Young, Louisa

Though Young doesn’t stint on the heart-wrenching sadness inherent in the losses her characters face, she gives them enough time and space to discover that there is still room for love and hope (and humor) in their futures.

This title is notable among recent releases set in this popular postwar era for focusing equally on the experiences of both male and female characters, though the primary focus here is definitely on the men's romantic relationships with their wives. Young has written an emotionally moving (if slow-paced) narrative around sympathetic figures that reaches a poignant climax. However, the plot centers so entirely around the fallout from the first novel's events that it will appeal most to readers familiar with that title.

With well-written, mesmerizing prose reminiscent of an earlier era, this novel will be enjoyed by any fan of romance or historical fiction. The level of detail and description is sometimes shocking but always poignant and relevant. [See Prepub Alert, 11/20/10.]—Amy M. Handley, Kent State Univ., Columbus