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The Passage
"Hurley fearlessly tackles big issues in his finely crafted novel, as Fitz and his fellow travelers ponder the nature of love, the morality of abortion, and the paralyzing power of grief and guilt." --Kirkus Reviews
Jay Danforth Fitzgerald, known as “Fitz” to his few remaining friends, has learned from long and painful experience that there is no such thing as love that lasts. A failed an aging stockbroker full of angst and self-loathing, he fritters away his nights in Tiddly’s Bar and his days aboard a derelict sailboat stuck in the mud of Charleston Harbor. But when he meets a much younger woman named Gemma, his world changes forever.
Award-winning author Michael Hurley has crafted a tale for the ages about the love we leave behind and the longing that fills our hearts for what might have been. When Fitz resolves to make a reckless solo passage to Ireland in a last-ditch grab for salvation, Gemma secretly stows aboard. The story of Gemma and Fitz plays out on the dramatic stage of the North Atlantic, on a boat bound toward the past Fitz cannot forget and a future he cannot imagine.
Jay Danforth Fitzgerald, known as “Fitz” to his few remaining friends, has learned from long and painful experience that there is no such thing as love that lasts. A failed an aging stockbroker full of angst and self-loathing, he fritters away his nights in Tiddly’s Bar and his days aboard a derelict sailboat stuck in the mud of Charleston Harbor. But when he meets a much younger woman named Gemma, his world changes forever.
Award-winning author Michael Hurley has crafted a tale for the ages about the love we leave behind and the longing that fills our hearts for what might have been. When Fitz resolves to make a reckless solo passage to Ireland in a last-ditch grab for salvation, Gemma secretly stows aboard. The story of Gemma and Fitz plays out on the dramatic stage of the North Atlantic, on a boat bound toward the past Fitz cannot forget and a future he cannot imagine.
362 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2016
3 people are currently reading
1361 people want to read
About the author
Michael Hurley
7 books401 followersMichael Hurley is an American novelist, memoirist, and essayist living in London. He keeps up with readers at his website, www.mchurley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
January 30, 2019
I received The Passage as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
Jay "Fitz" Fitzgerald is a thrice-married, thrice-divorced retiree who sailed to Charleston on a whim three years previously and has never left. A chance encounter with a young Irishwoman at a local bar inspires him to cross the Atlantic on his shabby sailboat the Solitaire, and when she stows away on his fateful voyage she sets into motion a series of events that Jay could never believe possible.
This story was unlike what I typically read. Some things I liked, some less so. Hurley does a great job of creating environment, particularly the dreary and depressed world that Jay inhabits, as well as the tense journey across the ocean. I liked the darkness that seemed to permeate much of the narrative. The supernaturally-tinged parts toward the end, I had less interest in--I didn't find it unpleasant, but it's not a philosophy that resonates with me. Still, from the reviews I was expecting a bit of a slog, but found it a fairly enjoyable read.
Jay "Fitz" Fitzgerald is a thrice-married, thrice-divorced retiree who sailed to Charleston on a whim three years previously and has never left. A chance encounter with a young Irishwoman at a local bar inspires him to cross the Atlantic on his shabby sailboat the Solitaire, and when she stows away on his fateful voyage she sets into motion a series of events that Jay could never believe possible.
This story was unlike what I typically read. Some things I liked, some less so. Hurley does a great job of creating environment, particularly the dreary and depressed world that Jay inhabits, as well as the tense journey across the ocean. I liked the darkness that seemed to permeate much of the narrative. The supernaturally-tinged parts toward the end, I had less interest in--I didn't find it unpleasant, but it's not a philosophy that resonates with me. Still, from the reviews I was expecting a bit of a slog, but found it a fairly enjoyable read.
August 14, 2019
A captivating seafaring tale
I really enjoyed this book as the author, Michael Hurley, is a skilled writer and breathes life into his characters weaving them into an intriguing plot.
Fitz, who is initially difficult to like, has lost everything and has only his boat for company. Together they embark on a journey both physically and mentally challenging, knowing full well that they might not meet their destination. His mysterious stowaway proves to be a blessing and their relationship is both intriguing and sinister. The storyline was steady and the ending was unexpected.
I particularly liked Hurley’s descriptions of sailing in stormy seas which I found to be spellbinding and emotional.
I would recommend this book to anyone as it is an unusual story. I was given this book for free and have been under no pressure to produce this review.
I really enjoyed this book as the author, Michael Hurley, is a skilled writer and breathes life into his characters weaving them into an intriguing plot.
Fitz, who is initially difficult to like, has lost everything and has only his boat for company. Together they embark on a journey both physically and mentally challenging, knowing full well that they might not meet their destination. His mysterious stowaway proves to be a blessing and their relationship is both intriguing and sinister. The storyline was steady and the ending was unexpected.
I particularly liked Hurley’s descriptions of sailing in stormy seas which I found to be spellbinding and emotional.
I would recommend this book to anyone as it is an unusual story. I was given this book for free and have been under no pressure to produce this review.
October 19, 2018
Do not let the length of the book scare you off. All 766 pages are worth the read! This book had me hooked from page 1 and can't wait to read the next books in the series. The characters development is wonderful writing and Michael Hurley weaves a web of amazing back stores. This is a great example of an apocalyptic horror story with a few other surprises in store. Expect to be carried away in beautiful story telling and the awesome way a little girl saves the world.
October 4, 2018
Kept my interest throughout
February 6, 2017
I won this book from a Goodreads 'giveaway'; so I'm a little lucky to have won it, and I'm thankful for it arriving safely. I have to say this is not the type of book I'm usually drawn to, but the description seduced me somewhat - I reflect now that it must of been the Ireland reference, and pitch of sailing across the Atlantic.
What’s it all about?
Essentially this a story about Love, the concept of it, its meaning , and worth. Hurley places Agape on trial and its very soul is fought between these two characters in a way that is very deep, challenging; placing the reader to reflect on their own positions. This is the first novel I have read from Michael Hurley - what a clever writer he is!!
Our story begins with a burnt out late middle age man called Fitz; a failed stock broker whose life's trials have worn him down to one of living hand to mouth; his only solace being his regular visits to Tiddly's. One particular evening a chance meeting with a young woman 'Gemma' changes the lives for both forever, and results in Fitz taking a journey across the Atlantic between nowhere and goodbye.
What’s good about it?
I have to admit the story has a banal flavour about it in the beginning, and I had my doubts that I would enjoy it, but the way its written seduces you into reading one more page; and I'm so glad I persevered. I enjoyed all the key incidents in the book, the debates about parental love, abortion, human relationships, sex, and the 'truths' about God and faith.
The complexity of the characters, and the challenges within the narrative are well written. My favourite part of the book is the encounter Fitz has with the Priest in the Monastery, and its this encounter places the whole book into perspective, and provides the reader with the full understanding of Fitz and his Journey from Charleston to Inishmore.
The deeper meanings within the book are introduced in the most gentle way, but challenge more modern societal values with vigour, and this is essentially why I view this novel as such an amazing piece of work. Hell is said to be absence of reason; here Fitz considers reason to be his prevailing orthodoxy, until confronted with a new perspective and challenged not on his doubt about God, but on his fear of doubt; for without our personal doubts there can be no faith, there would only be certainty. And certainty breeds contempt.
In short a thoroughly enjoyable read, and one for the collection.
What’s not so good about it?
Just the slow beginning.
Overall
A meaningful exploration of the human condition - We need more of this type of writing; especially in these modern times where cynicism, and the lack of real hope prevails amongst many
What’s it all about?
Essentially this a story about Love, the concept of it, its meaning , and worth. Hurley places Agape on trial and its very soul is fought between these two characters in a way that is very deep, challenging; placing the reader to reflect on their own positions. This is the first novel I have read from Michael Hurley - what a clever writer he is!!
Our story begins with a burnt out late middle age man called Fitz; a failed stock broker whose life's trials have worn him down to one of living hand to mouth; his only solace being his regular visits to Tiddly's. One particular evening a chance meeting with a young woman 'Gemma' changes the lives for both forever, and results in Fitz taking a journey across the Atlantic between nowhere and goodbye.
What’s good about it?
I have to admit the story has a banal flavour about it in the beginning, and I had my doubts that I would enjoy it, but the way its written seduces you into reading one more page; and I'm so glad I persevered. I enjoyed all the key incidents in the book, the debates about parental love, abortion, human relationships, sex, and the 'truths' about God and faith.
The complexity of the characters, and the challenges within the narrative are well written. My favourite part of the book is the encounter Fitz has with the Priest in the Monastery, and its this encounter places the whole book into perspective, and provides the reader with the full understanding of Fitz and his Journey from Charleston to Inishmore.
The deeper meanings within the book are introduced in the most gentle way, but challenge more modern societal values with vigour, and this is essentially why I view this novel as such an amazing piece of work. Hell is said to be absence of reason; here Fitz considers reason to be his prevailing orthodoxy, until confronted with a new perspective and challenged not on his doubt about God, but on his fear of doubt; for without our personal doubts there can be no faith, there would only be certainty. And certainty breeds contempt.
In short a thoroughly enjoyable read, and one for the collection.
What’s not so good about it?
Just the slow beginning.
Overall
A meaningful exploration of the human condition - We need more of this type of writing; especially in these modern times where cynicism, and the lack of real hope prevails amongst many
June 4, 2016
The Passage by Michael Hurley is a very highly recommended novel of self-discovery.
Jay Danforth Fitzgerald, "Fitz," is a failed stockbroker in his early 60's who has also failed at three marriages. He doesn't believe in love, certainly not lasting love. After his third and last divorce, he moved onto his sailboat. His boat has been in Charleston Harbor for the last three years. Fitz is slowly running out of money, but he still goes to Tiddly's Bar every evening for dinner and a beer. When a young, 34 year old woman, Gemma, sits next to him at the bar and starts a conversation, his life changes. He decides to attempt to sail to Ireland (or die trying), but when Gemma secretly stows aboard, his plans change.
I'm going to be honest and tell you that I did not like The Passage in the beginning. I was not in the mood for Fitz's self-loathing pity party. I was not prepared to accept that a young 34 year old woman was intrigued by this guy in his 60's who is soaking wet and dressed like a bum. And when Fitz lies to her and says he's 44, well, I was not too keen on a protagonist who was, by all appearances, going to be a huge jerk, lie, and hit on a young woman. Nope, not too keen on old guys thinking they deserve younger women and not interested in reading any novel along those lines. But that's not quite what happens, and I should have given Hurley more credit based on his previous to novels I read and loved.
Yes, this is a novel about love, failed love, and redemptive love, but it's also a novel about longing for what might have been - and that is what makes it a much stronger novel than my first impression allowed. When the twists happen in the plot and everything falls into place, I was totally enamored with the underlying themes and symbolism Hurley tucked into the plot so perfectly and tenderly. I went from strongly disliking The Passage to adoring it, a tough transition to make and certainly a change of opinion that is rarely traversed.
Hurley is an exceptional writer and that helped me stick with The Passage until I reached the transformative part. As I have said before, Hurley writes with a depth, intelligence, and thoughtfulness that make you crave more - and made me want to keep reading. The settings are clearly described. Obviously, Hurley knows his way around a sailboat and can describe it. The characters are also clearly well developed and there is personal growth and change in the end.
Disclosure: I received a digital advanced reading copy of this book from the author for review purposes.
http://shetreadssoftly.blogspot.com/2...
Jay Danforth Fitzgerald, "Fitz," is a failed stockbroker in his early 60's who has also failed at three marriages. He doesn't believe in love, certainly not lasting love. After his third and last divorce, he moved onto his sailboat. His boat has been in Charleston Harbor for the last three years. Fitz is slowly running out of money, but he still goes to Tiddly's Bar every evening for dinner and a beer. When a young, 34 year old woman, Gemma, sits next to him at the bar and starts a conversation, his life changes. He decides to attempt to sail to Ireland (or die trying), but when Gemma secretly stows aboard, his plans change.
I'm going to be honest and tell you that I did not like The Passage in the beginning. I was not in the mood for Fitz's self-loathing pity party. I was not prepared to accept that a young 34 year old woman was intrigued by this guy in his 60's who is soaking wet and dressed like a bum. And when Fitz lies to her and says he's 44, well, I was not too keen on a protagonist who was, by all appearances, going to be a huge jerk, lie, and hit on a young woman. Nope, not too keen on old guys thinking they deserve younger women and not interested in reading any novel along those lines. But that's not quite what happens, and I should have given Hurley more credit based on his previous to novels I read and loved.
Yes, this is a novel about love, failed love, and redemptive love, but it's also a novel about longing for what might have been - and that is what makes it a much stronger novel than my first impression allowed. When the twists happen in the plot and everything falls into place, I was totally enamored with the underlying themes and symbolism Hurley tucked into the plot so perfectly and tenderly. I went from strongly disliking The Passage to adoring it, a tough transition to make and certainly a change of opinion that is rarely traversed.
Hurley is an exceptional writer and that helped me stick with The Passage until I reached the transformative part. As I have said before, Hurley writes with a depth, intelligence, and thoughtfulness that make you crave more - and made me want to keep reading. The settings are clearly described. Obviously, Hurley knows his way around a sailboat and can describe it. The characters are also clearly well developed and there is personal growth and change in the end.
Disclosure: I received a digital advanced reading copy of this book from the author for review purposes.
http://shetreadssoftly.blogspot.com/2...
November 27, 2018
I'm having a hard time reading this book. I'm about half-way done and I just haven't connected with the characters or the story. I'm going to continue reading because I hate not finishing but I am only doing a bit at a time, even the laundry is calling me more than this book if that says anything.
I'm going to have to give it up. I just don't care for the main character. I've tried but it's just not for me.
Update: Never did care for the characters. Not badly written the story was okay. Moving it to 2 1/2 stars.
I'm going to have to give it up. I just don't care for the main character. I've tried but it's just not for me.
Update: Never did care for the characters. Not badly written the story was okay. Moving it to 2 1/2 stars.
February 5, 2017
I won this book in a Good Reads giveaway. I found the plotline intriguing and although the beginning was slow, it was realistic and detailed. However, the book descends about three quarters of the way through into a surprisingly quirky style which frankly feels a little try hard. I found the book laughable in its weirdness and there were many plot holes and unanswered questions. Very well written and ambitious but a disappointing read.
April 9, 2017
I enjoyed this book very much, you fall in love with the characters and wanted it all to turn out ok for them. Quite unique in its concept.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews