Review: Miracle Beach by Erin Celello

Publisher: NAL Trade
Pages: 352
Source: Personal Copy
Released: 2011
Rating: 4.5/5



Synopsis:

Macy Allen has always loved horses, and when her wealthy grandfather agreed to fund her future, she chose to be an equestrienne. Living in beautiful Vancouver, Macy married the man of her dreams and recently discovered she was expecting. When she least expected it, a tragic accident took her husband and robbed her of her unborn baby. A grieving Macy has to deal with her mother-in-law, Magda, who is not shy about blaming Macy for the death of her son. Nash’s father, Jack, has tried to give his wife time to grieve but when she is unwilling to apologize to Macy, Jack can’t deal with her any longer. Jack decides to visit Macy, and learn more about his son. Macy is reluctant, but understanding about Jack’s visit. When life couldn’t feel crueler, Macy discovers that Nash hasn’t been the most honest, upfront husband. His secrets taint her perfect picture of a husband.


Review:

Miracle Beach was a very interesting read, and I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline. Emotions are real and raw after the death of Nash, and everyone is trying to cope with their feelings in their own selfish way. Magda may seem like a horrible mother-in-law but she is thinking irrationally when her only son dies and everyone caters to Macy. She was his mother, and she feels irrelevant, set aside. Macy would never have guessed that Nash was keeping such a crucial secret. She discovers the shock of her life, and she feels betrayed and heartbroken by a man she is grieving. A man she can no longer confront. No one is able to understand what she is going through.

This novel is told in three perspectives, Macy, Magda, and Jack’s. It was very well written, and as a result the characters were really well developed and able to convey their emotions. I was able to understand where each character was coming from, and how they progressed. Celello did an amazing job creating complex, flawed characters with a real voice and strong opinions.

Miracle Beach is an engaging, emotional read. I highly recommend this one for book clubs, and those who are looking for a book that will leave you stuck contemplating the characters after you’ve closed the cover. This is a story of love, loss and secrets. Life must continue, and people must learn to cope with less than ideal situations.