the setup…
Sophia Othonos finally has a man in her life that loves her and is someone she respects and admires. When J.P. Satterwhite proposes that they go on a romantic getaway and then chooses a cruise to the Galápagos Islands, Sophia finds the location underwhelming but is just happy they’re going on an eight-day trip together. But minutes before they’re ready to board their flight, he gets an emergency call at the gate and has to rush home to his son in Oklahoma. She has no choice but to continue the trip alone.
the heart of the story…
I was a bit skeptical of JP from the onset. He’s older, divorced with two children and works in New York during the week and returns home to Oklahoma on the weekend. Maybe I’m just cynical but an emergency call at the gate? My expectations were low but Sophia having eight days to reflect not only about the relationship but herself was worth the alone time. Being able to step back and look at the lives of those around you, including not only family and friends but the other passengers on that cruise, and then take measure of your own was worth the abandonment.
the narration…
The author narrates her own story and here it made such a difference as this is a nuanced one that required care and delicacy. She led me where I needed to go.
the bottom line…
For a short story, it delivered an important and powerful message. While the cruise ship was “rustic” and the amenities on par with a budget motel, there were aspects of the setting and island nature that connected Sophie with its simplicity and beauty. There was a pivotal moment that reset her path and just felt right and serendipitous. Loved the insights and the ending.
Book Info
- Release Date: September 1, 2024
- Narrator: Elin Hildebrand
- Audio Length: 1 hour, 54 minutes
- Publisher: Amazon Original Stories
Listen to a Sample!
Goodreads | Amazon | Audible
(Thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Blue Mood Café 
I was a bit worried when you said that the author narrated this Jo, as it doesn’t always work well. Glad it was a good listen. Fab review!
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Thank you💜 Nicki, that often gives me pause, too! But it was helpful here as she knew when to bring what emotion.
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I’m glad that you enjoyed this one too Jonetta!
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Thank you, Jodie💜
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I am glad you liked it, Jonetta!
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Thank you, Melike💜
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I have this on my Kindle. Will get to it sometime!
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Hope you like it, Joanne💜
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I haven’t read this author but have seen many great reviews in general. JP sounds very suspicious.
Anne
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Yeah, you and I have the same instincts😏
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I hadn’t read any of Elin’s books before but enjoyed this short read. I was suspicious of JP from the off.
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Yay! Glad you enjoyed it💜 Yeah, a phone call at the gate? Pshaw.
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I’ve just got myself a copy of this Jo. Nice review. 💖📚
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Thank you, Sandy💜 I just saw it on your “bedside table.”
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Great review, Jo. I totally agree with your thoughts. J.P is definitely a lesson to all, but I’m so glad that Sophie learned to love life and enjoy what she has. The setting was amazing. I would love to go to the Galapogos Islands someday.
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Thank you, Carla💜 I’d never even considered Galápagos as somewhere I’d like to visit before this book!
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