Plot Summary
Summer's Unwelcome Reunion
Lina Mariano, a 29-year-old wedding writer, is stuck in her New Jersey beach town, feeling the sting of summer as a local among vacationers. Her routine is upended when she runs into Sebastian Nikolaou, her high school crush and heartbreak, at the city clerk's office—he's applying for a marriage license with his glamorous fiancée, Claire. Through a twist of fate, Lina is roped into being their witness, forcing her to confront feelings she thought she'd buried. The encounter is both surreal and painful, reigniting memories of adolescent longing and the ache of what might have been. Lina's professional and personal lives collide, setting the stage for a summer of reckoning with her past and questioning her future.
Teenage Summers Begin
Flashing back fifteen years, Lina recalls her first summer working at Bubba's, the local boardwalk restaurant. She's awkward, eager, and quickly overwhelmed by the chaos of the snack bar—and by Sebastian, Bubba's son, who is charming, older, and impossibly magnetic. Their interactions are charged with teenage energy, and Lina's crush grows with every shift. The summer is a blur of fried food, sandy beaches, and the intoxicating thrill of possibility. Lina's friendship with Maren, her creative and confident best friend, anchors her, but Sebastian's presence is a constant, shaping her coming-of-age in ways she doesn't yet understand.
Witness to Heartbreak
After the awkward marriage license incident, Lina returns home, reeling. She confides in Maren, now living in London, about the surreal experience of helping Sebastian and Claire. The encounter leaves Lina questioning her own choices—her career, her single status, and her inability to move on from the past. The news that Bubba's is being sold to a flashy restaurant group adds another layer of loss. Lina's nostalgia for her teenage years is tinged with regret, and the summer ahead promises more reminders of what she's left behind—and what she still wants.
Crushes and Coming of Age
The narrative returns to Lina's teenage summers, where her crush on Sebastian becomes all-consuming. She and Maren dissect every interaction, searching for meaning in smiles and shared tasks. The restaurant is a microcosm of adolescent drama—rumors, rivalries, and the thrill of being noticed. Yet, Lina's world is also filled with family dinners, beach days, and the comfort of routine. The summer is bittersweet, marking the end of childhood and the beginning of something more complicated. Lina's parents' steady marriage stands in contrast to her own volatility, and she wonders if she'll ever find the same security.
Mistaken Marriage License
Back in the present, Lina's work life is upended when she discovers she accidentally signed the marriage license as Sebastian's bride, not just a witness. The mix-up is mortifying but not legally binding—yet it forces Lina to interact with Sebastian and Claire again. Meanwhile, her editor pressures her to cover their wedding for her popular column, dangling the promise of a promotion. Lina is trapped between professional obligation and personal pain, forced to relive her teenage heartbreak while navigating the absurdity of her current predicament.
Old Flames Rekindled
Lina visits Bubba's to clarify the marriage license mess and pitch a story about the restaurant's sale. Instead, she finds herself drawn back into Sebastian's orbit. Their interactions are awkward but charged, and Lina is reminded of the easy camaraderie they once shared. Sebastian, now helping his mother with the restaurant's final season, seems both familiar and changed. The looming sale of Bubba's and Bubba's declining health add urgency and poignancy to their encounters. Lina is forced to confront the reality that some things—like first love—never fully fade.
High School Parties & First Kisses
Teenage Lina navigates her first high school party, awkwardly participating in drinking games and social rituals. Sebastian's protective gestures blur the line between friendship and something more, leaving Lina hopeful but uncertain. Maren's first kiss and budding romance highlight the differences in their experiences, and Lina's insecurity grows. The summer is a series of near-misses and almost-confessions, with Lina longing for clarity but afraid to risk rejection. The tension between desire and self-doubt defines her adolescence, setting the stage for future heartbreak.
Best Friends, New Beginnings
Maren's annual return from London brings comfort and perspective to Lina's life. Their friendship, forged in adolescence, remains a source of strength and honesty. Maren encourages Lina to confront her feelings for Sebastian and to take risks, both professionally and personally. Their conversations are filled with humor, nostalgia, and the kind of tough love only best friends can offer. As Lina faces the challenges of the summer, Maren's presence reminds her of who she is—and who she wants to become.
Avoiding the Past
Lina tries to keep her distance from Sebastian and the memories he stirs. She throws herself into work, family, and time with Maren, but the past is never far away. Every encounter with Sebastian is fraught with unspoken history, and Lina struggles to maintain her composure. The sale of Bubba's and the end of an era force her to reckon with the passage of time and the inevitability of change. Lina's attempts to avoid the past only make its pull stronger, and she realizes she must confront her feelings if she wants to move forward.
Wedding Assignments & Family Ties
Lina's assignment to cover Sebastian and Claire's wedding brings her into close contact with Sebastian, reigniting old feelings and unresolved questions. Their shared history complicates every interaction, and Lina is forced to navigate the blurred boundaries between journalist and participant. The restaurant's impending closure, Bubba's illness, and the complexities of family loyalty add emotional weight to the summer. Lina's professional ambitions are at odds with her personal desires, and she must decide what she truly wants—for her career, her relationships, and herself.
Accidents and Aftermath
A flashback to Lina's teenage years reveals a pivotal moment: a fall on the jetty that lands her in the hospital, with Sebastian by her side. The accident cements their bond, but also highlights the fragility of youth and the unpredictability of life. Sebastian's care and concern deepen Lina's feelings, but also set the stage for future misunderstandings. The incident becomes a touchstone in their shared history, symbolizing both connection and vulnerability.
Ghosted and Growing
In the present, Lina is ghosted by both Sebastian and Claire as the wedding approaches. She throws herself into work and social obligations, but the silence is deafening. Maren encourages her to seek closure, while David offers comic relief and practical advice. Lina's frustration grows, but so does her determination to take control of her own narrative. The experience forces her to reevaluate her patterns—of waiting, of hoping, of letting others dictate her happiness.
Fourth of July Confessions
The Fourth of July brings both celebration and introspection. Lina and Sebastian share a quiet moment after a long shift, reflecting on their dreams and fears. The conversation is intimate, revealing the ways they've both changed—and the ways they haven't. Lina's desire to be a writer, Sebastian's ambivalence about the family business, and their mutual longing for something more are laid bare. The holiday becomes a metaphor for transition, marking the end of one chapter and the uncertain beginning of another.
Party, Plans, and Regrets
At Bubba's birthday party, Lina is surrounded by old friends and familiar faces. The event is both joyful and bittersweet, a celebration of community and a reminder of what's been lost. Sebastian's avoidance is palpable, and Lina is left questioning his feelings and her own. Conversations with friends and former coworkers reveal the ways everyone is grappling with change, and Lina is forced to confront the reality that some doors may be closing for good.
Confessions and Turning Points
Lina and Sebastian finally confront their shared history, confessing the pain and confusion that have kept them apart. The truth about Sebastian's family, his father's abandonment, and his own fears comes to light. Lina admits her own insecurities and the ways she's held herself back. Their conversation is raw and honest, offering the possibility of forgiveness and a fresh start. The chapter marks a turning point, as both characters choose vulnerability over avoidance.
Beach Days and Second Chances
A day at the beach brings Lina and Sebastian together in a new way. Surrounded by friends and the familiar rhythms of summer, they tentatively explore the possibility of a second chance. Their chemistry is undeniable, but so are the risks. Lina's friends encourage her to take a leap, while Sebastian makes it clear he wants to try again. The chapter is filled with hope and uncertainty, as both characters weigh the possibility of happiness against the fear of repeating old mistakes.
Rainy Nights and First Love
A rainstorm strands Lina and Sebastian together, leading to a night of intimacy and emotional honesty. They share memories, fears, and desires, breaking down the walls that have kept them apart. The physical connection is matched by a deepening emotional bond, and both characters begin to believe that a future together is possible. The night is a culmination of years of longing and missed opportunities, offering a glimpse of what could be if they're brave enough to choose each other.
Facing the Future
As summer draws to a close, Lina and Sebastian must decide what comes next. Professional opportunities, family obligations, and personal ambitions pull them in different directions. Lina considers leaving her job to pursue freelance writing, while Sebastian grapples with the future of Bubba's and his own place in Brantley Beach. Their relationship is tested by distance, doubt, and the ghosts of the past. Both must confront what they truly want—and what they're willing to risk to get it.
Closure and New Starts
Lina and Sebastian's relationship reaches a crossroads. Miscommunication, missed signals, and the weight of history threaten to pull them apart. Lina's decision to travel to London and reconnect with Maren offers perspective and clarity. She realizes that moving forward means letting go of old narratives and embracing the unknown. The chapter is about closure—not just with Sebastian, but with the version of herself that's been holding her back.
Letting Go, Moving On
Lina returns home with a new sense of purpose. She quits her job, embraces freelance writing, and reconnects with her family and community. The process is both liberating and terrifying, but Lina is buoyed by the support of those who love her. She learns to accept herself—her past, her choices, her desires—and to trust that happiness is possible, even if it doesn't look the way she once imagined. The chapter is about letting go of regret and making space for new beginnings.
Boardwalk Night Breakdown
A flashback to the infamous Boardwalk Night reveals the truth behind Lina and Sebastian's falling out. Miscommunication, alcohol, and the pressures of adolescence lead to a public humiliation that scars Lina for years. The incident is a turning point, shaping both characters' trajectories and their ability to trust. The pain of that night lingers, coloring every interaction in the present and making forgiveness all the more difficult—and necessary.
Stuck in the Past
Lina reflects on the ways she's been stuck—professionally, romantically, emotionally. The past exerts a powerful hold, and breaking free requires confronting uncomfortable truths. Conversations with Maren, David, and her parents help Lina see that growth is possible, but only if she's willing to take risks and let go of old stories. The chapter is about the tension between comfort and change, and the courage it takes to choose the latter.
Facing the Truth
Lina and Sebastian finally have the conversation they've been avoiding for years. They share their perspectives on the past, acknowledge their mistakes, and offer each other forgiveness. The truth is messy and painful, but it also opens the door to healing. Both characters realize that love is a choice, not a destiny, and that happiness requires effort and vulnerability. The chapter ends with the possibility of a new beginning—one built on honesty and mutual respect.
Full Circle Homecoming
A year later, Lina and Sebastian have built a life together in Brantley Beach. Bubba's has been reborn as a community hub, and Lina's writing career is flourishing. Surrounded by friends and family, they celebrate the anniversary of the restaurant's reopening and the launch of Lina's book. The journey has been messy and nonlinear, but both characters have found their place—together and as individuals. The chapter is a celebration of growth, love, and the enduring power of home.
Epilogue: New Summers Ahead
The story closes with Lina and Sebastian looking toward the future, committed to facing whatever comes together. The lessons of the past—about love, friendship, ambition, and self-acceptance—inform their choices, but no longer hold them back. The summer is no longer a season of regret, but one of possibility. Surrounded by the people and places that shaped them, Lina and Sebastian are ready to write their next chapter—together.
Analysis
A modern meditation on nostalgia, growth, and the courage to choose happinessHave a Great Summer is more than a second-chance romance; it's a nuanced exploration of how the places and people that shape us in youth continue to influence us as adults. Through Lina's journey, the novel interrogates the tension between longing for the past and embracing the future, the comfort of familiarity and the risk of change. The dual timeline structure allows for a rich, layered understanding of character motivation, showing how wounds left unhealed can fester, but also how forgiveness—of self and others—can open the door to new beginnings. The story champions the importance of community, friendship, and self-acceptance, reminding readers that happiness is not a matter of fate, but of choice. Ultimately, the novel is a love letter to the messy, beautiful process of growing up—and the realization that it's never too late to start again.
Review Summary
Have a Great Summer receives an overall rating of 3.86/5, with most reviewers praising its nostalgic Jersey Shore atmosphere, dual timeline structure, and millennial references. Fans of Emily Henry and Carley Fortune frequently cite it as a perfect beach read. Positive reviews highlight the humor, friendship dynamics, and emotional depth. Critical reviews note communication issues between main characters, a frustrating third-act breakup, and underdeveloped chemistry. The book is widely recommended for summer reading, particularly for those with connections to New Jersey.
Characters
Lina Mariano
Lina is the heart of the story—a sensitive, ambitious woman who has always felt a little out of step with her peers. As a teenager, she's awkward and earnest, her crush on Sebastian both exhilarating and all-consuming. Her friendship with Maren is her anchor, providing both comfort and challenge. As an adult, Lina is stuck—professionally pigeonholed as a wedding writer, personally haunted by unresolved feelings for Sebastian. Her journey is one of self-discovery, learning to trust her own desires and to take risks. Lina's greatest strength is her capacity for growth; she learns to forgive herself and others, to embrace vulnerability, and to choose happiness on her own terms.
Sebastian Nikolaou
Sebastian is the quintessential golden boy—handsome, talented, and seemingly effortless in his appeal. Yet beneath the surface, he's deeply conflicted, shaped by family expectations, personal loss, and the fear of being trapped. As a teenager, he's both kind and careless, his actions often misinterpreted or regretted. His relationship with Lina is marked by missed opportunities and unspoken longing. As an adult, Sebastian is more self-aware but still struggling to reconcile his ambitions with his responsibilities. His arc is one of reckoning—with his family, his choices, and his capacity for love. Ultimately, Sebastian learns that true happiness requires honesty, humility, and the courage to stay.
Maren Murphy
Maren is Lina's best friend and confidante, her foil in both style and temperament. Artistic and adventurous, Maren pushes Lina to take risks and to see herself more clearly. Her own journey—from small-town Jersey girl to successful London fashion professional—mirrors Lina's in its search for identity and belonging. Maren's loyalty is both a gift and a flaw; her desire to protect Lina sometimes leads her to make decisions on her friend's behalf. Their friendship is the emotional backbone of the novel, a testament to the enduring power of chosen family.
Bubba Nikolaou
Bubba is more than just Sebastian's mother—she's the heart of Brantley Beach. Her restaurant is a haven for locals and a training ground for generations of teenagers. Bubba's warmth, resilience, and generosity shape both Lina and Sebastian, offering a model of strength and compassion. Her illness and eventual passing are deeply felt, but her legacy endures in the community she built and the lessons she imparted.
David Torres
David is Lina's work husband and confidant, providing comic relief and practical advice. His own stable relationship with Henry offers a contrast to Lina's romantic turmoil. David's perspective is grounded and honest, pushing Lina to confront uncomfortable truths while reminding her not to take herself too seriously. He represents the importance of friendship, humor, and perspective in navigating life's challenges.
Claire Cunningham
Claire is Sebastian's fiancée—a successful, driven woman whose life is rooted in California. Her relationship with Sebastian is built on shared ambition but lacks the depth and history he shares with Lina. Claire's presence forces both Lina and Sebastian to confront what they truly want, and her eventual decision to end the engagement is a catalyst for growth. Claire is not a villain, but a reminder that love requires more than compatibility on paper.
Omar
Omar is Bubba's right-hand man in the kitchen, a chef whose own losses mirror those of the main characters. His mentorship and friendship are invaluable to both Sebastian and Lina. Omar's story is one of resilience—finding purpose and connection in the face of personal tragedy. His partnership with Sebastian in the restaurant's new chapter is a testament to the power of chosen family and the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future.
Andre Silva
Andre is one of Sebastian's oldest friends, a former jock with a heart of gold. His flirtatious banter and easy confidence mask a deep loyalty to his friends. Andre's presence adds levity to the story, but he also serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds of adolescence and the ways in which people grow—and don't grow—over time.
Theo Louros
Theo is the third member of Sebastian's high school trio, a steady presence who offers perspective and support. His own stable family life contrasts with the chaos of Lina and Sebastian's journeys, providing a model of quiet contentment. Theo's role is subtle but essential, grounding the narrative in the realities of adulthood and the importance of community.
Gina
Gina is the red-haired coffee supplier whose presence initially sparks Lina's jealousy. In reality, she is a professional ally to Sebastian, helping him realize his vision for the café. Gina's character is a reminder not to jump to conclusions and to trust in the complexity of people's lives.
Plot Devices
Dual Timeline Structure
The novel alternates between Lina's teenage summers and her adult present, using flashbacks to illuminate the origins of her relationships, insecurities, and dreams. This structure allows readers to see the ways in which formative experiences shape adult choices, and how unresolved pain can linger for years. The interplay between timelines creates suspense, deepens emotional resonance, and underscores the theme of second chances.
Mistaken Identity and Paperwork
The accidental signing of the marriage license as Sebastian's bride is both a comic and poignant plot device. It forces Lina and Sebastian into renewed contact, reigniting old feelings and unresolved questions. The mix-up is symbolic of the ways in which life's messiness can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and healing.
Foreshadowing and Symbolism
The jetty, the restaurant, and the boardwalk serve as recurring symbols of stability, transition, and the passage of time. Food and shared meals are used to signify connection, comfort, and the blending of past and present. The motif of summer—both as a season and a metaphor—underscores the themes of change, nostalgia, and the fleeting nature of youth.
Miscommunication and Missed Opportunities
The novel relies on miscommunication—both intentional and accidental—to drive conflict and character development. Boardwalk Night, in particular, is a masterclass in how a single misunderstanding can alter the course of lives. The eventual unraveling of these knots is both cathartic and instructive, highlighting the importance of honesty and vulnerability.
Community as Character
Brantley Beach is more than a backdrop—it is a living, breathing character in the story. The town's rhythms, traditions, and people provide context and support for Lina and Sebastian's journeys. The restaurant, in particular, is a microcosm of the larger community, embodying the themes of legacy, belonging, and the power of home.
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