Vividly descriptive, so much so that I felt as if I were there. I could smell the sea air and smell the hydrangeas, so vividly blue. The characters are richly developed and true to life. I can't imagine having to give up such a house in the summer to rent it out, just so you can afford to keep it. I would give anything to be able to finish this amazing book!! The storyline is simply fantastic! I want it!!