Elin Hilderbrand

a novel

The island

Samantha Seeman

It's funny, but one of the "conversation with Elin Hilderbrand" questions/answers really put a bow on this novel for me, sort to speak. When asked "why do you think women in general, and the women in this novel in particular, are so consumed by guilt over the failure of their relationships?" Elin Hilderbrand responded "I think many women feel they are meant to nurture, and many times - lets just say - women end up "taking care" of their husbands as well as their children. --- Women tend to feel guilty when they want things for themselves. Why? I don't know, but it makes a great topic for fiction."
I found this to strike a rather alarming cord within myself, since it is something I absolutely battle with today, and have battled with for the better part of my short life. 
Although I wouldn't say this book "changed my life" or is an absolute "must read" that one discussion question alone will certainly seal this book's value in my personal opinion. I certainly will be looking to read more of Hilderbrand's books in the future because of it.

Birdie Cousins has planned a getaway with her daughter Chess on rustic, charming Tuckernuck Island off the coast of Nantucket, a chance to bond before Chess's upcoming marriage. Birdie's been through a difficult divorce herself, so she knows the big commitment that marriage entails. She's only recently dared to tiptoe back into the waters of romance. When Chess abruptly breaks off the wedding and her fiancé shockingly dies in a rock climbing accident, it leaves Chess feeling guilty and deeply depressed. Birdie circles the wagons, convincing her younger daughter Tate, and her own sister India to join them on Tuckernuck for the month of July. Secrets and intrigue soon make their way to the surface, as Elin Hilderbrand once again weaves a masterful story of summer suspense.

The island a novel

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