The Effects of a Blast From The Past!

"Once Upon a Summertime"
      By Melody Carlson

Synopsis:

Managing the Value Lodge in her hometown was not what Anna Gordon had in mind when she set out in the hospitality industry. But it's a safe choice for a woman whose childhood was anything but stable. Out of the blue, she gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to reinvent herself by moving to New York City, where she hopes for a management position at a stylish new boutique hotel. The big city is full of surprises--not the least of which is Sean O'Neil. Her childhood crush has applied for the very same position!

Sweet, romantic, and endlessly entertaining, this romp through the storied streets of New York City will enchant readers. Melody Carlson has created characters so charming that readers will long to meet them in the lobby of the stunning Rothsberg Hotel.

My Thoughts:

If you love "happily ever after" endings, you will love this book!! Melody Carlson successfully writes heartwarming novels that appeal to the romantic side of us. 
The characters are well described, with whom you easily identify. They are normal, everyday people who experience the good, bad and yes, even sometimes the ugly.You become totally involved with  Anna, the main character. whose journey in the summer becomes one of unexpected love. Her career change becomes one of adventure and learning. Deep emotions are felt by the reader, as Anna contends with unexpected challenges/

The plot is well developed, however, a deeper sense of conflict would have kept the reader more involved. This book is a good one, as I do love all of Melody's creations, but it is a light read. If you need a book to take to the beach, this is the perfect one!! I , myself, prefer more twists and turns in a plot. This story line was very predictable and did not have the depth that I usually expect from this author.

I would consider this novel to be a three star. It was entertaining , I enjoyed it, but if you are looking for a "page turner", this is not the one for you. This is a light, cheerful, happily ever after read.

This book was provided by Revell, in exchange for a fair and honest review.