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Training Seasons #2
Summer Breakdown
This summer is Frankie’s. She’s an overprepared black lesbian, and her rugby team is a few months away from doing the unthinkable: being promoted to the Championship. Somehow, she’s still happy, healthy and at least half alive. To get here, she’s spent her entire life with structure. All she needs to do is stick it: take her pills, coach the Titans, and sleep with a different woman each week.
And then she meets Jasmine, and she’s never prepared for something like her.
Jasmine is using this summer as a fresh start. She’s spent her life hiding who she is, and she’s not doing it anymore. She packs up her children and runs to the prettiest place she can find. Toulshire is cute, so starting her life over at almost thirty isn’t the worst thing she’s ever had to do. But it turns out that making friends as an adult is.
Then she meets Frankie at a bar, Jasmine thinks she’s finally figured it out.
Until Frankie leaves without a word, and Jasmine attempts to forget all about her and her ridiculous arms. Meanwhile, Frankie’s desperately trying to figure out how to see her again. But Jasmine’s son joining the Titans’ junior team is something neither saw coming.
This summer is supposed to change their lives. But will it be for the better, or are they headed for a breakdown?
And then she meets Jasmine, and she’s never prepared for something like her.
Jasmine is using this summer as a fresh start. She’s spent her life hiding who she is, and she’s not doing it anymore. She packs up her children and runs to the prettiest place she can find. Toulshire is cute, so starting her life over at almost thirty isn’t the worst thing she’s ever had to do. But it turns out that making friends as an adult is.
Then she meets Frankie at a bar, Jasmine thinks she’s finally figured it out.
Until Frankie leaves without a word, and Jasmine attempts to forget all about her and her ridiculous arms. Meanwhile, Frankie’s desperately trying to figure out how to see her again. But Jasmine’s son joining the Titans’ junior team is something neither saw coming.
This summer is supposed to change their lives. But will it be for the better, or are they headed for a breakdown?
411 pages, Paperback
Published August 4, 2025
50 people are currently reading
681 people want to read
About the author
J.S. Jasper
11 books122 followersCan we talk about love? I'm dying to talk about love.
Hi!
Thank you for reading my books! No need to wait to post a review, I'm not fussy about reviews before publish date as I will run from GoodReads so fast xxxxx
Hi!
Thank you for reading my books! No need to wait to post a review, I'm not fussy about reviews before publish date as I will run from GoodReads so fast xxxxx
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 5, 2025
First, J.S. Jasper consistently has some of the prettiest covers out there, and she needs all the props for knowing how to pick the artist(s)!
Summer Breakdown is a sapphic summer romance with heart and different lived experiences and disabilities. Lani, Jasmine's daughter, is mostly in a wheelchair, Jasmine is a divorced single mother who is finally ready to own and live in her queerness, and Frankie is bipolar. I feel like the way disabilities were written—especially bipolar disorder—was very raw and well-developed. I've never read a romance where one of the MCs believes they're ugly, and certainly have never seen that on page. I loved the way Frankie came into her own in this respect and not only opened herself up to love but became more confident in the process.
It was a tad too long for me. I didn't like the way Lani was written—she is coded much older, and this is explained, but it was still far-fetched for a 4-year-old to behave and speak the way she did. However, it is rare for me to like the way kids between 3 and 13 are written in books. I also found the structure to be a bit muddy and confusing. One minute Frankie and Jasmine are flirting and fingers are touching lips and necks and thighs and the next they are back on the outs wondering if the other person likes them. This goes on for the majority of the book and got a bit repetitive. I think this book leans pretty heavily on book 1 in terms of side characters, who they are, and what their relationship dynamics are, so I wouldn't necessarily classify this as a standalone. I feel like this book was more lust-filled than a natural progression of love and companionship, and, in my opinion, both Frankie and Jasmine deserved a natural progression of love and companionship. There's nothing wrong with being really attracted to the person you're getting to know, and lust isn't bad, but it made the love aspect feel underdeveloped for me.
This is a very spice-forward book, so if that's what you enjoy you're going to love this. For a sapphic sports (rugby) romance, I felt like this was very original and engaging!
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providing me with an ARC!
3 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
Summer Breakdown is a sapphic summer romance with heart and different lived experiences and disabilities. Lani, Jasmine's daughter, is mostly in a wheelchair, Jasmine is a divorced single mother who is finally ready to own and live in her queerness, and Frankie is bipolar. I feel like the way disabilities were written—especially bipolar disorder—was very raw and well-developed. I've never read a romance where one of the MCs believes they're ugly, and certainly have never seen that on page. I loved the way Frankie came into her own in this respect and not only opened herself up to love but became more confident in the process.
It was a tad too long for me. I didn't like the way Lani was written—she is coded much older, and this is explained, but it was still far-fetched for a 4-year-old to behave and speak the way she did. However, it is rare for me to like the way kids between 3 and 13 are written in books. I also found the structure to be a bit muddy and confusing. One minute Frankie and Jasmine are flirting and fingers are touching lips and necks and thighs and the next they are back on the outs wondering if the other person likes them. This goes on for the majority of the book and got a bit repetitive. I think this book leans pretty heavily on book 1 in terms of side characters, who they are, and what their relationship dynamics are, so I wouldn't necessarily classify this as a standalone. I feel like this book was more lust-filled than a natural progression of love and companionship, and, in my opinion, both Frankie and Jasmine deserved a natural progression of love and companionship. There's nothing wrong with being really attracted to the person you're getting to know, and lust isn't bad, but it made the love aspect feel underdeveloped for me.
This is a very spice-forward book, so if that's what you enjoy you're going to love this. For a sapphic sports (rugby) romance, I felt like this was very original and engaging!
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providing me with an ARC!
3 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
August 22, 2025
“I saw you.” Jasmine smiles, but it’s at Frankie this time. “I was hoping to see you. I am always hoping to be where you are.”
I'm ending this book with a lot of affection for both the main characters, but I'm unsure I want them to be in a relationship. Like, I think being girlfriends is a bad thing for these women, but individually, I really like them. Obviously, not the way I want to feel when I finish a romance! And like, clearly, I'm not obliged to think about them past their HEA, but IDK man. This was a frustrating read. But I still liked it...?
Okay, in an attempt not to frustrate myself further by writing a too long review, I'll do bullet points!
- This is a sports romance between a rugby coach and a single mom, second in a series. Frankie is bipolar, and Jasmine is a newly out lesbian, recently moved to the area. It can be read as a standalone (I didn't read the first book) but the side characters DO take up a lot of real estate in the book. Some of it is necessary, especially when it comes to Frankie's side plot, but sometimes I felt like characters like Ezra and Mali got a little too much page time.
- The writing was mostly enjoyable; very witty and snappy sometimes, very voicey. I especially liked reading from Frankie's POV. I remember being immediately pulled into the book when I started; it was so easy to read.
- At the same time, the writing was also... weirdly spare? It seemed to jump from sentence to sentence and idea to idea in a really haphazard and distracting way. It would sometimes feel like whole sentences were missing. At first, I thought it was written like that as a reflection of Frankie's neurodivergence, but it read that way in Jasmine's POV too. And it got worse. There would be no description or exposition in places where it was really needed. Like, a character is described as being across the room, but then suddenly he's there taking part in a conversation.
- Relatedly, scenes and chapters would end in really weird places. Like, characters would be in the middle of having a heart to heart, or an intense moment, and then the chapter ends without us seeing how the end of the altercation goes, and then the next chapter starts up an indeterminate amount of time later, and they're doing something completely different. That got REALLY frustrating. It started to feel like we never got to see the conclusion of any important moments.
- And worse yet, I felt like Frankie and Jasmine kept rehashing the same things, never communicating properly. And look, to some extent, this was by design. Misunderstandings and miscommunications are my least favourite romantic tropes, but they're used a lot, and sometimes they're realistic. This was a case where there was like... very deliberate lack of communication, and I couldn't get annoyed with either character. Jasmine would be practically on her knees, begging Frankie to just talk to her. Explicitly saying the words, "Please, can we talk about the things that have happened?" And Frankie, because of her mental state, simply couldn't. She'd either clam up or just ignore Jasmine. And ohhhhh man, that was really frustrating to read. I didn't like it at all, even though it was happening in a context where I truly wasn't mad at the characters themselves. I couldn't be.
- Even when they did talk things out, it felt like they were having the same problems a few chapters later. The book also occasionally did the romance novel thing I HATE, where the characters start having sex or getting intimate in a moment where I just want them to talk about the things they clearly need to talk about. And no matter how realistic that might have been for the characters (and it certainly didn't always seem realistic to me) it just did not make for good reading. It was kind of tortuous. One minute, it seems like they're close to a breakthrough in their relationship; next minute, they're back to will they/won't they.
- The single mom aspect was cute, and I did really like Jasmine's relationships with her kids. However, as a lot of other people have commented, Lani was written like a teenager rather than a 4 year old. I have no doubt that some kids are really intelligent, but it was honestly silly, how articulate and emotionally mature this little baby was. I also wish we'd gotten to see more of the kids bonding with Frankie. There was some, but they honestly seemed more connected with other side characters. Like Lani with Ezra. Which just seemed like a weird choice, for a single parent romance.
- There were some things that were supposed to be cute, but were repeated so often they got annoying. Like everyone being obsessed with each other. Frankie's jealousy about everyone who crushed on Jasmine. Frankie being described as two apples tall. (That especially irritated me; it was obviously meant to be cute, and it was at first, but then it just started to seem infantilising. Maybe it's just me.)
- This is hardly the first book to do this, but the way time passed was confusing and badly described. And I hated having all those little time jumps.
- I don't want to spoil anything, so I won't say too much about the last conflict and the end of the book. I just think it wasn't given enough build-up and description, and Frankie deserved more page time than that. And I'll reiterate that at the end of it, it did not leave me convinced that these two are romantic soul mates. The last thing either of them needs right now, in my opinion, is a relationship. Especially Frankie. Not that I think that they're super incompatible or anything. But being together solves nothing, and shouldn't be expected to solve anything. IDK if I'm not making sense. I like them together, but I also don't feel great about them being together.
- LOL I complained so much I'm having trouble remembering what I liked about this book. I DO think it has a lot of merit and charm. There was a lot of really fun banter and character interaction. In the beginning, Frankie and Jasmine have a really long first date and a conversation that sprawls for chapters, and that is still probably my favourite part of the book. The author did such a good job of establishing that chemistry, and making me giddy about the both of them. There were great frank conversations about Frankie's bipolar disorder and mental illness, the way it affects and limits her.
- But as a whole... I don't know. I liked this more than I disliked it, definitely, but I'm frustrated by all of the things that I just KNOW are holding me back from rating this any higher. I think this could have used more editing, but there are also things about the structure and content that didn't work for me. I have a lot of notes and highlights on my kindle copy, and most of them are pointing out things I wish were different.
- I'm pretty sure that won't be the case for everyone. I can still comfortably recommend this to most people looking for a sexy sapphic romance that has a lot of emotion and heart. I just didn't love it like I wanted to.
Content warnings:
August 11, 2025
3.25
This is my first J.S book and I immediately had to hop into it as black sapphic fiction is limited it seems. The cover is so cute and colorful and the character design is unique and adorable!
Summer Breakdown is a summer romance that contains themes of identity, disability, and self-discovery.
The story centers on Jasmine, a divorced mother embracing her queerness later in life; her daughter Lani, who uses a wheelchair. And Frankie, who lives with bipolar disorder.
What stood out to me most was how authentically and compassionately the characters’ disabilities and internal struggles were portrayed! For one, Frankie’s mental health journey. It's rare to see a romantic lead grappling so openly with self-image and believing themselves unworthy of love. Watching Frankie grow into her self and accept the love given to her was very rewarding!
I think my only negs were the writing which took awhile to get into as it’s very clipped especially for this story with such weight within themes and characters. Lani’s writing didn’t feel fit for a four year old— it’s really rare for me to read stories where the children seem their age. And lastly, I felt more lust than romance between Jasmine and Frankie majority of the time which bums as they are characters with such depth in regard to love.
I do plan on rereading this and updating my thought as when reading this I was highly busy!
This is my first J.S book and I immediately had to hop into it as black sapphic fiction is limited it seems. The cover is so cute and colorful and the character design is unique and adorable!
Summer Breakdown is a summer romance that contains themes of identity, disability, and self-discovery.
The story centers on Jasmine, a divorced mother embracing her queerness later in life; her daughter Lani, who uses a wheelchair. And Frankie, who lives with bipolar disorder.
What stood out to me most was how authentically and compassionately the characters’ disabilities and internal struggles were portrayed! For one, Frankie’s mental health journey. It's rare to see a romantic lead grappling so openly with self-image and believing themselves unworthy of love. Watching Frankie grow into her self and accept the love given to her was very rewarding!
I think my only negs were the writing which took awhile to get into as it’s very clipped especially for this story with such weight within themes and characters. Lani’s writing didn’t feel fit for a four year old— it’s really rare for me to read stories where the children seem their age. And lastly, I felt more lust than romance between Jasmine and Frankie majority of the time which bums as they are characters with such depth in regard to love.
I do plan on rereading this and updating my thought as when reading this I was highly busy!
August 11, 2025
First of all the cover is absolutely beautiful 😍 I’ve been into sapphic romances lately and this one hit just right ! It had me giggling , kicking my feet and always in my feels . I LOVE the mental awareness for bipolar disorder , it really makes you see how it is living with it on a day to day basis
July 25, 2025
Ok first of all, I think this might be my favorite of J. S.’s books so far! Frankie was by far my favorite character when she was first introduced in Spring Awakening, so it’s no surprise that I loved her book this much honestly. She’s such a genuinely sweet and lovable character, and getting her love story made me SO happy. And Jasmine?? The minute I met her I was down bad just like Frankie. Her confidence and love of Frankie just MELTED my heart. Every time she called her “my girl” I was giggling and kicking my feet. Frankie & Jasmine are everything to me and I loved every minute I spent with them!
Also, I am not the biggest fan of third person POV, but somehow the was J. S. writes it is just so well done?? I’ll eat up anything she writes at this point honestly.
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review*
Also, I am not the biggest fan of third person POV, but somehow the was J. S. writes it is just so well done?? I’ll eat up anything she writes at this point honestly.
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review*
July 24, 2025
“How wonderful to love something so much they’re in every universe.”
✨
I don’t have enough words to describe my love for this book. It was perfect. I laughed, I cried (hard), I swooned, I fell in love with two beautiful souls and the company they keep. Goodness gracious this book is so much more than a contemporary romance. It has the most beautifully devastating look into bipolar. A found family for the ages that I cannot even begin to say enough praises for. A love story that makes me sob just thinking about it. Two kiddos who are just stunning and remind me a lot of my niece and that makes me cry even harder.
Pure love for this story I can not wait for the next one. Thank you so much J.S. Jasper for this arc, for being lovely and being one of my favorite people I’ve met on Instagram. Thank you for writing stories that make me feel so deeply. I adore you and this book so much.
✨
I don’t have enough words to describe my love for this book. It was perfect. I laughed, I cried (hard), I swooned, I fell in love with two beautiful souls and the company they keep. Goodness gracious this book is so much more than a contemporary romance. It has the most beautifully devastating look into bipolar. A found family for the ages that I cannot even begin to say enough praises for. A love story that makes me sob just thinking about it. Two kiddos who are just stunning and remind me a lot of my niece and that makes me cry even harder.
Pure love for this story I can not wait for the next one. Thank you so much J.S. Jasper for this arc, for being lovely and being one of my favorite people I’ve met on Instagram. Thank you for writing stories that make me feel so deeply. I adore you and this book so much.
August 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I love love love the bipolar two representation! I read this book so fast because it was soooo good! It’s hard to write romance with kids involved but J.S Jasper did a wonderful job!
July 30, 2025
Rating: 2.75 stars
A compliment sandwich:
I liked the romance. I believed the chemistry between Jasmine and Frankie. It was sweet and deep and meaningful.
Buttt the writing was just not good I'm sorry 😭 The sentence composition was so confusing that at times I had to reread sentences and paragraphs to understand who was talking or who was doing what. Also the characterization of Lani (while she's an adorable character) was just off. That's not how 4-year-olds speak or act. Anddd the book was too long.
On a positive note, I'm so happy about the mental health rep. Bipolar II is not something I've ever seen depicted in a romance and I love that it was explored in this novel. The message that you don't have to be fixed to be loved is so important.
This one wasn't for me, but it could work for others.
Thanks you to J.S. Jasper for the arc!
A compliment sandwich:
I liked the romance. I believed the chemistry between Jasmine and Frankie. It was sweet and deep and meaningful.
Buttt the writing was just not good I'm sorry 😭 The sentence composition was so confusing that at times I had to reread sentences and paragraphs to understand who was talking or who was doing what. Also the characterization of Lani (while she's an adorable character) was just off. That's not how 4-year-olds speak or act. Anddd the book was too long.
On a positive note, I'm so happy about the mental health rep. Bipolar II is not something I've ever seen depicted in a romance and I love that it was explored in this novel. The message that you don't have to be fixed to be loved is so important.
This one wasn't for me, but it could work for others.
Thanks you to J.S. Jasper for the arc!
Read
July 26, 2025DNF @ 30%. I thought the bipolar representation was really well done and I enjoyed the sports context. I just couldn’t get behind the writing style
August 8, 2025
Summer Breakdown was the first book that I've read by J.S. Jasper but I don't think it'll be the last. In fact this is the second book in a series, so I need read Spring Awakening at some point.
It did take me a little bit to get in to the style this is written in. The writing style is quite minimalist at times with short clipped sentences. I tend to lean more towards a lush writing style that adds more depth but the further I got in to the story, the less this bothered me and actually come the end I think it worked perfectly for the story itself. There were some points where this style does make things a little unclear but it gets easier to handle once I got my head in to it.
The biggest positive for me though is the way that Frankie's mental health is handled throughout the book. It is for the most part done very sensitively although I did bristle a little at one line ("bipolar is something you are" - I think for me wording it has "bipolar is something you have" just feels more comfortable but that could be a me thing). Frankie's depressive episode was devastatingly real to read, and I had to put my kindle down a few times to get through it. It resonated so much with me and how I've felt way too many times. It's definitely something to be mindful of going in to reading this - because it could be incredibly triggering.
Frankie was my favourite character, and I adored her but again it was so hard to see how much her bipolar diagnosis has taken from her and how it affects her self-esteem and self-worth. Honestly, I don't think I've ever reflected so much on how my own diagnoses have affected me - and yet they undeniably have. I would love to have someone like Frankie in my life though.
I liked Jasmine, although she just didn't resonate as strongly with me. I did struggle a lot with her daughter Lani - she just didn't feel realistic for a four year old. I understand she's meant to be older than her years because of her condition / disabilities, but she still didn't come across as real. I think she could've done with being a few years older.
I really enjoyed the side characters and the family that existed within the Titans rugby team. I did get a little confused with the mentions of Taunton given that I live near (ish) to the real Taunton in Somerset which doesn't bear a lot of resemblance to the Taunton here although there is a department store there (or was last time I went). Still, the author thankfully cleared it up for me over on Instagram that it isn't the same Taunton!
This is definitely a book I'd recommend although with the caveat to be mindful of the mental health rep!
It did take me a little bit to get in to the style this is written in. The writing style is quite minimalist at times with short clipped sentences. I tend to lean more towards a lush writing style that adds more depth but the further I got in to the story, the less this bothered me and actually come the end I think it worked perfectly for the story itself. There were some points where this style does make things a little unclear but it gets easier to handle once I got my head in to it.
The biggest positive for me though is the way that Frankie's mental health is handled throughout the book. It is for the most part done very sensitively although I did bristle a little at one line ("bipolar is something you are" - I think for me wording it has "bipolar is something you have" just feels more comfortable but that could be a me thing). Frankie's depressive episode was devastatingly real to read, and I had to put my kindle down a few times to get through it. It resonated so much with me and how I've felt way too many times. It's definitely something to be mindful of going in to reading this - because it could be incredibly triggering.
Frankie was my favourite character, and I adored her but again it was so hard to see how much her bipolar diagnosis has taken from her and how it affects her self-esteem and self-worth. Honestly, I don't think I've ever reflected so much on how my own diagnoses have affected me - and yet they undeniably have. I would love to have someone like Frankie in my life though.
I liked Jasmine, although she just didn't resonate as strongly with me. I did struggle a lot with her daughter Lani - she just didn't feel realistic for a four year old. I understand she's meant to be older than her years because of her condition / disabilities, but she still didn't come across as real. I think she could've done with being a few years older.
I really enjoyed the side characters and the family that existed within the Titans rugby team. I did get a little confused with the mentions of Taunton given that I live near (ish) to the real Taunton in Somerset which doesn't bear a lot of resemblance to the Taunton here although there is a department store there (or was last time I went). Still, the author thankfully cleared it up for me over on Instagram that it isn't the same Taunton!
This is definitely a book I'd recommend although with the caveat to be mindful of the mental health rep!
July 29, 2025
Thank you to J.S. Jasper and Love Notes PR for the advanced copy of Summer Breakdown.
I really liked this! First of all, the cover was so beautiful, the characters look exactly as they’re described and how I picture them. Though I do not suffer from bipolar disorder personally, I thought the rep was done with care. It came off real, and it affected different aspects of Frankie’s life, like her self-image and relationships, but it also affected her friends' and family’s lives.
I enjoyed all the characters; they were so wholesome and funny, and you can only hope what becomes a part of a group like this. I was happy that Jasmine and her children all had individual relationships with Frankie and the rest of the group.
Though Frankie and Jasmine’s relationship started off sexual and almost insta-like, they quickly became real and long-lasting.
The spice scenes were so hot. I absolutely loved them.
I’m also glad that we could see more of Frankie’s personality. I didn’t realize from the 1st book that she was so funny and adorable until this one. But I really enjoyed her and learning about her struggles because they made her a complete character. And Jasmine, so genuine and patient, and loving of those she loved. She deserves all the best.
Like in the first book, Andrew is still trash. I truly hate to see the baddest of bitches get dragged down and overshadowed by garbage people like him. It is so obvious that Ezra (my man) is the better choice. I absolutely need them to be the third book.
One thing that missed for me was the transition into the third act. It seemed to almost come out of nowhere; they were having such wholesome moments, and then bam.
This was so funny, sexy, and emotional, and such a great follow-up to Spring Awakening! I highly recommend this spicy sapphic summer romance.
I really liked this! First of all, the cover was so beautiful, the characters look exactly as they’re described and how I picture them. Though I do not suffer from bipolar disorder personally, I thought the rep was done with care. It came off real, and it affected different aspects of Frankie’s life, like her self-image and relationships, but it also affected her friends' and family’s lives.
I enjoyed all the characters; they were so wholesome and funny, and you can only hope what becomes a part of a group like this. I was happy that Jasmine and her children all had individual relationships with Frankie and the rest of the group.
Though Frankie and Jasmine’s relationship started off sexual and almost insta-like, they quickly became real and long-lasting.
The spice scenes were so hot. I absolutely loved them.
I’m also glad that we could see more of Frankie’s personality. I didn’t realize from the 1st book that she was so funny and adorable until this one. But I really enjoyed her and learning about her struggles because they made her a complete character. And Jasmine, so genuine and patient, and loving of those she loved. She deserves all the best.
Like in the first book, Andrew is still trash. I truly hate to see the baddest of bitches get dragged down and overshadowed by garbage people like him. It is so obvious that Ezra (my man) is the better choice. I absolutely need them to be the third book.
One thing that missed for me was the transition into the third act. It seemed to almost come out of nowhere; they were having such wholesome moments, and then bam.
This was so funny, sexy, and emotional, and such a great follow-up to Spring Awakening! I highly recommend this spicy sapphic summer romance.
August 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
What a bloody gorgeous book this was. I spent 50% of this book blushing, and the other 50% crying.
One of the MCs, Frankie, has bipolar and I have to say, she was SO well written. It was refreshing to have a MC that isn’t just confident 24/7 either, I personally find it hard to connect with characters that are perfect all the time. I think she may have been my favourite character, her falling in love made me so 🥹🥹??? And all that yearning, ugh I LOVE love. Also Jasmine is an angel and I v much also love her, can both Frankie and Jasmine be my book girlfriends pls?
I did admit I kept forgetting that Lani was only meant to be 4, although it was explained why she spoke as if she was older, it still felt a bit like.. unrealistic? Idk. But otherwise, I also feel like her character was done so well!! It was nice to have a disabled side character that didn’t just feel like a last minute thought, she felt so well written.
Anyway I adored this book and definitely recommend checking it out!🤍
What a bloody gorgeous book this was. I spent 50% of this book blushing, and the other 50% crying.
One of the MCs, Frankie, has bipolar and I have to say, she was SO well written. It was refreshing to have a MC that isn’t just confident 24/7 either, I personally find it hard to connect with characters that are perfect all the time. I think she may have been my favourite character, her falling in love made me so 🥹🥹??? And all that yearning, ugh I LOVE love. Also Jasmine is an angel and I v much also love her, can both Frankie and Jasmine be my book girlfriends pls?
I did admit I kept forgetting that Lani was only meant to be 4, although it was explained why she spoke as if she was older, it still felt a bit like.. unrealistic? Idk. But otherwise, I also feel like her character was done so well!! It was nice to have a disabled side character that didn’t just feel like a last minute thought, she felt so well written.
Anyway I adored this book and definitely recommend checking it out!🤍
August 11, 2025
4.5 stars, EASY. I loved this book so, SO much.
Summer Breakdown follows Jasmine, a single mom, and Frankie, her kid’s rugby coach.
When I tell you I cried so much it’s literally not even funny. This book hit home for me in so many ways - I am Frankie and Frankie is me - this story truly ripped me apart and put me back together. Getting to watch Frankie learn vulnerability and Jasmine trust someone with her kids after a terrible situation asdfghjkl I was on the FLOOR.
If you ever think that you’re unworthy of love or have ever thought you were “too much” for whatever reason, pick this up.
JS, thank you. Will truly cherish this story forever 🫶🏾
Summer Breakdown follows Jasmine, a single mom, and Frankie, her kid’s rugby coach.
When I tell you I cried so much it’s literally not even funny. This book hit home for me in so many ways - I am Frankie and Frankie is me - this story truly ripped me apart and put me back together. Getting to watch Frankie learn vulnerability and Jasmine trust someone with her kids after a terrible situation asdfghjkl I was on the FLOOR.
If you ever think that you’re unworthy of love or have ever thought you were “too much” for whatever reason, pick this up.
JS, thank you. Will truly cherish this story forever 🫶🏾
August 21, 2025
Arc Review - 6 Stars 🙏🏿
wow . where do I begin ??? I absolutely loved EVERYTHING about Frankie and Jasmine , I loved seeing their dynamic, not only that but watching Jasmine learn and love Frankie even when she's low (she has bipolar ) was beautiful. not only did Frankie show Jasmine what love is supposed to look like but jasmine shows Frankie she deserves love as well . seeing this friends to lovers , love at first sight happen ugh chefs kiss. I didn't want it to end . now I'm sad .
wow . where do I begin ??? I absolutely loved EVERYTHING about Frankie and Jasmine , I loved seeing their dynamic, not only that but watching Jasmine learn and love Frankie even when she's low (she has bipolar ) was beautiful. not only did Frankie show Jasmine what love is supposed to look like but jasmine shows Frankie she deserves love as well . seeing this friends to lovers , love at first sight happen ugh chefs kiss. I didn't want it to end . now I'm sad .
July 25, 2025
ARC READ*** I absolutely loved this book. I’m a sucker for a good Sapphic love story and some good spicy scenes. This was the perfect balance. I cried during a point in the book, laughed, and swooned too.
July 26, 2025
summer breakdown is about two women figuring themselves out at a time when nothing feels solid. it opens with a one-night stand that ends badly. frankie panics and ghosts, jasmine’s left confused, and what follows is a story about timing, trust, and trying again. the way it’s told has a lot of care and emotional honesty.
what really grounds the story is how it treats motherhood, especially through jasmine’s lens. she’s a single mom of two (well, the father is present in the beginning as a coparent, but he’s so emotionally detached from the kids that i’m not counting him), and the book never frames her parenting as a burden. it’s not something she has to overcome to be worthy of love. jasmine is still her own person, and she wants connection and intimacy. the way she balances her kids with her desire for a fuller life feels honest and refreshing. she’s patient, self-aware, and deeply nurturing without ever being idealized. and she kind of steals the whole book, in my opinion. she’s grounded, emotionally fluent, and never makes love feel like something you have to earn. even when she’s scared, she doesn’t retreat. she keeps choosing connection. she’s just ready in a way that feels rare and you root for her the entire time.
in contrast, frankie is all about structure. her job, her routines, the distance she keeps from people, it’s all part of how she manages her bipolar disorder and depression. where jasmine moves through the world with emotional openness, frankie leans into control. that contrast becomes the heart of their dynamic. it’s where a lot of the tension, but also the softness, comes from. frankie’s used to being the one who gives in bed, but jasmine is so present and attuned that it shifts something in her. that intimacy catches frankie off guard and makes her feel seen in a way she hasn’t allowed herself to be before.
as their relationship deepens, so do the layers of the story. it becomes clear that this isn’t just about two people falling in love. it’s about the ways queerness, race, parenting, and mental health all shape how they navigate each other. those elements aren’t background noise. they actively inform how jasmine and frankie speak, trust, and care. jasmine asks for honesty gently and often. frankie doesn’t always know how to meet that request, even though you can tell she wants to. she’s scared, and that fear slows her growth. but what’s moving is how, over time, she begins to reach back.
the book handles frankie’s mental health with a lot of care. her distance and emotional withdrawal aren’t treated as plot devices. they show how heavy it is to live inside her head some days. yes, it’s frustrating to watch her pull away from someone as good as jasmine, but the story gives you just enough of her inner world to understand why. she’s doing the best she can with what she has. and jasmine, with all her gentleness, keeps showing up. eventually, frankie starts to believe she can too. she fights through a lot, and when she finally lets herself want something more, it’s such a relief. she deserves better, and it’s satisfying to see her begin to believe that.
if i had one real issue, it’s with the writing style. it leans toward minimalism, with short, clipped sentences that create a kind of cinematic rhythm. “jasmine doesn't even know everyone's name. jasmine's heart is a wild thing in her chest. jasmine chews on her lip. jasmine would ask frankie.” maybe it’s a deliberate choice, and sometimes it works. but with a story carrying this much emotional weight, the style can flatten some of the scenes that needed more space. the tone and content don’t always feel in sync, and that made it harder for me to stay immersed.
still, i really enjoyed reading this. i think i also fell a little in love with jasmine. she’s just so perfect.
(i received an advanced copy of this book from the author and all opinions are my own.)
what really grounds the story is how it treats motherhood, especially through jasmine’s lens. she’s a single mom of two (well, the father is present in the beginning as a coparent, but he’s so emotionally detached from the kids that i’m not counting him), and the book never frames her parenting as a burden. it’s not something she has to overcome to be worthy of love. jasmine is still her own person, and she wants connection and intimacy. the way she balances her kids with her desire for a fuller life feels honest and refreshing. she’s patient, self-aware, and deeply nurturing without ever being idealized. and she kind of steals the whole book, in my opinion. she’s grounded, emotionally fluent, and never makes love feel like something you have to earn. even when she’s scared, she doesn’t retreat. she keeps choosing connection. she’s just ready in a way that feels rare and you root for her the entire time.
in contrast, frankie is all about structure. her job, her routines, the distance she keeps from people, it’s all part of how she manages her bipolar disorder and depression. where jasmine moves through the world with emotional openness, frankie leans into control. that contrast becomes the heart of their dynamic. it’s where a lot of the tension, but also the softness, comes from. frankie’s used to being the one who gives in bed, but jasmine is so present and attuned that it shifts something in her. that intimacy catches frankie off guard and makes her feel seen in a way she hasn’t allowed herself to be before.
as their relationship deepens, so do the layers of the story. it becomes clear that this isn’t just about two people falling in love. it’s about the ways queerness, race, parenting, and mental health all shape how they navigate each other. those elements aren’t background noise. they actively inform how jasmine and frankie speak, trust, and care. jasmine asks for honesty gently and often. frankie doesn’t always know how to meet that request, even though you can tell she wants to. she’s scared, and that fear slows her growth. but what’s moving is how, over time, she begins to reach back.
the book handles frankie’s mental health with a lot of care. her distance and emotional withdrawal aren’t treated as plot devices. they show how heavy it is to live inside her head some days. yes, it’s frustrating to watch her pull away from someone as good as jasmine, but the story gives you just enough of her inner world to understand why. she’s doing the best she can with what she has. and jasmine, with all her gentleness, keeps showing up. eventually, frankie starts to believe she can too. she fights through a lot, and when she finally lets herself want something more, it’s such a relief. she deserves better, and it’s satisfying to see her begin to believe that.
if i had one real issue, it’s with the writing style. it leans toward minimalism, with short, clipped sentences that create a kind of cinematic rhythm. “jasmine doesn't even know everyone's name. jasmine's heart is a wild thing in her chest. jasmine chews on her lip. jasmine would ask frankie.” maybe it’s a deliberate choice, and sometimes it works. but with a story carrying this much emotional weight, the style can flatten some of the scenes that needed more space. the tone and content don’t always feel in sync, and that made it harder for me to stay immersed.
still, i really enjoyed reading this. i think i also fell a little in love with jasmine. she’s just so perfect.
(i received an advanced copy of this book from the author and all opinions are my own.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providing me with a copy of
Summer Breakdown!
As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
4.25 stars rounded down
✨ Sapphic Adult Contemporary Romance
✨ Third person, dual POV
✨ 4/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 2 in a series of interconnected standalones
✨ Rep: Black MCs, lesbian MCs, bipolar II, ambulatory wheelchair user SC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- sports romance
- late blooming lesbian
- spice forward romance plot
- single mom romance
- mental illness rep
Content warnings after review.
Initial Thoughts
I’ve been really loving the sapphic sports romances lately, so this was perfect. I hadn’t read a fiction book with a bipolar main character, so that was something that interested me as I have loved ones with bipolar II. This book definitely has a lot of elements that pique my interest.
Plot
Right from the start, the plot is heavily based on the physical chemistry between the main characters and read more character-driven than plot-driven. There is so much tension, sapphic yearning, and desire at the forefront of the story. Along with Frankie’s daily struggles with bipolar II and how that affects her relationship(s) with those around her. There are quite a few ups and downs along the way.
Characters
I thought all the characters were lovable, except for the obvious (Mike…). I thought the portrayal of bipolar II was overall well-done, and I really valued its inclusion since it is not commonly seen in fiction, particularly romance. There were a lot of side character, and I honestly got a bit confused at the beginning. I was able to work it out along the way, but I suspect it might be easier had I read the first book since I would have already been familiar with some. There is a very strong found family vibe. I do think the characterization of Lani as a 4 year old was a bit off for me. I have a niece who is 4 and a very strong communicator for her age; however, I felt Lani read a bit older, perhaps 6.
Romance
This romance was so serious and heavy in some ways and then so light and fun in other ways. The tension and chemistry between Frankie and Jasmine was amazing. I absolutely ate it up. The mutual yearning kept me coming back for more. I would say this romance was so sweet at times, but it also was electric being more physical-forward than a lot of romances I’ve read.
Final Thoughts
This was a really solid introduction to this author, and I’ll keep an eye out for more sapphic romances in the future. I do think it could have perhaps been a bit shorter, and I felt some sections were a bit more drawn out than they had to be, but my interest was kept the whole say through (so who am I to complain?). Recommend especially for the bipolar II rep and spice.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
depression, bipolar type 2, su*cidal thoughts, absent father
4.25 stars rounded down
✨ Sapphic Adult Contemporary Romance
✨ Third person, dual POV
✨ 4/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 2 in a series of interconnected standalones
✨ Rep: Black MCs, lesbian MCs, bipolar II, ambulatory wheelchair user SC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- sports romance
- late blooming lesbian
- spice forward romance plot
- single mom romance
- mental illness rep
Content warnings after review.
Initial Thoughts
I’ve been really loving the sapphic sports romances lately, so this was perfect. I hadn’t read a fiction book with a bipolar main character, so that was something that interested me as I have loved ones with bipolar II. This book definitely has a lot of elements that pique my interest.
Plot
Right from the start, the plot is heavily based on the physical chemistry between the main characters and read more character-driven than plot-driven. There is so much tension, sapphic yearning, and desire at the forefront of the story. Along with Frankie’s daily struggles with bipolar II and how that affects her relationship(s) with those around her. There are quite a few ups and downs along the way.
Characters
I thought all the characters were lovable, except for the obvious (Mike…). I thought the portrayal of bipolar II was overall well-done, and I really valued its inclusion since it is not commonly seen in fiction, particularly romance. There were a lot of side character, and I honestly got a bit confused at the beginning. I was able to work it out along the way, but I suspect it might be easier had I read the first book since I would have already been familiar with some. There is a very strong found family vibe. I do think the characterization of Lani as a 4 year old was a bit off for me. I have a niece who is 4 and a very strong communicator for her age; however, I felt Lani read a bit older, perhaps 6.
Romance
This romance was so serious and heavy in some ways and then so light and fun in other ways. The tension and chemistry between Frankie and Jasmine was amazing. I absolutely ate it up. The mutual yearning kept me coming back for more. I would say this romance was so sweet at times, but it also was electric being more physical-forward than a lot of romances I’ve read.
Final Thoughts
This was a really solid introduction to this author, and I’ll keep an eye out for more sapphic romances in the future. I do think it could have perhaps been a bit shorter, and I felt some sections were a bit more drawn out than they had to be, but my interest was kept the whole say through (so who am I to complain?). Recommend especially for the bipolar II rep and spice.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
depression, bipolar type 2, su*cidal thoughts, absent father
July 28, 2025
She’s done it again folks. She made me laugh and she made me cry and now I’m obsessed with Frankie and Jasmine. The romance in the book is excellent as expected but the family aspect took me by surprise and is my standout from the book.
Frankie my dear Frankie, she overthinks literally everything and I love her so much. She cannot imagine anyone sticking around and wanting to be with her despite Jasmine telling her she will. She has a hard time making friends and doesn’t know how to tell Jasmine exactly what she wants.
Jasmine my angel is such a good character. She knows what she wants and she’s not going to put up with anything less. When Frankie is still figuring herself out she doesn’t stop, she keeps going on dates. None of them go anywhere because Frankie is obviously her soulmate but she’s trying. Jasmine is also the best mom ever and wants the best for her kids.
Jasmine and Frankie had a bit of a rough start after Frankie left Jasmine after their one night stand. She was so scared of it being something real that she ran. On their first night of meeting they said the other is the most beautiful person they’ve ever seen. *SWOON* Frankie told Jasmine things that she hasn’t told most people, it was very deep for her.
Frankie has always wanted to be a mom but she knew she wasn’t going to give birth because she didn’t want to risk her kid being bipolar as well. She kind of immediately took to Lani and Marcel. They are cute and wanted to see their mom make friends in their new home.
The way the friend group took in Jasmine and her kids is the best thing I’ve ever seen. The fact that after meeting Lani everyone started adjusting everything from the pitch to their house to accommodate Lani’s wheelchair made me cry. They wanted these kids in their life so bad and wanted to take away any barrier that they could. They also want to babysit the kids so bad because they love them and also so Frankie and Jasmine could go on a date.
Frankie thinks about Jasmine literally all the time but has no idea how to express that. Her brother definitely helps her out and gives some hints to Jasmine on how Frankie feels. Frankie has never felt anything close to this and she’s just scared. She knows that being bipolar can cause her to have some rough times and she doesn’t want Jasmine to have to be there.
The thing is, that rough time comes and Janine doesn’t leave her despite Frankie telling her to and dumping her. She knows that Frankie loves the stars so she brings over a star projection and just stays with Frankie. She knows what Frankie needs and she just loves her so much.
During that time the kids miss Frankie so much, she is the new part of their family and Lani made them girlfriends before they even actually were. Marcel also loves going to Frankie for advice. They are such a big fan of her and want her in their life forever.
I’m obsessed with this book and I can’t wait to get Ezra and Cam’s book.
Frankie my dear Frankie, she overthinks literally everything and I love her so much. She cannot imagine anyone sticking around and wanting to be with her despite Jasmine telling her she will. She has a hard time making friends and doesn’t know how to tell Jasmine exactly what she wants.
Jasmine my angel is such a good character. She knows what she wants and she’s not going to put up with anything less. When Frankie is still figuring herself out she doesn’t stop, she keeps going on dates. None of them go anywhere because Frankie is obviously her soulmate but she’s trying. Jasmine is also the best mom ever and wants the best for her kids.
Jasmine and Frankie had a bit of a rough start after Frankie left Jasmine after their one night stand. She was so scared of it being something real that she ran. On their first night of meeting they said the other is the most beautiful person they’ve ever seen. *SWOON* Frankie told Jasmine things that she hasn’t told most people, it was very deep for her.
Frankie has always wanted to be a mom but she knew she wasn’t going to give birth because she didn’t want to risk her kid being bipolar as well. She kind of immediately took to Lani and Marcel. They are cute and wanted to see their mom make friends in their new home.
The way the friend group took in Jasmine and her kids is the best thing I’ve ever seen. The fact that after meeting Lani everyone started adjusting everything from the pitch to their house to accommodate Lani’s wheelchair made me cry. They wanted these kids in their life so bad and wanted to take away any barrier that they could. They also want to babysit the kids so bad because they love them and also so Frankie and Jasmine could go on a date.
Frankie thinks about Jasmine literally all the time but has no idea how to express that. Her brother definitely helps her out and gives some hints to Jasmine on how Frankie feels. Frankie has never felt anything close to this and she’s just scared. She knows that being bipolar can cause her to have some rough times and she doesn’t want Jasmine to have to be there.
The thing is, that rough time comes and Janine doesn’t leave her despite Frankie telling her to and dumping her. She knows that Frankie loves the stars so she brings over a star projection and just stays with Frankie. She knows what Frankie needs and she just loves her so much.
During that time the kids miss Frankie so much, she is the new part of their family and Lani made them girlfriends before they even actually were. Marcel also loves going to Frankie for advice. They are such a big fan of her and want her in their life forever.
I’m obsessed with this book and I can’t wait to get Ezra and Cam’s book.
July 27, 2025
Summer Breakdown 🏉
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes Pr & J.S. Jasper,for trusting me with this beautiful ARC!✨
We follow Frankie,a rugby coach,who is determined to lead her team into the championship, and after spending most of her life in strict schedule this is her time to shine,leading this summer to be hers,however when the unexpected hits she will find herself in love with Jasmine,a single mother who is ready to shine in her own way,after starting over in Toulshire.
The road for those two won't be all sunshine and rainbows,yet when love knocks their door,will they be ready to welcome it or breakdown will be the inevitable?
Summer breakdown,is the perfect summer read.This story is the definition of summer love and it kinda felt the way vivid colours💥feel.The vibe she gave in her story was wonderful,with the story being full of happiness,love & ups and downs.I can honestly say,this is my favourite shappic romance of all the time.🥇
Our main girl Frankie has bipolar disorder ,an illeness that makes her think of herself as a burden,with that not being the case at all.Fran,is full of life,goals and my absolute favourite character,whichI truly adored reading about her.I was fancinated about the way she thinks & expresses herself,with the moments that she thought bad of herself breaking my heart.
On the other hand Jasmine,was such a cutie! After hiding her sexuality all her life,she was lot insecure about herself but when she lets my girl Fran take care of her ,her whole perception about being a lesbian changes.She finally understands that she is not weird,or bad and that deserves true love,like any other human being.
Plus,she is one of the best moms you will read about!🫶🏻
Those two,have one of the best chemistries you will EVER read about,through their relationship they will learn to trust,forgive,love and be fearless about themselves.The characteristic I loved the most about them is that by the end of the story,they had an actual character development as indivituals,and became the women that everyone would adore and admire.
Lastly,a huge part of the story is Frankie's disorder.To start with,Jasper educates the reader a lot about this mental illeness,through her story,without making tiring for the us.Especially,when a episode happens it tests not only our girls relationship,but the readers themselves,as I catched my self wondering what I would do if a person close to me suffered from such an episode,although made me understand how truly strong Frankie is as a woman-I am obsessed with that girl!
So,long story short Summer Breakdown is a truly unforgettable read,that will make you fall in love,cry and you surerly won't be able to put it down!
From me a solid 5 ⭐ read
out on August,4th ❤️🔥
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes Pr & J.S. Jasper,for trusting me with this beautiful ARC!✨
We follow Frankie,a rugby coach,who is determined to lead her team into the championship, and after spending most of her life in strict schedule this is her time to shine,leading this summer to be hers,however when the unexpected hits she will find herself in love with Jasmine,a single mother who is ready to shine in her own way,after starting over in Toulshire.
The road for those two won't be all sunshine and rainbows,yet when love knocks their door,will they be ready to welcome it or breakdown will be the inevitable?
Summer breakdown,is the perfect summer read.This story is the definition of summer love and it kinda felt the way vivid colours💥feel.The vibe she gave in her story was wonderful,with the story being full of happiness,love & ups and downs.I can honestly say,this is my favourite shappic romance of all the time.🥇
Our main girl Frankie has bipolar disorder ,an illeness that makes her think of herself as a burden,with that not being the case at all.Fran,is full of life,goals and my absolute favourite character,whichI truly adored reading about her.I was fancinated about the way she thinks & expresses herself,with the moments that she thought bad of herself breaking my heart.
On the other hand Jasmine,was such a cutie! After hiding her sexuality all her life,she was lot insecure about herself but when she lets my girl Fran take care of her ,her whole perception about being a lesbian changes.She finally understands that she is not weird,or bad and that deserves true love,like any other human being.
Plus,she is one of the best moms you will read about!🫶🏻
Those two,have one of the best chemistries you will EVER read about,through their relationship they will learn to trust,forgive,love and be fearless about themselves.The characteristic I loved the most about them is that by the end of the story,they had an actual character development as indivituals,and became the women that everyone would adore and admire.
Lastly,a huge part of the story is Frankie's disorder.To start with,Jasper educates the reader a lot about this mental illeness,through her story,without making tiring for the us.Especially,when a episode happens it tests not only our girls relationship,but the readers themselves,as I catched my self wondering what I would do if a person close to me suffered from such an episode,although made me understand how truly strong Frankie is as a woman-I am obsessed with that girl!
So,long story short Summer Breakdown is a truly unforgettable read,that will make you fall in love,cry and you surerly won't be able to put it down!
From me a solid 5 ⭐ read
out on August,4th ❤️🔥
August 11, 2025
your resident bipolar queer here to say i have never felt more seen by a bipolar character than with frankie. i cried a lot.
Every once in a while I stumble on a book's trope map and think this is right up my alley; maybe the tropes are favorites, maybe the representation is important to me, or maybe the art is just stunning! In the case of Summer Breakdown it was all three. Sapphic sports romance with a single mom and a bipolar coach: I immediately requested an arc and was lucky enough to receive one from Love Notes PR (thank you x1000000).
As someone with bipolar disorder, I am constantly seeking books with "good" representation. I put good in quotes not to say I want it to be perfect but because I want it to be more than a throw away abusive parent (for a while it felt like that was all there was). Frankie's experience with bipolar two might not be everyone's exact experience (it's not even mine), but it's an otherworldly experience to read a character in the midst of a depressive episode still get the girl. Right when I thought that I'm too much, that my emotions and existence are too much, that there couldn't possibly be someone out there that could love me through it all J.S. Jasper breaks through the door to say that's not true. Frankie's not magically cured by love, but Jasmine is going to love her either way. I can't begin to express how much this means to me. I can't describe the depth of which this book healed me. I can't capture the tears I cried and make them into words that might convince someone to read this book, but I'm going to try anyway.
Summer Breakdown is a romance. Frankie and Jasmine meet, hook up, catch feelings, and struggle to communicate. I'm sure that will irritate some people, but all the miscommunication and lack of communication fits these characters. Their past relationships didn't give them the tools to master communicating their needs and wants. That's what REAL romance looks like, learning to communicate and exist with someone amidst life and struggles; chemistry and sex can't fix everything as much as they'd like it to. I love that their relationship (is that even a word anymore?) takes times to develop and has natural ups and downs. I love that Frankie is never in doubt about Jasmine's kids; in fact the whole found family group essentially adopts them too. I love that Jasmine saying "tell me something" keeps coming up from the beginning to the end.
All this to say, I loved Summer Breakdown with my whole heart. It might be my first J.S. Jasper but it certainly won't be the last. I need at least seven business days to recover from this. XOXO
Every once in a while I stumble on a book's trope map and think this is right up my alley; maybe the tropes are favorites, maybe the representation is important to me, or maybe the art is just stunning! In the case of Summer Breakdown it was all three. Sapphic sports romance with a single mom and a bipolar coach: I immediately requested an arc and was lucky enough to receive one from Love Notes PR (thank you x1000000).
As someone with bipolar disorder, I am constantly seeking books with "good" representation. I put good in quotes not to say I want it to be perfect but because I want it to be more than a throw away abusive parent (for a while it felt like that was all there was). Frankie's experience with bipolar two might not be everyone's exact experience (it's not even mine), but it's an otherworldly experience to read a character in the midst of a depressive episode still get the girl. Right when I thought that I'm too much, that my emotions and existence are too much, that there couldn't possibly be someone out there that could love me through it all J.S. Jasper breaks through the door to say that's not true. Frankie's not magically cured by love, but Jasmine is going to love her either way. I can't begin to express how much this means to me. I can't describe the depth of which this book healed me. I can't capture the tears I cried and make them into words that might convince someone to read this book, but I'm going to try anyway.
Summer Breakdown is a romance. Frankie and Jasmine meet, hook up, catch feelings, and struggle to communicate. I'm sure that will irritate some people, but all the miscommunication and lack of communication fits these characters. Their past relationships didn't give them the tools to master communicating their needs and wants. That's what REAL romance looks like, learning to communicate and exist with someone amidst life and struggles; chemistry and sex can't fix everything as much as they'd like it to. I love that their relationship (is that even a word anymore?) takes times to develop and has natural ups and downs. I love that Frankie is never in doubt about Jasmine's kids; in fact the whole found family group essentially adopts them too. I love that Jasmine saying "tell me something" keeps coming up from the beginning to the end.
All this to say, I loved Summer Breakdown with my whole heart. It might be my first J.S. Jasper but it certainly won't be the last. I need at least seven business days to recover from this. XOXO
August 10, 2025
3.5 Stars
J.S. Jasper delivers a heartfelt sapphic romance layered with authentic depiction of mental health and disability. The gorgeous cover art, something Jasper consistently nails, sets the tone for a vibrant summer story centering on Jasmine, a divorced single mother embracing her queerness, and Frankie, a woman navigating life with bipolar disorder. Jasmine’s daughter, Lani, uses a wheelchair and plays a notable role in the story.
Frankie was the standout character for me. Her mental health journey, including a raw and honest portrayal of a depressive episode, was written with sensitivity and depth. While one line about bipolar disorder’s wording gave me pause, overall, it felt realistic and resonant—sometimes painfully so. Watching Frankie confront her self-esteem struggles and grow in confidence was one of the book’s strongest arcs.
Jasmine’s perspective brought warmth, though she didn’t resonate as strongly with me. Lani, while an important part of Jasmine’s life, didn’t read believably as a four-year-old—her dialogue and demeanor felt far older, even considering the explanation given.
Structurally, the romance could feel repetitive. The push-and-pull between Frankie and Jasmine—intense attraction one moment, uncertainty the next—sometimes slowed momentum. The relationship leaned more toward lust than a gradual deepening into love and companionship, which left the romantic progression feeling a bit underdeveloped.
This is a spice-forward, sports-infused (rugby) romance, and the chemistry is undeniable. The found family within the Titans rugby team adds richness, though familiarity with Spring Awakening (book one) might help with fully appreciating the side characters and dynamics.
The writing style is minimalist—short, clipped sentences—which took some adjusting to, but ultimately suited the story’s pacing and tone. There were occasional moments of ambiguity, but once settled into the rhythm, it flowed well.
In the end, Summer Breakdown is engaging, original in its sapphic sports romance setting, and commendable in its raw portrayal of mental health. While I wished for a smoother romantic progression and more believable child characterization, the emotional beats and representation make it worth the read.
Thank you so much Love Notes PR And J.S. Jasper for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
J.S. Jasper delivers a heartfelt sapphic romance layered with authentic depiction of mental health and disability. The gorgeous cover art, something Jasper consistently nails, sets the tone for a vibrant summer story centering on Jasmine, a divorced single mother embracing her queerness, and Frankie, a woman navigating life with bipolar disorder. Jasmine’s daughter, Lani, uses a wheelchair and plays a notable role in the story.
Frankie was the standout character for me. Her mental health journey, including a raw and honest portrayal of a depressive episode, was written with sensitivity and depth. While one line about bipolar disorder’s wording gave me pause, overall, it felt realistic and resonant—sometimes painfully so. Watching Frankie confront her self-esteem struggles and grow in confidence was one of the book’s strongest arcs.
Jasmine’s perspective brought warmth, though she didn’t resonate as strongly with me. Lani, while an important part of Jasmine’s life, didn’t read believably as a four-year-old—her dialogue and demeanor felt far older, even considering the explanation given.
Structurally, the romance could feel repetitive. The push-and-pull between Frankie and Jasmine—intense attraction one moment, uncertainty the next—sometimes slowed momentum. The relationship leaned more toward lust than a gradual deepening into love and companionship, which left the romantic progression feeling a bit underdeveloped.
This is a spice-forward, sports-infused (rugby) romance, and the chemistry is undeniable. The found family within the Titans rugby team adds richness, though familiarity with Spring Awakening (book one) might help with fully appreciating the side characters and dynamics.
The writing style is minimalist—short, clipped sentences—which took some adjusting to, but ultimately suited the story’s pacing and tone. There were occasional moments of ambiguity, but once settled into the rhythm, it flowed well.
In the end, Summer Breakdown is engaging, original in its sapphic sports romance setting, and commendable in its raw portrayal of mental health. While I wished for a smoother romantic progression and more believable child characterization, the emotional beats and representation make it worth the read.
Thank you so much Love Notes PR And J.S. Jasper for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
September 17, 2025
Represented, Diverse , Romantic 🩷🥰
First off let me say the writing, the characters and the storyline was so intriguing. This story was not only romantic, but it was such a mature novel that offered diversity, representation and major events that was impactful and truly interesting. First off I love the first fmc within was Frankie, not only was her character a vulnerable perspective that was still relatable. Frankie's mental health diagnosis throughout the novel was not only representing Bipolar Disorders but it also allowed us to understand/connect with her emotions, her learning and understanding of herself and self esteem. Juggling those moments and feelings and still learning the ups/downs, the wants of various things and still maintaining those connections was truly emotion packed but still was worth the time reading through. Next our other fmc Jasmine. Jasmine is not only kind, but patient and loves the people in her life, the values she upholds and presents with her life, taking care of her career, her family, also understanding , and is a good mother. The relationship between Frankie & Jasmine was very steamy but still the attraction/connection was always there. Both made a good pair, not only were they understanding of one another but their personal experiences within life and their living allowed them to maintain their romance/the friendship aspects and what pushed them to be for one another ! Also let me say the support system within the family dynamics of Jasmine with her son Marcel and her daughter Lani. Not only was Jasmine present, understanding of her children's needs/wants but I love how Frankie was so loving and treated Jasmine and her children as her own and that was such a beautiful and well-rounded relationship forming. Within the writing and the characters definitely highlighted the ups and downs, the characters maturity and overmaturity that highlighted the challenges of this novel and truly explored having to grow and heal. In conclusion, this read was so good, not only was the sapphic romance elite, but the writing was made to be its own. Truly recommend everyone to read!! Thank you so much! 😄
🏷️Expectations:
💖Sapphic Romance
🏉Sport Romance
🥰Meet Cute
🤭One Night Stand
🧡Bi-Polar Rep
😇 Single Mom
First off let me say the writing, the characters and the storyline was so intriguing. This story was not only romantic, but it was such a mature novel that offered diversity, representation and major events that was impactful and truly interesting. First off I love the first fmc within was Frankie, not only was her character a vulnerable perspective that was still relatable. Frankie's mental health diagnosis throughout the novel was not only representing Bipolar Disorders but it also allowed us to understand/connect with her emotions, her learning and understanding of herself and self esteem. Juggling those moments and feelings and still learning the ups/downs, the wants of various things and still maintaining those connections was truly emotion packed but still was worth the time reading through. Next our other fmc Jasmine. Jasmine is not only kind, but patient and loves the people in her life, the values she upholds and presents with her life, taking care of her career, her family, also understanding , and is a good mother. The relationship between Frankie & Jasmine was very steamy but still the attraction/connection was always there. Both made a good pair, not only were they understanding of one another but their personal experiences within life and their living allowed them to maintain their romance/the friendship aspects and what pushed them to be for one another ! Also let me say the support system within the family dynamics of Jasmine with her son Marcel and her daughter Lani. Not only was Jasmine present, understanding of her children's needs/wants but I love how Frankie was so loving and treated Jasmine and her children as her own and that was such a beautiful and well-rounded relationship forming. Within the writing and the characters definitely highlighted the ups and downs, the characters maturity and overmaturity that highlighted the challenges of this novel and truly explored having to grow and heal. In conclusion, this read was so good, not only was the sapphic romance elite, but the writing was made to be its own. Truly recommend everyone to read!! Thank you so much! 😄
🏷️Expectations:
💖Sapphic Romance
🏉Sport Romance
🥰Meet Cute
🤭One Night Stand
🧡Bi-Polar Rep
😇 Single Mom
August 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
Thank you to love notes pr for providing me with an earc copy of this book
- i absolutely like this - its sapphic which is always an instant comfort for me + since i love sapphic books .This is also a Black romance. OH AND THIS IS LES4Les both are lesbians . This is a small town romance set in the UK ! As a brit i love this - i mean i know js jasper is british too so her books always feel authenticly british .
This is in 3rd person pov and if you know me you know that can be a dealbreaker when its not done well but in this book its done well
Oh this is a sports romance - a rugby romance to me exact . Jasmine and Frankie are both ex rugby players but FRANKIE IS an ex pro rugby player turned coach !!
This book has bipolar rep + disability rep . - frankie had bipolar & jasmine’s daughter kehlani ( who is 4) is disabled- she has a dynamic disability. She can walk sometimes but also needs a wheelchair at times. Oh and when she gets sick its real bad .
- one issue i have with this book is how lani is 4 yet talks like shes older !
This is a slowburn to some degree + strangers to friends to lovers - these two take a while to be friends because of frankies bipolar which affects her life drastically ofc + she has anxiety too - and both of think the other isn’t interested in them + hates them - at some points it got annoying but truly it felt real and authentic so truly i couldnt be mad about it.
Jasmine is a single mum - with two kids - one is marcel and the other is lani !
The bipolar rep feels so well done !!! I do honestly feel like this book was enjoyable enough but lowkey infuriating- I liked it but truly maybe messy crazy books aren’t always for me . This felt super realistic and I liked that but at the same time it feel like it was not really for me - but then it’s fun at the same time . I love how much effort Jasmine put in to know stuff about Frankie and understand her - reading books on bipolar etc - I do love how her mental illness ( Frankie’s ) truly is shown and not just forgotten !!
The fact this book even despicts Frankie having a biped episode - made this book feel even more realistic . And I loved it - it tugged on my heartstrings and made me feel so many emotions - I felt so hard for her. Because of this the 3rd act breakup doesn’t feel like one / isnt your classic kind & it made me feel sad yet happy yet sad and i honestly just enjoyed this book a lot
I adored the romance - how realistic it felt and how much I loved both Jasmine and Frankie .
Im excited for cam
Cam and Ezra’s story.
Thank you to love notes pr for providing me with an earc copy of this book
- i absolutely like this - its sapphic which is always an instant comfort for me + since i love sapphic books .This is also a Black romance. OH AND THIS IS LES4Les both are lesbians . This is a small town romance set in the UK ! As a brit i love this - i mean i know js jasper is british too so her books always feel authenticly british .
This is in 3rd person pov and if you know me you know that can be a dealbreaker when its not done well but in this book its done well
Oh this is a sports romance - a rugby romance to me exact . Jasmine and Frankie are both ex rugby players but FRANKIE IS an ex pro rugby player turned coach !!
This book has bipolar rep + disability rep . - frankie had bipolar & jasmine’s daughter kehlani ( who is 4) is disabled- she has a dynamic disability. She can walk sometimes but also needs a wheelchair at times. Oh and when she gets sick its real bad .
- one issue i have with this book is how lani is 4 yet talks like shes older !
This is a slowburn to some degree + strangers to friends to lovers - these two take a while to be friends because of frankies bipolar which affects her life drastically ofc + she has anxiety too - and both of think the other isn’t interested in them + hates them - at some points it got annoying but truly it felt real and authentic so truly i couldnt be mad about it.
Jasmine is a single mum - with two kids - one is marcel and the other is lani !
The bipolar rep feels so well done !!! I do honestly feel like this book was enjoyable enough but lowkey infuriating- I liked it but truly maybe messy crazy books aren’t always for me . This felt super realistic and I liked that but at the same time it feel like it was not really for me - but then it’s fun at the same time . I love how much effort Jasmine put in to know stuff about Frankie and understand her - reading books on bipolar etc - I do love how her mental illness ( Frankie’s ) truly is shown and not just forgotten !!
The fact this book even despicts Frankie having a biped episode - made this book feel even more realistic . And I loved it - it tugged on my heartstrings and made me feel so many emotions - I felt so hard for her. Because of this the 3rd act breakup doesn’t feel like one / isnt your classic kind & it made me feel sad yet happy yet sad and i honestly just enjoyed this book a lot
I adored the romance - how realistic it felt and how much I loved both Jasmine and Frankie .
Im excited for cam
Cam and Ezra’s story.
August 18, 2025
☀️ Summer, Secrets & Second Chances ☀️
ARC Review – Thank you for the opportunity to read this story early
First of all, thanks to LoveNotesPR for sending me this ARC. Here’s my short review:
📖 Plot
Summer Breakdown follows Jasmine, a divorced mother exploring her queerness later in life, and Frankie, a woman living with bipolar disorder. The story focuses on their summer in Toulshire, where romance, self-discovery, and personal growth intertwine. Jasmine’s attempts to move on and find herself collide with Frankie’s unpredictable nature, making for a summer full of emotional highs and lows. The setup promises heartfelt romance, but some transitions and timeline jumps feel abrupt at times.
📖 Characters
Frankie is compassionate, witty, and deeply flawed, making her a memorable lead. Jasmine is determined and relatable, though at times her reactions felt inconsistent. Lani, Jasmine’s daughter, is brave and sweet, adding depth to the family dynamic. The secondary characters, especially the Titans rugby team, add warmth and charm, even if some relationships could have been developed further.
📖 Worldbuilding & Setting
Toulshire is depicted with a cozy, small-town vibe, perfect for summer romance energy. The atmosphere balances gossip, community, and sporty enthusiasm, though a few geographic inconsistencies may stand out for locals. Still, the setting gives a strong sense of place and summer charm.
📖 Writing Style
The writing is minimalistic and clipped, which took some getting used to but ultimately suits the story’s pacing and emotional beats. It highlights Frankie's struggles effectively, especially her mental health journey, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking.
📖 Recommendation
A heartfelt and emotional summer romance with layers of self-discovery, personal growth, and tender moments. If you enjoy slow-burn queer romance, character-driven drama, and stories that tackle mental health with sensitivity, this one is worth checking out.
I received a digital ARC of Summer Breakdown by J.S. Jasper in exchange for an honest review.
ARC Review – Thank you for the opportunity to read this story early
First of all, thanks to LoveNotesPR for sending me this ARC. Here’s my short review:
📖 Plot
Summer Breakdown follows Jasmine, a divorced mother exploring her queerness later in life, and Frankie, a woman living with bipolar disorder. The story focuses on their summer in Toulshire, where romance, self-discovery, and personal growth intertwine. Jasmine’s attempts to move on and find herself collide with Frankie’s unpredictable nature, making for a summer full of emotional highs and lows. The setup promises heartfelt romance, but some transitions and timeline jumps feel abrupt at times.
📖 Characters
Frankie is compassionate, witty, and deeply flawed, making her a memorable lead. Jasmine is determined and relatable, though at times her reactions felt inconsistent. Lani, Jasmine’s daughter, is brave and sweet, adding depth to the family dynamic. The secondary characters, especially the Titans rugby team, add warmth and charm, even if some relationships could have been developed further.
📖 Worldbuilding & Setting
Toulshire is depicted with a cozy, small-town vibe, perfect for summer romance energy. The atmosphere balances gossip, community, and sporty enthusiasm, though a few geographic inconsistencies may stand out for locals. Still, the setting gives a strong sense of place and summer charm.
📖 Writing Style
The writing is minimalistic and clipped, which took some getting used to but ultimately suits the story’s pacing and emotional beats. It highlights Frankie's struggles effectively, especially her mental health journey, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking.
📖 Recommendation
A heartfelt and emotional summer romance with layers of self-discovery, personal growth, and tender moments. If you enjoy slow-burn queer romance, character-driven drama, and stories that tackle mental health with sensitivity, this one is worth checking out.
I received a digital ARC of Summer Breakdown by J.S. Jasper in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2025
“God, no wonder people go feral for love.”🩷
4.5/5⭐️
3/5🌶️
**check content warnings**
First, huge thank you to @jsjsprwrts & @lovenotes.pr for the ARC🫶🏼
One thing I’ve come to expect in a J.S. Jasper book is an incredibly emotional love story. My favorite kind! The love connections she builds both romantically & platonically amongst her characters is something that always stands out to me. Jasper absolutely delivered with the found family, deep emotional connection between the love interests, all while showcasing her wit & humor her readers have come to know & love.
We watch Frankie Adebayo, first female & openly queer rugby coach, who is also bipolar, fall in love with our new favorite single mom of two, Jasmine Kieta. They show up for each other in ways the other never imagined & it felt amazing to experience. The mental health representation & research that Jasper put into this book is incredible. Not only did I learn something new, but the level of intimacy we feel with both main characters made them feel like more than ink on paper. We see the scary parts of being bipolar & loving someone who’s bipolar, we talk about children’s mental health, we acknowledge the lack of accessibility for disabled bodies & watch a family of friends work to change that for cute little Lani (who’s in a wheelchair). Jasper has her characters loudly confronting misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, racism & dumb b**ches (ANDREW).
Summer Breakdown is a book you’ll want to jump into because each & every character (not Andrew) seems like they’d make the best bff ever. Jasper puts so much care into all the characters, not just the main two & I love it when an author does that. I also loved being able to see more Mali & Zach, can’t wait for Ezra & Cam’s story, & KAI!!
As someone with anxiety & depression & who was a young mom, parts of both Frankie’s & Jasmine’s journeys resonated so deeply with me that I was randomly tearing up. I was so invested in this story it was playing in my mind like a tv show. Please go pick up this book!💖
4.5/5⭐️
3/5🌶️
**check content warnings**
First, huge thank you to @jsjsprwrts & @lovenotes.pr for the ARC🫶🏼
One thing I’ve come to expect in a J.S. Jasper book is an incredibly emotional love story. My favorite kind! The love connections she builds both romantically & platonically amongst her characters is something that always stands out to me. Jasper absolutely delivered with the found family, deep emotional connection between the love interests, all while showcasing her wit & humor her readers have come to know & love.
We watch Frankie Adebayo, first female & openly queer rugby coach, who is also bipolar, fall in love with our new favorite single mom of two, Jasmine Kieta. They show up for each other in ways the other never imagined & it felt amazing to experience. The mental health representation & research that Jasper put into this book is incredible. Not only did I learn something new, but the level of intimacy we feel with both main characters made them feel like more than ink on paper. We see the scary parts of being bipolar & loving someone who’s bipolar, we talk about children’s mental health, we acknowledge the lack of accessibility for disabled bodies & watch a family of friends work to change that for cute little Lani (who’s in a wheelchair). Jasper has her characters loudly confronting misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, racism & dumb b**ches (ANDREW).
Summer Breakdown is a book you’ll want to jump into because each & every character (not Andrew) seems like they’d make the best bff ever. Jasper puts so much care into all the characters, not just the main two & I love it when an author does that. I also loved being able to see more Mali & Zach, can’t wait for Ezra & Cam’s story, & KAI!!
As someone with anxiety & depression & who was a young mom, parts of both Frankie’s & Jasmine’s journeys resonated so deeply with me that I was randomly tearing up. I was so invested in this story it was playing in my mind like a tv show. Please go pick up this book!💖
August 3, 2025
Summer Breakdown is book 2 in the Training Seasons series and it absolutely blew me away.
Im not going to pretend to know what the author was thinking about when she wrote this book, but I have a very strong feeling that writing this soothed something in her soul. This book is a love letter to Black women and men, to found families, to sapphics and to people with disabilities and mental health struggles. There was so much care and love poured into this book, I dont think anyone will walk away from it the same.
Frankie and Jasmine are the absolute stars of this story, but I love that we dont loose touch with all of the characters we met in Spring Awakening. I love that the new characters all bring different aspects of our favourite to the surface. Ezra smiles guys. Mali and Zach are still my everything. The way Zach loves Mali is perfection.
Jasmine comes into the story with her 2 kids and she absolutely blows up Frankie's ordered life. Jasmine is everything Frankie wants but doesnt think she deserves.
Frankie is so busy trying to be what she thinks everyone else wants and needs that she has lost herself along the way. The way she doesnt see what is right in front of her, because she couldn't imagine someone wanting her, broke my freaking heart. I shed some tears through this book.
There were some really painful moments thoughout, but it was so well balanced with healing moments. Bringing quiz night to Jasmine, the steps getting replaced at every building, specific wheels, Marcel and Lani being welcomed by everyone made me so happy.
There is truly so much to love in this book.
I could ramble all day about Summer Breakdown. If you want a contemporary romance, that will make you cry, kick your feet, squeal and do the full excited body wiggle, this book is absolutely for you.
🧡 Bipolar rep
🧡 Disability rep
🧡 Sapphic rep
🧡 Bi rep
Im not going to pretend to know what the author was thinking about when she wrote this book, but I have a very strong feeling that writing this soothed something in her soul. This book is a love letter to Black women and men, to found families, to sapphics and to people with disabilities and mental health struggles. There was so much care and love poured into this book, I dont think anyone will walk away from it the same.
Frankie and Jasmine are the absolute stars of this story, but I love that we dont loose touch with all of the characters we met in Spring Awakening. I love that the new characters all bring different aspects of our favourite to the surface. Ezra smiles guys. Mali and Zach are still my everything. The way Zach loves Mali is perfection.
Jasmine comes into the story with her 2 kids and she absolutely blows up Frankie's ordered life. Jasmine is everything Frankie wants but doesnt think she deserves.
Frankie is so busy trying to be what she thinks everyone else wants and needs that she has lost herself along the way. The way she doesnt see what is right in front of her, because she couldn't imagine someone wanting her, broke my freaking heart. I shed some tears through this book.
There were some really painful moments thoughout, but it was so well balanced with healing moments. Bringing quiz night to Jasmine, the steps getting replaced at every building, specific wheels, Marcel and Lani being welcomed by everyone made me so happy.
There is truly so much to love in this book.
I could ramble all day about Summer Breakdown. If you want a contemporary romance, that will make you cry, kick your feet, squeal and do the full excited body wiggle, this book is absolutely for you.
🧡 Bipolar rep
🧡 Disability rep
🧡 Sapphic rep
🧡 Bi rep
August 6, 2025
After loving Spring Awakening earlier this year, I was so excited to get approved for an ARC of Summer Breakdown. I really wanted to like this one but no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t get into it.
Unfortunately, Summer Breakdown missed the mark for me in almost every way. The writing was tough to follow, it often felt like whole sentences or paragraphs were missing. The random time jumps didn’t help either. One moment we’re in the middle of a date between the main characters, and suddenly it’s two weeks later with no transition. It was jarring.
But my biggest issue was the romance, which just didn’t work for me at all. I was confused by it and didn’t find it believable. Jasmine’s behavior and feelings toward Frankie felt all over the place. One minute she’s trying to move on and forget Frankie, and the next she’s kissing her. Their relationship jumps from one-night stand to awkward strangers to lovesick pining to dislike to dating to friends—without any real build-up or emotional progression. It was hard to follow and harder to invest in.
And honestly, I didn’t buy into the romance. While their initial one-night stand was fine, the rest of their interactions made me want to yell at Jasmine to run. Even though we see Frankie’s perspective and understand that she’s bipolar—which definitely affects her actions and relationships—it doesn’t excuse how consistently rude and dismissive she is toward Jasmine. I couldn’t understand why Jasmine was so drawn to her or how it eventually turned into love. Their dynamic just didn’t feel healthy or romantic to me.
By the time I finished this book, I was just tired. I really wanted to enjoy it, especially after loving the author’s previous work, but this one just didn’t land.
Thank you to Love Notes PR for an advance copy.
Unfortunately, Summer Breakdown missed the mark for me in almost every way. The writing was tough to follow, it often felt like whole sentences or paragraphs were missing. The random time jumps didn’t help either. One moment we’re in the middle of a date between the main characters, and suddenly it’s two weeks later with no transition. It was jarring.
But my biggest issue was the romance, which just didn’t work for me at all. I was confused by it and didn’t find it believable. Jasmine’s behavior and feelings toward Frankie felt all over the place. One minute she’s trying to move on and forget Frankie, and the next she’s kissing her. Their relationship jumps from one-night stand to awkward strangers to lovesick pining to dislike to dating to friends—without any real build-up or emotional progression. It was hard to follow and harder to invest in.
And honestly, I didn’t buy into the romance. While their initial one-night stand was fine, the rest of their interactions made me want to yell at Jasmine to run. Even though we see Frankie’s perspective and understand that she’s bipolar—which definitely affects her actions and relationships—it doesn’t excuse how consistently rude and dismissive she is toward Jasmine. I couldn’t understand why Jasmine was so drawn to her or how it eventually turned into love. Their dynamic just didn’t feel healthy or romantic to me.
By the time I finished this book, I was just tired. I really wanted to enjoy it, especially after loving the author’s previous work, but this one just didn’t land.
Thank you to Love Notes PR for an advance copy.
July 29, 2025
“The syllables sound different when she says them- less like a name and more like the first line of a story she very much wants to read.”
Oh my Jasmine and Frankie. And Marcel and Khalani.
Please be warned that there is a bipolar episode on page with dark themes that link to bipolar. Look after you mental health.
However that said how Frankie’s bipolar is dealt with is stunning. Real issue that bipolar people face and struggle with are shown, as well as how those who care for them help and struggle too. The way Jasmine helps Jasmine whilst she’s having an episode is just perfect.
Frankie is so precious, her self esteem is so low and she ties herself to her mental health. I love the way she learns to accept herself with Jasmine and learns how to ask for things that she needs. The whole time I just wanted to give Frankie a hug, like sweet baby you are gorgeous and you are loved and you are wanted.
I love how Jasmine is so sure of herself, she knows what she wants and she’s going to get it. The way she becomes a pillar for Frankie to lean on even when she thinks that all Frankie wants is to be friends. I love how from the get go she’s inserted into the friend group and quickly after so are her kids, whom everyone freaking idolises. She’s an amazing mum and those kids are her entire world (and everyone else’s worlds too)
I loved seeing more of Zach and Mali as well as Ezra, Cam and Kai. I’m so looking forward to more of their books. Especially Ezra, his character came to life in this one and I can’t wait to see how him and Cam unfold.
Just perfect, perfect, perfect.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“I love how well you know me, but it makes me sound like a loser.” “You’re not a loser. I’m just obsessed with you.”
Oh my Jasmine and Frankie. And Marcel and Khalani.
Please be warned that there is a bipolar episode on page with dark themes that link to bipolar. Look after you mental health.
However that said how Frankie’s bipolar is dealt with is stunning. Real issue that bipolar people face and struggle with are shown, as well as how those who care for them help and struggle too. The way Jasmine helps Jasmine whilst she’s having an episode is just perfect.
Frankie is so precious, her self esteem is so low and she ties herself to her mental health. I love the way she learns to accept herself with Jasmine and learns how to ask for things that she needs. The whole time I just wanted to give Frankie a hug, like sweet baby you are gorgeous and you are loved and you are wanted.
I love how Jasmine is so sure of herself, she knows what she wants and she’s going to get it. The way she becomes a pillar for Frankie to lean on even when she thinks that all Frankie wants is to be friends. I love how from the get go she’s inserted into the friend group and quickly after so are her kids, whom everyone freaking idolises. She’s an amazing mum and those kids are her entire world (and everyone else’s worlds too)
I loved seeing more of Zach and Mali as well as Ezra, Cam and Kai. I’m so looking forward to more of their books. Especially Ezra, his character came to life in this one and I can’t wait to see how him and Cam unfold.
Just perfect, perfect, perfect.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“I love how well you know me, but it makes me sound like a loser.” “You’re not a loser. I’m just obsessed with you.”
August 4, 2025
My favorite JS Jasper book so far, and I love all of them!!
✍🏼Frankie’s mental health issues were shockingly relatable; I was not expecting it. From the first chapter, her inner dialogue was a reflection of what mine sounds like. All the thoughts she had about herself made my heart hurt for her, and made me want to hug her. The self loathing, and sabotage, and the feeling of doom and defeat were just too real. But I loved the way Jasmine and Ezra showed up for her without hesitation.
📑Frankie might be my favorite character from the book, but Jasmine is just unreal as well. Her being so understanding of Frankie’s needs from the beginning was so lovely, and viceversa. I love how Jasmine was patient with Frankie while still expressing her emotions and refusing to accept less than what she deserves. She was always willing to listen and to offer whatever Frankie needed, and was so open and honest about what she wanted and how much she liked Frankie. Her journey of self discovery and acceptance and choosing for herself was so awesome to read about. I loved how she was clear about what she had been through in her past relationship and refused to go through that again, while still giving Frankie the chance to treat her right. She’s such a good momma and her Lani and Marc are just the cutest.
🌼 So many moments with Lani had me smiling or emotional, particularly her sweet words for others. The parts where the side characters are so loving to her and Marc were some of my favorites.
🔪There’s of course two characters on my shit list that I just don’t want to get too deep into because I will get murderous.
🌷Seeing Zach and Mali from the perspective of their friends was so fun, I missed and love those two fools.
🧁I’m honestly so excited for Ezra and Cam, I was already looking forward to their story since Spring Awakening, but since they’re closer to and have known Frankie for longer, the side I got to see of them has me so excited for their book (will it be fall or winter?) 🍁❄️And I think I know who Kai’s love interest will be? Kind of? Not really?
Another thing I also loved is how, despite their hesitation (because of Frankie’s struggles or Jasmine’s insecurities) it was clear what they each wanted from their relationship. No matter how much they insisted on being friends it was obvious to everybody who knew them how deeply they cared for each other.
✍🏼Frankie’s mental health issues were shockingly relatable; I was not expecting it. From the first chapter, her inner dialogue was a reflection of what mine sounds like. All the thoughts she had about herself made my heart hurt for her, and made me want to hug her. The self loathing, and sabotage, and the feeling of doom and defeat were just too real. But I loved the way Jasmine and Ezra showed up for her without hesitation.
📑Frankie might be my favorite character from the book, but Jasmine is just unreal as well. Her being so understanding of Frankie’s needs from the beginning was so lovely, and viceversa. I love how Jasmine was patient with Frankie while still expressing her emotions and refusing to accept less than what she deserves. She was always willing to listen and to offer whatever Frankie needed, and was so open and honest about what she wanted and how much she liked Frankie. Her journey of self discovery and acceptance and choosing for herself was so awesome to read about. I loved how she was clear about what she had been through in her past relationship and refused to go through that again, while still giving Frankie the chance to treat her right. She’s such a good momma and her Lani and Marc are just the cutest.
🌼 So many moments with Lani had me smiling or emotional, particularly her sweet words for others. The parts where the side characters are so loving to her and Marc were some of my favorites.
🔪There’s of course two characters on my shit list that I just don’t want to get too deep into because I will get murderous.
🌷Seeing Zach and Mali from the perspective of their friends was so fun, I missed and love those two fools.
🧁I’m honestly so excited for Ezra and Cam, I was already looking forward to their story since Spring Awakening, but since they’re closer to and have known Frankie for longer, the side I got to see of them has me so excited for their book (will it be fall or winter?) 🍁❄️And I think I know who Kai’s love interest will be? Kind of? Not really?
Another thing I also loved is how, despite their hesitation (because of Frankie’s struggles or Jasmine’s insecurities) it was clear what they each wanted from their relationship. No matter how much they insisted on being friends it was obvious to everybody who knew them how deeply they cared for each other.
August 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
First and foremost, I love a sapphic, mental health representational love story. immediately give them allllll to me please & thanks.
J.S. Jasper's writing blindsides me in the best way everytime - as someone who deeply dislikes third person narration, I always surprise myself when I enjoy a third person POV book, and Summer Breakdown was just that!
I really loved both of our FMCs and Linah is actually my favorite character of all time. THE CONVERSATION ABOUT THE FROG. I was crying. Her little questions about asking if she was a burden. My heart physically could not handle her. & Marcel's talk about wanting someone to talk too. Wow.
There was so much representation in this book, and each topic was held with so much care and comfort. It was the perfect amount of honest and authentic without being uncomfortable or over the top for the reader so you could still enjoy the story but feel seen and heard.
FRANKIE. I love her. Boy was I so proud of her by the end, but the journey to get there was so hard to read but in a way that made me feel seen through the eyes of someone else with severe anxiety.
Jasmine was an enjoyable character. Her empathy and care ran so deep by the end of the book I was just as in love with her as Frankie was.
I would LOVE to hear this as an audiobook, I think that it would have been a 5 star read for me as an immersive read, but still was such a good story.
The vibes:
-Rugby Romance
-Mental Health / Bipolar representation
-Physical Disabilities representation
-Divorce / Co-Parenting Representation
-Sapphic Romance
-Forced Proximity
-Single Mom Romance
-One Night Stand
-Found Family
First and foremost, I love a sapphic, mental health representational love story. immediately give them allllll to me please & thanks.
J.S. Jasper's writing blindsides me in the best way everytime - as someone who deeply dislikes third person narration, I always surprise myself when I enjoy a third person POV book, and Summer Breakdown was just that!
I really loved both of our FMCs and Linah is actually my favorite character of all time. THE CONVERSATION ABOUT THE FROG. I was crying. Her little questions about asking if she was a burden. My heart physically could not handle her. & Marcel's talk about wanting someone to talk too. Wow.
There was so much representation in this book, and each topic was held with so much care and comfort. It was the perfect amount of honest and authentic without being uncomfortable or over the top for the reader so you could still enjoy the story but feel seen and heard.
FRANKIE. I love her. Boy was I so proud of her by the end, but the journey to get there was so hard to read but in a way that made me feel seen through the eyes of someone else with severe anxiety.
Jasmine was an enjoyable character. Her empathy and care ran so deep by the end of the book I was just as in love with her as Frankie was.
I would LOVE to hear this as an audiobook, I think that it would have been a 5 star read for me as an immersive read, but still was such a good story.
The vibes:
-Rugby Romance
-Mental Health / Bipolar representation
-Physical Disabilities representation
-Divorce / Co-Parenting Representation
-Sapphic Romance
-Forced Proximity
-Single Mom Romance
-One Night Stand
-Found Family
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