Lynnette Kent The Scrapbook

The Scrapbook

Lynnette Kent

Harlequin Everlasting, Jun 2007, $5.25

ISBN: 0373654111

Celia Monroe marries US Navy aviator Mack Butler, not realizing what she signed up for when she agreed to be a naval spouse. Over the years as Mack's duty station changed, Celia moved the family that eventually included four children.

Their marriage seems a strong one until their unmarried daughter informs her parents she is pregnant. Outraged, Mack totally blames Celia for not disciplining their offspring more. Stunned by his vicious attack, Celia retaliates by telling Mack how he would know how she raised their kids as he was never around. As their marriage splinters, the first concern is for their daughter, but Celia and Mack must decide whether it is time plug the leak or let the relationship sink.

For the most part this contemporary provides the audience an insightful look at how much a military family sacrifices to the point that relationships with spouses and dependents falter. The story line realistically reflects the much higher divorce rates as it appears Celia and Mack are heading towards the dissolution of their marriage. Although the final confrontation lacks conviction and elucidation, readers will appreciate this discerning glimpse at the impact of "out of bed" deployments on the deployed person and their loved ones left behind.