(Reviewed by JD Jung)
2003 -Thirteen-year-old Sofie and her family toiled at a vacation house on the island of Paxos, Greece. This house was owned by a wealthy British family and frequented every summer by them and their friends. When Sofie is sexually assaulted by two teenagers from this group, life unravels for her entire family.
Twenty years later we meet thirty-nine-year-old Julia, who lives in London with her daughter and husband, James. James is the headmaster of a prestigious school and must keep up appearances with society. Though she is three years older than her husband, Julia plays the trophy wife. She appreciates that James rescued her and her daughter from a life of poverty, so she is willing to exchange sex and cooking for her daughter’s education and a better life. However, she feels trapped.
Each chapter reveals a great contrast, switching between Sophie in 2003 and Julia in 2023. As I read, I kept wondering how the two stories relate, if at all. Just when I thought I solved part of the mystery, the story took an unexpected turn, revealing a shocking ending.
There are so many layers to The Vacation House that will stay in your mind long after you’ve reached the final page. How much of oneself does a person have to give up in order to acquire justice, or even to be able to survive? From generational and class abuse to entitlement and denial, it’s all embedded within a fascinating story. Add the vivid geographical settings and complex supporting characters, this novel will engage the reader throughout.
Ultimately, The Vacation House is a gripping tale that keeps readers spellbound, unraveling its multifaceted plot until the very end. A must read!
