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Christmastime #2
Christmastime 1941
Christmastime 1941: A Love Story, Book Two, opens two days after Pearl Harbor has been attacked. War has just been declared, and New York City is in a state of chaos and panic as it tries to prepare for possible attacks. Following the same characters established in Book One, and introducing a few new ones, it tells of the power of old loves, new loves, and friendship.
It continues the love story of Lillian and Charles, the adventures of Tommy and Gabriel, and depicts two bittersweet romances: that of Izzy and her fiancé Red, and that of the office manager at Drooms Accounting, sixty-year old Mrs. Murphy, and her Brendan.
It continues the love story of Lillian and Charles, the adventures of Tommy and Gabriel, and depicts two bittersweet romances: that of Izzy and her fiancé Red, and that of the office manager at Drooms Accounting, sixty-year old Mrs. Murphy, and her Brendan.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 25, 2018
4.5 rounded to 5 stars
Well, I am halfway through the Christmastime series and am now racing on with Christmastime 1942. It’s been a wonderful run to this point.
I’m glad I gave Christmastime 1939 4 stars as that left room for me to reward the subsequent books with higher (4.5 rounded to 4 for Christmastime 1940 and now 4.5 rounded to 5 for Christmastime 1941) ratings. Ms. Mahkovec’s stories continue to improve both in terms of writing and content. Her visions of the Christmas season in New York City have become more vivid. Her plots have become deeper and more complex. Her dialogue, enhanced by descriptions of subtle facial expressions and body language, has become richer.
This time around we are again introduced to engaging new characters with interesting stories and enjoy continued revelations regarding our old friends. I was particularly delighted with Mrs. Murphy’s expanded role in this installment.
Pearl Harbor has just been attacked and the country has now been pulled into WWII. The war plays a more prominent role in Christmastime 1941 than it did in the previous two books. Everything is changing in all of our characters’ lives. I was personally struck by how the fear of war transformed the attitudes of some people towards their neighbors who happened to be Italian or German. Heartbreaking to see that happen. It made me mourn the fact that I never discussed with my father, grandparents or aunt, all Italians living in New York City at the time, if they experienced discrimination, and if so, how they dealt with it.
Heartwarming, poignant, satisfying – all words that describe this series. Highly recommended for everyone.
Well, I am halfway through the Christmastime series and am now racing on with Christmastime 1942. It’s been a wonderful run to this point.
I’m glad I gave Christmastime 1939 4 stars as that left room for me to reward the subsequent books with higher (4.5 rounded to 4 for Christmastime 1940 and now 4.5 rounded to 5 for Christmastime 1941) ratings. Ms. Mahkovec’s stories continue to improve both in terms of writing and content. Her visions of the Christmas season in New York City have become more vivid. Her plots have become deeper and more complex. Her dialogue, enhanced by descriptions of subtle facial expressions and body language, has become richer.
This time around we are again introduced to engaging new characters with interesting stories and enjoy continued revelations regarding our old friends. I was particularly delighted with Mrs. Murphy’s expanded role in this installment.
Pearl Harbor has just been attacked and the country has now been pulled into WWII. The war plays a more prominent role in Christmastime 1941 than it did in the previous two books. Everything is changing in all of our characters’ lives. I was personally struck by how the fear of war transformed the attitudes of some people towards their neighbors who happened to be Italian or German. Heartbreaking to see that happen. It made me mourn the fact that I never discussed with my father, grandparents or aunt, all Italians living in New York City at the time, if they experienced discrimination, and if so, how they dealt with it.
Heartwarming, poignant, satisfying – all words that describe this series. Highly recommended for everyone.
December 3, 2018
“December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan”
– Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Linda Mahkovec’s Christmastime 1941 opens with a chapter featuring Charles Drooms’ office manager, Mrs. Murphy. While shopping for Christmas gifts for her niece, she encounters a department store Santa, who looks incredibly familiar. This is the beginning of an on-again, off-again rekindling of a relationship long set aside. In this, the second book of the series, it is wonderful to see this efficient, rock-steady character developed as a lively, caring person outside of the office. She even has a name – Mary Margaret.
Much of the story line revolves around the onset of America’s entry into the war. As the book begins, it is just two days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and citizens of Manhattan are panic-stricken. We see a frantic Lillian Hapsey herding her sons Tommy and Gabe into the shelter as air raid sirens shriek a warning drill. The attack was so sudden that most people don’t even know where Pearl Harbor is.
Amid the worries and fears, people are already hoarding supplies. Men are enlisting in the armed services. Businesses, including Charles’s accounting firm and the company where Lillian and her friend Izzy work, are planning to hire more women as the men leave. There is a dark side as well; Italians and Germans who up until now have been friends and neighbors, are now looked upon with suspicion. They become victims of malicious name-calling and vandalism, perpetrated even by children.
Lillian is concerned for her boys. Tommy is growing older and wants less to do with his younger brother Gabriel. Gabe is more sensitive, and when he starts acting rather strangely, talking about a new friend called Tiny, Lillian and Tommy are not sure if this person is real or imaginary. But as a mother, Lillian tries to be patient. Luckily, she has Charles to rely upon. Or does she? Ever since their visit to meet his family in the Midwest, Charles has been more remote. Suddenly, Lillian has doubts about their relationship.
Adding to her uneasiness, she is bored with her job and does not like her boss. Then there’s Izzy . . .
The story shuffles back and forth between Mary Murphy and Lillian’s family. The war is ever-present. I found myself wishing that I had my parents and grandparents around to ask about their memories of that time. Not everything in this tale is sweetness and light. Much like today, there is a lot of conflict and uncertainty in the world. Does love prevail?
I love the strong, resilient characters that Ms Mahkovec is creating in these stories. Now that I’ve read the prequel and two books of the series, I can see how they are developing, and they are really growing on me. I will be moving on to 1942!
Linda Mahkovec’s Christmastime 1941 opens with a chapter featuring Charles Drooms’ office manager, Mrs. Murphy. While shopping for Christmas gifts for her niece, she encounters a department store Santa, who looks incredibly familiar. This is the beginning of an on-again, off-again rekindling of a relationship long set aside. In this, the second book of the series, it is wonderful to see this efficient, rock-steady character developed as a lively, caring person outside of the office. She even has a name – Mary Margaret.
Much of the story line revolves around the onset of America’s entry into the war. As the book begins, it is just two days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and citizens of Manhattan are panic-stricken. We see a frantic Lillian Hapsey herding her sons Tommy and Gabe into the shelter as air raid sirens shriek a warning drill. The attack was so sudden that most people don’t even know where Pearl Harbor is.
Amid the worries and fears, people are already hoarding supplies. Men are enlisting in the armed services. Businesses, including Charles’s accounting firm and the company where Lillian and her friend Izzy work, are planning to hire more women as the men leave. There is a dark side as well; Italians and Germans who up until now have been friends and neighbors, are now looked upon with suspicion. They become victims of malicious name-calling and vandalism, perpetrated even by children.
Lillian is concerned for her boys. Tommy is growing older and wants less to do with his younger brother Gabriel. Gabe is more sensitive, and when he starts acting rather strangely, talking about a new friend called Tiny, Lillian and Tommy are not sure if this person is real or imaginary. But as a mother, Lillian tries to be patient. Luckily, she has Charles to rely upon. Or does she? Ever since their visit to meet his family in the Midwest, Charles has been more remote. Suddenly, Lillian has doubts about their relationship.
Adding to her uneasiness, she is bored with her job and does not like her boss. Then there’s Izzy . . .
The story shuffles back and forth between Mary Murphy and Lillian’s family. The war is ever-present. I found myself wishing that I had my parents and grandparents around to ask about their memories of that time. Not everything in this tale is sweetness and light. Much like today, there is a lot of conflict and uncertainty in the world. Does love prevail?
I love the strong, resilient characters that Ms Mahkovec is creating in these stories. Now that I’ve read the prequel and two books of the series, I can see how they are developing, and they are really growing on me. I will be moving on to 1942!
December 19, 2013
I won a copy of "Christmastime 1941" through the Goodreads Giveaway contest. This was an uplifting novel to read. I really enjoyed it.
The novel is set in New York City at Christmastime during the World War II years. This is the second book in the Christmastime series, right after Pearl Harbor has been attacked and the country is at war.
The story follows a number of characters; Lillian and Charles, engaged to be married, Lilian's two children Tommy and Gabriel, Lillian's friend Izzy and the office manager at Drooms Accounting, sixty year old Mrs. Murphy. Each character has their own way of dealing with the war.
This novel touches on the many obstacles that these characters face from blackouts, enlistments, food shortages and espionage. There is tension in the air, and the emotional strain of the war impacts on each one of them and how they learn to cope with the uncertainty of this situation. Their lives have been put on hold.
I really enjoyed reading this uplifting novel at Christmastime, and I give thanks to all that I have.
The novel is set in New York City at Christmastime during the World War II years. This is the second book in the Christmastime series, right after Pearl Harbor has been attacked and the country is at war.
The story follows a number of characters; Lillian and Charles, engaged to be married, Lilian's two children Tommy and Gabriel, Lillian's friend Izzy and the office manager at Drooms Accounting, sixty year old Mrs. Murphy. Each character has their own way of dealing with the war.
This novel touches on the many obstacles that these characters face from blackouts, enlistments, food shortages and espionage. There is tension in the air, and the emotional strain of the war impacts on each one of them and how they learn to cope with the uncertainty of this situation. Their lives have been put on hold.
I really enjoyed reading this uplifting novel at Christmastime, and I give thanks to all that I have.
November 5, 2017
MY REVIEW OF “CHRISTMASTIME 1941” A Love Story” by Linda Mahkovec
I enjoyed this heartwarming novel, “Christmastime 1941” by Linda Mahkovec. The genres for this novel are Romance,and Women’s Fiction and a touch of Historical Fiction.This is the second book in Linda Mahkovec’s series. This book opens two days after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, and tensions, fear and uncertainty can be felt at Christmastime this year.The story takes place in New York City.
The author describes her characters as complicated and complex, perhaps due to the events and circumstances. The characters are the same as in the first book.
Linda Mahkovec is a master at writing about the character’s emotional feelings. I noticed that a lack of communication and fear of what could happen seem to be evident in several of the characters. Lillian and Charles are engaged,and are visiting Lillian’s sister and family. After Japan bombs Pearl Harbor, Lillian, Charles and Lillian’s two sons Tommy and Gabriel head back home to the city. Lillian notices that Charles seems aloof, and he indicates that he would like to postpone their wedding because of the war.
Tommy is older and wants to play with older boys, and really doesn’t seem to be watching his younger brother as carefully as he should.
There are signs of prejudice in the neighborhood. The Italian family that owns a store finds that it is targeted by acts of vandalism. The boy’s babysitter is a lovely German woman, and doesn’t feel comfortable going out. There is the discussion of having a neighborhood bomb shelter.
Charles’ secretary, Mrs. Murphy who is always so cheerful meets someone from her past, and seems to have dark secrets, and seems to be troubled.
I love the way Linda Mahkovec discusses the importance of family, friends, neighbors, love, hope, and faith. Other important topics such as orphans,the effects of war,sickness, insecurities, and relationships are evident as well. It is Christmastime 1941 and there are significant changes. I would recommend this book for readers of romance,and fiction. I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
December 15, 2022
reading this book for the second time and it still remains my favorite series of Christmas books. This one expands upon characters introduced in the first three books all under the cloud of the Pearl Harbor attack. This installment does have some darker moments and the influence of Dickens is strong, but the warmth and energy still shine through. Just as good the second time as it was the first time around.
December 14, 2024
Book three in a series, CHRISTMASTIME 1941, by Linda Mahkovec, is a well written slice of life from the Christmas directly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Altho’ the characters in the book are carried over from earlier volumes, this can stand alone. There are four story arcs to follow and Mahkovec is able to tell them clearly, weaving them together without confusing readers. These folks all live and work in the same town but aren’t known to each other.
Men enlisting, rationing, air raids, storm cellars, Victory Gardens, dead and seriously wounded European soldiers and a complete change of attitude for many people permeate society. All this is reflected in these stories. Mahkovec gives readers a glimpse into the emotional quagmire that was unique to this period in history.
Strong historical fiction with a Christmas theme that flows thru the entire book including a “real” Santa to secure the happily ever after📚
Altho’ the characters in the book are carried over from earlier volumes, this can stand alone. There are four story arcs to follow and Mahkovec is able to tell them clearly, weaving them together without confusing readers. These folks all live and work in the same town but aren’t known to each other.
Men enlisting, rationing, air raids, storm cellars, Victory Gardens, dead and seriously wounded European soldiers and a complete change of attitude for many people permeate society. All this is reflected in these stories. Mahkovec gives readers a glimpse into the emotional quagmire that was unique to this period in history.
Strong historical fiction with a Christmas theme that flows thru the entire book including a “real” Santa to secure the happily ever after📚
November 19, 2017
The second book Christmastime 1941 is a book as heart warming and charming as the first one set in 1940. This time period marks the terrible bombing of Pearl Harbor and war brings a whole new tone and dimension to the events and characters of Charles, Lillian and her two sons Tommy and Gabriel. Two new characters Mrs. Murphy and Brendan Sullivan are reunited after some 40 years. I was engrossed in their lives, the author has a way of bringing you into these pages, feeling the characters emotions, their struggles with abrupt decisions that bring regrets and I held my breath many times, yet also cheered them on as they evolved. The feel of fear in the air, the hurrying, the bomb centers, the poverty, all of this so realistically written amidst the loves stories and once again the authors poetic and vivid descriptions of the buildings, the landscapes, the times, and the secrets held...a locket, a book, the games, and of course all the wonderful foods...that chocolate raspberry cake. I can't wait to read Christmastime 1942. I love this series!
December 27, 2017
Christmastime 1941 is the second book in this nostalgic, heartwarming, romantic series set in NYC during the second World War. This novel continues the story of Lillian and Charles, whom we met in the first book, and we meet a few new characters as well! These books are so full of warmth and charm...when I read them I feel like I am spending time with old friends! As with most series, I always try to read from the beginning and I definitely encourage other readers to do the same, so that you will really get to know these characters, their pasts, their struggles and sorrows, and their hope for a future filled with love.
January 20, 2021
#3
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. I have to say that I got a little annoyed with Lillian for most of the book. She seemed much stronger in the previous books but was becoming a wee bit wishy as this story developed. She seemed to be letting life just happen rather than facing it as she has before. Really liked the addition of Mrs Murphy to the mix. Actually made the story! Gabriel's imaginary friend added spice and kept everything moving. Looking forward to 1942. The author has done her research on the time period that is for sure.
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. I have to say that I got a little annoyed with Lillian for most of the book. She seemed much stronger in the previous books but was becoming a wee bit wishy as this story developed. She seemed to be letting life just happen rather than facing it as she has before. Really liked the addition of Mrs Murphy to the mix. Actually made the story! Gabriel's imaginary friend added spice and kept everything moving. Looking forward to 1942. The author has done her research on the time period that is for sure.
January 1, 2019
A very nice love story that takes place just after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The story continues on with Charles and Lillian, and her two boys, and enlightens us to Mrs. Murphy and her background story. An enjoyable read for any time of year. I'm on to Christmastime 1942 and it's past Christmas. I recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction.
December 30, 2019
Very good story. One for the holidays. On to the next book 1942
December 8, 2021
Finished Book number 3 of the series. Pearl Harbor has been bombed. Things are getting more complicated and so is the story. Looking forward to Christmastime 1942.
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February 3, 2023Wonderful!
This is the third book I have read in the series. A book about real people at the time of WWII with stories of several people and their struggles. It was heartwarming to see people depending on their their friends and neighbors for advice or a shoulder to lean on and how the war affected each of them. I would definitely recommend this book/series.
This is the third book I have read in the series. A book about real people at the time of WWII with stories of several people and their struggles. It was heartwarming to see people depending on their their friends and neighbors for advice or a shoulder to lean on and how the war affected each of them. I would definitely recommend this book/series.
November 8, 2017
This was a great book. It was Christmas time 1941, right after Pearl Harbor and it was a change of life for these characters. This author had such a great style of writing that I actually felt like I was there, scared for the future and holding on to what I have at the same time. It's about love, loss and second chances This is the second book in this series, I have not read any of the others... Yet!
I loved the subject matter, it really showed me how things were changing overnight for these characters
The author has a wonderful writing style and I look forward to continuing on with this series
I loved the subject matter, it really showed me how things were changing overnight for these characters
The author has a wonderful writing style and I look forward to continuing on with this series
December 15, 2022
Great progress to the series introducing other characters and story lines. Very well done!
November 12, 2022
Wonderful story!
November 3, 2017
This is the second book in a series of stories set in ww2 at Christmas. The authenticity of the time period shines throughout these stories. The horror of the Pearl Harbor attack. The panic of not knowing if New York City is next
And thru it all the belief that life marches on.
While a lot of the characters from the first book are followed we also meet new ones
And thru it all the belief that life marches on.
While a lot of the characters from the first book are followed we also meet new ones
October 29, 2023
Love is in the air!
Despite war time fears there is an air of celebration and a time of present emotions bubbling to the surface. Read this book and find the true meaning of Christmas. A twinkle in Santa's eye and a child's innocence.
Despite war time fears there is an air of celebration and a time of present emotions bubbling to the surface. Read this book and find the true meaning of Christmas. A twinkle in Santa's eye and a child's innocence.
December 15, 2013
I won this book from a contest on Goodreads. Thank you Goodreads!
It is 1941 and Pearl Harbor has just been attacked. Lillian Hapsey and her two sons, Tommy and Gsbriel and her finance Charles Drooms have returned to New York City after cutting their visit with her sister short. With the country now in unrest, Charles will surely rejoin the navy and he felt that their wedding must be postponed until the war is over. When he announces this to Lillian, she is both surprised and hurt for not, at least, speaking it over with her first. Now she feels terribly insecure and wonders if Charles has ulterior motives.
Office Manager of Charles' company 'Drooms & Mason Accounting', is Mrs. Murphy. She is extremely competent and always hustling and bustling here and there with always a cheery attitude. But when a chance meeting with Mrs. Murphy's old beau, Brendan Sullivan reconnects them, Brendan is more than curious about why she broke off her engagement with him many decades earlier. Now, so many years later, he is back to reclaim her as his wife. But again, Mrs. Murphy abruptly refuses his proposal and disappears into the night. But the Irish in Brendan Sullivan has made him a stubborn man and he will not rest until Mrs. Murphy finally explains the truth to him. He truly believes in his heart, that they were meant to be together.
Author, Agnes Irene, writes about two very different, yet extremely tender and heartfelt stories at a time when the threat of war is upon them. Wonderfully written!
It is 1941 and Pearl Harbor has just been attacked. Lillian Hapsey and her two sons, Tommy and Gsbriel and her finance Charles Drooms have returned to New York City after cutting their visit with her sister short. With the country now in unrest, Charles will surely rejoin the navy and he felt that their wedding must be postponed until the war is over. When he announces this to Lillian, she is both surprised and hurt for not, at least, speaking it over with her first. Now she feels terribly insecure and wonders if Charles has ulterior motives.
Office Manager of Charles' company 'Drooms & Mason Accounting', is Mrs. Murphy. She is extremely competent and always hustling and bustling here and there with always a cheery attitude. But when a chance meeting with Mrs. Murphy's old beau, Brendan Sullivan reconnects them, Brendan is more than curious about why she broke off her engagement with him many decades earlier. Now, so many years later, he is back to reclaim her as his wife. But again, Mrs. Murphy abruptly refuses his proposal and disappears into the night. But the Irish in Brendan Sullivan has made him a stubborn man and he will not rest until Mrs. Murphy finally explains the truth to him. He truly believes in his heart, that they were meant to be together.
Author, Agnes Irene, writes about two very different, yet extremely tender and heartfelt stories at a time when the threat of war is upon them. Wonderfully written!
December 31, 2024
Just like the first installment in the Christmastime series, this book reads like a cozy old movie, balancing atmosphere and characters that I become instantly connected with and hopelessly invested in. Mahkovec has been able to capture a way of storytelling that both captures a specific time and place and feels timeless in the deeply human struggles that it explores. While I’ve read and watched a lot of WWII adjacent stories over the years, this one was unique because it was set exclusively in the weeks immediately following the attack on Pearl Harbor, which provided a more grounded exploration of what this time period felt like for everyday people. I cannot wait to reunite next Christmas with Lillian, Charles, Tommy, Gabriel, and the entire cast of returning and new characters. I simply cannot recommend this series enough; it’s the perfect way to end the year.
December 28, 2024
Another excellent book from the Christmastime Series.
After reading the first book, I had to continue the series. Each of these books tie the characters together and share more about their lives. You smile and cry for each of them. I LOVE THEM! Anyone one reading this review, you’ll love them as well.
After reading the first book, I had to continue the series. Each of these books tie the characters together and share more about their lives. You smile and cry for each of them. I LOVE THEM! Anyone one reading this review, you’ll love them as well.
January 23, 2022
I loved this series. Best series in a long time!
December 22, 2024
Good book
A good book. Not quite as good as the first two books in the series. But a good read. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
A good book. Not quite as good as the first two books in the series. But a good read. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
December 13, 2017
Another great story! This one delved more into the lives of the characters, shortly after Pearl Harbor. It must've been so scary and uncertain, to live back then. Never knowing who, what or when, the enemy might attack.
I did like how proud and strong America was back then. All pulling together in times of war. Neighbors helping neighbors, men enlisting, women keeping the home fires burning and stepping up into work positions, previously held by men.
We got to know a few characters even more and I liked getting to know Lillian's sons and Charles' secretary. People can make rash decisions that affect there whole lives, and Mrs. Murphy finds that out. I love how little Gabriel helped that homeless boy. It showed great strength in character.
I'm about to start the third book in the series and I can't wait to see what happens to all the characters.
I did like how proud and strong America was back then. All pulling together in times of war. Neighbors helping neighbors, men enlisting, women keeping the home fires burning and stepping up into work positions, previously held by men.
We got to know a few characters even more and I liked getting to know Lillian's sons and Charles' secretary. People can make rash decisions that affect there whole lives, and Mrs. Murphy finds that out. I love how little Gabriel helped that homeless boy. It showed great strength in character.
I'm about to start the third book in the series and I can't wait to see what happens to all the characters.
December 18, 2021
First of all, I wouldn’t recommend reading this book unless you’ve read the two before it. These are not stand-alone books and they build upon one another. Therefore, I’m not going to give any spoilers.
Pearl Harbor has just happened when the book opens and the country is in panic and fear as the United States joins the war. This affects several people in the book personally.
Lillian, her boys, and Mr. Drooms are the leads in the book again, with Mrs. Murphy playing a bigger role.
These books are SO worth reading and take all of your senses back to that time period! My only regret is that I may not be able to afford the other four in the series before Christmas this year. If possible, I would read them straight through.
Pearl Harbor has just happened when the book opens and the country is in panic and fear as the United States joins the war. This affects several people in the book personally.
Lillian, her boys, and Mr. Drooms are the leads in the book again, with Mrs. Murphy playing a bigger role.
These books are SO worth reading and take all of your senses back to that time period! My only regret is that I may not be able to afford the other four in the series before Christmas this year. If possible, I would read them straight through.
December 11, 2017
A Family Story
This book is the second in the Christmastime series and having realised that it followed on from the first book, I was more than pleased. This book, however, also follows the life of Mrs Murphy just as war is announced.
The familiarity of the story and the story telling put me right at ease especially considering I had just finished the first in the series a couple of days ago.
My concluding comment would be that if you've read the first, you absolutely must read the second. I'm going to read the third one soon. Absolutely perfect for the lead up to Christmas.
I received this book from the author for review consideration.
This book is the second in the Christmastime series and having realised that it followed on from the first book, I was more than pleased. This book, however, also follows the life of Mrs Murphy just as war is announced.
The familiarity of the story and the story telling put me right at ease especially considering I had just finished the first in the series a couple of days ago.
My concluding comment would be that if you've read the first, you absolutely must read the second. I'm going to read the third one soon. Absolutely perfect for the lead up to Christmas.
I received this book from the author for review consideration.
October 15, 2020
Christmastime 1941 book 2 in a wonderful series that has become one of my all time favorites to date. Days after the attack on Pearl Harbor life as it was changed forever. I was thrilled to see that characters were brought back into this book as well as new ones. Lillian and Charles have a beautiful and heartwarming story of love and life during wartime. Filled with the struggles they with the world are trying to live in as much as possible. This author really has such historically accurate details entwined with this beautiful story you feel like your right there! Fantastic book I highly recommend it! Love this!
December 31, 2021
My final Christmas themed read of 2021 did not disappoint. It ticked off a number of 1941 related issues – the reaction of Americans to the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the fears of what would follow, poverty, treatment of orphans, being a child at Christmas in a fearful, changed world, lost love, second chances, fear, new workplace needs because of the declaration of war and the recruitment of men for war jobs., Despite the number of bleak plot items this was a heart warming book and a good read for Christmas during year two of a global pandemic. Rounded down from 3.5**
January 2, 2018
Book #2 in the CHRISTMASTIME love story series. This book begins 2 days after Pearl Harbor is bombed and people in NYC are on high alert. Precautions are being taken in preparation for any attack. Lillian and Charles had been planning to marry the following May and Charles decides that the wedding should be postponed. Brendon and Mary Margaret were lovers who parted 60 years ago and they meet again.
December 1, 2025
My book club's December reading. We did the first in the series, 1940, last year and decided it would be December's book until we read all of them. It's old-fashioned story telling with nice historical details of dress, women's changing place in a wartime environment, and food. There is pathos, love, miscommunications leading to misunderstandings, and nice resolutions to the individual stories. It was pleasant not to encounter F-bombs throughout!!
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