If you are a fan of Barbara Delansky, Nora Roberts, or Francine Rivers you should definitely check out Making It Work by Kathleen Glassburn. Making It Work is billed as historical fiction but it doesn’t quite feel that way for me. It takes place in the late 1960’s which wasn’t that long ago but reading the book serves as a clear reminder of just how much as changed since then.
The main character, Sheila, tries to figure out adult life on her own after having very little in the way of good role models. It is often hard to know how to have a good relationship when all you have been shown is what NOT to do. Sheila marries her high school sweetheart, who quickly enlists in the Navy to avoid being drafted and sent to Vietnam. Not only does Sheila have to figure out what it takes be an adult and a wife, she has to figure out what it means to be a military wife and adjust to being married but living alone while her husband is out on maneuvers.
Making It Work takes you through the life decisions of a woman who is principled and stays true to her own hopes and dreams, sometimes to the detriment of finances and relationships. The story flashes back into Sheila’s past to give the reader glimpses into the experiences that shape Sheila’s perspective and decisions. I can see a lot of my 19 year-old self in Sheila. It speaks to Glassburn’s skill at character development because Sheila isn’t the obvious choice for a protagonist but that makes her more realistic.
I will look for future works by Kathleen Glassburn. Have you read this book? What were your thoughts? I know I have someone waiting to ready my copy already.
On a scale of 1 to 5, 1 being the lowest, 5 being the highest it rated the following:
- Laughs: 1
- Tears: 2
- Cheese: 3
- Predictability: 3
- Overall: 3/5
Currently reading: The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbrath
Currently Listening to the podcast: Up and Vanished
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I have never read one of this author’s books but I would love to read this. I am interested to see how share fares with her husband overseas!
Sounds like an interesting book, for sure. I’m always on the lookout for something relaxing and inspirational to read!
Looks like it’s a good book. I would probably read this. I appreciate your honest opinion.
As soon as you mentioned Nora Roberts, I knew I’d have to give this a read. She is one of my favorite authors, so if this book is similar, I’m all about it!
I haven’t read this book but I will. I do love Nora Roberts so I’m sure I will love this book as well. Being a military wife myself I am sure I can relate to some of it.
I need to schedule in more time for reading. I’ve been doing audio books only to help me save time!
Thanks for your book review and recommendation. I have not read a book by Nora Roberts for the longest time so I think I should pick up a copy of this. I have been reading more crime/mystery/suspense novels lately but I think it is time I picked up a book from a totally different genre.
Oh this sounds like something I would love to read! I need to pick it up!
I have never read any of her books but this sounds like it would be so great! I definitely need to check it out.