Book Review - At Every Turn

At Every Turn

by Anne Mateer 

Alyce Benson has a tendency to be impulsive, and it has landed her in hot water more than once. This time, she pledges three thousand dollars toward missionary work in Africa. Her wealthy father refuses to have any part of church related donations, so Alyce must rely on her own resources. Unfortunately, she can’t think of anything to do to raise the money. Except drive. Despite the fact that it is 1916, she has her own car and loves to drive.  She does manage to raise a bit of money by offering taxi and errand services. But it’s not enough. 

The light bulb goes on in Alyce’s head when she learns that her father decides to enter his race car in an event in Chicago. Alyce convinces her father’s mechanic Webster to let her drive in the race. For you see, the winning driver gets a large sum of money, plenty to cover her commitment to the mission fund. 


Lawrence Trotter, one of Alyce’s father’s employees, expresses an interest in courting Alyce. Her parents want to see her settle down and get married and encourage the match. Alyce likes Lawrence’s attention, for the most part. She also enjoys common interests and camaraderie with Webster, who somehow seems more down to earth than Lawrence does.

Readers may want to buckle up, for Alyce truly does face something at every turn, whether it’s a need in the community or overseas, or a race consisting of only male drivers. Or two young men that she admires. Her tender yet impetuous heart entangles her far beyond her means. 

Anne Mateer tells an engaging story with likeable characters and unexpected events. Her attention to detail is subtle, rich, and effective; I had no trouble imagining what Alyce’s world looked and felt like. It’s a fun read, yet one that makes you think about where your heart’s priorities lie. This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Mateer; it won’t be the last.


For more info on At Every Turn, click here.

This book was provided free of charge for review purposes from Bethany House Publishers.The opinions expressed are solely my own, and no compensation was received.

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Happy reading,

Karen