Lois Gilbert Boeken

Set against the backdrop of World War II, this love story follows Landon "Pete" Crowder, a young man from rural Alabama who enlists in the Navy at just sixteen. As he navigates the perils of war in the Pacific, he faces injuries and the loss of friends, all while falling in love with a dark-haired girl. After witnessing Japan's surrender, Pete returns home, grappling with his past and seeking his place in society. The narrative intertwines themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring impact of war on both individuals and families.

Focusing on the resilience of a young mother, this poignant narrative follows her journey as she raises five children under the age of 17 amidst poverty and hardship. The deep bond between mother and children shines through, offering moments of joy and sorrow. The story also highlights the challenges faced by displaced youth, addressing themes of survival and emotional stability while shedding light on the tragic issue of teen suicide. Through their experiences, the book emphasizes the strength found in family and community support.

Libby's journey unfolds from the carefree days of her youth into a tumultuous marriage filled with mistrust and deception. Her husband Nathan's alcoholism leads to violent outbursts, leaving Libby in a constant state of danger and pain. Despite the chaos, the birth of their daughter, Angelina, offers Libby a glimmer of hope and a reason to endure the struggles of her life. The narrative explores themes of resilience, the impact of addiction, and the complexities of love and family amidst adversity.

Set against societal norms and personal challenges, the story follows Marvin Caraway and Jill Foster, whose love transcends a significant age difference and workplace disapproval. Marvin's complicated family situation, including his marriage and responsibilities as a father, adds further complexity to their bond. As they navigate the obstacles in their relationship, readers are invited to witness the strength of their connection and the journey of two soul mates determined to be together despite the odds stacked against them.

When Elena Waters discovers her estranged son, Johnny, has been murdered in Taos, she returns to New Mexico after a ten-year absence, determined to find his killer in spite of opposition from her family and friends. Before he was murdered, Johnny's career as a singer was taking off, thanks to the efforts of Elena's childhood friends, Jack and Maggie Dalton, a rich and powerful couple who run a production company in Taos. Elena's search for the truth about her son's death brings her into the luxurious world of the Daltons' compound, where she uncovers a web of lies that casts suspicion on the people closest to her. Everyone is a suspect, and everything Elena thinks she knows about her friends, her family and herself becomes uncertain as she explores her son's hidden life. Returning to Taos delivers a taut, contemporary novel of suspense about the unraveling secrets and lies that bind two families together. Lois Gilbert resides in New Mexico.