The Light Between Oceans
Another exceptional debut novel, this time from M. L. Stedman. An absolutely satisfying read for me as it captured my attention from beginning and held me until the end.
This story begins with the character of Tom Sherbourne who after the first World War takes a job on Janus Rock, Australia as a lighthouse keeper. He adapts easily to a life of solitude with his only human contact being every three months with deliveries from the mainland. Once he is granted his vacation leave after almost 2 years he catches the eye of Isabel Graysmark and they marry. While they are happy in marriage they also have their heartbreak as Isabel suffers two miscarriages and finally a stillbirth. One day they hear a baby crying to discover a rowboat washed ashore containing a dead man and a baby. Believing that this is a miracle bestowed just for them Isabel immediately takes to the baby as if it were her own. At first Tom is relieved to finally see his wife so happy but eventually integrity prevails his heart and he feels compelled to do the right thing. With a moral dilemma to weigh, Tom fears his marriage will be the consequence.
Not only was this book so beautifully written that it completely gripped my heart, it was also filled with Australian history and culture which I found most interesting. Highly recommended for those who appreciate an emotional read.
BONUS:
The movie is "coming soon" so you have time to read the book! It stars Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander who just won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. I've attached the link for the movie trailer.
http://www.beliefnet.com/columnists/moviemom/2016/03/trailer-the-light-between-oceans.html
How I acquired this book: Purchased at Costco
Shelf life: Approximately 2 years
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