Go as a River by Shelley Read #ShelleyRead #CynthiaFarrell

the setup…
Victoria (Torie) Nash is a seventeen-year old young girl living with her father, disabled Uncle Ogden and younger destructive brother Seth in Iola, Colorado. After her mother died when she was twelve, it was expected that she would fulfill the domestic responsibilities. It’s not a path she would have chosen but it’s the only one she can see. On one fateful day as Torie was walking alone into town, she encounters a young man named Wilson (Wil) Moon who inexplicably seemed to mesmerize her. Little did she know how their brief exchange would alter the course of their lives.

the heart of the story…
I’m not sure what I was expecting from this story but it wasn’t the emotional and thoughtful journey it turned out to be. Torie didn’t really have much of a life outside of taking care of the men in her family so maybe this curious stranger awakened her need to explore the world outside of that house. It was courageous, if naive, but it did open her to love, heartbreak, tragedy and fulfillment. There were moments when I felt my heart ripping apart and alternately swelling with pride. Wil’s time with Torie was short but his impact everlasting.

the narration…
The narrator absolutely captured the quiet and the innocence of Torie, making the story feel even more authentic. She also expertly managed a host of other characters. This was great storytelling and a wonderful performance.

the bottom line…
It’s described as a “sweeping, heart-stopping epic” and I don’t have better words. This story broke my heart and then sewed it back together again. I’ll forever be haunted by Torie and those connected to her, especially Wil who had a certain wisdom well beyond his age. I’m also glad I chose to listen because it deepened that emotional connection.

Book Info

• Release Date: April 13, 2023
• Narrator: Cynthia Farrell
• Audio Length: 9 hours, 58 minutes
• Publisher: Spiegel & Grau by OrangeSky Audio

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