My Review: Mystery & Romance
Under the Boardwalk
is the first book in the Costas sisters series from Carly Phillips –
though each book is easily read as a standalone and there are no
cliffhangers. I read both stories, and I think there was a nice depth
to the series as the characters (including all of the secondary
characters) continue to grow. The book I read & am reviewing is a
re-release of the original, and includes a new cover. I have not read
the original release.
All Ariana Costas
ever wanted was a “normal” life. She left her quirky, crazy Greek
family and their south Jersey Boardwalk show antics and cons behind
as soon as she was able, reinventing herself in Vermont while
teaching Psychology. She returns home five years later, after
receiving the news that her twin sister Zoe is missing. Ari goes on
the hunt for her sister, determined to find the truth. Quinn is an
undercover cop on assignment at the casino that Zoe disappeared from.
After a run-in with Ari, he thinks he’s sent her packing back to
Vermont to wait for news – little does he know!
Home really is the
best place sometimes! Zoe’s disappearance forces Ari to confront
her past, her insecurities, and evaluate what & who she really
wants in her life. This book was an easy and fun read, and has a bit
of everything – mystery & intrigue, drama, self-realization,
romance, suspense, and humor. I received an ARC in exchange for an
honest review.
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My Review: A Fun Read As Always
Summer of Love is
the second book in the Costas sisters series from Carly Phillips –
though each book is easily read as a standalone. I read them in
order, and I think there was a nice depth to the series as the
characters (including all of the secondary characters) continue to
grow. This book is a re-release of the original, with a new cover and
re-imagined title. The original book was called Summer Lovin’.
Zoe Costas is a
security specialist and former government agent with a wild spirit,
thanks in part to her zany and crazy family and their tourist
sideshow antics. Ryan Baldwin is an old-money Boston attorney who
couldn’t be more “by the book”. In a true case of opposites
attract, the sparks fly between Zoe and Ryan from their first
encounter. I love their chemistry!
It’s never all fun
and games – nor should it be. ;) This is an entertaining and
enjoying read with a surprising amount of complexity in emotions and
family dynamics. We get a taste of suspense, mystery, drama, and
romantic sizzle, all wrapped up in Zoe and Ryan.
I’ve always enjoy
Ms. Phillips’ books. This one is no exception, and this series
holds a special place in my heart as it’s set in a beach town in
south Jersey, where I have spent a significant amount of time. I
received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
---
My general rating
rationale:
5 – Can’t say
enough amazing things, loved the characters, fabulously detailed
plot, a quick hook, intense investment in both story and characters
(including secondary characters) throughout the book. Will tell
anyone who will listen that they should read it.
4 – A very good
book. Engaging, with well-developed characters, a great plot,
relatable scenarios; keeps you invested to the last page. Would
recommend to reader friends.
3 – Perfectly fine
story, perhaps some minor editorial errors. Entertaining. Typically
with this rating I feel like there could have been MORE – be it
believably/relatability, character development, internal dialogue,
explanations or depth, richness to the overall story line, etc. May
lose a bit of engagement here and there but I always finish reading
it.
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Meet Carly Phillips:
NY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips gives her readers Alphalicious heroes to swoon for and romance to set your heart on fire. She married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her three crazy dogs: two wheaten terriers and a mutant Havanese, who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram. The author of 50 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters who put up with having a mom as a full time writer. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as a romance club pick and was the first romance on a nationally televised bookclub. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter (below) and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
Connect with Carly Phillips:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlyphillips/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/carlyphillips
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Carly-Phillips/e/B001I9W0MS
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