Piper Bellinger, a glamorous Hollywood 'It Girl,' finds her luxurious life upended after a notorious rooftop party lands her in jail. Her exasperated stepfather cuts her off financially and exiles her and her sister to Westport, Washington, to run their late father's dive bar. Far from the glitz of Beverly Hills, Piper is a fish out of water, struggling to adapt to small-town life. Almost immediately, she clashes with Brendan, a ruggedly handsome and gruff local sea captain who doubts her ability to last a week outside her comfort zone. Despite their opposing worlds—the socialite versus the seasoned fisherman—an undeniable, fiery attraction sparks between them. As Piper endeavors to prove her mettle to both her stepfather and the skeptical Brendan, she begins to unearth forgotten memories and a sense of belonging in Westport. The initial culture shock evolves into a journey of self-discovery, forcing Piper to question whether her former opulent life is truly what she desires, or if the charms of Westport, and its brooding captain, have captured her heart.
Critical Reception
"A #1 New York Times bestseller and TikTok sensation, Tessa Bailey's 'It Happened One Summer' has captivated readers with its steamy romance and heartwarming small-town charm, solidifying its place as a beloved contemporary rom-com."