Release: June 16th, 2026

Author: @linapatton

Aldon Lakes had a mysterious death one night on a speedboat that left the wealthy Green Family in a purgatory mourning their son–until years later it’s solved in an unforeseen way. When Augie Elling returns home to Aldon Lakes, she finds Chad Efhart–a boy she once hooked up with now working in her hometown as a male nanny. Desperate to avoid him, Augie still finds their paths constantly crossing as they both serve the elite Minnesota members of the Lake Club. Danika Crawley: Chat’s employer is possessive of Chat and determined to keep Augie away from him especially when she notices there is lingering chemistry and romance. Augie doesn’t understand the rivalry but plays the game back which draws both of them deeper than they imagined.

The author crafts a Dual POV with distinct personalities. Danika gave very regal Cruella De Vil vibes and Augie: a smart, compassionate woman with the spunk to challenge rich people’s temper! If you’re a psychology fanatic like me, you’ll love the character study! Danika is haunted by her past and the nostalgia of her life is one of the fuels for this book. You’ll be wondering who to trust till the end!

I loved this book a lilac! (alot). This novel was a summer drama with many plot twists like affairs, betrayals, and a death waiting to be vindicated. The biggest reveal was one of the affairs that I totally didn’t see coming! I did want more spice, especially some more description on Chat’s appeal though. This was one of those stories that was atmospheric and felt tangible through its eloquent writing. Featuring vibrant imagery of wealthy white marbled houses with expensive paintings, country club waters & golf, and an array of Balkan/Albanian cuisine like mantia and ajvar entres! The connection Augie had with Leah and Zami was one of my favorite parts of the book!

Overall Lina Patton delivered a compelling summer drama with vibrant imagery that would go perfect with champagne by the pool!

Thank you to the author and @williammorrowbooks for the review copy! It was a delicious summer escape.

Read If You Like:  

Big Little Lies 

Pretty Little Liars

Riverdale 

Hockey Boys 

The Help Vs. The Rich.

#summerbooks#summerreading#beachlife