The Summer We Forgot

Summary: After one disastrous summer, childhood friends Darby and Morgan haven’t spoken, splintering their friend group. But when the body of their former science teacher turns up in a swamp at a camp they had attended that fateful summer, they realize they have more questions than answers. The problem is, none of the teens remember the events of that summer. Either that, or one of them is lying.

My Review: I absolutely loved this book!!!!! I binged it at the beach, which was perfect, as it is set along 30A in Florida. I immediately connected with the characters, and fell in love with the friend group they used to have. The mystery was a little slow moving, but once it got going, man was it intense! Morgan and Cyrus’ friendship was probably one of my favorite aspects of the story, as was Darby and Eliza’s. Both relationships weathered hard times and displayed the love they had for each other. Their banter and jokes made me smile. I will say, the end disappointed a little, but overall was such a fun ride!

My Takeaway: This is a story following a group of teens as they try to solve a murder and discover themselves, unable to trust anyone, including themselves. You may want to be aware that there are instances of underage drinking, rare instances of language, and a few passionate kisses.

Romance: Mild leaning towards heavy, romantic thoughts, talk, and touches (such as hand holding and hugging), several passionate kisses, a kiss described that happened in the past, a few suggestive comments.

Nudity: None, but there are one or two mentions of women’s cleavage/curves.

Language: Light, mentions of swearing, rare use of the word h*ll

Alcohol/drugs/smoking: Light, instance of underage drinking and smoking, not done by the main characters.

Violence: Mild, mentions and thoughts of murder, someone is hit by a car, attempted kidnappings, break-ins, and blackmail.

Darkness: Mild, memories of a hand sinking in dark water, nightmares, the heaviness of a murder investigation, the teens are threatened with blackmail and attempted kidnappings.

Bad Messages: None.

Good Message: Friendship, family, and trying to do what’s right.

Stars: 5.0