The Light Between Oceans: A Novel

M.L. Stedman

Jul 2012 · Sold by Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

The years-long New York Times bestseller and major motion picture from Spielberg’s Dreamworks is “irresistible…seductive…with a high concept plot that keeps you riveted from the first page” (O, The Oprah Magazine).

After four harrowing years on the Western Front, Tom Sherbourne returns to Australia and takes a job as the lighthouse keeper on Janus Rock, nearly half a day’s journey from the coast. To this isolated island, where the supply boat comes once a season, Tom brings a young, bold, and loving wife, Isabel. Years later, after two miscarriages and one stillbirth, the grieving Isabel hears a baby’s cries on the wind. A boat has washed up onshore carrying a dead man and a living baby.

Tom, who keeps meticulous records and whose moral principles have withstood a horrific war, wants to report the man and infant immediately. But Isabel insists the baby is a “gift from God,” and against Tom’s judgment, they claim her as their own and name her Lucy. When she is two, Tom and Isabel return to the mainland and are reminded that there are other people in the world. Their choice has devastated one of them.

Ratings and reviews

This is a sad book, just a heads up. However, it's a really good book. It adds in some happiness with the sadness and the writing style realy allows you to put yourself in the characters shoes. Sweet and sad but so good. A good read.

I felt all the emotions. Author does an excellent job of keeping up the pace. Felt a bite rushed at some points, but I can understand the reasoning behind it.

I was so stressed out reading this book as things began happening to the characters. I fell in love with Isabel and Tom and could feel their pain through the pages. Didn't sob until the very end where the subtleties of true love and forgiveness bloomed.

About the author

M.L. Stedman was born and raised in Western Australia and now lives in London. The Light Between Oceans is her first novel.