Review of Go as a River by Shelley Read
When I stumbled upon Go as a River, I was drawn in by a striking blend of intrigue and introspection that the title promised. A debut novel by Shelley Read, the book encapsulates elements that always captivate me: a deep exploration of personal loss, the nuances of love, and the resilience of the human spirit. Little did I know, this novel would not only immerse me in a touching narrative but invite me to reflect on my own experiences with heartache and hope.
Set against the backdrop of the idyllic yet tumultuous landscapes of Iola, Colorado, Go as a River unfolds the life of seventeen-year-old Victoria “Torie” Nash. Orphaned by tragedy and burdened with familial responsibilities, Torie’s chance encounter with Wilson “Wil” Moon—a kind-hearted drifter of Native American descent—plies layers of emotion and conflict into her isolated existence. Their growing bond offers Torie a glimmer of happiness, but this brief respite swiftly turns tragic, throwing her into a world where nothing is as it seems. The profound realization that “a single rainstorm can erode the banks and change the course of a river,” serves not only as a reminder of the fragility of life but as a metaphor for Torie’s tumultuous journey.
Read’s prose is nothing short of poetic. Her vivid descriptions of nature—the rivers winding through mountains, the serene fields of peaches bursting with life—imbue the story with an immersive quality that often took my breath away. I found myself lingering over passages, relishing the beauty of her language. The pacing is deliberate, giving the reader time to breathe alongside Torie, absorbing her losses, victories, and the complexities of her relationships.
One poignant reflection that resonated with me was, “Strength… was like this littered forest floor, built of small triumphs and infinite blunders.” This encapsulated the essence of resilience threaded throughout the novel. Read deftly illustrates that suffering is an intrinsic part of growth. I felt myself rooting for Torie, shedding tears alongside her and rejoicing in her quiet triumphs. Victoria’s transformation over four decades—bringing her from a peach farm in Iola to a life in Paonia—felt both heart-wrenching and liberating.
At its core, Go as a River is a narrative rich in themes of love, loss, and the concept of home. It bravely tackles issues of discrimination and sacrifice, while simultaneously illuminating the profound connections we forge with people and places—even when these ties are severed. The ending, beautifully hopeful yet realistically nuanced, left me contemplating the bittersweet nature of life and the importance of cherishing memories without letting them hinder our forward motion.
I found myself so captivated by this book that I couldn’t resist ordering my own copy after initially borrowing it from the library. The UK edition’s cover—ethereal and inviting—only adds to the joy of owning such an evocative piece of literature.
For those who appreciate deeply reflective narratives, relatable characters, and the exploration of what it means to face adversity, Go as a River is a must-read. Shelley Read’s debut is a powerful exploration of the human experience that proves sometimes, like a river, we just need to go with the flow and embrace the currents of change. It’s a story that will linger long after the final page is turned, reminding us all of the beauty and pain that shapes who we are.
Connect with me on Instagram or my blog, and let’s share our thoughts on this compelling read!
Discover more about Go as a River on GoodReads >>
