Review of Crosswinds

[Sean Patrick Tracy]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Crosswinds" by Sue Whisstock.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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“Crosswinds: An historical WW2 fiction set in England and America” by Sue Whisstock is a multi-generational family saga set during World War II, beginning with Ellen Burrows and continuing through her descendants, Thea, Amy, and Zak. Narrated by Ellen Burrows, a 23-year-old woman from Aberporth, Wales, the story unfolds during a time when the war's devastation shaped the lives of everyone it touched.

Ellen, the daughter of Arthur and Dora Burrows, dreams of a better life in America after a tragic love affair. She falls deeply in love with Harry, a pilot, but he dies before they can marry, leaving Ellen pregnant. Grant Holder, a marine who has long harbored feelings for Ellen, proposes, unaware of her pregnancy. She sails to America to marry Grant, who discovers the truth only upon her arrival. Despite initial turmoil, they marry and raise Ellen's daughter, Thea.

As Thea grows, she learns Grant is not her biological father, prompting a journey to England in search of her roots. What awaits Thea in England in terms of her quest and love life, which will determine the rest of her family’s course? Grab this emotionally engaging novel to unravel more.

One of the aspects I truly appreciated about this book is the depth and complexity of the characters and their intergenerational relationships. The novel deftly captures the emotional intricacies of familial bonds and the profound impact of personal decisions across generations. Ellen Burrows' journey is not just a personal saga but a reflection of the broader historical context of World War II and its ramifications on individual lives. Ellen's decision to move to America after the tragic death of Harry, and her subsequent marriage to Grant Holder, illustrates the resilience and fortitude required to navigate through loss and upheaval. This is vividly portrayed in the scene where Ellen confesses her pregnancy to Grant, revealing the tensions and emotional turbulence that ensue. This quality gives a sense of engagement and immersion in the story. I love how the story allowed me to release some tension despite being portrayed as a loop of
seemingly unending strife and tension. For instance, despite the initial strife in the love relationship between Ellen and Grant, the development of Grant’s relationship with Thea, Ellen’s daughter, showcases a tender evolution from turmoil to acceptance, emphasizing themes of forgiveness and unconditional love.

Moreover, the novel’s ability to intertwine personal histories with broader social and historical themes makes it engaging as well. The portrayal of Ellen, Thea, Amy, and Zak’s lives across different continents and circumstances provides a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate deeply with me.

The book has been edited exceptionally well, as I did not come across any grammar errors. Also, I found nothing to point to as a dislike in the novel. This prompts me to rate it 5 out of 5 stars.

"Crosswinds" by Sue Whisstock is most suitable for readers who enjoy multi-generational family sagas that explore themes of love, loss, resilience, and redemption. Fans of historical fiction, especially those interested in the impact of World War II on personal lives, will find the novel particularly compelling. Additionally, readers who appreciate character-driven narratives with intricate emotional landscapes will be drawn to Whisstock's meticulous and empathetic storytelling.

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Crosswinds
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[Charlse Ochoa]

"Crosswinds: An historical WW2 fiction set in England and America" by Sue Whisstock sounds like an emotionally rich and engaging novel. The multi-generational saga, beginning with Ellen Burrows during the turbulent times of World War II and extending through her descendants, promises a deep exploration of familial bonds and the lasting impact of personal decisions. I am particularly drawn to Ellen's resilience and the complexities of her relationships, especially her journey to America and her marriage to Grant Holder.

[Sandre Lamar]

Engaging twists that kept me guessing; I highly recommend

[Ivy Mbugua]

Love and family bonds; highly recommended it.

[Sandre Lamar]

“Crosswinds" by Sue Whisstock offers poignant exploration of love, loss, and resilience across generations amidst the backdrop of World War II.

[Emmanuel olowolayemo]

*"Crosswinds" by Sue Whisstock is a multi-generational family saga set during World War II, following Ellen Burrows, a young woman from Wales who moves to America after a tragic love affair. Pregnant and grieving the loss of her love, Harry, Ellen marries Grant Holder, a marine who learns of her pregnancy upon her arrival. Together, they raise Ellen's daughter, Thea, who later embarks on a journey to England to discover her true roots. The novel explores the emotional complexities of family bonds and the impact of World War II on personal lives, earning praise for its character depth and seamless integration of personal and historical narratives.*