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The Island of Sylt Trilogy #2
The Beachcomber
In the second epic novel of The Island of Sylt trilogy by bestselling author Ines Thorn, a young woman must fight to clear her family’s name in order to claim her true love.
Germany’s North Sea Coast: The Island of Sylt, 1711
It’s the age of whaling and beachcombing, and life is hard on Sylt—especially for women forced to get by on their own. Ever since the death of her parents, Jördis has lived with her grandmother in a simple hut in Rantum. The two of them survive by beachcombing and by secret fortune-telling, using the oracle runes that are a crucial part of the ancient Norse religion.
Under the local minister’s skeptical eye, Jördis befriends his daughter, Inge. Jördis confides her love with the young blacksmith, Arjen, to her new friend, only to discover that Inge, too, hopes that Arjen will propose to her. The competition shatters the women’s friendship and puts their families at odds. When a cross falls from the ceiling in the church and a powerful storm hits the island, the minister accuses the “guilty” immediately: Jördis and her grandmother, who he believes are witches.
Jördis survives the harsh North Sea by recovering and finding value in what was lost. But can she recover her reputation and find the value in her own life?
Germany’s North Sea Coast: The Island of Sylt, 1711
It’s the age of whaling and beachcombing, and life is hard on Sylt—especially for women forced to get by on their own. Ever since the death of her parents, Jördis has lived with her grandmother in a simple hut in Rantum. The two of them survive by beachcombing and by secret fortune-telling, using the oracle runes that are a crucial part of the ancient Norse religion.
Under the local minister’s skeptical eye, Jördis befriends his daughter, Inge. Jördis confides her love with the young blacksmith, Arjen, to her new friend, only to discover that Inge, too, hopes that Arjen will propose to her. The competition shatters the women’s friendship and puts their families at odds. When a cross falls from the ceiling in the church and a powerful storm hits the island, the minister accuses the “guilty” immediately: Jördis and her grandmother, who he believes are witches.
Jördis survives the harsh North Sea by recovering and finding value in what was lost. But can she recover her reputation and find the value in her own life?
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2017
81 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 19, 2019
This is a second installment of the people from the Island of Sylt. It is not a continuation of the characters in the 1st book, The Whaler, but equally as good.
Part 1: I felt like I was holding my breath the first part of this story. Life was difficult, a daily struggle to stay warm and to have food on the table. And at times, all you have is what the sea washes up onto the beach. But Jordis is 16 and she sees her life changing and becoming easier now that she is of 'marrying age'. She has her heart set on Arjen, the young blacksmith.
Jordis' ancestors comes from Iceland and no matter that she was born on the island, her and her grandmother are still outsiders. They secretly follow the 'old religion' of Iceland and that makes her a target for the local pastor and his daughter.
What happens in this story is heartbreaking, especially when it is done in the name of God/religion/and Christian beliefs. I was touched by the grandmother that she stood strong in her goodness and the friends that stayed loyal as long as they could. Life becomes very hard for Jordis, just about to the breaking point.
The 2 books of the Island of Sylt are my favorites of this year's reading, however, there are reasons that I didn't give it this story 5 stars.
Part 1: I felt like I was holding my breath the first part of this story. Life was difficult, a daily struggle to stay warm and to have food on the table. And at times, all you have is what the sea washes up onto the beach. But Jordis is 16 and she sees her life changing and becoming easier now that she is of 'marrying age'. She has her heart set on Arjen, the young blacksmith.
Jordis' ancestors comes from Iceland and no matter that she was born on the island, her and her grandmother are still outsiders. They secretly follow the 'old religion' of Iceland and that makes her a target for the local pastor and his daughter.
What happens in this story is heartbreaking, especially when it is done in the name of God/religion/and Christian beliefs. I was touched by the grandmother that she stood strong in her goodness and the friends that stayed loyal as long as they could. Life becomes very hard for Jordis, just about to the breaking point.
The 2 books of the Island of Sylt are my favorites of this year's reading, however, there are reasons that I didn't give it this story 5 stars.
July 3, 2017
Sylt 1711- das Leben ist rau. Wer nicht in der Lage ist zur See zu fahren oder keinen Mann in der Familie hat, muss sich als Strandräuber durchs Leben schlagen. Auf Strandraub steht die Todesstrafe. Doch die, die keine Wahl haben, gehen dieses Risiko ein. Eine von ihnen ist Jördis. Sie lebt mit ihrer isländischen Großmutter Etta. Sie sind Aussenseiter in ihrem Ort. Der Pfarrer hasst die beiden, weil sie den alten Göttern huldigen und er setzt alles daran, ihnen das Leben so schwer wie möglich zu machen. Inge, Pfarrerstochter und Jördis beste Freundin, gerät in einen Gewissenskonflikt, als ausgerechnet Arjen, der Mann ihrer Träume, Jördis zu seiner Frau machen will.
Das Cover sticht für mich besonders heraus: es ist einfach perfekt. Tolle Farben, wunderschönes , starkes Motiv- es spiegelt die Geschichte und sticht aufgrund seiner Stärke und Komposition sofort ins Auge.
Dieses Buch erzählt Jördis mitreißende Geschichte vom Erwachsenwerden und aller Widrigkeiten zum Trotz seinen Platz im Leben zu finden. Ines Thorn schreibt sehr atmosphärisch. Man spürt den Wind, den Sturm, die Kälte und die Kraft des Meeres. Einmal begonnen ist das Buch ruckzuck ausgelesen, weil die Spannung, die Seiten nur so dahinfliegen lässt.
Ich gebe einen Punkt Abzug, weil dieser Roman als historischer Roman deklariert ist, für mich aber definitiv ein Jugendbuch ist. Die Geschichte ist doch sehr einfach und für ein Erwachsenenroman fehlt es mir an psychologischer Tiefe.
Das Cover sticht für mich besonders heraus: es ist einfach perfekt. Tolle Farben, wunderschönes , starkes Motiv- es spiegelt die Geschichte und sticht aufgrund seiner Stärke und Komposition sofort ins Auge.
Dieses Buch erzählt Jördis mitreißende Geschichte vom Erwachsenwerden und aller Widrigkeiten zum Trotz seinen Platz im Leben zu finden. Ines Thorn schreibt sehr atmosphärisch. Man spürt den Wind, den Sturm, die Kälte und die Kraft des Meeres. Einmal begonnen ist das Buch ruckzuck ausgelesen, weil die Spannung, die Seiten nur so dahinfliegen lässt.
Ich gebe einen Punkt Abzug, weil dieser Roman als historischer Roman deklariert ist, für mich aber definitiv ein Jugendbuch ist. Die Geschichte ist doch sehr einfach und für ein Erwachsenenroman fehlt es mir an psychologischer Tiefe.
April 27, 2019
The Beachcomber by Ines Thorn, translated from German by Kate Northrop, is the second book in The Island of Sylt series. As far as I could ascertain, this wasn't in any way a continuation of the storyline of The Whaler--but a continued foray into the culture and day to day lives of the islanders of Sylt.
This book takes place about 50 years before the first book in the series and is again a historical romance offering an intimate glimpse of an interesting culture. Religion plays a big role in The Beachcomber and the events of the story were quite similar to the infamous witch trials of colonial New England (although not nearly as bloody). The people of Sylt had pagan ancestry and traditionally worshipped gods and goddesses of the Norse pantheon, but had been converted to Christianity. Jordis, the main character of this novel and her grandmother Etta still worshipped the old gods in secret and practiced divination for people who sought such knowledge within their village. The village pastor is convinced that the two women are not only pagans, but also witches practicing black magic and begins a campaign to ostracize them in the community. His efforts cost them everything, including the love of Jordis's life. Much of the novel's length features Jordis's struggle to survive--and keep her heart of gold while doing so.
This was reaaaalllly reaaaaally good. I primarily listened to the audible edition and the narration was lovely as well.
☆☆☆☆
This book takes place about 50 years before the first book in the series and is again a historical romance offering an intimate glimpse of an interesting culture. Religion plays a big role in The Beachcomber and the events of the story were quite similar to the infamous witch trials of colonial New England (although not nearly as bloody). The people of Sylt had pagan ancestry and traditionally worshipped gods and goddesses of the Norse pantheon, but had been converted to Christianity. Jordis, the main character of this novel and her grandmother Etta still worshipped the old gods in secret and practiced divination for people who sought such knowledge within their village. The village pastor is convinced that the two women are not only pagans, but also witches practicing black magic and begins a campaign to ostracize them in the community. His efforts cost them everything, including the love of Jordis's life. Much of the novel's length features Jordis's struggle to survive--and keep her heart of gold while doing so.
This was reaaaalllly reaaaaally good. I primarily listened to the audible edition and the narration was lovely as well.
☆☆☆☆
March 18, 2018
I won a digital copy of THE BEACHCOMBER from Goodreads - THANK YOU! I was quite delighted with this book. I read this in about a two hour block without stopping. The cover art is so perfect for the story. Which is good as I generally do choose a book by its cover! I would say this book is about love and loyalty with a splash of treachery and heartbreak. Excellent combination for a gripping- can't put it down- story.
There are truly fantastic authors that we are not often exposed to in the U.S. I believe that Goodreads has helped to share these pieces as recommendations or giveaways. During the last Summer Reading Program that I participated in they used a bingo type card and one of the spaces was read a book that was originally written in a different language. Got me thinking about how narrow of a reading perspective I may have - if by personal choice or availability?
There are truly fantastic authors that we are not often exposed to in the U.S. I believe that Goodreads has helped to share these pieces as recommendations or giveaways. During the last Summer Reading Program that I participated in they used a bingo type card and one of the spaces was read a book that was originally written in a different language. Got me thinking about how narrow of a reading perspective I may have - if by personal choice or availability?
August 5, 2017
Das Buch hat mir gut gefallen, obwohl ich fand, dass die Handlung und auch die Charaktere ein bisschen einfach gestrickt haben. In der anderen Bewertung steht, dass es vielleicht eher ein Jugendbuch als ein historischer Roman ist und das würde ich eigentlich unterschreiben. Was mir das Lesen manchmal schwer gemacht hat, ist, dass ich gegen einen der Charaktere einen richtigen Hass entwickelt habe, den ich auch im Verlauf der Handlung nicht mehr ablegen konnte. Und ich finde, dass die Entwicklung in dieser Hinsicht, also die bei den zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen, ein bisschen gar arg schnell und vielleicht auch vereinfacht dargestellt war. Das Setting hat mich jedenfalls überzeugt, auch weil es in einer Zeit/an einem Ort gespielt hat, mit dem ich bisher kaum auseinander gesetzt habe.
December 16, 2018
Life struggles
I love the story line, not as predictable as it seems I usually read science fiction and just thought I would try it. Her first book was good, I Stayed up late to read it and finished too quickly so I got this thinking it was a continuation of the first characters. It's the same island but New time line and people, about life in a harsh environment. About love and forgiveness . I finished it in a few days and now what. I won't tell you more, it will spoil the story and your journey and joy reading it . Can't beat the price to read it, so I got it. Off now to find another story that draws me to different parts of the world and adventures. This is a book you read way too fast because it is written well
I love the story line, not as predictable as it seems I usually read science fiction and just thought I would try it. Her first book was good, I Stayed up late to read it and finished too quickly so I got this thinking it was a continuation of the first characters. It's the same island but New time line and people, about life in a harsh environment. About love and forgiveness . I finished it in a few days and now what. I won't tell you more, it will spoil the story and your journey and joy reading it . Can't beat the price to read it, so I got it. Off now to find another story that draws me to different parts of the world and adventures. This is a book you read way too fast because it is written well
April 28, 2018
This book surprised me. I won it in a giveaway on Goodreads. It's a bit different from the books I normally read and I really wasn't sure I would like it. I actually read several other books ahead of it. When I did read it though, I enjoyed it. It was easy to read, the characters were very believable and their choices seemed very realistic. I worried a bit that it might go in a romance novel direction but it thankfully did not. I would say it was a stand alone read, I didn't realize until now that it was book 2 of a trilogy. I think I shall go back and read book 1. Thanks.
September 30, 2017
Dafür, dass das Buch als historischer Roman verkauft wird, kamen die geschichtlichen Details meiner Meinung nach etwas zu kurz. Die Charaktere waren leider alle etwas zu flach und berechenbar, sodass man schon zu Anfang der Geschichte erraten konnte in welche Richtung es gehen wird. Zudem muss ich sagen, dass in der 1. Auflage etliche Rechtschreibfehler waren, die mich spätens nach der Hälfte schon etwas störten.
February 20, 2019
I'm really enjoying the Island of Sylt series! The Beachcomber is not a traditional romance but more a riveting seafaring historical. The whole lifestyle is fascinating and challenging, especially for the poorest folks, and I liked that the rune stones integrated with the plot for a peek into the old Norse ways. All the characters make this tale sing, but star-crossed Jordis and Arjen were my favorites. Plenty of angst and heartbreak, but everything comes out fine in the end. 4 stars.
January 20, 2018
This book is a bit different in style.
Times are hard and making a living is difficult and this is not hidden from the reader.
The story is sad and a bit depressing and then a bit predictable to get to the HEA.
Times are hard and making a living is difficult and this is not hidden from the reader.
The story is sad and a bit depressing and then a bit predictable to get to the HEA.
April 3, 2018
Brilliant
This book had me captivated from beginning to end, I hope there will be an island of silt book 3. I have read both books 1 and 2 and can't wait to read the next one! A fantastic read, one you can't put down.
This book had me captivated from beginning to end, I hope there will be an island of silt book 3. I have read both books 1 and 2 and can't wait to read the next one! A fantastic read, one you can't put down.
April 3, 2018
Beautiful
A great book that really immerses you in Sylt. The characters are great although I did find the ending a bit rushed. Looking forward to more from this author as have enjoyed. Both Sylt books.
A great book that really immerses you in Sylt. The characters are great although I did find the ending a bit rushed. Looking forward to more from this author as have enjoyed. Both Sylt books.
April 29, 2018
Beachcomber
This is another good book by Ines. I was a little disappointed that this book didn't have anything about the characters in the first book. This book had strong characters and a good story line.
This is another good book by Ines. I was a little disappointed that this book didn't have anything about the characters in the first book. This book had strong characters and a good story line.
June 10, 2018
Satisfying tale
I have enjoyed following this author's tales from regions unfamiliar to me. Real life struggle, faith, hope and trust in the circle of life, while sorting ones place, role and beingness in the fabric of the universe.
I have enjoyed following this author's tales from regions unfamiliar to me. Real life struggle, faith, hope and trust in the circle of life, while sorting ones place, role and beingness in the fabric of the universe.
November 15, 2018
Thoughtful
Ines Thorn has again brought the harsh life of the North Sea to life. This novel breathes sea air, grief and tragedy. It's ending was not believable, but the characters were well crafted and the prose smooth and easy to read.
Ines Thorn has again brought the harsh life of the North Sea to life. This novel breathes sea air, grief and tragedy. It's ending was not believable, but the characters were well crafted and the prose smooth and easy to read.
October 1, 2021
great read
I love the descriptions of this beautiful island and the way of life lived there. Except for the power of the church! So much evil done in the name of God! Ugh.
I loved how the first book was incorporated into this story!
I love the descriptions of this beautiful island and the way of life lived there. Except for the power of the church! So much evil done in the name of God! Ugh.
I loved how the first book was incorporated into this story!
February 16, 2018
Enjoyed this book a lot. Read it in one day
March 26, 2018
Great reading
Took a while to get into it; but worth it. Wonderful story! Waiting for the next one. Hope it arrives soon.
Took a while to get into it; but worth it. Wonderful story! Waiting for the next one. Hope it arrives soon.
April 22, 2018
Wonderfully written and translated brilliant story
Recommend to all its an easy read and is so believable the island of slyt as are the charts enjoy
Recommend to all its an easy read and is so believable the island of slyt as are the charts enjoy
June 24, 2018
Not as good as The Whaler and the story is a bit all over the place.
Saying that, Thorn's writing is just beautiful.
Saying that, Thorn's writing is just beautiful.
September 28, 2018
What a great read!
December 14, 2018
Fantastic
I could not put it down. I was right their with all the wonderful characters. Through the whole story
I am ready for the next one.
I could not put it down. I was right their with all the wonderful characters. Through the whole story
I am ready for the next one.
August 14, 2021
Endlich mal wieder ein total gelungener historischer Roman. Hat mir sehr, sehr gut gefallen.
January 20, 2018
This book is a bit different in style.
Times are hard and making a living is difficult and this is not hidden from the reader.
The story is sad and a bit depressing and then a bit predictable to get to the HEA.
Times are hard and making a living is difficult and this is not hidden from the reader.
The story is sad and a bit depressing and then a bit predictable to get to the HEA.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews