Three Little Things

A love triangle finds a satisfying resolution in Stockdale’s sweet historical debut. In 1917 Split Falls, Iowa, 19-year-old Hattie Waltz juggles the attentions of two soldiers: Barrett Jordane, a debonair Louisianan she met by chance, and Arno Kreger, her rowdy childhood friend, both of whom are away at boot camp and woo Hattie via letters. When the scales tip in Arno’s favor, his and Hattie’s blossoming romance is hampered by her father’s inexplicable animosity toward Arno, the prejudice they both face as German-Americans, and their differing positions on marriage and children. Inspired by Stockdale’s grandparents’ relationship, this character-driven narrative is light on plot, but rings with authenticity. A well-drawn cast of supporting characters creates a strong sense of community, and colorful colloquialisms (“whip-thin and homely as a cow pie”) add flavor. Lovers of G-rated historical romance will be charmed by the earnest, emotionally vulnerable connection between these young lovers. Agent: Linda S. Glaz, Hartline Literary. (Feb.)