BOOK REVIEW: The Cruise by Caroline James ► Suzy Turner

Three friends set sail on a luxury cruise… will they be able to catch a husband on the open seas?

Leaving behind the heartache, guilt and disappointment of their real lives, three friends decide that now they’re in their sixties, it’s time they finally did something for themselves!

Swapping Christmas turkeys and BBC reruns for crystal waters, white sandy beaches and smooth golden rum, Anne, Jane and Kath throw caution (and tradition) to the wind as they set sail on a luxury two-week Christmas cruise around the Caribbean.

Will the three friends find the comfort and joy they seek aboard the Diamond Star?

My Review

I recently had the pleasure of reading “The Cruise” by Caroline James, and I must say that it was a lovely read. This novel tells the story of three extraordinary women, all of whom are in their 60s and refuse to let age hinder their zest for life. The book is a perfect fit for this blog, The Grey Brunette, as it shows us that age is just a number, and it is never too late to pursue your dreams and enjoy life to the fullest!

These women decide to embark on a two-week luxury cruise around the Caribbean, leaving behind the heartache, guilt, and disappointment of their real lives. They swap their mundane routines for crystal waters, white sandy beaches, and smooth golden rum. Through their adventures, they discover new friendships, new looks, new confidence, and even new love. The story is an excellent portrayal of friendship, adventure, and love that will undoubtedly leave you feeling fulfilled.

What I loved about the book was how skilfully the author portrays each character, allowing us to witness their unique experiences as they journey through the cruise. The minor characters are also very well written, each bringing their own energy and flavour to the story. Selwyn, in particular, stood out as an intriguing character, subtly spreading his late wife’s ashes around the Caribbean as he embraces his newfound freedom.

In summary, “The Cruise” is a fantastic novel full of girl power for the over sixties. It is a perfect reminder that we can live our lives to the fullest, regardless of our age. So, if you are looking for a fun, light-hearted read that will leave you feeling uplifted, then I highly recommend this book.

Purchase Link

Author Bio

Best-selling author of women’s fiction, Caroline James, has owned and run businesses encompassing all aspects of the hospitality industry, a subject that often features in her novels. She is based in the UK but escapes whenever lockdown allows. A public speaker, which has included talks and lectures on cruise ships worldwide, Caroline is also a consultant and food writer. Caroline writes articles and runs writing workshops, is a member of the Romantic Novelist’s Association, the Society of Women’s Writer & Journalists and the Society of Authors. In her spare time, Caroline can be found walking with Fred, her Westie and in summer, wild water swimming. In winter, when not working, she relaxes with her head in a book and hand in a box of chocolates.