The Bridegrooms

This latest book by Allison Pittman is light hearted and enjoyable. The whole story takes place in a week's time. There is a double meaning in the title; not only was it a story of bridegrooms destined for each of four sisters, but also the name of a traveling baseball team.

Mysteriously one night, when the oldest daughter was 8 and the youngest just a baby, their mother left and did not return home. Fast forward to their current life, where the daughters are grown, the "baby" is now a teen, and possible marriage is on the horizon. Vada, the oldest, has mothered each of them up to this point, with some help from their doctor father and their loyal housekeeper. She has a steady if not "exciting" beau, and her closest sister has secretly put out an advertisement for possible suitors; sort of like eharmony.com only in 1898!

On game day during the game between the Brooklyns Bridegrooms and the Cleveland Spiders, a spectator is hit by a home run ball and carried to the house to be doctored. Tense moments ensue.

I enjoyed the descriptions of life with sisters: their qualities, quirks, and loyalties. It reminded me a bit of Little Women. I enjoyed the descriptions of the clothing, routines, housekeeper and the local "coffee shop" if you will, where coffee and delicious pastries were available for a dime or two. Mysterious characters, conflicting emotions and a satisfying ending made for a simple but fun book.

2010, paperback, by WaterBrook Press.
I have one or two copies to give away.