To be completely honest, when I discovered Between Two Shores was listed as Historical fiction and not solely labeled a love story, my romance-addict brain entertained some doubts. But then, I considered the author. I trusted Jocelyn Green's storytelling panache. I knew she would take me on an incredible journey that would be as memorable as it is engaging. And at the risk of sounding smug, I have to say I was totally right! This story is achingly beautiful.
I've never really struggled writing reviews for stories, but this one, oh this one made me pause. I can easily rattle off the standard—It's fabulous! Glad I read it!—but Between Two Shores isn't your standard story. No, there's something about it. The prose is lyrical, the descriptions are vivid, the characters burrow into your heart and remain with you. It's like the moment you reach The End, you realize you're not the same as when you had started reading—your soul's refreshed. Yes, it's fiction, but the strokes of grace are indelibly brushed on your heart.
Catherine is a character not to be forgotten. Her journey is an emotional experience, much more than just words on a page. It's felt. The reader feels her self-sacrifice, bears the depths of her wounds, but also lives that pivotal moment where unconditional love—one that's greater than any hurt —becomes the pillar of her existence. Oh this story!!!
Samuel is the epitome of loyalty. One who always endeavors to protect, to accomplish what is right even to his own momentary pain. He has some beautiful lines of wisdom, such as:
“God is not hemmed in by church or chapel. He does not belong to priests alone. He is no respecter of the lines drawn between nations, armies, or empires, but lives within you, wherever you are. You cannot get away from Him. He is here because He dwells in you. Do not be afraid.”
These characters, friends!!! Each carry their own story. Their own scars and victories. I've learned so much from each of them.
I'm grateful for authors who take risks with their storytelling because it's between those pages where we, as readers, grow. Develop right alongside the characters. Thank you, Jocelyn Green, for penning another novel that nestled its way into my heart.
*I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
