Stephanie Dray weaves a captivating and dramatic narrative in Becoming Madam Secretary. The novel introduces us to Frances Perkins, an American heroine whose impact reverberates through history. Raised on tales of her revolutionary ancestors, Frances arrives in New York …more City at the turn of the century, armed with her trusty parasol and an unyielding determination to make a difference.

As she immerses herself in the crowded tenements of Hell’s Kitchen, Frances also throws herself into the social scene in Greenwich Village. There, she befriends an eclectic group of politicians, artists, and activists, including the millionaire socialite Mary Harriman Rumsey, the flirtatious budding author Sinclair Lewis, and the brilliant but troubled reformer Paul Wilson, with whom she falls deeply in love.

But it’s when Frances meets a young lawyer named Franklin Delano Roosevelt at a tea dance that sparks fly—though not in the right direction. She sees him as a rich, arrogant dilettante relying on his famous name, while he views her as a priggish bluestocking and insufferable do-gooder. Little do they know that over the next two decades, they will form a historic partnership that will carry them both to the White House.

Frances’s destiny unfolds in a political world dominated by men. As FDR’s most trusted lieutenant during the Great Depression, she faces immense challenges. Balancing her public career with marriage and motherhood, she becomes a force behind Social Security and helps launch the Civilian Conservation Corps. Her unwavering commitment to improving lives shapes the course of American history.

Dray’s meticulous research shines through, providing behind-the-scenes historical details that immerse readers in Frances’s world. However, the novel occasionally portrays Frances as almost too good to be true—too smart, too brave, too loyal. Yet, real or fictionalized, Frances Perkins was indeed a hard-working, visionary heroine. From defying conventions in New England to advising both Smith and Roosevelt during their governorships, she blazed trails.

The New Deal and Frances’s appointment as the first woman to head a federal Cabinet department were groundbreaking. The former challenged traditional views of the American government’s role, while the latter faced opposition due to gender norms. Perkins’s legacy endures through her contributions to Social Security and her unwavering dedication to public service. (less)

Bad Animals invites readers on a tumultuous journey through time, blending elements of science fiction, romance, and mystery. Set in 1995, the novel introduces Maeve Cosgrove, a buttoned-up librarian in a quiet Maine town. Her life takes an unexpected turn when a brutal …more encounter with a ghost from her past leaves her battered and disoriented, almost drowning in the Thames.

The central premise is captivating: Alex wakes up in a derelict room, older than he should be, with no memory of the intervening years. The days shift unpredictably between 1999 and 2010, leaving Alex perpetually disoriented. As he navigates this temporal maze, he discovers that seemingly insignificant actions have far-reaching consequences.

While the concept is intriguing, execution falls short in places. The writing lacks depth, and character development feels one-dimensional. Alex’s emotional journey could have been more nuanced. Additionally, the romance subplot, while promising, remains underdeveloped.

The novel’s strength lies in its portrayal of the human condition. Alex grapples with existential questions, haunted by the past and uncertain of the future. His relationships—particularly with Holly—add emotional weight to the narrative. The moments of connection and loss resonate deeply.

The pacing keeps readers engaged, but some transitions between time periods feel abrupt. The mystery surrounding Alex’s predicament builds suspense, urging us to unravel the secrets hidden within the temporal fabric. (less)

The Day Tripper invites readers on a tumultuous journey through time, blending elements of science fiction, romance, and mystery. Set in 1995, the novel introduces Alex Dean, a young man seemingly destined for greatness. His life takes an unexpected turn when a brutal …more encounter leaves him battered and disoriented, almost drowning in the Thames.

The central premise is captivating: Alex wakes up in a derelict room, older than he should be, with no memory of the intervening years. The days shift unpredictably between 1999 and 2010, leaving Alex perpetually disoriented. As he navigates this temporal maze, he discovers that seemingly insignificant actions have far-reaching consequences.

Goodhand skillfully explores the butterfly effect—the ripples caused by a single stone thrown into the river of time. Alex’s choices impact not only his own life but also those of the people he loves. The novel raises thought-provoking questions: Can we alter our fate? How do our decisions echo across time?

While the concept is intriguing, execution falls short in places. The writing lacks depth, and character development feels one-dimensional. Alex’s emotional journey could have been more nuanced. Additionally, the romance subplot, while promising, remains underdeveloped.

The novel’s strength lies in its portrayal of the human condition. Alex grapples with existential questions, haunted by the past and uncertain of the future. His relationships—particularly with Holly—add emotional weight to the narrative. The moments of connection and loss resonate deeply.

The pacing keeps readers engaged, but some transitions between time periods feel abrupt. The mystery surrounding Alex’s predicament builds suspense, urging us to unravel the secrets hidden within the temporal fabric.

In summary, The Day Tripper offers a tantalizing blend of time travel and emotional exploration. While imperfect, it leaves us pondering the fragility of existence and the choices that shape our destiny. If you enjoy thought-provoking narratives and don’t mind occasional narrative hiccups, this book is worth a read. (less)