That Bubbling Feeling by Ali Hidalgo is a unique and stirring exploration of emotional depths through the metaphor of the sea, weaving a narrative that is both captivating and philosophically intriguing. Hidalgo's novel is not just a literary piece but an experience that ebbs and flows with the rhythm of its oceanic theme. This review delves into the narrative style, character development, thematic depth, and the overall impact of Hidalgo’s work on contemporary fiction.

The novel is set in a quaint coastal town, where the protagonist, Louise, returns after two decades to reconcile with her past. The return is triggered by the mysterious disappearance of her childhood friend, Jonah, whose love for the ocean had always been both magnificent and terrifying. Hidalgo uses the vastness of the ocean as a powerful symbol of Louise's unresolved emotions and the secrets submerged beneath the surface of her hometown. The narrative structure cleverly mimics the ocean currents—sometimes calm and reflective, sometimes tumultuous and overpowering.

Hidalgo's prose is lyrical and rich with sensory details. The reader can almost smell the salt in the air and hear the waves crashing against the cliffs. This immersive sensory engagement is not just a backdrop but a central component of the story. The detailed descriptions serve as a conduit to Louise's inner world, revealing her fears, hopes, and transformations. The use of the first-person narrative enhances this intimacy, making Louise’s journey deeply personal yet universally relatable.

The characterization in That Bubbling Feeling is profoundly developed. Louise, as the central character, is portrayed with all her complexities and contradictions. Her growth throughout the novel from a woman haunted by her past to one who embraces the uncertain future is compelling and realistically depicted. Supporting characters, like the enigmatic Mrs. Dalton, who owns the local bookstore, and Louise’s estranged brother, Peter, add depth and contribute to the novel’s exploration of themes such as forgiveness, the passage of time, and the meaning of home.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its thematic resonance. Hidalgo explores the concept of memory and its fluidity akin to water. Memories in the novel are not static; they ebb, flow, and sometimes crash violently into the present. The theme of loss, both literal and metaphorical, is juxtaposed with the idea of recovery and reconciliation, just as the town itself recovers and rebuilds after seasonal storms. Hidalgo's philosophical ponderings about nature and human emotion are seamlessly woven into the narrative, enriching the story without overwhelming it.

The existential dialogue between characters, particularly between Louise and her grandmother, serves as a poignant reflection on human vulnerability and strength. The grandmother, a former marine biologist, shares wisdom about the ocean that doubles as life lessons. Phrases like, "The ocean teaches us that we can control neither the currents nor the weather, but we can learn to navigate through them," resonate not just within the context of the story but also speak to the reader on a personal level.

Although the novel has a slow build-up, the pacing seems intentional, mirroring the gradual unveiling of the town’s secrets and Louise's self-discovery. The climax, where the mystery surrounding Jonah’s disappearance unravels, is both unexpected and satisfying, bringing closure yet leaving certain threads open-ended, much like the ocean’s perpetual motions.

However, the novel's strength can also be its weakness for some readers. The heavy emphasis on metaphor and the slow, introspective narrative might not appeal to those seeking a fast-paced or plot-driven story. Hidalgo’s style, poetic and dense with metaphor, requires contemplation and may demand patience to fully appreciate its depth.

In conclusion, That Bubbling Feeling by Ali Hidalgo is a profound and beautifully crafted novel that succeeds in capturing the essence of human emotions and the inexorable passage of time through the motif of the ocean. It provides a thoughtful and reflective read for those who are willing to dive into its emotional depths and explore the undercurrents of human relationships and existential contemplations. Hidalgo’s novel is a commendable addition to contemporary literary fiction, resonating deeply with anyone who has ever stood on the shore, looking out into the vast, endless sea.