One for the Beach, One for the Nightstand

I just read two VERY different books about mothers and daughters. You might like one or both! Here’s my brief review of each.

Five Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand. What can I say? This woman has mastered the art of the summer beach read and I’m here for it every single time. The story revolves around female friendships and how they change over time - the mother/daughter story is secondary. Peacock/Sky just released the series starring Jennifer Garner, which just makes the reading even more vivid. It’s not my favourite Elin Hilderbrand book (that would be Summer of 69) - but if you generally like Hilderbrand, this one hits the spot. Stick with the book version though - I didn’t care for the Audible version.

You Won’t Get Free of It by Rachel Aviv. This is a collection of highly-researched essays, most of which have been previously published in The New Yorker. The mysteries of mental illness play a recurring theme - as does childhood trauma. I KNOW! It sounds heavy. And while it’s not exactly light reading, the essays are compelling and kept me coming back for more. If you wish you could read The New Yorker, but prefer the accomplishment that comes from finishing a good book - this is for you! :)