Seating Arrangements by Maggie Shipstead

This story takes place over one weekend on the East Coast island of Waskeke. The Van Meter family is gathered for their eldest daughter's wedding. It's like we're flies on the wall of their beach house as everyone gets together and catches up.

I don't want you to write this book off as a chic-lit wedding weekend easy reading book. For having so many characters (the parents, sisters, bridesmaids, groomsmen, other relatives), each one is quite distinct and memorable. Furthermore, the relationships between each person are also very clear.

This is a very detailed and observant book about relationships, the things we tell ourselves, and the importance of figuring out what matters in life and what doesn't.

For whatever reason though, I'm finding that I can't give this a wholehearted recommendation. Maybe about an 70%-hearted recommendation. It's a good read, just not one to make me gush.







PS: Contains adult themes and content.