The Unsinkable Greta James by Jennifer E. Smith is a really nice story about the relationships within a family – it moves along with short chapters, likable characters and a wonderful setting onboard an Alaskan cruise ship. I read it in two days and loved the writing and the novel! Great characters and also a touch of romance and humor.
Greta James is an independent musician in her 30’s who has done quite well in her short music career. She was always very close to her mom, Helen, but has a strained relationship with her dad, Conrad. Helen and Conrad had planned to go on a week-long Alaskan cruise to celebrate their 40th anniversary, but Helen died suddenly and now Greta is going on the ship so her father won’t be lonely. To add to the tension, Greta’s grief over her mother’s death resulted in Greta having a meltdown at a concert in front of thousands of fans – and of course the internet and media coverage has been devastating. The cruise and some fellow passengers help both Greta and Conrad get through a really hard week and to begin to mend their relationship.
I loved the Alaskan setting in The Unsinkable Greta James – it made me want to be in Alaska exploring its beauty! I also loved Greta – she is complex, talented and caring. Smith explores Greta’s past relationships, the idea of a new romance and the changes that Greta must keep moving through as life goes on. I hope you give this novel a chance and check it out! I think you’ll enjoy it!
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