The Identicals

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Hilderbrand frequently discusses her popular characterization as queen of the beach read. What does the term “beach read” mean to you? Did The Identicals fit your expectations for this genre?

2. How does this novel compare to other works by Hilderbrand you may have read, such as The Five-Star Weekend or Summer of ‘69? Do you see a consistent style or thematic focus in her storytelling, particularly in her use of Nantucket as a setting?

3. The novel opens with two chapters narrated by the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard themselves, using a collective “we.” What was your initial reaction to this unconventional narrative choice, and how did it shape your understanding of the central conflict between the sisters before you even met them?

4. Were there moments when you strongly identified with either Harper’s rebellious nature or Tabitha’s need for control? Which sister did you find yourself rooting for more as the story progressed?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. The simple game of rock, paper, scissors has a devastating, lifelong impact on Harper and Tabitha. Can you think of a small, seemingly insignificant moment from your own past that ended up having unexpectedly large consequences?

2. The novel explores how our identities can be profoundly shaped by the places we live. Have you ever felt that a particular city, town, or region was a core part of who you are? What aspect of your current community influences your sense of self?

3. Harper and Tabitha are forced to inhabit each other’s worlds by swapping islands. If you had to trade lives with someone for a month to better understand them, who would you choose, and what do you imagine you would learn?

4. Eleanor’s final confession shifts the family’s entire narrative of blame for Julian’s death. Is there a moment from your own life when a new piece of information transformed your perspective on an aspect of your life?

5. The final scene shows the sisters shouting birthday wishes across the water between the islands. Are there special birthday traditions you practice with your loved ones?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. How does the novel use the real-world rivalry between Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard to comment on class, privilege, and the ways communities define themselves?

2. The story is deeply rooted in the idea that in a small island community, “everybody knows your business.” How do you think Harper’s social ostracism or Franklin’s long-held reputation would play out differently in today’s world of social media?

3. What commentary does the novel offer on the complexities of female relationships? What insights does Hilderbrand offer into the bonds between sisters, mothers, and daughters, and friends like Ainsley, Emma, and Candace?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. The motif of mistaken identity drives much of the plot, culminating in Tabitha’s intentional impersonation of Harper. How does the novel use this device to explore the difference between a person’s reputation and their true character?

2. How do Harper’s and Tabitha’s respective romantic relationships with Reed, Drew, Franklin, and Ramsay reflect their internal struggles and character development throughout the novel?

3. Billy’s run-down house and Eleanor’s high-fashion boutique serve as symbolic extensions of their characters. How does Tabitha’s renovation of the house also function as a metaphor for her own emotional and psychological rebuilding?

4. Hilderbrand’s novels portray Nantucket as a rich literary world. In what ways does the setting of The Identicals function as an active force that shapes the plot and characters’ fates?

5. How does Harper’s affair with Reed complicate the novel’s exploration of The Struggle to Escape the Past in a Small-Town Community?

6. Why do you think the author chose to end the novel with an epilogue from the perspective of Fish, the dog? What did this narrative shift achieve that a traditional ending might not have?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Imagine the rock, paper, scissors game had gone the other way, with Tabitha winning the chance to live with Billy on Martha’s Vineyard. Write a paragraph describing how you think the sisters’ personalities and lives might have developed differently.

2. If you were hired to rebrand the ERF boutique after Harper and Caylee’s successful party, what would be your strategy? Design a new name or slogan for the store that captures its revitalized identity.