A comfortable, entertaining read, ’Saints and Sailors’ is the fourth in the ‘Dunbridge Chronicles’, following the career of curate, now vicar Neil Fisher and the characterful folk that surround him. ‘Saints and Sailors’ departs village life and sets sail around the coast of Britain, with Neil’s parishioners providing amusement and heartache. The author herself joins this Christian Cruise, with hymns, prayers and a mini Songs of Praise also making an appearance. Pam Rhodes shows off the coast to its best advantage and with simple clear writing, portrays life in all its pain and glory. Although this contains more of a religious undertone than the previous novels, it is a light and enjoyable read. ~ Liz Robinson
'My work takes me all over the world but travelling with fellow pilgrims on a Christian cruise like this is a very special and inspirational experience. This book captures the characters and their journey perfectly, with sensitivity and great fun!' Rhydian Roberts, X-FactorThree groups of people come together for a more-or-less godly cruise around the British Isles: to Lindisfarne, the Loch Ness Monster Museum, Iona and Mull, Dublin and the Scilly Isles.There are familiar faces from St Stephens, Dunbridge; some new folk from Neil's new parish in Derbyshire; and the slightly long-suffering crew, not least her skipper.A cruise is a great place to make new friends, with leisure for decent conversations. It can also be an awkward, confined space with those you would really rather avoid. Some of the party are facing tough decisions - not least of which, whether to say 'yes' - and some tensions just cannot be left on land.This book is a delight: full of compassion, humour, and Pam's acute observations.
