Wishes on the Waves
In Catherine Michaels’s sweet romance novel Wishes on the Waves, two love-scarred single parents discover that they still have the capacity for connection.
In an island setting marked by sea air and the lively antics of children, zealous friends, and family members, Annie, the third-generation owner of a local shop, spends her days trying to honor the legacy of her family. Her husband is deceased; she is raising their son, Dawson, alone, as family and friends flit around her.
Then a handsome stranger, Cal—who turns out to be Annie’s new neighbor—saves Dawson from being mowed down by a speeding golf cart. A blocked writer, Cal seeks refuge on the island, hoping to finish his latest book and reconnect with his thirteen-year-old daughter after a difficult divorce. Past loves and present responsibilities impact the couple’s burgeoning relationship. Still, they take hesitant steps forward, each facing their fears around parenting, lost love, and new trust.
The blossoming romance proceeds via kayaking dates, barbecues, and opportunities for families to grow and bond. The couple’s extensive thoughts about each other’s strength and fortitude slow the pacing, while supporting characters help to keep the story lively, including a spirited barista, Cal’s standoffish daughter, Annie’s earnest son, and Cal’s controlling ex-wife, who variously contribute comic relief and initiate conflicts.
As the book progresses, Annie and Cal have intimate conversations and develop inside jokes, trust growing between them. Their children have honest reactions to their bond, revealing trauma and the difficulties of new people being introduced into their lives. Themes of blending families are handled with grace and emotional intelligence that is considerate of children’s instincts.
In the thoughtful contemporary romance novel Wishes on the Waves, fun, family, and beach inform a mature love connection between two single parents.
Reviewed by
Camille-Yvette Welsch
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
