Last Summer at Maine Chance by Jessica Evertt Publishes 5/12/26

 


A delightful read that has me ready to pack my bags for a weekend in Maine.  Not only did this book have a wonderful setting but it also features three extremely strong women of all different ages in 1954.  


Cynthia is a college student whose scholarship to a prestigious college has run out.  She had high hopes of getting a paid assistant job after writing a research article for her professor for the "American Economic Review."  However she is passed over because it is a man's world and her professor doesn't think it should go to a woman. Cynthia's only hope to stay in college is to get a summer job.  She travels to her wealthy roommate's summer home, hoping that a resort town will provide her with someplace to find work. She ends up finding work at Elizabeth Arden's Maine Chance Resort.  There we also meet Geraldine, a wealthy woman in her 70s who wants to escape her late husband's family who have happened to invite themselves to stay at her home.  We are also introduced to Iris, the new head housekeeper at the resort.  Iris is trying to support herself and her mother, who has dementia. She is hoping this job helps change their fortune.  


I found this story very engrossing and finished in only two days.  I liked all three characters and enjoyed reading how they were able to overcome different obstacles placed in their way because of  their gender and the time period.  All three were smart, independent women and I loved their stories.  This is not only a perfect read for the beach but anytime of the year.  If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female characters, this book is for you!



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