The Bookish Ashley

In “Meet Me at the Lake” by Carley Fortune, readers are invited on a heartwarming journey alongside Fern Brookbanks, a character whose story resonates with the complexities of life, love, and the passage of time.

The tale begins with Fern, who has spent too many years ruminating over a chance encounter with the enigmatic Will Baxter. Their single day together in their early twenties was meant to be fleeting, but it left an indelible mark on both their lives. They promised to reunite a year later, but only Fern upheld her end of the bargain. Now, at thirty-two, her life has taken a different course than she had ever envisioned. She’s reluctantly back at her mother’s Muskoka lakeside resort, a place she swore never to return to, and her ex-boyfriend is running the show.

Fern’s life is in disarray, and she’s in desperate need of a lifeline. Surprisingly, that lifeline arrives in the form of Will, a decade late but with a suitcase full of promises and an offer to help. Carley Fortune skillfully weaves a narrative that explores Fern’s hesitation and skepticism about this new version of Will, who appears to be a far cry from the idealistic artist she once knew.

What truly sets “Meet Me at the Lake” apart is the authenticity of the characters. Fern is a relatable protagonist grappling with the messy, unpredictable nature of life. Will’s character is equally compelling, shrouded in mystery and harboring secrets that keep readers guessing. The intricate dance between past and present, trust and doubt, love and fear, keeps the story engaging from beginning to end.

Carley Fortune’s prose is evocative, painting vivid images of the Muskoka lakeside resort and the emotions of its inhabitants. The setting itself becomes a character in the story, lending depth and charm to the narrative. As Fern and Will navigate the waters of their past and present, readers will find themselves rooting for their second chance at connection.

“Meet Me at the Lake” is a touching exploration of love, forgiveness, and the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us that life rarely unfolds as planned, but sometimes, unexpected detours can lead to the most meaningful destinations. Carley Fortune’s storytelling prowess shines in this tale of two souls finding their way back to each other, earning it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.