SOLVED. Novel about a summer retreat, I remember lilac trees. [s]

[Lucinda]

I read a book about a family/families, I think possibly during the earlier part of the 1900s, who summered at a retreat- elite, upper-class. They were in cottages, with women staying all summer and men coming in from the city. It was about the issues going on in a family, but I don't remember specifics. I do remember that there were lilac trees. I think I read the book about 15 years ago, but that's an estimate at best. It had detail about notes, invitations, cocktails, etc. Can't remember if the setting was oceanic or more mountains. Definitely summer homes, not of the uber-wealthy, but of the pretty well-to-do. thanks in advance to anyone who has ideas.

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Literary fic or mass market fiction?

[Lucinda]

I don't know- but thanks for considering. Probably somewhere in the middle, if that's a continuum. I don't remember much about it.

[``Laurie]

Reminds me of a Edith Wharton novel I read but I can't remember which one.

[Michele]

The Awakening by Kate Chopin?

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Lucinda, are you still looking for this?

[Lucinda]

Yes, still looking. The families (minus the working fathers) go out to their summer homes in a woodsy, perhaps coast, perhaps not. I think there is a death. My memory is fading by the year. I think it is a critical view of classism, the leisure society in mid century America, etc.

[Jo]

Hi Lucinda. My suggestion would be Colony by Anne Rivers Siddons. Hope that’s right!

[Lucinda]

Joanna wrote: "Hi Lucinda. My suggestion would be Colony by Anne Rivers Siddons. Hope that’s right!"

Joanna, THAT'S IT!! I've been searching for this title for literally YEARS! Thank you, thank you, thank you! mystery solved. Lilac trees and all. I really can't thank you enough!
Lucinda