Once in awhile I have the privilege of reading a magical, lyrical book so compelling and well-written that I cannot put it down. This novel is one of those books. The author of THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS has written an adult story about three childhood friends who have spent their summers on Long Island’s Fire Island. Alice and Riley are sisters and Paul is, literally, the boy next door. As the book begins all three are adults and Paul is coming back to the Island after a long absence.

The book is filled with the story of these three young people, their love of the ocean and the beach, whose lives have intertwined and mingled over the years. Yet at its heart is the romantic love experienced by Alice and Paul. The way they manage these feelings and their changing relationship with Riley makes up much of the book. An unexpected illness and decisions about future complicate these relationships.

Secondary characters include Paul’s spoiled, widowed, difficult Italian mother, Alice and Riley’s parents, and in the end, Helen and Bonnie, two very small children who allow Paul and Alice a glimpse into the future.

This book is beautifully written, with carefully crafted prose designed to illustrate the feelings and innermost thoughts of these fascinating characters. The novel allows the reader a glimpse into the angst of growing up, finding self, and dealing with unspeakable loss. Bring tissues when you read this story as it is sure to make you want to cry. I cannot wait to read more adult fiction by this very talented author.