I have to quote from a review on the back of the book: "Page by page, you weave your own impossible fantasy of chucking everything for Island adventure – and suddenly remember that it doesn't have to be far-fetched after all." (Time Out). It is so lushly written, a perfect blend of sights, tastes, people, places, beauty and adventure.
informative inspiring lighthearted slow-paced

read this in the heart of a PNW winter. it romanticizes cruising life while also detailing the constant navigation of weather and repair issues. that being said, the narrative lacks conflict, especially once the couple gets their sea legs. it was kind of the same thing over and over - ocean passages, picturesque harbors, caribbean local flair, and island food. not bad but not great. 

This was the perfect mid-July summer read. The descriptions of the islands and the fruits as well as the cultures was enthralling. I enjoyed reading about their sailing endevour and I feel like I learned a thing or two.

I originally picked up this book because I have always wanted to run away from responsibilities and have some sort of adventure. The story was interesting enough and the descriptions of the islands definitely made me want to sail around the world. However, the actual book wasn't very gripping and she didn't describe the characters thoroughly enough for me to care about them. She did include descriptions and recipes for some delicious-sounding dishes. Despite that (and even though I hate to stop reading halfway through a book), I'm just not that interested in finishing this one.

2.5 stars. Just not my kind of book.

If I had been harboring any dreams of sailing through the Caribbean, this would have destroyed them. That part of the trip sounds like a nightmare: cramped quarters, constant maintenance, weather dependence, seasickness, etc., etc. If you are into sailing and water and all that DIY business, the sailing part of the book might appeal more.

The reasons that I chose this book -- the food and tropical locations -- delivered, however. I may even try some of the recipes that are included at the end of each chapter.

Nonfiction November 2024: Book #1

I really enjoyed this book. It is about a couple in their 30's that decides to quit their successful day jobs and sail to warmer waters of the caribbean for at least a year. I have not sailed since 2002 and it took me right back and made me realize how much I miss it. Extremely light and easy read. Well written. Loved the recipes included. For me, lifted me out of my New England winter doldrums...great beach read...or a just want to escape read. Cannot wait to dive into The Spice Necklace.
adventurous informative inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

I read this right before I decided to move to Australia for a year. I've always loved the ocean, but never considered living on a sail boat. Well, the irony was, while living in Australia, I worked on a dive boat, so I was out at sea for 7 days every 5 days! What a blast. I loved this book so much, I passed it on to an Aussie friend I made during my stay. Thought they'd get a kick out of the West Indian recipes!

Ann's sailing trip story was a wonderful escape from the cold gray January when I was trapped in a house by Covid. The recipes sounded so good I could almost smell them. This book makes me want to learn to sail.