There’s a lot to like here at first glance: the bold, cheerful colors, the clean illustration of a couple in love, the bright apple-heart cleverly nodding to New York City. But let’s talk about the title. Summer in the City? Really? That phrase has been used so many times it practically has its own subway stop. From the classic Lovin’ Spoonful song, to multiple TV episodes, movies, and more rom-com paperbacks than we can count, this title is the literary equivalent of naming your restaurant “Pizza Place.”
It’s frustrating because we know Alex Aster can write—she’s a bestseller for a reason—but this choice makes us think the story might be just as predictable as the name. Romance in New York City? Been there, done that, dated the tote bag.
Yes, the cover is cute. Yes, it gives us a clear sense of what we’re in for. But there’s nothing surprising here. We’re not saying this book is bad—we’re just saying the cover doesn’t give us any reason to think it’s great.
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Based on the Cover, We Think This Book Is About…
A classic rom-com setup: two attractive people fall for each other over the course of a sweltering New York summer. There’s some witty banter, emotional baggage, and a rooftop kiss near the end.
A struggling screenwriter and a billionaire tech mogul—who share a complicated past—reluctantly become neighbors for the summer in New York City. What begins as a fake relationship and mutual convenience slowly turns into something real, as both try to meet impossible deadlines while rediscovering the magic of the city—and each other.