The book was adored by many, captivated by its alluring cover and the charming setting of Martha’s Vineyard. It was a must-read, and the delightful surprise found within its pages only added to the joy. The story unfolded with elements of romance, portraying a sex-positive relationship between the main character and her parents. The magical and extensive family portrayed in the book brought a sense of warmth and depth to the narrative, making it a truly cherished experience. The book was devoured quickly, leaving a longing for more.
Meredith Fox had been a regular visitor to Martha’s Vineyard during the summer for as long as she could remember. However, this particular summer marked her return after the tragic loss of her sister. The upcoming gathering for her cousin’s grand wedding was going to be overwhelming, especially with the entire extended family coming together.
As the days went by, Meredith found herself drawn to the groomsman, whose name was Jake. His infectious laughter and genuine interest in her made it difficult for her to focus solely on the game. They spent hours chatting and getting to know each other, forming a deep connection that seemed to defy the rules of the competition. Meredith’s friends and family noticed the spark between them and encouraged her to explore her feelings. However, Meredith was torn between her desire for a new love and her fear of getting hurt again. She had been through heartbreak before, and the scars were still fresh.
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Despite her reservations, Meredith couldn’t resist the pull of her growing affection for Jake. They stole secret moments together, hidden from the prying eyes of their fellow players. Each stolen glance and gentle touch fueled the fire within her, making her question whether the game was worth sacrificing a potential chance at love. As the week progressed, the Assassin game intensified, with Meredith and Jake becoming the last two players standing. Their emotions were heightened, torn between the desire to win and the fear of losing what they had discovered in each other. The final showdown was imminent, and Meredith found herself torn between her commitment to the game and her heart’s longing.
In a moment of clarity, Meredith realized that the game was merely a distraction from her pain, and her heart deserved a chance at happiness. She made the bold decision to forfeit the game, declaring her love for Jake in front of their friends and family. The room erupted in applause and cheers as the two embraced, knowing that they had chosen love over a mere competition. Although the Assassin game had ended, Meredith’s journey towards love had just begun. With Jake by her side, she stepped into a new chapter of her life, leaving behind the heartbreak of the past and embracing the joy of a promising future together.
What Stood Out
- The Setting—Being a New Englander, the allure of summer stories set in the magical islands held a special place in the readers’ heart. The rarity of books set in Martha’s Vineyard made this novel a delightful treat. The depiction of the vast family farm, picturesque beaches, local shops, and scenic bike paths provided a wonderful escape into a captivating world.
- The Romance—Although labeled as a YA novel, this book blurred the boundaries between YA and New Adult genres. With an 18-year-old protagonist and a love interest in their twenties, the story presented a sex-positive relationship that was both sweet and believable. The swift pace at which things developed perfectly captured the essence of a whirlwind summer romance.
- The Family—The portrayal of the family dynamics in the book was exceptionally well done. The gathering of the extended family on the camp or estate for the joyous wedding celebration, coupled with the exhilarating family-wide game of Assassin, added depth and excitement to the narrative. Fans of Ashley Elston’s “10 Blind Dates” would surely appreciate this aspect of the book.
What Could Have Been Better
Some readers might argue that the romance in the book had a certain “cheese level” to it. However, it surprisingly worked in the context of the story. The intense emotions and dramatic expressions from young individuals who have found a deep connection may appear exaggerated to those who have moved past their adolescent years. Yet, the authenticity of these feelings should not be discounted.
