Title: A Castaway in Cornwall
Author: Julie Klassen
Release Date: December 1st 2020
Length: 400 pages
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
★★★★★
**** My Review ****
“A Castaway in Cornwall” is a truly touching romantic story that deals with themes of lost love and found hope amidst the turmoil of war and disdain. It’s a story that will leave you speechless with its emotional depth, blending together elements of sadness and happiness, pain and love, betrayal and forgiveness in a way that’s both poignant and unforgettable.
The story follows the journey of young Laura Callaway, a girl who’s been left alone in the world, living with a family that doesn’t share her blood. She’s neither fully accepted nor rejected by the inhabitants of the small town where she lives, and finds solace in walking along the coast collecting small treasures that the sea throws away after shipwrecks. But one day, the sea throws out a treasure that will bring both great happiness and danger into her peaceful life. Will she find the strength to defend and protect this priceless treasure?
While the book may seem like a typical historical romance at first glance, it’s much more than that. With an extraordinary narrative gift, the author skillfully takes us on a journey to Cornwall, weaving a complex account of life there in the 1800s. It’s a distant time for us, and yet so similar, with many of the same difficulties and hardships that people face even today. The book explores themes like the struggles of being an orphan, the power of money as a motivator for destruction, and the use of clandestine activities as a way to make quick money.
Yet the book also delves into deeper issues, like the lack of medical care, the difficulties of not having enough financial means, and the cruelty that war brings, turning brother against brother, father against son. The author skillfully weaves all of these threads together into a captivating story that will capture your attention from beginning to end. As you read, you’ll feel as if you’re right there in Cornwall, able to see all the situations, feel all the emotions, and perceive all the details. The story is full of wonderful premise, well-developed characters, and fascinating truths.
One of the standout characters in the book is Laura, who warms the heart of every reader. She’s an ambitious young lady with many dreams and a very noble purpose. She may be small in stature, but her dreams are big and her heart is even bigger. At times, it feels as though you are Laura, due to the author’s amazing storytelling that makes everything seem so real. As you read about her cruel fate, you’ll also see the beauty of her soul. Fighting for people who don’t have the strength to fight for themselves and bringing peace and closure to families, she’s a character who simply fascinates you.
And then there’s Alexander, with his pride and strength, who is the perfect man for Laura. He’s a man who’s been through hell to be able to help his family and friends. He’s not afraid to accept help and show his emotions, and he knows how to appreciate the beauty and sacrifice of this exceptional girl.
Overall, “A Castaway in Cornwall” is a book that amazes with its well-conceived plot and fascinating layering. It’s a book that pulls you in like a whirlwind and doesn’t let go until you read the last page. With its memorable characters, vivid descriptions, and skillful narrative, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction or romantic novels.