I've just returned from a vacation in Hatteras. Not in reality, but I was transported to the Outer Banks while reading Alice J. Wisler's most recent book, Hatteras Girl. Hatteras Girl contains elements of a light, relaxed read, with enough conflict to give the novel substance. The novel tells the story of Jackie Donovan, a "Hatteras girl" and newspaper reporter looking for love and attempting to accomplish her long-time dream of re-opening the Bailey House Bed and Breakfast. As Jackie's dreams become real-life possibilities, she faces challenges and opportunities that she never imagined, and learns that God's plan is not always the same as one's own plans.
Hatteras Girl is a very enjoyable read from a fresh perspective. Wisler's use of first person, present tense allows the reader to connect to the emotions and experiences of the main character, Jackie. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, especially Jackie's roommate, Minnie, and her precocious son, Zane. Wisler's descriptions bring the small communities of North Carolina's Outer Banks to life, capturing the charm and beauty which draw so many visitors to the coast each year.
In each of Wisler's novels, I have found elements to which I can relate. Like Jackie, I entertain the dream of restoring an old home and opening a bed and breakfast. As a child, I often vacationed in Nags Head with my family. I recently "reconnected" with the Outer Banks on a trip to Corolla (See photos in the Side Trips page). Reading Hatteras Girl evoked my vacation memories and helped me to envision the setting of the novel. I often find relatability lacking in modern novels, but this has not been the case with Wisler's books. After reading Hatteras Girl and How Sweet It Is, I am quickly becoming of fan of Alice J. Wisler, and highly recommend her work.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html>
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