Float

by Nate House

Float details the horrific adventures of a man and woman who leave the coast on a thirty-five foot sailboat in order to save their decaying marriage. The man arrives one month later, alone, on the shore of an equatorial country in a life raft. Island officials and an incompetent American Consulate question the man as to what happened to his wife at sea. The man succeeds in convincing them, and himself, that what happened in the very heart of the doldrums was an accident. In the process he explores the torment of stillness, both at sea and on land. Several months later he goes to Death Valley to escape the memories of his wife and his own past. But even in this sparse setting he cannot escape the ghost of his wife, who continues to haunt him for the crimes he has committed. Originally published in Oct. 2011 by Aqueous Books.

162 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2011

Reviews

[Elouise Ryder · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very interesting book. The mystery is almost secondary to the story. We know fairly early what happened, in general, although the specifics of it kept me guessing. Regardless of that, the back story and the present happenings kept me interested to the end.

It’s a quiet book. The writing is beautiful, and it takes us closely into the various situations and into the mind of the protagonist. Mechanically, it is almost flawless, which made it a pleasure to read.

I recommend it and give it 4 stars.

[Kristi Mangan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great psychological thriller. House does a fantastic job of describing the malaise and hum-drum existence that can creep into any relationship. Really enjoyed his descriptive writing style.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

SUPERB WRITING MESHING SYMBOLISM OF THE DOLDRUMS TO HIGHLIGHT THE STAGNANT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUSBAND AND WIFE.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fictional survival story in two settings and multiple time periods. I enjoyed the book on several levels. It is well told and preserves a partial mystery till the end. The main character is well-developed, and I felt like I was part of the story. In addition, I am sure there is an ocean of symbolism hidden under the surface. Some of it is revealed, but I think this would make a good book club discussion topic as it feels like there are many more layers. Is it a book about marriage, a well-written thriller or a dark, psychological drama? You decide.