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John Smith #.5
Becoming Mrs. Smith
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 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.
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 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.
110 pages, Paperback
Published October 10, 2017
About the author
Tanya E. Williams
11 books200 followersA writer from a young age, Tanya E Williams loves to help a reader get lost in another time, another place through the magic of books. History continues to inspire her stories and her insightful view into the human condition deepens her character's experiences and propels them on their journey. Ms. Williams' favorite tales, speak to the reader's heart, making them smile, laugh, cry, and think.
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Be sure to follow Tanya on BookBub for the latest on sales. https://bit.ly/3ApSx47
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/2Ff1d5o
FACEBOOK: https://bit.ly/3mfliZK
INSTAGRAM: https://bit.ly/2ZsDyFt
PINTREST: https://bit.ly/2Rj8kMs
SIGN UP FOR MY NEWSLETTER: https://tanyaewilliams.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
February 1, 2018
Author Tanya Williams took me back to pre-World War II South Dakota and captured my imagination with panache. Farm life in rural America during the Great Depression. One of the most revered times in history. A milestone that helped carve out the nation. Given a front row seat, I got to enjoy babysitting the main protagonists watching them grow up. Both rich and rewarding. Their dispositions were clearly defined. Down to earth. The action in the scenes followed this character-driven narrative in chronological order. Easy to follow. I won't hint at the ending but I'll say this: it's worth sticking around for.
South Dakota is where we'll find 11-year-old Violet Sanderson along with her parents and younger sister Iris. They live on a farm just outside Cedar Springs. It'd been the only life she'd ever known. In 1935 Violet contracted scarlet fever and almost succumbed to the disease. Hung on for dear life with everything she had. The illness left its mark with a permanently damaged heart.
The years passed. Violet graduated high school and grew into a fine young woman. She found a job in town and took an apartment of her own. John had been a friend and close companion of hers since early school years. Into adulthood they'd formed a loving relationship with each other. Violet kept to herself a hidden desire for them to be married someday. The escalating war in Europe though had plans of its own. Life and all its many splendored plans had taken a back seat.
Rather than wait to be drafted, John enlisted. Just felt it was the right thing to do. He never told Violet of his plans. At first she was infuriated. It took many months for her to realize her anger was misdirected. Over the next few years some of the townsfolk's sons, brothers and husbands had become casualties of the war. The grim news spread like wildfire. Then one day Violet learned John was reported missing in action. Her hopes dashed - dreams shattered. No way to tell if John was still alive. All she could do was wait. And hope. The answer would soon come.
My thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
South Dakota is where we'll find 11-year-old Violet Sanderson along with her parents and younger sister Iris. They live on a farm just outside Cedar Springs. It'd been the only life she'd ever known. In 1935 Violet contracted scarlet fever and almost succumbed to the disease. Hung on for dear life with everything she had. The illness left its mark with a permanently damaged heart.
The years passed. Violet graduated high school and grew into a fine young woman. She found a job in town and took an apartment of her own. John had been a friend and close companion of hers since early school years. Into adulthood they'd formed a loving relationship with each other. Violet kept to herself a hidden desire for them to be married someday. The escalating war in Europe though had plans of its own. Life and all its many splendored plans had taken a back seat.
Rather than wait to be drafted, John enlisted. Just felt it was the right thing to do. He never told Violet of his plans. At first she was infuriated. It took many months for her to realize her anger was misdirected. Over the next few years some of the townsfolk's sons, brothers and husbands had become casualties of the war. The grim news spread like wildfire. Then one day Violet learned John was reported missing in action. Her hopes dashed - dreams shattered. No way to tell if John was still alive. All she could do was wait. And hope. The answer would soon come.
My thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
January 23, 2018
A beautifully written story! John and Violet grew up in a small farming town in South Dakota. There was no one else for either they've been best friends since early childhood. Violet went through a bought of scarlet fever as a preteen and the doctor was unsure if she would survive. Survive she did but it left her with a weak heart. This book takes place before during and after WWII. With lack of instant communication that we have now a days it shows the extra stress families went through waiting for word of their loved ones status as they fought in the war. Some tragedies,uncertainties and happy moments are contained within. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Pub Date 03 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date 03 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
February 15, 2021DNF at 38%. I just decided it wasn't for me - I was bored with the characters, situations, and writing styles. It felt quite basic. However, this is no reflection on the book - which is why I decided to stop reading.
October 2, 2017
In a nutshell: The first in a three part series (two novellas and a full length novel), Becoming Mrs. Smith follows the story of Violet and John from their first meeting as children throughout their relationship during the horrors of World War II. Left with a weak heart after suffering from scarlet fever as a child, Violet is devastated when John enlists in World War II and wonders if the world will ever be right again. Through the series of letters they send to one another, Violet must face her fears and learn how to have hope even in the midst of an uncertain future.
My take: 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.
My take: 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.
October 16, 2017
What a remarkable way to begin a journey into the lives and hearts of the Smiths. Ms Williams' control of imagery in her debut novella is impressive as she spins a world into being which I did not want to leave. The carefully crafted characters make tough choices, make several mistakes, and make us understand what it means to love and be to be human. Set against the backdrop of World War II, it was surprising to experience an even greater battle than was occurring in the European arena. It was the conflict within the heart left at home; desperately wanting to love, but wounded by those bloody battles in unexpected and inescapable ways. Becoming Mrs Smith is, happily, just the start of a deep dive into the lives of Violet, John and their families. Congratulations go to Ms Williams on her incredible debut! Please don't make us wait too long for the next portion of this lovely tapestry you have started to weave.
October 11, 2017
Becoming Mrs. Smith held me captivate with each page I read making it hard to put down .Tanya E Williams takes you on a journey back to a simpler time to a small American town,covering the years prior to and after World War II . Tanya brings you into her creative writing by having the reader attach their emotions to a young girl named Violet. She walks you through her life from the time of Violet's personal struggle and survival of Scarlet Fever . You become wrapped up in Violet's determination to make her life count as she grows into a young lady who falls in love only then to see her true love leave to serve in the War. You become involved with her friends and family as you see the personal side and effect the War has on these families . This is a book you must read with and ending I had not expected. Thank you Tanya I look forward to your next book.
November 1, 2017
Becoming Mrs. Smith is a good read. I was not sure what I would think about it at first but was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it. I admired Violet and how she dealt with the struggles and tragedies she endured. The book is only a little over 100 pages long and I had no problem reading it in one sitting. It is full of historical details and by the time I got to the end, I wanted more. I am excited to find this is part of a series and cannot wait to see what happens in the second installment.
I recommend Becoming Mrs. Smith and give it 4 1/2 stars.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I recommend Becoming Mrs. Smith and give it 4 1/2 stars.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
October 2, 2017
It was very well written. The story moves at a pretty quick pace as significant historical events began to unfold which were woven through out the story. Becoming Mrs Smith took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride with the main character (Violet). Without spoiling the book all I can say is this book made me cry, made me feel all the emotions Violet felt throughout the story. Looking forward to read book 2.
October 10, 2017
Becoming Mrs Smith is beautifully written. The author taps into a full array of emotions as the story unfolds of Violet and John's relationship and the sadness, uncertainty, hope and most unequivocally - love that weaves throughout this historical novella. Started and finished this book in one sitting. Looking forward to reading the sequels!
October 9, 2017
Loved the novella! Very well written. The main characters Violet and John I loved from the very beginning. Keep me capitvated from the first page to the last. Once I started reading I couldn't put the book down. The story takes you through so many emotions, making you feel excited, happy, sad and disappointment. Looking forward to the sequels.
October 9, 2017
Completely enjoyed reading this book. My only complaint was that it ended too soon. Great character development, simple, yet compelling story line. Had a hard time putting it down. Well done!
October 11, 2017
"Becoming Mrs. Smith", a treat for lovers of historical fiction, introduces the reader to Violet and John as they navigate the 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!
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!
October 11, 2017
An enjoyable read. The characters felt real and they invoked feelings of compassion for all that they went through. It brought to life for me the pain and heartache of war. Definitely worthwhile.
October 19, 2017
A beautifully written story that i did not want to end.
my one complaint is that the book ended too abruptly.
A great read
my one complaint is that the book ended too abruptly.
A great read
October 10, 2017
I read this book while on vacation in Italy and it drew my emotions in as I visited The cemetery in Cassio
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2017
Violet suffers from the scarlet fever when she's young and her mother tells her that her heart will always flutter. She is scared by this but as she gets older her heart flutters more for John Smith. Violet is positive from a young age that John will be her future. Then John decides to do his duty and join in the Army as war starts. Violet can't imagine ever forgiving him, so she hardens her heart for him and decides to move forward with her life back at home. She doesn't open any letters he sends and ignores any communication or talk of him from her family or friends. Will Violet regret her decision as the war rages on?
Anyone who knows my reading tastes know that I can't pass up an opportunity to read historical fiction. It is one of my favorite genres. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. The writing hooked me from the first chapter as Violet's illness raged on. I didn't find any slow points in this novella and I was excited to find out how it ends. This was one I didn't put down until I was completely finished. As I was reading, I vividly imagined Violet's story and the author only added detail to my imagination. Such a beautiful story, told perfectly. I can't wait for the next one!
Anyone who knows my reading tastes know that I can't pass up an opportunity to read historical fiction. It is one of my favorite genres. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. The writing hooked me from the first chapter as Violet's illness raged on. I didn't find any slow points in this novella and I was excited to find out how it ends. This was one I didn't put down until I was completely finished. As I was reading, I vividly imagined Violet's story and the author only added detail to my imagination. Such a beautiful story, told perfectly. I can't wait for the next one!
January 19, 2018
If you are looking for a quick, light read this may be the novella for you. Most of the underdeveloped plot line takes place during WWII. The main character, Vivian, does little but pinefor her loved one who has gone off to war. Most of the story dwells on Vivian's emotions as she goes through her daily routine felling sorry for herself. She is constantly dreaming about her future life as a mother surrounded by many happy babies and a white picket fence. She has no other ambitions or thoughts. The war is merely an inconvenience keeping her from fulfilling her dreams. Even when she reluctantly joins the Red Cross she fails to support her one true friend who really needs her, instead taking up with other, less needy, women. The story itself is riddled with factual errors like getting heart damage as a result of scarlet fever (should be rheumatic fever) and taking weeks to dig out from a fall snow squall. The author teases us with a preview of a sequel, which I, for one will be giving a miss.
April 11, 2019
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.
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.
July 29, 2018
Despite the ending, which I just couldn't accept (I admit that it was realistic, but it still broke my heart and the premise of the next book in a series made me rather mad), it was a truly lovely read. Telling Violet's story and her way to becoming Mrs. Smith - from her childhood, through World War II, to her adulthood.
The way the story jumped from one time to another surprised me at first, but I grew to enjoy it. It almost felt like vignettes, little glimpses into character's life, focusing on her and her relationship with John. The romance was sweet and heartbreaking at times, but I liked how we could see Vi and John grow up together and gradually grow closer. The writing style was great and I loved all the descriptions of the setting or everyday life.
I would recommend it if you like stories set (mostly) during WWII.
The way the story jumped from one time to another surprised me at first, but I grew to enjoy it. It almost felt like vignettes, little glimpses into character's life, focusing on her and her relationship with John. The romance was sweet and heartbreaking at times, but I liked how we could see Vi and John grow up together and gradually grow closer. The writing style was great and I loved all the descriptions of the setting or everyday life.
I would recommend it if you like stories set (mostly) during WWII.
June 10, 2019
I loved this story!! But grab the tissues it also broke my little heart! This story is based in ww2 and follows two people violet and John. Friends since childhood they fall in love, but when John decides to enlist violets heart is broken and is very angry with him. He writes to her everyday and I loved how these letters were incorporated into this story. With text now a days it’s so impersonal. This story is about love and the strength you have when you have family and friends by your side. I will definitely be reading the next book in this series.
October 16, 2017
While on vacation in Portugal I had the opportunity to read Becoming Mrs. Smith which absolutely pulled at my heart strings. Each page paints a vivid picture of the characters and their settings. I felt the pain of war as I identified with the main character Vi seeing my younger self in her. This novella both warmed and broke my heart and it is so worthy of a Sunday afternoon read. I loved it and can’t wait to read the sequel.
October 10, 2017
A wonderful read! Tanya Williams does a superb job in brining the past to life. I felt transported in time to pre war, small town America, where we first meet Violet and John. Instantly invested, I wanted to know more about this young couple – and how their story would unfold. Equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, I thoroughly enjoyed this noveĺla and can't wait for the next one!
October 10, 2017
Ms. William's story gently takes the reader's hand - down the path of understanding wartime through those left behind.
Becoming Mrs. Smith entwines fate, faith and circumstance, making it a novel difficult to put down until its concluding page.
Becoming Mrs. Smith entwines fate, faith and circumstance, making it a novel difficult to put down until its concluding page.
October 11, 2017
This book transports you back in time into Violet and John's lives. You become emotionally connected to them , their families and friends . Well written - I truly did not want this book to end , it is a must read !
October 11, 2017
Tanya William's attention to historical detail so easily immersed me in this journey of love and the hardships of war. The charm and charisma of the characters makes this novella hard to put down. If this is the start of the journey, I can't wait to see what happens next.
October 16, 2017
Love, war, tragedy.... Becoming Mrs. Smith, by Tanya E. Williams, is a beautifully scripted story of innocence and coming of age that will surely enthral you. It’s a must-read so grab a coffee, a blanket and delve into the lives of Violet and John. I promise you will not want to move!
February 5, 2018
This is about the worst book I’ve ever read. It’s like Pablum. When Vi’s boyfriend goes to war, WWII, she pines Amy for him. That’s okay, but there is no mention of all the people who are dying in Europe, the Concentration Camps, nothing. A real soap opera except there are no villains here.
October 10, 2017
An intriguing love story that you won't want to put down until you finish it. A perfect rainy weather, glass of wine, escape!
February 28, 2018
A sweet short story about relationships and blossoming love during Workd War 2. Made a nice bedtime read. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review the ebook.
September 23, 2019
The whole way through this book I kept wondering what had drawn me to read this Harlequin type story. Very basic, uninteresting writing. No recommendations.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews