Onward to Eden: An Emotional Family Drama set during World War II

by Jonathan Cullen

As winter descends on Boston, the Nolans brace for another year of war.

By the end of 1942, the tide is turning for the Allies. The Germans have been stopped in their tracks at Stalingrad, and in the East, the U.S. is crushing the Japanese in Guadalcanal. At home, things are looking up for the Nolan family too. Abby is on the Dean’s List at Boston University, and Thomas finally has a family. Mrs. Nolan has recovered from her breakdown, and George is overseas with the Army, making them all proud.

But despite the good news, life on the home front still isn’t easy. In one of the coldest winters on record, an oil shortage is sending families into shelters. A fire at the Cocoanut Grove nightclub has killed almost five hundred people. Dozens of local young men have already died in battle, and every week there are more.

The true scale of the war doesn’t hit home, however, until George’s letters stop coming, which sends everyone into a panic. And the Nolans discover that just because victory is in sight doesn’t mean the struggle is over.

282 pages, Paperback

Published March 14, 2024

Reviews

[Ray Phenicie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sacrifices during world war II by Americans ?

Another good read about families and the sacrifice they went through during war time. Having no email, computers,etc. The wait for letters from their love ones fighting overseas we have no idea how that must have felt. Also all the rationing and shortages of food and fuel we have never experienced in our lives. We are spoiled over things we take for granted now. Peace is something we have been blessed with. Saying goodbye to your family not knowing if you will see them again must have been so tragic for mothers and fathers, saying goodbye to you husband and hope. You'll Ser him again and continue your life together. These were all covered in the books it is important that we realize the thing that generation went through for us to enjoy this peace now.

[Kellyw · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this final book in the series but was confused at the loose ends left by the author. Does this mean a 4th book is on the way or is it just supposed to be some creative way to end a book?
The Nolans have been through so much and it was a very sobering glimpse into the immense sacrifices that the US made during wartime (despite the war not being fought on our soil, of course)
A good series that I recommend

[Stephen McCarron · Rating 3 out of 5]

Onward to Eden: Some Inconsistent cies

This book needed finer editing. First, Sal is leaves after his mother dies, going into the Army. Then is he back in the Navy, then Army then finishes up in the Navy. Sal entered the Navy before his mother was killed.

Likewise, Harold's brother didn't kill himself, as is stated twice. He died in a plane crash with fellow graduates of basic training in a plane crash to his next duty station.

[Heidi J · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I did enjoy this book and the series in general, there were some inconsistencies. The 2nd book, Nightime Passes, Morning Comes, the entire reason the rushed wedding for Connie and Thomas was that she was pregnant. The 3rd book Onward to Eden doesn’t even address the pregnancy . There’s a few others as well, like how Harolds brother had died. Parts of the books were maddening with details and some parts, I found lacking. Good story overall. Just tie up the story lines

[Debbie Trammell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

This series is really good. It helps to understand the homefront in WW 2 and it was a tough time for those at home. I am looking forward to the next book in series if Jonathan writes one. Jonathan is a good writer and I recommend this book series.

[Jackie R Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Story!

I feel as if I know the Nolan family and I'll miss them terribly. Highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy a family
saga and the hardships brought on by war. I didn't want the story to end. Please write a book 4!

[Mary Lou Alderman · Rating 5 out of 5]

WWII The home front

We have a general idea about WWII and how it was fought overseas. This book is how it was endured by those at home.A

[Elaine McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoying this series

World war II on the home front in great detail as seen through the eyes of one Boston family and friends.

[Elaine Belanger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book. Wish I didn't have to wait so long for the next one.

[Sue Meek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hard times for sure

Good story easy to read lots of fun and hard times. The times were not easy and good for anyone.

[terri judas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read!

Looking forward to the 4th book. Enjoyed the story of this family and their strength in times of so much turmoil and sadness.

[Nancy LaRue]

Posted after reading whole series.