Review: Dead of Summer by A.J. Merlin

Rating: 5 Stars

On Kindle Unlimited: Yes

Publication Date: June 19, 2024

Page Count: 545

HEA: Yes


Things I learned about myself while reading this book:

1. Murder and Sex clearly go hand in hand.

I mean this in a literal sense with this book. I’m not saying he got her off while detailing his first murder. I’m also not saying it was hot.

2. I’m far too eager to give myself up to a murderer for the “greater good.”

My thought process the whole book, “I would totally volunteer if I was in her shoes.”

Every scene where she was questioning if she was doing the right thing, I was internally giving her a side eye. Ma’am, you’re living my dream. Please be grateful!

I realize I may be the problem. Don’t judge me.

If you’re a fan of slasher summer camp movies and often find yourself falling in love with the psycho murderer, then this one’s for you!

This book follows Summer who is spending another summer working as a summer camp counselor.

This may not be her most ideal job, but she has a great group of kids, gets to spend time with her besties and is avoiding staying at home for the summer. Having a stress free summer where nothing really ever goes wrong, she really couldn’t ask for anything better.

Of course, this is where the sweet and sexy counselor comes into play. The guy who is loved by everyone is naturally good at everything, and is far too helpful and genuine. It’s almost annoying.

If that description doesn’t spell psychopath who wants to murder a bunch of kids, I really don’t know what does.

Have I mentioned yet how hot this man was?

I genuinely love both of these characters and their character development through the story.

Summer is strong willed, a bit snarky, and determined. She cares deeply and has a hard time not speaking her mind. Even though she wants what’s best for everyone else, she does struggle with understanding her self worth and accepting what makes happy.

Kayde is like a dominant, unhinged teddy bear. He doesn’t care about anyone but Summer, and he’s happy to eliminate anyone who poses a threat to her. He may not have understood his feelings as they developed for her, but once he decided he wanted her, Summer truly never had another choice.

That may sound bad but trust me, we love this for her! She’s living her best life!

Overall, this book was everything I wanted it to be and then some! She’s a little thick but I ate up every single detail, especially the spicy ones.

The scenes will in fact have you sweating!

You know I can ramble all day so just go read it already! You won’t be disappointed! 😉

Tropes:

Enemies to Lovers

Stalking

Serial Killer

Touch Her and Die

Slasher Vibes

Summer Camp

 



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Review: Marrow by Trisha Wolfe & Brynne Weaver