Feb. 14, 2024
By Isabella Apple
Staff Writer
“The Summer of Broken Rules” by K.L. Walther is a heartfelt young adult romance novel about unexpected love that develops during a dark time.
The novel centers around 18-year-old protagonist Meredith Fox, who struggles to move on after her older sister, Claire, died in a car crash. Through Meredith’s descriptions, readers learn that Claire was a tough, smart and sweet person who tried her best to help the people around her.
After shutting everyone out for over 18 months, Meredith, who is also heartbroken from a recent breakup, realizes she must move forward.
Meredith gains hope when she travels with her parents to Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts for her cousin Sarah’s wedding. She and her family go on a trip to Martha’s Vineyard to participate in her family’s annual game of Assassin, and Sarah’s huge wedding makes this trip especially significant.
Meredith’s life changes for the better when she encounters a cute groomsman–the 19-year-old brother of the groom–named Wit. Meredith and Wit meet unexpectedly when she visits Claire’s old cabin.
Later, Meredith accidentally kicks Wit in the face when climbing out of a ferry, which leaves him with a nasty bruise. His physical wound mirrors Meredith’s emotional trauma, both of which take time to heal.
All readers can benefit from the novel’s message about the importance of taking risks and depending on others to get through hard times.
Wit is the ideal partner for Meredith. He captures her heart by being observant and affectionate, and he commits himself to helping her work through her pain.
The novel’s vivid writing style helps readers feel like they are experiencing Meredith’s hardships and healing alongside her. She tries to move on by discovering new friendships and relationships, along with building her family bond.
All readers can benefit from the novel’s message about the importance of taking risks and depending on others to get through hard times.
Despite the loss she has endured, Meredith is lucky to have a caring family and love interest who give her the strength to get through the challenges she faces. Allowing her defenses to fall, Meredith realizes how to make the most of life, and her powerful example inspires readers to do the same.
