Oceans and the Stars: A Sea Story, A War Story, A Love Story (A Novel)

Mark Helprin, the #1 New York Times, best-selling author of Winters Tale and A Soldier of the Great War, has returned with a fast-paced, beautifully written novel about the majesty of the sea, a life dedicated to duty, honor, and country, and the gift of falling in love.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: Abrams

Mark Helprin, the acclaimed New York Times bestselling author of Winters Tale and A Soldier of the Great War, has unveiled a captivating novel that delves into the splendor of the sea, the dedication to duty, honor, and country, and the profound experience of falling in love. Set against the backdrop of a naval career, the story revolves around Stephen Rensselaer, a Navy captain nearing the end of his illustrious career. When he is tasked with defending the controversial development of a variant of the Navys smallest ship, he courageously takes up the challenge, despite alienating the President of the United States. Despite the cancellation of the program following the failure of its first prototype, Athena, Patrol Coastal 15, Rensselaer is given command of the vessel, a perceived humiliation for his rank. Instead of resigning, he perseveres, and during the fitting out of Athena in New Orleans, he encounters a brilliant lawyer named Katy Farrar, with whom he falls deeply in love.

After enduring failed marriages in their past, this unexpected and exhilarating chance at love presents itself as a remarkable last opportunity for both Rensselaer and Farrar. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when Rensselaer is deployed to the Persian Gulf. During a refueling stop in Israel, he discovers that his mission has been altered, putting his integrity, morality, and skill to the ultimate test. This revelation ensures that Athena will forever be etched in the annals of the Navy.

In a reminiscent of the epic Odyssey, Katy emerges as the unwavering force that sustains Rensselaer's life and guides him home through seven battles, mutiny, and court martial. The Oceans and the Stars, in its classic literary form, emerges as a masterpiece that celebrates the virtues of living by the laws of conscience, decency, and sacrifice. Through the captivating narrative, Helprin invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the complexities of human relationships, the sacrifices made for one's country, and the enduring power of love.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 163 x 236 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419769085