The sun has set on another unforgettable summer in Cousins Beach, but the emotional tsunami unleashed by the season 2 finale of Amazon Prime's hit show, The Summer I Turned Pretty, will have fans reeling for months.
In a masterfully crafted climax that perfectly blends heartache with hope, the love triangle between Belly Conklin and the Fisher brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah, reaches its devastating peak. The finale, adapting Jenny Han's bestselling novel, doesn't just meet expectations—it shatters them, leaving a trail of tears and fervent speculation in its wake.
A Finale of Goodbyes and New Beginnings
The episode is a rollercoaster of emotions, masterfully pivoting between moments of tender vulnerability and gut-wrenching decisions. The much-anticipated prom scene is a particular standout, serving as the tragic culmination of Belly and Conrad's star-crossed romance. Christopher Briney delivers a career-defining performance, portraying Conrad's internal collapse with a raw, painful authenticity that is simply breathtaking.
Yet, just as one door closes, another flies open. The finale expertly sows the seeds for the next chapter, culminating in Belly's fateful choice. In a move that will undoubtedly split the fandom, she finally accepts Jeremiah's feelings, setting the stage for a dramatically different dynamic in a potential third season.
Beyond the Love Triangle: Grief, Friendship, and Growth
While the central romance drives the narrative, the finale wisely doesn't forget its emotional core: grief. The shadow of Susanna Fisher's death still looms large over every character, informing their choices and their pain. The strength of the female friendships, particularly between Belly, Taylor, and Steven, provides much-needed warmth and humour, acting as an emotional anchor amidst the romantic turmoil.
The production values remain sky-high, with a wistful and perfectly curated soundtrack that amplifies every heartfelt glance and painful goodbye. The cinematography makes Cousins Beach a character in itself—a beautiful, bittersweet backdrop to a summer that changed everything.
Verdict: A Perfect Set-Up For An Inevitable Season 3
This is more than just a season finale; it's a declaration of war for the hearts of viewers. Team Conrad will be left nursing their wounds, while Team Jeremiah will be celebrating a hard-fought victory. The writers have brilliantly honoured the source material while keeping even the most devoted book fans on the edge of their seats.
With unanswered questions and new conflicts brewing, the finale doesn't just conclude season 2—it throws down the gauntlet for an inevitable and desperately needed third season. One thing is certain: we'll be counting down the days until we can return to Cousins Beach.
