Between the Notched Pines (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781597132299)

Connor is an obstinate young man whose difficult relationship with his father keeps him away from his family and home. After years of tension their relationship seems destined to continue in a stalemate when Connor's grandfather and true patriarch of the Hennessey family passes away. Connor is then tasked to execute a final request from Grandpa Peter that puts him on a journey home. Pausing his urban workaholic lifestyle proves difficult as hard work was doctrine in the Hennessey house, but ultimately Peter's wish forces him to reassess his values and realize where family should rank. With selfish interests aside, he sets out on an excursion to a remote family fishing camp in Downeast Maine. Guided by the voice of his grandfather, Connor navigates the long drive and recalls the education bestowed upon him. The trek into the woods rekindles Connor's bond with the great outdoors and reunites him with the sublimity of nature that he once cherished. Before nostalgia can fully set in, he encounters his estranged father. A whiskey-tinged rapport takes form as the two try to find amiable ground. When their best efforts at reconciliation fail, they revert to longstanding anger. They push on despite discord but this time it isn't only their grudges that may sink them. Unsuspected danger lurks just out of sight, to survive and heal their bond they must go to the brink of life itself.