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3.86 AVERAGE
3.86 AVERAGE
This was my first time to read a novel by Elin Hiderbrand and probably what I enjoyed most was the wonderful comparison of Nantucket with upstart beach community Martha's Vineyard. The story was a bit long though I did care about middle-age mom Kate who worries constantly about her beloved (and only) son who was drafted into the Army.
The various stories of the daughters were at times absorbing and it's hard not to feel all of the hurts of 13-year-old neglected Jessie, the child of Kate and her second husband. Kate's imperious grandmother tries to mask her youngest grand-daughter's Jewish last name and forces her to spend most of her time at a WASP-y country club. Some of the events of that summer and location are shoe-horned into the story in rather dramatic fashion. Of course, Kirby, who works for a prominent hotel on Martha's Vineyard near Chappaquiddick is going to meet her Mary Jo Kopechne and be invited to the same party Kopechne sadly died on her way home from and, of course, Kirby narrowly misses seeing a soaking wet Ted Kennedy upon his mysterious return to the hotel after the car accident that took Kopechne's life off Chappaquiddick Island.
Secrets abound with nearly all of the characters. I almost needed a flowchart to keep up with them, but this is a decent vacation book.
The various stories of the daughters were at times absorbing and it's hard not to feel all of the hurts of 13-year-old neglected Jessie, the child of Kate and her second husband. Kate's imperious grandmother tries to mask her youngest grand-daughter's Jewish last name and forces her to spend most of her time at a WASP-y country club. Some of the events of that summer and location are shoe-horned into the story in rather dramatic fashion. Of course, Kirby, who works for a prominent hotel on Martha's Vineyard near Chappaquiddick is going to meet her Mary Jo Kopechne and be invited to the same party Kopechne sadly died on her way home from and, of course, Kirby narrowly misses seeing a soaking wet Ted Kennedy upon his mysterious return to the hotel after the car accident that took Kopechne's life off Chappaquiddick Island.
Secrets abound with nearly all of the characters. I almost needed a flowchart to keep up with them, but this is a decent vacation book.
Dece. Strong family vibes. Interesting to learn about life in ‘69. More of a reflection on life than a big plot arc.
Didn’t want to put this one down. Easy to read and I’m a sucker for stories about girls/women discovering their inner strength.
Enjoyable, as a most Elin Hilderbrand books. I enjoyed the different generations and that the ending doesn’t try to wrap up cleanly.
This was a slow start book for me ... I had a hard time rally getting into it until about half way through the book! I am glad I powered through. Loved the line “people are people”!
I absolutely loved this book, it was everything I wanted in a summer read. Absolutely perfect. I felt that I was right there in Nantucket with Jessie, Blair, Kirby, and Kate living the experience with them. Loved how the author paints a vivid picture in your head - very detailed. I found myself laughing out loud at times. I absolutely loved this book and didn't want it to end!
While this book majorly stressed me out at some points, I think it was only because the language and writing were so well done. I thought the historical events were weaves into the story so seamlessly!
Comfy read. Love the Foley/Levin/Nichols family and all their drama. Read this on a quiet vacation and it was just perfect. Loved the addition of pop culture events if ‘69. Super fun touch! Will definitely pick up an Elin Hildebrand for my next vacay too.
I'm not usually a reader that goes for anything not set in present day, but *obviously* exceptions must be made for Elin Hilderbrand, and this finally came up in my library holds. Devoured in a day! SORRY I LOVE HER UNABASHEDLY AND THAT'S THAT.
Story of one family in 1969 on Nantucket/Martha’s Vineyard. Engaging and entertaining without being too deep. A nice, casual read with a plot that moves at just the right par.