I’d heard great things about the historical fiction novel The Light Between Oceans. It was the debut novel by M. L. Stedman and was a Richard and Judy Book Club pick.
It had rave reviews and I knew it had also been made into a film starring Michael Fassbender. In an attempt to work my way through my huge to-read-pile, I decided to read it and see what all the fuss is about.
Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Plot
Tom is a lighthouse keeper on a remote island where he and his wife are the sole occupants. They live a quiet existence, one that lately has been marred by sadness. One night a boat washes up on the shore holding a dead man and a crying baby.
After losing several babies of their own, the couple are shocked to discover this tiny infant. The decisions they go on to make alter the course of not only their lives but also those of the baby and her family.
The Light Between Oceans Book Review
I found the beginning of the story got off to a great start and immediately grabbed my attention. I really liked the character of Tom and his decency and kindness shone through. The descriptions of the coastline and the life of a lighthouse keeper were beautifully written. However, I felt the story lost its way as the narrative progressed.
I got a little bored midway through the story and I was hoping when it came to its inevitable climax that it would make up for the tedious moments but unfortunately it didn’t.
The characters I initially sympathised with became unlikeable and unrelatable. I just couldn’t imagine anyone behaving the way they did. Nobody seemed to want to put the needs of this poor child above their own.
I love feeling moved by a book but this story was just so bleak. I realised early on that there was never going to be a happy ending for any of the characters and I felt sad, infuriated and disappointed as I continued to read.
I found the premise to be an interesting one and yet it just didn’t deliver what I was hoping for.
I’m clearly in the minority here as so many other readers have loved this book. Unfortunately though, it just wasn’t for me.
What should I read after The Light Between Oceans?
If you enjoyed The Light Between Oceans you may also enjoy:
- Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter by Lizzie Pook
- The Memory Box by Kathryn Hughes
- The Island Home by Libby Page