Reviewed by Martha Artyomenko
About the book:
Neva Shilling has a heavy load of responsibility while her husband travels to neighboring communities and sells items from his wagon. In his absence, she faithfully runs the Shilling Mercantile, working to keep their business strong as the Depression takes its toll, and caring for their twins.
When a wagon pulls up after supper, Neva and her children rush out—and into the presence of the deputy driving a wagon carrying three young children.
Who are these children and will their secret shatter her life or make her stronger?
My Review:
Do you ever think that all books written have to have romance to make them a good read? This one breaks those molds.
While there are hints of real love throughout the story, the twists and turns that this story takes are more real life than fictional. Neva, facing betrayal, deals with it the way most humans do. It is a struggle, a fight to regain face and standing, both in the community and before her own children.
I found the hints of life in the 1930’s fascinating such as references to orphan homes, Jello, Frigidaire, Bisquick and other name brands that were on the scene in those days. The fragility of life is spoken of when two character die of botulism poisoning, something that we generally don’t think of as much anymore as a threat.
I found this story real, but also an easy read, without heaviness. It was a nice book to read on a sunshiny day!