Page by Paige: Summer reads

“Montauk,” by Nicola Harrison

In the summer of 1939, where do wealthy people go to escape New York City for three months? Beatrice Bordeaux’s withdrawn banker husband, Harry, takes her to Montauk Manor, an elegant hotel in a quiet fishing village. But instead of being swept up by the glamour and socializing with the privileged wives, Beatrice finds herself connecting with the locals, writing a column under a pen name for a New York City newspaper and falling in love all over again.

Harrison’s debut historical novel introduces readers to one woman’s summer of self-discovery amidst pre-war Manhattan society. A wonderful read filled with surprises, charm and deception.

“City of Girls,” by Elizabeth Gilbert

When Vivian Morris drops out of Vassar at the age of 19, she’s sent to live with her eccentric aunt Peg, who owns a theater company in midtown Manhattan. Surrounded by actors, dancers and showgirls, Vivian finds her place among them. She’s going out every night with new friends and embraces the 1940s city lights — the smells, the energy, the passions. A new play is announced and Aunt Peg’s struggling theater pulses with energy trying to survive. While Vivian helps her aunt by sewing costumes during the day, her wild nights and self-discovery turn into scandal. Will she survive her time in the city and discover who she truly is?

Gilbert’s goal “was to write a novel that goes down like a champagne cocktail – light and bright, crisp and fun.” She’s achieved that goal and more! A glorious summer read filled with love.

Dive into more Summer Reads with “Summer of ’69” by Elin Hilderbrand, “Drawing Home” by Jamie Brenner and “The Islanders” by Meg Mitchell Moore, or ask your local librarian for a new book suggestion.