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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Morning of a Crescent Moon by N. J. Schrock is a closely observed work of historical fiction set in Virden, Illinois, at the close of the nineteenth century, where everyday life unfolded during mounting labor unrest. The novel opens with striking imagery that establishes place and tone, immediately grounding the story in a world shaped by coal mines, railroads, and small-town rhythms. The period comes to life through lived moments: a train arriving at the station, conversations overheard in a drugstore, children selling vegetables door to door. These scenes build a strong sense of community and gently ease the reader into the social tensions that will later define the narrative. At the center of the novel is Cate Merry, a thoughtful and capable protagonist whose arrival in Virden serves as the reader’s point of entry into the town. Through Cate’s eyes, the novel explores work, faith, education, and the quiet expectations placed on women at the time.
The novel is characterized by its measured pacing and confident storytelling. The author lets events unfold organically, mirroring the slow buildup of historical forces that feel inevitable only in hindsight. Themes of fairness, belonging, and moral responsibility are woven naturally into the narrative without overwhelming the personal stories at its heart. Readers interested in American labor history, women’s roles at the turn of the century, or novels that foreground community life will find much to appreciate here. N. J. Schrock offers a thoughtful, engaging portrayal of a specific moment in history while keeping the focus firmly on the people who lived it, making Morning of a Crescent Moon a rewarding and memorable read. This novel is a heartfelt tribute to the ordinary people who shaped the labor movement and a reminder of the power of unity in the face of adversity.
