Cape Cod is my summer home, although we love Maine, too.  In fact, this year's family vacation is in Denmark, Maine.  Richard Russo's novel, That Old Cape Magic puts the Cape and Maine as settings.  I loved reading and recognizing everything, although regrettably, Silver Lounge isn't there anymore, I do remember it well.

Russo introduces us to Jack's parents, who were constantly vying against each other and criticizing everything.  Later, he copies them unconsciously.  Jack's wife, Joy, had parents who placed family first.  Jack made fun of them.  

The story takes place between two weddings, their daughter's and her friends.  One if on the Cape and the other is in Maine.

Did I tell you that this novel has its humor?  Everyone is a cynic and sarcastic and at times, it's funny. For example, Jack's parents die and have requested that their ashes be scattered on the Cape.  So, for a good year, Jack carries their ashes in the trunk of his car.  One on one side of the trunk, and the other, on the other.  When he finally does scatter them, it's one on the Bay side, and the other on the ocean side.

Jack's mother is in his head, literally.  He can hear her sarcastic comments.  At times, he answers audibly.  But once the ashes are disposed of, the voice is quieter.

The story is OK, but the setting covers a lot of sins.