Review: Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson

Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson
Published: June 7th, 2012 (Simon & Schuster UK)
Pages: 468
Source: bought
Series: NA
Buy the book: Bookdepository
Rating: ★★★★★


Taylor Edwards’ family might not be the closest-knit—everyone is a little too busy and overscheduled—but for the most part, they get along just fine. Then Taylor’s dad gets devastating news, and her parents decide that the family will spend one last summer all together at their old lake house in the Pocono Mountains.

Crammed into a place much smaller and more rustic than they are used to, they begin to get to know each other again. And Taylor discovers that the people she thought she had left behind haven’t actually gone anywhere. Her former best friend is still around, as is her first boyfriend…and he’s much cuter at seventeen than he was at twelve.

As the summer progresses and the Edwards become more of a family, they’re more aware than ever that they’re battling a ticking clock. Sometimes, though, there is just enough time to get a second chance—with family, with friends, and with love.

Guys, guys.. Seriously, this book. This book. There's no way I can put into words how much I loved it. It was one of my favourites of 2012 and it's still in my favourite books, well over a year after I read it.

Taylor was so easy for me to relate to. I really felt her emotions -- I really felt connected to all of the characters and their stories and I can only say props to that. It's really something to write a story that really connects to its reader.

The setting was great -- I loved that the events mostly takes place at their vacation house while the story itself also takes place at home, before, and even way before around the same vacation house. The characters really came alive with their own little quirks and I was able to visualise everything and everyone in my head.

While the cover looks cheery, the story isn't always like that. It's quite a sad story at times, mixed with happy moments. At the ending I was basically bawling my eyes out because it was all so damn sad and so damn beautiful. It was perfect and there's just no way I can describe it. Second Chance Summer really gave me *all* the feels.

To be honest, I think I'd force this on anyone looking for something to read. I'd say it's a must read for contemporary fans.


ETA: I know this is a lousy review. I'm aware of that -- just know that there is no way I could write a review worthy of this book. Just read it. You won't regret it :)