COASTLINERS

Dive into the captivating world of Joanne Harris' "Coastliners," a mesmerizing tale of community, tradition, and hidden secrets set on the fictional French island of Le Devin. When Mado Grosjean, estranged from her father, returns to this isolated isle a place described as caught like a crab in the shallow northern French seas she brings with her a disruptive energy that shakes the foundations of its deeply rooted traditions. Le Devin is sharply divided, its inhabitants split into two warring factions: the Houssins of La Houssiniere on the near side and the Salannais of Les Salants on the far side. Long-standing feuds and deeply ingrained superstitions dictate their lives, fueling a bitter rivalry that threatens to consume them. More pressing than the island's internal conflicts is the looming threat of Brismand, a powerful and ruthless figure whose self-serving ambitions endanger the very existence of Les Salants, Mado's ancestral community. Witnessing the slow erosion of her people's livelihood, Mado, with her characteristic spirit and determination, embarks on a daring project: to build a massive reef designed to reclaim the Salannais' beach, which has been gradually shifting towards their rivals. This bold act ignites a series of dramatic events, breathing new hope into the struggling Salannais and unearthing a past tragedy that continues to haunt her reclusive, mute father, Grosjean. Mado's return isn't just about saving her community; it's also a journey of personal discovery. Driven by a desire to understand her father's pain and protect her family's land from Brismand's encroaching influence, she delves into the island's hidden history, uncovering long-buried secrets that have shaped the lives of its inhabitants. However, her path becomes complicated by the arrival of Flynn, a captivating and enigmatic flame-haired stranger. Claiming to be without roots, Flynn's allure is undeniable, yet his mysterious connection to Le Devin raises doubts in Mado's mind. Can she trust this alluring drifter, or does he harbor his own agenda that could jeopardize everything she's fighting for? "Coastliners" is more than just a story of coastal rivalries; it's a richly layered narrative that explores themes of family, identity, and the enduring power of place. Inspired by the island Joanne Harris frequented during her childhood, the novel is a vibrant tapestry of coastal imagery, evoking the sights, sounds, and smells of the sea. Harris masterfully weaves together elements of folklore, superstition, and romance, creating a world that is both enchanting and unsettling. Critics have lauded "Coastliners" for its evocative prose, compelling characters, and suspenseful plot twists. It's a story that lingers long after the final page, leaving readers pondering the complexities of human relationships and the enduring influence of the past. Prepare to be swept away by the salty winds and crashing waves of Le Devin as you immerse yourself in this unforgettable tale of courage, resilience, and the enduring bonds of community. This paperback edition published by Transworld Pub in 2002 contains 416 pages of thrilling reading.