Book Review of More Heavens Than One by Jennie Linnane


Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐-(5/5)

More Heavens Than One by Jennie Linnane is a coming-of-age story set in the 1950s. It proceeds with the Steinmetz family moving to the Australian countryside to live on the family farm with their grandparents. Liz and her husband make an arduous choice to relinquish the delights of city life, despite knowing the difficulty their three children would face trying to adjust. 

Momentarily, Jancy and her younger brothers discover that country life is not horrendous. But the serenity can only last for so long, and very soon, an unnerving enigma threatens to rip the family apart. There's a heart-wrenching secret that Grandma Rose concealed concerning the truth about her son, Rudy. The dilemma will affect Jancy, but will the verity eventually be the key to her happiness? Will she and the Steinmetz family manage to pull through the impasse unscathed? Read this elusive piece to find out more.


I've always been a sucker for novels set in the countryside. The book invades the magnificence of the Australian country and accentuates the perfect meaning behind its inhabitants' way of life. The author's writing was captivating, and she ensured that the reader(s) explored life in the country through Jancy and her little brothers.


Characterization here was one of the author’s strengths. The main characters in this book are well-rounded and intriguing to watch. Jancy was my favorite character, without a doubt. Her struggles were similar to the challenges we face in the real world. It was refreshing to watch her defy all odds and triumph bully hierarchy on her first day in a new school instead of silently enduring the harsh treatment like the other students. 


Also, it was inspiring to watch her grow into a remarkable nurse. Her experiences were catchy and relatable. The language used was simple to understand, despite the diction being in Australian country English. Sometimes, I found it very amusing. Other times, I just sat back and enjoyed the ride. 


I am confident this book came to life to give perspective and shed some light on a different way of life, and the author delivered it in every single way. The plot twist at the end was wholesome. Uncovering the reason for the book’s title was another breath of fresh air. 


Ultimately, I recommend the book to anyone who enjoys fictional books based on family, romance, and the calm nature of country life. There is a lot of profanity and swearing in the book, so it is only suitable for mature readers. It is important to note that the plot involves incest, so anyone sensitive should not bother reading this book. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. 


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