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The Rigel Affair
Based on a True Story... will their love survive the separation and wartime bloodshed?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2019
255 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
L.M. Hedrick
1 book24 followersLynette grew up listening to her mother Mattie’s stories about her WW2 love for US Navy Diver Charlie. She used Mattie’s 30 letters from Charlie, and together with her insightful editor/advisor husband, Bud, they completed extensive research to give reality to The Rigel Affair. Lynette has published multiple short stories for NZ magazines. Both Lynette and Bud have completed numerous Creative Writing courses at Auckland University. Lynette is an accomplished expressionist Artist, with works sold internationally.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 29, 2018
This almost biographical account of a man’s life in the Navy is compelling and interesting. In The Rigel Affair by L M Hedrick we follow along the path of Charlie Kincaid. We begin where Charlie begins: Mississippi in 1937. These are not easy times for a young man, especially a poor young man, but Charlie perseveres. This is a tough time: a time when war is pounding on the doorstep of America and Charlie steels himself towards his future. It’s not only Charlie we learn about, but Mattie Blanc too. Soon, their worlds will collide with each other and create a wonderful story that is as old as time. A poor boy, a well-off girl: a romance in a terrifying time.
Hedrick has done her research and it shows. The details that are poured into this novel are real, not fabricated, which pulls ever more at the heartstrings. Hedrick tells this tale of her mother’s love for her World War Two beau, our Charlie. This tale was inspired by letters and anecdotes from the author’s mother, but it is very much a treasured glimpse into what the world was like in the 1930s and 40s. These are the intimate tales that are becoming lost to the world as more and more veterans pass away.
Hedrick doesn’t sugar coat events or try to change personalities to suit her story. This is a very real retelling of events. Even if readers were not aware that the inspiration for this novel came from real individuals, Hedrick writes in such a way that readers would swear that the characters were about to jump off the page at them. By allowing readers to feel a connection with her characters, Hedrick allows them to surpass time and experience what it was like almost first hand. Historical romances have the unfortunate reputation of embellishing facts and events to suit the story the writer wants to tell. This can cause characters to be just that: characters. There is no reality to ground them or connect them to the reader. Hedrick goes above that. She uses the resources from her mother and goes further to clarify her understanding by contacting museums and doing compelling research. This gives birth to a story that is unlike others: a fiction with strong roots in the real world.
Readers who are looking for a compelling romance with a historical flair will not be disappointed with L M Hedrick’s The Rigel Affair. This book was expertly put together; based on research and real-life anecdotes. This is not a messy, fanciful romance that was crafted just for entertainment. This is a passionate, human look at what two lovers could overcome as World War Two rained down around them. This unique look brings the reality of war and the hardship of love together with the romance of fiction to tell a story that many might recognize hearing from their grandparents or other veterans. With our veterans disappearing around us, stories like this will become even more important to read, learn from, and cherish.
Hedrick has done her research and it shows. The details that are poured into this novel are real, not fabricated, which pulls ever more at the heartstrings. Hedrick tells this tale of her mother’s love for her World War Two beau, our Charlie. This tale was inspired by letters and anecdotes from the author’s mother, but it is very much a treasured glimpse into what the world was like in the 1930s and 40s. These are the intimate tales that are becoming lost to the world as more and more veterans pass away.
Hedrick doesn’t sugar coat events or try to change personalities to suit her story. This is a very real retelling of events. Even if readers were not aware that the inspiration for this novel came from real individuals, Hedrick writes in such a way that readers would swear that the characters were about to jump off the page at them. By allowing readers to feel a connection with her characters, Hedrick allows them to surpass time and experience what it was like almost first hand. Historical romances have the unfortunate reputation of embellishing facts and events to suit the story the writer wants to tell. This can cause characters to be just that: characters. There is no reality to ground them or connect them to the reader. Hedrick goes above that. She uses the resources from her mother and goes further to clarify her understanding by contacting museums and doing compelling research. This gives birth to a story that is unlike others: a fiction with strong roots in the real world.
Readers who are looking for a compelling romance with a historical flair will not be disappointed with L M Hedrick’s The Rigel Affair. This book was expertly put together; based on research and real-life anecdotes. This is not a messy, fanciful romance that was crafted just for entertainment. This is a passionate, human look at what two lovers could overcome as World War Two rained down around them. This unique look brings the reality of war and the hardship of love together with the romance of fiction to tell a story that many might recognize hearing from their grandparents or other veterans. With our veterans disappearing around us, stories like this will become even more important to read, learn from, and cherish.
November 17, 2018
The historical fiction genre has grown so much in the last few years. I love the style of this genre as it shows so much of both the past as well as bringing with it the period of time and learning.
This book delves into the past in World War II. It is something that is part of my past as well and it just shows how versatile this genre can be.
It hasn't been that long since Remembrance Day and this fits with what I like to do at this time of year.
This story is very enthralling which is wonderful. I wish that more books could put in the detail that this did and still not go over the top with minute issues.
This author puts forth such a great emphasis which marks the time period that this war.
The imagery is amazing in this book as were the characters. What I love is just seeing how things transpire.
This book delves into the past in World War II. It is something that is part of my past as well and it just shows how versatile this genre can be.
It hasn't been that long since Remembrance Day and this fits with what I like to do at this time of year.
This story is very enthralling which is wonderful. I wish that more books could put in the detail that this did and still not go over the top with minute issues.
This author puts forth such a great emphasis which marks the time period that this war.
The imagery is amazing in this book as were the characters. What I love is just seeing how things transpire.
October 21, 2018
While The Rigel Affair is a work of fiction, it is based on the author’s mother’s life. LM Hedrick thanks her mother, Mattie, in the acknowledgements. The story is about Charlie Kincaid and Mattie Blanc. The first half of the book chronicles their separate lives until they meet. They only meet because of World War II. Charlie is American, while Mattie is from New Zealand. The war serves as the backdrop for their love affair.
Charlie grew up in Falkner, Mississippi. He has been abandoned by his mother and taken in by an uncle after a fire at the orphanage. The uncle basically treats him like an indentured servant. It is a miserable life, one from which Charlie cannot wait to escape. While attending school in Falkner, Charlie meets Roxy, a girl who needs an escape as badly as he does. Together, they end up running away, leaving Falkner far behind.
Mattie comes from a completely different world. She comes from a wealthy and privileged family in Dunedin, New Zealand. She is leading a very happy life until an encounter with one of her brother’s friends that shatters her ideal existence. After the incident, she decides on a new path for her life. She will move to Auckland and become a hairdresser. The new path will lead her to Charlie.
Charlie ends up joining the navy as a diver after a brief time working on cargo ships. This leads him to Hawaii, where he experiences the attack on Pearl Harbor. After that, he is sent to Auckland, New Zealand. In New Zealand, Charlie and Mattie meet and it is an instant connection. Mattie is working as a hairdresser there, after graduating first in her class. She ended up in Auckland because her brother and his wife moved there.
I am giving the book a 4 out of 5. It is well written and engaging. Once I started reading, I found myself invested in the lives of Charlie and Mattie. I wanted to know what happens to them. I would classify the book as historical romance/drama. It was an interesting story that seemed incredibly believable. Scenarios like the one in the story probably played out many times during times of war.
Like so many stories during war times, it is not a straight path. After Mattie and Charlie fall in love and spend as much times as possible with each other, the war ends up taking Charlie to a completely different part of the world. After that, the two have to keep in touch through letters in a time before that was even all that reliable. The story is about what happens to them before, during and after the war. It was very engaging and definitely worth a read. I did feel like I was right in the middle of the action. The author definitely did the research about the time period. Overall, this is a solid book.
Charlie grew up in Falkner, Mississippi. He has been abandoned by his mother and taken in by an uncle after a fire at the orphanage. The uncle basically treats him like an indentured servant. It is a miserable life, one from which Charlie cannot wait to escape. While attending school in Falkner, Charlie meets Roxy, a girl who needs an escape as badly as he does. Together, they end up running away, leaving Falkner far behind.
Mattie comes from a completely different world. She comes from a wealthy and privileged family in Dunedin, New Zealand. She is leading a very happy life until an encounter with one of her brother’s friends that shatters her ideal existence. After the incident, she decides on a new path for her life. She will move to Auckland and become a hairdresser. The new path will lead her to Charlie.
Charlie ends up joining the navy as a diver after a brief time working on cargo ships. This leads him to Hawaii, where he experiences the attack on Pearl Harbor. After that, he is sent to Auckland, New Zealand. In New Zealand, Charlie and Mattie meet and it is an instant connection. Mattie is working as a hairdresser there, after graduating first in her class. She ended up in Auckland because her brother and his wife moved there.
I am giving the book a 4 out of 5. It is well written and engaging. Once I started reading, I found myself invested in the lives of Charlie and Mattie. I wanted to know what happens to them. I would classify the book as historical romance/drama. It was an interesting story that seemed incredibly believable. Scenarios like the one in the story probably played out many times during times of war.
Like so many stories during war times, it is not a straight path. After Mattie and Charlie fall in love and spend as much times as possible with each other, the war ends up taking Charlie to a completely different part of the world. After that, the two have to keep in touch through letters in a time before that was even all that reliable. The story is about what happens to them before, during and after the war. It was very engaging and definitely worth a read. I did feel like I was right in the middle of the action. The author definitely did the research about the time period. Overall, this is a solid book.
November 27, 2018
This is the most well written book about the the second world war that I have ever read. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres and this book really does it pround.
Charlie who has had a hard scrabble life as a youngster decided to leave Mississippi via freight train. He eventually joins the Navy and trains to be a diver.. He is stationed in Pearl Harbor and soon is attacked by the Japanese and the USA is now involved in world war two.
Eventually Charlie is sent to New Zealand where he meets a beautiful hairdresser names Mattie. They fall deeply in love and enjoy time together while the United States builds hospitals and other things to protect the people of this country. Once this work is done and Charlie has to leave he and Mattie don't see each other for over four years. The continue to write for a very long time before they see each other in person.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about true relationships and very well researched stories.
Absolutely 5 stars for this great book.
Charlie who has had a hard scrabble life as a youngster decided to leave Mississippi via freight train. He eventually joins the Navy and trains to be a diver.. He is stationed in Pearl Harbor and soon is attacked by the Japanese and the USA is now involved in world war two.
Eventually Charlie is sent to New Zealand where he meets a beautiful hairdresser names Mattie. They fall deeply in love and enjoy time together while the United States builds hospitals and other things to protect the people of this country. Once this work is done and Charlie has to leave he and Mattie don't see each other for over four years. The continue to write for a very long time before they see each other in person.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about true relationships and very well researched stories.
Absolutely 5 stars for this great book.
December 22, 2018
Like Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See, LM Hedrick’s lush novel about the wartime relationship between two young people, told in alternating points of view, focuses on the timeless themes of courage, love and survival. Hedrick’s gift for historical writing tugs at heartstrings while offering waves of suspense throughout. In particular, the early chapters — in which both Charlie and Mattie show their mettle against older predators — work especially well. Impeccably written and researched, The Rigel Affair – named after Kincaid’s ship – is a big tent book that will appeal to readers from all walks of life. Highly recommended.
Check out the rest of my review at BestThrillers.com
Check out the rest of my review at BestThrillers.com
August 7, 2019
Sparked by the beautiful picture on the cover, my fascination with history, and the obvious WWII romance, “The Rigel Affair” really caught my interest. It is a powerful story that made me feel as though I was right there in the South Pacific witnessing the attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent conflicts.
The characters are introduced as pre-war people, Charlie a half-Cherokee teen, born and bread in Mississippi, and Mattie, a young woman of wealth from New Zealand. Charlie leaves home and finds eventually himself training to be a US Navy Diver. Mattie, decides to leave home for Auckland, in order to learn and support herself in the beauty industry.
Mattie and Charlie’s paths cross – more like collide in Auckland and they are instantly smitten. The more time they get to know one another, they fall an into all-consuming love that each knows is forever. The story is based on the events of the war in the South Pacific, the undying love of Charlie and Mattie, and the precious letters that keep them connected during such a critical time. I read each page, engrossed by wanting to know how it would turn out!
I loved their story, but I must say the constant swearing was tough for me. However, I do realize that it was a time of extreme pressure, the situations, the terror of the war, and the rawness of the men. So, I make this comment more as a warning for those that it might bother. I kept reading because I’m sure it really was just like that. I really wanted to experience the war from the Navy perspective, which was a new angle for me – other than the musical “South Pacific”!
The war was before my time, but both my parents served in WWII, my mom serving as a Navy Wave. I am humbled by the brave men and women that served so diligently to keep our nation free.
The characters are introduced as pre-war people, Charlie a half-Cherokee teen, born and bread in Mississippi, and Mattie, a young woman of wealth from New Zealand. Charlie leaves home and finds eventually himself training to be a US Navy Diver. Mattie, decides to leave home for Auckland, in order to learn and support herself in the beauty industry.
Mattie and Charlie’s paths cross – more like collide in Auckland and they are instantly smitten. The more time they get to know one another, they fall an into all-consuming love that each knows is forever. The story is based on the events of the war in the South Pacific, the undying love of Charlie and Mattie, and the precious letters that keep them connected during such a critical time. I read each page, engrossed by wanting to know how it would turn out!
I loved their story, but I must say the constant swearing was tough for me. However, I do realize that it was a time of extreme pressure, the situations, the terror of the war, and the rawness of the men. So, I make this comment more as a warning for those that it might bother. I kept reading because I’m sure it really was just like that. I really wanted to experience the war from the Navy perspective, which was a new angle for me – other than the musical “South Pacific”!
The war was before my time, but both my parents served in WWII, my mom serving as a Navy Wave. I am humbled by the brave men and women that served so diligently to keep our nation free.
May 3, 2021
L.M. Hedrick's The Rigel Affair is an enthralling historical adventure romance. But it is much more than a romance. Hedrick's research is excellent. The reader becomes Charlie as he assumes his role as an underwater diver in WWII. Heart pounding, the reader is right there with him. His courage and skills are tested over and over. As he rises in rank, he remains close with the men of his command. But what keeps him sane with all he has to endure is his love for Mattie. Their love binds them and holds true despite the obstacles that distance them. This book about the Pacific theater gives the reader a view of the many ways people continued their lives with the war raging around them. How they survived and endured. Well written and thought provoking.
Celia Martin
Celia Martin
August 14, 2021
An Average Romance Novel
An average romance novel spiced with the usual boy meets girl epics resulting in marriage in New Zealand , while being spiked with events in the South Pacific, during WWII, in order to tempt the historical readers to hang in there to learn about exploits of a Mustang career in the U.S. Navy during this time period. Not sure where the author found her information on the military side of the book, but the story comes away lacking as a Winds of War model.
An average romance novel spiced with the usual boy meets girl epics resulting in marriage in New Zealand , while being spiked with events in the South Pacific, during WWII, in order to tempt the historical readers to hang in there to learn about exploits of a Mustang career in the U.S. Navy during this time period. Not sure where the author found her information on the military side of the book, but the story comes away lacking as a Winds of War model.
January 24, 2021
A Powerful Romance
I greatly enjoyed this wartime romance between an American who came from the depths of society and advanced through the Navy and his sweetheart he met in Auckland. The best part is it is based on a real couple. Great characters, description of the setting and action.
I greatly enjoyed this wartime romance between an American who came from the depths of society and advanced through the Navy and his sweetheart he met in Auckland. The best part is it is based on a real couple. Great characters, description of the setting and action.
June 17, 2020
Great story!
Loved this romantic and unique love story. I was rooting for Mattie and Charlie the whole time, especially when I saw it was based on real people. I hope they had a long and happy life together. This was a lovely book.
Loved this romantic and unique love story. I was rooting for Mattie and Charlie the whole time, especially when I saw it was based on real people. I hope they had a long and happy life together. This was a lovely book.
July 17, 2020
Interesting Read
I read lots of WW2 historical fiction. This well written book is the first I've read about Navy divers in the Pacific. It is also a sweet love story based on letters belonging to the author's mother.
I read lots of WW2 historical fiction. This well written book is the first I've read about Navy divers in the Pacific. It is also a sweet love story based on letters belonging to the author's mother.
November 19, 2021
Affair to Remember
Enjoyed reading this account of an affair of a near impossible love. The hazards of war and needs of secrecy can play hard on relationships. Sounds like this is the fore runner of the UDT Seals. Just wasn't called that at the time.
Enjoyed reading this account of an affair of a near impossible love. The hazards of war and needs of secrecy can play hard on relationships. Sounds like this is the fore runner of the UDT Seals. Just wasn't called that at the time.
December 15, 2021
So very hard to put down.
Was hard to put down. Brought to life the hardships, sacrifices and sadness of war. Liked following Mattie and Charlie through their ups and downs both staying strong and true to their love for each other. Great read.
Was hard to put down. Brought to life the hardships, sacrifices and sadness of war. Liked following Mattie and Charlie through their ups and downs both staying strong and true to their love for each other. Great read.
November 10, 2019
The Rigel Affair
The absolute best book I have read in a very long time. Very well written and researched. I read a lot of books, great story.
The absolute best book I have read in a very long time. Very well written and researched. I read a lot of books, great story.
January 22, 2021
Beautiful love story
This is a beautiful love story based on letters between the author's parents, an Auckland girl and an American Cherokee Navy diver in WW II.
This is a beautiful love story based on letters between the author's parents, an Auckland girl and an American Cherokee Navy diver in WW II.
March 20, 2022
The Rigel: A Gripping WW2 Thriller Romance Novel
This book must be made into a movie! A longer book, I loved everything about it! Kudos! It was well written!
This book must be made into a movie! A longer book, I loved everything about it! Kudos! It was well written!
February 2, 2022
I enjoyed this novel, particularly as it was based on a true story. It was interesting to read about the life led by a diver in World War 11, something I previously knew little about. I liked the way that Charlie and Mattie stayed true to one another, despite being separated for a long time.
February 10, 2019
War and romance – a view from the deck
New Zealand author L.M. (Lynette) Hedrick has pieced together a fictionalized novel gathered from her mother Mattie’s WW II love affair with a US Navy diver Charlie and the result is a wartime love story that works on every level. Written in conjunction with her husband Bud’s editorial/advisory eye, based on fact and painted with the eloquence of an informed ‘war correspondent’ THE RIGEL AFFAIR blossoms as a fine love story with a credible setting. Both Lynette and Bud have studied creative writing at Auckland University. Lynette has published short stories for New Zealand magazines as well as pursing her gifts as an expressionist artist whose art works sell internationally.
Lynette offers the following insights about this novel – ‘Our journey to this novel started with my husband Bud's idea and encouragement and endless efforts and support to write it. The next stop was Auckland's Central Library to harvest every account of1940's history, especially daily newspapers. We had to know what Mattie knew. Thank you to New Zealand National Archives, and the fabulous museums in Auckland, Devonport, and Torpedo Bay Navy Museum. Additional pertinent Auckland historical information was supplied by Dale Court of George Courts, and Edward Bennett of the K Road Business Association.’
The manner in which the book opens invites association with Charlie, especially significant for American readers. ‘Whenever Charlie caught a moment, he snuck aside his clothes, and dropped them behind the bushes down by the railings of he old bridge below the farmhouse in Falkner, Mississippi. It was the summer of 1937. He liked to watch the murky Muddy Creek waters ripple in the sunlight and bend their way towards town. Charlie waited for the wind to settle, just to catch tat safe glimpse of the bottom in his favorite swimming hole….His impoverished Ma could not provide for him so when he escaped from the fire at Jackson orphanage in 1927, her sister and Uncle Dee had taken him in.’ Charlie’s history begins to develop and move to the war. But Lynette introduces Mattie in a similar fashion: ’It was summer and any hint of war didn’t deter the gaiety of the Blanc family’s celebrations. Their huge white villa was positioned on the crest of Pine Hill Road, Dunedin, New Zealand, deep in the South Pacific…Mattie walked down the passageway to the sound of George thumping on the piano. Mattie was a gentle soul, of slender build, in her late twenties…’
Mood established, style of prose is set and we move into the well-distilled plot summary – ‘Abandoned by his part-Cherokee Ma, Charlie Kincaid escapes servitude with his uncle. He jumps a boxcar, accompanied by his schoolmate Roxy, who is escaping troubles of her own. Charlie becomes a US Navy Diver. Mattie Blanc is from a genteel New Zealand family. But when her brother’s friend persuades her to take a ride, it all goes horribly wrong. Desperate, she flees her family’s stifling expectations for a new life in Auckland. After the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, Charlie sets sail for Auckland aboard the USS Rigel. And there she is, the girl of his dreams. Mattie is everything that Roxy isn’t—sophisticated, tender, and patient. But the war intervenes… Rigel embarks for the Pacific war zones. Charlie’s letters are sporadic. Mattie is tormented by doubts; did he truly love her, or was it only a dream? ‘
The novel offers a fine examination of disparate characters in wartime and the effect of family on finding love. Painted in brilliant colors THE RIGEL AFFAIR glows – the work of a very fine author with a solid future.
New Zealand author L.M. (Lynette) Hedrick has pieced together a fictionalized novel gathered from her mother Mattie’s WW II love affair with a US Navy diver Charlie and the result is a wartime love story that works on every level. Written in conjunction with her husband Bud’s editorial/advisory eye, based on fact and painted with the eloquence of an informed ‘war correspondent’ THE RIGEL AFFAIR blossoms as a fine love story with a credible setting. Both Lynette and Bud have studied creative writing at Auckland University. Lynette has published short stories for New Zealand magazines as well as pursing her gifts as an expressionist artist whose art works sell internationally.
Lynette offers the following insights about this novel – ‘Our journey to this novel started with my husband Bud's idea and encouragement and endless efforts and support to write it. The next stop was Auckland's Central Library to harvest every account of1940's history, especially daily newspapers. We had to know what Mattie knew. Thank you to New Zealand National Archives, and the fabulous museums in Auckland, Devonport, and Torpedo Bay Navy Museum. Additional pertinent Auckland historical information was supplied by Dale Court of George Courts, and Edward Bennett of the K Road Business Association.’
The manner in which the book opens invites association with Charlie, especially significant for American readers. ‘Whenever Charlie caught a moment, he snuck aside his clothes, and dropped them behind the bushes down by the railings of he old bridge below the farmhouse in Falkner, Mississippi. It was the summer of 1937. He liked to watch the murky Muddy Creek waters ripple in the sunlight and bend their way towards town. Charlie waited for the wind to settle, just to catch tat safe glimpse of the bottom in his favorite swimming hole….His impoverished Ma could not provide for him so when he escaped from the fire at Jackson orphanage in 1927, her sister and Uncle Dee had taken him in.’ Charlie’s history begins to develop and move to the war. But Lynette introduces Mattie in a similar fashion: ’It was summer and any hint of war didn’t deter the gaiety of the Blanc family’s celebrations. Their huge white villa was positioned on the crest of Pine Hill Road, Dunedin, New Zealand, deep in the South Pacific…Mattie walked down the passageway to the sound of George thumping on the piano. Mattie was a gentle soul, of slender build, in her late twenties…’
Mood established, style of prose is set and we move into the well-distilled plot summary – ‘Abandoned by his part-Cherokee Ma, Charlie Kincaid escapes servitude with his uncle. He jumps a boxcar, accompanied by his schoolmate Roxy, who is escaping troubles of her own. Charlie becomes a US Navy Diver. Mattie Blanc is from a genteel New Zealand family. But when her brother’s friend persuades her to take a ride, it all goes horribly wrong. Desperate, she flees her family’s stifling expectations for a new life in Auckland. After the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, Charlie sets sail for Auckland aboard the USS Rigel. And there she is, the girl of his dreams. Mattie is everything that Roxy isn’t—sophisticated, tender, and patient. But the war intervenes… Rigel embarks for the Pacific war zones. Charlie’s letters are sporadic. Mattie is tormented by doubts; did he truly love her, or was it only a dream? ‘
The novel offers a fine examination of disparate characters in wartime and the effect of family on finding love. Painted in brilliant colors THE RIGEL AFFAIR glows – the work of a very fine author with a solid future.
May 6, 2019
The Rigel Affair
By L.M. Hedrick
Genre - Fiction
Subgenre - WW2 Romance/Thriller/Suspense/Biographical/Historical
Pages - 336
Publication Information - Chez Blanc Publishing - April 15, 2019
Format - Digital
Reviewed by William C. Bitner, Jr. (https://booksinmylibraryblog.wordpres...)
Rating - 📙📙📙📙📙
The Rigel Affair by L.M. Hedrick, proves once again that if I allow myself to read outside my comfort zone I can actually find some good reading. Romance novels are not normally something that I’m captivated by, but throw in historical fiction, some suspense and a few continents with enthralling storylines and interesting characters and I’m there until the closing line. Yes, it’s a love story - but it’s so much more when you realize it was based on the author’s mothers love letters from US Navy Diver Charlie. There is a perfect blend of historical, thriller and romance to make this a complete and total package. It’s written from the viewpoint of two different people, Mattie and Charlie - who come from entirely different upbringings and opposite ends the world. Engaging, beguiling, enchanting, and at time hauntingly beautiful. A debut novel that gets a standing ovation from this reader.
From the back cover: Abandoned by his part-Cherokee Ma, Charlie Kincaid escapes servitude with his uncle. He jumps a boxcar, accompanied by his schoolmate Roxy, who is escaping troubles of her own. Charlie becomes a US Navy Diver.
Mattie Blanc is from a genteel New Zealand family. But when her brother’s friend persuades her to take a ride, it all goes horribly wrong. Desperate, she flees her family’s stifling expectations for a new life in Auckland.
After the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, Charlie sets sail for Auckland aboard the USS Rigel. And there she is, the girl of his dreams. Mattie is everything that Roxy isn’t—sophisticated, tender, and patient. But the war intervenes… Rigel embarks for the Pacific war zones.
Charlie’s letters are sporadic. Mattie is tormented by doubts; did he truly love her, or was it only a dream?
The Rigel Affair produces a rip-roaring wartime romance and chilling danger unknown to most.
About the author: Lynette grew up listening to her mother Mattie’s stories about her WW2 love for US Navy Diver Charlie. She used Mattie’s 30 letters from Charlie, and together with her insightful editor/advisor husband, Bud, they completed extensive research to give reality to The Rigel Affair. Lynette has published multiple short stories for NZ magazines. Both Lynette and Bud have completed numerous Creative Writing courses at Auckland University. Lynette is an accomplished expressionist Artist, with works sold internationally.
By L.M. Hedrick
Genre - Fiction
Subgenre - WW2 Romance/Thriller/Suspense/Biographical/Historical
Pages - 336
Publication Information - Chez Blanc Publishing - April 15, 2019
Format - Digital
Reviewed by William C. Bitner, Jr. (https://booksinmylibraryblog.wordpres...)
Rating - 📙📙📙📙📙
The Rigel Affair by L.M. Hedrick, proves once again that if I allow myself to read outside my comfort zone I can actually find some good reading. Romance novels are not normally something that I’m captivated by, but throw in historical fiction, some suspense and a few continents with enthralling storylines and interesting characters and I’m there until the closing line. Yes, it’s a love story - but it’s so much more when you realize it was based on the author’s mothers love letters from US Navy Diver Charlie. There is a perfect blend of historical, thriller and romance to make this a complete and total package. It’s written from the viewpoint of two different people, Mattie and Charlie - who come from entirely different upbringings and opposite ends the world. Engaging, beguiling, enchanting, and at time hauntingly beautiful. A debut novel that gets a standing ovation from this reader.
From the back cover: Abandoned by his part-Cherokee Ma, Charlie Kincaid escapes servitude with his uncle. He jumps a boxcar, accompanied by his schoolmate Roxy, who is escaping troubles of her own. Charlie becomes a US Navy Diver.
Mattie Blanc is from a genteel New Zealand family. But when her brother’s friend persuades her to take a ride, it all goes horribly wrong. Desperate, she flees her family’s stifling expectations for a new life in Auckland.
After the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, Charlie sets sail for Auckland aboard the USS Rigel. And there she is, the girl of his dreams. Mattie is everything that Roxy isn’t—sophisticated, tender, and patient. But the war intervenes… Rigel embarks for the Pacific war zones.
Charlie’s letters are sporadic. Mattie is tormented by doubts; did he truly love her, or was it only a dream?
The Rigel Affair produces a rip-roaring wartime romance and chilling danger unknown to most.
About the author: Lynette grew up listening to her mother Mattie’s stories about her WW2 love for US Navy Diver Charlie. She used Mattie’s 30 letters from Charlie, and together with her insightful editor/advisor husband, Bud, they completed extensive research to give reality to The Rigel Affair. Lynette has published multiple short stories for NZ magazines. Both Lynette and Bud have completed numerous Creative Writing courses at Auckland University. Lynette is an accomplished expressionist Artist, with works sold internationally.
January 15, 2019
This novel gives the readers an opportunity to see how life was for some of the soldiers fighting in World War 2, particularly the divers. Some of these smaller groups of fighters might not always get the credit they are due since their missions often are top secret. But the author also let us have a taste of how it was to be in a relationship during wartime; the agonizing wait, the firm will to be faithful and the everlasting hope of seeing your loved one again.
We follow the story from mainly the perspectives of the two lovers; Charlie and Mattie.
Charlie grows up under poor conditions and decides to try his luck elsewhere. His friend Roxy ends up tagging along and though they later part ways she always seems to show up when you least expect it. Charlie decides to join the war and becomes one of the best divers they have. He and his team survive Pearl Harbor and set course towards New Zealand after. Here he meets Mattie.
Mattie comes from a privileged family but has had her share of struggles in life even so. She moves to Auckland to become a hairdresser. One day she randomly meets Charlie, and it is love at first sight. However, circumstances don't allow them to stay together for long; Charlie must leave to fight the Japanese. They exchange letters for years, never giving up, always hoping to be reunited.
Sadly, I didn't manage to connect as well to the characters as I had hoped. Despite us getting to know them while young and following them growing up, I still am left with a superficial impression of them, Mattie especially. Why this is, I cannot say.
The level of detail when describing war-related scenes is incredible! The training of the divers, ships in the military fleet, and all the fighting: the reader will have no problem visioning what the author describes. On the other hand, this much detail might be over the top for readers who aren't too interested in the war itself.
The novel contains suspense, humor, tragedy, hope, and love. In my opinion, the author has managed to portray the whole scale of emotions involved in a relationship during wartime brilliantly.
As it turns out it was really not my cup of tea, but I still recognize that it is a good book=)
We follow the story from mainly the perspectives of the two lovers; Charlie and Mattie.
Charlie grows up under poor conditions and decides to try his luck elsewhere. His friend Roxy ends up tagging along and though they later part ways she always seems to show up when you least expect it. Charlie decides to join the war and becomes one of the best divers they have. He and his team survive Pearl Harbor and set course towards New Zealand after. Here he meets Mattie.
Mattie comes from a privileged family but has had her share of struggles in life even so. She moves to Auckland to become a hairdresser. One day she randomly meets Charlie, and it is love at first sight. However, circumstances don't allow them to stay together for long; Charlie must leave to fight the Japanese. They exchange letters for years, never giving up, always hoping to be reunited.
Sadly, I didn't manage to connect as well to the characters as I had hoped. Despite us getting to know them while young and following them growing up, I still am left with a superficial impression of them, Mattie especially. Why this is, I cannot say.
The level of detail when describing war-related scenes is incredible! The training of the divers, ships in the military fleet, and all the fighting: the reader will have no problem visioning what the author describes. On the other hand, this much detail might be over the top for readers who aren't too interested in the war itself.
The novel contains suspense, humor, tragedy, hope, and love. In my opinion, the author has managed to portray the whole scale of emotions involved in a relationship during wartime brilliantly.
As it turns out it was really not my cup of tea, but I still recognize that it is a good book=)
December 25, 2018
The Rigel Affair by L M Hedrick started out a little slow with the before of Charlie’s life in Mississippi and Maddie’s life in New Zealand. I am a fan of historical fiction so I figured I would give it a whirl. Once Charlie joined the Navy and Maddie moved to Auckland for hairdresser training the story actually started for me. Mattie and Charlie were smitten with one another from the beginning but they did not know how long Charlie would be in Auckland. Her family did not really approve of her relationship with Charlie.
Charlie lead a life that would not have been possible if he had not escaped from his original life. He had a lot of success in his career and all he really wanted to do was get back to Maddie. He was on a lot of secret missions during his time with the Navy and his thoughts were of getting back to Maddie. Their letters kept them connected even with how sporadic they were. There were a few losses in the book and other memorable characters such as a girl from Charlie’s hometown, Roxy, and Vic from the navy.
Hedrick was able to pull together a well crafted love story with bits of truth to it. World War 2 was the backdrop for the story and I am a sucker for stories about this war. I was drawn to reading the book until the end. It took me longer than I expected because of other life commitments but I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
Charlie lead a life that would not have been possible if he had not escaped from his original life. He had a lot of success in his career and all he really wanted to do was get back to Maddie. He was on a lot of secret missions during his time with the Navy and his thoughts were of getting back to Maddie. Their letters kept them connected even with how sporadic they were. There were a few losses in the book and other memorable characters such as a girl from Charlie’s hometown, Roxy, and Vic from the navy.
Hedrick was able to pull together a well crafted love story with bits of truth to it. World War 2 was the backdrop for the story and I am a sucker for stories about this war. I was drawn to reading the book until the end. It took me longer than I expected because of other life commitments but I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
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