When the Apricots Bloom by Gina Wilkerson
This novel is set in Iraq during Saddam Hussein’s regime. The author spent 10 years in Iraq and writes from her experience. It is hard to be a woman in Iraq. Secrets and political pressure to be informants create a crisis for three women. Is it possible for women of different tribes, different countries of origin, to have a true friendship?
Sometimes I pick up a novel, not sure I will like it. The story of the three women drew me in.
The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson
Beatrice, a Latin teacher, is still grieving the death of her father when she takes a position in Sussex. The summer provides a lovely introduction to the town before the beginning of the first World War.
The story has a great cast of characters that give a glimpse of Edwardian England. Beatrice meets challenges with grace, and to her great surprise finds romance. I especially enjoyed the positive relationships described in the story.
Days on the Road: Crossing the Plains in 1865 by Sarah Raymond Herndon
Sarah made the trip from Missouri to Montana by wagon train and pony, and she kept a daily journal. She describes the changing scenery, daily activities and her thoughts about faith in God.
The journal was first published in 1902. I enjoyed having this a view of a young woman making a great journey, as her family and friends seek a place to settle after the Civil War. The writer is gifted in describing events and the lands she passes through.
Sharing this post withSenior Salon Pit Stop and Bookworms Monthly .
These books all sound so interesting in very different ways. Thanks for sharing. (came over from Esme’s pit stop)
I like the sound of When the Apricots Bloom, it’s always interesting learning about other cultures.
This sounds like a really interesting selection of books. I particularly like the sound of The Summer Before the War.
Popping over from Book Worms Monthly.