What do you think?
Rate this book
The Summer Wives
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Historical Fiction (2018)New York Times bestselling author Beatriz Williams brings us the blockbuster novel of the season—an electrifying postwar fable of love, class, power, and redemption set among the inhabitants of an island off the New England coast . . .
In the summer of 1951, Miranda Schuyler arrives on elite, secretive Winthrop Island as a schoolgirl from the margins of high society, still reeling from the loss of her father in the Second World War. When her beautiful mother marries Hugh Fisher, whose summer house on Winthrop overlooks the famous lighthouse, Miranda’s catapulted into a heady new world of pedigrees and cocktails, status and swimming pools. Isobel Fisher, Miranda’s new stepsister—all long legs and world-weary bravado, engaged to a wealthy Island scion—is eager to draw Miranda into the arcane customs of Winthrop society.
But beneath the island’s patrician surface, there are really two clans: the summer families with their steadfast ways and quiet obsessions, and the working class of Portuguese fishermen and domestic workers who earn their living on the water and in the laundries of the summer houses. Uneasy among Isobel’s privileged friends, Miranda finds herself drawn to Joseph Vargas, whose father keeps the lighthouse with his mysterious wife. In summer, Joseph helps his father in the lobster boats, but in the autumn he returns to Brown University, where he’s determined to make something of himself. Since childhood, Joseph’s enjoyed an intense, complex friendship with Isobel Fisher, and as the summer winds to its end, Miranda’s caught in a catastrophe that will shatter Winthrop’s hard-won tranquility and banish Miranda from the island for nearly two decades.
Now, in the landmark summer of 1969, Miranda returns at last, as a renowned Shakespearean actress hiding a terrible heartbreak. On its surface, the Island remains the same—determined to keep the outside world from its shores, fiercely loyal to those who belong. But the formerly powerful Fisher family is a shadow of itself, and Joseph Vargas has recently escaped the prison where he was incarcerated for the murder of Miranda’s stepfather eighteen years earlier. What’s more, Miranda herself is no longer a naïve teenager, and she begins a fierce, inexorable quest for justice for the man she once loved . . . even if it means uncovering every last one of the secrets that bind together the families of Winthrop Island.
In the summer of 1951, Miranda Schuyler arrives on elite, secretive Winthrop Island as a schoolgirl from the margins of high society, still reeling from the loss of her father in the Second World War. When her beautiful mother marries Hugh Fisher, whose summer house on Winthrop overlooks the famous lighthouse, Miranda’s catapulted into a heady new world of pedigrees and cocktails, status and swimming pools. Isobel Fisher, Miranda’s new stepsister—all long legs and world-weary bravado, engaged to a wealthy Island scion—is eager to draw Miranda into the arcane customs of Winthrop society.
But beneath the island’s patrician surface, there are really two clans: the summer families with their steadfast ways and quiet obsessions, and the working class of Portuguese fishermen and domestic workers who earn their living on the water and in the laundries of the summer houses. Uneasy among Isobel’s privileged friends, Miranda finds herself drawn to Joseph Vargas, whose father keeps the lighthouse with his mysterious wife. In summer, Joseph helps his father in the lobster boats, but in the autumn he returns to Brown University, where he’s determined to make something of himself. Since childhood, Joseph’s enjoyed an intense, complex friendship with Isobel Fisher, and as the summer winds to its end, Miranda’s caught in a catastrophe that will shatter Winthrop’s hard-won tranquility and banish Miranda from the island for nearly two decades.
Now, in the landmark summer of 1969, Miranda returns at last, as a renowned Shakespearean actress hiding a terrible heartbreak. On its surface, the Island remains the same—determined to keep the outside world from its shores, fiercely loyal to those who belong. But the formerly powerful Fisher family is a shadow of itself, and Joseph Vargas has recently escaped the prison where he was incarcerated for the murder of Miranda’s stepfather eighteen years earlier. What’s more, Miranda herself is no longer a naïve teenager, and she begins a fierce, inexorable quest for justice for the man she once loved . . . even if it means uncovering every last one of the secrets that bind together the families of Winthrop Island.
367 pages, Hardcover
First published July 10, 2018
6873 people are currently reading
96996 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,304 reviews
July 29, 2018
3.5 stars
“Nobody ever says what they really mean. There is this vast fabric of tender little lies, and all the important things are unspoken. Boiling there underneath. We only bother telling the truth when it’s too small to count.”
Dark secrets, lies, and betrayals set the stage for The Summer Wives. This chaotic saga is built around exclusive Winthrop Island, where the rich vacation and the locals live modest lives. The class lines create a comfortable divide, but when boundaries are crossed, it leads to a great tragedy.
Three timelines which take place during the summer months over the course of 40 years divide the narrative. While there are multiple characters and storylines, the main focus is on film actress Miranda Thomas, the stepdaughter of infamous islander Hugh Fisher.
The novel begins In 1969 when Miranda returns to her family’s crumbling estate on elite Winthrop Island. It’s been 18 years since Miranda fled the island to build a new life. Is it a coincidence that her first love, Joseph, has recently escaped from prison?
Even though there is a lot going on with the many timelines and characters, I didn’t have a difficult time keeping up with the various events. The narrative is structured into an easy to read pattern that is continuously repeated throughout the novel: it begins in 1931, switches to 1951, and then transitions into 1969.
I would have liked to have read more about the storyline that takes place in the 1930’s and I found the language of the 1950’s timeline was a bit contrived. I think that there was just too much that Williams was trying to weave in, and as a result, there were too many loose threads that didn’t come together. I also found the ending to be overly dramatic and rushed.
What I enjoyed most was reading about Winthrop island; Williams does a beautiful job of bringing the island to life. It’s just too bad that the plot didn’t match the beauty of the setting!
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway!
“Nobody ever says what they really mean. There is this vast fabric of tender little lies, and all the important things are unspoken. Boiling there underneath. We only bother telling the truth when it’s too small to count.”
Dark secrets, lies, and betrayals set the stage for The Summer Wives. This chaotic saga is built around exclusive Winthrop Island, where the rich vacation and the locals live modest lives. The class lines create a comfortable divide, but when boundaries are crossed, it leads to a great tragedy.
Three timelines which take place during the summer months over the course of 40 years divide the narrative. While there are multiple characters and storylines, the main focus is on film actress Miranda Thomas, the stepdaughter of infamous islander Hugh Fisher.
The novel begins In 1969 when Miranda returns to her family’s crumbling estate on elite Winthrop Island. It’s been 18 years since Miranda fled the island to build a new life. Is it a coincidence that her first love, Joseph, has recently escaped from prison?
Even though there is a lot going on with the many timelines and characters, I didn’t have a difficult time keeping up with the various events. The narrative is structured into an easy to read pattern that is continuously repeated throughout the novel: it begins in 1931, switches to 1951, and then transitions into 1969.
I would have liked to have read more about the storyline that takes place in the 1930’s and I found the language of the 1950’s timeline was a bit contrived. I think that there was just too much that Williams was trying to weave in, and as a result, there were too many loose threads that didn’t come together. I also found the ending to be overly dramatic and rushed.
What I enjoyed most was reading about Winthrop island; Williams does a beautiful job of bringing the island to life. It’s just too bad that the plot didn’t match the beauty of the setting!
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway!
August 18, 2018
I was pretty much bored throughout most of this book, and while it wasn’t bad enough for me to DNF it, I didn’t at any point feel compelled to pick it up.
Miranda, a national movie star, returns back to an American island after many years of absence. This island is a closed community where everyone knows each other and their secrets, and Miranda is visibly nervous to go back and reveal herself.
The closed and protective community of this island is what drives the plot forward, and I wasn’t buying into it. Many of the characters’ decisions and behaviour were irrational, and combined with a pretty predictable family drama that I feel like I’ve read many times over, I felt a constant disconnect to both the characters and the plot. Beatriz Williams tries to interweave some Shakespeare into the plot which was a feasable try and maybe one of the only things that I liked.
If you are new to family dramas and secrets unfolding over 400 pages, this book might be interesting. But if you’ve read your fair share of these, I’m pretty sure you’re going to be able to look through the plot of “The Summer Wives” and pretty much guess how things are going to unfold and how it’s all going to end.
Miranda, a national movie star, returns back to an American island after many years of absence. This island is a closed community where everyone knows each other and their secrets, and Miranda is visibly nervous to go back and reveal herself.
The closed and protective community of this island is what drives the plot forward, and I wasn’t buying into it. Many of the characters’ decisions and behaviour were irrational, and combined with a pretty predictable family drama that I feel like I’ve read many times over, I felt a constant disconnect to both the characters and the plot. Beatriz Williams tries to interweave some Shakespeare into the plot which was a feasable try and maybe one of the only things that I liked.
If you are new to family dramas and secrets unfolding over 400 pages, this book might be interesting. But if you’ve read your fair share of these, I’m pretty sure you’re going to be able to look through the plot of “The Summer Wives” and pretty much guess how things are going to unfold and how it’s all going to end.
July 23, 2018
Someone was wrongly accused of murder! And then someone else was impregnated out of wedlock! And then someone else set fire to a building! Also something about a lighthouse! AND EVERYONE INVOLVED WAS INCREDIBLY ATTRACTIVE!
August 18, 2018
THE HAVES AND THE HAVE NOTS......the genesis of many a tome. Here, it is a summer enclave on Long Island Sound, where the wealthy come to their summer mansions, their country club, their parties. The year round people make their living from shops, as servants and from the ocean. Miranda arrives at the age of seventeen, when her mother marries into one of these wealthy families, not used to the ways of the rich. She will fall in love and become entangled in something she little understands.
Different timelines, one from the past, one in the present, and one when Miranda returns to the island as an adult. Nicely written, but I am not the target reader for this book. As a light summer read it is entertaining, so it will make a good beach read. I am not a fan though, of soap opera type novels, and this one novel would make a great one. Nor am I am fan of dramatic, and the ending of this book contains plenty. So, in essence, a lighter change of pace read, and z great book to take to the beach or on vacation.
Different timelines, one from the past, one in the present, and one when Miranda returns to the island as an adult. Nicely written, but I am not the target reader for this book. As a light summer read it is entertaining, so it will make a good beach read. I am not a fan though, of soap opera type novels, and this one novel would make a great one. Nor am I am fan of dramatic, and the ending of this book contains plenty. So, in essence, a lighter change of pace read, and z great book to take to the beach or on vacation.
February 9, 2018
Miranda Schuyler has arrived on Winthrop Island in the summer of 1951. Her mother is set to marry Hugh Fisher, and after the wedding she will be spending the summer in his home with her new stepsister, Isobel. Miranda soon realizes there are two types of people on the island, the wealthy who come to the island to stay in their vacation homes and dine at the country club, and the working class make ends meet by catering to the rich. As Isobel shows her around the island, Miranda is drawn to Joseph Vargas, who helps his father in the lobster boats and lives in the lighthouse across from the Fisher family home. Before summer's end, Miranda's path changes course and she leaves the island due to tragic circumstances. Decades later when she returns she realizes the island is still full of secrets as she attempts to seek justice.
What I enjoyed about this book was due to the alternating timelines, you had an idea of what happened early on but needed the rest of the pieces to the puzzle to see the whole picture. I wouldn't say there were any truly shocking plot twists in this book but I still had a hard time putting the book down. I really enjoyed seeing the people of the island through the perspectives of Miranda and Bianca. The setting of Winthrop Island and how the rich and working class interacted were strong assets and made the book all the more enjoyable.
My only disappointment with the book came with the ending. I didn't feel like it was the most satisfying ending. I don't know how to describe it other than when I finished the book I walked away with a "meh" type feeling whereas up until the last few chapters of the book, I had really enjoyed watching the story unfold. It certainly isn't a bad ending but for me it was the weakest part of the book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
What I enjoyed about this book was due to the alternating timelines, you had an idea of what happened early on but needed the rest of the pieces to the puzzle to see the whole picture. I wouldn't say there were any truly shocking plot twists in this book but I still had a hard time putting the book down. I really enjoyed seeing the people of the island through the perspectives of Miranda and Bianca. The setting of Winthrop Island and how the rich and working class interacted were strong assets and made the book all the more enjoyable.
My only disappointment with the book came with the ending. I didn't feel like it was the most satisfying ending. I don't know how to describe it other than when I finished the book I walked away with a "meh" type feeling whereas up until the last few chapters of the book, I had really enjoyed watching the story unfold. It certainly isn't a bad ending but for me it was the weakest part of the book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
January 27, 2019
Another elegant and mesmerizing read by Beatriz Williams. I've come to enjoy Ms. Williams' books. They are kind of like visiting an old friend. The Summer Wives is a story that weaves multiple timelines into a twisty and satisfying ending. Although the twists were not jaw dropping (I was able to guess what was probably going on midway through), it is nonetheless an absorbing story that is hard to put down. We meet the Fisher family who spend their summers living on Fisher's Island in the long island sound area. The wealthy Fishers' lives intersect with those of the locals, which impacts two generations of love and heartbreak. This book is probably best enjoyed with a mojito in hand on a warm beach. It is decadent chick lit that makes the heart sing.
July 23, 2018
The Summer Wives was another book by the wonderful Beatriz Williams. She can tell a story unlike anyone else and I felt like I was right back there in time! I did find myself getting confused because of so many different characters and all the different time periods and because of that I didn’t finish this book. It was just dragging too much for me. I’m very disappointed in this one. I know I’m in the minority for not loving this one.
January 9, 2019
Please find full review on my blog: https://umutreviews.wordpress.com/201...
I love a good historical fiction full of family saga, some mysteries of the past and a bit of romance. This book is exactly that!
The book is set up in several time frames, and we travel within these times back and forth. I love this type of books in which we travel in time to slowly put the whole picture together. And this book really keeps you on the edge till the VERY end 🙂
Miranda Schuyler is our main character, who arrives to Winthrop Island at the age of 18, in 1951. This island is a secretive community, who like to keep things to themselves, no matter what. Her pretty mother marries Hugh Fisher and they move into his grand summer house overlooking a lighthouse. Soon, we realise the dynamics of the two classes. The island has its rich elite society, who reside in summer. On the other hand, working class like Portuguese fisherman, stuff who serve in the summer houses, etc.
The book opens with Miranda stepping foot on the island in 1969, and after that we go back and forth in time to try to understand what really happened to draw her away for so long.
I really enjoyed this slow burning mystery. It had a lot of dimension and complexity. We got to know the characters throughout the events, and discover who they really are. Its content is rich with class dynamics, different characters, murder mystery, and romance. The writing was beautiful as well. It kept me turning the pages because I wanted to tie the knots together and see what actually happened. It was a really good summer read.
It was a bit short of 5 stars because I would have liked a bit more insight about the historical setting in those times. Plus, it was a bit difficult to understand the characters and time frames at the beginning of the book. So, would be better if there was more structure to it.
Thanks a lot to Harper Collins UK for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I love a good historical fiction full of family saga, some mysteries of the past and a bit of romance. This book is exactly that!
The book is set up in several time frames, and we travel within these times back and forth. I love this type of books in which we travel in time to slowly put the whole picture together. And this book really keeps you on the edge till the VERY end 🙂
Miranda Schuyler is our main character, who arrives to Winthrop Island at the age of 18, in 1951. This island is a secretive community, who like to keep things to themselves, no matter what. Her pretty mother marries Hugh Fisher and they move into his grand summer house overlooking a lighthouse. Soon, we realise the dynamics of the two classes. The island has its rich elite society, who reside in summer. On the other hand, working class like Portuguese fisherman, stuff who serve in the summer houses, etc.
The book opens with Miranda stepping foot on the island in 1969, and after that we go back and forth in time to try to understand what really happened to draw her away for so long.
I really enjoyed this slow burning mystery. It had a lot of dimension and complexity. We got to know the characters throughout the events, and discover who they really are. Its content is rich with class dynamics, different characters, murder mystery, and romance. The writing was beautiful as well. It kept me turning the pages because I wanted to tie the knots together and see what actually happened. It was a really good summer read.
It was a bit short of 5 stars because I would have liked a bit more insight about the historical setting in those times. Plus, it was a bit difficult to understand the characters and time frames at the beginning of the book. So, would be better if there was more structure to it.
Thanks a lot to Harper Collins UK for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2018
Miranda has come back after eighteen years to the island where she has spent every summer since her mother married into the prestigious Fisher family. She hasn’t told anyone the reason why she has returned to Winthrop’s Island with bruises that no one mentions, but since she stays for a relatively long time, the reason can be assumed even though it might be the wrong guess.
Miranda's return isn’t a welcome event even after all of this time, though, because of her testimony at the trial of the lighthouse keeper’s son back in 1951 when she was eighteen and in love with the accused.
Miranda hadn’t grown up with the elite and wealthy. When her mother married Hugh Fisher after her father was killed in WWII, she is introduced to that life and also sees how the year-round residents who fish and work as domestics live.
THE SUMMER WIVES goes back and forth from 1930 to 1951 and then to 1969. We learn about Miranda’s life, the lives of the Fisher and Monk families, the lives of other island residents, and how the lives of the domestic help are all connected by one specific incident during those years.
I enjoyed the story from the 1950’s the best. It was the most interesting and the least confusing. The 1930’s didn’t make sense to me how it fit in, but as I kept reading, I found out that it kept a secret and held a BIG surprise.
Ms. Williams has written another book that will hold your interest but has a bit of confusing story line with all the back and forth.
THE SUMMER WIVES is a story of the typical antics and lives of privileged families. We learn that most of the Winthrop Island families may have had money, but most of them are not happy.
THE SUMMER WIVES has a great setting, good story line, and has characters with problems and secrets both past and present.
I enjoyed Ms. Williams’ latest even though it dragged a bit at times, but the ending had it all coming together and was very satisfying. 4/5
I received an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
April 12, 2019
Miranda Schuyler returns to Winthrop Island, her former home she left 18 years before following tragic events. She’s now a famous Shakespearean actress married to a famous director and this is the first time she’s visited since then. A lot happened then and she’s not quite sure why she’s back but has reached a pivotal point in her life and is hoping the Island will help her find answers to questions she hasn’t even asked.
The story is told through Miranda’s point of view, transitioning between 1951, the year she first arrived on Winthrop Island, and 1969, the year of her return. The other narrative is provided by Bianca Medeiro in 1930, a crucial year when the future of so many of the characters important to the story in the present was shaped. I normally like past and present alternations but here it was extremely confusing, primarily because I didn’t know who Bianca was for such a long time into the story and had no context in which to place her narratives. And, Miranda’s reasons for leaving the island and for her return were shrouded in secrets, revealed slowly throughout the book. Maybe if I knew more about both women earlier, I could have become more invested in their stories. As presented, I never felt part of them or could experience what they did before, during and after their significant events.
It’s still an interesting story, one I sort of untangled before the big mysteries were revealed. The characterizations of those who “summered” on the island and those who lived there year round were well done. I got a really good sense of the dynamics of the cultures and how they coexisted. Miranda’s acting world was also fascinating. But, I failed to connect with anyone important in the story and their behaviors were often inexplicable, especially Miranda’s relationship with her mother and stepsister. I listened to the book and wonder if reading it would have been a better experience, even though the narrator delivered a fine performance. 3.5 stars
The story is told through Miranda’s point of view, transitioning between 1951, the year she first arrived on Winthrop Island, and 1969, the year of her return. The other narrative is provided by Bianca Medeiro in 1930, a crucial year when the future of so many of the characters important to the story in the present was shaped. I normally like past and present alternations but here it was extremely confusing, primarily because I didn’t know who Bianca was for such a long time into the story and had no context in which to place her narratives. And, Miranda’s reasons for leaving the island and for her return were shrouded in secrets, revealed slowly throughout the book. Maybe if I knew more about both women earlier, I could have become more invested in their stories. As presented, I never felt part of them or could experience what they did before, during and after their significant events.
It’s still an interesting story, one I sort of untangled before the big mysteries were revealed. The characterizations of those who “summered” on the island and those who lived there year round were well done. I got a really good sense of the dynamics of the cultures and how they coexisted. Miranda’s acting world was also fascinating. But, I failed to connect with anyone important in the story and their behaviors were often inexplicable, especially Miranda’s relationship with her mother and stepsister. I listened to the book and wonder if reading it would have been a better experience, even though the narrator delivered a fine performance. 3.5 stars
October 27, 2024
I have come to enjoy this author.
This story weaves multiple timelines into a twisty and satisfying ending. Although the twists were not jaw dropping (I was able to guess what was probably going on midway through), it is still an absorbing story that is hard to put down.
Told in alternating time periods between two women, the author weaves these storylines and events together while always maintaining a sense of romance and suspense revolving around two very different families on the island.
Readers will experience much in this story. Forbidden love. A movie star. A mystery. Murder.
And...A beautiful coastal setting. 3.5 stars rounded up.
This story weaves multiple timelines into a twisty and satisfying ending. Although the twists were not jaw dropping (I was able to guess what was probably going on midway through), it is still an absorbing story that is hard to put down.
Told in alternating time periods between two women, the author weaves these storylines and events together while always maintaining a sense of romance and suspense revolving around two very different families on the island.
Readers will experience much in this story. Forbidden love. A movie star. A mystery. Murder.
And...A beautiful coastal setting. 3.5 stars rounded up.
August 28, 2018
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
2.5 Stars
Before I begin, let me say that this is not a book that normally falls into my wheelhouse when it comes to my “must reads.” So how did I end up with it? Well, there are several reasons. To begin with, where I live . . . .
Also, along with my favorite time of year of bulky sweaters that hide my fat, comes my arch nemesis of basic bitches . . . .
*shudder*
So I figured I might as well read as many “summery” things as possible before the spice of the pumpkin officially invades the universe (a week early, no less, FFS!). This one actually had the dang word in the title so bonus.
Second, this book has been all overSatan’s Website Instagram which has made my library checkouts pretty much the equivalent of . . . .
And finally, despite the fact that the never-ending blurb there was no chance I was ever going to read probably laid out the entire story to me, in my mind I was convinced that I was getting ready to experience . . . .
(And yes I realize I should have just re-read fucking Peyton Place I know, but whatever. I do what I want.)
Upon starting, I was crossing my fingers for a bit of Middlesex to be thrown in for good measure. I guess in the most generic way possible this was a teensie bit Peyton Place with a splash of Middlesex. It just wasn’t very page-turny for me and even my husband remarked that he hoped my spending an entire weekend on one book did not result in a rage of the Firestarter variety. But again, this isn’t my usual bag so take my mediocre rating with a grain of salt.
2.5 Stars
Before I begin, let me say that this is not a book that normally falls into my wheelhouse when it comes to my “must reads.” So how did I end up with it? Well, there are several reasons. To begin with, where I live . . . .
Also, along with my favorite time of year of bulky sweaters that hide my fat, comes my arch nemesis of basic bitches . . . .
*shudder*
So I figured I might as well read as many “summery” things as possible before the spice of the pumpkin officially invades the universe (a week early, no less, FFS!). This one actually had the dang word in the title so bonus.
Second, this book has been all over
And finally, despite the fact that the never-ending blurb there was no chance I was ever going to read probably laid out the entire story to me, in my mind I was convinced that I was getting ready to experience . . . .
(And yes I realize I should have just re-read fucking Peyton Place I know, but whatever. I do what I want.)
Upon starting, I was crossing my fingers for a bit of Middlesex to be thrown in for good measure. I guess in the most generic way possible this was a teensie bit Peyton Place with a splash of Middlesex. It just wasn’t very page-turny for me and even my husband remarked that he hoped my spending an entire weekend on one book did not result in a rage of the Firestarter variety. But again, this isn’t my usual bag so take my mediocre rating with a grain of salt.
May 23, 2018
4.5 stars Thanks to BookBrowse and William Morrow for allowing me to read and review this ARC. Publication July 10, 2018.
Although I have heard that Beatriz Williams was a good author, I had never read her before. I do have a number of her books on my TBR list however. Now that I have read one of her books, all the rest of them need to be elevated to the top of my reading list. I found her character development to be superb. The story line was well thought out and flowed well, while bouncing between the years of 1930, 1951 and 1969 and alternating between Miranda Schuyler Thomas and Bianca Medeiro.
An Island of summer homes, where the rich and elite vacationed throughout each summer. Miranda was thrown into the mix when her mother married Hugh and Isobel's father. One of her first acquaintances on the Island was the son of the light house keeper, Joseph, one of the poorer working year-round residents. As the summer draws to a close Miranda is banished from the Island and Joseph is imprisoned for murder.
Eighteen years later Miranda returns to the Island, still being dismissed by the social elite. Joseph has escaped from prison - is he back at the Island? Isobel, who had always laid claim to Joseph, is still as spoiled and remains in the inner circle of popularity. Miranda wants to reignite the love she had for Joseph and prove his innocence. It does not take long for the Island's secrets to begin to unravel.
Although I have heard that Beatriz Williams was a good author, I had never read her before. I do have a number of her books on my TBR list however. Now that I have read one of her books, all the rest of them need to be elevated to the top of my reading list. I found her character development to be superb. The story line was well thought out and flowed well, while bouncing between the years of 1930, 1951 and 1969 and alternating between Miranda Schuyler Thomas and Bianca Medeiro.
An Island of summer homes, where the rich and elite vacationed throughout each summer. Miranda was thrown into the mix when her mother married Hugh and Isobel's father. One of her first acquaintances on the Island was the son of the light house keeper, Joseph, one of the poorer working year-round residents. As the summer draws to a close Miranda is banished from the Island and Joseph is imprisoned for murder.
Eighteen years later Miranda returns to the Island, still being dismissed by the social elite. Joseph has escaped from prison - is he back at the Island? Isobel, who had always laid claim to Joseph, is still as spoiled and remains in the inner circle of popularity. Miranda wants to reignite the love she had for Joseph and prove his innocence. It does not take long for the Island's secrets to begin to unravel.
March 13, 2018
I have mixed feelings about this book.
First, the writing is very pretty. It's sensual, and paints evocative pictures. I forgot I was reading about a fictional place in America, it seems very European all the way through. So it's got that going for it.
The conflict is also well thought out. Miranda makes an excellent main character, and the conflict of the well to do summer residents vs. the working class plays out well.
The negatives: the plot kind of drags. I am honestly kind of tired of reading books where the narrative isn't linear. In this case as in many others, the jumps in the timeline as well as in the point of view don't help the plot. And to be honest I wasn't 100 percent sure what the plot was until the last 10 percent of the book.
Also, the book is a bit soapier than I would have liked. I'm not sure what I was expecting but with a few of the plot's twists and turns I could hear the organ chords, "Dun Dun DUN!"
Anyway, I don't know if I'd recommend. Perhaps my expectations were too high? There are lots of things I'd rather read. I would have quit but I got too far into it.. I ended up skimming lots.
First, the writing is very pretty. It's sensual, and paints evocative pictures. I forgot I was reading about a fictional place in America, it seems very European all the way through. So it's got that going for it.
The conflict is also well thought out. Miranda makes an excellent main character, and the conflict of the well to do summer residents vs. the working class plays out well.
The negatives: the plot kind of drags. I am honestly kind of tired of reading books where the narrative isn't linear. In this case as in many others, the jumps in the timeline as well as in the point of view don't help the plot. And to be honest I wasn't 100 percent sure what the plot was until the last 10 percent of the book.
Also, the book is a bit soapier than I would have liked. I'm not sure what I was expecting but with a few of the plot's twists and turns I could hear the organ chords, "Dun Dun DUN!"
Anyway, I don't know if I'd recommend. Perhaps my expectations were too high? There are lots of things I'd rather read. I would have quit but I got too far into it.. I ended up skimming lots.
August 18, 2018
Thanks to TLC Book Tours and William Morrow Books for this free review copy!
.
Set on an exclusive island of elite wealth in Long Island Sound, THE SUMMER WIVES bounces between 1930, 1951 and 1969. Williams masterfully weaves these storylines and events together while always maintaining a taut tone of romance and suspense revolving around two very different families on the island - one year-round Portuguese family and one of the wealthy New England summer clans.
.
There is really something for most readers in this tale ~ forbidden love warring with dutiful marriage, a movie star, mystery, murder and a gorgeous Atlantic coastal setting. Definitely one of my very top picks for summer 2018!
.
Set on an exclusive island of elite wealth in Long Island Sound, THE SUMMER WIVES bounces between 1930, 1951 and 1969. Williams masterfully weaves these storylines and events together while always maintaining a taut tone of romance and suspense revolving around two very different families on the island - one year-round Portuguese family and one of the wealthy New England summer clans.
.
There is really something for most readers in this tale ~ forbidden love warring with dutiful marriage, a movie star, mystery, murder and a gorgeous Atlantic coastal setting. Definitely one of my very top picks for summer 2018!
January 16, 2018
This could be my favorite book of 2018 no matter what I read moving forward. This is the book you recommend to a friend when they say to you, " I need a good page turner". It is full of mystery, romance and drama. It captures you from page one and never lets you down. Of course until you finish the book and you want to read more. Don't try to explain to people what it is about just simply tell them to trust you. I do advise readers to pay attention to every character no matter how insignificant they seem. Every character has a part to play and you will understand as you move through the pages.
This is the book where you may have to go back to see if you forgot something. I loved Summer Wives and can't wait to read another Beatriz Williams in the future.
This is the book where you may have to go back to see if you forgot something. I loved Summer Wives and can't wait to read another Beatriz Williams in the future.
June 13, 2021
Ha. I persevere in reading book-club fiction, women's fiction, and assorted stuff everybody loves but I hate. (See: 'Big Little Lies.') And here I am rewarded: an engaging, well-paced story with credible, interesting characters, a meaningful plot, suspense, intrigue, and lots of sex.
On the exclusive island off Long Island, the Families (ultra-rich dynasties) 'summer' in their ocean-view mansions, while the permanent residents of the island work hard and serve them. The weakest aspect is the title: wealthy, powerful men screw their way through the inexperienced local daughters, making whatever promises are necessary to get laid. Somebody refers to these mistresses as summer wives, since they only see their married, engaged, and generally lying lovers during the summer season. It's 'Great Gatsby' modernized with sex and powerful women. (And a plot--what the hell is Gatsby about? I was forced to read it in middle school, a sure recipe for rejection.)
There are twists and surprises, a murder, and everyone, rich and poor, are trapped in their social strata, prisoners of their family traditions and the general patriarchy.
Williams is an evocative writer, with the minor exception that she uses a lot of filters in her first-person narrative--I saw the boat approaching, I heard Isabel's footsteps, I could tell the tide had turned-- it's first-person, for Word's sake, we know it's you who saw/heard/could tell, just describe!
The book raises bigger questions, beyond the obvious ones, such as, are all men willing to lie to get laid (mostly, yes) and are all 17-year-old women ready to fall for the promises of a wealthy, well-groomed man (probably.)
The book takes place in 1931, 1951, and 1969, touching on three generations. At this time and previously, who is responsible for the valuation of women based on virginity? Men screw women, and they're manly. Women screw men and they're sinners, of low morals, disgraced, worthless. Obviously, the system is perpetuated by men, who control the money, the power, and want to control women in the same way. But women have always had bargaining power they haven't used--all the sleazeballs in this book would marry their 'summer wife' if she withheld sex and/or threatened scandal. But the women play by the rules [rules made by the men] while the men cheat the rules, nudge-nudge, wink-wink.
Is it the church? That's a big factor in this book. The priests (all men, though celibate since Martin Luther, more or less) have interpreted the bible to say that a women who has sex is evil, while a man who has sex is three-hail-marys forgivable. Without the church to pervert sex, would women have given up their power?
But I digress. An interesting and thought-provoking story.
On the exclusive island off Long Island, the Families (ultra-rich dynasties) 'summer' in their ocean-view mansions, while the permanent residents of the island work hard and serve them. The weakest aspect is the title: wealthy, powerful men screw their way through the inexperienced local daughters, making whatever promises are necessary to get laid. Somebody refers to these mistresses as summer wives, since they only see their married, engaged, and generally lying lovers during the summer season. It's 'Great Gatsby' modernized with sex and powerful women. (And a plot--what the hell is Gatsby about? I was forced to read it in middle school, a sure recipe for rejection.)
There are twists and surprises, a murder, and everyone, rich and poor, are trapped in their social strata, prisoners of their family traditions and the general patriarchy.
Williams is an evocative writer, with the minor exception that she uses a lot of filters in her first-person narrative--I saw the boat approaching, I heard Isabel's footsteps, I could tell the tide had turned-- it's first-person, for Word's sake, we know it's you who saw/heard/could tell, just describe!
The book raises bigger questions, beyond the obvious ones, such as, are all men willing to lie to get laid (mostly, yes) and are all 17-year-old women ready to fall for the promises of a wealthy, well-groomed man (probably.)
The book takes place in 1931, 1951, and 1969, touching on three generations. At this time and previously, who is responsible for the valuation of women based on virginity? Men screw women, and they're manly. Women screw men and they're sinners, of low morals, disgraced, worthless. Obviously, the system is perpetuated by men, who control the money, the power, and want to control women in the same way. But women have always had bargaining power they haven't used--all the sleazeballs in this book would marry their 'summer wife' if she withheld sex and/or threatened scandal. But the women play by the rules [rules made by the men] while the men cheat the rules, nudge-nudge, wink-wink.
Is it the church? That's a big factor in this book. The priests (all men, though celibate since Martin Luther, more or less) have interpreted the bible to say that a women who has sex is evil, while a man who has sex is three-hail-marys forgivable. Without the church to pervert sex, would women have given up their power?
But I digress. An interesting and thought-provoking story.
June 6, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up. I listened to the audio CD of Summer Wives written by Beatriz Williams and narrated by Kristin Kelbly. This was my second attempt at reading this book. The first time I tried reading the hard cover version but just couldn’t get into it. I found it confusing with all the characters that were introduced. Listening to the audio CD this time, I was determined to persevere and I was glad that I did. It was well written, masterfully plotted and included several rich and well developed characters. It was also well researched by Beatriz Williams.
Summer Wives took place on Winthrop Island, an island not far from both the shores of Long Island and Rhode Island. Winthrop Island was a place where the wealthy summered and boasted their status and country club life. The wealthy summer inhabitants lived among the locals that were comprised of working class families including Portuguese fishermen and domestic laborers. The class distinctions and conflicts between the very wealthy and the locals were glaringly obvious on this exclusive summer enclave. It took place during the summers of 1930, 1951 and 1969. It was about class status, love, romance, seduction, secrets, murder, betrayal and compassion. It had the elements of suspense, mystery and conflict. The ending had me at the edge of my seat. I particularly liked Miranda Schyler’s and Joseph Vargas’ characters. They were believable and likable and I found myself immersed in their complicated yet simple love that developed between them. Would Miranda and Joseph be able to rekindle the love they felt for each other that began all those years before? Could Miranda help prove Joseph’s innocence of the murder conviction he had been charged with? Would Miranda have to expose long kept secrets to ensure that justice was upheld?
I have read several books by Beatriz Williams and although Summer Wives was not my absolute favorite book that she has written, I did enjoy it. The ending was suspenseful and included some twists that I did not expect. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a bit of romance and mystery.
Summer Wives took place on Winthrop Island, an island not far from both the shores of Long Island and Rhode Island. Winthrop Island was a place where the wealthy summered and boasted their status and country club life. The wealthy summer inhabitants lived among the locals that were comprised of working class families including Portuguese fishermen and domestic laborers. The class distinctions and conflicts between the very wealthy and the locals were glaringly obvious on this exclusive summer enclave. It took place during the summers of 1930, 1951 and 1969. It was about class status, love, romance, seduction, secrets, murder, betrayal and compassion. It had the elements of suspense, mystery and conflict. The ending had me at the edge of my seat. I particularly liked Miranda Schyler’s and Joseph Vargas’ characters. They were believable and likable and I found myself immersed in their complicated yet simple love that developed between them. Would Miranda and Joseph be able to rekindle the love they felt for each other that began all those years before? Could Miranda help prove Joseph’s innocence of the murder conviction he had been charged with? Would Miranda have to expose long kept secrets to ensure that justice was upheld?
I have read several books by Beatriz Williams and although Summer Wives was not my absolute favorite book that she has written, I did enjoy it. The ending was suspenseful and included some twists that I did not expect. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a bit of romance and mystery.
July 5, 2021
Miranda has come back to Winthrop Island after 18 years. No one knows why she has returned. She is now a famous actress, but has bruises on her face. She needs to heal in more ways than one. She hasn’t been back to the island since the murder of her step father Hugh Fisher. She was only 18 when this happened. Why did she return now, when the convicted killer of her step father has escaped from prison. Her mother and step sister are unwelcoming to Miranda.
This book has three interconnected story lines with very interesting characters.
Each has its own story to tell.
I love reading books that are set near where I live. This book is set on Winthrop Island, the real name is Fischer’s Island. This island is between Long Island and Connecticut. I live on Long Island, but would have to go to Connecticut to access a ferry to Fisher’s Island.
Since the turn of the century some famous people have summered there.
Names like Roosevelt, DuPont, Firestone and Whitney.
A great summer read.
This book has three interconnected story lines with very interesting characters.
Each has its own story to tell.
I love reading books that are set near where I live. This book is set on Winthrop Island, the real name is Fischer’s Island. This island is between Long Island and Connecticut. I live on Long Island, but would have to go to Connecticut to access a ferry to Fisher’s Island.
Since the turn of the century some famous people have summered there.
Names like Roosevelt, DuPont, Firestone and Whitney.
A great summer read.
July 22, 2018
This book is wonderfully reviewed and very much hyped. So I am clearly going against the tide with this rating. I cannot even remember the last time I gave a book 1 star. I so very rarely give just a single star as I usually find something I like about a book. But take head, dear reader, this is going to be harsh review. I found this book a waste of time and money.
Let's start off with a quick summary first. This book generally follows the character of Miranda Schuyler as she visits Winthrop Island. The rich come to play on this island in the summer months and the lower class Islanders work year round. Miranda gets caught in a world that exists between both classes and tries to navigate her feelings for her family and for a fisherman she falls in love with.
This book consists of several timelines that weave together to tell the story. I do not mind a book that has several timelines, but I did not think these weaved together well. I was often confused and had to reread passages to figure out who was who. Also, I assume the many timelines served the purpose of keeping the reader guessing about the plot. This would have worked if the plot was not predictable! I guessed the big "twists" in the novel well before they happened.
This brings us to the main problem with this book and it is this book's deplorable plot; it is overly dramatic, soapy, and predictable every step of the way. I rolled my eyes so many times I probably cannot see straight anymore. This was disappointing too as I had been really looking forward to this book's release and was excited when it came up as a Book of the Month option. This is probably my biggest letdown read of 2018 thus far.
That all said, most people really seem to love it so chances are you will love it too. Read it yourself to find out. If you read it and are as unimpressed as I am then come find me. I will empathize with any rant about this read.
Let's start off with a quick summary first. This book generally follows the character of Miranda Schuyler as she visits Winthrop Island. The rich come to play on this island in the summer months and the lower class Islanders work year round. Miranda gets caught in a world that exists between both classes and tries to navigate her feelings for her family and for a fisherman she falls in love with.
This book consists of several timelines that weave together to tell the story. I do not mind a book that has several timelines, but I did not think these weaved together well. I was often confused and had to reread passages to figure out who was who. Also, I assume the many timelines served the purpose of keeping the reader guessing about the plot. This would have worked if the plot was not predictable! I guessed the big "twists" in the novel well before they happened.
This brings us to the main problem with this book and it is this book's deplorable plot; it is overly dramatic, soapy, and predictable every step of the way. I rolled my eyes so many times I probably cannot see straight anymore. This was disappointing too as I had been really looking forward to this book's release and was excited when it came up as a Book of the Month option. This is probably my biggest letdown read of 2018 thus far.
That all said, most people really seem to love it so chances are you will love it too. Read it yourself to find out. If you read it and are as unimpressed as I am then come find me. I will empathize with any rant about this read.
June 24, 2022
A dark, sensual drama of secrets and love lost. Told in alternating times and points of view we see the damage that unkept promises cause, the consequences of lust, loyalty, honor. Filled with anger and resolve, this novel attests to the power of words and vows, to love and the quest of justice and freedom.
September 7, 2018
Some reasons for 3 stars:
- Many parts were predictable.
-I would have like a chart of all the families names. It would not ruin a surprise
-The ending I did not like.
-However, I did like the time period.
- Many parts were predictable.
-I would have like a chart of all the families names. It would not ruin a surprise
-The ending I did not like.
-However, I did like the time period.
July 17, 2018
Beatriz Williams is back with another perfect summer read.
Miranda Schuyler arrives on Winthrop Island in 1951 with her mother, who is about to marry Hugh Fisher. She is drawn in to a world of high class parties and money, something she knows nothing about. She ends up falling for Joseph Vargas, a fishermen on the island. This is not acceptable as there is a clear distinction between those who live on the island and those who simply spend their summers there.
Almost 20 years later, Miranda returns to the island to try and solve unanswered questions and chase away old ghosts. I truly enjoyed this summer read.
Miranda Schuyler arrives on Winthrop Island in 1951 with her mother, who is about to marry Hugh Fisher. She is drawn in to a world of high class parties and money, something she knows nothing about. She ends up falling for Joseph Vargas, a fishermen on the island. This is not acceptable as there is a clear distinction between those who live on the island and those who simply spend their summers there.
Almost 20 years later, Miranda returns to the island to try and solve unanswered questions and chase away old ghosts. I truly enjoyed this summer read.
July 18, 2018
Thank you so much to TLC Book Tours and William Morrow Books for this gorgeous free copy of THE SUMMER WIVES by Beatriz Williams - all opinions are my own.
This is my second Beatriz Williams novel and it was everything I hoped it would be: a story with mystery, murder, drama, and romance, told in alternating time periods, spanning decades with two narratives that only Williams can execute so flawlessly. Miranda Schuyler arrives at Winthrop Island located in Long Island Sound in the summer of 1951. Her mother is set to marry Hugh Fisher and she is then to move in with her new family including her soon to be stepsister, Isobel. While on the island, Miranda meets and is smitten with the lighthouse keeper’s son, Joseph Vargas. Before summer’s end, tragedy strikes and Miranda leaves the island for nearly two decades before she returns.
This story revolves around several characters, but every one of them does have a distinct purpose, so it’s more enjoyable not to rush it. I really enjoyed the personalities of the two narrators, Miranda Schuyler Thomas and Bianca Medeiro. Williams is a master at writing vivid, picturesque, and dreamy descriptions that make you immediately want to go wherever she writes, drinking many many cocktails with her characters. And it was interesting to see the difference between the local, hardworking residents versus the wealthy, vacationing at their summer home, seasonal residents. All of the characters were well-thought-out and basically leaped off the pages. The novel starts with an intriguing murder mystery and proceeds to take you through a compelling, thoughtful story with fantastic and interesting characters. It’s the perfect summer read!
This is my second Beatriz Williams novel and it was everything I hoped it would be: a story with mystery, murder, drama, and romance, told in alternating time periods, spanning decades with two narratives that only Williams can execute so flawlessly. Miranda Schuyler arrives at Winthrop Island located in Long Island Sound in the summer of 1951. Her mother is set to marry Hugh Fisher and she is then to move in with her new family including her soon to be stepsister, Isobel. While on the island, Miranda meets and is smitten with the lighthouse keeper’s son, Joseph Vargas. Before summer’s end, tragedy strikes and Miranda leaves the island for nearly two decades before she returns.
This story revolves around several characters, but every one of them does have a distinct purpose, so it’s more enjoyable not to rush it. I really enjoyed the personalities of the two narrators, Miranda Schuyler Thomas and Bianca Medeiro. Williams is a master at writing vivid, picturesque, and dreamy descriptions that make you immediately want to go wherever she writes, drinking many many cocktails with her characters. And it was interesting to see the difference between the local, hardworking residents versus the wealthy, vacationing at their summer home, seasonal residents. All of the characters were well-thought-out and basically leaped off the pages. The novel starts with an intriguing murder mystery and proceeds to take you through a compelling, thoughtful story with fantastic and interesting characters. It’s the perfect summer read!
July 31, 2018
This had the feel of a daytime soap opera. I’m not a fan of those, so maybe that’s why this didn’t work for me. Additionally, I didn’t feel convinced of the love affairs of the various characters, who all seemed like stereotypes. I thought the writing was ok, but the narration on the audiobook was so-so.
August 7, 2018
What I love about Beatriz Williams books are how they are all connected to the Schuyler family, one way or another. This didn't I know when I started to read the books. So, it was with delight that I discovered that the books even when they are not part of a series are in some way connected. I have yet to read Overseas, Fall of Poppies and The Forgotten Room (there is a Schuyler in this one woohoo), but I will get to them soon I hope! Also, I'm dying to read the upcoming book: The Wicked Redhead!
THE SUMMER WIVES have three different storylines, first, we have the 30s with Bianca Medeiro. Then, we have Miranda Schuyler in the 50s and finally Miranda again in the 60s storyline. These three storylines are interwoven in the book, and slowly they will reveal the connection. Bianca Medeiro story is the one that feels a bit like an outsider since both other stories are from Miranda's POV. However, Bianca's story is a vital part of the story.
One thing I truly love about THE SUMMER WIVES are all the characters. Williams always writes such wonderful characters and I'm not even a big fan of romance stories. But, I think her ability to write characters with such depth and also her way of creating a story that engrosses you is the key to her success. You like the characters, they have weakness and are portrayed as human. Every time I finish a book is it with a bit of sadness because I just love the characters. This is why I love it when a Schuyler pops up in another book.
THE SUMMER WIVES is a marvelous book, and I recommend it warmly. To be honest, I recommend all the book by Williams!
I want to thank William Morrow for providing me with a free copy through Edelweiss for an honest review!
THE SUMMER WIVES have three different storylines, first, we have the 30s with Bianca Medeiro. Then, we have Miranda Schuyler in the 50s and finally Miranda again in the 60s storyline. These three storylines are interwoven in the book, and slowly they will reveal the connection. Bianca Medeiro story is the one that feels a bit like an outsider since both other stories are from Miranda's POV. However, Bianca's story is a vital part of the story.
One thing I truly love about THE SUMMER WIVES are all the characters. Williams always writes such wonderful characters and I'm not even a big fan of romance stories. But, I think her ability to write characters with such depth and also her way of creating a story that engrosses you is the key to her success. You like the characters, they have weakness and are portrayed as human. Every time I finish a book is it with a bit of sadness because I just love the characters. This is why I love it when a Schuyler pops up in another book.
THE SUMMER WIVES is a marvelous book, and I recommend it warmly. To be honest, I recommend all the book by Williams!
I want to thank William Morrow for providing me with a free copy through Edelweiss for an honest review!
November 13, 2018
Miranda has come back after eighteen years to the island where she has spent every summer since her mother married into the prestigious Fisher family. She hasn’t told anyone the reason why she has returned to Winthrop’s Island with bruises that no one mentions, but since she stays for a relatively long time, the reason can be assumed even though it might be the wrong guess.
Miranda's return isn’t a welcome event even after all of this time, though, because of her testimony at the trial of the lighthouse keeper’s son back in 1951 when she was eighteen and in love with the accused.
Miranda hadn’t grown up with the elite and wealthy. When her mother married Hugh Fisher after her father was killed in WWII, she is introduced to that life and also sees how the year-round residents who fish and work as domestics live.
THE SUMMER WIVES goes back and forth from 1930 to 1951 and then to 1969. We learn about Miranda’s life, the lives of the Fisher and Monk families, the lives of other island residents, and how the lives of the domestic help are all connected by one specific incident during those years.
I enjoyed the story from the 1950’s the best. It was the most interesting and the least confusing. The 1930’s didn’t make sense to me how it fit in, but as I kept reading, I found out that it kept a secret and held a BIG surprise.
Ms. Williams has written another book that will hold your interest but has a bit of confusing story line with all the back and forth.
THE SUMMER WIVES is a story of the typical antics and lives of privileged families. We learn that most of the Winthrop Island families may have had money, but most of them are not happy.
THE SUMMER WIVES has a great setting, good story line, and has characters with problems and secrets both past and present.
I enjoyed Ms. Williams’ latest even though it dragged a bit at times, but the ending had it all coming together and was very satisfying. 4/5
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Read
July 1, 2018Why I Love It
by Liberty Hardy
There’s no time like the present to sink into an enchanting historical novel. I present to you The Summer Wives, a fantastic page-turner set on a New England island where the very privileged live and play. There’s mystery! There’s romance! There are waves crashing and hearts pounding! It’s perfect.
It’s 1951 on Winthrop Island and Miranda Schulyer has returned from boarding school to spend the summer at her new stepfather’s home. Here she will meet Joseph, a friend of her icy new stepsister, and attempt to navigate the complicated politics of privilege and status that separate the wealthy “summer people” from the islanders. Dining at the elite country club one moment and cruising in a fisherman’s boat the next, Miranda finds herself caught between two worlds—especially after tragedy strikes. Eighteen years later, now a star of stage and screen, Miranda returns to the island to face the truth of what happened all those years ago.
The story is engrossing and Williams’ writing is luxurious. And there’s something delightful about reading a book set in a time when all the answers can’t immediately be found on someone’s phone. This was the perfect read for lounging in a hammock and escaping the world. Get yours today! (Hammock not included.)
Read more at: https://www.bookofthemonth.com/the-su...
by Liberty Hardy
There’s no time like the present to sink into an enchanting historical novel. I present to you The Summer Wives, a fantastic page-turner set on a New England island where the very privileged live and play. There’s mystery! There’s romance! There are waves crashing and hearts pounding! It’s perfect.
It’s 1951 on Winthrop Island and Miranda Schulyer has returned from boarding school to spend the summer at her new stepfather’s home. Here she will meet Joseph, a friend of her icy new stepsister, and attempt to navigate the complicated politics of privilege and status that separate the wealthy “summer people” from the islanders. Dining at the elite country club one moment and cruising in a fisherman’s boat the next, Miranda finds herself caught between two worlds—especially after tragedy strikes. Eighteen years later, now a star of stage and screen, Miranda returns to the island to face the truth of what happened all those years ago.
The story is engrossing and Williams’ writing is luxurious. And there’s something delightful about reading a book set in a time when all the answers can’t immediately be found on someone’s phone. This was the perfect read for lounging in a hammock and escaping the world. Get yours today! (Hammock not included.)
Read more at: https://www.bookofthemonth.com/the-su...
August 25, 2018
The fateful summer still lay before me, a reel of film waiting to unspool, and how could I know that I was right now witnessing its first momentous scene? I mean, you never do suspect what inconsequential event will change the course of your life.
Miranda Schuyler visits Winthrop Island for her mother’s wedding to Hugh Fisher. She finds herself in a new world of the privileged upper class with her own “tour guide,” her half-sister Isobel Fisher. Miranda soon learns that Winthrop Island consists of the upper crust who come in the summer months and the poor Portuguese working class who are year-round inhabitants. Her new stepsister schools her in the importance of money and privilege.
“Money’s such a lovely thing to have. I don’t know what I’d do without it. Work or something, I guess.” She yawned. “Except what? I’m just like Daddy, no good for anything except decoration and conversation.
“But then I’d be poor. I’d be nobody.” She rolled on her side. “Don’t you see? They’ve got us trapped. We can’t live without this, it’s what makes us special. What makes us better than everybody else. We don’t like to admit it, it’s un-American to admit it, but it’s true. When you have money and prestige—especially prestige—you think you deserve it, somehow, and everybody else is just—ordinary. Nobody else matters.
Miranda is attracted to Joseph Vargas, a lobster fisherman who works with his father and lives in the Lighthouse. He is trying to improve his life and is attending Brown University.
I only thought that he had a warm, beautiful smile, the most beautiful smile I’d ever seen, and in the instant before I ducked my head, I knew I was in love with him. Just imagine. As innocent, as uncomplicated as that. I still remember that moment, that sweet, shy revelation, remember it fondly, because it only comes once in your life, and then it’s gone. You can’t have it back.
Miranda, now a well-known actress, returns 18 years later and we slowly learn why she stayed away for so long. Joseph has just escaped prison where he is serving a sentence for killing Miranda’s stepdad. Will Miranda and Joseph reunite?
I liked Summer Wives and recommend it as a summer beach book or a light read. It has a little bit of everything — romance, mystery, adventure, and historical fiction. It is a compelling story that kept me reading. Williams does a great job in establishing the setting, making the reader feel as if they have travelled to Winthrop Island.
Summer Wives covers three time periods — 1930, 1951 and 1969 and the story moves back and forth between these time periods. The book started off slow for me because it began (after a brief foreword set in 1969) )with the 1930s storyline which I found confusing. It was difficult to get so many characters straight and who was who in the 1930s but it finally came together later in the story.
Miranda Schuyler visits Winthrop Island for her mother’s wedding to Hugh Fisher. She finds herself in a new world of the privileged upper class with her own “tour guide,” her half-sister Isobel Fisher. Miranda soon learns that Winthrop Island consists of the upper crust who come in the summer months and the poor Portuguese working class who are year-round inhabitants. Her new stepsister schools her in the importance of money and privilege.
“Money’s such a lovely thing to have. I don’t know what I’d do without it. Work or something, I guess.” She yawned. “Except what? I’m just like Daddy, no good for anything except decoration and conversation.
“But then I’d be poor. I’d be nobody.” She rolled on her side. “Don’t you see? They’ve got us trapped. We can’t live without this, it’s what makes us special. What makes us better than everybody else. We don’t like to admit it, it’s un-American to admit it, but it’s true. When you have money and prestige—especially prestige—you think you deserve it, somehow, and everybody else is just—ordinary. Nobody else matters.
Miranda is attracted to Joseph Vargas, a lobster fisherman who works with his father and lives in the Lighthouse. He is trying to improve his life and is attending Brown University.
I only thought that he had a warm, beautiful smile, the most beautiful smile I’d ever seen, and in the instant before I ducked my head, I knew I was in love with him. Just imagine. As innocent, as uncomplicated as that. I still remember that moment, that sweet, shy revelation, remember it fondly, because it only comes once in your life, and then it’s gone. You can’t have it back.
Miranda, now a well-known actress, returns 18 years later and we slowly learn why she stayed away for so long. Joseph has just escaped prison where he is serving a sentence for killing Miranda’s stepdad. Will Miranda and Joseph reunite?
I liked Summer Wives and recommend it as a summer beach book or a light read. It has a little bit of everything — romance, mystery, adventure, and historical fiction. It is a compelling story that kept me reading. Williams does a great job in establishing the setting, making the reader feel as if they have travelled to Winthrop Island.
Summer Wives covers three time periods — 1930, 1951 and 1969 and the story moves back and forth between these time periods. The book started off slow for me because it began (after a brief foreword set in 1969) )with the 1930s storyline which I found confusing. It was difficult to get so many characters straight and who was who in the 1930s but it finally came together later in the story.
October 30, 2018
Where has Beatriz Williams been all my life?
.
This novel was exactly what I needed. The 1950’s are a fascinating time for me. The class system is in full swing complete with all the bumps associated with white glove service and a clandestine relationship. The story reeled me in immediately.
.
The characters were so well written...this Southern girl could hear the North Eastern accents. There was a great mystery thrown in and the casual move between the time periods was incredibly well done. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy Historical Fiction with a little bit of a mystery thrown in.
.
For me the fact that this novel took place out of a war was refreshing. I love WWI and WWII fiction...but this was a lovely break. It reminded me of an updated The Great Gatsby with all the pomp and circumstances of the well-to-do.
.
Beatriz Williams will now be an auto buy author for me!
.
This novel was exactly what I needed. The 1950’s are a fascinating time for me. The class system is in full swing complete with all the bumps associated with white glove service and a clandestine relationship. The story reeled me in immediately.
.
The characters were so well written...this Southern girl could hear the North Eastern accents. There was a great mystery thrown in and the casual move between the time periods was incredibly well done. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy Historical Fiction with a little bit of a mystery thrown in.
.
For me the fact that this novel took place out of a war was refreshing. I love WWI and WWII fiction...but this was a lovely break. It reminded me of an updated The Great Gatsby with all the pomp and circumstances of the well-to-do.
.
Beatriz Williams will now be an auto buy author for me!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,304 reviews