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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 for women in this spectacular novel inspired by true events, from the New York Timesbestselling author of Lilac Girls.
“A dreamy beach book that also sizzles with tension . . . another winner by one of the best historical fiction writers around.”—Fiona Davis, author of The Stolen Queen
2016: Thirty-four-year-old Mari Starwood is still grieving after her mother’s death as she travels to the storied island of Martha’s Vineyard, off the coast of Massachusetts. She’s come all the way from California with nothing but a name on a piece of paper: Elizabeth Devereaux, the famous but reclusive Vineyard painter. When Mari makes it to Mrs. Devereaux’s stunning waterfront farm under the guise of taking a painting class with her, Mrs. Devereaux begins to tell her the story of the Smith sisters, who once lived there. As the tale unfolds, Mari is shocked to learn that her relationship to this island runs deeper than she ever thought possible.
1942: The Smith girls—nineteen-year-old aspiring writer Cadence and sixteen-year-old war-obsessed Briar—are faced with the impossible task of holding their failing family farm together during World War II as the U.S. Army arrives on Martha’s Vineyard. When Briar spots German U-boats lurking off the island’s shores, and Cadence falls into an unlikely romance with a sworn enemy, their quiet lives are officially upended. In an attempt at normalcy, Cadence and her best friend, Bess, start a book club, which grows both in members and influence as they connect with a fabulous New York publisher who could make all of Cadence’s dreams come true. But all that is put at risk by a mysterious man who washes ashore—and whispers of a spy in their midst. Who in their tight-knit island community can they trust? Could this little book club change the course of the war . . . before it’s too late?
“A dreamy beach book that also sizzles with tension . . . another winner by one of the best historical fiction writers around.”—Fiona Davis, author of The Stolen Queen
2016: Thirty-four-year-old Mari Starwood is still grieving after her mother’s death as she travels to the storied island of Martha’s Vineyard, off the coast of Massachusetts. She’s come all the way from California with nothing but a name on a piece of paper: Elizabeth Devereaux, the famous but reclusive Vineyard painter. When Mari makes it to Mrs. Devereaux’s stunning waterfront farm under the guise of taking a painting class with her, Mrs. Devereaux begins to tell her the story of the Smith sisters, who once lived there. As the tale unfolds, Mari is shocked to learn that her relationship to this island runs deeper than she ever thought possible.
1942: The Smith girls—nineteen-year-old aspiring writer Cadence and sixteen-year-old war-obsessed Briar—are faced with the impossible task of holding their failing family farm together during World War II as the U.S. Army arrives on Martha’s Vineyard. When Briar spots German U-boats lurking off the island’s shores, and Cadence falls into an unlikely romance with a sworn enemy, their quiet lives are officially upended. In an attempt at normalcy, Cadence and her best friend, Bess, start a book club, which grows both in members and influence as they connect with a fabulous New York publisher who could make all of Cadence’s dreams come true. But all that is put at risk by a mysterious man who washes ashore—and whispers of a spy in their midst. Who in their tight-knit island community can they trust? Could this little book club change the course of the war . . . before it’s too late?
336 pages, Hardcover
First published May 27, 2025
2087 people are currently reading
65631 people want to read
About the author
Martha Hall Kelly
13 books8,069 followersMartha is still pinching herself after her debut novel LILAC GIRLS, about socialite Caroline Ferriday and her fight to help a group of concentration camp survivors, became an Instant NY Times bestseller in 2016 and went on to sell over two million copies. Once the paperback stayed on the NYT list for 54 weeks, and became published in fifty countries she wrote three more novels: LOST ROSES about Caroline's mother, SUNFLOWER SISTERS about her great grandmother, and THE GOLDEN DOVES about two best friends who unite to find a missing Nazi doctor. Martha's next book, which arrives summer 2025, is THE MARTHA'S VINEYARD BEACH AND BOOK CLUB about two sisters who turn the tide of the war with the help of their book club. Martha grew up in Massachusetts and now splits her time between Connecticut and New York City. You'll find more info about the incredible, true stories behind all of her books at her website: http://www.marthahallkelly.com, on Instagram: @marthahakkkelly, Facebook and on her ever-changing Pinterest page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,808 reviews
May 31, 2025
4+ stars
I so enjoyed this story!
This started off in 2016 when 34 yr old Mari Starwood in California finds the name of artist Elizabeth Devereaux amongst her mother’s belongings after she died, and travels to Martha’s Vineyard to meet her and then return home. She is trying to find out what the connection is.
Elizabeth Devereaux is living on a beautiful farm on the Vineyard… and she starts telling Mari that her mother is connected to the family, the Smith’s, who owned the land for many years.
Tells her the story of the Smith sisters, Cadence and Briar who ran the farm in 1942 during World War ll, living with their grandmother because their parents had both died.. and their beloved brother Tom is called up to war.
There is also a mystery of a spy on the island trying to connect with a German u-boat off the shore.
The times were very hard for the Smith’s and the American army were training on part of the beach on their land. The Smith sister’s started a book club that met on their beach with just themselves, their grandmother and another girl which lent a nice diversion to the happenings of that time.
A really enjoyable story with a satisfying ending.
Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine for the ARC!
I so enjoyed this story!
This started off in 2016 when 34 yr old Mari Starwood in California finds the name of artist Elizabeth Devereaux amongst her mother’s belongings after she died, and travels to Martha’s Vineyard to meet her and then return home. She is trying to find out what the connection is.
Elizabeth Devereaux is living on a beautiful farm on the Vineyard… and she starts telling Mari that her mother is connected to the family, the Smith’s, who owned the land for many years.
Tells her the story of the Smith sisters, Cadence and Briar who ran the farm in 1942 during World War ll, living with their grandmother because their parents had both died.. and their beloved brother Tom is called up to war.
There is also a mystery of a spy on the island trying to connect with a German u-boat off the shore.
The times were very hard for the Smith’s and the American army were training on part of the beach on their land. The Smith sister’s started a book club that met on their beach with just themselves, their grandmother and another girl which lent a nice diversion to the happenings of that time.
A really enjoyable story with a satisfying ending.
Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine for the ARC!
April 13, 2025
This is a work of fiction, yet is an historically accurate depiction of war time on Martha’s Vineyard, with characters inspired by real people, and events inspired by what was happening in the world in 1942. The title and cover are a little misleading. They feel a lot lighter than the story. This is a WWII story and while we don’t see the battlefield, we see the impact that the war has on the people here and it’s not all light with German u boats seeking glimpses of Allied practice maneuvers, a spy on the island, young men sent off to war who don’t return home or return forever changed.
The story, in spite of the serious issues, was a pleasure to read. The Smith sisters, Cadence and Briar, along with their friend Bess stole my heart. The book club started by Cadence and Bess is a reader’s delight as they give away a book each month to someone to read and pass on, when they bring boxes of books to the soldiers . The author pays tribute to the Armed Services project to produce pocket books small enough to fit in a soldier’s knapsack by imagining its start on the island. I loved the literary references, especially the numerous mentions of The Great Gatsby. (A coincidence that I had celebrated the 100th anniversary of my favorite book by listening to the audiobook just before reading this novel .) Reading Cadence’s columns in the Vineyard Gazette was a joy . They were funny, gave such a feel for the island , its inhabitants and what was happening .
There’s a current time frame component in 2016 with Mari visiting the island to discover her mother’s past . I found I didn’t connect with her as much as the characters in the earlier time frame. Perhaps because we don’t see a lot of her life. I did however, very much enjoy the novel, the eventual revelation ( which I guessed ) of her connection to the characters.
I received a copy of this from Random House through NetGalley.
The story, in spite of the serious issues, was a pleasure to read. The Smith sisters, Cadence and Briar, along with their friend Bess stole my heart. The book club started by Cadence and Bess is a reader’s delight as they give away a book each month to someone to read and pass on, when they bring boxes of books to the soldiers . The author pays tribute to the Armed Services project to produce pocket books small enough to fit in a soldier’s knapsack by imagining its start on the island. I loved the literary references, especially the numerous mentions of The Great Gatsby. (A coincidence that I had celebrated the 100th anniversary of my favorite book by listening to the audiobook just before reading this novel .) Reading Cadence’s columns in the Vineyard Gazette was a joy . They were funny, gave such a feel for the island , its inhabitants and what was happening .
There’s a current time frame component in 2016 with Mari visiting the island to discover her mother’s past . I found I didn’t connect with her as much as the characters in the earlier time frame. Perhaps because we don’t see a lot of her life. I did however, very much enjoy the novel, the eventual revelation ( which I guessed ) of her connection to the characters.
I received a copy of this from Random House through NetGalley.
April 19, 2025
The relatable eye-catching cover caught my attention, but the beautiful story captured my heart. I began this one with zero expectations as this was my first experience reading Martha Hall Kelly and I am just impressed beyond words by how much I enjoyed this novel. I now want to read her entire backlist. This one is split into a dual timeline between 1942 which is where the bulk of the book takes place and 2016.
In 2016 we meet Mari she travels to Martha's Vineyard on the heels of her mother's funeral. Her finances are tight and her heart is tender. She arrives there to paint as the famed Elizabeth Devereaux"s student. Baffled locals can't figure out why Devereaux takes Mari on. Elizabeth begins to regal Mari with stories of the island's past particularly its involvement in WWII.
That's where the second timeline comes into play. The 1942 timeline is brimming with life and vibrancy! It was amazing to read. I felt as though the sand was between my toes. There are two sisters Briar who is younger and more of a tomboy she has spunk, I took an immediate liking to her and Cadence. Cadence is the older sister with lofty dreams of leaving the island and pursuing a job in publishing.
The two girls struggle to manage the family farm alongside their brother's girlfriend and grandma. Briar is convinced she has spotted a German U-boat off the coast of the island, but no one believes her. Is she mistaken? A mysterious man washes ashore and tells the family there's a spy in there close-knit town. The family must decide if this is the truth or a ploy by an enemy to gain their trust.
The atmosphere won me over with this book. It was one of those that was immersive from the first sentence. Be sure to read the author's note as well it was informative and lovely as this was a personal novel, and it showed. Such rich storytelling!
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Publishing for the Advance Readers Copy
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
This one went straight to the top of the stack, and it is magnificent. 💟💟😍😍
In 2016 we meet Mari she travels to Martha's Vineyard on the heels of her mother's funeral. Her finances are tight and her heart is tender. She arrives there to paint as the famed Elizabeth Devereaux"s student. Baffled locals can't figure out why Devereaux takes Mari on. Elizabeth begins to regal Mari with stories of the island's past particularly its involvement in WWII.
That's where the second timeline comes into play. The 1942 timeline is brimming with life and vibrancy! It was amazing to read. I felt as though the sand was between my toes. There are two sisters Briar who is younger and more of a tomboy she has spunk, I took an immediate liking to her and Cadence. Cadence is the older sister with lofty dreams of leaving the island and pursuing a job in publishing.
The two girls struggle to manage the family farm alongside their brother's girlfriend and grandma. Briar is convinced she has spotted a German U-boat off the coast of the island, but no one believes her. Is she mistaken? A mysterious man washes ashore and tells the family there's a spy in there close-knit town. The family must decide if this is the truth or a ploy by an enemy to gain their trust.
The atmosphere won me over with this book. It was one of those that was immersive from the first sentence. Be sure to read the author's note as well it was informative and lovely as this was a personal novel, and it showed. Such rich storytelling!
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Publishing for the Advance Readers Copy
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
This one went straight to the top of the stack, and it is magnificent. 💟💟😍😍
May 5, 2025
4 stars for an enjoyable historical fiction book set in two time frames: 2016 and WWII, both on the island of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA. The book opens with Mari Starwood journeying from California to Martha's Vineyard on the pretext of attending a workshop run by Elizabeth Devereaux, a famous artist. But actually Mari has come to meet Elisabeth because Mari found Elizabeth's name among her mother's things after she died.
Elizabeth starts to tell Mari about the people who lived in the house where she now lives and explains that her mother has a connection to this house. What follows is a story of family, WWII, 3 sisters, 1 brother and his betrothed.
Parts of this book are based on actual events that took place during WWII: German submarines did lie in wait off the east USA coast, and there was a practice beach landing on the island by US soldiers.
I recommend this book to historical fiction fans and to anyone interested in family history.
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheMarthasVineyardBeachandBookClub #NetGalley
Pub Date May 27 2025 |
Elizabeth starts to tell Mari about the people who lived in the house where she now lives and explains that her mother has a connection to this house. What follows is a story of family, WWII, 3 sisters, 1 brother and his betrothed.
Parts of this book are based on actual events that took place during WWII: German submarines did lie in wait off the east USA coast, and there was a practice beach landing on the island by US soldiers.
I recommend this book to historical fiction fans and to anyone interested in family history.
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheMarthasVineyardBeachandBookClub #NetGalley
Pub Date May 27 2025 |
August 17, 2025
4💫
i love a historical fiction, especially set in the summer. i loved the multiple povs and being able to experience each of the sisters journeys during this time. i wish the book club had a more important role in the book, i feel like it was maybe just mentioned a bit and her journey of being a writer overshadowed it, but i still enjoyed it!!
i love a historical fiction, especially set in the summer. i loved the multiple povs and being able to experience each of the sisters journeys during this time. i wish the book club had a more important role in the book, i feel like it was maybe just mentioned a bit and her journey of being a writer overshadowed it, but i still enjoyed it!!
March 28, 2025
Martha Hall Kelly has written an unforgettable historical timeslip novel with a mystery at its heart. She effortlessly blends Martha’s Vineyard during WWII with a contemporary setting and highlights how the written word connects and comforts us during difficult times.
In the 1942 timeline, Cadence and Briar Smith form a wartime book club and donate books to soldiers stationed on Martha’s Vineyard. I learned about The Armed Services Editions (Books in Action) and was surprised at where and how the residents obtained their books - an interesting precursor to Little Free Libraries! I was drawn in by a unique subplot - how Martha’s Vineyard played a role in WWII.
In the 2016 timeline, Marigold ‘Mari’ Starwood’s interactions with the islanders give us insight into the relationships with the visitors and residents as she struggles to understand her mother’s past.
I also enjoyed the mystery that tied everything together and the wonderful characters the author crafted. The setting came alive because of the author’s connection to this island. Don’t miss the notes at the end!
I was gifted this copy by Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
In the 1942 timeline, Cadence and Briar Smith form a wartime book club and donate books to soldiers stationed on Martha’s Vineyard. I learned about The Armed Services Editions (Books in Action) and was surprised at where and how the residents obtained their books - an interesting precursor to Little Free Libraries! I was drawn in by a unique subplot - how Martha’s Vineyard played a role in WWII.
In the 2016 timeline, Marigold ‘Mari’ Starwood’s interactions with the islanders give us insight into the relationships with the visitors and residents as she struggles to understand her mother’s past.
I also enjoyed the mystery that tied everything together and the wonderful characters the author crafted. The setting came alive because of the author’s connection to this island. Don’t miss the notes at the end!
I was gifted this copy by Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 31, 2025
This is an entertaining, well-written, dual timeline, WWII historical fiction novel. It has wonderful, relatable characters, a bit of mystery, a touch of romance, wit, a charming, beautiful setting, heartbreak, resilience, and hope. I listened to the audio book, and the narrators, Mary Elizabeth Kelly, Mia Hutchinson-Shaw, Imani Jade Powers, and EJ Lavery, are truly talented and do an outstanding job voicing the characters. The author's note, read in her own voice, is enlightening and insightful, and is truly appreciated.
January 12, 2025
I was very excited to read this historical fiction, but it unfortunately fell flat for me :(
The story felt very disjointed with the dual timelines and multiple first person POVs. The first chapter started off in 2016 and was really fun and hooked me in. But the story then switched to 1942 timeline until almost the halfway mark. It felt like there was no point to the 2016 timeline since the story barely went back to that timeline until the end. There was also a bit of a mystery tied in with the U-boat and spy and it just didn’t grab me. It honestly felt like the story I was reading and the title of the book didn’t correlate at all. We barely read anything about the book club once Peter’s character arrives.
All in all, I was bored and disappointed throughout. However, I enjoyed the Author’s Note at the end - I honestly enjoyed it more than the entire book! I wish the author’s personal connections and obvious knowledge about Martha’s Vineyard and WWII were fleshed out better in this story.
The story felt very disjointed with the dual timelines and multiple first person POVs. The first chapter started off in 2016 and was really fun and hooked me in. But the story then switched to 1942 timeline until almost the halfway mark. It felt like there was no point to the 2016 timeline since the story barely went back to that timeline until the end. There was also a bit of a mystery tied in with the U-boat and spy and it just didn’t grab me. It honestly felt like the story I was reading and the title of the book didn’t correlate at all. We barely read anything about the book club once Peter’s character arrives.
All in all, I was bored and disappointed throughout. However, I enjoyed the Author’s Note at the end - I honestly enjoyed it more than the entire book! I wish the author’s personal connections and obvious knowledge about Martha’s Vineyard and WWII were fleshed out better in this story.
January 24, 2025
I adore Martha Hall Kelly’s books, and I loved The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club! Her characters are so beautifully crafted—I can feel them in the room, ready to discuss their loves, family secrets, intrigues, adventures, and more. I am predicting that this book will be one of your top 2025 reads. It’s definitely one of mine!
June 29, 2025
"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 for women" and have books sent overseas for soldiers to read.
The story begins in 2016 when Mari arrives from California to visit painter Elizabeth Devereaux on Martha's Vineyard to help on her farm. While there, most of the book is a flashback to sisters Briar and Cadence in 1942 and how they were affected by WWII. In learning about them, she finds that their story affects her personally as well.
The sisters have hopes and dreams of career and romance and making a mark on the world. They are caught up in danger as well as a game of cat and mouse to find a Nazi spy unfolds. To me, this was more historical fiction than a book about a book club or beach read but it is very well written and informative of what was happening in America since most WWII stories take place in Europe.
I recommend this for when you want a lighter historical fiction read but something with more substance than a beach read.
The story begins in 2016 when Mari arrives from California to visit painter Elizabeth Devereaux on Martha's Vineyard to help on her farm. While there, most of the book is a flashback to sisters Briar and Cadence in 1942 and how they were affected by WWII. In learning about them, she finds that their story affects her personally as well.
The sisters have hopes and dreams of career and romance and making a mark on the world. They are caught up in danger as well as a game of cat and mouse to find a Nazi spy unfolds. To me, this was more historical fiction than a book about a book club or beach read but it is very well written and informative of what was happening in America since most WWII stories take place in Europe.
I recommend this for when you want a lighter historical fiction read but something with more substance than a beach read.
December 24, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club, by Martha Hall Kelly, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Its 1942 WWII is going strong, and sisters Ginny and Briar are living in Martha's Vineyard. Its 2024 and Mari is on Martha's Vineyard to meet a painter, but thats not all she is there for. A really good read.
June 5, 2025
It was a good story but the characters seemed too modern. They didn’t fit with the time period and it bugged me. I had high hopes for this book but it fell short.
May 30, 2025
The cover and title of this book was what drew me to this one. I'm happy to say I also enjoyed the premise! It's a quick read with likeable characters. Told through two timelines, 2016, and 1942. In 2016, Mari's mother passed away and she travels to Martha's Vineyard to meet Elizabeth Deveraux at her farm at Sea. She's not sure what her connection is to her, but found her name in her mother's notes. While there, Elizabeth tells Mari about the Smith sisters who lived on this farm during WW2.
In 1942, the Smith sisters, Cadence and Briar, are trying to hold the family farm together during WW2, Cadence and her friend Bess start a book club to try and make life feel as normal as possible. But there are things happening that could put everything at risk.
These characters are well developed and their stories are compelling. I liked that this was different from other WW2 books I've read. I loved it!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own
In 1942, the Smith sisters, Cadence and Briar, are trying to hold the family farm together during WW2, Cadence and her friend Bess start a book club to try and make life feel as normal as possible. But there are things happening that could put everything at risk.
These characters are well developed and their stories are compelling. I liked that this was different from other WW2 books I've read. I loved it!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own
March 27, 2025
Drawn to the vintage photo on the cover, I found myself compelled right from the start by this beautifully written time slip novel set on Martha's Vineyard.
Mari Starwood, grieving her mother, visits the island in 2016 to meet renown artist Elizabeth Devereaux after she finds the painter's name in her mother's belongings. What she learns ties her mother back to 1942 on the Vineyard, when German U-boats were spotted right offshore.
This glorious read features romance and suspense, irresistible characters, a war-time book club, a forbidden relationship with a member of the enemy, loving sisters fighting to safeguard the family farm, and gorgeous descriptions of the Vineyard that render it as important as any character. Histfic fans will adore it!
Mari Starwood, grieving her mother, visits the island in 2016 to meet renown artist Elizabeth Devereaux after she finds the painter's name in her mother's belongings. What she learns ties her mother back to 1942 on the Vineyard, when German U-boats were spotted right offshore.
This glorious read features romance and suspense, irresistible characters, a war-time book club, a forbidden relationship with a member of the enemy, loving sisters fighting to safeguard the family farm, and gorgeous descriptions of the Vineyard that render it as important as any character. Histfic fans will adore it!
May 28, 2025
I’m always excited when MHK drops a new book, and this, absolutely amazing, loved it!! How fascinating to learn Hall gained inspiration for this book from her own mother’s stories of growing up on Martha’s Vineyard during WWll. ❥
Told in dual timelines, this is an intergenerational tale that begins by dashing forward to 2016 when a curious Mari Starwood arrives in Martha's Vineyard looking for answers after finding the name Elizabeth Devereaux - a reclusive painter - on a piece of paper in her late mother’s possessions.
Then we travel back to 1942 and meet sisters Cadence and Briar Smith and their concern over the survival of their family farm during war time on the ever-changing Martha’s Vineyard. Military training was taking place there on the island, and U-boats were seen and reported off the coast with only disbelief (of the sighting) for her trouble.
This was such a delightful (and educational!) tale of family legacy, friendship and romance, including mystery-secrets, and I loved the book club aspect - and The Great Gatsby - in relation to our servicemen. Solid 5 stars!!! Pub. 5/27/25
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Told in dual timelines, this is an intergenerational tale that begins by dashing forward to 2016 when a curious Mari Starwood arrives in Martha's Vineyard looking for answers after finding the name Elizabeth Devereaux - a reclusive painter - on a piece of paper in her late mother’s possessions.
Then we travel back to 1942 and meet sisters Cadence and Briar Smith and their concern over the survival of their family farm during war time on the ever-changing Martha’s Vineyard. Military training was taking place there on the island, and U-boats were seen and reported off the coast with only disbelief (of the sighting) for her trouble.
This was such a delightful (and educational!) tale of family legacy, friendship and romance, including mystery-secrets, and I loved the book club aspect - and The Great Gatsby - in relation to our servicemen. Solid 5 stars!!! Pub. 5/27/25
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2025
Martha Hall Kelly’s latest is a work of historical fiction set in Martha’s Vineyard during WWII. One family of women must do everything in their power to make ends meet on their Vineyard farm while forces beyond their control threaten to wreak havoc. This has a satisfying mix of history, mystery and women’s fiction that will appeal to a vast array of readers. Martha Hall Kelly’s masterful prose will make this a popular pick for book clubs and fans in general.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Ballantine Books and Martha Hall Kelly for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Ballantine Books and Martha Hall Kelly for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 29, 2025
4.5 Stars! Love this book so much. I couldn't help but fall in love with Bess, Cadence and Briar and wish I could join their book club. The writing was beautiful - the story engaging and the overall experience was just wonderful.
May 27, 2025
I haven't read a Martha Hall Kelly book this good since Lilac Girls. As I read it, in fact, I forgot who the author was and was surprised when I opened it on Goodreads and saw it was her .
This book goes back and forth in time from 2016 to 1942. Mari Starwood is invited to a painting retreat on Martha's Vineyard, but has an ulterior motives and plans to stay just for the day. But when her hostess Mrs. D picks her up, she begins a tale about WWII and the family that lived on the farm. Martha's Vineyard is a training area for the Army, and when they try to run across her from, Ginny Smith, known as Grams, and her 2 granddaughters berate them.
The story is then told in alternating chapters by Cadence and Briar, and it is a story of German spies, the war, and much more.
It is very accurate historical fiction, as Kelly is known for.
The most interesting part for me is a subplot about publishing books in a small paperback format for soldiers. I read about it in the book, "When books went to war," and saw that author in January and loved that the titular bookclub was the impetus for the books. Cadence wrote a newspaper column and came to the attention of one of the women on publishing in New York. It was her dream to work in publishing.
The ending is wonderful and I sobbed through the last few chapters.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. I highly recommend this book.
This book goes back and forth in time from 2016 to 1942. Mari Starwood is invited to a painting retreat on Martha's Vineyard, but has an ulterior motives and plans to stay just for the day. But when her hostess Mrs. D picks her up, she begins a tale about WWII and the family that lived on the farm. Martha's Vineyard is a training area for the Army, and when they try to run across her from, Ginny Smith, known as Grams, and her 2 granddaughters berate them.
The story is then told in alternating chapters by Cadence and Briar, and it is a story of German spies, the war, and much more.
It is very accurate historical fiction, as Kelly is known for.
The most interesting part for me is a subplot about publishing books in a small paperback format for soldiers. I read about it in the book, "When books went to war," and saw that author in January and loved that the titular bookclub was the impetus for the books. Cadence wrote a newspaper column and came to the attention of one of the women on publishing in New York. It was her dream to work in publishing.
The ending is wonderful and I sobbed through the last few chapters.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. I highly recommend this book.
May 27, 2025
I read a lot of Historical Fiction - often set in WWII - so I appreciate it when I find a book that gives a different perspective of how war impacts people. In her latest book, author Martha Hall Kelly brings her readers to Martha's Vineyard and tells a story that is inspired by real people - some from the author's own family.
Told in two timelines, the modern storyline in 2016 grabbed my attention initially but ended up having very little page time. The bulk of the story is set in 1942 which focuses on sisters Cadence and Briar who start a book club on the island. And although the book club features in the title, it plays a minor role. Instead, we see the impact of war on small-town Americans. There's also an element of mystery, family drama and romance (insta-love), but I had hoped for more depth in all these elements.
What I loved in this book is the 'found family' that these women create with each other! I also appreciated how this American author acknowledged the crucial role Canadian soldiers played in the war - particularly in the battle of Dieppe - which is too often ignored.
This story is set in a turbulent time when the enemy was quite literally on the doorstep, but it is told with a light hand. With a beautiful setting, blend of history, small-town life, love and loss and an ending that ties up neatly, this is a good pick for readers who enjoy lighter historical fiction reads based on real-life experiences.
May 29, 2025
While reading this book I felt like opportunities and obstacles seemed to drop out of the sky for these characters as they then quickly and awkwardly dealt with them. Most of the characters didn’t have very much depth, it was like watching a play. However after reading the author’s note I understood that she based the characters and events on personal history and that gave me a better understanding of the novel. Although this gave me more respect for her story and respect for much research done, it made me feel a bit like a patchwork quilt for her to include everything she wanted. 3.5
August 10, 2025
Intermingling historical facts and figures with fiction, another fabulous novel by Martha Hall Kelly. Well developed characters brought the story to life, and I felt a part of the island during the harrowing years of WWII. I'll be watching for her next novel.
April 28, 2025
"If you can't move heaven, then just raise hell".
A bit of history, a touch of mystery and nothing like I was expecting. MVBBC took me by surprise in the best of ways.
The beginning is a bit slow but the story really ramps up around a quarter of the way through, so sit tight and enjoy the ride. Mari, heads to Martha's Vineyard to paint with the acclaimed artist Elizabeth Devereux, after the death of her mother. Turns out Elizabeth knows a lot more than just art. As she divulges the events of the past, Mari gains something significant to her future.
It's the 1940's on the Island and the war is raging, but that won't stop Cadence and Bess from dragging Briar to their book club. These three girls are the heartbeat of the book. They are bold, brave and break through the societal roles of their time period. There is so much going on through the pages like heartbreaking loss, a surprising new love and a dangerous mystery to be solved. There is a traitor among them and the girls must figure out who it is.
The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club is what you get when historical accuracy meets entertaining fiction and one of a kind characters. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Publishing 5/27/25.
Thank you Penguin Random House & Netgalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A bit of history, a touch of mystery and nothing like I was expecting. MVBBC took me by surprise in the best of ways.
The beginning is a bit slow but the story really ramps up around a quarter of the way through, so sit tight and enjoy the ride. Mari, heads to Martha's Vineyard to paint with the acclaimed artist Elizabeth Devereux, after the death of her mother. Turns out Elizabeth knows a lot more than just art. As she divulges the events of the past, Mari gains something significant to her future.
It's the 1940's on the Island and the war is raging, but that won't stop Cadence and Bess from dragging Briar to their book club. These three girls are the heartbeat of the book. They are bold, brave and break through the societal roles of their time period. There is so much going on through the pages like heartbreaking loss, a surprising new love and a dangerous mystery to be solved. There is a traitor among them and the girls must figure out who it is.
The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club is what you get when historical accuracy meets entertaining fiction and one of a kind characters. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Publishing 5/27/25.
Thank you Penguin Random House & Netgalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2025
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club
By: Martha Hall Kelly
Pub Date: May 27, 2025
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine
Don’t forget to read the author notes, which shows Kelly’s ties to Martha Vineyard. A dual time line told in 1942 and present day 2024. A story about two sisters during World War II and their love of books while they create a wartime book club.
Love how the soldiers were getting books. The girls, Briar and Ginny brother was in the war and they were trying to take care of the family’s property on Martha’s Vineyard.
A German U-boat is spotted in the waters as there is an army base close by. Briar is the younger sister and Ginny has hopes of being a writer in NY.
Created the book club proves to be a challenge as they want to get the books in the hands of soldiers.
A beautiful novel which I ADORED. I come from a long line of military and love books, so this one TOUCHES my heart. I would love to think that my ancestors were able to get their hands on some books.
By: Martha Hall Kelly
Pub Date: May 27, 2025
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine
Don’t forget to read the author notes, which shows Kelly’s ties to Martha Vineyard. A dual time line told in 1942 and present day 2024. A story about two sisters during World War II and their love of books while they create a wartime book club.
Love how the soldiers were getting books. The girls, Briar and Ginny brother was in the war and they were trying to take care of the family’s property on Martha’s Vineyard.
A German U-boat is spotted in the waters as there is an army base close by. Briar is the younger sister and Ginny has hopes of being a writer in NY.
Created the book club proves to be a challenge as they want to get the books in the hands of soldiers.
A beautiful novel which I ADORED. I come from a long line of military and love books, so this one TOUCHES my heart. I would love to think that my ancestors were able to get their hands on some books.
May 14, 2025
Another winning novel from Martha Hall Kelly offering a dual timeline, multiple points of view, well developed characters and great respect for the reader. This historical fiction book is a page turner with lots of twists and turns bringing the reader to great end!
June 6, 2025
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly was another take on the effects of WWII on the lives of small families and survival. I loved the Martha’s Vineyard setting as I could picture all the spots referred to and almost smell the beach rose air. The Smith Girls, in 1942, and Mari, in 2016, created a story of family, friends and life long relationships. The back drop of how books got them through these trying times and provided soldiers with a way to escape the horrors of war is another example of how books can save you. A wonderful and inspirational story. Enjoy!
October 14, 2024
Loved this! Absolutely beautiful! Highly recommend this to anyone. Sometimes the “right” thing isn’t black and white and the story of Cadence and Briar shows just that.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-arc!
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-arc!
May 10, 2025
Author Martha Hall Kelly has crafted yet another captivating and sweeping historical fiction story with a touch of mystery. The dual timeline story opens in the year 2016 with the bulk of the story residing in 1942 Martha's Vineyard.
It's 2016 and Mari has just arrived on the island, presumably for a bit of private painting tutelage. Elizabeth, Mari's instructor, advanced in her years, tells a long engaging story, which she implies is connected to Mari's own. It centers around the two Smith sisters and their Gram Smith during WWII. The sisters' brother is off to war, serving his country. In an attempt to maintain some normalcy during meager and anxious times, these women along with their friends start the MVBABC (Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club). The soldiers down the road are readying for their deployment while German U-Boats circle the island. There are many challenges and tough choices for these young women forced to grow up quickly in time of war.
The story is very well written with a tremendous amount of historical research put into its telling. The characters are well-developed and the mise en scène is vibrant. It was so well laid out that one could see the magnificent vistas from high island promontories, smell the enticing aromas of home-baked donuts and cookies in Gram's kitchen, as well as the tangy salt air brought in with the rising tide. The tension remains taut right through to the book's conclusion. As a long ago visitor of Martha's Vineyard, this was a wonderful trip down memory lane while learning yet more of the island's history than was previously known. If you have an interest in island life, the roles of women during WWII, and enjoy well-written and well-researched stories about such women, then this may well be the book for you.
I am grateful to Ms. Kelly and her publisher, Ballantine Books, for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: May 27, 2025
Number of Pages: 336
ISBN: 978-0593354919
It's 2016 and Mari has just arrived on the island, presumably for a bit of private painting tutelage. Elizabeth, Mari's instructor, advanced in her years, tells a long engaging story, which she implies is connected to Mari's own. It centers around the two Smith sisters and their Gram Smith during WWII. The sisters' brother is off to war, serving his country. In an attempt to maintain some normalcy during meager and anxious times, these women along with their friends start the MVBABC (Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club). The soldiers down the road are readying for their deployment while German U-Boats circle the island. There are many challenges and tough choices for these young women forced to grow up quickly in time of war.
The story is very well written with a tremendous amount of historical research put into its telling. The characters are well-developed and the mise en scène is vibrant. It was so well laid out that one could see the magnificent vistas from high island promontories, smell the enticing aromas of home-baked donuts and cookies in Gram's kitchen, as well as the tangy salt air brought in with the rising tide. The tension remains taut right through to the book's conclusion. As a long ago visitor of Martha's Vineyard, this was a wonderful trip down memory lane while learning yet more of the island's history than was previously known. If you have an interest in island life, the roles of women during WWII, and enjoy well-written and well-researched stories about such women, then this may well be the book for you.
I am grateful to Ms. Kelly and her publisher, Ballantine Books, for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: May 27, 2025
Number of Pages: 336
ISBN: 978-0593354919
July 19, 2025
Cadence, Briar, and Tom lived on Martha's Vineyard in the 1940s. Raised by their grandmother after their parents died, they loved the island and their farm. But as Tom heads off to fight in WWII, they decide to have a book club, along with Tom's girlfriend, Bess, to keep themselves busy. But strange things are happening on this island that may change their lives forever.
This is a dual timeline story, but it is mostly told about the characters in 1942. It had a bit of romance, a bit of mystery, and a great island setting. But the current storyline ended too neatly for me, so I knocked a star off for that.
This is a dual timeline story, but it is mostly told about the characters in 1942. It had a bit of romance, a bit of mystery, and a great island setting. But the current storyline ended too neatly for me, so I knocked a star off for that.
October 14, 2024
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book club was a very enjoyable novel. Most World War II historical fiction novels are set in Europe. It was interesting to read a very well researched and informative novel set on Martha’s Vineyard. It is a very common tool of authors to switch back and forth between characters and time periods, often the two story lines seem incompatible. Not the case here. Although I enjoyed the story set in the 40’s more than the modern counterpart, both threads were interesting and believable.
I think this novel was clever, unique and unpredictable. Its fast pace held my interest and the sympathetic characters held my heart. I know the readers in my book club would enjoy this novel.
I think this novel was clever, unique and unpredictable. Its fast pace held my interest and the sympathetic characters held my heart. I know the readers in my book club would enjoy this novel.
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