Donna’s Detour by Jo Huddleston

November’s read for Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge was to be set anytime after World War II. In keeping with the past, I chose to read about an era I hadn’t seen in historical fiction before, the 1950s.

The setting is great as it emphasizes what’s normally equated with the 50’s era. The local diner with the waitresses going between customers at the counter and sitting in booths and jukeboxes on the tables. Visualizing the waitresses’ uniforms and the way they handled their customers reminded me of Grease when the gang was hanging out at the diner. However, this one was more for people passing through than a hang-out for the locals.

What I Liked About the Book

It was a fun and easy read taking me to a time when women were on the verge of setting out on their own. It showed the strength of the main character, Donna, and the commitment to following her heart no matter how long it took.

My Favorite Characters

Donna Turner: Donna was so strong in her commitment to herself and her desire to branch out on her own. When she needed help, though she didn’t want to ask for it, she appreciated those who offered and wasn’t afraid to accept.

Tommy Crowley: I don’t want to go into too much detail here because it might spoil the story, but Tommy was a real gentleman to Donna and brought a happiness to her life that was missing.

Would I Read This Book Again?

Probably, if I needed something quick to read with a  happy ending.

Who Should Read This Book?

Those who like quick reads with happy endings. Those who want to experience the diner of the 50’s and want a fun read.

Jo Huddleston has written several books. Please visit her website at johuddleston.com to see other books she has to offer.

 

A Promise Forged by Cara Putman

For my October read in Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge, I chose Cara Putman’s A Promise Forged.

Set in the summer of 1943, A Promise Forged brings to light the glimmer of hope placed within the American people at home during World War II, being able to watch America’s favorite pastime in a different way. This timeframe has always been a favorite of mine during history studies, but I’d never read about this aspect.

While reading this book, it brought to mind a favorite movie of mine during my high school days, A League of their Own. Mrs. Putman’s story pulled me into the heart of the field as she brought her characters to life.

What I Liked About the Book

Mrs. Putman brings World War II to life from a different perspective. It was fun to see the view of this timeframe from the players perspective as well as of someone who wanted to serve but couldn’t.

My Favorite Characters

Kat Miller: Katherine “Kat” Miller is the heroine of this story. The youngest on the team, she gets a lot of unwanted attention when all she really wants to do is play the game. Kat is a sweet young woman and her love for others shines forth throughout the story.

Jack Raymond: Jack’s a newspaper reporter assigned to cover the women’s ball games. Despite his resistance to it, he follows the team and brings a man’s view into it. It was fun to see the game from both points of view.

Would I Read This Book Again

Yes. This was a fun read and kept me engaged throughout the story. This is the first in a series titled Buckeye Promises. While I haven’t read the other books in the series, they are ones that I would be interested in reading as well.

If you’re a fan of World War II fiction and would like to read views from the American homefront, I recommend reading this book.

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