* Review * TOURIST SEASON by Brenda Novak

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

Tourist Season by Brenda Novak
Published by MIRA on April 2, 2024
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A summer by the ocean promises new beginnings—until old secrets resurface.

Ismay Chalmers is ready for a relaxing summer reconnecting with her fiancé at his family’s luxurious beachfront cottage. But before Remy can join her, a hurricane bears down on Mariners Island. Alone in the large house, Ismay makes a disturbing discovery in Remy's childhood closet. She's not sure what to make of it, but is relieved when the property’s caretaker, Bo, checks in on her.

Bo's home is damaged, so they temporarily shelter together, and Ismay is comforted by his quiet strength. But the unannounced arrival of a family member puts Bo back at his place and changes Ismay's summer into something other than what she wants—or ever expected. With so many reasons to feel unsettled, Ismay finds herself turning to Bo, who gives her more than a sense of security; there’s something about him that makes her feel alive, stirring her to wonder what life might be like if she chose a different path…

As Ismay grows closer to Bo, she begins to hope the reclusive caretaker might eventually let down his guard. But when she finds out that he has secrets, too, she begins to question how well she knows any of the men in her life—and how well she can trust her own heart.

Great beach read for the summer! Novak is bringing her signature voice to life with an intriguing storyline surrounding a vacation home and it’s mysterious secrets as a newly minted lawyer sets out to have a summer of reconnection with her soon to be doctor fiance. Danger quickly rears it’s ugly head and leaves Ismay uncertain of what’s true and what isn’t in this story of discovery. She befriends the cottage caretaker who begins to mean a lot to her as secrets unravel. I was hooked on the mystery from the first page and the characters brought a lot to the storyline. I felt like her family was a bit of a distraction, but Jack ended up playing a key part once he came to visit.