds suspense as Maggie grapples with the impossible possibility of her past returning, while simultaneously navigating her growing feelings for Josh. The mystery surrounding the look-alike keeps the listener engaged, raising questions about identity, loss, and the secrets that might be lurking beneath the surface of their small town.

The Summer of You and Me is a captivating listen that beautifully balances the delicate emotions of grief and the tentative hope of new love with a compelling undercurrent of mystery. Hunter crafts a story that explores the complexities of the heart and the unexpected ways the past can resurface, leaving the listener eager to uncover the truth alongside Maggie and Josh.

Now that was a stay-up-late-to-finish book! I believe this is my first Denise Hunter book even though I am familiar with the name, but it won't be the last! I loved the mystery arc of this book. It created increased depth and excitement. I loved the setting and overall atmosphere of the island summer vacation feel. There are no swears or alcohol and level 2 kisses only. Present tense, Dual POV with a few chapters in a third person's POV that created further depth and understanding on the readers part.

This was such a great story line. When I first met Maggie and Josh I really loved how they interacted, how they related to each other was a great interaction. Them finding a man who looked like Maggie’s deceased husband really grabbed my attention and did not let me go until the very end of this book. I could not put it down because I needed to know what was going to happen. I was not disappointed with this story. I really enjoyed every word of this book. It’s been a long time since a book hooked me like this.

I want to thank NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this advanced reader copy. This is my honest opinion.

Five years after her husband's death, Maggie is finally ready to let go of him and the dreams she had for their future. A summer at Seabrook, where she and Ethan first became childhood sweethearts, seems the perfect time and place to find closure. Plus, she gets to spend time with his family, the Reynoldses, whom she loves like her own.

Unbeknownst to Maggie, her brother-in-law, Josh Reynolds, has been in love with her since they first met all those years ago. But his brother ultimately won Maggie's heart, and Josh's unrequited love has ruined all of his relationships. If Maggie is ready to move on, then Josh is ready to lay it all on the line and come clean about his true feelings for her.

But his plans soon get put on hold when, shortly after Maggie returns to Seabrook, she runs into a man who could pass for Ethan's twin. But he disappears into the amusement-park crowd before she can confront him. The twist and turns that this triggers work their way through the rest of the story, as both Maggie and Josh must reflect on their relationships and the past before they can face their future head-on.

I really enjoyed this book and liked the warmth and relatability of the relationships between the characters. There were times that I found myself frustrated with Magige because of her thinking, but at the same time, given all that she had been through, it was probably very realistic. In the end, it was a wonderful story and I was very happy with how it turned out.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions are my own.

A sweet, heartwarming story. There are some heartbreaking moments along the way. Family is at the heart of this story. Likeable characters. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

BOOK REVIEW:

Wow! Where to even begin! This story! Oh this story! I felt such a wide gamut of emotions as I read this one... love, anger, hurt, sadness, laughter, tears, protectiveness, pain, bewilderment, confusion, joy... truly an emotional rollercoaster and so worth every bit of it.

Denise Hunter has crafted a unique and complex story that grabbed hold of me from the start. I loved the relationship Josh has with his widowed sister-in-law, Maggie and her daughter, Zoey. I truly love how unselfish Josh is, though he struggles with feeling he is very selfish. He truly lives out Phil 2:3-4 that tells us to consider others above ourselves. My heart hurts for him as he keeps his feelings tucked in to protect and honor Maggie and Ethan. I wanted so much for Josh and was overjoyed with what Hunter had in store for him.

I loved the bit of mystery and all the twists and turns and what ifs that played out. And the revelation! Oh my! I had considered parts of the outcome, but wasn't sure how it would have happened. The explanation was absolutely realistic and plausible. For that, I am thankful.

I loved the various emotions and reactions from Josh's family as things played out. Again, I felt they were realistic and true to character.. not contrived and forced.

I loved Zoey. How could you not! She is too cute and fun and just delightful.. and honestly so needed as parts of this story are a bit heavy at times and she adds just the right amount of glee to lighten the load.

Denise Hunter has long been an author whose works I enjoy. This one and her last book are both 5 star reads for me. She's always been a great writer, but it is as if she's leveled up to a higher standard and I, for one, love it!

What a lovely, complex, sweet, and angst-laden, second chance at love novel this was, and with plenty of twists and turns I didn't see coming. I haven't yet read many books by its author, Denise Hunter, but that's about to change because this excellent novel was most definitely a 5-star read.

The Summer of You and Me touched on so many deeply-felt emotions--Maggie's grief at the wartime loss of a loved one--her husband, Ethan, a now widowed, single mother raising her adorable daughter, Zoey, alone, her close friendship with her brother-in-law, Josh, a brother-in-law who seemingly had forever wanted more than just a close friendship with his sister-in-law, Maggie's manipulative single mother, the reaction of family and friends, all too ready to judge the slowly building relationship between Maggie and Josh, and if that wasn't enough, spotting someone at a carnival bearing a very striking resemblance to Maggie's dead husband, followed by the doubts, fears and questions the sight of this young man, Will, raised about his parentage, the hunt for answers, and the surprise ending I never saw coming. As heart-wrenching romances go, this novel hit the mark at every turn.

All in all, the complexity of the relationships between all of these well-drawn characters, the depth of their emotions, and all the doubts and twists and turns, kept me glued to this novel until the wee hours of the morning. Ms. Hunter now has a new fan among her readers.

I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.

firstly if you need a reason to read this book it will be Josh. and if this character doesnt get his happy ending then im never reading a book again. i jest. but i dont. but i do....but dont hurt be please Denise! give Josh all the happy endings and make more like him, please?
this book hard a constant stone in my throat where the emotions and tensions choked me up.
it was such a heartfelt and heartwarming book and took me up and swirled me round in all the right ways. but boy was i not ready for just how much id love this book.
the characters all felt so real. their reactions were storybook cliche and there werent people in moments without their flaws and as such perhaps flawed emotional reactions. but how would you react to what comes up in this book? well read on to find out is all i can say. you will not regret this book for one second.
Maggie was so brave. and i found her timeline and where she was in this book was apt for how thing might play out after becoming a widow. but what she wasnt counting for was Josh. and what she definitely wasnt counting on was seeing her five year dead husband in a crowd.
what follows is a discovery for everyone.its a whole shovel full of emotions. the mystery was perfectly mixed with the human connections and love story of it all. it was a tension not only because the story of who this missing or found man was but also because of the emotions every character was either going through or in certain characters cases causing!
this is a book id like to buy or get given so i could keep it forever.

"The Summer of You And Me” by Denise Hunter is an absolutely delightful read that captivates from start to finish. This inspirational romance is both poignant and uplifting, artfully weaving a story that touches the heart. Denise Hunter has mastered the art of sweet romance, creating a narrative that feels genuine and relatable.

The characters are wonderfully developed, each with depth and complexity that brings them to life. As the story unfolds, you can't help but fall in love with them as they navigate their lives and relationships. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable and beautifully written, making their journey together both believable and compelling.

What I appreciate most about this book is its ease of reading. The prose is fluid and engaging, allowing you to become completely immersed in the world Hunter creates. It's one of those books that you can curl up with and lose yourself in for hours.

Overall, "The Summer of Me and You" is a perfect blend of romance, inspiration, and character-driven storytelling. Denise Hunter has crafted a gem that resonates long after the last page is turned. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a heartfelt and sweet romance!

I enjoyed reading The Summer of You and Me, a contemporary romance summer vacation novel set in coastal North Carolina. Maggie is a widow with an adorable four-year-old daughter, Zoey. Her husband, Ethan, served in the military and passed away during an overseas tour when Maggie was pregnant with Zoey.

Maggie’s narcissistic mother is difficult to manage, and Maggie has remained close with Ethan’s family. Ethan’s younger sister is Maggie’s best friend from high school. Their younger brother, Josh, stepped up and provided practical help and emotional support for Maggie and Zoey.

Josh is divorced and lives in the beach town where he owns and operates a river boat tour company. Josh has also secretly loved Maggie for years. He’s happy that Maggie and Zoey will spend the summer house-sitting at his parent’s beach home in his town while they’re away and traveling in Europe.

This summer, five years after his brother’s passing, Josh plans to reveal his feelings for Maggie. His plan hits a major hurdle when Maggie spots a man at the town carnival who looks exactly like Ethan. Maggie and Josh want answers and start searching for the man who couldn’t possibly be Ethan, but somehow looks so much like him.

Maggie and Josh’s strong friendship faces challenges when they consider navigating romantic feelings that have ramifications for relationships with other family members. I loved how Josh cared for Maggie and was a doting uncle to Zoey. Josh and Maggie had shared grief and emotional baggage to unpack and process during the story.

I didn’t guess how the intriguing mystery would pan out and I loved the satisfying story resolution. I recommend The Summer of You and Me to contemporary romance readers who like single parent friends-to-more romances with unrequited love, family drama, a fascinating mystery and relevant faith elements in the story.

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received a complimentary of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Another great story from Denise Hunter that is a genuine delight! It deals with a family who lost a husband, son, and father. Moving through the quagmire after Ethan dies while on deployment, is challenging. After her daughter is born, her brother-in-law, Josh, is by her side for all the milestones and their friendship grows.

Flash ahead five years and she and her daughter are spending the summer back in her hometown at her in-laws house on the beach while they travel in Europe. At the end of the summer they'll spread Ethan's ashes in the ocean as a family.

Josh has had feelings for Maggie since he first met her as his sister Erin's best friend in his teenage years. He decides to approach her about bringing their relationship to the next level. When a chance encounter with a young man who is her husbands twin leaves she and Just reeling, a summer if discovery awaits.

The twists and turns in uncovering the relationship of the young msn lead Josh and Maggie on a journey of surprisingly results.. Along the way their relationship is challenged. But the story is one of resilience, second chances , and the love of family. A five star read you don't want to miss!

Maggie has been struggling since her husband Ethan's death, but it's time to make her peace with the past - and Seabrook, where they made so many memories together, is the place to do it. So she's visiting for the summer. Josh fell in love with Maggie before his brother Ethan ever met her, but being just that bit younger, he was never on her radar in that way. He fought the attraction throughout their marriage, but now that Ethan is gone and she's moving on, it's time to let her know how he feels. At least, that's the plan, but it's derailed when she spots a man who might be Ethan's twin - or maybe somehow, miraculously, he didn't die as the army told her? Josh has always been there for Maggie, and this hunt for truth is no exception - but will they find the answers she needs? And if they do, will his love need to be tabled again?

A delightful read, with a couple I really enjoyed getting to know, a mystery to solve and unexpected but beautiful answers - not to mention a welcoming family (his - let's not mention hers!), a cute daughter, and an inspiring message. I loved the way that Josh kept things completely honourable while Maggie was married, despite his feelings, even if I didn't always appreciate the way he tried to overcome those feelings. I also loved the way that he was always there for her, even when it was hard for him. Maggie had other things to overcome, and I enjoyed watching her gradually take those steps to get to a point where she could really accept Josh's love. And I really loved the answer to their mystery - I didn't see it coming but it worked beautifully. An inspiring and heart-warming story. Recommended.

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

This book was deeply emotional, heart stirring and, at times, heart-wrenching. You can always count on Denise Hunter providing a story that will stay with you, even after you finish the book.

Maggie Reynolds' husband, Ethan, was killed in combat five years ago. The debilitating grief has weighed her down. Her only joy in life, for the most part, is her daughter, who is a living piece of her husband. She leaned heavily on her faith, but there were times when the crushing loss was just too much for her.

Josh Reynolds is Maggie's brother-in-law. He stepped in to care for Maggie and her daughter after his brother's untimely death. Taking care of them is not hard for Josh because he has been secretly in love with Maggie for a long time. However, he keeps his feelings to himself.

Maggie has returned to Seabrook for the summer. When she sees a young man at the amusement park, who could be Ethan's twin, she is shocked beyond belief. Could her husband still be alive?

As Maggie and Josh investigate this little mystery, their bond with one another grows deeper, but the ghost of Ethan is still very present in everything they do or say. I was experiencing so many emotions while reading this book that I felt like a basket case. Denise Hunter is an expert at creating characters that you, as the reader, can relate to. They have real world problems. I loved that there was a little mystery built into this one. I had no clue where it would end up and how there be a happily ever after in this story. Faith plays a big part of this story, as I realized that this family's anchor was not of this world, but their faith in God helped them get through the difficult times. I fell a little bit in love with each member of the Reynolds family. I could write a book about so many things that I loved about this story, but I will just say that you do not want to miss reading this book. This would make a great beach read to start your summer off right.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Denise Hunter never disappoints. Her latest, The Summer of You and Me was a sweet love story that captured my full attention. Tender, poignant, and, at times, heart breaking, this story contained every element of the perfect romance. I fully enjoyed the interplay between the characters as perfectly timed tension dodged their every move. The struggles of the cast were all too relatable, complete with moments of pain and of hope. I could not get enough of this story! Denise Hunter knows how to craft a novel that will embed itself into you heart.

I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

I’m not sure I’ve ever read a story like this before, which made for a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The story grabbed me from the start. Maggie and Josh are sympathetic characters that I cared about and wanted to see get a happy ending. I liked the secondary characters and adored Maggie’s little girl, Zoey. Hunter does a fabulous job with the mystery. I was certain I knew how it was all going to turn out, but I got a surprise. A pleasant surprise and that’s all I’m saying. The Summer of You and Me is a standalone novel that will leave you with all the right feels. The writing is excellent and the story so very clever.

The Summer of You and Me
Denise Hunter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Maggie Reynolds tragically lost her husband five years ago. She returns to the town of Seabrook for the summer hoping that time with Ethan's family will allow her to finally let him go.

Ethan's brother, Josh Reynolds, has been in love with Maggie since she first came home with his sister when they were kids. His older brother quickly won Maggie's attention, and Josh kept quiet about his own broken heart. He's hopeful that if Maggie is ready to move on, that he can finally tell her about his true feelings.

While visiting the local amusement park, Maggie runs into a man who looks exactly like Ethan. The man disappears into the crowd before she can get to him, so she enlists Josh to help her discover the man's identity.

This story drew us in with intrigue and just when we thought we had uncovered the plot twist, Hunter delivered another surprise. She crafted complex relationships filled with sacrifice and real-world struggles. We enjoyed this new novel and the way Hunter illustrated God is always at work even when it is unknown to us.

We received an advance copy from NetGalley. This is our honest review.

Wow! I just finished THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME by Denise Hunter. It’s the best romance I’ve read in some time! She does a fantastic job of writing a believable, sweet romance with deep characters, and a plot twist I didn’t see coming.
Maggie brings her daughter Zoey to the beach town where she met her husband to spend the summer near his family. He was killed in the military five years earlier, and the extended family plans to scatter his ashes over the ocean in the late summer. Maggie's brother-in-law Josh hopes this summer is the right time to finally express his love for her. It gets more complicated when they see a man at the beachside carnival who looks like her deceased husband/his brother. Who is he? Is he somehow related?
Romance with a touch of mystery in a beachside town—What more could I ask for? Definitely put this book on your summer reading list! Thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the ARC. The opinions are my own.

It has been five years since schoolteacher Maggie Reynolds lost her husband, Ethan. It seems to be time to move forward with her daughter, four-year-old Zoey. It's time to live life again. A trip to Seabrook, facing memories of their love and time with her in-laws will help. When she sees a man in the crowd at a carnival, a man identical to Ethan, her world turns upside down once again.
Captain Josh Reynolds has loved Maggie since before her heart was won by his brother Ethan. He has not been able to get her out of his mind or heart. After five years he is ready to share the truth with her. When she sees a person who she is convinced is Ethan he supports and helps her search for this individual.
I received this novel from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I love the work of Denise Hunter, and this is one of her best stories in my opinion. There is so much going on here. Grief, loss, hope and a serious mystery with incredible results. The author makes it work with very interesting twists.
This is so good I happily give it five stars! The characters are believable. The feelings intense. I don't want to ruin a thing and say more.
If you love a good mystery and a sweet love story this should satisfy you.
There is a bit of negative toward a man being in love with his brother's widow and the two moving forward in a relationship. To me this is not against God's word at all. The interest in each other was fine and natural with me.
A great summertime read.

Falling in love after years of longing. Kisses with lots of swoon factor. A really cute kid. A mystery to solve. Family complications. Surprises. All of these things combined to take me on a riveting and entertaining rollercoaster ride with highs and lows and twists and turns that ended in a happily ever after. Just like in real life there were hurtful people, messy feelings, mistakes made, forgiveness given, and moments of wonderful connection and unexpected joy. This book had it all and I read it in one sitting, just couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter is a heartfelt, and sometimes bittersweet story. Maggie Reynolds is spending the summer at Seabrook where she and her late husband were first sweethearts. They say everyone has someone somewhere who could pass as a twin or doppelganger. While there Maggie sees her late husband’s. The chase is on to find him when he is lost in a crowd. Josh Reynolds, her brother-in-law, joins her in the search.

What a wild believable story with so many possibilities and speculations. Along the way Maggie confronts her doubts about herself, finds she can love again and makes changes in her life. There are surprises in the twists and turns, but God is in control of all. The characters are alive, warm, real with the kind of doubts that can plague us all.

I can highly recommend The Summer of You and Me to all who enjoy women’s fiction with a dose of romance. The fact that it is written from a Christian perspective just serves to make it more awesome.

I really enjoyed reading this sweet, emotional story. I loved how supportive Maggie’s in-laws were of her. Most of the time, they completely rallied around her. Maggie was finally ready to move on after her husband’s unexpected death, when she thinks she sees him in the distance. Josh has had feelings for Maggie since they were in high school and had kept it to himself the entire time because she was his brother’s girlfriend and then wife. They team up to try to find out who she had seen and it leads to drama at every turn. Josh was the perfect match for Maggie, as a friend and in love. This story was such a fun, easy read. It had me hooked from page one and there were a lot of fun surprises. It was my first Denise Hunter book and it will definitely not be my last!

Such an amazing second chance story and with twists I wasn't expecting! This book was so well written, entertaining, emotional and heartfelt. A wonderful and clever storyline that's interesting, suspenseful and yet was sweet as well. The characters journey through grief then hope is inspiring and real. Definitely a page turner with enough depth and drama to keep you on the edge of your seat and turning pages. A wonderful story from start to finish.

"It couldn't be Ethan. It absolutely couldn't be her high school sweetheart, the only man she'd ever loved, the man she'd married and conceived a child with. Because he was killed five years ago at his military post in Pakistan" (location 117). When Maggie thinks she sees her dead husband at a carnival, she turns to her brother-in-law Josh for help. This starts them on a quest to figure out just who this person could be.

I really liked this book. It was interesting and different. It caught me off guard a few times with its twists and turns. I enjoyed the hunt of trying to figure out who the mystery man was. I liked both Josh and Maggie and Josh's family, imperfect as it is. They were a great picture of how family comes together for you in your trials. Maggie's mom....not so much.

This was a fast read with a great pace. I'd recommend it. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

The Summer of You and Me is emotional, romantic, and laced with just the right amount of mystery. So pretty much everything I'm looking for in a wholesome sweet romance novel.

I like a story featuring a single parent, and I live in North Carolina, so I was drawn to the beachy setting. Complicated family dynamics, the slow-burn romance, and Josh’s unrequited love for Maggie definitely kept the pages turning as well.

The mysterious lookalike to Maggie's deceased husband is quite the clever subplot. I couldn't figure out who he was exactly, so the resolution really threw me for a loop (but in the best way)! If you love second chances, unresolved feelings, and a touch of suspense woven into a clean, deeply romantic story, this one’s for you.

Absolutely adored The Summer of You and Me!

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions shared here are my own.

Once again another feel good story! That encompasses many emotions. Dealing with grief, first love, betrayal and throw in a mystery. Maggie is coming up to the five year anniversary of her husband’s death. Thank goodness her in-laws have been a wonderful support system for her and her daughter Zoey. Especially Ethan’s brother Josh. When invited to spend the summer in her old hometown of Seabrook, she thinks it will be not only fun for Zoey but to finally let go of her grief. When she takes her daughter out to the carnival she does a double take when she briefly thinks she see her deceased husband.
Josh gets a frantic call from his sister-in-law, she thinks she just seen Ethan and had a partial picture to prove it. And yes he is a dead ringer but looks younger. Of course he will help to find the man and solve the mystery, but his heart might not be able to keep his secret much longer.
This was such a wonderful story. Working out the mystery and opening up theirs hearts overcoming all the insecurities of their past. Thank you #NETGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #TheSummerofYouandMe

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter was a fascinating read, and I highly recommend it.
Maggie Reynolds and her four-year-old daughter, Zoey, are spending their holiday in Seabrook, North Carolina — a place filled with bittersweet memories of her late husband, Ethan. Ethan’s family (brother, sister and parents) still reside in Seabrook. His sister is her best friend and his brother has been in love with her since they were teens. Together, they’re preparing to scatter Ethan’s ashes on the fifth anniversary of his passing and Maggie sees this as a sign that she should move on with her life.
While at the fair, Maggie spots someone who looks exactly like Ethan in the distance. Could the Army have made a mistake? Could Ethan somehow still be alive? Maggie and Josh quietly set out to uncover the truth, determined to keep their investigation from upsetting the Reynolds family. The emotions they both experience as they go through the journey before them was captivating.
There’s so much more to this story and I don’t want to ruin any of the surprises and twists. Read it soon before someone spoils it for you. As an avid reader I love it when an author can surprise me. We get jaded and think we have seen it all. 😊

Denise Hunter is one of my favorite feel good authors. I turn to her books after reading something heavy. Always a favorite and her latest book did not disappoint.

Such a great book! Another great one from Denise Hunter!

I received an ARC copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter is a deeply emotional and captivating story about love, grief, family, and finding hope again after heartbreak. Maggie Reynolds has spent the last five years mourning her husband Ethan’s death, raising their daughter Zoey, and holding onto the life they once dreamed of. This summer at Seabrook—the place where their love story first began—is supposed to be her moment of closure. Instead, Maggie is thrown into emotional turmoil when she spots a man who could pass for her late husband’s twin.

From the first chapter, the story pulls you in with its emotional intensity and rich characters. Maggie’s journey feels raw and honest. Her grief is layered and complicated, especially when feelings for Josh—her late husband’s brother and her steadfast friend—begin to surface. Josh’s unspoken love for Maggie is tender, patient, and heartbreaking, making him one of the most genuine romantic leads I’ve read in a while.

The mystery of the lookalike adds a tense, page-turning element to the romance. Every time Maggie and Josh think they have answers, new secrets emerge, shifting everything they thought they knew. The suspense is perfectly woven into the emotional core of the story, never overshadowing the real focus: healing, forgiveness, and the courage to choose love again.

Denise Hunter’s writing shines with emotional depth and vivid descriptions. Seabrook feels like a real place—full of sun, ocean breezes, family gatherings, and memories both sweet and painful. She portrays grief with sensitivity and allows Maggie’s journey toward healing to feel realistic, not rushed or simplified.

The supporting characters add warmth and complexity to the story, especially Zoey, who brings so much heart to the narrative. The Reynolds family is beautifully portrayed, showing unconditional love and support, while Maggie’s relationship with her difficult mother adds another layer of emotional realism.

The audiobook, narrated by Kim Churchill, is outstanding. Churchill captures the emotional nuances of Maggie and Josh so well. Her distinct voices for each character, pacing, and emotional delivery make it feel like you’re living inside the story rather than just listening to it. I highly recommend experiencing this one in audio form too—it brings another level of life to an already stunning story.

The ending is heartwarming, satisfying, and absolutely worth every twist and tear along the way. The Summer of You and Me isn’t just a love story—it’s a story about finding your way home after life has shattered your plans, about how grief shapes us, and how love, even after loss, can still bloom in unexpected, beautiful ways.

This book will stay with me for a long time.
5 enthusiastic stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book "The Summer of You and Me" and all opinions expressed are my own. This story kept me interested. Definitely a lot of emotion throughout. I loved getting to know the characters. Overall very good.

This was such an interesting, emotional book with wonderful characters. Maggie and her young daughter have returned to Seabrook for the summer where they will celebrate the fifth anniversary of her husband's death. She was hoping this would give her the closure she needed.

The book had many emotional twists and turns and amazing revelations as Maggie thought she had seen her husband or a man that could be Ethan's twin. She began to question if he could have survived. Her brother in law has always had feelings for her and was planning to let Maggie know since it had been five years but now his plans are derailed.
I could not put the book down! I loved it! I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter is a romantic story of healing, family, and love. Denise Hunter's writing tells the story without forcing readers to read graphic details that most of us can imagine.

Second book for me by Denise Hunter and both have left me wanting to leave more than 5 stars. It has the sweetest of clean love stories. But it has depth for the male and female leads. There was loss, learning boundaries with family, healing, and a couple moments that I needed to reach for a tissue in the best of ways. This made me cheer on the main couple that they could face all the obstacles in their paths and get to a happy ever after.

Thank you NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I can't even tell you how much I loved this book! You don't even have to wait for the story to start. Before the end of the first chapter, you'll be hooked.
I could not put this book down. It's a sweet story with all the vibes of summer. You'll feel like you're enjoying the carnival, walking along the beach, and eating seafood at a local restaurant. The characters are so well-written and relatable. I loved watching the romance bloom between Josh and Maggie--but I was not prepared for the twists! Yes, more than one!
This is the perfect book for a summer read, but make sure you have some tissues nearby. Denise Hunter is one of my favorite contemporary fiction authors, and this might be my new favorite of her novels!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This story took me by surprise. Not that I wasn't expecting to enjoy it, I certainly was. I've enjoyed every Denise Hunter book I've read. But because of how much I enjoyed it! From page one, I enjoyed every detail of this story. I liked the characters, the setting, the progression, the friendships, all of it! There's a twist in the storyline I hadn't expected, and I thoroughly enjoyed that! The story flows well as we've come to love and rely on from Ms. Hunter. All around an excellent read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Maggie Reynolds has returned to the coastal town of Seabrook, NC five years after her husband's death. She is at a small town carnival with her daughter Zoey and suddenly sees a man who looks exactly like her husband. With her late husband's brother, Josh, she goes on a search for this mysterious man ... becoming closer to Josh in the process.

I wanted to read The Summer of You and Me because I love Denise Hunter's books. I try to read them all as they are released! I also liked the beach read sound of this book.

This was perhaps my favorite Denise Hunter book so far. It has everything - a small town coastal setting, summer vibes, a compelling mystery, and a slowly unfolding romance. The mystery aspect was especially strong (and kept me up reading late!). I highly recommend this novel for other fans of beach reads and women's fiction.

THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME by Denise Hunter squeezed my heart relentlessly over and over again. It is all about family and faith and totally heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Maggie and Josh and all the secondary characters. All of Denise’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a person can stand before they completely break down and shatter.

THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME is filled with family drama, forgiveness, mystery and romance. It is also an emotional rich story, so much so that it just might be the best novel that I have read by Denise Hunter so far.

THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME is the story of Maggie, who lost her husband five years ago. She decides to spend the summer in their old home town once again even though she knows the memories will probably be many and very painful. She is supposed to spread his ashes with her in laws, but before that happens, she spots someone who looks exactly like Ethan. Hang on people, THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME is an intense and crazy ride.

THE SUMMER OF YOU AND ME is a quick read that you can easily read in one sitting and love every minute of it. It is one heck of a crazy emotional roller coaster ride! I have never met a Denise Hunter book that I didn’t love and once I started reading I knew I was going on one heck of an emotional journey! Whatever you are reading, put it down, and run and get this book! If you’ve never read a Denise Hunter novel (and you know who you are) this would be a perfect one to hook you!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

Sweet story of a romance that finally got its turn to thrive.

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

I read Denise Hunter’s The Summer of You and Me in a day. I had to know how it was going to end! I’m a long-time fan of Hunter’s books and I’ve read every single one. Of her recent “beach read” books, I think this one might be my favorite. The storyline was so interesting and memorable and had a bit of mystery thrown in. I felt like Josh and Maggie’s relationship was handled well, despite the potential awkwardness of brother and sister-in-law falling in love. Josh dealt with a lot of guilt over his feelings for Maggie, but what won me over was how he handled himself all that time. It speaks pretty highly of his character that she never suspected he felt more than family affection for her until well after her husband’s death.

I didn’t see the twist playing out how it did! The ending is so rewarding and sweet. I’ll admit to being super mad at Maggie and how she handled things at one point, but I give her a lot of credit for really doing some self care and figuring out her issues in order to move forward. As much as I didn’t “like” that part, it did feel authentic in a book where some pretty crazy things happen.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I was not asked to leave a positive review and my opinions are my own.

This was a great story! The characters went on such a journey, and I was riveted from start to finish. I didn't guess the twist either! Highly recommend!

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

This was the first book I read by Ms. Hunter, and I really enjoyed it. Josh has been in love with Maggie for years but respected the fact that she fell in love with his brother. Years after his brother passed away, he has finally decided to tell her how he feels and let the chips fall where they may. Unfortunately, just as he is about to tell her, she shows him a picture of a person who looks just like his deceased brother. Maggie has always looked at Josh as her brother but has always felt comfortable with him. She tells him about the man she saw because she doesn't want to hurt the rest of the family if she is wrong.

While searching for the look-alike, they grow closer, and she starts having feelings for him. She is surprised because she never looked at him that way before and she feels like she is betraying her husband. Josh is also the only man her daughter has ever known as a father figure. The bond her daughter and Josh share is fantastic and the relationship that develops between Josh and Maggie is just as wonderful.

When the secret is revealed, it has the chance of being great or catastrophic for the family. All of the scenarios they come up with are reasonable and I was so happy with the truth. There were some moments where I felt the characters were being redundant, but I tried to not let that override my enjoyment. I would definitely read more books by this author. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.

I loved this book. Denise Hunter is quickly becoming a new favorite author of mine. the complexities of life that were navigated in this book were difficult to say the least. I had an inkling how the end would turn out, but def not from the beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be recommending it to my bookish friends.

thank you netgalley for the advanced copy of the book. the review above is entirely my own honest feelings and in no way swayed.

The Summer of You and Me is such an emotional read. The book follows Maggie, who lost her husband five years ago. One day she sees a man that looks just like her late husband. Maggie and her husband’s brother, Josh, are planning to find the doppelgänger.
It is beautifully written, I could not put it down and finished it in one sitting. I loved everything about this book! highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Another 5-star read. This was another great read from Denise Hunter. The characters were highly relatable. The pace of the book was excellent. The twist throughout the story kept me reading at the edge of my seat. Maggie and Josh’s story is one that will remain with me for some time.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5 summery sugary sweet ⭐️’s

at first i was off put by the relationship dynamic but it grew on me and was written very realistically! i appreciated that the protagonists had complicated family dynamics and grief to work through, and that the fmc had a 4 year old daughter! there was just so much i could relate to, where i understand this could be a 3 or 4 star for some, but for me personally i really adored and connected with the fmc that this will become a summer comfort read (just like Novel Proposal by DH was) i adore her writing, she’s really nailed down summery Christian romance that is not cheesy but still gives you butterflies 🦋

thank you Netgalley for this ARC!

A wonderful story:
I really enjoyed this clean, contemporary romance. I was instantly drawn into the mystery and appreciated the twists and turns that had me guessing right up to the end. I liked how unique and unpredictable it was, which made for a refreshing and inspiring read.
I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters and especially appreciated that 4 year old Zoey was depicted realistically. I liked Maggie and Josh as a couple and was rooting for them all the way.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Denise Hunter has once again delivered an amazing heartfelt romance.

Widow Maggie is about to pass the 5th anniversary of her husband's death when she finds herself falling in love with her best friend. Is this allowed? Will it ruin the friendship? Her daughter needs a daddy. Before she can examine her feelings any further, she see her husband's doppelganger at the carnival and that sends her into a tailspin as she's determined to find out who he is! Will she be able to handle the truth?

Come along on this beautiful heartfelt story and you'll not be sorry for one minute of reading time!

Thank you to NetGalley, Denise Hunter and Thomas Nelson Publishing for allowing me this arc version in exchange for my opinion.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter is a fun summer read with an exciting plot twist that I did not see coming yet added much to the plot line. I am a big fan of all Denise Hunter books and this one did not disappoint. I enjoyed the setting of this book and could easily picture it as I was reading. The characters were believable to easy to fall in love with. Another Hunter 5 star book for me!

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

"If Maggie Reynolds could just make it past August seventh, she would finally be able to breathe again. But nearly two months of bittersweet memories stood between now and then like an emotional minefield. She hoped returning to Seabrook, North Carolina, for the summer had not been a colossal mistake. Too late now. At least she had her four-year-old in tow to distract her from all of the above."

Losing her husband unexpectedly gutted Maggie. So when she thinks she sees him from a distance, she wonders if the military has been lying to her all along. His brother agrees to help her investigate. but he might have an ulterior motive for wanting to spend time with her. Can the two of them discover the truth together?

This book is one part mystery, one part romance, one part family and one part faith in a beautiful combination. While the book could possibly be called a beach read, there is so much more depth contained in the plot. Having a firsthand look as the main character processes grief adds substance to the plot.

I have read most of the author's books. While certain qualities define her books, She always manages to add an original aspect that makes the plot feel fresh. She is a must-read author for me, and I am definitely a fan.

I read an advanced copy of this book through netgalley. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.

Maggie Reynolds husband passed away five years ago, it’s time for her to accept he’s gone and move forward. Maggie and her four year old daughter Zoey plan to spend the summer at Seabrook, where she and Ethan first met and fell in love.

Josh Reynolds is Maggie's brother-in-law and he and his sister Erin are her best friends and have supported her through losing Ethan. Josh has loved Maggie for years, but his brother won her heart, and should Josh finally tell her how he feels and if he does will he push Maggie away and upset his family. While in Seabrook and at a carnival she glimpses a man in a crowd who could pass for Ethan's twin, Maggie has two choices contact her grief counsellor as soon as possible or tell Josh and together they try to find the mystery man?

The narrative focuses on topics such as being high school sweethearts and losing your soulmate, is it wrong to fall in love with your deceased brothers wife and people’s attitudes towards this scenario, letting go and moving forward, single parenting and the theory of everyone having a twin or could it be something much more complicated and is Maggie and Josh prepared for the repercussions?

I received a copy of The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction and in exchange for an unbiased review. I really liked Maggie’s character, it wouldn’t be easy to be a widow at such a young age, raise her daughter alone and juggle work and her mother.

Ms Hunter is known for writing faith based and heart-warming stories set in small towns, about love, longing, forgiveness and new beginnings and five stars from me and I highly recommend.

The Summer of You and Me, by Denise Hunter, is the story of young widow Maggie Reynolds and the summer she finds closure and is ready to move forward. House sitting for her in-laws, Maggie and her daughter Zoey, are back in Seabrook where her story and her life with Ethan began. But after his wartime death, Maggie has spent little time there even though Erin, her best friend and sister-In-law, and her family still live there, as does her brother-In-law Josh.

Although a couple of years younger than Maggie, Josh has been carrying a torch for her since the day they first met. But it was his older brother, Ethan, that caught Maggie’s eye. Now that she is ready to begin again, Josh plans to lay his cards on the table until Maggie sees a young man in the crowd at the summer carnival that is Ethan’s doppelgänger. This leads to a hunt for the young man and answers as to who he is and why the uncanny resemblance.

This novel now takes a circuitous route to finding answers as well as a future for Maggie and Josh. I really enjoyed this book and I do recommend it.

It’s coming up to the fifth anniversary of Ethan’s death and his widow, Maggie, is finally past the grief. At least, until she sees Ethan’s dead ringer at the carnival …

Ethan’s younger brother, Josh, has been in love with Maggie since they met as teens, although he’s never told her (oh, I love a good unrequited romance, especially when he fell first). They’ve remained good friends, so Josh is the first person Maggie tells about Ethan’s doppelganger, and the two work together to find him.

Because what if the Army was wrong, and Ethan didn’t die?

It’s a great setup, and there were a few unexpected twists in the story, which were excellent. We read romance for the predictable ending, but I always love it when the story is able to surprise me – and The Summer of You and Me certainly achieved that element of surprise.

I also loved Maggie’s journey as a character. Her father left when she was a child (and having met her mother, this is exactly zero surprise). Her husband died (through no fault of his own). But both losses have left her scarred and afraid to love again. What she doesn’t realise (and which is evident to the reader from early on) is that Josh has always loved her, and his endless super-short-term relationships were his attempts to get over her. (Why do men think like that? Women would buy a dog, or a cat.)

The Summer of You and Me is an excellent and well-written story that engaged me from the start. Recommended for contemporary romance fans.

Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter is a sweet summery romance. It is not a light romance but it is full of genuine emotions. Readers of romance will enjoy this second chance romance. I think it is even more interesting because of the conflicting emotions caused by the appearance of someone who looks like her deceased husband. This book has a little bit of everything– grief, hope, mystery, love, and redemption. It is well written and I recommend it wholeheartedly. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

This was a page turning afternoon read with a lovely beachy vibe. The story took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, from highs to lows, and sometimes (like a real rollercoaster) it felt a little stomach churning, however it all came right in the end. I loved that the story kept me guessing and was able to throw in a real curveball at the end.

This story has lots of romance, a definite mystery and a cute kid too. If you enjoy the conflict of a long love vs short love and the hangup over 'what will the family think?' then this is a great book to read. It is a stand alone book which makes it perfect for a relaxed read when you just want to escape to some sun and the beach (even when you can't physically). 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was such a funny story. I was hooked from the very beginning. Josh was way too good to be true, Maggie was a sweetheart and I loved little Josie. There was mystery, humor, and pure romance. It was amazing! I loved how it was both - humorous but also deep. It was a story that I laughed, I cried, and I felt all the feels with both main characters. I can't wait to read more from Denise Hunter.

I received a copy of this book from netgalley but all opinions were mine. I wasn't required to write a review.

new beginnings. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Seabrook, the novel offers readers a blend of mystery, romance, and emotional growth. While the central relationship may challenge traditional norms, the story's exploration of love, loss, and healing resonates deeply. For those seeking a poignant summer read that delves into the complexities of the human heart, The Summer of You and Me is a worthy addition to your reading list.

I’ve always enjoyed reading Denise Hunter’s books and I own almost all of them in ebook format. So when I seen The Summer of You and Me on NetGalley I had to request reading it and I’m so happy that my request was fulfilled. This is such a great story. It’s a romance but it’s an unconventional romance with some really surprising twists and turns to the storyline. It was definitely not a dull read and it kept me glued to my kindle as much as was possible. The characters were all really wonderful people and I felt as if I really got to know them and I could feel all the emotions of love and heartache that they were going through. This is certainly a book I would recommend to others because it was just so good. I’d like to thank Thomas Nelson Fiction for accepting my request and NetGalley for the arc. This was a great read, I really enjoyed how the story came together and the ending was absolutely perfect. I’m rating this book with a much deserved 5 star rating and I look forward to reading more by Denise Hunter very soon.

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter gripped me from the start and wouldn't let go. A wonderful friends to lovers story.

Josh has been in love with Maggie for years, but she only saw him as a good friend. In fact she had married his brother. However, his brother, her husband Ethan, has now been dead for 5 years.

However, Maggie suddenly sees someone at the carnival who has an uncanny resemblance to her husband. But that can't be, can it?

This is the start of an investigation Maggie and Josh undertake, trying to figure out who it was that she saw, and no, it's not just her imagination as she caught the guy in the picture she was taking of her daughter .

There were so many twists and seeming dead ends as they undertook this mission. And as they did, they grew even closer together. But will Maggie ever see Josh as more than a good friend? Will she be able to open herself up to love despite the devastation in her past, and when certain truths are brought to light?

An awesome, emotional book dealing with loss and grief. It has become my favorite of this author. I zinged through the last half of the book as I needed them to solve this mystery.

Highly recommended.

I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.

I love this read. I was unable to put it down once I started. It felt so realistic and relatable in areas. I love the main character and the growth throughout the book. Definitely will be reading more by Denise Hunter!

I truly loved this book so much! I loved the mystery within the story and how the love story developed between Maggie and Josh. I really appreciated the found family aspect of Maggie's relationship with Josh's family. The epilogue was a beautiful ending to the story. Overall, great story of second chance love!