2017 we meet a 70 year old Signe returning to her home in Norway. Then we meet David in France 2041, traveling with his daughter Lou. This book grasps the reader from the start; pulling you into a story you aren't so sure about. At a time in the world when the topic of global warming, ecosystems, natural disasters and the survival of the human race are high - this book's timing is perfect. Water - we all depend on it. But now how are these characters going to be connected, how is their relationship and desire for water connected - what is the significance of their stories side by side. As each chapter begins the author jumps from one narrator to the other. Maja Lunde has a beautiful writing voice and although I am familiar with her native tongue of Norwegian I am only reading her books in English. The translating is spectacular - after reading other novels which have also been translated from the mother tongue of the author I have to boast that this is the best! I found myself underlining quotes throughout and thoroughly enjoying the writing not just the storyline. After reading The End of the Ocean I will be looking for other books by Lunde. She has a magical way of describing the scenic areas of her book; I spent significant time in Norway and while I loved this book my heart was aching for the Norwegian coastline as I read her descriptive narrative.