Sisters of Summer's End

Summer Resort #2

by Lori Foster

As the summer ends, friendship begins...When single mom Joy Lee abandoned her old life to take a job at a lakeside resort, she found something that her family's wealth and influence could never buy: peace of mind. Not easy to come by for the once-burned divorce who keeps everyone at a distance. But when her new friend, Maris, dares her to take a chance with the drive-in's charismatic new owner, everything changes for Joy and her young son. A difficult childhood has left Maris Kennedy with definite priorities. Her job running Summer's End, the camp store and cafe, comes first. Always. Nothing could ever make her risk that hard-won security--especially not her free-spirited colleague. But the more she encourages Joy to open herself up to new experiences, the more Maris begins to wonder what she, too, might be missing. Learning how to trust will bring Joy and Maris together.
And soon they form a friendship that leaves them as close as sisters--and open to love where they least expect it...in Summer's End.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Chick Lit, Fiction, Adult, Summer Reads

368 pages, Paperback

First published June 11, 2019

About the author

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.

Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.

Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/

Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.

•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.

•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.

•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.

•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.

•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.

•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.

•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.

•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.

•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.

Reviews

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading Lori Foster for years, and absolute adore her alpha heroes. Reading the second book in the Summer Resort series was a true delight because I got to enjoy the continued friendship of two women close enough to be sisters.

In this story, Joy Lee, a single mom, has taken a job managing a lakeside resort. Joy comes from an affluent family, but that did not bring her happiness. What she finds while working at the resort brings true happiness and peace to her life. She is especially close to her new friend Maris, who we met in the first book of this series. Joy is all but dared by Maris to take a chance on the resort's new owner, Royce Nakirk. Since Joy's divorce, she expected to be alone and to concentrate on raising her son Jack.

Not only is Joy thinking of risking her heart again, but Maris is as well. This will involve trust. Can either woman let go enough to give themselves a chance at love? With regard to Maris, she has held Daron Hardy at arms' length. He has made it clear time and again that he really wants her, but with her baggage, she just is not ready. As far as Joy is concerned, Royce is pretty much the perfect man, but Joy just isn't sure she can take the chance.

One thing I really enjoyed about this book was the bond between Joy and Maris. I also really enjoyed little Jack and the times he appeared in the story. Royce was a terrific guy and I looked forward to Maris falling for him. I also absolutely loved Daron's persistence.

Ms. Foster writes character-driven stories and I devour each and every one of them. Somehow, through the pages of this book, each person felt real. I was truly connected. Let us not forget the cutest puppy ever, Chaos. He truly made my heart smile. This touching story warmed my heart and I can definitely see myself reading it again.

Many thanks to Lori Foster, Harlequin and NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Sisters of Summer's End by Lori Foster is a beautifully written and heartwarming read.
I really enjoyed it and loved watching both couples find love and happiness.



The Summer Resort Series has been a joy to read and I highly recommend it.

*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the ARC.*

[Natasha Niezgoda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lighthearted and cute!



Synopsis: Joy Lee runs a lakeside resort. As a single mother, her hands are always full between caring for the vacationers and her son. This leaves basically no time for a personal life. But there's a new guy on the scene - Royce. It's Joy's friend, Maris, who gives her the courage to move past her divorcee label and see if there's the potential for something special.

You know what I loved about this story the most - the friendship between Joy and Maris. At the start of the book, it's implied that they're more acquaintances. But as the story progresses, they open up and share vulnerable happenings about their pasts with one another. It's quite lovely.

The romance aspect between Royce and Joy is cute. There's nothing too extraordinary about it. It was just cute.

I would recommend this to another looking for a light read. It would make a great beach or vacation companion.

Thank you, NetGalley, for this copy in exchange for this review!

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was in a pretty big reading slump before starting this book and I was pleasantly surprised to find myself coming out of that slump after reading this book. Although I enjoyed the first book in the series, I expressed by slight disappointment because I felt like the book was more of a Contemporary Romance rather than a true Women’s Fiction novel. However, I definitely feel like Lori Foster has stepped up to that and created a story that is more fitting to the genre.

In this book, we have two characters, Joy and Maris who find something that they never expected to. Both are at different points in their lives, but are feeling as if something isn’t right. As they encourage each other to step out of their comfort zones, they both discover something about themselves.

I really enjoyed this friendship and this was the kind of thing that I was looking for in this novel. While the romance is also a major part of the book, I really prefer there to be a focus on something else other than the romance when you are writing a Women’s Fiction novel. This distinction is really what makes it different from Contemporary Romance, which I felt the first book focused on the most. So I’m curious to see if Foster will continue this style and if so, I will definitely be looking forward to reading it.

[Amary Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I expected an engaging tale.....but was totally blown away. Ms. Foster's ability to engage one's emotions, and invest you in her tale shine brightly in Sisters Of Summer's End.
We are given front row seats to the working of the minds of the main characters and even a few of the lesser ones.
Single mother, Joy Lee lives her life completely centered around her five year old son Jack, and the job at the RV resort park that enabled her to keep him safe and happy. Maris Kennedy runs the camp store. Raised in poverty, she works hard and constantly to ensure her future.
Daron Hardy fell for Maris at first site, but she refuses to take him seriously.
Royce Nakirk bought the drive-in near the park, hoping to fix it up and make it profitable again and hoping a connection to the park will help.
These are the main five characters and their interactions are a joy to read. With Ms. Foster's vivid imagination and insight to human character, she fill the pages with humor and romance along with the reminder that each of us views life from a different perspective.
Vivid descriptions of people, places and objects in the scenes created movie like scenes in my mind. I resented having to put it down, even for short periods of time, but also resented arriving at the end I strove so hard to reach. I have already told friends to pre-order or jump on it the first day, especially those who exclusively read print.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC and recommend it highly. If you enjoy contemporary romance with a bit of humor, do not miss this book.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always appreciated books that are set in a unique place and Sisters of Summers End along with the first book in this series Coopers Charm are set in a very unique RV resort and campground that Lori Foster admits is based on a real place although the characters are totally fictional. In Sisters of Summers Edge we get two romances for the price of one and while one is definitely the main focus, I loved seeing the second couple also get their happily ever after as well.

Two women, who have worked at the same resort for years, form a bond in this book that is as strong if not stronger than those of blood related sisters as they both navigate new relationships they both never expected and life. This book was uplifting; it was fun, and most of all it left me with a huge smile on my face.

Single mom Joy Lee has worked for over 5 years as the recreation director and events coordinator for Cooper Charm RV resort, she loves her job, appreciates the people she works with, and is devoted to one man in her life, her 5 year old son Jack. Since Jack’s sperm donor left her she hasn’t dated at all which is fine with her until she meets the new drive-in owner Royce Narkirk who makes her body light up like a Christmas tree.

Royce Nakirk has spent the last several years as the primary caretaker of his mother and now following her passing he is ready for a new chapter in his life, one where he is unencumbered. He’s excited about the drive-in he’s bought in a small Ohio town and the fact that the upcoming “off” season will give him plenty of time to work on his very fix it upper house. One thing he doesn’t plan on is meeting Joy, a woman who charms him from the minute they meet or her five year old son who intrigues him.

Stories in which couples agree to a sexual relationship that turn into more are some of my favorites and Joy and Royce were comically the worst and sticking to the terms of their relationship plans. I loved watching how easily they related to one another, how comfortable Royce and Jack were with each other from the start, how Joy let Jack take the lead in his relationship to Royce, and most of all how incredibly sexy Joy and Royce were together alone.

This book had many layers with each piece being an integral part of the story. Joy and Maris after 5 years of working together forming a sisterhood they both so desperately needed. Everyone in the Coopers Charm “family” realizing something big was happening with Joy and supporting her in so many ways. Maris finally giving Daron a chance to get to know her after so many years. Joy realizing she wants more out of life than work and her son. Royce finding a since of family he never really had both in Joy and James and in the Cooper Chance group. So many touching, wonderful, and exceptional moments in this book.

I’ve read Lori Foster for many, many, many years and I’ve loved a lot of her work, and while this series has been a bit different from her norm, Sisters of Summers End and Coopers Charm have quickly become two of my favorites. The relationships (and not just the romantic ones) drive these books and that makes them stand out.

Reviewer's note: I gave this book 5 stars and I stand by that, but I kept waiting for Royce to share his mother's art with James as it was mentioned several times he wanted to do so and it never happened. I was a bit disappointed that it didn't and while it didn't take away anything from this story (which is why the 5 stars), I honestly wanted to see James' reaction to seeing a real artist's work.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Light fast read. I liked the ending and glad I took the time to read it.

[Karen Machamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more by this author.

[Zoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming, emotive, and rewarding.

Sisters of Summer’s End is an engaging, lighthearted tale that features the hardworking, single mom Joy and the dependable, supportive Maris as they forge an unconditional friendship that will help them both conquer and embrace past hurts, childhood baggage, strained familial relationships, and newly budding romance.

The prose is crisp and fluid. The characters are easygoing, helpful, and likeable. And the plot is a heartfelt tale of life, love, support, understanding, tenderness, familial drama, friendship, steamy moments, playful banter, and delicious chemistry.

Overall, Sisters of Summer’s End is a sweet, uplifting, humorous addition to the Love at the Resort series by Foster that will leave fans delighted to revisit with all the characters they came to know and love in the first novel in the series, Cooper’s Charm, as well as being introduced to some unforgettable new ones, both of the human and four-legged variety.

Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Jewlsbookblog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute read! Aside from the two romances, which ranged from sweet to sexy, I absolutely loved the burgeoning friendship between Joy and Maris! Even though they’d worked together for years, neither one had really taken a step out of their comfort zones and it was nice to see a positive female friendship. Joy’s son, Jack was just an all-around cutie pants with his artistic eye and loving personality. And I can’t forget the furbaby! Chaos was a rescue dog Royce, Joy and Jack found, and he more then lived up to his namesake...

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a terrific story of friendship and love. Both Joy and Maris have worked at the RV resort for several years. Each of them has concentrated on their work, preferring to keep people at a comfortable distance. But as this season winds down, both Joy and Maris feel a little lonely. I loved the scene where they drop their walls a little bit and reach out to each other. It was great to see how easily they connected once they allowed themselves to open up. Theirs was the sort of friendship I like to see between women, one where they encourage and support each other. There were some hilarious moments between them, especially when it came to their conversations about their men. There were also some deeply emotional ones as they shared the ups and downs of their pasts and presents. One of the things I enjoyed the most was seeing them give each other the push needed to take a chance on love.

I loved Joy. She grew up as the spoiled only child of affluent parents, then she rebelled and married against their wishes. When she got pregnant and her husband deserted her, they disowned her when she refused to give up the baby and come home. I was amazed at her strength and determination as she turned her life around to make a good life for her son, Jack. He and her job are her whole life; she has no plans to enter any relationship. Then the drive-in theater next door is sold, and the new owner stirs up feelings that have been dormant for six years.

Royce was great. He purchased the drive-in as a new start to his life. He spent the last several years caring for his ill mother, and while he grieves her loss looks forward to being unencumbered. He has big plans for renovating both the theater and his house. He didn't expect to have his plans upended by a pretty single mother and her adorable son.

The sparks flew between Royce and Joy from the start. With Maris's encouragement, Joy took a chance on reaching out to Royce. Both of them made clear that they weren't looking for anything permanent, but that a physical one was definitely on the table. I liked seeing that fall by the wayside very quickly. Royce won my heart very quickly when he came to the rescue of the injured stray puppy, and sealed the deal when he made the puppy part of his life. Joy was a little wary of letting Royce get too close to Jack, but he won her over with the way the two of them bonded. I loved the development of the relationship between Royce and Joy as they spent time together, both with and without Jack. Though both realized that their feelings had changed, because of their earlier agreement, they kept those feelings to themselves. When Joy's parents reappeared in her life, Joy found herself with some decisions to make. I ached for Royce, who had some insecurities flare up, causing him to pull away. I laughed out loud at the scene where all his friends ganged up on him to tell him what an idiot he was being. Royce's big moment at the end was great.

I ached for Joy and everything she went through with her parents. Her mother was a piece of work, and I understood why Joy had avoided them since Jack's birth. Joy had matured quite a lot in those years, and she did a grand job of standing up to her, especially the scene that Royce got caught up in. I loved seeing how all of Joy's friends at the resort banded together to support her when she needed it. Her parents did redeem themselves pretty well by the end, especially her father. Mom may still need a little work. The scene at the end, where they were all together at the resort was both funny and heartwarming.

I also enjoyed Maris and Daron's part of the story. Maris's life had been almost the opposite of Joy's. She grew up poor with a difficult childhood, which greatly influenced how she led her life. She worked and scrimped and saved, determined that she would never have to depend on anyone again. She tends to be a tad prickly in her independence and keeps people at a distance. Joy is the first person she allows herself to get close to. One thing on her "someday" list is a relationship, but there's one guy at the resort who isn't content to wait. Daron is the resort handyman, a friendly, cheerful, and flirtatious guy who manages to get under Maris's skin. When Maris pushes Joy to give Royce a chance, Joy does the same to Maris, challenging her to give Daron a chance.

Maris bugged me a little at first with her attitude toward Daron. He's a little younger than she is, and she looks down on his more relaxed attitude and believes that he doesn't take anything seriously. I loved his persistence and the way he would tease her. They joined forces to help Joy, and at the same time, got to know each other a little better. Maris completely redeemed herself in my eyes when she took a good look at Daron and who he really is and apologized for her judgmental attitude. I laughed out loud when Maris laid down her rules to Daron and then got all bummed when he actually followed them. The sparks flew when they finally gave in to the attraction. They still had a couple of bumps to get over, but it was fun to watch it happen.

I loved seeing these two women become sisters of the heart, and along the way, open up their hearts to love. I hope to see more stories at the resort so I can catch up on their lives. Now I need to go back and read the first book and see how Cooper and Baxter found their loves.

[Carma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was wondering where the sisters would come in to play at Coopers Charm RV park since after reading the first book, Coopers Charm, and knowing there was only one set of sisters residing at the park and they had their story line in the first book. After finishing this book I realized sisters don’t have to be defined by blood only. The best kind of family is the ones we pick for ourselves.

Joy has had a single focus in life since she became a mother to Jack. Once her family disowned her, she set out to make a life for her and her baby and almost 6 years later she has found her stride. Living and working at Coopers Charm has been a dream come true, having taken pity on her pregnant self and hiring her on the spot while providing an apartment, Cooper saved her life and soul. These people are her family now and she hasn’t looked back.

Royce has looked to make a change in his life since his mother passed away. Buying the old drive in seemed like the perfect way to escape all of life’s hardships and taking care of himself unencumbered. He never counted on Joy or Jack working their way into not only his life but also his heart.

Secondary in this novel is the story of Maris and Daron. We met both these characters, and got a hint of their flirtation/denial in Cooper’s Charm. Maris is a fiercely independent woman who wants nothing to do with playboy Daron. Or at least that is what she keeps telling herself and anyone that asks. Her body may argue that point with her mind. Daron has pursued Maris for years, knowing deep in his soul that she is the one for him above anyone else. Having her refuse his advances all these years has just made him want her more. When she finally decides it is ok to act on her feelings and still be the independent woman she desires to be, she jumps all in with Daron.

Joy, Royce, Daron and Maris have a romantic fall season at Coopers Charm RV park. They navigate the newness of relationships while trying to maintain so type of normalcy with the lives they’ve come to appreciate. When Joy’s mother makes an unexpected appearance in her life again, Joy needs to reevaluated and make choices that will affect her future as well as Jack’s.

Once again I am taken to a fictional place with wonderful characters that make me want to search them out in real life. The people of Coopers Charm RV resort come together to form stronger bonds than most families will ever experience in their lifetime. 5 out of 5 stars for this wonderful story of friendship, sisterhood and family that I read and reviewed in advance without any expectations. I’m hoping to return to Coopers Charm sooner rather than later, to catch up with these friends who have formed lifelong bonds.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome back to Cooper's Charm RV Resort Park.
Joy Lee has worked as the activities director for the last several years. Joy is a divorced, single mom of Jack, her adorable five year old son. While friendly, she has always been reserved, not letting anyone get too close. Then she meets Royce, the new owner of the Drive In Theatre, and she is instantly drawn to him.
Joy has also begun to form a deeper friendship with Maris, owner of the country store /cafe. Maris and Daron, the Park handyman, have been flirting and bickering for years, not willing to admit their attraction to one another.
As Joy and Maris grow closer, they challenge each other to let down their guards and take a chance on love. And of course that is just what happens.
A great summer beach read.

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy tears. RTC

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sisters of Summer’s End was a feel good, light-hearted addition to the Summer Resort series. I’m still on a quest to find a real Cooper’s Charm so I can pack up and move, because how awesome would it be to live and work in a place like that?!? Granted, you’d probably get tired after a while of being in such close quarters with your coworkers, but the friendships you’d make would be worth it!

That’s one of my favorite things about this story- the friendship that developed between Joy and Maris. It was nice that it was just as much of a focus of the story as the romances between Joy & Royce and Maris & Daron. Neither Joy nor Maris were in any hurry to get involved romantically, but when they found themselves doing just that, they had each other there for support, guidance, and their own personal cheering section. I loved the persistance of Royce and Daron, and appreciated how they knew just when to push and when to pull back.

I really enjoyed how Ms. Foster integrated the two storylines together, everything flowed so well, without any awkwardness as the points of views changed. Joy and Maris's stories mirrored each other, even with their differences. Joy, the single mom whose sole focus is making sure her son has the best upbringing possible, and Maris, whose past has colored everything about her present. These two were such strong ladies, and I just loved their friendship.

[Lina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the story of both couples. They were really sweet. If you are looking for a sweet romance, this is definately your book :) .

[Anita · Rating 3 out of 5]

Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.

I wasn't impressed with the first book in this series, Cooper's Charm, but Lori Foster is one of my favorite romance authors. This is a twofer romance and it is very sweet, if you ignore the plot flaws, the angst and the insta-lust. It has a cute kid and a cute dog and everyone lives Happily Ever After.

Joy and Royce - Joy was disowned by her wealthy parents when she got married to a bum, got pregnant and got divorced. She works at Cooper's Charm RV Resort as the recreation director and the resort is home and the employees are her family. Royce cared for his mother with dementia until she died, putting his life on hold to care for her. He bought the old drive-in theater, a fixer-upper home and wants his life to be unencumbered. Until he meets Joy and her son Jack.

Maris and Deron - Maris is the owner of Summer's End, the store and diner at Cooper's Charm. She grew up poor and is determined never to be again. Devon is the maintenance manager and has been after Maris forever. She just brushes off his flirting because she thinks him nothing more than a player. Devon is a very levelheaded guy and knows that Maris is "it" for him.

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy Lee left her old life behind when she found out that she was pregnant. Her parents disowned her and the baby's father divorced her and left way before he was even born. She finds herself at a lakeside resort, the owner giving her the chance she needs to make it on her own and she hasn't looked back since. She keeps everyone at a distance though, her son is her main priority and she doesn't have time for a life of her own. Even though she has spent her whole time at the resort basically keeping to herself Maris another worker there breaks through and starts up a friendship that they both end up needing. She challenges Joy to step outside her boundaries and give the new man in town a chance. Maris herself has spent her whole life working in hopes of making her dreams come true, now that she owns her business at the resort she is saving for a home that she can call her own. She doesn't have time for relationships either and is constantly denying herself a chance at happiness. Follow along as these two new friends help each other work through the pitfalls of not only their new friendship but also the relationships they are both trying have but avoid at the same time. This was a wonderful read that shows you what true friendship is about and what all it can truly be. Follow as these two friends both fall in love and look out for each other in the process.

I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit that I'm really loving the two for one romances Foster has been providing!

The friendship bonds that are created are something we all strive to achieve and in these wonderfully heartfelt relationships, you can't help but find yourself drawn in.

I received this ARC copy of Sister of Summer's End from HARLEQUIN - Romance (U.S. & Canada)-HQN. This is my honest and voluntary review. Sister of Summer's End is set for publication June 11, 2019.

My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Lori Foster
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: HQN; Original edition (June 11, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1335468323
ISBN-13: 978-1335468321
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sisters-Summer...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sist...
Itunes: https://books.apple.com/br/book/siste...

[Ann Lorz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....

The one thing I love about reading a Lori Foster book is how easy they always are to get into. I also enjoy the characters she comes up with. They are never perfect, they have the same faults and issues we have which makes them so...us!

Sisters of Summer's End has so much going on yet it doesn't feel too busy. There are two love stories. The first one is the main story, the ones that are most forward in the book is between Joy and Royce and the secondary love story is Maris and Daron.

Joy & Royce
I totally loved Joy. Not many people could come from the life she did and totally take care of herself and a young baby. She shows just how strong she really is. Through all the hard times she's a great mom and that's all a kid can ask for.

Royce is no stranger to taking care of people who can't take care of themselves either. He stepped up when he needed to and you have to love him for that.

What I love about these two are their caring natures. They put those who count on them ahead of themselves. Royce past ended with his moms passing but Joy wasn't so lucky. She had to deal with a horrible, controlling mother who thought she could tell you, adult child, what to do. I really disliked her. But I did love how Royce was there for her throughout her interactions with her parents. It was about time someone stood with Joy, not against. I also liked how much Royce liked Joy's son and how they got along. Kids should always come first.

Joy and Royce's story is very enjoyable. You'll like them and want them to get together.

Maris & Daron
I think all of us who read the first book wondered when this would happen. I mean, come on...we knew he wanted her. Maris was a different story, she kept everything close to her chest.

Like Joy, Maris had some issues in her past. Ones that really molded her into the women she is today. Where she is a wonderful, caring and capable women the child in her was very neglected. Sad to say her parents sucked. I almost think they were worse than Joy's in some ways.

I think the only person in the group who hasn't yet been touch by life's more uncomfortable aspects is Daron. He has a loving family and has really done well for himself. One of the things I like most about him is just how caring he is. He's a great guy.

Perfect for Maris. She needs someone like Daron who will just love her and need nothing from her other than her love. Someone she can count on when she needs them. It's what she's missed in life and I'm glad she's now got it.

Even though their story wasn't the main focus it was very well done and you felt it was just as important as Joy's and Royce's.

The whole book
As a whole, this book is very good. I enjoyed that the characters from the first book were there to tie the two stories together. They stayed in their lanes so they didn't overshadow the new couples. Well done.

I also really enjoyed the story between Joy and Maris. I love reading about how their friendship (sisterhood) blossomed. These two fit as friends and let's be honest here no other two people ever need a friend more than them.

This series has been perfect and I'm so glad I read it.

Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader

ARC received for an honest review

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was more than just a romance. This was about friendships and family that aren’t related by blood. It’s about people with character flaws and backgrounds that influence their present day decisions and how they learn to let it go. And I loved it all.





There are actually two relationships included in this book. The main couple is Joy and Royce who have recently met. With her son Jack as the center of her life, she’s been on her own since her parents disowned her. But when she allows herself to open up to Maris and a friendship develops between them, she also finds herself opening up to Royce. Royce has his reasons for wanting to remain unencumbered but after getting involved with Joy and Jack he’s quickly decided that he’s all for entanglements.


”How could Joy ever be a burden? Wasn’t possible. She brought laughter into his life, warmth and direction. All good emotions, with lots of sizzling physical need, too. Around her, he felt completely alive.
Somehow, without obvious effort, Joy had drawn him from his sad, burdened past and focused him squarely in the positive present.”


I loved Royce and the way he instantly connected with not only Joy but her son as well. A part of that is accepting an injured pup into his household that literally causes chaos. I have to admit, Chaos pretty much stole the story from the main characters but I’m not complaining.





The other couple included here were Maris and Daron. They’ve known each other for years but she was always closed off to him until her friendship with Joy makes her stop and take a moment to just enjoy time with a friend. I actually felt the connection and chemistry between this couple more so than Joy and Royce. Daron was cute and charming and so very careful with Maris. He was pretty perfect as heroes go.





This is a very low angst read, a bit slow because there wasn’t really anything driving the story onward. It centers on the various relationships and the growth of each woman as well as the development of their relationship with each hero. I loved watching these women open up to each other and evolve from that moment on. The culmination of the conflict between Joy and her family was satisfying but the lack of an epilogue left me wanting. I’m sure there will be more books to come and we’ll see these characters again, but that doesn’t curb the craving I have for more right now.

Overall, this is a sweet read heavy on character development, rich with humor and great friendships and electric with sexual chemistry.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Harlequin. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Multi POV
Safe both H’s are celibate; Joy hasn’t been with anyone since birth of her son 6 yrs ago; Maris is 31 and a virgin due to life choices; no ow/om drama
Triggers some childhood neglect

[bjneary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Romance (U.S. & Canada) and HQN for the advance reader copy, Sisters of Summer’s End by favorite romance author, Lori Foster, in exchange for an honest review. This second book in the series, Summer Resort #2 was awesome! The friendship between single mom, Joy and Maris, owner extraordinaire of Summer’s End was special, exciting, and humorous (when others eavesdropped). Both women are in their early thirties and because of life’s demands, they have kept to themselves (in love and with Joy, in life). Joy is the recreational director at the resort, has a six-year-old son, Jack, who loves anything to do with art. It is when Royce becomes the new owner of the drive-in that sparks begin to fly (although really stoked by Maris) between Joy and Royce. Maris has kept her job as her main obsession; turning away handyman, Daron at every opportunity. As the women’s friendship deepens; they rely on each other and help each other through many situations. I love Lori Foster romance books; her characters are real with problems and insecurities and I just love getting to know them and rooting for a happy ending. Also, I love in this series the puppy, Chaos; Jack and Royce are adorable when they are around this little fluff ball! What I always enjoy are the many friends that become like “family” and the good feelings Foster’s books generate. Highly recommended for the romance, chemistry, and sexual energy provided.

[Kathy Hartfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of Sisters of Summer’s End from NetGalley and this is my honest review. I don’t like to read reviews that tell all about the story. To learn that read the synopsis or download a sample, then if you liked what you read, buy the book. To me a review is: (response to each item is after the -----)
(1) how well it was written, ----- great story line.
(2) How it flows from introduction to ending, ----- was easy to follow the story line and characters.
(3) If it grabs your attention early, so that you cannot put it down, ----- definitely did.
(4) if it has too many or too few romantic areas or is just right, ------ for me, perfect.
(5) if it has enough mystery or suspense to make you read to the last work plus want more, ------ I personally would have like a little more mystery and suspense, but for this story line, it was adequate.
(6) how well it was edited, such as any glaring grammatical errors, ------ no comment as it was ARC.
This book was one of the better books that Ms. Foster has written and grabbed my attention after the first few chapters, so that I did not want to put it down. It had enough action, but for me, I would have like a little more. The grammar cannot be reviewed as this was an ARC. I give it 5* and definitely do recommend this book.

[Carrie Seymore · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say that I wanted to be a part of the Sister's of Summer's End is an understatement. The people sounded like the greatest support and friends that you would want to have in a small community. Maris and Joy formed the type of friendship that sounds like the friendship you want with someone and consider them a sister. The relationship that came from Joy and Royce was so sweet and beautiful. Plus you get the added bonus of following Maris and Daron's relationship blossoming into something so heartwarming. You get so into all the relationships that formed throughout the book that you don't want it to end and are left wanting another book of this little RV Park community that brings everyone together to be like family! I loved this book!

[Joann M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oops 2 in series I didn't even notice this

Cute story

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A truly feel-good novel as Joy and Maris develop a healthy friendship to support one another as they tackle new relationships.
Setting: RV Park in Ohio
Jack is Joy’s 5 yr old son .. a budding artist.
(I hope to read the first book in this series too.)
Joy & Royce. Maris & Daron.
Chaos is Royce’s rescue pup.
Author lives in Ohio.

[Susan Rickard · Rating 5 out of 5]

SISTER'S OF SUMMER'S END by Lori Foster is a wonderful story about love and family. Joy a single mom and Royce a new business owner, along with Jack are the focus of the story. Joy is the recreation director at a RV resort. Royce owns the drive in next to the resort. The resort is where Joy has built a life for herself and Jack her son. The people that work there are family to them. This story is an incredible journey with wonderful characters, it will leave you with a smile. Definitely a five 🌟 read!

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book!. It was heartwarming, funny, and sexy. Awesome characters and storylines.

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


I was in a pretty big reading slump before starting this book and I was pleasantly surprised to find myself coming out of that slump after reading this book. Although I enjoyed the first book in the series, I expressed by slight disappointment because I felt like the book was more of a Contemporary Romance rather than a true Women’s Fiction novel. However, I definitely feel like Lori Foster has stepped up to that and created a story that is more fitting to the genre.

In this book, we have two characters, Joy and Maris who find something that they never expected to. Both are at different points in their lives, but are feeling as if something isn’t right. As they encourage each other to step out of their comfort zones, they both discover something about themselves.

I really enjoyed this friendship and this was the kind of thing that I was looking for in this novel. While the romance is also a major part of the book, I really prefer there to be a focus on something else other than the romance when you are writing a Women’s Fiction novel. This distinction is really what makes it different from Contemporary Romance, which I felt the first book focused on the most. So I’m curious to see if Foster will continue this style and if so, I will definitely be looking forward to reading it.

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was very sweet and as much as it was about the romance it was also about women cultivating a friendship when they've never really had any prior.

Royce and Joy were great together, both seemed to be on the same page from the start and even when things started to change, they talked it over, or did so fairly quick with some prodding from their friends. I loved how Royce was with Jack, how he didn't seem him as a burden, but as a bonus and treated him that way, heck he even discovered some great traits and found ways to encourage them.

Maris and Daron were a little more harder for me to warm up to. I wanted to Maris to see Daron as a man, not a boy. I was happy when they worked things out quickly.

With Maris and Joy it was fun to see them actively decide to "have more" to their friendship. It was telling how both of them saw the other as greater than they saw each other, a nice perk that they could help build up the other's self esteem. It went well with their burgeoning romances, gave them a girlfriend to share and giggle with.

The ending to this one was great! Loved the HEA's all around.