Book Review
Until We Meet by Camille Di Maio
Reader’s Thoughts:
Until We Meet is a character-based novel, following the stories of three young women who are at home in New York during the second world war. This lovely story of hope and patriotism is built upon the beautiful friendship of Margaret, Gladys, and Dottie — and the men who strive to win their hearts.
I must admit that I found this story very difficult to get into. There didn’t seem to be much happening in the first few chapters, and I found some of the dialogue between characters a bit clunky. While I adore historical fiction, this story seemed to be missing a bit of spark.
But I am so glad that I pushed through, because I was entirely wrong. About a third of the way in, I found myself completely invested in these characters. I really appreciated a story told partly from the perspective of the women left behind at home during the war. I also loved that we got to see this simultaneous friendship of three men, training and fighting overseas. The story was lovely and heartwarming, exploring topics of love, loss, and most of all, friendship.
I do have to say that the cover on this one threw me off a little. While I like the old-timey vibes, I was a little confused as to why there were four women on it? Who is this fourth woman? Yes, it’s an inconsequential point in the grand scheme of things, but I did feel this cover missed the mark a little.
Overall, a lovely read for fans of historical fiction! This novel may deal with the heavy subjects of war and grief, but it’s also a feel-good novel that will leave you with a smile.
Recommended for:
Readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction, or stories about female friendship.
This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. ARC provided courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
About the book:
(From the publisher) New York City, 1943 Can one small act change the course of a life? Margaret’s job at the Navy Yard brings her freedoms she never dared imagine, but she wants to do something more personal to help the war effort. Knitting socks for soldiers is a way to occupy her quiet nights and provide comfort to the boys abroad. But when a note she tucks inside one of her socks sparks a relationship with a long-distance pen pal, she finds herself drawn to a man she’s never even met.
Can a woman hold on to her independence if she gives away her heart? Gladys has been waiting her whole life for the kinds of opportunities available to her now that so many men are fighting overseas. She’s not going to waste a single one. And she’s not going to let her two best friends waste them either. Then she meets someone who values her opinions as much as she likes giving them, and suddenly she is questioning everything she once held dear.
Can an unwed mother survive on her own? Dottie is in a dire situation—she’s pregnant, her fiancé is off fighting the war, and if her parents find out about the baby, they’ll send her away and make her give up her child. Knitting helps take her mind off her uncertain future—until the worst happens and she must lean on her friends like never before.
With their worlds changing in unimaginable ways, Margaret, Gladys, and Dottie will learn that the unbreakable bond of friendship between them is what matters most of all.