02 Jun Book Review of Maine Characters
A Deeper Dive into Family Ties: A Review of “Maine Characters” by Hannah Orenstein
I’ve always been captivated by stories that explore the complexity of family dynamics, and when I stumbled upon "Maine Characters" by Hannah Orenstein, I was instantly intrigued. The promise of a summer setting in the serene landscape of Maine drew me in, transporting me back to my own awe-inspiring vacation there. The quaint cabins nestled by the lake, lush green trees, and salty breezes felt like the perfect backdrop for a story of discovery and connection. Little did I know, this novel would offer so much more than picturesque scenery— it delves into themes of grief, secrets, and the fragile ties that bind us.
At its heart, "Maine Characters" follows sisters Vivian Levy and Lucy Webster as they navigate the tumultuous waters of their newfound sibling relationship amidst the backdrop of their father’s ashes. Vivian, a successful sommelier in New York, conceals personal secrets that threaten her future; on the other hand, Lucy grapples with the unraveling of her small-town marriage. Their first encounter at their father’s lake house, where Vivian intends to sell the cabin, is potent with tension and possibility. The story steadily unfolds, asking whether time can mend fractured relationships and if these sisters, thrust together by fate, can support one another through their shared grief.
Orenstein’s writing shines as she weaves various themes like sisterhood, parental challenges, and self-exploration into the narrative. I found the pacing engaging overall, though there were moments that lulled. These slower sections, however, served as a balm, allowing me to pause and reflect on the emotional weight of the story. The dual narrative—a balance of both sisters’ perspectives—adds depth, making their journeys feel authentic and relatable.
I particularly enjoyed how rich both Vivian and Lucy are as characters. Their fierce personalities collided in ways that felt tangible, revealing their complexities and vulnerabilities. I couldn’t help but appreciate the side characters, too, from their mothers to past and present lovers, who all enriched the narrative and provided additional layers to the sisters’ exploration. Orenstein’s character development left me reflecting on my relationships long after I closed the book.
While I admit I expected a heavier emphasis on romance based on its classification, I found comfort in the depth of women’s fiction it delivered instead. For readers like me who appreciate emotional exploration over a love story, this is a delightful surprise. Just a note to fellow readers: while I wished for a quicker pace and perhaps a few unexpected twists, the overarching story kept me invested, leading to a reading experience that I finished in record time—less than three days.
“Maine Characters” releases on May 13, 2025, just in time for summer reading by the lake. If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt tale of sisterhood and self-discovery set against the idyllic backdrop of Maine, I highly recommend picking up this book. It’s a perfect companion for anyone looking to reflect on familial bonds and the often messy, yet beautiful nature of life.
Thank you to Penguin Group Dutton, Dutton, Hannah Orenstein, and Netgalley for a digital ARC of this moving novel in exchange for my honest review. Happy reading!
