Name: It's Not Summer Without You
Rating: 7.48 (747533 reviews)
Author: Jenny Han
ISBN: 9781416995555

For Belly Conklin, summer has lost its magic. It used to be a time of sun-drenched days at Cousins Beach with the Fisher brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah. But this year is different. After the death of the boys' mother, Susannah, and a painful breakup with Conrad, the one boy she's always loved, Belly is dreading the empty months ahead. The familiar traditions have been shattered, leaving behind only memories and a wish that things could go back to the way they were. But when Jeremiah calls to say Conrad has disappeared, Belly knows she must help find him, a journey that will lead them all back to the one place that holds their shared past.

Returning to the beach house forces Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah to confront their collective grief and the unspoken feelings that have grown between them. The house itself, a symbol of their happiest moments, is now at risk of being lost forever, adding urgency to their emotional turmoil. The story explores the landscape of first love and first heartbreak, navigating how relationships shift under the weight of loss and the inevitability of growing up. It is a narrative about confronting the past to decide what the future will hold, and whether love can be pieced back together after it has been broken.

Subjects

Positives

Many readers found the book to be an undeniably compelling and addictive read, describing it as a story they simply could not put down despite any frustrations. The author's writing style is frequently praised for its ability to capture the complex emotions of young love and the feeling of summer, making the characters and their struggles feel real and relatable to some. The setting, particularly the beach house memories, resonated positively with many, evoking a sense of nostalgia and creating a comforting atmosphere. Some reviewers appreciated the deeper emotional themes explored and felt the story offered growth compared to the first book, while others enjoyed the intricate dynamics of the love triangle.

Negatives

However, a significant number of reviews expressed strong criticisms, primarily directed at the main characters. Belly is frequently described as immature, whiny, selfish, and at times, unlikeable, with her decisions often frustrating readers. The portrayal of Conrad also drew considerable negative feedback, with many finding him moody, annoying, and a "jerk." Jeremiah, while having his supporters, was also seen by some as pathetic, whiny, or having problematic jealousy issues. The love triangle itself was a point of contention for many, often described as overly dramatic, unrealistic, or an overused plot device. Some reviewers felt the plot lacked substance, with too much internal conflict and not enough external action, or that the constant back-and-forth between past and present disrupted the flow.

Conclusion

Ultimately, "It's Not Summer Without You" appears to be a polarizing read that many find themselves drawn to despite its perceived flaws. It is often described as an addictive, quick read, perfect for summer, that keeps readers engaged enough to continue to the next installment. This book would likely appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven contemporary romances with significant emotional drama and a strong focus on relationships, even if the characters themselves are frustrating or make questionable choices. Fans of the first book or the associated television series, who are looking for a continuation of the story and are prepared for an angsty exploration of complex family and romantic dynamics, may find themselves captivated by this installment.