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3.45 AVERAGE
3.45 AVERAGE
Underwhelming. There was a lot of wasted potential here, with characters who has side stories that were never tied into the plot or the main characters’ stories. This felt like a first draft that never evolved into a coherent draft, and certainly not Hildebrand’s best work. I’m looking forward to more of her books that have the Summer of 69 feeling.
This is the first Elin Hilderbrand book that I've read and aside from some implausible aspects, I enjoyed reading it. I tend to like books that deal with settings I'm familiar with, so having the book set in Nantucket, made it interesting to me. The topic of cooking is also one that appeals to me, and the whole process that Marguerite goes through in preparation for the dinner party made my mouth water. I had a hard time warming up to Renata and understanding her motivations and I was completely thrown by the timing of the last evening (the events taking place in two different locations didn't seem to line up). In any event, this would make a good beach read - light and enjoyable.
Technically, I finished this book. That is, you have to count fully skimming 2/3 of the book. I didn’t care for the characters or the story. Didn’t work for me.
Enjoyed this immensely- until the end. Found the destruction of her taste buds gruesome. I have been a fan of this author and especially appreciated that though bad things happen, there were no nightmare worthy "scenes"- until this book.
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Self harm, Toxic relationship
Moderate: Death of parent
Minor: Pregnancy
This was an early Elin Hilderbrand book. The writing was great but the story was just okay. It didn’t suck me in like her other ones do. I liked it enough to finish it but I wouldn’t recommend it as one of her better books.
I thought this one was so sad. Just a big ball of melancholy. All of the love to Marguerite, forever.
This is not my favorite of EH's books. There's a note in the back that says this started off as a short story and it feels like it. Underdeveloped and ends abruptly, IMO.
Highlights, as always, are Nantucket and food.
Highlights, as always, are Nantucket and food.
I loved that this book focused so much on food, always makes me hungry! The plot takes places over a 24 hours period and there is not one dull minute. The story lines of friendship, new marriage, tragedy, guilt and forgiveness keep you engaged every page.