The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club

1. The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club has a contemporary storyline set in 2016 framing the story, but most of the novel follows the Smith sisters during World War II. Why do you think Martha Hall Kelly added the contemporary thread? Were you surprised by how the two storylines came together?

2. Many historical fiction novels set during World War II take place in Europe. This story unfolds on American shores. Were you aware of war efforts happening off the coast of Martha's Vineyard? Did it change your understanding of the American experience during the war?

3. Kelly populates the novel with strong female characters. Which character's journey resonated with you the most? Why?

4. The inspiring power of book clubs and storytelling is a big theme in the narrative. What other themes stood out to you?

5. How does the wartime book club started by Cadence and Bess change the women in their community? How do the books they choose influence those changes?

6. Bess comes from a wealthy family but leaves that life behind to work the land with the Smith sisters. Why do you think she makes that decision? What does she learn from the experience?

7. How does the arrival of the U.S. Army shake things up for the Smith family and their neighbors? What risks come from hiding the mysterious soldier who washes up on their shore?

8. Cadence's love interest is the British serviceman Major Gilbert. What secrets are they each hiding from one another? How did you feel about the way their story unfolds?

9. Briar becomes fascinated with submarines and believes she sees them offshore even when no one believes her. How does her interest in the war influence her decisions?

10. What are some key moments of growth for the main characters? How do they change by the end of the novel?

11. What does the setting of Martha's Vineyard symbolize for the characters in both time periods?

12. What message do you think Martha Hall Kelly is trying to convey about female friendships and family?

13. If you've read Martha Hall Kelly's previous historical fiction novels, how did this one compare?