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jhansell's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cancer, Suicide, and Addiction
mbkarapcik's review against another edition
5.0
An essential ingredient of any beach book is a reunion of sorts, whether it’s friends, family or a combination of both. You also must present a major holiday or celebration at a memorable location like a resort or a trip back to the characters’ hometown. Another factor must be a varied set of characters that love each other but maybe lost their way to one another. I love reading books like this, and Allison Winn Scotch’s latest novel, In Twenty Years, does not disappoint. She mixes up the classic ingredients of a reunion with complex yet appealing characters, adding modern twists, leaving us with a satisfying tale we can relate to and characters we empathize with but without relying on tying up the loose ends in a perfect, satin bow.
Set against the backdrop of July 4th, five college friends meet up for a reunion at their former shared row home at the University of Pennsylvania, hoping to repair broken bonds and honor a fallen friend. Everyone bears secrets – from the happily-ever-after college couple made up of famed domestic goddess Catherine and her happy-go-lucky, stay-at-home husband Owen; to untamed rock star Lindy; to perfect housewife Annie; to heartbreaker Colin who all appear successful. Even Bea who tragically passed is adventurous and philosophical about life, acting as an anchor for the group. She instigates the reunion from beyond the grave, and we’re not sure of her intentions. At the reunion, secrets are revealed like Band-Aids ripped off to show scars, and past betrayals rear their ugly heads. Can this group of friends be saved or are they doomed?
Although I read some of Allison’s books before and even remember reading her work when she wrote for magazines, I really enjoyed this book even more and think it’s one of her best. (My other favorite book of hers is her very first novel, The Department of Lost and Found, which was inspired by the death of a close friend.) Since I live in the Philadelphia area, and my husband attended college in the same city, just like Allison, it’s fun to hear her describe the area around Penn and Philadelphia in general.
While I read the book, my own college memories filtered my thoughts and made me reflect on my own core group of friends. When you go to college far from your hometown and biological family, you tend to create your own surrogate family. Allison touches on that and offers an examination of relationships where characters fail each other and themselves, similar to people you know except on a grander scale. The characters try to relive their past and engage in typical college activities like partying but end up with very different results as adults, with liquor acting as a truth serum that causes emotions and tensions to rise and combust. You can’t go back to yesterday, but can you start again tomorrow and recover with new, stronger friendships intact?
The book starts off with a very fitting quote from the opening of recently deceased Prince’s smash hit, “Let’s Go Crazy,” like the opening notes for a movie soundtrack. It’s almost eerie now that it was used but appropriate. In Twenty Years also evokes a toast made by close friends – the closest thing to family you have – at a final gathering on the eve of graduation, so it’s a great title, and the cover depicts that clinking of glasses.
With each chapter focusing on a different character and their point of view, you learn about the characters very intimately. I prefer that Allison chose to leave the story open-ended instead of making a very obvious, idealistic ending because real life is more like that. Leaving the characters almost feels like leaving your own reunion of friends. Who knows? There’s always a chance for a sequel in about twenty years. So cheers! Here’s to In Twenty Years! May you read and enjoy!
Set against the backdrop of July 4th, five college friends meet up for a reunion at their former shared row home at the University of Pennsylvania, hoping to repair broken bonds and honor a fallen friend. Everyone bears secrets – from the happily-ever-after college couple made up of famed domestic goddess Catherine and her happy-go-lucky, stay-at-home husband Owen; to untamed rock star Lindy; to perfect housewife Annie; to heartbreaker Colin who all appear successful. Even Bea who tragically passed is adventurous and philosophical about life, acting as an anchor for the group. She instigates the reunion from beyond the grave, and we’re not sure of her intentions. At the reunion, secrets are revealed like Band-Aids ripped off to show scars, and past betrayals rear their ugly heads. Can this group of friends be saved or are they doomed?
Although I read some of Allison’s books before and even remember reading her work when she wrote for magazines, I really enjoyed this book even more and think it’s one of her best. (My other favorite book of hers is her very first novel, The Department of Lost and Found, which was inspired by the death of a close friend.) Since I live in the Philadelphia area, and my husband attended college in the same city, just like Allison, it’s fun to hear her describe the area around Penn and Philadelphia in general.
While I read the book, my own college memories filtered my thoughts and made me reflect on my own core group of friends. When you go to college far from your hometown and biological family, you tend to create your own surrogate family. Allison touches on that and offers an examination of relationships where characters fail each other and themselves, similar to people you know except on a grander scale. The characters try to relive their past and engage in typical college activities like partying but end up with very different results as adults, with liquor acting as a truth serum that causes emotions and tensions to rise and combust. You can’t go back to yesterday, but can you start again tomorrow and recover with new, stronger friendships intact?
The book starts off with a very fitting quote from the opening of recently deceased Prince’s smash hit, “Let’s Go Crazy,” like the opening notes for a movie soundtrack. It’s almost eerie now that it was used but appropriate. In Twenty Years also evokes a toast made by close friends – the closest thing to family you have – at a final gathering on the eve of graduation, so it’s a great title, and the cover depicts that clinking of glasses.
With each chapter focusing on a different character and their point of view, you learn about the characters very intimately. I prefer that Allison chose to leave the story open-ended instead of making a very obvious, idealistic ending because real life is more like that. Leaving the characters almost feels like leaving your own reunion of friends. Who knows? There’s always a chance for a sequel in about twenty years. So cheers! Here’s to In Twenty Years! May you read and enjoy!
mcdubbs1188's review against another edition
3.0
I listened to this on Audible. It was a nice, light listen. There were some good principles/reflections that it brings out, but nothing too spectacular. Average quick read/listen.
lagray27's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
judithdcollins's review against another edition
4.0
A special thank you to Lake Union and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Contemporary Chick-lit queen, Allison Winn Scotch returns following (2013) The Theory of Opposites with a perfect summer sizzler to celebrate July 4th, IN TWENTY YEARS, from nostalgia, to reconnections—a reunion of friendship, relationships, love, loss, mixed with lots of wit and heart.
Bea was the glue which held them all together. Their last night under the same roof as a six-point star. They all loved each other, and her wish was to come together in twenty years at the same house. She made this possible; however, she was in the only one which will not be in attendance.
Twenty years ago, six Penn college students which shared a house, would come together. A time capsule. Their twentieth reunion. Forty-forty two years old. Where would they e their life’s journey? Would they have regrets?
1998: Annie and Lindy were off to New York. Annie had lined up a job in PR. Lindy was intent on being a superstar. Owen and Catherine were set to domesticate outside of Chicago. Colin was driving west to Palo Alto for medical school. A neurosurgeon. Bea made them all promise, that nothing would change. They were her family. They believed in the impossible. Their star, and destiny.
2016: They each receive a mysterious letter in the mail. Requesting their presence. They had not seen each other in thirteen years. The horrible day at Bea’s funeral. They were all there: Annie, Catherine, Owen, Colin, and Lindy.
Mail arrives for everyone from an attorney in New York. On behalf of Beatrice “Bea” Shoemaker. She had asked a notice be sent to everyone in June 2016. The executor of her will, back in 2003. She purchased the former residence on campus at the University of Pennsylvania. The executor has managed the row house and according to her will - will vacate the premises for the summer of 2016. The weekend of July 2016 on the eve of Bea’s July 4th birthday—her fortieth.
Bea had set aside something important for all. The stipulations—no one could receive the said item until the five of them are all together for her birthday.
From indiscretions of youth, resentments, secrets, fears, dreams, loves, and ambitions. Of course, things have not remained the same, over the years for anyone. They all have led different lives, each with different sets of problems.
Catherine, the CEO of a domestic empire. Owen, a stay-at-home dad, were picture-perfect college sweethearts—but now teeter on the brink of disaster.
Lindy, a well-known musician, is pushing middle age in an industry that’s all about youth and slowly self-destructing as she grapples with her own identity.
Colin: Behind his smile, handsome plastic surgeon harbors the heartbreaking truth about his own history with Bea.
Annie carefully curates her life on Instagram and Facebook, keeping up appearances so she doesn’t have to face the truth about her own empty life.
From five different points of view we hear from each character. From flaws, friendships, and dreams of youth. An ideal beach summer read, with perfect timing for the July release date. What did Bea hope for in twenty years? Who would she be, and what did she dream of? They would do it together, as one. They are the six-point star, now a five- point new star. Family. Friendship, Relationships. Beautiful Fireworks!
Each person will need to face the past in order to heal, and move forward with their lives. Long buried secrets are exposed. Grab a hammock, a cocktail, some quiet time, and enjoy the holiday read of old friends!
If you have read any of Scotch’s previous books, you can expect lots of wit and drama, with her well-developed characters, capturing the nostalgia and youth. Contemporary chick-lit, sprinkled with social media, trends, drama, with music and events of the times. Fans of Sarah Pekkanen, Jennifer Weiner, Julie Buxbaum, and Emily Giffin will love this poignant reunion!
The book reminds of an older movie (1983) The Big Chill, an American comedy-drama film with the plot focusing on a group of baby boomer college friends who reunite after 15 years when one of their old comrades, Alex, commits suicide without warning. (Beaufort, SC) Also influencing the TV series, Thirty Something.
Can you even imagine what you would have in common with your college friends, especially when you get to be my age? OMG—nothing. This book really takes you back at some of the crazy choices we made.
Loved the Author's inspiration behind the book.
JDCMustReadBooks
On a personal note: Of course, when I was in college and in my twenties, I was married, having two babies, diapers, school, homework, buying a first home, and work. Juggling it all. We either get our fun early or late. "My time" came when I had two boys off to college when I reached the age of forty, divorced, nice career, and living the life of a twenty-something and single. (everyone thinks you are your sons’ girlfriend when you visit them in college).
If I had to do it over, would do it the same way again (with a few more wiser choices). We all have to ask ourselves this question, reflecting back twenty years ++. Something to be said for being 40 and already having your kids in college, versus my son (1975) today at almost forty-one next week. His kids are in the first grade and third grade; the other son, (1973) not even married yet, with no children-enjoying being single. Too set in his ways. You either get your fun early or late – pick your poison. When you are young you have much more patience. Happy with “my way” --sixties and still young enough to still enjoy life, upcoming retirement, grandchildren, and travel. With a head start at adulthood very early--then you can play later.
Contemporary Chick-lit queen, Allison Winn Scotch returns following (2013) The Theory of Opposites with a perfect summer sizzler to celebrate July 4th, IN TWENTY YEARS, from nostalgia, to reconnections—a reunion of friendship, relationships, love, loss, mixed with lots of wit and heart.
Bea was the glue which held them all together. Their last night under the same roof as a six-point star. They all loved each other, and her wish was to come together in twenty years at the same house. She made this possible; however, she was in the only one which will not be in attendance.
Twenty years ago, six Penn college students which shared a house, would come together. A time capsule. Their twentieth reunion. Forty-forty two years old. Where would they e their life’s journey? Would they have regrets?
1998: Annie and Lindy were off to New York. Annie had lined up a job in PR. Lindy was intent on being a superstar. Owen and Catherine were set to domesticate outside of Chicago. Colin was driving west to Palo Alto for medical school. A neurosurgeon. Bea made them all promise, that nothing would change. They were her family. They believed in the impossible. Their star, and destiny.
2016: They each receive a mysterious letter in the mail. Requesting their presence. They had not seen each other in thirteen years. The horrible day at Bea’s funeral. They were all there: Annie, Catherine, Owen, Colin, and Lindy.
Mail arrives for everyone from an attorney in New York. On behalf of Beatrice “Bea” Shoemaker. She had asked a notice be sent to everyone in June 2016. The executor of her will, back in 2003. She purchased the former residence on campus at the University of Pennsylvania. The executor has managed the row house and according to her will - will vacate the premises for the summer of 2016. The weekend of July 2016 on the eve of Bea’s July 4th birthday—her fortieth.
Bea had set aside something important for all. The stipulations—no one could receive the said item until the five of them are all together for her birthday.
From indiscretions of youth, resentments, secrets, fears, dreams, loves, and ambitions. Of course, things have not remained the same, over the years for anyone. They all have led different lives, each with different sets of problems.
Catherine, the CEO of a domestic empire. Owen, a stay-at-home dad, were picture-perfect college sweethearts—but now teeter on the brink of disaster.
Lindy, a well-known musician, is pushing middle age in an industry that’s all about youth and slowly self-destructing as she grapples with her own identity.
Colin: Behind his smile, handsome plastic surgeon harbors the heartbreaking truth about his own history with Bea.
Annie carefully curates her life on Instagram and Facebook, keeping up appearances so she doesn’t have to face the truth about her own empty life.
From five different points of view we hear from each character. From flaws, friendships, and dreams of youth. An ideal beach summer read, with perfect timing for the July release date. What did Bea hope for in twenty years? Who would she be, and what did she dream of? They would do it together, as one. They are the six-point star, now a five- point new star. Family. Friendship, Relationships. Beautiful Fireworks!
Each person will need to face the past in order to heal, and move forward with their lives. Long buried secrets are exposed. Grab a hammock, a cocktail, some quiet time, and enjoy the holiday read of old friends!
If you have read any of Scotch’s previous books, you can expect lots of wit and drama, with her well-developed characters, capturing the nostalgia and youth. Contemporary chick-lit, sprinkled with social media, trends, drama, with music and events of the times. Fans of Sarah Pekkanen, Jennifer Weiner, Julie Buxbaum, and Emily Giffin will love this poignant reunion!
The book reminds of an older movie (1983) The Big Chill, an American comedy-drama film with the plot focusing on a group of baby boomer college friends who reunite after 15 years when one of their old comrades, Alex, commits suicide without warning. (Beaufort, SC) Also influencing the TV series, Thirty Something.
Can you even imagine what you would have in common with your college friends, especially when you get to be my age? OMG—nothing. This book really takes you back at some of the crazy choices we made.
Loved the Author's inspiration behind the book.
JDCMustReadBooks
On a personal note: Of course, when I was in college and in my twenties, I was married, having two babies, diapers, school, homework, buying a first home, and work. Juggling it all. We either get our fun early or late. "My time" came when I had two boys off to college when I reached the age of forty, divorced, nice career, and living the life of a twenty-something and single. (everyone thinks you are your sons’ girlfriend when you visit them in college).
If I had to do it over, would do it the same way again (with a few more wiser choices). We all have to ask ourselves this question, reflecting back twenty years ++. Something to be said for being 40 and already having your kids in college, versus my son (1975) today at almost forty-one next week. His kids are in the first grade and third grade; the other son, (1973) not even married yet, with no children-enjoying being single. Too set in his ways. You either get your fun early or late – pick your poison. When you are young you have much more patience. Happy with “my way” --sixties and still young enough to still enjoy life, upcoming retirement, grandchildren, and travel. With a head start at adulthood very early--then you can play later.
mattieray22's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
bookswritingandmore's review against another edition
4.0
n college, six friends lived together. They shared a house and had fun times, crazy times and made lots of memories. Eighteen years later, the surviving friends receive a letter from a lawyer about a trust put together by their deceased friend Bea, and to learn more, they must all return to the house they shared for the weekend of July 4th, which would have been Bea's 40th birthday.
In those eighteen years, the friends lost touch after a wedding in which friends betrayed each other and the death of Bea soon after that wedding.
On the outside all the friends seem like their lives are going well. One is a rockstar. One is a stay at home mom with the "perfect marriage". One is a surgeon and so on. But things on the outside aren't always what they appear to be and as these friends get back together, they realize that they don't really know each other anymore. Do they even know themselves anymore?
I was expecting to really be blown away by this book. It seems to have so many ratings and for the most part, I really enjoyed it. However, I found some real wholes in the plot and the stories were just not so realistic to me. Some of the characters were hard to get to know and others were just whiny and opinionated. That being said I still gave this book 4 stars because the stories of some of the characters really grab the reader and it was hard for me to put this down. I loved the many points of view of this book and the writing most of the time was incredible.
Overall I can see myself picking this book up again and for me that is a great complement with all the books I have on my to be read lists.
In those eighteen years, the friends lost touch after a wedding in which friends betrayed each other and the death of Bea soon after that wedding.
On the outside all the friends seem like their lives are going well. One is a rockstar. One is a stay at home mom with the "perfect marriage". One is a surgeon and so on. But things on the outside aren't always what they appear to be and as these friends get back together, they realize that they don't really know each other anymore. Do they even know themselves anymore?
I was expecting to really be blown away by this book. It seems to have so many ratings and for the most part, I really enjoyed it. However, I found some real wholes in the plot and the stories were just not so realistic to me. Some of the characters were hard to get to know and others were just whiny and opinionated. That being said I still gave this book 4 stars because the stories of some of the characters really grab the reader and it was hard for me to put this down. I loved the many points of view of this book and the writing most of the time was incredible.
Overall I can see myself picking this book up again and for me that is a great complement with all the books I have on my to be read lists.
kdurham2's review against another edition
3.0
Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings
Six college students make wishes on their last day of college as to where they hope they will be 20 years from then. After one of them passes away, she sends requests to get them all back together through her lawyer so they can reconnect and maybe send them down different paths then what they were currently on.
Narrated by each of the friends, they each get the chance to tell their side of the story and remember what life was like in college and how they ended up where they are now. I love these types of books where you can see their hopes and dreams and then where they ended up and maybe even get a chance to alter the future by evaluating the past vs the present.
Six college students make wishes on their last day of college as to where they hope they will be 20 years from then. After one of them passes away, she sends requests to get them all back together through her lawyer so they can reconnect and maybe send them down different paths then what they were currently on.
Narrated by each of the friends, they each get the chance to tell their side of the story and remember what life was like in college and how they ended up where they are now. I love these types of books where you can see their hopes and dreams and then where they ended up and maybe even get a chance to alter the future by evaluating the past vs the present.
dizzybell06's review against another edition
3.0
I’m a little torn with this book. I really liked the plot and most of the story and it very much seems like a very believable story, but I feel like something was missing.
k_cavacini's review against another edition
4.0
A great read that takes place in Philly! 6 college friends reunite after 18 years to remember the friend that brought them all together; a 6-point star that has become an 5-point star. Each of the chapters is told from a different perspective so we get the chance to witness the reunion through everyone's eyes. A really great and engaging bread, it made me look at my college friends and relationships in a new way.