A BETTER VIEW OF PARADISE

Author: Randy Sue Coburn ISBN: 9780345490360 7/2009 FICTION Publisher: BALLANTINE

Thirty-six-year-old Stevie Pollack has come into her own as a celebrated landscape architect. Her designs, famed for their evocative natural beauty, reflect her upbringing amid the splendor of Hawai‘i. But when critics blast her latest efforts and her boyfriend abruptly ends their relationship, Stevie seeks solace in her roots among the dazzling flowers, and comforting traditions of the islands and their calming waters. Still, in the back of her mind, Hawai‘i holds troubling memories of a childhood with Hank, her emotionally distant father, and a reserved British mother. Despite her irascible father’s presence, the trip home promises Stevie a welcome departure from her trials on the mainland. But the shocking news that Hank is dying forces the pair’s reunion into high gear. As father and daughter attempt to rekindle their bond, Stevie discovers sides of Hank she never knew, including family secrets that have shaped their lives. And what started as a holiday escape for the beleaguered architect becomes a chance for transformation, one as exciting as it is uncertain. Inspired by her father’s insight, and energized by the attentions of an attractive local veterinarian, Stevie learns to surrender her inhibitions and seize the day.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

A BETTER VIEW OF PARADISE is a poignant, emotional tale about the power of love and forgiveness, and the optimism that can push a heart to open even after it's been badly wounded. The writing style is powerful and moving, and the tropical paradise setting comes brilliantly to life on the pages.

When Stevie, a brilliant architect, is suddenly adrift in the complications of her successful life, she does what so many do...she heads back to a place she knows and loved, a place where, despite its situational shortfalls, she felt nurtured. What she finds in the island paradise isn't all roses, however. Her father is ill. While Stevie and Hank have had their past dramas, she knows this is the last chance she will get to understand Hank, or to find some kind of peaceful relationship with him. The drama unfolds when in the process of finding something new, old secrets emerge. The way Ms. Coburn brings to light the details of her characters' lifetimes is skillful and almost hypnotizing. I was intrigued, and couldn't put this book down until I'd uncovered every last detail!

There is heartbreak as well as elation in this story, and both ends of the emotional spectrum are thoughtfully presented. I cried, but I was uplifted as well. There is an especially telling instance in the story where Stevie and Hank are supposedly exchanging views about baseball. This is typical of their relationship; she says one thing, and he says the complete opposite. It shows their dynamic beautifully. I couldn't help but wonder whether this parenting style might be brought into the next generation, as Stevie had obviously absorbed more of her dad's personality than she realized.

Thought-provoking and insightful, A BETTER VIEW OF PARADISE reads like a dream. I enjoyed it, and I believe others will, too. Well done!

Kay James