Water Music: A Cape Cod Story

by Marcia Peck

The bridge at Sagamore was closed when we got there that summer of 1956. We had to cross the canal at Buzzards Bay over the only other roadway that tethered Cape Cod to the mainland. Thus twelve-year-old Lily Grainger, while safe from 'communists and the Pope', finds her family suddenly adrift. That was the summer the Andria Doria sank, pilot whales stranded, and Lily's father built a house he couldn't afford. Target practice on a nearby decommissioned Liberty Ship echoed not only the rancor in her parent's marriage, a rancor stoked by Lily's competitive uncle, but also Lily's troubles with her sister, her cousins, and especially with her mother. In her increasingly desperate efforts to salvage her parent's marriage, Lily discovers betrayals beyond her understanding as well as the small ways in which people try to rescue each other. She draws on her music lessons and her love of Cape Cod-from Sagamore and Monomoy to Nauset Spit and Wellfleet Dunes, seeking safe passage from the limited world of her salt marsh to the larger, open ocean.

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction

244 pages, Paperback

First published May 5, 2023

About the author

They say all first novels are part memoir, and indeed I did grow up in Belleville, New Jersey, my family did spend our summers on Cape Cod, and I had a marvelous cello teacher who very much resembled Alphius Metcalf. It took me a long time to write WATER MUSIC; in some ways, my whole life.

Growing up with parents who were both musicians, I set out, with a little goading from my father, to be the best cellist I could be. In fact, I was lucky to have had a number of remarkable teachers: Orlando Cole, revered cellist and pedagogue, who saw enough early promise in me to accept me to his class at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where I received my Bachelor of Music degree. It was an incredible break for an unsophisticated girl from New Jersey. I remember him and his generous sense of decency and gentlemanly kindness with great affection and gratitude.

My luck continued when I spent two years studying in Germany in the Master Class of the renowned Italian cellist, Antonio Janigro. Since then I’ve spent my musical career with the Minnesota Orchestra, where I met and married the handsome fourth horn player. And where my formidable colleagues, incredibly, only get better and better and better.

I’ve spent my summers with the Grand Teton Music Festival in Wyoming, renewing ties with musician friends from around the world (and catching up on industry gossip). There, over the years, I also learned the pleasures of backpacking. I came to fancy myself a mycologist, but in truth I’ve become so rusty that I now limit myself to store-bought and the occasional Morel foraged on a really good day.

The first book I truly fell in love with was Blue Willow by Doris Gates. I must have been in grammar school. I believe that the beloved china plate in that book finds its echo in WATER MUSIC. A college boyfriend got me reading The Lord of the Rings, which I uncharacteristically found bewitching, and T.S. Eliot, which I tried with only marginal success to memorize. Around that time I discovered The Lives and Times of Archy and Mehitabel by Don Marquis. And Mahler’s Tenth. Yes. Eclectic.

My own writing life snuck up on me. It first manifested as a journal after my daughter was born. She tolerated my reading to her for a charitably long time, but she put her foot down when I suggested Watership Down, which by then she was perfectly capable of reading herself. Two of my favorites from her early days: Grandfather Twilight by Barbara Berger and A Chair for My Mother by Vera Williams.

Books I’ve loved as an adult…way too many to name. But The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy made a huge impression on me. And A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. I used to go on kicks: John Gardner, Wallace Stegner, Steinbeck, the ancient Greece novels by Mary Renault. Now the stack grows higher and higher.

Pet peeve: incorrect direct object pronouns. In fact my friends would call me a grammar nerd, but I still get lay and lie wrong.

Growing up, I was a cat person. But I’ve learned to love dogs—even the naughty ones, maybe especially the naughty ones.

All in all, I look for the rhythms and sounds of music echoed in language and aspire to transpose some of that into my writing.

Reviews

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marcia Beck grew up in New Jersey and her family would spend their summers on Cape Cod. What she does in her debut novel is to tell the story of 12-year-old Lily Granger, her sister and parents about their travels and trials to the Cape one summer. The drive alone was taxing, but the rewards for the upcoming summer were promising.

Sadly, Lily does not get along with her sister, although they are only apart one year in age. She is also disconnected from her parents. In fact, her parents are often quite at odds with these summer trips to Cape Cod and her father’s dreams on making it a perfect summer residence.

A lot happens in those two months for Lily and her family. The year is 1956 and that summer brings a lot of sadness to Lily and her family. This compelling family drama brought back to our family trips both to Readville, Massachusetts and to Maine. Like Lily’s family, our car was crowded and there was often tension, but those memories were good. In the end this telling story of secrets and heartaches was a solid read and an excellent coming of age story.

Many thanks to Sea Crow Press and AME Tours for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Aakanksha Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Water Music by Marcia Peck is a poignant coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1956 on Cape Cod. Through the eyes of twelve-year-old Lily Grainger, the novel explores family tensions, personal betrayal, and the fragile efforts to hold everything together.

As external events like the sinking of the Andrea Doria and pilot whale strandings unfold, Lily witnesses similar upheavals within her family, especially between her parents and her competitive uncle. Marcia Peck’s vivid descriptions of Cape Cod’s salt marshes and dunes beautifully contrast with Lily’s inner turmoil.

Music becomes Lily’s refuge, offering a source of hope and understanding amidst the chaos. While the pacing slows at times, the emotional depth and evocative setting make the novel compelling and memorable. The book captures the bittersweet journey of growing up and the small, powerful ways people try to rescue each other.

A heartfelt, lyrical read that lingers long after finishing.

Read the detailed review here: Books Chharming

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Debut novel by Marcia Peck is a beautiful story of Lily and her family spending the summer in Cape Cod with all their trials and tribulations. It’s a lot of one girl to experience in one summer. There’s discord within the family, a death, a first crush, a hurricane, and a shipwreck! Peck describes everything with such precision that the picture is vividly painted in your mind. I felt for Lily as I experienced all of this through her eyes. I enjoyed Lily as a character, as well as many of the other characters. It felt at times that she was wise beyond her years. The story is relatable in some ways in that all families have their issues, and their secrets. Overall, this just a really beautiful story.

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Water Music by Marcia Peck is her debut novel and is loosely based on her life growing up in New Jersey and spending the summers on Cape Cod. While I enjoyed this book I did find it was a bit depressing. It pulled at my heartstrings and had me hoping that things would turn out for this family.

This story is about 12 year old Lily Grainger and her family spending the summer of 1956 on Cape Cod. There is so much heartache for this little girl. She is struggling and her parents are so wrapped up in their wants and needs, I feel Lily falls through the cracks. I have to hand it to her. She does not give up. My heart melted when she and her mother walked wide circles around each other. Her father was more compassionate but still had his own agenda. I wanted to put my arms around her and give her some encouragement.

There is a hurricane that comes through one night that was not supposed to be dangerous. Life was lost and the tides of their lives changed. Some for the better and some for the worst. This book gives us a lot to think about in our own relationships with our families. Although it was thought provoking it contained a sense of adventure for Lily and her cousins. 

If you love a good family saga that takes place in an earlier and maybe not so simple time, this should be a book you consider for your next read. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don't forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review!

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story, the author’s writing and location. Plus, clever chapter notations.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Money can’t buy a better meal. Just because it costs more doesn’t make lobster any the finer. A measure of Beethoven sounds no better in the ear of a wealthy man. And there is no clam anywhere tastier, fresher, or more perfectly cooked than the one you are swallowing right now.”

Although her father’s words are wise, eleven-year-old Lily Grainger knows that money will be needed to build her father’s dream of a summer residence on the 15 acres of land he purchased in Cape Cod.

For years, they made do with the converted Play House and a tent, but now the builders are set to start the long-awaited project. However, as financial troubles threaten her father's plans, tension grows between her parents.

Will this summer finally bring her father’s dreams to fruition, or will it become a summer that changes all their lives forever?

“Water Music: A Cape Cod Story” by Marcia Peck is an unforgettable exploration of family dynamics and the bittersweet essence of childhood summers. This compelling narrative immerses readers in the summer of 1956, where the sun-drenched beaches and rhythmic sound of the waves serve as both a beautiful backdrop and a poignant metaphor for the ebb and flow of family relationships. This story transcends mere nostalgia; it serves as a powerful reminder of how our past shapes who we are.

The narrative unfolds within a secluded community where life revolves around the serene waters of the "pond". At the centre of this idyllic setting is the Play-House, a charming temporary refuge for the Grainger family as they save up to build their own summer dream home on a picturesque plot of land. This ambitious purchase, however, stirs a maelstrom of anxiety and disagreement between Lily’s parents, adding layers of tension to the story. Yet, with the unwavering self-assurance characteristic of an 11-year-old, Lily remains optimistic. She believes that once the house is completed, her mother will realise the worries were unfounded and embrace the joy of their new life.

Across the tranquil expanse of the pond stands Uncle George’s imposing residence, affectionately dubbed “Bunker Hill.” However, the size of this house serves as a constant reminder to Lily’s parents of the wealth and success her Uncle George enjoys, contrasting starkly with her parents' own aspirations and anxieties around money.

The characters in this story are intricately developed, making them both engaging and relatable. Lily, the perceptive narrator, keenly observes the complex dynamics of her family, providing readers with a lens into their emotional landscape. Her father, Weston, is a pragmatic man with a heart of gold, striving to fulfil his duties as a provider while navigating the disappointment of his own unrealised dreams. The money towards building the summer residence is a constant worry for both him and his wife. Lydia, Lily’s mother, is a complicated character whose creative endeavours serve as both an escape and a means of expression. With her reserved demeanour, she often seems detached from the daily happenings of family life; at times, she appears to be simply going through the motions. She is more financially astute than her husband and cannot really understand his desire to build a summer residence that they simply cannot afford. Dodie, Lily’s older sister, can climb a tree and read a book with the same amount of pleasure. Lily looks up to her sister and often thinks that Dodie would know what to do in any given situation, whereas Lily sometimes flounders. The interactions among the family members are charged with a mix of tension and vulnerability, revealing their unique personalities and the subtle fractures that lie beneath their shared façade. These complexities weave a rich narrative, inviting readers to delve into the intricate web of family relationships.

Uncle George emerges as a formidable presence within the family; his domineering personality and lack of sensitivity often cast a shadow over family gatherings. In stark contrast, Aunt Fanny embodies fragility and passivity, often retreating into the background, amplifying the family dynamics with her quiet demeanour. Gloria, with her eye-catching, flamboyant style and fierce independence, serves as a breath of fresh air, consistently challenging Uncle George’s authority and stirring the pot of family drama. Her presence underscores the existing tensions between Weston and Lydia, hinting at an unsettling affair that Lily, naïve to these adult complexities, cannot grasp. For the reader, the subtle clues of this affair between George and Gloria unfold with an air of inevitability that casts a shadow over Aunt Fanny’s health.

Though Lydia’s mother, BerthaMelrose, remains elusive until the end of the novel, her chilling impact is felt throughout. BerthaMelrose is depicted as a self-absorbed woman, lacking any maternal instincts or warmth toward Lydia, her only daughter. This emotional neglect suggests a painful lineage, implying that Lydia’s coldness toward her own children stems from her tumultuous upbringing, marked by abuse and rejection as BerthaMelrose’s unwanted child. Through these detailed layers, the narrative invites readers to explore the profound effect of familial relationships and the generational patterns that shape them.

Peck’s detailed descriptions of the surroundings not only enhance the vividness of the setting but also deepen the emotional complexity among the characters. Amidst this backdrop, Lily finds solace in her beloved Triple Tree, an ancient oak with sprawling branches that seem to cradle her. It is here, in this sacred space, that Lily, her sister, and their cousin can retreat from the demands of reality, allowing their imaginations to soar as they weave dreams and adventures within the leaves.

The enduring power of music serves as a central theme that weaves through the narrative. Despite the distractions of summertime adventures with her sister and cousin, Lily dedicates herself to daily practising her cello. Each time she picks up her bow and begins to play, the echoing notes become a comforting routine in her life. To ensure she remains focused during the summer months, Lily’s father hires a skilled tutor, Mr Metcalf. With patience and enthusiasm, he reveals to Lily the enchanting world hidden within musical notation. Under his guidance, she discovers that practising is not just about perfecting notes and rhythms; it is a magical experience that unlocks emotions and stories waiting to be expressed. As summer draws to a close, Lily becomes increasingly determined to showcase her talent at the annual talent show held at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Her ambition is fuelled by her mother, Lydia, an accomplished pianist. Lydia’s music is her refuge, a place where she finds solace from the challenges of daily life. Meanwhile, Aunt Fanny joins in, her violin efforts reflecting her love for music, though she lacks the natural talent of her sister-in-law. Yet, with every note she plays, she radiates joy, proving that the heart of music lies not in perfection, but in the sheer pleasure of creation. As the narrative unfolds, readers are treated to vivid descriptions of soaring arpeggios that seem to dance in the air, embodying a sense of beauty and freedom. Through Lily’s journey, the story beautifully illustrates how music connects individuals, transcending barriers and nurturing the soul.

This novel immerses readers in a vivid exploration of nostalgia and introspection, skillfully interlacing threads of anxiety and tension that run subtly beneath the storyline. Peck artfully illuminates the irrepressible joy and freedom of childhood, painting scenes filled with sun-drenched afternoons of laughter, unrestrained playfulness, and the intoxicating sweetness of discovery. For the adults in this novel, things are slightly more complicated, Peck highlighting the heavier burdens of responsibility, societal expectations, and the inevitable confrontation and the weighty realities of life.

“Water Music: A Cape Cod Story” by Marcia Peck is a must-read for anyone longing to reconnect with the joys and struggles of family life, making it not just a tale of summers gone by, but a heartfelt reflection on the enduring bonds that define us.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A coming of age novel during the summer of 1956 in Cape Cod where all that mattered was childhood innocence and the long stretch of summer ahead. Told through the eyes of a twelve-year-old girl, we follow her tale through the summer when the teenage years are ahead and bits and pieces of adult conversation and situations now have meaning to them. Lily still an innocent child, is starting to grasp what is really happening in the life of her family and in one summer there is tragedy, a shipwreck, hope, a first crush and the start of what she is starting to see about adults and the reality of things in life while still wanting to be daddy’s girl, and do what mom pleases mommy. I enjoyed this summer story of the Grainger’s and each chapter was like a story of its own that added to the entire background of all that went on that summer. The author wrote with great detail and depth and I really liked Lily’s character as well as the personalities of her mother and father. I felt this novel was very true to most households and that no family is without its secrets, anger and competition. I recommend this for a breezy summer read. Thank you to Author Marketing Experts and to the author for the free novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Feathered Quill Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marcia Peck’s latest offering, Water Music: A Cape Cod Story, is written like a beautiful memory...rife with the innocence of youth and the harsh realities of life.

In the summer of 1956, just like the summers before and most likely the many that lie ahead, the Grainger family packed the family car to the hilt and set out once more for their annual trek to Cape Cod. Their home was New Jersey, but the Cape was their escape from the stifling heat of city streets and no ocean breezes. The Grainger’s ’53 Pontiac was virtually busting at its seams; leaving the slightest of space for Lily and her sister Dodie to wedge their way in amongst the endless chaos of ‘things they would need’ for a summer on the Cape. With memories yet to be made, Lily would lament about what adventures would unfold. One thing was certain, she would celebrate her twelfth birthday in August which was also the indicator that once it arrived, their time at the Cape was winding down to its end once more. This would also be the summer of a catastrophic event; the sinking of the opulent cruise ship Andrea Doria.

The Grainger family’s little slice of Heaven was a plot of land that fronted a salt pond. It was home to a bounty of clams and young crabs and directly across the pond from Uncle George and Aunt Fannie’s summer place. Lily looked forward to seeing her cousins, Nicole and Digory, again this summer. Digory was a strange bird and Lily opted more often than naught to avoid him whenever possible. Nicole, on the other hand, was closer in age to Dodie and sometimes Lily felt like a third wheel when the three girls were together. Uncle George was gregarious, and Aunt Fannie was quirky. However, Aunt Fannie and Lydia Grainger (Lily’s mother) were like sisters—Aunt Fannie being the sister Lydia never had. This would be the summer that the Graingers would build their summer cabin. No longer would they have to sleep in the old tent or clean the dinner dishes in the pond. It wouldn’t be stately, but it would have four solid walls, a fireplace and roof and they would finally have shelter from the outside elements come summer’s end. There was so much more in store for the Grainger family during the summer of ’56. What they couldn’t possibly know as they welcomed their summer, was the events that would unfold would change their lives forever.

Marcia Peck instantly sets the tone with her fantastic storytelling ability. Having lived on the Cape for a summer, it was such a treat to relate to and recognize places that are signature to the Cape, thanks to her eloquent descriptions. She weaves beautiful passages with adept word placement of vivid sceneries chapter upon chapter. There is a distinct moment when the Graingers arrive to their summer destination that captures the essence of the beginning of a summer on the Cape: "...Finally, I felt the air soften to that saline sweetness that cushioned the cries of the terns, which carried the tantalizing scent of something distant and wonderful, which caused the cormorants to lift off and wing slowly out to sea. We had all summer..." (pg. 16) She dances across the pages with a melodic, storyteller’s voice which is tantamount to an author’s ability to not only establish voice, but to show her audience how to experience what it feels like to be in the moment. There is a perfect ebb and flow between bittersweet as much as there is heartache when capturing family dynamics in fleeting moments of life that portray it truly isn’t perfect all the time.

Quill says: Water Music: A Cape Cod Story has the allure of another time… another place and welcomes the reader to absorb every moment and become a part of it throughout the telling.

[Matt McAvoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

It isn’t immediately clear just how much of this book is autobiographical, or even semi-biographical, if any at all, but I would suspect there is a fair amount of personal truth and life story of the author, or perhaps one of her immediate ancestors, in this heartfelt and emotionally charged tale. I wouldn’t really call it a coming-of-age story, as the first-person narrator is a little young, at twelve, to be considered that, but it does bear all the hallmarks of these slice-of-life childhood memoirs, of growing up in post-WW2 middle America, of which I read so many. It is presented with a vivid, rustic palette, the scenery and milieu of Cape Cod broad and sweeping. The author puts a great deal of emotion into the descriptive detail – more than enough to be instrumental in my belief that there may be a sizeable margin of fact in her book.

The thin story itself isn’t really the focus; this book is all about the growth of the characters, the lessons learned by young Lily, in her innocence, when subjected to the complex world of the grown-ups around her. There is no real darkness in this book, like some of the type, but rather instead warmth. There is tragedy, but it isn’t laid on thick and not really anybody’s fault, but rather more subtle, in the form of lives not working out as the adults would hope; parents arguing about life decisions and finances; petty rivalries which result in nothing more productive than waste and regret. It is a child’s-eye view of the real world yet to be learnt by them. Whilst I wouldn’t say I was totally gripped by events, I don’t think that was Marcia Peck’s point; I genuinely felt for some of the characters in this book, especially Lily’s hardworking, long-suffering father, who really seems to be getting it from all angles, even though he tries his best to always do best for his family. That said, the premise shouldn’t be overlooked, and this book was definitely at its best when attention was paid to Lily’s music, her family’s devotion to it and her own progress in the art – sadly, these moments were few and far between, which is conspicuous, to be honest, considering the book’s title.

In many respects, it is clear to see that this was a tale close to the author’s heart, and that is where she writes it from. Her writing style is detailed and affectionate, drawing you into a big country setting, yet still somehow presenting the insular feeling of personal struggle. She is an eloquent, poetic writer, who does this well. That said, much of what was going on felt very subjective to read, and sometimes a touch of a struggle to keep with, with its obscure narrative; I found myself instead rather relying on bullet points. If you like these post-war, post-depression-era mock memoirs of growing up in blue-collar, rural America, this one will definitely hit the right notes for you, and I do recommend Marcia’s writing style for a comfy, cosy read.

[Book Nerdection · Rating 5 out of 5]

To begin with, it would only be right for me to lay bare a personal bias, which affected my opinion of the book before the turn of the first page. I feel a deeply rooted sense of appreciation for literature based in the northwestern region of the United States, or any artistic writing produced by anyone who calls it home. Perhaps I have influenced the pattern that has arisen due to my pre-existing preferences leading me towards books of a certain kind, those with an honest voice that retell everything as it is layering the explicit with the implicit in a way that doesn’t shame readers for not understanding the difference in that immediate moment.

This style of writing is unpretentious, and acknowledges when it is with humility in the places where it has to be. It was made to meet people at their point of understanding whilst secreting parcels of wisdom within itself for readers to find whenever they are ready, at their own time. Marcia Peck has only managed to add to this prejudice of mine.

There are elements of this story that tease more senses than we may have words to describe that I will try my very best to explain.

The use of music whose definition I would like to expand to include the description of natural sounds, or its mention as a tool to filter information from our protagonists surroundings through a medium she understands better than any language is set beautifully into the composition of the story. The way the narrative is presented to us, through the eyes of a growing child, stuck in the awkward stage between the molting of her childish worldview and the acquisition or growth of a new, tougher skin. One reinforced by revelations; all of a sudden, things have more meaning than they were initially ascribed as in the case of Gloria and Uncle George’s relationship, and the true extent of BerthaMelrose’s cruelty, Lydia’s ferocity and Aunt Fanny’s struggles with her mental health.

We all remember the moments when the same film was stripped from our eyes. This story is a salve that soothes the hurt inflicted by that necessary transition as we find solidarity with Lily, for those of us who experienced similar themes as she does.

I could go on and on, but I will leave this here for now. It was a pleasure reading this for the first time and I’m certain it will continue to be every other time I reach for this story when the craving for emotion-stirring storytelling strikes.

Reviewed By Chantal

[Alejandro Soto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paradise Lost in the Tides of Summer

Marcia Peck's Water Music: A Cape Cod Story is a poignant exploration of family dynamics set against the backdrop of Cape Cod, Massachusetts during the summer of 1956. The novel unfolds through the eyes of twelve-year-old Lily Grainger, who witnesses the unravelling of her family's stability amidst external and internal turmoil. The closure of the Sagamore Bridge and the necessity to cross at Buzzards Bay symbolizes the sense of disconnection and upheaval that characterizes Lily's summer. The sinking of the Andrea Doria, the stranding of pilot whales, and the construction of an unaffordable house by Lily's father all serve as metaphors for the sinking morale and strained relationships within her family. As Lily navigates her parents' fraught marriage, her competitive uncle's influence, and her own struggles with her sister and cousins, she finds solace in her music lessons and the natural beauty of Cape Cod, offering a semblance of escape and hope.

The story weaves the perspectives of various family members, each grappling with hardship. Lily's father, Weston, a mild-mannered graduate student, contrasts sharply with her mother, Lydia, who is depicted as humourless and constrained by her upbringing in a wealthy, tradition-bound New England family. The competitive tension between Weston and his overbearing brother George, exacerbates the family's financial and emotional strain. As Hurricane Carolyn looms, the brewing storm mirrors the escalating conflicts, culminating in a dramatic climax that tests the family's resilience and capacity for reconciliation.

Peck's novel is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, skillfully capturing the innocence and confusion of a child caught in the crossfire of adult conflicts. Her lyrical descriptions of Cape Cod's landscape, evoke a sense of calm that differs with the underlying tension. The characters are richly drawn, each with their own virtues and flaws, making their interactions deeply human and compelling. An emotional rollercoaster, and a must-read for all.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Water Music: A Cape Cod Story, readers are swept into a poignant tale of a young girl, Lily, who strives to keep her family intact amidst the financial turbulence caused by her father's ambitious house project. This decision creates ripples that strain the delicate threads binding the family members. The impact is so profound that it leaves Lily feeling destabilized, akin to trees buffeted in a tempest. The emotional landscape of the family becomes all the more turbulent as suppressed sentiments come forth, leading to impassioned confrontations.

Marcia Peck crafts a captivating narrative, drawing parallels between the discord within the family and the ever-changing moods of nature. An evocative scene, wherein an intense altercation between Lily's parents coincides with a raging storm, is particularly striking. The obliteration of a tent belonging to Lily and Dodie serves as a poignant metaphor for their spiraling despair. Peck's narrative voice, characterized by its understated eloquence, resonates with readers. For example, her description of Lydia's piano playing – "Her fingers pressed the keys quietly, tenderly, and the notes slipped away into the night like dazed little fishes, released into murky water" – paints a vivid auditory and visual tableau.

One of the novel's strengths is its portrayal of intricate human relationships, particularly the nuanced dynamics between mother and daughter. Peck doesn't resort to black-and-white characterizations; instead, she presents each individual in shades of gray, compelling readers to empathize even when choices are less than ideal. A consistent motif throughout the narrative is music. It not only offers solace to Lily in her most vulnerable moments but also becomes a pivotal element that bridges growing chasms between characters.

Water Music: A Cape Cod Story is an evocative exploration of family, resilience, and the redemptive power of music. It's a must-read, certain to resonate with a wide range of readers.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
5th February 2024
TITLE: Water Music
AUTHOR: Marcia Peck

Star Rating: 5

‘A captivating coming-of-age/family drama populated by a host of intriguing characters. ’ The Wishing Shelf

REVIEW
I remember visiting Cape Cod back in the 1990s. I’d just finished being a tennis counsellor at a children’s summer camp in New Hampshire, and I went there to unwind before jetting back to England and university. So when I discovered this novel was set in Cape Cod, I happily settled down with it armed with a glass of wine and a very fluffy cat on my knee. And, I must say, I loved every page of it. The author is a very accomplished writer who offers the reader a rich setting populated by fully formed and, most importantly, interesting characters to get to know.
There were a number of elements of this novel I particularly enjoyed. Firstly, I liked the underlying musical theme. Lily, the young protagonist, has her cello and her music lessons; an important distraction for her when her family often seems to be falling apart. My three children also happen to be musicians, albeit violinists not cellists, and I enjoyed watching Lily’s musical ability develop throughout the novel. Secondly, I loved all the family drama; although, possibly, ‘loved’ is not the correct word. In fact, it’s all rather sad in parts - but still, utterly compelling. And, thirdly, I enjoyed the author’s style; it’s vibrant, almost lyrical, the author successfully using speech to not only develop the characters but also the story itself.
So, if you happen to be on the hunt for a character-led, historical novel, I happily recommend this to you. The 1950s Cape Cod setting feels so very comfy – like putting on old slippers – and the family dynamics and resulting drama will keep most readers turning the page.
All in all, a bit of a gem!

‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk

[Muhammed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marcia Peck's debut novel presents a captivating and emotional journey through the eyes of young Lily as she spends a transformative summer in Cape Cod with her family. This story beautifully intertwines the innocence of youth with the complexities of familial relationships, as Lily navigates a season filled with profound experiences. The narrative is rich with events that challenge her, from internal family discord and the tragedy of a death, to the excitement and uncertainty of a first crush, the chaos of a hurricane, and the drama of a shipwreck. Each of these elements is woven together seamlessly, creating a compelling and immersive read.

Peck’s descriptive prowess stands out, painting vivid pictures of Cape Cod and the characters' experiences. Her writing allows readers to feel as though they are walking alongside Lily, seeing the world through her eyes. The author's attention to detail and ability to convey emotion with precision makes every moment in the book feel real and significant.

Also, through the portrayal of Lily's musical struggles, readers can almost hear and feel the music, experiencing the joy and frustration of practicing and performing. This musical thread adds depth to Lily’s character, making her journey even more relatable and engaging. In the book, Peck explores the universal themes of growth, loss, and the complexity of human relationships.

The relatability of the story lies in its portrayal of a family grappling with secrets and struggles, a reality familiar to many readers. Despite the extraordinary events Lily encounters, the underlying message is one of connection and understanding within the family unit. Peck’s novel is not just a tale of summer adventures, but a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the journey toward self-discovery. Overall, it is a beautifully crafted story that resonates long after the final page is turned.

[Manik and Sayee |favbookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Water Music: A Cape Cod Story" by Marcia Peck is a thrilling novel that delves into the intricate dynamics of the Grainger family. The story kicks off with the family embarking on their summer vacation in Cape Cod, setting the stage for a riveting tale. A core theme that captivates readers is the exploration of family bonds, particularly Lily's deep connection with music.

Told from the perspective of 12-year-old Lily, the story paints vivid descriptions of the island, offering a unique glimpse into her world. Amidst family challenges, Lily turns to music to discover her voice, showcasing unwavering optimism even in the face of adversity.

This captivating narrative weaves together the stories of two families entangled in the legacies of Puritanism and colonialism, culminating in a climactic incident that shakes the Grainger family to its core. Through Lily's eyes, the novel masterfully portrays themes of resentment, envy, and anger, providing a poignant look into the complex dynamics between her parents and Uncle George.

The title, 'Water Music,' pays homage to the sea's pivotal role in the story. Living on an island, the characters draw inspiration from the sea, which also plays a crucial part in the novel's resolution. As Lily finds her musical rhythm, she realizes the ever-changing nature of life, encapsulated by the constant motion of the surrounding water.

"Water Music" stands as a tribute to the profound and transformative power of music, serving as a compelling reminder of how resilience and change can be discovered through music, much like finding solace in the enveloping embrace of the sea amidst life's challenges.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, this is gorgeously written. The author has an amazing ability to convey feelings while describing the characters’ surroundings. For example… “I knew the temperature by sound and by feel: the hot dry ratchet of grasshoppers, low pressures that lifted the hairs on my arm, those moody overcast days with air as smooth and chill as pencil lead. In every sound and smell I dared find happiness, as if happiness were as prevalent as the taste of salt.”

Twelve-year-old Lily’s coming-of-age story finds her discovering truths and secrets about herself and her family, and it all unfolds in a sad and beautiful way during one Cape Cod summer in 1956. The author, in words, paints a picture of each character so well that they instantly appear in the mind’s eye. Relationship struggles between mother and daughter, husband and wife, brother to brother, and more are all laid out for the reader to see through Lily’s eyes. This book sometimes quakes with emotion, and I definitely felt Lily’s reality. Since I am all about the “feels,” this completely worked for me. I also enjoyed the way music and emotion were often tied together. The plot was not tied up neatly at the end, and I think that was a great choice. That is not what life is like. This is a beautiful, musical, emotive novel that fans of literary fiction and historical fiction will love.

My rating is 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 on sites with no partial star option.

I received a free copy of this book. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marcia Peck skillfully has fit an amazing amount of content-rich, beautiful prose into this relatively short novel. There are many complicated relationships within this extended family who summers together in Cape Cod. As our narrator, Lily, who turns from 11 to 12 years old during the summer of 1956, does her best to describe the events and turmoil taking place both inside her own young developing mind, and within her surrounding family's dynamics, which grow stronger with each passing chapter (until the end). I liked how the author organized her chapters by naming them with brief descriptions of the Beaufort Number scale regarding wind conditions and what kind of effect they can have. For example, "Chapter 8, Fresh Gale or Gale: Beaufort Number 8; Wind Speed 39-46 MPH; twigs break off trees, progress is generally impaired" (pg 125)

A lovely theme influences many of the characters throughout: music. Whether family members play an instrument or just enjoy listening to records, music somehow keeps them connected even when they're feeling adrift. The wise-beyond-her-years Lily is learning to play and master the cello with regular practice and professional instruction. Although there are several tragic and sad plot lines and family stress and conflict, the novel ends with a hopeful glimpse of better things to follow for Lily and her loved ones.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Water Music is a well-written coming-of-age story that takes place in the summer of 1956. It is told through the innocent eyes of Lily, a twelve-year-old girl who is spending the summer on Cape Cod with them.

Peck’s debut novel is a beautiful blend of description woven into a touching story of family dynamics that are complicated and painful. To make it even more meaningful, it is loosely based on the author’s own experience.

There is a sense of fun and adventure for Lily, but at the same time, she is forced to grow in ways she couldn't have comprehended. Family members who have been tamping down deep-seated emotions over the years are overheard sharing. And Lily not only hears things meant for adult ears but witnesses actions that cause her to grow up quickly.

If you enjoy coming-of-age novels that revolve around family members, then I would highly recommend you check this book out.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Kate Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Tides filled and emptied our small world and I tried to figure out who belonged to whom."

In the summer of 1956, eleven-year-old (soon to be twelve) Lily Grainger describes her family’s annual summer vacation at their undeveloped property on the shore of a salt pond on Cape Cod. As this coming-of-age novel progresses, it mirrors the Beaufort scale of wind velocities that mark each chapter heading with increasing speeds and potential damages, an apt reminder of the increasing tension in Lily’s parents’ marriage and the marriage of her forceful Uncle George and delicate Aunt Fanny. Lily describes this crescendo of life-changing events in the prologue: “All summer the storm gathered and gathered, took its breath from every direction we thought we knew, and lashed us into spindrift.” Interestingly, the summer of 1956 is meaningful historically as the shipwreck of the Andrea Doria happened nearby on a July evening. . .

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[Emily Portman · Rating 4 out of 5]

An unforgettable coming-of-age story filled with the highs and lows of growing up, the importance of family and the power of music. When Lily and her family head for a summer in Cape Cod, they experience so much more than they bargained for; not only the joys of building a new home, playing music and creating memories in a new place, but also family feuds, secrets and heartache.

The author is a natural storyteller, her words so beautiful and her descriptions so rich and colourful. Whether it’s a scene of happiness and fun, or of darkness and pain, she writes in such a captivating way that completely draws you in. I loved how this author injects her own life experiences into this work of fiction, and her passion for the story really shines through. A moving, thought-provoking story with heart.

[Celia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read many books that have Cape Cod as the setting, because I love the Cape. It's a special place for me, so I was happy to read this book and have it flood me with memories of my summers on the Cape. Peck does a great job in creating the time period, and she certainly remembers what it's like to be a young girl because she hits it right on the head. I find it difficult when children have problems with their parents because I did love my parents so very much, so the dynamic that was going on between Lily and her mother was very strange and hard to wrap my head around what exactly was going on. It is a good read.

[J. Edmonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Water Music is richly and gorgeously written. The prologue offers quiet hints of discord in the Grainger family, and each chapter reveals that discord more and more clearly until their whole world blows apart. The narrator, 12-year-old Lily, takes a special place in readers' hearts as a talented complex character who experiences unfathomable raw hurt as she starts to understand her family's deep-seated resentments. Am sure other reviewers will express this in far better ways, but don't miss this novel.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good read for a rainy afternoon when a reader needs something enjoyable. The author does a very nice job of bringing out relationships between the parents and family. There is lessons of faith, growth, exploration, and compromise. I have found having 2 homes a strange concept yet living in the wide open spaced of the west, and not being crowded in smaller cities there was always room to run and explore. A beach home sounds wonderful and with the author sharing the characters description it felt like being there.

[CynthiaA · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up at Eight Cousins bookshop in Falmouth MA on our recent trip to the Cape. I love reading lesser known books from familiar places and this one was quite good.

This coming-of-age story set in the 1950s was a beautiful exploration of family dynamics. It reminded me of just how much the world has changed in the past 60 years, and yet how much is still the same. Very good writing and a strong sense of place. I quite enjoyed it.

[Declan Barnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, melancholic coming-of-age tale

I was completely swept up in Lily’s world—the Cape Cod of the 1950s comes alive through the author’s lyrical prose. The tensions within the family felt raw and deeply real, and Lily’s journey to make sense of it all was both heartbreaking and hopeful. I especially loved how music and the Cape’s natural beauty became symbols of escape and healing. A quiet, powerful novel.

[Maxwell Flanagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotionally rich and quietly profound

This book took its time with me—in the best possible way. Marcia Peck’s writing is evocative and immersive, pulling you into a summer full of conflict, discovery, and longing. Lily is a deeply sympathetic protagonist, and her voice captures the confusion of adolescence with such honesty. It reminded me of the emotional depth of classic literary fiction with a fresh, coastal twist.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Read most of it on Cape Cod. It evokes the memories I have of being on the cape in the 1950’s. The writing is so beautiful, the characters real. The narrator is 12 years old the summer this story takes place. She describes her family as she understands them. Highly recommend! This is on my kindle.

[Bridget · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author's love for the cape shines through in this story of one family's summer. The tension builds the summer Lily turns 12, with plenty of family drama and finding one's place in life. Well rounded characters and a good pace make this a quick read.

[Joy Kidney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A winsome story, beautifully wrought.

[Lindsay Bice · Rating 4 out of 5]

good read

Dives into all of the different dynamics of family life from a twelve year olds perspective. An enjoyable read for sure!