If you are a person that didn't like studying history in school, like myself, you will be in for a surprise when you read this book. One would think that a book that was set in the time period of 1881 would be dry and boring however you will find that this is a page turning, highly entertaining and fun book to read in which you learn about the history of the time period.

I couldn't put this book down! I am now a fan of Shirley A. Roe and cannot wait to read more of her works. The characters come alive as does the time period.

The Whittaker family has been through so much already, put the terrible times behind them and are now flourishing. A troublesome, very spoiled girl and a person bent on vengeance wreck havoc for the family. And, then you are left with questions left unanswered and wanting more.

You really do need to read this book!

"I found The Whittaker Family Reunion to be an intense, yet somehow elegant thrill ride from beginning to end. Author Shirley A. Roe so precisely introduces her characters, that one feels in the very moment; on the ship with Zeke, the farm with Isaac, and longing to be the savior to so many with Abraham. As the plot thickens, you find yourself not only excited about the next page to come, but wanting to be a part of the Whittaker family. This was a fantastic edge-of-your-seat read, and I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!"

Randi M. Hull, author

Shirley Roe's sequel to "Of Dreams and Nightmares" is a fascinating read. Purchasing "The Whittaker Family Reunion", I was anxious to renew my relationship to the Whittaker family. The twists and turns taken by such a provocative blended family held my attention from chapter to chapter. Ms. Roe definitely captured that era in the history of America in the 1880's, bringing to life characters and events. Hopefully, there will be another sequel written about this enchanting family.
Janet Nicolet, Author

America, 1881. The Whittaker's have weathered many storms. Martha, the grand ol dame of the family at age 40, stood fast against an abusive husband in an arranged marriage where terror was her daily repast. Her step sons from this evil man suffered perhaps more than she and each of them carry secrets and wounds no one can see. But that is all in the past. Jebediah Whittaker is long dead and far removed from their lives if not their minds. The Whittakers have prospered with Martha and Jeremy (Jebediah's brother) having married and settled down with kids of their own. The stepsons are prospering as well, adults with lives established in places like England and Louisiana and now all are gathering in St Louis, Missouri for a Whittaker Family reunion.

This is the backdrop for Shirley Roe's second instalment of the Whittaker story. A seemingly idyllic and tight knit family unit despite some of its members being so far away. With Martha's fortieth birthday approaching all her family and closest friends will come together for a time of joy and peace. Yet Jebediah may not be done with them. Even from the grave a man can curse you. Someone is lurking just outside their family group. Stalking them, searching for their weaknesses and exploiting those he can. For young Sissy he is a secret friend, an Indian with intriguing stories. For Martha's headstrong daughter Ann, he is dark and sinister and very exciting, far more than her intended, Hans. Who is he, what does he have to do with the Whittakers and what will he do to shatter their reunion?

Family secrets are always the most interesting; and devastating. Will Jebediah's insanity and evil be a seed that takes root again? Roe has introduced a character rich story that promises to span many novels and generations and gives the reader a flavour of a budding America. The cliff hanger leaves you in anticipation of more and begs more questions than it answers. I look forward to reading the next instalment and many more of the family Whittaker.

"The Whittaker Family Reunion" is what the title implies, the reunion of the Whittaker family. This takes place in 1881 in St. Louis. I enjoy historical fiction as it takes me back to an era I can never experience and Ms. Roe captures the period splendidly. I have not read the prequel to this story ("Of Dreams and Nightmares") so I became acquainted with the all the family members with this story. There was much to follow and although these people lived in various parts of the country and one in England, you can see that they are a loving family. The various incidents that the characters deal with make this a breathtaking story. I hear that will be another book involving the family Whittaker.