Member Review

Title & Author: One Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
Rating:4.5
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release: April 2026
Publisher: Michael Joseph, Penguin Random House

One Perfect Storm follows chef Frankie & journalist George, once inseparable childhood friends who are unexpectedly thrown back together in Tofino on a honeymoon after Frankie’s fiancé calls off their wedding at the last minute. Against a stunning coastal backdrop & a messy shared history, what starts as a “afterplan” to help Frankie move on slowly begins to stir up feelings neither of them can ignore.
I was completely swept away by this one. The Tofino setting is so vividly written it had me googling whale watching,surfing & coastal cabins. The story moves between past & present, building their relationship through small, intimate moments over the years. While childhood friends-to-lovers isn’t usually my go to trope, the chemistry & banter here completely won me over.
There’s real emotional depth too Frankie’s & George’s complicated relationships with their parents (touching on abandonment/addiction). George’s glasses, his loyalty & his grandma (are all standouts). I also loved the subtle Little Women nod, it made my bookish heart very happy.
I would have liked a dual POV to get further inside George’s head, but this is one that feels like more than just romance which are always my favourites.
I’d recommend this to readers who love atmospheric settings, layered characters & slow burn, second chance energy.
Thank you to the author & publisher for the ARC—this is a perfect summer read.