Title/Author: Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris

Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark

In a nutshell (Publisher):

2 CHILDREN FOR SALE

The sign is a last resort. It sits on a farmhouse porch in 1931, but could be found anywhere in an era of breadlines, bank runs and broken dreams. It could have been written by any mother facing impossible choices.

For struggling reporter Ellis Reed, the gut-wrenching scene evokes memories of his family’s dark past. He snaps a photograph of the children, not meant for publication. But when it leads to his big break, the consequences are more devastating than he ever imagined.

At the paper, Lillian Palmer is haunted by her role in all that happened. She is far too familiar with the heartbreak of children deemed unwanted. As the bonds of motherhood are tested, she and Ellis must decide how much they are willing to risk to mend a fractured family.

Inspired by an actual newspaper photograph that stunned the nation, Sold on a Monday is a powerful novel of love, redemption, and the unexpected paths that bring us home.

Verdict: A quick, yet thought-provoking read

My thoughts:

Ellis Reed, a journalist, got a big break in his career when his story with a picture of a sign that read ‘2 Children for Sale’ was published. Sympathy and help came pouring in to help the children in the picture. All was good until the story took an ugly turn. 

Having played a role in Ellis’ big break, Lily Palmer, didn’t feel good about how it all played out. She had to help. She wanted to. She needed to. 

What lay ahead of them caught them totally unprepared. As they delved deeper into the lives of the children portrayed in the picture, they discovered lies and secrets so unfathomable, they knew they had to do something even if it meant risking their careers and lives. 

Set in the 1930’s and inspired by a true story, this book was a frigging page turner and had me on the edge of my seat. It was also a thought-provoking read; at times I found myself trying to decide between moving forward or slowing down to think and contemplate. 

This is a great cure for a reading slump! If you’re looking for a quick and engaging read, I’d recommend this too, especially if you’re into historical fiction! 

I love the author’s note and interview at the end of the book!

TW: child abuse. I wish I had been warned about it. It was very brutal; short but very heartbreaking.

P/S Thank you Costco lady who suggested this book to your friend. And thank you Libby for having this e-book available! 

Have you read this book? What did you think? If you haven’t, do you plan to read it? Please share with me your thoughts!

Thank you for stopping by! May the power of good books be with you always! Happy Reading!