(Reviewed by Jeyran Main)
Ocean Echoes is an educational read on our beautiful oceans through the eyes of marine biologist, Ellen Upton, who is seeking to discover new findings through her ever ending funds at the Cape Cod research facility.
Ellen is a hard working, driven, ambitious woman who takes her research on a cruise across the Panama Canal in hopes to accomplish an innovative discovery so that she may keep her job and funding. However, I felt that it was more than that. Ellen was mostly seeking recognition and felt like without a discovery, she had no purpose. On this journey she has many beautiful adventures under the sea and also manages to experience some love on the ship she sails on. On Toll Island her discovery is not what she expected and like all scientists her new breakthrough comes with costs.
I found the book to be exceptionally well-written and beautifully described. Sheila Hurst portrays a fascinating world under water and adds an educational, informative touch on this whole endeavour through her story with her writing. This, I believe makes a tale more valuable and desirable for its reader. I liked how Ellen was not perfect and strict. She would make mistakes and was vulnerable at times, which made her more relatable.
There are many twists and delightful turns in the plot. The character building is excellent and definitely draws the reader to feel for them. I believe there is just enough juice in making a second book out of this one. It has enough backstory and ammunition for a sequel and I hope that the author does consider this as I look forward to read more of her books.
Ocean Echoes is not just a voyage through the deep ocean and the discovery of our environment but it is also the journey of self-discovery.
I recommend this tale to all fiction readers and people who like to learn something as they enjoy a book.
(Editor’s note: According to note on Amazon, “A percentage from the sale of this book will go toward nonprofit organizations working to protect the world’s oceans for future generations.)
