"The Cliffs" by J. Courtney Sullivan is a Reese's Book Club pick that weaves together history, mystery, and personal struggle into a compelling narrative. Set on the rocky coast of Maine, this novel explores generations of women tied to a mysterious Victorian house.
The story follows Jane, an archivist battling alcoholism, as she returns to her hometown to confront family demons and uncover the house's secrets. Sullivan masterfully blends Native American history, colonial past, and spiritual elements like ghosts and past-life regression.
Readers praise the extensive research and vivid descriptions of Maine's landscape. The exploration of indigenous history particularly stands out as both educational and thought-provoking.
While some found the ending abrupt or Jane's character frustrating, most agree the novel offers a rich tapestry of themes including feminism, recovery, and cultural appropriation.
Perfect for fans of historical fiction with a supernatural twist, "The Cliffs" delivers an immersive reading experience that lingers long after the final page.