The Island

A family in disarray after a postponed wedding fills an island summer with pain, humor, and surprises—a tale of summer that only Elin Hilderbrand can tell.

From the floating dance floor in her Connecticut backyard to the color of the cocktail napkins, Birdie Cousins has immersed herself into every little detail of her daughter Chess's extravagant wedding. She is experiencing the ups and downs of joy and tears, excitement and commotion, just like any mother of an engaged couple. However, Birdie, who takes great satisfaction in being ready for everything, could never have imagined receiving a call late at night from Chess unexpectedly canceling their engagement.

This is only the beginning of what promises to be an eventful and illuminating summer. Much worse news occurs before the dust has even started to settle, driving Chess into a complete state of despair. Birdie rounds the wagons and enlists the assistance of her younger daughter Tate and her own sister India, reluctantly taking a break from the first new relationship she's started since the recent loss of her 30-year marriage. Soon all four will be traveling to the idyllic, rustic Tuckernuck Island, which is located off the coast of Nantucket and has been a family vacation spot for many generations. A haven free of distractions where people can forget about their problems—a place without phones, TVs, or food stores.

On a secluded island, however, put sisters, daughters, ex-lovers, and long-kept secrets, and what can seem like a tranquil retreat turns into much more. Dramatic secrets are revealed, past loves are renewed, and new loves emerge before the summer is gone.