This past week I immersed myself in Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand while enjoying a quiet retreat on Long Beach Island. It was the perfect vacation read, offering a delightful respite after a year spent delving into my students' books, plays, and novellas. Hilderbrand's vivid portrayal of Nantucket, with its preppy islanders, elegant homes, and charming towns, created a backdrop similar to my coastal surroundings. Hilderbrand’s masterful character development had me eagerly anticipating each twist and turn, as the intricacies of their lives unfolded. Particularly intriguing was the arrival of a new couple who, with their $22 million oceanfront mansion, sparked a whirlwind of curiosity among the local residents. Hilderbrand's writing style, both accessible and engaging, made the novel a true pleasure to read.