Reviews From Across The Globe.
Read what others are saying about "Penelope."
.This 160-page story is about "Penelope," one of America's most heroic women. Her courage, determination, and unshakable faith remains a source of inspiration 400 years later. It is so well liked, and insights so relevant, that it has been included in Monmouth County's Historical Commission's collection of history books.
Readers from across the globe are giving "Penelope" rave reviews. See below what people are saying.
Readers from across the globe are giving "Penelope" rave reviews. See below what people are saying.
The point of the book about Penelope is clear from the start. It is well orchestrated with drama and conflict that holds my attention from start to finish.
The beginnings of tensions within families builds with bigger tensions as Penelope faces the dangers of the New World. The details of hardship on the ship are a bit too harsh but realistic. These stretches of conflict are nicely balanced with the love story of Richard’s and Penelope’s romance and marriage. So the tough narrative has welcome spells of relief.
The main characters are very well developed. I feel the reader will know Richard and definitely will relate to Penelope well beyond finishing the book.
One thing I really like, and this might not appeal to others, is the conclusion. It’s clear that the main purpose of Penelope’s story is well told, however it ends with a sense of sadness. Although, appropriate when you think about the entire history of European settlement in the New World. Penelopel makes us think. And that’s good.
The beginnings of tensions within families builds with bigger tensions as Penelope faces the dangers of the New World. The details of hardship on the ship are a bit too harsh but realistic. These stretches of conflict are nicely balanced with the love story of Richard’s and Penelope’s romance and marriage. So the tough narrative has welcome spells of relief.
The main characters are very well developed. I feel the reader will know Richard and definitely will relate to Penelope well beyond finishing the book.
One thing I really like, and this might not appeal to others, is the conclusion. It’s clear that the main purpose of Penelope’s story is well told, however it ends with a sense of sadness. Although, appropriate when you think about the entire history of European settlement in the New World. Penelopel makes us think. And that’s good.
~ Barbara Fischer, Prior Lake, MN
What a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed it and loved becoming aware of this history I knew nothing about. I am a Christian and loved all the bible references and hearing how their faith and trust in the Lord was their strength throughout their incredible lives. We should all learn and instill in our lives these examples. I really enjoyed the "read!" It was well written, an easy read, and it kept me wanting to read more to find out how her journey progressed.
~ Patty Field, Fountain Hills, AZ
What a delightful read! I like how you melded historical fact with fiction - it really brought Penelope’s story to life. What an interesting piece of history! The Bible passages sprinkled throughout are a nice touch.
~ Lynn Tuoti LoStocco, Madison, CT
Faith is the protagonist, together with the courage, strength and endurance it gives Penelope and this is definitely effective teaching. I also appreciated the feminine determination that Penelope shows in the struggles and sufferings both physical and emotional that she's able to go through and, as a woman, the happy end that she certainly deserves.
I also value the style of the story: the language is short, direct and to the point. In fact you don’t need to adorn your prose with extra words. The sentences are short and thus emphasized, you show the bare facts in their effectiveness. It reminds me a bit of Hemingway.
I also value the style of the story: the language is short, direct and to the point. In fact you don’t need to adorn your prose with extra words. The sentences are short and thus emphasized, you show the bare facts in their effectiveness. It reminds me a bit of Hemingway.
~ Alida Rizzotto, Fener, Veneto, Italy
Penelope is a brilliant read. Very well written.
~ Carol Visser, Lincoln, Lincolnshire (England)
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Penelope is a wonderful novel. I love your writing!
~ Anubhav Sarkar, Gwalior, India
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I couldn't stop reading. Penelope was courageous. She went through so much pain, both physically and emotionally. Why make this a short novel? I want to learn more!
~ Rita Kane, Minneapolis, MN
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I am so impressed. I believe "Penelope" will provide the others the encouragement to try something that seems impossible. Love what you have done! I am anticipating the next chapter.
~Sally Herbert, Snohomish, WA,
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Enjoyed every minute of it. I like just how you wrote it!! The ending was done perfectly. It was wonderful!
~ Kelly Snoap, Grand Rapids, MI
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It's an incredible story and beautifully told!
~Kathyrn Lund Johnson, Au Train, MI
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What a Fantastic book!! I really felt like I was right next to her during her whole journey. What a wonderful story. Her courage and fortitude are simply beyond amazing, and she lived to be 110 years old! WOW!!! I want to know more about her life and family. I am simply spellbound
~ Valerie Gendron, Prior Lake, MN
I very much enjoyed reading your book about the exploits about Penelope, your notable ancestor. We will be adding it the collection of local history books at the Historical Commission.
~ John Fabiano, Executive Director, Monmouth County Historical Commission
I have to tell you that I st down in my garden, looked at the introduction, went on to Chapter One, and then couldn't stop reading until I got to the end. I found it fast-moving and completely engaging. I know you invented many details but they fit nicely with the story.
~ Penelope Scambly Shott, Author, Dufur, OR
It was a fascinating read.
~ Linda McArthur, Las Vegas, NV
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What a fantastic accounting of a courageous woman who passes genes down through generations to my wife.
~ Jack Head, Venice, FL
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This is incredible! I finished the book last night. I couldn't put it down. The overall feeling was that of hope rather than what our country is battling today. I appreciate the Bible references as my Faith in God is my priority. You even used my favorite Bible verses from 1st Corinthians 13.
~ Donna Stout Baker, Jacksonville, Florida
Fabulous book. Can't wait for the movie!
~ Bob Wescott, Inver Grove Heights, MN
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I really enjoyed the book Penelope! Once I got it, I couldn't put it down. Such as easy read to get into!
~ Beth Voigt, Eagan, MN
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