This review contains spoilers for “Summer in the City.”
In Alex Aster’s newest adult romance book, “Summer in the City,” screenwriter Elle and billionaire Parker agree to pretend to be a couple. This summer arrangement benefits both of them, as Parker can keep the eyes of the press away from his company and Elle can use their fake dates as inspiration for her script.
When their relationship begins to turn into more than just a summer contract, Elle must decide whether to push Parker away or keep him around.
Aster did an amazing job at writing this book, even though it is different from what she had previously written. Aster’s most popular series is a young adult fantasy series called “Lightlark,” and the books are nowhere near similar to each other.
“Lightlark” is a book that is more of a fantasy story with romance sprinkled throughout. “Summer in the City,” on the other hand, is an entirely romance-driven book.
The book truly has so many great aspects.
Firstly, the complexity of Elle’s character and family relationship is excellently written for many reasons. One reason is that it is clear that she is in love with Parker, but she can’t admit it because then everything she does will only be thanks to Parker’s wealth.
In the beginning of the book, it didn’t make sense that this was the reason she kept pushing him away. Once the book delves into what her mother’s relationship with her father was like, we get a clearer picture of Elle. It also explains why she writes her movie scripts under a pen name instead of her own name.
Then you look at Elle’s relationship with her sister. Elle’s sister is close with their father, unlike the estranged relationship Elle has with her dad. However, the sister’s strong bond becomes crystal clear when Elle’s sister goes into labor, and the only person she wants there is Elle. Additionally, Elle drops everything to be there for her sister. It shows that despite the issues Elle has with her father, she still cares very much for her sister.
Overall, Elle is a very complex character that Aster does an incredible job at bringing to life with this book.
Another great character from “Summer in the City” is Parker. He is the perfect love interest for this book. He is super sweet and incredibly respectful of Elle.
For example, when Elle’s sister goes into labor in the middle of the night, Elle is unable to catch a flight. Parker offers to fly her on his private jet, but Elle argues it’s bad for the environment. Parker reassures her by saying he will buy twice the amount of carbon credit and sell the jet after. After they land, Parker stays true to his word, telling the pilot and crew that it was the last flight for that jet.
It is simply so sweet that he takes her concerns and not only listens, but he also follows through with his promise. Altogether, Park cares so much about Elle and it is clear in everything he does.
In conclusion, this book is the perfect summer read for anyone looking for a cute fake dating romance.
