RaveBookreporterFor years, I have been waiting for an engaging and comprehensive story about the women\'s suffrage movement. So I am happy to report that New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Chiaverni absolutely nails it ... The unexpected humor interjected by these outspoken ladies took me by surprise, causing me to laugh out loud numerous times. My favorite parts of the book occurred when the women traveled 250 miles from New York City to Washington, DC in the cold March 1913 weather to participate in the Woman Suffrage Procession. I felt honored and privileged to join their ranks, albeit from my couch, and I could feel their joy and jubilation ... an often brutal and raw look at both sexism and racism, yet it also provides a beautiful and bright ray of hope ... I could not be more pleased, and I implore my fellow readers to march to the bookstore now to pick up a copy.
Beatriz Williams
RaveBookreporterWhat started out as a slow burn soon turned riveting as the history of aviation (a subject that I never thought I’d care much about!) was brought to life in this suspenseful, heartbreaking and hopeful mystery. The reader is invited along on an unforgettable journey ... As if I were seated in the airplane alongside Irene and Sam, my heart often was in my throat as they participated in various races around the world and other dangerous, gravity-defying tricks to thrill the crowds ... I appreciated that a beloved pet was so thoroughly and lovingly woven into the novel ... As always, Beatriz Williams’ signature writing style paired with strong, independent, vibrant female characters drew me into the story and didn’t let go until the surprising and satisfying conclusion ... I\'d call it a rip-roaring, soaring success ... chock-full of fabulous characters, adventure, intrigue, suspense and, of course, romance.
Jennifer Chiaverini
PositiveBookreporterThe unique personalities of the characters truly shine through in this delightful new addition ... If you love this series as much as I do, then this new entry is a must read. Character recaps are included, and I was surprised by how much I remembered about each and every one of them. If you haven\'t read the series yet, then what are you waiting for? A whole new world of likable characters and heartwarming stories awaits ... When I first received The Christmas Boutique in the mail, I thought it was too early for me to enjoy a Christmas-themed book, but the heartwarming story quickly drew me in and made me change my mind. Revisiting the characters felt just like being home for the holidays --- cozy and warm, like a handmade Christmas quilt passed down from generation to generation. If only I owned a real quilt crafted by these lovely and talented women.
Meg Waite Clayton
RaveBookreporterI was fascinated by the novel\'s premise and enjoyed learning about how thousands of children were shuttled to safety via Kindertransport. Just like a train, the first one-third of the story unfolded slowly before gaining momentum and a more constant speed. The next third chugged along nicely, allowing me to form an affinity for each of the main characters, especially once their stories converged. Even though the book was long and detailed, the short chapters definitely helped it move along more quickly than expected, and I liked that newspaper articles were included. By the time I reached the last third, it was full steam ahead, and I couldn\'t put it down ... Nonfiction history buffs will appreciate Meg Waite Clayton’s meticulous research and attention to detail, while fans of historical fiction will love the personable characters, as well as the emotion poured into the story. I found the scenes at the train station, in which the parents had to say goodbye to their children, especially poignant and excruciatingly heartwrenching ... an incredibly unique, hopeful and inspirational story about a strong, fierce and determined woman. Even though I’ve read numerous books set during WWII, it was a unique subject for me and definitely needs to be shared with the world.
Susan Meissner
PositiveBook ReporterThis novel provided an opportunity for me to learn about a new subject, and since I have read so many books set during WWII, I liked that some of it focused on the aftermath of war instead of only the war itself. However, the part that struck me the most in this heartwarming, coming-of-age story was the power of love in all its forms, the characters’ search for \'home\' regardless of nationality, and the strength of a childhood friendship to help you through the difficult times.
