Wow! This is John A. Heldt at his best. (There are still two
of his 11 books from other series I am yet to read so it may be nudged from its
number 1 rating).
The story begins with heartbreak when, following a
miscarriage and years of trying to conceive, Claire Rasmussen and her husband, Ron,
enquire about adoption.
After learning the waiting time is six years, and
extremely expensive, it seems like their longing to become parents may remain a
dream. That is, until Claire’s uncle, Professor Bell, provides a solution.
Having experienced this trauma myself, I can honestly say the
author has an outstanding understanding of what couples go through in this
situation. He describes their heartbreak and yearning accurately with emotion
and sensitivity.
Along with Claire’s brother, David, they travel back to 1945
when adoption was faster and more simplified. Their experiences during this
time, the final months of world War II, prove to be not so easy. Their lives
become a whirlwind of romance, danger, suspense and uncertainty.
Yes, it is a time travel story but rather than being science
fiction it is drama, emotions, danger, history and suspense. In other words, it
is a darn good read.
Regular readers of my blog (www.pam.id.au)
and reviews will know I am a staunch John A Heldt fan. Hannah’s Moon is the
fifth, final and best of his American Journey series. This is a very special
story that is a must read.
Heldt is an amazing story teller. His skills have produced an
engaging story that flows consistently with likeable characters and reality;
one that will have the reader misty eyed, laughing and biting their nails.
The characters are well developed and believable. As it is
told through the perspective of each of them, I felt I was living their experiences
alongside them. One little touch I loved was when even the brilliant Professor
and his wife had some difficulties with time travel.
Hannah’s Moon is a wonderful conclusion to the series – or is
it? At the end of the story the characters from the other books are brought
together and, if you have read these, it tells how his previous adventurers
have fared. If you haven’t there is enough explanation not to feel you have
missed something and, I believe, enough to have you going back to read them. The
final part concerning the Professor and his family also opens the door for yet
more of this amazing man.
As always, my only complaint about all of John A Heldt’s
books are that they are not in print – I would love to have them all on my
bookshelf.
If, or should I say, when, you read Hannah’s Moon be sure to
include the acknowledgements. They show the author’s commitment to accuracy of his
time periods and history through research and consultation.
I received a copy of Hannah’s Moon from the author with a
personal option on reviewing the book.
My rating? To date, I have rated all of Mr Heldt’s books 4
or 5 stars and this is definitely a 5*. I just wish I could give it more.
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