In The Mystery from Way Back When, Carolyn Summer Quinn weaves a compelling narrative that bridges the present and the past with elegance and emotional depth. Benny Finnegan, accompanied by his wife Imogene and daughter Tara, returns to his childhood church in New Jersey for its final Mass. This seemingly routine visit transforms into a poignant journey through time when Benny reunites with Antonia “Baby Face,” a woman he once found as a baby on the church steps alongside his brother. Now a mother herself, Antonia urgently seeks Benny’s help to uncover the identity of her biological mother—a quest made critical by a medical crisis. As Benny reflects on his wartime childhood and the earlier, fruitless search for Antonia’s family, the narrative delicately unfolds layers of memory, revealing how the passage of time brings clarity and resolution to the long-unsolved mystery of her origins.

Quinn balances suspense with warmth, crafting a story that is as engaging as it is uplifting. The intrigue surrounding Antonia’s past, paired with her urgent search for answers, offers just enough suspense to keep readers hooked without veering into melodrama. Simultaneously, the wholesome tone of the book lends a comforting, heartfelt quality that makes the story both accessible and deeply satisfying.

The author’s writing style and pacing are fantastic. The narrative moves seamlessly, blending mild suspense with moments of reflection and revelation. Quinn’s ability to evoke both emotional resonance and curiosity ensures that readers remain fully invested in the characters’ intertwined journeys.

At its heart, this novel is a touching exploration of belonging and identity. Quinn beautifully captures the significance of family bonds and the profound sense of rootedness that comes with understanding one’s history. Through Benny’s and Antonia’s interconnected stories, the book offers a poignant reminder of the enduring importance of connection, whether by blood or choice.

The Mystery from Way Back When is a wholesome, engaging, and thought-provoking read. With its blend of mild suspense and heartfelt moments, it holds universal appeal and is highly recommended for readers of all ages seeking a story that will both captivate and uplift.

Pages: 166 | ASIN : B0DQP1RJ4P