In her debut novel, “Ascension of Larks,” Rachel Linden offers a story that defines home and deals with loss and hope.
Maggie Henry, a documentary photographer, is on scene in Nicaragua when she receives devastating news — the husband of her dearest college friends, Marco and Lena Firelli, died in a tragic drowning accident. She quickly rushes to their home on San Juan Island, off the shore of Washington, to care for Lena and her three children in the aftermath of Marco’s death.
But when the family learns of financial difficulties Marco left them in, and another accident rocks the family, Maggie must decide between her burgeoning career and her love for her “family.” She must figure out how to protect the family she has grown to deeply love.
“Ascension of Larks” is a lovely story of facing loss — lost loves, lost relationships and lost clarity — and how one deals with these losses. Does one turn to despair or hope? The book does offer a vague concept of hope and the idea that everything will turn out OK in the end, especially for those who have faith.
It has a slight — albeit very slight — religious undertone, with discussions on faith and how God invites all to him. It also includes some “mystical” aspects, with quotes from some well-known mystics and a “beckoning” ceremony — one that helps lost loved ones find their way back home — performed by Maggie and the children.
Linden’s novel also touches on the topics of devotion and sacrifice, choosing to do the right thing in all circumstances, acting out of goodness versus ulterior motives, and where and in whom home can be found. Through these lessons, she allows her characters to grow, learning new things about themselves and those around them.
“Ascension of Larks,” although at times a dark, depressing read, is also filled with many moments of levity and tenderness. Linden also fills her novel with beautiful imagery — including the image of the skylark.
Four stars out of five.
Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy for my honest, unbiased review.