The Ocean Between Us

Steve is bewildered by Grace's sudden change of heart towards him, as he believes that his career proves how much he cares for his family. Now deployed, he knows his marriage is in jeopardy especially since Grace has established a communication black out. He refuses to accept that he lost her without going down fighting as he loves his wife and children, but panics that Grace will not be there when he redeploys. When Stephen's ship is in troubled waters, Grace may not have a choice whether to remain a sailor's spouse with the overseas danger to her husband and the rest of the sailors on board.

THE OCEAN BETWEEN US excitingly plays out on two levels. There is the conflict between Grace and Stephen that serves as a reminder of how much family members sacrifice so that their loved ones can serve in a military that constantly ships out to hot spots (whom else but the military and their family have really sacrificed anything for the Global War on Terrorism?). The second theme is an action subplot that shows how dangerous the world is. Both the relationship drama and the naval suspense thriller combine to make a terrific thought provoking tale.

Harriet Klausner


Wonderful, engrossing story   May 7, 2005
Patricia Kay (Houston, TX United States)
10 out of 13 found this review helpful

It's always amazing to me that readers can have such different reactions to books. I confess, I'm mystified by those readers who didn't like this book, because I loved it. The depiction of Navy life was incredibly realistic and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about what it's like to serve on a carrier and/or land a plane on a carrier. I also loved the Pacific Northwest setting, which Ms. Wiggs brought alive so beautifully. But what I enjoyed most about this book were the characters. For me, it's ALWAYS about the characters, and Steve, Grace, Brian, Emma, Katie, Josh, and Lauren crept into my heart and stayed there till the very end, with me rooting for them all the way. This book is beautifully written and a real page-turner. Bravo, Ms. Wiggs! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.


Hoping for more   April 16, 2005
need to read (new york)
6 out of 9 found this review helpful

I just spent an hour writing a great review only to lose it!! So this will be short and sweet! It was a wonderful story. I loved it and want to hear from these charming and very real people again in a second or maybe third book Ms Wiggs!!!!
My husband was in the military for the first ten yrs of our marriage and I was quickly taken back to that period where I experienced many of the things Grace went through. She captures the heart and minds of the military people with excellence and detail. I especially appreciated her recognition of the sacrifice and endurance of our amazing military personnel and their loved ones at the end of the book. It's a good story for corporate families who face moves and any family who faces scruitiny and sacrifice for their jobs. Keep writing contemporary novels Ms Wiggs! You're great at it!


Way To Go, Susan!   May 29, 2010
Carol A. Smith (Oak Harbor, WA USA)
Once again, Susan keeps you spellbound in another wonderous adventure. For those of you who don't live in the Pacific NW - you're missing out on a lot of beauty. We're a retired military family and so many of the emotions Susan shared in her book were absolutely true. Her research of the military lifestyles and choice of "research" people is outstanding. If you've never been in a military setting, you've GOT to read this book. If you've been in the military (or still are), you've GOT to read this book. The military lifestyle is a most difficult one, but one I would live over again if I had a choice. We made so many friends throughout our career; we've seen so many fabulous places and feel so blessed. There are a lot of Bennett families around the world serving our country. We can be proud of each and every one of our sailors, soldiers, Marines, and Air Force who give their all every day of the year...and as we celebrate the upcoming Memorial Day "holiday", remember those who didn't make it home to their families - all for the love of their (and our) country!

Thank you, Susan for doing such a wonderful job. Keep up the good work!


the Ocean between us   July 28, 2010
Janice A. Hunt (Surprise, AZ)
This is one of Susan Wiggs better writings, once you get started you won't want to put it down.