"North Pacific" certainly held my interest to the end. I rate as commendable the focus on the immigrant experience in the U.S. in the early-to-mid 20th century, its setting in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, and its historical accuracy. It's obvious that author Michael Steffan knows the subjects he's writing about, from the streets of Tacoma and WWII history to philosophy and Catholic liturgy.

Less than commendable to me (admittedly not a fan of Christian fiction) are the moral choices of his protagonists. Joseph never considers marriage to Miku, the love of his life, and allows her to walk away? Miku discovers she's "never been so happy in all my life" but concludes it's "contrary to [God's] commandments and our faith" (p. 402)? Sheryl Crow sings, "If it makes you happy, it can't be that bad." It's too bad Michael Steffan allows a potentially uplifting story to take so many wrong turns that it becomes an avoidable tragedy.

Thank you LibraryThing Early Reviewers program for allowing me to review this book. ( )

This is the story of one mans life, his dreams, his love for one woman and his faith in God. The main character Joseph Vaenko grew up in the Pacific North West in the city of Tacoma as the only child of an immigrant family. His father wants more for him than the sawmill job he has and so Joseph is introduced to a priest who has much influence over Joseph's education. Joseph is intelligent and he excels at his studies and eventually becomes a teacher at the local university. One morning at church Joseph catches sight of a beautiful woman of Japanese decent. He is smitten. They fall in love but because of her heritage and their religious code of moral ethics decide to separate. They are both heartbroken. World War II begins and they are separated by not only choice but circumstances, but they never forget each other. Joseph has may questions for God that as his life moves on are slowly answered. This is one mans journey through life, love and adversity where he arrives on the other side of it a happy and grateful man. ( )

North Pacific is a well-crafted WWII-era story set in Tacoma Washington. It follows Joseph Vaenko’s journey as he grapples with love, faith, and challenges of his time. The vivid descriptions and strong moral themes make for a heartfelt and thought-provoking narrative. Despite its length, the story maintains interest throughout, making it a worthwhile read.

Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers for my complimentary copy. ( )

I enjoyed reading from the beginning to the end - good research - the story is very "moving" about his life/love/personal suffering and the grace with which he handled his life - Excellent Christian belief - I am not a fan of novels with war stories but this was part of his story and held my interest - different but good plot/ending. ( )

"North Pacific" is a novel written by author Michael Steffan and his first work of fiction. It is the story of Joseph, a young man who after his mother's death becomes more involved with his church and matures under the guidance of his mentor, Father Sauveterre. He works part time at the local saw mill with his dad but his interest is in studying history. After his first date with a girl named Eloise, he is instructed by the Father that women are to be protected, not used. He reflects that the physical gratification was outstanding but he realizes he did not get to know who she was as a person and show respect. In college, he meets Diane and spends time with her and graduates with honors. Then a few weeks later his father dies. Life takes yet another abrupt turn. He decides to go to grad school at University of Washington. It is later in 1941 when he goes to Mass and sees a young Japanese woman with her mother that he becomes totally infatuated by her and the direction of his life changes yet again. War is about to start in the Pacific which impacts everyone especially Joseph.
This book reveals how different people can dramatically influence and change our lives and how God and faith play an important role in advising us between right and wrong actions. Also, this book explores the idea of feeling comfortable in this world when you are different. Rather then reveal more of the story I would encourage you to read this well written book. There are valuable life lessons to learn along with the main character as he pursues his dreams during turbulent times. ( )