In “The Summer of Broken Rules” by K.L. Walther, Meredith, a meticulous and rule-abiding teenager, spends the summer with her grandmother in a small beach town. Her life turns unexpectedly when she meets Cricket, a charming and carefree neighbour who challenges her to break free from her strict rules and embrace the unknown.
As Meredith navigates this new world, she learns to let go of her need for control and embrace the beauty of spontaneity. Cricket’s influence helps her see the world differently, and she begins to question her own rules and boundaries. Meanwhile, Cricket struggles with his own demons, including a difficult past and a fear of commitment.
Meredith and Cricket grow closer throughout the summer, sharing laughter, adventures, and secrets. Their relationship blossoms into a romance, but they face challenges. Meredith must confront her fear of risks, while Cricket must learn to open up and trust others.
The book portrays character growth, witty dialogue, and humorous moments. Meredith’s transformation from a rule-follower to a spontaneous and carefree individual is well-developed and relatable. Cricket’s charm and vulnerability make him a lovable and complex love interest. The summer setting adds a carefree, nostalgic feel to the story, perfect for a beach read.
However, the plot can be predictable, with some twists feeling too convenient. Some supporting characters, like Meredith’s grandmother, feel underdeveloped and could benefit from more depth. The story relies on clichés, like the “good girl falls for bad boy” trope, which may confuse some readers. The pacing can be uneven, with some scenes feeling rushed and others feeling slow.
Despite these flaws, “The Summer of Broken Rules” is a delightful, feel-good romance that explores the importance of taking risks, living in the moment, and embracing the beauty of spontaneity. The book’s humour, charm, and character growth make it a great choice for readers looking for a lighthearted summer read.
Ultimately, Meredith learns that sometimes, breaking the rules can lead to the most unexpected and beautiful experiences. As she reflects on her summer, she realizes that “the summer of broken rules” was exactly what she needed to break free from her strict rules and embrace the unknown.
What Captivated Me
The Enchanting Setting: As a New England native, I have a soft spot for summer tales set on the picturesque islands of our region. With its sprawling family farms, pristine beaches, quaint local shops, and scenic bike paths, Martha’s Vineyard proved to be the perfect escape. The author’s vivid descriptions transported me to a world of sun-kissed bliss.
The Romance: While marketed as YA, this book effortlessly blurs the lines between young adult and new adult fiction. It features an 18-year-old protagonist and a 20-year-old love interest. The romance is sweet and sex-positive, and its swift progression felt authentic, capturing the all-consuming nature of a summer fling.
The Family Dynamics: This story’s family aspect is truly exceptional. The author masterfully weaves together an intricate web of relationships set against the backdrop of a family wedding and a thrilling game of Assassin. If you enjoyed the family-centric romance of “10 Blind Dates” by Ashley Elston, you’d undoubtedly adore this one.
What Worked Despite Expectations:
The Romance’s “Cheese Level”: While some might find the romantic declarations and gestures overly dramatic, I found them endearing and genuine. The intensity of first love can be overwhelming, and the author captures this beautifully, making the characters’ emotions feel raw and authentic.
This book is a must-read for those who crave a lighthearted, romantic escape, especially if you’re a fan of summer settings, family-centric stories, and sweet, sex-positive romance.
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