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Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Hillary Tiefer’s The Secret Ranch is a historical novel that spans decades, following the hidden lives and sacrifices of women who served during World War II. It begins with Jean Warner, an elderly woman in 2006, as she prepares for a magazine interview about her secret wartime work intercepting enemy codes at Two Rock Ranch. The story flashes back to her youth in 1942, when she decided to join the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps. It explores her training at Fort Des Moines and her covert communications work, which remained classified for years. The narrative recounts the challenges of military discipline, wartime romance, and personal doubts. Jean’s story unfolds alongside that of other women from her unit, revealing their struggles, hopes, and perseverance.
The Secret Ranch is a gritty tale about the role of women during the Second World War. I loved the author’s exploration of Jean’s family life, which is deftly contrasted with her current reflections and her daughter Carolyn’s contemporary struggles with aging, divorce, and health. The characters are well-developed, with Jean particularly appealing to me due to her quiet strength. Opal’s spirited defiance and Gloria’s authenticity will resonate with any reader and compel them to root for these characters. Skillfully developed themes include secrecy in times of war, the unsung courage of women who served, and the essence of true sacrifice. The setting shifts from the wartime military bases of Oregon and Missouri to the tranquil landscapes of 2006 California. Hillary Tiefer’s novel is a unique historical novel that introduces fresh perspectives to the genre. While I was immersed in the setting, it was the grit and courage of the women serving during the war that captivated me. This novel is impeccably written.
