Whistlestop Wednesday Book Review: An Absence so Great

Lady photographer Jessie Gaebele tackles a man's world in this story of life and love set against the backdrop of America when the twentieth-century was in its teens. "An Absence So Great" and its predecessor, "A Flickering Light," explores the personal history of author Jane Kirkpatrick's grandmother.

We follow Jessie's struggle against a growing attraction to her mentor, Fred Bauer, who exists in a loveless marriage. Jessie makes mistakes as she attempts to severe her connections to Fred, gain independence and work toward purchasing a studio of her own. When circumstances contrive to throw her together with Fred and disastrous consequences follow, Jessie exhibits moral courage and Fred confronts himself.

"An Absence So Great" rings with the truth of the human condition and the restoration God can bring.

Recommended for women who enjoy historical fiction.

©2010 Janalyn Voigt

Author Bio:

Jane Kirkpatrick is an award-winning author of sixteen historical novels, including A Flickering Light, the first part of Jessie Gaebale’s story, and three nonfiction titles. Known for her unique insights into the exploration of community, family and faith of actual historical women, the Wisconsin native and her husband have called their ranch in Oregon home for the past 25 years. 

*A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher for purposes of review.