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Elin Hilderbrand
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Golden Girl Paperback – February 8, 2022

by Elin Hilderbrand (Author)
Editors' pick Best Literature & Fiction
See all formats and editions
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In this #1 bestselling page-turner from "the queen of beach reads" (New York Magazine), a Nantucket novelist has one final summer to protect her secrets while her loved ones on earth learn to live without their golden girl.

On a perfect June day, Vivian Howe, author of thirteen beach novels and mother of three nearly grown children, is killed in a hit-and-run car accident while jogging near her home on Nantucket. She ascends to the Beyond where she's assigned to a Person named Martha, who allows Vivi to watch what happens below for one last summer. Vivi also is granted three “nudges” to change the outcome of events on earth, and with her daughter Willa on her third miscarriage, Carson partying until all hours, and Leo currently “off again” with his high-maintenance girlfriend, she’ll have to think carefully where to use them.

From the Beyond, Vivi watches “The Chief” Ed Kapenash investigate her death, but her greatest worry is her final book, which contains a secret from her own youth that could be disastrous for her reputation. But when hidden truths come to light, Vivi’s family will have to sort out their past and present mistakes—with or without a nudge of help from above—while Vivi finally lets them grow without her.

With all of Elin’s trademark beach scenes, mouth-watering meals, and picture-perfect homes, plus a heartfelt message—the people we lose never really leave us—Golden Girl is a beach book unlike any other.

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  1. Print length
    400 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Back Bay Books
  4. Publication date
    February 8, 2022
  5. Dimensions
    5.5 x 1 x 8.25 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    0316420077
  7. ISBN-13
    978-0316420075
  8. See all details
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From the brand

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Hilderbrand’s latest, most philosophical and (I’m declaring it) best novel. . . . The story is a family saga, a mystery and a moving retrospective that manages to be clever without being coy."―Elisabeth Egan, New York Times

"It's not officially summer until Elin Hilderbrand drops her annual page-turner. In this one, novelist Vivi dies in a hit-and-run and ascends to the Beyond, where she learns she has three "nudges" to influence events on earth. In this touching, scenic story, we learn what it is to let go and let life go on."―Good Housekeeping

"It's almost summer, which means Hilderbrand's legions of fans will be anxious for her latest. . . . This is classic Hilderbrand. . . . hopefully, she has many more Nantucket tales in store."―Booklist

"It has suspense, beautiful beach scenes and inspirational anecdotes. You really can't do better than that."―Cosmopolitan

"Golden Girl is surprising, delightful and—dare I say?—quirky. . . . The book is filled with Hilderbrand’s trademark gorgeous scenes and delicious dialogue. But Golden Girl also explores the author’s own place in the literary pantheon, often with a wink and a nod to the reader. . . . It is funny and heartbreaking, and even though it’s in some ways a departure for Hilderbrand, the novel still offers plenty of that Nantucket air to keep you turning pages."―BookPage

"Beautifully uplifting . . . an emotionally powerful story. Faithful readers have come to depend on Hilderbrand's top-notch escapist fiction that puts lively, dramatic new spins on families challenged by love and loss. Golden Girl will exceed their expectations."―Shelf Awareness

"Hilderbrand’s writing is witty, spunky, fun and dramatic."―Book Reporter

PRAISE FOR 28 SUMMERS:

"Summer on Hilderbrand's Nantucket is never dull. This time she focuses on former lovers who now lead separate lives but share an island idyll once a year. Captivating and bittersweet."―People

"In her 25th novel, Hilderbrand gets everything right and leaves her ardent fans hungry for No. 26. Hilderbrand sets the gold standard in escapist fiction."―Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Elin Hilderbrand is the proud mother of three, a dedicated Peloton rider, an aspiring book influencer, and an enthusiastic at-home cook (follow her on Instagram @elinhilderbrand to watch her Cringe Cooking Show). She is also a grateful seven-year breast cancer survivor. Golden Girl is her 27th novel. 

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Back Bay Books (February 8, 2022)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 400 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0316420077
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0316420075
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 14.4 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 1 x 8.25 inches
  • Customer Reviews:

About the author

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Elin Hilderbrand

Elin Hilderbrand

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Elin Hilderbrand first discovered the magic of Nantucket in July 1993. Her recipe for a happy island life includes running, writing at the beach, picnics at Eel Point with her three children, and singing "Home, Sweet Home" at the Club Car piano bar. Here's to Us is her seventeenth novel.

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5
33,071 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the story very real and interesting, with deep character development. They also praise the writing quality as great and easy to obsess over. Readers describe the characters as interesting and the book as super entertaining and heartwarming. Opinions are mixed on the plot, with some finding it interesting and unpredictable, while others say it drags from beginning to end.

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Select to learn more
StoryCharactersEmotional toneWriting qualityInterest levelContentNarrative depthPlot
326 customers mention "Story"326 positive0 negative

Customers find the story entertaining, with good storytelling and descriptive without being overly wordy. They also say it's wonderful to learn about all the characters and that the details are well done.

"I enjoyed the book. I can always count on Elin for enjoyable vacation reads. Downloaded three of her books for this trip." Read more

"A nice summer read, good characters and fun story!!" Read more

"I absolutely LOVED 😍 this book. Nantucket, the angel, the sisters, it was perfect! I, seriously, could not put it down...." Read more

"Great writer and an easy read. Very creative story with twists and turns. I really enjoyed the book!" Read more

115 customers mention "Characters"100 positive15 negative

Customers find the characters in the book interesting.

"...The author pulls you in and invests you in the characters lives. Highly recommend !" Read more

"A nice summer read, good characters and fun story!!" Read more

"...It transported me to a beautiful town with interesting characters and it made me forget reality for a few hours...." Read more

"...It truly is a trip to the beach. I also find her characters engaging and memorable...." Read more

110 customers mention "Emotional tone"102 positive8 negative

Customers find the tone heartwarming, thought-provoking, and sweet. They also say it's charming, with a warm family storyline. Customers also appreciate the portrayal of heaven and complicated relationships.

"This book is a page turner ! The author pulls you in and invests you in the characters lives. Highly recommend !" Read more

"...as “queen of the beach reads,” proved to be entertaining and thought provoking...." Read more

"...grateful for Elin's description of Vivi's hereafter which gave me tremendous comfort...." Read more

"...It definitely caused me to have such strong emotions. I hope that it’s really like that in the afterlife." Read more

97 customers mention "Writing quality"83 positive14 negative

Customers find the writing quality of the book beautiful, descriptive, and solid. They also say the descriptions of Nantucket are beautiful and not overly wordy. Overall, readers say the book is delightfully easy to obsess over finishing.

"This is such an easy read. I don't do a lot of reading but I can't put this book down!!! Went and bought 4 more of her books!..." Read more

"Great writer and an easy read. Very creative story with twists and turns. I really enjoyed the book!" Read more

"...It transported me to a beautiful town with interesting characters and it made me forget reality for a few hours...." Read more

"...Thankfully, I stuck with it because it turned out to be a decent, solid read...." Read more

62 customers mention "Interest level"62 positive0 negative

Customers find the book entertaining, intriguing, suspenseful, and funny. They also say the plot is different but intriguing, and the book keeps them turning the pages.

"...Elin Hilderbrand, known as “queen of the beach reads,” proved to be entertaining and thought provoking...." Read more

"...Loved every word!These books have helped me to dream of a place I am now going to visit." Read more

"...It is a fast read that certainly holds the reader's attention." Read more

"...Instead of being maudlin, it is heartwarming. There is as much laughter as there are tears...." Read more

30 customers mention "Content"30 positive0 negative

Customers find the book interesting, poignant, funny, and full of life's little truths. They also say it's engrossing, keeps them guessing, and has unique style. Readers also appreciate the interesting timelines and likeable characters.

"...Love, joy, concern and mystery abound. This is a good read." Read more

"...My plan is to read e everyone!! They are delightful, plus insightful, with a very deep and meaningful presence!!..." Read more

"...Moves fast, modern and interesting." Read more

"What a treasure! I found this book to be engrossing as any Elin Hilderbrand can be and delightfully easy to obsess over finishing!..." Read more

26 customers mention "Narrative depth"21 positive5 negative

Customers find the narrative depth of the book to be captivating, with real characters. They also appreciate the weaving of the past and present, and the raw, sincere characters. Readers also mention that the book is rich with fun, love, dreams, and disappointments.

"This book is a page turner ! The author pulls you in and invests you in the characters lives. Highly recommend !" Read more

"Elin Hilderbrand can always be counted on for contemporary fiction, with complex female characters and a great beach read...." Read more

"This is not my usual fare, but I did find it funny and charming--fantasy, comedy, social satire, a mystery to solve--all wrapped around a famous..." Read more

"...The unique concept in this book was a fresh take on familiar themes. Though, I wish the reveal to both mysteries wasn’t so obvious...." Read more

74 customers mention "Plot"50 positive24 negative

Customers are mixed about the plot. Some find the twists interesting, mysterious, and complex. They also appreciate the twist at the end. However, others find the plot predictable, disappointing, and formulaic.

"...Their relationships, also, are complex and cause the readers to immerse themselves in the lives of her creations...." Read more

"...of looking down from heaven as your family goes on without you is so intriguing. I hope it’s true!..." Read more

"...There's also a missing plot point in that Vivi says she didn't leave a will yet she's supposed to have made enough money to support her house w/a..." Read more

"...did find it funny and charming--fantasy, comedy, social satire, a mystery to solve--all wrapped around a famous woman writer who has been hit by a..." Read more

Great book, emotional read.
5 Stars
Great book, emotional read.
I devoured this book within 24 hours! While the first 3 chapters equivalent were very hard for me for personal reasons they were so well written that I wanted to finish the book and learn more about the characters.
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Top reviews from the United States

Kelly McKenzie
5.0 out of 5 stars Great beach read
Reviewed in the United States on June 10, 2024
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This book is a page turner ! The author pulls you in and invests you in the characters lives. Highly recommend !
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mommy5drst
4.0 out of 5 stars another great read
Reviewed in the United States on May 10, 2024
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I enjoyed the book. I can always count on Elin for enjoyable vacation reads. Downloaded three of her books for this trip.
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Sandra Engstrand
5.0 out of 5 stars Fun read, unexpected plot twists!!
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2024
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A nice summer read, good characters and fun story!!
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Cammi V.
5.0 out of 5 stars Great author!!!
Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2024
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This is such an easy read. I don't do a lot of reading but I can't put this book down!!! Went and bought 4 more of her books! Fun little "escape my real life" book!
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Teresa H.
5.0 out of 5 stars Love this book
Reviewed in the United States on June 6, 2024
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I absolutely LOVED 😍 this book. Nantucket, the angel, the sisters, it was perfect! I, seriously, could not put it down. I even cried a little at the end!! Highly recommend...five ⭐ stars, and all that!
One person found this helpful
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seniorchoice
4.0 out of 5 stars Book club enjoyed it
Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2023
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I usually read weightier books than beach reads. However, one of the pleasures of being in a book club is casting aside my preconceived notions to read all kinds of literature. Golden Girl by Elin Hilderbrand, known as “queen of the beach reads,” proved to be entertaining and thought provoking. It had my book club discussing keeping secrets, and an afterlife where we could view our family and friends from above and use the gift of three “nudges” to influence their lives. While jogging main character Vivian is killed by a hit and run driver and ends up in this kind of afterlife. Her son’s best friend is suspected of killing her. Her oldest daughter wants to have a baby and her wild middle child is having affairs with married men. The book is set in Nantucket, where I have always wanted to visit.
5 people found this helpful
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Arlene Brown
5.0 out of 5 stars Golden Girl doesn’t disappoint!
Reviewed in the United States on July 3, 2024
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Once again Elin Hilderbrand tells a story that keeps you coming back for more. The characters you remember from previous books bring memories back to the surface and you smile because you remember their story lines. That’s what I love about her books. Can’t wait to begin reading another of her books. She never disappoints!!!
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a reader
3.0 out of 5 stars EH plus #metoo & BLM & Holocaust
Reviewed in the United States on June 5, 2021
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She's at her best on Nantucket in the summer. The winter ones are awful & the Caribbean ones are worse. Even her last few summer ones have been unreadable - especially when she doesn't even write in complete sentences & just uses bullet points. I gave this a try based on the title - Golden Girl - because Silver Girl was one of her best.

This was a welcome return to her whodunnit format w/Chief Ed & the familiar litany of Nantucket restaurants, stores, & beaches & that was perfectly fine. In fact, the contrivance of having Vivi (the murdered author/mom aka EH) looking down from "above" wasn't necessary. The story told itself through the characters and their entanglements. Vivi's take on what went on w/o her was unnecessary.

But, the chief suspect has to be black - because he's the only black kid on the island apparently - & the promiscuous bartender daughter having an affair w/a married man dares to think she's a #metoo victim when an over-served customer wants a kiss. The plan for a girl's first summer in Nantucket is to hide in a secret room off her college friend's bedroom like ANNE FRANK. EH manages to belittle BLM, #metoo, & the Holocaust.

There's also a missing plot point in that Vivi says she didn't leave a will yet she's supposed to have made enough money to support her house w/a pool plus 3 children, pay a whopping alimony to her ex-husband who runs an ice cream shop yet has a great house, & buy top-of-the-line everything. Life carries on as before she died w/no mention of who is paying or how the ex even has a roof over his head. IRL the state would appoint an executor to oversee her estate & children would inherit everything, but there's not a word about who's buying groceries in the meantime. Why not just leave out Viv's comment about a will?

I did enjoy EH's jab at her publisher in the Facebook Memorial Comments Page when readers offering condolences also suggest that the publisher return to all the author's books & correct all the copy editing errors that riddle a book that sells for $29. In fact, I found one in my copy on p. 5.

It's not a bad story if you ignore EH's general smugness about her great life & wealth & her attempts to be "topical." The Anne Frank part is unforgiveable, but that will be removed from digital & future print editions as EH has called it "a poor choice that was tasteless & offensive." For those of us who've read it, we can't unread it.
137 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

Lorraine Garant
5.0 out of 5 stars Great read
Reviewed in Canada on July 15, 2023
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I really enjoyed reading Golden Girl. I always enjoy Elin Hilderbrand's novels and this one was no exception. A story of love, friendship and for forgiveness. Worth the read!
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Kindle Customer Pippa Quigley
5.0 out of 5 stars Skin has done it again...!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 8, 2022
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No book ever pulls me in and makes me happier than one of Elin's! This was especially beautiful - and had me crying on the last page ! P!ease hurry to finish your next one Ms Hilderbrand!
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Rlovesbooks
5.0 out of 5 stars Great story
Reviewed in Germany on October 20, 2022
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I love all her books. They are all special and want to make me move to Nantucket and then again not. This one has a special twist making one be part of the authors views od afterlife and still been in reallife in the story
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Bandana
5.0 out of 5 stars Enthralling ,Enchanting , Engaging !!
Reviewed in India on September 28, 2021
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This has been one of the most engaging read’s This concept of life after death …’ the Beyond ‘ … is there in the scriptures , and we have heard about it from our elders .And this very concept has been put in words so beautifully .It’s a must read …whether one believes in the concept or not .
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Not long enough!
Reviewed in Australia on August 6, 2021
Verified Purchase
I loved this book
Laughed and cried
And I too want to know what happened next to all of the characters, flawed though they might be...
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