Review Detail

‘The Last Summer’ by Cait Marie has all the signs of a predictable sweet romance, and even though this is true, there is also quite a twist thrown in that is not necessarily expected. While Lila and Gavin have known each other since they were born only three days apart, growing up in houses right next to each other, their friendship faltered years ago, when a misunderstanding tore them apart, causing them to have to live without each other despite their close proximity.

Lila has only ever wanted Gavin to reach out, and Gavin has continued to care for her from afar, but their pride and uncertainty over their mutual feelings keeps them at a distance. When Lila’s boss, who also happens to be Gavin’s mom, pushes them into working together at the local ice cream shop for the summer, they find their way back into friendship—and more.

As they come to terms with what has kept them apart for so many years, realizing how it has kept them from each other, they also learn new facts, especially on Gavin’s part when he comes to understand that Lila has a secret she hasn’t been sharing with him. This secret only serves to bring them closer together, ensuring that they will work to complete her summer bucket list in two weeks’ time. He doesn’t understand why there has to be so much haste until he discovers that college isn’t the reason for having to check things off so quickly. There is more to her story, and they find themselves having to figure it all out together.

Without giving away the unpredictability within the book, there is so much to love and relish in as one reads this beautiful story of friendship, love, truth, acceptance, and thoughtfulness. The way Gavin steps up, along with Lila’s friends, is a testament to the power of friendship and doing what is right even in the face of an uncertain tomorrow. The story will bring more than one tear to any reader’s eye.