Blog Archives
When a Stranger Knocks
When a Stranger Knocks by Peggy Ann Shumway is a compelling blend of mystery and slice-of-life storytelling, elegantly weaving together themes of love, faith, and the complexities of human experience. The novel follows Joaquina, a young woman devastated by the brutal murder of her loved ones at the hands of a stranger. Haunted by trauma, she becomes wary of letting anyone new into her life. However, when two strangers unexpectedly arrive, Joaquina is torn between the hope for healing and the fear of further heartbreak. The novel poignantly explores whether these new arrivals will bring love and solace or only deepen her sorrow.
From the very first page, I was captivated by Shumway’s writing. The atmosphere is hauntingly eerie as the story begins, immediately drawing the reader into Joaquina’s world. The author’s ability to evoke empathy for the characters and their tragedies is remarkable, making their pain and struggles feel deeply personal. Each character is thoughtfully crafted, resonating with a sense of familiarity, but it was Noah’s character that truly stood out for me. His gentle and comforting presence adds a layer of calm to the narrative, leading to a bittersweet yet peaceful conclusion. The prose is exquisite, rich with metaphors and deeper meanings that make every sentence worth savoring. I found myself more engrossed in the beauty of the writing and the intricacies of the characters than the mystery itself, though the plot is equally engaging. One of the novel’s most enchanting aspects is its exploration of miracles and the way the characters’ stories are seamlessly intertwined. The narrative offers insightful reflections on faith and doubt, which are subtly woven through the characters’ experiences. The bond between Noah and Michael is particularly touching, adding warmth and authenticity to the story. The concept of strangers entering our lives and helping us overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges is both poignant and beautiful, almost like an angelic presence that arrives when needed most. The way these characters find each other at their lowest points is heartwarming, and despite the darker themes of murder and mystery, the prose maintains a gentle, comforting tone that reassures the reader.
The setting further enhances the novel’s slightly eerie atmosphere, leaving you wondering about the origins of the strangers and what they will bring next. The symbolism and meaningful resolution provide a fitting end to a beautifully written story. When a Stranger Knocks is a remarkable read, especially for those who appreciate descriptive, lyrical prose. It’s a book that resonates on multiple levels and lingers with you long after you’ve finished. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves richly crafted narratives with a focus on character and atmosphere.
Pages: 385 | ASIN : B0D6Q29L1C
Find the Courage to Keep Going
Big Love and War Horse follows a family in North Carolina at the start of WWII who struggle to heal from the death of their wife and mother and the secrets that have been kept hidden. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
We all have family stories we hear growing up. When we share them with others we gain new understandings and form new connections. I began writing Big Love and War Horse in 2015. Life has a way of happening though, and I could not work on my manuscript consistently. This delay benefited me greatly. As time went on I found more and more inspiration from hearing new family histories, and from the historical research I did for my book. With each bit I learned, the story naturally grew.
Although Big Love and War Horse is a work of fiction, many of the characters and stories within the book are loosely based on my family’s history. I will say the original inspiration for the novel was the death of my grandmother. She sadly took her own life when I was very young. All of us have experienced loss and grief during tumultuous times. I wanted to share the emotions of a broken family surviving the same adversities many of us face today. No matter where a person is from, or who they are, there will be moments in life where they need to find the courage to keep going.
What inspired and guided your thinking in telling this family’s story through the eyes of their beloved dogs, and how did you get into the mindset to do this?
Sometimes I think no one knows you like your pets do. Anyone who has a dog can tell you about the unconditional love their furry friend has for them. For a lot of us, our dogs are with us during some of our most vulnerable moments. They witness us in private when no one else is around. I truly believe they share our joy and empathize with our pain. Although she has passed now, my Great Pyrenees, Big Love, was always a comfort to me. My Doberman, War Horse, is still always at my side. I have often wondered what my dogs are thinking as they experience life with me. I think a lot of people wonder about that. It seemed only fitting to add the dogs’ perspectives. I felt telling parts of the story through the eyes of Big Love and War Horse added a level of intimacy and understanding that we would not otherwise have.
As for getting into the mindset to write from the dogs’ perspectives, it wasn’t much different than developing my other characters. That may sound funny, but I had to imagine what it would be like if I were a dog. I live on a small farm, so I spend much of my time surrounded by animals. I actually have six dogs. All of them have very different personalities. I spent time observing each of them and learning to understand their behaviors.
Writing from Big Love and War Horse’s perspective was one of my favorite parts of writing this novel. Even during the heaviest moments in the book, I found writing from the dogs’ perspectives refreshing. A dog’s actions are based solely on survival, loyalty, and love. They have the freedom to be who they are with an unbridled spirit.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
All of us in some way have felt the impact of war, financial crisis, racial injustice, or the loss of a loved one, just as the Deacon family does in the novel. I wanted to write a story reminding us of the strength of family bonds and the unwavering friendships that lift us up in our darkest moments. There were many themes I explored and touched upon as I wrote. Jonas and Kay coming of age through tragedy, Luke questioning his self-worth and morals, Linnie weighing what is good versus evil as she tries to find her place in the world, and of course, the unconditional love and loyalty of Big Love and War Horse were just a few themes I felt were important. Most of all, I hoped my novel would be a story of love, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity, where justice and redemption give the readers hope.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I spend a lot of my time writing. I love to explore new genres, and I always let my creativity take me where it wants to. I have several children’s picture books written that I am hoping to publish. I have three novel ideas I am outlining and researching for future projects. Currently, I am working on two different manuscripts. The first is a children’s chapter book that tells the fictitious life story of a crow. However, my main focus is on a novel I am co-authoring with my husband. The genre is contemporary literary fiction. This next book will be a comedy. Be prepared to laugh as much as you probably cried while reading Big Love and War Horse. I am uncertain when my next book will be available, but be on the lookout for The Summer Beard.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Abandoned by their father, Luke, after the sudden death of their mother, fifteen-year-old Jonas and his younger sister Kay are coming of age in a world shrouded in secrecy and uncertainty. Luke’s sister Linnie steps in to help mend the broken family, but haunted by her own hidden truths, her life is shattered by the past.
Through the intimate perspectives of the Deacon family and their dogs, this intricately woven tale of tragedy and love reminds us of the power of the human spirit to rise above seemingly impossible circumstances.
Big Love and War Horse: a novel
Big Love and War Horse, by Shallen Anne Chitwood, is a compelling novel that captivates readers with its fast-paced, thrilling plot. Uniquely narrated by the family’s two dogs—Big Love and War Horse—the story delves deeply into their thoughts and emotions, weaving together a fascinating and intricate narrative. Set in 1942 against the backdrop of the Second World War, the novel centers on the Deacon family in North Carolina. After the sudden death of their mother, Jonas and his younger sister Kay must shoulder new responsibilities as their father succumbs to alcohol to cope with his grief. Their dogs become a source of strength and unity for the family, guiding them through their adversities. As the Deacon family leans on one another for support, long-held secrets threaten to unravel their fragile peace.
Big Love and War Horse is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the gut-wrenching aftermath of grief, ultimately leading to acceptance and healing. The narrative also addresses the pervasive racism and segregation of the era, portraying a powerful message of breaking barriers and hope for a future where love knows no boundaries. The novel’s twists and turns will keep readers on the edge of their seats, piecing together the past and anticipating the story’s resolution.
One of the standout aspects of this novel is the way Chitwood intricately weaves the dogs’ perspectives into the narrative. This unique storytelling approach not only adds depth to the narrative but also evokes a strong emotional response from the reader. The author’s ability to convey the dogs’ feelings and thoughts in such a relatable manner is truly commendable.
The depiction of the Deacon family’s struggles is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Jonas, at just fifteen, and his younger sister Kay are forced to grow up quickly in the absence of their parents. The portrayal of their bond, especially highlighted in scenes like Jonas’s harsh but ultimately loving reprimand of Kay after a hunting trip, showcases Chitwood’s talent in developing complex, realistic characters. Their journey of coping with loss and finding solace in each other and their loyal dogs is poignantly written, making it easy for readers to empathize with their plight.
Big Love and War Horse is a beautifully written novel that combines a unique narrative style with powerful themes of love, loss, and resilience. Chitwood’s ability to draw readers into the emotional world of the Deacon family through the eyes of their dogs is both innovative and deeply moving. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, animal narratives, and stories that tug at the heartstrings.
Pages: 208 | ASIN : B0D6RR9Z77
Love and Protest
Love and Protest intertwines the lives of two young women, Harper and Libby, separated by time but united by their struggles for independence and identity. Harper, a modern teen from Hickory Springs, finds solace and inspiration in the 1960s diary of Libby, a girl who embarked on a daring journey to San Francisco during the height of the counterculture movement. As Harper delves into Libby’s past, she gains the courage to confront her own challenges and the oppressive circumstances of her life.
Author Nancy Klann-Moren’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and authentic character voices. The opening scene, where Harper stumbles upon the Second Chance Thrift Shop, is particularly evocative. The humidity of a Georgia day, the dusty nightstand with the diary, and the quaint charm of the shopkeeper all create a richly textured world. The narrative seamlessly shifts between Harper’s present-day struggles and Libby’s historical journey, maintaining a compelling pace that keeps the reader engaged.
One of the most poignant aspects of the book is its exploration of generational struggles and the quest for personal freedom. Harper’s discovery of Libby’s diary acts as a catalyst for her own transformation. The entries dated January 1 and January 4, 1967, reveal Libby’s determination to break free from her repressive environment. This historical perspective, I think, adds depth to Harper’s contemporary story, highlighting the universal desire for self-determination and the courage it takes to pursue one’s dreams.
The themes of addiction and recovery are handled with sensitivity and realism. Harper’s mother’s battle with opioids following a debilitating injury is portrayed with stark honesty. The emotional turmoil and the impact on Harper’s life are palpable. This subplot is not just a backdrop but a significant part of Harper’s growth. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, making Harper’s journey toward finding hope and strength all the more impactful.
While the story excels in its character development and vivid descriptions, one area that I think could be improved is the pacing in the book’s middle sections. I feel that the transitions between Harper’s and Libby’s narratives can sometimes feel abrupt, and the detailed exploration of certain subplots, like Harper’s interactions with secondary characters, occasionally slows the momentum.
Love and Protest is a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories with rich historical contexts. Nancy Klann-Moren’s ability to weave together the past and present through the lives of two resilient young women is engaging and thought-provoking. This book is particularly well-suited for readers interested in historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and narratives that tackle social issues with a heartfelt touch.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0D2VMQGJT
The Secret Journey
The Secret Journey, co-authored by Brian Barnes and Judith Briles, delves into the tumultuous life of Lisa, the sole daughter of a port commander in Marseilles, France. This young adult historical fiction paints a vivid picture of Lisa’s complex familial dynamics, highlighting her estrangement from her mother and brother in contrast to the adoration of her father, Alexander. Alexander, recognizing Lisa’s acute understanding of human intentions, is a pillar of support in her life. However, the narrative takes a dark turn with his untimely death, attributed to poisoning by Lisa’s mother. In the wake of this tragedy, Lisa’s life undergoes a drastic transformation. She flees her opulent life, taking on the disguise of a teenage boy named Nichol, and sets out for Paris, pursued by unseen threats. This journey is a flight for survival and a quest for a greater purpose, shadowed by the need to address past injustices.
The narrative captivates from the start, with a rhythm that dynamically shifts to reflect the varying phases of Lisa’s journey. This variance in pacing adds a unique flavor to the story, especially in the rapid development of Lisa’s romance with Robert. This brisk unfolding introduces an element of surprise and spontaneity, which can be particularly appealing to readers who enjoy unexpected turns in a storyline. The dialogue and narrative structure are skillfully crafted, laying a solid foundation for the story. There’s an exciting opportunity here to deepen this already engaging narrative. By exploring the characters’ emotions and motivations in more detail, the authors have the potential to enrich the reader’s experience, making it even more immersive. This enhancement in character development promises to strengthen the reader’s connection with the characters, adding an extra layer of intimacy and engagement to an already captivating tale.
The Secret Journey is a commendable choice for those interested in a story featuring a strong female lead overcoming familial strife in a medieval setting. The novel’s exploration of resilience and self-discovery, set against a historical backdrop, makes it a noteworthy addition to the young adult historical fiction genre.
Pages: 478 | ASIN : B0BMM14LYK
Remarkable and Inspiring
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk follows a woman on a journey to the New World in 1620 who encounters challenges that she could not have foreseen and must fight for her own survival. What inspired the setup of your story?
For over forty years, I have done genealogy as a hobby to learn more about my family, where we came from, and what we went through. As a part of that process, I realized how seldom women were at the forefront of histories stories even though they were often the ones holding the whole thing together. I felt like I needed to give these women, my ancestors, and yours, a voice.
Sarah is portrayed as an ordinary woman who has to rise above the standard stereotype to survive the harsh conditions she finds herself in. What do you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
I think we often forget that it is the ordinary person among us who often does extraordinary things. Sarah doesn’t see herself as a victim of the many challenges she faces, instead, she seizes each of those challenges to grow and learn and in the process, she discovers who she really is, and what she is really capable of. That is inspiring to me and I hope to others who read my books.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
I did not. This was my first novel, and while I knew the story would start on the Mayflower, I knew little else. I didn’t even know how the story would end until it did! As I “became” Sarah and began to weave into her story things that had happened to my ancestors, and to those of her time, the story just grew organically. Sarah is an amalgamation of what so many women of that time endured, the pain, the struggles, the joy, and the hope for the future.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
On the Wings is the first of the trilogy The Centenary Chronicles-Tales of American Women. The second book which follows Sarah’s great-great-granddaughter Eliza during the American Revolution was published in November of 2023. Till I Come Home is another story of an ordinary woman faced with circumstances most of us could not even imagine and how she manages to face those challenges while finding a way to hold her marriage and her family together.
The last book in the Chronicles is out next week, Her Last Full Measure is a very personal book for me, heavily based on my own family’s experience during the Civil War and follows Eliza’s great-granddaughter Millicent and her family. Men get and deserve great accolades for the sacrifices they make in war and that theme runs through all the books. But, it’s the women, what they must do to survive while the men are gone that is truly remarkable and inspiring. It doesn’t always have a happy ending, it isn’t always easy, and sometimes it is raw and painful. But each of these books takes the reader into the heart of a woman they can admire, empathize with, and be inspired by, leaving the reader feeling hopeful with a newfound appreciation for what their ancestors did so they could be here today.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Winner of the highly coveted 5-star Highly Recommended award from The Historical Fiction Company.
Nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence.
Plymouth 1620-Sarah has left the security of all she knows to travel with her husband to the New World, but things don’t go as planned. The Mayflower is lost unable to find the colony already there they must manage on their own. Not enough food, no shelter, then people start dying. Can Sarah find her inner strength and prevail or is she destined to join the others, another grave on Coles Hill.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is deeply satisfying. Whether it veers towards happiness or sadness, it stays true to the story’s spirit and provides a fitting conclusion to Sarah’s journey.
This book stands out for its focus on ordinary women of the past, whose accomplishments were anything but ordinary. This perspective is refreshing and adds a unique dimension to the genre of historical fiction. The authors skill at incorporating historical elements into an engrossing story without becoming boring is impressive. Because of the evocative and detailed writing, Sarah’s experiences come to life on the page. A cleverly written plot arc with a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Every stage of Sarah’s trip receives sufficient attention, guaranteeing a smooth and seamless progression of the story. A must read for everyone who loves strong woman characters who overcome the odds.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk
Gail Combs Oglesby’s On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is a historical fiction novel that delves into the journey of Sarah Bailey and her husband, Jonathan, as they embark on a life-changing voyage to the New World. Filled with aspirations, their journey takes an unforeseen and hazardous turn. The narrative dramatically shifts when Jonathan’s demise is caused by a severe winter illness, leaving Sarah widowed and in charge of her brother-in-law.
In this trying period, Sarah stands out as a formidable and resilient character. Oglesby’s narrative highlights the strength and perseverance of women during this era, underscoring their significant, yet often overlooked, contributions to history. The author adeptly intertwines historical themes within the story, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary women who faced extraordinary challenges. The book is marked by its compelling blend of engaging storytelling and meticulous historical detail. Oglesby’s vivid and descriptive writing style immerses readers in the struggles and triumphs of colonial life, fostering an emotional connection with characters, particularly the tenacious Sarah Bailey. The author excels in depicting Sarah’s emotional depth and steadfast determination, showcasing her evolution from an optimistic newcomer to a courageous survivor. The novel’s pacing is dynamic, and its swift plot developments add to the vibrancy of a richly woven narrative full of historical insight. It concludes with a poignant and hopeful note that resonates deeply with its audience, leaving a lasting impression.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is an enriching read for those interested in historical narratives, especially those that highlight women’s experiences. It offers a detailed and empathetic portrayal of immigrant life and the struggles faced by women in the past. The novel’s vivid storytelling, memorable characters, and insightful exploration of colonial history come together to create a touching and compelling journey, exemplified by Sarah’s poignant and resilient story.
Pages: 361 | ASIN : B0C79JX7FY
The Meaning of Coincidence and Fate
In Anna’s Shadow, a surgeon finds herself caught in the middle of a man’s search for a woman from his past after leaving Doctors Without Borders to care for her aunt. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for Anna’s Shadow stems from a true love story and an article in The Oprah Magazine.
In the early years of World War II, a young German officer was billeted with a German family. A portrait of their daughter hung in the family’s living room. The officer was so smitten by the young woman―she was not in the house at the time of his stay―he vowed that if he survived the war, he would return and ask for her hand in marriage. When I met the officer many years later here in Ottawa, he was already in his senior years and has since died. For many years, I stored this anecdote in the back of my mind, intending to one day work it into a novel. However, I was at a loss about how to build it into a full-length novel until I saw an article about the Juliet Club in Verona, Italy, in The Oprah Magazine. It was Oprah’s article about a group of volunteers at the Club who answer letters from broken-hearted men and women which fired my imagination and which was instrumental in helping me create my story.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I enjoyed creating every character, including the unpleasant ones. There were no challenges. However, I would like to add that readers of my post-WWII childhood memoir, I Stood Among The Ruins And Cried, will know that I had an unhappy relationship with my father. In Anna’s Shadow my female protagonist, Sofia, has an enviable, close relationship with her dad. With that relationship, I created the kind of bond between father and daughter that I never enjoyed and which I would have liked to have experienced. I found healing in developing the loving father-daughter kinship as the story unfolded. As an aside, just like Sofia’s father, my father was a detective in the police force as well.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Several themes run through the story. Sofia, a traumatized orthopedic surgeon on leave from Doctors Without Borders, often ponders the meaning of coincidence and fate; the long-lasting power of memories; the tense relationship with her mother, and the question of whether a person can fall in love again after the shocking loss of a loved one. However, the most important theme is an illustration and a reminder of the cruelty and destruction caused by a war, in this case, WWII. The devastation leaves soldiers, and civilians marred by deep wounds, visible and invisible, that take decades to heal. It’s for this very reason that I label Anna’s Shadow my anti-war novel.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m, at the moment, working on the second volume of a new series, a combination of women’s commercial fiction and cozy murder mystery, working title: The Orla Griffin Buddy Series. Novels of friendship, food, and love. And murder. I’m holding back with the release of book one in the series until next year as I do not wish to compete with the recent release of Anna’s Shadow. However, if readers wish to delve into another love and mystery novel of mine, I recommend V for Vanished, a novel full of passion, heartbreak, and suspense.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
“Memories have huge staying power,” Sofia writes in answer to Luke Miller’s letter. “Without them, life would lack colour and vibrancy.”
When Luke Miller, a man in his late seventies, unexpectedly arrives in Verona accompanied by his son to take matters in his own hands, Sofia, who is recovering from a traumatic experience during her past assignment in the Congo Republic, finds herself suddenly drawn into an adventure that affects not only her own life but also the lives of the people who begin to cross her path.
Inspired by true events, Anna’s Shadow is a dramatic, yet uplifting story: a search for a missing woman that will take the reader from present day Verona to Verona in 1945 under German occupation, to post-war Switzerland, Germany and Canada, and explores the question of coincidence, destiny and fate.
