Rating: 4.75/5
After absolutely loving Every Summer After, I was so excited to return to Barry’s Bay in One Golden Summer. This follow-up gave me everything I wanted—nostalgia, romance, a dreamy lake setting, and a deeper look at Charlie Florek. I didn’t want to put this book down.
The Premise:
Alice’s life changed the summer she was seventeen, when she spent a few months at her grandmother Nan’s lake house. She took a photo of three teens in a yellow speedboat. An image that launched her photography career.
Now, years later, Alice is burned out and craving a reset. When Nan breaks her hip, Alice returns to Barry’s Bay to help her recover. She’s hoping for a quiet summer. But then Charlie Florek shows up again.. older, still a total flirt, and still in that same yellow boat.
Alice is used to watching from behind the lens. Charlie challenges that. He sees her, really sees her, in a way no one else does. And slowly, the summer starts to feel like something more than a break from reality.
My Thoughts:
I liked Charlie in this book way more than I ever expected to. Honestly, my opinions about him from Every Summer After were pretty neutral, he was just Sam’s older brother. But here, Charlie felt real and layered. His story surprised me in the best way, and I’m glad he got his chance at happiness.
The lake house setting was everything. Spending a couple of months there with your grandma? That hit me harder than I expected. I really miss having a grandma, and Nan was such a bright spot. Her relationship with Alice added so much warmth. And yes, a hot neighbor showing up with perfect timing doesn’t hurt either.
Alice’s career as a photographer added a subtle emotional weight to the story. She’s quietly stuck. Successful on paper, but unsure of what she really wants. Watching her reconnect with joy and creativity alongside Charlie made the romance feel grounded and believable. Their chemistry was slow and steady, with just enough tension to keep me hooked.
Final Thoughts:
This is a strong follow-up that somehow stands on its own while still rewarding fans of the first book. The pacing, the setting, the emotional arc.. it all worked for me. It felt like slipping into summer, with just the right balance of love, longing, and reflection.
If you liked Every Summer After, don’t skip this one. It’s tender, romantic, and just the right kind of escape.
Let me know if you’ve read it. I’d love to hear your thoughts on Charlie’s redemption arc.
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