Under the Same Sky

I met Genevieve Graham on authonomy.com some time ago, where we both had posted portions of our novels. The first lines of hers always stayed with me ("He has always been there. That fact is as important to me as my own heartbeat."), and her elegant prose stood out and made the book one of my early favorites. Aside from her considerable writing talent, Genevieve is also a capable editor and a lovely person. I've been anxiously awaiting the release of her novel.

I read most of Under the Same Sky in one day, one of those rare days when you shirk responsibility and hole away with a book, but not just any book—one you’re having a hard time putting down. Genevieve's debut novel is just that. It’s the love story of Maggie and Andrew, a young couple divided by an ocean and many obstacles; it’s historical fiction that spans war-torn Scotland of the 1700s and the violent collision of settlers and Indians in the colonies of early America. But above all, I think it’s an adventure story, with acts of brutality and salvation, with families torn apart and new families formed. Maggie and Andrew have spent their entire lives with shared visions, dreaming of each other and drawing strength from the knowledge of the other’s existence. As they navigate the turbulent events and tragedies of their lives, they remain connected through this gift of “the Sight.” The reader is pulled along, hoping as they do, for their eventual union and a better life. There is an engaging and compelling plot, but this novel is also beautifully written, with striking observances and wonderful descriptions. Genevieve has crafted a very satisfying story and done so with the panache of a true wordsmith. I highly recommend this novel—perfect for taking a day off and losing yourself in a fabulous story.

Read more about Genevieve and her book here. Order it here. Also available as an ebook!