I just loved this book. I am a fan of stories that follow people especially women over a time period.

The book starts in 1977 when Caitlin (12) asks Victoria to come spend the summer with her on Martha’s Vineyard. Caitlin and Vic are from two different worlds. Over the summers they experience the teen years of boys, the privilege of money, sun and fun on the island. It’s a way of life. The last summer they kind of have a falling out, but still remain friends. Vic goes off to college while Caitlin jet sets around the world gaining life experience instead of book knowledge. Their relationship is complex after the island.

Over the years (the book ends in 1996) they communicate and see each other, but sometimes the visits are strained and secretive and sometimes it’s just like old times. Life becomes more complex too as relationships, jobs, family and finances become important. There is also Bru an island boy both girls have romantic ties to. For Victoria it’s always been a sore subject and she’s always felt second to Caitlin’s looks.

The book has just a right mix of fun teen coming of age, friendship, privilege, romance (there is a lot of concentration on sex) and the hurt a friend can impose. The psychological drama between the girls is complicated. Also I liked how while the story was mainly of the Summer Sisters, each character would have a page explaining what they thought of the situation.

Left on a bench in front the Museum Store and Bookshop in the historic old Main Street area.

If you find this book, please be so kind to register its whereabouts.

Thanks and Happy Reading!