Who's reading 'The Light Between Oceans' by M.L. Stedman?

[Lisa]

Please chime in if you're reading along with us! The more the merrier. :-)

[Soon Har]

I read this in about two days -- a page turner!

[Lisa]

Hi, Soon Har, I'm so glad you enjoyed the book! We're all looking forward to discussing it together. I think it has a lot to say about morality, as well as the devastating affects of war.

[Lynn]

Hi Lisa. I really enjoyed this book. I think it will generate some good discussions.
See my review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Christine]

I'm hoping to finish it this week!

[Michele]

Halfway through & hope to finish by early-midweek as I have time

[Lisa]

Lynn, your review sums up the book nicely. Did it make you interested in reading more books about Australia? Did you know much about the country before getting into the book?

[Lisa]

Christine & Michele, have you finished? Hope you'll tell us what you thought!

[Michele]

Yes, I finished a few days ago
My review:
What a well-written, thought-provocative, & enthralling read! This is one of my favorite books in a long time. For a debut writer, I was in awe of the poetic descriptions & literary classic feel to this novel. The complicated moral dilemmas of the three main characters left me honestly wondering what I would do in their situation. The foreshadowing was spot-on. Even the tiniiest scenes were symbolic, purposeful, adding a new level of understanding/insight on the lessons evolving. This made for intuitive reading rather than wading through endless filler & fluff. I felt connected to each character, able to sympathize with their problems to the point I wasn't sure the best resolution. This is the mark of excellent writing. Despite their unique issues & perspectives, each had believable flaws based on their environment. All were essentially good people trying to make good choices with the path they found themselves on. They knew what outwardly felt right, yet believed & acted on what they felt was best for loved ones, even when struggling to reconcile regrets. Self-centered characters would simply justify their choices & not look back. These three were haunted by their backgrounds but persistent in thier goals. I will be seeking out any & all future titles by Ms. Stedman with high hopes.

[Lisa]

Thanks so much, Michele. What an insightful review. I like your point regarding whether I'd have kept Lucy. It really got me thinking. In her position, I'd have had a lot of trouble giving up that baby. So soon after a third miscarriage, it seems providence is giving her a gift. On the other hand, maybe it's testing her strength.

[Michele]

Good point, Lisa. Raises the question: are the moments that seem like serendipitous tests of character really where we're being led or challenged to resist? Hmmmm.