“Sometimes holding in was all you could do”

Genre: Fiction
Published: January 31st, 2012
Pages: 388
Rate: 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Goodreads Synopsis
A deeply honest and provocative story of a husband and wife, in love and at war …..

From a distance, Michael and Jolene seem to have it all: a solid dependable marriage, exciting careers and children they adore. But after twelve blissful years together, the couple have lost their way. They are unhappy and edging towards divorce. Then an unexpected deployment tears their already fragile family apart, sending one of them deep into harm’s way and leaving the other at home, caring for the children and waiting for news. When the worst happens, each must face their darkest fear and fight for the future of their family.

An intimate look at the inner landscape of a disintegrating marriage and a dramatic exploration of the price of war. ‘Home Front’ is a timely portrait of hope, courage, loss and forgiveness – and the elusive nature of love.


My Take

The one thing that shocked me while reading Home Front is my emotional response to this book. I still can’t believe it.

Home Front is a well story about a family as they navigate through the a difficult marriage and deployment. Kristin Hannah writes beautifully. She’s managed to be evocative with her words and sentences, carefully constructed that will undo you in seconds.

The characters in this book are so real, open and honest. I felt like I was there with them every turning page. I love and appreciate how Kristin Hannah explores marriage, friendship and repression of grief. It all comes together so beautifully you can’t help but be roped in the story.

The biggest plot point of this book is Jolene’s life in the Guard. It was both interesting and heartbreaking to read. It has been a while since a book moved me the way Home Front did. From the story line, to the characters, to the writing – it all makes for such an incredible page turner.

Home Front is my first five star read since October and all I can say is, give me all Kristin Hannah’s books. I highly recommend this one.

Have you read any Kristin Hannah? What did you think about it?