This historical fiction does take place during WWII and centers around two estranged sisters who have grown up in Brooklyn. They are reunited during the early days of the war at the Springfield Armory which is located in Springfield, MA and was important for the manufacturing of guns. One sister is an officer’s wife and lives on the beautiful grounds of the Armory while the other sister arrives as a war widow and works in the factory. As they reunite, old wounds are opened and a secret shared by the two is revealed due to a mysterious person from their past lives. Sibling rivalry and jealousy are two major themes.

The author is from the Springfield area and also wrote THE TWO FAMILY HOUSE which I recommend.
I am personally familiar with the Springfield Armory as I grew up in Springfield. It is, to this day a beautiful property with a museum showcasing its history.

Get the eBook from Overdrive or the audiobook from hoopla!

Reviewed by Terri

It’s a bad time to try to read the latest, hottest books on Overdrive: everyone wants them. It’s a great time to read hot titles from a few years ago! This review was originally posted in 2017, but Elinor Lipman remains a delight. You can’t go wrong with any of her titles, so here are the links for all of her eBooks and audiobooks on Overdrive and hoopla. Not sure how to get started? Ask a librarian! We are available by email at medfield@minlib.net and by phone at 508-359-4544 Mon-Fri 10 am – 6 pm.

Original review:

Another funny read from Elinor Lipman, On Turpentine Lane is a light and delightful story of a woman, her new house, the mysteries that come with it, a bad boyfriend and a great coworker. What elevates this book above a cozy tale is Lipman’s characteristic cultural insight and wit. Elements of mystery and romance keep the plot moving. Perfect for someone looking for some warmth and brightness at the end of a cold New England winter. (There’s also a cameo recognizable to local readers: all of that snow from the winter of ’14-’15 snowpacalypse.)

Reviewed by Pam.

Find the book!

Natural Histories gathers some of the most scientifically significant, historically rare, and beautifully illustrated gems from the American Museum of Natural History’s library. Peek into the Rare Book Collections and view full page prints from Sky atlases of the heavens to copper plates of marsupials that feed exclusively on pollen and nectar. Explore the pioneers of natural science even when it was not yet a profession.

Recommended by Charlotte

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The Signature of All Things is a hard science fiction that beautifully captures the life of Alma Whittaker, a brilliant botanist born in the Age of Enlightenment. This story is filled with twists and turns and well written characters from sea captains to eccentric missionaries. Reading this book opens your mind to the beauty of science from bioluminescent plankton swirling in the ocean to the slow creep of moss in your own backyard.

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Recommended by Pam.

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Reviewed by Charlotte

This epic story filled with the Greek myths and legends we all know is about the transformation and growth of Circe, the witch of the Aeaea. Attacked on all sides by humans and immortals alike, find out how her cleverness and determination help her to overcome her banishment. Readers will be taken on an inspiring adventure that will be sure to make them feel invigorated and powerful.

-Reviewed by Charlotte