Harper is feeling overwhelmed by her many responsibilities and life complications on Martha’s Vineyard: the care of her very ill father, her work – such as it is – and not one but two relationships (both complicated). When her father dies and her estranged twin sister, Tabitha, Tabitha’s daughter, and her own mother come to the memorial service, the secrets Harper has been harboring pretty much explode wide open. On the other hand, life has not been easy for Tabitha either, in her home on Nantucket. She is juggling her flailing business (started by her renowned mother), her out-of-control daughter, who has become a (mean and spoiled) queen bee, even while nursing her own longtime loss. When her father dies, she feels an obligation to attend his memorial service and her life pretty much explodes open as well.
This is another cleverly crafted, fun-but-not-fluffy read from Elin Hilderbrand. The narrative manages to maintain just enough cringe, humor, and painful secrets that it builds into quite a twisted plot involving both sisters. We see how the rival islands, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket personify the rival between the sisters, which in turn echoes the rival between their parents. As their stories are gradually revealed, we learn how secrets can completely undo a family, almost irrevocably.
We also learn how loss can be devastating and how we cope can determine our future happiness. When we allow blame, guilt and regret to overwhelm us, we can cripple ourselves emotionally. On the other hand, when we look inward and find a way toward forgiveness – of ourselves and of others – we may find release. This is not easy and often it may take outside support, but it may be the only way to achieve joy.
Hildebrand has a way of allowing us to meet her beautiful characters, follow them through their twisty journeys, and enjoy the ride alongside them. You may find your heart opening in unexpected ways!
