Summer in the Spotlight

Prince Edward Island Shores, Book 3

By: Liz Johnson

Narrated by: Emily Ellet

After a devastating hurricane on Prince Edward Island, Kelsey Ahern sets out to save her beloved community theater—and her job. As she draws her friend, Levi Ross, into her plans for a benefit show, she discovers there's more to him than she expected, and that God's plans for their future are so much more important than the struggles of their pasts.

©2023 Elizabeth Johnson (P)2023 Tantor

Sweet, gentle romance that’ll have you cheering!

“We do hard things for the people we love.” “Speak life. Each person had the power to speak life or death.”

I adored this book! Summer in the Spotlight is the first full length novel I’ve read by Liz Johnson and won’t be my last. I’ve always loved Prince Edward Island because of its association with Anne of Green Gables. So, when I learned of this sweet romance set there, I jumped at the chance to read it. I didn’t realize it was the third book in the series, but that didn’t stop me from thoroughly enjoying it. I easily dove right in and loved every minute of it. It’s a slow burn, second chance, gentle romance with endearing characters and a touch of faith that’ll tug on your heartstrings.

Kelsey Ahern has a fear of blood, a love of theater, and a burning desire to honor her grandmother’s legacy. When damage from a hurricane destroys the community theater she grew up performing in and her teaching job, she teams up with the quiet, handsome high school facilities director whom she’s always secretly admired to put on a benefit show to rebuild the theater.

Levi Ross learned at a young age to keep his mouth shut. Still reeling from when his abusive father left, he’s stayed firmly in his shell, admiring Kelsey from afar for years, and only speaking when necessary. He’s gorgeously handsome, highly intelligent, creative, and handy in any kind of building project or emergency. When he comes to Kelsey’s aid during the hurricane, his world gets turned upside down when he agrees to help her with the show and finally gets the chance to develop a relationship with the outgoing Kelsey. But, when a slick weatherman comes to town and the show they’ve been preparing is in danger, he has to choose whether to give into fear or speak up.

I loved Kelsey and Levi! Both had fears and past hurts holding them back. I loved the way they helped each other work through those tough things. Levi is such a thoughtful, empathetic man. I enjoyed his mentoring a young boy named Dustin, his steady hand in an emergency, and the way he gives Kelsey the wings to fly. He’s one of those quiet, unsung, wounded heroes you just need to hug. I loved Kelsey too. She’s the perfect match for Levi and helps him get out of his shell. I loved her energy, enthusiasm, and sweet personality. Their first kiss was amazing!

Loved the beautiful, slow burn romance, the fun side characters like the town’s lovable busybody, and the whole premise of the story. I quickly fell in love with the town and now can’t wait to go back and pick up the previous books. There’s a bit of suspense towards the end when several things collide to threaten the show. The ending is fantastic and I especially enjoyed the epilogue.

Highly recommend the audiobook version! The narrator is Canadian and I loved hearing that subtle Canadian accent. She voices both Levi and Kelsey perfectly along with all the other characters. She really made this book come alive and I enjoyed her performance.

If you enjoy contemporary romance with a touch of faith, I highly recommend this book. Though part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook from Audible. All opinions are completely my own and voluntarily given. 4 1/2 raised to 5.

Magnificent! Wonderful! Stupendous!

Loved this book!
The narrator Emily Ellet does a fantastic job!
I was so curious about Levi and his few spoken words since book one, Beyond the Tides.

This story has everything you want in a book, a great beginning, middle, and end with all the warmth and charm! And ❤️

Pick up the whole series and start listening!