BookishEats Review: Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
A charming slow-burn romance wrapped in humor and heart—where love, timing, and second chances take center stage.
Why I Picked Up This Book
There are some books you pick up because of the hype, some because of the author’s track record, and some because the premise is just too good to pass up. Just for the Summer? This one was all three.
It’s the April 2024, Good Morning America Book Club pick, and let’s be real—Abby Jimenez is an auto-buy author for many romance readers. I’ve loved her previous books, so when I saw this one, I knew it had to go on my list.
But what really hooked me? The premise. Two people who seem “cursed” when it comes to relationships (as in, every person they date finds their soulmate right after breaking up with them) decide to test fate… by dating each other. It’s equal parts romantic experiment and emotional rollercoaster, and I was ready for the ride.
What’s the Story About? (No Spoilers!)
Meet Justin and Emma, two people who have somehow developed an unfortunate reputation: whoever dates them immediately finds the one—right after they break up. Talk about a frustrating dating history.
Naturally, when they cross paths online and realize they share this bizarre “curse,” they come up with a brilliant, ridiculous, totally reckless idea: why not date each other and see what happens?
What starts as a playful social experiment soon turns into something much deeper. Because, of course, relationships aren’t just about timing—they’re about compatibility, emotional baggage, and taking risks.
The book is filled with witty banter, heartfelt moments, and a slow-burn romance that makes you ache in the best way.
Where This Book Shines
Abby Jimenez’s Signature Humor: If you love romances that balance laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional depth, this one delivers. Her writing style feels effortless, and the dialogue? So natural and funny.
Unique Premise with Real Depth: The whole “dating curse” setup is fun and fresh, but what makes the book stand out is how it explores self-worth, emotional growth, and the fear of vulnerability. It’s not just about romance—it’s about learning to trust yourself.
Characters That Feel Like Real People: Justin and Emma are both lovable in their own ways, and their chemistry feels authentic, not forced. Plus, there are some fantastic side characters (including cameos from Jimenez’s other books!), which made me want to go back and read them all.
What Didn’t Work for Me
A Bit Slow in Some Parts: While I adored the concept, there were moments where the pacing felt a little dragged out. If you love slow-burn romance, you’ll enjoy this, but if you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-stakes romance, you might find yourself impatient in spots.
Some Character Cameos Felt Lost on Me: Since this book ties into Jimenez’s other works, there were a few characters I felt like I should know, but I didn’t. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it did make me wish I’d read her previous books first.
BookishEats Recipe: Confetti Pancakes
I always love pairing books with recipes that match the vibe, and for Just for the Summer, I wanted something light, sweet, and comforting—just like this book.
Birthday Pancakes were perfect!
Why this recipe? My favorite scene in the book was when Emma got birthday pancakes. I know firsthand what it feels like when you spend your life caring for others and not a lot of emphasis is placed on celebrating you. I thought the pancakes were legit the cutest thing!
👉 Click here for the full recipe!
Final Thoughts: Who Should Read This?
If you love slow-burn romance with humor, heart, and a unique twist, Just for the Summer is a fantastic pick.
Read it if you love:
- Slow-burn romance with humor and heart
- Relatable, imperfect characters
- Romance stories that feel real
Best enjoyed:
- Curled up on a lazy afternoon
- With a cozy dessert
- If you love books that make you laugh and think
⭐ Rating: 8/10
Would I read more from Abby Jimenez? Absolutely. I already have her other books lined up.
And if you’ve read Just for the Summer, let me know—did you love the premise as much as I did?
