An enigmatic loner upends the lives of three desperate and disparate women in this well-written second novel. Reuniting for a summer on Martha’s Vineyard 10 years after they first met, college chums Turner, Charlotte, and Dory have all run adrift in their lives. Charlotte has even mapped out a permanent escape route: an elaborately planned suicide via drowning. When she carries out her plan she realizes—nearly too late—that her will to live is still alive and kicking, and “the fisherman” inexplicably materializes and pulls her to safety. The aftermath uncovers damaging secrets and painful betrayals, yet the three friends embark on the course to salvation. This is a riveting tale with complex characters, and a religious undertow—as the name “the fisherman” might suggest. Hurley (The Prodigal) has crafted a strong story that examines friendship, corruption, mysticism, and love. (BookLife)