The Island House

About the book

New York Times bestselling author Nancy Thayer paints a vivid picture of the stunning seascape of Nantucket in her latest novel, capturing the essence of growing up, gaining wisdom, and facing difficult decisions with courage.

Courtney Hendricks holds dear the memories of the enchanting summers spent on Nantucket with her college roommate Robin Vickerey and her dynamic, dramatic, unforgettable family in their picturesque island home. Now a professor of English in Kansas City, Courtney is determined to return to this sun-drenched paradise for one more summer. Her motivation is deeply personal: Courtney wants to discover if Robin’s brother, James, feels the same unspoken affection she has kept hidden.

The Vickerey family gatherings are always filled with love and laughter, and this summer is no exception. While celebrating matriarch Susanna Vickerey’s sixtieth birthday, underlying tensions begin to surface. Dr. Alastair Vickerey, the family patriarch, remains distant and reserved, while a sense of impending conflict hovers over his eldest son, Henry, a talented surgeon. Robin, full of charm and wit, harbors a secret from her parents. The youngest sibling, Iris, still unsure of her path in life, seeks guidance. And James, irresistibly attractive and seemingly unattainable, may have his heart set on a local artist, much to Courtney’s dismay. As the summer progresses, a crisis unfolds, revealing unexpected truths and leading Courtney to uncover where her heart truly belongs.

Through a rich tapestry of passion, hope, and bravery, The Island House masterfully interweaves the complexities and uncertainties of life, demonstrating how the warmth of love and family can heal us in ways we never imagined possible.