Happy Day! The new installment of The Stone Shed series is out!
A bit lengthier offering than readers may expect, which just means the reader gets to spend more time in a different time with the characters we quickly connected with. A hallmark of author Heldt's work. He has the ability to connect the reader with characters with whom an immediate emotional bond is formed. Reading subsequent installments of any of his series is like reconnecting with old friends. The Winding Road is no exception.
The Winding Road clearly demonstrates John Heldt's continuing growth as a writer. Here he blends history with which every reader will have at least a passing familiarity and the lives two brothers and the people they encounter. Weaving the story of time travelling young men who decide to make that era there new home. No room here for any errors relating to the history of the time. But then, Heldt is no stranger to research and attention to detail. Some very bold twists keep the story engaging. Without spoiling anything, readers will be surprised to read of serious threats to history and how they are reconciled. Heldt has really amped up the suspense and action in this continuation of the time jumping adventures of the Maclean family. This story line is much more than a plot device, it is a story in itself of not just two young men but generations of an adventurous family.
Revolutionary War history is brought to life with a day to day exploration of life for the average person. How the war affects people on a personal level makes the history we all know come to vivid life. It is not a dry impersonal recitation of dates and battles.
A more serious and at times somber story. Although romantic relationships still are a big part of the story and light hearted humor is judiciously used, the realities of war are the main focus here. Our author does not give short shrift to his setting. The American Revolution is front and center, it is much more than window dressing. Kudos to author Heldt for deftly balancing an engaging fictional story with historic reality.
John Heldt continues entertain readers with sympathetic characters placed in at times heartwarming and at times perilous situations. The Winding Road is another outstanding example of John Heldt's storytelling ability. His growth as a writer has been a treat to watch. Enjoy!
Mike
