Just for the Summer was one of my most highly anticipated books of 2024. I read the Target Exclusive edition which included a bonus chapter about Maddy and Doug's meet cute.

I loved this book! It is easy to see the research and loving care that Abby Jimenez puts into her characters and their unique personalities. Both Justin and Emma have tough things to deal with and they learn from each other. There are some truly funny moments interspersed throughout the serious ones. I love that the main characters vowed to tell the other exactly what they were thinking should they be asked. It was truly a beautiful book, and I can't wait to hear what Abby will be writing about next. ( )

I really liked the setup for this book, but it ended up being my least favorite of this series.

There are a lot of mental health struggles covered in this book and therefore it leaned more serious than I would have liked. I did like all of the easter eggs, but admittedly some of them went over my head until I read the author's note. The disadvantage to reading books right when they come out instead of binging a series. ( )

I just found Abby Jimenez this month and she quickly became a new favorite. This story is so darn adorable, and I love the way she connects the community of characters across the books in this series. I am fully bought in and I hope she continues the collection! ( )

Just for the Summer

I Picked Up This Book Because: I liked the author’s previous works.

Media Type: Audiobook
Source: P Public Library
Dates Read: 4/11/24 - 4/13/24
Stars: 4.5 Stars
Narrator(s): Christine Lakin, Zachary Webber

The Characters:

Emma:
Justin:
Maddie, Justin’s siblings, Brad the dog, Brad the human,

The Story:
I’ve unfortunately waited too long to put my thoughts down about this book so now all I have is my feelings of love for a story that took me on quite a ride and no details. ( )

If you love romcoms, meet cutes, insta-love, fake dating Summer romance then I must let you know that this book is not known as readers’ most anticipated release this year for nothing! With some heartfelt moments, found family, and inner healing, this book covered so much that I was not expecting and will not forget. A must-read! Perfect for the upcoming summer – you have no excuse, go read!

This is the first book I’ve read by Abby and honestly, I cannot believe I haven’t read her stuff sooner! I devoured most of this book in one day, which is when you can tell it’s a good one if you’re hooked that much.

For those who have read Abby’s work before, you will be sure to recognise some of the character cameos here from Part of Your World

I was only recently aware that Abby Jimenez tends to have bigger deeper themes as part of her books and the romance tends to be more of a subplot. Thus, not knowing this, I was only expecting the summer romance to be the main element with probably some spice so was pleasantly surprised. As well as the more serious notes, it was very amusing. Justin and Emma had great witty banter, there were some funny moments.

I found nothing negative about this book. I can see why some people might find aspects negative: like if it felt too long, wanted more spice, or it simply wasn’t for them. But everything worked for me. I could argue the slowburn was quite slow. ( )