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Swan Song

by Elin Hilderbrand
 Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand book cover – emotional Nantucket novel about family, loss, and healing during a summer of change

Book Review

(by- Linda )

I have enjoyed Elin Hilderbrand's Nantucket series, so it's a bit bittersweet knowing this is the last one. Swan's Song has all the classic Hilderbrand charm - the island setting, the family drama, and that perfect summer vibe. I grew up on the Jersey Shore, and reading this book brought back a wave of fond memories.

Hilderbrand knows how to craft a story that pulls you in, and Swan Song is no exception. It's not overly complicated, which I really appreciated; it just flows beautifully. You'll find yourself totally immersed in the lives of these Nantucket residents, feeling their ups and downs right along with them.

It's a great read, especially for those who have followed the series. You'll feel a bit sad when you finish, but it's a good kind of sad that comes from completing a great story. Fans of Hilderbrand will enjoy this, as will anyone who loves a light, fun read - and it's perfect for the beach or vacation.



Book Summary


The beloved #1 New York Times bestselling author brings her Nantucket novels to a brilliant finish: when rich strangers move to the island, social mayhem-and a possible murder follow. Can Nantucket's best locals save the day, and their way of life? Chief of Police Ed Kapenash is about to retire. Blond Sharon is going through a divorce. But when a 22-million-dollar summer home is purchased by the mysterious Richardsons-how did they make their money, exactly?-Ed, Sharon, and everyone in the community are swept up in high drama. The Richardsons throw lavish parties, flirt with multiple locals, flaunt their wealth with not one but two yachts, and raise impossible hopes of everyone they meet. When their house burns to the ground and their most essential employee goes missing, the entire island is up in arms.

The last of Elin Hilderbrand's bestselling Nantucket novels, Swan Song is a propulsive medley of glittering gatherings, sun-soaked drama, wisdom and heart, featuring the return of some of her most beloved characters, including, most importantly, the beautiful and timeless island of Nantucket itself.

From the publisher

Bay Back Books | April 22, 2025 | 416 pages | ISBN-13: 978-0316259484


Praise


"Swan Song is a clever and, ultimately, moving multilayered narrative in which the various social worlds of Nantucket mingle, crash and burn."-Maureen Corrigan, The Wall Street Journal

"Hilderbrand's final Nantucket novel will draw old and new readers out of the woodwork . . . There are plenty of Easter eggs for longtime fans, but even those diving in to her exquisite writing for the first time are in for a treat: a story that feels like it's being told over cocktails at the Oystercatcher, perfectly paced for maximum drama with characters you can't get enough of. This is aspirational escapism at its finest." -Susan Maguire, Booklist (starred review)

"Hilderbrand closes out her long run of Nantucket novels with an engrossing story of three mysterious newcomers...Strong characterizations and delicious moments of tension make this a worthy note to end on. Readers will be riveted."-Publishers Weekly

"A stranger comes to town, and a beloved storyteller plays this creative-writing standby for all it's worth."-Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Elin Hilderbrand is the doyen of the beach read, the queen of all things sun, fun, and intrigue, one of the best to ever do it, and Swan Song is the cleverly titled final installment of her popular Nantucket series . . . You'll see all your old favorite characters from the previous Nantucket novels, and this final act is chock-full of all Hilderbrand's hallmarks, from family drama to romance."-Harper's Bazaar

"Hilderbrand is exiting on a high with this dramatic tale featuring a recently arrived, ostentatiously wealthy family whose presence sets off strange happenings, including a possible murder."-Christina Ianzito, AARP

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