SINGING BEACH

A thoroughly likable book, with warmth and sincerity and simplicity, which most women, whatever their age, will like. For the young woman, there is a nicely handled romance; for the more mature reader, there is a detailed family backdrop of a sage grandfather, a soured spinster aunt, cousins, etc., very recognizable situations, cross currents, conversations. The Heseltines have summered for years on an island off the Maine coast and have considered the island theirs. One cottage they rent to the Chadbournes, aristocratic, cosmopolitan, aloof -- and a trifle mysterious. Twenty year old Linda is too impressionable, and Nicholas Chadbourne is intrigued. But the mystery comes to light and Nicholas retreats, gracefully, and all is well. Pleasantly casual and more intelligently handled than the average triangle novel.