Hannah Orenstein wanted to write a love letter to her lake house
Other aspects of the novel required research, she adds — to accurately portray one of the book's central characters, a sommelier, Orenstein took a class and sat for a certification from WSET (Wine and Spirits Education Trust).
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At the book's heart is the relationship between two half-sisters who have never met until their shared father's death calls them both to the lake house: Lucy, a native Mainer, is seeking refuge after the end of her marriage, while Vivian, a New Yorker, has driven up to prepare the house for a quick sale. What unfolds is a story of conflict but also growth, and the shy appearance of hope.
'Vivian and Lucy sort of represent the two different sides of me,' says Orenstein. 'When I'm in New York, I am out every night. I'm at fun restaurants. I love to get dressed up. When I'm in Maine, I am barefoot. I don't wear makeup for months on end. It's just a much slower pace of life.'
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The author adds that she hopes readers will be able to experience something like the peace she feels at the lake. 'I really wanted this to be escapist. I wanted people to feel like they were on vacation at the lake,' she says.'But also I think there's a lot in the book about forgiveness and how you can work through complicated relationships. No family is perfect. Lots of families are messy, and I hope this [book] can maybe help some readers process their own complicated feelings about their families.'
Hannah Orenstein will read at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at
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Kate Tuttle edits the Globe's Books section.
Kate Tuttle, a freelance writer and critic, can be reached at
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