The Summer Wives: a book review

The Summer Wives: A Novel

Beatriz Williams

Released July 10, 2018

Published by William Morrow

The Summer Wives is a novel that follows a few characters over the course of several summers decades apart on an island in New England. It is a study of relationships, of the working class year-rounders vs. the wealthy summer families. It is about loss, love, family, friendship, and secrets.

The story moves between three summers in the 1930s, 1950s, and 1960s to weave together a history of the island’s inhabitants. There are scandals, but the people keep these to themselves, unwilling to share with outsiders, because even if there is a crime, it is their crime.

I selected this book as my July Book of the Month pick. I had just returned from a weekend in Newport, Rhode Island where I had toured some of the famed mansions -- the quaint 37,000-square foot summer homes. For me, it brought the story to life. I could picture the lighthouse, the summer parties, the hidden beach, the cliffs of the island in the novel.

This is a wonderful summer read. Take it to the beach or to your porch on these sticky summer nights, and immerse yourself in The Summer Wives.

Disclaimer: I purchased this book with my own money through Book of the Month Club.