| Title | : | Up from the Sea (Whose Waves These Are, #0.5) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 89 |
| Publication | : | First published January 1, 2019 |
Up from the Sea (Whose Waves These Are, #0.5) Reviews
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A really beautiful freebie novella about the parents of the twin brothers featured in "Whose Waves These Are." Savannah Mae and Alastair are such a dear young couple! A small mystery of something that happened in the past drives the story along. I wanted even more, but the writing is perfection and the style is so beautiful. What are you waiting for? Go grab a copy.
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Wow, I don't think I can say enough wonderful things about this book!!
I absolutely loved traveling to Maine in it, reading the adventures they went through, finding out the mystery within.
The characters were amazing, and what I really appreciated, was the lack of romance. I was a little worried what was going to happen between the two main characters; really, nothing happened. I love finding books where it's focus is the story, the mystery, the characters finding God's will in their lives, not the romance. So I really appreciated that about this book, and I would highly recommend it!!
This was my favorite quote:
"This may seem like just paper, but you must vow to use it for good, and not evil. Let what you write upon it lead to life, not death. May it unite, not divide. May it, in the way of our God, bring light from darkness." -
This delightful short story swept me off my feet with lyrical prose, into the northern woods of Maine. I couldn't put it down and found myself inhaling the story in one sitting. If you haven't yet picked up your free copy of this enchanting story, do so right away.
The vivid scenery, the delightful characters, and a story within a story, what's not to love?!
(I downloaded a copy of this novella for my personal collection. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.) -
"Life was simple and happy up from the sea, away out here in the woods."
Amanda Dykes has some of the most beautiful descriptions that I've had the pleasure of reading. This novella is quite a full story, full of whimsy and yet deeply touching. Savannah Mae Thorpe grew up in Georgia, and though Maine is the home of her beloved mother, for a southern farm girl, the adjustment feels unforgiving. Living with her aunt and uncle after her mother's death, she doesn't seem to fit into their life of ease. Her uncle, a wealthy man, interested only in more money, gives her an ultimatum - find something of value on her land, or he's selling. This isn't the heart of the story, though. Rather that's the be found in the lost "castle in the woods," the legend of perished Red Coats, and one woman's deep regret. As a prequel, it sets the stage nicely for the full length novel, Whose Waves These Are, but it's also a completely captivating story all it's own. This delightful story is also free on Kindle. -
So excited for the author's full length debut! This novella set up an interesting back story.
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The author’s writing style is absolutely beautiful! I definitely plan on reading Whose Waves Are These now.
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A tiny read, but what a mighty read! Amanda Dykes has a gift with writing in a manner that gently enchants the reader with poetical descriptions in her vivid settings and her depth of thoughts within her characters. Now, I am super excited to read Whose Waves These Are.
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Only ok. Enjoyed the book better.
***Read this prequel novella for 2020 library summer reading program...”book set in the 1920s”. -
An unpredictable masterpiece! I was swept away by both the prose and mystery, and the characters stole my heart (Alastair is my favorite book hero of the year [2019] so far). The antagonists and drama held my breath captive, and the gorgeous setting of mountainous Maine enraptured my imagination. It’s a good thing I have the next book in the series (thanks, NetGalley!), because I need more right away! Superb!
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Captivating!
This story kept me enthralled from beginning to end. It is not like any other book I have ever read, but a combination of fable, fact, intrigue, mystery and, of course, romance. Clean and with spiritual undertones, it will leave you with an uplifted, dreamlike feeling in your soul. -
Up from the Sea was different than I expected, but still enjoyable. I liked the writing style and I'm interesting in reading the next book soon. I'm curious if it will have these characters in it or if it will be about different characters...
I found the buried box part of the story interesting, as well. -
Wow! The first thing to jump out at me was the superb writing style. It was so unique, mysterious, and beautiful! I would love to read more by this author.
The second thing to jump out at me was the era it was set in. I think I've maybe only read one or two books set in the 1920s, so I was really intrigued with the time setting. (At first, I was afraid it would be too stereotypical, but I think was alright.)
I will say that Savannah's relatives were a bit bothersome at times - especially her aunt and uncle. Wilbur had me laughing, though.
There was some romance and a lot of a young man and woman alone together. I was afraid it would get too romanc-y (if you know what I mean), but it didn't. The young man and woman were too focused on solving the mystery to get into any deep romance.
This story really kept me in the edge of my seat. There were a few times I thought the mystery was about to be solved, only to find out that there was more mystery still left to solve.
I should probably note that part of this story takes place around the time of the American Revolution and some of the characters have strong opinions about the British. So if the reader's opinion differs strongly from the opinions of the characters, it might not be so enjoyable of a book. (I hope that makes sense. 😝)
I was really impressed with this novella, so I'm giving it a full five stars. And I recommend it to readers 13+ especially if they like mysteries or historical fiction. -
A neat story with beautifully evocative writing, a lovely prequel to Whose Waves These Are that made me feel closer to the characters.
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An amazing yet short tale of forgiveness, redemption, and hope! So beautiful! Amanda Dykes has definitely hooked me and I'm eager to read more of her books. I love her imagery as well as beautifully crafted characters! Definitely recommend this novella!!
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3.5 stars & 4/10 hearts. I loved Dykes' other books. Thus one wasn't exactly my cup of tea. I loved the writing style. It is so beautiful and a little unusual. The storyline was pretty good, and I liked the characters. The romance had me on edge, because I was always expecting them to be alone together and maybe get a little awkward, or start noticing each other. It stayed very clean and they barely noticed each other, so my worries were unfounded; I just wasn't sure what to expect of the author, and it was the type of romance that I personally don't enjoy reading. It's hard to pinpoint or explain... there was nothing wrong with it per se, it's just not my style!
I read very fast, so that is probably why I missed out on some of the plot points, and since it's a prequel novella, not all was explained. I also had a hard time remembering what period this was set in; it felt a lot more modern than 1925. And I also had a hard time finding the moral--it seemed to me to be kind of tacked on as an afterthought and then blurted out at the reader...? There was just so many threads going on I had trouble keeping track of them all. But as I said, I was reading super fast, because I wanted to see how it would all turn out! I was definitely pretty hooked for the greater part of the novella. I think that rereading this and especially reading it with the whole series, I would enjoy it a lot more.
A Favourite Quote: “But I know just what your mama would say to that. She’d say that the good Lord knows what He’s about. His number of days for us might not be what we thought, or even what we hoped. But nothing can stamp out His great purpose in every last one of those days. And for your mama . . . it was time for Him to come gather up His beloved and bring her safely home.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: "This girl was a mystery. A sea of spunk capped with waves of a gentle kindness."
A Favourite Humorous Quote: "She went to snatch the wood away and he shifted to the side. “You can’t,” he said. “These are Mrs. Bascomb’s.”
“Of course they’re Mrs. Bascomb’s. Whomever that may be. I’m not trying to rob her of her firewood—I only meant to help you carry these sticks wherever they’re going.” She dropped her gaze to the earth between them. “Seeing as how I’m fixing to ask you for a favor.” -
Up From The Sea by Amanda Dykes is a captivating story that starts out in the summer of 1774 as a young woman buries a wooden box at the base of a massive white pine stump. What treasures does it hold?
Now it is October, 1925 and Savannah Thorpe and her friends are on an expedition to find the Atonement Tree that is the subject of many a legend. She is convinced that she needs to find something tangible in order to secure her future since her uncle is holding her property in trust until she comes of age. Can she keep him from selling away her legacy? Will she find what she seeks or will she find what God has prepared for her? What part of this intriguing legend is true?
This is a new author to me. I was drawn away into the past history of the beginning of our country. Ms Dykes has a wonderful way with words that immerses you in the scenery and makes you care about the inhabitants of this world. Alastair Blair is a friend of Savannah who hopes to be more. His thoughts: “ This girl was a mystery. A sea of spunk capped with waves of a gentle kindness. Worn- out clothes, living right there in Everlea Estate with all its ruffled trimmings. “
This is just what my historical minded heart craves to read. This is a prequel novella to Amanda Dykes’ new novel Whose Waves These Are set to release April 29, 2019. I will be sure to read this one when it comes out.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own. * -
I have never read Ms. Dykes before (that I know of anyway) and her writing just brings the reader into the story, like you are this extra character along for the adventure.
This was a great novelette about Savannah Mae Thorpe an orphan from Georgia who goes to live with her aunt and uncle in Coastal Maine. Savannah has the spark of adventure, just like her mother, and is on the quest to find the Atonement Tree and The Castle in the Woods. But it is a mystery as to why they are so important. Armed with a map, and a torn corner from her mother - she sets out to find them with the help of her cousins and Alister Briggs, the lumberjack that works for the family. But the mystery as to why there is this Castle in the Woods and why the Atonement Tree is planted is finally found, heals more than one family.
This was a a great prequel to the next book and I cannot wait to start it. This was a solid 4 star book, but may round up to 4.5 just because the story had me engrossed from the very beginning. -
A short, sweet prequel with some interesting history and a lot of threads from Whose Waves These Are. That was my favorite part—seeing the backstory of things like the hazelnut pie and the twins' treasure box. I enjoyed learning about the King's Broad Arrow and the Pine Tree Rebellion, although the story seemed to favor the British side of the Revolution? Maybe that was just my interpretation. The themes of forgiveness and mercy were good—another instance of Amanda Dykes' ability to weave Christian truth into an engaging story.
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Simply beautiful. I loved this backstory, getting the perfect setup for Whose Waves These Are.
The concept for this story was so neat! The Revolutionary War isn’t one I’m super familiar with, so it was refreshing to catch glimpses of its truth throughout.
And as always, Amanda Dykes never fails to write something spectacular. Even in her short story, the characters feel well developed and real.
Well done, Amanda! -
Wow! What an amazing story! The author wrote with such lyrical prose and the plot drew me in right from the beginning! I highly recommend this for fans of historical fiction and beautiful writing!
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Up from the Sea by Amanda Dykes
This preview novella to Whose Waves These Are was a wonderful read. It’s a story starting in the summer of 1774 on the coast of Maine where one of the king's ships was stranded. Only one of the white pines found on this coast could supply the sturdy wood for a new mast to fix the crippled ship. However Maine patriots would have none of it.
One hundred and fifty years later in 1925 the legend of this pine and a little girl who wanted to save the sailors was told and retold, having happened from this very spot on land owned by Savannah, the ward of her uncle who is about to do something quite underhanded.
Add to that a rugged lumberjack with a past that changed his life, and a fascinating romance is well on its way.
I am so enjoying anything Amanda Dykes writes. So different with charming scene descriptions and a gentle, lovely faith thread.
This novella sets the captivating background for a book I’m eagerly anticipating. -
Up from the Sea is a wonderful prequel to Whose Waves These Are, the author’s debut novel. Her writing style and amazing descriptions show Amanda Dykes’ gift as a storyteller and enable the reader to “see” the people and places in Ansel-by-the-Sea in Maine. The characters could come to life at any second, the tale of the girl in the forest is intriguing, and what Savannah, Alistair, and her cousins find is stunning. If Whose Waves are These is even half this good, it will be fabulous!
The year is 1925. Both of her parents have passed, and Savannah leaves Georgia for her uncle and aunt’s home in Maine. She inherits all that had belonged to her mother on the property, including the huge home her relatives now allow her to live in with them, an impressive expanse of forest, and tales her mother told her when a child. This includes a map that should lead to a castle and a special old tree in the forest where a young woman hid a treasure 151 years earlier. The folks in this part of Maine are mostly city people who amassed funds to build summer mansions.
When Savannah abandons a dance at the club to go to the forest, she meets Alistair Bliss, a lumberjack who prefers living in the forest to being around the beautiful people. When her cousins come to take her back, Alistair finds it hard to forget her. She relates the story she learned about the long-ago young woman, who with a prayer buried the treasure box, and it is a different version than what anyone here has heard before. Her cousins, somewhat bored and adventurous, put together a hike to the mountain and look for what is known as the Atonement Tree.
Savannah wanted to look for the castle and tree, but not with this group. The land would be hers in two years when she was of age, and she had plenty of time to explore on her own. As the cousins prepare to leave, her uncle tells Savannah that he has investigated doing with her inheritance what his wife, Savannah’s mother’s sister, did with her portion of the inheritance. He has legal right to oversee it as he sees fit until she is of age, and he wants to sell it to purchase stock on margin. He sends her with her cousins, telling her that if she finds one good monetary reason to keep it, he will not sell her land. Savannah hires Alistair to lead the group. They might not find what they expect, but they will discover all that the Lord wants them to – beyond what they might imagine! I highly recommend it to those who appreciate adventure, intrigue, and US history. -
Up from the Sea is a fascinating prequel novella that introduces the reader to the setting and some background history for the full length novel, Whose Waves These Are.
I was absolutely captivated by the beautiful storytelling style of the author. Savannah and Alistair were characters that I liked immediately and I loved the journey of discovery that they went on to unearth what was true and what was myth. I’m looking forward to reading Whose Waves These Are soon!
(4.5 stars)
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c... -
An intriguing start to a much anticipated novel!
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A beautiful continuation of the heartwarming journey of Whose Waves These Are! Although this is a prequel, I recommend reading it after the novel!
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This was an interesting story with beautiful writing. From the summary I just expected a bit more wrt the mystery and Savannah not losing her inheritance.
I loved the epilogue with the blank pages and legacies. -
Very sweet novella. I love the author's imagery and word pictures.
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Amanda Dykes' novella Up from the Sea is caught me up in it's fairytale feel and gorgeous language, as Savannah Mae Thorpe and the man her cousin describes as "our lumberjack," Alastair Bliss, climb up from an island into the lush forests of a mountain in Maine searching for proof of a fable.
To save her land from being sold by her uncle/guardian, Savannah must find something of value on the mountain. As she and Alastair, in 1925, search for a place of local legend her mother wove stories about, there are parallels between their tale and that of the King's Trees in the time of the American Revolution.
As a prequel novella, Up from the Sea certainly does it's job in drawing the reader into a world and planting anticipation of the coming novel. But it is also a complete experience in itself, leaving the reader blissfully satisfied. -
Delightful! I loved this one, it totally and completely swept me away to another time and place! 😍
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I've heard nothing but raves about Whose Waves Are These . . . it's on the list. In the meantime, this intro novella definitely whet my appetite :)
