Monday, September 21, 2009

Postcards from Pullman series by Judith Miller

Judith Miller
I just finished the last chapter in Judith Miller’s Postcards from Pullman series.

The books focus on Olivia Mott, living in the seemingly idyllic and perfect town of Pullman, Illinois, at the turn of the century.

Book one, In the Company of Secrets, begins with Olivia, a scullery maid, along with Lady Charlotte, daughter of wealth and privilege, leaving England and arriving in America amidst a pile of lies.

With a glowing false reference, Olivia lands a job as the assistant chef at the Hotel Florence. Lady Charlotte unsuccessfully plays the role of Mrs. Hornsby, a grieving widow.

As the books continue, each woman must set aside the many lies their new life is based upon and learn to live in truth, despite its difficulty and possible repercussions.

I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Olivia… I enjoyed the characters of Fred, Mrs. DeVault, Mrs. Priddle, and Matthew. However, some of the scenes involving Fred and the Pullman worker strike lost my interest.

Judith did a wonderful job researching the town of Pullman, as well as the strike. In fact, I’d love to take a visit through historical Pullman! I just tend to zone out a bit when chapters involve big meetings with important men (I do the same thing in WWII books when Hitler and his cronies get together).

My absolute favorite character was Chef Rene. I’m not really sure why, I just felt drawn to him and liked him. And, although he was French, I couldn’t help but picture him as identical to (Italian) Chef Pisghetti in the Curious George cartoon! :-)

Chef Pisghetti
Two other things I really loved: I loved the title of the second book, Whispers Along the Rails. Oooh…intrigue!

Judith Miller Judith Miller


And, I loved the ending in An Uncertain Dream. Judith took a twist I didn’t expect…and, did I mention I liked Chef Rene?!

As in any book, I know that not every character’s story tends to be resolved; however, I longed to finish Charlotte’s story… and, I wouldn’t have minded another book hearing a bit more about Chef Rene’s future…

Postcards from Pullman was an enjoyable series that I think you’ll enjoy if you like books in turn-of-the-century America.


Recommend: YES

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3 comments:

Holly (2 Kids and Tired) said...

These sound great. I'm not familiar with her work!

Judith Miller said...

Thanks for the nice review, Steph. I am pleased to know that you enjoyed the Postcards from Pullman series and I hope you have the opportunity to visit Pullman in the future. Blessings, Judy

Unknown said...

Very creative designs. I like those. I generally use postcards for my business purposes. I use too get the designs printed from Postcard Ninjas.

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