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One Summer by JoAnn Ross – A story of love, healing, and second chances in Shelter Bay

JoAnn Ross’ One Summer is a heartwarming tale set in the enchanting town of Shelter Bay. It follows Gabriel St. James, a hardened ex-Marine photojournalist, and Charity, a resilient veterinarian with a compassionate heart. What starts as a fleeting summer fling deepens into an unexpected love story. But can two people with wounded pasts find a future together?

Is One Summer a must-read?

At its core, One Summer is a feel-good story about love blossoming when least expected.Imagine a story where two emotionally scarred individuals find solace in each other against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town. That is One Summer for you.

This novel is a testament to resilience, the power of love, and the unexpected ways life brings people together. With an engaging plot, deeply layered characters, and the warmth of Shelter Bay, One Summer is the kind of book that lingers in your heart long after you turn the last page.But does this novel truly stand out in the crowded romance genre? Let’s explore.

What is the story behind One Summer?

Gabriel St. James, a world-weary ex-Marine photojournalist, arrives in Shelter Bay to assist a fellow Marine. He doesn’t believe in emotional attachments—his past has left him cynical, withdrawn, and convinced that love is fleeting. But then he meets Charity, a woman whose very existence challenges his outlook.

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Charity, a veterinarian with a painful past, has every reason to keep her heart guarded. Yet, she refuses to let life make her bitter. When she and Gabe agree to a no-strings-attached summer romance, neither expects their connection to run deeper than just physical attraction.

But love, as they soon realize, is rarely simple. As the season changes, so do their hearts, and the biggest question remains—are they willing to risk everything for a chance at something real?

Publishing year - 2011

Pages - 389

Publisher - Penguin

Who are the main characters?

Gabriel St. James – The loner with a Camera

Gabe isn’t your usual romance novel hero. He’s rugged, emotionally guarded, and carries the weight of years spent documenting human suffering through his lens. He believes he has seen too much of the world’s darkness to ever find light again.

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But as the summer progresses, Shelter Bay—and more importantly, Charity—begins to crack the walls he has so carefully built. He starts extending his stay, making excuses to stick around. What once seemed like a brief escape from reality soon feels like a place he doesn’t want to leave.

Charity – A woman with a heart too big for her own good

Charity has seen her fair share of hardships, yet she remains unwaveringly kind. She spends her days at her veterinary clinic, rescuing animals that others have abandoned. Her resilience isn’t just about surviving her own past—it’s about making life better for others, both human and animal.

She recognizes the pain in Gabe’s eyes, but unlike others, she doesn’t push him to talk. She simply exists beside him, offering warmth without expectation.

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What role do Angel and Johnny play?

Angel and Johnny, two troubled siblings, play a crucial role in the story. Johnny, is a troubled but kind-hearted teen. His presence in the book adds an emotional layer, showing how love and kindness can transform even the most hardened souls.

Angel, on the other hand, is a young child fighting to find her place in the world. Her interactions with Charity and Gabe show the vet’s nurturing nature, proving that the people of Shelter Bay are just as deserving of healing as the animals Charity rescues.

How do the rescued dogs add depth to the story?

The abandoned dogs at Charity’s clinic aren’t just background details—they mirror the emotional journey of the characters. These animals, once discarded and forgotten, find love and care under Charity’s roof.

In a way, they symbolize Gabe’s own transformation. He arrives in Shelter Bay emotionally wounded, hesitant to trust, much like the abandoned dogs. But as Charity patiently nurtures these animals, she unknowingly does the same for Gabe, teaching him that love isn’t about perfection—it’s about acceptance.

What makes Shelter Bay so special?

Shelter Bay isn’t just a setting—it’s a character in itself. The salty ocean breeze, the warmth of the townspeople, and the unspoken understanding between its residents create a place that feels like home.

This novel is part of JoAnn Ross’ Shelter Bay Series, a collection of books that capture the magic of small-town romance. Each book follows different characters but maintains the heartwarming charm that makes Shelter Bay so unforgettable.

If you love One Summer, you will want to dive into the rest of the series, including:

  • The Homecoming

  • On Lavender Lane

  • Moonshell Beach

Each book delivers a different story but keeps the heart of Shelter Bay alive.

What are the book’s strengths?

1. Emotional depth

One Summer isn’t just about romance—it’s about healing. The characters’ journeys feel real and raw, making their love story all the more compelling.

2. A Love Story that Feels earned

There’s no instant love here. Gabe and Charity’s connection builds slowly, making it more believable and rewarding.

3. The supporting cast shines

From Angel and Johnny to the rescued dogs, every character adds something meaningful to the story.

Where does One Summer fall short?

Predictability

If you’ve read a lot of romance, you’ll likely see the ending coming. That doesn’t make it less enjoyable, but it does follow a familiar formula.

What’s a memorable quote from the book?

"Love isn’t about finding someone perfect. It’s about finding someone whose flaws you can live with."

This single line captures the essence of One Summer—a love story that isn’t about perfection but about embracing imperfections.

Should you read One Summer?

Absolutely! If you love small-town romance with depth, emotion, and characters that feel real, One Summer is a must-read. It’s a book that reminds you why love, in all its messy unpredictability, is worth it.

What are some similar must-read romance books in summer 2025?

If you love One Summer, here are some bestselling slice-of-life romance books to add to your reading list this year:

  1. Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino – A poignant second-chance romance that will tug at your heartstrings.

  2. The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker – A love story set against the breathtaking backdrop of Alaska.

  3. Every Summer After by Carley Fortune – Perfect for fans of nostalgic summer romances.

  4. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover – A deeply emotional novel exploring love, resilience, and difficult choices.

  5. Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren – A story about first love and the power of reconnecting.

FAQs About One Summer by JoAnn Ross

1. Is One Summer a standalone book?
Yes, but it’s part of the Shelter Bay Series. You don’t need to read the others to enjoy it, but they add extra depth to the town’s world.

2. Is this book suitable for young readers?
It’s targeted at adults, given the emotional themes and romantic content.

3. What makes Shelter Bay different from other small-town romance settings?
Ross brings Shelter Bay to life with rich details, making it feel like a real place rather than just a backdrop.

4. Does the book focus only on romance?
No, it also explores themes of healing, friendship, and finding one’s purpose.

5. Where can I buy One Summer?

It’s available on Amazon, Penguin’s official website, and major bookstores.

What’s your current read? Have you read One Summer? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Tushar Mangl writes on books, investments, business, mental health, food, Vastu, leisure, and a greener, better society. Speaker, author of Ardika and I Will Do It.

For more book reviews and insights, subscribe to Tushar Mangl YouTube Channel.

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