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A Summer of Secrets: Feel good romance novel - a small town island love story
★★★★★ One of the Best Entertaining Island Romance Books!
★★★★★ Perfect Beach Read
★★★★★ I Totally Got Hooked on This Story - Harriet is such a fun, flawed, and lovable character, and watching her go from reality TV star to small-town waitress was honestly super entertaining. The island setting felt cozy, and I really liked the mix of humor, heart, and a little bit of spice. Zac was the perfect swoony surfer dude too. This book was cute, easy to read, and left me smiling. Definitely recommend!
★★★★★ So entertaining! This is a must read if you’re looking for the next weekend getaway book! A scorned reality TV star runs away from the limelight to a small town on the Jersey coast, only to be met ( charmed) by a local surfer. Need I say more? Amazon Reviewer
★★★★★ Feel good hit! Spicy without being raunchy! Spoiled rich kid? Check. Scheming Mr. Perfect? Double check. Betrayal, honesty, love--it's all here, ready to draw you in. Amazon Reviewer
★★★★★ OMG.... great book! I absolutely loved this book! Second chances, figuring out who you really are, and having the guts to face the truth. Such an inspiring and heartwarming read, perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with their true self. Amazon Reviewer
She’s a scorned reality star who has run away from the limelight. He’s a laid back surfer from a small island community.
Their lives couldn’t have been more different but when they meet on the sandy beaches of Jersey, sparks fly. Maybe even love.
But there’s one major problem.
Zac has no idea who Harriet really is, and if he did, he wouldn’t even be speaking to her, let alone falling in love with her.
For Harriet has reluctantly ditched her trademark designer look, swapped champagne fueled lunches for working as a waitress (although she finds it trickier than it looks) and cut herself off from all her social media sites. No-one would recognise her now as the reality star of Love Island, the centre of gossip and scandal of the summer.
And to Harriet’s surprise, she begins to find herself falling in love with the island’s laid back ways, the locals who became her friends - and Zac, the gorgeous surfer who teaches her to ride the waves.
A life a million miles away from the fame and glamour she’s used to and one she is wondering if she actually prefers…
But secrets won’t stay secret forever. When Harriet’s past catches up with her and explodes in the most public way possible she looks set to lose everything. Zac, her friends and the home she might have only just found. Can she survive this newest scandal? Or will Harriet’s secrets destroy her chances of a happily ever after?
★★★★★ Perfect Beach Read
★★★★★ I Totally Got Hooked on This Story - Harriet is such a fun, flawed, and lovable character, and watching her go from reality TV star to small-town waitress was honestly super entertaining. The island setting felt cozy, and I really liked the mix of humor, heart, and a little bit of spice. Zac was the perfect swoony surfer dude too. This book was cute, easy to read, and left me smiling. Definitely recommend!
★★★★★ So entertaining! This is a must read if you’re looking for the next weekend getaway book! A scorned reality TV star runs away from the limelight to a small town on the Jersey coast, only to be met ( charmed) by a local surfer. Need I say more? Amazon Reviewer
★★★★★ Feel good hit! Spicy without being raunchy! Spoiled rich kid? Check. Scheming Mr. Perfect? Double check. Betrayal, honesty, love--it's all here, ready to draw you in. Amazon Reviewer
★★★★★ OMG.... great book! I absolutely loved this book! Second chances, figuring out who you really are, and having the guts to face the truth. Such an inspiring and heartwarming read, perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with their true self. Amazon Reviewer
She’s a scorned reality star who has run away from the limelight. He’s a laid back surfer from a small island community.
Their lives couldn’t have been more different but when they meet on the sandy beaches of Jersey, sparks fly. Maybe even love.
But there’s one major problem.
Zac has no idea who Harriet really is, and if he did, he wouldn’t even be speaking to her, let alone falling in love with her.
For Harriet has reluctantly ditched her trademark designer look, swapped champagne fueled lunches for working as a waitress (although she finds it trickier than it looks) and cut herself off from all her social media sites. No-one would recognise her now as the reality star of Love Island, the centre of gossip and scandal of the summer.
And to Harriet’s surprise, she begins to find herself falling in love with the island’s laid back ways, the locals who became her friends - and Zac, the gorgeous surfer who teaches her to ride the waves.
A life a million miles away from the fame and glamour she’s used to and one she is wondering if she actually prefers…
But secrets won’t stay secret forever. When Harriet’s past catches up with her and explodes in the most public way possible she looks set to lose everything. Zac, her friends and the home she might have only just found. Can she survive this newest scandal? Or will Harriet’s secrets destroy her chances of a happily ever after?
- GenresRomance
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2024
24 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Wallace
1 book19 followersA Summer of Secrets is Michelle’s debut novel, set in the beautiful island of Jersey where she grew up and spent most of her life. Having lived so close to the sea and beaches, Michelle has dabbled in many sports and activities water-related and loves to bring the outdoors and adventure into her romance stories. Shouldn’t life always have an adventure on the horizon? Along with a decent amount of romance…
Michelle currently lives in a village in the Scottish Highlands with her husband and four children, teaching in a small, local school. She loves nothing more than getting out and about, exploring and hiking and occasionally swimming in a loch or waterfall (unless it is snowing!)
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 6, 2024
This is a perfect summer read! I loved learning some of the details about surfing. I adored Verity and her relationship with Harriet.
I usually hate 3rd person books but this was done well to the point that I actually appreciated the writing style for this story.
Hard to believe this is Michelle's first book, I can't wait to read more of hers.
I usually hate 3rd person books but this was done well to the point that I actually appreciated the writing style for this story.
Hard to believe this is Michelle's first book, I can't wait to read more of hers.
December 3, 2024
Awesome
I lived Harriet and Zac's story. This story was about to much its hard to define it in a few words. Over protective mom that lives off her daughters dreams, well her moms dream for Harriet. The damage that social media can do to a person, but also good that it can do also. Reality tv and all the damage that can do to a person , and also letting your grown children live there dreams not yours. Excellent book. Highly recommend.
I lived Harriet and Zac's story. This story was about to much its hard to define it in a few words. Over protective mom that lives off her daughters dreams, well her moms dream for Harriet. The damage that social media can do to a person, but also good that it can do also. Reality tv and all the damage that can do to a person , and also letting your grown children live there dreams not yours. Excellent book. Highly recommend.
November 17, 2024
This would be a perfect for summer .
I love how there are details about surfing in the book
I literally adore Verity and her relationship with Harriet .... just simply beautiful
I adore Michelle writing style in this book and I can't wait till I read more of her books
I'm hoping there is a Verity story coming next
I love how there are details about surfing in the book
I literally adore Verity and her relationship with Harriet .... just simply beautiful
I adore Michelle writing style in this book and I can't wait till I read more of her books
I'm hoping there is a Verity story coming next
October 20, 2024
This book has weaved its way into my heart and found a place where it can stay forever. This now, lives rent free in my head and my heart.
A Summer of Secrets is an absolute gem! It’s the perfect beach read which is frankly, impossible to put down. I indulged in the beautifully woven narrative and savored every page, clinging to each word as if it was a refreshing sip of summer lemonade, as it took me back to the days spent by the ocean.
Michelle’s writing is nothing short of imaginative—bringing Harriet, Verity, Zac, and all other characters to life. The story is sincere and light-hearted, yet it is infused with profound life lessons and realizations about what truly matters in life. I found myself reflecting on my own experiences as I laughed and cried alongside Harriet, our very own mega-influencer-turned-surfer-chic FMC.
This book has a way of capturing the beauty of summer and the importance of family and friendship, chasing your dreams, and discovering your most authentic self, making it a delightful escape. I know it will be a treasured addition to my bookshelf, one that I will keep going back to for years to come. If you’re looking for a story that warms the heart and inspires the soul, this is the one. A Summer of Secrets is a five-star, must read! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A Summer of Secrets is an absolute gem! It’s the perfect beach read which is frankly, impossible to put down. I indulged in the beautifully woven narrative and savored every page, clinging to each word as if it was a refreshing sip of summer lemonade, as it took me back to the days spent by the ocean.
Michelle’s writing is nothing short of imaginative—bringing Harriet, Verity, Zac, and all other characters to life. The story is sincere and light-hearted, yet it is infused with profound life lessons and realizations about what truly matters in life. I found myself reflecting on my own experiences as I laughed and cried alongside Harriet, our very own mega-influencer-turned-surfer-chic FMC.
This book has a way of capturing the beauty of summer and the importance of family and friendship, chasing your dreams, and discovering your most authentic self, making it a delightful escape. I know it will be a treasured addition to my bookshelf, one that I will keep going back to for years to come. If you’re looking for a story that warms the heart and inspires the soul, this is the one. A Summer of Secrets is a five-star, must read! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 27, 2024
Ok so Harriet was a little annoying especially in the beginning and I was frustrated with the format but this book was awesome! I really like Verity. I hope her story is coming next! I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of surfing was involved but I loved that storyline especially the ties with Robin.
October 7, 2024
4/5 stars
1/5 spice level
Synopsis:
Harriet runs away to the island of Jersey to stay with her aunt (who she has never met) after leaving a reality television show. She is extremely hurt and emotional from the antics of the show, which she decided to leave. Her mother stays in London to try to repair their social image while Harriet keeps a low profile away from the public eye.
Her aunt suggests getting a job at the local restaurant to help Harriet stay off social media and away from news sites. The story continues with Harriet making friends on the island, discovering a new love for surfing, while also trying to make sure she isn't recognized. Through her new friends, she meets Zac, a surfer who is back from a surf competition. He shows her how to become a better surfer and how much better island life can be.
Review:
This book was a delightful and quick read, showcasing the talent of a first-time author. From the very first pages, I was drawn into the story, eager to find out about Harriet's departure from the Love Island-esque reality show.
If you’re in the mood for a low-spice, cute beach romance, this is a great pick. The charm of Harriet’s relationship with her aunt Verity added to the narrative, and I thoroughly enjoyed her interactions with her new friends at work. One of the standout moments for me was when Harriet first discovered her love of surfing. Introducing surfing also served as a fantastic introduction to Zac. Their adorable relationship had me hooked, especially as I became invested in how Harriet would manage to keep her true identity a secret.
Overall, a lovely debut and I look forward to seeing more from this author.
Thank you Michelle Wallace for letting me read an ARC.
1/5 spice level
Synopsis:
Harriet runs away to the island of Jersey to stay with her aunt (who she has never met) after leaving a reality television show. She is extremely hurt and emotional from the antics of the show, which she decided to leave. Her mother stays in London to try to repair their social image while Harriet keeps a low profile away from the public eye.
Her aunt suggests getting a job at the local restaurant to help Harriet stay off social media and away from news sites. The story continues with Harriet making friends on the island, discovering a new love for surfing, while also trying to make sure she isn't recognized. Through her new friends, she meets Zac, a surfer who is back from a surf competition. He shows her how to become a better surfer and how much better island life can be.
Review:
This book was a delightful and quick read, showcasing the talent of a first-time author. From the very first pages, I was drawn into the story, eager to find out about Harriet's departure from the Love Island-esque reality show.
If you’re in the mood for a low-spice, cute beach romance, this is a great pick. The charm of Harriet’s relationship with her aunt Verity added to the narrative, and I thoroughly enjoyed her interactions with her new friends at work. One of the standout moments for me was when Harriet first discovered her love of surfing. Introducing surfing also served as a fantastic introduction to Zac. Their adorable relationship had me hooked, especially as I became invested in how Harriet would manage to keep her true identity a secret.
Overall, a lovely debut and I look forward to seeing more from this author.
Thank you Michelle Wallace for letting me read an ARC.
April 3, 2025
Welcome to my novel 'A Summer of Secrets' - Perfect for fans of beach reads, second-chance romance, and discovering what truly matters.
A Summer of Secrets is a heartwarming, Schitt’s Creek-inspired romantic comedy perfect for fans of second chances, unexpected love, and new beginnings.
Harriet Swan has it all—fame, fortune, and the world at her feet as the breakout star of TV show Lust Island. But when blackmail leads to her public downfall, Harriet's glittering life comes crashing down. Kicked off the show and hounded by social media, she’s forced to disappear at her mother’s demands.
Exiled to the small island of Jersey, Harriet is stripped of her wealth, social media, and designer wardrobe. She’s stuck in a ramshackle beach house with an aunt she’s never met and to make matters worse, she’s forced to get a job - as a waitress.
But as Harriet settles into her new life, something surprising happens. She starts making real friends - people who like her for who she truly is, not the persona she built online. Then there’s Zac, a sexy local surfer who has no clue about her past. He’s funny, kind, and everything Harriet never knew she needed. The only problem? He despises Lust Island and everything it stands for. If he discovers who she really is, everything could fall apart.
Caught between her past and a new future, Harriet must decide: Can she leave behind fame for love, or will her secrets destroy everything she’s started to rebuild?
A Summer of Secrets is a delightful rom-com full of humour, heart, and a love story that proves sometimes the best things in life come when you least expect them.
A Summer of Secrets is a heartwarming, Schitt’s Creek-inspired romantic comedy perfect for fans of second chances, unexpected love, and new beginnings.
Harriet Swan has it all—fame, fortune, and the world at her feet as the breakout star of TV show Lust Island. But when blackmail leads to her public downfall, Harriet's glittering life comes crashing down. Kicked off the show and hounded by social media, she’s forced to disappear at her mother’s demands.
Exiled to the small island of Jersey, Harriet is stripped of her wealth, social media, and designer wardrobe. She’s stuck in a ramshackle beach house with an aunt she’s never met and to make matters worse, she’s forced to get a job - as a waitress.
But as Harriet settles into her new life, something surprising happens. She starts making real friends - people who like her for who she truly is, not the persona she built online. Then there’s Zac, a sexy local surfer who has no clue about her past. He’s funny, kind, and everything Harriet never knew she needed. The only problem? He despises Lust Island and everything it stands for. If he discovers who she really is, everything could fall apart.
Caught between her past and a new future, Harriet must decide: Can she leave behind fame for love, or will her secrets destroy everything she’s started to rebuild?
A Summer of Secrets is a delightful rom-com full of humour, heart, and a love story that proves sometimes the best things in life come when you least expect them.
October 19, 2024
A great beach read!
When things go sideways on a reality television show, Harriet needs to hide her identity and lie low for awhile. What better way to do that than go stay with an aunt you've never met?!
Harriet starts to learn and grow so much while away. She even takes surf lessons, where she meets Zac. He's such a refreshing character and the two are completely adorable together.
This is a great low spice, sweet story that makes you want to smile and soak up the sunshine.
When things go sideways on a reality television show, Harriet needs to hide her identity and lie low for awhile. What better way to do that than go stay with an aunt you've never met?!
Harriet starts to learn and grow so much while away. She even takes surf lessons, where she meets Zac. He's such a refreshing character and the two are completely adorable together.
This is a great low spice, sweet story that makes you want to smile and soak up the sunshine.
October 21, 2024
OK i am swooned to the max in so many ways!
Summer of Secrets novel by Michelle Wallace
Releases soon.
Read on September 27, 2024
Extraordinary, Compelling, Strong-Willed and so much more.
I am so happy I was able to read this arc. I am in heaven right now after finishing the book. Left with such a happiness I also feel sad like when you leave camp after making friends the way you miss them. Summer of Secrets is my camp friends.
This book follows Harriet a once most loved idle who is now being dragged in the ditches by media and followers. Escaping to the Island of Jersey.
The characters are written so well, compelling you to get to know them almost personally. I am not sure I have ever loved the beginning chapters of a book getting to know the character so well as much as the love story. The love story is good, wholesome, beautiful.
But the story itself is a strong woman who has never known she had the strength finding herself a woman she had never new existed, a story of fighting for who she wants to be. Its more than the love of Zac, it’s the love of life and friends and oh dear Verity I love her.
Harriet didn’t only fall in love with Zac, she fell in love with her life.
I am so in tune with this story that when Harriot is nervous, I am nervous when she is happy, I am so happy.
I don’t know if I can put words to how much I love this story. Finishing the book is sad, I will miss Harriet and Verity so much until I read again, and I will read again.
Michelle Wallace
Summer of Secrets novel by Michelle Wallace
Releases soon.
Read on September 27, 2024
Extraordinary, Compelling, Strong-Willed and so much more.
I am so happy I was able to read this arc. I am in heaven right now after finishing the book. Left with such a happiness I also feel sad like when you leave camp after making friends the way you miss them. Summer of Secrets is my camp friends.
This book follows Harriet a once most loved idle who is now being dragged in the ditches by media and followers. Escaping to the Island of Jersey.
The characters are written so well, compelling you to get to know them almost personally. I am not sure I have ever loved the beginning chapters of a book getting to know the character so well as much as the love story. The love story is good, wholesome, beautiful.
But the story itself is a strong woman who has never known she had the strength finding herself a woman she had never new existed, a story of fighting for who she wants to be. Its more than the love of Zac, it’s the love of life and friends and oh dear Verity I love her.
Harriet didn’t only fall in love with Zac, she fell in love with her life.
I am so in tune with this story that when Harriot is nervous, I am nervous when she is happy, I am so happy.
I don’t know if I can put words to how much I love this story. Finishing the book is sad, I will miss Harriet and Verity so much until I read again, and I will read again.
Michelle Wallace
October 21, 2024
Super cute book and very easy read! I enjoyed the fluctuation between short and long chapters, to me it made the flow of the book even better! I loved the story and the simplicity of a good romance book. I loved the relationship between Harriett and her aunt, and watching Harriett find herself. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future!
December 18, 2024
A Heartwarming Romance
I really enjoyed this book. The characters felt genuine, and I liked how their relationship developed over time. The author did a great job of showing their emotional growth, making the romance feel authentic. The pacing was steady, with just the right amount of tension and tender moments to keep me engaged.
What I appreciated most was how the characters dealt with their personal struggles and learned to trust each other. It wasn't all about instant chemistry, but rather about building a deeper connection. The setting and supporting characters also added some nice depth to the story.
If you’re looking for a solid, heartfelt romance, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters felt genuine, and I liked how their relationship developed over time. The author did a great job of showing their emotional growth, making the romance feel authentic. The pacing was steady, with just the right amount of tension and tender moments to keep me engaged.
What I appreciated most was how the characters dealt with their personal struggles and learned to trust each other. It wasn't all about instant chemistry, but rather about building a deeper connection. The setting and supporting characters also added some nice depth to the story.
If you’re looking for a solid, heartfelt romance, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try.
October 12, 2024
What a read!
I am personally not a big fan of third person point of view but adjusted easily enough.
The character development was absolutely incredible! I did not like Harriet whatsoever at first but loved her in the end.
I love the relationship she built with Verity, and how she discovered unconditional love, kindness, and compassion with her.
It made me warm and fuzzy inside that she discovered true friendship and was welcomed by their friends as well.
If you love a story about finding yourself and finding a place where you belong, add this to your TBR LIST!
I am personally not a big fan of third person point of view but adjusted easily enough.
The character development was absolutely incredible! I did not like Harriet whatsoever at first but loved her in the end.
I love the relationship she built with Verity, and how she discovered unconditional love, kindness, and compassion with her.
It made me warm and fuzzy inside that she discovered true friendship and was welcomed by their friends as well.
If you love a story about finding yourself and finding a place where you belong, add this to your TBR LIST!
August 11, 2025
Story of Finding Yourself
I enjoyed reading this one! The first few chapters were a little rocky, but once I got past them, I couldn't stop reading. I absolutely loved Verity. She was patient and supportive with Harriet, even though Harriet didn't like her at first. I loved their relationship the most, and thank goodness Verity talked some sense into Zac at the end. Otherwise, I would've lost it. Such a great read though!
I enjoyed reading this one! The first few chapters were a little rocky, but once I got past them, I couldn't stop reading. I absolutely loved Verity. She was patient and supportive with Harriet, even though Harriet didn't like her at first. I loved their relationship the most, and thank goodness Verity talked some sense into Zac at the end. Otherwise, I would've lost it. Such a great read though!
October 16, 2024
A cute summer romance book. When Harriet is dismissed from a reality dating show for cheating, she is sent to her aunt’s to hideaway from publicity for the summer. She not only learns about her heritage, but bonds with her aunt, gets a new and first job, makes new friends and finds a hot new boyfriend.
October 19, 2024
A good book on finding yourself, family, and love.
Really enjoyed reading the book and I appreciated how the author started the book before jumping right into the romance.
While I enjoyed the build-up it got a little bit slow for me at some points but it was fine since the author was able to recover it once the romance started.
Really enjoyed reading the book and I appreciated how the author started the book before jumping right into the romance.
While I enjoyed the build-up it got a little bit slow for me at some points but it was fine since the author was able to recover it once the romance started.
November 4, 2024
Super cute book. Very predictable, but great if you want a feel good romance. I read an ARC and there were A LOT of Grammer errors and even more spots that I couldn't tell if they were Grammer errors or just differences in British English vs American English. Would make a nice beach read.
June 2, 2025
A summer of secrets is a vibrant escape to the beaches of Jersey, brimming with romance and feel-good vibes. With charm and energy, Michelle Wallace's debut novel makes a delightful splash in the literary world. I can't wait to see what she writes next.
April 9, 2025
A great read
I really enjoyed reading this book - look forward to another from Michelle soon!
I would highly recommend you read it
I really enjoyed reading this book - look forward to another from Michelle soon!
I would highly recommend you read it
July 13, 2025
I don’t usually give chiclit a 5 but this book was such fun. I couldn’t put it down. Great character development
August 30, 2025
Fantastic and a totally different storyline to other books, really enjoyed it. Would love to hear of their new adventures
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews