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Uncaged Summer

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Newly heartbroken, a woman embarks on a glamorized summer of couch surfing to rediscover herself. It’s not until she stops searching that she finds what she wasn’t looking for, and learns that though life may not go according to plan, there is magic in the unexpected.

Avalie Monfared has a theory about saying “I Do”—that the magic ends there. After thirteen years of magic-free marriage to her high school sweetheart, she’s discovered where it went: gambling and prostitutes.

Now, Ava is on a quest to rediscover herself—and men. Her soul-searching finds her living on a succession of friends’ and family’s couches, which happen to be in some of the most luxurious zip codes in and around Los Angeles. What follows is an unpredictable summer full of shamans, attack birds, awkward dates, sizzling flirtations, and unsolicited advice—especially from her traditional Persian family members, who are eager to see her remarried. With every laugh-out-loud adventure in each locale, Ava finds more solace and wisdom. And while it’s not how she planned to spend the last year of her thirties, Ava learns that there is power in letting go.

304 pages, Paperback

Published April 9, 2024

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About the author

Colet Abedi

18 books357 followers
Colet Abedi is an Iranian-American, best-selling author, television and film producer. She was born in Virginia and currently lives in Los Angeles. When she's not writing she's either off on an adventure in a far-off land or planning her next getaway. She writes contemporary romance and young adult.

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5 stars
16 (30%)
4 stars
17 (32%)
3 stars
12 (22%)
2 stars
6 (11%)
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2 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Megan Hayes.
17 reviews1 follower
January 28, 2024
For fans of Eat, Pray, Love, Uncaged Summer is the story of one woman’s journey of self discovery after a devastating divorce. Avalie Monfared has plans to spend the summer couch surfing while she visits friends and family and attempts to piece her life back together.

The book becomes somewhat repetitive as it goes on with each visit to a friend. Characters except for Availe and her cousin Pegah somewhat blend together and are hard to distinguish. While there were some poignant scenes, the book is more centered around character development vs plot focused and I felt like there was not a lot of substance. The reader quickly gets a sense of who Avalie is, and I liked that the main character was relatable. There was a good balance of serious scenes and comedic relief, but overall the writing and some parts of the storyline felt choppy. Thanks to Post Hill Press, Colet Abdi, and NetGalley for this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Meli F.
76 reviews4 followers
March 13, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Post Hill Press for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Reading experience: 3.5/5 🌟(rounded up to 4)

I gotta be honest. "Uncaged Summer" wasn't exactly my vibe—I went into the book with the wrong expectations after misunderstanding its description. (I thought this was more on the romance side, and that is totally on me). But hey, it might be yours, and let me tell you why:

"Uncaged Summer" offers some intriguing glimpses into Persian American culture from the perspective of a first-generation divorced woman in her late thirties. It also features charming interactions with rescued birds and easily manageable short chapters. The book provides valuable insights into the messy world of relationships and the fears and doubts of the post-divorce life. And I gotta say, the dating horror stories are painfully relatable. Plus, there are heartfelt moments scattered throughout the book I particularly enjoyed, like the scenes with the FMC and her family. Additionally, it delves into the familial and cultural pressures faced by women to conform to societal expectations, particularly the pressure to marry.

A bit heavier than I prefer on the dialogue side, this reads more like a theater play or a TV series than a book. But that's a matter of personal taste. I know this is not a problem for a lot of my reader friends.

I also didn't vibe with how much alcohol and drugs are present in the story, but hey, once again, that's on me. I shouldn't have underestimated how much I'd have to read about it because if I recall correctly, those are mentioned in the description. And it's not something I'm looking to read at this point in my life.

There are other moments, like the very realistic depiction of societal pressure for getting a man, any man "because you're not young anymore" as if the only value we have is through being someone's wife that kinda triggered me (as a divorced woman in my early thirties I went through something similar). Usually, that's something I enjoy, but once again, I requested and went into the book thinking it would be a more escapist kind of story. So, my bad.

Overall, my "buts" are more of an issue of compatibility and not quality. While not perfect, "Uncaged Summer" it's a well-written, easy-to-read story about finding yourself after a major life change, with fun moments and glamorized couch surfing. Think "Eat, Pray, Love" but with less praying, more partying, and more dating. It may not have been my cup of tea, mostly because of my misguided expectations and timing (I'm sure at a different point in my life I would have loved it) but it could be yours. Give it a try!
Profile Image for Kristin.
99 reviews4 followers
April 27, 2024
Thank you @netgalley and Post Hill Press for my e-ARC of this book.

🤣🤣🤣 I have to start out by saying that the opening home aviary scene had me rolling.

I do not know what I was expecting from this one but holy cow I loved it. I was laughing so hard through so much of it and crying in other parts and it was perfect.

I am 100% Team Ava. I love all of her friends and the lessons each set taught her.

But in all seriousness, this book was perfect and everything I needed to read.

“But there is nothing wrong with you - nothing is missing. It is only fear of moving into the unknown that is holding you back. What needs to be replenished and fed is the love you have for yourself. You have to fall back in love with Ava before you can find it with anyone else. The only thing holding you back from doing this is fear.”

Like I said, this was everything I needed to read this week. Thank you @coletabedi for this beautiful novel. For forever, I will absolutely 100% recommend this one.
Profile Image for Elaine.
201 reviews13 followers
January 23, 2024
A delightful and empowering journey through the unexpected twists of life after the recent ending of a marriage caused by lies and betrayal, and the magic that unfolds when one embraces the unplanned. Avalie’s candid exploration of self-discovery post-heartbreak is both humorous and heart-warming.

The narrative is like a breath of fresh air as Ava, our fearless protagonist, sets out on a summer escapade, surfing couches against the glamorous backdrop of Los Angeles. Amidst the luxurious landscapes, she gains profound insights into the marriage and family lives of the friends and family hosting her. The journey is peppered with laugh-out-loud moments, awkward dates, and unexpected encounters that effortlessly kept me thoroughly engaged.

Witty, relatable, and filled with poignant observations about love, family, and the quest for identity, the writing captivates from start to finish. The author's unique perspective on the institution of marriage adds layers to the storyline, challenging conventional notions and exploring the magic that transcends societal expectations.

The supporting cast of characters, ranging from shamans to Ava's traditional Persian family members, introduces complexity and abundant humour to the narrative, particularly through the unsolicited advice from her family. Their presence not only infuses cultural insights but also adds a delightful touch of familial warmth to the story.

As Ava navigates the peaks and valleys of her summer adventure, I was treated to a compelling journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The author masterfully captures the essence of finding solace and wisdom in unexpected places, reinforcing the notion that life's magic often resides in the unplanned and the unconventional.

"Uncaged Summer" emerges as a charming and uplifting read that encourages readers to embrace the unpredictability of life, discovering the power in letting go. Avalie's story becomes a celebration of resilience, laughter, and the beauty of self-discovery amidst the chaos. It's an ideal choice for anyone in search of a heartfelt, humorous, and empowering narrative.

Gratitude extended to NetGalley and Post Hill Press for generously providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Alexiireads.
107 reviews20 followers
April 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC. I had fun reading Uncaged Summer. It was like stepping into a sun-drenched dream. With its immersive setting, I found myself transported to the vibrant beaches of California, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin and hearing the soothing rhythm of the waves. It evoked a sense of warmth, freedom and adventure.

What captured my heart were the characters, especially Nalena Maxwell. Her journey of self-discovery resonated deeply with me, as I navigated alongside her through the complexities of love, identity, and longing. Abedi's writing brought her struggles and triumphs to life in a way that felt incredibly real and relatable. As a woman in my 30s, her experience felt relatable and I felt seen.

The romance in this book was nothing short of enchanting. Nalena's relationships with the two men in her life were portrayed with such depth and authenticity that I couldn't help but become emotionally invested. The chemistry sizzled off the pages, making my heart race with each encounter and keeping me eagerly turning pages to see how it would all unfold.

While the plot had its familiar elements, Abedi's storytelling prowess infused the story with a freshness and emotional depth that kept me hooked. I found myself rooting for Nalena's happiness, cheering her on as she embraced her true self and made choices that resonated with her heart.

"Uncaged Summer" isn't just a romance novel; it's a journey of self-discovery, love, and growth set against a stunning backdrop. It's a book that made me laugh, swoon, and reflect on my own desires and dreams. If you're looking for a captivating read that will sweep you off your feet and leave you with a warm, hopeful feeling, this is it. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good love story with heart and soul.
5 reviews
June 19, 2024
Honestly, I really didn't think there was much merit to this book until the final few chapters.

To start, I'm sure some people talk the way these characters do, but I have yet to meet one of those people. A lot of the gossipy parts of the book came off awkwardly and like the characters were trying too hard to be mature. The talk of sex in these instances was oversaturated and the genuine life advice was never touching until Ava's learnings at the end of the book. It mostly felt poorly written.

Ava seemed to be written to be a much wiser and more reputable person than what her personality displayed. For instance, her referring to almost every guy she was with as a city felt very juvenile. I would understand this if she were a teenager (maybe her being married early was supposed to be the reasoning for this, like the whole "you freeze at the age you were when xyz happens" thing), but the characters talk her up A LOT for someone who has nothing in the book to suggest that she's that remarkable of a person. I understand being a good friend, but it made the book less interesting to read.

But, like I said, the end was great! I think the story could have been built up much better to match Ava's level of awareness by the final chapters. The scene where Ava and Darien met up was beautiful, and the imagery with her acceptance moment was set up super well for quality thinking time. I only wish the rest of the book could've done the same to the most effective extent for whatever emotion the author was looking to convey. Nonetheless, I think those chapters proved the author's capabilities, and I certainly wouldn't be opposed to reading more by her in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Simply_Bibliotaphs.
57 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2024
This book follows Avalie a middle aged woman who after finalising a divorce from her husband of 16 years decides to go on a trip for the summer in an effort to discover who she is when she is alone. For lovers of eat, pray love this book gives off that vibe.

The book is a really easy read and isn't to heavy, the chapters are pretty short which I find also makes for an easier read when you want something light. The plot is fun, filled with humour and adventure and tells a wonderful tale of a person being able to become who they want to be at any age,

The book gives an interesting insight into what it is like to be a first generation Persian- American and social norms and pressure for a woman to find a husband at a later age of life. it explores the feeling of heartbreak after a divorce even if it was the right thing and reconnecting with friends and family.

I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anybody who likes this kind of genre and wants a easy to read book.
Profile Image for Kamila Mykhailiuk.
780 reviews9 followers
May 29, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

Avalie is a Percian woman in her late thirties going through a divorce. Her husband was gambling and cheating on her. She was unhappy for many years prior to that. Now, she decided to spend summer staying with her friends and family and to try to find herself. She meets men and goes on a date with them. She reconnects with a man that she met while she was engaged and had crazy chemistry with.

She goes to shamans and drinks ayahuasca. Spends time with all these beautiful couples and their children (even birds). Discovers many different relationships and ways to handle a relationship. She finds peace and herself and finally able to meet her ex, Darian, and forgive him. And of course she meets up with New York City and the chemistry never dies down.

Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a story about self discovery then you’re going to love it.
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books128 followers
April 9, 2024
This story is a blend of humor and heart. Following Avalie's journey through a glamorous yet tumultuous summer in Los Angeles, I was drawn into her world of rediscovery post-divorce. Her adventures, from quirky dates to encounters with shamans, unfold against a backdrop of luxurious locales, providing both laughter and introspection. The cultural insights and family dynamics, particularly her Persian heritage, add depth and authenticity. Although the story sometimes feels repetitive and disjointed, Avalie's growth and the novel's exploration of self-love and resilience shine through. It's a story that resonates for those of us navigating the complexities of life and love. It is a relatable, empowering read that reminds us of the magic in life's unplanned moments.
Profile Image for Jill Pilgrim.
14 reviews1 follower
January 18, 2024
I went into this book thinking it was a romance but quickly discovered it’s much more of a story about finding your way back to yourself.

I enjoyed the myriad of different marriages that were showcased as learning opportunities on Ava’s post-divorce tour, and the emphasis on the healing nature of reconnecting with friends and family. (Although, as a woman in my 30s I did have a few instances of thinking, “Are there people out there with deep connections to THIS MANY PEOPLE?! 😂)

Overall, I’m not sure this book would be a fit for everyone, but it was a quick easy beach read and I’d recommend if you’re on a journey of self-connection!
22 reviews
September 28, 2024
Really enjoyed the perspectives and learnings shared from a freshly divorced woman as a divorcee myself. There was humor, there was a hint of romance, and there was a cultural component that I enjoyed as well.

The plot did have some gaps for me and left a lot of questions unanswered which is why I’m rating it 4 stars. Still enjoyable though and would recommend for those who may also have a personal connection to the book.
Profile Image for Chelsea.
65 reviews
November 4, 2024
Sometimes I loved it, sometimes I hated it. It felt like a funnier, more relatable EAT, PRAY, LOVE for millennials. But I also found the story to have no real solid foundation, no deeper layers to tie the reader to any sort of emotional relationship with Ava. I liked the little nuggets she’d learn after each couch surf, but by the end the stories dragged and I no longer cared where her journey was going (spoiler: it barely goes anywhere)
January 30, 2024
Eat Pray Love meets My Big Fat Greek Wedding. If you're a fan of either, this book is for you. Ava's journey of self-discovery takes her couch-surfing with wealthy friends and family. I laughed out loud so many times. With equal bits of funny and sad, the book was an emotional rollercoaster. Her family was awesome! I just wish we got more of Mr. New York City. I loved it.
Profile Image for PP's Bookshelf.
2,548 reviews386 followers
April 11, 2024
Uncaged Summer by Colet Abedi is a thought provoking and soulful journey about finding oneself after life has taken devastating turns. Ava's story is something we call relate to. In various ways. It's an eclectic mix of philosophical questions, self discovery, witty and funny interludes..

Ava has just found out that her husband has cheated on her and their marriage of 20 Years is gone. She is also in deep financial trouble. She decides to spend the summer living with different friends and family members before she can think of the next step in her life.

Ava's Persian background gives the story an interesting and intriguing nature. Their culture has a very different dynamics than western culture. The family is a source of unconditional love and support and they are also very close and nosy..no matter how old their kids are. Ava is a bit all over the place now. But as she moves from one place to other and experience the different kinds of marriage from close and with a fresh outlook..she learns something new. The journey was sometimes hilarious and entertaining as she took part in some risky adventures for sake of new beginning. Most of the times, the story is quiet and heartaching. Ava let go of the bitterness and anger and guilt. She rebuilt herself from the ashes. She regained the confidence in herself. And we leave her with just a hint of a blooming romance.

This story is really an inspiring one with scope of plenty self reflection and learning from Ava's musings.

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
1 review
August 4, 2024
Loved it

Laughing of the humor of Ava and the wonderful characters in this Colet Abedi book. Love the story and her ability to describe our continuous growth, love ourselves through failure and understand our journeys in life alterring situations. Amazing as always. More stories please ❤️
375 reviews7 followers
January 12, 2024
Emotional and delicious - the love of family, of the one you thought was always for you, the one you fantasized and idealized and maybe is the one. To have a network of well set and loving friends, family that supports you, and you learn who you are and appreciate what you have. A delight
27 reviews
February 9, 2024
4.5 stars! I loved this one. I really enjoyed going along with Ava on her journey to find herself after divorcing her high school sweetheart.

It was funny, it was inspiring, and there was some romance without being too cringy.
1 review
February 5, 2024
I couldn't put it down. Funny and smart, with all the feelings that come in between. What a great, easy read.
1 review
February 5, 2024
So funny. Me and my wife read it together and laughed at the characters and how we relate to them.
Profile Image for Elaine.
Author 1 book3 followers
April 1, 2024
Great synopsis and plenty of potential but unfortunately the book was hugely disappointing. Poorly writing temple with one dimensional characters- not for me.
15 reviews
April 23, 2024
This book was so much fun to read! The writing was funny and engaging and the characters very relatable to my ethnic family. I loved the spiritual themes throughout the book which added an extra layer of depth. Highly recommend!
2 reviews
October 4, 2024
A heartfelt and sometimes hilarious post-divorce journey you won’t want to put down. Not only is it entertaining, but it sheds light on some of the various issues women face as well portraying some of the challenges of growing up in America with immigrant parents. Highly recommended!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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