Secrets of Sand Mountain by Philip Elrod

The events of Secrets of Sand Mountain took place during the last few years of World War II. Rationing and a small-town mentality in a developing world are characteristics of the time. A coming-of-age story written from three different points of view, Secrets of Sand Mountain takes a compassionate look at ideas that are largely generalised. Looking back, we recognise the peril of despair and the fact that individuals are occasionally compelled to act contrary to their morals and shared beliefs.

A common figure in Southern folklore is Aunt Vi. She is viewed as weird because of the very improper conversation she is having with her young nephew. In actuality, she has depression. The butterfly in Secrets of Sand Mountain is called Vi. Vi is an exquisitely drawn, relatable Southern woman for whom readers will cheer.

Phillip aspires to be the hero while Vi is the butterfly. While acquiring a set of pearls left at a gas station by a couple leaving for California for his Aunt Vi, he really kicks off the action. He senses but doesn’t comprehend Vi’s despair, and he wants to save her from both of those things. Women at the time considered depression a disease to be shameful. The way the storylines combine when freed prisoner of war Karl enters the scene reveals an author with a lot of potential. Secrets of Sand Mountain’s premise was a solid one that was carefully considered and well-written.

RELATED STORIES

8 Best Trending Fiction Books of 2023

December 23, 2023

1.5k

Time for Once by Jes Smyth

Never Go Full Pai by Jeffrey Eng

In general, the characters read like people the author knew. They are vibrant and complete. I can easily picture the small town in which the story takes place and not just because it sits not far from where my parents live in the mountains. The setting is painted with love and reverence but without blinders.

The results of competent professional editing are clearly demonstrated in Secrets of Sand Mountain. Although it takes Elrod some time to get to know his characters (the dialogue in the first part of the book is pretty stiff and occasionally leans toward the pedantic in order to frame the story), there are no technical errors, and the flow and experience are those of a professional work done properly.

The plot develops at a speed you can enjoy. Readers are left with a book that captures a moment in time that they should all read. Secrets of Sand Mountain is a narrative you shouldn’t miss if you enjoy historical fiction. Pick it up right now.

About The Book

A story of murder, dark family heritage, and intrigue that will keep you turning the pages. Philip Campbell dreams of a life beyond his small home town of Campbell Crossing atop Sand Mountain in Alabama. It’s the summer of 1944 and World War II is in its final chaotic days.

Philip and his best friend, Harlan, go on a camping trip to their favorite spot on a high bluff but they are not alone. They are startled to discover that they were sharing the bluff with an escaped German prisoner of war who had been interned at a nearby army base.

This chance encounter leads to dramatic changes in the destinies of many people. The German POW turns out to be a Physician who had to escape to save his own life because he helped Americans and the Nazi-controlled inmates at the camp could not protect him.

The boys are intrigued by the soldier’s stories of war and promise to help keep him safe from capture until the war ends and he can go home. But things are not as simple when the secrets of small-town life are laid bare. If you like action-adventure stories, with a bit of romance, you will love Secrets of Sand Mountain.