Bestselling, award-winning author presents another heartwarming beach read, perfect for fans of Jill Shalvis, Debbie Macomber, Jenny Hale, Rachel Hanna, and Cecelia Scott. Escape to a charming beach town loaded with romantic ambience and a whole lot of heart. Emily McMillan, a heartbroken physical therapist, seeks refuge in a picturesque seaside community. But her quiet nature clashes with the town's close-knit charm. That is, until she meets Gran, a spunky patient with a matchmaking agenda. Keith Stallings, the town’s swoon-worthy ferry captain, promises Emily an island of paradise filled with wild horses, breathtaking sunsets, and a picnic under the stars. Even a mischievous pelican named Sam seems to approve. Just as Emily starts to believe in a perfect island summer, a threat to Keith's livelihood throws their budding romance into jeopardy. Can Emily overcome her past and embrace a new love? Will Keith find a way to save his business and his chance with Emily? Dive into this emotionally complex beach read where love and loss collide against the backdrop of crashing waves and hidden secrets. I love ALL things beach: sand, salty air, dramatic skies, crashing waves and seashells! Lori Hayes has a knack of drawing you in and never letting you go! This was the first book I read by the author and I immediately knew I would be reading many more in the weeks, months and hopefully years to come. Crystal Coast is a special place with all the feels of coastal living. The story line is wonderful (I love romance novels) and the characters are well thought out. Wholesome, interesting and complex. You will NOT be disappointed in this book and the series for that matter. I am currently reading my third Crystal Coast novel - Book # 2 - and I am already anticipating #3. Thank you Lori for sharing your talent with all of us beach lovers. Oh, and even if you are not a fan of the beach, you will LOVE this book and not be disappointed! This is the 3rd book I have read of Lori's. She didn't disappoint with this one! I could almost smell the salt air and feel the ocean breeze. I love the NC coast and could relate to many aspects of the story. Romance, horses and even a pelican named Sam will keep you turning the page. If you need to lose yourself in a great story, this is it! Anxiously awaiting her next book! I have really enjoyed this entire series! THE characters are endearing and their struggles are real. The relationships are deep. This is a great summer read! Island Summer was a magical summer read. The author created a very beachy dreamy scene. I felt every emotion the protagonist was feeling. She guided the unexpected romance along step by step with no rushing, just allowing it to happen. I had given up on love but found Keith irresistible in his approach to winning the heart of Emily. She was resistant to him but attracted to him in a gentle sweet way. The author made Keith just what every woman would want in a man, without urgency and expectations. I fell for him myself. The obstacles were seemingly unsolvable on both sides but the communication, loyalty, trust and authenticity brought them together. It's what every reader wants from a beach read, lots of sun and fun! Very satisfying! I hated to have it end.