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The Summer of Lost and Found
For a woman at a turning point, a small Kentucky town offers a summer of healing, unexpected romance, and rediscovery in a bittersweet novel by USA Today bestselling author Toni Blake.
Recovering from cancer, Cincinnati news anchor Jessica Fox has no choice but to take a summer leave. Her boss’s for Jessica to take it easy and recharge at his late grandmother Mabel’s cottage in the Kentucky mountains.
The town of Lost and Found lives up to its name. Resistant at first, Jessica grows to appreciate the slower pace, the spectacular sunsets, the affable locals, and even Matt Cordray, the laid-back, too-friendly police chief next door. Most engaging of all is Mabel, who left behind a treasure map that leads Jessica to a collection of lost items—mementos and love letters—people have mailed to the town over the years. Jessica needs something to help pass the time, and she finds it in reuniting these precious things with the distant strangers who lost them.
Lost and in flux herself, Jessica has no idea just how connected to life this town will make her feel again or, by summer’s end, how transformative a season it will be.
Recovering from cancer, Cincinnati news anchor Jessica Fox has no choice but to take a summer leave. Her boss’s for Jessica to take it easy and recharge at his late grandmother Mabel’s cottage in the Kentucky mountains.
The town of Lost and Found lives up to its name. Resistant at first, Jessica grows to appreciate the slower pace, the spectacular sunsets, the affable locals, and even Matt Cordray, the laid-back, too-friendly police chief next door. Most engaging of all is Mabel, who left behind a treasure map that leads Jessica to a collection of lost items—mementos and love letters—people have mailed to the town over the years. Jessica needs something to help pass the time, and she finds it in reuniting these precious things with the distant strangers who lost them.
Lost and in flux herself, Jessica has no idea just how connected to life this town will make her feel again or, by summer’s end, how transformative a season it will be.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2026
161 people are currently reading
5162 people want to read
About the author
Toni Blake
46 books1,190 followersToni Blake's love of writing began when she won an essay contest in the fifth grade. Soon after, she penned her first novel, nineteen notebook-pages long, and announced to her mother over breakfast one day that she was going to be a writer when she grew up. Since then, Toni has become the author of more than forty contemporary romance novels. Her work has been excerpted in Cosmo, she's been a recipient of the Kentucky Women Writers Fellowship and she's been a nominee for the prestigious Pushcart Prize. In addition to being a two-time finalist for the Rita Award, she's received both the National Readers Choice Award and the Booksellers Best Award. Toni lives in the Midwest with her husband and enjoys traveling, crafts, and being outdoors.
Toni has also written under the name Toni Blair.
Photo: Cassandra Stella
Toni has also written under the name Toni Blair.
Photo: Cassandra Stella
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Summer of Lost and Found
by Toni Blake
This novel presents a thoughtful and gentle exploration of the essence of summer and the power of personal renewal. I particularly appreciated Jessica's journey, as she embarks on a path to rediscovering herself after a challenging battle with cancer.
Cincinnati news anchor Jessica Fox faces a forced summer leave from her demanding job, prompting her Boss, Kenvin, to offer her the use of his late grandmother Mabel’s quaint cottage nestled in the picturesque Kentucky mountains. However, upon her arrival, she is met with unexpected challenges that nearly drive her back home to her bustling life in Cincinnati.
In the small, charming town of Lost and Found, Jessica encounters her neighbours, including Matt Cordray, a warm-hearted police chief with a compassionate demeanor, and Jo, Conrad, and Grace, locals who quickly become her friends. As Jessica gradually adjusts to the slower pace of life in this close-knit community, she starts to find a sense of belonging and comfort that had eluded her for so long.
The portrayal of Lost and Found immerses readers in a nostalgic atmosphere, richly depicting a simpler, more authentic way of life that invites reflection and peace. The characters are endearingly quirky, each bringing their own unique imperfections, which makes them relatable and engaging.
This marks my first experience with Toni Blake’s writing, and I found myself thoroughly enchanted by the story. The book is imbued with heart and deep emotional resonance, allowing readers to connect with Jessica's struggles and triumphs.
The well-crafted characters and engaging storyline provided a soothing sense of comfort, making me believe that this book could become a cherished comfort read for many others as well. Overall, my experience with this novel was enriching, and I wholeheartedly encourage others to dive into its pages and discover the warmth and wisdom it has to offer.
by Toni Blake
This novel presents a thoughtful and gentle exploration of the essence of summer and the power of personal renewal. I particularly appreciated Jessica's journey, as she embarks on a path to rediscovering herself after a challenging battle with cancer.
Cincinnati news anchor Jessica Fox faces a forced summer leave from her demanding job, prompting her Boss, Kenvin, to offer her the use of his late grandmother Mabel’s quaint cottage nestled in the picturesque Kentucky mountains. However, upon her arrival, she is met with unexpected challenges that nearly drive her back home to her bustling life in Cincinnati.
In the small, charming town of Lost and Found, Jessica encounters her neighbours, including Matt Cordray, a warm-hearted police chief with a compassionate demeanor, and Jo, Conrad, and Grace, locals who quickly become her friends. As Jessica gradually adjusts to the slower pace of life in this close-knit community, she starts to find a sense of belonging and comfort that had eluded her for so long.
The portrayal of Lost and Found immerses readers in a nostalgic atmosphere, richly depicting a simpler, more authentic way of life that invites reflection and peace. The characters are endearingly quirky, each bringing their own unique imperfections, which makes them relatable and engaging.
This marks my first experience with Toni Blake’s writing, and I found myself thoroughly enchanted by the story. The book is imbued with heart and deep emotional resonance, allowing readers to connect with Jessica's struggles and triumphs.
The well-crafted characters and engaging storyline provided a soothing sense of comfort, making me believe that this book could become a cherished comfort read for many others as well. Overall, my experience with this novel was enriching, and I wholeheartedly encourage others to dive into its pages and discover the warmth and wisdom it has to offer.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this!
Toni Blake is a new to me author. This was an ARC book from Netgalley, that I received through Toni's team, in exchange for an honest review. The book is set for release on February 17, 2026.
I thought the pacing of the the story, the length, the ending was absolutely wonderful.
Toni took a tough subject, turned it into a beautiful story that was touching, had self reflection, laughs, and tears ( happy and sad ). All the feels. Realistic characters, with beloved animals and a location that became another character.
I really liked the idea of trying to reunite items with loved ones, it's a recurring theme with several books that I've read over the last year.
I didn't always agree with the actions of the main character, Jessica, but I've known people like her, so this made her more realistic in my opinion.
Toni Blake is a new to me author. This was an ARC book from Netgalley, that I received through Toni's team, in exchange for an honest review. The book is set for release on February 17, 2026.
I thought the pacing of the the story, the length, the ending was absolutely wonderful.
Toni took a tough subject, turned it into a beautiful story that was touching, had self reflection, laughs, and tears ( happy and sad ). All the feels. Realistic characters, with beloved animals and a location that became another character.
I really liked the idea of trying to reunite items with loved ones, it's a recurring theme with several books that I've read over the last year.
I didn't always agree with the actions of the main character, Jessica, but I've known people like her, so this made her more realistic in my opinion.
February 27, 2026
FINALLY! A romance that actually feels realistic in every aspect, with very little spice, newfound family, self-discovery, and so much more!
While I was perusing NetGalley, I stumbled upon this book. Had a look at the cover and I knew I had to read it. I wend into it without even reading the blurb, and I knew nothing about it whatsoever. Thank goodness I did it because I found my favourite romance (officially) of 2026! Hands down, this was the best romance/contemporary book I have read, and I am so happy about it.
Jessica is a woman who has been through a lot. She is a cancer survivor, and she is strong, independent and self-sufficient. We follow her journey whilst she is recovering from chemotherapy and radiation, and what she found in the little town of Lost and Found turns out to be invaluable.
This story delved deeply into our hectic day-to-day lives, examining what social media and the internet mean to us, what we have lost due to these commodities, and how we can regain that lost human connection and love with others, but most importantly, with ourselves. I loved the characters; they were multifaceted, real, relatable, and so very human and flawed in a realistic way that I could recall a certain person I knew in my own life who resembled them. The author did an amazing job at pondering the self-discovery part, the human interactions and the overall small-town atmosphere.
The writing style was easy to follow and captivating. I was laughing on one page and crying the very next. Those were happy tears, tears of realisation that I feel the same way or have gone through the same thing. When it comes to the romance part, this is exactly my vision of what romance and sex scenes should be like in these books. The dialogue during the intimate scene made me cry a little; it was so touching and tender, nothing vulgar or explicit. Just pure perfection!
I was so invested in the whole lost and found bit; it was so heartwarming and inspiring. This is also a second-chance romance, but not in the traditional way; rather, the main characters are in their late 30s or early 40s and are finding love again at that age.
Honestly, read it, I cannot recommend it enough, 5 stars read!
While I was perusing NetGalley, I stumbled upon this book. Had a look at the cover and I knew I had to read it. I wend into it without even reading the blurb, and I knew nothing about it whatsoever. Thank goodness I did it because I found my favourite romance (officially) of 2026! Hands down, this was the best romance/contemporary book I have read, and I am so happy about it.
Jessica is a woman who has been through a lot. She is a cancer survivor, and she is strong, independent and self-sufficient. We follow her journey whilst she is recovering from chemotherapy and radiation, and what she found in the little town of Lost and Found turns out to be invaluable.
This story delved deeply into our hectic day-to-day lives, examining what social media and the internet mean to us, what we have lost due to these commodities, and how we can regain that lost human connection and love with others, but most importantly, with ourselves. I loved the characters; they were multifaceted, real, relatable, and so very human and flawed in a realistic way that I could recall a certain person I knew in my own life who resembled them. The author did an amazing job at pondering the self-discovery part, the human interactions and the overall small-town atmosphere.
The writing style was easy to follow and captivating. I was laughing on one page and crying the very next. Those were happy tears, tears of realisation that I feel the same way or have gone through the same thing. When it comes to the romance part, this is exactly my vision of what romance and sex scenes should be like in these books. The dialogue during the intimate scene made me cry a little; it was so touching and tender, nothing vulgar or explicit. Just pure perfection!
I was so invested in the whole lost and found bit; it was so heartwarming and inspiring. This is also a second-chance romance, but not in the traditional way; rather, the main characters are in their late 30s or early 40s and are finding love again at that age.
Honestly, read it, I cannot recommend it enough, 5 stars read!
February 17, 2026
This book was such a lovely slow stroll through summer. I really enjoyed it, I felt for the character and her journey. I was rooting for her to find herself again after dealing with cancer. I loved this town that seemed to be like stepping back in time to a slower pace. The characters were quirky and they were perfectly imperfect. It’s been a long time since I read a book by this author and I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this. This book had heart.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I ABSOLUTELY ADORED THIS BOOK!
If you’re looking for something that will pick you up; build up your resolve; give you some hope as well as restore your faith in family/friends/neighbors and small-town life… well, look no further! THIS. IS. IT!!!! 🩷🩷
Jessica Fox is a well known news anchor in Cincinnati. Until she gets diagnosed with breast cancer.
She goes through surgery, and all that follows, and unfortunately loses her hair… and some of her self-esteem along the way…
Just when she feels that she’s getting better, her friend/boss asks her in to see him. They talk, and he says she’s not ready to come back, and that they are going to keep her replacement for a while longer… She’s is NOT happy with this. He tells her that if she can get through a news report with him (a fake one) he’ll give her a shot. Unfortunately, she cannot do it. And realizing that she’s not ready, she agrees to go to Kentucky for the summer and stay in his grandmas little bungalow… where she can get some rest and relaxation… and recharge!
Upon arrival she is met with a neighbor, Matt Corday, who has stocked up on essentials for her… at her friend’s request. She also soon realizes that the town is stuck in the 50’s -60’s… with no internet. No pizza delivery. Nothing.
She. Is. Livid! She wants to get out!
BUT…the more time she spends there, the more people she meets, the more familiar she gets with the town… and, the more she is falling I love with it all!
She also finds a ‘treasure map’ among the grandmas things… stating that whoever finds this, and solves the puzzle… agrees to taking care of the winnings! She’s intrigued. She plays! And, what she finds just changes her life. Forever! It actually becomes a new obsession that takes in, not only her, but the whole town… and a good portion of the world!
Absolutely ALL THE STARS for me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨✨✨✨💫💫💫💫💫🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#TheSummerOfLostAndFound by @ToniBlake and narrated nicely by @JennLee.
**** THIS ONE HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!! Soooo…..Look 👀👀for it in a couple of days… on 2/17/26! ****
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @BrilliancePublishing and @BrillianceAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
If you’re looking for something that will pick you up; build up your resolve; give you some hope as well as restore your faith in family/friends/neighbors and small-town life… well, look no further! THIS. IS. IT!!!! 🩷🩷
Jessica Fox is a well known news anchor in Cincinnati. Until she gets diagnosed with breast cancer.
She goes through surgery, and all that follows, and unfortunately loses her hair… and some of her self-esteem along the way…
Just when she feels that she’s getting better, her friend/boss asks her in to see him. They talk, and he says she’s not ready to come back, and that they are going to keep her replacement for a while longer… She’s is NOT happy with this. He tells her that if she can get through a news report with him (a fake one) he’ll give her a shot. Unfortunately, she cannot do it. And realizing that she’s not ready, she agrees to go to Kentucky for the summer and stay in his grandmas little bungalow… where she can get some rest and relaxation… and recharge!
Upon arrival she is met with a neighbor, Matt Corday, who has stocked up on essentials for her… at her friend’s request. She also soon realizes that the town is stuck in the 50’s -60’s… with no internet. No pizza delivery. Nothing.
She. Is. Livid! She wants to get out!
BUT…the more time she spends there, the more people she meets, the more familiar she gets with the town… and, the more she is falling I love with it all!
She also finds a ‘treasure map’ among the grandmas things… stating that whoever finds this, and solves the puzzle… agrees to taking care of the winnings! She’s intrigued. She plays! And, what she finds just changes her life. Forever! It actually becomes a new obsession that takes in, not only her, but the whole town… and a good portion of the world!
Absolutely ALL THE STARS for me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨✨✨✨💫💫💫💫💫🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#TheSummerOfLostAndFound by @ToniBlake and narrated nicely by @JennLee.
**** THIS ONE HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!! Soooo…..Look 👀👀for it in a couple of days… on 2/17/26! ****
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @BrilliancePublishing and @BrillianceAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica Fox is a news anchor in Cincinnati, who is recovery from cancer and when she is ready to come back to work, the powers that be at the network are not read for her. You see her image has changed since her cancer treatments and she has been encourage by her boss to take the summer off to fully recover and charge her battery to her full strengths. He has just the place for her to take it easy at his grandmother Mabel's cottage in a very small rural place located in the mountains of Kentucky.
When she arrives in this little burg of Lost and Found, she is wondering what possessed her to listen to her boss, but as she meets her neighbors, learns about the town and eases into he this tranquil place of rest and recovery, she finds some new passions. One of them being her next door neighbor, the town sheriff Matt Corday. He seems like this small town "ah shucks" kind of guy, but there is more to him than meets the eye. And he helps her to see that she is more than what she was and who she has become now. Along with the sweet lady who introduces her to 'brown beans". Grace becomes so important to her too... Especially when Jessica and Matt find Mabel's Lost and Found collection and she starts to explore where they came from and how to get these 'treasures back to their owners if she can.
Jessica has no Idea the Lost and Found Kentucky would bring her and awakening she had never known and how important her new friends would become to her.
I am so very glad that Toni Blake has brought us this story that takes on a journey that only someone who has gone through it can really know what it is like to recover from such a heartbreaking and debilitating medical condition and come out the other side like Jessica did.
It's a story of recovery, hope, healing and finding a new way to live your life to its fullest when a future may seem uncertain, finding love when you are not looking for it. This book will move you and will be glad you read it will have you cheering for Jessica all the way and shared in Toni Blakes comeback to the word of romance and women's fiction.
It's the most heartwarming read I would give 10 stars.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher but the opinions expressed are my own.
When she arrives in this little burg of Lost and Found, she is wondering what possessed her to listen to her boss, but as she meets her neighbors, learns about the town and eases into he this tranquil place of rest and recovery, she finds some new passions. One of them being her next door neighbor, the town sheriff Matt Corday. He seems like this small town "ah shucks" kind of guy, but there is more to him than meets the eye. And he helps her to see that she is more than what she was and who she has become now. Along with the sweet lady who introduces her to 'brown beans". Grace becomes so important to her too... Especially when Jessica and Matt find Mabel's Lost and Found collection and she starts to explore where they came from and how to get these 'treasures back to their owners if she can.
Jessica has no Idea the Lost and Found Kentucky would bring her and awakening she had never known and how important her new friends would become to her.
I am so very glad that Toni Blake has brought us this story that takes on a journey that only someone who has gone through it can really know what it is like to recover from such a heartbreaking and debilitating medical condition and come out the other side like Jessica did.
It's a story of recovery, hope, healing and finding a new way to live your life to its fullest when a future may seem uncertain, finding love when you are not looking for it. This book will move you and will be glad you read it will have you cheering for Jessica all the way and shared in Toni Blakes comeback to the word of romance and women's fiction.
It's the most heartwarming read I would give 10 stars.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher but the opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
After battling breast cancer and winning, Cincinnati newscaster Jessica Fox finds herself on temporary leave from her high-powered job—still recovering, still growing back the hair she was once known for, and unsure what comes next. With too much downtime and no real plan, a friend suggests she stay at his late grandmother’s house in Lost Valley, Kentucky. Reluctantly, Jessica heads to a tiny town with no Wi-Fi, no cell service, and a very different pace of life than she’s used to.
Struggling with the quiet and the lack of purpose, Jessica takes on a simple project: finding homes for items that have accumulated in the town’s Lost and Found. Using social media and leaning into the irony of the town’s name, her idea unexpectedly goes viral. Long-lost treasures are reunited with their owners, and Lost Valley suddenly finds itself on the map—bringing much-needed attention and tourism to a town whose businesses are barely surviving.
As Jessica adapts to small-town life, she forms close bonds with her neighbors, especially Matt, the local police chief. Though she sets a strict time limit on her stay, fully intending to return to her career and the spotlight, she begins to fall in love with a slower, more intentional life. Gardening, baking, nature, and genuine friendships help her rediscover parts of herself she didn’t realize were missing.
This was a warm, comforting story about healing, second chances, and finding beauty in unexpected places—whether that’s an old trinket, a quiet town, or within yourself.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the free advance copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Struggling with the quiet and the lack of purpose, Jessica takes on a simple project: finding homes for items that have accumulated in the town’s Lost and Found. Using social media and leaning into the irony of the town’s name, her idea unexpectedly goes viral. Long-lost treasures are reunited with their owners, and Lost Valley suddenly finds itself on the map—bringing much-needed attention and tourism to a town whose businesses are barely surviving.
As Jessica adapts to small-town life, she forms close bonds with her neighbors, especially Matt, the local police chief. Though she sets a strict time limit on her stay, fully intending to return to her career and the spotlight, she begins to fall in love with a slower, more intentional life. Gardening, baking, nature, and genuine friendships help her rediscover parts of herself she didn’t realize were missing.
This was a warm, comforting story about healing, second chances, and finding beauty in unexpected places—whether that’s an old trinket, a quiet town, or within yourself.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the free advance copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of The Summer of Lost and Found. I love how Jessica’s journey of recovering from treatment leads her to the little town of Lost and Found. Such a perfect place for Jessica to find herself after the treatment lead her down a path of learning to love how recovering Jessica now looks and learning to love and accept her battle scars. Because not only are they a reminder of her journey through treatment but they are also a reminder of how she recovered from her journey and coming out of treatment cancer free. Such a beautiful reminder of how God brought her through it! I love how her summer of recovering brought her new friendships and love in a little town and how she learned how to appreciate nature and the beauty of her surroundings. I especially loved the mystery of finding boxes of lost and found items and using her social media platform to work towards returning some of those items to their rightful owners. I love how the lost and found items could relate to herself with her own cancer journey and learning to find herself again when all she felt was lost.
I cannot relate personally to the journey Jessica went through; but I have watched many family members go through treatment and I honestly feel like this book in general helped me view my own family members’ journey in a whole new perspective with a whole new approach of understanding.
This was such a beautiful book and I loved reading every second of it! It is definitely a favorite that I will be reading again!
I cannot relate personally to the journey Jessica went through; but I have watched many family members go through treatment and I honestly feel like this book in general helped me view my own family members’ journey in a whole new perspective with a whole new approach of understanding.
This was such a beautiful book and I loved reading every second of it! It is definitely a favorite that I will be reading again!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica Fox was at the top of her career as the evening news anchor in Cincinnati when the unthinkable happens. A diagnosis of breast cancer derails her life and her career.
When her early attempt to return to work doesn’t go her way, her friend and boss offers his grandmother’s home in Lost and Found as a place to recover.
Jessica is less than thrilled to find the house still is in the 1970s ,has no internet, and the town doesn’t even have a pizza delivery. All causing her to considering going back home.
Little did she know that meeting her next door neighbor, Police Chief Matt Cordray, and being in Lost and Found, would change her life.
The story of Jessica is one that many encounter. Faced with an illness or a life changing event, the way one approaches it all will affect one not only physically but also emotionally and mentally.
Sometimes these challenges guide the individuals to a different future. One that might be more fulfilling than the one planned.
This is a story about reinvention, new beginnings, and second chances in life and love.
Kudos to Jean Lee for bringing the story to life with her narration.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Brilliance Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
When her early attempt to return to work doesn’t go her way, her friend and boss offers his grandmother’s home in Lost and Found as a place to recover.
Jessica is less than thrilled to find the house still is in the 1970s ,has no internet, and the town doesn’t even have a pizza delivery. All causing her to considering going back home.
Little did she know that meeting her next door neighbor, Police Chief Matt Cordray, and being in Lost and Found, would change her life.
The story of Jessica is one that many encounter. Faced with an illness or a life changing event, the way one approaches it all will affect one not only physically but also emotionally and mentally.
Sometimes these challenges guide the individuals to a different future. One that might be more fulfilling than the one planned.
This is a story about reinvention, new beginnings, and second chances in life and love.
Kudos to Jean Lee for bringing the story to life with her narration.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Brilliance Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This novel spoke to my heart. I listened to this entire audiobook during a cross-country drive, and was invested in the characters and story from the very beginning. This is one I will now be purchasing in print so I can re-read and revisit, which is incredibly rare for me to want to do.
Jessica's journey from the aftermath of cancer treatment to forced vacation allows her to slow down and learn how to appreciate life. During her time in Lost and Found, Kentucky, she learns how to redefine how she sees beauty in the world and people around her. The slower pace also gives her the opportunity to really peel back the various layers of her identity, finding all the versions of herself.
In addition to Jessica's story, we get to know the stories of so many loveable small-town folks. You will laugh, you'll likely cry, and you'll fall in love with this town and its people.
Highly recommended for fans of thought-provoking contemporary/domestic fiction, a meaningful vacation read, and especially for anyone navigating the changes life throws your way.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio & NetGalley for this audio ARC. All opinions stated are solely my own and provided voluntarily.
#TheSummerofLostandFound #NetGalley
Jessica's journey from the aftermath of cancer treatment to forced vacation allows her to slow down and learn how to appreciate life. During her time in Lost and Found, Kentucky, she learns how to redefine how she sees beauty in the world and people around her. The slower pace also gives her the opportunity to really peel back the various layers of her identity, finding all the versions of herself.
In addition to Jessica's story, we get to know the stories of so many loveable small-town folks. You will laugh, you'll likely cry, and you'll fall in love with this town and its people.
Highly recommended for fans of thought-provoking contemporary/domestic fiction, a meaningful vacation read, and especially for anyone navigating the changes life throws your way.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio & NetGalley for this audio ARC. All opinions stated are solely my own and provided voluntarily.
#TheSummerofLostandFound #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica and Matt get off on the wrong foot when they first meet but as neighbors in the small town of Lost and Found in Kentucky, it can only improve. Jessica comes to stay at her boss and friends family cottage to recover from cancer. Her job as a newscaster has been filled by a younger version of herself. The network is getting great feedback and ratings so encourage her to take additional time to get her life back on track.
As she's forced to slow down and smell the roses (so to speak) since there's no Wi-Fi available in town, she discovers the beauty of nature. She makes friends with her neighbors and comes to terms with how surgery ,chemo, and radiation affected her physically and emotionally. As she comes to accept herself now a burgeoning friendship grows with her neighbors, Matt the sheriff and Grace.
She starts to view life from a different viewpoint offering many options. Discovering a lost treasure of sorts fuels her investigative nature, opening up new opportunities.
A wonderful story of redemption and love from Toni Blake that I encourage you to read.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher but the opinions expressed are my own.
As she's forced to slow down and smell the roses (so to speak) since there's no Wi-Fi available in town, she discovers the beauty of nature. She makes friends with her neighbors and comes to terms with how surgery ,chemo, and radiation affected her physically and emotionally. As she comes to accept herself now a burgeoning friendship grows with her neighbors, Matt the sheriff and Grace.
She starts to view life from a different viewpoint offering many options. Discovering a lost treasure of sorts fuels her investigative nature, opening up new opportunities.
A wonderful story of redemption and love from Toni Blake that I encourage you to read.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher but the opinions expressed are my own.
February 17, 2026
The Summer of Lost and Found did not disappoint. While part of the romance genre, this story is so much more. The story provides the reader a deep look into the world of a breast cancer survivor who is set to return to a very public career at the end of summer.
Jessica Fox is a television news anchor in Cincinnati who finds herself with a summer to fill her time before returning to the desk. Her retreat to a tiny Kentucky town called Lost and Found is full of surprises, one which keeps Jessica very busy. The reader journeys with Jessica as she adjusts to solitude without wifi and cell phones, exploring the countryside and meeting interesting characters. What will she learn about herself and what is important to her in life? As Jessica discovers life's simple pleasures in the cottage by the lake, will she find love and more importantly, discover who she is outside of her news anchor persona?
I loved author Blake's characters and the pearls of wisdom peppered throughout the story. As a native of Kentucky, I felt at home in the story and just couldn't put it down. I became invested in seeing Jessica find peace with herself and happiness.
I did receive an ARC version of this book
Jessica Fox is a television news anchor in Cincinnati who finds herself with a summer to fill her time before returning to the desk. Her retreat to a tiny Kentucky town called Lost and Found is full of surprises, one which keeps Jessica very busy. The reader journeys with Jessica as she adjusts to solitude without wifi and cell phones, exploring the countryside and meeting interesting characters. What will she learn about herself and what is important to her in life? As Jessica discovers life's simple pleasures in the cottage by the lake, will she find love and more importantly, discover who she is outside of her news anchor persona?
I loved author Blake's characters and the pearls of wisdom peppered throughout the story. As a native of Kentucky, I felt at home in the story and just couldn't put it down. I became invested in seeing Jessica find peace with herself and happiness.
I did receive an ARC version of this book
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The book emcompasses the process of healing and finding a new path with that healing. Jessica, had the life she loved but the diagnosis of cancer changed the trajectory of her life. After beating cancer she is ready to restart her job as a top news anchor although the station is not ready for her changed look. So she takes the summer to let her hair grow back in and she finds herself as well as a new way of life outside of the busy city. She is staying in a friends cabin in the village of Lost and Found. She discovers love, friendship and embracing her true self. At the end of the summer it is time to restart her career but things might not be as she left them and this impacts the course of her future. Themes of reinventing oneself, healing not only mentally, physically but emotionally, friendship, Beauty in nature, beauty in people and the old and forgotten she takes off the armour and allows herself to feel. Many thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and author for this opportunity.
February 19, 2026
grateful to NetGalley, the Author and Publishers for granting me this e-ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
The Summer of Lost and Found was an initially exciting read, with beautifully lyrical and evocative writing- especially in the opening chapters, which are easily the strongest part of the book.
the atmosphere is vivid and immersive, and at first, the story felt to like it’s building toward something truly special. the main character is well developed and layered, though she could be frustrating and occasionally annoying. the romance starts off sweet and genuinely charming, but as it progresses, it veers into something quite cringey and loses some of its initial appeal.
where the book really shines, in my opinion, is in the relationships the protagonist forms within the small-town setting. these connections felt warm, sincere, and a bit more impactful than the central romance.
overall, it's a pleasant and emotionally grounded read with lovely writing, but while enjoyable, it didn’t quite stand out as anything particularly memorable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
The Summer of Lost and Found was an initially exciting read, with beautifully lyrical and evocative writing- especially in the opening chapters, which are easily the strongest part of the book.
the atmosphere is vivid and immersive, and at first, the story felt to like it’s building toward something truly special. the main character is well developed and layered, though she could be frustrating and occasionally annoying. the romance starts off sweet and genuinely charming, but as it progresses, it veers into something quite cringey and loses some of its initial appeal.
where the book really shines, in my opinion, is in the relationships the protagonist forms within the small-town setting. these connections felt warm, sincere, and a bit more impactful than the central romance.
overall, it's a pleasant and emotionally grounded read with lovely writing, but while enjoyable, it didn’t quite stand out as anything particularly memorable.
February 25, 2026
I don't even know where to begin except for that I loved this book so much!! I didn't want it to end!! There were so many emotions from hearing all about Jessica's cancer journey and then the disappointment when she tried to go back to doing what she loves but she wasn't accepted because of her looks from the chemo so she uproots her entire life and moved to a small Town that is completely out of her comfort zone and away from anything and everyone that she has ever known but she ends up going on such a fun adventure and found these amazing treasures that were lost and she in my eyes found her spark for living again with reuniting these items with the families that they belonged to and then ended up falling in love with herself as well as with the handsome cowboy nextdoor which brings her to the very unexpected decision to uproot her life permanently from the big city and move to lost and found forever and I just loved it all so much!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Sometimes life has to force on us the gifts we wouldn't have gotten any other way."
Thank you so much to the author for a gifted arc!
Jessica Fox has found herself at a crossroads in her life. Recovering from cancer and the uncertainty of her job has left her reeling with no direction. Her friend suggests that she spend her summer in his family's cabin in the small town of Lost and Found.
What follows is a beautiful journey of self-discovery for Jessica. She soon finds purpose and joy in the small town simple life. As the town and people embrace her, she heals from the inside out and learns to live and love again.
lloved this story so much. The way Jessica transforms is so heartwarming.
I also couldn't help falling in love with the people of Lost and Found... wasn't ready for it to end! Just a beautiful story all around!
Thank you so much to the author for a gifted arc!
Jessica Fox has found herself at a crossroads in her life. Recovering from cancer and the uncertainty of her job has left her reeling with no direction. Her friend suggests that she spend her summer in his family's cabin in the small town of Lost and Found.
What follows is a beautiful journey of self-discovery for Jessica. She soon finds purpose and joy in the small town simple life. As the town and people embrace her, she heals from the inside out and learns to live and love again.
lloved this story so much. The way Jessica transforms is so heartwarming.
I also couldn't help falling in love with the people of Lost and Found... wasn't ready for it to end! Just a beautiful story all around!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica feels like she has been defined by her cancer for too long, and just as she feels she’s ready to return to normal life, she’s told her newscasting job isn’t ready for her. When her friend offers her his grandma, Mabel’s, cabin for the summer, she doesn’t realize it comes with a very small town called Lost and Found, no internet, and a handsome neighbor who is the town sheriff. When Jessica finds a bunch of lost and found items Mabel had taken from the post office that people had sent to the town because of its name, she decides to try to return them to the family they belong. The writing in this book was just profound at points as Toni writes about Jessica’s feelings after surviving cancer and realizing the changes she wants to make in her life to truly make her feel fulfilled. I hope you find this book as touching as I did.
February 17, 2026
The Summer of Lost & Found, written by the wonderful Toni Blake, is the most recent book finished off my extensive TBR shelf. And let me tell you, it was worth the wait. This story, like so many of Ms. Blake’s, draws you in from the beginning. Making you feel as though you have known these characters for years, comfortably telling their stories as though you sat side by side with them at lunch.
In this recent release, we met newscaster Jess and sheriff Matt. Jess has been through a lot in her life, most recently breast cancer. When her triumphant return to television failed to materialize, her good friend offered her his grandmother’s cabin in a quiet, quaint little town in the Kentucky Mountains. This was not an adventure she dreamt of taking, but once fully entrenched in the culture of the small town, she can’t imagine her life any way else. Especially once she got to know the town sheriff better and made so many wonderful new friends. He helps her take a better look at herself now, not as she remembers herself. And makes her realize she hasn’t lost as much as she thought she had.
The main characters were well written and established but the secondary characters were the scene stealers. They brought life and adventure to the story in ways that were unexpected and left me wanting more interactions with them. The cancer storyline was written with such expression that could only come from a cancer survivor themselves. Ms. Blake has another wonderful book under her belt. This made it off the TBR shelf, but it will remain as a return to favorite.
In this recent release, we met newscaster Jess and sheriff Matt. Jess has been through a lot in her life, most recently breast cancer. When her triumphant return to television failed to materialize, her good friend offered her his grandmother’s cabin in a quiet, quaint little town in the Kentucky Mountains. This was not an adventure she dreamt of taking, but once fully entrenched in the culture of the small town, she can’t imagine her life any way else. Especially once she got to know the town sheriff better and made so many wonderful new friends. He helps her take a better look at herself now, not as she remembers herself. And makes her realize she hasn’t lost as much as she thought she had.
The main characters were well written and established but the secondary characters were the scene stealers. They brought life and adventure to the story in ways that were unexpected and left me wanting more interactions with them. The cancer storyline was written with such expression that could only come from a cancer survivor themselves. Ms. Blake has another wonderful book under her belt. This made it off the TBR shelf, but it will remain as a return to favorite.
February 18, 2026
Charming and Empowering!
Toni Blake outdid herself with The Summer of Lost and Found! I simply fell in love with Jessica and Matt as their relationship bloomed. Add in the charming small town setting that also served as a beautiful reminder of what community is all about, a main character that is empowered to live life on her own terms, and the fun of searching for the rightful owners of lost items, and it became a book I wished would never end! I was also impressed with how Blake seamlessly interwove a variety of topics including beauty, aging, expectations, and self-perception. I could go on, but it’s a book you really must experience for yourself to fully grasp all that it encompasses.
Toni Blake outdid herself with The Summer of Lost and Found! I simply fell in love with Jessica and Matt as their relationship bloomed. Add in the charming small town setting that also served as a beautiful reminder of what community is all about, a main character that is empowered to live life on her own terms, and the fun of searching for the rightful owners of lost items, and it became a book I wished would never end! I was also impressed with how Blake seamlessly interwove a variety of topics including beauty, aging, expectations, and self-perception. I could go on, but it’s a book you really must experience for yourself to fully grasp all that it encompasses.
February 19, 2026
Wow! This book really moved me. It’s my first by this author so I wasn’t sure what to expect., but it just kept building and building. Jessica has had a tough time, she’s trying to find her new normal, what she doesn’t realise is that her new normal is so far removed from her previous normal, that it’s not until she walks away from it that she realises her new normal is perfect and she is seen, content and loved.
Matt is fantastic, I love his t shirts, and his lazy southern drawl. He’s perfect for Jessie and he sees her heart and her beauty even when she doesn’t see them. He allows her to heal at her own pace, and loves on her even when she can’t reciprocate it.
All the characters in this book were great, they all added to the plot of creating a beautiful small town, that like Jessie, you might not notice its strength and beauty at first glance. Throughout the book the whole town slowly comes alive as new life is breathed into it.
I’m not ashamed to say I cried more than a few tears whilst reading this. Jessie’s journey is so insightful, and even if you haven’t been on the cancer journey like get, you can certainly identify with feelings of lack of self worth, not feeling pretty, useful or needed. Some truly beautiful words within this book.
Matt is fantastic, I love his t shirts, and his lazy southern drawl. He’s perfect for Jessie and he sees her heart and her beauty even when she doesn’t see them. He allows her to heal at her own pace, and loves on her even when she can’t reciprocate it.
All the characters in this book were great, they all added to the plot of creating a beautiful small town, that like Jessie, you might not notice its strength and beauty at first glance. Throughout the book the whole town slowly comes alive as new life is breathed into it.
I’m not ashamed to say I cried more than a few tears whilst reading this. Jessie’s journey is so insightful, and even if you haven’t been on the cancer journey like get, you can certainly identify with feelings of lack of self worth, not feeling pretty, useful or needed. Some truly beautiful words within this book.
February 20, 2026
This beautifully written book follows Jessica Fox, who is still recovering after her battle with breast cancer. Although she needs to return to work, she is not quite ready. A friend suggests she visit his late grandmother's house in the small town of Lost and Found. Despite her initial reluctance, she finds herself with no other option.
Upon arrival, Jessica discovers a letter from Mabel that leads her on a treasure hunt, guiding her to uncover lost items sent to the town. This story of transformation is both humorous and emotional, with moments that made me laugh and others that moved me deeply.
The narrator of the audiobook does a fantastic job bringing the characters to life, making the experience even more engaging. I highly recommend this book.
Upon arrival, Jessica discovers a letter from Mabel that leads her on a treasure hunt, guiding her to uncover lost items sent to the town. This story of transformation is both humorous and emotional, with moments that made me laugh and others that moved me deeply.
The narrator of the audiobook does a fantastic job bringing the characters to life, making the experience even more engaging. I highly recommend this book.
February 25, 2026
Much like Jessica, I found myself charmed by Lost and Found and much like her, it didn't happen instantly. I found I was furious on Jessica's behalf at what was happening to her work wise, both at the start and at the end. I really liked the choice that she made at the end in regards to her career. I think it was perfect for her at this moment in her life.
It was fun to see Jessica become to enthralled by Lost and Found and it's people. I loved that she saw the best in them! I also loved how Jessica became to treasure the lost and found she stumbled upon. Matt was an interesting guy, not someone I would have initially picked for Jessica, but they worked out so well together. It was nice to see how everything ended all around for everyone.
It was fun to see Jessica become to enthralled by Lost and Found and it's people. I loved that she saw the best in them! I also loved how Jessica became to treasure the lost and found she stumbled upon. Matt was an interesting guy, not someone I would have initially picked for Jessica, but they worked out so well together. It was nice to see how everything ended all around for everyone.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
“Maybe that’s what life is about - soaking up all the experiences, the good and the bad and everything in between, and looking back in the end knowing you really lived”
This book follows Jessica as she finds herself in Lost and Found, Kentucky as she recovers from cancer and rediscovers who she is and what she truly wants in life. This book made me really think about the joy of slowing down and how I’m spending my time, especially the time I spend connected to the internet. This would be a great read on a lake trip, where the best time is spent when you slow down.
“Maybe that’s what life is about - soaking up all the experiences, the good and the bad and everything in between, and looking back in the end knowing you really lived”
This book follows Jessica as she finds herself in Lost and Found, Kentucky as she recovers from cancer and rediscovers who she is and what she truly wants in life. This book made me really think about the joy of slowing down and how I’m spending my time, especially the time I spend connected to the internet. This would be a great read on a lake trip, where the best time is spent when you slow down.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica, a TV anchorwoman in Cincinnati is banished to the little Kentucky town of Lost And Found. At least that is how she feels while she is recovering from her cancer treatments. Her new next door neighbor, Matt, is the police chief and pushes her to be more comfortable with her new looks. He also helps in her quest to find owners for the lost and found items that fell into her lap. He becomes more after she realizes she has not lost everything and has a lot to live for. Ms. Blake writes the cancer part of the book with accuracy and empathy that only a survivor would be capable of. Thanks to NetGalley for my copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica was hard to like. She had a good growth arc, but the damage was already done for me. I had a hard time rooting for her because I didn't like her. I thought this would be an emotional, heartfelt read. Instead it had me annoyed with the heroine most of the time.
Jenn Lee narrates the audiobook.
Jenn Lee narrates the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Summer of Lost and Found is an engaging, thought-provoking, hopeful, emotional celebration of life in all its messy, complex, painful, and joyful moments. It reminds us that, as Matt says in the book, "Sometimes life has to force on us the gifts we wouldn't have gotten any other way." For Jessica, that gift is a forced summer in a small mountain town that brings life-changing discoveries about herself, her surroundings, and her future path in life. For me, it's what, in my opinion, is Toni Blake's best book - a beautifully written story with realistically, and lovingly, depicted characters who will continue to live in my heart long after the final page. Don't miss this one. It's a keeper.
ARC received via NetGalley
Fair and unbiased opinions
ARC received via NetGalley
Fair and unbiased opinions
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jessica is recovering from cancer, having taken leave from her job as a respected news anchor. When she goes back, she is told that “the higher ups don’t think she is ready to come back yet and want her to take more time to recover”. Were they right? Maybe. Did they replace her with someone younger and “not broken”. Yup. Was she mad? Certainly. Surprised? No, because men age with gravitas and women get old regardless of their intellect, purpose and in her case, her ratings. When she decides to leave town to recuperate physically and emotionally, she is determined to get back to where she was. While away, she makes so many discoveries in ways she never imagined and winds up living a life she never could have imagined and loving it. Her journey back to finding herself is a bit bumpy, emotional, funny, filled with self discovery and actual discovery, the opening of her heart, taking care of her health both physically and mentally and finally letting go of the life she imagined and living the one she knows she was meant to. A well narrated, thoroughly enjoyable listen (or read!)
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 17, 2026
After finding herself on an extended hiatus from her news anchor position, Jessica agrees to stay at her friend’s cabin in Lost and Found. I love the name of the town and its many hidden meanings! This book follows Jessica on her journey of growth. The small-town life is fantastic in helping with this and the relationships that grow from it.
February 17, 2026
This story was all about a woman finding herself after surviving cancer. She decides to spend the summer in Lost and Found to regroup. She ends up discovering a new way of life, new friends, and love. I truly loved this book. I enjoyed reading Jessica’s journey as she found herself and discovered what’s important to her.
February 18, 2026
Toni Blake has done it again! A 5 star read! I didn't want to put this book down. Follow news anchor, Jessica Fox on her healing journey of the lost and the found. Jessica finds a new beginning with an unexpected love, new friends, hope, laughter and tears. This heartwarming story has everything you love in a small town romance. I know you will love it as much as I did!
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