Set in a fictional New England seaside town, The Truth About The Harry Quebert Affair by Joël Dicker (above) is the latest novel to take the country by storm.
Originally published in French – Dicker is a Swiss lawyer – the book has sold more than 2 million copies across Europe and has already been named Radio 2 Book Club Book of the Week since it was released in English earlier this year.
The thriller is full of twists and turns with much of the story taking place in the fictional town of Somerset, New Hampshire. Here are five New England destinations that could well have inspired Dicker’s writing.
OGUNQUIT, MAINE
Known as ‘beautiful place by the sea’, Ogunquit, Maine lives up to its nickname and could easily be the Somerset that Dicker describes. The mouth of the tidal Ogunquit River separates three miles of white, sandy beach from a granite ledge that holds views over the Atlantic. There is also the Marginal Way, a 1.5-mile coastal boardwalk.
KENNEBUNKPORT, MAINE
Kennebunkport, Maine is another gem with historic inns that are classically New England. The summer home of former US President George W Bush, Kennebunkport is a picturesque town where visitors can experience one-of-a-kind shops or enjoy whale-watching and sailing excursions.
RYE, NEW HAMPSHIRE
With the longest stretch of coastline of any New Hampshire town, Rye is a great template for Somerset. Not often on the tourist trail, this small town is packed with New England charm with its quaint main street, central green and surrounding wetlands. Miles of walking trails and diverse natural history can be found at nearby Odiorne Point State Park.
FALMOUTH, CAPE COD, MASSACHUSETTS
Falmouth, Cape Cod is ideal for watersports including sailing, windsurfing, fishing or swimming. Back on land the Village Green is a National Historic District, and serves as a central point from which to explore boutique shops and art galleries. And Betsy’s Diner is a dead ringer for ‘Clark’s’, the Somerset diner visited every day by Harry Quebert in the novel!
CAPE COD NATIONAL SEASHORE, MASSACHUSETTS
Cape Cod National Seashore is home to 40 miles of pristine beaches just like those explored by Harry Quebert and the tragic Nola Kellergan. The National Park, established by President John F Kennedy, has been open for more than 50 years and also features several lighthouses and wild cranberry bogs.
A 14-night fly-drive including flights to Boston, car rental and accommodation is from £2,749 per person (0115 961 0558, completenorthamerica.com)
