Elin Hilderbrand's 28 Summers captivates readers with its compelling romance and evocative Nantucket setting, showcasing her signature detailed storytelling. Praise centers on its emotional depth and intricate characters, though some criticize its predictability and occasional melodrama. Overall, it's a heartfelt summer read that resonates with fans of the genre.

A reader who would enjoy 28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand typically appreciates emotionally resonant, character-driven narratives. Fans of Nicholas Sparks, Jojo Moyes, or Emily Giffin will find the book's themes of love, nostalgia, and summer romance particularly engaging. The novel's intricate relationships and picturesque settings also appeal to those who enjoyed The Notebook or Me Before You.

At 24, Mallory Blessing inherits a Nantucket cottage, moves there from New York, and begins a secret annual Labor Day weekend romance with Jake McCloud, who marries another woman, Ursula. Despite various life events, they maintain their yearly tryst until Mallory's terminal cancer diagnosis brings Jake back for a final goodbye. 28 Summers deals with infidelity, terminal illness, and bereavement.

Nostalgic / Romantic / Bittersweet / Emotional / Contemplative

- 28 Summers is inspired by the classic movie Same Time, Next Year, which resonated with Elin Hilderbrand and motivated her to explore a similar concept in a novel.
- The novel is set predominantly on Nantucket, an island that frequently serves as a backdrop for Hilderbrand’s stories, providing a picturesque and romantic setting.
- A unique narrative structure in 28 Summers includes annual pop culture references, anchoring each chapter in a specific moment in time and enhancing the nostalgic feel of the book.

**Mallory Blessing**  
The protagonist characterized as a "free spirit" who values integrity and her personal sense of happiness and fulfillment. She is a devoted mother and dedicated high school teacher. 

**Jake McCloud**  
A central character whose relationship with Mallory is pivotal to the story's conflict; he is portrayed as caring and family-oriented, often caught between obligations. 

**Ursula de Gournsey**  
Jake's girlfriend and later wife, known for being highly ambitious and career-focused, often at the expense of personal relationships. 

**Leland Gladstone**  
Mallory's friend from New York who is competitive and assertive, with tensions arising due to her insensitive actions throughout the book.

**Frazier “Fray” Dooley**  
Mallory's brother Cooper’s best friend and Leland’s ex-boyfriend, who is hardworking and generous, playing a significant role in the story's development.

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Prologue: “Fifties” - Part 1: “Twenties”

Prologue-Part 1

28 Summers Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Thirties”

Part 2 28 Summers Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Forties”

Part 3 28 Summers Part 3 Summary & Analysis

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28 Summers

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