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The Shore of Forever
In the 1950s, the world is still recovering from World War II. Families look for new lives in places across the sea, mothers find their peace playing homemaker, and soldiers try to move past decisions made during their time at war. Among those searching for a second chance are Eloisa Nicoletti, Adeline Darbonne, and Arden Lund, whose paths converge in the middle of the Atlantic on July 25, 1956, in the aftermath of the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria.
SS Andrea Doria
Old wounds from WWII still scar Eloisa Nicoletti's family and her hometown of Bari, Italy. Through the years, the Nicoletti's have watched their neighbors and friends flee for a new life in the west. When that opportunity comes for Eloisa in the form of her fiancé, she takes it, and her family reluctantly follows. Boarding the luxurious Andrea Doria is the final step in the journey to New York, but the dangers of the ocean lurk just inside the fog, and the safety of home's shore is hundreds of miles away.
MS Stockholm
Arden Lund has sailed on the smallest ship on the North Atlantic route since she was launched in 1946. Home away from home, the ship is the only place he can ever find peace. Still reeling from mistakes made during the war, his way of life will be tested all over again when the Stockholm runs across the Andrea Doria in the middle of the night in a field of thick fog.
SS Île De France
Adventure had always been at the forefront of Adeline Darbonne's mind. When her time as an army nurse was over, she took on the adventure of marriage. Years after this decision and two baby girls later, Adeline is looking for something beyond her role as a housewife. Traveling back to France from America with her family, she's hoping another move will be the perfect opportunity to make something of herself again. However, on the first evening of the voyage, her skills as a retired army nurse are called upon by the crew, and the bonds between her and her family are tested like never before.
As all three ships steam across the Atlantic, three people's lives will converge and be forever changed on the fateful night of July 25, 1956.
SS Andrea Doria
Old wounds from WWII still scar Eloisa Nicoletti's family and her hometown of Bari, Italy. Through the years, the Nicoletti's have watched their neighbors and friends flee for a new life in the west. When that opportunity comes for Eloisa in the form of her fiancé, she takes it, and her family reluctantly follows. Boarding the luxurious Andrea Doria is the final step in the journey to New York, but the dangers of the ocean lurk just inside the fog, and the safety of home's shore is hundreds of miles away.
MS Stockholm
Arden Lund has sailed on the smallest ship on the North Atlantic route since she was launched in 1946. Home away from home, the ship is the only place he can ever find peace. Still reeling from mistakes made during the war, his way of life will be tested all over again when the Stockholm runs across the Andrea Doria in the middle of the night in a field of thick fog.
SS Île De France
Adventure had always been at the forefront of Adeline Darbonne's mind. When her time as an army nurse was over, she took on the adventure of marriage. Years after this decision and two baby girls later, Adeline is looking for something beyond her role as a housewife. Traveling back to France from America with her family, she's hoping another move will be the perfect opportunity to make something of herself again. However, on the first evening of the voyage, her skills as a retired army nurse are called upon by the crew, and the bonds between her and her family are tested like never before.
As all three ships steam across the Atlantic, three people's lives will converge and be forever changed on the fateful night of July 25, 1956.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2023
18 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Elora Maxwell
6 books64 followersElora Maxwell is an independent historical fiction author. She writes historical things, romantic things, fantastical things, and sometimes devastatingly sad things. When she’s not traveling through time, she likes visiting amusement parks, watching movies, and forcing everyone around her to listen to Taylor Swift.
You can find her on Instagram and TikTok @author_eloramaxwell
You can find her on Instagram and TikTok @author_eloramaxwell
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 10, 2024
Oh my! What a beautiful piece of historical fiction. If you like the Titanic, you will love this book. I'm really fascinated by history, and I love learning about the Titanic especially (the real life events / documentaries etc. I've never been fazed by the movie) so this book was perfect for me. Incredibly heartbreaking, but heartwarming too.
We have three characters throughout different time periods of their life. We learn about Eloisa. A young woman leaving behind her home in Italy to marry the man she loves, Leo, in America. She takes her parents, younger sister and brother with her. There is alot of tension and alot of memories of the recent war.
We then have Arden, a wonderful older gentleman who works on the ships. He has a traumatic past and is struggling to fully move on from this.
Then there is Adeline, a wife and mum who is very unsure of herself and her life. She wants to be a good wife, but she can't help wanting adventure. Her lack of it makes her homesick and brings out the feeling of being trapped. She has alot to speak about with her husband, which doesn't always go down well. Although Martin wasn't always likeable, I found their backstory very interesting and I thought it was a fantastic representation of the time period. I'd love a story just on them!
These characters come together on the night of July 25th, in the absolute worse way possible. The book is a slow build up of character development, so when these shocking events take place, it almost makes you gasp. It's such a contrast to the everything that was happening before. I thought this worked so well, as you experience this complete horrifying shock alongside the characters. Learning how life can really change in a matter of seconds.
This book explores troubled memories, happy memories... the worst of times, the best of times and how we have no control over them. It explores the idea that we cannot change the situation, but perhaps our point of view. It shows us grief, trauma and moving on in its absolutely rawest form. It also shows how we can develop independence and do the things we've always wanted despite our past!
Highly recommend!
We have three characters throughout different time periods of their life. We learn about Eloisa. A young woman leaving behind her home in Italy to marry the man she loves, Leo, in America. She takes her parents, younger sister and brother with her. There is alot of tension and alot of memories of the recent war.
We then have Arden, a wonderful older gentleman who works on the ships. He has a traumatic past and is struggling to fully move on from this.
Then there is Adeline, a wife and mum who is very unsure of herself and her life. She wants to be a good wife, but she can't help wanting adventure. Her lack of it makes her homesick and brings out the feeling of being trapped. She has alot to speak about with her husband, which doesn't always go down well. Although Martin wasn't always likeable, I found their backstory very interesting and I thought it was a fantastic representation of the time period. I'd love a story just on them!
These characters come together on the night of July 25th, in the absolute worse way possible. The book is a slow build up of character development, so when these shocking events take place, it almost makes you gasp. It's such a contrast to the everything that was happening before. I thought this worked so well, as you experience this complete horrifying shock alongside the characters. Learning how life can really change in a matter of seconds.
This book explores troubled memories, happy memories... the worst of times, the best of times and how we have no control over them. It explores the idea that we cannot change the situation, but perhaps our point of view. It shows us grief, trauma and moving on in its absolutely rawest form. It also shows how we can develop independence and do the things we've always wanted despite our past!
Highly recommend!
September 25, 2023
The Shore of Forever is a heartbreaking story of tragedy, loss, family, love, and resilience. It is the story of 3 very different people’s lives that are tragically connected by the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria ship in 1956. A Compelling plot moves forward through the perspectives of the 3 main characters, in different timelines. Readers will be invested from the beginning all the way through to the end. I had never heard of this ship’s sinking and found myself researching the history. If you are a historical fiction enthusiast and enjoy strong and resilient characters, you will want to read this book. Highly recommended.
August 11, 2023
This book was a journey back in time inside the hearts of minds of multiple characters in the 1950’s as they navigated the aftermath of war and the uncertainty their futures held. In it, we meet Eloisa, Adeline and Arden whose seemingly unconnected lives literally come crashing together during the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria. Moving between multiple characters and multiple historical timelines, readers begin to piece together the stories of each: one navigating a strained marriage and lost identity, one embarking on a new journey with her fiancé and family and one trying to move on from grief and heal forward. Apart, these stories are emotional and compelling, but together, they are moving and addictive. I now need to know everything about this fascinating event in history.
August 7, 2023
I definitely cried at the end of this book!! The characters are so beautifully written and it felt impossible to have a favorite.. when I thought I had one I’d get to the next chapter and change my mind! I have never been a historical fiction girly but this novel has converted me. I found myself Google searching more details about the ships and wish the characters were real people so I could get some more insight on their whereabouts today 😂 10/10 recommend reading!!
July 23, 2023
I wrote this book and my fiance told me I wasn't allowed to rate it less than five stars... but there's always room for improvement and I tend not to listen so 4.9 stars from me.
In all seriousness I sincerely hope you enjoy The Shore of Forever. Please leave your honest reviews because I long to grow as a writer and business woman!
In all seriousness I sincerely hope you enjoy The Shore of Forever. Please leave your honest reviews because I long to grow as a writer and business woman!
September 26, 2023
If you are looking for a book that focuses on the sinking of the Andrea Doria, this isn't it. Yes, it still sinks but this is a story about three very different people who are still profoundly affected by their experiences in World War II. One of them will be on board the Andrea Doria, another on the collision ship MS Stockholm, and one on a rescue ship, the Ile de France. The chapters alternate between past & present as the reader slowly learns of their individual traumas.
Personally, I identified the most with the American frontline nurse who was expected to return to the traditional roles of wife & mother when the war ended. Each character is a different nationality so learning about their individual WW II experiences was fascinating but trauma was the common denominator. "Everybody's sorrow has an expiration date, some hold onto it until death, but nonetheless it still ends." I don't often read historical fiction that addresses difficulties adjusting after World War II but it's important to understand that wars may end but there are still scars to be dealt with. This is an impressive debut novel.
Personally, I identified the most with the American frontline nurse who was expected to return to the traditional roles of wife & mother when the war ended. Each character is a different nationality so learning about their individual WW II experiences was fascinating but trauma was the common denominator. "Everybody's sorrow has an expiration date, some hold onto it until death, but nonetheless it still ends." I don't often read historical fiction that addresses difficulties adjusting after World War II but it's important to understand that wars may end but there are still scars to be dealt with. This is an impressive debut novel.
October 27, 2023
I vaguely remembered something about this novel being historic or based on history from watching Instagram reels from this author. I also remembered possible inspiration from Titanic. I was shocked to find in the end that these were true events from the not so distant past!
A tragic tale of love, loss, family, marriage, coming of age. We follow several characters who are completely unrelated … until they are.
I struggled to follow here and there early on and had to return to the beginning of the chapter occasionally to know who I was dealing with but when I started becoming familiar with their stories, their locations, the stories truly began to weld and touch my heart.
Maxwell places us within these different families and you feel like you’re walking through their experiences, their emotions as you go. Lots of defeat, lots of hope, lots of innocence.
A tragic tale of love, loss, family, marriage, coming of age. We follow several characters who are completely unrelated … until they are.
I struggled to follow here and there early on and had to return to the beginning of the chapter occasionally to know who I was dealing with but when I started becoming familiar with their stories, their locations, the stories truly began to weld and touch my heart.
Maxwell places us within these different families and you feel like you’re walking through their experiences, their emotions as you go. Lots of defeat, lots of hope, lots of innocence.
October 4, 2023
I fell in love with the characters in this book! I was going through rollercoaster of emotions with them through the ups and downs of their journeys. I honestly am so sad that the story is over because i felt so connected to each main character!!! It was beautifully written and each character went so deep and felt so real. I love how it all came together and intertwined. It was a great read, and once i started reading i wouldn’t be able to put it down. Which is not a normal thing for me with reading books! As usually i can only do audio books!
September 3, 2024
The Shore of Forever was a sweet yet serious historical fiction account of the collision of ships Andrea Doria & Stockholm, where the Andrea sank. Three different point of views, each character on their own path, also collide during the tragedy. I enjoyed the back and forth between 1956 & WWII, it helped shape each character for me. I also enjoyed learning about a new time in history! Definitely add this one to your TBR!
Content: very little. A few curse words, mention of injures, death.
Content: very little. A few curse words, mention of injures, death.
October 22, 2023
I had never heard of the Andrea Doria shipwreck before reading this book, and the author combined so many historical details with such strong fictional characters that it really envelopes you in the story and makes you want to know more. Started a little bit slow for my taste, but once I got into this book I couldn’t put it down.
March 22, 2025
I really wanted to love this book but there were too many perspectives and jumps in time. I had a difficult time following the beginning. I will give it another shot at another time and still read others by this author
November 29, 2025
Good story, but oh my, the author needs a good proofreader.
September 25, 2023
It’s been a hot minute since I’ve read a historical fiction book and this one didn’t disappoint. It revolves around the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria that happened in 1956. Three main characters lives cross paths through this tragic event. If you like books where the chapters have alternating characters, like learning about events in history, and books with multiple timelines, then this book is for you. I gave it 🤩🤩🤩🤩 on the devour scale.
August 14, 2024
holy moly
The story of this book is outstanding, I love that the events of the sinking are embedded into this story. I will read this time and time again!
The story of this book is outstanding, I love that the events of the sinking are embedded into this story. I will read this time and time again!
July 22, 2023
A Timeless Tale of Beauty and Drama - Elora Maxwell's The Shore of Forever
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)
Elora Maxwell's debut novel, "The Shore of Forever," is an absolute masterpiece of historical fiction. I had the pleasure to read an advance copy. Ms. Maxwell had no say in my review. From the very first page, I was captivated by Maxwell's exquisite prose and her ability to transport readers to a bygone era. This book is a true gem, and it's hard to believe that it's the work of a first-time novelist. There is no doubt she researched the facts of the time and the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria following World War II and the challenges these characters had recovering mentally from the destruction of the war.
The strength of "The Shore of Forever" lies in its beautifully written narrative. Maxwell's writing style is elegant and evocative, making it effortless to immerse oneself in the world she has created. The rich descriptions of the time and setting allow readers to visualize each scene vividly, as if we are stepping back in time and living alongside the characters.
Speaking of characters, they are the heart and soul of this remarkable tale. Elora Maxwell has crafted three protagonists that are nothing short of flawless. Their depth and complexity are evident from the very start, and I found myself forming deep connections with them. Their hopes, fears, and aspirations are laid bare in the diary format, which adds an intimate touch to the storytelling.
The unique diary format of the novel is a masterful choice by the author. Through these personal reflections, we witness the characters' innermost thoughts and emotions, allowing for a more profound understanding of their journeys. The entries not only create a sense of immediacy but also bring a sense of authenticity to the historical period being portrayed.
The novel's plot is a finely woven tapestry of emotions, intrigue, and suspense. The careful interplay of events leads us through a compelling story that builds to a dramatic and satisfying climax. Maxwell's storytelling prowess shines brightly as she skillfully connects the dots and leaves readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to discover the final resolution.
"The Shore of Forever" is more than just a historical fiction novel; it's an emotional journey that will linger in your heart long after the last page is turned. Elora Maxwell has proven herself to be a gifted storyteller with an exceptional debut that sets a high standard for her future works.
I wholeheartedly recommend "The Shore of Forever" to anyone who appreciates beautifully written historical fiction with memorable characters and an enthralling narrative. Elora Maxwell's talent is undeniable, and I eagerly await her future literary endeavors. This book deserves all the praise it receives, and I guarantee it will leave a lasting impression on any reader lucky enough to embark on this unforgettable literary voyage.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)
Elora Maxwell's debut novel, "The Shore of Forever," is an absolute masterpiece of historical fiction. I had the pleasure to read an advance copy. Ms. Maxwell had no say in my review. From the very first page, I was captivated by Maxwell's exquisite prose and her ability to transport readers to a bygone era. This book is a true gem, and it's hard to believe that it's the work of a first-time novelist. There is no doubt she researched the facts of the time and the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria following World War II and the challenges these characters had recovering mentally from the destruction of the war.
The strength of "The Shore of Forever" lies in its beautifully written narrative. Maxwell's writing style is elegant and evocative, making it effortless to immerse oneself in the world she has created. The rich descriptions of the time and setting allow readers to visualize each scene vividly, as if we are stepping back in time and living alongside the characters.
Speaking of characters, they are the heart and soul of this remarkable tale. Elora Maxwell has crafted three protagonists that are nothing short of flawless. Their depth and complexity are evident from the very start, and I found myself forming deep connections with them. Their hopes, fears, and aspirations are laid bare in the diary format, which adds an intimate touch to the storytelling.
The unique diary format of the novel is a masterful choice by the author. Through these personal reflections, we witness the characters' innermost thoughts and emotions, allowing for a more profound understanding of their journeys. The entries not only create a sense of immediacy but also bring a sense of authenticity to the historical period being portrayed.
The novel's plot is a finely woven tapestry of emotions, intrigue, and suspense. The careful interplay of events leads us through a compelling story that builds to a dramatic and satisfying climax. Maxwell's storytelling prowess shines brightly as she skillfully connects the dots and leaves readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to discover the final resolution.
"The Shore of Forever" is more than just a historical fiction novel; it's an emotional journey that will linger in your heart long after the last page is turned. Elora Maxwell has proven herself to be a gifted storyteller with an exceptional debut that sets a high standard for her future works.
I wholeheartedly recommend "The Shore of Forever" to anyone who appreciates beautifully written historical fiction with memorable characters and an enthralling narrative. Elora Maxwell's talent is undeniable, and I eagerly await her future literary endeavors. This book deserves all the praise it receives, and I guarantee it will leave a lasting impression on any reader lucky enough to embark on this unforgettable literary voyage.
July 30, 2023
To start, this is really not the type of book that I am used to reading. But this has undoubtedly become one of my favorites. The way Maxwell writes is full of generosity and heart amidst all of the trauma. How she weaves three different perspectives while jumping back and forth on separate timelines, she feels like the feminine Christopher Nolan mixed with George R. R. Martin. If I had not known this was her first book, I never would have believed it. So much love and care was put into her characters, writing in so much detail (both historical and personal), that it feels like Maxwell incorporated some of her life experiences and fantasies into the narrative. This is a self-published title, so there are a few mistakes in her writing that got overlooked. And there was a section that I didn't really agree on and felt could have been expanded on more. But those instances never took me out of the story, because her prose was instantly enjoyable and relatable. Being able to write these characters that always show grace and positivity throughout the peril and trauma of the real world is very inspirational, and it makes me want to strive to become like her characters. Elora, I am so proud that you were able to create this masterpiece, and know that I am so ready to see whatever you dream of next. And don't you dare forget me when this becomes a worldwide phenomenon!
August 24, 2024
I wish I could give 1/2 stars on here. This book was 3 1/2 stars for me. It has the makings of a great story, with the multiple POVs and their life during and after WWII. Then add in the tragedy of the SS Andrea Doria passenger ship sinking, it really does tug on your heart strings. There is war, love, tragedy, family, redemption, and peace all within this book. And I do recommend others to read it. However, here are the reasons I didn't give it 4 stars. It took some time for me to really get into the book and "want" to keep reading it. The flow of these individual stories did get a bit confusing for me at some points. This is a slow read you need to take your time with to really follow the 3 main characters story lines. It hops back and forth between the POVs, as well as the timelines of each POV. I also would of prefered more time spent on events that happened during the sinking of the ship. This book is more about the characters overall life struggles in during with life after the war, than about the Andrea Doria.
Spice Level .5 - minor kissing and cuddling Ages 14+
Spice Level .5 - minor kissing and cuddling Ages 14+
March 5, 2024
Before reading this book, I hadn’t heard of the unfortunate wreck of the SS Andrea Doria, so ultimately, I loved that I had the opportunity to learn more about this piece of history through fiction. I thought it was so special that the author had a personal attachment to this book…since she was a child she had dreams of writing this story. I think this personal attachment really shined through and because of that I enjoyed getting to know her main characters; Eloisa, Adeline, and Arden, with all three POV’s across different settings and times. Overall, I enjoyed this plot along with how it brought these characters together!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
August 1, 2023
Absolutely Fantastic! Elora Maxwell does an amazing job at setting the scene from the start and “reeling” (no pun intended…) you into the story. This will be a classic for romance & historical fiction for sure. I enjoyed the storyline, and connection to the characters in the story, she wrote them personal and raw. You will feel many emotions through the journey of reading this novel. I recommend this to anyone who needs a great read in their life right now, The Shore Of Forever will forever have a spot in my heart, and my hope is in yours too.
September 5, 2023
This story was beautifully woven with history going between three women and their lives, all connecting at the end. There was love, hope, heartbreak, tragedy, healing, and different cultures that Maxwell does a wonderful job of creating for us as the readers. I loved learning about this ship tragedy that I didn’t even know exist! Maxwell is a great writer and I can’t wait to see what else she writes!
July 1, 2024
Loved this story!
at first it was a bit confusing with the different POVs and timelines, especially since I couldn't really go back annd forth to check the chapter intros on my kindle, but once I got into the story, I started really enjoying the characters! I would have wanted the characters to meet before 60% of the story, but the ending was worth it, though it was very bittersweet :')
at first it was a bit confusing with the different POVs and timelines, especially since I couldn't really go back annd forth to check the chapter intros on my kindle, but once I got into the story, I started really enjoying the characters! I would have wanted the characters to meet before 60% of the story, but the ending was worth it, though it was very bittersweet :')
September 13, 2024
I had the pleasure of listening to The Shore of Forever today. This is a beautifully told story of a time in the past where a ship and members were lost.
And still for those who survived, came a love story. Thank you Elora Maxwell for introducing me to this lost part of history.
And still for those who survived, came a love story. Thank you Elora Maxwell for introducing me to this lost part of history.
February 19, 2025
Elora Maxwell wrote a beautiful story giving me a reintroduction to the Andrea Doria and what happened on her fateful voyage.
This book is multiple POV with multiple timelines. I got to clearly read about each character’s present while understanding each one’s past. I grew to care for each character as the story developed.
This is the second book I have read written by Maxwell and I truly appreciate how much care to detail she pays to the historical elements. As the reader, I can tell how much respect she has for what happened at this point in history and how accurately she wants to depict the story even though this is a fiction novel based on the tragedy.
If you enjoy studying what happened on the Titanic and are looking for another sea tragedy to learn about, I highly recommend picking up this novel.
This book is multiple POV with multiple timelines. I got to clearly read about each character’s present while understanding each one’s past. I grew to care for each character as the story developed.
This is the second book I have read written by Maxwell and I truly appreciate how much care to detail she pays to the historical elements. As the reader, I can tell how much respect she has for what happened at this point in history and how accurately she wants to depict the story even though this is a fiction novel based on the tragedy.
If you enjoy studying what happened on the Titanic and are looking for another sea tragedy to learn about, I highly recommend picking up this novel.
May 1, 2025
So many grammatical errors…
…that it was impossible to finish. I cannot believe someone allowed this to be published. Is there no editing anymore? Is there no respect for English grammar?
…that it was impossible to finish. I cannot believe someone allowed this to be published. Is there no editing anymore? Is there no respect for English grammar?
September 5, 2023
The author’s historical research was excellent. Loved the characters. Knew very little about the actual incident. Encourage me to read more about the Andria Doris
January 20, 2024
A Must Read
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and the way their lives intertwined after such a tragic event.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and the way their lives intertwined after such a tragic event.
July 23, 2024
This was a good read. But a bit to keep track of with the different characters, timelines, and their stories. Nice when the characters lives connect later on in the book. Well written, insightful historical fiction. Bittersweet. I enjoyed the references to the water, the shore, and of forgiveness. 3.5 stars.
As someone else says, "Maxwell places us within these different families and you feel like you’re walking through their experiences, their emotions as you go. Lots of defeat, lots of hope, lots of innocence."
As someone else says, "Maxwell places us within these different families and you feel like you’re walking through their experiences, their emotions as you go. Lots of defeat, lots of hope, lots of innocence."
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews