Summer in the City by Alex Aster
on March 25, 2025
Genres: Fiction / City Life, Fiction / Romance / Billionaires, Fiction / Romance / Contemporary, Fiction / Romance / General, Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy, Fiction / Women
Pages: 304
Format: Hardcover
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If you’re looking for a cute summer romance, look no further. Summer in the City delivers all the charm and swoon of a great rom-com, with the added bonus of a New York City backdrop that practically breathes on the page. This one was a delightful mix of forced proximity and enemies-to-lovers tropes—two of my favorites—with the setting acting as its own vibrant character.
The premise immediately drew me in: Elle, 27-year-old screen-writer, lands the opportunity to write a big-budget movie set in New York City, only to find herself forced to share the top level of an apartment with an unexpected person—Parker, her infuriating (and undeniably attractive) nemesis. They share a short history that Elle would like to forget. As their summer unfolds, tensions and banter quickly give way to something deeper, and the chemistry between them sizzles.
Parker, in particular, stood out as a fantastic love interest. He was layered, sweet, and full of unexpected depth. One of my favorite quotes from him perfectly captures the heart of the story:
“I didn’t fall in love with a version of you, Elle,” he says. “I fell in love with every you.”
It’s these moments—vulnerable, romantic, and heartfelt—that make the novel shine.
Alex Aster did an impressive job transitioning from her usual fantasy storytelling to romance. The writing felt natural, funny, and emotionally satisfying. The pacing kept things moving, and the emotional payoff was worth it. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Aster’s work or new to her writing, this book is a great pick for a cozy beach read or a lazy afternoon escape.
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