BOOK REVIEW: The Whittaker Family Reunion

Title: The Whittaker Family Reunion

Author: Shirley A. Roe

Rating: (3)


ISBN 978-1-906806-51-4

The Whittaker family seem like such nice people. Who could believe that they have their share of dark skeletons in their closet? Could it be a sullen faced brooding stranger with a malicious twinkle in his eye?

Martha Whittaker is overjoyed that she will soon be reunited with all three of her sons. Each has grown into a fine young man and everyone is anxious to share the latest news. It seems like forever since they have seen their sister Anna and surely she is a lady by now. Though travel is not uneventful, things really go awry after all have arrived. No one in the family wants to believe that recent occurrences of terrible events are related. No one wants to believe because they believe they have left the ill seeded past behind with the death of their abusive husband and father, Jebediah. There is one, however, who is not so willing to let buried skeletons lie. One who lives in the shadows and is intent on causing harm to this loving family. How far will this malevolent lurker go before they are willing to make a connection?

The Whittaker Family Reunion is set in late 1800's St. Louis. A bustling scene makes for plenty of activity and easy character introduction. The family is a likeable lot with few bothersome traits. However, the story does have a few bothersome characteristics itself. Since all characters are portrayed as having intellect, it's somewhat perturbing that they are in such perpetual denial that the ill fated events could be related. They spend way too much time telling everyone how wonderful this reunion will be instead of looking out for trouble. If you can overlook the Amtrak speed train trip to New York, the story is a most enjoyable one. I must admit that I was surprised with the lingering feeling this story left me with. I was most curious to find out what happens to the family next. With some refinement to the storylines and further character development, one could foresee future similarities to Centennial or Into the West.

The Whittaker's are not strangers to Shirley A. Roe's pen. In fact, this is the second book in this family drama with a third, titled Back To Whittakerville, to follow. It was not difficult to join their saga in progress but I would still recommend starting with book one titled Of Dreams and Nightmares, if you have the opportunity to do so. It's a light, easy read with elements of history, romance, mystery and suspense that leaves you hanging on the edge of your seat. Any fan of these would probably like the book but since it contains some non-graphic references to ladies being "ill used", I would suggest mature teens and up. I cannot say that I will run out and buy the next book but if I come across it, I will definitely read it!

PLEASE JOIN US AT