Book Review: Blue Jean Summer by Maggie Gates

This was my first time reading Maggie Gates, and it won't be my last. Blue Jean Summer was a sweet, entertaining read that left me with a huge smile on my face. Catherine and Hayes were the best. Be sure to check it out!

Blue Jean Summer (Wilder Estate #1) by Maggie Gates

Opposites become unlikely allies when a desperate cowboy needs to marry in order to save his grandfather’s land.

Hayes Wilder needs to find a wife—pronto. After returning to the small town of Honey Hollow before his grandfather’s death, he's shocked to learn that the sprawling Wilder Estate was left to him. All Hayes wants is the one thing money can’t buy—more time with his grandfather. Failing that, he’ll do whatever it takes to save his grandfather’s legacy from falling into the wrong hands. Even if it means marrying in order to satisfy the terms of the will.

Catherine Foster, reigning Miss Virginia and former Honey Hollow native (who had a childhood crush on Hayes), is saddled with mountains of medical debt ever since her mother’s death. Running out of time to figure out her next move, Catherine reconnects with Hayes at his grandfather’s funeral.

Hayes and Catherine impulsively strike a bargain: He’ll pay off her debts, but only if they get married. Despite the situation, Hayes and Catherine look forward to getting to know each other as adults—after the wedding. Which is tougher than anticipated when the entire town has eyes on them and his half brother keeps circling the property like a vulture, determined to poke holes in their marriage. Most troubling of all, this pair may have miscalculated how much they have in common—enough for this cowboy to fall in love for real.

4 out of 5 stars

Blue Jean Summer was such a fun, sweet read that had me smiling the entire time. Catherine and Hayes were wonderful, and I loved how their marriage of convenience was set up. This was light and entertaining and made for a great series starter. There’s a bit of drama and emotion, just the right amount of spice, and so many heartfelt moments. I really liked their friend group and am excited about the future couples that have been set up. Can’t wait!

Hayes and Catherine were adorable together. I loved learning their history, where they were at in life, and what each of them was struggling with. I felt for Hayes as he mourned his grandfather and did whatever he could to keep the land. Catherine had such a big heart but had struggles of her own, so the timing was perfect for her and Hayes to reconnect. I loved the ease they had with one another, their playful moments, and the building attraction between them. I enjoyed their slow burn as their relationship developed.

There was some low-key drama and a few bumps along the way, but for the most part, this was an easy read filled with goodness and love. I enjoyed the fun scenes with Catherine’s friends, and Hayes’s half-brother added a bit of tension without making things too heavy. I liked the descriptions and details, they weren’t overly in-depth, but gave me just what I needed to keep the story moving along. If you want something light and charming with a good mix of entertaining and sweet moments, a nice amount of emotion, and some heat, then this is your read. I had a great time reading this!

Complimentary copy received.