I was pleasantly surprised when I read this on the cover… “A beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that I’m telling everyone I know to read.” ~Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help.
Well, y’all know how I feel about The Help, so it was providence that this lovely book came across my radar. I settled in for a much anticipated read, and this is what I discovered…
Set in the 1940′s, this truly unique story follows the lives of three women. Iris James is in charge of the mail in a small community on Cape Cod. Iris takes her job seriously, and imagines the many lives that pass through her hands and the secrets they hold. Emma Fitch, married to the town’s doctor, is shocked when her husband leaves to help those caught up in the war. Waiting for him to return, and the lonliness of her daily walk to the post office fill her days. And, Frankie Bard reports the war from the Blitz in London, and is the radio voice that touches the lives of Iris and Emma. She’s travels the countryside, capturing the voices of those who are caught in this refugee hell. Her desire for answers, and connection to those fleeing haunts her.
The author, Sarah Blake, is an artist of words. I followed her voice and discovered this world of hers; so rich in description and connections that unfolded beautifully in the telling. Frankly, it left me wowed. Her ability to immerse one into small-town life, and the contrast of a war-torn nation was brilliant. I LOVED it! She’s a writer I’m going to follow.
I keep hearing great things about The Help, and I should read it. This sounds like a great book too.
Oooh! My WWII writing loop highly recommended this, and now you have too. I’ll definitely get it. Thanks, LaD.
Edie, I envy you! Two great reads just waiting for your eye.
Michelle, talk about serendipity! One of the things I truly love about this author is her imaginative way of describing the simpliest actions. I savored this book.
LaDonna,
Like you, I loved The Help and have recommended it to many of my reader friends. They have loved it also. I just ordered The Postmistress. I’m sure I’ll love it also. Thank you for keeping me well-supplied with great reading material. My TBR pile rivals Mt. McKinley.
Mary Jo, finding those treasures is truly a joy for me. I love sharing titles, and equally enjoy the Magical chats we all share here. There’s so much to discover in the world of books and writing!