I was very excited to read this book. The description promised a heartfelt summer read of love, forgiveness, and the power of family bonds. Unfortunately, the story as a whole fell flat and did not deliver. The characters, particularly the women, were very unlikeable. I can usually overlook unlikeable characters if they are well written and show growth throughout the course of the book. This did not happen with "The Shore House."
The relationships, particularly among Kaye and Stacey, were forced and unrealistic. I question whether the author has ever been around small children based on the descriptions of Stacey's children. I found it highly unlikely that a six year old who plays soccer would use a booster seat at a table. I found it even more unbelievable that a four year old who would be spending her summer with a reading tutor would use a highchair (with a tray!).
The book description promised a "heart-stopping accident on the beach." I kept waiting for this to occur, and it finally did 93% of the way into the book..sort of. The accident was nothing more than a mother losing track of her child and panicking. The son was never in danger. I would hardly consider this a climax worth describing in the book's synopsis. While it did bring about a conversation between Kaye and Stacey regarding Stacey's fear of the ocean, it did little to show any kind of major character growth. As a mother myself, I still wonder how Kaye went over twenty years without noticing her daughter's fear and avoidance of the ocean.
I wish I could recommend this book, but unfortunately I cannot. The book as a whole has potential, but it needs a lot more work before I would want to read it again. If you're looking for your next summer beach read, this is not it.
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