DubaiReader

Based on a true event that occurred in October 1947, Anita Shreve has returned to the Maine coast, where several of my favourite Shreve books were based. Her writing is as precise and perfect as ever, drawing the reader in, well before the excitement of the novel even begins.

Following a drought that lasted all Summer, the Autumn of 1947 brought little relief to the residents of Hunts Beach, and the looming threat of fire became a reality when dry winds sent flames whipping across the forests, destroying nine towns.

Grace and her best friend Rosie are trapped between the fire and the ocean with four children between them. Ingeniously, they use the shore to save themselves, but life will never return to normal for the two women.
At the time of the fire Grace's husband, Gene, was helping in the forest, creating wind-breaks, hoping to prevent the onslaught. When the flames subside, Grace finds herself with a missing husband, penniless, homeless and with two young children to support.

A great read, highly recommended.


Previously read:
The Pilot's Wife (5 stars)
Fortune's Rocks (5 stars)
Resistance (5 stars)
Sea Glass (5 stars)
All He Ever Wanted (3 1/2 stars)
Body Surfing (3 stars)
A Change in Altitude (4 stars)