The Road Renounced by Kaye D. Schmitz is a historical fiction story that follows the ugly effects of war, following people far from the battlefield. World War I was devasting, and while it’s a fictional account, the story tugs at the heartstrings.

The story begins with three characters at different places and times. In 2015, in Pennsylvania, Suzanne Ryan discovers her grandmother Maude’s diary. She learns that back in 1915, Maude Brewer was living on the family farm with her parents and brother Henry who spent much of his time with Buzz Ryan, his best friend. Their lives are abruptly impacted by the first world war, with death and despair.

When you initially start reading The Road Renounced and weave through the three characters and their perspectives, you’ll eagerly want to find how they intercept and what makes their lives connect. The author does a great job of pulling the curiosity out of readers, keeping them on edge until all three storylines converge. It’s a fantastic read that will keep you turning one page after the next.

I found this book well-written, and the author didn’t shy away from the horrors of war on the battlefield, back home, and with the remaining family members awaiting any news. The characters are complex and intriguing, and the story doesn’t pull away from the brutality of war and the issues that arise behind people’s closed doors. Schmitz does a great job of handling the dual storylines and integrating them together.

The Road Renounced by Kaye D. Schmitz is an excellent, 5-star read that will keep you reading from start to finish. Highly recommended!

Pages 382 | ASIN: B0BLYDJ1WB