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Silver Girl
Meredith Martin Delinn just lost everything: her friends, her homes, her social standing - because her husband Freddy cheated rich investors out of billions of dollars.
Desperate and facing homelessness, Meredith receives a call from her old best friend, Constance Flute. Connie's had recent worries of her own, and the two depart for a summer on Nantucket in an attempt to heal. But the island can't offer complete escape, and they're plagued by new and old troubles alike. When Connie's brother Toby - Meredith's high school boyfriend - arrives, Meredith must reconcile the differences between the life she is leading and the life she could have had.
Set against the backdrop of a Nantucket summer, Elin Hilderbrand delivers a suspenseful story of the power of friendship, the pull of love, and the beauty of forgiveness.
Desperate and facing homelessness, Meredith receives a call from her old best friend, Constance Flute. Connie's had recent worries of her own, and the two depart for a summer on Nantucket in an attempt to heal. But the island can't offer complete escape, and they're plagued by new and old troubles alike. When Connie's brother Toby - Meredith's high school boyfriend - arrives, Meredith must reconcile the differences between the life she is leading and the life she could have had.
Set against the backdrop of a Nantucket summer, Elin Hilderbrand delivers a suspenseful story of the power of friendship, the pull of love, and the beauty of forgiveness.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
3100 people are currently reading
32063 people want to read
About the author
Elin Hilderbrand
82 books57.3k followersElin Hilderbrand lives on Nantucket with her husband and their three young children. She grew up in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, and traveled extensively before settling on Nantucket, which has been the setting for her five previous novels. Hilderbrand is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and the graduate fiction workshop at the University of Iowa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,461 reviews
August 26, 2019
*3.5 stars*
Five full days of sun, sand, and surf—could there be a more fitting companion than an Elin Hilderbrand novel? Considering she reigns as the “beach read” queen in my world, I think not.
Soaking up the vestiges of summer, on my last beach vacation of the season, seemed like the perfect excuse to indulge in a novel from Hilderbrand’s lengthy backlist. One, in particular, that’s been accumulating dust in my home library for far longer than I’m willing to admit.
While Silver Girl failed to make my list of favorite Hilderbrand novels, the proverbial ferry ride over to picturesque Nantucket still proved worthwhile. I found myself instantly captivated by the deep losses Meredith and her lifelong best friend, Connie, experienced. The demise of their husbands—one to prison and one to death—set both women on a journey to rediscover their sense of self.
Silver Girl, introduces readers to Meredith Delinn, a 50-something socialite that’s taken a mighty fall from grace, following the exposure of her husband Freddy’s Ponzi scheme and subsequent arrest. Simply partaking in the lavish lifestyle her husband offered was enough to convince duped investors, former “friends” and the media that Meredith was privy to Freddy’s bilking of billions. With an investigation looming over her head, Meredith flees New York with little more than a box of memories.
Lucky for Meredith, her onetime best friend Connie, with plans to summer in Nantucket, is willing to take her in. While that might seem like a given for any “best friend” scenario, the two women haven’t exchanged a single word in three years. As expected, the summer starts on a bit of an awkward note but surmises with the mending of Meredith and Connie’s lifelong connection. It’s a healing few months, rife with self-reflection and acceptance, on both their parts.
For me, the brilliance of the novel was in the telling or rather the unfolding of the story. Throughout, Hilderbrand alludes to hidden truths and pivotal things from the past—almost as a way to bait the reader along—only to explore them in a more impactful time and place. That’s not to say there aren’t some moments when Hilderbrand seems to get lost in the weeds. Namely, with the day-to-day of Meredith and Connie. At a somewhat hefty 405 pages, I felt the story would have been more poignant had some of the filler been edited out.
Ultimately, I think enjoyment will come down to the reader’s acceptance of the selfish behaviors depicted here and the belief in Meredith’s naivety. It’s hard to fathom on the outset that a wife could be this blind to her husband’s misgivings but, in my opinion, Hilderbrand sells it. And well. The notion that we never truly know someone is a reoccurring theme in life and fiction. Leading one to believe that the renderings we allow ourselves to create of others might be a touch delusional.
Five full days of sun, sand, and surf—could there be a more fitting companion than an Elin Hilderbrand novel? Considering she reigns as the “beach read” queen in my world, I think not.
Soaking up the vestiges of summer, on my last beach vacation of the season, seemed like the perfect excuse to indulge in a novel from Hilderbrand’s lengthy backlist. One, in particular, that’s been accumulating dust in my home library for far longer than I’m willing to admit.
While Silver Girl failed to make my list of favorite Hilderbrand novels, the proverbial ferry ride over to picturesque Nantucket still proved worthwhile. I found myself instantly captivated by the deep losses Meredith and her lifelong best friend, Connie, experienced. The demise of their husbands—one to prison and one to death—set both women on a journey to rediscover their sense of self.
Silver Girl, introduces readers to Meredith Delinn, a 50-something socialite that’s taken a mighty fall from grace, following the exposure of her husband Freddy’s Ponzi scheme and subsequent arrest. Simply partaking in the lavish lifestyle her husband offered was enough to convince duped investors, former “friends” and the media that Meredith was privy to Freddy’s bilking of billions. With an investigation looming over her head, Meredith flees New York with little more than a box of memories.
Lucky for Meredith, her onetime best friend Connie, with plans to summer in Nantucket, is willing to take her in. While that might seem like a given for any “best friend” scenario, the two women haven’t exchanged a single word in three years. As expected, the summer starts on a bit of an awkward note but surmises with the mending of Meredith and Connie’s lifelong connection. It’s a healing few months, rife with self-reflection and acceptance, on both their parts.
For me, the brilliance of the novel was in the telling or rather the unfolding of the story. Throughout, Hilderbrand alludes to hidden truths and pivotal things from the past—almost as a way to bait the reader along—only to explore them in a more impactful time and place. That’s not to say there aren’t some moments when Hilderbrand seems to get lost in the weeds. Namely, with the day-to-day of Meredith and Connie. At a somewhat hefty 405 pages, I felt the story would have been more poignant had some of the filler been edited out.
Ultimately, I think enjoyment will come down to the reader’s acceptance of the selfish behaviors depicted here and the belief in Meredith’s naivety. It’s hard to fathom on the outset that a wife could be this blind to her husband’s misgivings but, in my opinion, Hilderbrand sells it. And well. The notion that we never truly know someone is a reoccurring theme in life and fiction. Leading one to believe that the renderings we allow ourselves to create of others might be a touch delusional.
August 6, 2011
The truth is that I didn’t have high hopes for this book because:
1.I am a bit tired of the “Victim of XYZ retreats to Nantucket to lick her wounds with her former BFF” premise, and
2.The title and cover of this book are a bit too reminiscent of Danielle Steel to appeal to me.
But since it’s Ramadan and I need all the distraction I can get, I decided to overlook these two strikes and I checked this book out from the library.
Silver Girl is the story of Meredith – a woman dealing with the aftermath of her husband’s extensive Bernie Madoff-style crimes. With her assets seized, all communication with her sons at an SEC-mandated standstill, and her husband Freddy on his way to prison for 150 years, Meredith finds she has nobody else to turn to for help but her childhood friend Connie.
Naturally, despite Meredith’s absence during the past few years as Connie dealt with her husband’s death from cancer, Connie still comes to Meredith’s rescue and she allows Meredith to accompany her to Nantucket where both women spend the summer attempting to recover from their own issues related to betrayal and loss.
In some ways this is the typical formulaic Hilderbrand book: beautiful descriptions of the idyllic island, long-lost friends hashing out their differences, and the rekindling of first loves. But what fascinated me was Hilderbrand’s idea to address the aftermath of Freddy’s Ponzi scheme from a completely different point of view: the point of view of his wife. And thanks to the author’s ability to address the subject thoughtfully and carefully, I now have a newfound insight – and sympathy - into the lives of all of the victims of such crimes.
Bottom Line: Sure this book is a fictionalized account of the realities of today’s Wall Street, but readers will be fascinated by the unique point of views, the timely subject matter, and the easy writing style. Even those who, unlike me, aren’t trying to pass time until they can eat again.
1.I am a bit tired of the “Victim of XYZ retreats to Nantucket to lick her wounds with her former BFF” premise, and
2.The title and cover of this book are a bit too reminiscent of Danielle Steel to appeal to me.
But since it’s Ramadan and I need all the distraction I can get, I decided to overlook these two strikes and I checked this book out from the library.
Silver Girl is the story of Meredith – a woman dealing with the aftermath of her husband’s extensive Bernie Madoff-style crimes. With her assets seized, all communication with her sons at an SEC-mandated standstill, and her husband Freddy on his way to prison for 150 years, Meredith finds she has nobody else to turn to for help but her childhood friend Connie.
Naturally, despite Meredith’s absence during the past few years as Connie dealt with her husband’s death from cancer, Connie still comes to Meredith’s rescue and she allows Meredith to accompany her to Nantucket where both women spend the summer attempting to recover from their own issues related to betrayal and loss.
In some ways this is the typical formulaic Hilderbrand book: beautiful descriptions of the idyllic island, long-lost friends hashing out their differences, and the rekindling of first loves. But what fascinated me was Hilderbrand’s idea to address the aftermath of Freddy’s Ponzi scheme from a completely different point of view: the point of view of his wife. And thanks to the author’s ability to address the subject thoughtfully and carefully, I now have a newfound insight – and sympathy - into the lives of all of the victims of such crimes.
Bottom Line: Sure this book is a fictionalized account of the realities of today’s Wall Street, but readers will be fascinated by the unique point of views, the timely subject matter, and the easy writing style. Even those who, unlike me, aren’t trying to pass time until they can eat again.
December 21, 2011
Meredith was clueless about more than just her husband. She has no curiosity. Mediocre story. I wanted it to be over.
STORY BRIEF:
This book was inspired by the Bernie Madoff financial disaster. People gave money to Bernie who created fake reports telling them they were earning huge profits, but in reality he was stealing their money. For many people this was their life’s savings. Bernie went to jail.
In this story Freddy Delinn is the Bernie character. His wife is Meredith. They have two sons in their 20s. One son Leo worked for Freddy. The story begins with Freddy going to jail. Meredith and Leo are being investigated and may end up in jail. The public hates Meredith. She has been forced to leave her home and almost all of her possessions (clothes, jewelry, art, linens, cars, etc.) which will be sold at auction. The only money she has is $45,000 in a bank cd which she earned years ago as a teacher.
Meredith and Connie were best friends as teenagers. They had a disagreement and have not spoken in a few years. Meredith needs a temporary place to stay during the investigation, and she calls Connie for help. Connie picks her up and drives her to Connie’s vacation home on the island of Nantucket.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
I didn’t like it. More than half of the book is flashback, telling stories about Meredith and Connie in the past, for example: Meredith dated Toby as a teen, he broke up with her. Meredith met Freddy, how their relationship started, what their life was like being married. Other flashbacks include Connie’s life with her husband Wolf who died of cancer 2 ½ years ago. Connie still grieves. Also told is why Connie’s daughter won’t speak to her which causes more distress for Connie.
Current events include: The authorities won’t let Meredith talk to her two sons until the investigations are over, so Meredith worries about them. Meredith wears a disguise when she goes out so people won’t say mean things to her. Because Meredith is staying in Connie’s home, someone vandalizes Connie’s property, like painting “thief” on the house and slashing her tires.
The past tellings were unimaginative. It was kind of boring. I was not engaged. My only curiosity was wondering if Meredith and Leo would be cleared of the charges.
I like to see relationships develop, but that does not happen here. Although there is a “little bit of romance” for Connie, it was not emotionally engaging. It was more of a curiosity. The main theme is current relationships are broken or lost. And then we learn about causes in the past. For some of them, the characters reconnect at the end of the book but differently than in the past.
This book does NOT have:
- intriguing or fascinating characters
- witty, intelligent, or inspiring dialogue
- solving interesting mysteries
- suspense and action
- learning new things
So who is this book for? I don’t know, I suppose people who like reality TV shows.
Another of my complaints was that I was tired of hearing Meredith’s repetitive pondering about how could Freddy have done this and why didn’t she question things more. This happens a lot during the book.
Meredith was a good student in college, but she was emotionally needy for Freddy. As a result she gave up her own goals and interests for him. I didn’t admire anything about her. She had a lack of curiosity. If she had been more curious about things, she might have discovered some of the bad things Freddy was doing. Freddy’s bad activities included more than just stealing money. Although Freddy went to great lengths to keep things hidden from Meredith, she now realizes there are things she could have done if she had been more curious.
The ending was just ok. Nothing bad but nothing fulfilling. I wanted to see more details about Samantha, a secondary character.
In Acknowledgments at the end of the book the author states “Some books are tougher than others; this one was very tough.” IMO if the author is finding it hard to write, maybe that’s a clue that it will be hard to read because that’s how I felt. It was not enjoyable.
DATA:
Story length: 403 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language: none. Number of sex scenes: one, referred to not shown. Setting: current day Nantucket Island off Massachusetts. Copyright: 2011. Genre: women’s relationship fiction.
STORY BRIEF:
This book was inspired by the Bernie Madoff financial disaster. People gave money to Bernie who created fake reports telling them they were earning huge profits, but in reality he was stealing their money. For many people this was their life’s savings. Bernie went to jail.
In this story Freddy Delinn is the Bernie character. His wife is Meredith. They have two sons in their 20s. One son Leo worked for Freddy. The story begins with Freddy going to jail. Meredith and Leo are being investigated and may end up in jail. The public hates Meredith. She has been forced to leave her home and almost all of her possessions (clothes, jewelry, art, linens, cars, etc.) which will be sold at auction. The only money she has is $45,000 in a bank cd which she earned years ago as a teacher.
Meredith and Connie were best friends as teenagers. They had a disagreement and have not spoken in a few years. Meredith needs a temporary place to stay during the investigation, and she calls Connie for help. Connie picks her up and drives her to Connie’s vacation home on the island of Nantucket.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
I didn’t like it. More than half of the book is flashback, telling stories about Meredith and Connie in the past, for example: Meredith dated Toby as a teen, he broke up with her. Meredith met Freddy, how their relationship started, what their life was like being married. Other flashbacks include Connie’s life with her husband Wolf who died of cancer 2 ½ years ago. Connie still grieves. Also told is why Connie’s daughter won’t speak to her which causes more distress for Connie.
Current events include: The authorities won’t let Meredith talk to her two sons until the investigations are over, so Meredith worries about them. Meredith wears a disguise when she goes out so people won’t say mean things to her. Because Meredith is staying in Connie’s home, someone vandalizes Connie’s property, like painting “thief” on the house and slashing her tires.
The past tellings were unimaginative. It was kind of boring. I was not engaged. My only curiosity was wondering if Meredith and Leo would be cleared of the charges.
I like to see relationships develop, but that does not happen here. Although there is a “little bit of romance” for Connie, it was not emotionally engaging. It was more of a curiosity. The main theme is current relationships are broken or lost. And then we learn about causes in the past. For some of them, the characters reconnect at the end of the book but differently than in the past.
This book does NOT have:
- intriguing or fascinating characters
- witty, intelligent, or inspiring dialogue
- solving interesting mysteries
- suspense and action
- learning new things
So who is this book for? I don’t know, I suppose people who like reality TV shows.
Another of my complaints was that I was tired of hearing Meredith’s repetitive pondering about how could Freddy have done this and why didn’t she question things more. This happens a lot during the book.
Meredith was a good student in college, but she was emotionally needy for Freddy. As a result she gave up her own goals and interests for him. I didn’t admire anything about her. She had a lack of curiosity. If she had been more curious about things, she might have discovered some of the bad things Freddy was doing. Freddy’s bad activities included more than just stealing money. Although Freddy went to great lengths to keep things hidden from Meredith, she now realizes there are things she could have done if she had been more curious.
The ending was just ok. Nothing bad but nothing fulfilling. I wanted to see more details about Samantha, a secondary character.
In Acknowledgments at the end of the book the author states “Some books are tougher than others; this one was very tough.” IMO if the author is finding it hard to write, maybe that’s a clue that it will be hard to read because that’s how I felt. It was not enjoyable.
DATA:
Story length: 403 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language: none. Number of sex scenes: one, referred to not shown. Setting: current day Nantucket Island off Massachusetts. Copyright: 2011. Genre: women’s relationship fiction.
August 4, 2016
I really don't like to give bad reviews but this book was not good. Maybe it would be ok for a beach read but other than that I probably wouldn't bother. I have to admit that I listened to it on CD which may have swayed my opinion, but I did think about half way through that the only reason I wish I had been reading it was so that I could've skimmed the second half and finished faster.
Most of the women in this book are not very smart and see themselves only through the eyes of the man that they're with, which annoys me to no end. And no matter how many times we're told that Meredith has a degree from Princeton, it still doesn't make her smart.
The sub plots are weird and the characters in those storylines are equally annoying, especially Connie's daughter. She comes across as weak, conceited, and immature. I understand why she's part of the story, I just don't like her.
Many of the literary devices that are used are obvious, which I think takes away from them. There are parts that are very repetitive, as if you're meeting the character again right in the middle of the book.
If you like to read about greedy, foolish, and self-absorbed people then this is the book for you.
Most of the women in this book are not very smart and see themselves only through the eyes of the man that they're with, which annoys me to no end. And no matter how many times we're told that Meredith has a degree from Princeton, it still doesn't make her smart.
The sub plots are weird and the characters in those storylines are equally annoying, especially Connie's daughter. She comes across as weak, conceited, and immature. I understand why she's part of the story, I just don't like her.
Many of the literary devices that are used are obvious, which I think takes away from them. There are parts that are very repetitive, as if you're meeting the character again right in the middle of the book.
If you like to read about greedy, foolish, and self-absorbed people then this is the book for you.
September 27, 2019
I loved this book -- definitely one of my favorites by Elin Hilderbrand.
The biggest thing that I love about Hilderbrand's books is that they are set on Nantucket Island. There's just something about the island, even though I haven't been there, that really speaks to me. A summer on Nantucket seems like it would be something magical and sweet that you know you would always remember and that you would never want to end, like a summer romance or your first love. In fact, those types of things often play into her stories, and I can completely understand why, since they just seem to fit naturally with the setting. This book has quite a big backstory, so the island and its goings-on aren't the biggest thing happening, but there is still enough about the island and its lifestyle to make you feel like you are living the idyllic life on Nantucket for the summer.
What seemed a little different about this story, to me, was the drama of the main storyline regarding Meredith's stockbroker husband being indicted for investment fraud through a Ponzi scheme. I enjoyed the way the story unraveled, and the way Meredith recalled tidbits of information from memories of their life together, in order to aid in the investigation into her husband's actions (and to exonerate herself). I thought the conclusion to this storyline was satisfactory -- and I now have the song from which "Silver Girl" comes from stuck in my head :)
I also enjoyed the storyline about Connie and Meredith -- mostly because it's something that many women can relate to; a lifelong friendship that has had its ups and downs, but like many things in life, is very resilient and can persevere. I enjoyed watching the two of them come to terms with what had happened between them and in their lives over the years, and then heal and grow. I also really liked the way the author took the storylines of so many characters, both past and present, and wove them together.
My only complaint about this story (and this is hardly a complaint) is that I wanted more details of the sex that was lightly alluded to. I found both Dan and Toby to be sexy, desirable men -- but we didn't get many details about their sexual encounters with the female characters. Such a shame, I would've liked to have read about that in much more detail ;)
Overall -- a very good story. I'm happy that I was chosen to receive this first-read book (it's an advanced reading copy/uncorrected proof -- I found a couple typos and formatting errors, which I'm sure they will have fixed before it hits the shelf for real later this month :). I have already passed this onto another friend of mine who loves the Hilderbrand books as much as I do, and I'll probably keep passing it along after that.
The biggest thing that I love about Hilderbrand's books is that they are set on Nantucket Island. There's just something about the island, even though I haven't been there, that really speaks to me. A summer on Nantucket seems like it would be something magical and sweet that you know you would always remember and that you would never want to end, like a summer romance or your first love. In fact, those types of things often play into her stories, and I can completely understand why, since they just seem to fit naturally with the setting. This book has quite a big backstory, so the island and its goings-on aren't the biggest thing happening, but there is still enough about the island and its lifestyle to make you feel like you are living the idyllic life on Nantucket for the summer.
What seemed a little different about this story, to me, was the drama of the main storyline regarding Meredith's stockbroker husband being indicted for investment fraud through a Ponzi scheme. I enjoyed the way the story unraveled, and the way Meredith recalled tidbits of information from memories of their life together, in order to aid in the investigation into her husband's actions (and to exonerate herself). I thought the conclusion to this storyline was satisfactory -- and I now have the song from which "Silver Girl" comes from stuck in my head :)
I also enjoyed the storyline about Connie and Meredith -- mostly because it's something that many women can relate to; a lifelong friendship that has had its ups and downs, but like many things in life, is very resilient and can persevere. I enjoyed watching the two of them come to terms with what had happened between them and in their lives over the years, and then heal and grow. I also really liked the way the author took the storylines of so many characters, both past and present, and wove them together.
My only complaint about this story (and this is hardly a complaint) is that I wanted more details of the sex that was lightly alluded to. I found both Dan and Toby to be sexy, desirable men -- but we didn't get many details about their sexual encounters with the female characters. Such a shame, I would've liked to have read about that in much more detail ;)
Overall -- a very good story. I'm happy that I was chosen to receive this first-read book (it's an advanced reading copy/uncorrected proof -- I found a couple typos and formatting errors, which I'm sure they will have fixed before it hits the shelf for real later this month :). I have already passed this onto another friend of mine who loves the Hilderbrand books as much as I do, and I'll probably keep passing it along after that.
Want to read
June 30, 2023my first elian hilderbrand book of the summer! i got this in a little library yesterday and i am at the cottage so i thought this would be a good weekend read 🌅👙⛱️🍉🍻
August 22, 2020
Meredith Delinn has turned to her oldest friend Connie Flute in a time of desperation. Meredith's husband Freddy has cheated investors out of millions of dollars, and Meredith is also being investigated though she claims to know nothing of her husband's shady business dealings. Connie and Meredith spend the summer on Nantucket at the home Connie shared with her late husband Wolf.
Meredith is literally hiding out from the press and everyone who believes she played a part in her husband's schemes. Connie is hiding too--from her feelings of guilt and loss for her husband and daughter.
Over the summer on Nantucket, the friends reconcile their differences, forgive each other and themselves, and realize that life can and will resume following loss and tragedy.
Meredith is literally hiding out from the press and everyone who believes she played a part in her husband's schemes. Connie is hiding too--from her feelings of guilt and loss for her husband and daughter.
Over the summer on Nantucket, the friends reconcile their differences, forgive each other and themselves, and realize that life can and will resume following loss and tragedy.
July 23, 2011
First Thoughts after finishing book: I'm glad that I didn't end up hating Meredith!!
What I liked about this book:
The story is very relevant to what has been occurring in corporate America and Wall Street. Greed, selfishness, and amassing "things" is the main agenda for many in this country.
Meredith's best friend Connie- if not for this character I would have stopped reading this book as I really couldn't take another minute trying to feel sorry for someone who wouldn't think twice about dropping $20,000 on linens and candles!! Connie is the best friend that I think a lot of women would love to have. She came across as a genuine and caring person.
The setting was pretty awesome...I would love to visit Nantucket, but I'm sure they wouldn't let me in!!
The meaning behind the title Silver Girl....I'd tell you more but I would never spoil the story for anyone!
What I didn't like about this book:
Meredith! I realize that the author wanted to convey to the reader how materialistic Meredith had become but geesh.....I'm sickened by the excess of her spending and how she never blinked once about spending tens of thousands of dollars on stupid stuff!! That part that really galled me is that this is so prevalent in our society. I'm disgusted at how the average person believes that in order to be happy they must ACQUIRE things...the more you spend the better you are. I almost bailed on this one just because of that and the name dropping on clothes...IMHO, I could care less what designer shoes you have on. Uh oh...I think I just went on a rant. Sorry...........
My other beef is that this is a Reagan Arthur book and I've read a few from this division and have thought it to be more literary fiction. To me this was a good beach read but nothing more than that.
Recommend? I would recommend this one to friends but I'd give them a heads up on how I really had a hard time liking and/or feeling sorry for Meredith. But I'm pretty sure that was the author's intention!!
Rating: 7.5/10
What I liked about this book:
The story is very relevant to what has been occurring in corporate America and Wall Street. Greed, selfishness, and amassing "things" is the main agenda for many in this country.
Meredith's best friend Connie- if not for this character I would have stopped reading this book as I really couldn't take another minute trying to feel sorry for someone who wouldn't think twice about dropping $20,000 on linens and candles!! Connie is the best friend that I think a lot of women would love to have. She came across as a genuine and caring person.
The setting was pretty awesome...I would love to visit Nantucket, but I'm sure they wouldn't let me in!!
The meaning behind the title Silver Girl....I'd tell you more but I would never spoil the story for anyone!
What I didn't like about this book:
Meredith! I realize that the author wanted to convey to the reader how materialistic Meredith had become but geesh.....I'm sickened by the excess of her spending and how she never blinked once about spending tens of thousands of dollars on stupid stuff!! That part that really galled me is that this is so prevalent in our society. I'm disgusted at how the average person believes that in order to be happy they must ACQUIRE things...the more you spend the better you are. I almost bailed on this one just because of that and the name dropping on clothes...IMHO, I could care less what designer shoes you have on. Uh oh...I think I just went on a rant. Sorry...........
My other beef is that this is a Reagan Arthur book and I've read a few from this division and have thought it to be more literary fiction. To me this was a good beach read but nothing more than that.
Recommend? I would recommend this one to friends but I'd give them a heads up on how I really had a hard time liking and/or feeling sorry for Meredith. But I'm pretty sure that was the author's intention!!
Rating: 7.5/10
June 2, 2023
Between 3.5 and 4 stars, rounding up.
The premise of this book was really interesting. I found it engaging and intriguing. I was invested in the drama and scandal from the beginning. It wasn't your typical spousal breakup story; it was sinister and complex while remaining light enough to be a beach read.
I grew to like the characters, Meredith and Connie, a lot. They came into their own and the more I got to know them, the more I liked them. The supporting cast was also extremely likable.
And, as per usual, the writing of the views, the food, the glowing vibrance of Nantucket was riveting.
The biggest negative for this book was that it was much too long. Clocking in at 400+ pages was, in my opinion, very unnecessary for the story at hand. While I loved the flashbacks to build the characters there was so much extra detail. This could've easily been 75 pages shorter and made the book much more succinct and enjoyable.
Not my favorite by Elin but certainly worth the read!
The premise of this book was really interesting. I found it engaging and intriguing. I was invested in the drama and scandal from the beginning. It wasn't your typical spousal breakup story; it was sinister and complex while remaining light enough to be a beach read.
I grew to like the characters, Meredith and Connie, a lot. They came into their own and the more I got to know them, the more I liked them. The supporting cast was also extremely likable.
And, as per usual, the writing of the views, the food, the glowing vibrance of Nantucket was riveting.
The biggest negative for this book was that it was much too long. Clocking in at 400+ pages was, in my opinion, very unnecessary for the story at hand. While I loved the flashbacks to build the characters there was so much extra detail. This could've easily been 75 pages shorter and made the book much more succinct and enjoyable.
Not my favorite by Elin but certainly worth the read!
September 1, 2022
i am always saying this but i love elins books they are a comforting delicious little coma full of beautiful houses and fat juicy ripe tomatoes and giant ice cold glasses of chardonnay at sunset with a little cheese board on the side
February 14, 2025
This was only ok for me. It was way too long and I just didn't love the story. Two estranged friends come together for the summer on Nantucket. Meredith's husband has just been sentenced for stealing people's money and running a Ponzi scheme. She is waiting to see if she will be charged even though she is innocent. She calls her former best friend, Connie, because she has no where else to turn. Connie is still grieving from the death of her husband and she is estranged from her daughter. The two of them try to heal their friendship and deal with their issues while thinking about their past.
The book alternated between the two women's point of view. There were many flashbacks as well as it delved into what happened in the past. There was a little romance but honestly the story was a little dry for my taste. One of my friends loves this author so I was definitely expecting more.
The book alternated between the two women's point of view. There were many flashbacks as well as it delved into what happened in the past. There was a little romance but honestly the story was a little dry for my taste. One of my friends loves this author so I was definitely expecting more.
May 4, 2012
OK, first of all, I am a total snob because I didn't want to like this book, because I could tell immediately it was a total beach read, chick lit type of book. But then I ended up liking it--shame on me and my snobbery! However, I was right about one thing, and that's that it really seems aimed at a traditional, upper-middle-class, conformist type of reader, particular a female reader. There were a couple places in the book where really antifeminist things were said (at least I thought) and just treated like they were normal and expected, and I really didn't like that. But I kept reading... and reading... because I got really caught up in the story.
What's it about? Oh--maybe I should say something about that. It's a story of two old women friends who had a falling out, and they are both going through their own personal crises. One friend's husband caused a huge financial meltdown and she is also under suspicion of being involved, and the other is still emotionally recovering from the death of her husband several years prior. Enter a handsome widower, an old flame, etc., and the story takes off.
The backstory behind the title also made me like the book more (I won't spoil you on it completely, but I will say it's a song lyric). Although I adore the song, it's been playing nonstop in my head since I read the book and it's starting to drive me a little batty!
What's it about? Oh--maybe I should say something about that. It's a story of two old women friends who had a falling out, and they are both going through their own personal crises. One friend's husband caused a huge financial meltdown and she is also under suspicion of being involved, and the other is still emotionally recovering from the death of her husband several years prior. Enter a handsome widower, an old flame, etc., and the story takes off.
The backstory behind the title also made me like the book more (I won't spoil you on it completely, but I will say it's a song lyric). Although I adore the song, it's been playing nonstop in my head since I read the book and it's starting to drive me a little batty!
August 13, 2023
Elin Hilderbrand’s books are so good for summer vacation. The Nantucket setting is so transportive. I flew through this book. The story was so captivating and I love how she writes multi-faceted characters. I really liked that this was dual POV so we got to read from both Meredith and Connie’s perspectives. It added so much to the story to be able to get a background on both of their lives to see how they’ve become who they are in the present. This was definitely an emotional and sometimes heavy read but the ending was hopeful and positive. I really enjoyed it!
September 23, 2011
Silver Girl started out so well. I took it out from my library and was really looking forward to vicarious lifestyles of the rich and famous morality tale. Setting: Nantucket Island where the wife the greatest financial scoundrel of the 21st century *yes, you are supposed to think Bernie Madoff* has come to lick her wounds and get away from the press. The ruined lives, suicides even -- all victims of her husband's Ponzi scheme -- come fast and furious. Meredith Martin Delinn is an innocent: perhaps a naive and somewhat ostrich*esque innocent but she was not a party to her husband's systematic defrauding of hundreds of people.
A childhood friend, Constance (Connie) Flute, recently widowed, provides the refuge. As I said, the pain, the hubris, the financial ruin of the families is very real. The son of one of the victims has to leave his boarding school mid-stream. It was the same school my son attended so that made me sit up: how excruciating for parents who wanted their notion of the best for their children to fall short of their own expectations. So, all's good, the books is absorbing and we go back to Meredith's childhood, adolescence and college days (when she met her husband Freddy).
But, then, things start to unravel. Wouldn't you know, she once had a relationship with Connie's brother and he reappears. A local man starts to romance Connie. Couple fits and starts and then it's copacetic. Meredith thinks of words and numbers that were significant in her married life and shares them with the financial investigators. *Big* surprise: the numbers magically unlock some of the hidden assets. It all gets way too neat. Meredith's boys are grown-up: no stoppage of private high school or college for them. Victims have portions of money returned (a way higher percentage than the money recovered from Bernie Madoff, the rogue this book is not so loosely based on). The suicide turns out to be a "Bad Man". The sex with the old beau is pretty much off the page but yes, magical.
It surprises me that romance novels get such a rap for their tidy endings and unrealistic HEAs. Silver Girl couldn't have been wrapped up more tightly than if my local brilliant Ship and Mail genius had got it ready for delivery. Why did Elin Hilderbrand choose such a safe, predictable path?
A childhood friend, Constance (Connie) Flute, recently widowed, provides the refuge. As I said, the pain, the hubris, the financial ruin of the families is very real. The son of one of the victims has to leave his boarding school mid-stream. It was the same school my son attended so that made me sit up: how excruciating for parents who wanted their notion of the best for their children to fall short of their own expectations. So, all's good, the books is absorbing and we go back to Meredith's childhood, adolescence and college days (when she met her husband Freddy).
But, then, things start to unravel. Wouldn't you know, she once had a relationship with Connie's brother and he reappears. A local man starts to romance Connie. Couple fits and starts and then it's copacetic. Meredith thinks of words and numbers that were significant in her married life and shares them with the financial investigators. *Big* surprise: the numbers magically unlock some of the hidden assets. It all gets way too neat. Meredith's boys are grown-up: no stoppage of private high school or college for them. Victims have portions of money returned (a way higher percentage than the money recovered from Bernie Madoff, the rogue this book is not so loosely based on). The suicide turns out to be a "Bad Man". The sex with the old beau is pretty much off the page but yes, magical.
It surprises me that romance novels get such a rap for their tidy endings and unrealistic HEAs. Silver Girl couldn't have been wrapped up more tightly than if my local brilliant Ship and Mail genius had got it ready for delivery. Why did Elin Hilderbrand choose such a safe, predictable path?
November 8, 2011
I have never been able to get my head around the breadth of Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme, the wide net cast over so many victims, the far reaching consequences. I have also never spent a moment thinking about the man or his family.
Yet, such a scheme and the family involved are what drive the plot of Hilderbrand’s latest novel, and I was immediately drawn in to the felon’s wife’s character and believe in her innocence from the beginning. Meredith asks her long-time best friend, Connie, from whom she has recently been estranged, for refuge in her summer home on Nantucket while she is investigated by the feds.
What Hilderbrand weaves for the reader so slowly and skillfully is a tale of friendship among women, the fragile threads holding even the closest of families together, a mystery filled with deceit, and forgiveness. The story of their lives is shared alternately by a third person narrator over a 30+ year span. The details about music, clothing and the angst of each decade support the poignancy and the humor of the memories. I have learned from reading Hilderbrand’s previous novels that details come only when she is ready to share. So it was not until page 99 that the importance of the title is explained. Not until page 357 can the friends, after spending the summer together, apologize to one another. The important characters in this book are complex as is the plot. While the reader may understand the grief of Connie, a widow, Meredith’s grief and loyalty are more perplexing. The two friends are challenged by their history and supported by the strength they have discovered as adults. Resolution and even redemption come slowly and awkwardly, just as in real life.
“Sail on Silver Girl.
Sail on by,
Your time has come to shine,
All your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine.
Oh, if you need a friend, I’m sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will ease your mind.”
Yet, such a scheme and the family involved are what drive the plot of Hilderbrand’s latest novel, and I was immediately drawn in to the felon’s wife’s character and believe in her innocence from the beginning. Meredith asks her long-time best friend, Connie, from whom she has recently been estranged, for refuge in her summer home on Nantucket while she is investigated by the feds.
What Hilderbrand weaves for the reader so slowly and skillfully is a tale of friendship among women, the fragile threads holding even the closest of families together, a mystery filled with deceit, and forgiveness. The story of their lives is shared alternately by a third person narrator over a 30+ year span. The details about music, clothing and the angst of each decade support the poignancy and the humor of the memories. I have learned from reading Hilderbrand’s previous novels that details come only when she is ready to share. So it was not until page 99 that the importance of the title is explained. Not until page 357 can the friends, after spending the summer together, apologize to one another. The important characters in this book are complex as is the plot. While the reader may understand the grief of Connie, a widow, Meredith’s grief and loyalty are more perplexing. The two friends are challenged by their history and supported by the strength they have discovered as adults. Resolution and even redemption come slowly and awkwardly, just as in real life.
“Sail on Silver Girl.
Sail on by,
Your time has come to shine,
All your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine.
Oh, if you need a friend, I’m sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will ease your mind.”
July 28, 2011
Reading the new Hilderbrand every summer is a guilty pleasure for me -- they're silly, fun books, perfect for warm weather. Sadly, the writing in this one was so bad that the usual Nantucket-porn descriptions (light-filled, gray-shingled cottages, rugged beaches, dripping lobster dinners) and the shocking plot twists couldn't hold my interest. The two main characters, middle-aged (but hot! of course!) ladies, are constantly on the edge of hysteria. Here are a few sentences at random. "It was as if her heart were a teacup that fell to the floor and shattered." "She was a bladder filled with the hot, stinking air of anxiety." "Connie walked the dock...her heart thundering, her stomach sour like she'd eaten a dozen lemons for breakfast." "Fear gripped her like hands around the neck, the way it could only happen in an unfamiliar room in the pitch black of night." I just wanted to hook them up to a lovely Atavan drip.
August 31, 2018
I love this author’s beach reads, but feminists: self immolate before reading.
May 26, 2017
Meredith DeLin has just found out that her husband has stolen billions from their friends and his business associates. Now she and her son are being investigated by the Federal Government as well, although Meredith has told them, she didn't know anything. With no where else to turn, she calls her friend Connie and asks to stay with her. Connie is on her way from Maryland to Nantucket for the summer and feels even though her relationship with Meredith hasn't been the best in the past few years, she could use the company. A series of strange events directed at Meredith, draws the two closer together as the deal with the past and make plans for their futures.
I listened to this book, so if names are spelled wrong that is why. I really enjoyed this story and could feel for the characters. I know how it feels to be friends with someone your whole life and then as adults, with marriage and kids and life, that friendship drifts apart. The fact that Connie was there for Meredith, despite their distance, physically & emotionally, speaks volumes to her character. And Meredith was there for Connie as well. Even though Connie may not have been going through a scandal like Meredith was, she still had her own demons she was facing and despite her reservations about getting involved with Meredith, she was grateful to have to her by her side for this difficult summer.
Both women learned a lot about themselves and each other during the summer they spent together. Elin Hilderbrand writes a wonderful novel about female relationships and I can't wait to read or listen to more of her books.
I listened to this book, so if names are spelled wrong that is why. I really enjoyed this story and could feel for the characters. I know how it feels to be friends with someone your whole life and then as adults, with marriage and kids and life, that friendship drifts apart. The fact that Connie was there for Meredith, despite their distance, physically & emotionally, speaks volumes to her character. And Meredith was there for Connie as well. Even though Connie may not have been going through a scandal like Meredith was, she still had her own demons she was facing and despite her reservations about getting involved with Meredith, she was grateful to have to her by her side for this difficult summer.
Both women learned a lot about themselves and each other during the summer they spent together. Elin Hilderbrand writes a wonderful novel about female relationships and I can't wait to read or listen to more of her books.
April 19, 2015
I won this book from an author’s blog, so that is always fun. I've enjoyed each of Hildebrand’s books that I've read, but I was hesitant about this one, since it was based on the whole Madoff saga. But, once again, Hildebrand did not disappoint.
She wrote a sympathetic and likable heroine, who I couldn’t help but route for. I do not know enough about the real Mrs. Madoff, to know if they are similar (but I’m assuming they're not). The story was compelling - and made you stop to think about what his family (if they were innocent) went through.
The friendship between Meredith and Connie was complicated and realistic. Friends hurt each other, life gets in the way, but in the end, you hope someone has your back.
The setting - Nantucket, of course - in the summer is lovely. The descriptions of food alone, had me wishing I ate better! The locales and flashback to Philadelphia suburbs were all fun and realistic. The ending, was neat, but not perfect.
It was an easy, satisfying read.
She wrote a sympathetic and likable heroine, who I couldn’t help but route for. I do not know enough about the real Mrs. Madoff, to know if they are similar (but I’m assuming they're not). The story was compelling - and made you stop to think about what his family (if they were innocent) went through.
The friendship between Meredith and Connie was complicated and realistic. Friends hurt each other, life gets in the way, but in the end, you hope someone has your back.
The setting - Nantucket, of course - in the summer is lovely. The descriptions of food alone, had me wishing I ate better! The locales and flashback to Philadelphia suburbs were all fun and realistic. The ending, was neat, but not perfect.
It was an easy, satisfying read.
August 28, 2024
3⭐️
Idk this sounded so interesting but it just wasn’t hitting the way I hoped it would.
Idk this sounded so interesting but it just wasn’t hitting the way I hoped it would.
September 5, 2017
I pretty much know I'll enjoy any book by this author, but I felt a sense of satisfaction with this one that is singular to this story.
Here's one about forgiveness, friendship, the end of relationships, the beginning of relationships, lasting friendships, and a million other things. I loved reading about Connie and watching her life develop as she learns how to be without her husband, who recently died of brain cancer. I loved reading about Meredith, a woman so in love with her husband that she was blinded to all of his faults. Their friendship pulls them through a tough summer, during which they have to face some of the things they've said to each other and done to each other over the years. Connie has to face the fact that she's allowed to have a life without her husband, and Meredith has to learn what a life without her husband will look like.
This book just really hit a spot with me that others by this author didn't quite get to. I absolutely loved this book.
Here's one about forgiveness, friendship, the end of relationships, the beginning of relationships, lasting friendships, and a million other things. I loved reading about Connie and watching her life develop as she learns how to be without her husband, who recently died of brain cancer. I loved reading about Meredith, a woman so in love with her husband that she was blinded to all of his faults. Their friendship pulls them through a tough summer, during which they have to face some of the things they've said to each other and done to each other over the years. Connie has to face the fact that she's allowed to have a life without her husband, and Meredith has to learn what a life without her husband will look like.
This book just really hit a spot with me that others by this author didn't quite get to. I absolutely loved this book.
May 15, 2025
3.4 ⭐️
This is my least favorite Elin book I’ve read. I still really liked it bc I just love her writing. But I found it quite long and honestly a bit underwhelming.. like every piece of ‘drama’ I was underwhelmed by the reveal. And I hated Meredith and her devotion to Freddy literally still the end it was unbearable. I just thought she was so stupid honestly. Found it a bit repetitive too like Meredith would recall a childhood story, and then Connie would recall the same story later in the book. Also had the least amount of Nantucket imagery which is really what I go to Elin for. I feel like the only reason I was able to get through this was bc I was reading it on vacation and had lots of time. Probably wouldn’t recommend but still enjoyed it.
This is my least favorite Elin book I’ve read. I still really liked it bc I just love her writing. But I found it quite long and honestly a bit underwhelming.. like every piece of ‘drama’ I was underwhelmed by the reveal. And I hated Meredith and her devotion to Freddy literally still the end it was unbearable. I just thought she was so stupid honestly. Found it a bit repetitive too like Meredith would recall a childhood story, and then Connie would recall the same story later in the book. Also had the least amount of Nantucket imagery which is really what I go to Elin for. I feel like the only reason I was able to get through this was bc I was reading it on vacation and had lots of time. Probably wouldn’t recommend but still enjoyed it.
June 12, 2024
Elin never disappoints. I particularly enjoyed how in depth this novel got into about the crimes of Meredith’s husband as well as making the main character have several layers to her personality. She kept it real
March 2, 2024
I’ve had this book for years and finally picked it up while on vacation. It was perfect to read by the beach, and tugged on my heart strings a lot more than I expected. I’m looking forward to reading more of Elin’s novels soon!
June 13, 2011
Sail on Silver Girl. Sail on by. Your time has come to shine. All your dreams are on their way.” Page 341
Meredith Delinn certainly didn’t feel like any dreams were coming true after her husband was arrested for stealing millions from investors.
Being the wife of an investment thief definitely was not pleasant. Freddy had cheated investors out of millions, was finally caught, and made his family's life miserable. He wouldn't talk to authorities about anything and wouldn't tell them that his wife and sons had nothing to do with his swindling of investors out of their money. Meredith and her two sons were also under investigation.
So…..as Freddy was hauled off to jail for 150 years, Meredith left town with her best friend Connie. They were staying at Connie's beach house in Nantucket....beautiful Nantucket where Meredith had to remain incognito since many investors lived there.
Despite her disguise, someone recognized Meredith and small assaults on Connie’s property started occurring. They were blaming Meredith for Freddy’s thievery.
SILVER GIRL went from past to present describing the story behind each character and how they became the person they were today. Many themes presented themselves…..love, health issues, social issues, family and friendship connections, and most evident.....GREED, BETRAYAL, and DECEIT. All three were ruining many lives including Meredith’s.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and became involved with the characters. The characters were made of a great circle of friends tangled in situations since high school. As you read the book, you will start to ask yourself: Do I really know the people I have in my life relationships? Well….hopefully we do, but the book definitely will make you question yourself.
The book title plays a major role in solving the mystery that was also woven into the book.
I am giving Silver Girl an outstanding 5/5....Ms Hilderbrand kept my interest from the first to the very last page.
Meredith Delinn certainly didn’t feel like any dreams were coming true after her husband was arrested for stealing millions from investors.
Being the wife of an investment thief definitely was not pleasant. Freddy had cheated investors out of millions, was finally caught, and made his family's life miserable. He wouldn't talk to authorities about anything and wouldn't tell them that his wife and sons had nothing to do with his swindling of investors out of their money. Meredith and her two sons were also under investigation.
So…..as Freddy was hauled off to jail for 150 years, Meredith left town with her best friend Connie. They were staying at Connie's beach house in Nantucket....beautiful Nantucket where Meredith had to remain incognito since many investors lived there.
Despite her disguise, someone recognized Meredith and small assaults on Connie’s property started occurring. They were blaming Meredith for Freddy’s thievery.
SILVER GIRL went from past to present describing the story behind each character and how they became the person they were today. Many themes presented themselves…..love, health issues, social issues, family and friendship connections, and most evident.....GREED, BETRAYAL, and DECEIT. All three were ruining many lives including Meredith’s.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and became involved with the characters. The characters were made of a great circle of friends tangled in situations since high school. As you read the book, you will start to ask yourself: Do I really know the people I have in my life relationships? Well….hopefully we do, but the book definitely will make you question yourself.
The book title plays a major role in solving the mystery that was also woven into the book.
I am giving Silver Girl an outstanding 5/5....Ms Hilderbrand kept my interest from the first to the very last page.
September 19, 2011
I had to take a few days to think about this one. I have come to the conclusion that this one just OK for me. I'm not sure I can totally pinpoint why I didn't care for it. I think it came down to the characters. None of them appealed to me. I didn't like Meredith at all. I didn't feel badly for her situation one bit. Nobody can be that blind for 30 years. I wasn't even really convinced that she had changed that much in the end. I also didn't care for Constance. She could have made more of an effort to get back with her daughter, but instead she chose to wallow in self pity. To me, Toby was the most honest of the 3 of them. But, he was almost felt like an after thought. Like there was a need for a romance for Meredith, so let's bring back the old boyfriend. I didn't buy it.
The other problem I had with the book was the pacing. All of the inner reflection and remembering the past slowed down the book for me. It was too long and probably could have been cut down a bit. Personally, I don't think you will be missing anything if you skip this one.
The other problem I had with the book was the pacing. All of the inner reflection and remembering the past slowed down the book for me. It was too long and probably could have been cut down a bit. Personally, I don't think you will be missing anything if you skip this one.
January 19, 2013
Another time I wish we could half stars! This would be one and a half.
I am torn about this book. Maybe it is just too close to the Madoff scandal. The author paints us a picture that the wife of the Ponzi master is caring, sweet, lovely, and just oblivious to what her husband has done. I don't buy it, but then, I get it. It's only a book.
But maybe that is the part that makes me so torn. Bernie Madoff was real. The damage he did was real. His son committed suicide. He stole billions of dollars from people. They didn't find a lot of the money and return it to the investors.
I read Stephanie Madoff Mack's book and was heartbroken at what her family has gone through. Her husband committed suicide. Their children will grow up with a father.
I have said it before, and I will probably say many more times. Bernie Madoff was a pariah, and he devoured people with malice. Narcissus was prey for the vulture Bernie Madoff.
I am torn about this book. Maybe it is just too close to the Madoff scandal. The author paints us a picture that the wife of the Ponzi master is caring, sweet, lovely, and just oblivious to what her husband has done. I don't buy it, but then, I get it. It's only a book.
But maybe that is the part that makes me so torn. Bernie Madoff was real. The damage he did was real. His son committed suicide. He stole billions of dollars from people. They didn't find a lot of the money and return it to the investors.
I read Stephanie Madoff Mack's book and was heartbroken at what her family has gone through. Her husband committed suicide. Their children will grow up with a father.
I have said it before, and I will probably say many more times. Bernie Madoff was a pariah, and he devoured people with malice. Narcissus was prey for the vulture Bernie Madoff.
November 17, 2013
I considered this a beach read. I read it for a lark and it is one of those 'rich girl loses her money and her lifestyle' stories. I found the main character Meredith to be clueless and selfish in the beginning. She went through a lot of self-pity until she finally woke up to the facts of her marriage to a crook. And her good as gold friend who took her in is part of the formula, too. Still, the story was right out of the headlines and it took the reader on a path less travelled. It was not about the crook or his victims, but about his family and friends who were unwitting parties to his crime. We don't often hear about their plight.
August 16, 2020
This is an easy chick lit read! I like these as my go-to when I do not want to think about what I am ready, and just enjoy the story being told.
Two women who have been friends since school have fallen out over the adult years and one now desperately needs the other. Can the two reconcile their differences from years ago and both understand why the other acted as they had. Will the truth and secrets come out to be finally laid to rest, or will these past events continue to linger in their lives, as a thorn in their side?
Meredith has just found out that her husband had been stealing millions of dollars through his trading company and the verdict has just come in, he is to spend 150 years in prison. The rest of his life! What is Meredith to do, she has lost everything, including her sons. One of which they are saying was in on the Ponzi scheme and she herself has a target on her back being the wife.
Constance is still hurting from the death of her husband taken two years ago, with cancer. She is heading out to their Nantucket house they had built and often it is reminders of Wolf everywhere, but it is also her summer getaway. She is getting ready to head out, when she gets a call from an old friend asking to pick her up, she is in trouble and did not have anyone else to call.
Connie picks Meredith up from the back alley, as the media sharks are camped out front of her place and they speed off to Connie's summer cottage. Connie's only one rule is no speaking until they get there. The two of them have hours to each think about the change in plans in their lives and how this is going to work, and for how long.
As the two settle in; memories, stories and truths come out meanwhile Meredith has not escaped completely from the media. The two women deal with a few scares, and this brings a local widow who starts to also hang around and help the women out. Maybe Connie can find another person to bond with after all, and Meredith needs to come to the understanding of her husband looking out for only himself.
The story is told through both women's point of views, and often they remanence about the past and where things with them went wrong or caused riffs. Just when Meredith thinks she may be getting things under control, Connie brings someone to the house from her past. Can this relationship too be repaired?
Two women who have been friends since school have fallen out over the adult years and one now desperately needs the other. Can the two reconcile their differences from years ago and both understand why the other acted as they had. Will the truth and secrets come out to be finally laid to rest, or will these past events continue to linger in their lives, as a thorn in their side?
Meredith has just found out that her husband had been stealing millions of dollars through his trading company and the verdict has just come in, he is to spend 150 years in prison. The rest of his life! What is Meredith to do, she has lost everything, including her sons. One of which they are saying was in on the Ponzi scheme and she herself has a target on her back being the wife.
Constance is still hurting from the death of her husband taken two years ago, with cancer. She is heading out to their Nantucket house they had built and often it is reminders of Wolf everywhere, but it is also her summer getaway. She is getting ready to head out, when she gets a call from an old friend asking to pick her up, she is in trouble and did not have anyone else to call.
Connie picks Meredith up from the back alley, as the media sharks are camped out front of her place and they speed off to Connie's summer cottage. Connie's only one rule is no speaking until they get there. The two of them have hours to each think about the change in plans in their lives and how this is going to work, and for how long.
As the two settle in; memories, stories and truths come out meanwhile Meredith has not escaped completely from the media. The two women deal with a few scares, and this brings a local widow who starts to also hang around and help the women out. Maybe Connie can find another person to bond with after all, and Meredith needs to come to the understanding of her husband looking out for only himself.
The story is told through both women's point of views, and often they remanence about the past and where things with them went wrong or caused riffs. Just when Meredith thinks she may be getting things under control, Connie brings someone to the house from her past. Can this relationship too be repaired?
April 16, 2025
Meredith’s world is turned upside down when her husband, Freddy, is accused of running a Ponzi scheme that causes an immense fallout. Freddy is in jail and Meredith has no money, no home, and can’t talk to her sons due to the legal case. When her estranged friend, Connie, offers her refuge in her Nantucket home for the summer, Meredith has no choice. Even if her and Connie haven’t been on speaking terms in years, and Connie’s brother is Meredith’s ex-boyfriend who she never recovered from losing.
I love an Elin, however this one was not my fave! I found Meredith and Connie to be unlikeable. I did like the theme of friendship and how Hildebrand writes about grief is always very real and raw. I felt as though the setting was lacking which is not normal for Elin, normally I want to immediately flee and soak in wherever she is writing about. It felt a bit long, and I didn’t get super invested in the outcomes for the characters.
I love an Elin, however this one was not my fave! I found Meredith and Connie to be unlikeable. I did like the theme of friendship and how Hildebrand writes about grief is always very real and raw. I felt as though the setting was lacking which is not normal for Elin, normally I want to immediately flee and soak in wherever she is writing about. It felt a bit long, and I didn’t get super invested in the outcomes for the characters.
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