Every Summer After by Carley Fortune is a contemporary romance novel that explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships. The story follows the protagonist as she navigates her past and present, reflecting on a summer romance that shaped her life. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque lakeside town, the narrative delves into the emotional turmoil of rekindling old flames and confronting unresolved feelings. This novel is ideal for fans of romantic fiction and those who enjoy heartfelt stories about personal growth and second chances. With rich character development and vivid descriptions, readers will find themselves immersed in the journey of self-discovery and the power of love.

Key Points

  • Explores themes of love and loss through a summer romance narrative
  • Set in a picturesque lakeside town, enhancing the emotional backdrop
  • Follows a protagonist's journey of self-discovery and personal growth
  • Ideal for fans of contemporary romance and heartfelt storytelling
newtopiccyclegrowin
Author:Carley Fortune
325 pages
Language:English
Type:Short Story
Literature
newtopiccyclegrowin
Author:Carley Fortune
325 pages
Language:English
Type:Short Story
Literature
338
/ 325
1
Now
The fourth cocktail had seemed like a good idea. So did the bangs,
come to think of it. But now that I’m struggling to unlock
my apartment door, I’m guessing I might regret that last
spritz in the morning. Maybe the bangs, too. June told me
breakup bangs were almost always a very bad choice when
I sat in her chair for a cut today. But June wasn’t going to
her friend’s engagement celebration, newly single, that
night. Bangs were in order.
It’s not that I’m still in love with my ex; I’m not. I never
was. Sebastian is kind of a snob. An up-and-coming
corporate lawyer, he wouldn’t have lasted one hour at
Chantal’s party without scoffing at her choice of signature
drink and referencing some pretentious article he read in
the
New York Times
that declared Aperol spritzes “over.”
Instead, he would pretend to study the wine list, ask the
bartender annoying questions about
terroir
and acidity and,
regardless of the answers, go with a glass of the most
expensive red. It’s not that he has exceptional taste or
knows a lot about wine; he doesn’t. He just buys expensive
stuff to give the impression of being discerning.
Sebastian and I were together for seven months, giving
our relationship the distinction of being my longest-lasting
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End of Document
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Figures

Every Summer After: A Novel by Carley Fortune — Figure 1
Photo by Jenna Marie Wakani
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FAQs

What is the significance of the name Percy in the story?
In the story, the protagonist reflects on her identity as Percy, a name she hasn't been called in years. Currently known as Persephone or P, the name Percy evokes memories of her past, particularly her childhood summers spent at the lake. This connection to her former self is significant as it highlights her transformation and the emotional weight tied to her past relationships, especially with Sam and Charlie.
How does the protagonist feel about her past relationships?
The protagonist expresses a sense of indifference towards her past relationships, particularly with Sebastian, whom she describes as pompous and not someone she truly cared for. She reflects on her longest relationship, noting that despite trying to give it a real chance, she ultimately recognized her lack of emotional investment. This theme of detachment continues as she navigates her feelings about her past with Sam and the impact it has on her present.
What event prompts the protagonist to reconnect with her past?
The protagonist receives a late-night phone call from Charlie, informing her of the death of Sue, Sam's mother. This news serves as a catalyst for her to confront her past, as it brings back memories of her time spent with Sam and the Florek family. The call is significant because it marks the first time in twelve years that she has had contact with someone from that part of her life, forcing her to reflect on her lost connections.
What does the protagonist remember about her summers at the cottage?
The protagonist recalls her childhood summers spent at the cottage, where she formed a close bond with Sam and his family. She describes the cottage as a place that felt more like home than anywhere else, filled with memories of carefree days by the lake. These recollections are bittersweet, as they remind her of the joy she experienced and the subsequent pain of losing that connection after a fallout with Sam.
How does the protagonist react to Charlie's news about Sue?
Upon hearing Charlie's news about Sue's death, the protagonist is initially in shock and struggles to process the information. She recalls Sue's warmth and the significant role she played in her life, feeling a deep sense of loss. As she grapples with her emotions, she reflects on her past with Sue and the guilt of not being present during her illness, highlighting the complexity of her feelings about her former life.
What role does the theme of identity play in the protagonist's journey?
The theme of identity is central to the protagonist's journey as she navigates her past and present selves. She grapples with the name Percy, which symbolizes her childhood innocence and the person she once was. As she reflects on her relationships and the choices she has made, the struggle between her current identity as Persephone and her former identity as Percy reveals her internal conflict and desire for reconnection with her roots.

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