‘Summer in the City’ by Alex Aster is a charming and enjoyable romance debut that provides a refreshing take on the genre. Aster has previously written more fantasy work, so if was exciting to read this new for her genre.

The story follows Elle, a screenwriter returning to New York City to write a romcom. She’s staying in her sister's luxurious apartment, next door to Parker Warren, a tech billionaire Elle has a history with from two years ago. Despite Parker initially claiming not to remember her, they strike a deal that leads to a summer of fake dating, where they explore the city and its elite circles together.

While the fake dating billionaire trope can feel somewhat predictable, the story keeps it fun and engaging. The pacing is brisk, with the book staying on the shorter side, which helps avoid a drawn-out middle that can sometimes drag romances down. I especially appreciated how the story captures the magic of New York City and the chemistry between Elle and Parker as they navigate their evolving relationship.

Elle’s independence is a major highlight. She’s determined to carve her own path, even as Parker, who’s fallen hard for her, offers her the world. It’s sweet watching them both challenge their initial decisions and grow as a couple by the end.

Although the pair have a couple of frustrating breakups that defer the inevitable happy ending, ‘Summer in the City’ was a fun, lighthearted read, perfect for the warmer months.

Aster proves she’s capable of weaving a delightful romance.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy.

Summer Romance!
My first ARC was amazing🤩I love Alex aster Romantasy series & was very excited to read this ARC! Loved the plot within this & the setting of New York for a romance felt very 90s rom com vibes! Ellen & Parker very opposite attract, screenwriter & tech god but this book had the 19th century level angst & longing. This story had so many tropes I love forced proximity, reluctant allies to lovers, he falls first (my all time fave trope). Also the girl friendships in the story were so sweet🤍 this book is cliche but that’s what I enjoyed reading this romance!

✨3 stars✨ (I think….)

This was my first time reading a book by this author and the first 25-30% had me hooked. I was also enjoying the fact that this book was set in NYC considering a lot of the romances I have been reading have been small-town ones.

However, I felt the story really began to drag after that especially as I felt that the relationship between the FMC and MMC seemed to be going round in circles and every time there seemed to be some development something would happen and we’d be right back when we started.

Having Chapter 30 be a second break up at the 90% mark in my eARC was a *choice* and not a good one as then I really struggled to root for them to get back together. The ending also felt really rushed!

If you’re looking for a cookie-cutter romance or have enjoyed this author’s writing then you should give this a go. However, in my opinion there are much better contemporary romances out there as this one was quite forgettable.

I received an ARC from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

Not your typical Billionaire Romance. Bang in some enemies-to-lovers, a relationship of convenience and some serious daddy issues and you’ve got yourself a 5-star read!

This is my first book of Alex Aster. As a mood fantasy reader, her other books have been on my list, but I haven’t got around to them yet. HOWEVER, this woman clearly has many talents. Fantasy may be what she’s known for, but Aster nailed the romance genre.

Elle is a secretly successful screenwriter, suffering from a serious case of writers' block with an impending deadline. After an unfortunate meeting a few years previous with the world’s most eligible Billionaire Bachelor, her attempt at connecting with the city she is writing about has her living next door to Parker in NYC.

“Because I haven’t written anything meaningful in almost a year, and she has no idea. Because I have only three more months to write a screenplay that could change my life. Because I’m supposed to set it in a city I hate. A city I thought I had escaped.”

Elle has spent years despising Parker after their less than conventional meet-cute, and now he’s offering her an opportunity that she can’t turn down. Be seen on his arm to ease his current aquisition, in return for some inspriation for her upcoming script.

How can she say no, when she writes better than ever in his presence?

“He’s my twisted muse.”

This whirlind summer romance of convenience is both swoon-worthy and spicy. The build up of tension as the inevtiable begins to develop and Elle begins to learn more about herself had me flipping pages quicker than my hands could move.

“Who is Elle Leon? I find I barely know. I’m better at writing everyone else’s story than I am my own.”

Parker isn’t what the press makes him out to be. He may have the money, but what he actually wants, cannot be bought. And after being brought up by a strong independent woman, Elle firmly believes that a man could only make her life and career more difficult.

“But we’re not in a rom-com, Parker Warren. There is nothing romantic or funny about this”

Parker Warren is the definition of ROMANTIC. It kind of made me hate Elle a bit, even though I understood the reason behind her actions. She’s trying to become successful independently, but that’s difficult to do when her success could so easily be contributed to the money around her.

Favourite Quotes:

“It’s interesting how love colors things I would normally hate into my absolute favourite shade.”

“Yes, Elle, I liked it. You know better than anyone that disturbing behaviour is only really disturbing-” “If you don’t think the guy is attractive. I know, I know. Like Edward watching Bella sleep in Twilight.”

This has got to be the romance of 2025. I have not a single complaint and I will suggest it to any other reader at any given opportunity. Perfect.

Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

Book Review: Summer in the City by Alex Aster

Summer in the City by Alex Aster is an enchanting tale of love, tension, and self-discovery, all set in the energetic and captivating streets of New York City. The novel combines a simmering romance with a unique backdrop of urban charm, creating a captivating story that will tug at your heartstrings while leaving you dreaming of summer in the city.

The story revolves around Parker, a mega-rich businessman who uses his wealth to win over Elle, a talented yet anonymous screenwriter. Their paths cross years earlier in a chance encounter at a club, but it’s their reunion later, with Elle staying at her sister’s penthouse next door to Parker’s, that sets the stage for an unforgettable summer. Parker’s determination to win Elle over, including buying her favorite coffee shop, adds a sweet yet conflicted element to their blossoming relationship. His lavish gestures and Elle’s hesitation lead to moments of heartfelt tension, as both characters grapple with their emotions and pasts.

The slow burn of their romance is filled with angst and overthinking, yet the tension makes the sweet moments even more meaningful. The connection between them deepens as they spend time together not just in glamorous settings but also in simpler activities—like running together and planning to walk the length of New York, a symbol of their shared experiences and growing bond. These moments of vulnerability are some of the most touching parts of the story, showing how love can build over time in unexpected ways.

The portrayal of New York as a living, breathing character in the novel is another standout feature. From the towering buildings to the quiet corners of the city, Aster brings New York to life, adding depth to the characters' journeys and making the city an integral part of the plot. The city's energy mirrors the push-and-pull of Parker and Elle’s relationship, creating a backdrop that’s as dynamic and unpredictable as their romance.

While the angst and tension may make you want to yell at the characters to just be honest with each other already, it’s part of the charm of the story. The way Aster navigates the emotional highs and lows of their connection keeps you invested in their growth—both as individuals and as a couple. Their journey is messy, imperfect, and real, and it's easy to get swept up in their story.

In conclusion, Summer in the City is a heartfelt, tension-filled romance set against the vibrant, ever-changing backdrop of New York. Aster’s writing is both evocative and emotionally engaging, creating a story that’s as sweet as it is steamy. If you’re looking for a book that will make you root for the characters while capturing the magic of summer, this is a great choice.

Firstly I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for sending me an Arc of Summer in the City!

I was really looking forward to this book and was having a great time reading it but unfortunately the last few chapters managed to knock my rating down by a star. I struggle with books that have lots of conflict in them and whilst I know that it is an enemies to lovers book and Elle had her reasons to not like Parker, the conflicts were just a bit too much in this book. I was willing to overlook them as I was really enjoying the book but the third act conflict just tipped it over the edge for me.

Also a time jump at the end of the book especially one as large as the jump in this book just ruins the ending for me as I always feel like the main characters don't have enough time to thoroughly sort out the issues that caused them to part ways in the first place and leave the ending feeling very unfinished.

There were a lot of elements that I did like in this book and overall the story of these two characters going from enemies to lovers was enjoyable and I would definitely give the next contemporary romance that Alex Aster writes a read. I would recommend this book if you are an enemies to lovers/ fake dating lover and you don't mind a third act conflict.

If you love romantic tension, fake dating, and the magic of New York City, Summer in the City by Alex Aster is the perfect summer read. The story follows Elle, a screenwriter battling writer’s block, and Parker, a billionaire tech CEO with a PR problem. Their past? A steamy stairwell hookup turned enemies. Their present? Next-door neighbors who reluctantly team up for mutual benefit—she needs inspiration, and he needs a fake girlfriend.

The sparks between Elle and Parker are undeniable. Their witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and gradual emotional connection make every interaction addictive. Elle’s character growth is satisfying, and Parker is the kind of love interest who steals the show—charming, confident, and layered with just enough vulnerability. The book also nails the vibrant energy of NYC, making the city feel like a character in itself.

But while the buildup is strong, the last few chapters feel a little rushed, leaving some moments less impactful than they could have been. Even so, Summer in the City is a fun, fast-paced rom-com filled with humor, heart, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments.

If you love lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers tension and fake dating shenanigans, this one is worth the read. Just be prepared for an ending that may not fully satisfy.

⭐ 4.7/5

Summer in the City is Alex Aster’s romance debut and she does a decent job with this genre switch from her regular fantasy books. I haven’t read the Lightlark series, so this was my introduction to her writing and I was mostly pleasantly surprised.

The book follows Elle, a screenwriter, who is back in New York City to write a (romcom?) film set there, even though she hated the place. She’s staying in her sisters fancy apartment which happens to be right next to the one of Parker Warren, the arrogant Tech billionaire Elle made out with at a club 2 years prior. He doesn’t appear to remember her but the two strike a deal to help with his… image? and her writing and spend a summer exploring New York and its elite.

The fake dating billionaire plot line offers itself to a certain level of genericness, but it’s fun despite that. I appreciate that this falls on the shorter end when it comes to romances published in recent years, and saves itself from a long dragging middle because of that. In terms of enjoyment, the book was mostly a four star for me but sadly I was a bit unhappy with the final chapters. Going into that would be a spoiler, so I’ll just vaguely say there’s some contradictory actions around the often talked about topic of independence and her attitude towards money when it comes to Elle that bugged me. Otherwise though, this was a fun read, especially for the summer months.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.

The perfect book for summer, the perfect book to cry

Starting this book because you think it will be such an easy read, only to discover that is so much more and you end up contemplating life choices and end up absolutely in love with the book that destroyed your emotions.
Well quite yes my darlings, this marvellous book was everything i hoped for and more. I adored this book, Parker is the ultimate book boyfriend, he is patient, he is obsessed with her and would do anything for her.
Ellie my girl, she is such a relatable character with complex and conflicted emotions, even though it might seem too much, i think it was perfectly done. There were quite too many times where i saw myself while reading her inner thoughts.

A perfect blend of fake dating, romance, emotional rollercoaster.

Marvellous marvellous book i loved it so so much.

what a fun summer rom com. I love when books are set in New York City make the city feel like its own character and that is exactly what this one did.

if a billionaire romance is not a little bit ridiculous then I dont want it! this had me giggling, blushing and sometimes even shouting at the characters. this book. gave me all the same feelings as mt favourite early New York City 2000s romcoms. I want to bottle this feeling and relive it every day.

The perfect read for someone looking for a fun summer romance.

Elle is a screenwriter that is spending the summer in New York City. She has several locations that she needs to visit so she can include them in her screenplay.

Unfortunately for Elle, she comes across Parker, a tech billionaire. It’s instant hate, for her anyway. They end up fake dating and touring around New York City. Of course, feelings will start to arise as they get to know one another and the city.

This is definitely for those that grew up watching rom-coms, for those that love billionaire romance, and for anyone that’s a sucker for a fake dating trope.

I loved the setting of NYC and how the city comes alive in the book. I'm not sure how believable Elle was as a character but I did love the growing relationship between her and Parker. However, for me, the friends were the stand put characters in this book. I loved how they supported Elle through everything, even when most of them had not known her that long, it really did show how healthy women's friendships can be, which was a nice change of pace as they are often written as toxic or as if they are always in competition with each other.

Love, love, loved it!

I felt like I was in the city too.

I almost want to go on the pizza tour!

Thank you for the ARC!

This book lived up to every expectation I had. I devoured it! Loved that it was set in new your city and how both of the characters wanted to explore different places.

It had one of my favourite tropes - fake dating. The mmc is a billionaire CEO of his own tech company which is in the middle of a sale. FMC is a screenwriter who is struggling to meet her deadline, they help each other with their goals.

This book is perfect for a summer read! The rom com will transport you to a summer romance in NY! Would definitely recommend this book!

3.5 ⭐️

This book was cute and perfect for a nice palette cleanser. I enjoyed the story and had a good time reading but it was just missing a bit of something hence why it’s not rated higher. This book is definitely one you could get through it one sitting as it flows so well and the story is engaging.

I loved Alex’s other books and i loved this one too! I enjoyed both the characters and I’ve swooned and laughed over their biker in every page, plus both of they’re character arcs felt believable! So : it was the right book at the right time and I found it funny and romantic!

Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc!
Never been a fan of Aster’s YA trilogy but this one surprised me. It was fun, lovely, spicy - a nice book to read at the beach while sipping some iced coffee. I liked the plot and the chemistry was there between the main characters which is something that Aster is good at - building up that tension.

This was a really enjoyable read; I loved Parker and Elle's banter-filled relationship and was on board with their character development. which felt realistic considering their past traumas. The last few chapters did feel as if they had regressed a bit, but it was all tied up well at the end. All in all, a brilliant adult debut from Alex Aster and I'll definitely keep an eye out for what she writes next.

An easy and enjoyable read.

Elle moves to New York, a city she has a love hate relationship with, to oversee renovations to her sister’s apartment. She has a screenplay to write and is currently suffering a prolonged case of writer’s block.

Within minutes of arriving, she realises that her next door neighbour for the summer is none other than Parker Warren, a man she met in a club two years ago and hasn’t seen since.

Will her plan to avoid him all summer work out?

Very likeable characters, a fairly simple and straightforward plot with none of the really annoying parts that drag on without moving forward.

This was such an easy book to pick up and read without needing to concentrate too much, which I personally need every now and again. A light and airy rom-com that I enjoyed.

Thank you for the ARC and I wish the book every success.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this arc.

4.5 stars!

This is Alex’s first adult contemporary and I was blown away. I absolutely loved the characters, the setting (NYC was a character in itself), the tension, the buildup, the heartbreak, the laughter, the romance; this book had it all. I found so much of this book relatable, with some lines that will stick with me. It brought my emotions to the forefront, which to me makes it an amazing read and a book that I will think about.