Red Ruby Heart in a Cold Blue Sea

Finished January 21
Red Ruby Heart in a Cold Blue Sea by Morgan Callan Rogers

This novel begins in the summer of 1963 when 12-year-old Florine Gilham has her activities limited after an incident involving several friends: Dottie, Glen and Bud. Florine spends the days with her mother Carlie. Carlie is young and impetuous and the two spend their time on the beach, walking to the nearby state park, hanging around their small Maine town and nearby towns, and dancing to records. Lee, Florine's father is twelve years older than her mother, a local fisherman, and happy to stay where he is. The two parents care about each other deeply, and their one point of argument is Carlie's wanting to travel to other places. When she goes on her annual trip further along the coast with her friend Patty and goes missing, the Florine's life changes rapidly.
She spends her days with her grandmother who lives across the road, Grand, learning how to back bread and knit, and pining for her mother. Lee first begins to disappear into a bottle, and then finds solace in another, something Florine has difficulty accepting.
The story continues over the years as Florine grows into a woman, still missing her mother, and trying to figure out her own path in life.
This is a story of loss, but because of the uncertainty of Carlie's disappearance, the grief is mixed with hope and denial. Florine is a strong character, and we see her change over the years. The historical period is part of the story as well, as is the setting. A great story that will draw you in to this girl's world.