Left at Hiva Oa: A Novel

by Malia Bohlin

This captivating at-sea adventure takes place as America evolves from the conservative 50s to the free-loving 60s. Two proud Merchant Marine Academy graduates leave their promising careers to follow a dream of sailing the world on the 40’ schooner the Gracias. Even with careful planning and abundant enthusiasm, things go drastically awry, changing plans, the crew, and eventually the course of the Gracias, unexpectedly leaving one of them crossing the Pacific alone. In a frantic battle for his life, he relies on his wit and his memories to face the challenges of the sea, and those within his own mind. Left at Hiva Oa is an incredible story of the determination to dream; to stand by your principles; and to stay alive, when all you have is yourself.

255 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 2, 2017

Reviews

[bouldermimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read 3/25/2018
Based on the true story of the author's father, Captain Ken Bohlin, Malia Bohlin tells a beautifully written account of his days at Kings Point Academy and his dream voyage that should have taken him around the world.

This is not a book I would have picked up for myself, but just a few pages in, I found it hard to put down. No, this story does not ignite my desire to sail the open seas. I would be much like BJ and rendered totally useless aboard a 40-foot schooner, but the imagery was fantastic and the heart with which this story was written really shines through.

Thanks, Sam, for gifting me this wonderful book!

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page I was completely absorbed in this story. Always at the back of my mind, reminding myself that this was based on a true story about the author's father. And having to remind myself of this because the story being told from the the main character's voice was so convincing. Also worth noting is that I have no background in sailing, the details were written in such a way that I actually felt, could visualize and (felt like I) understood more on the subject than I really do. An absolutely beautiful and rich novel worth reading. (Coincidentally, finished reading it on Easter Weekend-- You'll have to read the book to learn the significance).