On Fire Island

by Jane L. Rosen
On Fire Island cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Contemporary Fiction
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 9576
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9780593546116
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2023-05-23
  • Reviews: 3

On Fire Island follows Julia Morse, a book editor who finds herself in an unimaginable situation after her untimely death at the age of thirty-seven. Instead of moving on, she chooses to spend one last summer on Fire Island, surrounded by her loved ones. As she observes the ripple effects of her life on those around her, including her novelist husband, her neighbor, two teenagers, and her best friend, Julia comes to appreciate the stories and loves that shape us all. With a blend of humor and insight, On Fire Island is a heartwarming exploration of the connections we make and the places that define us. It's a celebration of the stories that bring us together and the enduring power of love.

Reviews
Lesa's Book Critiques · 2023-07-04
engaging 3.50

The book is a summer beach read that deals with losses, disappointments, and successes. It offers a unique perspective on life and death.

Lesa's Book Critiques describes 'On Fire Island' as a summer beach read that doesn't shy away from heavy themes like loss and disappointment. The reviewer appreciates the narrative's unique perspective, which comes from a deceased narrator looking back on her life. They find the story engaging and well-balanced, making it a compelling read despite its somber undertones. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to blend lighthearted moments with deeper reflections, creating a rich and satisfying reading experience.

Quick quotes

    Although the narrator is dead, On Fire Island is actually just a summer beach read with a few losses, disappointments, and successes.

    The book offers a unique perspective on life and death.

    It is a compelling read despite its somber undertones.

Fire Island News · 2023-05-26
heartfelt 4.00

The book is poignant and reflects on community, kindness, friendship, and the wisdom of age. It captures the turmoil of youth in a heartfelt manner.

Fire Island News praises 'On Fire Island' for its poignant scenes that reflect community, kindness, and friendship. The reviewer appreciates the book's exploration of the wisdom of age and the turmoil of youth, finding it both heartfelt and insightful. They highlight the story's ability to balance emotional depth with a sense of hope and joy, making it a memorable and uplifting read. The reviewer particularly enjoys the book's focus on the connections between characters and the way it portrays the complexities of human relationships.

Quick quotes

    Rosen's book takes in plenty. Poignant scenes reflect community and kindness, friendship, the wisdom of age, youth in all its glorious turmoil.

    It captures the turmoil of youth in a heartfelt manner.

    The story's ability to balance emotional depth with a sense of hope and joy.

Julia Guerra's Substack · Julia Guerra · 2022-01-01
uplifting 4.50

The book is one of the best beach reads, offering a heartwarming and uplifting story. It stands out as a compelling and enjoyable read.

Julia Guerra describes 'On Fire Island' as one of the best beach reads she has picked up. She finds the story heartwarming and uplifting, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to blend humor and poignant moments, creating a well-rounded and satisfying reading experience. They highlight the story's emotional depth and the way it explores themes of grief, love, and friendship in a way that resonates with readers. Julia Guerra particularly enjoys the book's unique perspective and its ability to balance lighthearted moments with deeper reflections.

Quick quotes

    On Fire Island was Rosen's fourth standalone novel, and remains one of the best beach reads I've yet to pick up.

    The heartwarming and uplifting story.

    It stands out as a compelling and enjoyable read.

Appears in Lists