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Shaped by the Waves
Growing up along the Oregon coast, Cassie George has always been fascinated by the ocean. She's used her studies in marine biology as a convenient excuse for staying away from her small hometown and avoiding the shame over her unplanned pregnancy. But when she receives a call that her aunt has suffered a stroke and has been hiding a Parkinson's diagnosis, she knows she must return.
Cassie finds a mostly warm welcome from the quirky community--including her high school nemesis, Nora Milford. But Cassie is confused by the mysterious package that greets her as well, containing typed pages telling a story of an anonymous woman who seems to have ties to Cassie's own life. As she begins to read more and investigate its implications, she'll discover who she thought she was and who she wants to become are both about to change.
Cassie finds a mostly warm welcome from the quirky community--including her high school nemesis, Nora Milford. But Cassie is confused by the mysterious package that greets her as well, containing typed pages telling a story of an anonymous woman who seems to have ties to Cassie's own life. As she begins to read more and investigate its implications, she'll discover who she thought she was and who she wants to become are both about to change.
352 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2022
About the author
Christina Suzann Nelson
7 books309 followersChristina Suzann Nelson is an inspirational speaker and the award-winning author of If We Make It Home, Swimming in the Deep End, and More Than We Remember. The Way It Should Be releases February 2, 2021.She writes and speaks about hope after dysfunction. Christina is over the top about her passion for faith, family, fiction, and foster care. When she’s not writing, she’s working with the Every Child initiative, chasing escaped steers, reading, breathing in the sweet smell of her horse, hiking with her dog, or enjoying her just-as-crazy family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
February 7, 2022
Christina Nelson knows how to write an emotion-tugging book!
At first, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy a book about a woman coming home to care for her aging aunt suffering from Parkinson's. It did take me a while to warm up to the main character Cassie, and I'm not entirely sure that I fully succeeded even in the end. She's quite stubborn and resistant to help from anyone, despite her exhaustion and being overwhelmed. She has an adorable young daughter Lark, who is precocious and added a great deal of comic relief along the way.
I think what made this book more compelling was the mystery surrounding Cassie's past. She receives a mysterious story and as she reads it, she starts to think that it might be about her. I was fully invested in the tale to find out how the story tied into Cassie's life. I'm not sure I completely bought the way everything came together in the conclusion and I had to read through it a couple of times to puzzle out the connections. I think my main problem was that there is a side storyline of another woman in town learning things about her own past, and for whatever reason I thought the two stories were going to end up being connected and they weren't. I kept trying to connect them the entire time and that's why I got so confused.
The two other things that elevate this novel are the emotional impact and the setting. The Oregon coast is my stomping grounds, and everything about the descriptions of the small town and the coastline were familiar and vivid. As Cassie grows to understand that her aunt's time is short, she has to come to terms with losing the woman who has functioned as her mother for most of her life. This is heart wrenching and the emotions are so real, I definitely shed some tears. I wished I had been able to know Aunt Shasta as part of the story, before she developed her illness, so I could have made a connection with her. As it was, we just get Cassie's point of view about their relationship and it lacks some depth.
Overall this is a very worthwhile read from a fantastic writer.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 13, 2022
3.5 stars!
Characters: Cassie was a flawed, sympathetic character. The side characters were also well done and added to the story.
Language: Clean.
Moral/theme: This novel contained themes of family and second chances.
Plot: My favorite part of the plot had to be the mystery surrounding the manuscript Cassie received in the mail. Some parts of this novel did drag a bit and seemed to follow the characters' day-to-day lives. But I am a reader who likes faster-paced books, so that might just be me :)
Romance: Clean. Just kissing.
Writing: This is the first book I've read by Christina Suzann Nelson. Her writing style fit well with the story, but I wasn't a fan of how some major events, especially near the end, were summarized.
Overall: Shaped by the Waves was an interesting read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction and contemporary novels with a hint of romance.
Characters: Cassie was a flawed, sympathetic character. The side characters were also well done and added to the story.
Language: Clean.
Moral/theme: This novel contained themes of family and second chances.
Plot: My favorite part of the plot had to be the mystery surrounding the manuscript Cassie received in the mail. Some parts of this novel did drag a bit and seemed to follow the characters' day-to-day lives. But I am a reader who likes faster-paced books, so that might just be me :)
Romance: Clean. Just kissing.
Writing: This is the first book I've read by Christina Suzann Nelson. Her writing style fit well with the story, but I wasn't a fan of how some major events, especially near the end, were summarized.
Overall: Shaped by the Waves was an interesting read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction and contemporary novels with a hint of romance.
February 21, 2022
This book is an absolute masterpiece! It’s full of twists, and the ending caught me by surprise. Don’t miss this moving story.
February 3, 2022
Ms. Nelson pens stories that make you think. Her characters are flawed, strong and well represented.
Cassie has always wondered who her real mother was even though she was raised by a loving relative, her Aunt Shasta. Coming home to care for Shasta who has health issues, Cassie again begins to search for answers. She brings her delightful four year old daughter, Lark, back to Oregon. Lark is a bright spot in this book of deep subjects. The author has captured the actions of this tiny girl. Ms. Nelson portrays Cassie as very caring of Shasta and Lark as she tries to juggle life. “Caregiving was a maze that surprised Cassie with new obstacles at every turn.” But Cassie finds strength in her friends and returns to her childhood faith. She begins to hope for a better future. “ Cassie, you are who God designed you to be, you are growing and changing all the time, and it may seem like you are lost in all the mess of life sometimes, but your identity is not in your name, your hair color, your job or your academic achievements. It is in your heart.”
With a touch of mystery and a touch of romance you will want to follow along on the journey of Cassie, Lark and Shasta.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Cassie has always wondered who her real mother was even though she was raised by a loving relative, her Aunt Shasta. Coming home to care for Shasta who has health issues, Cassie again begins to search for answers. She brings her delightful four year old daughter, Lark, back to Oregon. Lark is a bright spot in this book of deep subjects. The author has captured the actions of this tiny girl. Ms. Nelson portrays Cassie as very caring of Shasta and Lark as she tries to juggle life. “Caregiving was a maze that surprised Cassie with new obstacles at every turn.” But Cassie finds strength in her friends and returns to her childhood faith. She begins to hope for a better future. “ Cassie, you are who God designed you to be, you are growing and changing all the time, and it may seem like you are lost in all the mess of life sometimes, but your identity is not in your name, your hair color, your job or your academic achievements. It is in your heart.”
With a touch of mystery and a touch of romance you will want to follow along on the journey of Cassie, Lark and Shasta.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
February 2, 2022
Wow! I’m speechless. The mystery woven in was jaw dropping and to me painted a picture of how Christ loves us so much, even more than a mother’s unconditional love. I could definitely identify with Cassie and the overwhelming feelings of caring for her aunt under hospice as I recently did that for nine months for my mother. The author was spot on capturing the thoughts and feelings of not being up to the task and the rewards involved in what God has called you to do. Lark was an added bonus to the story as she brought smiles and joy. My minor complaint is that I wish that Cassie and Nora’s relationship had developed more. Maybe we can have a sequel. I loved the family that was formed of community and caring for each other. I recommend putting this on your must read list as it is well rounded with friends, family, faith, mystery, and a side helping of romance.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
October 30, 2022
I loved parts of the book. And the factious oregon beach town. It was mildly Christian and a good wholesome read. My only puzzlement is what Nora's story had to be part of it. It was confusing and not drawn in as much of the story as would have been necessary. Otherwise I could have given it 5 stars
February 17, 2022
In Shaped by Waves, readers are brought into the lives of Cassie and Nora. Cassie's background is a mystery and when she returns to the only home she's known in coastal Oregon, clues are revealed through a manuscript mysteriously left at her aunt's home. Nora knows who her mother is but holds resentment after being abandoned.
In both threads, I was completely pulled in to the family history clues. The current day happenings kept my interest, but not as much so.
Of the four novels I've read, The Way it Should Be is my favorite.
In both threads, I was completely pulled in to the family history clues. The current day happenings kept my interest, but not as much so.
Of the four novels I've read, The Way it Should Be is my favorite.
April 26, 2022
My goodness, but this story wrecked me. In a fantastic way, but still… I’m weeping while I write this, as this story was that beautiful (I finished it moments ago).
Cassie’s search for the truth of a mysterious manuscript as well as her own past is such a masterpiece of brutal honesty and hope and dysfunction and healing and poignant losses that my emotions couldn’t help but get completely wrapped up and utterly lost in the beautifully tangled web this story turned out to be.
Little Lark was a complete charmer. She had me – and every character in the book – wrapped around her pinkie after about half a second. Such a cutie! And her nickname, Larkie-bird, was so adorable!
I cannot describe well enough the amazingness that is this story’s plot. It was rife with mystery and hope and doubts and faith and family and heart. It made me cry and laugh and oh so happy. I especially loved a certain reunion. That really got the waterworks going!
My heart ached so much at seeing a sweet character fade so quickly. Oh, how her caregiver must have felt! I related so much to these characters even though I haven’t been in either’s position before. Signs of great writing, I’m sure.
While I’ve only read two books by this author, I am confident in saying Mrs. Christina Suzann Nelson is becoming a favorite. This book is a shining example, because I absolutely love heartfelt stories that move my emotions to new depths. I love a good, emotional tale! I can hardly wait to read the other one I have in my ever-growing to-be-read stash.
Content: suicide attempt, suicide by overdose, marital affairs, profane acronym, crude sexual term
Cassie’s search for the truth of a mysterious manuscript as well as her own past is such a masterpiece of brutal honesty and hope and dysfunction and healing and poignant losses that my emotions couldn’t help but get completely wrapped up and utterly lost in the beautifully tangled web this story turned out to be.
Little Lark was a complete charmer. She had me – and every character in the book – wrapped around her pinkie after about half a second. Such a cutie! And her nickname, Larkie-bird, was so adorable!
I cannot describe well enough the amazingness that is this story’s plot. It was rife with mystery and hope and doubts and faith and family and heart. It made me cry and laugh and oh so happy. I especially loved a certain reunion. That really got the waterworks going!
My heart ached so much at seeing a sweet character fade so quickly. Oh, how her caregiver must have felt! I related so much to these characters even though I haven’t been in either’s position before. Signs of great writing, I’m sure.
While I’ve only read two books by this author, I am confident in saying Mrs. Christina Suzann Nelson is becoming a favorite. This book is a shining example, because I absolutely love heartfelt stories that move my emotions to new depths. I love a good, emotional tale! I can hardly wait to read the other one I have in my ever-growing to-be-read stash.
Content: suicide attempt, suicide by overdose, marital affairs, profane acronym, crude sexual term
February 9, 2022
This is an author that writes books that are about current issues and draw the reader right in to the story. I do not usually buy a lot of books but I had my husband pre-order this book for me back in August for my birthday.
This story was a little bit slow for me and hard for me to figure out how the characters related to each other. Cassie is the main character in the story and she comes home with her 4 year old daughter, Lark, to help take care of her Aunt Shasta. Cassie receives an anonymous manuscript in the mail and is unsure how it applies to her life. There is also another character, Nora, that is talked about frequently in the story. This character was a little bit of an enigma to me.
I enjoyed how Cassie sought to take good care of her Aunt Shasta and really enjoyed how the community rallied around Cassie and Lark to help them out through this difficult time.
Thanks so much to the publisher for the ARC. The opinions are my own.
This story was a little bit slow for me and hard for me to figure out how the characters related to each other. Cassie is the main character in the story and she comes home with her 4 year old daughter, Lark, to help take care of her Aunt Shasta. Cassie receives an anonymous manuscript in the mail and is unsure how it applies to her life. There is also another character, Nora, that is talked about frequently in the story. This character was a little bit of an enigma to me.
I enjoyed how Cassie sought to take good care of her Aunt Shasta and really enjoyed how the community rallied around Cassie and Lark to help them out through this difficult time.
Thanks so much to the publisher for the ARC. The opinions are my own.
February 1, 2022
'How do I find a way to move forward without looking over my shoulder at the past?'
Well written and containing a great storyline, populated by wonderful characters, Shaped By The Waves touched my heart in my ways. It also contains a mystery that I had a difficult time figuring out. And it wasn't what I thought, either. This was very well done and I can very much recommend it.
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
Well written and containing a great storyline, populated by wonderful characters, Shaped By The Waves touched my heart in my ways. It also contains a mystery that I had a difficult time figuring out. And it wasn't what I thought, either. This was very well done and I can very much recommend it.
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
February 10, 2022
I love Christina Suzann Nelson writing and this book does not disappoint!! The story of Cassie. When her Aunt is dying she and her daughter goes home to take care of her. On her arrival she gets a manual script of where she came from before she arrived at her aunt. Now Cassie wants the truth, who is her mother? At her Aunts she has many to help her even a man she is falling in love with. Will she ever know who her mother really is? This book is told in 3 points of view. The two are so interesting and totally belongs with the book, but one is not and confuses the other point of view. But even with this the book is fabulous. I loved the story of Cassie Mother and how Cassie got to be where she was. It is heartbreaking but full of love and truth. Cassie life has not been perfect having a child out of wedlock but this book shows even when you make a mistakes it can be a true blessing as Cassie child is. I so recommend this wonderful book. You will be blessed reading it as I was!!
April 21, 2022
This was good but just a little of a downer to me. Good storyline but it was hard to follow the characters. Could just be me though…in a fibro flare.
February 3, 2022
This novel is sort of an adult coming of age story. Cassie, raised by her aunt, does not know who her parents are. The plot centers on her dealing with the mental and physical decline of the only “mother” she has known while also dealing with tantalizing information about her biological parents.
I have mixed feelings about the character development. Little Lark, Cassie's four year old daughter, is the best. She is vivacious, so innocent, and loves to say what she's thinking. Shasta is a bit of a mystery. We read of her in her mentally declining months so we cannot understand her character from current actions. I wish there had been more fond memories from Cassie, revealing more of who Shasta had been.
One of the major messages of this novel is the need for community. Cassie was supported by many of Shasta's friends. There are many issues explored in this novel including infertility, spousal abuse, infidelity, dementia, surprises from DNA inquiry, and single parenting. I would have rather read of fewer issues, each with more intensity. I felt the issues were not explored as well and as deeply as they could have been.
This is a novel for readers who like women's fiction highlighting needs and the support we can offer one another.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I have mixed feelings about the character development. Little Lark, Cassie's four year old daughter, is the best. She is vivacious, so innocent, and loves to say what she's thinking. Shasta is a bit of a mystery. We read of her in her mentally declining months so we cannot understand her character from current actions. I wish there had been more fond memories from Cassie, revealing more of who Shasta had been.
One of the major messages of this novel is the need for community. Cassie was supported by many of Shasta's friends. There are many issues explored in this novel including infertility, spousal abuse, infidelity, dementia, surprises from DNA inquiry, and single parenting. I would have rather read of fewer issues, each with more intensity. I felt the issues were not explored as well and as deeply as they could have been.
This is a novel for readers who like women's fiction highlighting needs and the support we can offer one another.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
February 28, 2022
A story within a story and both kept me riveted.
An emotional tale of loss and grief and the power of sacrificial love. Of learning to embrace what you have while letting go of the past. Cassie is on a journey back to her God and it takes her home...to finally face the ghosts she never really left behind.
Honestly, I'm not sure what I can say about this novel except it's thrilling and compelling and richly layered with faith and wisdom. Love Cassie who unnecessarily struggles to carry a full load when there are so many willing hands to help her. Letting go of pride and shame is a huge part of her journey and makes for a tumultuous and poignant tale. And when she reconnects with 'her people' and starts to trust them with her brokenness, well, magic happens.
And her daughter, Lark, is a bedazzled gem of sunshine and hope and lightens even the darkest scenes. As does a certain barista who brings a spark of love and the hope of happily ever afters into Cassie's life. But there's lots to work through before that can happen and that involves the kind of emotional roller coaster ride I love to read.
Some of those highs and lows come courtesy of a mysterious manuscript addressed to Cassie. She's fascinated...but is it fact or fiction? A little bit of mystery that adds even more layers to this enthralling tale.
Side note: There's a secondary story interlaced with Cassie's but they never really connect and I found myself puzzling over exactly why snippets of Nora's POV were added in. I thought maybe it was a set up for the next book, but Shaped by the Waves isn't marked as part of series so I'm a little befuddled. Not enough to dim my reading enjoyment, but still, I wonder....
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
An emotional tale of loss and grief and the power of sacrificial love. Of learning to embrace what you have while letting go of the past. Cassie is on a journey back to her God and it takes her home...to finally face the ghosts she never really left behind.
Honestly, I'm not sure what I can say about this novel except it's thrilling and compelling and richly layered with faith and wisdom. Love Cassie who unnecessarily struggles to carry a full load when there are so many willing hands to help her. Letting go of pride and shame is a huge part of her journey and makes for a tumultuous and poignant tale. And when she reconnects with 'her people' and starts to trust them with her brokenness, well, magic happens.
And her daughter, Lark, is a bedazzled gem of sunshine and hope and lightens even the darkest scenes. As does a certain barista who brings a spark of love and the hope of happily ever afters into Cassie's life. But there's lots to work through before that can happen and that involves the kind of emotional roller coaster ride I love to read.
Some of those highs and lows come courtesy of a mysterious manuscript addressed to Cassie. She's fascinated...but is it fact or fiction? A little bit of mystery that adds even more layers to this enthralling tale.
Side note: There's a secondary story interlaced with Cassie's but they never really connect and I found myself puzzling over exactly why snippets of Nora's POV were added in. I thought maybe it was a set up for the next book, but Shaped by the Waves isn't marked as part of series so I'm a little befuddled. Not enough to dim my reading enjoyment, but still, I wonder....
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
February 7, 2023
A great story about relationships, family, and sacrificing for others. I love the coastal setting and enjoyed the mystery of the main character trying to figure out who she was and what happened to her parents, while caring for the person who raised her. And I liked the way she had to learn to accept help from others and be a true part of a community, rather than doing it all herself. The only reason I am giving four stars instead of five is because a subplot that I expected would somehow tie into the main plot never really did, and there were some loose ends I hoped would be wrapped up. But then again, in real life, loose ends are not always nicely tied up, so that does make for a realistic ending.
I look forward to reading more of Christina Nelson's books.
I look forward to reading more of Christina Nelson's books.
January 18, 2022
This is the first book I've read by Christina Suzann Nelson, and I'm not too sure what to think about it. I've been mulling it over for a couple of days since I finished it and I truly haven't come to any solid conclusion.
The main character is Cassie George, the niece of Shasta. Cassie is working on her doctorate in marine ornithology when she gets the call that tells her Shasta has had a stroke and has Parkinson's disease. She travels from San Diego to Gull's Bay, Oregon, to take care of Shasta and when she arrives she finds that the situation is much worse than she originally thought.
Gull's Bay is a small community where everyone knows everyone else and their business. One of the first people Cassie meets upon arrival in town is her old high school nemesis, Nora, who has a sub-plot of her own.
There are plots, sub-plots, mysteries, heartaches, and just a bit of romance all included in this book. Because there is so much going on, it is a hard book to put down, but it is also a hard book to read and keep up with. It doesn't have a cohesive feel to it and is somewhat hard to follow. It is enjoyable once you get into it, but I think it could have been better. The setting was perfect, the characters were not as fleshed out as they could have been because of the level of activity in the book, and because there are so many characters who populate the book. Still 3.5 stars, rounded up to four.
Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
The main character is Cassie George, the niece of Shasta. Cassie is working on her doctorate in marine ornithology when she gets the call that tells her Shasta has had a stroke and has Parkinson's disease. She travels from San Diego to Gull's Bay, Oregon, to take care of Shasta and when she arrives she finds that the situation is much worse than she originally thought.
Gull's Bay is a small community where everyone knows everyone else and their business. One of the first people Cassie meets upon arrival in town is her old high school nemesis, Nora, who has a sub-plot of her own.
There are plots, sub-plots, mysteries, heartaches, and just a bit of romance all included in this book. Because there is so much going on, it is a hard book to put down, but it is also a hard book to read and keep up with. It doesn't have a cohesive feel to it and is somewhat hard to follow. It is enjoyable once you get into it, but I think it could have been better. The setting was perfect, the characters were not as fleshed out as they could have been because of the level of activity in the book, and because there are so many characters who populate the book. Still 3.5 stars, rounded up to four.
Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 10, 2024
This story has an intriguing mystery which is woven throughout the book . It highlights that love can conquer all. Definitely worth reading.
March 17, 2022
This review was first written for Library Journal by Librarian Christine Barth.
Cassie George is a single mother struggling to complete her doctorate in marine biology and feeling as if “every dream she’d dared to imagine had been crushed under the pounding of her own bad decisions.” A phone call informing her that the woman who raised her has Parkinson’s prompts her to return to Gulls Bay, OR with her precocious preschooler, Lark. Upon her arrival, she receives a mysterious package containing a manuscript with the story of a woman trapped in an abusive relationship.
Meanwhile, Nora Milford is a force on Instagram, but inwardly falling apart with a third child on the way and a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. The three storylines wind and curve as they intertwine; and all characters are living either with open shame or hidden secrets.
VERDICT: Following the arc of each woman’s plot requires a bit of effort at the beginning, but it is well worth it as secrets are revealed. Nelson ( The Way it Should Be) also explores the burden of caregiving and the freedom found in surrender similar to themes in Katie Powner’s A Flicker of Light or Pat Simmons’ Lean on Me.
Cassie George is a single mother struggling to complete her doctorate in marine biology and feeling as if “every dream she’d dared to imagine had been crushed under the pounding of her own bad decisions.” A phone call informing her that the woman who raised her has Parkinson’s prompts her to return to Gulls Bay, OR with her precocious preschooler, Lark. Upon her arrival, she receives a mysterious package containing a manuscript with the story of a woman trapped in an abusive relationship.
Meanwhile, Nora Milford is a force on Instagram, but inwardly falling apart with a third child on the way and a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. The three storylines wind and curve as they intertwine; and all characters are living either with open shame or hidden secrets.
VERDICT: Following the arc of each woman’s plot requires a bit of effort at the beginning, but it is well worth it as secrets are revealed. Nelson ( The Way it Should Be) also explores the burden of caregiving and the freedom found in surrender similar to themes in Katie Powner’s A Flicker of Light or Pat Simmons’ Lean on Me.
February 3, 2022
"Lacing her fingers around Shasta's hand, Cassie was all to aware of the changes taking place, the shifting of roles. They hadn't practiced for this. There wasn't time or warning. Yet here they were anyway, bracing for the tsunami that roared toward them, and Cassie was the one in charge of their survival.
In "Shaped by the Waves" by Christina Suzanne Nelson, Cassie George had been raised by her Aunt Shasta in the small town of Gull's Bay, Oregon. When she finds out that Shasta has Parkinson's disease, she returns home to care for her. Going back was hard because she felt like she left in disgrace. Her plan was not to be a single mom. But rather than finding condemnation, she finds support in unlikely places.
Although her tribe may not be perfect, their love is there to support her through the letting go process. This book is full of sentimental and sad moments as well full of hope. And Lark, the precocious four-year-old daughter adds so much joy to this one. This book is also about how our faith grows and changes. No in-your-face sermons can be found in this one, but plenty of inspirational messages that encourage contemplating God's presence.
What else adds another dimension to this book is letters left for Cassie to read. In the packet of papers, she discovers a story that seems to intersect with her own. This layer of mystery adds interest and depth to the story as well.
A side character also plays a role in this one. Nora also finds out there is more to her family once she discovers her DNA results. Can she learn that letting go of perfect may help her to be free?
Christina Suzann Nelson weaves together beautiful fictional books for women. There were a few surprises in this one, and I absolutely loved the storyline which is all about finding faith in the hard times. A big thank you, to Christina, for providing me with an early copy to read. I wanted to review here and on other sites, and these thoughts express my own opinions.
In "Shaped by the Waves" by Christina Suzanne Nelson, Cassie George had been raised by her Aunt Shasta in the small town of Gull's Bay, Oregon. When she finds out that Shasta has Parkinson's disease, she returns home to care for her. Going back was hard because she felt like she left in disgrace. Her plan was not to be a single mom. But rather than finding condemnation, she finds support in unlikely places.
Although her tribe may not be perfect, their love is there to support her through the letting go process. This book is full of sentimental and sad moments as well full of hope. And Lark, the precocious four-year-old daughter adds so much joy to this one. This book is also about how our faith grows and changes. No in-your-face sermons can be found in this one, but plenty of inspirational messages that encourage contemplating God's presence.
What else adds another dimension to this book is letters left for Cassie to read. In the packet of papers, she discovers a story that seems to intersect with her own. This layer of mystery adds interest and depth to the story as well.
A side character also plays a role in this one. Nora also finds out there is more to her family once she discovers her DNA results. Can she learn that letting go of perfect may help her to be free?
Christina Suzann Nelson weaves together beautiful fictional books for women. There were a few surprises in this one, and I absolutely loved the storyline which is all about finding faith in the hard times. A big thank you, to Christina, for providing me with an early copy to read. I wanted to review here and on other sites, and these thoughts express my own opinions.
February 1, 2022
"But she would teach her daughter that shame stole, It took away the light they were created to live in and tricked them into hiding while they should be out living. breathing. and growing, Shame removed the ability to accept oneself as a person who was changing and becoming, instead inserting hopelessness,"
I'm so thankful I read Shaped by the Waves. Readers who enjoy contemporary, character-driven novels that explore the concept of family must read this beautiful novel.
This story's big feelings really resonated with me. Shasta, a central character, is impacted by Parkinson's and my mom had the disease for years before she died. And Cassie, a main character, comes home to be Shasta's full-time caregiver; I'm currently my 91-year-old father's weekend caregiver. It was emotionally difficult to read some parts of the novel since they hit close to home, but so worth it.
I appreciated many aspects of this book, from the descriptions of the Oregon coast and the exploration of motherhood and family to the story within a story and a sweet slow-burn romance between two characters who've experienced great loss in their lives. I was pulled into these characters' lives and the bigger truths they represent, including pride, shame, grace, and forgiveness. The only part I didn't enjoy was Nora's; I had trouble relating to the character and was confused by how/if her story connected to others.
Many thanks to author Christina Suzann Nelson and Bethany House Publishers for the review copy; all thoughts are my own. These characters will stay with me for quite some time.
I'm so thankful I read Shaped by the Waves. Readers who enjoy contemporary, character-driven novels that explore the concept of family must read this beautiful novel.
This story's big feelings really resonated with me. Shasta, a central character, is impacted by Parkinson's and my mom had the disease for years before she died. And Cassie, a main character, comes home to be Shasta's full-time caregiver; I'm currently my 91-year-old father's weekend caregiver. It was emotionally difficult to read some parts of the novel since they hit close to home, but so worth it.
I appreciated many aspects of this book, from the descriptions of the Oregon coast and the exploration of motherhood and family to the story within a story and a sweet slow-burn romance between two characters who've experienced great loss in their lives. I was pulled into these characters' lives and the bigger truths they represent, including pride, shame, grace, and forgiveness. The only part I didn't enjoy was Nora's; I had trouble relating to the character and was confused by how/if her story connected to others.
Many thanks to author Christina Suzann Nelson and Bethany House Publishers for the review copy; all thoughts are my own. These characters will stay with me for quite some time.
January 31, 2022
Shaped by the Waves by Christina Suzann Nelson has Cassie George returning to Gull’s Bay, Oregon to care for Shasta. Cassie was working on obtaining her doctorate in marine ornithology when she received the call stating that her aunt, Shasta had a stroke and had Parkinson’s disease. When Cassie sees Shasta, she knows that it is time to move home with her daughter, Lark to care for the woman who raised her. Cassie received a package in the mail. It contains typed pages that are someone’s story. Cassie begins reading and soon becomes engrossed. As Cassie reads, she discovers that this story has ties to her life. Cassie’s life is about to change in more ways than one. Shaped by the Waves is not what I expected. I really wanted to enjoy the story, but I could never get into it. I found it slow going. Cassie is not a likeable character. She is stubborn, rude, and does not like to accept help even when she is overwhelmed. Cassie has a cute, precocious daughter named Lark. She is a smart cookie for four years old. I liked the humor that Lark added to the story. We get to meet various townspeople. Most of them are friendly and welcoming. They want to help Cassie with Lark and Shasta. They know they need to be creative since Cassie is bound to say no if they ask directly. Nora is the exception. She is Cassie’s high school nemesis. Nora is pregnant with her third girl, and she has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. I found Nora to be just as frustrating as Cassie. I enjoyed the descriptions of Oregon. There is a lot going on in Shaped by the Waves. It can be hard to keep track of the people and the various storylines. I thought the story lacked cohesion and the pacing was slow (I saw snails waving as they passed me by). I felt that some information was lacking (such as Cassie getting pregnant). Some items are overly detailed, and others are missing key points. I thought Nora’s story would tie in with Cassie’s, but it really did not (I wanted to see the stories intersect). There is romance in the story as well. Cassie finds herself attracted to a coffee shop employee. Shaped by the Waves is a Christian story, but you have to search to find the mentions of faith, prayer, and church. Shaped by the Waves is an emotional novel. You will definitely need a tissue handy for a scene or two. I read Shaped by the Waves, but I was never able to immerse myself into the story. It is a book that I could have put down and easily never returned to. It had a predictability to it (it is easy to figure out who authored the story sent to Cassie). Shaped by the Waves has an expected, feel-good ending. I am afraid that I was not the right audience for Shaped by the Waves. I suggest you obtain a sample to see if it suits you. Shaped by the Waves is an expressive tale with a clever child, an ailing aunt, delectable coffee, pretty paintings, a caring community, scrumptious cookies, and a moving manuscript.
February 4, 2022
This book was a bonus! I actually got three stories in one. Cassie is the main character who is called home to care for her ill Aunt Shasta. Shasta raised Cassie from a small child and she felt “obligated” to now care for her but more out of love. She initially left home because she was ashamed of having a child out of wedlock.
I loved the Gull’s Bay community and the residents. They reached out to help each other, especially in times of need. Most of the story centering around a small coffee shop owned by Shasta added to the delight of this reader. Cassie’s daughter Lark was a spark of light to this community and kept everyone entertained as well. There was a mystery interwoven among the pages that had Cassie perplexed. It was definitely a surprise when it was revealed. And romance was included to add to the enjoyment.
The characters felt real, the setting was perfect (I love the ocean!), and I identified a lot with Cassie. I took care of my mom at my home during her last year of life, so I understood Cassie’s emotions for real. You may need a tissue or two as you read, as I did, but it’s worth the time to escape into the multilayers of this story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
I loved the Gull’s Bay community and the residents. They reached out to help each other, especially in times of need. Most of the story centering around a small coffee shop owned by Shasta added to the delight of this reader. Cassie’s daughter Lark was a spark of light to this community and kept everyone entertained as well. There was a mystery interwoven among the pages that had Cassie perplexed. It was definitely a surprise when it was revealed. And romance was included to add to the enjoyment.
The characters felt real, the setting was perfect (I love the ocean!), and I identified a lot with Cassie. I took care of my mom at my home during her last year of life, so I understood Cassie’s emotions for real. You may need a tissue or two as you read, as I did, but it’s worth the time to escape into the multilayers of this story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
February 4, 2022
Christina Suzann Nelson knows how to tell a good story. I enjoyed so much about Shaped by the Waves and appreciate the many themes the book explores. The town and community of Gull's Bay is an expertly rendered mix of true to the Oregon coastal communities I know and a beautiful dream of what loving supportive community can be. I see the theme of healing offered and received through the patience and grace of a loving God working through the patience and grace of a loving community. The mysterious story within the story unveils the way generational pain and choices can generate a legacy of pain until the truth is revealed and understanding grows. Christina touches on so much - the incredible demands placed on caregivers whether at the end of life or the beginning; the harm and barriers raised when we live in a state of shame; the more recent reproductive technologies and even newer DNA tracing that can bring surprises into unsuspecting lives; and the thread of grace that runs through our lives no matter how unusual and challenged our life might be. Bravo Christina -- I'm looking forward to your next book!!
April 19, 2023
Following three women this book explores how each of their lives take unforeseen twists, but God was in control all along.
Cassie George and her young daughter, Lark, return to the Georgia Coast to care for her ailing Aunt Shasta, while there she receives a mysterious manuscript that tells a riveting tale that evokes memories from her past.
A compelling read about three very different women, told in a way that makes it feel more character driven until it all takes a turn as the story progresses. I liked the strong themes of family beyond the bonds of blood, and that way that God works things out for good. Lark is such a sweet child and I loved the way that she communicated with Shasta, and her friendship with Marshall. She is so unabashed about how she says things in her own little way.
Overall, this was a compelling and surprising read that had me invested in all three of the storylines and characters, with a beautiful message of faith and hope. A memorable women's fiction read, engaging and gentle, weaving a powerful story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 4, 2022
Shaped by the Waves is such beautiful and heart-wrenching story about origins and destinations in life. Where life begins and where it ends. Cassie George comes home to care for her aunt Shasta and we get to know their unique story. When a manuscript shows up in a brown manila envelope things get interesting. In a way this is a story within a story that comes to a satisfying end. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but I could not put this book down because I had to know how it turned out. It had me intrigued all the way through… and Lark is adorable. The imagery of the Oregon cost was vivid and inviting. Makes me want to visit Gull’s Bay.
I highly recommend this book.
The book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. My opinion is my own.
I highly recommend this book.
The book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. My opinion is my own.
February 15, 2024
Once again I've loved the author's story. She writes incredible women's fiction.
I enjoyed getting to know Cassie and her daughter, Lark, who seems to be well, names! She's a gregarious child! I thought it was such a well written story about her aunt's portrayal of Alzheimers and Parkinson's. Cassie begins to unravel a mystery that falls into her lap when she arrives home to take care of her aunt.
Marshall is a fun addition to the story. He's steadfast and is easily wrapped around Lark's finger.
There's a LOT happening in the story, but not so much that you can't keep it all straight. I'll admit that with listening to the audiobook, I did have a hard time keeping some of the women straight and how they're connected. I don't think it's as hard when reading a physical copy.
I can't get enough of this author's stories!
I enjoyed getting to know Cassie and her daughter, Lark, who seems to be well, names! She's a gregarious child! I thought it was such a well written story about her aunt's portrayal of Alzheimers and Parkinson's. Cassie begins to unravel a mystery that falls into her lap when she arrives home to take care of her aunt.
Marshall is a fun addition to the story. He's steadfast and is easily wrapped around Lark's finger.
There's a LOT happening in the story, but not so much that you can't keep it all straight. I'll admit that with listening to the audiobook, I did have a hard time keeping some of the women straight and how they're connected. I don't think it's as hard when reading a physical copy.
I can't get enough of this author's stories!
February 7, 2022
Wow. Another amazing story. The way Christina weaves a story together amazes me. My mind was constantly trying to figure out what was going and how Cassie and Nora’s story was connected, if at all.
Nora’s story also touched me personally as over the last two years I had found out I have a half brother I never knew about and trying to make connections with him. It took him some time to be ready to talk to us.
My favorite part of the book was Cassie’s side of things and her story. I couldn’t wait to find out how everything would fall in place.
If you enjoy women’s fiction and dealing with some tough subjects I recommend this book.
A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Nora’s story also touched me personally as over the last two years I had found out I have a half brother I never knew about and trying to make connections with him. It took him some time to be ready to talk to us.
My favorite part of the book was Cassie’s side of things and her story. I couldn’t wait to find out how everything would fall in place.
If you enjoy women’s fiction and dealing with some tough subjects I recommend this book.
A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
April 10, 2022
Shaped by the Waves by Christina Suzann Nelson is a poignant contemporary fiction novel with strong threads of community, identity, a tiny bit of romance, and considerations on how the past can define or influence the present. This is my very first book by Christina!
The format of this novel is interesting and nearly has an epistolary element. A letter packet Cassie receives plays a significant role in disrupting Cassie’s “normal” and informing the reader, at the same time, of a mysterious history. This letter tells a story interspersed with Cassie’s POV and the occasional perspective of a secondary character, Nora, which keeps the story pacing forward and developing a bit of a puzzle for the reader to connect.
I absolutely felt the emotions through the skilled portrayal of Cassie as she journeys through unforeseen challenges, impending grief, and questions of her own past. She struggles, too, with some self-doubt and questions of worth in her personal relationships, especially when it comes to her role as a parent. I never thought her insecurities were overly emphasized — she seems a very natural character — and I love the way her growth and the strengthening of her identity eventually do come to pass. Her journey serves as a clear example of how humanity is destined to make mistakes but our missteps can be redeemed by a loving God.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
The format of this novel is interesting and nearly has an epistolary element. A letter packet Cassie receives plays a significant role in disrupting Cassie’s “normal” and informing the reader, at the same time, of a mysterious history. This letter tells a story interspersed with Cassie’s POV and the occasional perspective of a secondary character, Nora, which keeps the story pacing forward and developing a bit of a puzzle for the reader to connect.
I absolutely felt the emotions through the skilled portrayal of Cassie as she journeys through unforeseen challenges, impending grief, and questions of her own past. She struggles, too, with some self-doubt and questions of worth in her personal relationships, especially when it comes to her role as a parent. I never thought her insecurities were overly emphasized — she seems a very natural character — and I love the way her growth and the strengthening of her identity eventually do come to pass. Her journey serves as a clear example of how humanity is destined to make mistakes but our missteps can be redeemed by a loving God.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
January 14, 2024
A contemporary story with a gentle thread of mystery. Cassie, a single mom, brings her daughter with her back to coastal Oregon when the aunt who raised her has a stroke. There she stumbles smack into secrets her aunt was keeping. In another POV, her former classmate Nora is grappling with finding the half sisters she never knew she had, and preparing for the birth of a third daughter.
I loved the writing style and the emotional connection to the characters. 4-year-old Lark stole my heart right away and Cassie had me soon after. The story wasn't long enough for me...these characters could have easily kept me reading for 500 pages.
I'd love to have a sequel with Nora's story spelled out more. She had so many things going on in her life and I'd have gladly read another 100 pages or so about her. I also really wanted to know Aubrey and Mrs. Collins better and maybe even more people in this small town.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. This review is based on a finished paperback copy I purchased.
I loved the writing style and the emotional connection to the characters. 4-year-old Lark stole my heart right away and Cassie had me soon after. The story wasn't long enough for me...these characters could have easily kept me reading for 500 pages.
I'd love to have a sequel with Nora's story spelled out more. She had so many things going on in her life and I'd have gladly read another 100 pages or so about her. I also really wanted to know Aubrey and Mrs. Collins better and maybe even more people in this small town.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. This review is based on a finished paperback copy I purchased.
August 7, 2023
There's mystery in every family, but the main one in the story has more than most. A niece returns home to care for her ailing aunt who raised her. A simple story which gets very complicated, but then moves back to simple through grace and mercy. Cassie not only watches her family grow but learns to be part of a community and accept love as freely as she gives it. Nora confused me a tad, and I'm not sure why that story line was included, though it could have been because I missed the why. Not that it subtracted from the main storyline, it just felt forced to me.
No language or sex scenes.
Love story but as an aside.
No language or sex scenes.
Love story but as an aside.
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