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Camp Let You Go
Two summers. Ten years apart. Four weeks back together. One last chance for love. All the s'mores a girl could ask for.
Having grown up on Bug Juice and the Parent Trap, 16-year-old Penny Watts was made for summer camp. Never had it felt like a possibility, at least not until her mother took on a summer nursing job at Camp Sunny Hills. Penny's camp experience started out being everything she wanted and more; days spent splashing in the lake, the smell of campfire smoke drifting in the air, and the sweet gooey taste of s'mores on her tongue. What she hadn't prepared for was a summer romance with a boy who left her with a broken heart and plans to never return to Sunny Hills again.
Ten years later, Penny has kept her promise and her heart safe, happy with the life she has built for herself, until unforeseen circumstances force her to fill in for her mom.
None of this is ideal, but hey, at least it will give her some relaxing time in nature and the chance to fill her endless s'mores quota. Everything is pointing toward a perfect summer, that is, until she meets her boss, the camp director, who also happens to be the same guy that broke her heart.
Will Penny finally be able to move on and forget the past? Or will she finally discover the truth about why he has been so hard to let go?
Having grown up on Bug Juice and the Parent Trap, 16-year-old Penny Watts was made for summer camp. Never had it felt like a possibility, at least not until her mother took on a summer nursing job at Camp Sunny Hills. Penny's camp experience started out being everything she wanted and more; days spent splashing in the lake, the smell of campfire smoke drifting in the air, and the sweet gooey taste of s'mores on her tongue. What she hadn't prepared for was a summer romance with a boy who left her with a broken heart and plans to never return to Sunny Hills again.
Ten years later, Penny has kept her promise and her heart safe, happy with the life she has built for herself, until unforeseen circumstances force her to fill in for her mom.
None of this is ideal, but hey, at least it will give her some relaxing time in nature and the chance to fill her endless s'mores quota. Everything is pointing toward a perfect summer, that is, until she meets her boss, the camp director, who also happens to be the same guy that broke her heart.
Will Penny finally be able to move on and forget the past? Or will she finally discover the truth about why he has been so hard to let go?
- GenresRomance
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2023
About the author
Kristen Lucero
1 book16 followersKristen Lucero is a devoted mother of three boys and has been happily married for 14 years. They live in Utah, along with their two dogs, Milo and Beans. She has always had a passion for reading and writing. Kristen's love for romance novels and their happily ever afters inspired her to create her own heartfelt stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 17, 2023
I absolutely loved this book!! It was so sweet. I usually prefer books with a little more spice and all that but this book was truly a great break from what I normally read. I love a good second chance romance and this one did not disappoint. Penny was such a relatable character too, I love her. We all need a friend like Maddie! It’s considered a slow burn, but it didn’t feel like it! Sometimes slow burn books can really drag on, but not this one. It felt fast paced to me and it’s so easy to read. I finished in less than a day. Add this to your tbr!
*I received this ARC for my honest opinion*
*I received this ARC for my honest opinion*
August 3, 2023
This was a super quick, super cute, super fluffy read. And if you've ever gone to summer camp, you'll be blasted with nostalgic feels.
Personally, I would have preferred less time spent in the past as I found the teen drama and angst unenjoyable. But the present time antics were so funny and swoony that it made up for it. Jesse is such an adorable cinnamon roll, you can't help but fall in love with him as Penny does.
Personally, I would have preferred less time spent in the past as I found the teen drama and angst unenjoyable. But the present time antics were so funny and swoony that it made up for it. Jesse is such an adorable cinnamon roll, you can't help but fall in love with him as Penny does.
September 7, 2023
i absolutely adore this book. i love that it is a dual timeline getting to see penny and jesse at different points in their relationship between 2013 and 2023. also loved that penny is a red head 😉 the summer camp vibes are so cute and it made me want to go and hangout with all the characters! it is closed door but cute moments with some steamy kisses. i wish this was longer because i can’t get enough of their story. can we also talk about how CUTE this cover is??? obsessed. i would love to see a story for maddie 🩷
if you like i highly recommend this:
⛺️slow burn
⛺️dual timelines
⛺️strong female friendships
⛺️forbidden romance
⛺️second chance romance
⛺️forced proximity
⛺️s’mores
⛺️camp setting
if you like i highly recommend this:
⛺️slow burn
⛺️dual timelines
⛺️strong female friendships
⛺️forbidden romance
⛺️second chance romance
⛺️forced proximity
⛺️s’mores
⛺️camp setting
August 4, 2023
really enjoyed this one! It was a super cute, fluffy read & just what I needed after reading a fantasy. This was really fast paced, and easy to read (only reason it took me 2 days was because I was reading 3 books at once lmaoooo.) it’s a slow burn but it doesn’t drag on because it’s got a good plot & conflicts that help you to stay entertained. It gave me allll the camping vibes & im here for it. I think I would have personally preferred less time spent in the summer of 2013 and more around the present, but the parts that were in the present were so good.💕
I loved Penny & Maddie’s friendship & how she was so loyal to Penny through everything that happened and how everyone turned on Penny after they found out about her and Jessie. It just really pissed me off because Nellie was toxic as HELL. you could clearly tell he didn’t want to be with her anymore but she wouldn’t listen.
This was really easy to relate to as a 22yr old as well because sooo many things I read in this happened to me in my teen years so it was fun to really fully UNDERSTAND the feelings she must have endured during some of these scenes.
I cackled at the scene when she couldn’t pull him in the water because she didn’t realize how strong he was.😂 that was just another one of those moments where it was really realistic for me!🤷🏼♀️😭😂 hilarious!
The friendship bracelets thing was sooo cute; I like how it tied in with Penny & Jessie as well instead of just her “female” friendships. I absolutely ADORED Jessie. He was so smitten with Penny and I loved it. I don’t know what it is about the nickname “red” but I eat it up EVERY. TIME. 🤭🤭🤭🤭
“As scary as it was to give my heart to the boy responsible for shattering it, he was also the one to repair it—piece by piece.” 🏕️💛
I loved Penny & Maddie’s friendship & how she was so loyal to Penny through everything that happened and how everyone turned on Penny after they found out about her and Jessie. It just really pissed me off because Nellie was toxic as HELL. you could clearly tell he didn’t want to be with her anymore but she wouldn’t listen.
This was really easy to relate to as a 22yr old as well because sooo many things I read in this happened to me in my teen years so it was fun to really fully UNDERSTAND the feelings she must have endured during some of these scenes.
I cackled at the scene when she couldn’t pull him in the water because she didn’t realize how strong he was.😂 that was just another one of those moments where it was really realistic for me!🤷🏼♀️😭😂 hilarious!
The friendship bracelets thing was sooo cute; I like how it tied in with Penny & Jessie as well instead of just her “female” friendships. I absolutely ADORED Jessie. He was so smitten with Penny and I loved it. I don’t know what it is about the nickname “red” but I eat it up EVERY. TIME. 🤭🤭🤭🤭
“As scary as it was to give my heart to the boy responsible for shattering it, he was also the one to repair it—piece by piece.” 🏕️💛
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2023
thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review! also i’m so late bc i thought i had to wait two weeks before posting a negative review 😭😭
the blurb and tropes for this book sounded super interesting but the book was extremely disappointing for me. i really tried to enjoy this book but i just did not vibe with it at all and i cannot think of a single thing that i enjoyed. this is a very no plot just vibes book, which i’m usually okay with, but it felt like 300 pages of absolute nothing in this case ☹️
i’ve been trying not to be as judgemental reading about main characters but i found penny extremely childish. her pov in the two timelines shows that her character did not grow at all and her behaviour at 16 and 26 are the exact same. i think it is because i didn’t like penny, all the romance aspect in the book felt boring and there was no chemistry.
as for the writing, since this is a debut, i think the author tried their best but the timelines just didn’t align. the pacing of the entire book felt off because of the way each of the timeline were progressing. the romance between penny and jesse could’ve been at a good pace if it weren’t for the fact that i did not get any chemistry and tension between them in the past either. also, this book is marketed as a no spice adult romance, which is like my favourite thing ever, but the entire conflict seemed like a petty preteen’s diary entry.
overall, this book was super disappointing and was not my cup of tea although someone else may enjoy it.
the blurb and tropes for this book sounded super interesting but the book was extremely disappointing for me. i really tried to enjoy this book but i just did not vibe with it at all and i cannot think of a single thing that i enjoyed. this is a very no plot just vibes book, which i’m usually okay with, but it felt like 300 pages of absolute nothing in this case ☹️
i’ve been trying not to be as judgemental reading about main characters but i found penny extremely childish. her pov in the two timelines shows that her character did not grow at all and her behaviour at 16 and 26 are the exact same. i think it is because i didn’t like penny, all the romance aspect in the book felt boring and there was no chemistry.
as for the writing, since this is a debut, i think the author tried their best but the timelines just didn’t align. the pacing of the entire book felt off because of the way each of the timeline were progressing. the romance between penny and jesse could’ve been at a good pace if it weren’t for the fact that i did not get any chemistry and tension between them in the past either. also, this book is marketed as a no spice adult romance, which is like my favourite thing ever, but the entire conflict seemed like a petty preteen’s diary entry.
overall, this book was super disappointing and was not my cup of tea although someone else may enjoy it.
August 12, 2023
Thank you so much to BookFunnel to sending me an arc of Camp Let You Go by Kristen Lucero!
I loved this book so much! I loved seeing Pen and Jesse's stories both in their first summer and current summer at Camp Sunny Hills. Maddie was absolutely perfect in the 2013 summer and honestly i'd love to have a best friend like her, she was always there for Pen no matter what happened and fully supported her decisions. Then to have Lennox in the 2023 summer basically as a second Maddie was so cute.
Teenage Pen was so relatable, i'd happily have been her friend at summer camp, honestly Pen was such a good main character, always standing her ground and caring for other characters who definitely didn't deserve her, *cough cough* Nellie. If I could I'd loved to have gone to Camp Sunny Hills it would be a lovely summer camp in my opinion.
If you're in need of a feel good, cozy summer camp romance story I would absolutely give this book a read, I couldn't put it down the whole time!
Release date: 12/8/23
I loved this book so much! I loved seeing Pen and Jesse's stories both in their first summer and current summer at Camp Sunny Hills. Maddie was absolutely perfect in the 2013 summer and honestly i'd love to have a best friend like her, she was always there for Pen no matter what happened and fully supported her decisions. Then to have Lennox in the 2023 summer basically as a second Maddie was so cute.
Teenage Pen was so relatable, i'd happily have been her friend at summer camp, honestly Pen was such a good main character, always standing her ground and caring for other characters who definitely didn't deserve her, *cough cough* Nellie. If I could I'd loved to have gone to Camp Sunny Hills it would be a lovely summer camp in my opinion.
If you're in need of a feel good, cozy summer camp romance story I would absolutely give this book a read, I couldn't put it down the whole time!
Release date: 12/8/23
August 19, 2023
I received an arc for this book in exchange for my honest review.
I’m sorry but how CUTE is this book !!?
I absolutely loved this ! It felt like a hug, it was so cozy and sweet. It had a camp rock feel to it which is always a win in my eyes & the mention of the Jonas Brothers throughout ? I LOVE.
The dual timeline is so lovely & I love how the past was tied into what was happening in the present day. I feel like we were really able to understand Penny throughout this book because we knew her at 16 and we knew her at 26. We got to understand her heartbreak and why she was nervous for going back to camp.
I loved Jesse as an adult and loved that he wanted to explain to Penny what happened ! Maddie as well ? What a bestie !!
If you want a cute and cozy read, this is 100% for you ! There’s no spice but it doesn’t need it, you can clearly see the characters connections. I highly recommend this book! So good.
I’m sorry but how CUTE is this book !!?
I absolutely loved this ! It felt like a hug, it was so cozy and sweet. It had a camp rock feel to it which is always a win in my eyes & the mention of the Jonas Brothers throughout ? I LOVE.
The dual timeline is so lovely & I love how the past was tied into what was happening in the present day. I feel like we were really able to understand Penny throughout this book because we knew her at 16 and we knew her at 26. We got to understand her heartbreak and why she was nervous for going back to camp.
I loved Jesse as an adult and loved that he wanted to explain to Penny what happened ! Maddie as well ? What a bestie !!
If you want a cute and cozy read, this is 100% for you ! There’s no spice but it doesn’t need it, you can clearly see the characters connections. I highly recommend this book! So good.
August 20, 2023
I’m very grateful to Kristen Lucero and BookFunnel for providing me with this eARC. Unfortunately I found this incredibly boring. Penny was way too insecure as a character and the whole drama thing was so stupid. Also why did it take over 50% of the book for me to find out what really happened with her and Jesse? Their love (both then and now) didn’t feel believable either.
April 11, 2024
1.5 ⭐️
Ok I get it you havent forgiven your bf from when you were 16… ten years ago.
Resolved very fast, it dragged and then it felt like the author realized she had to finish the book and wrapped it up fast.
Some camp elements were cute and I like Maddie and Penny’s friendship.
Ok I get it you havent forgiven your bf from when you were 16… ten years ago.
Resolved very fast, it dragged and then it felt like the author realized she had to finish the book and wrapped it up fast.
Some camp elements were cute and I like Maddie and Penny’s friendship.
September 17, 2023
i dnf'd this because i wasn't rooting for the couple and when they first met the MMC was described as predatory but like...in a cute way? also i just wasn't feeling it
August 4, 2023
I absolutely adored and devoured this book!! As a tween, I was OBSESSED with anything "summer camp" related! From Bug Juice on the Disney Channel to Parent Trap to Heavyweights (yes, I'm that old). It was always a dream of mine to go. I never did, but, man, I lived vicariously through Penny in this book!
Penny & Jesse's love story is full of teenage angst, relentless flirting & banter. As a very NOT teenager anymore, it was so fun & a little nerve-racking to get lost in the teenage world of love triangles & jealousy. Oh, to be a lovesick teenager again!
I loved jumping from Penny attending camp for the first time at 16 to her attending camp as the camp nurse at 26. Immersing you even further into her story & camp life!
The bond between Penny & her bunkmate, Maddie, reminds me so much of my best friend from those formative years of my life. Their unwavering support for each other is so heart-warming & wholesome ♡
Some of my favorite tropes in Camp Let You Go:
✿ Dual Timeline
✿ Second Chance Romance
✿ Forbidden Romance
✿ Forced Proximity
✿ Slow Burn
✿ Strong Female Friendships
This is a clean, YA contemporary romance! 10/10 would recommend for teens, tweens & everyone in between!
Penny & Jesse's love story is full of teenage angst, relentless flirting & banter. As a very NOT teenager anymore, it was so fun & a little nerve-racking to get lost in the teenage world of love triangles & jealousy. Oh, to be a lovesick teenager again!
I loved jumping from Penny attending camp for the first time at 16 to her attending camp as the camp nurse at 26. Immersing you even further into her story & camp life!
The bond between Penny & her bunkmate, Maddie, reminds me so much of my best friend from those formative years of my life. Their unwavering support for each other is so heart-warming & wholesome ♡
Some of my favorite tropes in Camp Let You Go:
✿ Dual Timeline
✿ Second Chance Romance
✿ Forbidden Romance
✿ Forced Proximity
✿ Slow Burn
✿ Strong Female Friendships
This is a clean, YA contemporary romance! 10/10 would recommend for teens, tweens & everyone in between!
August 29, 2023
3.5 🌟
This is a super cute romance story and is such an easy read. I did get every summer after vibes but I loved the whole camp aspect. For a debut novel this hits the sweet spot.
ARC review
This is a super cute romance story and is such an easy read. I did get every summer after vibes but I loved the whole camp aspect. For a debut novel this hits the sweet spot.
ARC review
August 11, 2023
Kristen Lucero's debut novel, "Camp Let You Go," is an exquisite masterpiece that effortlessly weaves together the threads of friendship, romance, and second chances. With a unique narrative structure alternating between past and present, Lucero takes readers on an unforgettable journey that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impression.
From the very first chapter, Lucero introduces us to Penny, a spunky and relatable protagonist whose humor and emotional depth make her instantly endearing. The poignant portrayal of her friendship with Maddie is heartwarming, evoking memories of our own cherished connections and causing a bittersweet ache for those we've lost. Lucero's ability to evoke such genuine emotions is a testament to her skillful storytelling.
As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of characters who each contribute their own layer of complexity to the narrative. The chemistry between young Penny and Jesse is nothing short of magnetic, leaving readers eagerly anticipating their every interaction. Lucero expertly navigates their evolving relationship, infusing the narrative with moments of playful banter, undeniable attraction, and a touch of angst that keeps us hooked.
The dual timeline structure is a stroke of brilliance, allowing us to witness the growth of Penny and her friends over the years while maintaining a sense of suspense that keeps us turning the pages. Lucero's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of the camp setting, creating an immersive experience that transports readers to their own nostalgic moments.
Each chapter is a masterclass in character development, plot progression, and emotional depth. Lucero effortlessly captures the intricacies of human relationships, whether it's the awkward tension between Penny and Jesse or the heartwarming bond between friends. The dialogues are witty, genuine, and brimming with authenticity, making it easy to become fully invested in the characters' lives.
"Camp Let You Go" is a rollercoaster of emotions, from laugh-out-loud moments to heart-wrenching revelations. Lucero's impeccable pacing ensures that every chapter leaves us craving more, and the seamless transitions between timelines make for a captivating reading experience.
In the final chapters, Lucero delivers an emotionally charged crescendo that ties up loose ends and leaves us with a sense of hope and fulfillment. The epilogue beautifully encapsulates the novel's themes of second chances and cherished connections, leaving us with a warm heart and a smile on our faces.
In summary, Kristen Lucero's "Camp Let You Go" is a literary gem that captivates from beginning to end. The characters are relatable, the romance is enchanting, and the exploration of friendships and second chances is masterfully executed. Lucero's debut is a triumph that deserves a place on every reader's bookshelf, and it's a testament to her talent as a storyteller. If you're looking for a five-star read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you yearning for more, "Camp Let You Go" is an absolute must-read.
From the very first chapter, Lucero introduces us to Penny, a spunky and relatable protagonist whose humor and emotional depth make her instantly endearing. The poignant portrayal of her friendship with Maddie is heartwarming, evoking memories of our own cherished connections and causing a bittersweet ache for those we've lost. Lucero's ability to evoke such genuine emotions is a testament to her skillful storytelling.
As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of characters who each contribute their own layer of complexity to the narrative. The chemistry between young Penny and Jesse is nothing short of magnetic, leaving readers eagerly anticipating their every interaction. Lucero expertly navigates their evolving relationship, infusing the narrative with moments of playful banter, undeniable attraction, and a touch of angst that keeps us hooked.
The dual timeline structure is a stroke of brilliance, allowing us to witness the growth of Penny and her friends over the years while maintaining a sense of suspense that keeps us turning the pages. Lucero's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of the camp setting, creating an immersive experience that transports readers to their own nostalgic moments.
Each chapter is a masterclass in character development, plot progression, and emotional depth. Lucero effortlessly captures the intricacies of human relationships, whether it's the awkward tension between Penny and Jesse or the heartwarming bond between friends. The dialogues are witty, genuine, and brimming with authenticity, making it easy to become fully invested in the characters' lives.
"Camp Let You Go" is a rollercoaster of emotions, from laugh-out-loud moments to heart-wrenching revelations. Lucero's impeccable pacing ensures that every chapter leaves us craving more, and the seamless transitions between timelines make for a captivating reading experience.
In the final chapters, Lucero delivers an emotionally charged crescendo that ties up loose ends and leaves us with a sense of hope and fulfillment. The epilogue beautifully encapsulates the novel's themes of second chances and cherished connections, leaving us with a warm heart and a smile on our faces.
In summary, Kristen Lucero's "Camp Let You Go" is a literary gem that captivates from beginning to end. The characters are relatable, the romance is enchanting, and the exploration of friendships and second chances is masterfully executed. Lucero's debut is a triumph that deserves a place on every reader's bookshelf, and it's a testament to her talent as a storyteller. If you're looking for a five-star read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you yearning for more, "Camp Let You Go" is an absolute must-read.
October 18, 2023
4.1 stars ⭐️
✿ I received a free eARC from the author of this book. All opinions are my own and voluntarily so. Thank you! ✿
✨️ 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔/𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:
⛺️ strangers to friends to lovers
☀️ second chance romance
⛺️ forbidden romance / forced proximity
☀️ teen love,angst and drama
⛺️ dual timelines (past & present)
☀️ set in summer camp
⛺️ golden retriever mmc
☀️ a solid fmc
⛺️ super amazing bff
☀️ closed door romance
"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘢 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧. 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨."
💌⁀➷
The perfect feel good summer romance with the right amounts of angst. For a debut indie author she knocked this one out of the park!
I definitely enjoyed this book. The author executes the dual timeline properly and seamlessly. She switches at the perfect times and makes the transitions so clean.
Author does encapsulate teenage love,angst and drama quite perfectly and it was done really well. Basically it felt like a really good movie playing in my head as I read and dived deeper into this story. Which made it even more enjoyable.
I liked how the tropes were done and there were some lines that stood out to me. I loved Maddie (the fmc's bff) she makes such a bad bish soft bestie and we stan!
✨️ A special Maddie quote: “It’s okay to not be okay, especially when you’ve been hurt like you have. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed, your feelings are always valid.”
Jessie and Pen were wonderful MCs. I had no complaints with any of them. They were strong characters that I grew to like and enjoy seeing their story explored.
It gave me some Camp Rock vibes esp with the Jonas brothers being mentioned and the whole fun summer camp and Pen's mum being the nurse and with Nellie the "mean friend"
Overall an amazing read and I recommend everyone to pick this up its for all ages tho especially teenagers tbh! Like it will resonate with them stronger I feel.
It could also pass as a clean romance if you squint coz there is just a few making out sessions and that's it.
✿ I received a free eARC from the author of this book. All opinions are my own and voluntarily so. Thank you! ✿
✨️ 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔/𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:
⛺️ strangers to friends to lovers
☀️ second chance romance
⛺️ forbidden romance / forced proximity
☀️ teen love,angst and drama
⛺️ dual timelines (past & present)
☀️ set in summer camp
⛺️ golden retriever mmc
☀️ a solid fmc
⛺️ super amazing bff
☀️ closed door romance
"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘢 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧. 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨."
💌⁀➷
The perfect feel good summer romance with the right amounts of angst. For a debut indie author she knocked this one out of the park!
I definitely enjoyed this book. The author executes the dual timeline properly and seamlessly. She switches at the perfect times and makes the transitions so clean.
Author does encapsulate teenage love,angst and drama quite perfectly and it was done really well. Basically it felt like a really good movie playing in my head as I read and dived deeper into this story. Which made it even more enjoyable.
I liked how the tropes were done and there were some lines that stood out to me. I loved Maddie (the fmc's bff) she makes such a bad bish soft bestie and we stan!
✨️ A special Maddie quote: “It’s okay to not be okay, especially when you’ve been hurt like you have. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed, your feelings are always valid.”
Jessie and Pen were wonderful MCs. I had no complaints with any of them. They were strong characters that I grew to like and enjoy seeing their story explored.
It gave me some Camp Rock vibes esp with the Jonas brothers being mentioned and the whole fun summer camp and Pen's mum being the nurse and with Nellie the "mean friend"
Overall an amazing read and I recommend everyone to pick this up its for all ages tho especially teenagers tbh! Like it will resonate with them stronger I feel.
It could also pass as a clean romance if you squint coz there is just a few making out sessions and that's it.
August 4, 2023
Roses:
I love a good camping story. The girls and boys we meet are very relatable and made me think of people I was friends with back in high school. I love Maddie and Lennox and think they both were such a great support to Penny through her moments. Penny had a lot of wit to her which was fun to read. She definitely made me laugh a few times. Jesse was definitely more of the golden boy that everyone liked. Love the bit on competition he shows when going against Derek in the obstacle course. Show that dominance! The ending was super cute and special and it made me extremely happy.
Thorns:
Dual timelines. I think these are one of the hardest troupes to get the right due to needing find the right balance. Unfortunately this book felt rushed towards the end and I think it’s because of how long we stay in the past rather than the in the present. While I enjoyed the back and forth I was left wanting more in the current timeline than in the past. Because it’s a second chance, I wanted more of them working to have that with each other. I didn’t actually believe when they were younger he was that into her by how he was described. I also had moments of feeling that way even in the present timeline. In the present, he came across super sorry for what happened but it didn’t clearly come across as if he was pining over her even though he was. I want to know just how much he was hoping and wishing she’d come back to him. We get glimpses but like I wanted him to shed tears or something more dramatic to show how he felt for her. At the end it sorta happens but still just didn’t fill the void for me. I felt that characters could have been used more in the story like Penny’s mom. She was there for all of this and the years in between. It was said they are like Rory and Lorelei from the Gilmore Girls but she doesn’t even get talking parts only mentions. So I wish we would have had her mom involved. Like she and Jesse have interactions over the years be mentioned as a way of him thinking about her in some capacity. Lastly, I wasn’t thrilled that Penny wouldn’t listen and have the talk with him. It felt really childish and contradicting to how she spoke at other times of the story. Which was disappointing because she comes across so strong but then just goes flat.
Still I thought it was enjoyable and lots of people should enjoy it too!
Thank you Kristen for the chance to read this! 😊
I love a good camping story. The girls and boys we meet are very relatable and made me think of people I was friends with back in high school. I love Maddie and Lennox and think they both were such a great support to Penny through her moments. Penny had a lot of wit to her which was fun to read. She definitely made me laugh a few times. Jesse was definitely more of the golden boy that everyone liked. Love the bit on competition he shows when going against Derek in the obstacle course. Show that dominance! The ending was super cute and special and it made me extremely happy.
Thorns:
Dual timelines. I think these are one of the hardest troupes to get the right due to needing find the right balance. Unfortunately this book felt rushed towards the end and I think it’s because of how long we stay in the past rather than the in the present. While I enjoyed the back and forth I was left wanting more in the current timeline than in the past. Because it’s a second chance, I wanted more of them working to have that with each other. I didn’t actually believe when they were younger he was that into her by how he was described. I also had moments of feeling that way even in the present timeline. In the present, he came across super sorry for what happened but it didn’t clearly come across as if he was pining over her even though he was. I want to know just how much he was hoping and wishing she’d come back to him. We get glimpses but like I wanted him to shed tears or something more dramatic to show how he felt for her. At the end it sorta happens but still just didn’t fill the void for me. I felt that characters could have been used more in the story like Penny’s mom. She was there for all of this and the years in between. It was said they are like Rory and Lorelei from the Gilmore Girls but she doesn’t even get talking parts only mentions. So I wish we would have had her mom involved. Like she and Jesse have interactions over the years be mentioned as a way of him thinking about her in some capacity. Lastly, I wasn’t thrilled that Penny wouldn’t listen and have the talk with him. It felt really childish and contradicting to how she spoke at other times of the story. Which was disappointing because she comes across so strong but then just goes flat.
Still I thought it was enjoyable and lots of people should enjoy it too!
Thank you Kristen for the chance to read this! 😊
August 18, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is the author's debut novel and it's one that makes me want to read more from her. The book's blurb is straightforward. It's a good second chance romance told through Penny's pov.
While I would've liked a bit more time spent in the present, I loved the dual timelines and how the transitions from the past to the present were smooth and kept you interested in finding out what would happen next. As a traveling nurse, Penny had grown accustomed to not getting too attached to the people or places she met. She's had relationships but they weren't serious nor could they compare to the feelings that she experienced when she was with Jesse. Although they were teenagers, he was her first love and the way that things ended between them hurt her deeply. Being unexpectedly reunited with him makes those old feelings resurface but she's wary of him given their history. Jesse has the same flirty vibes that she remembers but he's more confident and seems to truly want to be her friend again. It's impossible for Penny not to be drawn to him again and she has to wonder if she can be on good terms with him.
The author did a great job in creating angst for teenage Penny. Sure, some readers may be annoyed with the teenager drama, and toxic friends, but it was realistic and helped show why that experience would shape adult Penny. Penny and Jesse's friendship and relationship developed in a natural way. Even though it's a slow burn, the book doesn't read like that.If anything, it may leave you wanting for more chapters before the epilogue chapter. Their romance is closed door with steamy kisses, suggestive thoughts, and a few curse words. Aside from liking Penny and Jesse have a second chance, I loved Penny's friendship with Maddie. She was so supportive and loyal, which teenage Penny definitely needed. Penny's friendship with Lennox was cute too. I would've liked to see more on page interactions of Penny with her mother, since they were described to be really close, and, as I mentioned, more time in the present could've further made readers feel the connection of adult Penny and Jesse. However, the story is fine as is. Another thing that I liked is how the author vividly created the summer camp lifestyle, even for those like me who never attended. It was an enjoyable read and a decent debut. I look forward to reading more from this author.
While I would've liked a bit more time spent in the present, I loved the dual timelines and how the transitions from the past to the present were smooth and kept you interested in finding out what would happen next. As a traveling nurse, Penny had grown accustomed to not getting too attached to the people or places she met. She's had relationships but they weren't serious nor could they compare to the feelings that she experienced when she was with Jesse. Although they were teenagers, he was her first love and the way that things ended between them hurt her deeply. Being unexpectedly reunited with him makes those old feelings resurface but she's wary of him given their history. Jesse has the same flirty vibes that she remembers but he's more confident and seems to truly want to be her friend again. It's impossible for Penny not to be drawn to him again and she has to wonder if she can be on good terms with him.
The author did a great job in creating angst for teenage Penny. Sure, some readers may be annoyed with the teenager drama, and toxic friends, but it was realistic and helped show why that experience would shape adult Penny. Penny and Jesse's friendship and relationship developed in a natural way. Even though it's a slow burn, the book doesn't read like that.
August 23, 2023
ARC review – Camp Let You Go by Kristen Lucero.
If you're looking for a cozy summer romance read, I've got you!
4/5⭐
"Without a doubt, both me and my heart want Jesse. In fact, I'm pretty sure my heart has, and will always belong to Jesse Hill."
This book just made me want to be a teenager again and experience my summer camp romance. I always love a cocky MMC that falls first and Jesse was not the exception. The moment he approached her I was drooling. And how he just never gave up despite her telling him to back off every time? I was gone.
It's a short and quick read about Penny and Jesse, who shared one summer 10 years ago, and now will have to work together for a month at the same place their love was born (and burnt).
I absolutely loved the tension between them in both timelines, how he looked at her and how he got jealous without even noticing it. And definitely the forbidden romance added A LOT more tension, like I couldn't wait to see what was happening next and how were they gonna work it out to be together.
Also, the dual timeline was a very wise choice, I wasn't able to put the book down because I NEEDED to know what happened in the past and how they got there, though I would've liked a bit more of the present timeline and their current relationship. But really, that last past chapter left me broken-hearted as much as Penny.
One thing I absolutely adored? The friendship. Let's face it, a few people would actually stand by your side through all what Penny went through and all the teenage drama that happened in the past just a couple weeks after meeting you. We all need besties like Maddie, tbh.
The ending… oh well, it mended my heart just like this ❤️🩹. I love how they got their second chance, how they followed their hearts and gave in to what they've always been wanting.
Thank you so much to Kristen for letting me read this book and share these experiences, I truly appreciate it.
instagram: @nuryaamar
If you're looking for a cozy summer romance read, I've got you!
4/5⭐
"Without a doubt, both me and my heart want Jesse. In fact, I'm pretty sure my heart has, and will always belong to Jesse Hill."
This book just made me want to be a teenager again and experience my summer camp romance. I always love a cocky MMC that falls first and Jesse was not the exception. The moment he approached her I was drooling. And how he just never gave up despite her telling him to back off every time? I was gone.
It's a short and quick read about Penny and Jesse, who shared one summer 10 years ago, and now will have to work together for a month at the same place their love was born (and burnt).
I absolutely loved the tension between them in both timelines, how he looked at her and how he got jealous without even noticing it. And definitely the forbidden romance added A LOT more tension, like I couldn't wait to see what was happening next and how were they gonna work it out to be together.
Also, the dual timeline was a very wise choice, I wasn't able to put the book down because I NEEDED to know what happened in the past and how they got there, though I would've liked a bit more of the present timeline and their current relationship. But really, that last past chapter left me broken-hearted as much as Penny.
One thing I absolutely adored? The friendship. Let's face it, a few people would actually stand by your side through all what Penny went through and all the teenage drama that happened in the past just a couple weeks after meeting you. We all need besties like Maddie, tbh.
The ending… oh well, it mended my heart just like this ❤️🩹. I love how they got their second chance, how they followed their hearts and gave in to what they've always been wanting.
Thank you so much to Kristen for letting me read this book and share these experiences, I truly appreciate it.
instagram: @nuryaamar
August 28, 2023
This was such a great story! I really enjoyed it. I was a little worried at first because I have mixed feelings about flashbacks in books, and this book mixes chapters of current day with flashback chapters from a decade ago, but it totally works for this story and is actually pretty crucial in seeing how the main characters fell in love, how it all fell apart, and why they approach their second chance the way that they do. The past is as much part of this story and the present time. The story is all told from the single POV of Penny, who fell for Jesse, the son of the camp owners, at summer camp at age 16. True “Mean Girl” antics from Jesse’s possessive and jealous on and off again ex-girlfriend push the relationship’s limits, leaving Penny still hurt a decade later. “‘It’s okay not to be okay, especially when you’ve been hurt like you have. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed, your feelings are always valid.’” When she takes a temporary position as the camp nurse, Penny doesn’t realize that Jesse now runs the camp. And maybe he still feels something too. Penny was a great character and very relatable, wanting to fit in, trying to avoid what might disrupt that, and then as an adult wanting to be able to let go of feelings snd hurt, but struggling to do so. I also liked Jesse, but teenage boys are more of a mystery to me and since it wasn’t from his POV, I connected with his character on a more surface level. The secondary characters provided some supportive friends, alternative potential romantic interests, and classic mean girls. There is a sweet epilogue to wrap the story up. I believe this book is the first from a new author and I was happy to read it. I will definitely look forward to reading future books from her. This is a closed door story with moderate innuendo and periodic harsh language throughout.
August 3, 2023
Penny (Red for short) meets Jesse during her summer camp vacation when she is 16 and they soon become friends. Over the next few weeks, they slowly fall in love even though they don't have the courage to tell one another. Now, 26 and they’ve stopped speaking for unknown reasons. Penny returns to the camp, but this time as a Nurse and runs into Jesse who is her boss. Told in alternating chapters between when they were young and now, we learn about their relationship and what happened.
I loved this love story. Penny and Jesse didn’t necessarily have a fairy tale relationship, it was fleeting and complicated. I especially loved the chapters when they were young, they made me feel so nostalgic for a childhood I’ve never lived. I didn’t get to experience summer camp but I always wish I had! I did deal with unrequited love, mean girls and an uncertain future.
In the end, the combination of summer nostalgia, first crushes + teenage hormones morphing into first love + serious chemistry, and rash decisions made in the heat of the moment entirely consumed me. Told in the format of Then and Now, Camp Let You Go will have you reminiscing about summer's youthful love while reminding you that not only does love at first sight exist, but so does that once in a lifetime love.
Sidenote: This book turned out to be such a quick read. I actually had to stop and check the page count because at one point I was 50% done and couldn’t believe how fast I’d gotten there. I thought it was maybe a shorter book, but nope, 324 pages.
Thanks to Kristen for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
I loved this love story. Penny and Jesse didn’t necessarily have a fairy tale relationship, it was fleeting and complicated. I especially loved the chapters when they were young, they made me feel so nostalgic for a childhood I’ve never lived. I didn’t get to experience summer camp but I always wish I had! I did deal with unrequited love, mean girls and an uncertain future.
In the end, the combination of summer nostalgia, first crushes + teenage hormones morphing into first love + serious chemistry, and rash decisions made in the heat of the moment entirely consumed me. Told in the format of Then and Now, Camp Let You Go will have you reminiscing about summer's youthful love while reminding you that not only does love at first sight exist, but so does that once in a lifetime love.
Sidenote: This book turned out to be such a quick read. I actually had to stop and check the page count because at one point I was 50% done and couldn’t believe how fast I’d gotten there. I thought it was maybe a shorter book, but nope, 324 pages.
Thanks to Kristen for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
August 5, 2023
Camp Let You Go is such a cute, fast-paced, summer read. It will make you want to sit by the campfire and see if you can keep up with Penny eating s'mores!!
When Penny shows up at camp 10 years later to fill in as the nurse for her mother, she doesn't expect all the emotions she's shoved down to come flooding back, she also doesn't expect the boy who broke her heart to be her boss. Boy does she find out quickly how wrong she is, but it's only four weeks, she can do this and leave with her heart in tact.
It is dual timeline, which was written fantastic because as the events take place in the present the chapters from the past really help explain Penny's emotions in the present. I would have liked to have seen a little bit more chapters in the present at the end of the book, but I am so glad Penny and Jesse were given their HEA.
I loved the Gilmore Girls references, after finishing I can see how Penny saw Jesse as all three guys. :) Jesse was definitely a sweetheart and really was trying to do the right thing, but what 16 year old boy does the right thing the right way, he did what he thought was best.
The best friend dynamic was amazing, Maddie and Lennox were both perfect for Penny. Maddie had her back and stood by her side when no one else would. Maddie was there to pick up the pieces and help Penny try to piece her heart back together again. ~~ Nellie however was such a TOXIC female, which we can all say we have had the pleasure of knowing a girl like that a one point or another. It shows how fast girls can turn on one another and how you can learn who your true friends are!
Thank you so much to Kristen Lucero for an advanced copy!!
When Penny shows up at camp 10 years later to fill in as the nurse for her mother, she doesn't expect all the emotions she's shoved down to come flooding back, she also doesn't expect the boy who broke her heart to be her boss. Boy does she find out quickly how wrong she is, but it's only four weeks, she can do this and leave with her heart in tact.
It is dual timeline, which was written fantastic because as the events take place in the present the chapters from the past really help explain Penny's emotions in the present. I would have liked to have seen a little bit more chapters in the present at the end of the book, but I am so glad Penny and Jesse were given their HEA.
I loved the Gilmore Girls references, after finishing I can see how Penny saw Jesse as all three guys. :) Jesse was definitely a sweetheart and really was trying to do the right thing, but what 16 year old boy does the right thing the right way, he did what he thought was best.
The best friend dynamic was amazing, Maddie and Lennox were both perfect for Penny. Maddie had her back and stood by her side when no one else would. Maddie was there to pick up the pieces and help Penny try to piece her heart back together again. ~~ Nellie however was such a TOXIC female, which we can all say we have had the pleasure of knowing a girl like that a one point or another. It shows how fast girls can turn on one another and how you can learn who your true friends are!
Thank you so much to Kristen Lucero for an advanced copy!!
August 15, 2023
This is a review of an Advanced Readers Copy of Camp Let You Go by Kristen Lucero. Thank you so much to @authorkristenlucero for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review! Out August 22nd! And it will be on Kindle Unlimited!
About
Two summers, ten years apart and four weeks back together. Sixteen year old Penny is excited to go to summer camp at Camp Sunny Hills. Penny befriends her new bff Maddie, eats tons of s’mores, goes on hikes and tries every new adventure she can. What she doesn’t expect is Jesse, who flirts with her day one and leaves her heartbroken before she leaves.
Ten years later, Penny is a nurse and is asked by her mom to fill in for her as a nurse at Camp Sunny Hills. Penny is apprehensive about running into Jesse and bringing up bad memories. Unbeknownst to Penny, Jesse is now the camp director! Penny has to try to make the best of things and see if she can make it through a month working near her first love.
My Thoughts
This was a sweet, super easy quick read. I like a nice second chance romance where the characters have a chance to grow up and work through their past mistakes and this book was just that!
However, teenage Penny’s roommate annoyed me because of how controlling and manipulative she seemed, all because of a guy she thought she had a right to. Penny’s roommate Maddie was awesome and super supportive of Penny, which is always a nice thing to see in a story when females support females!
You will like this book if you like:
🏕️ Second Chance Romance
🥾 Dual Timelines
🏕️ Forbidden Romance
🥾 Closed Door Romance
🏕️ Forced Proximity
🥾 Strong female friendships
About
Two summers, ten years apart and four weeks back together. Sixteen year old Penny is excited to go to summer camp at Camp Sunny Hills. Penny befriends her new bff Maddie, eats tons of s’mores, goes on hikes and tries every new adventure she can. What she doesn’t expect is Jesse, who flirts with her day one and leaves her heartbroken before she leaves.
Ten years later, Penny is a nurse and is asked by her mom to fill in for her as a nurse at Camp Sunny Hills. Penny is apprehensive about running into Jesse and bringing up bad memories. Unbeknownst to Penny, Jesse is now the camp director! Penny has to try to make the best of things and see if she can make it through a month working near her first love.
My Thoughts
This was a sweet, super easy quick read. I like a nice second chance romance where the characters have a chance to grow up and work through their past mistakes and this book was just that!
However, teenage Penny’s roommate annoyed me because of how controlling and manipulative she seemed, all because of a guy she thought she had a right to. Penny’s roommate Maddie was awesome and super supportive of Penny, which is always a nice thing to see in a story when females support females!
You will like this book if you like:
🏕️ Second Chance Romance
🥾 Dual Timelines
🏕️ Forbidden Romance
🥾 Closed Door Romance
🏕️ Forced Proximity
🥾 Strong female friendships
August 10, 2023
Between 4-H camp as a kid and church camp as a teenager, so many of my summer memories revolve around going to camp. And to be honest, those are some of my favorite memories too. So, when I saw Camp Let You Go-- a dual-timeline romance that takes place at a summer camp ten years apart, it immediately went on my TBR! And I have to say that it absolutely did not disappoint!
The camp nostalgia may have been what drew me in, but it was Jesse and Penny and their fantastic chemistry that kept me reading on! I just absolutely loved these two and loved seeing them get their second chance at love. Dual timelines can be a little hit and miss for me, as I'll find it either gets confusing or I get more invested in one timeline than the other. With this one jumping back and forth between teenage and adult Jesse and Penny, I also admit that I worried about if it would be too much teen drama for my 30-something self. And okay, yes... there was definitely some teen drama going on, but I actually found that I really enjoyed both timelines fairly equally. The transitions were done very well, and I loved how the author did such a great job revealing just the right amount of their past story at the right time to keep me invested. I couldn't put it down! If you are looking for a great summer romance, this is absolutely one not to miss!
Camp Let You Go is a closed-door romance. There is some minor language throughout and a few of the kisses were fairly descriptive, but nothing beyond that.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
The camp nostalgia may have been what drew me in, but it was Jesse and Penny and their fantastic chemistry that kept me reading on! I just absolutely loved these two and loved seeing them get their second chance at love. Dual timelines can be a little hit and miss for me, as I'll find it either gets confusing or I get more invested in one timeline than the other. With this one jumping back and forth between teenage and adult Jesse and Penny, I also admit that I worried about if it would be too much teen drama for my 30-something self. And okay, yes... there was definitely some teen drama going on, but I actually found that I really enjoyed both timelines fairly equally. The transitions were done very well, and I loved how the author did such a great job revealing just the right amount of their past story at the right time to keep me invested. I couldn't put it down! If you are looking for a great summer romance, this is absolutely one not to miss!
Camp Let You Go is a closed-door romance. There is some minor language throughout and a few of the kisses were fairly descriptive, but nothing beyond that.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
August 13, 2023
I was lucky enough to be granted and ARC for this book in exchange for my honest review, and let me tell you, I'm a happy camper.
This book was so sweet. It gave all the bug juice, sticky summer, color wars, popsicles, chlorine laden swims in the pool vibes that made me feel like a teenager again. I love a second chance with a dual timeline, especially when we're revisiting the characters as teenagers. There's nothing like teen love and angst, it's such a pivotal moment in growing up and Kristen captures it perfectly. Even down to her description of how to make the perfect s'more, I could feel the lick of the flames from the campfire while reading. Beautiful.
So there was a whole thing about 'stealing someone's boyfriend' and that can always be a little messy, but I think it was handled super well in this book. It wasn't slut shamey or cat fighty (which can often happen when we're pitting girls against each other). It felt like a realistic fight between teenage girls, and I think Penny's friendship with Maddie (a true girl's girl) helps to balance it all out.
Nellie on her own was super toxic, but she was 16. I have to think that she one day grew out of her possessive, mean girl ways.
Usually I prefer romance with at least a little bit of spice. To me, this read more like a YA book (not in a bad way!!!!) because of the amount of time we spend in the past timeline. However, I think the swoony feelings and tension between present day Penny and Jessie hits perfectly for a non-spicy romance.
Overall, this book hit on all the levels I wanted it to. It's an amazing summer night read.
This book was so sweet. It gave all the bug juice, sticky summer, color wars, popsicles, chlorine laden swims in the pool vibes that made me feel like a teenager again. I love a second chance with a dual timeline, especially when we're revisiting the characters as teenagers. There's nothing like teen love and angst, it's such a pivotal moment in growing up and Kristen captures it perfectly. Even down to her description of how to make the perfect s'more, I could feel the lick of the flames from the campfire while reading. Beautiful.
So there was a whole thing about 'stealing someone's boyfriend' and that can always be a little messy, but I think it was handled super well in this book. It wasn't slut shamey or cat fighty (which can often happen when we're pitting girls against each other). It felt like a realistic fight between teenage girls, and I think Penny's friendship with Maddie (a true girl's girl) helps to balance it all out.
Nellie on her own was super toxic, but she was 16. I have to think that she one day grew out of her possessive, mean girl ways.
Usually I prefer romance with at least a little bit of spice. To me, this read more like a YA book (not in a bad way!!!!) because of the amount of time we spend in the past timeline. However, I think the swoony feelings and tension between present day Penny and Jessie hits perfectly for a non-spicy romance.
Overall, this book hit on all the levels I wanted it to. It's an amazing summer night read.
August 11, 2023
First thought: This book is everything summer dreams are made of and more. It was an adorable read that needs to be turned into a movie ASAP! This is a book you wont want to let go of.
Penny always dreamed of going to summer camp and for the first time at 16 she has the chance to have the perfect summer. On the first day a handsome boy, Jesse helps her find her cabin and it was an instant connection. Little did she know he would be off limits because he was her bunkmates ex. But fate would have different ideas and these two would grow closer.
Penny will have to decide what’s more important girl-code or her feelings. Maybe a few s’mores, hiking and her best friend Maddie can help. Skip 10yrs later and Penny finds herself back at the same summer camp but this time as it’s nurse. Will this summer go better than her last or is history destined to repeat itself.
This story is told in dusk timeline so you move back and forth between present and 10yrs prior, it is so fun to see the character develop as the story progresses. So grab a s’more and see if Penny finally found her Jesse like in Gilmore girls.
Tropes you’ll find:
* Slow Burn
* Second Chance Romance
* Forced Proximity
* Forbidden Live
Penny always dreamed of going to summer camp and for the first time at 16 she has the chance to have the perfect summer. On the first day a handsome boy, Jesse helps her find her cabin and it was an instant connection. Little did she know he would be off limits because he was her bunkmates ex. But fate would have different ideas and these two would grow closer.
Penny will have to decide what’s more important girl-code or her feelings. Maybe a few s’mores, hiking and her best friend Maddie can help. Skip 10yrs later and Penny finds herself back at the same summer camp but this time as it’s nurse. Will this summer go better than her last or is history destined to repeat itself.
This story is told in dusk timeline so you move back and forth between present and 10yrs prior, it is so fun to see the character develop as the story progresses. So grab a s’more and see if Penny finally found her Jesse like in Gilmore girls.
Tropes you’ll find:
* Slow Burn
* Second Chance Romance
* Forced Proximity
* Forbidden Live
August 24, 2023
Camp let go tells the story of sixteen Penny going to a Summer Camp where her mother works as a nurse. She is so excited with the chance of having the great experiences in the nature, including a lot of S'mores, campfires and swimming in the lake. What she doesn't expected was to fall in love, the best of summer experiences, and the worst, heartbreak. But time goes by and 10 years later she is in the same Camp with the same boy, now a grown man as his boss, the one who broke her heart, and across with a decisión to make. Would she this time be able to let him go or be willing to experience the feeling of love again?
I have always been a fan of stories told in the past and flashbacks. So this dual times story lines had me so excited since I knew about the book.
This novel debut from Kristen Lucero is a great reading, especially in Summer and I have enjoyed this book a lot. The dual time line is very well achieved and I think it's a unique idea. I loved reading a book being YA and about a grown up couple at the same time. Penny and Jesse are great characters and have and amazing chemistry
Thanks kristen lucero for the ARC!
I have always been a fan of stories told in the past and flashbacks. So this dual times story lines had me so excited since I knew about the book.
This novel debut from Kristen Lucero is a great reading, especially in Summer and I have enjoyed this book a lot. The dual time line is very well achieved and I think it's a unique idea. I loved reading a book being YA and about a grown up couple at the same time. Penny and Jesse are great characters and have and amazing chemistry
Thanks kristen lucero for the ARC!
August 6, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I was so excited when I read the blurb for this book and saw it took place at a summer camp. I also was intrigued by the past and present timeline aspect!
Let me tell you, this book was everything I thought I would have experienced had I gone to a summer camp when I was younger! It was giving Parent Trap mixed with Camp Rock (minus the music) and I loved it so much! It was a perfect light, quick and fluffy read and a great palette cleanser after reading some angsty books. Thank you so much to the author for the ARC copy! I'm honestly so impressed as this is her debut novel. I can't wait to read more from her!
Read if you love:
🔥summer camp vibes
🔥past and present timelines
🔥happily ever after
🔥forced proximity
🔥second chances
🔥closed door romance
"And maybe also who's standing next to me as I'm finding it more and more difficult go remember why I disliked Jesse in the first place."
I was so excited when I read the blurb for this book and saw it took place at a summer camp. I also was intrigued by the past and present timeline aspect!
Let me tell you, this book was everything I thought I would have experienced had I gone to a summer camp when I was younger! It was giving Parent Trap mixed with Camp Rock (minus the music) and I loved it so much! It was a perfect light, quick and fluffy read and a great palette cleanser after reading some angsty books. Thank you so much to the author for the ARC copy! I'm honestly so impressed as this is her debut novel. I can't wait to read more from her!
Read if you love:
🔥summer camp vibes
🔥past and present timelines
🔥happily ever after
🔥forced proximity
🔥second chances
🔥closed door romance
"And maybe also who's standing next to me as I'm finding it more and more difficult go remember why I disliked Jesse in the first place."
August 9, 2023
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 0 🔥
Did you love going to summer camp? Did you also love doing all the activities at camp like s’mores, bonfires, swimming, hiking, arts and crafts? Did you make best friends and possibly fell in love with a boy? If yes then this book is for you.
I loved this book, it brought back so many memories I could relate to so many things in this book. This is definitely a good summer read. It’s about Penny who has never gone to summer camp before and wants to go so badly. When her mom accepts a nursing position at camp Sunny Hills, Penny is finally able to go. She wants to be able to make all the camp memories while she’s there and not worry about boys and drama. But when she meets Jesse and starts to fall for him she gets herself into a mess of drama, boys and more.
•dual timelines
•strong female friendships
•slow burn
•second chance romance
•forced proximity
•forbidden romance
Spice: 0 🔥
Did you love going to summer camp? Did you also love doing all the activities at camp like s’mores, bonfires, swimming, hiking, arts and crafts? Did you make best friends and possibly fell in love with a boy? If yes then this book is for you.
I loved this book, it brought back so many memories I could relate to so many things in this book. This is definitely a good summer read. It’s about Penny who has never gone to summer camp before and wants to go so badly. When her mom accepts a nursing position at camp Sunny Hills, Penny is finally able to go. She wants to be able to make all the camp memories while she’s there and not worry about boys and drama. But when she meets Jesse and starts to fall for him she gets herself into a mess of drama, boys and more.
•dual timelines
•strong female friendships
•slow burn
•second chance romance
•forced proximity
•forbidden romance
August 13, 2023
Congratulations on your debut book! I was very curious as to seeing how much nostalgia I would have for my camp days after reading this, it’s safe to say that my personal experiences weren’t like Penny’s! I feel we all have those times in our life we wish could change and it seems like Penny got the chance for that! I appreciated that Maddie stood by her friend in both the past and present, good friends can be hard to find and best friends are even harder! Glad that modern day Penny also had Lennox because there is nothing quite like a friendly hug when things seem confusing! The run ins with Jesse in the present made me wish we could have gotten to know the man he became since we see so much of who Penny became after that summer from so long ago! The teenage rollercoaster is hard to read but helps lend well to understanding Penny in the present! Here’s hoping that others will can benefit from Penny’s experiences as well!
All opinions are my own! Thanks for the ARC copy!
All opinions are my own! Thanks for the ARC copy!
August 6, 2023
Penny returns to the summer camp where ten years prior she fell in love and got her heart broken. As a 16 year old Penny wanted to experience all of the offerings of the summer camp, but she never expected to fall for Jesse.
Jesse is a regular at the summer camp, in fact his parents own it. He has an on-off toxic relationship with Nellie. But when he sees Penny things change.
Can Jesse and Penny just be friends or will they fall for each other.
#slowburn
#closeddoorromance
#forcedproximity
#forbiddenromance
#secondchanceromance
#dualtimelines
This is a super sweet, super easy quick read. Told in dual timeline, 2013 and 2023, you’ll fall for Penny and Jesse.
The strong female friendships shine though, as well as the toxic ones. We’ve all been on the end of those at times.
4 stars
Jesse is a regular at the summer camp, in fact his parents own it. He has an on-off toxic relationship with Nellie. But when he sees Penny things change.
Can Jesse and Penny just be friends or will they fall for each other.
#slowburn
#closeddoorromance
#forcedproximity
#forbiddenromance
#secondchanceromance
#dualtimelines
This is a super sweet, super easy quick read. Told in dual timeline, 2013 and 2023, you’ll fall for Penny and Jesse.
The strong female friendships shine though, as well as the toxic ones. We’ve all been on the end of those at times.
4 stars
August 23, 2023
Literally so in love with this. The campy vibes gave me so much nostalgia aside from the boys aspect, but having fun and making new friends. I loved the flashbacks to the past, they really added to the story and to Penny and Jesse’s relationship. Also like the parallels between the past and present. Seeing Penny be more strong with her emotions and trying to protect herself after what happened first was a fun arc for her because some pains just hurt too much. And then seeing Jesse grow up as well, also another development from his younger self. This book is different to others I’ve been reading, a clean, no spice romance, and I enjoyed every minute of it. It had angst and pain and nostalgia and tension that I didn’t even notice there was no spice. So glad to have read this and it will likely become a comfort read for me when I need a pick me up.
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