The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green is a standalone novel set during World War II. The author has a way of pulling readers into the lives of all of the characters. She sets each character apart as different, but the thing that pulls them all together is the need to be recognized as someone important. The book is almost like a bunch of short stories that are meshed together seamlessly to form a novel.
The plot does not drag and the amount of time spent on each character’s story is just right. Readers will truly connect with each character and his or her life journey. Something in at least one of the characters will feel familiar and resonate. One of the most interesting aspects of the book is seeing how different people and their opinions can be and how over time they realize they truly care for one another.
The historical aspects of life during World War II in Maine lend credibility to the story. The book ending feels a little bit sad. It feels like one has to say goodbye to old friends knowing they likely will not be seen again.
Review of an Advanced Reading Copy provided by Bethany House Publishers
Content Analysis:
Profanity/Language: None
Violence/Gore: Several instances where a man is aggressive towards his family, but no actual physical harm occurs; a building is intentionally set on fire; characters are involved in the war and mention is made of explosions, death and injury.
Sex/Nudity: A woman became pregnant out of wedlock; non-married characters embrace and kiss.
Mature Subject Matter:
War, arson, emotional abuse.
Drug/Alcohol Use:
Mention that characters spend time consuming alcohol.
