ISLE OF PALMS by Dorothea Benton Frank
For many people the lowcountry of South Carolina is a fascinating place. Dorothea Benton Frank was raised there and she loves to write about it. Her first novel was titled SULLIVAN'S ISLAND and now she follows it up with ISLE OF PALMS.
Benton's new story focuses on Anna Abbot. Anna lives on the Isle of Palms outside Charleston and she loves the place. It is where she was meant to live and she can feel its blessings in her bones. For a few years she was away from the island but she rushed back at the first opportunity.
Anna has an ex-husband named Jim, a best friend named Frannie, a daughter named Emily, and a father named Doc. All of these people are exceptionally important to her, even her ex-husband who is also one of her best friends.
Anna is a woman looking for love, but never really expecting to find it. She has become independent and likes her life that way. Still she would like some love and companionship, but on her terms.
Anna also has a wicked wit. As you read the book you will find her to be loyal to a fault and funny to the bone. Her observations on life and the journey through it are priceless. Even in conversation she can toss off a quip with the best of them.
Frank's best talent as a writer is in the colorful characters she creates. They are lively, animated people who live and breath through the magic of Frank's words. When you are finished with this book you will feel you have met and made a new set of friends.
Frank's weakness in storytelling is that she has everything end so neatly. It would be nice if life was as fair and rewarding as it is in this book. The final chapters which tie up the story just don't ring true. Everyone finds true love; everyone comes out on top; everyone has happiness in his or her future. Since real life isn't like this, maybe Frank meant her story as a fairy tale.
Dorothea Benton Frank does have talent as a writer. Her book is fun to read and except for the too sweet and happily ever after ending, a believable look at life on this island. You will enjoy getting to know the people in her story and they will stay with you after the book has ended.
ISLE OF PALMS is published by Berkley Books. It contains 411 pages and sells for $22.95.