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Where Light Meets Water
London, 1847. Sailor Tom Rutherford has two passions: the sea and his painting. Sent to sea as a young boy after the loss of his father, Tom knows nothing but life on tall ships, and is determined to captain his own.
On shore leave while his ship is being repaired, Tom is struck by the discovery of a delicate glove laced with the unmistakable scent of turpentine. The owner is Catherine Ogilvie – captivating, headstrong and a talented artist in her own right. While Tom’s work breathes life into the world around him through perfectly crafted detail, Catherine’s art is bold and vivid. Intrigued by this singular woman, Tom finds himself swept by chance into Catherine’s privileged yet stifling world, and his eyes are opened to creative possibility.
As Tom and Catherine grow closer, Tom’s lifelong ambitions are upturned. But the sea calls to Tom, and he must face an impossible choice.
In her stunning debut, Susan Paterson explores the power of art to transform a life, to connect us to others, and to nurture us through grief. is a multi-stranded novel of love – of a man and a woman, of a sailor and the sea, and of an artist and his gift.
On shore leave while his ship is being repaired, Tom is struck by the discovery of a delicate glove laced with the unmistakable scent of turpentine. The owner is Catherine Ogilvie – captivating, headstrong and a talented artist in her own right. While Tom’s work breathes life into the world around him through perfectly crafted detail, Catherine’s art is bold and vivid. Intrigued by this singular woman, Tom finds himself swept by chance into Catherine’s privileged yet stifling world, and his eyes are opened to creative possibility.
As Tom and Catherine grow closer, Tom’s lifelong ambitions are upturned. But the sea calls to Tom, and he must face an impossible choice.
In her stunning debut, Susan Paterson explores the power of art to transform a life, to connect us to others, and to nurture us through grief. is a multi-stranded novel of love – of a man and a woman, of a sailor and the sea, and of an artist and his gift.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 3, 2023
30 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
Susan Paterson
4 books11 followersSusan Paterson is a writer and editor from Aotearoa New Zealand. Her debut novel, Where Light Meets Water, was shortlisted in an earlier version for the 2019 Michael Gifkins Prize for an Unpublished Novel and written with the assistance of a Varuna Fellowship. Her poetry and short stories have appeared in various publications including Meanjin, Going Down Swinging, Etchings, Wet Ink and Poetry NZ. She lives in Naarm/Melbourne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 23, 2023
3.5★s
It was 1847 and sailor Tom Rutherford's ship, Majestic had docked after encountering rough seas. The Majestic was in need of repairs and would be in dock for around four weeks. As Tom made his way out to the country from London, his thoughts turned to his painting, of which he planned to enjoy pleasurable days while on land. It was on one of those days that he encountered a young woman, Catherine Ogilvie, with her aunt and chaperone Cecelia. Catherine was also an artist, but was scorned with fond amusement by her father and brother. But Tom could see much talent in her work - so, brought together in commonality, the young couple enjoyed many days with their art, gradually falling in love.
Catherine and Tom's marriage was blessed by her father, but not by Archie, Catherine's brother. He shunned Tom - their differences in class too great in his opinion. Tom's love of the sea, in following in his father's footsteps, meant everything to him - he knew nothing more. While Catherine had all she wanted and needed. But their love was immense. What would happen if and when Tom returned to the sea? Catherine supported him, knew he'd return...
Where Light Meets Water is the debut novel by Aussie/New Zealand author Susan Paterson and it is lyrical, touching, gentle and heartbreaking. I found it slow going at the start, probably to at least half way, but with the sea as a prominent background, art the two main characters shared, and a poignant, tender love story at its heart, Where Light Meets Water covers love, loss, grief and hope in a special way. Recommended.
With thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my uncorrected ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
It was 1847 and sailor Tom Rutherford's ship, Majestic had docked after encountering rough seas. The Majestic was in need of repairs and would be in dock for around four weeks. As Tom made his way out to the country from London, his thoughts turned to his painting, of which he planned to enjoy pleasurable days while on land. It was on one of those days that he encountered a young woman, Catherine Ogilvie, with her aunt and chaperone Cecelia. Catherine was also an artist, but was scorned with fond amusement by her father and brother. But Tom could see much talent in her work - so, brought together in commonality, the young couple enjoyed many days with their art, gradually falling in love.
Catherine and Tom's marriage was blessed by her father, but not by Archie, Catherine's brother. He shunned Tom - their differences in class too great in his opinion. Tom's love of the sea, in following in his father's footsteps, meant everything to him - he knew nothing more. While Catherine had all she wanted and needed. But their love was immense. What would happen if and when Tom returned to the sea? Catherine supported him, knew he'd return...
Where Light Meets Water is the debut novel by Aussie/New Zealand author Susan Paterson and it is lyrical, touching, gentle and heartbreaking. I found it slow going at the start, probably to at least half way, but with the sea as a prominent background, art the two main characters shared, and a poignant, tender love story at its heart, Where Light Meets Water covers love, loss, grief and hope in a special way. Recommended.
With thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my uncorrected ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2023
4.5
so beautifully, evocatively written. so visual. so immersive. so heartwarming and so heartbreaking! so everything.
i’m a sailor, so i was bound to adore this, and there was something lulling in the descriptions of the sea, the representation of that yearn to be on the water. it took the words i’ve always wish i could have and placed them so sublimely on paper.
it’s tender and dense, leaving much for pondering though always in an empathetic lense. intrinsically linked with love for the sea, art, and relationships (gorgeous overlap that is symbolic and thoughtful), i feel this one resonating with me for a long time to come.
so beautifully, evocatively written. so visual. so immersive. so heartwarming and so heartbreaking! so everything.
i’m a sailor, so i was bound to adore this, and there was something lulling in the descriptions of the sea, the representation of that yearn to be on the water. it took the words i’ve always wish i could have and placed them so sublimely on paper.
it’s tender and dense, leaving much for pondering though always in an empathetic lense. intrinsically linked with love for the sea, art, and relationships (gorgeous overlap that is symbolic and thoughtful), i feel this one resonating with me for a long time to come.
May 24, 2023
This debut novel from Kiwi-born Melbourne-based Susan Paterson is an exercise in gentleness - nothing is rushed, and the build is slow, until you realise you're in the novel's grips.
The book is steeped in a world of art, a world I confess is not one I inhabit, ever. I therefore found the 'art talk' in the book went well over my head, even as I could admire the beautifully constructed sentences and the messages Paterson was conveying.
Paterson delves deeply into the role of women in Victorian society, and in particular the limited range of options for women, no matter their class, and how shut out of intellectuality they were. a good chunk of my degree was focused on the role of women in early NZ literature, so this focus of the book really clicked for me.
However, the parts that grabbed me the most were those set on the sea, either 'live' in the course of the book or as memories told by the protagonist, Tom, to the main female character, Catherine. I'm an absolute sucker for stormy skies and rough seas - it comes with the territory of being a Kiwi, I think. The landscape imagery Paterson delivers is so exactly articulated, and combined with the extreme solitariness that can come from life at sea, and pining for the familiar (Tom, for the sea), these parts of the book captivated me.
The book can absolutely be slotted into the category of historical fiction - the depth and breadth of research that must have backed up the writing of this book is astounding - but it is more than that. It is an exploration of the human connection to the land (and sea), and to art (in whatever form), and to each other; and the power of the moments when those things come together.
Paterson's writing style is lyrical, philosophical, emotional and insightful. Knowing how many years went into writing this stunning debut, I can only hope we are treated to book two more quickly, to see where she may gently take us next.
Please shop at your local independent bookstore.
Follow me at www.instagram.com/avrbookstuff and www.instagram.com/averilrobertson_writer
The book is steeped in a world of art, a world I confess is not one I inhabit, ever. I therefore found the 'art talk' in the book went well over my head, even as I could admire the beautifully constructed sentences and the messages Paterson was conveying.
Paterson delves deeply into the role of women in Victorian society, and in particular the limited range of options for women, no matter their class, and how shut out of intellectuality they were. a good chunk of my degree was focused on the role of women in early NZ literature, so this focus of the book really clicked for me.
However, the parts that grabbed me the most were those set on the sea, either 'live' in the course of the book or as memories told by the protagonist, Tom, to the main female character, Catherine. I'm an absolute sucker for stormy skies and rough seas - it comes with the territory of being a Kiwi, I think. The landscape imagery Paterson delivers is so exactly articulated, and combined with the extreme solitariness that can come from life at sea, and pining for the familiar (Tom, for the sea), these parts of the book captivated me.
The book can absolutely be slotted into the category of historical fiction - the depth and breadth of research that must have backed up the writing of this book is astounding - but it is more than that. It is an exploration of the human connection to the land (and sea), and to art (in whatever form), and to each other; and the power of the moments when those things come together.
Paterson's writing style is lyrical, philosophical, emotional and insightful. Knowing how many years went into writing this stunning debut, I can only hope we are treated to book two more quickly, to see where she may gently take us next.
Please shop at your local independent bookstore.
Follow me at www.instagram.com/avrbookstuff and www.instagram.com/averilrobertson_writer
April 1, 2024
What a lovely novel. A work that is constantly full of the most realistic imagery – both conjured by the lyrical words and also the descriptions of the paintings created by the main characters.
I am so impressed that this is a debut novel – it is so accomplished and so well paced. The characters and the scenes are so rich and real. This is a wonderful picture of Victorian England which then spreads its wings across the old British empire.
This is a love story wrapped in a novel about painting and about the sea which, just like a painting, is built up layer by layer to create a satisfying whole. Thomas Rutherford grows up on the sea, working on sail ships from a young age, just like his father did before him. He also has a passion for painting, and this brings him into contact with Catherine Ogilvie while his is waiting for his ship to be repaired and leave London. A passion develops between the two and their futures become intertwined.
Despite the comfortable living this is possible due to the wealth of Catherine’s family, Tom will not, cannot, abandon his passion for the sea. He works his way up to being a ship’s captain, but still he cannot let go.
I will say no more about the plot, in case I spoil the enjoyment.
One thing that I must mention however, is that Susan Paterson used one of her own distant relatives as a model for Tom Rutherford. Captain Thomas Robertson was a master mariner and maritime artist, born in Scotland and eventually ending up in Melbourne in Australia and then Magnetic Street in Port Chalmers in the deep south of New Zealand’s South Island. His paintings can still be found in galleries in Australia and New Zealand and with the magic of Google Maps you can stand on Magnetic street, among some of the old colonial villas and look out to the sea views which Paterson describes. I loved the touch of realism that this brings to this wonderful story.
I am so impressed that this is a debut novel – it is so accomplished and so well paced. The characters and the scenes are so rich and real. This is a wonderful picture of Victorian England which then spreads its wings across the old British empire.
This is a love story wrapped in a novel about painting and about the sea which, just like a painting, is built up layer by layer to create a satisfying whole. Thomas Rutherford grows up on the sea, working on sail ships from a young age, just like his father did before him. He also has a passion for painting, and this brings him into contact with Catherine Ogilvie while his is waiting for his ship to be repaired and leave London. A passion develops between the two and their futures become intertwined.
Despite the comfortable living this is possible due to the wealth of Catherine’s family, Tom will not, cannot, abandon his passion for the sea. He works his way up to being a ship’s captain, but still he cannot let go.
I will say no more about the plot, in case I spoil the enjoyment.
One thing that I must mention however, is that Susan Paterson used one of her own distant relatives as a model for Tom Rutherford. Captain Thomas Robertson was a master mariner and maritime artist, born in Scotland and eventually ending up in Melbourne in Australia and then Magnetic Street in Port Chalmers in the deep south of New Zealand’s South Island. His paintings can still be found in galleries in Australia and New Zealand and with the magic of Google Maps you can stand on Magnetic street, among some of the old colonial villas and look out to the sea views which Paterson describes. I loved the touch of realism that this brings to this wonderful story.
March 6, 2023
Review
The sea is the sea and art is art, that was until I read ‘Where Light meets Water’
Little did I appreciate how the power & the sudden changes in weather conditions can affect those who sail the seas for work or pleasure.
The tones & hues of the sky and water constantly changing from the most beautiful to the most dangerous.
I found myself looking up the artists, paintings and literary works of art mentioned throughout this novel in order to grasp a little of what they meant to Tom & Catherine.
Tom’s character is as strong as the storms he encounters but also tender towards his newly found companion Catherine.
Catherine, also a painter, is magnetised by Tom’s sailing tales and together their paintings evolve from their connection.
When tracery strikes, Tom looks to the sea for salvation & comfort but ultimately when he encounters a lost boy whom he befriends he settles ~ but not for long.
Do read this novel, you won’t regret it, for sure.
The sea is the sea and art is art, that was until I read ‘Where Light meets Water’
Little did I appreciate how the power & the sudden changes in weather conditions can affect those who sail the seas for work or pleasure.
The tones & hues of the sky and water constantly changing from the most beautiful to the most dangerous.
I found myself looking up the artists, paintings and literary works of art mentioned throughout this novel in order to grasp a little of what they meant to Tom & Catherine.
Tom’s character is as strong as the storms he encounters but also tender towards his newly found companion Catherine.
Catherine, also a painter, is magnetised by Tom’s sailing tales and together their paintings evolve from their connection.
When tracery strikes, Tom looks to the sea for salvation & comfort but ultimately when he encounters a lost boy whom he befriends he settles ~ but not for long.
Do read this novel, you won’t regret it, for sure.
March 12, 2023
Wow - what an amazing story filled with life, love, family, the sea and art. I found Where Light Meets Water started slow but I am so glad I preserved to finish the book. Set in the 1840s author Susan Peterson’s writing allowed me the privilege of visualising the characters. Susan takes the reader on an unusual journey of a sailor Tom Rutherford who meets the love of his life Catherine, through their shared love of art. Catherine has a privileged life and this causes big problems remembering the era in which this story is set. The sea and their love of art is interwoven throughout and allows the reader to experience an unusual setting. Congratulations Susan on a well written historical love story of many loves - Tom and Catherine, Tom and the sea and Tom and Catherine and their art. @betterreadingau
April 13, 2023
I found the start of this book pretty slow, which disengaged me from the jump. As someone who mostly reads YA and romance, I do need something to pique my interest at the beginning. What did continue my disengagement was the lack of any real climax and stilt-ness of the characters. On top of that, I didn’t get much of a class difference between the sailors ( plus lack of Scottish brogue) and the upper class.
I did feel as if this book picked up around the halfway mark, but by then, I wasn’t feeling it.
Whilst this book wasn’t for me, I’m sure this will work for others.
Thank you @simonschusterau for a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I did feel as if this book picked up around the halfway mark, but by then, I wasn’t feeling it.
Whilst this book wasn’t for me, I’m sure this will work for others.
Thank you @simonschusterau for a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2023
A bit of a simple love story, perhaps, but based on a true story, I enjoyed this take on a marriage between two very different people from vastly different social backgrounds, yet who shared the same passion of painting.
August 27, 2023
Great read
March 22, 2024
Stunning historical fiction - really beautifully written.
March 3, 2024
Loved this book although weirdly felt that the writing of the last quarter was not as compelling. Enjoyed the descriptions of painting light... almost makes me want to try out oil paints!
July 28, 2023
Feels like I was sailing (ha) towards an ending that just never manifested, sadly.
January 2, 2024
I. Loved. This. Book.
Words simply cannot convey how much I enjoyed this book let alone do it justice. It's been a very long time since I've read something like this and I am so grateful that I came across this book by chance.
In simple terms I'll say this. I loved everything. The writing, the plot, the atmosphere, the characters, the painting refereces etc. I don't usually read a lot of historical fiction books but this one was so beautifully constructed that I enjoyed every second. The plot of this book was very day-to-day, simply documenting the life of the main character and could have easily been written in a way that was dragged out and very boring. Susan did not do this. She kept a fast pace in this book by focusing on moments throughout his life. Describing one for a time and then jumping immediately to the next. By doing so, she filtered out a lot of unnecessary information and stopped the story from dawdling on for too long. There are many times when she will take a moment to describe the sea, or a painting, or a certain environment in a lot of detail but her writing style is so beautiful and almost poetic (in a way that is still understandable) that I didn't even mind. It's so hard to find good writing at the moment so it was just nice to sit there and feel an environment or atmosphere through beautiful writing.
The other aspect I loved about this book was Thomas and Catherine's relationship. Throughout the whole book there's very, very little conflict (something that I really like) and I really appreciated this in their relationship. I adored the fact that these two just loved each other simply because they adored and admired one another. There was no major fights or conflicts over each other's different abilities but instead just admiration and the joy of being able to learn from one another.They just enjoyed being in one another's presence and even knew they were connected even if they weren't physically together. I just loved how quietly but strongly secure they were in their relationship, especially a bit later on. They didn't care much about outsider's perspectives (thomas did to a certain extent) and there were little issues here and there but never to a point where you doubted them. It was just so refreshing and wholesome and unobtrusive.
I won't get into spoilers but my heart did genuinely break reading this. I honestly felt like I was quietly mourning for the characters as they were. The exploration of painting in this and in how the characters developed and felt was also such a nice touch as well. Having references to real paintings also helped you picture it more and understand where exactly the characters were coming from since you could look it up and actually see what they were talking about.
Overall, I adored this book. Its beauty, simplicity , and hidden complexity, atmosphere and everything. I almost thought about it every moment that I wasn't reading it. Just absolutely stunning.
Words simply cannot convey how much I enjoyed this book let alone do it justice. It's been a very long time since I've read something like this and I am so grateful that I came across this book by chance.
In simple terms I'll say this. I loved everything. The writing, the plot, the atmosphere, the characters, the painting refereces etc. I don't usually read a lot of historical fiction books but this one was so beautifully constructed that I enjoyed every second. The plot of this book was very day-to-day, simply documenting the life of the main character and could have easily been written in a way that was dragged out and very boring. Susan did not do this. She kept a fast pace in this book by focusing on moments throughout his life. Describing one for a time and then jumping immediately to the next. By doing so, she filtered out a lot of unnecessary information and stopped the story from dawdling on for too long. There are many times when she will take a moment to describe the sea, or a painting, or a certain environment in a lot of detail but her writing style is so beautiful and almost poetic (in a way that is still understandable) that I didn't even mind. It's so hard to find good writing at the moment so it was just nice to sit there and feel an environment or atmosphere through beautiful writing.
The other aspect I loved about this book was Thomas and Catherine's relationship. Throughout the whole book there's very, very little conflict (something that I really like) and I really appreciated this in their relationship. I adored the fact that these two just loved each other simply because they adored and admired one another. There was no major fights or conflicts over each other's different abilities but instead just admiration and the joy of being able to learn from one another.They just enjoyed being in one another's presence and even knew they were connected even if they weren't physically together. I just loved how quietly but strongly secure they were in their relationship, especially a bit later on. They didn't care much about outsider's perspectives (thomas did to a certain extent) and there were little issues here and there but never to a point where you doubted them. It was just so refreshing and wholesome and unobtrusive.
I won't get into spoilers but my heart did genuinely break reading this. I honestly felt like I was quietly mourning for the characters as they were. The exploration of painting in this and in how the characters developed and felt was also such a nice touch as well. Having references to real paintings also helped you picture it more and understand where exactly the characters were coming from since you could look it up and actually see what they were talking about.
Overall, I adored this book. Its beauty, simplicity , and hidden complexity, atmosphere and everything. I almost thought about it every moment that I wasn't reading it. Just absolutely stunning.
June 2, 2023
“Where Light Meets Water” is a novel that has obvious strengths, and which nevertheless completely failed to engage me. Well, that’s not quite true – there were sections which I enjoyed – but a large portion of the novel bored me.
Tom Rutherford is thirteen when his sailor father dies. His father’s friend and sometime shipmate takes him to sea to teach him his father’s trade. Tom doesn’t particularly want to be a sailor, and nor does his mother want that for him. However, there’s not many choices open to him. So, the sea it is. Tom learns to take pride in his work and his skill.
Tom loves to paint. This past-time is not readily compatible with sailing, when you’re a lowly crewman living in cramped and damp quarters. However, he pursues his hobby on land and eventually, as he is promoted and has better living conditions, on sea.
It is his painting that first brings him to the attention of Catherine Ogilvie. From a much higher class than Tom, Catherine and Tom nevertheless share a drive to paint, fall in love and determine to marry. Catherine’s father indulges her, and despite the opposition of her rigid brother, their relationship flowers.
Tom finds it hard to reconcile his desire to go to sea and do the work he does well with his desire to remain on land with Catherine, painting and becoming a family man. But most important, all his life he will struggle to reconcile his creative impulses with the more prosaic necessities of life.
This is an excellent piece of historical fiction, with a strong sense of time and a good eye for detail. I had no difficulty believing in the time and place. Similarly, the characters were strong and convincing.
And yet… this never really snagged my emotions. I couldn’t lose myself in the novel effectively. I was often bored and wishing the story would move faster.
I think perhaps this was a case of the wrong reader at the wrong time, because there’s nothing specifically wrong with the novel. In fact, a lot is right. The vivid presentation of time and place, the strong characters, and the original plot will all appeal to many readers. However, the prose lacked that certain something required to spark my interest.
If you like historical fiction, this is well worth trying. I really do think there’ll be readers who enjoy this a great deal. Sadly, however, I’m not among them.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Tom Rutherford is thirteen when his sailor father dies. His father’s friend and sometime shipmate takes him to sea to teach him his father’s trade. Tom doesn’t particularly want to be a sailor, and nor does his mother want that for him. However, there’s not many choices open to him. So, the sea it is. Tom learns to take pride in his work and his skill.
Tom loves to paint. This past-time is not readily compatible with sailing, when you’re a lowly crewman living in cramped and damp quarters. However, he pursues his hobby on land and eventually, as he is promoted and has better living conditions, on sea.
It is his painting that first brings him to the attention of Catherine Ogilvie. From a much higher class than Tom, Catherine and Tom nevertheless share a drive to paint, fall in love and determine to marry. Catherine’s father indulges her, and despite the opposition of her rigid brother, their relationship flowers.
Tom finds it hard to reconcile his desire to go to sea and do the work he does well with his desire to remain on land with Catherine, painting and becoming a family man. But most important, all his life he will struggle to reconcile his creative impulses with the more prosaic necessities of life.
This is an excellent piece of historical fiction, with a strong sense of time and a good eye for detail. I had no difficulty believing in the time and place. Similarly, the characters were strong and convincing.
And yet… this never really snagged my emotions. I couldn’t lose myself in the novel effectively. I was often bored and wishing the story would move faster.
I think perhaps this was a case of the wrong reader at the wrong time, because there’s nothing specifically wrong with the novel. In fact, a lot is right. The vivid presentation of time and place, the strong characters, and the original plot will all appeal to many readers. However, the prose lacked that certain something required to spark my interest.
If you like historical fiction, this is well worth trying. I really do think there’ll be readers who enjoy this a great deal. Sadly, however, I’m not among them.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
March 3, 2023
This is a story of romance, art and sea as well as social class. Catherine and Tom are divided by class and united by art and love. They rebel against the norms in their society to come toegther as one. Well, that's how the story starts (it isn't the whole story).
The first part of the book I found extremely slow and it was mainly about wading in the language, nice if you like lots of language about art and sea. But it wasn't pacey enough for me.
The story isn't particularly surprising - it's pretty clear from the beginning that high-born Catherine likes Tom. I suppose the problem here is that the author as well as not building in any suprise doesn't build in much tension. Catherine's brother (not much surprise) is against the match, but he doesn't act like much of a threat, he just makes some mean remarks. The father is supportive but he's also pretty weak. It just seems like it was all a bit of an anti-climax.
What's more, I found a little confusing that Tom and even the other sailors didn't sound that different from the high-born Ogilvies. All the characters sound a little detached and stilted in how they express themselves which makes them a little hard to fall in love with them and want to fight for them. The style of dialogue might have been more appropriate for the upper class but some of the structures that Tom and Seamus used just didn't ring true to me. Not that I've ever been a sailor, but I wanted them to feel really different. Somehow.
Anyway, the story picks up a lot more in the second half. I don't want to give too much away but I felt there was a lot more feeling and things started to happen. I'd give this a little over 3 stars, mainly for the improvement towards the end.
The ending is pretty satisfying.
This is not a book to read for the most original twists and turns but if you like a sea background, an art theme and a romance theme (that is, not following the romance book genre - a book with a romance theme in it) that goes more towards the sweet, touching sadness vibe ... I think this might be what you are looking for.
The first part of the book I found extremely slow and it was mainly about wading in the language, nice if you like lots of language about art and sea. But it wasn't pacey enough for me.
The story isn't particularly surprising - it's pretty clear from the beginning that high-born Catherine likes Tom. I suppose the problem here is that the author as well as not building in any suprise doesn't build in much tension. Catherine's brother (not much surprise) is against the match, but he doesn't act like much of a threat, he just makes some mean remarks. The father is supportive but he's also pretty weak. It just seems like it was all a bit of an anti-climax.
What's more, I found a little confusing that Tom and even the other sailors didn't sound that different from the high-born Ogilvies. All the characters sound a little detached and stilted in how they express themselves which makes them a little hard to fall in love with them and want to fight for them. The style of dialogue might have been more appropriate for the upper class but some of the structures that Tom and Seamus used just didn't ring true to me. Not that I've ever been a sailor, but I wanted them to feel really different. Somehow.
Anyway, the story picks up a lot more in the second half. I don't want to give too much away but I felt there was a lot more feeling and things started to happen. I'd give this a little over 3 stars, mainly for the improvement towards the end.
The ending is pretty satisfying.
This is not a book to read for the most original twists and turns but if you like a sea background, an art theme and a romance theme (that is, not following the romance book genre - a book with a romance theme in it) that goes more towards the sweet, touching sadness vibe ... I think this might be what you are looking for.
July 5, 2023
Where Light Meets Water is a debut novel by Susan Paterson. It is a book built upon a love story, the love of the ocean and the connection between two people through how they see the world in colour, light and art. Thomas Rutherford is a mariner, like his father before him. Sailing is his lifeblood, and it filled his imagination with the colours of the world and exotic countries. Fromm his imagination he captured all of those thoughts, sights and memories onto canvas in his own unique way. Catherine Ogilve lives in Richmond and is also a painter, yet her own works and abilities are overlooked in a time when women of her class only painted as a modest hobby but married someone of their aristocratic stature.
In a clever ruse to continue their relationship (with a blessing of sorts from he father), Tom ’tutors’ Catherine in which she would “learn nothing of further value about art”. What happens is that Catherine learns about the sea and about the anguish and torment within Tom through his art. Tom illustrates his stories through his art and learns of Catherine’s talents; they learn about each other so deeply. When Tom meets Catherine, his life is changed. They do not see the social class differences between them, and they build an indestructible love for each other. Catherine fights for him coming into her family in a class structure, which is discounted by thee majority of Catherine’s family. They have no regard to the ranks Tom has grown through in his work as a mariner or his artistic talent.
Through some very cruel and sad instances, they are lost to each other until there is a moment where a connection is reborn. I won’t spoil the plot but it is at this point that this story becomes so evocative, so raw with emotion and poignantly beautiful. The descriptions of the artworks are just beautiful, and with the motion of the seas and oceans, you will been captivate by the authenticity of this story.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my gifted copy.
In a clever ruse to continue their relationship (with a blessing of sorts from he father), Tom ’tutors’ Catherine in which she would “learn nothing of further value about art”. What happens is that Catherine learns about the sea and about the anguish and torment within Tom through his art. Tom illustrates his stories through his art and learns of Catherine’s talents; they learn about each other so deeply. When Tom meets Catherine, his life is changed. They do not see the social class differences between them, and they build an indestructible love for each other. Catherine fights for him coming into her family in a class structure, which is discounted by thee majority of Catherine’s family. They have no regard to the ranks Tom has grown through in his work as a mariner or his artistic talent.
Through some very cruel and sad instances, they are lost to each other until there is a moment where a connection is reborn. I won’t spoil the plot but it is at this point that this story becomes so evocative, so raw with emotion and poignantly beautiful. The descriptions of the artworks are just beautiful, and with the motion of the seas and oceans, you will been captivate by the authenticity of this story.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my gifted copy.
September 15, 2023
Just Beautiful!
This book is a work of art in itself. There’s a quality about it that moves the reader in ever so subtle ways.
It’s like stepping into an art gallery to view all of the paintings described within, like stepping into the mind of the artist…in this case, both the characters and the author…and becoming lost and awestruck in the wonder of such talent.
I was drawn in and I didn’t want it to end, yet I needed to know…not how it ends or finishes…but how it evolves.
I inhaled this gently unfolding story slowly, so as not to disturb the sensitivity of the mood it built…it’s a slow burn.
Like the brushstrokes of colour on the canvas described within, the picture slowly emerges, bringing a story to life with a slow but full understanding of its implications.
It’s a story involving all of the “L” words…love, lust, longing, and loss, in all of their greedy forms. And yet for all of that, it is a gentle story.
So many parts I’d like to quote, but like the saying…“beauty is in the eye of the beholder”…it’s to the reader to feel their own interpretation of the writing and intuit a reaction.
This is not a book to rush through, it’s more the experience of it…It’s not all about the blurb.
If you love good Historical fiction with literary flair, then cosy up with your favourite choice of beverage in a nice comfy spot and settle in, because this is a keeper.
I will definitely look out for more from this author.
5 glorious⭐️s from me.
This book is a work of art in itself. There’s a quality about it that moves the reader in ever so subtle ways.
It’s like stepping into an art gallery to view all of the paintings described within, like stepping into the mind of the artist…in this case, both the characters and the author…and becoming lost and awestruck in the wonder of such talent.
I was drawn in and I didn’t want it to end, yet I needed to know…not how it ends or finishes…but how it evolves.
I inhaled this gently unfolding story slowly, so as not to disturb the sensitivity of the mood it built…it’s a slow burn.
Like the brushstrokes of colour on the canvas described within, the picture slowly emerges, bringing a story to life with a slow but full understanding of its implications.
It’s a story involving all of the “L” words…love, lust, longing, and loss, in all of their greedy forms. And yet for all of that, it is a gentle story.
So many parts I’d like to quote, but like the saying…“beauty is in the eye of the beholder”…it’s to the reader to feel their own interpretation of the writing and intuit a reaction.
This is not a book to rush through, it’s more the experience of it…It’s not all about the blurb.
If you love good Historical fiction with literary flair, then cosy up with your favourite choice of beverage in a nice comfy spot and settle in, because this is a keeper.
I will definitely look out for more from this author.
5 glorious⭐️s from me.
March 16, 2023
Thank you to Better Reading Preview and Simon & Schuster for my Advance Reader Copy.
3.5 stars
I found the book quite slow to start with in Part 1 which is based in London in 1847. This introduces the two main characters, Catherine who is upper class and an artist who paints and Thomas, a sailor who dabbles in sketching while away at sea. It gives background into both characters and how they meet and fall in love. The writing was very descriptive of the landscapes and painting techniques, but for me I found it a bit slow going with an almost dreamy quality. I’m glad I kept going because the next three parts of the story were written in a different style and was more exciting.
I liked both Catherine and Thomas and even though they came from completely different backgrounds and classes they overcame obstacles and had a wonderful marriage. I liked the adventures Thomas had at sea which started when he was just thirteen years old and think the author did a great job at describing this. The author’s great, great, great grandfather was a sailor and an artist and the book is based on his life at sea.
I found the book quite enjoyable and there were a couple of unexpected sad events in part two which changed the course of the story. The ending was cut a little short and left up to your own imagination how events unfolded.
3.5 stars
I found the book quite slow to start with in Part 1 which is based in London in 1847. This introduces the two main characters, Catherine who is upper class and an artist who paints and Thomas, a sailor who dabbles in sketching while away at sea. It gives background into both characters and how they meet and fall in love. The writing was very descriptive of the landscapes and painting techniques, but for me I found it a bit slow going with an almost dreamy quality. I’m glad I kept going because the next three parts of the story were written in a different style and was more exciting.
I liked both Catherine and Thomas and even though they came from completely different backgrounds and classes they overcame obstacles and had a wonderful marriage. I liked the adventures Thomas had at sea which started when he was just thirteen years old and think the author did a great job at describing this. The author’s great, great, great grandfather was a sailor and an artist and the book is based on his life at sea.
I found the book quite enjoyable and there were a couple of unexpected sad events in part two which changed the course of the story. The ending was cut a little short and left up to your own imagination how events unfolded.
April 19, 2023
The debut novel from NZ writer, Susan Paterson is historical fiction set in 19th century London, Melbourne and NZ’s South Island and the seas in between.
A beautiful love story about Tom Rutherford, a poor sailor and Catherine Ogilvie, born into wealth but limited in opportunity because she is a woman. They are brought together through their love of painting and art.
If you like English Romantic painter, J.M.W. Turner, known for his maritime masterpieces, and who Paterson includes references to in the first part of the story, then I think you will enjoy this book.
While it is a slow read for the first half I enjoyed the pace as Paterson writes such beautiful descriptive prose about painting, art and life at sea. Paterson’s thorough research is evident and the detail immerses you in a story of love, grief and hope. The reading experience was like seeing Turner’s paintings come to life.
While the characters are fiction Paterson explains her inspiration at the end, which is a delightful story on its own, which I won’t spoil.
Recommended if you like historical fiction set in the Victorian era, if you like art, or if you like stories set at sea. I didn’t think I would be interested in a sea story but this one is worth the read. Just a lovely read from @littlecollisions - who I hope writes more books.
Thanks to #NetGalley and @simonschusterau for the e-book in return for an honest review. This book will be published on 3 May.
A beautiful love story about Tom Rutherford, a poor sailor and Catherine Ogilvie, born into wealth but limited in opportunity because she is a woman. They are brought together through their love of painting and art.
If you like English Romantic painter, J.M.W. Turner, known for his maritime masterpieces, and who Paterson includes references to in the first part of the story, then I think you will enjoy this book.
While it is a slow read for the first half I enjoyed the pace as Paterson writes such beautiful descriptive prose about painting, art and life at sea. Paterson’s thorough research is evident and the detail immerses you in a story of love, grief and hope. The reading experience was like seeing Turner’s paintings come to life.
While the characters are fiction Paterson explains her inspiration at the end, which is a delightful story on its own, which I won’t spoil.
Recommended if you like historical fiction set in the Victorian era, if you like art, or if you like stories set at sea. I didn’t think I would be interested in a sea story but this one is worth the read. Just a lovely read from @littlecollisions - who I hope writes more books.
Thanks to #NetGalley and @simonschusterau for the e-book in return for an honest review. This book will be published on 3 May.
March 11, 2023
Tom Rutherford feels alive when he is aboard a vessel, working alongside the crew, sailing through the ocean, heading to another land on the other side of the world. As he journeys, he collects memories of images, colours and movement which he translates onto canvas when he is settled back on land.
When Tom meets Catherine, his life is changed. They share a common interests and Catherine’s influence on Tom begins to appear in slight changes in his artworks. Although they are from different social classes, Tom and Catherine’s love is unbreakable.
Tom constantly feels pulled between three of his loves; his family, his painting and his life on the ocean. A cruel twist of fate during a voyage throws Tom into despair which sees him lost and alone, his life turned upside down.
It took quite a while for me to vibe with this book as I have very little knowledge of sailing and painting. I’m so glad I persevered, as reading about Tom’s journey allowed me to delve into experiences of true love, loss, heartbreak, friendship, guilt and self- discovery.
What will remain with me from this story is a family bond built on friendship, compassion, mutual respect, love and loss.
When Tom meets Catherine, his life is changed. They share a common interests and Catherine’s influence on Tom begins to appear in slight changes in his artworks. Although they are from different social classes, Tom and Catherine’s love is unbreakable.
Tom constantly feels pulled between three of his loves; his family, his painting and his life on the ocean. A cruel twist of fate during a voyage throws Tom into despair which sees him lost and alone, his life turned upside down.
It took quite a while for me to vibe with this book as I have very little knowledge of sailing and painting. I’m so glad I persevered, as reading about Tom’s journey allowed me to delve into experiences of true love, loss, heartbreak, friendship, guilt and self- discovery.
What will remain with me from this story is a family bond built on friendship, compassion, mutual respect, love and loss.
March 19, 2023
What an extraordinary debut this book is.
Following Tom Rutherford from boyhood through to his later years.
From his youth, his passion for the sea, and his passion for portraying the ships he so loves on canvas.
His love for Catherine and her art and later his child.
This book is beautifully written.
The depth of Tom's love for sea, wife, child, and art is so decadently portrayed that you can not help but visualise the art as it is painted, to feel the love between Tom and Catherine, to feel the joy the sea gives him and the joy of his deep friendships with those he sails with.
Tom's joy in Catherine's art and his dismay of the disregard it is shown just because she is a woman is heartfelt.
This story shows how hard it is to balance all of our passions, the decisions we must make, and the life we can lead regardless.
It is a very moving book, and it is a book that will delight so many readers.
If you like historical fiction, maritime fiction, artistic fiction, and a beautifully written love for all, then I urge you to read this book.
Following Tom Rutherford from boyhood through to his later years.
From his youth, his passion for the sea, and his passion for portraying the ships he so loves on canvas.
His love for Catherine and her art and later his child.
This book is beautifully written.
The depth of Tom's love for sea, wife, child, and art is so decadently portrayed that you can not help but visualise the art as it is painted, to feel the love between Tom and Catherine, to feel the joy the sea gives him and the joy of his deep friendships with those he sails with.
Tom's joy in Catherine's art and his dismay of the disregard it is shown just because she is a woman is heartfelt.
This story shows how hard it is to balance all of our passions, the decisions we must make, and the life we can lead regardless.
It is a very moving book, and it is a book that will delight so many readers.
If you like historical fiction, maritime fiction, artistic fiction, and a beautifully written love for all, then I urge you to read this book.
March 17, 2024
Review: Where Light Meets Water by Susan Paterson.
I have to admit this book was a bit different to my usual books I read. It did take me a while to get into it and follow the start but once I got in about 100 pages I really enjoyed the book. Susan explains the seafaring life in the 1800's in great detail as well as her knowledge in the world of art.
She has an eye for detail when describing things and definately has an interest in the subjects covered.
I felt for Tom on the hand he had been dealt and the difficulties of fitting into a way of life he was not brought up in. Tom was a very caring person and struggled with decisions he had to make. I was a little surprised at some of the turns Tom's life took. Definately a very hard life on ships in the mid 1800's. I can recommend Where Light Meets Water especially if you are interested in art and ship life in the 1800's. I am so glad I stuck with the story and found out what happened in Tom's life along with all the people in his life...
I have to admit this book was a bit different to my usual books I read. It did take me a while to get into it and follow the start but once I got in about 100 pages I really enjoyed the book. Susan explains the seafaring life in the 1800's in great detail as well as her knowledge in the world of art.
She has an eye for detail when describing things and definately has an interest in the subjects covered.
I felt for Tom on the hand he had been dealt and the difficulties of fitting into a way of life he was not brought up in. Tom was a very caring person and struggled with decisions he had to make. I was a little surprised at some of the turns Tom's life took. Definately a very hard life on ships in the mid 1800's. I can recommend Where Light Meets Water especially if you are interested in art and ship life in the 1800's. I am so glad I stuck with the story and found out what happened in Tom's life along with all the people in his life...
February 25, 2023
This was an extremely interesting journey. I read it all in one day which really let me get immersed in the story. I wasn’t sure if it was a romance, a naval tale or a period piece about a man who wanted to be a painter. In the end it was all those things and something of its own as well.
The story of a sailor who had grown up in poverty who enjoyed painting, I thought this was going to be a story about choosing between love and the sea and this was definitely a theme but it isn’t the whole of it. There’s a lot about class and choices and decisions and how nobody is just one thing.
The first half of the book didn’t draw me in too much and it was a gentle struggle to get used to the florid language but the increasing pace of the second half grabbed me and I had to finish as fast as I could. Points lost for the ambiguous ending and the loooooong final chapters where nothing happens.
The story of a sailor who had grown up in poverty who enjoyed painting, I thought this was going to be a story about choosing between love and the sea and this was definitely a theme but it isn’t the whole of it. There’s a lot about class and choices and decisions and how nobody is just one thing.
The first half of the book didn’t draw me in too much and it was a gentle struggle to get used to the florid language but the increasing pace of the second half grabbed me and I had to finish as fast as I could. Points lost for the ambiguous ending and the loooooong final chapters where nothing happens.
March 16, 2023
Where light meets water is a beautifully written book with wonderful use of description about painting, art and the sea in the mid 1800s.
I did love the cover and feel 3and 1/2 stars is my rating.
Sailor Tom and privileged Catherine meet and are attracted to each other with the additon of a common love of painting and art.
Catherine's wealthy family accept her choice of mate but her brother makes the match a difficult one, using his wealth and power to attempt to alienate Tom.
I found the language beautiful but lack of action made this a testing read for me. I also struggled with the final chapters as my personal preference is for a strong conclusion to a tale.
Thanks to Better Reading and Simon and Schuster for an advance reading copy.
I did love the cover and feel 3and 1/2 stars is my rating.
Sailor Tom and privileged Catherine meet and are attracted to each other with the additon of a common love of painting and art.
Catherine's wealthy family accept her choice of mate but her brother makes the match a difficult one, using his wealth and power to attempt to alienate Tom.
I found the language beautiful but lack of action made this a testing read for me. I also struggled with the final chapters as my personal preference is for a strong conclusion to a tale.
Thanks to Better Reading and Simon and Schuster for an advance reading copy.
August 9, 2023
This book is a slow burner- nautical historical fiction with a lot about art and painting, and with themes of friendships, family, fathers and the constraints on women in the 1800's all prominent. The descriptive writing is evocative; you don't have any difficulty being part of the scene, and the characters feel real, though constrained by the times they lived in.
It is clearly very well researched. The main character Tom initially sails between London and the world, later Melbourne and NZ. When they reached Port Chalmers I thought that this author seems to know the place rather well- yes she was born in NZ. The pace picks up about half way through, and the story becomes darker, arriving at a suitable ending though perhaps not the one the reader might wish for.
It is clearly very well researched. The main character Tom initially sails between London and the world, later Melbourne and NZ. When they reached Port Chalmers I thought that this author seems to know the place rather well- yes she was born in NZ. The pace picks up about half way through, and the story becomes darker, arriving at a suitable ending though perhaps not the one the reader might wish for.
September 30, 2023
Exquisite!
Where Light Meets Water moves slowly yet never founders.
It is a love story like no other I've read, allowing us into the depths and complexities of the rapturous bond between Tom and Catherine; between each of them and their art; between Tom and the sea, the light, the horizon; between fathers and sons; and between friends who become family.
It acknowledges and reflects on invisible realities and on spiritual connection, both in reference to individuals and to the world of nature - in particular, the ocean and light.
I've read this book very slowly, as it demanded of me, sinking into its world, immersing myself in the souls of its characters and landscape/seascapes.
It has gifted me treasures that will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you, Susan Paterson.
Where Light Meets Water moves slowly yet never founders.
It is a love story like no other I've read, allowing us into the depths and complexities of the rapturous bond between Tom and Catherine; between each of them and their art; between Tom and the sea, the light, the horizon; between fathers and sons; and between friends who become family.
It acknowledges and reflects on invisible realities and on spiritual connection, both in reference to individuals and to the world of nature - in particular, the ocean and light.
I've read this book very slowly, as it demanded of me, sinking into its world, immersing myself in the souls of its characters and landscape/seascapes.
It has gifted me treasures that will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you, Susan Paterson.
July 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this book … a story capturing life on the seas , a life of art , a life filled with love & loss !!
We follow the authors main character Thomas Rutherford thru his many ups and downs on the seas , celebrate his artistic accomplishments and feel his pain thru his years of hardship !
The lives of the rich and privileged was depicted well by the author & although the beautiful Catherine was pampered and spoilt she was also headstrong and brave .. trying to forge her place in what was a impenetrable man’s domain .
This was a beautifully written book combining historical facts with a delightful tale of Tom , his sea , his art & his love of Catherine !
We follow the authors main character Thomas Rutherford thru his many ups and downs on the seas , celebrate his artistic accomplishments and feel his pain thru his years of hardship !
The lives of the rich and privileged was depicted well by the author & although the beautiful Catherine was pampered and spoilt she was also headstrong and brave .. trying to forge her place in what was a impenetrable man’s domain .
This was a beautifully written book combining historical facts with a delightful tale of Tom , his sea , his art & his love of Catherine !
January 26, 2024
For a book I had never really heard of, it was captivating!
A wholesome, heartfelt, beautiful, artistic piece of fiction.
You follow Tom a sailor who only really knows the ocean and the way he can portray that through painting. His love for the beauty of his eye lands him in London where he meets Catherine. A story of torn love between two worlds, and what it looks like to live through everything the waves crash upon you.
I truly loved this book and would recommend if you’re looking for a novel that isn’t widely known, but has a wholesome vibe and romantic storyline, this is the one for you!
A wholesome, heartfelt, beautiful, artistic piece of fiction.
You follow Tom a sailor who only really knows the ocean and the way he can portray that through painting. His love for the beauty of his eye lands him in London where he meets Catherine. A story of torn love between two worlds, and what it looks like to live through everything the waves crash upon you.
I truly loved this book and would recommend if you’re looking for a novel that isn’t widely known, but has a wholesome vibe and romantic storyline, this is the one for you!
May 17, 2024
Susan Paterson’s debut novel, Where Light Meets Water will captivate the heart of historical fiction fans, especially those with an interest in the art world. Inspired by tales about her own great-great-great grandfather, and set in the 19th century, the reader journeys across land and sea alongside the novel’s endearing and creative characters, Tom and Catherine, as they navigate their way through love and loss. This beautifully composed narrative gifts the reader with a feast for the senses as it embraces the sights and sounds of diverse locations, as one travels from the shores of Victoria to Valparaiso.
January 10, 2024
A gentle read of historical fiction based on the author, Susan Paterson's ancestor, Thomas Robertson. It explores the themes of art, sailing as a career and love/family. While it starts in 1847 the novel develops into a family saga that goes over a few decades.
Gentle is one word to describe some sections... slow would be another, however the author uses words well and develops the conflicts that are inevitable in a cross class marriage.
I enjoyed the read.
Gentle is one word to describe some sections... slow would be another, however the author uses words well and develops the conflicts that are inevitable in a cross class marriage.
I enjoyed the read.
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