Introducing my new book boyfriend—Max from “The Summer Proposal” was an absolute dream. The book starts off strong with him posing as Georgia’s blind date, Adam. He is sweet, charismatic, and a self-professed Star Wars geek—complete with a little Yoda in his pocket. How could you not love him? The fact that he’s a high-profile hockey star who is also sweet and humble is just too much to bear. Georgia quickly became my favorite female protagonist. I loved how she communicated and thought everything through. She may have overanalyzed, but she made logical decisions, not ones based solely on feelings and mood.

One of my favorite moments is when she chastises Gabriel not for making a mistake, but for making a choice. Truer words have never been spoken. I also loved it when Gabriel and Max were at her apartment, and she clearly articulated how she felt about the situation and her desired approach, honoring both parties involved. No matter what was happening, she did her best to maintain composure, and for a genre where miscommunication often drives the plot, it was refreshing to see a change of pace.

The subplot involving Austin’s story was heartbreaking. Vi skillfully wove it into the narrative, offering glimpses into the past and revealing the brother whom the family held in high esteem. Understanding what happened and then alternating between the past and present offered a completely different perspective of Max, and once everything came to light, it made you love him even more.

Georgia’s best friend Teagan was a riot! Her ideas for revenge on her husband were absolutely hilarious! She was also the perfect addition to the story as she was the polar opposite of Georgia—where Georgia was logical and measured, her best friend was impulsive and led by emotion. She provided just the right push in the story when Georgia needed a nudge (or shove) to step out of her comfort zone.

While parts of the story were predictable, overall it was fun, sad, engaging, and sweet—especially the moments where Max helps Georgia with her list. It was hot and offered a wonderful touch of sports with a splash of summer-loving fun.