To the Farthest Shores by Elizabeth Camden ~ Review

My Review:

Jenny is a military nurse, who has overcome a hardscrabble past to make a respectable living for herself.  Six years ago she fell in love with Ryan Gallagher, the pledged to write and then marry when he returned, but she received but one letter, a letter breaking off their engagement. But when he appears back on base with a four-year-old daughter in tow, Jenny wants answers.

Ryan was raised in Japan, the son of a missionary family, he learned the culture and language of the Japanese well. Six years ago he was recruited for a special mission in Japan, everything changed and Ryan never thought he'd see Jenny again. Now widowed, he wonders if he and Jenny may have a second chance at love.


Jenny is hurt that Ryan broke it off so abruptly and little explanation, and his reappearance in her life brings up the hurt that he caused her, especially when she sees his daughter, a reminder that he found someone else. Jenny is a hardworking woman, who takes pride in her work. She also does what she can to help her adoptive father, Simon, who took her in so many years ago. I like that Jenny is not perfect, it is hard for her to forget the pain of what Ryan did, she is vulnerable and relate-able.

Ryan knows that he has hurt Jenny and made mistakes that he cant take back, but he doesn't regret his beautiful daughter, Lily. Ryan is utterly devoted to his daughter, and is determined to teach her about both sides of her heritage. He is honest, yet at times oblivious. Ryan wants to make things right with Jenny, but doesn't know how. He is passionate about his dreams of Pearl farming, and raising his daughter.

I really liked Finn, he is brilliant and full of potential. He is very observant, and often sees things that others miss, yet he can he disrespectful and unruly. Finn is astute, and has a natural talent for piking up things, he can do well when he wants to, but struggles with demons that threaten to ruin his chances at working with the military.

Simon is the man who raised Jenny, he never had alot, but he made sure that Jenny had what she needed, and taught her about Christ. And Lily is so adorable, a sweet child who is well loved by her father.

Overall, this is a well written read about second chances, forgiveness, and hope. I loved Jenny, life hasn't been easy for her and she still beats herself up about things in her past as she tries to make things right. I liked her for her realistic vulnerabilities, strength and hardworking spirit. I loved learning about the early pearl industry. Finn was probably one of my favorites, because he can be such a cad, but also utterly charming and sincere, and I can't begin to imagine the adventures in store for him. Romance, mystery, forgiveness, from beginning to end this is a fantastic read. I had a hard time putting it down, and enjoyed it to the very end. Highly recommend!

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