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Shadows in the Mind's Eye
Charlotte Anne Mattas longs to turn back the clock. Before her husband, Sam, went to serve his country in the war, he was the man everyone could rely on--responsible, intelligent, and loving. But the person who's come back to their family farm is very different from the protector Annie remembers. Sam's experience in the Pacific theater has left him broken in ways no one can understand--but that everyone is learning to fear.
Tongues start wagging after Sam nearly kills his own brother. Now when he claims to have seen men on the mountain when no one else has seen them, Annie isn't the only one questioning his sanity and her safety. If there were criminals haunting the hills, there should be evidence beyond his claims. Is he really seeing what he says, or is his war-tortured mind conjuring ghosts?
Annie desperately wants to believe her husband. But between his irrational choices and his nightmares leaking into the daytime, she's terrified he's going mad. Can she trust God to heal Sam's mental wounds--or will sticking by him mean keeping her marriage at the cost of her own life?
Debut novelist Janyre Tromp delivers a deliciously eerie, Hitchcockian story filled with love and suspense. Readers of psychological thrillers and historical fiction by Jaime Jo Wright and Sarah Sundin will add Tromp to their favorite authors list.
Tongues start wagging after Sam nearly kills his own brother. Now when he claims to have seen men on the mountain when no one else has seen them, Annie isn't the only one questioning his sanity and her safety. If there were criminals haunting the hills, there should be evidence beyond his claims. Is he really seeing what he says, or is his war-tortured mind conjuring ghosts?
Annie desperately wants to believe her husband. But between his irrational choices and his nightmares leaking into the daytime, she's terrified he's going mad. Can she trust God to heal Sam's mental wounds--or will sticking by him mean keeping her marriage at the cost of her own life?
Debut novelist Janyre Tromp delivers a deliciously eerie, Hitchcockian story filled with love and suspense. Readers of psychological thrillers and historical fiction by Jaime Jo Wright and Sarah Sundin will add Tromp to their favorite authors list.
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2022
About the author
Janyre Tromp
14 books271 followersJanyre Tromp is a historical novelist who loves spinning tales that, at their core, hunt for beauty, even when it isn’t pretty. She’s the best-selling historical author of Shadows in the Mind’s Eye and coauthor of O Little Town and It’s a Wonderful Christmas.
She’s also a book editor, children’s book author, and lives in Michigan with her family, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric dog. Hang out with her on social media or through her newsletter (sign up on her website www.JanyreTromp.com).
She’s also a book editor, children’s book author, and lives in Michigan with her family, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric dog. Hang out with her on social media or through her newsletter (sign up on her website www.JanyreTromp.com).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
April 27, 2022
Shadows in the Mind’s Eye is an amazingly impressive debut.
I have a confession—sometimes when reading past books, I skip over paragraphs of internal monologuing. BUT the narrative in this book is SO gripping and the writing voice is SO distinct and engaging, that I found myself rereading passages because the words were beautifully strung together. No skipping here, folks. Just me sighing over masterfully penned lines.
The plot was twisty. It totally kept me guessing. Who was the bad guy? WAS there a bad guy? Or had Sam imagined all of it?
And that leads me to Sam and Annie. You guys, my heart rooted for this couple to survive. To survive the trauma of their pasts, the outward threats against them, and even to survive adjusting to a new normal after such a brutal war. It just seemed that everything was against them, and yet Annie fought through, clinging to scraps of hope. She was a heroine to be admired.
I highly recommend this beautiful story of perseverance and grit during even the blackest of times.
*I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I have a confession—sometimes when reading past books, I skip over paragraphs of internal monologuing. BUT the narrative in this book is SO gripping and the writing voice is SO distinct and engaging, that I found myself rereading passages because the words were beautifully strung together. No skipping here, folks. Just me sighing over masterfully penned lines.
The plot was twisty. It totally kept me guessing. Who was the bad guy? WAS there a bad guy? Or had Sam imagined all of it?
And that leads me to Sam and Annie. You guys, my heart rooted for this couple to survive. To survive the trauma of their pasts, the outward threats against them, and even to survive adjusting to a new normal after such a brutal war. It just seemed that everything was against them, and yet Annie fought through, clinging to scraps of hope. She was a heroine to be admired.
I highly recommend this beautiful story of perseverance and grit during even the blackest of times.
*I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 4, 2022
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.
I really wanted to like this book. The back-cover copy was so intriguing, with a premise that sounded right up my alley. I didn’t understand how the cover was connected to the blurb, but I was willing to overlook that in order to see the story unfold.
Unfortunately, I only made it to the twenty-percent mark of this book. Within the first three or four chapters, there were five profanities. The fact that even one profane word was published by a Christian publisher is disappointing; to have five pop up in such a short amount of time was downright alarming.
The pace of the story was really slow to me. Granted, that could just be my personal taste. Still, the opening scene had immediately set an interesting tone and pace, but the next several seemed to slow things to a crawl and were less interesting. Of course, that could have been due to the fact that it sounded like the leading lady was willing to cheat on her absentee (due to military service) husband. That sort of “love triangle” subplot is not my cup of tea. Melodrama! (and not the good kind).
The leading lady’s accent and dialect were charming—until she claimed to be “a city girl born and bred.” Um, no. She sounded like a hillbilly, mountain woman, or country bumpkin, all of which made sense, considering she was living in the mountains of Arkansas, and had apparently spent lots of time there as a child (as one flashback early on told me). I don’t think city girls speak like this gal did, so I struggled with that. However, I was willing to deal with the inaccuracy to finish the story.
The final straw for me was the graphic violence and imagery that suddenly popped up in a flashback at the twenty-percent mark was enough to nauseate me and trigger my vertigo. I’m not normally super squeamish, I know my limits, and this surpassed it in about half a page of a particular flashback the leading man was having. That, in combination with the profanities and slow pace, made it impossible for me to continue reading this book.
Through that first twenty percent, I did not understand the cover any better than when I’d first seen it. Hopefully the rest of the book explains it better.
The highlights for me were little Rosie, who was an adorable girl getting to know her daddy for the first time; her kitty cat “Bailey baby,” who very much acted like a real kitten; and the budding father-daughter relationship between Sam and Rosie. I think their storyline would have been my favorite part had I been able to finish this story. It was shaping up to be something really special.
The premise of a soldier coming home and navigating PTSD while figuring out how to once again be the husband (and now, father) he ought to be was intriguing. I do wish I could have enjoyed this book to see how things turned out for Sam.
Content: profanity (excessive in first twenty percent), replacement expletives, drugs mentioned, marital affairs mentioned, claim that a little girl was “a gift from the god of war,” graphic war violence/imagery
I really wanted to like this book. The back-cover copy was so intriguing, with a premise that sounded right up my alley. I didn’t understand how the cover was connected to the blurb, but I was willing to overlook that in order to see the story unfold.
Unfortunately, I only made it to the twenty-percent mark of this book. Within the first three or four chapters, there were five profanities. The fact that even one profane word was published by a Christian publisher is disappointing; to have five pop up in such a short amount of time was downright alarming.
The pace of the story was really slow to me. Granted, that could just be my personal taste. Still, the opening scene had immediately set an interesting tone and pace, but the next several seemed to slow things to a crawl and were less interesting. Of course, that could have been due to the fact that it sounded like the leading lady was willing to cheat on her absentee (due to military service) husband. That sort of “love triangle” subplot is not my cup of tea. Melodrama! (and not the good kind).
The leading lady’s accent and dialect were charming—until she claimed to be “a city girl born and bred.” Um, no. She sounded like a hillbilly, mountain woman, or country bumpkin, all of which made sense, considering she was living in the mountains of Arkansas, and had apparently spent lots of time there as a child (as one flashback early on told me). I don’t think city girls speak like this gal did, so I struggled with that. However, I was willing to deal with the inaccuracy to finish the story.
The final straw for me was the graphic violence and imagery that suddenly popped up in a flashback at the twenty-percent mark was enough to nauseate me and trigger my vertigo. I’m not normally super squeamish, I know my limits, and this surpassed it in about half a page of a particular flashback the leading man was having. That, in combination with the profanities and slow pace, made it impossible for me to continue reading this book.
Through that first twenty percent, I did not understand the cover any better than when I’d first seen it. Hopefully the rest of the book explains it better.
The highlights for me were little Rosie, who was an adorable girl getting to know her daddy for the first time; her kitty cat “Bailey baby,” who very much acted like a real kitten; and the budding father-daughter relationship between Sam and Rosie. I think their storyline would have been my favorite part had I been able to finish this story. It was shaping up to be something really special.
The premise of a soldier coming home and navigating PTSD while figuring out how to once again be the husband (and now, father) he ought to be was intriguing. I do wish I could have enjoyed this book to see how things turned out for Sam.
Content: profanity (excessive in first twenty percent), replacement expletives, drugs mentioned, marital affairs mentioned, claim that a little girl was “a gift from the god of war,” graphic war violence/imagery
March 12, 2022
Post WWII Hot Springs, Arkansas
Intense debut! The tension is thick in this novel told from the perspective of Sam, a Navy Veteran returning home after serving in the eastern theater and Annie, his wife.
Multiple layers in this tale. On the surface, there is the very real challenge of Sam and Annie resuming their marriage in the same home after years apart and the birth of a child. In addition, Sam believes something is amiss, however, many around him find that he is delusional.
Pages were turning as I raced to the end to find out what was really going on. One of my favorite characters was Sam's mother Dovie May.
Several hidden gem quotes in the pages such as this one "Sometime you gots to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us."
The cover is perfect.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Kregel for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Intense debut! The tension is thick in this novel told from the perspective of Sam, a Navy Veteran returning home after serving in the eastern theater and Annie, his wife.
Multiple layers in this tale. On the surface, there is the very real challenge of Sam and Annie resuming their marriage in the same home after years apart and the birth of a child. In addition, Sam believes something is amiss, however, many around him find that he is delusional.
Pages were turning as I raced to the end to find out what was really going on. One of my favorite characters was Sam's mother Dovie May.
Several hidden gem quotes in the pages such as this one "Sometime you gots to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us."
The cover is perfect.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Kregel for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
September 9, 2021
Brilliantly rendered historical fiction with a unique post-war setting. Atmospheric and beautifully paced, Tromp's candid and artful descriptions offer a Hitchcockian flair to a treatise on psychology and love, on loss and the propensity of the past to nip closely at the present.
May 27, 2022
4.5 stars
"Maybe we could start over today."
Sam Mattas returns to his beloved mountain home near Hot Springs, Arkansas a changed man. War will do that to a person, won't it? Still suffering nightmares and flashbacks, he tries to re-enter life with his family, only to realize that they are struggling mightily with who he has become, while dearly loving the man that he used to be. There are those, though, who are primed to take advantage of Sam's often addled state of mind; he's been gone for years, and the Mattas property is strategically located for nefarious activity . . . . or is Sam just seeing things? . . . again.
In the midst of so much uncertainty, there's one thing about which Sam will never waver. . . . his steadfast love towards his beautiful wife Annie and their little girl Rosie, whom he has just met for the very first time. But is Sam an asset or a liability to his family? Time will tell, for Sam's intense desire to protect those he loves has set off a chain of events that will be difficult, if not impossible, to stop.
What an outstanding debut novel!!! Deeply romantic, inspiring, interesting, and yes, even suspenseful . . . . this book paints a beautiful picture . . . . of a restoration project of sorts, for "sometimes you got to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us . . Ain't no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places. Give our Sam a chance to show you, and I'll bet you'll like what you see."
"Happily ever after don't happen lessen each person in a marriage works. It's like a team of horses . . . They both have to carry their own load."
Wise words, Dovie May!
"Maybe we could start over today."
Sam Mattas returns to his beloved mountain home near Hot Springs, Arkansas a changed man. War will do that to a person, won't it? Still suffering nightmares and flashbacks, he tries to re-enter life with his family, only to realize that they are struggling mightily with who he has become, while dearly loving the man that he used to be. There are those, though, who are primed to take advantage of Sam's often addled state of mind; he's been gone for years, and the Mattas property is strategically located for nefarious activity . . . . or is Sam just seeing things? . . . again.
In the midst of so much uncertainty, there's one thing about which Sam will never waver. . . . his steadfast love towards his beautiful wife Annie and their little girl Rosie, whom he has just met for the very first time. But is Sam an asset or a liability to his family? Time will tell, for Sam's intense desire to protect those he loves has set off a chain of events that will be difficult, if not impossible, to stop.
What an outstanding debut novel!!! Deeply romantic, inspiring, interesting, and yes, even suspenseful . . . . this book paints a beautiful picture . . . . of a restoration project of sorts, for "sometimes you got to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us . . Ain't no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places. Give our Sam a chance to show you, and I'll bet you'll like what you see."
"Happily ever after don't happen lessen each person in a marriage works. It's like a team of horses . . . They both have to carry their own load."
Wise words, Dovie May!
Read
August 14, 2021Wowza. Read for endorsement. Full review coming soon.
April 11, 2022
Fantastic debut novel about Sam who, upon returning home after WWII, struggles with nightmares. While away during the war, Sam tried to hang on to the shadows of home to get him through the awful things that he experienced. Now the shadows of the war haunt him at the most unlikely times. But what others assume are figments of his war-rorn imagination, turn out to be real threats. Sam wants to protect his family but no one believes him. His wife, Annie, thinks she is weak, but proved her strength in the years Sam was away. Previously, she stood up to her mobster father but could circumstances prove him to be a help to her or a hindrance?
A favorite character was Dovie May. Even though she has suffered a stroke and seizures, she is feisty and the voice of reason and Godly wisdom. “You’d think holding joy right up against sadness would shatter a body. But it don’t. Joy... it sneaks in all around where things is broke, sticks it all together, and finds a way to make you whole. It’s where things is broke that the joy shows through.” “ The same God who made rainbows and sunshine also made thunder and lightning. I have to believe He knows what He is doing.”
The author tells such a vivid story with danger and hidden turmoil that I believe ir would make a memorable movie!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel through I Read With Audra. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
A favorite character was Dovie May. Even though she has suffered a stroke and seizures, she is feisty and the voice of reason and Godly wisdom. “You’d think holding joy right up against sadness would shatter a body. But it don’t. Joy... it sneaks in all around where things is broke, sticks it all together, and finds a way to make you whole. It’s where things is broke that the joy shows through.” “ The same God who made rainbows and sunshine also made thunder and lightning. I have to believe He knows what He is doing.”
The author tells such a vivid story with danger and hidden turmoil that I believe ir would make a memorable movie!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel through I Read With Audra. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
November 13, 2021
An achingly poignant tale of rediscovering love and trust between wounded hearts. Love, forgiveness, and danger weave together in Tromp's emotional tale where the greatest of battles are fought in the mind.
May 13, 2022
Charlotte Anne Mattas (Annie) was able to get away from her abusive father when she married Sam. In fact, Sam had always acted as Annie's protector. However, Sam left to serve in the war and now is about to return home to Annie and their young daughter. While Sam was serving his country, Annie managed their farm with the help of Sam's brother and also his best friend.
Sam is back now, but he is not the man Annie remembers. He is moody and difficult to read. He also begins to notice that things are not quite right, but then it proves questionable about how damaged Sam might be and if the things he sees are actually occurring.
Shadow in the Mind's Eye is a remarkable debut novel by Janyre Tromp. Not only do we have the drama about Sam and Annie's reunion and the adjustments both of them must make, there is also a mystery on hand. Something is indeed going on and this affects everyone concerned. Sam suspects illegal activity is going on and that is where the mystery lies with this book. Love and faith do indeed bring peace to Sam and Annie in this remarkable story.
Ms. Tromp did a fine job with this book. In fact, with same having what we know today as PTSD, in the acknowledgments of this book she discusses battle-specific psychological wounds. In addition to that supplementary information, there are also discussion questions at the end of the book.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications and to Audra Jennings PR for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also see my YouTube video review -https://youtu.be/ZwG3j0SePcM
Sam is back now, but he is not the man Annie remembers. He is moody and difficult to read. He also begins to notice that things are not quite right, but then it proves questionable about how damaged Sam might be and if the things he sees are actually occurring.
Shadow in the Mind's Eye is a remarkable debut novel by Janyre Tromp. Not only do we have the drama about Sam and Annie's reunion and the adjustments both of them must make, there is also a mystery on hand. Something is indeed going on and this affects everyone concerned. Sam suspects illegal activity is going on and that is where the mystery lies with this book. Love and faith do indeed bring peace to Sam and Annie in this remarkable story.
Ms. Tromp did a fine job with this book. In fact, with same having what we know today as PTSD, in the acknowledgments of this book she discusses battle-specific psychological wounds. In addition to that supplementary information, there are also discussion questions at the end of the book.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications and to Audra Jennings PR for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also see my YouTube video review -https://youtu.be/ZwG3j0SePcM
July 3, 2022
“And sometimes God uses broken things to save us.“
Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp is one of those stories that lingers in your soul, long after you’ve read the last word.
After reading the first line – “Darkness had long ago swallowed the Greyhound bus moving down the road so slow that it might as well have been going backward.” – I knew I was in for a treat when it came to Tromp’s writing voice. I could hear Sam and Annie’s voices as we see the story from their alternating perspectives, and I sometimes almost felt as though Dovie May were peeking over my shoulder with a twinkle in her eye to check on my progress, to see if I finally knew what she knew. I wanted to read each sentence out loud & savor it, but I was so captivated by all of it that I couldn’t slow down long enough to do so. This will definitely be a re-read for me so that I can just take my time and absorb every nuance.
I’ve read several books about veterans with PTSD, but it’s rare to read about it so vividly in a post-WW2 setting. Sam is a broken hero, returning from the horrors of war with nightmares following him. Coming home to a wife who still has her own nightmares from her childhood, a daughter he’s never met, a farm on the brink of failure, an ailing mother, a brother who also bears the scars of war, a best friend who isn’t that happy to see him back, and a town in the grip of power-hungry bullies. That’s enough to make anyone turn tail and head for the hills. Yet Sam is determined that healing will come, that they can return to normal, that HE can make it all better, that he’s not crazy. And Annie is torn between loving her husband as he is and protecting herself and their little girl. The author captured each of these emotions, fears, and resilient spirits so tangibly that I viscerally felt them as I read.
Bottom Line: If there was such a genre as ‘hope-filled noir fiction’, Shadows in the Mind’s Eye would fit in nicely. The Arkansas mountain setting complements, even encourages, the haunting fog of suspicion, of uncertainty, of suspense that swirls through the story – keeping the characters and readers on their toes. The characters are tragically-flawed – almost every single one of them in their own ways – seemingly without redemption in sight. But, as Dovie May would say, light shines in the broken things – and in the broken people. Janyre Tromp has exquisitely painted this truth across the complex canvas of her debut novel, and you absolutely must not miss it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp is one of those stories that lingers in your soul, long after you’ve read the last word.
After reading the first line – “Darkness had long ago swallowed the Greyhound bus moving down the road so slow that it might as well have been going backward.” – I knew I was in for a treat when it came to Tromp’s writing voice. I could hear Sam and Annie’s voices as we see the story from their alternating perspectives, and I sometimes almost felt as though Dovie May were peeking over my shoulder with a twinkle in her eye to check on my progress, to see if I finally knew what she knew. I wanted to read each sentence out loud & savor it, but I was so captivated by all of it that I couldn’t slow down long enough to do so. This will definitely be a re-read for me so that I can just take my time and absorb every nuance.
I’ve read several books about veterans with PTSD, but it’s rare to read about it so vividly in a post-WW2 setting. Sam is a broken hero, returning from the horrors of war with nightmares following him. Coming home to a wife who still has her own nightmares from her childhood, a daughter he’s never met, a farm on the brink of failure, an ailing mother, a brother who also bears the scars of war, a best friend who isn’t that happy to see him back, and a town in the grip of power-hungry bullies. That’s enough to make anyone turn tail and head for the hills. Yet Sam is determined that healing will come, that they can return to normal, that HE can make it all better, that he’s not crazy. And Annie is torn between loving her husband as he is and protecting herself and their little girl. The author captured each of these emotions, fears, and resilient spirits so tangibly that I viscerally felt them as I read.
Bottom Line: If there was such a genre as ‘hope-filled noir fiction’, Shadows in the Mind’s Eye would fit in nicely. The Arkansas mountain setting complements, even encourages, the haunting fog of suspicion, of uncertainty, of suspense that swirls through the story – keeping the characters and readers on their toes. The characters are tragically-flawed – almost every single one of them in their own ways – seemingly without redemption in sight. But, as Dovie May would say, light shines in the broken things – and in the broken people. Janyre Tromp has exquisitely painted this truth across the complex canvas of her debut novel, and you absolutely must not miss it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 24, 2022
Sam comes home from WW2 and feels not the same. His wife is having a hard time understanding him. Sam is seeing people on his land, but no one believes him including his family. Annie, Sam wife, wants to understand and be supportive but as time goes on she feels like he out of control. Will she stick by Sam or turn away? Is Sam really going crazy or everything that is happening to him has a reason for happening? I did enjoy this book. It not only a great contemporary but a great mystery that will have you on the edge of your seat. You will wonder along with the book is Sam really crazy or is he telling the truth. It was a fun read for a cold day here in Ohio!! I quite enjoy it and recommend for all readers out there!!
April 19, 2022
3.5
Sam has returned from World War II, not in the best of shape, and finds home isn't the way it used to be. He sees things and people no one else does. His wife, Annie, wants Sam back to normal. But there are things neither one of them understands. Yet.
This book as been described as Hitchcockian, and I must agree. Things happen that intrigue the reader a lot, and barrel along until the final page. This is a nice debut novel.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley.
Sam has returned from World War II, not in the best of shape, and finds home isn't the way it used to be. He sees things and people no one else does. His wife, Annie, wants Sam back to normal. But there are things neither one of them understands. Yet.
This book as been described as Hitchcockian, and I must agree. Things happen that intrigue the reader a lot, and barrel along until the final page. This is a nice debut novel.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley.
March 22, 2022
Shadows In The Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp is a compulsive historical Christian novel set at the end of World War II.
Returning soldiers do not always come home whole, whether physically or mentally. Janyre Tromp expertly portrays a character suffering from what we would today call PTSD. His fears are very real and may strike at any time. We see a love for family and a fear that he may hurt them when the visions come.
Love is the antidote to fear but sometimes professional help is needed for a mind left behind on the battlefield. “Seems like war had gotten hold of Sam like a terrier and wasn’t letting go.” In order to get well, a character needs to realise there is a problem.
There is the theme of the sins of the fathers as we see a character consumed by bitterness and determined that the innocent will pay.
How we live daily in our attitude is a choice. We can choose to wallow or we can choose joy. The choice is up to us. “You gots to choose joy… It’s where things is broke that joy shows through.”
The novel is written in two alternating points of view of a wife and her returning husband. It is written in the first tense enabling the reader to really understand the inner workings of the characters.
I really enjoyed Shadows In The Mind’s Eye. It was an all consuming read.
I received a free copy via Net Galley and Read With Audra. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Returning soldiers do not always come home whole, whether physically or mentally. Janyre Tromp expertly portrays a character suffering from what we would today call PTSD. His fears are very real and may strike at any time. We see a love for family and a fear that he may hurt them when the visions come.
Love is the antidote to fear but sometimes professional help is needed for a mind left behind on the battlefield. “Seems like war had gotten hold of Sam like a terrier and wasn’t letting go.” In order to get well, a character needs to realise there is a problem.
There is the theme of the sins of the fathers as we see a character consumed by bitterness and determined that the innocent will pay.
How we live daily in our attitude is a choice. We can choose to wallow or we can choose joy. The choice is up to us. “You gots to choose joy… It’s where things is broke that joy shows through.”
The novel is written in two alternating points of view of a wife and her returning husband. It is written in the first tense enabling the reader to really understand the inner workings of the characters.
I really enjoyed Shadows In The Mind’s Eye. It was an all consuming read.
I received a free copy via Net Galley and Read With Audra. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
July 24, 2022
Suspense is not normally my genre of choice, but seeing as this one includes a post World War II historical setting, I easily took the bait and grabbed a copy to read.
The story is set in Hot Springs, AR which is intriguing enough for me seeing as how it's only one state over from where I live, and a wonderful place to visit if you ever get the chance. The language that Sam and Annie both use is so authentic to the old South that I even though my grammar is much better, I had no trouble following along with the story they told. (Ie. frequent uses of "ain't" or incorrect verb tenses are peppered throughout.)
Sam knows something is amiss as soon as he comes home, but no one believes him. Annie wants to believe him, but with so many reports of men battling mental health issues after the war, she struggles to separate truth from fiction. This aspect of the book is handled so well to show the reader how easily one's mind can betray them. The reality of Sam's situation is more than it appears to be thanks to a great twist toward the end I didn't see coming.
I highly recommend listening to the audio version if you have the opportunity. The story is narrated by a male and female giving Sam and Annie good, fleshed-out personas. The narrator for Annie made her Southern "belle-like" personality shine through.
All in all, a wonderful novel from this new-to-me author, and I can't wait to read more!
The story is set in Hot Springs, AR which is intriguing enough for me seeing as how it's only one state over from where I live, and a wonderful place to visit if you ever get the chance. The language that Sam and Annie both use is so authentic to the old South that I even though my grammar is much better, I had no trouble following along with the story they told. (Ie. frequent uses of "ain't" or incorrect verb tenses are peppered throughout.)
Sam knows something is amiss as soon as he comes home, but no one believes him. Annie wants to believe him, but with so many reports of men battling mental health issues after the war, she struggles to separate truth from fiction. This aspect of the book is handled so well to show the reader how easily one's mind can betray them. The reality of Sam's situation is more than it appears to be thanks to a great twist toward the end I didn't see coming.
I highly recommend listening to the audio version if you have the opportunity. The story is narrated by a male and female giving Sam and Annie good, fleshed-out personas. The narrator for Annie made her Southern "belle-like" personality shine through.
All in all, a wonderful novel from this new-to-me author, and I can't wait to read more!
April 26, 2022
I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this book but I knew I had to read it. I follow the author on Instagram and she seems to have such a sweet humble spirit about her that when I learned she was writing a book I knew I needed to read it and I am so glad I did. It definitely was not what I was expecting though but it was so good. There are few authors that can write two genres and make it into one storyline and that is exactly what Janyre Tromp has done in this story. She combined suspense, psychological thriller and historical fiction all into one amazing package and to think this is just the beginning as this is her debut novel!!
The author has written characters that are believable and you feel their emotions jump out of the pages. When we meet Sam, right away you can tell that this soldier has suffered a lot mentally and physically while away in war. All he wants to do is return home and see his family, especially the baby girl he has not seen yet. For me, that scene was beautiful and so heartwarming despite all the things that are ensuing in the story. Although Anne at times kind of grated my nerves, she was struggling too. She was happy her husband was back but she knew he wasn't the same man anymore and has an inner struggle within herself of wanting to help him and feeling anger towards him.
There is so much to this story I will not giveaway but I will say this. It is filled with emotion, love, it deals with the topic of PTSD, it has some twists and suspenseful parts that I was not expecting and it was truly a great debut novel. If you enjoy Hitchcokian type stories I highly recommend you give this one a try. I believe you will truly enjoy it! I can't wait to see what else this author comes up with in the future!
I received a copy of this book through I Read With Audra. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
The author has written characters that are believable and you feel their emotions jump out of the pages. When we meet Sam, right away you can tell that this soldier has suffered a lot mentally and physically while away in war. All he wants to do is return home and see his family, especially the baby girl he has not seen yet. For me, that scene was beautiful and so heartwarming despite all the things that are ensuing in the story. Although Anne at times kind of grated my nerves, she was struggling too. She was happy her husband was back but she knew he wasn't the same man anymore and has an inner struggle within herself of wanting to help him and feeling anger towards him.
There is so much to this story I will not giveaway but I will say this. It is filled with emotion, love, it deals with the topic of PTSD, it has some twists and suspenseful parts that I was not expecting and it was truly a great debut novel. If you enjoy Hitchcokian type stories I highly recommend you give this one a try. I believe you will truly enjoy it! I can't wait to see what else this author comes up with in the future!
I received a copy of this book through I Read With Audra. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
April 12, 2022
Occasionally, a story comes along where the setting is as strong a character as the hero or heroine. Sam’s Arkansas family farm is such a setting. The atmosphere is as thick and heavy as the nightmarish dealings in Sam’s head. As I turned pages, I pictured Shadows in the Mind’s Eye as a black and white movie in my head…
The first-person narration and rural vernacular really makes this story come alive. It sets the tone and gives it an authentic feel for this post WWII story. The dialogue is genuine and doesn’t feel forced or difficult to understand. But what really propels this story forward is the suspense. It’s a keeps-me-guessing kind of story that tempted me to speed through yet urged me to take the time to settle into these unique personalities. I love that the story deals with the aftereffects of war (PTSD) in a tasteful yet valid way.
There are so many wonderful characters in this story, but I connected the most with Sam and his mother, Dovie May. If I marked in books, I’d highlight numerous thought-provoking and potent things Dovie May said. “The same God who made rainbows and sunshine also made thunder and lightning. I have to believe He knows what He is doing.”
Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
#ShadowsInTheMindsEye
The first-person narration and rural vernacular really makes this story come alive. It sets the tone and gives it an authentic feel for this post WWII story. The dialogue is genuine and doesn’t feel forced or difficult to understand. But what really propels this story forward is the suspense. It’s a keeps-me-guessing kind of story that tempted me to speed through yet urged me to take the time to settle into these unique personalities. I love that the story deals with the aftereffects of war (PTSD) in a tasteful yet valid way.
There are so many wonderful characters in this story, but I connected the most with Sam and his mother, Dovie May. If I marked in books, I’d highlight numerous thought-provoking and potent things Dovie May said. “The same God who made rainbows and sunshine also made thunder and lightning. I have to believe He knows what He is doing.”
Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
#ShadowsInTheMindsEye
September 16, 2022
This book has an unusual storyline, intriguing characters.
This is a book that has long been on my TBR shelf. It's a debut novel, so a new author, one I'd never read or heard of, so those books tend to get pushed down while I read others I'm more excited about.
But...when I finally started reading, I did not want to stop. This book isn't necessarily an extremely exciting one. But it had a way of captivating me.... it was not what I was expecting.
The setting is the 1940s. Annie's husband Sam has just come home after fighting in the war. He already knows he has to overcome the demons in his own mind.
Annie, frightened by him the day he arrives at home, has a hard time laying aside her fears. Can she really trust Sam? He was gone long enough she learned to be independent.
Can their marriage survive?
This story is rich and beautiful. It portrays PTSD. Marriage and relationship issues. And so much more.
There is also a mystery woven throughout. And this mystery takes the story is some very unexpected ways.
I found the book hard to put down, and once I reached the end, I was rather sad to be there.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
This is a book that has long been on my TBR shelf. It's a debut novel, so a new author, one I'd never read or heard of, so those books tend to get pushed down while I read others I'm more excited about.
But...when I finally started reading, I did not want to stop. This book isn't necessarily an extremely exciting one. But it had a way of captivating me.... it was not what I was expecting.
The setting is the 1940s. Annie's husband Sam has just come home after fighting in the war. He already knows he has to overcome the demons in his own mind.
Annie, frightened by him the day he arrives at home, has a hard time laying aside her fears. Can she really trust Sam? He was gone long enough she learned to be independent.
Can their marriage survive?
This story is rich and beautiful. It portrays PTSD. Marriage and relationship issues. And so much more.
There is also a mystery woven throughout. And this mystery takes the story is some very unexpected ways.
I found the book hard to put down, and once I reached the end, I was rather sad to be there.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
July 17, 2022
One of the best books I've read in 2022! The prose is beautiful and easy to read. I loved it and learned a lot about Hot Springs in the 1940s.
August 20, 2022
I went into Shadows in the Mind's Eye knowing I'd like the book. WWII sailor? PTSD? Mobsters? YEAH! The only question I had before beginning was how much I'd like it. Would Janyre's writing style engage me? (Yep?) Would I like the subplots? (Oh, yeah).
One of the best things about the book is how deeply it is written into the POVs of the characters. This is hill country Arkansas. Tromp did a phenomenal job putting the reader into the locale, making us feel it with every turn of phrase, and yet it never becomes unwieldy in the way that some authors' works do. (I'm looking at you, Samuel Clemmons!)
The "mystery?" Perfect. I figured most of it out, but there was a twist I didn't see coming, and it was a doozy. I loved getting caught out by it, but more than that...
I loved how our characters were caught out by it. Tromp set a bunch of wheels in motion both before the book opened and during the story and once they got going, it was a train wreck bound to happen. When everything collided... Whew! Impressive. In the end, our characters have pieces of their lives to collect and reassemble, but they also have the Lord's help. And isn't that beautiful?
Recommended for lovers of historical fiction, WWII in particular, and suspense that dips into the psychological thriller pool a bit. Not recommended for folks with triggers associated with those--at least not without being aware they're there. I still say it's worth a read. Loved it.
One of the best things about the book is how deeply it is written into the POVs of the characters. This is hill country Arkansas. Tromp did a phenomenal job putting the reader into the locale, making us feel it with every turn of phrase, and yet it never becomes unwieldy in the way that some authors' works do. (I'm looking at you, Samuel Clemmons!)
The "mystery?" Perfect. I figured most of it out, but there was a twist I didn't see coming, and it was a doozy. I loved getting caught out by it, but more than that...
I loved how our characters were caught out by it. Tromp set a bunch of wheels in motion both before the book opened and during the story and once they got going, it was a train wreck bound to happen. When everything collided... Whew! Impressive. In the end, our characters have pieces of their lives to collect and reassemble, but they also have the Lord's help. And isn't that beautiful?
Recommended for lovers of historical fiction, WWII in particular, and suspense that dips into the psychological thriller pool a bit. Not recommended for folks with triggers associated with those--at least not without being aware they're there. I still say it's worth a read. Loved it.
April 1, 2022
The cover of this book first caught my eye, then the first sentence tugged at my heart strings, “Darkness had long ago swallowed the Greyhound bus moving down the road so slow that it might as well have been going backward.”
I like how this author allowed readers to walk in the shoes of a worn-down, anxious, returning vet named Sam Mattas. He’s been away for three years. He’s missed so much, including, the birth of his baby girl, Rosie. He heads to his home; things are not as he remembered. Furthermore, he tells himself, “We’d be normal soon.” How long would that take? Charlotte Anne Mattas had the same ideas, but alas, nothing was the same and/or familiar. The war took three years of their lives. They didn’t know how to relate to each other anymore.
I love how this author whisked readers off to a hard time far away as family and friends try fill the gap. Then Sam notices strange things happening on his farm. His friends and family, blame it on his PTSD. Sam wonders if they are right. Was he going crazy? He heard of this happening to veterans.
Things get dangerous and Sam’s military mind and training kick into high gear. He knew something was wrong. He had to get proof. Charlotte loves her husband, but she’s heard stories of how war changes men. Who to trust?
I liked the natural spiritual thread woven into the story, Charlotte’s mother-in-law talks to her, …“It’s always been interesting to me how folks see the same exact thing (like rain) and see it so different. “But what if all you see is a flood rushing down and your ark’s sprung a leak?” I hated the whine in my voice, but Dovie May grinned like I’d got the answer right.”
“Sometimes you gets to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us.”…”Ain’t no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places. Given our Sam a chance to show you, and I’ll bet you’ll like what you see.”
This is an intriguing, heart-felt, insightful story I couldn’t put down. I had to find out who done it and/if Sam was seeing real things or not. This story is filled with love, hope, and suspenseful situations. I enjoyed this family and, the natural spiritual thread with its larger-than-life characters.
I look forward to reading more by this debut author. There are discussion questions and in author notes she tells readers what is based on historical facts and those she made up to make the story work. This is a great escape and one that works for your next book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
I like how this author allowed readers to walk in the shoes of a worn-down, anxious, returning vet named Sam Mattas. He’s been away for three years. He’s missed so much, including, the birth of his baby girl, Rosie. He heads to his home; things are not as he remembered. Furthermore, he tells himself, “We’d be normal soon.” How long would that take? Charlotte Anne Mattas had the same ideas, but alas, nothing was the same and/or familiar. The war took three years of their lives. They didn’t know how to relate to each other anymore.
I love how this author whisked readers off to a hard time far away as family and friends try fill the gap. Then Sam notices strange things happening on his farm. His friends and family, blame it on his PTSD. Sam wonders if they are right. Was he going crazy? He heard of this happening to veterans.
Things get dangerous and Sam’s military mind and training kick into high gear. He knew something was wrong. He had to get proof. Charlotte loves her husband, but she’s heard stories of how war changes men. Who to trust?
I liked the natural spiritual thread woven into the story, Charlotte’s mother-in-law talks to her, …“It’s always been interesting to me how folks see the same exact thing (like rain) and see it so different. “But what if all you see is a flood rushing down and your ark’s sprung a leak?” I hated the whine in my voice, but Dovie May grinned like I’d got the answer right.”
“Sometimes you gets to choose what you see. And sometimes God uses broken things to save us.”…”Ain’t no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places. Given our Sam a chance to show you, and I’ll bet you’ll like what you see.”
This is an intriguing, heart-felt, insightful story I couldn’t put down. I had to find out who done it and/if Sam was seeing real things or not. This story is filled with love, hope, and suspenseful situations. I enjoyed this family and, the natural spiritual thread with its larger-than-life characters.
I look forward to reading more by this debut author. There are discussion questions and in author notes she tells readers what is based on historical facts and those she made up to make the story work. This is a great escape and one that works for your next book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
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April 9, 2022I absolutely loved the setting and era for this book. I loved the characters, and it was fun reading a suspense that wasn't contemporary. Tromp's book is like a delightful cross between Rachel McDaniel's The Red Canary and Sarah Loudin Thomas's The Right Kind of Fool...both of which are amazing books, so if you're a fan of either author, you're sure to love this one too!
March 17, 2022
You know it’s going to be a good book when it sucks you in on the first page and you don’t want to put it down for most of the story. Janyre Tromp knows how to develop authentic characters and keeps the tone and interest throughout the book. The action scenes were well done. The story has a bit of a mystery that I was unable to guess how it would play out. Even though this isn’t the type of story I am usually drawn to, I’m glad I was given the recommendation. It was good and left me wanting to read another story about these characters.
April 14, 2022
"I told you about when my Herbert came home from the Great War." Dovie May looped my arm into the crook of hers. "Lord, I missed him something fierce, and I expected everything to end up happy like they do in the storybooks. Was I ever in for a surprise. We think everything eventually goes back to what we want it be. That everything'll be happy and familiar, the good winning. We never want to travel beyond the point where everybody's happy. But life's everything after and the question is, what are you going to do with the truth life drops into your life?"
After three years of being overseas fighting in World War 2, Sam returns home to his Arkansas orchard in the mountains. He left a newlywed and returns as a father to a toddler. That is a happy adjustment, but the changes inside of him feel more dramatic.
Annie is so glad that her husband is finally home. But he is not the man that she married. She alternates between wanting to love him back to health, cover for him and also feeling anger toward him.
Thankfully they both have Dovie May. Sam's mother adds wisdom to the situation. She also welcomed home her man from war, so she understands.
If this were not challenging enough, Sam starts to see things happening on the farm. Is he imagining things. Or is there something sinister happening?
I would categorize this book as a psychological thriller. I think at one point during the reading of this book, I was frustrated with each one of the characters. (Other than Dovie May perhaps.) This book was intense. My emotions were swinging everywhere. But I actually think this is one reason why I enjoyed this book. The situations forced me to feel, and they were not always happy circumstances.
My grandparents both fought in World War 2. One of them married about a week after returning home. I cannot imagine all of the adjustments my grandmother faced. This book helped me to ponder what life would have been like for veterans who had seen too much.
As for the other suspenseful parts, you will have to read the book to find out more. I do have to say that the cover fits the plot SO very well. Let's just say that there are definitely some unexpected twists and turns. What a great debut novel!
One last quote that is significant to the plot - the power of memory! This definitely plays an important part in the plot.
"One thing I know for certain is that memory's a slippery thing. It changes and morphs, solidifying only at the insistence of the most powerful things. It gets so that no one's ever quite sure what actually happened."
I was provided a copy of this book as a part of a book tour. I requested to join the tour because I wanted to read and review the book. All opinions are my own.
After three years of being overseas fighting in World War 2, Sam returns home to his Arkansas orchard in the mountains. He left a newlywed and returns as a father to a toddler. That is a happy adjustment, but the changes inside of him feel more dramatic.
Annie is so glad that her husband is finally home. But he is not the man that she married. She alternates between wanting to love him back to health, cover for him and also feeling anger toward him.
Thankfully they both have Dovie May. Sam's mother adds wisdom to the situation. She also welcomed home her man from war, so she understands.
If this were not challenging enough, Sam starts to see things happening on the farm. Is he imagining things. Or is there something sinister happening?
I would categorize this book as a psychological thriller. I think at one point during the reading of this book, I was frustrated with each one of the characters. (Other than Dovie May perhaps.) This book was intense. My emotions were swinging everywhere. But I actually think this is one reason why I enjoyed this book. The situations forced me to feel, and they were not always happy circumstances.
My grandparents both fought in World War 2. One of them married about a week after returning home. I cannot imagine all of the adjustments my grandmother faced. This book helped me to ponder what life would have been like for veterans who had seen too much.
As for the other suspenseful parts, you will have to read the book to find out more. I do have to say that the cover fits the plot SO very well. Let's just say that there are definitely some unexpected twists and turns. What a great debut novel!
One last quote that is significant to the plot - the power of memory! This definitely plays an important part in the plot.
"One thing I know for certain is that memory's a slippery thing. It changes and morphs, solidifying only at the insistence of the most powerful things. It gets so that no one's ever quite sure what actually happened."
I was provided a copy of this book as a part of a book tour. I requested to join the tour because I wanted to read and review the book. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2022
Remember this author's name! Janyre Tromp's first novel is a stunning depiction of a couple who believes that everything will be as it once was, as soon as the husband returns from the war. Sam Mattas does return, and it doesn't take long for his wife Annie to realize that things will never be the same again. Our society today is very familiar with PTSD but it wasn't a common diagnosis for the returning soldiers of WWII. Tromp poignantly describes Sam's struggles, his attempts to prove that he isn't the villain that he appears to be, and his wife's efforts to understand and accept this new normal. The story alternates between both of their viewpoints, so we're offered a powerful view of their many emotions.
There are so many key elements to this story. Sam's psychological issues, along with Annie's bewilderment and fears, play out against the background of Hot Springs, Arkansas during the 1940s. I loved learning about the historic legacy of Hot Springs National Park, a popular resort area for the rich and affluent, but Hot Springs was also a place of corruption and illegal gambling. Much of the suspense and drama revolves around attempts to keep these activities hidden by bribing the local authorities and pointing fingers at others. Will Sam's erratic behavior cause him to become a scapegoat? Is Annie strong enough to hold their family together?
If you're looking for historical fiction that is overflowing with faith, hope, and inspiration, you need to read Shadows in the Mind's Eye. Tromp's debut novel is a deeply emotional story that you won't soon forget!
I received a copy of this book from Kregel via Read with Audra Blog Tour. There was no obligation for a positive review.
There are so many key elements to this story. Sam's psychological issues, along with Annie's bewilderment and fears, play out against the background of Hot Springs, Arkansas during the 1940s. I loved learning about the historic legacy of Hot Springs National Park, a popular resort area for the rich and affluent, but Hot Springs was also a place of corruption and illegal gambling. Much of the suspense and drama revolves around attempts to keep these activities hidden by bribing the local authorities and pointing fingers at others. Will Sam's erratic behavior cause him to become a scapegoat? Is Annie strong enough to hold their family together?
If you're looking for historical fiction that is overflowing with faith, hope, and inspiration, you need to read Shadows in the Mind's Eye. Tromp's debut novel is a deeply emotional story that you won't soon forget!
I received a copy of this book from Kregel via Read with Audra Blog Tour. There was no obligation for a positive review.
March 28, 2022
Shadows in the Mind's Eye by Janyre Tromp
This story is about Sam and he's just returning from the war with a lot of PTSD problems.
His wife Annie has a few tricks she's learned to ease the pain from him. I was hoping to learn these techniques to help others and they do work.
When he's out and about the family's orchard grounds because he hears noises and sees shadows he is in fight mode, maneuvers he never forgets.
He sees and hears too much and others harm him. Annie doesn't believe he's hallucinating. Over time Sam has put himself where he shouldn’t be and Annie helps him to leave the area to hide out.
Her dad is helping but he never told her things that happened in the past that really put her in harm's way.
Like how the escape goes and how others have come to seek them out to help. Others who she thought were friends are there to harm her. Love that Sam had taught her how to take care of herself and their daughter Rosie and to keep them safe til he can go to them.
Annie retains the knowledge and has no clue about the drugs and who they've effected.
Like learning all the details of the things in the past, Sam's best friend Doc and his own brother Pete try to help but they get injured.
Wild adventures in Arkansas. Lots of resource material at the end and acknowledgements and about the author are included.
Received this review copy via Kregel Publications via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#ShadowsintheMindsEyeANovel #NetGalley
This story is about Sam and he's just returning from the war with a lot of PTSD problems.
His wife Annie has a few tricks she's learned to ease the pain from him. I was hoping to learn these techniques to help others and they do work.
When he's out and about the family's orchard grounds because he hears noises and sees shadows he is in fight mode, maneuvers he never forgets.
He sees and hears too much and others harm him. Annie doesn't believe he's hallucinating. Over time Sam has put himself where he shouldn’t be and Annie helps him to leave the area to hide out.
Her dad is helping but he never told her things that happened in the past that really put her in harm's way.
Like how the escape goes and how others have come to seek them out to help. Others who she thought were friends are there to harm her. Love that Sam had taught her how to take care of herself and their daughter Rosie and to keep them safe til he can go to them.
Annie retains the knowledge and has no clue about the drugs and who they've effected.
Like learning all the details of the things in the past, Sam's best friend Doc and his own brother Pete try to help but they get injured.
Wild adventures in Arkansas. Lots of resource material at the end and acknowledgements and about the author are included.
Received this review copy via Kregel Publications via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#ShadowsintheMindsEyeANovel #NetGalley
April 30, 2022
This novel was an intense and completely captivating experience! The dialect and points of view from both Sam and Annie’s perspectives made it really come alive for me. My heart hurt for these two who so obviously still very much loved each other, yet there was an element of fear and mistrust from Annie toward Sam as certain things happened upon his return. Annie felt guilty for her fear, but didn’t understand how to overcome it and wasn’t sure how she and Sam would get past it.
Their daughter, Rosie, was precious and there were several side characters who were intriguing and very important in Sam and Annie’s lives. At one point in the middle of the book, I felt so concerned for Sam and angry on his behalf as well. Whether he was really seeing people on his land or whether his mind was tricking him, at that point I felt as if it was him against everyone. Yet, I kept reading and was rewarded with a very exciting and interesting second half of the novel. It really kept me turning the pages.
This was a fascinating time and setting to read about. I ended up really enjoying this book, which was like nothing I have ever read before.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Their daughter, Rosie, was precious and there were several side characters who were intriguing and very important in Sam and Annie’s lives. At one point in the middle of the book, I felt so concerned for Sam and angry on his behalf as well. Whether he was really seeing people on his land or whether his mind was tricking him, at that point I felt as if it was him against everyone. Yet, I kept reading and was rewarded with a very exciting and interesting second half of the novel. It really kept me turning the pages.
This was a fascinating time and setting to read about. I ended up really enjoying this book, which was like nothing I have ever read before.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 22, 2022
What An Excellent Debut Novel!
This was a page turner from the first chapter until the last that had me anxious to know how the story would end.
I liked how it was a multiple POV, as it gave a real depth to the story that you would have missed otherwise.
I enjoyed that even with the sadness that sometimes tinged the pages, there was a particular spotlight on how we can still choose to be joyful inspite of circumstances and that was beautiful!
A memorable quote that I really liked was:
“Wasn't no way of going forward if you're stuck gaping backward."
I absolutely hope the author chooses to revisit these characters in the future!
Due to the intense nature of the book's subjects (PTSD, Family Trauma) - it definitely is an older teen or adult read.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to leave a review positive or otherwise. All opinions expressed are my own.*
This was a page turner from the first chapter until the last that had me anxious to know how the story would end.
I liked how it was a multiple POV, as it gave a real depth to the story that you would have missed otherwise.
I enjoyed that even with the sadness that sometimes tinged the pages, there was a particular spotlight on how we can still choose to be joyful inspite of circumstances and that was beautiful!
A memorable quote that I really liked was:
“Wasn't no way of going forward if you're stuck gaping backward."
I absolutely hope the author chooses to revisit these characters in the future!
Due to the intense nature of the book's subjects (PTSD, Family Trauma) - it definitely is an older teen or adult read.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to leave a review positive or otherwise. All opinions expressed are my own.*
March 23, 2022
Oh my goodness did this story - these characters - grab my attention AND heart! Tromp takes you on an amazing journey of intrigue, mystery, suspense, doubt, hope, and so much more. She had me guessing until the very end on SO many different things. Her characters - Annie and Sam especially - were exceptionally well-developed and real. I didn't stop thinking about them and all they were going through. An amazing debut - probably one of the best I have ever read. Janyre Tromp has a fan in me!
May 26, 2022
Janyre Tromp, has skillfully woven an exciting, historical fiction novel rich with elements of suspense, intrigue, and mystery. Through her lovable characters, she delights readers with a twisting, turning story of life post-WWII as a soldier, forever changed by war, returns home to his family on their mountain farm, only to face the darkness that is creeping in the shadows.
Tromp’s characters and their dialogue is truly authentic to life in the mountains which created a world of simple goodness and a close-knit family of delightful characters who burrowed deep into my heart. I loved Sam and Annie’s marriage, their interactions and the in-depth look into their innermost thoughts and struggles as they worked their farm together and recovered after being apart for 3 years. Though they each battled doubts and darkness differently, their persistence, their strength and their love for each other and their family was admirable and inspiring.
The novel has wonderful historical aspects. I enjoyed the small town-America setting and the well-researched history of the American mob as a part of Annie’s backstory.
A bit of a slow build, with much groundwork and mild, mind-bending suspense early on. By the second half of the novel, the excitement and action picked up with more intrigue, a mystery unfolding, that kept me interested and gave the novel a bit of a “whodunnit” feel. The ending was a wonderful surprise and I liked how it played out.
Tromp rounded out this story well by diving into the heavy topic of post-traumatic stress and balanced it with hope, perseverance and a focus on working hard through troublesome times with the help of a strong family bond and tight-knit friendships. There was a resounding “love-conquers-all” aura to the novel that won my heart over!
Readers who enjoy novels such as the True Colors or Doors to the Past series as well as authors such as Allison Pittman or Jaime Jo Wright may like this novel. This novel is clean fiction and is not necessarily faith-based, but could be considered inspirational for the focus on family ties and finding hope in the darkness. I found it read more like a secular novel, therefore I believe it is one that both Christian fiction and secular readers might enjoy.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author as part of her book launch team. All thoughts below are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
Tromp’s characters and their dialogue is truly authentic to life in the mountains which created a world of simple goodness and a close-knit family of delightful characters who burrowed deep into my heart. I loved Sam and Annie’s marriage, their interactions and the in-depth look into their innermost thoughts and struggles as they worked their farm together and recovered after being apart for 3 years. Though they each battled doubts and darkness differently, their persistence, their strength and their love for each other and their family was admirable and inspiring.
The novel has wonderful historical aspects. I enjoyed the small town-America setting and the well-researched history of the American mob as a part of Annie’s backstory.
A bit of a slow build, with much groundwork and mild, mind-bending suspense early on. By the second half of the novel, the excitement and action picked up with more intrigue, a mystery unfolding, that kept me interested and gave the novel a bit of a “whodunnit” feel. The ending was a wonderful surprise and I liked how it played out.
Tromp rounded out this story well by diving into the heavy topic of post-traumatic stress and balanced it with hope, perseverance and a focus on working hard through troublesome times with the help of a strong family bond and tight-knit friendships. There was a resounding “love-conquers-all” aura to the novel that won my heart over!
Readers who enjoy novels such as the True Colors or Doors to the Past series as well as authors such as Allison Pittman or Jaime Jo Wright may like this novel. This novel is clean fiction and is not necessarily faith-based, but could be considered inspirational for the focus on family ties and finding hope in the darkness. I found it read more like a secular novel, therefore I believe it is one that both Christian fiction and secular readers might enjoy.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author as part of her book launch team. All thoughts below are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
March 26, 2022
Wow! What a debut novel!
This book held my attention from the first page and wouldn't let go as it took me on a rollercoaster ride. I loved this unique setting and the characters. This book is filled with suspense from top to bottom. It had me even second-guessing who I thought did what and what had happened to whom. 2/3 of the way through the book the action got really intense, but I have to say I loved the suspense element to this book. What a page turner!
My favorite character was Samuel Mattas, even with all his flaws, I relate to him out of everyone the most. I have to say I really appreciate Janyre writing about a war veteran with P.T.S.D. I think we need more books like this in Christian fiction for sure.
I was satisfied with the ending, only left with one question, so I'm hoping that means there will be another? If so, I'll be first in line to read it!
This was a clean book, but I wouldn't recommend it for children under 16. I would recommend this to other older teens and adults. My grandparents especially would appreciate this with the setting and history in Arkansas, where they live!
Thank you Janyre for such a wonderful book.
This book held my attention from the first page and wouldn't let go as it took me on a rollercoaster ride. I loved this unique setting and the characters. This book is filled with suspense from top to bottom. It had me even second-guessing who I thought did what and what had happened to whom. 2/3 of the way through the book the action got really intense, but I have to say I loved the suspense element to this book. What a page turner!
My favorite character was Samuel Mattas, even with all his flaws, I relate to him out of everyone the most. I have to say I really appreciate Janyre writing about a war veteran with P.T.S.D. I think we need more books like this in Christian fiction for sure.
I was satisfied with the ending, only left with one question, so I'm hoping that means there will be another? If so, I'll be first in line to read it!
This was a clean book, but I wouldn't recommend it for children under 16. I would recommend this to other older teens and adults. My grandparents especially would appreciate this with the setting and history in Arkansas, where they live!
Thank you Janyre for such a wonderful book.
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