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Son of the Sea
Griffin McCabe’s fondest memory is of that day at the county fair when he and his dad rode the Ferris wheel, soaring high above a silvery Southern California shoreline. It was a day he hoped would last forever.
Now, thirty years later, that memory is complicated by the devastating trauma that came in its wake, along with a recent car accident that could reverse all the progress he made to recover.
What follows is a journey toward repairing a past burdened by pain and devastation. Through moments of fury, despondency, and regret come hope for renewal and rediscovery of the love between a father and son.
Now, thirty years later, that memory is complicated by the devastating trauma that came in its wake, along with a recent car accident that could reverse all the progress he made to recover.
What follows is a journey toward repairing a past burdened by pain and devastation. Through moments of fury, despondency, and regret come hope for renewal and rediscovery of the love between a father and son.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2023
17 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Andrew E. Kaufman
13 books647 followersNew Release: Son of the Sea Available Now
Andrew E. Kaufman
Andrew E. Kaufman is a broadcast journalist-turned-bestselling author, living in Southern California along with his chocolate Labrador retriever who thinks he owns the place.
After receiving his journalism and political science degrees at San Diego State University, he began his writing career as an Emmy-nominated writer/producer, working at the CBS affiliate in San Diego, and then in Los Angeles. For more than ten years, he produced special series and covered many nationally known cases, including the O.J. Simpson Trial.
His psychological thriller, THE LION, THE LAMB, THE HUNTED (Thomas & Mercer, 2012) was on Amazon's Top 100 for more than one-hundred days and went on to become a number one international bestseller.
His novel, WHILE THE SAVAGE SLEEPS (47North, 2012) made the Top 100 as well and was number one in its genre, passing up two of Stephen King's current releases at the time.
His novel, TWISTED (Thomas & Mercer, 2015) became the number one psychological thriller and number two overall bestselling novel in the US. His other novels,
DARKNESS & SHADOWS (Thomas & Mercer 2018) and WHAT SHE DOESN’T KNOW (Thomas & Mercer 2013), also spent time in the first five spots of Amazon’s top 100.
His latest novel, SON OF THE SEA (Straightline Press 2023), is a departure from his past works, moving into the literary fiction genre, and debuted at number one for New Releases in Contemporary Literature and Fiction.
Andrew has also been a contributor to the CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL books, where he wrote about his two-time battle against cancer and his early struggle to become a bestselling author.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 1, 2023
This is a different book from what this author usually writes. I found this book a very emotional read. A fantastic read. The main character Griffin is a complex character with a lot of emotional baggage that he is dealing with. Because of what he endured as a child and teenager growing up it has caused him problems in his adult life with his relationships. This book tells of his journey, finding forgiveness, giving forgiveness and finding his way forward. At times I found this book hard to read, I had to set the book down and take a breath. Be prepared to wipe away a few tears as you read this story.
I received an advanced copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
November 1, 2023
Although Andrew Kaufman is well known for his psychological thrillers, fans won't be disappointed in his new book, Son of the Sea. He has managed to take his knack for character development and ability to weave a brilliant tale into a whole new genre and create a book that takes the reader on a journey of acceptance and forgiveness. Set in Southern California, Mr. Kaufman paints the beauty of the landscape in almost poetic form. The book starts with a carousel, a very fitting start, because by the end it has taken us a complete 360 degrees.
It is the story of Griffin, our main character and his father, Samuel. It is, also, the story of love, loss, family and forgiveness. I found the characters to be well written and relatable. I found myself swept away on their journey with them as I eagerly turned pages in a quest to see where this sojourn would take them. Mr Kufman isn't afraid to show us that families can be messy. He's brave enough to peel each and every messy layer away until we are witness to the whole mess then leaves us there to stew in his words a bit. I shed a few tears and recalled instances from my own life that somewhat mirrored those of certain characters. I think this book reads differently for different people based on their life experiences and exactly where they are in this journey we call life, but I also believe it has take aways for everyone. My takeaway is that life is far too short to let anger separate you from family and that a love, once lived, doesn't really go away. Kudos to Andrew Kaufman for seamlessly transitioning into a totally different genre while continuing to keep the interest of fans he has made along the way. I, for one, am not disappointed.
It is the story of Griffin, our main character and his father, Samuel. It is, also, the story of love, loss, family and forgiveness. I found the characters to be well written and relatable. I found myself swept away on their journey with them as I eagerly turned pages in a quest to see where this sojourn would take them. Mr Kufman isn't afraid to show us that families can be messy. He's brave enough to peel each and every messy layer away until we are witness to the whole mess then leaves us there to stew in his words a bit. I shed a few tears and recalled instances from my own life that somewhat mirrored those of certain characters. I think this book reads differently for different people based on their life experiences and exactly where they are in this journey we call life, but I also believe it has take aways for everyone. My takeaway is that life is far too short to let anger separate you from family and that a love, once lived, doesn't really go away. Kudos to Andrew Kaufman for seamlessly transitioning into a totally different genre while continuing to keep the interest of fans he has made along the way. I, for one, am not disappointed.
November 2, 2023
In a departure from writing in his usual twisted psychological thriller genre, this author hits the spot with his latest literary fiction story centered around the main character, Griffin. Following him as an adult as he is faced with quite a few trials and tribulations, we also see snapshots of his past which both complement and illustrate what is happening to and around him in the present.
It's hard to say much about the story specifically as there are things you need to know at the right times for it all to come together. And that is best left to the author. But I can say that it's a story that touched my heart, made me cry - sometimes ugly cry. But also one which occasionally also made me smile, and left me hopeful. Which, with the way things are going in the world at the moment, is not a bad feeling to be left with.
I was put through the wringer emotionally wise on my journey to the end though, and I did have to step back and take a breath once or twice along the way. But, although harrowing at times, I always felt safe.
If you are familiar with the author, you can see the resemblance in the quality and style of writing he delivers, even with the obvious genre switch. Especially regarding the creation of all the characters contained herein. One of his many strength in his thriller books.
All in all, whether you are already a fan of the author or you've come to this book as a lover of lit fic, I would definitely recommend it. But I would have a pack of tissues to hand, just in case...
It's hard to say much about the story specifically as there are things you need to know at the right times for it all to come together. And that is best left to the author. But I can say that it's a story that touched my heart, made me cry - sometimes ugly cry. But also one which occasionally also made me smile, and left me hopeful. Which, with the way things are going in the world at the moment, is not a bad feeling to be left with.
I was put through the wringer emotionally wise on my journey to the end though, and I did have to step back and take a breath once or twice along the way. But, although harrowing at times, I always felt safe.
If you are familiar with the author, you can see the resemblance in the quality and style of writing he delivers, even with the obvious genre switch. Especially regarding the creation of all the characters contained herein. One of his many strength in his thriller books.
All in all, whether you are already a fan of the author or you've come to this book as a lover of lit fic, I would definitely recommend it. But I would have a pack of tissues to hand, just in case...
November 26, 2023
Let me start off by saying, "wow!" This was such an emotional rollercoaster ride for me. The author has developed the character's so well that anyone can identify with them. His main character Griffin is carrying around a lot of baggage. We see Griffin and his father together at a fair. They are celebrating his birthday, while his mom and twin sister are out celebrating hers. We are shown a loving father who loves his son, until the mother dies. This father, a lawyer by day, becomes a monster by night, spewing his anger our on his son. Fast forward many years and we see grown up Griffin. He works out and runs to excess when he is stressed, which seems to be all the time. The woman he loves tries to help but has her own baggage. All of his actions are pushing her away. Then the unthinkable happens. Griffin is in an accident and the person who hit him is his estranged father. Old feelings return and threaten to destroy him. Griffin learns his father has Alzheimer's. You will just have to read the book to find out what happens. The turmoil in his life is one so many go through. Whether you have been through anything like this or not it puts fresh eyes on relationships and I would recommend it to everyone.
November 1, 2023
AMAZING!!!
Yep. Spreading the word… 😁
Available NOW!! 👏👏👏
In exchange for an honest review, I received an advanced copy of SON of the SEA. Want to know what I hated about this book? The end! I didn’t want it to be over!! As with all of Mr. Kaufman’s books, I read it in two days! I’m not going to put too many details because I don’t want this review to be a spoiler but prepare for a ride! The story starts out with the best day ever… a father and a son celebrating a birthday at the local carnival. The feeling of a carnival continues as the story turns into a roller coaster of feelings and emotions!
The ride called life for Griffin McCabe and his family has so many twists and turns - it is difficult to put this book down! But don’t worry, if you have to leave the story for a bit, you will very comfortably slide right back in! Even though this book is a different genre than his norm, Andrew has hit one out of the park again!! My new favorite! BRAVO!!!
Yep. Spreading the word… 😁
Available NOW!! 👏👏👏
In exchange for an honest review, I received an advanced copy of SON of the SEA. Want to know what I hated about this book? The end! I didn’t want it to be over!! As with all of Mr. Kaufman’s books, I read it in two days! I’m not going to put too many details because I don’t want this review to be a spoiler but prepare for a ride! The story starts out with the best day ever… a father and a son celebrating a birthday at the local carnival. The feeling of a carnival continues as the story turns into a roller coaster of feelings and emotions!
The ride called life for Griffin McCabe and his family has so many twists and turns - it is difficult to put this book down! But don’t worry, if you have to leave the story for a bit, you will very comfortably slide right back in! Even though this book is a different genre than his norm, Andrew has hit one out of the park again!! My new favorite! BRAVO!!!
November 15, 2023
To be honest, I wasn't sure how I would feel about Son of the Sea. The story is quite a departure from the author's usual fare, and though not entirely outside my reading wheelhouse, it wasn't my usual expectation from him. Still, knowing Andrew's clean and engaging writing style, I was sure of one thing - it wouldn't be a chore to read, regardless of my inherent interest.
I just want to say what a thoroughly engaging story Son of the Sea turned out to be. I found it to be every bit as much of a page turner as his much loved thrillers. It held my interest from beginning to end and carried me along on a journey of discovery, recovery, and growth with the protagonist. There was not a moment of disappointment, except perhaps when there was no more of it to read.
If you're on the fence, wondering if this is the story for you, I can only urge you to take a chance on this book! You will not be disappointed.
I just want to say what a thoroughly engaging story Son of the Sea turned out to be. I found it to be every bit as much of a page turner as his much loved thrillers. It held my interest from beginning to end and carried me along on a journey of discovery, recovery, and growth with the protagonist. There was not a moment of disappointment, except perhaps when there was no more of it to read.
If you're on the fence, wondering if this is the story for you, I can only urge you to take a chance on this book! You will not be disappointed.
March 29, 2024
Griffin McCabe and his twin sister Deena were raised by loving parents, but that was before their mother died of cancer. Her death changed everything, and 30 years later, Griffin’s life is still influenced more by the aftermath than even his fondest memory of a special celebration with his father the day he turned 6. Is it possible not to forget but to forgive?
Following the Prologue, the story is told in 5 parts: The Before, Intersect, Connect, Descend, and Disconnect. It is a gripping and page-turning story that draws the reader into Griffin’s thoughts, emotions, and actions, how he survived his father’s abuse, and how it affected every aspect of his life on the path forward. It is a novel of introspection, grief, abuse, trauma, acceptance, forgiveness, and hope. It is realism, beautifully written, and powerful.
Highly recommended.
Following the Prologue, the story is told in 5 parts: The Before, Intersect, Connect, Descend, and Disconnect. It is a gripping and page-turning story that draws the reader into Griffin’s thoughts, emotions, and actions, how he survived his father’s abuse, and how it affected every aspect of his life on the path forward. It is a novel of introspection, grief, abuse, trauma, acceptance, forgiveness, and hope. It is realism, beautifully written, and powerful.
Highly recommended.
November 17, 2023
Unreal.
Well, not really....I mean the quality of writing was absolutely everything and more that I've come to expect from Andrew E Kaufman. Come on Folks, This Dude can write!
No, this is unreal because not only can This Dude write, but because he was able to make me enjoy this rollercoaster-gut-punch of an emotional tear jerker while he was at it!
This book hurt. It's so real and raw and.....yeah. It hurt.
But read it.
Stick with it.
It. Is. Worth. It.
Beautifully written.
WELL DONE SIR!
Well, not really....I mean the quality of writing was absolutely everything and more that I've come to expect from Andrew E Kaufman. Come on Folks, This Dude can write!
No, this is unreal because not only can This Dude write, but because he was able to make me enjoy this rollercoaster-gut-punch of an emotional tear jerker while he was at it!
This book hurt. It's so real and raw and.....yeah. It hurt.
But read it.
Stick with it.
It. Is. Worth. It.
Beautifully written.
WELL DONE SIR!
November 1, 2023
This book was amazing! I’m a big fan of Andrew Kaufman already, I love his psychological thrillers. This book is different though. It’s about dysfunctional families, broken relationships, hurt and redemption. So many emotions from joy to tears. The book touches on so many experiences that I would guarantee many of us have been through, so reading it really gave you all the feels.
I loved it… I highly recommend you read it too. You won’t be disappointed.
I loved it… I highly recommend you read it too. You won’t be disappointed.
November 12, 2023
a true love story
The author, Andrew E Kaufman, took me on a trip of past and present relationships. This is a book of human relationships. The storytelling led me on a spectrum of highs and lows with a few giggles and tears. Andrew crafted scenes so real I felt the ocean breeze on my face. We all know these people, his characters, we know a piece or part of someone in the story of Son of the Sea. It’s a great journey.
Can’t wait to read his next body of work.
The author, Andrew E Kaufman, took me on a trip of past and present relationships. This is a book of human relationships. The storytelling led me on a spectrum of highs and lows with a few giggles and tears. Andrew crafted scenes so real I felt the ocean breeze on my face. We all know these people, his characters, we know a piece or part of someone in the story of Son of the Sea. It’s a great journey.
Can’t wait to read his next body of work.
January 1, 2024
Loved it and didn’t want it to end. The characters are relatable and well developed. The story is emotional and touches on so many of the issues that many of us deal with everyday. It is about family, heartache, love, abuse, when to forgive, and how to forgive. I cried and smiled and I cried again. I didn’t want to put the book down. Andrew Kaufman is a skilled storyteller who knows how to reach his readers.
March 3, 2024
Alzheimers
This is the story of a father son relationship where they are estranged until the father has an accident and hits his son. How the father and son work through their issues while the father has Alzheimers makes for a great story. My first read by this author and it was a great story. Great editing, interesting characters and a really engaging story. Highly recommend this book.
This is the story of a father son relationship where they are estranged until the father has an accident and hits his son. How the father and son work through their issues while the father has Alzheimers makes for a great story. My first read by this author and it was a great story. Great editing, interesting characters and a really engaging story. Highly recommend this book.
November 2, 2023
This book is phenomenal! It is so different from the authors normal psychological thrillers. It’s about love hate and forgiveness. And unfortunately about the horrible disease of Alzheimer’s. I’m not normally an emotional person, but this book had me sobbing. It is so well written and you feel all the emotions that the author is portraying. I will recommend this to anybody and everybody.
November 5, 2023
Different.
Son of the Sea by Andrew E. Kaufman is a heart wrenching story of love, neglect, and coming full circle.
The story as a whole wasn’t my favorite and I often wanted to punch Griffin in the face, but I really came to like him in the end.
Andrew’s writing is incredible and never fails to hit me right in the feels.
Son of the Sea by Andrew E. Kaufman is a heart wrenching story of love, neglect, and coming full circle.
The story as a whole wasn’t my favorite and I often wanted to punch Griffin in the face, but I really came to like him in the end.
Andrew’s writing is incredible and never fails to hit me right in the feels.
November 7, 2023
A wonderful story, full of accuracy and poignancy! Drew's excellent writing shines through in this, his first novel that is not a mystery story. He bravely dives into the complexity of coming of age in dire circumstances, and finishing the growth to adulthood in learning the reality of parent care with Alzheimer's twisting ways. I look forward to more wide-reaching novels from him.
December 8, 2023
Wow. I don't really have any other words to say about this book. I wasn't sure what to expect because I knew this one was different than Kaufman's other novels, but it was well worth the read. Beautifully written and tragically heartbreaking. I found myself both afraid to pick it up, yet always looking forward to it. Let's just say it hit me in all the feels. Highly recommend.
November 8, 2023
Great story
Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down. The characters were relatable in the way we are all imperfect. Yet forgiveness and love can overcome if the heart is willing.
Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down. The characters were relatable in the way we are all imperfect. Yet forgiveness and love can overcome if the heart is willing.
November 26, 2023
A wonderful story
An absolutely heartwarming and emotional read, loved it. He is one of my favorite authors, I have enjoyed all his books. Thank you Andrew, it was worth the wait!
An absolutely heartwarming and emotional read, loved it. He is one of my favorite authors, I have enjoyed all his books. Thank you Andrew, it was worth the wait!
November 13, 2023
What a journey!!
A spell bounding journey through a challenging childhood and young adulthood takes the reader along for an emotional ride with this Son of the Sea!
A spell bounding journey through a challenging childhood and young adulthood takes the reader along for an emotional ride with this Son of the Sea!
January 7, 2024
Beautifully written. So different from anything Andrew has ever written. Love, heartbreak, anger, frustration, forgiveness... many emotions and experiences in this story people can relate to.
January 29, 2024
Poignant family saga of forgiveness, redemption, and a promising future.
May 17, 2024
Great story. Beautiful cover. I listened on Audible and while it was narrated by artificial intelligence, it was pretty good.
April 20, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. The authors writing is so beautiful and descriptive. It’s definitely one of my favorite books I’ve read in a while.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews