Bethlehem

A gripping book ,a story that travels between the 1920s and the 1960s.A young woman who 1960s enters the lives of this wealthy family through a difficult marriage,unused to this opulent lifestyle she finds comfort with the elderly Gardner.So well written so involving highly recommend.#netgalley #Bethlehem #st.martins.

Hauntingly beautiful, Bethlehem will stick with me for quite some time. I loved the way the story is told alternately in two time periods, the 1960s and the 1920s. The transitions back and forth between the two times/story lines were seamless, and I enjoyed both eras equally. I particularly liked the ending where the secret was not as secret as believed. Well done, Ms. Kelly!

This is a dual time frame novel set in the 1960's and 1920's. Sifting through the different generations we are privy to relationships that are, at times, difficult...families, friends...bonds that tie us to one another. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the U.S. steel capital offers itself as the backdrop of a wealthy family. In 1962 we meet Joanna and her wealthy in-laws, her husband, Frank, her two children, Charlie and Daisy, when they move to Bethlehem to live with Franks mother, Susannah, and his grandmother, Helen. Resenting the fact that she is now living with her husband's family, she feels inadequate, feeling she is being looked down upon. With a friendship made during an afternoon walk, she befriends Doe, the caretaker of the town's cemetery. and Doe's grandson, Daniel As we read, we find there are many questions asked, but no answers given. To be sure, this woman is well aware of the secrets kept by Bethlehem's citizens. While the story unfolds, we learn about the family's dynamics, what has made them who they are today, what has trapped their personalities from years' past. When you live with deceit long enough does it becomes real, does it ever leave you? And while the hidden mysteries of the past reveal themselves, how is Joanna affected? How will these revelations impact her life?

This is a quiet story in that it is told calmly, but do not think because of its quietness it doesn't pack a punch...you would be wrong. Artfully told, it was a pleasure to read, skillfully written it is one I would definitely recommend.

My thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

It’s the early 1960’s when Joanna moves into her husband’s ancestral home in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Feeling out of place with his well to do mother and grandmother, Joanna befriends Doe, the cemetery caretaker and grandson Daniel. Traveling between the 1960’s and 1920’s, this is a novel about people, not extraordinary events. Readers looking for a story about family life will find much to like here

A very fast if not a bit predictable story!
The book alternated back and forth from past to present effortlessly. I thought each storyline was interesting. I thought all the characters were likeable. I really enjoyed the book!

So compelling, so detailed and vivid with strong characters that I couldn’t seem to put it down. This was a rich gem of history that deserves to be told. Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

I really wanted to read this book because I grew up in Bethlehem, the very city where this novel takes place. Her descriptions of the city are very true to life. It did take me a few chapters to get into this book, but once I got going, I couldn't put it down. Well developed characters and plot. Great mystery story. Will share with friends & family.

Who would have guessed a novel named after a small Pennsylvania town-once home to America's second largest steel manufacturer (at its peak Bethlehem Steel employed 31,500 workers; today the town's population is barely 75,000 ) could be such an emotional roller coaster-filled passion, intrigue, star crossed lovers and devastating tragedy. Bethlehem is a multi generational story set in the 1920's and 1960's, with several characters appearing in both decades. But the heart of both plotlines is a conflict between desire and duty-between following your heart or fulfilling your destiny. Karen Kelly's writing is both tender and profound-and she excels at impartiality. You hope everyone gets their happily ever after, even though you know it's not possible. Bethlehem is a beautiful story that will resonate with many, and its July publication makes this the perfect read for warm summer days and lazy summer nights. Bethlehem is simple but sensational-just like its namesake.

This is a great read! The story seamlessly travels back and forth in time to tell a beautiful story. The characters are very real, they have flaws and feelings which makes it easy to like them. A great escape read. I received a copy from NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

I absolutely adored this novel! The author is brilliant at setting a scene, and masterful at creating a plot that sets the imagination on fire. I so loved the characters, who are human, raw, flawed and wonderful. I was absolutely heart-invested in their lives as I devoured each chapter. Just ridiculously good. A definite recommend.

Dear Karen Kelly,

I need everything you've ever written!

Love,

Stacie

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I was drawn to it immediately because of the title. I did some student teaching in Bethlehem back in 70s and looked forward a revisit.
This novel follows the lives of two Bethlehem families whose lives have been intertwined for years. Alternating between the 1920s and the 1960s, the author weaves tales of friendships, heartache, and mystery.
I knew from the beginning that there were secrets to uncover, but I must say that things were a little slow going for awhile. As the author began to wrap things up however, I was not disappointed. Touching, surprising and ultimately very satisfying, this book is a winner. I did not expect to be moved by the ending, but I will say that it was spot on.
This is a quick read, perfect for a rainy winter day. I will happily recommend it to my friends.
Thank you Karen Kelly!

Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of Bethlehem. This is my honest review.

I though the book started off slow, but I kept with it and I am sure glad I did. After the initial getting to know the characters and set up, the story took off and I couldn't put it down. I loved how author Karen Kelly wove the stories of the three ladies of Brynmoor together. The characters were well developed and the writing was very good. I look forward to more novels by Karen Kelly.

Bethlehem is a historical fiction novel that truly packs an emotional punch. Karen Kelly did a great job with the pacing of this novel—my attention was 100% the entire way through! I am usually great a figuring out the twists and turns, but I was definitely caught by surprise by several in this book! The storyline was well thought-out and the time hopping between the 1920’s and the 1960’s worked well to unfold the plot. Karen Kelly as does a fantastic job with educating the reader about Bethlehem, PA as well as it’s surrounding areas—loved that! Bethlehem is a 4.5 star read that will touch your heart. I cannot wait to see what Karen Kelly comes out with next!

Calling all historical fiction fans! You're going to love this one! Unfortunately, unless you have an advance copy, you're going to have to wait until July.

This is also a "time slip" novel, going back and forth between generations and their trials and tribulations.

Joanna marries into the prestigious Parrish family and has problems adapting to her new opulent surroundings after having a more humble upbringing. She spends most of her time with her two children, her mother in law, Susannah and husband's grandmother, Helen. Joanna's husband, Frank, spends endless hours working at Bethlehem Steel.

The story switches from Joanna's new life, to Susannah's history and her life with her brother, Kit, sister India and family friends Wyatt and Chap. Wyatt and Chap are from the Collier family. Their father, Charles, Sr., works closely with Susannah's father, Hollins and the two families are forever connected both in love and in tragedy.

While Joanna has issues living in grandeur, and at first believes she will never connect with her mother in law or her husband's grandmother, but sometimes the people who we relate to are the ones we least expect. And, Susannah also finds that forging a relationship with Joanna might be her saving grace.

I loved this story. For one reason, I like historical books, especially when there are things in there that interest me enough to do a little more research. For example, there is a reference to an old time band in the book and I found out they were, in fact, a real band back in the times of Susannah's youth.

Also, (and bear with this personal tidbit) last year, I went to a concert at the Sands Resort in Bethlehem, PA. It is situated directly next to the now defunct Bethlehem Steel Plant, mentioned numerous times in this book. While there, I found looking at the plant fascinating, but also kind of sad. It's sad seeing such a once powerful factory closed.

When I read, I automatically imagine what I am reading. This book made it really easy to do. Also, sometimes, when I am reading something I don't enjoy so much, I look at the remainder left and I am sometimes discouraged when I see so much left when I don't think there's all that much left to say.

However, with this one, I was shocked when I would look down at the remainder of this one and was upset when I saw I was almost finished (lol)! I wanted this story to go on longer!

This was one of my favorites in awhile! Thank you so much to the publisher for this opportunity. I really enjoyed it and think it will do very well!

Wow I really enjoyed this book. Lots of secrets in the mansion. It takes place in the 60's but goes back to the 20's
It's a light read but so good. Look forward to reading more from this author.

I was not sure of this book when I started reading, seemed much too heavy hearted. . But, thank goodness, I have this quirk about reading a book till the end, I would have missed out on a great book otherwise. I may not have cared about them in the beginning but I sure did as I kept reading. This book creeps up on you, I remember thinking as I kept reading that I was so glad I'm a very fast reader, I would just bull my way through it and be done with it. By the last paragraph I was like, No, it can't be over, I want more of them. This is my first book by this author but it won't be my last.

From the 1920's to the 1960's, the Collier and Parrish families have been very close. Living a life of wealth and privilege as major players in the steel industry in Bethlehem, PA.

They do everything together. Their children do everything together. Life looks perfect and every thing they touch is good.  

By the time Frank and Joanna Collier and their two small children come to live on the estate his own father has died leaving his mother and grandmother alone. While Joanna isn't at all on board with this plan and is quite miserable about it and who wouldn't be? No one needs 3 strong women under one roof! Every new wife and mother wants to be the queen of their domain but Joanna is feeling like an unwelcome guest and with Frank up to his ears in business, she finds herself wandering through the nearby grave yard and not only finds a mystery, but a handsome stranger.

I will own up to being a bit overwhelmed with all of the characters in this tale. There were a lot. There were also a lot of secrets. Nothing was what I thought it was. At the beginning I found myself whining about another book with a weak and whiny main character. I am so glad I stuck with it because it was nothing like that! These women were all strong. They had to be. The secrets they carried weighed heavy on them for decades.

And in the end I cried and cried. A tale of family, pain, secrets, forgiveness, and trust. Never has the saying, "We never know what is really going on behind closed doors" been more true.

A beautiful story!

NetGalley/ St. Martin's Press July 09,2019

Bethlehem by Karen Kelly
Always been fascinated by the steel industry in our travels.
Enjoyed this read from a new author to me for many reasons.
I learned new words, love hearing of the location that we've by many times, the mine stories and the history.
Drama of the women and who they marry, their lives before and after as they grow older.
Secrets kept and pain they do cause over time.
Very detailed descriptions I can picture the scenes in my mind. Would like to read more from this author.
Received this review copy via the publicist from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

Karen Kelly has written a very nice debut novel of families, love, loss, and endurance. Alternating between the 1920's and the 1960's, she tells the tale of Joanna and her mother-in-law, the daughter of a Bethlehem Steel magnate. This is a good family saga, with secrets from the past slowly coming to light, and the new generation facing their own choices. There are some predictable plot lines, but there are enough surprises here to keep you interested until the final page. I also loved the look at 1920's society. Many thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the e-arc.

This is a lovely debut novel about two families--one in the 1920's and the descendants in 1962. When Joanna moves back to Bethlehem, PA with her husband and two children after her father-in-law's death, she feels threatened by the opulence she sees in the grand house inhabited by her husband's mother and grandmother. Not wanting her own children to embrace the lifestyle they witness, she is reluctant to expose them to the grandeur inherent in the family legacy. But in alternating chapters, we see the family as they grew up in the 20's--the secrets they kept and the heartaches they endured. Are people always doomed to repeat the past or can families forge their own destinies? This is a hauntingly lovely look at the qualities that make us human as well as the power of redemption.

This is a wonderful book! The writing style is engaging. I loved the way the history of Bethlehem was woven into the story. The story centers around two close well-to-do families in the steel industry in the 20's and in the early 60's. It bounces back and forth between the two time periods and generations. The characters are likable and relatable. It is easy to follow along between the two settings. I enjoyed following the storyline and liked the choices that the characters made for the most part. Both the families were interesting and their close relationships were beautifully described. It was easy to become invested in them. Some have described this book as "fluffy" or a "beach read" and I can understand that to a point, but I think these characters had more depth than a typical beach read and the story was less predictable and better defined than a typical quick read. I look forward to more from this author!

Bethlehem by Karen Kelly

This story grabbed me a little way in and wouldn’t let go. A family saga covering three generations in one house, Brynmoor manor, Karen Kelly tells a wonderful tale of the Parrish clan and their best friends, the Colliers. Subtle humor is everywhere, so don’t miss it.

Taking place alternating between the 1920s and 1960s, you will find the author’s use of language perfect for each era and the times she writes about. Kelly has a sharp perception of human nature as well, so she creates likable characters with strengths and weaknesses you’ll understand.

The author will show you that sometimes the ones you least expect will be the ones to surprise you the most and that there really are no secrets in life. Five stars from me for a tale well told.
My thanks to #netgalley and #Stmartinspress for an advance copy for this review.

I received an advanced digital copy of this book from Netgalley.com and the publisher, St. Martin's Press. Thanks to both for the opportunity to read and review.

Bethlehem is set during the steel boom of Pennsylvania. It spans 2 very similar decades in American history, the 1920s and 1960s. It is a story of family and coming to understand the people in our family and ourselves in the process. A fast paced tale that moves flawlessly between decades, not a word is wasted on bringing to life a grand steel family and their struggles.

5 out of 5 stars, highly recommended.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Bethlehem. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Wow! This novel can sure evoke emotion! I was vicariously feeling the constant happiness of a fresh new love affair, the cringe-worthiness of dealing with in-laws, and the total devastation of emotional losses. (These losses affected me deeply...actually sobbed and cried a few times!) I figured out some of the plot before it was revealed, however, this did not adversely impact my reading experience at all. I found that my expectations were actually exceeded by the unfolding of events because of the sheer depth of emotion and simple beauty in the telling. I may have spent about 4 or 5 days getting to know the characters of Susannah (Sassy) and Joanna, and now, I am really wishing there was more to the story. The weight of the tragic happenings in one of these women's lives in particular will certainly haunt my thoughts for some time even after finishing the novel. (I despise and refuse to provide spoilers, but I will say that I most appreciated the mother-in-law's half of the book.). I will most definitely read work from this author again. Fabulous storyline.

Thank you to NetGalley and Karen Kelly for the ARC!

"You must do the thing you think you cannot do." (Eleanor Roosevelt)

Karen Kelly presents a budding novel that arrives on the first chapters with wiggling toes that barely seem to cause a ripple in the tide. I must tell you that I felt its initial stages to be slow going. There were so many, many characters to keep track of with the elbowing in of a time warp from 1960 back to the 1920's. I was ready to set it aside for a bit. But it was then that Karen Kelly deepened her characters with sharp edges and darkened shadows.

Bethlehem becomes a tale of the people themselves who benefitted from the onset of U.S. Steel both directly and indirectly. It is a story lined with the patriarch, Hollins Parrish, as a visionary implementing structural steel in city construction and in the timing and the mindfulness of the war efforts.

Kelly draws parallels with the Collier family who are intertwined socially and in the steel business with the Parrish family. In the 1960's, Frank and Joanna Collier and their two children take up residence at the family estate. They join the two elderly grande damas of the land, Susannah, Frank's mother and Helen, his grandmother. We find Joanna moving further and further back into the periphery of the luxurious rooms. She is, indeed, a fish slowly losing its gills.

But Karen Kelly allows Joanna to cross paths with ol' Doe Janssen who resides as a caretaker next to St. Gregory's Cemetery that houses the remains of those industrial giants along with some weighty secrets of the past. Hence, the 1960's with side steps back into the 1920's.

Bethlehem takes on a fine-honed lustre as we reach the finale. All along in life, it's frankly been about the people who leave an imprint upon us of long or short duration and the guided or misguided devotion that we hold for them. As much as times change throughout the years, human nature, good...bad...or indifferent stays the same. The heart wants what the heart wants.

I received a copy of Bethlehem through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to St. Martin's Press and to Karen Kelly for the opportunity.

At first I had trouble keeping the myriad of characters straight, but once I hit the night that Susannah had her coming out ball, I was hooked. Loved the parallel story lines from the two generations and loved the way the backgrounds of characters were slowly, but most effectively, revealed. The last quarter of the book was a true masterpiece. So much temptation and regret, secrets hidden that would forever change lives, and mother/daughter , husband/wife relationships to ponder. All in all a very satisfying read! Baby Hayes stole the book! Many thanks to Karen Kelly, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for affording me the opportunity to read an ARC of this historical fiction novel to be published July 9th.

Hidden family secrets, deceit, love, faith, hope, reparation. Some twists and turns and heartbreakingly sorrowful family secrets. A thoroughly engaging read that I found impossible to put down.

Very interesting read. A woman moves into her husband's family home with their kids and his mother and grandmother. Things aren't perfect and through their struggles she is surprised to find an unlikely ally.

Bethlehem by Karen Kelly
MAY 21, 2019KERRINHP EDIT

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I wanted to love this book more than I did. First of all, the cover was intriguing, as the name of the novel.
3.5 Stars.

In the 1960’s a young nurse Joanna, who grew up in a middle class family, marries Frank Collier, whose family ran Bethlehem Steel and are very wealthy. Due to the death of Frank’s father, Wyatt Collier, Frank and Joanna, with their two children, move in with Frank’s mother Susannah Parrish Collier and grandmother Helen Parrish at the family’s grand mansion. Frank is a work-a-holic. Joanna gets bored and starts a friendship with a gardener at the local cemetery. There is a mysterious headstone for a baby at the cemetery. Susannah and Helen seem to be keeping secrets. Alternate chapters take place in the 1920’s when the Susannah was the youngest of Helen’s three teenagers who the constant companions of the Wyatt and Chap Collier, the sons of the Parrishes’ best friends, Charles and Frances.

I was at first confused by the fact that Frank’s family ran Bethlehem Steel. I thought perhaps this was a fictionalized biography of real people who actually worked there. A quick google search make it clear that this was not the case. I also didn’t like that almost every single character had a nickname. Doe = Dorothy; Susannah = Sassy; Hollins V =Kit; Hollins IV = Hep; Genevieve = Gigi; Helen = Heddy; Davida = Daisy; India = Itty; Francis was Frank and one of the three Charles was Chap. With so many names floating about it was hard to establish who was who at first. The women characters were certainly more interesting, but all of the characters were likable and believable. The families were close knit and loyal to each other.

My favorite quotes:

Doe: “I’ve learned a thing or two in my antiquity —- chief among them that things are seldom what they seem. Often the person who appears the most . . . impenetrable . . . is, in truth, the most fragile.”

Susannah: “When I was a young woman, my mother gave me an exceptional gift. She said it was one that her father had given her. It was just a simple sentence, but it helped me through some pitch-black hours. What she said was this: ‘I’m never here to judge you; I’m only here to help you.”‘

I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but what I found was good. It was a slow-paced, character-driven novel, but it drew me in and while not too much happens, I found myself immersed in the story and cried at the end. If a book gets me to cry, it's usually a good sign :) Overall I quite enjoyed the storytelling and would recommend it.

Wow! What a wonderful read for a debut novel. I was drawn to the book as I have been to Bethlehem, PA and wanted to know more about the town. Traveling between the 1920's and 1960's this book did not disappoint. Readers who like historical fiction, family and mystery will be taken with this book. Never is it easy when Joanna, a young wife and mother and her family moves into the home of her mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law. She struggles to find her way and to reach a stoic mother-in-law.
Mystery surrounds the family and Joanna is able to peal the layers away to reveal the truth.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review in exchange for my opinion.

I absolutely loved this book.

A family drama, Bethlehem follows Joanna, a young mother of two married to a man whose family has made their riches from steel. The unexpected death of her father-in-law leaves her husband in charge of the business and Joanna and children moving into the family estate

The story switches between the present and Joanna's struggles to get to know her in-laws and adjust to small town life, and the story of Susannah, her hard to reach mother-in-law.

As the stories entwine the past is and its impact on the present is gradually revealed. It's hard to say too much without spoiling it.

I was absolutely gripped within a few chapters as both aspects of the story are told beautifully. The characters are still with me days later.

Thank you Karen Kelly, St Martins Press and Netgalley for this advanced copy in return for an honest review

A good historical fiction, seems to me very accurate too.
The writing style was very good, I enjoyed it very much.
The book is a constant jump between the past and the future, constructed like a bridge between the to time periods.
Indeed, a very good book, full of emotion and with a nice personal style touch from the author.

This is a beautiful story about a big house and families and their secrets. Set in Bethlehem, PA this book will take you on a journey to the 1960's and 1920's. It is a fairly quick read. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to fans of historical fiction.

I would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.

Bethlehem is the story of a strong family and two very different women from two distinctly different times who’ve now come together under one roof: 1960’s housewife Joanna and her 1920’s-era mother-in-law.
This is a slow-growing, character-driven story about the invisible ties that develop between people through our lives. The characters (there are a lot to keep track of and it felt overwhelming early on) are richly developed and intriguing, each with a unique history, motivation and voice.
Karen Kelly writes of each era and character in a way that brings them to life without slowing the pace or feeling too showy. The stories of both women are beautifully woven together until the finale beautiful end, which left me a little misty eyed.

I received a copy of Bethlehem from St. Martin's Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Three generations of women raise their children in the manor home of the founders of Bethlehem Steel between 1918 and 1962. Their stories are different yet underneath their basics are the same.

I enjoyed piecing together their stories together as we bounced between eras but I had to make myself note the date as each chapter began in order to understand how old people were so their actions and relationships made sense.

A very sad life under the eaves of a wealthy mansion that looked so wonderful from the outside.

Historical fiction has become one of my go to genres in the past 10 years or so, so when I had the opportunity to review this book I wanted to grab it as quickly as possible.

The author does a fabulous job of telling this story, even though it bounces between two different time periods. I had a hard time putting it down, mostly because I became emotionally invested almost from the first page.

If you are looking for a book that is unputdownable (is that even a word? lol) this is the book for you.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press for this great book via Netgalley!

I really enjoy historical fiction and enjoy when the author uses a few characters to write about a few different time periods like the author did here. I liked reading about the daughter in law and mother in law and how different life was in Bethlehem from the 1920's to the 1950's. From the descriptions of clothes, décor, parties and life I felt like I was there.

I love the great cover!

I don't want to spoil too much so I will say that this book will keep you glued to the pages! .

First, thank you to the publisher and author for providing me with a digital ARC of this title via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. This was a new author to me and I knew very little of the book before I got it. I was drawn in by the cover and then interested in reading more once I read the summary. I am so glad I was given the chance to read this title. I was immediately drawn into the story. I loved the jump in narration between the two time periods and how it provided different glimpses into the characters' lives. It was nice meeting the characters in the present time while the jump into the past helped to explain their story and how they became the person they are today. The story had it all with family and friendship bonds, romance, marriage, a little mystery to keep you guessing. It was a really enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more by this author.

Book review: Bethlehem by Karen KellyAMBER LOVE 02-MAY-2019 This review is a courtesy provided by NetGalley. To support this site and my other work, please consider being a monthly donor at Patreon.com/amberunmasked; you can also buy my books through Amazon (or ask your local retailer to order you copies). I'm also an Amazon Influencer so you can shop through my lists of recommended products.Review:Karen Kelly has poetic and eloquent writing with consistent period vernacular of the 1920's and 1960's in Bethlehem: A Novel from St. Martin's Press. She masterfully created a single story that spans four generations which particularly highlights Susannah "Sassy" Parrish as a young girl, a young woman, then as a grandmother elder of the Parrish mansion known as Brynmor. Sassy's story is relatable despite being one of privilege and class during the steel boom era when her father Hep amassed the family wealth with the help of his best friend Charles Collier, Sr. This elder generation of Parrish and Collier kin finds its way into the 1960's marital troubles between Sassy's son, Frank and his wife Joanna.Joanna is the next character in line as a focal point. She's from a lower middle class background with a blue collar father and mother who was not interested in the rise of feminism. Joanna first believes that the class differences and her lack of adjustment to a lifestyle of maids and chauffeurs will be the biggest source of tension in her marriage. As she develops a surprising friendship with her mother-in-law, she realizes money is not the source of her trouble. Temptation to be unfaithful is the same regardless of how rich one is. Having your child dropped off at school in a Rolls Royce is no substitute for his father never being home.Karen Kelly makes Joanna and Sassy equally as sympathetic characters. Their unlikely friendship is a mirror to one prior, that of Sassy's mother Helen "Hedy" and Dorothy "Doe". Doe and her family are the local cemetery keepers who sell and dig the plots and tend to the grounds. The rich history of their friendship unfolds in glorious and shocking twists along with Sassy and Jo's relationship.One thing that Karen Kelly makes perfectly clear as the family secrets are revealed is that romance and love are not sure things and cannot be forced. Lovers being separated by distance and obligations leaves someone left behind no matter what year it is.Joanna wiped the sleeve of her nightgown brusquely across her eyes, further frustrated by her tears. They were born not only of the feeling that she was losing her identity and control of her life, but also -- and even more acute -- of the threat to a sacred expectation: if there was going to be a power struggle in the household, she needed to know that her husband would stand behind her.Kelly paints an elaborate picture of each scene. The decadence of the background at Brynmor mansion is especially brought to life in the chapter about Sassy's debutante ball. Rather than going for the bouffant chiffon and frills like her older sister India, Sassy makes her party a full flapper jazz extravaganza like the people have never seen before.Though readers get know all the male characters too, they pale in comparison to the strong, flawed, loving women around them. I found myself reading the final chapter and the epilogue several times trying to sort out how Sassy's husband Wyatt died. The how is not as important as what he was trying to communicate as death came calling. His love for Sassy was more solid than the his family's steel.Doe was teary again, her voice thick. "It's true what they say, you know. The smallest coffins are the heaviest."*Content Note*Readers are introduced quickly to Doe and her grandson Daniel at the cemetery. One of the plots that is of particular interest to Joanna and her children is a small headstone marked as Baby Hayes. Death of a child and miscarriage are subjects addressed throughout Joanna's investigation into who Baby Hayes was.

This is a cozy historical fiction read of a Bethlehem Steel original family. Their trials and tribulations, their failures and triumphs, their secrets. I especially liked it because I live in Bethlehem and it was fun to read about areas I know. It’s a fast read, comfortable, characters are believable. It really brings to one’s imagination what it must have been like during Bethlehem Steel’s heyday. A lovely period piece.

It took a little bit for the story to get going. I enjoyed the prose style writing, although it did lose me at times, and the beautiful imagery the words created. But I didn't get the point of the story at first. But when it got deeper and secrets began to reveal themselves, I devoured the rest!

It's a heart-breakingly beautiful story about a woman trying to find her place in her new family and an unlikely confident when the waters start to rise. I highly recommend picking this up when it's released in July!

A family with high society obligations and dark secrets that really weren't so well-kept after all. Karen Kelly has crafted a beautiful story of two families whose children are the best of friends and whose destinies seem determined to be woven together. The Parrish and Collier families were brought together in the 1920s when Charles Collier was hired by Hollins Parrish, the CEO of Bethlehem Steel. Not only did the men become colleagues, their families also became close and their children inseparable.

The story is set in the 1960s and the most recent generation of the Collier has moved back to the family estate so that Frank, the grandson of Charles Collier AND Hollins Parrish, can help with the business now that his father has passed. Frank's wife, Joanna, comes from much more humble beginnings that her husband and finds it rather overwhelming, being thrust into a high society lifestyle. Her husband's new work responsibilities and the fact that she is living in the same home as her husband's mother and grandmother leaves Joanna a bit at a loss. She can't put her own touches on her living space and rarely sees her husband due to the long hours he is putting in to get a new shop up and running. All of this serves to set her up for a serious interpersonal struggle. In a moment of weakness, Joanna tells her mother-in-law, Susannah, everything, only to find a very sympathetic friend. Susannah's own past is shrouded in secrecy and it is only too easy for her to sympathize with Joanna's plight.

In a moment of clever literary planning, the reader is in on Susannah's secret long before Joanna. Kelly brilliantly alternates between the 1960s and the 1920s, telling Susannah's story in small pieces in between the story of Joanna's adjustment to her new circumstances. Kelly has crafted characters that are easy to become attached to and you find yourself hoping desperately that their mistakes won't have too negative an impact.

Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Bethlehem travels between two generations of Bethlehem steel families, one in the 1920s and the other in the 1960s. Karen Kelly weaves the stories together seamlessly and builds the relationships of friendship and love in both times. Secrets from one generation impact the next and build bonds among people that, at first, seem unexpected. It’s easy to become wrapped up in this book, wanting to know more, to learn the truth. Kelly’s literary debut satisfies a book lover’s yearn to keep turning pages while at the same time providing fitting closure at the end. Now that I’ve been to Karen Kelly’s Bethlehem, I will definitely recommend it to others. I also look forward to reading any future books she writes.

In 1962 Johanna and her family move in with her husband's mother and grandmother. Her husband is gone alot to the family's company. Johanna doesn't know how to fit with her new surroundings. Little does she know, she has more of a connection with her mother-in-law than she thought. There are some secrets meant to be shared.

Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed Bethlehem! Karen Kelly did an amazing job. I will say at first I was a little lost but within three chapters it all fit in place. The connection between the Colliers and Parrishes were so relatable. I reminded me of neighbors I had growing up. The most captivating character had to be Susannah Parrish, Joanna's motherinlaw. She was so strong and resilient. Witnessing Susannah's triumphants and heartbreaks made me feel closer to her that any other character.

I highly recommend this debut novel!!! I can't wait to see what Karen Kelly writes next!

I received a free copy from NetGalley. I wish this book had a different title. The town is called Bethlehem after the steel plant that is in the town. Secrets play a major role in this novel about relationships, family, and choices that ripple through time. This tale would make a good summer beach read.

The epic history of families inextricably linked that follows generations of family members as it unearths long buried secrets of love, loss and healing.

Set in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and spanning over forty years, author Karen Kelly has created three families, the Colliers, the Parrishs and the Janssens whose men and women are blessed with good looks, copious charisma and futures that appear to hold unlimited promise.

It is their stories of devotion, yearning and lies, that are so perfectly drawn, the reader will find themselves unable to extricate themselves from the fascinating series of events that make these often lost and lonely souls easy to relate to and difficult to forget.

I always enjoy the story's that jump in timelines, back and forth, as the story is unraveled. I only guessed the ending very close to the end. The need to keep the secret decimated this family ultimately. It shows how important open and honest communication is.

Bethlehem by Karen Kelly is a wonderful story of family, secrets and love that endures. Historical fiction about a family in the 1920‘s to 1960‘s surrounded by romance, tragedy and mystery.. I enjoyed the suspense of the situations involving the characters and how their lives are affected. I loved this book so much I immediately searched for other books by Karen Kelly and purchased her first book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book.

I grew up in Allentown, PA, the city next to Bethlehem and the two cities were extremely different mostly because of their influences. Bethlehem Steel and its wealthy anglos were the center of that city; whereas Allentown reflected the German immigrants, especially those who started breweries. The book by Karen Kelly does a terrific job of highlighting the social scene in Bethlehem that overshadowed neighboring cities and small towns.

As the author shows, Bethlehem held on tightly to its small group of elites, in a strange sort of exclusion. They were afforded freedom to experiment as long as it was within the physical and social boundaries of their defined lives. As we see in the book that was evident in the Gatsby years and carried all the way forward until society and imports began to change so forcefully around the families that they could no longer hold onto the worlds they knew and expected to continue.

This was a good book. You will have to pay attention closely in the beginning because you are introduced to a lot of characters in quick succession and it can be somewhat tricky to remember who are the friends and who are the relatives/family members. The book focuses on the Collier and Parrish families in Bethlehem, PA -- Hollins Parrish ran Bethlehem Steel and Charles Collier was the head engineer and their families were inseparable, with Wyatt Collier and Susannah Parrish ultimately marrying. The book alternates between the 1920s when the children were teenagers/young adults and 1962, when Susannah's son, Frank, and his family have returned to the family home following the sudden death of Wyatt Collier. Frank's wife, Joanna, is not used to the lifestyle in which Frank grew up and she is not entirely comfortable living in a home that already has two mistresses of the house -- Susannah and her mother Helen. With Frank out of town for prolonged periods with work and the children in school, Joanna finds herself drawn to the local cemetery, and Daniel, one of the caretakers.

The characters are well-crafted and engaging; in fact, Susannah's siblings, Kit and India, could easily be subjects of short books themselves detailing their adventurous adult lives. The plot progresses steadily and alternating between time periods works well in this book (not something that all authors can manage well). Some of the events of the book are predictable, but there are a fair share of surprises as well.

The book deals with family secrets and how keeping secrets, even if done with good intentions, can have life-altering effects. It also addresses the depth of sacrifice some people are willing to make for the ones they love. The ending of the book is incredibly powerful.

I received a copy of the e-book via NetGalley in exchange for a review.

Two strong women are drawn together through life's experiences. Two family histories and secrets are entwined in the town of Bethlehem.
Later, the secrets are revealed. It would have been better to have been open about the events in the first place. So much easier in the long run. At the end of the day, it seems that the secrets weren't even really secret.
Well written. Strong characters. Interesting and enjoyable.

I find it hard to believe Bethlehem is Karen Kelly's debut in the literary world. Every part of this book is note perfect. The descriptions, the characters, the dialogue - spoken and unspoken, the situations; everything was just so right! Make sure you have tissues at the ready when you read this beautiful and haunting story. I breezed through it in little over a day simply because I couldn't hear to put it down.

Bethlehem is essentially a story of women who discover love, loss, strength, yearning and possibly themselves. There are two main stories told in two time periods linked by one house and by family ties. Susannah straddles both worlds but her defining story takes place in the 1920s; Joanna, her daughter-in-law finds her challenges in the 1960s. They each in their own way and time struggle with love, hurt, betrayal, and loneliness. What do we give up for love? What do we gain? How do we connect? Is it possible to find our way back to those we love?

The story takes place in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania often in Brynmor House, a mansion built by the family who founded Bethlehem Steel. The history of the town, business, and family is really the history of two families, the Colliers and the Parrishes. Together they combined business and personal into one. what happens in the 1920s affects the people in the 1960s. Two seems to be a recurring theme in this novel. Two families, two time periods, two women facing challenges, two brothers, two sisters, two siblings (twins), two children, two deaths (close together), two chances, two choices.

I received this novel as an ARC and this is an unbiased review. What a great story about families and secrets they keep. It is also a search for identity within a family and the commitments that you make in this world. I requested the book through NETGALLEY because of the setting of the book and the author did not fail in drawing on the rich history of Bethlehem PA in its heyday. That part of the book is more than authentic. The three main women characters are solid, depicting generational changes that also render a portrait of similar struggles. My only complaint is I would have liked more but the story does come full circle. My thanks to St. Martin's Press and to Karen Kelly for the opportunity.

Bethlehem by Karen Kelly is a very interesting book. It centers on a group of families connected by the Steel Industry in Bethlehem Pennsylvania. It switches between Bethlehem in the 1920’s and the 1960’s. It may take a few chapters to get the different generations sorted but after you will love the story. You will see how the characters evolve with the times. You also discover those people you feel you had nothing in common with may understand you the most. In the end, you will love going along journey with these families.

BETHLEHEM by Karen Kelly is a moving multi-generational family saga set in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in the 1920s and 1960s. It is a tale of the close relationship between two wealthy families who make their fortunes from the Bethlehem Steel Corporation at the height of the steel boom in the US. Full with long-buried family secrets, lies and forbidden relationships, it is a story of love, friendship and family ties spanning over three generations. It explores the strong bonds between mothers and children, husbands and wives, neighbors and friends. The author weaves the two timelines together seamlessly in the end for the reader to understand the loss and heartache experienced by the various characters and their path to forgiveness and hope. I enjoyed this engaging story and I look forward to reading more from Karen Kelly in the future. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read an early copy.

The action is set in Bethlehem, PA and oscillates between 1920 and 1960 and focuses on the relationship between the Collier family and the Parrish family. This relationship is based on their involvement in the US Steel business reaching across construction and also in supplying munitions during the war in Europe. They are also connected socially and the children of both families are particularly close.

I struggled at the beginning with all the characters: attempting to identify which child was related to which child; which children belonged to which parents: compounded with names of ancillary characters like servants etc. and to top it all – they all had nicknames. AHH!

So, imagine my joy (relief) when I had them all settled and in place in my mind and I could just absorb and enjoy the writing which I found quite lyrical, and coast along relishing what was to come. This family saga turned into something special, a little pearl of a plot that I had to excavate to discover not knowing that at the heart it was quite, quite beautiful. Nothing flashy, nothing sensational – just a gentle story of love and relationships that time moulds and reveals.

Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.

An atmospheric gothic read about a wealthy family and its secrets, as teased out by a newcomer to the family and its estate in Bethlehem, PA. It could be dismissed as just another entry into the long line of books about rich white people and secret love affairs and tragically short lives, but it's beautifully written and the author's inclusion of class-based conflict makes it seem more real and more compelling than if that aspect hadn't been present.

This book, so thoroughly enveloped me, like a cozy blanket. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Karen Kelly is a skilled and fluent writer, able to convey a well constructed tale. This novel is thoughtful, intriguing and heartfelt. I loved every one of the characters, along with some of the well kept secrets and aching longings. I do not write about the story line in my reviews, that can be gleened from the book flap. The intimacies shared, along with the tragedies, wove a truly ruminative narrative. I highly recommend this book. It’s one of the finest I have had the privilege to read as an ARC from Netgalley. Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press.

Book Description
A young woman arrives at the grand ancestral home of her husband’s family, hoping to fortify her cracking marriage. But what she finds is not what she expected: tragedy haunts the hallways, whispering of heartache and a past she never knew existed.
Inspired by the true titans of the steel-boom era, Bethlehem is a story of temptation and regret, a story of secrets and the cost of keeping them, a story of forgiveness. It is the story of two complex women—thrown together in the name of family—who, in coming to understand each other, come finally to understand themselves.

My Thoughts
I usually read mysteries and thrillers, but occasionally like to step away from those genres, just to give my furious page-flipping habit a rest. Bethlehem tells the story of two women Joanna and Susannah in two timelines the 1960s and the 1920s. They're related by marriage as Susannah is Joanna's mother in law. Neither has a perfect life and secrets are revealed by both women.
This wasn't fast-paced, but rather a beautifully written slow burn of a story. I found myself engrossed in not only the characters lives but also the times and the places. Such a well-written debut novel and I would definitely recommend if you enjoy this genre. Publication date is in July, the perfect time for a beach read. I look forward to reading more from Karen Kelly.
I received a DRC from St. Martin’s Press(thanks Jordan) through NetGalley.

(review posted on Goodreads)

I don't always read historical fiction, but when I do, I usually enjoy it. This was the case for Bethlehem. The story revolves around two generations of women, which unfold in two distinct timelines: in the 1960s we follow Joanna, a lonely wife who is forced to leave her home for her husband's mansion with her two children, and in the 1920s we follow her mother-in-law, Susannah.

The stories of these two women and their families intertwine with great pace, and we see strong women growing in their relationships, suffering the sorrows of wives and mothers, creating unsuspected bonds and sharing secrets and ancient wisdom.

I enjoyed this book very much, the plot was revealed throughout the end, making the first half of the book slower. This is a characteristic that I actually appreciate in historical fiction, because it allows the reader to focus on the atmosphere and get to know the characters before the reveals. I also liked the character build very much, and I was especially fond of Susannah, and of the relationship between her and her daughter-in-law. This is a book about women, so the male characters stay in the background and are less developed than the female ones, but still likable.

I also liked the writing style, not too plain but not too heavy either, which I found appropriate for the time setting and the general style of the novel. I was going to rate this three stars from the beginning, as I found it a very enjoyable read, but the last chapters raised it two a solid four stars. I will surely read any other future work by this author.

Bethlehem is a truly riveting story, reminiscent of 'Rebecca,' where the truth is really not what it seems.
I was happy to see that this didn't go the traditional route in which these kind of novels where there is a failing marriage, tend to go. The author managed to present a great cast of complex characters that became more interesting with each chapter.

Loved this book!!!!!!!!! Karen Kelly definitely knows how to tell a great historical fiction story!!!!! This is the tale of two families joined as one for life. The children are best friends as are the adults. It also tells the story of their future children and grandchildren. There's too many characters to name names but not too many that readers get confused. If you love historical fiction this is the story for you. Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for my honest review.

I received an ARC of this book, saw it was receiving good reviews, started reading...

Mother and 2 children take slight detour on way home to swing on a swing
and they meet a woman who speaks of past
and walks them through a cemetery where they see
smooth carved monuments dated before the Civil War
that speaks to them,
"Recognize me once more - that I should exist again"

This is only the beginning of a book where you will travel back to Bethlehem, PA
where in 1914 Bethlehem Steel begun to roar with warfare
then to 1918
then to 1962
how these time periods are all linked and connected - you will need to read to discover.

Long buried secrets, family, privilege, redemption and forgiveness. This book spoke to me and touched my heart. I loved the characters and the double narration in two different points in the past. Beautifully written. 💜💜

4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you, Netgalley!

#Netgalley
#Bethlehem
#Forgiveness
#IAmBawling

A beautifully written novel that I'll be recommending. A special thanks to St. Martin’s Press and the author for an advance copy.

I want to give this book all the stars and shout about it to the world, but simultaneously want to hide it away so it can stay my pure and perfect discovery that no one can ever say a bad word about.

Bethlehem had the ultimate chemistry for me. It had the period-piece elegance of Rules of Civility, the thought-provoking and nostalgic charm of Station Eleven and Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance, and evoked the same level of emotional response as The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry and The Art of Fielding.

I picked up this book because I used to live in Bethlehem, and find the little city to be super charming. The steel boom that put Bethlehem on the map is utterly fascinating to me, and it helped to set some of the scene.

But this story isn’t about steel industry or even Bethlehem, really, though that’s it’s only setting. The book’s about complex relationships: between complication women, with romantic partners, and with ourselves. It begs a lot of questions about forgiveness: who deserves it, when to ask for it, and if we owe it to ourselves.

The story oscillates between two timelines — 1920s and 1960s — and zooms in on two families. You’ll get the prohibition era flapper-dresses-in-ballrooms that you crave, but you’ll also find a new sort of beauty and solace in cemeteries.

Nothing about the plot ever shocked me, but I was certainly surprised how much I fell in love with the people and the place, and how much perspective it all gave me.

In this dual time frame novel, Karen Kelly gives us a beautifully wrought story of love, loss and the importance of family. Alternating between the 1960's and the 1920's, the novel opens with Joanna Collier, her husband Frank and their two children returning to live in the Collier mansion with Frank’s mother Susanna and Grandmother Helen. Flash back to the 1920's and we see Susanna as a young woman along with her sister India and brother Kit, best friends with the Parrish family’s two sons Chap and Wyatt. These two families, titans of the steel industry in Bethlehem, PA., are inseparable. The secrets and mysteries of the two generations gradually unfold and are revealed in a tender and moving ending.
While this novel had a slow start and the large cast of characters took some trouble to learn, it was well worth it. This is a book about passion, love and loyalty; it is about the sometimes complicated relationships between husbands and wives, mothers and daughters, siblings and friends.
Bethlehem is more Women’s Fiction than Historical Fiction, but it is a story that is compelling and beautifully written. The characters are sympathetic and believable, and the writing is profound. I highly recommend this novel. It will appeal to many different types of readers and would lend itself well to book club discussions.

What an amazing, well written novel about two families and their intertwined lives. I read this book in one night and am still thinking about Savannah and Joanne. Such a lovely read.

This is an absolutely wonderful story that I could not put down. The stories of the 1920s and the 1960s are deftly woven and the characters catch your heart. I lived in Bethlehem in the 1980, by which time the steel mills were closed/closing. Lehigh University and other place names were so familiar to me. Thanks to the author for the memories and excellent historical fiction.

Bethlehem covers the lives of Susannah, nicknamed Sassy, during the 1920’s, and Joanna, married to Susannah’s son Frank, in the 1960’s. Told in alternating time periods, the book shows how the often imposing Susannah developed her strong and courageous nature, and how she is able to understand what Joanna is feeling after moving her family to Brynmor to live with Susannah and her mother Helen.

I found Bethlehem fascinating, and appreciated Helen’s empathy and determination to protect Susannah during that difficult time after Chap’s death. The mystery and magic that all families hold was particularly evident in the love and support these women provided for one another.

Very complex and interesting story of a wife and mother following her husband due to his job duties. Book is very captivating and revealing. in nature. Very powerful story