The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club

Two sisters living on Martha’s Vineyard during World War II find hope in the power of storytelling when they start a wartime book club – a spectacular novel inspired by true events from the bestselling author of Lilac Girls.

2016
Fresh from her mother’s funeral, Mari arrives on Martha’s Vineyard off the coast of Massachusetts to study under the enigmatic painter Elizabeth Devereux.

But she soon realises that her relationship to the island runs deeper than she ever thought possible.

1942
It’s World War II, and Smith sisters Briar and Ginny are faced with the impossible task of holding their failing family farm together as the US army arrives on their island.

In an attempt for normalcy, the sisters start a book club that quickly grows in numbers and becomes a lifeline for the women who remain on the island.

That is, until a German soldier’s arrival casts shadows of doubt and danger. Who can they really trust in their tight-knit community?

In this spectacular novel inspired by true events, bestselling author Martha Hall Kelly weaves a captivating tale of love, loss and resilience.