Book Review: The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh

My Review:

The Deepest Waters is a wonderful story, inspired by an actual shipwreck that occurred in 1857 off the coast of North Carolina. Dan Walsh has taken the factual framework from a real-life tragic event and created a compelling and ultimately heart-warming tale. When newlyweds John and Laura Foster are separated on their honeymoon voyage, their hopes and dreams for a long life together are shattered. But that is where the real story begins… hopes of rescue are tempered by the hardships of facing the future alone. Vivid supporting characters are introduced along the way, and multiple storylines keep the pages turning quickly.

For me, this book had the feel of an old Hollywood movie – and I mean that as a great compliment. I can envision this story up on a big screen. The men are (mostly) gallant, the scoundrels are deplorable and the women are feminine but possess inner strength. The shipwreck and its fallout provided much of the drama that unfolded, but the author also did a fantastic job of describing the emotions and inner thoughts of the characters. The message of faith and hope and discovering what-really-matters-in-life came through without sounding preachy or overdone. And there were enough surprises to keep me smiling between the tears and tissues.

Dan Walsh has become one of my favorite authors, and I'll soon be posting reviews for more of his books.

Here's the summary of the book from Dan's website:

What began as a fairytale honeymoon in 1857 for John and Laura Foster aboard the steamship SS Vandervere becomes a nightmare when a hurricane causes their ship to sink into the murky depths of the Atlantic. Laura finds herself with the other women and children aboard a sailing ship while John and a hundred other men drift on the open sea on anything they could grab as the Vandervere went down. Suspecting her John is gone but still daring to hope for a miracle, Laura must face the possibility of life alone–and meeting her new in-laws without their son if she ever reaches New York.

Readers will be holding their breath as they sail through this emotional and honest story of hope, faith, and love in the face of uncertainty. Talented author Dan Walsh skillfully tells an epic story through an intimate focus on two lost lovers. Inspired by real events, this moving novel will capture the hearts of all who dive into its pages.