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The Atlas of Untold Stories
Irrepressible dreamer Chloe Vance needs to tell her pragmatic mom, Edie, that she has accepted a low-paying, two-year art instructor role at a Christian international school in Prague. And her older sister, Lauren--the "responsible one"--is doing all she can to keep the family from finding out she has been fired for a stupid mistake, plus figure out her next career move. Meanwhile, Edie, estranged from her own sister following their mother's recent death, is frankly in no mood for anything else to change.
The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to figure out than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. And as they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll have to come to terms with their own needs and desires, as well as those of the most important women in their lives--each other.
Book lovers can join the ride through America's literary landscape as award-winning novelist Sara Brunsvold takes you on a trip through the sometimes difficult but always beautiful terrain of being a mother, a daughter, and a sister.
The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to figure out than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. And as they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll have to come to terms with their own needs and desires, as well as those of the most important women in their lives--each other.
Book lovers can join the ride through America's literary landscape as award-winning novelist Sara Brunsvold takes you on a trip through the sometimes difficult but always beautiful terrain of being a mother, a daughter, and a sister.
352 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2025
52 people are currently reading
6055 people want to read
About the author
Sara Brunsvold
4 books610 followersSara Brunsvold is a Christy Award- and Carol Award-winning author who creates stories that speak hope and life. Her stories boldly engage modern issues through the lens of hope and unshakable faith. From the time she was a country girl spilling imagination onto notebook paper, she has believed in the power of story to shape a better world for us all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
July 31, 2025
3 stars, personally. ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Contemporary
About this book:
“Irrepressible dreamer Chloe Vance needs to tell her pragmatic mom, Edie, that she has accepted a low-paying, two-year art instructor role at a Christian international school in Prague. And her older sister, Lauren--the "responsible one"--is doing all she can to keep the family from finding out she has been fired for a stupid mistake, plus figure out her next career move. Meanwhile, Edie, estranged from her own sister following their mother's recent death, is frankly in no mood for anything else to change.
The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to figure out than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. And as they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll have to come to terms with their own needs and desires, as well as those of the most important women in their lives--each other.”
Series: As of now, no. A stand-alone novel.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are mentioned, remembered, read, & thought over; Prayers; Going to a chapel; Talks about God; ’H’s are not capital when referring to God or Jesus; Chloe reads a Bible study devotional with commentary on the book of John (on-page); Chloe listens to the podcast of a sermon (on-page); Lauren reads Philippians 4:12-13 and then swats the Bible closed because no one has told her about the secret it mentions; Edie thinks that pastors are “downright unhelpful sometimes” when one makes a comment she doesn’t like (not faith-based, but because of an incident); Edie thinks about the question “What would Jesus do?”, but adds the second part of it for her would be “and would [her mother] agree” with it; Edie wonders if her mother can see her now “through the veil between eternity and present”; Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, & those and events in the Bible; Mentions of missionaries; Mentions of churches, church going, church events, pastors, a sermon, & youth group; Mentions of crosses at churches; Mentions of praise music, hymns, Christian songs, & Christian artists (such as TobyMac & MercyMe); A few mentions of faiths; A few mentions of cross necklaces; A few mentions of blessings & being blessed; A few mentions of a Christian school; A mention of thanking God; A mention of “not even God [H]imself” would have been able to convince Edie to wear a certain outfit; A mention of morning meditations with God; A mention of sins; A mention of nuns; A mention of something being true being called “gospel solid”; A mention of the praying hands emoji; A mention of someone knowing that nature wasn’t “the god” and that nature was the testimony of the Creator;
*Note: Edie & Chloe both use the phrase “God bless” when needing help or in relief thrice; The phrase “TGIF” is said once in text; Edie calls pre-dawn an “ungodly hour” and a place as “hot as the devil”; An animal is called a “devil”; A couple mentions of luck; A mention of a place having a domed roof that looks like a demigod; A mention of someone being “lucky enough” to not have an older sibling beneath down his neck.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘heck’, a ‘stupid’, and a ‘sucker’; A mention of a curse (said by Lauren while in pain and not written out); Some eye rolling; Pain & Injuries (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Because of Edie’s father abandoning her family when she was young, she worries about others in her life not coming back for her (such as her husband who often reminded her that he would always be back for her); Lauren feels very uncomfortable with a man at a bus station staring at her; Mentions of orphan trains, families being split-up, & mothers choosing to keep some of their children over others (this visibly effects Edie to learn about in a museum); Mentions of pain & injuries; Mentions of beer, drinking, & drunk men; A few mentions of Edie thinking of the worst case scenarios (such as being in car wreck, trapped in a fire, & never seeing her husband again); A few mentions of the mafia & gangs; A few mentions of criminals & thieves; A few mentions of a fictional fire & gunshot (from a book/movie); A couple mentions of wars (the Civil War and World War I); A couple mentions of Edie’s father abandoning their family; A couple mentions of car accident/wrecks; A mention of a possible murder; A mention of war stories; A mention of the Great Depression; A mention of lies; A mention of cigarettes & smoking; A mention of bodily fluids; A mention of an injured duck from a beaver trap;
*Note: Edie had a strained relationship with her mother & has strained relationships with her daughters; Lauren and Chloe have a strained relationship with each other & their mother; Due to this, there are hurtful and snarky comments made towards each other at times throughout the book & all three trying to meet the other’s approval/expectations (such as Lauren thinking that Chloe is too naive and protected by others, Chloe thinking about her mother’s comments of expectations for her because of her age, Lauren trying to keep a secret from her mother so she doesn’t think that her daughter is foolish and thus earn her disapproval, Lauren thinking that Chloe never loses their mother’s support while she works hard to keep her parents from rebuffing her or needing to “find extra grace” for her, & Lauren wondering if other women have endured the “wake of their mother’s derision” (like she does)); All three of them recall comments and (negative) phrases from Edie’s mother (also Edie’s sister who has taken a long time to “unravel” from the experience of her mother’s reign); Edie resents her sister for leaving her to take care of their mother and her estate sale; *Spoilers* ; Edie was the caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s (this includes a few flashbacks of that difficult time and her thinking about the pain of being unable to reach her mother prior to having Alzheimer’s); When Chloe comments on a town having a “thrum of creativity”, Edie comments that it’s the “thrum of liberal policies” she feels (which makes Chloe comment that they agreed no politics on this trip); Edie makes a comment that a place has too many “American flag tank tops” for a place to be considered civilized; Lauren thinks a fictional character is the kind of women every girl should aspire to be “powerful, a leader, [and] immune to others’ opinions of her”; All about & many mentions of books (and the movie versions), poems, authors, & fictional characters and events (‘The Grapes of Wrath’, ‘O Pioneers’, ‘Catch-22’, ‘Invisible Man’, ‘The Lord of the Rings’, ‘The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes’, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, ‘Charlotte’s Web’, ‘The Outsiders’, ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘My Ántonia’, ‘One of Ours’, ‘The Bridges of Madison Country’, ’Shoeless Joe’, ‘The Imperfect Life of T. S. Eliot’ by Lyndall Gordon, 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock’, ‘The Glass Menagerie’, ‘Little House on the Prairie’, Jane Austen, Shakespeare, Willa Cather, Mark Twain, Francis Ford Coppola, Joel C. Rosenberg, Ernest Hemingway, Langston Hughes, L. Frank Baum, Joan Lowery Nixon, The Brontë sisters, Robert James Waller, W. P. Kinsella, John Irving, Flannery O’Connor, Eugene Field, Maya Angelou, Kate Chopin, T. S. Eliot, William S. Burroughs, Tennessee Williams, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Rose Wilder Lane, Ayn Rand, Sinclair Lewis, Harold Bell Wright, & John Steinbeck); Many mentions of actors/actresses, singers, & other celebrities/well-known figures (Judy Garland, John Wayne, Meryl Streep, Clint Eastwood, Kevin Costner, John Cena, Taylor Swift and her songs/album, Bruce Springsteen, Hank Williams, Warren Buffett, Jimmy Carter, Oprah, Stan Musial, & George Brett); Mentions of movies & TV shows (The Sound of Music, Field of Dreams, Doogie Howser M.D., & Law & Order); Mentions of brand names & items (Pitt pen, Waterford vase, Dawn soap, Garmin watch, Jenga, Advil, Tylenol PM, Carter’s ink, Tums, & Amtrak); Mentions of social media sites & websites (Instagram, Google Maps, the Scout app, & Etsy); Mentions of car brands; Mentions of sports teams; A few mentions of stores and restaurants (Macy’s & General Tso’s); A few mentions of Willa Cather swearing to be “nothing like what she was expected to be” and showed that by cutting her hair to be like a boy’s, vowing to be a surgeon, and dressing like a boy while calling herself William Cather Jr. (because of her accomplishments, Lauren thinks that Cather is the kind of woman every girl should aspire to be); A couple mentions of Halloween; A mention of anime.
Sexual Content- A border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kiss; Some staring, attraction, electricity, & touches/dancing; Seeing a couple dance, embrace, & kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); A married couple share a few kisses & embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Lauren meets a guy she is attracted to on the road trip and keeps him and meeting him a secret from her mother and sister (later Edie thinks about how dangerous it was of Lauren to do this and sneak out to meet him); Lauren thinks about the old her would have been willing to “pour herself into any shape” for a guy’s attention; Edie comments on Lauren and Chloe’s lack of hurry about dating and getting married; A comment about a movie featuring a young woman chafing under her mom’s scrutiny about her prospects and that being “a tale that would endure for as long as mothers had daughters”; Mentions of dating, dates, cute/handsome guys, & boyfriends; Mentions of flirting & winks; A few mentions of kisses (between a couple who just met/started dating); A mention of a young woman running away to be with a man;
*Note: Lauren thinks about her weight & doesn’t eat well throughout the book (this includes Lauren checks her calorie levels after exercising and later not adding dressing to her salad because it adds too many calories, noticing the “pudge” of her lower abdomen starting to go down (but not enough for her liking), Chloe noticing Lauren’s ribs when hugging her and Lauren checking that they aren’t “that pronounced” (and planning to avoid her sister’s touch during the trip so she doesn’t catch on), exercising often while on the road trip, trying to mask the pain of her empty stomach with ab exercises); *Spoiler* ; Edie is going through menopause & there’s a handful of mentions of it and side effects like sweating terribly at night; Edie rubs in lotion every night while “willing it to ward off the crepe and sag most women her age suffered”; Edie notices the “pudge” poking out of her blouse and thinks “Not too bad. Better than most women her age, anyway.”; Edie tells Chloe that she doesn’t wear shorts and that “no one needs to see the state” of her thighs; Edie thinks about her mother saying that men “detested” a woman’s hair above her ears & her be seething at her granddaughter’s current hairstyle.
-Edie Vance
-Lauren Vance, age 32
-Chloe Vance, age 26
P.O.V. switches between them
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
I figured that this book would be a bit of a wild card for me for a few different reasons, but mainly because I’m not super familiar with a lot of classic books. That definitely proved to be true as I read this book and recognize very little of the literary references. I think those that know the areas these characters go to or love classics like the ones mentioned would probably enjoy this book much more than me.
As far as the characters: I felt bad for Edie because you could completely see how the lack of her mother’s approval—or even the lack of positive attention from her mother—has shaped her and also made her do a very similar thing to her own daughters with pushing her expectations on them. That said, even while knowing this, I had a hard time relating to or honestly even liking Edie. At one point, Edie thinks about the phrase “What would Jesus do?” but considers that only half the question for her as it would be followed by “and would [her mother] agree?” I think that can really give a reader the knowledge of how much she has—her entire life—been struggling to earn and keep her mother’s approval—plus how it’s affected her relationship with her own daughters.
As the older daughter, Lauren has taken most of the brunt of her mother and grandmother’s influence to always seem presentable and prepared, not willing to have a disapproving glance from either of them for anything. Lauren has often protected Chloe from her potential mistakes and her poor planning, but yet Lauren often feels like she has to earn her mother’s approval while she’s disapproving something Chloe is doing, which puts her at odds with her sister at times. It wasn’t a healthy relationship between the sisters because of the comparison that they ultimately face of the other and the small amount of approval and positive attention from their mother.
Chloe is definitely what you would call a “free-spirit” and while I do think she needed to plan just a wee bit more for the sake of her safety and pocket book, I did like her. She wanted the best for her mother and sister and loved them no matter how they treated her or expected her to act.
I think it would make sense when I say I found this book to be sad despite it not actually having a sad plot. These three women have missed out on so much—particularly Edie and Lauren—and missed out on the joy of family because of unreasonable expectations and then complaining or just not living life to the fullest. There was a major lack of God’s goodness and grace being shown by the two of them to others (mainly to Chloe) and even to themselves. Thankfully, there’s some good realizations for them all by the end of the book, but I would have loved to see it happen sooner so there could have been more happiness and healing on-page.
I liked that there was very little romance for this story and I liked Chloe’s faith for sure. I think it was a good story, but just not my favorite by this author. Clean overall though, which was a nice bonus.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.
About this book:
“Irrepressible dreamer Chloe Vance needs to tell her pragmatic mom, Edie, that she has accepted a low-paying, two-year art instructor role at a Christian international school in Prague. And her older sister, Lauren--the "responsible one"--is doing all she can to keep the family from finding out she has been fired for a stupid mistake, plus figure out her next career move. Meanwhile, Edie, estranged from her own sister following their mother's recent death, is frankly in no mood for anything else to change.
The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to figure out than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. And as they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll have to come to terms with their own needs and desires, as well as those of the most important women in their lives--each other.”
Series: As of now, no. A stand-alone novel.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are mentioned, remembered, read, & thought over; Prayers; Going to a chapel; Talks about God; ’H’s are not capital when referring to God or Jesus; Chloe reads a Bible study devotional with commentary on the book of John (on-page); Chloe listens to the podcast of a sermon (on-page); Lauren reads Philippians 4:12-13 and then swats the Bible closed because no one has told her about the secret it mentions; Edie thinks that pastors are “downright unhelpful sometimes” when one makes a comment she doesn’t like (not faith-based, but because of an incident); Edie thinks about the question “What would Jesus do?”, but adds the second part of it for her would be “and would [her mother] agree” with it; Edie wonders if her mother can see her now “through the veil between eternity and present”; Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, & those and events in the Bible; Mentions of missionaries; Mentions of churches, church going, church events, pastors, a sermon, & youth group; Mentions of crosses at churches; Mentions of praise music, hymns, Christian songs, & Christian artists (such as TobyMac & MercyMe); A few mentions of faiths; A few mentions of cross necklaces; A few mentions of blessings & being blessed; A few mentions of a Christian school; A mention of thanking God; A mention of “not even God [H]imself” would have been able to convince Edie to wear a certain outfit; A mention of morning meditations with God; A mention of sins; A mention of nuns; A mention of something being true being called “gospel solid”; A mention of the praying hands emoji; A mention of someone knowing that nature wasn’t “the god” and that nature was the testimony of the Creator;
*Note: Edie & Chloe both use the phrase “God bless” when needing help or in relief thrice; The phrase “TGIF” is said once in text; Edie calls pre-dawn an “ungodly hour” and a place as “hot as the devil”; An animal is called a “devil”; A couple mentions of luck; A mention of a place having a domed roof that looks like a demigod; A mention of someone being “lucky enough” to not have an older sibling beneath down his neck.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘heck’, a ‘stupid’, and a ‘sucker’; A mention of a curse (said by Lauren while in pain and not written out); Some eye rolling; Pain & Injuries (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Because of Edie’s father abandoning her family when she was young, she worries about others in her life not coming back for her (such as her husband who often reminded her that he would always be back for her); Lauren feels very uncomfortable with a man at a bus station staring at her; Mentions of orphan trains, families being split-up, & mothers choosing to keep some of their children over others (this visibly effects Edie to learn about in a museum); Mentions of pain & injuries; Mentions of beer, drinking, & drunk men; A few mentions of Edie thinking of the worst case scenarios (such as being in car wreck, trapped in a fire, & never seeing her husband again); A few mentions of the mafia & gangs; A few mentions of criminals & thieves; A few mentions of a fictional fire & gunshot (from a book/movie); A couple mentions of wars (the Civil War and World War I); A couple mentions of Edie’s father abandoning their family; A couple mentions of car accident/wrecks; A mention of a possible murder; A mention of war stories; A mention of the Great Depression; A mention of lies; A mention of cigarettes & smoking; A mention of bodily fluids; A mention of an injured duck from a beaver trap;
*Note: Edie had a strained relationship with her mother & has strained relationships with her daughters; Lauren and Chloe have a strained relationship with each other & their mother; Due to this, there are hurtful and snarky comments made towards each other at times throughout the book & all three trying to meet the other’s approval/expectations (such as Lauren thinking that Chloe is too naive and protected by others, Chloe thinking about her mother’s comments of expectations for her because of her age, Lauren trying to keep a secret from her mother so she doesn’t think that her daughter is foolish and thus earn her disapproval, Lauren thinking that Chloe never loses their mother’s support while she works hard to keep her parents from rebuffing her or needing to “find extra grace” for her, & Lauren wondering if other women have endured the “wake of their mother’s derision” (like she does)); All three of them recall comments and (negative) phrases from Edie’s mother (also Edie’s sister who has taken a long time to “unravel” from the experience of her mother’s reign); Edie resents her sister for leaving her to take care of their mother and her estate sale; *Spoilers* ; Edie was the caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s (this includes a few flashbacks of that difficult time and her thinking about the pain of being unable to reach her mother prior to having Alzheimer’s); When Chloe comments on a town having a “thrum of creativity”, Edie comments that it’s the “thrum of liberal policies” she feels (which makes Chloe comment that they agreed no politics on this trip); Edie makes a comment that a place has too many “American flag tank tops” for a place to be considered civilized; Lauren thinks a fictional character is the kind of women every girl should aspire to be “powerful, a leader, [and] immune to others’ opinions of her”; All about & many mentions of books (and the movie versions), poems, authors, & fictional characters and events (‘The Grapes of Wrath’, ‘O Pioneers’, ‘Catch-22’, ‘Invisible Man’, ‘The Lord of the Rings’, ‘The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes’, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, ‘Charlotte’s Web’, ‘The Outsiders’, ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘My Ántonia’, ‘One of Ours’, ‘The Bridges of Madison Country’, ’Shoeless Joe’, ‘The Imperfect Life of T. S. Eliot’ by Lyndall Gordon, 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock’, ‘The Glass Menagerie’, ‘Little House on the Prairie’, Jane Austen, Shakespeare, Willa Cather, Mark Twain, Francis Ford Coppola, Joel C. Rosenberg, Ernest Hemingway, Langston Hughes, L. Frank Baum, Joan Lowery Nixon, The Brontë sisters, Robert James Waller, W. P. Kinsella, John Irving, Flannery O’Connor, Eugene Field, Maya Angelou, Kate Chopin, T. S. Eliot, William S. Burroughs, Tennessee Williams, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Rose Wilder Lane, Ayn Rand, Sinclair Lewis, Harold Bell Wright, & John Steinbeck); Many mentions of actors/actresses, singers, & other celebrities/well-known figures (Judy Garland, John Wayne, Meryl Streep, Clint Eastwood, Kevin Costner, John Cena, Taylor Swift and her songs/album, Bruce Springsteen, Hank Williams, Warren Buffett, Jimmy Carter, Oprah, Stan Musial, & George Brett); Mentions of movies & TV shows (The Sound of Music, Field of Dreams, Doogie Howser M.D., & Law & Order); Mentions of brand names & items (Pitt pen, Waterford vase, Dawn soap, Garmin watch, Jenga, Advil, Tylenol PM, Carter’s ink, Tums, & Amtrak); Mentions of social media sites & websites (Instagram, Google Maps, the Scout app, & Etsy); Mentions of car brands; Mentions of sports teams; A few mentions of stores and restaurants (Macy’s & General Tso’s); A few mentions of Willa Cather swearing to be “nothing like what she was expected to be” and showed that by cutting her hair to be like a boy’s, vowing to be a surgeon, and dressing like a boy while calling herself William Cather Jr. (because of her accomplishments, Lauren thinks that Cather is the kind of woman every girl should aspire to be); A couple mentions of Halloween; A mention of anime.
Sexual Content- A border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kiss; Some staring, attraction, electricity, & touches/dancing; Seeing a couple dance, embrace, & kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); A married couple share a few kisses & embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Lauren meets a guy she is attracted to on the road trip and keeps him and meeting him a secret from her mother and sister (later Edie thinks about how dangerous it was of Lauren to do this and sneak out to meet him); Lauren thinks about the old her would have been willing to “pour herself into any shape” for a guy’s attention; Edie comments on Lauren and Chloe’s lack of hurry about dating and getting married; A comment about a movie featuring a young woman chafing under her mom’s scrutiny about her prospects and that being “a tale that would endure for as long as mothers had daughters”; Mentions of dating, dates, cute/handsome guys, & boyfriends; Mentions of flirting & winks; A few mentions of kisses (between a couple who just met/started dating); A mention of a young woman running away to be with a man;
*Note: Lauren thinks about her weight & doesn’t eat well throughout the book (this includes Lauren checks her calorie levels after exercising and later not adding dressing to her salad because it adds too many calories, noticing the “pudge” of her lower abdomen starting to go down (but not enough for her liking), Chloe noticing Lauren’s ribs when hugging her and Lauren checking that they aren’t “that pronounced” (and planning to avoid her sister’s touch during the trip so she doesn’t catch on), exercising often while on the road trip, trying to mask the pain of her empty stomach with ab exercises); *Spoiler* ; Edie is going through menopause & there’s a handful of mentions of it and side effects like sweating terribly at night; Edie rubs in lotion every night while “willing it to ward off the crepe and sag most women her age suffered”; Edie notices the “pudge” poking out of her blouse and thinks “Not too bad. Better than most women her age, anyway.”; Edie tells Chloe that she doesn’t wear shorts and that “no one needs to see the state” of her thighs; Edie thinks about her mother saying that men “detested” a woman’s hair above her ears & her be seething at her granddaughter’s current hairstyle.
-Edie Vance
-Lauren Vance, age 32
-Chloe Vance, age 26
P.O.V. switches between them
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
I figured that this book would be a bit of a wild card for me for a few different reasons, but mainly because I’m not super familiar with a lot of classic books. That definitely proved to be true as I read this book and recognize very little of the literary references. I think those that know the areas these characters go to or love classics like the ones mentioned would probably enjoy this book much more than me.
As far as the characters: I felt bad for Edie because you could completely see how the lack of her mother’s approval—or even the lack of positive attention from her mother—has shaped her and also made her do a very similar thing to her own daughters with pushing her expectations on them. That said, even while knowing this, I had a hard time relating to or honestly even liking Edie. At one point, Edie thinks about the phrase “What would Jesus do?” but considers that only half the question for her as it would be followed by “and would [her mother] agree?” I think that can really give a reader the knowledge of how much she has—her entire life—been struggling to earn and keep her mother’s approval—plus how it’s affected her relationship with her own daughters.
As the older daughter, Lauren has taken most of the brunt of her mother and grandmother’s influence to always seem presentable and prepared, not willing to have a disapproving glance from either of them for anything. Lauren has often protected Chloe from her potential mistakes and her poor planning, but yet Lauren often feels like she has to earn her mother’s approval while she’s disapproving something Chloe is doing, which puts her at odds with her sister at times. It wasn’t a healthy relationship between the sisters because of the comparison that they ultimately face of the other and the small amount of approval and positive attention from their mother.
Chloe is definitely what you would call a “free-spirit” and while I do think she needed to plan just a wee bit more for the sake of her safety and pocket book, I did like her. She wanted the best for her mother and sister and loved them no matter how they treated her or expected her to act.
I think it would make sense when I say I found this book to be sad despite it not actually having a sad plot. These three women have missed out on so much—particularly Edie and Lauren—and missed out on the joy of family because of unreasonable expectations and then complaining or just not living life to the fullest. There was a major lack of God’s goodness and grace being shown by the two of them to others (mainly to Chloe) and even to themselves. Thankfully, there’s some good realizations for them all by the end of the book, but I would have loved to see it happen sooner so there could have been more happiness and healing on-page.
I liked that there was very little romance for this story and I liked Chloe’s faith for sure. I think it was a good story, but just not my favorite by this author. Clean overall though, which was a nice bonus.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.
June 14, 2025
Road trip!
“We’re going on a bookish road trip!”
Hop in! Chloe Vance has an extra seat available in Goldie, her yellow Nissan Xterra.
You’ll be spending 9 days with Chloe, her sister Lauren, and their mom Edie as they visit different towns that have a connection to a book or an author in America’s heartland.
Did I mention that it’s a strained dynamic? No? My bad. I hope it isn’t too awkward.
Keep this quote in mind as you get comfortable. Don’t forget your seatbelt! “The belief of those closest to you was the hardest to earn. They know too many of your sins and failures.”
I saw SO much of myself and my sibling/parent relationship BUT I valued the cautionary tale the author presented. I liked knowing more than the others on the road trip, liked the reminder that a person’s greatest need was often the one they refused to acknowledge, but I really loved the thought about generations of impact stemming from seemingly unwise decisions.
My takeaway: We all have untold stories meant to be shared. Having the courage to share them may change us and those who’ll listen.
Thanks for a memorable trip, Sara Brunsvold!
I was gifted this copy by Revell and was under no obligation to provide a review.
“We’re going on a bookish road trip!”
Hop in! Chloe Vance has an extra seat available in Goldie, her yellow Nissan Xterra.
You’ll be spending 9 days with Chloe, her sister Lauren, and their mom Edie as they visit different towns that have a connection to a book or an author in America’s heartland.
Did I mention that it’s a strained dynamic? No? My bad. I hope it isn’t too awkward.
Keep this quote in mind as you get comfortable. Don’t forget your seatbelt! “The belief of those closest to you was the hardest to earn. They know too many of your sins and failures.”
I saw SO much of myself and my sibling/parent relationship BUT I valued the cautionary tale the author presented. I liked knowing more than the others on the road trip, liked the reminder that a person’s greatest need was often the one they refused to acknowledge, but I really loved the thought about generations of impact stemming from seemingly unwise decisions.
My takeaway: We all have untold stories meant to be shared. Having the courage to share them may change us and those who’ll listen.
Thanks for a memorable trip, Sara Brunsvold!
I was gifted this copy by Revell and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 19, 2025
Wow. This book was kind of unexpected. I read the back to get an idea for the story, but it was so much more than just a roadtrip.
This book is about family. Broken people and missed chances. Heartbreak and healing. Resentment and forgiveness. It was beautiful.
Though all three Vance girls have different personalities and outlooks on life, they all carry the weight of insufficiency in some way or another: the fear of being left behind, tired of trying to be perfect, and discouraged by constant belittlement. I found myself relating to all of them in small ways.
Brunsvold writes believable characters that you want to root for. And the way all the drama unfolds is nothing short of seamless. While I didn’t resonate with all the literary references since I’m not the biggest classics reader, it was fun seeing how all the author’s life lessons coincided with what the Vance girls were experiencing emotionally.
But let’s be real. The dad is the true MVP of this book. Without him, the Vance girls would be lost. I love how this story is also a testament to the importance of strong fatherhood, because it makes a difference.
And the faith thread was lovely. Chloe was a pillar for her family, and her reliance on Christ was inspiring.
Overall, I loved this book and am so grateful to Bethany House and Revell for sending me a copy to review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content note*
If you read, just know there are mentions of a slight eating disorder (moreso brought on by perfectionism) and an emotionally manipulative mom/grandmother (in the past). Just adding this here for those who are more sensitive to these things.
This book is about family. Broken people and missed chances. Heartbreak and healing. Resentment and forgiveness. It was beautiful.
Though all three Vance girls have different personalities and outlooks on life, they all carry the weight of insufficiency in some way or another: the fear of being left behind, tired of trying to be perfect, and discouraged by constant belittlement. I found myself relating to all of them in small ways.
Brunsvold writes believable characters that you want to root for. And the way all the drama unfolds is nothing short of seamless. While I didn’t resonate with all the literary references since I’m not the biggest classics reader, it was fun seeing how all the author’s life lessons coincided with what the Vance girls were experiencing emotionally.
But let’s be real. The dad is the true MVP of this book. Without him, the Vance girls would be lost. I love how this story is also a testament to the importance of strong fatherhood, because it makes a difference.
And the faith thread was lovely. Chloe was a pillar for her family, and her reliance on Christ was inspiring.
Overall, I loved this book and am so grateful to Bethany House and Revell for sending me a copy to review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content note*
If you read, just know there are mentions of a slight eating disorder (moreso brought on by perfectionism) and an emotionally manipulative mom/grandmother (in the past). Just adding this here for those who are more sensitive to these things.
June 9, 2025
How do you map out the stories that live within us—the quiet fears, the small triumphs, the tender hopes? In The Atlas of Untold Stories, Sara Brunsvold takes readers on a literal and emotional road trip with a mother and her two daughters, weaving together faith, family, and the enduring power of literature.
For me, Chloe’s gentle joy and unwavering faith were what kept me turning the pages. Her bright spirit was a steady light through every mile of the journey, even when the story itself felt more like a meandering road trip than a deep exploration. I was especially drawn to the quiet conviction with which Chloe lived her faith—she didn’t tuck it away for convenience or comfort. This adventure was her way of honoring her Savior and Lord with every step she took alongside her mother and sister. It was a vivid reminder that faith isn’t just for the mountaintop moments; it’s for every muddy road and winding path along the way.
There’s a warmth and sweetness in this story, with moments that made me smile and others that prompted me to pause and ponder. I loved how the book wove in gentle humor and literary nostalgia, adding a cozy touch to their journey. Chloe’s love for exploring new places and her quiet resolve to honor God in the midst of family tensions felt like a soft thread of encouragement, inviting me to do the same in my own relationships.
Two quotes in particular echoed in my heart:
“Imagine the questions the disciples must have asked as they crossed into Samaria. Imagine the doubts they must have expressed, or how many times they tried to convince Jesus to go a different route. They couldn’t see what He did. They didn’t understand that being about the Father’s business often does look incomprehensible to the world. But how many lives were changed because of Jesus’s “unwise” choice? How many generations of lives?”
“She needed to be there. She needed to be about the Father’s business there. The certainty was immovable.”
This was a gentle, warm, enjoyable, and quietly luminous journey, with Chloe’s faith shining as a steady light throughout, lived out with quiet strength and joy.
She reminded me that the best stories are the ones that invite us to keep our eyes open to the Author of them all, and to live each chapter in wonder, grace, humble worship, and steadfast obedience.
I received a digital ARC and paperback of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
For me, Chloe’s gentle joy and unwavering faith were what kept me turning the pages. Her bright spirit was a steady light through every mile of the journey, even when the story itself felt more like a meandering road trip than a deep exploration. I was especially drawn to the quiet conviction with which Chloe lived her faith—she didn’t tuck it away for convenience or comfort. This adventure was her way of honoring her Savior and Lord with every step she took alongside her mother and sister. It was a vivid reminder that faith isn’t just for the mountaintop moments; it’s for every muddy road and winding path along the way.
There’s a warmth and sweetness in this story, with moments that made me smile and others that prompted me to pause and ponder. I loved how the book wove in gentle humor and literary nostalgia, adding a cozy touch to their journey. Chloe’s love for exploring new places and her quiet resolve to honor God in the midst of family tensions felt like a soft thread of encouragement, inviting me to do the same in my own relationships.
Two quotes in particular echoed in my heart:
“Imagine the questions the disciples must have asked as they crossed into Samaria. Imagine the doubts they must have expressed, or how many times they tried to convince Jesus to go a different route. They couldn’t see what He did. They didn’t understand that being about the Father’s business often does look incomprehensible to the world. But how many lives were changed because of Jesus’s “unwise” choice? How many generations of lives?”
“She needed to be there. She needed to be about the Father’s business there. The certainty was immovable.”
This was a gentle, warm, enjoyable, and quietly luminous journey, with Chloe’s faith shining as a steady light throughout, lived out with quiet strength and joy.
She reminded me that the best stories are the ones that invite us to keep our eyes open to the Author of them all, and to live each chapter in wonder, grace, humble worship, and steadfast obedience.
I received a digital ARC and paperback of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
June 12, 2025
The Atlas of Untold Stories is not the easiest read because it deals with family dynamics. Family is messy and hard. But it can also be beautiful, despite its complexities. That is this story: messy and beautiful.
Strange how an empty room could be haunted by sound, especially a sound as whispery and distant as the shiff of sand between the bowls of an hourglass.
The Atlas of Untold Stories is a family drama told from the perspective of Edie and her daughters, Chloe and Lauren. From Edie's perspective, we see the rigidity of her mother, how it affected her as a child, and how it seeps into her parenting style.
From Chloe's perspective, we see her avoiding telling her mom a secret by convincing her to go on a road trip. Chloe is full of optimism and hope. Despite many challenges, she perseveres with grace and faith. She is my favorite character.
From Lauren's perspective, we see the mistake she made that led to her termination, its impact on her, and the other things she is hiding from her family. Lauren got on my nerves with her sulking and constant comparisons to Chloe. She has major issues and big sister syndrome.
This one might take a little bit longer to get into, but it is worth it. It is a beautifully complex story with lots of literary delights.
Thank you to the author and Revell for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Strange how an empty room could be haunted by sound, especially a sound as whispery and distant as the shiff of sand between the bowls of an hourglass.
The Atlas of Untold Stories is a family drama told from the perspective of Edie and her daughters, Chloe and Lauren. From Edie's perspective, we see the rigidity of her mother, how it affected her as a child, and how it seeps into her parenting style.
From Chloe's perspective, we see her avoiding telling her mom a secret by convincing her to go on a road trip. Chloe is full of optimism and hope. Despite many challenges, she perseveres with grace and faith. She is my favorite character.
From Lauren's perspective, we see the mistake she made that led to her termination, its impact on her, and the other things she is hiding from her family. Lauren got on my nerves with her sulking and constant comparisons to Chloe. She has major issues and big sister syndrome.
This one might take a little bit longer to get into, but it is worth it. It is a beautifully complex story with lots of literary delights.
Thank you to the author and Revell for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
June 13, 2025
4.5 stars
“Until the fear is quieted, the hope can’t be heard.”
Sara Brunsvold is an exceptionally talented author whose stories shine a thoughtful light on the messiness of life and the restorative work of grace. The Atlas of Untold Stories is the latest of her novels that I wanted to sink into and soak in every profound and tenderly-presented truth. On the surface appears to be a road trip story with bookish detours and a deep dive into complicated mother-daughter-sister dynamics. The kind that would make the perfect next read for your book club or vacation. And yes, it is each of those things. All of those things. But it’s also just as witty and heartfelt and fun as it is moving. And its explorations of how those family dynamics are shaped by a potpourri of expectations, secrets, forgiveness, friendships, faith, courage, trauma, art/music/literature, memories, love, and purpose will wrap around you like a hug that lingers long.
Chloe Vance is, in a word, adorable. I absolutely loved her. She’s full of life and endearing, and she exudes a contagious delight that overflows from her creative personality and close relationship with God. At least… it’s contagious for everyone except her exacting mom Edie and older sister Lauren who are her immune-to-Chloe’s-joy companions on this impromptu bookish road trip. The one Chloe concocted as a means of buying more time to tell her mom that’s she moving to Prague for two years. She isn’t the only one with a secret though, and Lauren proves correct the book’s observation that secrets grow heavier until the truth is told. Edie and Lauren grew on me over the course of this novel, and I came to love them just as much as I did Chloe. My heart ached for all three of these women though as they navigated close quarters and stilted conversations while dealing with unexpected bumps in the road and dancing around what they really need to be saying to each other. But I also felt that same heart growing lighter with each page I turned, watching God’s grace fill in the gaps and smooth out the rough edges. I also laughed several times (and grinned several more), usually at something unexpectedly-humorous from pragmatic Edie… like this observation about juice boxes:
“Women her age had no business drinking out of a straw the width of an eyelash.”
Bottom Line: Chloe, Lauren, and Edie Vance may think they are on a nine-day road trip to bookish places in America’s heartland, but the journey they’re really on could change their lives – and ours too. In The Atlas of Untold Stories, author Sara Brunsvold has masterfully crafted an emotional, witty, uplifting, and bookish story that illustrates several thoughtfully-sketched truths: that no relationship is too far beyond God’s ability to restore, that we are all products of the stories going on around us – even the ones we don’t tell anyone else – and that He alone is our courage to be still when we want to run ahead or away. Brunsvold’s writing voice is layered with warmth and humor, and she paints vibrant pictures that immerse you in the fabric of the story. I saw something of myself in each of the three Vance women, which means I also found healing while I watched theirs unfold. Fans of Cynthia Ruchti, Katie Powner, book club fiction, and Robin W. Pearson will love The Atlas of Untold Stories too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
“Until the fear is quieted, the hope can’t be heard.”
Sara Brunsvold is an exceptionally talented author whose stories shine a thoughtful light on the messiness of life and the restorative work of grace. The Atlas of Untold Stories is the latest of her novels that I wanted to sink into and soak in every profound and tenderly-presented truth. On the surface appears to be a road trip story with bookish detours and a deep dive into complicated mother-daughter-sister dynamics. The kind that would make the perfect next read for your book club or vacation. And yes, it is each of those things. All of those things. But it’s also just as witty and heartfelt and fun as it is moving. And its explorations of how those family dynamics are shaped by a potpourri of expectations, secrets, forgiveness, friendships, faith, courage, trauma, art/music/literature, memories, love, and purpose will wrap around you like a hug that lingers long.
Chloe Vance is, in a word, adorable. I absolutely loved her. She’s full of life and endearing, and she exudes a contagious delight that overflows from her creative personality and close relationship with God. At least… it’s contagious for everyone except her exacting mom Edie and older sister Lauren who are her immune-to-Chloe’s-joy companions on this impromptu bookish road trip. The one Chloe concocted as a means of buying more time to tell her mom that’s she moving to Prague for two years. She isn’t the only one with a secret though, and Lauren proves correct the book’s observation that secrets grow heavier until the truth is told. Edie and Lauren grew on me over the course of this novel, and I came to love them just as much as I did Chloe. My heart ached for all three of these women though as they navigated close quarters and stilted conversations while dealing with unexpected bumps in the road and dancing around what they really need to be saying to each other. But I also felt that same heart growing lighter with each page I turned, watching God’s grace fill in the gaps and smooth out the rough edges. I also laughed several times (and grinned several more), usually at something unexpectedly-humorous from pragmatic Edie… like this observation about juice boxes:
“Women her age had no business drinking out of a straw the width of an eyelash.”
Bottom Line: Chloe, Lauren, and Edie Vance may think they are on a nine-day road trip to bookish places in America’s heartland, but the journey they’re really on could change their lives – and ours too. In The Atlas of Untold Stories, author Sara Brunsvold has masterfully crafted an emotional, witty, uplifting, and bookish story that illustrates several thoughtfully-sketched truths: that no relationship is too far beyond God’s ability to restore, that we are all products of the stories going on around us – even the ones we don’t tell anyone else – and that He alone is our courage to be still when we want to run ahead or away. Brunsvold’s writing voice is layered with warmth and humor, and she paints vibrant pictures that immerse you in the fabric of the story. I saw something of myself in each of the three Vance women, which means I also found healing while I watched theirs unfold. Fans of Cynthia Ruchti, Katie Powner, book club fiction, and Robin W. Pearson will love The Atlas of Untold Stories too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 26, 2025
I’m a huge fan of Sara’s books! All of Sara Brunsvold’s books go deep, and her characters are always written in a way that makes you feel like you truly know them. She does such a beautiful job creating people who feel real.
The Atlas of Untold Stories centers around three women—two sisters and their mom—who go on a bookish road trip through America’s heartland. Along the way, they’re not only visiting literary landmarks, but also learning more about themselves and each other. It’s a story about identity, relationships, and what it looks like being a mother, daughter, and sister.
I loved seeing all the different places they stopped—especially the little museums and small towns along their route. Book lovers will really enjoy traveling with them through cities tied to classic authors and stories. Sara brings those settings to life in such a charming way.
That said, I’ll be honest—the book was a little slow for me at first. It took me a while to really care about the storyline. But I’m so glad I stuck with it, because the last 45 minutes or so were by far my favorite. The emotional depth we finally get from the characters hit me hard—I even teared up at one point. Sara’s writing is just so beautiful when she digs into those deeper moments.
If you’re looking for a clean, contemporary read that steps away from romance and dives into family, identity, and healing—this is a great one to pick up this summer.
The Atlas of Untold Stories centers around three women—two sisters and their mom—who go on a bookish road trip through America’s heartland. Along the way, they’re not only visiting literary landmarks, but also learning more about themselves and each other. It’s a story about identity, relationships, and what it looks like being a mother, daughter, and sister.
I loved seeing all the different places they stopped—especially the little museums and small towns along their route. Book lovers will really enjoy traveling with them through cities tied to classic authors and stories. Sara brings those settings to life in such a charming way.
That said, I’ll be honest—the book was a little slow for me at first. It took me a while to really care about the storyline. But I’m so glad I stuck with it, because the last 45 minutes or so were by far my favorite. The emotional depth we finally get from the characters hit me hard—I even teared up at one point. Sara’s writing is just so beautiful when she digs into those deeper moments.
If you’re looking for a clean, contemporary read that steps away from romance and dives into family, identity, and healing—this is a great one to pick up this summer.
June 10, 2025
This book had all the feels for me. I can honestly say that I laughed, I teared up a bit and I had moments of frustration. There were times that I wanted to tell the characters, especially Lauren, what to do differently. I liked Chloe's sweet, enthusiastic spirit throughout the book. Sometimes, Edie's attitude was a bit much for me. She could be pretty snarky.
Being from the Midwest, I enjoyed all the stops they made on their bookish trip. In fact, there are a few that I have been to myself. Now, I have more that I'd like to see.
I felt like Sara did a fantastic job with the supporting characters as well. I really liked Grant, Chloe's dad and his relationship with both his daughters and his wife. I felt like he really grounded all of them.
I always like that Sara adds faith elements to her stories in a way that doesn't appear to be too preachy, just natural. Especially the section with Chloe having her quiet time and the lessons she learns through that time with God.
This was a pretty quick read for me, I was looking forward to how relationships were going to be resolved. One of my favorite quotes was "A person's greatest need was often the one they refused to acknowledge."
Thank you to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the early copy to review. This is my honest opinion.
Being from the Midwest, I enjoyed all the stops they made on their bookish trip. In fact, there are a few that I have been to myself. Now, I have more that I'd like to see.
I felt like Sara did a fantastic job with the supporting characters as well. I really liked Grant, Chloe's dad and his relationship with both his daughters and his wife. I felt like he really grounded all of them.
I always like that Sara adds faith elements to her stories in a way that doesn't appear to be too preachy, just natural. Especially the section with Chloe having her quiet time and the lessons she learns through that time with God.
This was a pretty quick read for me, I was looking forward to how relationships were going to be resolved. One of my favorite quotes was "A person's greatest need was often the one they refused to acknowledge."
Thank you to the author, publisher & Netgalley for the early copy to review. This is my honest opinion.
July 8, 2025
3-ish stars, personally. ⭐️
💭My Thoughts
Hmm. I have mixed thoughts on this one.
First of all, I did love the premise of a bookish road trip sooo much. It was so fun and different, and I really enjoyed the many references to classics throughout, and finding out how many I recognized. I so appreciate Sara Brunsvold’s ability to write meaningful stories that don’t rely on romance, however, I will say the tiny thread of romance that was in this book I did not care for.
While this book had less faith content than “The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip” in my opinion, it was thoughtfully written, and the author did a good job of contrasting the character’s perspectives- pessimism vs optimism, for example. That being said, I really did not like any character except for Chloe. She was sweet and positive, and her “not wanting the cubicle life” and just her ambition and energy in general were super relatable to me.
I guess I just never understood WHY Edie was the way she was with her own daughter. Her mother being the same way was given as a sort of reason, but I personally don’t think the why of everything was ever fleshed out. As well, I’m not sure why the dad wasn’t in the picture more…? If he had been a stronger part of his family’s interactions, I feel like things could have been different.
While Edie realistically wasn't a full-on "villain" in the story, and had rare, brief moments when she showed a kinder, more tolerant side, her and Lauren's attitudes still annoyed me and significantly brought down my enjoyment of the book. Honestly, after a while it was a bit grueling. Edie behaved like a teenager at times, and I felt so bad for Chloe, who was trying her best to win her mom's heart. Also, if I could note one more thing, there were nods to an eating disorder of Lauren's throughout, but as far as I can see, it was never properly dealt with or wrapped up aside from a sentence towards the end about her "eating fuller meals" and thus could potentially be harmful to some.
It should be noted that I am not a big fan of contemporary fiction, so as with every book I’ve read that takes place in modern times, there were times when this book was a little jarring and off-putting, particularly with the mentions of Instagram and Taylor Swift, for instance…🤨 But that’s merely a personal note, so if you don’t mind contemporary books, that shouldn’t bother you.
This book just had a sadder feel to it, and there were elements I didn’t care for within. The ending was quite touching, but possibly a little rushed. Overall, while this was not a terrible read, and I can see why many would love it, it wasn't fully my thing for several different reasons.
***Thank you to the publisher (Revell) for sending me a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
⚠️ Broad content notes
Grief, extremely strained family dynamic, an evident eating disorder, discussion of the history and sad conditions of orphan trains, no language besides "blasted" and curses said by characters but not written out, and semi-detailed injuries and pain.
Recommend for: ages 15/16+, but truly depends on the reader.
Link to review on my blog: https://boundlessbookshelfreviews.blo...
Follow The Boundless Bookshelf here: https://www.blogger.com/followers/fol...
💭My Thoughts
Hmm. I have mixed thoughts on this one.
First of all, I did love the premise of a bookish road trip sooo much. It was so fun and different, and I really enjoyed the many references to classics throughout, and finding out how many I recognized. I so appreciate Sara Brunsvold’s ability to write meaningful stories that don’t rely on romance, however, I will say the tiny thread of romance that was in this book I did not care for.
While this book had less faith content than “The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip” in my opinion, it was thoughtfully written, and the author did a good job of contrasting the character’s perspectives- pessimism vs optimism, for example. That being said, I really did not like any character except for Chloe. She was sweet and positive, and her “not wanting the cubicle life” and just her ambition and energy in general were super relatable to me.
I guess I just never understood WHY Edie was the way she was with her own daughter. Her mother being the same way was given as a sort of reason, but I personally don’t think the why of everything was ever fleshed out. As well, I’m not sure why the dad wasn’t in the picture more…? If he had been a stronger part of his family’s interactions, I feel like things could have been different.
While Edie realistically wasn't a full-on "villain" in the story, and had rare, brief moments when she showed a kinder, more tolerant side, her and Lauren's attitudes still annoyed me and significantly brought down my enjoyment of the book. Honestly, after a while it was a bit grueling. Edie behaved like a teenager at times, and I felt so bad for Chloe, who was trying her best to win her mom's heart. Also, if I could note one more thing, there were nods to an eating disorder of Lauren's throughout, but as far as I can see, it was never properly dealt with or wrapped up aside from a sentence towards the end about her "eating fuller meals" and thus could potentially be harmful to some.
It should be noted that I am not a big fan of contemporary fiction, so as with every book I’ve read that takes place in modern times, there were times when this book was a little jarring and off-putting, particularly with the mentions of Instagram and Taylor Swift, for instance…🤨 But that’s merely a personal note, so if you don’t mind contemporary books, that shouldn’t bother you.
This book just had a sadder feel to it, and there were elements I didn’t care for within. The ending was quite touching, but possibly a little rushed. Overall, while this was not a terrible read, and I can see why many would love it, it wasn't fully my thing for several different reasons.
***Thank you to the publisher (Revell) for sending me a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
⚠️ Broad content notes
Grief, extremely strained family dynamic, an evident eating disorder, discussion of the history and sad conditions of orphan trains, no language besides "blasted" and curses said by characters but not written out, and semi-detailed injuries and pain.
Recommend for: ages 15/16+, but truly depends on the reader.
Link to review on my blog: https://boundlessbookshelfreviews.blo...
Follow The Boundless Bookshelf here: https://www.blogger.com/followers/fol...
Read
July 8, 2025This is a tough review to write because I truly believe this author is incredibly talented. I really enjoyed her debut novel a couple of years ago.
The premise of this book sounded like a lot of fun: a bookish road trip with a mother (Edie) and two daughters (Chloe and Lauren). But these three are carrying some deep baggage. The mother is repeating her own unhealthy mother/daughter dynamics with her daughters. We get a glimpse into her upbringing with a cold, controlling mother but honestly, it didn’t feel like enough of a reason for how she treated Chloe (who was, in my opinion, the only tolerable main character). She was dismissive, disinterested, and downright rude to her daughter throughout the whole trip. I felt like shaking her while I had a lot of sympathy for Chloe.
Chloe, a young woman grounded in her faith, manages to look past the eye rolls and snide comments and still enjoy the journey… she’s ever the optimist…. but I found myself wondering: was that really realistic? A cramped cross country road trip, no air conditioning, and two women who clearly didn’t want to be there? I kept hoping something would shift, that the mom would snap out of it but the change didn’t come until the very, very end.
Then there’s Lauren. Her struggle with an eating disorder plays a major role in her character. She’s described as all bones and eats very little, skipping meals and nibbling. She’s an extremist when it comes to working out, even doing hundreds of crunches secretly in the car. Chloe begins to suspect something but the mom is completely oblivious. Even when the sister passes out. The resolution felt brushed over. A single line near the end mentions her eating fuller meals and that’s it. I guess the reader must come to the conclusion she hopefully sought the help of her family and professionals? I felt this could have been explored more thoughtfully. As it stands, the treatment of this storyline could be potentially harmful to readers, especially younger ones.
There’s also a small romantic thread involving Lauren and a man she meets randomly on the trip. I didn’t love how it was handled. She begins secretly texting him while they are driving, sneaking out to see him when they stop at their destinations,(without telling her mom or sister). Lauren feels empowered because he’s willing and waiting to meet up wherever she’s headed next. But to me, it sent a questionable message, especially to younger girls. Yes, Lauren is an adult and Chloe and her mom do find out and disapprove, but it seemed like a random thing thrown in the plot.
Overall, I was disappointed. The book had so much potential to be both meaningful and joyful but in the end, it missed the mark.
The premise of this book sounded like a lot of fun: a bookish road trip with a mother (Edie) and two daughters (Chloe and Lauren). But these three are carrying some deep baggage. The mother is repeating her own unhealthy mother/daughter dynamics with her daughters. We get a glimpse into her upbringing with a cold, controlling mother but honestly, it didn’t feel like enough of a reason for how she treated Chloe (who was, in my opinion, the only tolerable main character). She was dismissive, disinterested, and downright rude to her daughter throughout the whole trip. I felt like shaking her while I had a lot of sympathy for Chloe.
Chloe, a young woman grounded in her faith, manages to look past the eye rolls and snide comments and still enjoy the journey… she’s ever the optimist…. but I found myself wondering: was that really realistic? A cramped cross country road trip, no air conditioning, and two women who clearly didn’t want to be there? I kept hoping something would shift, that the mom would snap out of it but the change didn’t come until the very, very end.
Then there’s Lauren. Her struggle with an eating disorder plays a major role in her character. She’s described as all bones and eats very little, skipping meals and nibbling. She’s an extremist when it comes to working out, even doing hundreds of crunches secretly in the car. Chloe begins to suspect something but the mom is completely oblivious. Even when the sister passes out. The resolution felt brushed over. A single line near the end mentions her eating fuller meals and that’s it. I guess the reader must come to the conclusion she hopefully sought the help of her family and professionals? I felt this could have been explored more thoughtfully. As it stands, the treatment of this storyline could be potentially harmful to readers, especially younger ones.
There’s also a small romantic thread involving Lauren and a man she meets randomly on the trip. I didn’t love how it was handled. She begins secretly texting him while they are driving, sneaking out to see him when they stop at their destinations,(without telling her mom or sister). Lauren feels empowered because he’s willing and waiting to meet up wherever she’s headed next. But to me, it sent a questionable message, especially to younger girls. Yes, Lauren is an adult and Chloe and her mom do find out and disapprove, but it seemed like a random thing thrown in the plot.
Overall, I was disappointed. The book had so much potential to be both meaningful and joyful but in the end, it missed the mark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
I'm not usually a fan of roadtrip stories but Sara Brunsvold did a fantastic job! I loved the characters and the literary twist to an ordinary road trip. I loved the characters and how each of them grew and their stories unfolded.
*Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
4.5⭐
*Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
4.5⭐
June 25, 2025
This one is difficult for me to review because it dealt with important topics which I love to see in Christian fiction, yet I felt like there was a missed opportunity to get beneath the surface.
THE ATLAS OF UNTOLD STORIES features a young woman who spontaneously takes her mother and sister on a road trip while attempting to tell of her plans to work abroad for several years. Both the mother and sister have major issues to work through, carrying over from a multi-generational history of complicated family dynamics that they've internalized. The strained relationships felt authentic and real, yet it didn't make for an enjoyable road trip because certain characters were just so unlikeable. Even getting their POV and learning more of the why behind their actions wasn't helping me gain much sympathy for anyone.
As I said, this book addresses topics that I find very important to discuss yet not commonly addressed in CF. But I think not only is it important to show family dysfunction and how the choices we make impact generations to follow, I also think it's equally important to show what healing and growth looks like. I found one short epilogue briefly addressing how the characters have moved on wasn't enough to depict that for how much stuff the characters really needed to work through.
The faith thread is strong, just like the other books I've loved from Sara. While this one isn't my favourite of hers, I will still be reading more of her books to come. It's still a well-written, authentic story and if you enjoy reading about road trips and literary references, I think this would be the book for you.
Content Notes:
- trigger warning for eating disorder (which I felt was very realistic and would've loved to have seen worked through more than the epilogue's one line about 'eating fuller meals')
THE ATLAS OF UNTOLD STORIES features a young woman who spontaneously takes her mother and sister on a road trip while attempting to tell of her plans to work abroad for several years. Both the mother and sister have major issues to work through, carrying over from a multi-generational history of complicated family dynamics that they've internalized. The strained relationships felt authentic and real, yet it didn't make for an enjoyable road trip because certain characters were just so unlikeable. Even getting their POV and learning more of the why behind their actions wasn't helping me gain much sympathy for anyone.
As I said, this book addresses topics that I find very important to discuss yet not commonly addressed in CF. But I think not only is it important to show family dysfunction and how the choices we make impact generations to follow, I also think it's equally important to show what healing and growth looks like. I found one short epilogue briefly addressing how the characters have moved on wasn't enough to depict that for how much stuff the characters really needed to work through.
The faith thread is strong, just like the other books I've loved from Sara. While this one isn't my favourite of hers, I will still be reading more of her books to come. It's still a well-written, authentic story and if you enjoy reading about road trips and literary references, I think this would be the book for you.
Content Notes:
- trigger warning for eating disorder (which I felt was very realistic and would've loved to have seen worked through more than the epilogue's one line about 'eating fuller meals')
August 2, 2025
My, my, my.
I'll start by saying that my rating is not a reflection of the author's writing ability. As I've come to expect from Brunsvold, the writing is rich and beautiful.
I just couldn't care about these characters. As the oldest of three daughters who is incredibly close to my mother, I selected this book because I know the nuances of the mother-daughter + mother-sister relationships. And towards the end, my heart was tender toward those dynamics.
But unfortunately, most of this book was spent in road trip details I didn't care much about and ungrateful characters who I would have left on the side of the road. For me, the vast majority of the book felt like trudging through negativity and unnecessary details when I just needed these women to go to therapy.
The redemption is beautiful once you get there, and I teared up in the epilogue. This book just wasn't for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. All expressed opinions belong to me.
I'll start by saying that my rating is not a reflection of the author's writing ability. As I've come to expect from Brunsvold, the writing is rich and beautiful.
I just couldn't care about these characters. As the oldest of three daughters who is incredibly close to my mother, I selected this book because I know the nuances of the mother-daughter + mother-sister relationships. And towards the end, my heart was tender toward those dynamics.
But unfortunately, most of this book was spent in road trip details I didn't care much about and ungrateful characters who I would have left on the side of the road. For me, the vast majority of the book felt like trudging through negativity and unnecessary details when I just needed these women to go to therapy.
The redemption is beautiful once you get there, and I teared up in the epilogue. This book just wasn't for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. All expressed opinions belong to me.
July 10, 2025
With tender emotion and unabashed faith, "The Atlas of Untold Stories" by Sara Brunsvold takes readers on a moving journey of personal growth and relational restoration.
Brunsvold's characters walk onto the page as flesh and blood people with relatable fissures on their finite souls. An anxious mother, struggling to navigate how to parent adult daughters. Polar opposite sisters, struggling to navigate their differences. Together these women traverse a bumpy road, marred by potholes of heartache, and discover eye-opening pit-stops of connection that lead to a beautiful destination of hope and healing.
Fans of US history and the great American novel will enjoy sightseeing locations of literary significance and lovers of women's fiction will appreciate the novel's nuanced exploration of complex family dynamics.
If you're in the mood for a bookish road-trip across the Midwest, buckle up for The Atlas of Untold Stories!
Brunsvold's characters walk onto the page as flesh and blood people with relatable fissures on their finite souls. An anxious mother, struggling to navigate how to parent adult daughters. Polar opposite sisters, struggling to navigate their differences. Together these women traverse a bumpy road, marred by potholes of heartache, and discover eye-opening pit-stops of connection that lead to a beautiful destination of hope and healing.
Fans of US history and the great American novel will enjoy sightseeing locations of literary significance and lovers of women's fiction will appreciate the novel's nuanced exploration of complex family dynamics.
If you're in the mood for a bookish road-trip across the Midwest, buckle up for The Atlas of Untold Stories!
June 20, 2025
Well, she's done it again. You will not find daring adventure, reckless abandon, or passionate embraces in a Sara Brunsvold novel. But what you will find is repaired relationships, hard conversations, and depths that you'll long to explore even within yourself.
This book, like her previous books, is a multigenerational one. Edie in particular resonated with me. As a mom who is [very slowly] learning to let her kids go, I understood her far too well.
Where will my children end up? How will I protect them if they aren't close? If they move away, did I do something wrong?
Yeah. I was ugly crying.
All I can say is that I'm so grateful that my children aren't MINE to protect. They're in God's hands, come what may. What a relief that is!
Anyway, I'm seriously getting off the point here. This is a beautiful story of a mom and her daughters who are getting to know each other. Maybe for the first time ever.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
This book, like her previous books, is a multigenerational one. Edie in particular resonated with me. As a mom who is [very slowly] learning to let her kids go, I understood her far too well.
Where will my children end up? How will I protect them if they aren't close? If they move away, did I do something wrong?
Yeah. I was ugly crying.
All I can say is that I'm so grateful that my children aren't MINE to protect. They're in God's hands, come what may. What a relief that is!
Anyway, I'm seriously getting off the point here. This is a beautiful story of a mom and her daughters who are getting to know each other. Maybe for the first time ever.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
August 22, 2025
This was such another fantastic story by the author! I felt drawn into the family drama and dynamics from the start and was immediately ready for a road trip with the ladies of the story.
We all know that each family member plays a certain role. While it's different in every family, it's easy to understand how Chloe and Lauren fit them both. Edie is clearly formed from the way her mother raised her and she's turned that around on her own daughters. I loved her husband (their dad) even though he plays a minor role. He balances out Edie's stress and expectations in a way that's mind boggling.
I think had I gone on a road trip with these 3 ladies I would've gone crazy with Lauren and Edie. They just had such a poor attitude and just wanted to get things over with. Poor Chloe just wanted to experience each stop they made. Again, the dynamics of the ladies caused many issues throughout the story, but also helped me get to know them better. While Edie seems incredibly independent, it's evident how reliant she is on her husband's quiet strength.
Lauren, the ever reliable one, is miserable and taking it out mostly on Chloe after losing her job. The agony of keeping it from her parents is eating her up inside. It's such a strong reminder of how secrets are better when shared with loved ones.
Through the highs and lows, I stuck close to this story from beginning to end!
*I received the book for a social tour. I wasn't asked to review the book. This is my personal opinion.
We all know that each family member plays a certain role. While it's different in every family, it's easy to understand how Chloe and Lauren fit them both. Edie is clearly formed from the way her mother raised her and she's turned that around on her own daughters. I loved her husband (their dad) even though he plays a minor role. He balances out Edie's stress and expectations in a way that's mind boggling.
I think had I gone on a road trip with these 3 ladies I would've gone crazy with Lauren and Edie. They just had such a poor attitude and just wanted to get things over with. Poor Chloe just wanted to experience each stop they made. Again, the dynamics of the ladies caused many issues throughout the story, but also helped me get to know them better. While Edie seems incredibly independent, it's evident how reliant she is on her husband's quiet strength.
Lauren, the ever reliable one, is miserable and taking it out mostly on Chloe after losing her job. The agony of keeping it from her parents is eating her up inside. It's such a strong reminder of how secrets are better when shared with loved ones.
Through the highs and lows, I stuck close to this story from beginning to end!
*I received the book for a social tour. I wasn't asked to review the book. This is my personal opinion.
May 5, 2025
This is a beautifully written story about the complicated relationships between mothers, daughters, and sisters. Chloe, the younger daughter is the flighty one, always leaping into the unknown. Lauren is the older daughter who has spent her life picking up after Chloe. She is wound so tight she is one fall away from shattering. Evie is their mother, who has mother issues of her own. She lives in fear. Chloe plans to move overseas for two years and can’t quite figure out how to tell them so she invites her mother on a road trip to visit places related to midwestern novels and novelists such as Little House on the Prairie and The Grapes of Wrath. As they travel from town to town learning the stories of these books and authors, they begin to learn each other’s stories.
If you haven’t read any books by Sara Brunsvold, just go buy everything she has written. She is a phenomenal writer, and this book is no exception. This is a deeply moving family drama. This is also Christian fiction so expect prayer and discussions of faith.
I loved this book and would recommend it to lovers of good books.
Family friendly.
Thanks to NetGalley and Revell. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
If you haven’t read any books by Sara Brunsvold, just go buy everything she has written. She is a phenomenal writer, and this book is no exception. This is a deeply moving family drama. This is also Christian fiction so expect prayer and discussions of faith.
I loved this book and would recommend it to lovers of good books.
Family friendly.
Thanks to NetGalley and Revell. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 20, 2025
4.5 stars
A bookish road trip begins as a way for Chloe Vance to make memories with her mom Edie, and to work up the courage tell her mother that she accepted a 2-year position overseas at a Christian school in Prague to teach art. Edie invites her other daughter Lauren to accompany them. In addition to the interesting bookish stops in several Midwestern states where authors, lived, visited or wrote about, the women confront fears and secrets that have been keeping them at a distance.
“Adventure had a way of shattering fear.” Their adventure begins outside of the library parking garage in Kansas City, with the façade of the building decorated to look like a huge row of books two stories high. I had so much fun visiting that bookish site myself a few years ago.
The Atlas of Untold Stories is not only about a fun Midwestern bookish road trip, but also a beautiful story of a daughter’s encouragement, love and prayers that lead them all on a journey of discovery, and healing. A heartfelt family story you don't want to miss!
Thank you to the author, publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
A bookish road trip begins as a way for Chloe Vance to make memories with her mom Edie, and to work up the courage tell her mother that she accepted a 2-year position overseas at a Christian school in Prague to teach art. Edie invites her other daughter Lauren to accompany them. In addition to the interesting bookish stops in several Midwestern states where authors, lived, visited or wrote about, the women confront fears and secrets that have been keeping them at a distance.
“Adventure had a way of shattering fear.” Their adventure begins outside of the library parking garage in Kansas City, with the façade of the building decorated to look like a huge row of books two stories high. I had so much fun visiting that bookish site myself a few years ago.
The Atlas of Untold Stories is not only about a fun Midwestern bookish road trip, but also a beautiful story of a daughter’s encouragement, love and prayers that lead them all on a journey of discovery, and healing. A heartfelt family story you don't want to miss!
Thank you to the author, publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
June 17, 2025
From the previous 2 books I have read by Sara Brunsvold (The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip and The Divine Proverb of Streusel), I went into this book expecting the family and faith aspects to be strong and the story to be enjoyable. And that’s largely what I got! Although the faith element is not as bold as in the other books, it is just as solid and the story just as good.
The beauty of this story (well, one aspect of beauty, as there are several) is being able to see yourself in each of the characters. I saw part of my past self in Lauren. I saw what my fear could turn me into with Edie. And I saw someone I hope to be like in Chloe. Each character has her strengths and weaknesses, and to my surprise, I found myself relating to all of them. These three characters have walked their own paths, despite being related and living pretty close to one another geographically, and now as they converge for a single trip we get to see three responses to the stresses of life as they all work through their own issues and difficulties.
Eventually, they realize the beautiful gift that they have in each other. From the very beginning it is clear that these women love one another. It’s also clear that they don’t always feel loved by the others. While not a perfect correlation, it reminded me of some of the things I learned from Gary Chapman’s book The Five Love Languages. Basically, it comes down to communication style and understanding each other. For example, Chloe is a very energetic character and shows that she cares by trying to get others to join her in things that she finds fun. Lauren, however, does not find many of the same things fun, so she just sees Chloe’s efforts as annoying (until they have a breakthrough moment).
The backdrop to this family adventure is several literary sites across the Midwest. I really liked this aspect, too. There aren’t a ton of books set in the Kansas/Oklahoma/Nebraska/Missouri area, so it was fun to see them get some recognition for the authors they have produced or influenced. It was also fun to know that I’ve been to a few of the sites mentioned and to imagine the ones I have not. If you grew up enjoying the Little House on the Prairie series, read Willa Cather’s books in college, or watched and read The Outsiders, there are parts of this book that you will enjoy simply for the nostalgia and connection!
I’ve already discussed some of the themes of the book in the characters section of this review, and it really does all come back to family. The setting and the plot are fun, but the point of the story – the heart, the message, the core – is that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Chloe brings a thread of faith and trust in God which she subtly shares with her mom and sister. While Christianity isn’t overtly a huge part of the plot, the message it sends is certainly in line with Biblical truth. Family is an immense blessing – even when it’s complicated and messy – and it is important to appreciate and cultivate relationships with those closest to us before it’s too late. Also, our fears and dreams impact those around us, and while we shouldn’t change or hide our God-given dreams for those around us, we should be mindful of the ways they influence others.
The only drawback to this book is that some of Lauren’s behavior was disturbing to me. I was not expecting an eating disorder side plot, and I would have liked to be more prepared for that going in. Although it is not the primary focal point of the book, I also wish that this would have been addressed more directly in the latter part of the book once the family is reconciled. Instead, it’s clearly shown in many of the chapters dedicated to Lauren’s perspective (and very well written, too), and while Chloe and Edie pick up on enough red flags to be concerned, there isn’t much actual resolution. When Chloe and Lauren’s respective secrets are shared, and Edie’s anxiety comes to a head, their emotions and situations are addressed, but not all of the side effects. I would like to know more about Lauren’s physical and emotional healing after abusing food and exercise and living with destructive thoughts.
The Verdict:
The Atlas of Untold Stories is a wonderful summery book wherein Chloe, Lauren, and their mother Edie learn to deal with personal struggles while on a road trip visiting midwestern literary sites. It’s an homage to writers, dreamers, mothers, and daughters. I loved getting to be the fourth wheel on their trip and to know each character and watch her think and grow through the journey. I highly recommend this book to readers of women’s fiction, contemporary fiction, and Christian fiction, or those looking for a fun story set in the summer, on a road trip, and with solid female protagonists. Five stars!
The beauty of this story (well, one aspect of beauty, as there are several) is being able to see yourself in each of the characters. I saw part of my past self in Lauren. I saw what my fear could turn me into with Edie. And I saw someone I hope to be like in Chloe. Each character has her strengths and weaknesses, and to my surprise, I found myself relating to all of them. These three characters have walked their own paths, despite being related and living pretty close to one another geographically, and now as they converge for a single trip we get to see three responses to the stresses of life as they all work through their own issues and difficulties.
Eventually, they realize the beautiful gift that they have in each other. From the very beginning it is clear that these women love one another. It’s also clear that they don’t always feel loved by the others. While not a perfect correlation, it reminded me of some of the things I learned from Gary Chapman’s book The Five Love Languages. Basically, it comes down to communication style and understanding each other. For example, Chloe is a very energetic character and shows that she cares by trying to get others to join her in things that she finds fun. Lauren, however, does not find many of the same things fun, so she just sees Chloe’s efforts as annoying (until they have a breakthrough moment).
The backdrop to this family adventure is several literary sites across the Midwest. I really liked this aspect, too. There aren’t a ton of books set in the Kansas/Oklahoma/Nebraska/Missouri area, so it was fun to see them get some recognition for the authors they have produced or influenced. It was also fun to know that I’ve been to a few of the sites mentioned and to imagine the ones I have not. If you grew up enjoying the Little House on the Prairie series, read Willa Cather’s books in college, or watched and read The Outsiders, there are parts of this book that you will enjoy simply for the nostalgia and connection!
I’ve already discussed some of the themes of the book in the characters section of this review, and it really does all come back to family. The setting and the plot are fun, but the point of the story – the heart, the message, the core – is that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Chloe brings a thread of faith and trust in God which she subtly shares with her mom and sister. While Christianity isn’t overtly a huge part of the plot, the message it sends is certainly in line with Biblical truth. Family is an immense blessing – even when it’s complicated and messy – and it is important to appreciate and cultivate relationships with those closest to us before it’s too late. Also, our fears and dreams impact those around us, and while we shouldn’t change or hide our God-given dreams for those around us, we should be mindful of the ways they influence others.
The only drawback to this book is that some of Lauren’s behavior was disturbing to me. I was not expecting an eating disorder side plot, and I would have liked to be more prepared for that going in. Although it is not the primary focal point of the book, I also wish that this would have been addressed more directly in the latter part of the book once the family is reconciled. Instead, it’s clearly shown in many of the chapters dedicated to Lauren’s perspective (and very well written, too), and while Chloe and Edie pick up on enough red flags to be concerned, there isn’t much actual resolution. When Chloe and Lauren’s respective secrets are shared, and Edie’s anxiety comes to a head, their emotions and situations are addressed, but not all of the side effects. I would like to know more about Lauren’s physical and emotional healing after abusing food and exercise and living with destructive thoughts.
The Verdict:
The Atlas of Untold Stories is a wonderful summery book wherein Chloe, Lauren, and their mother Edie learn to deal with personal struggles while on a road trip visiting midwestern literary sites. It’s an homage to writers, dreamers, mothers, and daughters. I loved getting to be the fourth wheel on their trip and to know each character and watch her think and grow through the journey. I highly recommend this book to readers of women’s fiction, contemporary fiction, and Christian fiction, or those looking for a fun story set in the summer, on a road trip, and with solid female protagonists. Five stars!
September 22, 2025
"Stories from her childhood were rare topics of conversation between them. Especially ones that portrayed her sisterhood."
Chloe Vance's solution to telling her mother about her upcoming overseas plans is to take on an epic literary road trip. With her sister tagging along, they should have a great time. But the more miles that they go, the less they seem to connect.
And the more that is left unsaid. Yet a literary journey beckons them . . . and may profoundly rewrite their stories. The sisters' journey with their mom compels the reader to also ask thought provoking questions.
I thought that perhaps this fictional trip would include bookstore stops. But really the journey was about connecting to the authors instead of the books. I did learn a thing or two.
The Atlas of Untold Stories by Sara Brunsvold was a moving read. The tension was uncomfortable at times, but that made the resolution all the more beautiful. I would recommend this book. 4.3 stars.
Chloe Vance's solution to telling her mother about her upcoming overseas plans is to take on an epic literary road trip. With her sister tagging along, they should have a great time. But the more miles that they go, the less they seem to connect.
And the more that is left unsaid. Yet a literary journey beckons them . . . and may profoundly rewrite their stories. The sisters' journey with their mom compels the reader to also ask thought provoking questions.
I thought that perhaps this fictional trip would include bookstore stops. But really the journey was about connecting to the authors instead of the books. I did learn a thing or two.
The Atlas of Untold Stories by Sara Brunsvold was a moving read. The tension was uncomfortable at times, but that made the resolution all the more beautiful. I would recommend this book. 4.3 stars.
May 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Atlas of Untold Stories
Author: Sara Brunsvold
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Women’s Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: When Chloe Vance finally finds the courage to break the news of her big move to her mom, she instead finds herself inviting Edie Vance on a bookish road trip where hopefully she can tell her mom about Prague in the perfect moment. But Edie is hesitant at best because is her daughter really responsible enough to plan a trip like this for them? Soon Edie finds herself inviting her older daughter Lauren along for the sake of comfort and stability. Lauren agrees to go since unexpected job loss has freed up her schedule and she feels the pressure to watch over her mom and little sister. It’s one thing she can try to control in her world that feels like it’s spinning out of control. As the three women embark on an unlikely adventure, each face questions of dealing with the past, finding who they really are now, and discovering what their relationship looks like in the future.
Analysis: Sara Brunsvold is a master storyteller when it comes to family history and relationships. In this newest novel, she dives deep into questions of identity, healing, and courage. I absolutely loved reading the three different perspectives of these women as they went on a unique adventure for each of them. Chances are you’ll find you relate to at least one of them along the way. I also loved the writing style, and the short chapters. It made for a relaxing escape that was easy to get lost in! With themes of adventure, family, and faith, this book is the perfect summer vacation read!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Atlas of Untold Stories
Author: Sara Brunsvold
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Women’s Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: When Chloe Vance finally finds the courage to break the news of her big move to her mom, she instead finds herself inviting Edie Vance on a bookish road trip where hopefully she can tell her mom about Prague in the perfect moment. But Edie is hesitant at best because is her daughter really responsible enough to plan a trip like this for them? Soon Edie finds herself inviting her older daughter Lauren along for the sake of comfort and stability. Lauren agrees to go since unexpected job loss has freed up her schedule and she feels the pressure to watch over her mom and little sister. It’s one thing she can try to control in her world that feels like it’s spinning out of control. As the three women embark on an unlikely adventure, each face questions of dealing with the past, finding who they really are now, and discovering what their relationship looks like in the future.
Analysis: Sara Brunsvold is a master storyteller when it comes to family history and relationships. In this newest novel, she dives deep into questions of identity, healing, and courage. I absolutely loved reading the three different perspectives of these women as they went on a unique adventure for each of them. Chances are you’ll find you relate to at least one of them along the way. I also loved the writing style, and the short chapters. It made for a relaxing escape that was easy to get lost in! With themes of adventure, family, and faith, this book is the perfect summer vacation read!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 22, 2025
Sara Brunsvold can wield a story! She didn’t disappoint with her third book. In the same complex style of her last book that looked at father-daughter relationships, I enjoyed this look at the mother-daughter and sister relationships in the two generations. The story is about a mother and her two daughters with secrets who take a road trip to lots of popular bookish towns. There is a critical mother psychology well displayed and the two daughters are totally opposite dealing with the residual. Their mother is dealing with her own past and grief with her mother who recently passed. The two sisters are at odds and the mother has a tiff going on with her sister as well. The highlights of their trip for me were Branson because I just read Shepherd of the Hills a couple months ago. Plus, I just like Branson. Also, Tulsa because I’m a native Oklahoman and I lived there for 10 years before coming home to OKC. Can you believe all those years and I never visited the Outsiders house and Admiral Twin? Probably because neither are in the best part of town. I also got Anne Shirley vibes from Chloe with her red hair and personality. I thought there was good faith content shown throughout the story. I loved the scene where Chloe explains she has fear of moving that far, but that she trusts God fully to care for her needs and safety. A lesson for us all.
May 27, 2025
Bottom line: family is hard.
The family dynamics in this story are not the same as my own family's, but, as the story progressed, I saw my sister, my mother, and myself on the pages. We are all so much more beneath the onion layers than what is seen on the surface.
Thank you to Netgalley and Revell for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The family dynamics in this story are not the same as my own family's, but, as the story progressed, I saw my sister, my mother, and myself on the pages. We are all so much more beneath the onion layers than what is seen on the surface.
Thank you to Netgalley and Revell for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 24, 2025
What a fun read. I loved all the bookish elements, especially when books that I read as a child were part of the girls road trip. The family drama game is strong in this story but Sara does a great job at resolving the issues and bringing Chloe, her mom and her sister closer together. Really well done!
May 4, 2025
Wow! In my opinion, an extraordinary book is one that makes you laugh, makes you cry, and makes you ponder. This book accomplished all three for me. Sara Brunsvold's writing touches the deep parts of my heart.
The characters are written brilliantly! I became totally invested in the lives of the main characters. My heart hurt when theirs did. I cheered for them in their successes. Chloe is optimistic, compassionate, full of energy, and loves adventure! She sees beyond the surface of people to the very heart of the matter. Lauren, I'll admit, I didn't connect with her right away. As her story unfolded, I saw a lot of me in her. She keeps things hidden because she's afraid to show weakness. Edie is the one who touched my heart the most. As a mother of young adult women, I sympathize with her. She tried to shield her daughters from hurt, but instead, she distanced herself from them. Her biggest fear is that they will think that she's not worth coming back to.
My new trip to put on my bucket list is a bookish road trip! Traveling to different towns that have connections to books or authors sounds like an awesome idea. I will, however, do my research when looking for places to stay. Lol!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are written brilliantly! I became totally invested in the lives of the main characters. My heart hurt when theirs did. I cheered for them in their successes. Chloe is optimistic, compassionate, full of energy, and loves adventure! She sees beyond the surface of people to the very heart of the matter. Lauren, I'll admit, I didn't connect with her right away. As her story unfolded, I saw a lot of me in her. She keeps things hidden because she's afraid to show weakness. Edie is the one who touched my heart the most. As a mother of young adult women, I sympathize with her. She tried to shield her daughters from hurt, but instead, she distanced herself from them. Her biggest fear is that they will think that she's not worth coming back to.
My new trip to put on my bucket list is a bookish road trip! Traveling to different towns that have connections to books or authors sounds like an awesome idea. I will, however, do my research when looking for places to stay. Lol!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 10, 2025
Go on a bookish girls road trip with a mom and her two daughters as they navigate through their relationships! This sounds like such a fun idea to do with girlfriends who love books.
My favorite characters were Chloe and Grant. Chloe possessed this unimaginable joyous spirit despite those around her. Grant also loved the women in his life and didn't try to change them but let them make their own discoveries.
Sori and Seymour were also pretty great. Sori cheered on Chloe and kept her accountable. Seymour was just a grumpy older fella with a big heart.
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
My favorite characters were Chloe and Grant. Chloe possessed this unimaginable joyous spirit despite those around her. Grant also loved the women in his life and didn't try to change them but let them make their own discoveries.
Sori and Seymour were also pretty great. Sori cheered on Chloe and kept her accountable. Seymour was just a grumpy older fella with a big heart.
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
April 15, 2025
Sara Brunsvold lets us explore the stories we don’t tell others. How keeping these stories secret they are not only hurting ourselves but we are not gifting others the chance to help us.
Chloe has a secret and it is a big one. Well it is only really a secret from one person. Her mom. Instead of telling her, she decides to invite her mom on a road trip. Maybe she will find the courage to tell her among the stories of famous authors and their own secret lives.
Brunsvold is a master at getting inside the human story and reminding us all that we are in this together.
Chloe has a secret and it is a big one. Well it is only really a secret from one person. Her mom. Instead of telling her, she decides to invite her mom on a road trip. Maybe she will find the courage to tell her among the stories of famous authors and their own secret lives.
Brunsvold is a master at getting inside the human story and reminding us all that we are in this together.
June 16, 2025
This novel really resonated with me! I have young adult children much like Edie Vance and it's tough to let go. I've visited several of the cities and places that were a part of this road trip. It's a lovely novel with some great life lessons and snippets of humor as well.
December 2, 2025
This book had a slow start for me, but the road trip, the different personalities, the relational growth :) Well told!
May 19, 2025
Chloe Vance has just been offered the opportunity of a lifetime—teaching art at an international Christian school in beautiful Prague. But sharing the news with her mom, Edie, won’t be easy. Edie is still grieving the recent loss of her own mother and carrying a complicated relationship with her sister Gabriella, who chose to live her own life instead of staying close to home. Chloe’s sister Lauren, usually the “responsible” one, has just lost her job over a silly but embarrassing mistake and is feeling completely off balance. In the middle of all this chaos, Chloe—full of hope and heart—spontaneously plans a literary road trip to bring them all back together.
This story was such a sweet, soul-nourishing read. I absolutely adored Chloe—her joyful spirit, her faith, and the way she met her critical mother and overwhelmed sister with patience and love was honestly something to admire. The setting was just perfect too. Their journey through Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, and Iowa, visiting the homes of literary icons, gave the book a warm and nostalgic charm. I found myself wanting to plan the trip myself!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Revell for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book was a delight from start to finish—I truly loved it.
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