Publication Date: 07.01.24
Published by: Barbour Publishing | Barbour Fiction
Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance, Christian Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction
4 Stars!
Imagine stepping into a world of 1950s glamour, set against the backdrop of a bustling department store where intrigue and murder lurk behind the elegant displays. Donna Mumma's The Women of Wynton's transports you to this enchanting yet perilous setting, where four women’s lives intertwine in unexpected ways.
Audrey Penault, once a glamorous model, now serves as the devoted secretary to Mr. Wynton. Her elegance and poise often come off as vanity to her colleagues. Then there’s Mary Jo Johnson, a shy housewife yearning for more than her role in the cosmetics department. Vivian Sheffield, proud owner of the bridal salon, fiercely guards her accomplishments, while Gigi Woodard, a waitress in the store’s lunchroom, battles her own insecurities to keep her job.
These women, despite their differences, unite to protect their beloved employer, Mr. Wynton, from a threat that could destroy the very foundation of the store. As mysterious deaths occur among the staff, the women must pool their detective skills to unravel the mystery. Can they trust each other enough to solve the murders, or is one of them harboring a dark secret?
As a Christian reader, I initially craved more overt, impactful Christian faith content throughout the narrative. However, as I continued to read through a Biblical worldview, I prayed for discernment and viewed the narrative through that lens. The "Miss Evelyn" statements peppered throughout the book became more than just pearls of wisdom; they prompted me to reflect on Scripture, examining how these principles aligned with or challenged God’s perspective. This introspective journey enriched my reading experience, offering a blend of mid-century etiquette and timeless spiritual truths.
The story, rich with themes of self-respect and integrity, resonated deeply. The subtle yet profound life lessons made this book a standout for me.
Some of my favorite quotes from the book include:
"Miss Evelyn said a lady makes sure to appear relaxed and unrushed in all activities."
"Miss Evelyn taught her, no need to make a spectacle of oneself."
"True ladies remained calm in crises. Kept pleasant expressions on their faces and kind words spilling from their mouths. And no public tears."
Miss Evelyn always said a true lady was measured by how well she could compose herself when she was in a fix."
The Women of Wynton's is a fabulous story that I hope will be the start of a series. I would love to see more of these characters and, ideally, a more integral inclusion of rich and authentic Christian faith in future stories. Donna Mumma has crafted a compelling narrative capturing the essence of the 1950s while weaving in suspense, drama, and the power of female friendship magnificently.
This book has it all—1950s glam, mysterious deaths, a beloved boss, and even a fashion show. It’s a captivating blend of historical fiction and cozy mystery that will keep readers hooked. Whether you're a fan of vintage murder mysteries or simply enjoy a well-told story with rich character dynamics, The Women of Wynton's is a fun, must-read.
I received a digital ARC of The Women of Wynton’s from the publisher, Barbour Publishing. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
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