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the setup�
Sophia Othonos finally has a man in her life that loves her and is someone she respects and admires. When J.P. Satterwhite proposes that they go on a romantic getaway and then chooses a cruise to the Galápagos Islands, Sophia finds the location underwhelming but is just happy they’re going on an eight-day trip together. But minutes before they’re ready to board their flight, he gets an emergency call at the gate and has to rush home to his son in Oklahoma. She has no choice but to continue the trip alone.

the heart of the story�
I was a bit skeptical of JP from the onset. He’s older, divorced with two children and works in New York during the week and returns home to Oklahoma on the weekend. Maybe I’m just cynical but an emergency call at the gate? My expectations were low but Sophia having eight days to reflect not only about the relationship but herself was worth the alone time. Being able to step back and look at the lives of those around you, including not only family and friends but the other passengers on that cruise, and then take measure of your own was worth the abandonment.

the narration�
The author narrates her own story and here it made such a difference as this is a nuanced one that required care and delicacy. She led me where I needed to go.

the bottom line�
For a short story, it delivered an important and powerful message. While the cruise ship was “rustic� and the amenities on par with a budget motel, there were aspects of the setting and island nature that connected Sophie with its simplicity and beauty. There was a pivotal moment that reset her path and just felt right and serendipitous. Loved the insights and the ending. 3.5 stars

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(Thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)