Review: Isle of Waves Sue Brown
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 27, 2014
Everyone who is fortunate enough to be accepted under the Owens family umbrella, from Sue Brown's 'Isle of Waves', gets their help whether they want it or not; overwhelmingly and unconditionally. Nibs and Wig, owners of the Blue Lagoon Restaurant, know this all too well, but, when faced with a crisis of major proportions, they are not so gently, but wonderfully reminded of that fact.Even after being together more than ten years, Wig and Nibs have as much passion for each other as they did when they first met. They are extremely protective of one another and go above and beyond demonstrating it. What these two have together is steadfast, but, as many couples, they lack proper communication skills. Instead of sharing everything, Nibs begins to hide things from Wig, particularly pertaining to his ill health. Because Nibs doesn't want to worry him, he starts making major decisions without consulting Wig, telling half-truths to cover his intentions. Instead of waylaying and fear, Wig becomes suspicious and begins to doubt Nibs's feelings for him; this makes him feel insecure and diminished. Their partnership is on the rocks, but neither are prepared to let go. The restaurant which they have worked on so long and hard is in jeopardy of closing down. The threat of being forced out by the owner of the restaurant next door is ever-present. They are floundering until the Owens family swoops in and takes charge, motivating them and keeping the place running. This reminds them that they are a vital part of the community and are wanted and needed on the Isle.Intertwined in Nibs and Wig’s crisis, are those in the Owens family. Liam and Sam are finally getting married and, as dysfunctional as all the Owens are, their love for the other family members is stronger than most. When need be, the whole family pulls together as a team. They assign duties within the clan and alternate these as fits the individuals and the situations. Once again, I felt bathed in the warmth of the Owens family their feelings for each other and their friends and yearned to be a part of it. I enjoyed the family interaction and marvel at their ability to put personal feelings aside and do what's good for the whole. This affinity has been nurtured by the whole series and is something that people who haven't followed it wouldn't be able to appreciate. I would gladly revisit these characters many more times. They are a shinning example of how family members should pitch in and care for each other when need be.For fans, it's an inspiring addition to the 'Isle' series, tying up some loose ends and giving direction to others. In order to fully appreciate this series, the books need to be read sequentially. I encourage you to join in and learn about this extraordinary family and their friends. I recommend this story to everyone who appreciates loving and, at times, dysfunctional families, good friends, and a desire to do all you can to help those in need. Thank you, Sue, for another wonderful story.Originally published at Rainbow Book Reviews.