FAR SIDE OF THE SEA by KATE BRESLIN is a beautiful love story told against the backdrop of the First World War. There is no doubt that it was one of the most horrific times in history and we are made aware of the widespread effect of war on the countries and individuals involved. It is in Hastings that we meet up with Lieutenant Colin Mabry, who we last saw as a returning war hero in Not by Sight. Colin has to manage with a prosthetic hand, which, together with recurring nightmares, fear of being closed up in small spaces and guilt from unwittingly drinking the last of the water leading to a man's death, makes for a complicated character. He has, however, a strong sense of duty, and commitment to the promise he made to Jewel, a young French woman who saved his life.
The story moves to France where we meet Johanna Reyer, Jewel's half sister, who also has issues from the past.
The story moves through France and into Spain, with just the right amount of description of the scenery. I love the introduction of the carrier pigeons, whose bravery played such a big part in the war, and in the story. It actually brings a feeling of peace amid the storm, which is also strongly brought out in Colin's faith in the God of miracles. We are reminded of the fact that, as children of God, we don't need to be defined by our past or our circumstances, or the opinions of others.
The plot is so well developed that we are kept guessing right to the end. Surrounded by spies, it is hard for Colin and Jo to know whom to trust as they set off to find Jewel.
The characters are very real, the story captivating and rather mysterious, and it is altogether a most enjoyable read. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
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