Review by scaryeyes_25 -- Waves Break (on Unknown Shores)

[scaryeyes_25]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Waves Break (on Unknown Shores)" by Barry Litherland.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Philip Tyler is questioning his friendship with Wayne. He had known Wayne since grade school. And now that they are adults, Phil still cannot comprehend why they remained friends. Phil does not like the way Wayne borrows things from others without their knowledge. Or how Wayne does not go home when it is time to eat; he always lingers. No one likes to play with Wayne aside from Stevie, who unfortunately is his best friend. Philip’s childhood comprised of bullied by older kids, interrogated by the police, and tragic death. All of these things start and end with Wayne. Hence, questioning why he is friends with Wayne is very valid.

I first encountered Philip Tyler in Litherland’s Shifting Sands. I already enjoyed him there. He is loyal to his friends. And this loyalty gives him the courage to face his fears. He is also honest that is sometimes irritating. In Waves Break (on Unknown Shores), I saw glimpses of these characteristics in Philip as a boy. I saw how Philip, the boy, became the man who he is now. Another character that is also present in both books is Detective Slattery. The relationship between Phil and Slattery started with suspicion and distrust, but it eventually bloomed into camaraderie.

What I like most about this book is how Litherland strategically penned the story. The flashbacks were plentiful, but they added to the overall impact of the story. The flashbacks did not spoil the suspense. For example, I knew from the book description that someone will die. But I was unprepared when Litherland decided to share the details of that event with the readers. It was so unexpected that I found myself not breathing as I read through it. Litherland was able to place me on the scene. I found myself telling Philip to run, urging Stevie to fight back, and whispering to Wayne that it is not his fault. I was there with them. I was suffering their pain and experiencing their fear.

I cannot think of anything that I dislike about the book. I did not find any error while reading, making me believe this is exceptionally well-edited by a professional. Litherland was able to weave my emotions into the story. I invested all my emotions in all the characters. I also want to commend the author for the book title and how it represents the story. Philip and the rest of the cast became the adult they are due to the stones that were thrown at them growing up. And these stones created waves of events that molded who they are until eventually these waves reach and break the shore.

In summary, I give four out of four stars to Waves Break (on Unknown Shores) by Barry Litherland. The story flow is smooth despite the flashbacks. The storyline is real and the characters relatable. I recommend this to adult readers who are looking for some mystery to uncover. I also recommend this to readers that do not shy away from family drama. Bullying and violence are recurring themes in this book, so I discourage very young readers to pick this book. Also, these themes might be triggers to some, so please read at your own risk. But I fervently believe it is worth your time.

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Waves Break (on Unknown Shores)
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[Bigwig1973]

I agree! The kitchen scene was pretty intense. It's so easy when you're looking in, but probably a lot different when you're there, huh? I like how you mention other books by the same author. I haven't read any others, but I intend to read them. You wrote a nice review on this wonderful book!

[scaryeyes_25]

I agree! The kitchen scene was pretty intense. It's so easy when you're looking in, but probably a lot different when you're there, huh? I like how you mention other books by the same author. I haven't read any others, but I intend to read them. You wrote a nice review on this wonderful book!

Thank you for dropping by and for the kind words. That scene had been etched in my memory and my heart. I hope you enjoy Shifting Sands as well.