Swan Song (Nantucket #4) by Elin Hilderbrand. This is the perfect “Calgon, take me away” (for those of you who remember that commercial) escape through reading. Most of you are probably familiar with Elin Hilderbrand. She’s without a doubt, one of the queens of beach reads, right? She’s got it down pat, story after story, always different, always intriguing, almost always Nantucket.

My first thought with some of these characters: the unbelievable wealth that is seemingly squandered to prove to others that they’re the wealthy ones on the island. Pretentiousness is not a trait that I look at as a “good thing”. I have no problem with people being enormously wealthy, I think it’s awesome, but, well, if you read the book you’ll see what I mean…

HOWEVER, my first thought, was quickly followed by my second thought – which was that the story was a good blend of characters. A good mix of people from different backgrounds. Many of them may have been the “rich ones” at some point but “being rich” is relative right? There are many who are wealthier and there are many who aren’t wealthy at all. I’m more of a believer in being grateful for what I have (whether it’s a little or a lot).

The story is great, it keeps you turning pages without a doubt. There are familiar characters in her other books with the Nantucket setting (Nantucket #4) which are most of them, but Swan Song can 100% be read as a standalone. Great book – fabulous escape, even if your mind is “busy”!

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About SWAN SONG from Elin Hilderbrand’s website (elinhilderbrand.net):

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.

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My review on Goodreads:

5 stars: I have read all of Elin’s books except for this one (Swan Song). I’ve been saving it – was in a reading slump. A lot going on and difficult to concentrate… pulled out this book and was instantly caught up in the bizarre happenings of Nantucket island living. The characters are a hoot. The parties are wild but in between there is a great story. Flew through it a little too quickly, but enjoyed it. Am still trying to figure out the last few pages, haha. But yes, a great book – highly recommend!

📚 Until next time…