Toronto-based romance writer Carley Fortune has revealed the upcoming release of her sixth novel, “Only in Summer,” scheduled for May 18, 2027. This new book will revisit the familiar setting of Barry’s Bay, Ont., which served as the backdrop for her previous works, “Every Summer After” and “One Golden Summer,” and holds personal significance to the author.
Fortune shared in a recent newsletter that her inspiration for “Only in Summer” stemmed from her recent purchase of a cottage near Barry’s Bay, fulfilling a long-held dream since her family home by the lake was sold. The story follows the protagonist Eleanor Florek, also known as Ellie, who shares Ellie’s lifelong aspiration to own property in Barry’s Bay. Ellie’s plans take an unexpected turn when a neighboring house is demolished to make way for a grand residence, sparking what promises to be a captivating lakeside romance.
A seasoned journalist and editor for prominent publications like Refinery29, The Globe and Mail, and Chatelaine, Fortune has demonstrated her storytelling prowess in her previous novels such as “Our Perfect Storm,” “One Golden Summer,” “Every Summer After,” “This Summer Will Be Different,” and “Meet Me at the Lake.” Notably, “Meet Me at the Lake” was a finalist on Canada Reads in 2024, a groundbreaking achievement for the romance genre championed by fashion influencer Mirian Njoh.
Moreover, Fortune’s literary success extends beyond the pages, with adaptations of her works into television series. “Every Summer After” inspired the Amazon Prime Video show “Every Year After,” recently renewed for a second season, while Netflix Canada is gearing up for a 10-episode series based on “This Summer Will Be Different.”
As anticipation builds for the release of “Only in Summer,” fans of Fortune’s evocative storytelling can look forward to another enchanting tale set in the scenic haven of Barry’s Bay.