Summer in the City A Novel By Alex Aster Book Review
I’m obsessed with romances that feel like the perfect summer movie, full of witty banter, swoony moments, and a city that practically steals the show. That’s exactly what you get with Summer in the City by Alex Aster.
This book is a contemporary adult romantic comedy set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City. It follows Elle, a 27-year-old screenwriter stuck in serious writer’s block, who comes back to the city she once swore she’d never return to, hoping to find some inspiration. But things get complicated when she finds out her new neighbor is Parker Warren, a charming tech billionaire and her former stairwell hookup with whom she shares a classic enemies-to-lovers past. They make a deal: Elle needs real New York experiences to finish her screenplay, and Parker needs a fake girlfriend for an important business deal. What starts as a convenient fake dating situation quickly turns into something way deeper, and a lot messier.
What really makes this book pop is how alive New York City feels throughout the story, it’s like another character. From iconic landmarks to cozy neighborhood spots, the city’s energy and charm are in every scene, making you feel like you’re right there with Elle and Parker, soaking up the summer vibes. Plus, the chemistry between them is electric. Their quick, playful banter keeps things fun and flirty, while their emotional growth adds some real heart. Elle’s quirky, relatable struggles with creativity and self-doubt balance perfectly against Parker’s high-pressure tech billionaire world, making their dynamic feel fresh and genuine.
Most readers have been loving it. Many call it one of the best summer reads they’ve found, light, steamy, and totally engrossing. The enemies-to-lovers and fake dating tropes are done in a way that feels original, not cliché, and the emotional moments hit just right without getting cheesy. Fans especially rave about Parker, often calling him the ultimate book boyfriend, swoon-worthy and supportive even when things get messy. Some people mention that the writing feels a bit choppy or that the story moves fast, and a few found the breakups and emotional ups and downs a little drawn out or frustrating. But overall, the vibe is playful, escapist, and full of heart.
From my point of view, if you’re into rom-coms with smart, snappy dialogue, a bit of emotional complexity, and a gorgeous city setting, this one’s for you. It’s perfect if you like feel-good romance stories that remind you of early 2000s rom-coms, charming, a little chaotic, but ultimately satisfying. On the flip side, if you prefer slower builds or more polished writing, or if repeated relationship drama isn’t your thing, this might test your patience a bit.
All in all, Summer in the City is a fun, flirty romp about love, ambition, and rediscovering your passion, not to mention a love letter to New York that’ll make you want to book a trip ASAP. So, if you’re looking for a fast, swoony read that keeps things light but still pulls at your heartstrings, definitely check it out. And if you’ve already read it, tell me what you thought!