Have you ever read that book that you just ‘can’t put down’? Nicholas Sparks’ Message in a Bottle is definitely on that would be classified as that. This book has adventure, excitement, and most of all a true romantic tale. After watching the movie, many told me the book was even better. I had my doubts, but Sparks delivered everything promised and much more.

The book begins as Theresa Osborne, a reporter for the “Boston Times”, finds a glass bottle with a message inside while on her vacation. After reading the message, Theresa was touched and later agrees with her boss to publish it in her column. Many replies were made to her concerning the touching letter. One reply was something that would be intriguing to her... another letter found on the beach, written by the same man. This sparked Theresa to try to find the man who had written these beautiful letters. Yet, Theresa would find more that what she was looking for.

One major strength of this book is the characters are so real. Nicholas Sparks does a wonderful job introducing you to the characters and deep down, you feel as if they were one of your own friends. As we learn from the book, Theresa is a dedicated writer with many things going on in her life. Garrett, the one who writes the letters, on the other hand, has such a bold past behind him which he can’t seem to escape. Through the book, you find yourself learning more about the characters than ever thought possible.

Another strength is the way Sparks leaves you intrigued the whole way through. This is definitely a page-turner which is hard, if possible, to put down. The end of the chapters leave you hanging and in turn force you to read further, until you can’t possible read anymore. Chapter 4 ends in, “...the plane touched down in Wilmington the following day, Theresa Osborne check into a hotel, wondering where all this would lead.” This is a prime example of a cliff-hanger!

One more point about this truly marvelous book is the plot. It flows together so brilliantly. Theresa always seems to be going forward, while Garrett always reminiscing in the past. Garrett remembers through his dreams, pictures, letters, and memories. Garrett is a true romantic, as Theresa believes there is no romance left in this world. Garrett would change her views after a short period of time.

Message in a Bottle is a wonderful book. Not only should it be read, it should be read twice and even a third time. This book is guaranteed to leave you with a tear. As I have been told many times, and now telling others, the book is far better than the movie.