Introduction

“Utterly captivating. What a lovely summer novel!” —Elin Hilderbrand, New York Times bestselling author

“On Gin Lane encapsulates the very best of historical fiction.” —Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author

After her fiancé whisks her off to the glistening shores of Southampton in June of 1957, one young socialite begins to realize that her glamorous summer is giving her everything—except what she really wants—in this new novel from the author of Summer Darlings.

Everleigh “Lee” Farrows thinks she finally has life all figured out: a handsome fiancé named Roland, a trust in her name, and a house in Bronxville waiting for her to fill it with three adorable children. That is, until Roland brings her out to the Hamptons for a summer that will change everything.

Most women could only dream of the engagement present Roland unexpectedly bestows on Lee—a beachside hotel on the prized Gin Lane—but Lee’s delight is clouded by unpleasant memories of another hotel, the Plaza, where she grew up in the shadow of her mother’s mental illness. Shaking off flashbacks, Lee resolves to dive into an unforgettable summer with poolside Bellinis, daily tennis matches, luncheons with her Manhattan circle, and her beloved camera in tow. But when tragedy strikes on the hotel’s opening weekend, the cracks in Lee’s picture-perfect future slowly begin to reveal themselves, and Lee must look deep within herself to determine if the life she’s always wanted will ever truly be enough.

From the regal inns to the farmland, the well-heeled New Yorkers to the Bohemian artists, the East End of Long Island is a hodge-podge of the changing American landscape in the late 1950s—and the perfect place for Lee to discover who she really is.

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Discussion Questions

From the Author - Added by Pauline

1. Revisit the first chapter now that you know the full story. What was your first impression of Everleigh? Of Roland? What did you originally predict for the hotel???2. The author takes her time detailing the hotel, the ocean, and the Hamptons where Everleigh spent her summer. What images struck you the most? How does the historical portrayal differ from what you know or have heard about the Hamptons?

3. A recurring idea in On Gin Lane is one woman's struggle to gain control of her life. Do you think that women struggle similarly today? Be specific and use examples from your own life.
4. Everleigh's passion for photography is expressed from the start. How does Everleigh's camera reflect her inner desire for freedom???5. Compare and contrast Whitney and Everleigh. In what ways are they similar? Different? What do you think brings them together and what draws them apart? Have you ever struggled with a friend similarly???6. When Starling and Everleigh first meet at the art colony, are the two women impacted equally? In what ways? Do you think this moment marks a major character shift for Everleigh? Describe and discuss other moments that are pivotal in her development that summer.

Weblinks

»	Publisher's book info
»	Author's website
»	Author's Newsletter
»	Town and Country magazine best books of summer
»	Follow the author on Instagram
»	PW Review "This story of a young woman’s self-discovery captivates."

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