The Last April (paperback)

Not a bad books, takes awhile to get going and can feel repetitive at times during the first half. Some of the suspense is not there because we know "Karl" didn't kill Lincoln and the mystery of who he is isn't really a whole big focus. The more exciting parts were after some family drama came into play and peaked my interest. A few amusing parts as well. I wouldn't mind a novella with Tante Klegg though, would love to see more of her life before this story started. Certain few characters in here can go jump in a fiery lake, just saying. I think teens might enjoy this more perhaps but still worth a read for anyone methinks.

Historical fiction is my favorite! Historical fiction that can capture the interest of young people is especially dear to me. The Last April weaves a clever tale into a significant time in our nation's history while also immersing us in local history. It's an exciting story that gives a glimpse into the lives of Ohioans during the time of the Civil War. It takes place on a farm outside Columbus in the home of German immigrants. A hefty list of references confirms that the author has done her research!

Belinda Kroll went to a great extent in exploring real historic ideas in telling this story. It makes this story very easy to relate to. This book was absolutely interesting to read with its vivid description of war. This is a thought-provoking book that explores a lot of historical facts about American history through the period of war. I love this book. I really find it interesting because it offered me insight as to the real events of 1865. It was easy to draw some facts from this well-written novel.

I'll start by saying that Belinda Kroll is a new author for me to read -- and OMG, she is an amazing author!!! She did an awesome job of researching the story - which really made the reading of the book more enjoyable. The amazing American history facts that were written into the story made the reading a pleasant experience. This story starts by introducing you to Gretchen - a teenage girl who lives in Ohio during the civil war. When she discovers a soldier while working in her garden of her home, Gretchen isn't sure what she should do. She and her Aunt move the stranger into their home and start to render him aid. At the same time, they realize the war has ended and then that President Lincoln has been assassinated. As the story continues, Gretchen begins to learn things about her past that she had no idea about. I don't write spoilers -- but, OMG this was an amazing book to read!!! This was an easy read - a fun escape back into time!! I really enjoy historical type novels - especially when they are historically accurate!!

The Last April by Belinda Kroll is a historical novel that takes place in Ohio in 1865. Gretchen is a 15 year old who finds a confederate soldier who escaped from a prison camp not far from her home, she takes him in and nurses him back to health despite the protests from her family members. Gretchen’s family is certain that the young man could have killed President Lincoln but Gretchen is convinced that she needs to help him because they would want someone to help her brother if he was hurt and trying to get home. The novel is a pretty quick read, I started and finished it during my daughters nap time. Belinda Kroll shows a keen knowledge for American history around the civil war and throws interesting tidbits about it into her story to create depth. I think the story would appeal to all different age ranges, I know I fully enjoyed.