Charleston SC, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Elin Hilderbrand, celebrated as the ‘Queen of Beach Reads,’ is embarking on a book tour for her upcoming novel ‘The Academy,’ co-authored with her daughter Shelby Cunningham. Set in a New England boarding school, the novel tackles significant themes through interconnected stories. The tour starts this week with a notable event at Festival Hall. Hilderbrand’s dedication to traditional writing methods and the potential adaptations of her works highlight her lasting impact on literature.
South Carolina
Elin Hilderbrand, often regarded as the “Queen of Beach Reads,” is launching a book tour for her upcoming novel, The Academy, co-written with her daughter Shelby Cunningham. The novel is set to be released on September 16, 2025, and marks an exciting new chapter in Hilderbrand’s illustrious career.
Over her two-decade-long writing journey, Hilderbrand has sold more than 20 million books worldwide and authored 30 novels, many of which are set in the picturesque backdrop of Nantucket. Despite her initial plans to retire after her 2024 novel Swan Song, the emergence of new ideas and the collaborative effort with her daughter led to the continuation of her writing endeavors.
The Academy delves into the lives of characters at a New England boarding school and confronts significant themes through their interconnected stories. Hilderbrand underscores the essential input from her daughter, ensuring the narrative’s resonance with contemporary readers. The book tour kicks off this week, highlighted by a significant event scheduled for September 18 at Festival Hall as part of The Post and Courier’s Charleston Porch Talk series.
Details on the Book Tour
The excitement surrounding The Academy has prompted a two-book deal regarding the fictional Tiffin Academy, ultimately delaying Hilderbrand’s retirement plans. The book tour will not only present opportunities for signings and public appearances, but it will also feature engaging discussions about her writing journey and the evolution of her storytelling methods.
Hilderbrand’s approach to writing remains traditional, as she continues to write long-hand with pen and paper—a practice that reflects her dedication to the craft. Her previous works have enjoyed considerable success, with Netflix adapting her book The Perfect Couple into a limited series starring Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber in 2024. Additionally, Peacock is currently developing a series based on her novel Five-Star Weekend with Jennifer Garner set to star. Notably, The Academy has already been optioned for television adaptation, alongside six other projects currently in development.
Personal Reflections and Upcoming Projects
Hilderbrand’s literary journey has deeply personal roots, influenced significantly by her father’s passing when she was just 16 years old. This connection informs much of her storytelling, providing readers with authentic narratives that offer entertainment and escapism. Many readers recount the comfort they find in her books, particularly during tough times.
As part of her promotional efforts, Hilderbrand has planned numerous speaking engagements, including one scheduled for September through The Post and Courier. Her sister, Heather Osteen Thorpe, will take the lead on the “Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour,” designed to showcase the stunning locations featured in her novels.
A new Nantucket travel guide, titled The Blue Book, is also set to be published, presenting insider tips on local attractions and experiences. Book signings and events for The Blue Book are slated for June through September, culminating in a Summer Dance Party aimed at benefiting the Nantucket Book Foundation.
Despite her success and ongoing projects, Hilderbrand has expressed a desire to find balance by spending more time in Nantucket and Boston, particularly during the fall and winter seasons. However, she remains committed to traveling as she continues to weave stories that reflect her passion for escapism and the enchanting landscapes of Nantucket, striving to transport readers into uplifting experiences through her writing.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | Elin Hilderbrand |
| Co-Author | Shelby Cunningham |
| Novel Release Date | September 16, 2025 |
| Total Books Sold | Over 20 million |
| Total Novels Written | 30 |
| Planned Events | Book tour, signings, speaking engagements |
| Upcoming Projects | TV adaptations, Nantucket travel guide |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the release date for Elin Hilderbrand’s new book, The Academy?
The Academy is set to be released on September 16, 2025.
What themes are explored in The Academy?
The Academy focuses on life at a New England boarding school, exploring significant themes through interconnected characters.
How many books has Elin Hilderbrand written?
Elin Hilderbrand has written 30 novels since the year 2000.
What is the significance of Shelby Cunningham’s involvement in the book?
Shelby Cunningham’s contributions are crucial as they ensure that the narrative resonates with the experiences of her generation.
What upcoming projects does Hilderbrand have aside from The Academy?
Hilderbrand has a Nantucket travel guide titled The Blue Book in the works, and multiple television adaptations of her works are under development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Elin Hilderbrand Book Tour
- Cape Cod Times: Elin Hilderbrand’s Favorite Nantucket Spots
- Boston.com: Elin Hilderbrand’s Ultimate Guide to Nantucket
- Elle: Elin Hilderbrand Books in Order
- Washington Post: Elin Hilderbrand Bookshelf
- Wikipedia: Elin Hilderbrand
- Google Search: Elin Hilderbrand
- Google Scholar: Elin Hilderbrand
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elin Hilderbrand
- Google News: Elin Hilderbrand
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