Posted by Mrs. Condit on July 18, 2016
GENRE:
Contemporary Romance
RATING:
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (4 Stars)
I’m excited to be part of the blog tour for Shadows of Summer by Claire Ashford today! If you love emotional second-chance romances with a coastal small-town setting, this one might be right up your alley.
BLURB:
After ten years away, Julia Reynolds returns to the seaside town she once called home — and to the memories she tried to leave behind. When she unexpectedly crosses paths with Ethan Cole, the boy who broke her heart, she’s forced to confront the past she never truly escaped.
But as old feelings resurface and long-hidden truths begin to unravel, Julia must decide whether love deserves a second chance… or if some chapters are better left closed.
MY REVIEW:
There’s something about a seaside setting that always pulls me in, and Shadows of Summer captured that atmosphere beautifully. The descriptions of the boardwalk, the ocean breeze, and the quiet evenings by the shore made the story feel immersive without ever overshadowing the emotional core.
Julia is a relatable heroine — strong but still carrying wounds from the past. Ethan’s character is layered in a way that slowly reveals his motivations, making their reconnection feel authentic rather than rushed.
What I appreciated most was the steady pacing. This isn’t an instant-reconciliation romance. It’s a story about growth, understanding, and allowing yourself to forgive.
If you enjoy heartfelt contemporary romance with emotional depth and meaningful character development, I’d definitely recommend adding this to your reading list.
EXCERPT:
Ethan leaned against the railing, staring out at the water.
“I never stopped thinking about you,” he said quietly.
Julia swallowed. “That doesn’t change what happened.”
“No,” he admitted. “But maybe it can change what happens next.”
The wind carried the scent of salt and possibility between them.
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate the release of Shadows of Summer, Claire Ashford is offering:
🎁 One (1) signed paperback
🎁 One (1) $15 gift card
To enter:
- Leave a comment below telling me your favorite small-town romance.
- Giveaway ends July 25th.
- Open to U.S. residents only.
Good luck!
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