The Book Binder’s Secret by A. D. Bell

Publication January 13, 2026=St. Martin’s Publishing-Historical Fiction-400pp

Book Summary

Every book tells a story. This one tells a secret.
A young bookbinder begins a hunt for the truth when a confession hidden beneath the binding of a burned book reveals a story of forbidden love, lost fortune, and murder.

      Lilian (“Lily”) Delaney, apprentice to a master bookbinder in Oxford in 1901, chafes at the confines of her life. She is trapped between the oppressiveness of her father’s failing bookshop and still being an apprentice in a man’s profession. But when she’s given a burned book during a visit to a collector, she finds, hidden beneath the binding, a fifty-year-old letter speaking of love, fortune, and murder.
     Lily is pulled into the mystery of the young lovers, a story of forbidden love, and discovers there are more books and more hidden pages telling their story. Lilian becomes obsessed with the story but she is not the only one looking for the remaining books and what began as a diverting intrigue quickly becomes a very dangerous pursuit.
     Lily’s search leads her from the eccentric booksellers of London to the private libraries of unscrupulous collectors and the dusty archives of society papers, deep into the heart of the mystery. But with sinister forces closing in, willing to do anything for the books, Lilian’s world begins to fall apart and she must decide if uncovering the truth is worth the risk to her own life.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

Want to know a secret? This novel pulls the reader right into the world of collecting and restoring books in Oxford,1901. Lily, who doesn’t go anywhere without a book, narrates the tale of secrets and mysteries with a story of forbidden love hidden in a series of books. Lily has always been able to focus on a project to the point of obsession-which is exactly what happens when she discovers a letter hidden under the binding of a partially burned book.

Bell’s use of foreshadowing reveals that as Lily is drawn into the search for more books in the series with possibly more letters, her own past and the future she’s been hoping for, might be slipping away. Bell keeps up a fast-paced plot with Lily’s harrowing situations, shady dealings on train platforms, and escaping down crowded alleyways. Lily’s real-life search for the books and letters is alternated with the saga of forbidden love, an unclaimed fortune, and the fate of a missing baby sewn into the bindings.

Lily, a lady bookbinder trying to save her father’s bookstore, is frantically following all the clues, but collectors, booksellers, lovers, and authors all have secrets. Hidden pages, juicy stories and confessions make The Bookbinder’s Secret perfect for readers searching for “that particular perfume…, the aroma of imagination, of knowledge waiting.” The secrets keep the pages turning.

Anneke Jans in the New World by Sandra Freels

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Publication January 6, 2026-She Writes Press-Historical Fiction-256pp

Book Summary

It’s 1630, and Anneke Jans has just arrived in the fledgling colony of New Netherland with her husband, Roelof, and their two young daughters to create a new life for herself and her family. One of very few women in the colony, Anneke quickly realizes that she will need to make her own rules if she is to survive.

When Roelof dies, Anneke marries Everardus Bogardus, the flamboyant minister of the Dutch Reformed Church. With this marriage, Anneke joins the elites of the colony—but when the colony’s new director provokes war with the region’s American Indians and her new husband emerges as the head of the anti-war opposition, she also finds herself in the midst of political turmoil. As difficulties mount, she must rely more than ever on her quick wits to protect herself and her growing family.

Based on real events, Anneke Jans in the New World tells the story of an ordinary woman who lived an extraordinary life.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

Anneke’s life story is a perfect read to celebrate the 400^th birthday of New York state. Author Sandra Freels ,a descendant of Anneke Jans, sinks readers into 1630’s New Amsterdam, the dangerous, intimidating forests and rivers we now know as New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut and Delaware.

Upon her arrival Anneke realized she was in a country of young men; she’d have “to make her own rules, be quick witted, and careful,” to survive. Anneke’s life story is both amazing and inspiring. This compelling narrative of her survival is a history lesson packed with early Colonial terminology, ingenious agricultural methods, marriage laws, and Indian Wars. Details of the Mohicans, the Dutch West India Company, governing bodies, and peace treaties pepper Anneke’s life story. Two marriages, ten children and even the initial making and serving of coffee will keep readers anxious to learn of Anneke Jans in the New World.

At Morning’s Light by Lauraine Snelling

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Pub Date Dec. 2, 2025-Bethany House Publishing-Christian Historical Fiction, Frontier Romance-320pp

Book Summary

In her new homeland of Iowa, she must risk heartbreak and uncertainty for her dreams to flourish.

Maya Bredesen and her husband plan to journey from Norway to a new life at her cousin’s boardinghouse in America, but on one last fateful fishing trip, a fierce winter storm steals away her husband. With her dreams for the future crushed, Maya is left grieving on the voyage to Iowa, accompanied instead by her brother, who plans to finish his seminary degree.

Arriving at a boardinghouse spilling over with orphans and a newly married couple, Maya struggles to find her place amid the chaos. A new friendship develops between her and Eben Miller, the reserved, kind farmer next door, but just as Maya begins to recover from her wounded heart, more tragedy engulfs her. As she and Eben weather trials together, can they overcome the difficulties this new land holds when it seems so far from becoming home?

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

At Morning Light is a tender look at family life on a farm in Iowa,1890. Book #2 in the Home to Green Creek Series continues the immigration story of Amelia Gunderson and fiancé, Absalom. Readers easily pick up the back story from Book #1, Land of Dreams, with richly developed characters and excellent plot pacing, with each chapter ending in hopeful suspense! The main characters share relatable struggles and hurdles; finding jobs and learning English, while readers bond easily through blossoming relationships in this growing Norwegian community.

Snelling’s detailed descriptions of the endless boarding house chores and cooking along with gardening and the ‘never ending” processing of fruits and vegetables adds a marvelous layer to the richly expressed community pride exhibited in church picnics, hayrides, home building, and neighbors helping neighbors. Snelling’s ability to express the gratitude of family members seeps right into the hearts of readers.

Amelia leads her family with faith and trust in God to overcome fears and guilt. An uplifting, comforting reminder that God’s love is constant and new each day, At Morning’s Light.

Author Bio: Lauraine Snelling is the award-winning author of more than one hundred books, fiction and nonfiction, for adults and young adults. Her books have sold more than five million copies. She makes her home in Tehachapi, California. Learn more at LauraineSnelling.com..

Murder at Donwell Abbey -An Emma Knightley Mystery by Vanessa Kelly

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Publication November 25, 2025-Kensington Books-Historical Fiction, Mystery-Thriller=416pp

Book Summary

This latest Regency-era mystery from USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Kelly finds Jane Austen’s clever Emma Knightley (nee Woodhouse) as an amateur sleuth, navigating shocking changes in her family—while meeting her match in a deadly adversary . . .

Emma’s spirits are elevated after she and husband George Knightley host a joyful holiday celebration at the Hartfield estate. But it’s instantly a bitter January when her father makes an unexpected announcement—he and Miss Hetty Bates have decided to marry. Not only must Emma relinquish her role as mistress of the household, but also accept the reality that the excitable Miss Bates will become her stepmother . . .

More unwanted news arrives during an extravagant betrothal ball at Donwell Abbey, the grand Knightley estate where Emma and George will soon permanently reside. Nearly every villager in Highbury revels in the dazzling affair—except Emma’s hardworking lady’s maid, Prudence Parr. To Emma’s horror, Prudence is found dead, sprawled across the stones of the library terrace . . .

The woman’s tragic fall is quickly ruled a terrible accident and whispers circulate around personal troubles leading up to her untimely demise. But Emma’s instincts tell her that something far more sinister is at play. Now, Highbury’s matchmaker-turned-sleuth vows to outwit a cunning criminal before an innocent man loses his freedom—or Donwell Abbey plunges into a darker mystery . . .

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

In this sequel to Murder in Highbury the peace and quiet that had settled after the events of the past year has ended for George and Emma Knightley. Emma’s father has announced his engagement to Miss Bates and requested a proper ball to celebrate the coming nuptials.

Vanessa Kelly has populated Murder at Donwell Abbey with a delightful cast of characters. The families of sisters Emma and Isabella, their husbands, brothers George and John Knightley, and the house staff with their many attributes are introduced as the plans for the big event proceed. Donwell Abbey and the ball are the scene for The shocking discovery that sets the cozy mystery into motion. The manners and social mores of 1816 Regency England are a fertile garden for Emma’s brilliant, bold detective inclinations to blossom, once again. Due to the investigative skills of Emma, the plot takes twists and turns down unlikely alleys and pathways. Kelly reveals the newly married relationship of George and Emma with witty banter, humorous exchanges, and even romantic suggestions, which make her discoveries even more satisfying.

Kelly’s Murder at Donwell Abbey leaves readers anxiously anticipating another invitation to tea with Emma and another mystery to solve.

A Dark and Deadly Journey- An Evelyne Redfern Mystery by Julia Kelly

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Publication September 23, 2025-St. Martin’s Press-Historical Fiction, Mystery & Thrillers-304pp

Book Summary

Evelyne Redfern returns in A Dark and Deadly Journey, the next book in international bestselling author Julia Kelly’s captivating historical mystery series.

After being sidelined for a pesky gunshot wound, typist-turned-field agent Evelyne Redfern is ready for her next assignment with Britain’s secretive Special Investigations Unit. When a British Intelligence informant in Portugal mysteriously disappears just after hinting that he has vital information about German plans that could tip the balance of World War Two, Evelyne and her dashingly irksome partner, David Poole, are sent headed to Lisbon to find him.

Once they land, Evelyne and David aren’t even able to leave the airport, before she discovers one of their fellow aeroplane passengers murdered and uncovers a diary with a clear link between the victim and their missing informant. With their mission in jeopardy before it can truly begin, Evelyne and David fight to keep their cover intact as they descend deeper into the shadows that surround Lisbon’s glittering collection of wealthy expats and dangerous spies. This case will test Evelyne and David’s training, charm, and wit—and their growing attraction for one another.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab First Published in Historical Novels Review Magazine, Nov.1, 2025 Issue

This newest installment in the Evelyn Redfern Mysteries presents fans of historical mystery novels with a fast-paced trek following British Special Investigation Unit agents Evelyn Redfern and partner David Poole to Portugal,1940. Kelly’s vivid details of politically charged Lisbon, filled with wealthy expats, sparkling jewels and a throng of spies, is the perfect setting for A Dark and Deadly Journey. The disappearance of a British intelligence informant leads Evelyn and David to Princes Petrova’s soirees, the Hotel Metropol, casinos, bars, and jewelry shops as they piece together the giant jigsaw puzzle.

Julia Kelly easily connects readers by revisiting Evelyn’s famous childhood as the “Paris Orphan” leading to the estrangement of her father, Sir Reginald. He has suddenly contacted her with a surprising request which strangely coincides with her new mission as an SIU agent. Disguised as a wine buyer and his secretary, David and Evelyn work with Phillips, head of the intelligence branch in Lisbon, tracking an informant who supposedly has knowledge that could shift Portugal’s neutrality in the war. Sir Reginald, Phillips, Princess Petrova; and many more intriguing characters are involved in unexpected plot twists at every turn in the crowded Lisbon streets. Kelly interjects Evelyn’s smartly induced theories to keep readers analyzing the clues as the search for the missing informant progresses.

With each new installment Kelly adds a touch of romance as Evelyn and David’s growing attraction is coyly revealed in details of private moments and memories of their previous assignments as SIU agents. Be forewarned of an unexpected, jaw-dropping ending. Suspenseful. Highly recommended. Awaiting the next adventure in the Evelyn Redfern Mysteries with great anticipation.

Christy Award -Historical Fiction 2025: Born of Gilded Mountains by Amanda Dykes

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Publication June 18, 2024-Bethany House-Christian-Historical Fiction-416pp

Book Summary

A lost treasure. A riddled quest. The healing power of friendship.

Legends are tucked into every fold of the Colorado mountains surrounding the quaint town of Mercy Peak, where residents are the stuff of tall tales, the peaks are taller still, and a lost treasure has etched mystery into the very terrain.

In 1948, when outsider Mercy Windsor arrives after a scandal shatters her gilded world as Hollywood’s beloved leading lady, she is determined to forge a new life in obscurity in this time-forgotten Colorado haven. She purchases Wildwood, an abandoned estate with a haunting history, and begins to restore it to its former glory.

But as she does, her every move tugs at the threads of the mountain’s lore, unearthing what became of her long-lost pen pal Rusty Bright, and the whereabouts of the infamous Galloping Goose Railcar No. 8, which vanished years ago–along with the mailbag it carried, whose contents could change the course of countless lives. Not to mention the fabled treasure that–if found–could right so many wrongs.

Among the towering mountains that stand as silent witnesses, the ghosts of the past entangle with the courage of the present to find a place where healing, friendship, and hope can abide amid a world forever changed.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab First Reviewed for Historical Novel Society-August 1, 2024

Mountain lore, a mystery, and mending of hearts are like the veins of gold in Colorado’s San Juan Mountain Range in Amanda Dyke’s dual timeline. A Blood Moon Pact between four ten-year-olds, heartfelt, girlish letters between pen-pals Rusty Bright and Marybeth Spatts in 1928, and the 1948 arrival of a fallen movie star in Mercy Peak, Colorado, sets the narrative in motion.

Like the “Galloping Geese,” hybrid train/automobiles used to climb the mountains, the pace of the novel transports readers slowly and deliberately to reach the peaks, then builds speed toward the station with a satisfying, uplifting arrival. Dykes’ narrative, somewhat epistolary through the pen pal letters, is also layered with newspaper articles, movie scripts, and interviews which reveal personal emotions and feelings, lending a realistic, captivating element. A riveting treasure hunt with ingenious clues and patterns along with the search for the Galloping Goose #8 leads readers to a fascinating discovery. The train’s mysterious disappearance and its missing mail bag adds suspense and personal connections to Mercy Peak’s citizens, some waiting years for life altering news. Throughout the narrative Dykes connects Mercy Peak’s residents of the present to the past through the possibilities of the mail bag’s contents. Also known for her love of symbolism, the mountains are cast as a character, representing life and the treasure they hold.

Themes of friendship, finding purpose, and hope are painted onto the canvas, Born of Gilded Mountains. The landscape, with glorious descriptions of mountain peaks and verdant valleys, is enhanced by the lure of the poignant tales and visions of those residing in the charming village of Mercy Peaks; filled with forgiveness, grace, courage and adventure. A soul-stirring, rewarding journey.

Read more about Amanda’s books here on her website: https://amandadykes.com/mybooks/

Last Call at the Savoy by Brisa Carleton

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Publication Nov. 4, 2025-Grand Central Publishing-Historical Fiction-304pp

Book Summary

Set amongst the glittering backdrop of London’s iconic Savoy hotel, a young woman is forced to confront her troubled past as she uncovers the story of the hotel’s first female bartender who has been erased from the history books—”an exhilarating, tender read that will leave you smiling” (Fiona Jackson, bestselling author).
Six years ago, Cinnamon Scott was a young writer on the rise in New York City. But since the sudden loss of her parents, she’s been stuck in place, retreating to a life of endless partying—made possible by the massive fortune she’s inherited. Despite their tragic loss, she and her older sister Rosemary have always had each other to lean on. But now, with Rosie living in London and about to give birth to twins, Cinnamon feels more lost than ever.
When Rosie is put on bed rest, Cinnamon flies to her sister’s side, where she’s temporarily living at The Savoy. Immediately swept away by the beauty and history of the legendary hotel and its famed American Bar, Cinnamon finds ample opportunity to distract herself. When the late shift bartender tells her the story of Ada Coleman, the woman who crafted the cocktail recipes The Savoy popularized in its famous handbook a century ago, Cinnamon is inspired by the bartender’s vivid stories of Ada’s fearlessness and can’t understand why Ada’s name is nowhere to be found. After meeting a handsome historian researching the hotel and realizing that Ada is likely to be once again overlooked, Cinnamon must decide if she can overcome her demons and stand up for Ada’s story. And, along the way, she might just save her own story too.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

A perfect book cocktail: One book filled with the story of Ada Coleman, first female bartender at the London Savoy Hotel and her cocktail recipes, add two sisters, one pregnant with twins and one stuck in a guilt ridden past, stir in a handsome historian, sprinkle with the rich and famous-Voila!

In this dual timeline Brisa Carleton blends the history of the Savoy and its residents seamlessly with an equal amount of present-day trauma and guilt carried by sisters, Cinnamon and Rosemary. I found both timelines compelling; the Ada Coleman portion was filled with the mystery of what happened to the well-known bartender and the Savoy Cocktail Book; and what would become of the sisters dealing with inheritance, guilt, and twins? I savored the stories of famous people residing or being served at the American Bar in the Savoy -Harry Selfridge, Cesar Ritz, Marconi, Gucci, told to Cinnamon by Joe the late-night bartender. The addition of historian Christopher Clark adds a writer mentor, possible love interest for Cinnamon, as she becomes a “girl detective.”

Which is better? Sipping a Manhattan at the American Bar while Joe tells stories-wondering why Ada Coleman has been erased from the cocktail book or delving into the history of the Savoy over afternoon tea with Christopher Clark, wondering what it would be like to be a writer? Read Last Call at the Savoy to enjoy both!

The President’s Wife by Anna Stuart

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Publication September 23, 2025-Bookouture-Historical Fiction-382pp

Book Summary

December 1941: ‘Pearl Harbor has been bombed.’ My husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s, voice shakes as he tells me the devastating news. In this heart-stopping moment, I’m determined to do whatever it takes to protect America, but will it be enough?

Eleanor Roosevelt takes a deep breath. She knew this day was coming but now that it’s here she needs every ounce of courage to face it. She’s stood by Franklin’s side through thirty years of marriage and three terms in the White House but entering the war that’s been raging across the world will be their greatest challenge yet.

Eleanor watches thousands of women as they embrace their husbands for what could be the last time before they go off to war. She knows she needs to put aside the troubles in her own relationship for the sake of the country. But will the latest threat to her marriage finally tear her and Franklin apart?

The stakes are higher than they’ve ever been. This is a moment that history will never forget, and all eyes are on them. Will Eleanor succeed in her role as the president’s wife and help to save her beloved country as well as her marriage? Or will tragedy strike before the war is won…?

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

A well-researched, poignant portrait of the amazing Eleanor Roosevelt; the political and private life from the First Lady’s point of view.

The novel opens as the Roosevelts move into the White House in 1933, fulfilling Franklin’s lifelong dream of becoming the President. In this dual timeline, Eleanor’s reflections take the reader from meeting Franklin at a party in 1902 to visiting his gravesite in 1948. Stuart covers America’s political climate from before the bombing of Pearl Harbor through the end of World War II. That’s a lot of campaigning, train trips, and elections! Franklin and Eleanor’s political views and news is kept front and center: fireside chats, Eleanor’s daily news column, speaking engagements, and myriad women’s groups. Eleanor’s heart for freedom and justice for all Americans is revealed repeatedly as she makes unbelievable personal sacrifices for the good of Franklin’s career and the country.

Told from Eleanor’s perspective Stuart portrays the couple’s great respect and love for each other with compassion and candor. Eleanor’s discovery of a bundle of violet scented letters creates a great divide in the Roosevelt marriage. Stuart shows discernment and sympathy for Eleanor’s true heart in her bold demand of two marriage conditions rather than divorce, while highlighting family relationships, the separate residences, and Eleanor’s own friends she called ‘intimates’.

Known as First Lady, but also as a writer, broadcaster, campaigner, and friend. This novel celebrates Eleanor’s cerebral bond with Franklin, her uncanny gift of being a great listener and her lifelong stand against prejudice.

The President’s Wife is a stunning jewel in Anna Stuart’s author crown.

The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin

Publication August 26, 2025-Harlequin Trade Publishing-Historical Fiction-336pp

Book Summary

A captivating new historical novel from Madeline Martin, set in Victorian London about a forbidden book club, dangerous secrets, and the women who dare to break free.
You are cordially invited to the Secret Book Society…

London, 1895: Trapped by oppressive marriages and societal expectations, three women receive a mysterious invitation to an afternoon tea at the home of the reclusive Lady Duxbury. Beneath the genteel facade of the gathering lies a secret book club—a sanctuary where they can discover freedom, sisterhood, and the courage to rewrite their stories.
Eleanor Clarke, a devoted mother suffocating under the tyranny of her husband. Rose Wharton, a transplanted American dollar princess struggling to fit the mold of an aristocratic wife. Lavinia Cavendish, an artistic young woman haunted by a dangerous family secret. All are drawn to the enigmatic Lady Duxbury, a thrice-widowed countess whose husbands’ untimely deaths have sparked whispers of murder.
As the women form deep, heartwarming friendships, they uncover secrets about their marriages, their pasts, and the risks they face. Their courage is their only weapon in the oppressive world that has kept them silent, but when secrets are deadly, one misstep could cost them everything.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

“You are cordially invited to the Secret Book Society.” Madeline Martin’s novel is an intriguing study of the lives of three Victorian ladies, their personal struggles, and how one person, through kindness and caring, made a life-changing impact on each of them. In London, 1895, the young, widowed Lady Duxbury opens her home and her extensive library to establish a bond of friendship and protection for these women who had each been abandoned in some way. Lady Duxbury encourages and supports the women in finding their voice, expressing thoughts, and discovering passions. As the women continue to meet in secret, bonds are formed, and trust is forged. Madeline Martin’s narrative sinks the reader into the restrictive, stifling lives of women during the 1800’s; a time when choosing what to wear was one of the few decisions to be made and reading was limited to choosing menus and household improvements. Novels were considered a harmful distraction! The hopefulness, inspiration, and motivation each woman finds in truthful sharing gives credence to the popularity of book clubs today. The pleasure of finding kindred spirits is celebrated.

The Secret Book Society is a delightful glance back in time, as we rejoice in knowing that choices in present day reading is a “magical retreat.”

Dear Miss Lake by AJ Pearce

Publication August 5, 2025-Scribner-Historical Fiction-304pp

Book Summary

Plucky wartime advice columnist Emmy Lake discovers that sometimes it takes losing everything to find what we need most.

London, July 1944. After nearly five years of war, the readers of Woman’s Friendmagazine are relying on the support of Emmy Lake and her team more than ever. With the city under attack, the magazine staff decamps to the countryside for the summer. Determined to help the women of Britain carry on, Emmy and friends are hard at work finding new ways to inspire resilience.

With her army officer husband Charles posted close to home, and best friend Bunty by her side, Emmy happily throws herself into rural life, juggling children, magazine assignments, and plans for a very important wedding. And then a call comes that means she may finally fulfill her long-held dream of becoming a war correspondent.

But when disaster strikes, Emmy needs her friends, her community, and her readers more than ever. Filled with courage and compassion, a lovable cast of characters, and winning wartime details, Dear Miss Lake is an enormously uplifting testament to the power of friendship and hope.

Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab

I was overjoyed to receive a copy of Dear Miss Lake -like when you answer the doorbell and it’s a best friend grinning with arms open wide-kind of joy! Dear Miss Lake is the fourth and final novel in the Emmy Lake Chronicles by AJ Pearce. From the beginning in Dear Mrs. Bird, “Emmy is a young woman who dreams of becoming a war correspondent and inadvertently becomes a secret advice columnist during World War ll.” Follow her adventures in Yours Cheerfully, Mrs. Porter is Calling, and now Dear Miss Lake.

The Emmy Lake Chronicles is a series that has informed, entertained and inspired readers since Emmy Lake first popped round in Dear Mrs. Bird in 2018. AJ Pearce has such a delightful way with words; maybe it’s the British expressions that make the adventures at Woman’s Friend magazine so humorous OR the London Blitz so gut wrenching. The characters take up residence and will linger in readers’ memory long after the bloody war and the series ends!

The strong bonds of friendship and the supportive people that make up a family are brought to light through these fictional stories. Each reader will be reminded of a brave family member or relative who served in a war or supported troops at home. AJ Pearce perfectly portrays the fortitude and inner constitution it took to wait for news of loved ones as Emmy and Bunty do. The highest mountains of joy and the lowest valleys of despair are equally and emotionally depicted in The Emmy Lake Chronicles.