Opposites clash in the addictive new small-town romance from USA Today bestselling Australian author Nicola Marsh.
A slick city boy with a mission. A free-spirited country girl with a cause. Fireworks are guaranteed…
Upstanding principal Jy Atherton dreads the next four weeks. As punishment for crossing his bosses, he’s been lumped with the inglorious task of assessing Acacia Haven’s tiny school with its, dare he say, ‘hippie’ curriculum. With the lowest test scores in the state, it’s no wonder shutting it down is practically a forgone conclusion. But then he crosses paths with a spitfire who knocks him for six – pity he’s already public enemy number one…
Teacher Summer O’Reilly loves her small town nestled along the beautiful coast. Returning was the best decision she ever made. The intentional living community of Serenity is thriving, and the children are its future. No way will she allow a jumped-up suit – no matter how good-looking – to close the school her precious students need.
For Rayne O’Reilly, Acacia Haven has always been serene on the surface, but there’s a dark secret she’s kept from everyone for decades, including her daughter, Summer. But after reviving old friendships and reconnecting with the past, will she finally have the courage to tear down the walls that have kept her trapped?
Having sold over eight million copies of her books worldwide, it’s safe to say that when picking up a Nicola Marsh book, a good story is guaranteed. Summer of Serenity brings city and country together for an electrifying romance set in the tight-knit town of Acacia Haven. With Marsh’s hilarious dialogue tied together with a touching story, Summer of Serenity is perfect for anyone searching for a feel-good summer read.
The story kicks off with Jy, principal of the inner-city Korrungal Grammar, getting sent to Acacia Haven to determine the future of the small-town school. That’s where he meets Summer O’Reilly, and more than a little romance ensues. Marsh takes the story in some refreshing directions, adding plenty of humour and playful tension between Jy and Summer. Marsh is a seasoned romance writer, so expect fireworks, fun, and lots of drama.
In recent years, there’s been a rise in fiction that gives a voice to older women and their experiences. Enter Rayne, Summer’s mother, who is trying to find love for herself. Rayne’s experiences with online dating and finding love were incredibly refreshing to follow, and I was cheering her on from start to end.
Summer of Serenity is a beautiful and uplifting read, perfect for readers of rural romance. Do yourself a favour and pop this at the top of your TBR list, you can thank us later.




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