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It's debut novels like these that bring Joy. Van Pelt has a promising career ahead of her if/when she adds others!

We first meet Cameron, a down on his luck 25 year old living in the valleys of CA. Abandoned by his mother, unaware of who is father was and raised by his Aunt Jeanne, he bounces from job to job, his life view anything but rosy. When he learns of his mother's death, he sorts through a box of her belongings and makes a discovery. With little to go on other than a man's name, he travels to Washington state with hopes of finding his father.

A small community, Sowell Bay sits on the Pogue sound and its here at the aquarium that Tova cleans nightly. At 70 years old, she's a friend to both people and 'creatures', among them Marcellus, a 60 lb Giant Pacific Octopus. A widow who lost her son years previous, she maintains a bright outlook in spite of the mystery of her son's death. The author takes a unique approach by periodically including the POV of the octopus. Remarkably bright for an octopus, Marcellus' intuition gives cause for wonder, as does his nightly adventures from the tank.

Cameron arrives in WA in a beaten up camper truck where he encounters Ethan, the owner of the local market. A small town by any measure, Ethan knows everyone and their business and takes to Cameron instantly. Soon after, Tova has an accident and knowing Terry at the aquarium will need a replacement, Ethan 'recommends' Cameron.

Intertwining plot lines, evocative passages using characters we can all relate with, the author spins an illuminating tale driven by themes of love, retribution and discovery. Reading this story reminded me of "Harry's Trees" another under the radar favorite, and while different, its themes are identical.

For those seeking a break from mysteries, crime or horror who might enjoy a heart warming story, I highly recommend you add this to your list!