“I haven't been anywhere because I was sick. I have just felt lost. One thing has kept me company-and that is your lovely letters.” -Elliott June 16, 1918

A memoir over 100 years in the making brings history to life-as two lovebirds exchange letters during wartime, a pandemic, and massive social changes. Marcie McGuire discovered more than 250 of her grandparent's letters stored neatly in a closet after surviving multiple moves over many decades. Drawing on her background in library science, Marcie chronicles the story of 21-year-old Elliot Cranfill and 19-year-old Elma Beatty using the letters they exchanged from 1917–1918.

The book is organized chronologically-and Marcie includes introductions to each letter-providing readers with context to significant people and places mentioned. Love story enthusiasts and history buffs alike will enjoy this carefully preserved intimate record of World War I from the perspective of two bright young adults. She's in college; he's fighting for our country-and both are clinging to hope as the world witnesses unprecedented turmoil.

Marcie Mcguire

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