i liked how this book was about a man going through this. so often (not saying its a bad thing) we see the woman going through something similar. and i think more books about mens journey through the same situations could actually be more helpful than we think. as even i learnt a few things. and saw different sides that i might not of. but also realized how very together and similar we are or can be when going through things. and the difference really comes from the world. and who we are as people. but we all feel. and can all be hurt. and can all fall down that set of ladders.
Eddie is our main character. And his life falls apart when his wife of decades just says she is done. so what does he do. he just goes. walks. runs. just goes away. and what follows is the stages of grief and loss. and what he will do next and what he will do now to navigate such huge emotional shifts.
i thought Francois descriptions of what Edie was going through real rippled through and off the pages. it never felt over or underdone. its didnt feel too much so it toppled the read but nor did it hide the raw feeling Edie must be feeling.
so much in life can hurt so much. and some of us manage better than others. and its good to keep reminding ourself what other might or must be going through at any given time. so when we meet them. we will only ever meet them where they are at.

Above the Waterline by Francois Domain

Summary:
Above the Waterline by Francois Domain tells the poignant story of Edward, also known as Eddie, a middle-aged man whose life is upended when his wife of nearly two decades tells him she wants a divorce. Faced with this heartbreaking revelation, Eddie embarks on a journey of self-discovery during a vacation to Rhodes. As he navigates the various stages of grief, the book explores how these emotions shape his sense of identity and impact his life moving forward.

Opinion:
Francois Domain's Above the Waterline is a deeply introspective exploration of themes such as resilience, hope, grief, and self-discovery. Through Eddie's journey, Domain beautifully captures the complexities of emotional pain and personal growth. The stages of grief Eddie experiences, from denial to acceptance, are portrayed with striking detail, allowing readers to truly feel his inner turmoil. Domain's writing pulls the reader into Eddie’s emotional world, making his heartache, confusion, and eventual transformation feel authentic and relatable.

The novel also delves into Eddie's struggle with his own sense of identity, as he tries to reconcile his past with the uncertainty of his future. This inner conflict, coupled with his grieving process, adds a layer of depth to the story. However, I did find some of the flashback scenes a bit jarring, as they seemed to interrupt the flow of the narrative and could occasionally confuse the reader.

Overall, Above the Waterline is a compelling read that beautifully explores the process of healing and self-discovery in the face of heartbreak. The emotional depth of the story, paired with Domain's vivid writing, makes it a book worth reading, particularly for those who appreciate introspective, character-driven narratives.