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The Girl from the Papers
Inspired by one of America's most notorious couples, Bonnie and Clyde, Jennifer L. Wright delivers a riveting tale set during the public enemy era of the Great Depression.
Beatrice Carraway has dreams. Although she's aged out of the childhood pageant circuit, she's intent on carrying her talents all the way to the big screen--if only she can escape the poverty of West Dallas first. But as the Great Depression drags the working class further and further under, Beatrice struggles just to keep herself, her mother, and her younger sister afloat. After a string of failed auditions, she feels defeated.
And then in walks Jack Turner. Though Beatrice is determined to pull herself up by her bootstraps, Jack has decided on a different path out of the gutters. It isn't long before Beatrice is swept into an exciting and glamorous life of crime beside the man she loves. Keeping one step ahead of the law, she sees her dreams of fame come true when her name and picture are plastered in newspapers across the country. Yet as their infamy grows, the distance between them widens. While Jack begins seeking bigger payouts and publicity, Beatrice starts to long for a safe, quiet life and something deeper to fill the emptiness in her soul. But when the danger of Jack's schemes ratchets up, Beatrice fears her dreams--and her future--will end up going down in a hail of bullets.
Beatrice Carraway has dreams. Although she's aged out of the childhood pageant circuit, she's intent on carrying her talents all the way to the big screen--if only she can escape the poverty of West Dallas first. But as the Great Depression drags the working class further and further under, Beatrice struggles just to keep herself, her mother, and her younger sister afloat. After a string of failed auditions, she feels defeated.
And then in walks Jack Turner. Though Beatrice is determined to pull herself up by her bootstraps, Jack has decided on a different path out of the gutters. It isn't long before Beatrice is swept into an exciting and glamorous life of crime beside the man she loves. Keeping one step ahead of the law, she sees her dreams of fame come true when her name and picture are plastered in newspapers across the country. Yet as their infamy grows, the distance between them widens. While Jack begins seeking bigger payouts and publicity, Beatrice starts to long for a safe, quiet life and something deeper to fill the emptiness in her soul. But when the danger of Jack's schemes ratchets up, Beatrice fears her dreams--and her future--will end up going down in a hail of bullets.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2023
39 people are currently reading
853 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer L. Wright
4 books377 followersJennifer Wright has been writing since middle school, eventually earning a master's degree in journalism from Indiana University. However, it took only a few short months of covering the local news to realize that writing fiction is much better for the soul--and definitely way more fun. A born and bred Hoosier, she was swept off her feet by an Air Force pilot and has spent the past decade traveling the world and, every few years, attempting to make old curtains fit in the windows of a new home.
She currently resides in New Mexico with her husband, two children, one grumpy dachshund, and a herd of overly demanding guinea pigs.
She is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers Association) and her second novel, 'Come Down Somewhere,' is a semi-finalist for a 2023 Carol Award in the Historical Fiction category.
She currently resides in New Mexico with her husband, two children, one grumpy dachshund, and a herd of overly demanding guinea pigs.
She is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers Association) and her second novel, 'Come Down Somewhere,' is a semi-finalist for a 2023 Carol Award in the Historical Fiction category.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
July 23, 2023
Beatrice Carraway dreams of making it big as an actress, as a child her parents entered her into baby competitions and pageants. Unfortunately it didn’t work out, in the late 1920’s she working as a waitress in a diner and she lives with her mum Emma and sister Eleanor in West Dallas.
The Great Depression is dragging working class people further under, even with both Emma and Beatrice working, they struggle to pay the rent, have enough to eat and they don't want Eleanor to leave school. Beatrice still auditions for roles, she’s never successful and she feels like a failure. Until she meets Jack Turner at a party, he sweeps her off her feet and showers her with gifts. People warn her Jack Turner is a petty thief, he steals cars and Beatrice thinks he's changed.
Like all criminals Jack gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, soon Beatrice is drawn into his life of crime, after a robbery the couple are given names and they make it into the papers. Soon the couple can’t stay in one place for long, they change their appearance and vehicles. Beatrice longs for a normal life, she loves Jack and can’t understand why he has to keep coming up with crazy schemes and get involved with a crime gang, and Beatrice is worried they will be caught or killed in a violent shootout.
I received a digital copy of The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright from Tyndale House Publishers and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. A novel based around the notoriety of celebrity based criminals Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow who were active and famous in American during the great depression and we know it didn’t end well for them.
Ms. Wrights narrative represents the time period, the choices the two main characters made, it certainly wasn’t the path Beatrice would have followed on her own and Jack lead her straight into trouble. Three and a half stars from me, a story about crime, bad choices, and how people can turn their life around, with faith and you really only need the forgiveness of one man and he's the ultimate judge.
The Great Depression is dragging working class people further under, even with both Emma and Beatrice working, they struggle to pay the rent, have enough to eat and they don't want Eleanor to leave school. Beatrice still auditions for roles, she’s never successful and she feels like a failure. Until she meets Jack Turner at a party, he sweeps her off her feet and showers her with gifts. People warn her Jack Turner is a petty thief, he steals cars and Beatrice thinks he's changed.
Like all criminals Jack gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, soon Beatrice is drawn into his life of crime, after a robbery the couple are given names and they make it into the papers. Soon the couple can’t stay in one place for long, they change their appearance and vehicles. Beatrice longs for a normal life, she loves Jack and can’t understand why he has to keep coming up with crazy schemes and get involved with a crime gang, and Beatrice is worried they will be caught or killed in a violent shootout.
I received a digital copy of The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright from Tyndale House Publishers and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. A novel based around the notoriety of celebrity based criminals Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow who were active and famous in American during the great depression and we know it didn’t end well for them.
Ms. Wrights narrative represents the time period, the choices the two main characters made, it certainly wasn’t the path Beatrice would have followed on her own and Jack lead her straight into trouble. Three and a half stars from me, a story about crime, bad choices, and how people can turn their life around, with faith and you really only need the forgiveness of one man and he's the ultimate judge.
September 17, 2023
There are a lot of books you read and they don’t live up to your expectations. And then there are a few that take you by surprise and surpass any and all expectations. The Girl From the Papers is one of a select few that was so different from how I imaged yet so much better than I’d ever hoped it would be.
I love a lot of stories for the plot or the characters but not as much for the writing style. With this book, I loved the plot, characters, *and* the writing style. The author’s way with words is mesmerizing, engaging, and vivid. If you love writing styles like that of Ruta Sepetys or Amanda Dykes, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
The characters, especially Beatrice, and the journey her character goes on from the beginning of the book until the last page really resonated with me and hit close to home. I may not know what it’s like to be running from the law, but I do know what it’s like to run from God. I may not know what it’s like to live a life of crime, but I do know what it’s like to live one of sin. I may not know what it’s like to be in a relationship with someone who pulls me away from God, but I know what it’s like to love something else more than Him.
The Girl from the Papers is meaningful. It’s deep. And it’s one of the most impactful and well-written books I’ve ever read.
All the stars ⭐️
I love a lot of stories for the plot or the characters but not as much for the writing style. With this book, I loved the plot, characters, *and* the writing style. The author’s way with words is mesmerizing, engaging, and vivid. If you love writing styles like that of Ruta Sepetys or Amanda Dykes, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
The characters, especially Beatrice, and the journey her character goes on from the beginning of the book until the last page really resonated with me and hit close to home. I may not know what it’s like to be running from the law, but I do know what it’s like to run from God. I may not know what it’s like to live a life of crime, but I do know what it’s like to live one of sin. I may not know what it’s like to be in a relationship with someone who pulls me away from God, but I know what it’s like to love something else more than Him.
The Girl from the Papers is meaningful. It’s deep. And it’s one of the most impactful and well-written books I’ve ever read.
All the stars ⭐️
July 29, 2023
1919-1933 Texas
Novel inspired by the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. The difference is the author introduces a "what if" scenario. What if Bonnie or Clyde has believed in God and His power. Would that have changed how things ended. In this tale the two main characters are Jack and Beatrice. I loved Jack's sister in law Allie that shined the light of Christ.
Novel inspired by the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. The difference is the author introduces a "what if" scenario. What if Bonnie or Clyde has believed in God and His power. Would that have changed how things ended. In this tale the two main characters are Jack and Beatrice. I loved Jack's sister in law Allie that shined the light of Christ.
August 30, 2023
4.5 stars
“I’m the girl from the papers. That’s who I am. That’s all I can be now.”
I only know Bonnie & Clyde by name and reputation; I haven’t really ever studied them or thought about what motivated them in their deadly crime sprees… or what could have happened had their reported background of faith really transformed their lives through a relationship with Jesus. But I’m so glad that author Jennifer L. Wright did take the time to research and imagine these things as she wrote The Girl from the Papers, a story of deeply flawed (and compelling) characters inspired by the infamous real life duo and their families.
Beatrice had my heart from the beginning. Even though she’s pretty arrogant and self-focused at first (unless it comes to her sister Eleanor), it all points to a deep heartache inside her – a searching to be ‘enough’ – that drew me to her in spite of her flaws. She truly is, even at such a young age, looking for love in all the wrong places… mostly through very little fault of her own in the beginning. She learns early on from her mother that desperation can cause people to do things they aren’t proud of, often at the expense of those they claim most to love. And while Beatrice is determined not to become her mother, I found them not to be wholly different after all. With one key exception that will set them apart in the end.
There’s a lot of grittiness in play in The Girl from the Papers. Bank robberies, car thefts, shootouts, alcoholism, abuse, murder. It’s clear that the author worked carefully to avoid either glamorizing the many sins or giving explicit details about them. Much is left to the reader’s imagination, and I felt the author achieved the perfect balance here. One word that kept coming to mind as I followed Beatrice & Jack’s criminal and sinful activities was ’empty’. Both of their souls were so empty. The money or cars they stole were not nearly enough to fill the void. A life on the run only leaves them more empty, and all that emptiness eventually leads you to the end of your rope. Wright so poignantly brings them both to that point and then beyond, and I was reading with bated breath, waiting for the dramatic implosion I knew would eventually catch up with them.
So yes, I thought of ’emptiness’ a lot as I read this book. But I also thought of the lyrics to the song ‘There Was Jesus’ by Zach Williams. Because even amid the tragic ache to their narrative, even though Beatrice is clinging to what she thinks is love, there is the beautiful hope of redemption. He always provides a way out, doesn’t He? And in The Girl from the Papers, that comes from Alli and Ruth, two characters I really liked who show Beatrice a true picture of Jesus’ love. Jesus, the One who truly loves her more than any other. The One who pursues her, despite her sin, and stands ready to lift her out of the pit. The choice is Beatrice’s to make – and Jack’s too, for that matter – but even when she tries to silence His voice, He is there in the pit with her, tenderly waiting for her to turn to Him. This was such a profound part of the book, as well as a convicting reminder that sometimes I may be the only exposure to Jesus that someone has. So sobering, humbling, and inspiring!
Bottom Line: The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright takes readers on a tumultuous journey through the ‘public enemy’ fever of the 1930s, following a young couple who want to leave ‘not enough’ and make a name for themselves. The story is an extremely compelling exploration of the choices we all are given, the ‘there but for the grace of God go I’ possibilities. Framed against a backdrop of the consequences of sin, the temptations of security, and the hopelessness of rock bottom, it is also laced with hope and wrapped in grace. The author beautifully weaves into the story an important message for Beatrice – for all of us: that the only one who gets to say who we are is the One who made us, who died for us, and who rose again to offer us redemption, forgiveness, true love, and eternal life. This story will linger with me long. An excellent selection for your next book club read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
“I’m the girl from the papers. That’s who I am. That’s all I can be now.”
I only know Bonnie & Clyde by name and reputation; I haven’t really ever studied them or thought about what motivated them in their deadly crime sprees… or what could have happened had their reported background of faith really transformed their lives through a relationship with Jesus. But I’m so glad that author Jennifer L. Wright did take the time to research and imagine these things as she wrote The Girl from the Papers, a story of deeply flawed (and compelling) characters inspired by the infamous real life duo and their families.
Beatrice had my heart from the beginning. Even though she’s pretty arrogant and self-focused at first (unless it comes to her sister Eleanor), it all points to a deep heartache inside her – a searching to be ‘enough’ – that drew me to her in spite of her flaws. She truly is, even at such a young age, looking for love in all the wrong places… mostly through very little fault of her own in the beginning. She learns early on from her mother that desperation can cause people to do things they aren’t proud of, often at the expense of those they claim most to love. And while Beatrice is determined not to become her mother, I found them not to be wholly different after all. With one key exception that will set them apart in the end.
There’s a lot of grittiness in play in The Girl from the Papers. Bank robberies, car thefts, shootouts, alcoholism, abuse, murder. It’s clear that the author worked carefully to avoid either glamorizing the many sins or giving explicit details about them. Much is left to the reader’s imagination, and I felt the author achieved the perfect balance here. One word that kept coming to mind as I followed Beatrice & Jack’s criminal and sinful activities was ’empty’. Both of their souls were so empty. The money or cars they stole were not nearly enough to fill the void. A life on the run only leaves them more empty, and all that emptiness eventually leads you to the end of your rope. Wright so poignantly brings them both to that point and then beyond, and I was reading with bated breath, waiting for the dramatic implosion I knew would eventually catch up with them.
So yes, I thought of ’emptiness’ a lot as I read this book. But I also thought of the lyrics to the song ‘There Was Jesus’ by Zach Williams. Because even amid the tragic ache to their narrative, even though Beatrice is clinging to what she thinks is love, there is the beautiful hope of redemption. He always provides a way out, doesn’t He? And in The Girl from the Papers, that comes from Alli and Ruth, two characters I really liked who show Beatrice a true picture of Jesus’ love. Jesus, the One who truly loves her more than any other. The One who pursues her, despite her sin, and stands ready to lift her out of the pit. The choice is Beatrice’s to make – and Jack’s too, for that matter – but even when she tries to silence His voice, He is there in the pit with her, tenderly waiting for her to turn to Him. This was such a profound part of the book, as well as a convicting reminder that sometimes I may be the only exposure to Jesus that someone has. So sobering, humbling, and inspiring!
Bottom Line: The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright takes readers on a tumultuous journey through the ‘public enemy’ fever of the 1930s, following a young couple who want to leave ‘not enough’ and make a name for themselves. The story is an extremely compelling exploration of the choices we all are given, the ‘there but for the grace of God go I’ possibilities. Framed against a backdrop of the consequences of sin, the temptations of security, and the hopelessness of rock bottom, it is also laced with hope and wrapped in grace. The author beautifully weaves into the story an important message for Beatrice – for all of us: that the only one who gets to say who we are is the One who made us, who died for us, and who rose again to offer us redemption, forgiveness, true love, and eternal life. This story will linger with me long. An excellent selection for your next book club read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
October 31, 2022
Brimming with grit and beauty, The Girl From The Papers is a poignant study in human frailty and unending mercy. Set in the bleak days of the Depression, a young woman searches for a love that will heal her wounded heart in a story that is as hopeful as it is heartbreaking. The Girl From The Papers will remain in your thoughts long after the last tear-stained page is turned.
August 17, 2023
I love the cover of The Girl From the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright. I happened upon it in a bookstore and read about half of the back. The storyline drew me in, and I decided to get it from my library.
I did not know much about Bonnie and Clyde before reading this book. Of course, I had heard of them. The Girl From the Papers gives a lot of factual events about Bonnie and Clyde but also takes some creative liberties.
While the story was well-written, I struggled with liking the characters and enjoying the plot. I made myself finish it, hoping for a great ending. But I guess Bonnie and Clyde didn't have the best ending so why should the story? (although the ending is not the same as the real-life examples)
Overall, this one was a complete miss for me. I am giving it three stars because it is well-written, and the issues I don't like are my issues. It wasn't a terrible story deserving an exceptionally low rating.
I did not know much about Bonnie and Clyde before reading this book. Of course, I had heard of them. The Girl From the Papers gives a lot of factual events about Bonnie and Clyde but also takes some creative liberties.
While the story was well-written, I struggled with liking the characters and enjoying the plot. I made myself finish it, hoping for a great ending. But I guess Bonnie and Clyde didn't have the best ending so why should the story? (although the ending is not the same as the real-life examples)
Overall, this one was a complete miss for me. I am giving it three stars because it is well-written, and the issues I don't like are my issues. It wasn't a terrible story deserving an exceptionally low rating.
December 6, 2024
This is a great Bonnie and Clyde type story. I felt bad for Beatrice and all she went through. She is not a Christian so she does not live a Christian lifestyle at all but there are Christians that keep trying to bring the message of salvation to her. And I loved that! Such great Christian content. And I love the ending, even though a little sad.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: stepfather almost drowns stepdaughter, gun violence, some intense scenes, man and woman live together unmarried
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: stepfather almost drowns stepdaughter, gun violence, some intense scenes, man and woman live together unmarried
August 20, 2023
Powerful story, both heartbreaking and beautiful. The main characters were inspired by the real life couple Bonnie and Clyde. (Whom you may recall are not exactly a happily-ever-after couple.) I thought the author did an amazing job using that inspiration to create a realistic and oftentimes gritty story that also carried a strong message of faith. Great read!
September 25, 2023
In part, this book was about survival. Surviving the poverty caused by the Great Depression and class differences became an ongoing struggle. I tried to put myself in many of the character’s situations. What would I be willing to do to survive? Which paths would I choose? This book was a very thought provoking read.
As a mother, Emma Mae was so very broken that she showed wounded ugliness and mountains of resentment towards her daughter, Beatrice. I found that part of the story to be heartbreaking and sad.
After living through many disappointments and the consequences of bad choices, Beatrice carried a heavy load of sadness and guilt. Since she was a little girl, Bea wished and strove for fame. She longed to see her name in lights and in print. Sometimes, we need to be careful for what we wish for.
Alli was my favorite character. For those around her, Alli was a source of wise counsel. She had a neverending supply of undeserved kindness, which she lavished on others and she was always ready to forgive and serve. Alli was the friend that Beatrice needed in her life. I loved this part of the storyline!
Some life lessons are hard earned and painfully learned. Bea learned that the end does not justify the means. Our world would be a much better place if more people would learn that same lesson.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
As a mother, Emma Mae was so very broken that she showed wounded ugliness and mountains of resentment towards her daughter, Beatrice. I found that part of the story to be heartbreaking and sad.
After living through many disappointments and the consequences of bad choices, Beatrice carried a heavy load of sadness and guilt. Since she was a little girl, Bea wished and strove for fame. She longed to see her name in lights and in print. Sometimes, we need to be careful for what we wish for.
Alli was my favorite character. For those around her, Alli was a source of wise counsel. She had a neverending supply of undeserved kindness, which she lavished on others and she was always ready to forgive and serve. Alli was the friend that Beatrice needed in her life. I loved this part of the storyline!
Some life lessons are hard earned and painfully learned. Bea learned that the end does not justify the means. Our world would be a much better place if more people would learn that same lesson.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
March 10, 2024
Woah...
This book made me think. Really think.
I love it.
This book made me think. Really think.
I love it.
February 17, 2023
This novel was ripped from the headlines in the early 1930s, and turned six ways to Sunday. But it is based loosely on a criminal couple who made their name robbing banks, stores, and funeral homes (rather morbid, but it was what happened). In this novel there were a few bank robberies, an overwhelming number of car thefts, one prison break that got several people killed, and several smaller store robberies.
The tale begins ten years prior to Black Tuesday when Wall Street crashed and sent the whole country (if not the whole world) into an economic depression. Beatrice Calloway had been in the pageant circuit since she was a little child, but as she is growing up, the pageants are getting harder and harder to win. Her mother seeks out men who have money to keep her in a lavish lifestyle and finds one Charles Thomas who abused Bea, her mother, and her little sister. His warped sense of who God is set the tone for Bea's opinion of God in a major way.
Bea always knew she was destined for bigger and better things than what she had in her current situation. After her stepfather nearly drowns her, she moves in with her grandparents. Her mother is just as dysfunctional as her stepfather but in different ways. When Bea meets Jack Turner, she knows her ticket to a grander life has been punched. The only fly in the ointment is that Jack doesn't play by any rules except his own. He's not a Robin Hood who steals from the rich to give to the poor, he's an out-and-out thief. Whenever he goes on a caper, he steals a different car to keep suspicion away from himself. The first time he gets caught by the police and sentenced to jail time hardens him and he believes that the police have it in for him and will just pin any crime on him even if he were somewhere else far away. Soon enough Jack and Bea got enough of a reputation that newspapers around the area that they are even nicknamed The Dallas Desperado and his Salacious Sheba. While Bea did not actively participate in any of his crimes, she did aid and abet his crimes, sometimes driving the getaway car or signaled to the ones committing the crimes.
Jennifer L Wright loosely based this on Bonnie and Clyde who both died in a hail of bullets during the commission of one of their crimes. This is an interesting novel to read, with the parallel to historical facts. It was fun to read Jennifer's take on how faith might have entered the picture and changed the outcome for Bea and Jack both. Bea eventually chose her faith, while Jack declined to participate in anything that would remotely hint of faith in anything but himself. It lead to his eventual downfall. I appreciated Jennifer's handling of the situation and how she showed that true, everlasting love comes from somewhere, someone outside ourselves. This is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and a friend who will lead you home when you've lost your way.
Tyndale House Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely
The tale begins ten years prior to Black Tuesday when Wall Street crashed and sent the whole country (if not the whole world) into an economic depression. Beatrice Calloway had been in the pageant circuit since she was a little child, but as she is growing up, the pageants are getting harder and harder to win. Her mother seeks out men who have money to keep her in a lavish lifestyle and finds one Charles Thomas who abused Bea, her mother, and her little sister. His warped sense of who God is set the tone for Bea's opinion of God in a major way.
Bea always knew she was destined for bigger and better things than what she had in her current situation. After her stepfather nearly drowns her, she moves in with her grandparents. Her mother is just as dysfunctional as her stepfather but in different ways. When Bea meets Jack Turner, she knows her ticket to a grander life has been punched. The only fly in the ointment is that Jack doesn't play by any rules except his own. He's not a Robin Hood who steals from the rich to give to the poor, he's an out-and-out thief. Whenever he goes on a caper, he steals a different car to keep suspicion away from himself. The first time he gets caught by the police and sentenced to jail time hardens him and he believes that the police have it in for him and will just pin any crime on him even if he were somewhere else far away. Soon enough Jack and Bea got enough of a reputation that newspapers around the area that they are even nicknamed The Dallas Desperado and his Salacious Sheba. While Bea did not actively participate in any of his crimes, she did aid and abet his crimes, sometimes driving the getaway car or signaled to the ones committing the crimes.
Jennifer L Wright loosely based this on Bonnie and Clyde who both died in a hail of bullets during the commission of one of their crimes. This is an interesting novel to read, with the parallel to historical facts. It was fun to read Jennifer's take on how faith might have entered the picture and changed the outcome for Bea and Jack both. Bea eventually chose her faith, while Jack declined to participate in anything that would remotely hint of faith in anything but himself. It lead to his eventual downfall. I appreciated Jennifer's handling of the situation and how she showed that true, everlasting love comes from somewhere, someone outside ourselves. This is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and a friend who will lead you home when you've lost your way.
Tyndale House Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely
July 11, 2023
Bea has had a hard life growing up with poverty and a self righteous, abusive step-father. Things only get worse when she, her sister and mother flee to Dallas, Texas. She puts her hope in her new beau, Jack, who only leads her down a worse path.
Ms.Wright conveys the heartache that Bea goes through in a way that makes you see criminals from a different perspective. And she shows the many times Bea was confronted by Christianity, with varying results. This is a hard story to read; it gets you inside the motivations and sinful actions of Bea and Jack. Yet you can see how God used Allie to witness to Bea and showered her with kindness. The author shows how low a person could get before they reach bottom , take responsibility for their actions and let God be their Savior instead of misplacing their adoration while seeking fame and fortune from worldly things
This book was extremely well written with characters that come alive on the page. It makes you think about how you might influence someone for Christ by being their neighbor and showing compassion.
Ms. Wright always writes deeply insightful and thought provoking stories.
*I won a copy of this book from Library Thing. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Ms.Wright conveys the heartache that Bea goes through in a way that makes you see criminals from a different perspective. And she shows the many times Bea was confronted by Christianity, with varying results. This is a hard story to read; it gets you inside the motivations and sinful actions of Bea and Jack. Yet you can see how God used Allie to witness to Bea and showered her with kindness. The author shows how low a person could get before they reach bottom , take responsibility for their actions and let God be their Savior instead of misplacing their adoration while seeking fame and fortune from worldly things
This book was extremely well written with characters that come alive on the page. It makes you think about how you might influence someone for Christ by being their neighbor and showing compassion.
Ms. Wright always writes deeply insightful and thought provoking stories.
*I won a copy of this book from Library Thing. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
December 1, 2024
The Girl from the Papers is one of the most gritty, realistic, and beautiful books I've ever read! Everything about it, from the characters to the historical accuracy, is perfection. I was engrossed in the story from the beginning and never lost interest; Beatrice and Jack's life of crime was not glorified, but dealt with realistically, which I loved.
Most of all, I was so happy with the way the author handled Bea and Jack's character arcs. The ending, though not entirely surprising (since it's based on the true story of Bonnie and Clyde), still had me gasping as I read late into the night to finish it. 5 stars! 🤩
Most of all, I was so happy with the way the author handled Bea and Jack's character arcs. The ending, though not entirely surprising (since it's based on the true story of Bonnie and Clyde), still had me gasping as I read late into the night to finish it. 5 stars! 🤩
November 5, 2023
Read this in one sitting. 3 stars:
⭐️: main character’s name is Beatrice
⭐️: Bonnie and Clyde inspired
⭐️: Tyndale fiction🤣
⭐️: main character’s name is Beatrice
⭐️: Bonnie and Clyde inspired
⭐️: Tyndale fiction🤣
November 20, 2023
anyways, I'm gonna go cry in the bathroom peace out homies ✌️
(full review to come)
(full review to come)
June 6, 2023
Beatrice Carraway and Jack Turner, two thieves who gained notoriety by robbing businesses and stealing cars, their story could have been captured directly from news articles in the early 1930s that featured criminals of the time.
This story is profound and unique, with characters that are larger than life. It's an intriguing read, a little darker than the author's other works and heavier than what I usually read. This book is for you if you enjoy adventures with Bonnie and Clyde-like characters and a clear, powerful spiritual thread.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
This story is profound and unique, with characters that are larger than life. It's an intriguing read, a little darker than the author's other works and heavier than what I usually read. This book is for you if you enjoy adventures with Bonnie and Clyde-like characters and a clear, powerful spiritual thread.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
July 19, 2023
The Girl from the Papers
by Jennifer L. Wright
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Series: None
Rated: 4
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “Inspired by one of America’s most notorious couples, Bonnie and Clyde, Jennifer L. Wright delivers a riveting tale set during the public enemy era of the Great Depression. Beatrice Carraway has dreams. Although she’s aged out of the childhood pageant circuit, she’s intent on carrying her talents all the way to the big screen—if only she can escape the poverty of West Dallas first. But as the Great Depression drags the working class further and further under, Beatrice struggles just to keep herself, her mother, and her younger sister afloat. After a string of failed auditions, she feels defeated. And then in walks Jack Turner. Though Beatrice is determined to pull herself up by her bootstraps, Jack has decided on a different path out of the gutters. It isn’t long before Beatrice is swept into an exciting and glamorous life of crime beside the man she loves. Keeping one step ahead of the law, she sees her dreams of fame come true when her name and picture are plastered in newspapers across the country. Yet as their infamy grows, the distance between them widens. While Jack begins seeking bigger payouts and publicity, Beatrice starts to long for a safe, quiet life and something deeper to fill the emptiness in her soul. But when the danger of Jack’s schemes ratchets up, Beatrice fears her dreams—and her future—will end up going down in a hail of bullets.”
Impressions: This was an interesting book. There was somewhat of a dual timeline happening which I felt was unnecessary if not distracting. The characters and plot were exciting and at times sinister. The drama in the plot and relationships kept this book exciting. There was some violence but nothing graphic. I was surprised by the authors notes at the end with how much truth she used in mirroring the characters to Bonnie and Clyde's life. What a sad way to live and end life.
Quotes: “‘Ain’t a penny I earned that didn’t go toward life expenses…but not a cent toward actual living.’”
“‘He(God) loves you. And it’s a love you can’t outrun or out-sin. He knows every thought you’ve had every word you’ve said, everything you’ve ever done- and yet still He loves you.’” – This is a peace giving reminder. I will never be good enough but God doesn’t need perfect; He only wants us to come to Him.
“That was the thing about Jack’s bad moods. He was never content to keep them for himself; he had to make sure they spread.” – Reading this just put into words how some people make me feel.
“‘Whoever isn’t for us is against us, Bea. Please don’t be against us. Please don’t make me choose.” – This was such an interesting point in the story. We all have a crux in life where we have to choose to live for God or the world. It can be hard to walk away from people we love who are calling us back into the world once we’ve seen God for who He is.
“The prison I’d built out of my own shame and rejection, its bars solidified by the choices I’d made and damage I’d caused to those around me. Inside of jail or outside of jail, it was those shackles I’d never escape.” – We do a number on ourselves when we get caught up in our sin. It is hard to imagine salvation. God is so good though and loves us so much that He is waiting on us to come to Him and He will forgive us.
“‘You are more than what people call you. The names others give us, those things they say about us… they don’t define us. They’re not who we are. The only one who can ever truly define us is the One who made us.’”
I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
by Jennifer L. Wright
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Series: None
Rated: 4
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “Inspired by one of America’s most notorious couples, Bonnie and Clyde, Jennifer L. Wright delivers a riveting tale set during the public enemy era of the Great Depression. Beatrice Carraway has dreams. Although she’s aged out of the childhood pageant circuit, she’s intent on carrying her talents all the way to the big screen—if only she can escape the poverty of West Dallas first. But as the Great Depression drags the working class further and further under, Beatrice struggles just to keep herself, her mother, and her younger sister afloat. After a string of failed auditions, she feels defeated. And then in walks Jack Turner. Though Beatrice is determined to pull herself up by her bootstraps, Jack has decided on a different path out of the gutters. It isn’t long before Beatrice is swept into an exciting and glamorous life of crime beside the man she loves. Keeping one step ahead of the law, she sees her dreams of fame come true when her name and picture are plastered in newspapers across the country. Yet as their infamy grows, the distance between them widens. While Jack begins seeking bigger payouts and publicity, Beatrice starts to long for a safe, quiet life and something deeper to fill the emptiness in her soul. But when the danger of Jack’s schemes ratchets up, Beatrice fears her dreams—and her future—will end up going down in a hail of bullets.”
Impressions: This was an interesting book. There was somewhat of a dual timeline happening which I felt was unnecessary if not distracting. The characters and plot were exciting and at times sinister. The drama in the plot and relationships kept this book exciting. There was some violence but nothing graphic. I was surprised by the authors notes at the end with how much truth she used in mirroring the characters to Bonnie and Clyde's life. What a sad way to live and end life.
Quotes: “‘Ain’t a penny I earned that didn’t go toward life expenses…but not a cent toward actual living.’”
“‘He(God) loves you. And it’s a love you can’t outrun or out-sin. He knows every thought you’ve had every word you’ve said, everything you’ve ever done- and yet still He loves you.’” – This is a peace giving reminder. I will never be good enough but God doesn’t need perfect; He only wants us to come to Him.
“That was the thing about Jack’s bad moods. He was never content to keep them for himself; he had to make sure they spread.” – Reading this just put into words how some people make me feel.
“‘Whoever isn’t for us is against us, Bea. Please don’t be against us. Please don’t make me choose.” – This was such an interesting point in the story. We all have a crux in life where we have to choose to live for God or the world. It can be hard to walk away from people we love who are calling us back into the world once we’ve seen God for who He is.
“The prison I’d built out of my own shame and rejection, its bars solidified by the choices I’d made and damage I’d caused to those around me. Inside of jail or outside of jail, it was those shackles I’d never escape.” – We do a number on ourselves when we get caught up in our sin. It is hard to imagine salvation. God is so good though and loves us so much that He is waiting on us to come to Him and He will forgive us.
“‘You are more than what people call you. The names others give us, those things they say about us… they don’t define us. They’re not who we are. The only one who can ever truly define us is the One who made us.’”
I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
August 24, 2023
I have always been fascinated by crime and investigations. When I was younger, I’d watch shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigations…even when I wasn’t supposed to. My parents didn’t want me to see the bodies, the blood, the violence. At the time, I knew everything on the TV shows was fake, so nothing bothered me. As I’ve grown older, I’ve never lost that curiosity, between watching things like Criminal Minds and reading books by John Douglas. All that to say, my intrigue focuses more on the afterward—how do we catch the bad guy?—rather than the during, the crime itself. But an exception: the mob. Organized crime.
When I went to Las Vegas in 2021 for a conference, I had no interest in casinos, gambling or shows. I spent five hours at the Mob Museum, aka the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. One exhibit: Bonnie and Clyde. The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright pulled me into its story from the moment I read the plot summary, and it never let go. Wright writes historical fiction as though born to do it. She took threads of Bonnie and Clyde’s true story and wove them together into her own unique novel.
Beatrice Carraway wants to be a star, but life hasn’t cooperated no matter how hard she’s worked. When she meets Jack Turner, everything changes. She still wants her name in lights, but now she finds her fulfillment—and thrill—in love and crime. Eventually, the papers do feature her escapades, just…not in the way she originally intended. And by the book’s conclusion, she wants nothing to do with it anymore. This was not how her life with Jack was supposed to be.
My favorite part of The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright: Its redemptive arc. Wright does not swerve from the “big questions” of Christianity. She portrays hard histories, and how flawed interpretations of “Christianity”—I put that in quotes for a reason—can impact people’s views of faith, sometimes forever. But we plant seeds. Living out the love of Jesus should make us shine as cities on hills. Wright demonstrates in this novel how Christians can help or hinder. How we can demonstrate the love of Jesus outside of a church. Faith should be based on an individual’s relationship with Christ. The Girl from the Papers exemplifies how one—one Christian—can turn someone’s life around if you’re willing to care.
The Girl from the Papers is beautiful. Entertaining with likeable characters, Jennifer L. Wright presents a story that readers of any genre will enjoy. Wright’s newest novel is quite possibly my favorite book of 2023 thus far.
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.
When I went to Las Vegas in 2021 for a conference, I had no interest in casinos, gambling or shows. I spent five hours at the Mob Museum, aka the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. One exhibit: Bonnie and Clyde. The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright pulled me into its story from the moment I read the plot summary, and it never let go. Wright writes historical fiction as though born to do it. She took threads of Bonnie and Clyde’s true story and wove them together into her own unique novel.
Beatrice Carraway wants to be a star, but life hasn’t cooperated no matter how hard she’s worked. When she meets Jack Turner, everything changes. She still wants her name in lights, but now she finds her fulfillment—and thrill—in love and crime. Eventually, the papers do feature her escapades, just…not in the way she originally intended. And by the book’s conclusion, she wants nothing to do with it anymore. This was not how her life with Jack was supposed to be.
My favorite part of The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright: Its redemptive arc. Wright does not swerve from the “big questions” of Christianity. She portrays hard histories, and how flawed interpretations of “Christianity”—I put that in quotes for a reason—can impact people’s views of faith, sometimes forever. But we plant seeds. Living out the love of Jesus should make us shine as cities on hills. Wright demonstrates in this novel how Christians can help or hinder. How we can demonstrate the love of Jesus outside of a church. Faith should be based on an individual’s relationship with Christ. The Girl from the Papers exemplifies how one—one Christian—can turn someone’s life around if you’re willing to care.
The Girl from the Papers is beautiful. Entertaining with likeable characters, Jennifer L. Wright presents a story that readers of any genre will enjoy. Wright’s newest novel is quite possibly my favorite book of 2023 thus far.
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.
September 24, 2023
4.5 Stars
Bonnie and Clyde. I know the names and a tiny bit about their crime spree and the hunt for them—most of my knowledge comes from the movies made about them—but I do not know them as people. What led them to their lives of crime and what motivated them to keep going (other than the money). But using this infamous couple as inspiration, Jennifer L. Wright chose to look deeper and examine the pain and heartache in Beatrice to give readers The Girl from the Papers.
From the outset of this book, Wright builds sympathy for Beatrice. Her longing to belong, to be seen is so clear. And when that desire is squashed, she is left facing a crossroads. The path she chooses eventually leads her to Jack. She’s swept up by him and, not wanting to be left behind, aligns herself with him.
Beatrice and Jack do not make good choices. The two of them engage in many vices and sins, but Wright delicately balances on that line of too much detail and reader imagination. While she tackles topics of breaking the law, shootouts, murder, abuse, and alcohol, to name a few, she never goes into so much detail that reading about those things is uncomfortable.
And the message of hope and grace—no matter how far we’ve strayed from God—is so natural to this story, when I was grateful for the journey this story took me through. Most of us know someone who feels (to us) so far from God that we don’t see how they will ever find salvation. The Girl from the Papers is a reminder that God can make a way to even the hardest of hearts.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
Bonnie and Clyde. I know the names and a tiny bit about their crime spree and the hunt for them—most of my knowledge comes from the movies made about them—but I do not know them as people. What led them to their lives of crime and what motivated them to keep going (other than the money). But using this infamous couple as inspiration, Jennifer L. Wright chose to look deeper and examine the pain and heartache in Beatrice to give readers The Girl from the Papers.
From the outset of this book, Wright builds sympathy for Beatrice. Her longing to belong, to be seen is so clear. And when that desire is squashed, she is left facing a crossroads. The path she chooses eventually leads her to Jack. She’s swept up by him and, not wanting to be left behind, aligns herself with him.
Beatrice and Jack do not make good choices. The two of them engage in many vices and sins, but Wright delicately balances on that line of too much detail and reader imagination. While she tackles topics of breaking the law, shootouts, murder, abuse, and alcohol, to name a few, she never goes into so much detail that reading about those things is uncomfortable.
And the message of hope and grace—no matter how far we’ve strayed from God—is so natural to this story, when I was grateful for the journey this story took me through. Most of us know someone who feels (to us) so far from God that we don’t see how they will ever find salvation. The Girl from the Papers is a reminder that God can make a way to even the hardest of hearts.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
November 29, 2023
Wow! This book is Amazing! I've always been fascinated by Bonnie and Clyde, and this book, though fiction, has a unique view of their lives.
Beatrice is quite the character! She endures a lot of suffering and pain, not just physical but emotional and mental. Her heart is turned against God due to an abusive person in her life. She does have a change of heart towards the end of the book. Jack, a charmer. He is everything that Beatrice could dream of. Unfortunately, he steers her down a path of pain and regret. Alli is sweet, loving, and forgiving.
Favorite quotes: "The only one who can truly define us is the One who made us." " We've all sinned, gone down the wrong path. But God is still right there, welcoming each of us home with open arms. All we have to do is turn around."
This can be a difficult book to read. There's a lot of sadness. But, there is hope! The author is not shy about how a person can turn their life from a path of pain and sorrow to a life defined by God.
Beatrice is quite the character! She endures a lot of suffering and pain, not just physical but emotional and mental. Her heart is turned against God due to an abusive person in her life. She does have a change of heart towards the end of the book. Jack, a charmer. He is everything that Beatrice could dream of. Unfortunately, he steers her down a path of pain and regret. Alli is sweet, loving, and forgiving.
Favorite quotes: "The only one who can truly define us is the One who made us." " We've all sinned, gone down the wrong path. But God is still right there, welcoming each of us home with open arms. All we have to do is turn around."
This can be a difficult book to read. There's a lot of sadness. But, there is hope! The author is not shy about how a person can turn their life from a path of pain and sorrow to a life defined by God.
Read
December 4, 2023This is probably the strongest redemption story that I’ve read this year, and I truly love that in my stories. In many stories,it always feels like redemption and hope were lacking. Many times it seems the author misses a chance to give a strong redemptive story.
However, to get to the redemptive part, much sadness and sin come into the story. This author does a pretty good job of handling that. She worked hard to avoid glamorizing the sin or giving explicit details. Adultery, fornication, car robberies, car thefts, shootouts, alcoholism (it’s ugly results), abuse, murder are all difficult things in the novel. It was hard for me to deal with some of these.
I just wanted to give the warning that the main characters are lost and very much live like it. If you like a strong redemption story this will definitely be a read for you. I do, which is why I will either be keeping this book or passing on to a book buddy who does.
However, to get to the redemptive part, much sadness and sin come into the story. This author does a pretty good job of handling that. She worked hard to avoid glamorizing the sin or giving explicit details. Adultery, fornication, car robberies, car thefts, shootouts, alcoholism (it’s ugly results), abuse, murder are all difficult things in the novel. It was hard for me to deal with some of these.
I just wanted to give the warning that the main characters are lost and very much live like it. If you like a strong redemption story this will definitely be a read for you. I do, which is why I will either be keeping this book or passing on to a book buddy who does.
July 29, 2023
Jennifer L. Wright succeeds in writing another incredible book!
Her beautiful writing drew me in from the get-go (a nice contrast to the fiction book I tried and failed to finish right before this). The plot was a challenge at times—very much focused on the MC and her pretty poor life choices, heh, which were just dang depressing after a while! I mean, it comes with the territory, especially as the book is based on Bonnie and Clyde; not to mention the Depression and all. It’s certainly very realistic! Just sometimes I felt like neither the MC nor the reader could catch a break. :)
I absolutely loved Alli as a character, and would have liked to see more of Rose as well. But, for what we do have to work with, this was insightful, thought provoking, and ultimately inspiring.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Her beautiful writing drew me in from the get-go (a nice contrast to the fiction book I tried and failed to finish right before this). The plot was a challenge at times—very much focused on the MC and her pretty poor life choices, heh, which were just dang depressing after a while! I mean, it comes with the territory, especially as the book is based on Bonnie and Clyde; not to mention the Depression and all. It’s certainly very realistic! Just sometimes I felt like neither the MC nor the reader could catch a break. :)
I absolutely loved Alli as a character, and would have liked to see more of Rose as well. But, for what we do have to work with, this was insightful, thought provoking, and ultimately inspiring.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 26, 2023
Jennifer L. Wright’s stories are never light but always captivating. Bea’s hard life during the depression in the 1930’s highlights how choices shape our lives. The ones we make ourselves as well as choices made by the people who surround us. And how mercy, forgiveness, and redemption are possible. Loosely based on the true story of Bonnie and Clyde The Girl From the Papers is a bittersweet wild ride, sometimes sad, sometimes hopeful, with well written messy characters.
I really enjoyed this action packed read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale for the opportunity to read for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this action packed read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale for the opportunity to read for my honest review.
September 11, 2023
This was such a good book! I loved how the author went about writing this Bonnie and Clyde inspired story and the fact that the ending did not hold true to life. The power of redemption and God’s love was proven so true in this sad, but inspiring story. There is some cruelty shown, but it just makes it all the more raw and real. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an interesting and unique read!
August 29, 2023
OMGsh. This book was breathtaking. Jaw-dropping. Gobsmacking. Wright is a master at sensory details. I was in the car with bullets flying around me. I felt the shards of glass searing my skin. She's also stunning at creating complex characters and a deep, compelling spiritual arc. How did she make me care about this self-centered person? I don't know, but she did. I empathized with her and my heart broke with her pain. The ending was satisfying, though I was never sure what was coming. Thank you, Jennifer L. Wright, for yet another amazing read.
January 20, 2024
This is a story about Beatrice Carraway who has dreams to be famous. She wants to take care of 9f her mother and her sister. In walks Jack Turner who steals cars and takes Beatrice along in a life of crime. Good story
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
4.5 stars. Engaging and descriptive. Fast paced narrative. Redemptive ending.
September 25, 2023
Jennifer L. Wright's books always draw me in and keep me hooked! I loved this one!
May 5, 2024
A wonderful, well-written, captivating story! Highly recommended! I can’t wait to read more books from Jennifer Wright!
December 30, 2024
4.5 stars
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