Escape to the sun-drenched town of Onslow, Australia, where the Summer series by C.J. Duggan weaves a spell of young love, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable coming-of-age moments. This young adult romance saga captures the electric vibe of youthful summers, pulling readers into a world of heart-fluttering crushes and small-town charm. If you’re craving a story that feels like a warm breeze and a first kiss, the Summer series is your perfect getaway.
Centered around the iconic Onslow Hotel, the series follows a vibrant cast of characters navigating the highs and lows of love and self-discovery. With its evocative Australian setting and relatable characters, it’s no wonder fans rave about this heartfelt escape into the magic of youth.
How Summer Began
C.J. Duggan, a proud Yorta Yorta woman and internationally bestselling author, crafted the Summer series from her love for small-town Australian life. Living in a rural New South Wales border town, Duggan drew inspiration from the nostalgic 1990s, infusing her stories with authentic Aussie culture and the bittersweet thrill of growing up. The Boys of Summer, the first book, debuted in 2012, kicking off a series that would captivate readers with its blend of romance and relatable storytelling.
Duggan’s goal was to create character-driven tales that resonate with hope and heart. Her own experiences renovating a Victorian homestead and dreaming of weekend escapes likely shaped the vivid, lived-in feel of Onslow, making it a character in its own right.
The Heart of Summer
The Summer series unfolds across several books, each spotlighting a different character or couple, all tied to the lively Onslow Hotel. The Boys of Summer introduces Tess McGee, a shy 17-year-old who takes a summer job at the hotel, expecting drudgery. Instead, she’s swept into a whirlwind of friendship and forbidden romance with Toby Morrison, one of the charismatic Onslow Boys. An Endless Summer shifts to Amy Henderson, who returns to Onslow after boarding school to save the hotel alongside Sean, a charming local with a complicated past. That One Summer follows Tammy and Chris on a road trip filled with unexpected detours and heartfelt revelations.
Themes of first love, self-discovery, and the bonds of friendship pulse through the series. Duggan’s style is light yet poignant, blending witty banter with emotional depth. The 1990s Australian setting—think cassette tapes, cold VB beers, and sweltering lake days—grounds the stories in a nostalgic, sun-soaked atmosphere. Readers are drawn to the authentic portrayal of teenage insecurities and the thrill of new experiences, making each book a love letter to youth.
The Onslow Boys themselves—older, carefree, and undeniably swoon-worthy—add a layer of allure. Yet, Duggan ensures her female leads, like Tess and Amy, are relatable and resilient, growing through mistakes and heartaches. This balance of romance and personal growth keeps the series fresh and engaging.
Why Summer Resonates
The Summer series has carved a niche in young adult romance, particularly among fans of contemporary stories with strong settings. Its Australian flavor sets it apart, offering a refreshing contrast to typical Western YA narratives. Readers praise Duggan’s ability to capture the messy, exhilarating essence of young love, with reviews highlighting the “butterfly-inducing” moments and laugh-out-loud banter. The series’ focus on friendship and community also strikes a chord, reminding readers of their own summer memories.
Though not a global phenomenon, the series has a loyal following, with fans eagerly awaiting each new installment. Its indie roots and Duggan’s authentic voice make it a hidden gem, perfect for readers seeking stories that feel personal and immersive. The Summer series proves that small-town tales can have a big impact, leaving a lasting impression of sunlit days and heartfelt connections.
- Publication Years: 2012–2015 (main series)
- Number of Books: 7, including novellas
- Genre: Young Adult/New Adult Romance
Ready to fall in love with the Onslow Boys? Grab The Boys of Summer and dive into a world of romance, laughter, and Aussie charm!