And Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash

 

To date, this is the only book by this author. If I see her name on anything else, I will definitely check it out. This is one of the best pieces of fiction I have read in my longish life as an avid reader.

The story is set during World War II, and on two hemispheres. The author handles this challenge flawlessly. Truthfully, I am cautious about reading WWII stories. But this one humanizes everyone and creates a fascinating look into what must have been a desperate and uncertain time for so many throughout the world.

This book is a joyful read, not because of any lack of seriousness, but because it is a well told story, and the time spent within the pages is quite honestly riveting.