Book Review: It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
When I stumbled upon It Happened One Summer, I was immediately intrigued by its premise: a glamorous socialite exiled to a small beach town, clashing with a grumpy fisherman. Tessa Bailey, known for her engaging voice and spicy romances, had me curious to see how she would weave this classic enemies-to-lovers story. Little did I know, this book would not only keep me entertained but also touch on themes of self-discovery and acceptance that resonated deeply with me.
A Wild Child Meets Her Match
The protagonist, Piper Bellinger, bursts onto the page as a quintessential “It Girl,” living a life full of fashion, parties, and paparazzi in Los Angeles. Her sudden fall from grace—after a wild rooftop party lands her in jail—sets the stage for a heartfelt transformation. Sent to Westport, Washington, with her sister to manage their late father’s dive bar, Piper grapples with her past and a new, rough-around-the-edges reality. Enter Brendan, the brooding, bearded fisherman whose instant disdain for Piper is palpable.
Their chemistry is electric and the dialogue crackles with a mix of humor and tension. Bailey expertly crafts their encounters, showcasing Piper’s resilience and Brendan’s underlying warmth. I loved how Piper’s journey forced her to peel back layers of her personality, giving readers a chance to see not just the glamorous facade but also the vulnerabilities beneath.
Writing Style and Themes
Bailey’s writing shines in its humor and relatability. The pacing is spot on, moving effortlessly between laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt introspection. As I read, I found myself drawn to the playful banter between Piper and Brendan, reflecting that classic grumpy/sunshine dynamic that always warms my heart. One memorable line that made me chuckle captured the essence of their relationship perfectly: “You might be a wild princess, but you’ll learn to fish, or you’ll drown trying.”
The themes of self-worth and acceptance are woven artfully throughout the narrative. Piper’s evolution from party princess to a more grounded individual is not just refreshing; it’s a reminder of how important it is to find our true selves, regardless of society’s expectations.
Final Thoughts
It Happened One Summer is not just a fluffy, feel-good romance—though it definitely delivers on that front! It’s a story about transformation and the courage to embrace change. Fans of Schitt’s Creek will appreciate the humor and heart in this narrative, as well as Piper’s relatable struggle to redefine herself outside of her privileged existence.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for a light-hearted escape infused with genuine character growth. Whether you’re lounging at the beach or curling up on the couch with a cozy blanket, this novel is a delightful reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come from unexpected places. Tessa Bailey has another winner on her hands, and I can’t wait to dive into the next installment of the Bellinger Sisters!