Chiswell Book Club September Meeting

Every other month, Chiswell’s avid readers and wine enthusiasts are getting together to deep dive on a new and exciting book! Join us for cozy times, compelling discussion, and (naturally) just the right wine to pair with our book.

September’s Book: One Tragic June by Jean Pugh Shipman

2025 | Historical Fiction, Romance

Written by a Chiswell Book Club member!

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the narrative centers on the deeply human story of June, a woman rooted in a Plain religious community, and Peter, a man whose life path is shaped by war and service rather than tradition and expectation. At its core, the novel is a quiet but powerful exploration of forbidden love and the tension between personal desire and communal obligation. June and Peter come from vastly different worlds, both culturally and spiritually, and their relationship becomes a focal point through which broader questions of identity, belonging, and sacrifice are examined. Shipman presents their connection with sensitivity, emphasizing emotional authenticity over melodrama, which allows the story to feel grounded and sincere.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is its historical and documentary foundation. The use of actual letters and family accounts adds a sense of intimacy and realism, giving the narrative an almost archival quality. This approach deepens the emotional impact, as readers are reminded that the events are not purely fictional constructs but reflections of lived experience and generational memory. The novel also thoughtfully explores the ripple effects of June and Peter’s relationship on their families and communities. Rather than focusing solely on romance, Shipman expands the narrative to show how love, even when constrained or unfulfilled, can reshape entire family histories and social relationships. The eventual redefinition of relationships and the emergence of unexpected friendships add nuance and emotional complexity to the story.

The writing style is reflective and accessible, with a gentle narrative rhythm that suits the historical tone of the material. Rather than relying on fast-paced plot developments, the novel unfolds through emotional accumulation, memory, and reflection, allowing readers to sit with the characters’ experiences and choices.

–Review by Jeyran Main, Review Tales

The Chiswell Book Club

The Chiswell Book Club meets every other month, with each book chosen by the previous meeting’s attendees. Our 2026 meetings are:

Sunday, February 1 | 1–3 PM | Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
Sunday, March 22 | 1–3 PM | The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Sunday, May 24 | 1–3 PM | By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
Sunday, July 26 | 1–3 PM | The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
Sunday, September 27 | 1–3 PM | Book TBA
Sunday, November 22 | 1–3 PM | Book TBA

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