After establishing herself as a prominent author renowned for her romantic novels set in Nantucket, Elin Hilderbrand has decided to conclude her beach-reads era. At 52, she disclosed her rationale behind this career shift, citing a depletion of innovative ideas for Nantucket stories and a commitment to maintaining the quality of her work.

A Captivating Conclusion Filled With Drama and Intrigue

Her final Nantucket novel, "Swan Song," scheduled for release on June 11 by Hachette Books, centers around Chief of Police Ed Kapenash and Sharon, a woman facing divorce. The plot unfolds as the enigmatic Richardsons acquire a $22 million summer home, drawing the entire community's attention with their extravagant lifestyle and ensuing misfortunes. As the island grapples with the aftermath of a devastating fire and a missing employee, familiar characters navigate a mix of glamorous gatherings and heartfelt moments, showcasing the enduring allure of Nantucket.

Editorial reviews for "Swan Song" praised the novel as a captivating conclusion to her Nantucket series, appealing to longtime fans and newcomers. Booklist commended Hilderbrand for her exquisite writing, noting the perfect balance of drama and engaging characters, making it an aspirational escapism.

Kirkus Reviews highlighted the intrigue of a stranger arriving in town. At the same time, Harper's Bazaar lauded Hilderbrand as the 'doyen of the beach read' and praised the inclusion of beloved characters and hallmark elements like family drama and romance in this final installment.

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Addressing Retirement Plan

Hilderbrand addressed retirement rumors in 2022, confirming plans to write two more Nantucket summer books before exploring new ventures. She expressed openness to writing in settings like Australia or New York City. Hilderbrand looks forward to slowing down in 2024. She emphasized her commitment to maintaining the quality of her work and avoiding repetition, aiming to conclude her Nantucket series on a high note.

Hilderbrand also shared about her retirement plan in a 2021 Forbes interview. She initially intended "Golden Girl" to be her final novel, believing in the importance of maintaining quality and originality in each book. However, her publisher offered a new three-book deal, leading her to extend her career until the end of summer 2024. Concerned about running out of ideas and wanting to exit while still at her peak, Hilderbrand aims to ensure that readers continue to love her novels.

Future Ventures

Hilderbrand is contemplating delving into literary fiction following this transition while managing her podcast "Books, Beach, & Beyond" and overseeing the Netflix adaptation of her novel "The Perfect Couple." Having commenced her writing career with "The Beach Club" in 2000, she disclosed her retirement plans in 2021, expressing the challenge of maintaining storyline quality amid her prolific output.

Hilderbrand's novel "The Five-Star Weekend" is currently in development for adaptation into a TV series. Sue Naegle and Ali Krug's newly established production company, Dinner Party Productions, has signed a deal with Universal Studio Group's UCP to develop and produce the series. The adaptation is being developed for Peacock, Universal's sister streaming service.

The story follows a famous food blogger who organizes a weekend gathering in Nantucket with friends from various stages of her life after experiencing a tragedy. Screenwriter Bekah Brunstetter will pen the script for the adaptation.

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