Ascension of Larks by Rachel Linden

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (June 20, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0718095731
• ISBN-13: 978-0718095734

About the Book:

When globetrotting photographer Magdalena Henry loses the only man she’s ever loved, she risks her stellar career to care for his widow and young children on a remote island in the Pacific Northwest.

Free-spirited and fiercely independent, Maggie adores her life of travel and adventure. But she has a secret. She can’t let go of her first and only love, renowned architect Marco Firelli, now married to her best friend Lena.

When Marco drowns in a kayaking accident, Maggie rushes to the Firelli family’s summer home on San Juan Island. Once there she discovers that Marco was hiding something that could destroy his family. As fragile, perfectionistic Lena slowly falls apart, Maggie tries to provide stability for Marco and Lena’s three young children.

When Maggie is offered a once-in-a-lifetime chance to compete in the world’s most prestigious photography competition, she thinks she’s found the answer to their problems. Then Lena makes a choice with unexpected and devastating consequences, forcing Maggie to grapple with an agonizing decision. Does she sacrifice the golden opportunity of her career or abandon the Firellis just when they need her the most?

Gradually the island begins to work its magic. A century-old ritual to beckon loved ones home offers hope in the midst of sorrow. And a guilt-ridden yet compelling stranger hiding on the island may offer Maggie a second chance at love, but only if she can relinquish the past and move forward to find joy in unexpected places.

My Thoughts:

I wasn't sure what I was going to find in the pages of Rachel Linden's debut novel, "Ascension of Larks", but I was drawn in by the gorgeous cover art, and soon found myself lost in the world of Maggie, Marco, and Lena.

This is a complex drama, filled with emotion and powerful relationships.  Linden explores the bonds of friendship, the intricate design of family, and the conflict of loving too much.  The reader will find someone to identify with amid the characters of the story: Maggie, unable to put down roots yet craving stability--Marco, driven and passionate about his talent, but unaware of the cost to his loved ones--Lena, the anchor of the trio and yet the weakest of the three.

The children are fun and multi-layered as well, and you'll meet many, many more imaginary people as you travel through the pages of "Ascension of Larks".  I received a complimentary copy of the book from my friends at Thomas Nelson with no services or obligation promised in return.

Rachel Linden is an author to watch, and her debut receives my "Oh, the Feels!" stamp of approval.  I will most definitely be picking up her next novel with great anticipation.

Until the next page turns,

Deena