Readers Weigh In on "Wives"

Emails were flying fast and furious after a reminder was sent out for last Tuesday's meeting. Several book club members were forwarding their regrets of not being able to attend, but having read the book, their messages included comments about it.

The book chosen for discussion in February was The Wives of Henry Oades, by Johanna Moran. The book tells the story of Henry, who moves his family to a distant land when he is relocated by his job. Turmoil in that country separates him from his family, and in time he becomes convinced they are dead. He moves back to California, meets a woman and remarries. His first wife and children, still alive, escape and return to California. Henry then becomes husband and father to two wives and all of their children. The story is based on a true case of bigamy.

Char said: "Loved the book . . historical fiction always a pleasure to read . . a real page-turner for sure . . loved the strong, compassionate women . . Margaret and Nancy were amazing, were they not?"

Diane said: "I loved the book . . especially Margaret, who made the most sacrifices in my mind. The book stayed with me all week after reading it. I wonder what I would do in this situation?"

Kelly said: " Loved the book. Loved the women. At first I wasn't crazy about Nan, but then she grew on me as she showed her compassion to Margaret!"

Cora said: "I did enjoy 'Wives . .', to think it is based on fact is remarkable!"

Ginger said: "I enjoyed the book, but I was so frustrated with Henry. I'm not sure what I expected him to do, but it felt to me as though he abandoned Meg emotionally, which didn't set well with me at all."

Learn more about the author at her web site, www.johannamoran.com