London, 1847. Sailor Tom Rutherford has two passions: the sea and his painting. Sent to sea as a young boy after the loss of his father, Tom knows nothing but life on tall ships, and is determined to captain his own.
On shore leave while his ship is being repaired, Tom is struck by the discovery of a delicate glove laced with the unmistakable scent of turpentine. The owner is Catherine Ogilvie – captivating, headstrong and a talented artist in her own right. While Tom’s work breathes life into the world around him through perfectly crafted detail, Catherine’s art is bold and vivid. Intrigued by this singular woman, Tom finds himself swept by chance into Catherine’s privileged yet stifling world, and his eyes are opened to creative possibility.
As Tom and Catherine grow closer, Tom’s lifelong ambitions are upturned. But the sea calls to Tom, and he must face an impossible choice.
In her stunning debut, Susan Paterson explores the power of art to transform a life, to connect us to others, and to nurture us through grief. Where Light Meets Water is a multi-stranded novel of love – of a man and a woman, of a sailor and the sea, and of an artist and his gift.
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Reading this book felt like falling in love. I wanted to cherish it, wallow in it and wring every last drop of joy from its pages. It delighted me! The story begins when, in 1847, career sailor Thomas is on shore leave indulging in his other passion, art, and meets fellow painter Catherine. This book reads like a treasured classic, without the style and language anachronistic to a modern reader, but with lyricism and descriptive passages that immerse you in another time and place. I believe this will be a classic of the future. The story speaks to life, art, and humanity, through an engaging story set in vast oceans and tiny moments. Most of all, this story is about love: of art, of the sea, of the family that made you and the family you make. And how those loves can grow and change, battle and support each other, in life and beyond separation. Read this by the seaside, or at an art gallery. Read it for the sheer pleasure of it, and turn the last page with a sense of a life well lived and well loved, and with more possibilities ahead. Lisa, QLD, 5 Stars
What an incredible debut novel for Susan Paterson. The depth of feeling between Tom and Catherine, the incredible art they paint together, is just amazing. These characters became like family to me. I felt their love and joy. I love how we slowly watch Tom grow from a 13-year-old boy who loses his Pa to a stormy sea, to become a man dreaming of captaining his own ship. The social divide between Tom and Catherine is obvious but they never let that bother them. Their love blossoms along with their art and never falters. Susan’s descriptions of life at sea let me imagine that I was there, climbing the rigging with the young lads, trying to find my sea legs, scrubbing the deck, and plotting the course to the next port. A beautifully written historical love story. I will certainly be adding Susan to my list of favourite authors. Maree, QLD, 5 Stars
A beautiful lyrical novel about the sea and art… While Tom is a sea-worn brawny sailor who prefers delicate and detailed watercolours, Catherine Ogilvie is a woman from a privileged but restricted background who expresses herself with bold and vivid strokes on the canvas which is seen to be not a suitable style for a woman. Where Light Meets Water is not a story to be hurried; the writing is like an artist’s sketchbook full of colour and images that makes the reader pause to fully appreciate and savor before turning the page. Sharon, VIC, 5 Stars
The scene is set in London 1847, about a boy named Tom Rutherford a sailor who lost his father as a young boy. Tom is determined to captain his own ship. A brilliant life full of love and hard choices. So we all must face our own path through life. Highly recommended. Noeleen, 5 Stars
This is a beautifully written book. The writer conjures up images of the sea, which immerse us totally in all its moods from terrifying, violent storms threatening life and limb, to scenes of breathtaking beauty with magnificent colourful sunsets reflected in calm waters – all captured in the protagonist Tom Rutherford’s evocative paintings. We follow Tom as he lives his two callings as a seaman and as an artist, which are entwined in his deep relationship with the love of his life, Catherine Ogilvie, also an artist. Both are from different worlds and classes but strongly drawn to each other. Can these differences be reconciled or are the odds against them too strong? Susan draws her characters clearly and vividly, bringing them to life. Insights too are given to the rarefied art world of London and its culture of privilege with women totally excluded. I highly recommend this book. Fran, VIC, 5 Stars
What an extraordinary debut this book is, following Tom Rutherford from boyhood through to his later years. This book is beautifully written. The depth of Tom’s love for sea, wife, child, and art is so decadently portrayed that you can not help but visualise the art as it is painted, to feel the love between Tom and Catherine, to feel the joy the sea gives him and the joy of his deep friendships with those he sails with. Tom’s joy in Catherine’s art and his dismay at the disregard it is shown just because she is a woman is heartfelt. This story shows how hard it is to balance all of our passions, the decisions we must make, and the life we can lead regardless. It is a very moving book, and it is a book that will delight so many readers. If you like historical fiction, maritime fiction, artistic fiction, and a beautifully written love for all, then I urge you to read this book. Ali, TAS, 5 Stars
What a wonderful debut novel by Susan Paterson. I found Where Light Meets Water beautifully written, just like an old classic novel. The main characters, Tom Rutherford and Catherine Ogilvie, share such a close love and connection over art and painting. This is a love story where both are enchanted by each other’s story. Tom lives his life out at sea while Catherine has been brought up in high society. However different their backgrounds, by chance, they find each other and form a deep bond for their passion for painting and colour. This novel is full of immense artistic detail, from the brush strokes to the spectrum of colours found in the London city skyline to the harsh storms out at sea. I was absorbed by all the intricate shades of colours described. Any art enthusiast would absolutely love this novel. I found it very calming and enjoyable to read and would highly recommend it to anyone wishing to fill their imagination with abundant colour. Julie, VIC, 5 Stars
Firstly, what a wonderfully written book by Susan Paterson and the way she used words to describe things in the book – now, that does take a lot of talent. I loved all of the characters in the book, especially Thomas. I found the story mesmerising. To the author: keep writing. You do an excellent job. Denise, QLD, 5 Stars
The sea is the sea and art is art, that was until I read Where Light Meets Water. Little did I appreciate how the power and the sudden changes in weather conditions can affect those who sail the seas for work or pleasure. The tones and hues of the sky and water constantly changing from the most beautiful to the most dangerous. I found myself looking up the artists, paintings, and literary works of art mentioned throughout this novel in order to grasp a little of what they meant to Tom and Catherine. Tom’s character is as strong as the storms he encounters but also tender towards his newly found companion Catherine. Catherine, also a painter, is magnetised by Tom’s sailing tales and together their paintings evolve from their connection. Do read this novel, you won’t regret it, for sure. Wendy, SA, 5 Stars
What a beautifully written book, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Set in 1847, Tom Rutherford from London is a seaman working on a tall ship. He also loves to paint. The tall ship is undergoing repairs when he happens to meet Catherine Ogilvie who also has a love of painting. They grow incredibly close but a decision has to be made of whether Tom returns to the sea or remains (no spoilers from me). Deborah, NSW, 5 Stars
This is such an enthralling read that is hard to put down. The story flows very well and Susan Paterson has a great way of writing that is very easy to read and follow. Will certainly be reading her other novels. Shazz, NSW, 5 Stars
Susan Paterson’s debut novel, Where Light Meets Water, will captivate the heart of any historical fiction fan, especially those with an interest in the art world. Inspired by tales about her own great-great-great grandfather, and set in the 19th century, the reader journeys across land and sea alongside the novel’s endearing and creative characters, Tom and Catherine, as they navigate their way through love and loss. This beautifully composed narrative gifts the reader with a feast for the senses as it embraces the sights and sounds of its diverse locations, as one travels from Victoria to Valparaiso. Maria, NSW, 4 Stars
A beautifully written love story that differs from others I’ve read, but not overly captivating. The linking of art and love is clever and I enjoyed the storyline making the lead characters equal at a time when this was not accepted practice. A little slow to start with but a great read if you hang in there. Kim, NSW, 4 Stars
A historical fiction novel that highlights the divide not only between genders but also classes in 18th-century Britain. An emotional read, this novel highlights the struggles of a woman fighting for her place as an artist, but also of the main character who is trying to find his place in the world of men. He finds solace on the sea but finds he can never escape the internal battle. Where Light Meets Water captures the beauty and power of the ocean in all its forms as a reflection of the ocean we find within. After a slow start, I soon came to love the characters of Tom and Catherine and the visions the novel evokes through the mastery of language. Lovers of history, romance and art won’t be disappointed. Karyn, WA, 4 Stars
This historical fiction book introduces us to Tom, a sailor who, unusually I imagine considering his usual rugged and manually strenuous occupation, is also an avid artist. While on shore leave, he meets Catherine, a fellow artist whom he instantly recognises as talented with a bold flair, despite her lack of appreciative enthusiasts. This is the beginning of a gentle love story that incorporates many themes including feminism, classism, jealousy, and guilt. I thought the language, dialogue, and mannerisms of the characters were perfect for the book’s setting of the 1840s. Paterson’s prose was very dreamlike and lyrical and this, too, perfectly suited the time setting and plot. I was a bit slow finishing this book, and I put this down to often reading some of the beautifully written surreal passages more than once. If asked beforehand, I would have imagined the descriptions of the art and painting would have been what drew me into the book, yet, surprisingly, it was the descriptions of the sailing and the ships which captivated me the most. I don’t remember reading a book that included such fascinating tidbits of life on the water. Recommended for anyone looking for a unique read. Lee-ann, QLD, 4 Stars
Tom Rutherford has spent most of his life at sea. Hardened by the rigors of being a sailor since childhood. Life on board various ships is harsh but teaches Tom many skills and as he grows into manhood, he has developed resilience. But there is another side to Tom: he is an observant artist who is able to capture the interplay of light, water and the shades of change of the sea. He has known much grief in his life and it so much a part of him and his paintings. Onshore whilst the ship he is on is being repaired, he finds a glove that smells of turpentine, he is curious, and seeks to find the owner of the glove. There is a gentle beauty in the story as it unfolds, the desire to reach into the other person’s life. A mutual desire to know and be known, to overcome obstacles. This is where respect, tenderness, and desire grow. A moving story about what makes us who we are and the opportunities that come when we are open to those different to ourselves. The challenges, questions, and decisions that this provokes. “I think where we come from is a part of where we are going”, is a poignant quote in the book that resonated with me and drew me in to find out how the story would unfold. I felt that the historical language and atmosphere were well presented and the characters were real and engaging. It was an enlightening book that I would highly recommend. Christina, VIC, 4 Stars
A beautiful tale of love, art, and the open seas. Catherine is a passionate women born in an era where both class and gender would impact your world. Love and loss are continued themes through the entire book, leaving you caring deeply for most characters and wanting the happy ever after. Wonderful debut from Susan Paterson. Deanne, VIC, 4 Stars
I have to admit this book was a bit different to the usual books I read. It did take me a while to get into it and follow the start but once I got in about 100 pages, I really enjoyed the book. Susan explains the seafaring life in the 1800s in great detail. She has an eye for detail when describing things and definitely has an interest in the subjects covered. I can recommend Where Light Meets Water, especially if you are interested in art and ship life in the 1800s. I am so glad I stuck with the story and found out what happened in Tom’s life along with all the people in his life… Jenny, NSW, 4 Stars
This book takes you into a historical past with incredibly well-researched details. At first, I found it hard to get into, but after a couple of chapters and getting to know the characters I was hooked. I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Susan writes with a passion for art and sea life as though she has lived it herself. If you are looking for a book to get lost in, this will take you away from everyday life and into a world that few have known. This is a book of adventure, struggles, hardships, love, and lost love but also determination and inspiration. The ending is not what I was expecting but maybe there is another book that will follow – hopefully. Linda, VIC, 4 Stars
If you love historical fiction and you also love art, then this book was written just for you. Susan Paterson has deftly woven a narrative about art and artists around real places and times. The story is based loosely on the author’s great great great grandfather who was both a sea captain and a maritime artist. The story has such an intimately personal voice that the connection the author feels for the protagonist shines through on every page. Where Light Meets Water is the story of Tom, who despite tragic beginnings becomes a reputable seaman. He has an abiding passion for art, and painting his beloved oceans and ships. It is through this pursuit that he meets Catherine, the love of his life. Tom’s love for Catherine and his love of art are the ties that bind this beautiful, haunting, poetic story. On finishing you will find yourself Googling Turner! Kate, VIC, 4 Stars
Wow – what an amazing story filled with life, love, family, the sea, and art. I found Where Light Meets Water started slow but I am so glad I persevered to finish the book. Set in the 1840s, author Susan Peterson’s writing allowed me the privilege of visualising the characters. Susan takes the reader on an unusual journey of a sailor who meets the love of his life through their shared love of art. Catherine has a privileged life and this causes big problems, remembering the era in which this story is set. The sea and their love of art are interwoven throughout and allow the reader to experience an unusual setting. Congratulations Susan on a well-written historical love story of many loves – Tom and Catherine, Tom and the sea, and Tom and Catherine and their art. Maree, VIC, 4 Stars
A beautifully written story of love found and of heartbreaking loss. Set half at sea, and half in the high society of the 1840s and 50s, the story takes us from the ocean and to the easel with exquisite and vivid detail. Rach, QLD, 4 Stars
I find the first part of the story slow, I must admit I did struggle, but enjoyed the second part of the book. If you love a story of the sea and art you will love reading this book. Angelynn, NSW, 4 Stars
For lovers of historical stories that are based on real lives. This novel is beautifully written with graphic, evocative descriptions that transport the reader to another time and place. Astrid, VIC, 4 Stars
Tom, the main character in this book, showed how hard life at sea was in the 1800s. Life at sea was treacherous and your life could be lost so quickly. Meeting a woman changes his life till disaster strikes. Really enjoyed this man’s journey and would recommend this novel. Well written and easy to read. Kaye, VIC, 4 Stars
This was an extremely interesting journey. I read it all in one day which really let me get immersed in the story. I wasn’t sure if it was a romance, a naval tale, or a period piece about a man who wanted to be a painter. In the end it was all those things and something of its own as well. The story of a sailor who had grown up in poverty and enjoyed painting, I thought this was going to be a story about choosing between love and the sea and this was definitely a theme but it isn’t the whole of it. There’s a lot about class and choices and decisions and how nobody is just one thing. The first half of the book didn’t draw me in too much and it was a gentle struggle to get used to the florid language, but the increasing pace of the second half grabbed me and I had to finish as fast as I could. Points lost for the ambiguous ending and the loooooong final chapters where nothing happens. Richard, VIC, 4 Stars
An interesting story, but I found this book a little hard to get invested in at the beginning. It is your basic love story with two love interests from different social classes; throw in the sea and art to make the story more engrossing. The pace definitely picked up in the second half of the book and I’m glad I persevered. All in all a good read. Lisa, NSW, 3 Stars
A poetic historical fictional story that is a journey of the seas, love, family, and art. I felt it was well researched, not only in the sailing and maritime parts but also with the art, which added to the richness of the story. Although I love reading historical fiction, I struggled with how drawn out the story felt. Amanda, VIC, 3 stars
Where Light Meets Water is a stunning historical fiction novel by New Zealand author Susan Paterson. The story is set in the 1840s and centres on the characters of Tom, the sailor, and the privileged Catherine. The story is entwined with Tom and Catherine’s shared love of painting, of Tom’s oceanic voyages, and their love. The novel starts a touch slow in pace, but once the characters settle, you find yourself immersed in their world. I enjoyed the novel’s blend of history, love, sea life, art and family, and would recommend this book to all! Casanda, NSW, 3 Stars
A book about love, grief, class, and art. Set in 1847, it follows the love story of sailor Tom Rutherford and the rich privileged Catherine Olgivie who bond due to their love of art. It is beautifully written and very sad at times, but quite slow. Janelle, NSW, 3 Stars
A remarkable tale of one man’s journey through life, through all its ups, downs, and turmoil. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Tom and his artwork; Paterson’s descriptions were vivid and allow us to create an image of what the paintings looked like without having actually seen them. It took me a while to get going with this book and I had to come back to it a few times. I would have liked to know more of the detail and story along the journey as at times I felt like I was reading a series of events, more historical in nature than a story to sit back and enjoy reading. I would love a side story about Catherine and her life, which was so different to Tom’s! Pamela, SA, 3 Stars
I found the book quite slow to start with in Part 1, which is based in London in 1847. This introduces the two main characters, Catherine who is upper class and an artist who paints, and Thomas, a sailor who dabbles in sketching while away at sea. It gives background into both characters and how they meet and fall in love. The writing was very descriptive of the landscapes and painting techniques, but for me I found it a bit slow going with an almost dreamy quality. I’m glad I kept going because the next three parts of the story were written in a different style and were more exciting. Tracy, WA, 3 Stars
My first time reading a book of this style and I really enjoyed the detail, descriptions, and how in-depth the story was. Tom’s story was sad but also powerful and encouraging, but I felt Catherine’s story was common and sad. Starting with gusto and strength, I found the story got a bit slow and lost but ended in a great place. Evelyn, NSW, 3 Stars
A beautifully written book with wonderful use of description about painting, art, and the sea in the mid-1800s. I did love the cover and feel. I found the language beautiful but the lack of action made this a testing read for me. I also struggled with the final chapters as my personal preference is for a strong conclusion to a tale. Karan, VIC, 3 Stars
This is an excellent piece of historical fiction, with a strong sense of time and a good eye for detail. I had no difficulty believing in the time and place. Similarly, the characters were strong and convincing. And yet… this never really snagged my emotions. I couldn’t lose myself in the novel effectively. I was often bored and wished the story would move faster. I think perhaps this was a case of the wrong reader at the wrong time, because there’s nothing specifically wrong with the novel. In fact, a lot is right. The vivid presentation of time and place, the strong characters, and the original plot will all appeal to many readers. However, the prose lacked that certain something required to spark my interest. If you like historical fiction, this is well worth trying. I really do think there’ll be readers who enjoy this a great deal. Lorraine, ACT, 3 Stars
A story of love, of art, of the sea. Of two whom others think should not be together, but who rebel against convention. This wasn’t a surprising story but it had a very beautiful background and with an art theme, it’s for those who enjoy lolling in the beauty of the world that is created and enjoying the words and the descriptions rather than cracking through a plot or gaining many insights. That doesn’t mean the book is all happy – it has tragedy and there is a sweet sadness in the journey we go on. Rebecca, NSW, 3 Stars
Tom Rutherford feels alive when he is aboard a vessel, working alongside the crew, sailing through the ocean, heading to another land on the other side of the world. As he journeys, he collects memories of images, colours, and movement which he translates onto canvas when he is settled back on land. It took quite a while for me to vibe with this book as I have very little knowledge of sailing and painting. I’m so glad I persevered, as reading about Tom’s journey allowed me to delve into experiences of true love, loss, heartbreak, friendship, guilt, and self- discovery. What will remain with me from this story is a family bond built on friendship, compassion, mutual respect, love, and loss. Priscilla, ACT, 3 Stars
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