What Order to Read Elin Hilderbrand Books: A Journey Through Nantucket and Beyond

Elin Hilderbrand, often referred to as the “Queen of Beach Reads,” has captivated readers with her evocative storytelling set against the picturesque backdrop of Nantucket. Her novels, rich with complex characters and intricate plots, often leave readers wondering about the best order to dive into her extensive bibliography. While Hilderbrand’s books are primarily standalone novels, there are subtle connections and recurring themes that can enhance your reading experience if approached in a certain sequence.

1. Start with the Nantucket Series

Hilderbrand’s Nantucket series is a great entry point for new readers. These books are interconnected through their setting and occasionally through recurring characters. Begin with The Beach Club (2000), her debut novel, which introduces readers to the island’s charm and the dynamics of its inhabitants. Following this, Nantucket Nights (2002) and Summer People (2003) further explore the island’s secrets and relationships.

2. Explore the Winter Street Series

For those who enjoy holiday-themed stories, the Winter Street series is a must-read. This quartet—Winter Street (2014), Winter Stroll (2015), Winter Storms (2016), and Winter Solstice (2017)—follows the Quinn family through four consecutive Christmases. The series is a heartwarming yet dramatic exploration of family ties, making it a perfect read during the holiday season.

3. Dive into the Paradise Series

The Paradise series, consisting of Winter in Paradise (2018), What Happens in Paradise (2019), and Troubles in Paradise (2020), takes readers beyond Nantucket to the tropical island of St. John. This trilogy is a departure from Hilderbrand’s usual setting but retains her signature style of weaving mystery and romance. The series is best read in order to fully appreciate the unfolding drama and character development.

4. Standalone Novels: A Treasure Trove of Stories

Hilderbrand’s standalone novels are where her versatility as a writer truly shines. Books like The Castaways (2009), The Island (2010), and The Rumor (2015) offer self-contained stories that are perfect for readers who prefer not to commit to a series. These novels often delve into themes of love, loss, and redemption, making them emotionally resonant reads.

5. Chronological Order vs. Thematic Order

While reading Hilderbrand’s books in chronological order of publication provides a sense of her evolution as a writer, some readers might prefer a thematic approach. For instance, if you’re drawn to stories about family dynamics, you might start with the Winter Street series and then move on to The Identicals (2017) or Here’s to Us (2016). Alternatively, if you’re more interested in romantic entanglements, Barefoot (2007) and The Matchmaker (2014) would be excellent choices.

6. The Importance of Setting

Nantucket is more than just a backdrop in Hilderbrand’s novels; it’s almost a character in itself. Reading her books in an order that allows you to explore the island’s different facets can deepen your appreciation for her work. For example, The Blue Bistro (2005) offers a glimpse into the island’s culinary scene, while The Perfect Couple (2018) delves into its high society.

7. Recurring Characters and Easter Eggs

One of the joys of reading Hilderbrand’s books is spotting recurring characters and subtle references to previous novels. For instance, the character of Dabney Kimball Beech from The Matchmaker makes a brief appearance in The Rumor. These connections are more rewarding if you’ve read the books in a sequence that allows you to recognize them.

8. Seasonal Reading

Hilderbrand’s novels often align with the seasons, making them perfect for seasonal reading. Summer of ‘69 (2019) is an ideal summer read, while Winter in Paradise sets the tone for a cozy winter evening. Aligning your reading with the seasons can enhance the immersive experience of her stories.

9. The Role of Book Clubs

Hilderbrand’s novels are popular choices for book clubs due to their rich character development and discussion-worthy themes. If you’re part of a book club, consider reading her books in an order that allows for thematic discussions. For example, a summer book club might focus on her beach reads, while a winter club could explore her holiday-themed novels.

10. The Future of Hilderbrand’s Bibliography

As Hilderbrand continues to write, the question of reading order will evolve. Her upcoming projects, such as Golden Girl (2021) and The Hotel Nantucket (2022), promise to add new layers to her literary universe. Staying updated with her latest releases ensures that you’re always in sync with her evolving storytelling.

Related Q&A

Q: Are Elin Hilderbrand’s books connected? A: While most of Hilderbrand’s books are standalone, some are interconnected through recurring characters and settings, particularly those set in Nantucket.

Q: Can I read Elin Hilderbrand’s books out of order? A: Yes, you can read her books out of order, but reading them in a sequence that aligns with their themes or settings can enhance your experience.

Q: What is Elin Hilderbrand’s most popular book? A: The Perfect Couple is one of her most popular books, known for its gripping plot and intricate character relationships.

Q: How many books has Elin Hilderbrand written? A: As of 2023, Elin Hilderbrand has written over 30 novels, including standalone books and series.

Q: What is the best Elin Hilderbrand book to start with? A: The Beach Club is a great starting point as it introduces readers to her signature style and the enchanting setting of Nantucket.