The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt

 

If I could only recommend one novel from 2023 it would be The Warsaw Sisters  by Amanda Barratt.

Following the story of sisters Antonina and Helena Dabrowska, sisters living in Warsaw, Poland during World War II, Barratt takes readers through a fictional insight into how the German occupation affected those left behind in the city.

Barratt shows a strong eye for detail weaving in many key events from Warsaw's wartime history. Her use of the sisters as story anchors throughout the occupation gave a natural way to cover so many elements of Warsaw's wartime history from Irene Sendler's work and the Home army to tragedies like the Katyn and Wola massacres. 

I also appreciated Barratt's character development allowing the events to shape the characters, their convictions, and their decisions as the war progressed. While not all of the decisions may be ones readers expect to see from this publisher, the choices felt understandable and reasonable given the reality and conditions the sisters faced as the war dragged on.

The Warsaw Sisters was not necessarily an easy read but Barratt has done her best to capture a fictional slice of historical events that need to be remembered, perhaps more than ever in these turbulent times.

5 out of 5 stars

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky

 

In The Legacy of Longdale Manor Turansky brings readers the story of  Gwen Morris and Charlotte Harper. I've noticed an uptake in dual timeline stories the last few years and this one places the leads 100 hundred years apart but with unexpected ties that hold fast through the years.

Turansky does a solid job bringing these two characters to life and I felt Turansky does a good job balancing and weaving together both plots. I enjoyed both lead characters although I did find myself enjoying Charlotte's storyline more, perhaps due to the urgency of her timeline given the recent upheaval of their living situation. Turansky maintains a solid pacing that is both engaging but doesn't feel overly rushed as the ladies wrestle through grief, growing up, and romance.

I found myself with mixed emotions regarding the book's take on the theme of forgiveness. While in Gwen's timeline her family's past decisions led to some obviously laid out consequences, repentance, forgiveness, and moving forward I didn't feel that same pattern was always as clear in Charlotte's story. It felt like the responsibility was more on the women to forgive than to make space for acknowledging the hurt and harm that had occurred. 

Overall, this was a pleasant easy read, the characters and plot are solid with lovely historical nods and a good eye for detail and continuity. I'm just not sure if this is a novel that I'll be able to recall by name in a few months time.

 3.5 out of 5 stars

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

This is Where It Ends by Cindy K. Sproles

 

I was so excited when I read the premise of Sproles new novel This is Where it Ends. The hidden gold, the mysterious box, the handsome young city reporter, and the mountain woman close to the end of her journey all felt like the elements of a book I was sure to love and yet I found myself disenchanted.

While I typically love the old mountain granny type of character ( I know so many ladies who would fit that category in real life minus the mountains), Minerva's character frustrated me on a few levels. 

Minerva's story, even in its resolution, just hit me as sad. While some may applaud the character's faithfulness to her promises and husband, the story presented was one of such loneliness, captivity to promises that didn't deserve it, and wasted potential that her final chapter of peace feels like too little, too late to really be satisfying. Minerva herself spends most of the book asking/complaining why she can't just die.

The story arc with the young reporter Del Rankin could have had potential between his role in the mysterious box, his learning life outside of the city, and the connection he slowly builds with Minerva but with the rushed timeline and the reader stuck in Minerva's waiting to die mindset Rankin's quest for answers feels too rushed to feel like a true redemption arc.

Perhaps I just had misplaced expectations about the story's focus. When the book's blurb mentioned "a lonely life" I expected more of the sometimes lonely and less of the toxic decisions that set the course of Minerva's life.

3 out of 5 stars 

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

In the Shadow of the River by Ann H Gabhart

Gabhart loves taking readers into the lives of characters I don't often see featured in this corner or historical fiction and In the Shadow of the River  is no exception. Here, Gabhart introduces readers to the life of Jacci, a young showboat actress who has spent her life on the river avoiding the darkness that hides in her past.

One thing I always appreciate about Gabhart's books is her characters. Jacci herself is an interesting lead character as she uncovers the truth of her origins both familial as well as with river life. The supporting characters add a lot of fun too and I wish we had  a prequel with Grampus' adventures with Captain Dan, Marelda, and Aunt Tildy's adventures when the kids were young and the show was being established. 

I also appreciate the attention Gabhart takes in introducing her plot elements and making sure Jacci's story has no loose ends upon the story's end. Between the mystery of her parentage, the romantic tensions on the showboat, and the dangers pursuing Jacci from the past it could have been easy to see some plot points dropped or awkwardly fit into the overarching flow of the story, but Gabhart's ability to weave in her plot elements with care and focus comes through once again.

That said, this book does move much slower and has a clunkier pacing than I'm used to from Gabhart. The first third of the book covers Jaccci's arrival into showboat life, but the major focus of that section is essentially summarized with the major tensions resolution revealed on the book's back cover.

I would have far rather had more of Jacci establishing herself on the showboat especially given the story's themes around family and identity and the interesting cast of characters that Gabhart gave Jacci for her showboat family over the 100 pages of summary revealed plot we received. I think it may have also eased some of the age difference uncomfortableness between Jacci and Gabe if more time had been given to their friendship/relationship instead of him dropping it on her (and readers) after 15 years.

3.5 out of 5 stars 

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

The Long March Home by Marcus Brotherton and Tosca Lee

 

The Long March Home  is a fictional tale based on the actual events in the Pacific theatre during WWII. Centered on the character of Jimmy Propfield with his best friends Hank and Billy, this novel covers their childhood in Mobile, their experiences in WWII, and their desire to return home.

Honestly, this story was almost impossible for me to put down. The fact that Brotherton and Lee chose to tell Jimmy's whole story, from his childhood friendship with Hank, Billy, and Claire through to enlistment really emphasized the humanity and youth of the characters, as well as the real life men they symbolized. While obviously a war based novel, Brotherton and Lee have presented so much more with these characters as they explore, coming of age, brotherhood, grief, and forgiveness. 

This is one of those stories that catches you by the heart and sits with you long after the final page is turned.

On a more nerdy note, I appreciated how the authors note at the book's conclusion provided additional context on this less covered aspect of WWII. The explanation of certain historical figures and mysteries that made their way into the fictional plot as well as additional supplementary reading on Bataan is a good starting point for anyone else who had their interest caught on the historical side of these events.

As a warning for longtime readers of this publisher, this novel is far more graphic than usual offerings. The plot covers the forced death march of P.O.W.s, torture and abuse of prisoners, murder, and general horrors of war. None of these scenes felt gratuitous as they were based on the actual events and developed Jimmy's story but they can be hard to read.

4.5 stars out of 5

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy

 

In 1911, Mabel MacGinnis is Europe's strongest woman and has performed beside her father in the Manzo Brothers Circus her entire life. But at his unexpected death, she loses everything she's ever known and sets off in the company of acrobat Jake Cunningham for America in hope of finding the mother she's just discovered is still alive.

Isabella Moreau, the nation's most feted aerialist, has given everything to the circus. But age and injury now threaten her security, and Isabella, stalked by old fears, makes a choice that risks everything. When her daughter Mabel appears alongside the man who never wanted to see Isabella again, Isabella is forced to face the truth of where, and in what, she derives her worth.

(excerpt from back of book)

This may not be Duffy's most polished novel but I feel like it may be one of her more memorable and emotional ones. I feel pretty confident saying this won't be everyone's cup of tea and more conservative readers will probably find the subject matter uncomfortable. However, I found the story highly engaging and a thoughtful attempt to address some deeper topics in fictional form.

While the story may be centered in the world of 1911 circus life, Duffy uses the tale to explore themes such as post-partum depression, abandonment, suicide, loss of spouse, and having to rebuild your life/self. 

Mabel and Isabella were interesting leads in both their comparison and contrasts. I appreciated how Duffy used their storyline to highlight just how often generational pain can be unintentionally handed down and how much strength can be required to being healing at any age. While I was sometimes frustrating with either woman's decisions Duffy really works hard to provide framework within her characters stories to highlight how past trauma and fear can drive her characters decisions even years later (and yes I'll include Jake in that as well).

Though Mabel and Jake do fall under the marriage of convenience trope, it still comes across as a wonderful slow burn romance and really helped give the characters some space to heal from the previous mentioned trauma to come to a place where they were ready to pursue a relationship. Which made it a much more satisfying read, in my opinion.

4 out of 5 stars. 

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

A Match in the Making by Jen Turano

A Match in the Making is my first time reading a book by author Jen Turano but I certainly hope it won't be the last. This latest story was a delightful mix of romance, humor, and heart that gave me some modern day Pride and Prejudice vibes as well.

Here our protagonist is Miss Gwendolyn Brinley, former travelling companion to her cousin turned assistant matchmaker in Newport's well-known summer season. I really loved Gwendolyn's no nonsense approach to life, her sense of humor, and her care for those she encounters. She's a lead you just want to cheer for. While there is some tension in her storyline  about traditional vs. nontraditional goals the takeaway felt more about finding one's own path wherever that may lead which felt appropriate for Gwendolyn

Her male counterpart is Walter Townsend, a widower looking for a wife who ends up one of Gwendolyn's clients in Newport. Townsend had a lot more depth than I expected and I truly enjoyed watching his growth with regards to his family throughout the tale, not to mention his frequent head to heads with his matchmaker. 

My favourite part of the whole story though was simply the experience that comes through Turano's writing. Her ability to capture the little details, to add the ridiculous and hilarious scenarios that come from both life with small children and from a pack of socialites looking for a catch, and the careful ways she slowly weaves her characters together to a satisfying ending just makes this an enjoyable read start to finish.

 As a final note, Adelaide really stood out among the Newport Summer crew and I'm definitely excited to see that she'll be continuing the series in To Spark a Match  the second addition to this series currently slated for release in late 2023.

5 out of 5 stars

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel

 

Jennifer Deibel is inviting her readers back to 1930s Ireland in a tale filled with mystery, charm, and heart. Deibel has such a talent for infusing her stories with the little details and nuances that help bring them to life and it's one I see growing with each novel she writes. From her usage of Irish in her characters dialogue, to her sensory filled descriptions of the Irish landscape, to her attention to detail in building her stories you can feel the excitement and love she has for the characters she's created and the country itself.

Anchoring this particular story is Brianna Kelly, a young maid who works and lives at Ballymacool House and Boarding School. Brianna feels, to me, like a wiser and more lively Cinderella type character. Brianna serves as a wonderful guide as the story leads readers through questions of identity, faithfulness through hardship, and grief. 

Michael provides a strong counter as this story's "prince charming" a bookish member of the gentry. While he definitely has his heroic moments it's his willingness to serve and to advocate that makes him such a memorable character. 

I really appreciate how Deibel is able to walk the fine line between giving readers a cozy romance that feels like it deserves it's own cuppa and a cozy blanket with allowing her characters to engage in a full range of emotions and the consequences of their decisions and the actions of those around them. 

I do wish that there had been a little more time to give cousin Adeline more nuance throughout the plot. Deibel gave hints of her story that just leave her story feeling like it was still swirling with untapped potential. Maybe Adeline will make an appearance in a later novel as Deibel has shown she is open to having old characters reappear if the era and location allows.

Deibel fans, old and new, will not be disappointed 

4 out of 5 stars

Disclaimer - I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. The opinions are my own.

All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes

 

Amanda Dykes is back with a tale of love, redemption, and discovery of self in a beautiful tale set amongst the historic canals of Venice.

Dykes infuses beauty and poetry into every element of her storytelling. I'm always amazed at the amount of heart and soul that streams out of her narratives. Dykes, by far, is one of the most talented storytellers in her genre today. 

Honestly, if I could only recommend one historical novel from the last 12 months this would be it.

While I'm usually drawn in by a character in the fictions that capture a piece of my heart, with All the Lost Places it wasn't so much a character but a question -Who am I? Dykes draws on the tensions between the weight of the past and the hopes of the future throughout the plot with each character holding to the central question of identity. From Sebastien's mysterious origins as an infant in a basket on the canals of Venice, to Daniel's life of loss and regrets, to Venice herself shifting and flowing against the plans of stronger forces each story draws readers back again and again to that query of who am I and who can I become.

That's not to say the characters aren't strong as well. Sebastien, Daniel, Marianna, Vittoria, and the Guild each hold their place as Daniel seeks to find the lost book detailing the life of Sebastien Trovato. 
The character pairings balance each other well and are engaging, well thought out characters. But this is one of those novels where it's the story shines beyond its characters long after the last page is finished.

5 out of 5 stars 

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green

 

Amy Lynn Green is back with another WWII era novel and this one might be my favourite yet from Green. 

The first and central aspect of this story that captured my attention was that, while this was a WWII novel with loss and romance, at it's core, the story centered on community and friendship that can form in unlikely places. While Avis, the new housewife turned librarian is positioned as the main character she really feels more as one of many surrounded by the quiet Martina running from her past while caring for her children, the spirited Ginny with her big dreams, and Louise the wealthy library patron alone but for her cook and gardener. 

Green packs a lot into this motley crew and any of the characters could easily have overshadowed the other and yet Green really brings them together well. I loved how gently their stories were teased out as their relationships grew. I loved how natural their shared moments were as they realized how much they had to offer and how much they came to mean to one another.

Also, it was just refreshing to read a novel where female friendship played a larger role than romance or intrigue. I feel this really helps The Blackout Book Club stand out in its genre.

I was also pleased to see Green sticking to her trademark of incorporating some sort of correspondence from the characters within the plot, this time in the form of the official notes from the book club. I've come to look forward to these unique sections of writing from Green and this novel's inclusions were a delightful way to gain extra insight into Avis, Ginny, and Freddy especially, and it was a testament to Green's skill with this literary format that the sections always felt natural.

Green quickly made her way onto my author's to watch list after her novel Things We Didn't Say but The Blackout Book Club easily moves her into one of my favourite current writers.

4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.

Dangerous Beauty by Melissa Koslin

 

A Dangerous Beauty is a romantic suspense novel by Melissa Koslin. While I was intrigued by the concept I don't think I was the target audience for this particular story. 

I enjoyed the concepts Koslin brought to Liliana as a main character. She really had some rich development as she healed and discovered herself as an individual on the other side of trauma. Meric was also an interesting concept that feels very familiar in the romance genre of the strong, quiet male on the road to redeeming his origins.

The suspense storyline was also interesting to see unfold. I appreciated Koslin's skill at drawing out her plot, laying clues and twists to help build up the final reveal. My problem came down to the romance.

As much as I enjoyed Liliana and Meric as characters in their own right: the modern setting, the isolated nature of the characters due to the plot, and the speed and approach that the more traumatic elements were handled I just couldn't appreciate the romantic aspects of the novel. It read too much like a trauma bonding scenario for me to really root for the couple at the stage the story took place.

For readers ready to dive in it should be noted that due to the heavier topic matter there are some potentially triggering plotlines including: loss of loved ones to violence, violence against women, sexual assault, scene describing assault with intent to kill, human trafficking. 

3 out of 5 stars

Book was provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and Baker Publishing Group.