The first thing to say is: this cover is misleading! Or, specifically, the English-language cover. Yes, there is a romance, but that is a small part of this story about family, friendship, grief, and more. It’s written in more of a literary-fiction style, and I enjoyed this book much more once I readjusted my expectations!

We follow Vinga, a teenage girl who has a complicated relationship with her parents, but who idolises her grandfather. She escapes to the island where he lives for the summer, and as the summer unfolds we get more insights into her life and her character.

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While the book was very readable and absorbing, the plot itself didn’t stand out for me. I think contemporary novels – particularly YA – are at their best when the big plot runs parallel to what the book is actually about. There wasn’t as much emotional depth or subtlety as I’d have liked, but it was an enjoyable story about one girl’s summer. It was atmospheric enough to keep me engaged, but I was left wanting more.

I received a free copy for an honest review.