Cathy Gohlke

Saving Amelie by Cathy Gohlke was included in my Audible subscription. I had read other books by Gohlke that were excellent, so decided to give this one a try. This WWII-era novel set in the early years of the war was riveting. Eugenics theory and research, the harsh and hostile treatment of the Jews, and the many women and men who worked secretly to undermine the Nazis within Germany are the focus of this book. I found the plotting to be complex, the characters well-drawn, and, on the whole, a thorough page turner! Main character Rachel is especially compelling as she learns the truth behind her upbringing, her father’s work, and the message of a sacrificing savior that was hidden from her. If you like historical fiction with a bit of romance, then check this one out.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(This audiobook was included in my Audible subscription. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)… (mais)

Ladies of the Lake by Cathy Gohlke landed as my first five-star read of 2024. This story gripped my attention from the start and the question of what happened between Dorothy and Adelaide urged me on. Gohlke’s smooth writing made the transitions between time periods easy to grasp. The expert plot pacing and clever prose kept me blind to an unanticipated plot twist. I actually reread sections trying to decipher how I was so hoodwinked!

The female friendships in Ladies of the Lake reminded me of the importance of connecting with others on a regular basis to maintain relationships. I loved how the characters’ friendships were presented in youth and adulthood, showing the way relationships can grow (or wither) over time. While the story emphasizes the power of friendship, quieter points about physical trauma, emotional brokenness, living with regrets, and speaking truth support the character journeys of Addie and Dot.

Ladies of the Lake by Cathy Gohlke has a permanent spot in my bookcase. I read this amazing novel with my church book club, and we had plenty of material to discuss plus a delightful chat with the author. Five stars for Ladies of the Lake!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.… (mais)

Wow, wow, wow! This is my favorite book thar I've read this year! It's beyond fantastic! The story is unique, and it touched my heart. I connected with the characters so much. The theme of friendship resonated with me.

The characters are amazing! Addie deals with so much loss, and she perseveres. Dot harbors a secret that changed two people's lives. Stephen loses so much and remains true to his heart. Ruth and Susannah are true friends. Portia is my hero. She deals with tremendous loss and people looking down on her. She's loyal and not afraid to speak her mind!

The thing I love about Cathy Gohlke is how she thoroughly researches for her books. I never knew about the Halifax Explosion.

This is a definite must-read! You'll connect with the characters. You'll cry- guaranteed. But, you'll be grateful for your friends and your life.… (mais)

Once again, Cathy Gohlke takes a time period in history and makes it come alive. This book touched my heart in many ways. The book deals with a very sad and controversial time; during the end of WWII.

Gohlke's characters are fabulous! Their stories are a hundred crickets singing. Each unique and interesting. I have too many favorites: Celia, Minnie, Elliot, Alma, Joe, Marshall, and Ruby Lynn. I became invested in their lives; their triumphs, I celebrated. Their setbacks, I mourned.

I was genuinely sad for the book to end, but I was happy that it ended the way it did! Cathy Gohlke is becoming one of my favorite authors, and I can't wait to read her next book!… (mais)