Life has a funny way of changing direction unexpectedly, just like a sudden shift in the wind. “Everlasting,” set in the 1850s, combines elements of romance, fantasy, mystery, and adventure. Think of it as a mix of “Indiana Jones” and “Tuck Everlasting.” I discovered this book years ago when I first got into reading, and it was the beautiful cover that drew me in. Despite the saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover,’ sometimes we can’t help ourselves. I enjoyed it then and even more now, appreciating its innocence and sweetness, aimed at younger readers.
Plot
The story’s heroine, Camille, is the daughter of a sea captain and shares a deep love for the sea with her father. At the start of the book, Camille, newly engaged and unsure about her upcoming marriage, is about to embark on one last sea voyage with her father. She welcomes the adventure, which includes her childhood friend, Oscar, who is inconveniently handsome. Soon after they leave San Francisco, a shocking secret and a map surface, leading to a series of events involving a storm, a magical stone, and a forbidden romance.
Romance
Camille and Oscar’s romance starts awkwardly, given their clashing personalities—Camille’s stubbornness versus Oscar’s protective nature. Over time, their unspoken feelings for each other grow as they face various dangers together, learning to rely on and care for each other. Their romance presents a classic forbidden love scenario, since Camille’s upcoming marriage is crucial for her father’s business. This leaves Camille torn between her duty and her heart.
Characters
Oscar is the quintessential romantic hero: brooding, handsome, and fiercely loyal to Camille and her father. His willingness to put others before himself endears him to readers. Camille, on the other hand, is determined, independent, loyal, and brave, but her fears and insecurities make her relatable. Although her actions can be frustrating at times, her flaws make her human. Both characters are thoughtfully developed by Frazier.
Genres
While the fantasy element of the story, particularly the ‘treasure hunt’ aspect, wasn’t as compelling to me as the romance and adventure, the strength of the book lies in its characters and relationships. For instance, Ira, a character who joins midway, becomes part of their small family and adds value to their journey. Even Camille’s father, who appears briefly, leaves a memorable impact.
Writing Style
“Everlasting” is a delightful read, thanks to Frazier’s simple and flowing writing style that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. If you enjoy light-hearted stories with a mix of romance, fantasy, and adventure, this book is for you.
Adaptation Recommendation
I believe this book would be perfect for a miniseries rather than a movie. A longer format would allow the audience to better connect with the characters. Actresses like Lily Collins or Alexis Bledel could play Camille, and a blonde Josh Hutcherson would suit Oscar well.
Content Note
“Everlasting” includes scenes involving fighting and violence but contains no swearing. Some harsh language is present.
