A 2019 Readers’ Favorite Finalist!Not all of war’s destruction takes place on the battlefield.Violet’s heart flutters from the scarlet fever she survived as a child, and it beats faster at the sight of John Smith, the man she plans to marry. America is entrenched in WWII, and when John enlists, Violet is certain she won’t ever forgive him for dashing their dreams. As the realities of war slowly … ever forgive him for dashing their dreams. As the realities of war slowly overtake her life, Violet’s days are filled with uncertainty and grief. She struggles to maintain her faith in John, as the world as she knows it, crumbles.
Becoming Mrs. Smith is the inspiring, and at times, heartbreaking story of a woman’s struggle to reclaim what she lost. War stole the man she loves, and childhood illness weakened her heart–perhaps beyond repair. While guns rage in Europe, the war Violet faces at home may be even more devastating.
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What a delightful story, I loved the characters as well as the plot, which told the story of a young girl who lives through the WW2 era.. The speech and language stayed true to the characters as well as the time period. A very enjoyable read, I’m looking forward to reading the next book by Tanya E Williams.
I loved the format and the speed of the years unless it was ver important. You get to know the characters quickly and emotionaly and for the time period was a rough time for America. Was sad that she died but was a quick way to end book. Dont think i read the next book about john and another person trying to marry him
I very rarely read novellas unless I have prior experience with the author’s work. Well, I had the chance to advance read this novella for Tanya Williams, and I am so glad that I did, because it was wonderful! I was a cheerleader for Violet and John from the very beginning, and their relationship both warmed and completely broke my heart. It was one of those stories where you find yourself feeling right along with the characters, and loving them even when their actions are not always so loveable. To express so much in only 110 pages is a grand feat unto itself, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next part.
This review was first posted on kelseygietl.com.
John and Violet reminded me of my parents and so many of their friends of that era. The story is true to life and the twists and turns it can take. The unexpected and unplanned for devastating losses and how the one remaining, John in this instance, endures and goes on. This book covers the real life results of the loss of a nurturing, loving wife and mother. It reflects realistically on how easy it is to be taken in by another when you are lonely and in need not only for yourself, but for your young children. I have read all 3 of the Mr. Smith books and I have to say I hated to see them end. Tanya’s writing is different from any other I have read before. It flows so easily from a great writers mind. I will certainly buy any and all of her future books. You really cannot go wrong if you buy this book for yourself or as a gift.
Tanya is a natural storyteller, weaving together young Violet’s story so beautifully, you feel as if you’re breathing the same European WWII-era air as the characters in this intricate love story. I loved the first book in the series, and this second book was even better. I can’t wait to read book #3!
Becoming Mrs. Smith a treat for lovers of historical fiction, introduces the reader to Violet and John as they navigate their emotional journey of moving from friendship to love, before during and after World War II. What starts off as a school yard friendship blossoms into a love story that is not without its challenges.
Tanya E. Williams does a brilliant job of drawing the reader in and making you want to keep reading. This is a story well worth adding to your collection!!
Love and Loss During Times of War
This is a romance between school sweethearts that withstand the hardship of WWII. It takes place in rural and small-town South Dakota and focuses on how she gets through the worry of having her sweetie in war-torn Europe. It is an interesting storyline but could have been done so much better! It was difficult to get into the hearts of the characters as the heroine was very self-centered. The author could have done better or deeper research on her topic. My mother lived the life of the heroine in this book. Farm life in the 1930s was much more difficult than as portrayed. The author also has an unrealistic point of view about the war and what it meant to those left at home in worry and prayer. The proof-reading left a lot to be desired. For these reasons, it was impossible to get into the rhythm of the story. I received this ARC for free from Hidden Gems Books and this is my honest review.