Conflict, 1898-1919 (Ryan, Gordon, Spirit of Union, V. 2.)

Rating:
Summary: Continuing the saga of the Callahan family into the 1900's
Review: From the dynamic opening scenes in the mountains of Cuba during the Spanish-American War, Volume 2, Conflict, follows the Callahans through major historical events surrounding an America beset with increasing involvement in world affairs. At home, Tom and Katrina Callahan grow a family, a business, and a love for each other that is sorely tested when tragedy drives a wedge between Tom and his wife and children. From the decks of the "Titanic," to the "Lost Generation" beneath the trenches of France during WWI, to the beautiful and peaceful mountain meadows of New Zealand, Spirit of Union: Conflict continues to enthrall the reader with real people, real events, and real emotions.

Rating:
Summary: A sequel worthy of the original
Review: It's not very often that a sequel comes along that matches the excitment of the first book. I loved the first book, "Destiny" and was anxious to read the second to see what would transpire with Tom and Katrina. I was not disappointed. I not only grew to love them more, but developed a love for their children as well. I look forward to the third and know that the author will keep me up into the wee hours of the night once more!

Rating:
Summary: A sequel worthy of the original
Review: It's not very often that a sequel comes along that matches the excitment of the first book. I loved the first book, "Destiny" and was anxious to read the second to see what would transpire with Tom and Katrina. I was not disappointed. I not only grew to love them more, but developed a love for their children as well. I look forward to the third and know that the author will keep me up into the wee hours of the night once more!

Rating:
Summary: Hard to put down, waiting for volume 3
Review: Mr. Ryan has the wonderful ability to make the characters real to the reader. I feel like I know Tom and Katrina and the family. Excellent handling of a few of the differences between the LDS and Catholic Faiths. Excellent portrayal of a faithful LDS woman married to a good man tho not of her faith. Her faith that the Lord will provide and her patience makes her an extremely lovable lady. Tom's personality certainly will appeal to most men and I think women. He is faithful yet a still a "bit of the Irish" in him. All the characters are very human in their actions and emotions. While reading the reader feels those emotions and hurts and feels the joy of the characters. Tom's Anger at himself and taking it out on his young son and the results of that are real and the reader can learn from Tom's mistake. Can't wait for volume 3.

Rating:
Summary: Stunningly intimate look into history and family
Review: Ryan plunges you into the middle of an exciting period in history and puts you inside the changes surging through the world. This series is not only a great read, it's a close up look at some of the more controversial aspects of LDS, including the particular challenges faced by mixed religion marriages and changing church doctrine. Ryan pulls no punches, and his examination of the issues through compelling storytelling has a message for readers of any faith. I'm waiting impatiently for book #3, and sure hope that's not the end of it. More books, Deseret and Ryan -- MORE.