Thursday Book Review--Secret Sisters by Tristi Pinkston

Ida Mae Babbit is a Relief Society president in her hometown ward. She is an older, independent widow with lots of moxy and knows just how things ought to be done. She makes and eats a lot of cookies and brownies. I want to be just like her when I grow up.

This book is a refreshing romp into our LDS culture that allows us to laugh at ourselves. In the background story, Ida Mae has a huge 'to-do' list, which is very authentic. She also has to confront some of her own weaknesses and learns to be less critical and more positive.

Secret Sisters is a good study in character development. Each character has their own distinctive voice. Arlette, a counselor, is abrupt and down to business. Tansy, another counselor, is a little bit air-headed. She reminds me a lot of Gracie Allen (I watch reruns, okay?). Hannah, the secretary, is more quiet, which seems natural for a younger woman who may feel a little intimidated by a group of her elders. Ida Mae's nephew and Arlette's granddaughter also join the cast. All of the characters learn about themselves and each other by the end of the book.

Tristi Pinkston certainly makes storytelling look easy. I'm anxious to read book #2 before #3 comes out. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for sheer delight.