Let me start by saying this: Second Chance Summer wrecked me in the best possible way. I went in expecting a cute summer romance (thanks, Morgan Matson’s previous books!), but what I got was a raw, emotional story about family, regret, and cherishing the time we have.

The moment Taylor’s dad delivered the news about his diagnosis, my heart sank. Matson captures that gut-punch feeling so vividly—the way life just stops. The Edwards family’s decision to spend one last summer at their lake house felt painfully real. I found myself folding laundry while reading (multitasking queen), only to realize I’d been clutching the same shirt for 10 minutes, completely absorbed.

What surprised me most was how much I related to Taylor’s tendency to run from hard things. That scene where she avoids talking to Henry at the grocery store? Yeah, I’ve been there (minus the adorable bakery boy aspect). Watching her slowly learn to face her past—especially with Lucy—had me cheering through my tears.

Speaking of tears: keep tissues handy. The quiet moments between Taylor and her dad destroyed me. There’s this one scene where they share ice cream on the dock at midnight—no big speeches, just being present together. I had to put the book down and call my own dad immediately.

While Henry and his cupcakes provided sweet relief (pun intended), this isn’t really a romance novel. It’s a love letter to imperfect families and second chances. By the final chapters, I was sobbing so hard my cat gave me concerned looks. But here’s the magic—even through the sadness, Matson leaves you feeling grateful for your own relationships.

Pro tip: Don’t read this in public unless you enjoy explaining red eyes to strangers. And maybe follow it up with something lighthearted—I immediately rewatched Friends after finishing because MY EMOTIONS NEEDED A BREAK.