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Kerry Lonsdale
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All the Breaking Waves: A Novel Kindle Edition

by Kerry Lonsdale (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 15,773 ratings
Editors' pick Best Literature & Fiction
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From the bestselling author of the Everything series, a gripping standalone novel exploring long-buried secrets, the strength of forgiveness, and the healing power of returning home for good.

After a harrowing accident tore her family apart, Molly Brennan fled from the man she loved and the tragic mistake she made.

Twelve years later, Molly has created a new life for herself and her eight-year-old daughter, Cassie. The art history professor crafts jewelry as unique and weathered as the surf-tumbled sea glass she collects, while raising her daughter in a safe and loving environment—something Molly never had. But when Cassie is plagued by horrific visions and debilitating nightmares, Molly is forced to return to the one place she swore she’d never move back to—home to Pacific Grove.

A riveting exploration of love, secrets, and motherhood, All the Breaking Waves is the poignant story of a woman who discovers she must confront her past, let go of her guilt, and summon everything in her power to save her daughter.

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  1. Print length
    322 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Sticky notes
    On Kindle Scribe
  4. Publisher
    Lake Union Publishing
  5. Publication date
    December 6, 2016
  6. File size
    2551 KB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
  10. See all details
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  1. The accidents she foresaw were followed by nightmares that recurred until the premonition came to pass.
    Highlighted by 182 Kindle readers
  2. The moon, looking like a tear in black silk, journeyed across the sky.
    Highlighted by 173 Kindle readers
  3. Above us, a fitted sheet of stars glittered behind clouds outlined in moonlight.
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Editorial Reviews

Review

An Amazon Best Book of the Month: Literature & Fiction Category

A Liz & Lisa Best Book of the Month

A Top 100 Kindle Bestseller of 2017

“Blending elements of magic and mystery, All the Breaking Waves is a compelling portrayal of one mother’s journey as she grapples with her small daughter’s horrific visions that force her to confront a haunting secret from her past. Examining issues of love, loss, and the often-fragile ground of relationships and forgiveness, this tenderly told story will have you turning the pages long past midnight.” —Barbara Taylor Sissel, author of Faultlines

“With a touch of the paranormal, All the Breaking Waves is an emotional story about lost love, family secrets, and finding beauty in things people fear…or simply discard. A perfect book club pick!” —Barbara Claypole White, bestselling author of Echoes of Family

“A masterful tale of magic realism and family saga. With its heartfelt characters, relationships generational and maternal, and a long-ago romance, we are drawn into Molly’s world. While her intuitive gifts may be ethereal, her fears and hopes for her daughter and personal desires are extraordinarily relatable. Woven with a thread of pure magic, Lonsdale crafts an intriguing story of love, mystery, and family loyalty that will captivate and entertain readers.” —Laura Spinella, bestselling author of Ghost Gifts

About the Author

Kerry Lonsdale believes life is more exciting with twists and turns, which may be why she enjoys dropping her characters into unexpected scenarios and foreign settings. She graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and is a founder of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association, an online community of authors located around the globe. She resides in Northern California with her husband, two children, and an aging golden retriever who’s convinced she’s still a puppy. Her debut novel, Everything We Keep, was published by Lake Union in 2016. Connect with her at www.kerrylonsdale.com.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01IH81XTI
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lake Union Publishing (December 6, 2016)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ December 6, 2016
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2551 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 322 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 15,773 ratings

About the author

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Kerry Lonsdale

Kerry Lonsdale

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Kerry Lonsdale is the Amazon Charts, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post and #1 Kindle bestselling author of the Everything series, No More trilogy, and multiple standalone domestic drama novels. Her books have sold more than two million copies and have been translated into twenty-seven languages. Having successfully launched two kids into adulthood, Kerry lives in California with her husband and three cats.

Customer reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
15,773 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the book delightful, exciting, and a good read. They appreciate the flow of the plot, multiple storylines, and suspenseful buildup. Readers praise the writing style as well-written, eloquent, and easy to read. In addition, they find the characters compelling and heartwarming. In terms of interest, they say the book keeps their attention through every page and pulls them to the end.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more
Story qualityReadabilityWriting styleCharacter developmentHeartwarmingInterestDifficulty to put downHumor
351 customers mention "Story quality"285 positive66 negative

Customers find the story amazing, impressive, and realistic. They appreciate the multiple storylines and suspenseful build-up. Readers also mention the story is full of love, family, and romance. They describe the book as well-written and full of twists and turns.

"...I laughed and cried, with characters that became so real. A story full of love, of family, children's fun, suspense, romance, yet excruciating fear,..." Read more

"...A very well written family fictional memoir book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment...." Read more

"...me to was gorgeous - through her eloquent prose and exceptional description, I felt I walked those same beaches...." Read more

"...I liked the romance in the book. While it is not the main theme, it definitely adds to the story...." Read more

349 customers mention "Readability"332 positive17 negative

Customers find the book delightful, amazing, and exciting. They also describe it as a good, solid read with an awesome cover. Readers also mention the story is well-planted and executed.

"...This was delightful and rich story you won't want to end...." Read more

"...Only an honest one.A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written family fictional memoir book...." Read more

"...It started great; the action and pacing were attention-getting. I was drawn into the plot. But after about 30% of the novel, my attention wavered...." Read more

"...To begin, the world that Kerry transported me to was gorgeous - through her eloquent prose and exceptional description, I felt I walked those same..." Read more

148 customers mention "Writing style"129 positive19 negative

Customers find the writing style well-written, eloquent, and exceptional. They say the book is easy to read and enjoyable. Readers mention the book doesn't drag and is full of descriptive detail. They also appreciate the great font and typos.

"...Only an honest one.A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written family fictional memoir book...." Read more

"...However, there were many good scenes in the novel and some good writing...." Read more

"...the world that Kerry transported me to was gorgeous - through her eloquent prose and exceptional description, I felt I walked those same beaches...." Read more

"If you are a reader who loves books full of descriptive detail, you will enjoy Kerry Lonsdale's books...." Read more

102 customers mention "Character development"92 positive10 negative

Customers find the characters compelling.

"...I laughed and cried, with characters that became so real...." Read more

"...Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of...." Read more

"...power - and yet were still so relatable, were wonderful, fully developed characters I came to care about deeply...." Read more

"...The author did an amazing job with these characters. I feel like her love of the characters really shows in this book.****************..." Read more

56 customers mention "Heartwarming"56 positive0 negative

Customers find the book very emotional, touching, and relatable. They say it brings up wonderful memories and is full of love.

"...I loved this story, the warmth feelings depicted, the dogs Mudd and Dirt, the waves, the beach, the delicious dishes in Nana's kitchen, the love..." Read more

"...women possessed their own unique magical power - and yet were still so relatable, were wonderful, fully developed characters I came to care about..." Read more

"...The sweet family story full of tragedy, heartache and love. It's my first read by this author but won't be my last...." Read more

"...The book is beautifully written with so much feeling and empathy between the characters as they face the dangers and problems in their lives...." Read more

49 customers mention "Interest"42 positive7 negative

Customers find the book interesting and exciting to read. They say it makes them reconnect with their childhood and the last 100 pages are exciting. Readers also mention the book grabs them and pulls them in.

"...It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment...." Read more

"...I found it to be full of twists and turns that kept me interested. The sweet family story full of tragedy, heartache and love...." Read more

"...and multiple storylines, combined with her incredible writing and an engaging, read straight through, and wanting more novel is sure to be written...." Read more

"...It was a wonderful time in my life and this book made me reconnect with my childhood. It brought up so many wonderful memories...." Read more

18 customers mention "Difficulty to put down"14 positive4 negative

Customers find the book difficult to put down and a quick read. They also mention it's sweet.

"...Her writing style is warm and inviting. She makes it difficult to put the book down. I can't wait to read another of her novels." Read more

"A little predictable, but very sweet and difficult to put down. A nice summer read, I enjoyed it and look forward to more books from this author." Read more

"...Nice mix of abuse, love, hate, and mystery. Easy to follow and ended great." Read more

"...It was hard to put down, nonetheless...." Read more

14 customers mention "Humor"8 positive6 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the humor of the book. Some mention it makes them laugh, is entertaining, and joyous. Others say the lines are predictable and boring.

"...I enjoy that I can let my daughter read this one also! Made me laugh made me cry. Broke my heart...." Read more

"...I personally, as a reader, thought this book was rather depressing...." Read more

"...I was sad when it ended, but it was well written, entertaining, and I have found a new favorite author." Read more

"The plot line was too predictable and boring. The biggest flaw though, was that I found the main character thoroughly unlikable...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

Carol Boyer
5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful, Lovely, Romance
Reviewed in the United States on December 9, 2016
Verified Purchase
I was swept away to a magical place with this beautiful story, All The Breaking Waves! From the first descriptions of Molly's treasured sea glass, I felt like I was on the beach with her sensing the incredible feeling of finding these wonderful colorful pieces. Molly's keen talent for designing jewelry from sea glass was like her innate ability, the incredible gift she had for sensing premonitions. She feared this surreal ability that she and her daughter Cassie also had. Cassie was experiencing terrible nightmares and held unspeakable danger that Molly had to stop. Her grandmother also had this ability but would not speak to Molly about it, nor would she share the secrets that she held about herself. Owen was Molly's love that she had run from years ago. She fought her renewed feelings for him but still kept her secrets; she needed him. I loved this story, the warmth feelings depicted, the dogs Mudd and Dirt, the waves, the beach, the delicious dishes in Nana's kitchen, the love that existed between Mothers and daughters. I laughed and cried, with characters that became so real. A story full of love, of family, children's fun, suspense, romance, yet excruciating fear, and heartbreaking sadness. This was delightful and rich story you won't want to end. There is magic in sea glass treasures, and in this must read book you don't want to miss.

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Tony Parsons
4.0 out of 5 stars A very awesome book cover
Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2016
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San Luis Obispo, CA. Molly Poppy Brennan (mother, Art Professor, Cuesta College, history, Jewelry Arts & Design College, LA, CA) was called to the school.
Principal Jane Harrison let Molly know about the incident that occurred with her daughter Cassidy “Cassie” Brennan (8).
She suggested a psychologist.

Grace Kaling (Cassie’s BFF) had been in a car/bicycle accident & is now in the hospital.
Alice Kaling (Grace’s mother) said she is recovering.
Flashback: Nana Mary Dwyer (grandma) told Molly her father Brad (U of Minnesota, alcoholic) had been run over & died.

What was Nana keeping from her family?
Will Owen be able to save Enrique?

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written family fictional memoir book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great family oriented movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.

Thank you for the free Lake Union Publishing; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
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Camille
3.0 out of 5 stars THIS NOVEL DIDN’T HOLD MY ATTENTION
Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2018
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I really tried to like this novel, but I wasn’t able to do so. The first problem I encountered: it was too long & drawn out. It started great; the action and pacing were attention-getting. I was drawn into the plot. But after about 30% of the novel, my attention wavered. There was a “whole lot of nothing” going on. Then the pace would quicken, and I became interested in what was going on. Then the novel became boring again; once again I seriously thought of giving it up. This occurred for me on & off throughout the novel. I believe the editor could have solved this problem by cutting the book down in length—-from 362 pgs to (for example) 200 pgs. In this manner, all the dead spots would have been culled, and the entire novel could have been exciting and suspenseful.
Another problem I encountered: I didn’t feel the urgency and fear for Molly’s upcoming drowning death. I just didn’t “feel it”. I felt, about Molly’s immanent demise, as I would feel if some pedestrian came up to me, during an evening walk, pointed to the sky and said “The sky is falling.” I just didn’t believe it. The author set the scene for Molly’s drowning by showing Cassie’s gifts of clairvoyance & precognition. Cassie’s predictions were demonstrated as believable & accurate. But there was something missing in Ms. Lonsdale’s writing of this matter. Here was Molly getting all her earthly affairs in order believing she was going to die in 5 days. Molly believed it. Cassie believed it. But I didn’t believe it. I felt like Molly was freaking out over nothing. The author’s writing didn’t convince me of the sense of urgency regarding Cassie’s prediction. Something was lacking in Ms. Lonsdale’s writing.
However, there were many good scenes in the novel and some good writing. I think these could have been highlighted more if the novel had not been so long & drawn out. Although I didn’t enjoy the novel very much, I plan on reading more of this author’s work. And I did like the ending, so there were some enjoyable moments in my reading.
12 people found this helpful
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tmburgie
5.0 out of 5 stars Exceptional - a must read for romantics who want a bit of suspense! LOVED this book!!
Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2017
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I loved this book! This was the first of Kerry's books I've read, and let's just say, it's left me on a fast quest for my next Kerry Lonsdale pick (hmmm. Everything We Left Behind??)!

To begin, the world that Kerry transported me to was gorgeous - through her eloquent prose and exceptional description, I felt I walked those same beaches. Each of the Brennan women possessed their own unique magical power - and yet were still so relatable, were wonderful, fully developed characters I came to care about deeply. I love that as a mother, Molly went to any length she had to in order to find peace for her daughter... something I'd do myself. I also deeply appreciated her return to her roots, her grandmother, Owen - second chances. Second chances that offered salvation as much as page-turning suspense and the promise of love. The empathy and feelings these characters share come straight off the page - they are characters that will stay with me for some time.

Thank you, Kerry - can't wait for the next book!!
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Top reviews from other countries

Margie
5.0 out of 5 stars Special!
Reviewed in Canada on June 20, 2021
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New author for me! Glad I found her! Very good story! This one would make a wonderful, moving, family movie.
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Pankaj Giri
5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful, emotional masterpiece!
Reviewed in India on August 5, 2018
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I am currently doing research for my second book and trying to figure out a good plot. I discovered this book while exploring the Amazon US bestsellers list. I had a plot in mind, and the book blurb seemed to be a bit similar to it. And the fact that this was in the bestsellers list prompted me to read this book. However, I later came to realize that the book had so many layers that my plot seemed contrived and too one-dimensional, so I finally decided to scrap it and think of another one.

Right from the first chapter, I was hooked. The plot was constructed so well. There was always something to look forward to, and right till the end, it was never predictable. The subtle funny moments within the otherwise intense plot were also heartwarming. Despite having a supernatural theme which is far from believable, it never overshadowed the things that actually matter in a book—an intriguing plot, likable characters, and a good portrayal of emotions. I felt emotional on several occasions and even cried in a few places. Now when a book makes me cry, it gives me another level of satisfaction altogether.

The characters were well fleshed out, and I felt for all of them. I could identify with the fears of the protagonist, and I wanted things to fall into place for her. Overall, the characterization is amazing. The descriptions are also perfectly done, giving a nice feel of the ambiance and the character’s emotions yet never feeling excessive.

The author’s writing style is beautiful. Simple, tight sentences with wonderful, innovative use of metaphors, without the prose feeling flowery or stale. There were no grammatical and punctuation errors as well, making the reading experience smooth. Having read a lot of Indian author’s books recently, this book, with it’s near flawless language, really felt superior and worthy of international acclaim.

4.5 stars to this peach of a book.
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Christina McDonald
5.0 out of 5 stars A poignant story w/ great characters
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 17, 2018
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This book was a bit of a surprise because I didn’t realize it had elements of the paranormal to it. That being said, Kerry Lonsdale did a really fantastic job so it wasn’t over the top with anything too supernatural. Just a really great story with believable characters and a touch of romance.

When Molly’s daughter Cassie starts to have horrific nightmares, Molly is forced to return home to Pacific Grove – the place she swore she’d never go back to.

This is a poignant story of love, motherhood, guilt and forgiveness. Lonsdale is a fantastic writer with perfect plotting and characters that stay with you long after you’ve put the book down.
5 people found this helpful
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Ellesse
3.0 out of 5 stars Not quite credible
Reviewed in France on July 17, 2017
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Really I am just too rational for this type of book, featuring as it does a family whose female members have the gift(?) of being able to see in to the future. I accept that it is well written with a storyline which draws you in but it wasn't really my cup of - very special! - tea. I also thought the ending was a tad sudden and there was one unanswered question, that is just how did Cassie's father die. Was that anything to do with the mysterious 'gift'?
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NicShef❤️Reading
4.0 out of 5 stars Highly unique, Highly engaging, Highly recommended...
Reviewed in Australia on July 9, 2017
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Over the summer I read my first Kerry Lonsdale book "Everything We Keep" and really enjoyed it so I was pleased to stumble upon "All the Breaking Waves" and what a wonderful book it turned out to be.

This book is about Molly and her daughter Cassie. The women in the family have psychic abilities that Molly had been taught to repress. When her daughter Cassie starts showing her abilities, Molly takes Cassie home to her Nana for help with her daughter. Molly is terrified about the emotional well being of her daughter with this gift which can have her writhing in pain as she is dream-experiencing future events that are often traumatic. On top of all this, Molly's first love Owen still lives next door to her Nana so their is a sweet romance.

Ultimately, this story is of a mother's love for her daughter, a rekindled first love, and of a deep love for family. I will avoid posting spoilers, but this is such a good book about the sacrifices a person will make when they feel guilt, love and responsibility for past actions and future events in the lives of those around them. Kerry Lonsdale writes so you feel the story deeply.

Kerry writes at the end of the novel that this was a "follow up" book to her debut novel "Everything We Keep." While there are some similarities between the novels, this is definitely a stand alone and I did not make many comparisons at any time while reading this novel - so if you haven't read the former you are safe. Highly Unique, Highly engaging, Highly Recommended...
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