“Come Down Somewhere” is a well-researched and interesting look at WWII from the Trinity nuclear test site, a desert wasteland in New Mexico. Since it follows the lives of the two main characters, we see the war from their perspectives as young girls coming of age in crisis. However, we hear from Olive in 1944 and Jo in 1952, which puts too much distance between the girls for me to really believe and understand their friendship. I also thought that the Christian aspects of the story made it too cheesy, especially at the end.

What an interesting book and a captivating story. I really knew very little about the testing of the worlds first atomic bomb or the complexities that surround the event. I truly found this book hard to put down. The writing is beautiful and the timelines woven seamlessly together with themes of friendship, betrayal, family, faith and sacrifice born out of love. The storyline is not predictable and is based on lots of interesting history with a different than usual perspective of WWII. The very appropriate title kept me wondering until the authors notes at the end gave explanation. Great title, great book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale for the opportunity to read and honestly review.

I enjoyed the story, and it was interesting to learn about the history of nuclear testing. I think the premise was a little far-fetched, but still a worth while read.

Not gonna lie; I wasn't looking forward to reading this, as I've heard that Jennifer L. Wright's books are sad. I'd been putting it off. Now that I'm done, I'm not sure how to put all my thoughts and feelings into words, so here are my notes as I read:

-Oh goodness. Just finished chapter one and am already all choked up. This isn't going to be a light read.

-Trinity. Since it's a military base, no drones are allowed to fly over it, so I didn't see any pictures. Here's the description, directly from the book:
"A sea of green glass in the middle of the desert, frozen against the shallow depression of its earthly container.
She had never seen anything so beautiful-or so terrible-in her life."

Apparently, it was bulldozed under later.

-This is a HEAVY book. I've had to stop reading many times to just breathe. I wouldn't say it's dark, but it definitely isn't a bright, happy read.

-Oh my. When Jo goes to her father in the hospital and weeps "for the things that were, the things that should have been, and the things that never could be. For so much wasted time." I can so relate to this. It's very similar to what I went through with my maternal grandfather, when he died several years ago. See, for whatever reason, he couldn't stand my dad, and therefore couldn't abide being around my father's children. Even though we were (are) also my mother's-his daughter's-children. When he died, I wept for all of those things as well. In fact, I'm crying even as I type this. After this chapter, I'm literally having to pull my emotions together in order to continue reading.

-I'm glad I read this. I don't know that I'll read it again, simply because it's so heavy, but I'm glad I read it. It was interesting to see WW2 from the home front perspective. I'd never thought about where the land came from before. This is a book that I will recommend my children read in high school. I think it'll take me a little bit to get over this one.

*I was given this ebook from NetGalley for review. Opinions are my own*

COME DOWN SOMEWHERE by JENNIFER L WRIGHT is the poignant story of two young girls who meet at school in Alamogordo in New Mexico in 1944, both feeling the effects of rejection by their families,
In spite of their differences, with Jo Hawthorne’s Christian faith and Olive Alexander’s rejection of God, they become friends when Olive realizes that Jo’s loneliness and difficult situation is every bit as bad as her own. We see how the war affects everybody and everything, especially with the military base in the area and the way the government takes over farms to house those involved in secret military activities, especially in the development of the bomb that wiped out Hiroshima and changed the nature of warfare forever. We see the infiltration of communism and Russian spies, even amongst American citizens.
The story moves seamlessly between 1945 and 1952, with many twists and turns, including the bomb which explodes at Trinity causing long lasting disease and death.
In 1952 we see a disillusioned Jo who has allowed bitterness and pain to come between her and God, and between her and her dying father. Finding Olive, who she looks upon as her sister, but who she feels has also let her down, leads to finding truth at last, but also danger …………
I love the way the author expresses the characters’ emotions and the strong Christian message of redemption, forgiveness and restoration. We see how hard it is to feel Christ’s presence and even how hard it is to pray when harbouring bitterness, hatred and resentment. We see broken people trying to make sense out of life, as well as those who betray and use others. We see walls going up and sometimes walls going down. We also see the results of choices that are made, both nationally and personally.
There is some wonderful imagery which backs up the truth of God’s word running through the book.
Come Down Somewhere is beautifully written and a most worthwhile read. Although it is heart breaking in parts there is a strong promise of hope running through the book. and I found it thought provoking and inspirational.
I was given a free copy of the book byNetGalley fromTyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Fantastic! I actually came up with a lot of words for this book as I was reading it. Here are a few:

impactful
disturbing
problematic (people and situations)
suspenseful
tension (the book is full of that)
intense

The novel is all of that. At first all I could see was that there were two angry, resentful and unhappy girls. Olive was a teenager in the southern New Mexico town of Alamagordo whose story took place in 1944, and Jo was young woman who returned to Alamagordo in 1952 after having been away for seven years. Jo tried to be friendly toward Olive in 1944 but by the time she came back to town in 1952, she hated Olive, and even worse, she hated her own father.

In 1944 Jo was full of Christian light and love, but by 1952 it had been completely obscured by anger and resentment, so this novel is partly about Jo's crisis of faith. Meanwhile, Olive was raised agnostic/atheist and had no love for Christianity. What a great way to start a Christian novel, right?

Olive's hatred and bitterness came from having her home life severely disturbed by World War II. She'd been raised at a remote ranch near the Chupadera Mesa in New Mexico and that's where she wanted to be the rest of her life. Unfortunately her home was chosen for military use during the war and by eminent domain she was forced to leave the ranch while her mother stayed behind to do ongoing ranch work. Olive moved in with her grandmother in Alamogordo. That's where the book begins - with Olive's eviction.

At first I realized I was having a hard time loving any of the characters. Though Jo was a lovely Christian girl in 1944, by 1952 she'd become hardened and unpleasant. I had to wonder what had happened to this young woman, so that set up a lot of tension and suspense for most of the remainder of the book. Even though I didn't like either Olive or Jo while they were lost in their angers, I continued reading, hoping they'd get better. I wanted to see a transformation, something similar to Jane Austin's <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6969.Emma">Emma</a>.

I liked that there was a dual time line. I am loving novels like this. Also I appreciated that the chapters alternated between telling Olive's story, or Jo's. At no time did I feel bored. I never felt the story was lagging. It soon became a bit of a page turner for me. After reading this I'm very much wanting to read the author's first novel, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56217972-if-it-rains">If It Rains</a>, which tells the story of a teenager living through the Dust Bowl in Oklahoma, in 1935. I like how this author is choosing some dramatic historical events for her settings, and especially that these are times and places I don't usually see in Christian novels.

Overall I think this novel is good for teenagers or anyone interested in a good clean Christian reading experience that doesn't start with everyone being perfect. There were a lot of imperfect people in this novel and you'll have a hard time finding even one perfectly good guy... though I think the pastor might qualify, but he wasn't a main character.

The most important part of this novel for me is that it has a meaningful Christian message. When I read a novel advertised as a Christian novel, then get no great Christian message, I feel cheated; maybe some characters were Christian, but that's about all. However this novel isn't like that at all. I could tell that the author, Jennifer L. Wright, is truly born again because she has a mature understanding of what it means to be a Christian and was able to put that message into a believable and heart-felt fictional narrative. This was really well-done.

I thank the publisher for choosing me to receive a digital copy of this novel as an ARC via NetGalley. I did very much love this book, and all feedback and comments are my own, sincerely given.

Olive's story of 1944 events in Alamagorde, New Mexico, leading up to the Manhatten Project's atomic bomb testing, intertwines and runs parellel with Jo's in 1952, in this dual story line. The literal and figurative 'fallout' had far-reaching repercussions not just in Japan, but right there in the "Jornada del Muerto' niche of Olive and Jo's world. Enemies who became dubious friends, and allies that could not be trusted as far as the countries could throw them. It hurt even when close relatives like a mother or a father appeared to have rejected and abandoned them, or for the government to exploit it's own trusting people. Then, watch out for the sheep in wolf's clothing. All was not as it seemed and all this under the eyes of Jesus, at church.

This sobering historical fiction does have its lighter moments and is obviously based on true events. The narrative also has the girls-turned-women, grappling with faith in God. I really liked how that turned out even as the unfairness seeped and settled like a dark, cold mantle upon the town and surrounding region in the post WWII years.

The author of this tale, Jennifer L. Wright, has certainly captured the hush-hush of cover up of 'secret weaponry' and spies, now bringing awareness to those who would listen to her message of advocacy as they read this thought-provoking story. The lives of Olive and Jo rekindle it all, making it 'live' and become vividly real.

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

June 2022

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy given by NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers.

This is one of those books that seemed to take forever to get into because I was reading too many at once, but once I did, I flew through it!
It was interesting reading about a small part of history surrounding the testing of the atomic bomb. To hear of the fallout after the test and the fictional lives of residents in the area. I love that the author wrote this as a tribute to those people who never received justice or compensation for the devastation caused to their land or health and that she gave them a voice.

I didn't realize that this was Christian fiction when I requested it. It's a conversion narrative, and I am not Christian, so it's not my cup of tea. The narrative isn't well-thought out or convincing and it has a lot of really terrible plot holes and plot devices that are introduced and then dropped after the scene or two where they are useful. The writing is uneven and often stilted.

This book involves two New Mexico girls, one a military man's daughter and one a farm girl -- both affected by the bomb testing in 1945 before the war. They were friends in High School and lost touch but were reunited after the war. THis is a poignant story that gives us more insight into life in the US before and after the war. Any WWII history buffs that like a good story should read this one.

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.

I got so excited about the juicy historical fiction description for this book, that I failed to notice it was also categorized as a Christian read. Some parts were definitely too Christian for my comfort level, but that's on me! I kept reading because I had to know what happened and what was going on with Olive and Jo's families. So you know the plot and storyline were strong!

I loved learning about the infrequently discussed consequences of WWII that so affected the people of New Mexico long after the army tested the nuclear bomb, and like I said the story itself was strong, but the more Christian parts were a little cheesy for my taste.

Not going to give a rating, since it's totally my fault for not paying attention when I picked up this book. Thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale for the advance copy!

This is also a new author for me!

It took me a little bit to get in to this dual timeline but once I did, I was hooked!

The beauty of a dual timeline is that it like pieces of a puzzle that you are given at each chapter. By the end of the book, you are given the whole puzzle and it is amazing!

The characters of Jo and Olive during the time of WWII. There is such a dichotomy between the two women--Jo has such hope and faith and Olive does not.

It was interesting to me to read more about Trinity and the atomic bomb.

Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

First sentence: The army moved in on a Sunday.

Olive Alexander, our young teen protagonist, is angry that her family home--a ranch--is being "taken over" by the army. She'll be sent to live with her grandmother, her brother is heading overseas, and her mother (and uncle) will stay behind on the ranch to continue to oversee the ranch. She's new to town (Alamogordo, New Mexico) and starting (traditional) school for the first time. Her best chance for finding a good friend ends abruptly. Turns out the other new kid, Jo Hawthorne, is the daughter of the sergeant who has "taken over" the ranch. Jo consistently pursues a friendship; Olive resists. But these two have a LOT in common, and given enough time these two might just find a forever friendship.

Come Down Somewhere is set in New Mexico during the later years of the Second World War. The army is about to conduct a super-secret ultimately dangerous experiment that might just end the war. There are TWO narrators and two time periods. Jo Hawthorne is narrating the "present" mid 1950s storyline. Olive Alexander is narrating the "past" mid 1940s storyline. Both storylines are driven by angst and uncertainty.

Because of how the narration unfolds, there is plenty of suspense and tension in the relationship between the two women, the two narrators. One mystery being WHAT happened on the day of the test and HOW that day ultimately shaped both of them.

I would categorize Come Down Somewhere as a historical coming of age novel. Olive and Jo--in the past--are definitely struggling as they grow up during a stressful time.

It is published by a Christian publisher. But part of the angst-driven narrative is about the ups and downs of life--mentally, emotionally, spiritually. In the past storyline, Olive is ANGRY and resistant to any idea of God. God, quite frankly, doesn't exist so she insists and its how she lives her life. Jo, on the other hand, while still struggling very much with the harshness of life still holds onto her faith and views God as being her salvation. She doesn't insist that Olive share her faith. There are no conditions on her offer of friendship. In the present storyline, Jo is ANGRY and resistant to any idea of God. God deserted her in the desert (couldn't resist). Her faith, her trust, her hope in God is practically nonexistent. So part of the tension is also how did Jo come to this place in her life...and where does she go from there.

As I mentioned, there is plenty of tension and conflict in this one--in both stories. It did have a mostly unexpected twist. Well, actually several twists but not all equally unexpected. It was a good read.

Though it is Christian and though it is historical, it is NOT in anyway a romance.

5 ⭐️ 

Set in the 1940-50s, Come Down Somewhere follows the story of two young women: Olive Alexander and Jo Hawthorne. Olive’s story follows her childhood years during WW2, when the only life she has known is uprooted as the government picks her family’s land in New Mexico to be the top secret construction site for a new Army post. Jo’s story picks up the narrative in 1952, when Jo returns to the city she left seven years ago, on the eve of wounds and betrayals, Alamogordo. Still reeling from the hurt others caused her, Jo sets out to find answers and ends up with more questions than she bargained for. But the questions she has leads to answers that someone can answer, but that person isn’t who she thought it would be. Want to know who? Read to find out!

When I picked up this book, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’m familiar with the author, but I have yet to read her other book, If It Rains. The cover and blurb intrigued me, so I thought I’d give it a try. Boy, am I glad I did. This book—it’s an absolute five-star read for me.

Here’s a few reasons why:

1. The characters in this book made me feel so much. Reading about the grief, anger, and hurt they felt was like reading someone’s diary; honest thoughts, unfiltered feelings, and raw transparency. So many of the emotions the characters wrestled with, I have too. I think that’s why the book felt so relatable to me. Not a lot of books I’ve read feature characters that are very relatable for one reason or another, but this book was the exception. 


2. The redemption arc in this book was *chefs kiss* spectacular. A lot of books have the characters go from being bitter to forgiving either too fast, or the inward change falls flat for me. But this book, especially with Jo’s character—it was portrayed in such a real way. Jo’s journey from not knowing where God was to finding Him wasn’t an overnight thing, nor did it take place within the first few chapters. Actually, it didn’t take place until 3/4 of the way through. But it was worth the wait—absolutely worth it.


3. The storyline was unique and original. There are sooo many books out there about WW2, but this storyline featured aspects of the war that I didn’t know about, like the Trinity nuclear test. I won’t give away any spoilers, but it was really eye-opening for me. The history of the war played a huge part in this story; however, it didn’t distract from the storyline or bog it down with boring details. If anything, it added a ton of value and insight to the story and helped strengthen the plot immensely.

I probably sound like I’m just gushing about this book without listing anything I wish the author had done differently or things I didn’t appreciate about this book. That’s because there aren’t any. I loved this book exactly how it was. This book isn’t a lighthearted read; it’s deep, heavy, and makes you feel so many emotions. Those kinds of books are must-reads for me. The author did a splendid job with Come Down Somewhere—and I can’t wait to add a physical copy to my shelf once it releases later this year. All the stars from me!

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of Come Down Somewhere. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.

I'm in the midst of that awed exhaustion a reader gets after finishing an incredible book. This is the effect Come Down Somewhere has had on me.

Beginning during World War II but set on US soil, the novel takes place in Alamogordo, New Mexico. I never knew the significance of that place. I do now. It was the site of the Trinity nuclear test, the fallout of which was much more than atomic.

Revolving around the lives of two teenage girls, Olive Alexander and Jo Hawthorne, we see war from the view of those on the American home front. Even those who are not enlisted and called up are affected. Everyone and everything is affected. Emotions are heightened, relationships are strained, allegiances are intensified.

Olive's story takes place mainly in 1944 when her family's ranch is taken over by the US Army. While her mother, uncle, and brother dutifully move into a small casita on the property, Olive is outraged--not only by the apparent apathy of her family, but because she is shuffled off to live with her grandmother sixty miles away.

Jo's story mostly chronicles her return to the area in 1952. Once God-fearing and optimistic, Life has severely challenged her faith. She's there to visit her father, Richard--Sargent Hawthorne--once the proud military leader who supervised activity on the Alexander ranch, who now lays dying, silenced by throat cancer.

Back and forth between these two timelines, we see an ebb and flow of friendship, beliefs, family, betrayal and loving sacrifice. The writing is beautiful, the characters are complex, and the story is singularly unique. This is one I will remember for a long time. I highly recommend this novel. It would make a great book club selection.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tynedale House Publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. Come Down Somewhere is a winner.