A review by bookish_olga
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

emotional inspiring reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

 
"The Light Between Oceans" is an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you reeling long after you've turned the last page. As a self-proclaimed tear-jerker aficionado, this book hit all the right notes, making me reach for the tissues more times than I care to admit.

What struck me most was the intricate balance between love, loss, and the haunting weight of decisions made in the face of desperation. Stedman weaves a tale set against the breathtaking backdrop of an Australian lighthouse, drawing readers into the moral quagmire of Tom and Isabel's choices.

While I was engrossed in the haunting beauty of the narrative, I couldn't shake the feeling that Tom's character deserved more depth, especially considering his wartime experiences. A deeper exploration of his past would have added layers to his motivations and struggles, enriching the overall story.
Despite this, Stedman's prose is as captivating as it is poignant. Each page is imbued with a sense of longing and heartache, pulling at your emotions until you're fully invested in the fate of every character, especially little Lucy.

Admittedly, the pacing can feel sluggish at times, akin to the ebb and flow of waves against the lighthouse rock. Yet, it's precisely this deliberate pace that allows for the gradual unfolding of the narrative's complexities, ultimately leading to a crescendo of emotion that leaves you breathless.
In the end, "The Light Between Oceans" is an experience that lingers, inviting you to ponder the depths of human nature and the enduring power of love, even in the face of heartbreaking decisions. Despite my yearning for more depth in certain aspects, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone willing to embark on an emotional journey they won't soon forget.