Meet Me at the Lake By Carley Fortune (2023)
In a serendipitous encounter, Fern Brookbanks crosses paths with Will Baxter, an idealistic artist, for a transformative day. United by a deep connection, they make a pact to reunite in a year, but life's unpredictability diverges their paths. Now, at thirty-two, Fern manages her mother's lakeside resort, a far cry from her earlier aspirations. The resort is in chaos, her ex-boyfriend is the manager, and Fern grapples with an unforeseen reality.
Unexpectedly, Will returns nine years later, offering help and a suitcase of mysteries. Fern hesitates, questioning the man before her, so different from the one etched in her memories. Can she trust this version of Will, adorned in expensive suits and veiled secrets?
As Fern navigates her newfound challenges, the echoes of a promise reverberate. Will, harboring undisclosed truths, seeks redemption. The interplay of past regrets and present possibilities weaves a tale of trust, healing, and the resilience of promises unbroken.
Fern's journey transcends the boundaries of time, a narrative where the past converges with the present, and a chance encounter with an old connection becomes the catalyst for life-altering revelations. Against the backdrop of a lakeside resort, Fern and Will grapple with their shared history, embarking on a profound journey that questions the essence of promises and the transformative power of connection. In this poignant narrative, promises made and kept resonate across a decade, shaping Fern's path toward healing and understanding. 📚❤️