To Read, Perchance to Dream: Book Review: Legacy of the Light by Todd A. Gipstein

"Legacy of the Light" is a historical thriller about two generations of lighthouse keepers at Race Rock Lighthouse off the shore of New London, Connecticut. "Legacy" is a story of how the past influences the present, of fathers and sons, failure, guilt, love, and redemption. The story begins in 1907 and continues in 1938, when the hurricane of the century bears down on this man-made island in the middle of the sea. Those trapped at Race Rock - the keeper, his fiancée, and a mysterious stranger - must fight the forces of nature and the demons within that threaten to destroy them. "Legacy of the Light" draws readers into a fast paced story full of twists and turns.

I would like to thank Smith Publicity and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

As I looked through other reviews for this book, I wondered if we all read the same story. There were lots of raves for Legacy of the Light, but I really can't join them. The book was very slow reading for me. It was hard for me to get into at the beginning. I actually think the book could have been a little tighter, the story told more concise over fewer pages.

There were moments of brilliance for me. The first storm and its aftermath was spell-binding. I think this is where the book first truly started for me. I almost cried, and I am no easy crier!

The son felt more real to me than the father, though this may be because I spent more time with him in the story. He had determination and drive, yet a vulnerability shone from within.

This book is a solid historical fiction made a little more enjoyable by the lighthouse theme. It's a dark, somber tale, great to read during a stormy night.