Catalina Kiss by Tracy Ewens

Catalina Kiss
by
Tracy Ewens

Rating:

Spring is a demanding time of year for me and I’m always looking for a good way to relax. I don’t read a lot of romance novels, but I recently picked up Catalina Kiss and discovered the value of reading something light during such a busy time.

Set on the island of Catalina during Prohibition, Catalina Kiss is an easy romance and tells the story of Gwen Ross, an upper-class ingénue bent on being taken seriously. Just out of college, she’s book smart and analytical, but has a thing or two to learn about life. Her father has lined her up with a new job as a summer intern, working at an aviary, and she arrives on the island with grand ideas about making her mark in a man’s world.

As expected, Gwen meets up with a dashing young man. Michael is an artistic tile-maker and ladies man and the sparks fly. The attraction is not without problems, however, and the romance takes time to develop. And just when they seem to be good, things fall apart.

The story reads a little like a journal in its first-person narrative form. Gwen’s feelings are all over the place and she indulges them all, much like in a diary. Her thoughts show a self-centered and emotionally naïve young woman who is trying to discover just what she wants.

I enjoyed reading Catalina Kiss precisely because it isn’t heavy. I didn’t know much about Catalina and reading this prompted me to research the island. The story includes historical references to people and places, including the Wrigley family, who owned much of the island during that time. I also discovered that the pottery and tiles from Catalina are well-known and valuable. These are nice touches that enhance the story.

I think the strongest part of the book is in the second half, where Gwen struggles to discover who she is. Also good are Gwen’s relationships with her father and with her brother, Simon, both likeable characters. Michael’s letter to Gwen is my favorite part and it serves as the long-awaited release of romantic tension.

All in all, a nice quick read with a happy ending. If romance novels are what you like and you’re looking to kick back for an afternoon, pick up Catalina Kiss and enjoy.

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