Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune

*** My Review ***

Carley Fortune’s Meet Me at the Lake is a captivating novel that effortlessly draws readers into the lives of its characters. Despite not having read the author’s previous work, I quickly understood why her writing resonates with readers. While I initially had reservations about the plausibility of a second chance romance between two people who spent only one day together, Fortune’s storytelling prowess won me over. The gradual development of the relationship between Fern and Will, coupled with their compelling backstories, kept me invested throughout the book.

The story introduces Fern Brookbanks and Will Baxter, whose paths intertwine ten years ago in Toronto. As Fern prepares to return to her hometown and the lakeside resort inherited from her mother’s family, she meets the charming and idealistic artist, Will. Their encounter leads to an unforgettable 24-hour city tour and a pact to meet again in a year. However, Fern is left heartbroken when Will fails to show up, leaving their connection unresolved.

Fast forward a decade, and Fern is grappling with the tragic loss of her mother. Returning to her hometown and assuming the responsibility of managing the family resort, she is surprised to find Will, now a consultant hired by her late mother, tasked with helping revitalize the struggling business. As they are forced to work together, Fern must confront her lingering feelings for Will and decide whether she can set aside past resentments for the sake of their shared future.

Fern and Will’s reunion, nine years after their fateful meeting, forms the crux of the story. Fern, reluctantly thrust into the role of managing the family resort following her mother’s tragic passing, discovers that Will has been hired as a consultant to revive the struggling business. The writing beautifully captures Fern’s nostalgia for the cherished memories she had at the lake resort, evoking a sense of regret for not fully appreciating them before her mother’s demise.

The romance between Fern and Will is built upon a foundation of longing, hurt, and the joy of finally reuniting with the one they’ve yearned for. Fortune masterfully conveys these emotions, despite the story being told solely from Fern’s point of view. It becomes evident that Will shares in these feelings, adding depth to their connection.

The heart of the story lies in the narrative structure, which alternates between Fern’s perspective in the present and flashbacks to events ten years earlier, supplemented by segments from her mother’s journal. While this approach could sometimes be confusing, overall, the transitions were skillfully woven together. Through this storytelling technique, readers gain insight into Fern’s complicated relationship with Will, which is fraught with secrets and unresolved issues. Discovering why Will failed to meet Fern at the lake as promised nine years earlier proved frustrating yet eventually made perfect sense. Both characters, Fern with her flaws and troubled past and Will as an enigmatic figure with hidden depths, were intriguing and multifaceted.

The narration of the book was enjoyable, with the narrator effectively handling the large cast of characters and providing each with distinctive voices. Although Fern’s voice sounded younger than expected, it aptly captured her personality and added depth to her portrayal.

One of the novel’s standout feature is its picturesque setting, which is expertly described, making it easy to visualize. If you’re in search of a summer romance that will make you swoon, Meet Me at the Lake is the perfect choice. Fortune skillfully creates an atmosphere that exudes both romance and tranquility, transporting readers to the idyllic Brookbanks Lake Resort.

Meet Me at the Lake not only explores the second chance romance trope but delves into themes of grief, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness. The novel also touches upon mental health issues, offering a well-rounded and emotionally resonant narrative. Fortune’s writing is exquisite, with complex characters, a passionate romance, and enchanting settings that leave a lasting impression.

Carley Fortune skillfully navigates the complexities of the characters’ emotions and growth throughout the novel. The glimpses into Fern’s mother’s diary add depth to the narrative, shedding light on her choices, sacrifices, and a touching love story. The author’s ability to blend sentimentality with genuine character development is truly commendable.

In essence, Fern and Will are exceptionally complex characters, and their respective journeys to the present day are fascinating to explore. Fern’s story feels like a delayed coming-of-age tale as she confronts her past and comes to terms with it. On the other hand, Will’s journey is somewhat enigmatic due to his tendency to compartmentalize his life and emotions. The reader becomes deeply invested in uncovering where they will ultimately end up, which keeps them engaged throughout the story. Meet Me at the Lake offers an original and unpredictable narrative that sets it apart, ensuring that nothing about the book feels formulaic or predictable.

In conclusion, Meet Me at the Lake presents a captivating tale centered on the complex characters of Fern and Will. The narrative structure, combining present-day events with flashbacks and journal entries, adds depth and intrigue to the story. With its relatable and flawed protagonists, the book takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, love, and unexpected twists. Carley Fortune’s ability to craft an original and unpredictable narrative makes this book a compelling read for those seeking a heartfelt and genuinely engaging romance.