I had been eagerly anticipating this book since finishing "Spartina" a few months ago, and it didn't disappoint. In fact, this may be an even better book. How insightful Casey is about his characters and their motivations, and how well he understands women! I felt deeply immersed in the lives and interrelationships of these people and their small, vivid corner of the world. A wonderful book.

Kind of slow to get started but I enjoyed it once it got going. Sort of gave me the feeling it was a classic. And could almost be based on a true story. I'm not sure I would recommend it, but I'm satisfied with the time I spent reading it. I think I enjoyed it more because I read the first novel.

compass rose by john casey
Dick Pierce is now focusing on the women in his life: his wife May.
Elsie the woman who born their daughter Rose. She allows him to bring the baby to his house for hours during her life as Dick has two boys at home. Everybody loves Rose.
Land deals, ship being broadsided and sinking, and some sex scenes make this a really good read about family life and living on the island and making a living from the sea.

I enjoyed this book, I loved the many different characters. One reviewer said you should read Spartina before this one because of the multi-layered relationships and you would need the past history to understand them all. Casey wrote Spartina over 20 years ago - who would remember all of it anyway? I truly did not find myself confused at all. I enjoyed all the characters very much!