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It All Began with a Goodbye…: A Novel
What would you do if you lost your mother when you were 12, your father abandoned you at age 15, only to return when you were 16, taking a family treasure you thought he didn't deserve to have, then leaving you with no means of support again? You would do what Sarah Steinman help her grandmother raise her two younger siblings in Passaic, New Jersey, post-World War II, and try to go on with life. A spirited young woman, Sarah starts her career in bookkeeping with a dream job at Thomas Finance Co. Her diligence in her work leads her to discover a shocking embezzlement scheme. Sarah's belief in justice, her drive, and her perseverance compels her to investigate further. What she unearths about the scheme and those involved makes Sarah doubt herself and everyone around her.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
April 9, 2024
Delving into the realm of family dynamics, this novel immerses readers in the tumultuous life of Sarah, a young girl burdened with the responsibility of caring for her siblings following the untimely demise of her mother, Rose, due to kidney disease. Neglected by her indifferent father, Henry, Sarah finds solace and support in her maternal grandmother, Bubbe, as she navigates the challenges of raising her brothers, Nate and David.
When a telegram arrives announcing the return of her brother Steven from Henry's custody, Sarah's heart leaps with joy, anticipating relief from her father's abuse. Amidst the chaos of balancing school and work at a gas station, Sarah's fragile stability is shattered by Henry's unpredictable intrusions and violence, culminating in a harrowing ultimatum to vacate their home.
As Sarah grapples with the harsh realities of life without her mother, her journey leads her to unexpected revelations when she embarks on a new job at Thomas Finance Co. With its captivating narrative and engaging prose, this gripping tale of resilience and familial bonds promises an immersive reading experience, keeping readers enthralled from start to finish.
When a telegram arrives announcing the return of her brother Steven from Henry's custody, Sarah's heart leaps with joy, anticipating relief from her father's abuse. Amidst the chaos of balancing school and work at a gas station, Sarah's fragile stability is shattered by Henry's unpredictable intrusions and violence, culminating in a harrowing ultimatum to vacate their home.
As Sarah grapples with the harsh realities of life without her mother, her journey leads her to unexpected revelations when she embarks on a new job at Thomas Finance Co. With its captivating narrative and engaging prose, this gripping tale of resilience and familial bonds promises an immersive reading experience, keeping readers enthralled from start to finish.
April 10, 2024
This narrative delves into the lives of a Jewish family during the 1940s, providing an immersive experience for readers. From the outset, the tale draws you into Sarah's world, making you feel like a silent observer of her and her family's journey.
Sarah's upbringing was far from stable, marked by the loss of her mother during childhood and the abusive behavior of her father, Henry. After her mother's death, Henry remarried and relocated to Washington D.C., leaving Sarah and her siblings behind. However, fate brings the siblings back together when Henry sends Steven to New Jersey, reuniting Sarah with her younger brother.
Sarah's entry into her dream job at Thomas Finance Co. unexpectedly leads her to uncover a troubling secret, challenging her ability to trust those around her.
Set against the backdrop of post-World War II, the story skillfully navigates through twists and turns, maintaining the reader's interest until the final page. It's a captivating read, with Sarah and her Bubbe emerging as standout characters. Bubbe's unwavering love and support for her grandchildren serve as an inspiration for other grandparents.
Rating: 5/5
Sarah's upbringing was far from stable, marked by the loss of her mother during childhood and the abusive behavior of her father, Henry. After her mother's death, Henry remarried and relocated to Washington D.C., leaving Sarah and her siblings behind. However, fate brings the siblings back together when Henry sends Steven to New Jersey, reuniting Sarah with her younger brother.
Sarah's entry into her dream job at Thomas Finance Co. unexpectedly leads her to uncover a troubling secret, challenging her ability to trust those around her.
Set against the backdrop of post-World War II, the story skillfully navigates through twists and turns, maintaining the reader's interest until the final page. It's a captivating read, with Sarah and her Bubbe emerging as standout characters. Bubbe's unwavering love and support for her grandchildren serve as an inspiration for other grandparents.
Rating: 5/5
April 9, 2024
"It All Began with a Goodbye…" written by the author Robin L.R. Kellogg is an intriguing novel. The main character of the story is Sarah. She has three brothers: Nate, David and Steven. Sarah's mother Rose died of kidney disease and her father Henry abandoned them. However, he took Sarah's younger brother Steven with him to Washington.
Henry left New Jersey and went to Washington D.C.. He married a woman named Barbara. Steven was nine years old when he was separated from his siblings. When he turned eleven, Henry sent him back to New Jersey. Read this story to know how Sarah would protect her family from her abusive father. Will she ever take time to find love for herself?
The title of the book is interesting. The cover photo is nicely designed. The character of Sarah is well written by the author. The narration is smooth and I was able to follow the story easily. The storyline is intriguing. Those who enjoy reading Jewish fiction should get their hands on this book.
Henry left New Jersey and went to Washington D.C.. He married a woman named Barbara. Steven was nine years old when he was separated from his siblings. When he turned eleven, Henry sent him back to New Jersey. Read this story to know how Sarah would protect her family from her abusive father. Will she ever take time to find love for herself?
The title of the book is interesting. The cover photo is nicely designed. The character of Sarah is well written by the author. The narration is smooth and I was able to follow the story easily. The storyline is intriguing. Those who enjoy reading Jewish fiction should get their hands on this book.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews