Sold on a Monday: A Novel

I recall being shown the iconic black-and-white photo of young children behind a sign "4 children for sale," taken in the 40s. A journalist had captured it and the image captivated readers as it spread across the United States.

The image haunted author Kristina McMorris. As she imagined circumstances behind it, she created the novel Sold on a Monday.

We experience the story through two main characters, journalist Ellis Reed and newsroom secretary Lily Palmer. Themes of family, loyalty, and responsibility are addressed.

Overall, the story is solid and is a pleasant enough read. I admit, however, that I was never fully pulled in. To borrow a phrase supplied by an iconic Supreme Court decision for my own purposes, I can't always say what it takes for a story to become literature, one that envelops me and makes me forget that I'm reading, but I know it when I see it. This wasn't quite there, but I can see some book clubs enjoying a discussion on this.

I appreciated the additional information at the close of the book, including the original photo and details on what happened to those children, a reading guide, and a conversation with the author.

(I received a digital ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks in exchange for my honest review.)

4 stars

A picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes the story behind the picture is worth a thousand more…
Philadelphia, 1931. A young, ambitious reporter named Ellis Reed photographs a pair of young siblings on the front porch of a farmhouse next to a sign: “2 children for sale.” With the help of newspaper secretary Lily Palmer, Ellis writes an article to accompany the photo. Capturing the hardships of American families during the Great Depression, the feature story generates national attention and Ellis’s career skyrockets.

Sold on A Monday by Kristina McMorris is a deeply moving story. The author has weaved a tale with captivating characters that draw you in from the very beginning. This is a tale of the Great Depression and people doing what they have to in order to survive. This book really surprised me, as it was not at all what I thought it was going to be. Sold On A Monday is just one of those incredibly rare books that encourage the reader to try and read it in just one setting. It is just so very difficult to put down!
I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #SoldonaMonday #NetGalley

was totally captivated by the cover and title. After reading the blurb, I knew this was a must read for me. This book was inspired by a real photo that was taken in the 1930's. This is a story of repercussions that follow a bad decision. It tells of desperation and heartbreak. It is also the story of a journey to correct wrongs. While I did not agree with some of the decisions the characters made, the author gave us characters with which the reader could empathize. There are so many insights into the many relationships we share in life, not only romantic, but familial as well that the reader will find endearing.
Ms. McMorris is a new to me author. I thought her writing was superb, with prose that deftly conveys the reader into the 1930's Depression era setting where many were unemployed, desperate to provide food and shelter for their families. It is sent against a vivid backdrop filled with shady politicians, prohibition and gangsters. While at times heartbreaking, the plot is fast-paced as it moves to a heart-warming conclusion.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I always enjoy Kristina McMorris' novels. She manages to transport me to another time and place each time I read one of them. This time, she took me to Philadelphia (and New York) in the early 1930's for a captivating story that has stuck with me ever since I turned the last page.

Kristina really knows how to write historical fiction and both characters and settings are easy to visualize. I could even hear the characters' voices in my head. The newspaper aspect reminded me of Newsies because of the female reporter who reminded me of the one in the stage musical. I loved all the connections between the characters and watching them interact.

At the beginning, I wasn't sure where the story was going and it took a little while to get to the action. However, the build-up was still interesting and I love when the plot took off and what Ellis and Lily did as a result.

Another excellent story by Kristina. I still need to go back and read Bridge of Scarlet Leaves and hope to do so before her next novel is published.

Movie casting suggestions:
Lily: Mary Mouser
Ellis: Noah Centineo
Geraldine: Sarah Ramos
Clayton: Colin Woodell

After completing his assignment for the society page, reporter Ellis Reed stops to take some personal photos of the area. One of these photos, that of a boy and girl next to a sign saying “2 Children for sale”, inadvertently ends up on the editor’s desk. The editor decides to use the photo and asks for an accompanying article. Before the original photo can be used, it is inadvertently destroyed. Ellis tries to find the children in the original photo and retake it. He learns they are no longer there but the sign is. He makes a decision to ask the mother of two neighboring children for permission to use herAfter completing his assignment for the society page, reporter Ellis Reed stops to take some personal photos of the area.  One of these photos, that of a boy and girl next to a sign saying “2 Children for sale”, inadvertently ends up on the editor’s desk.  The editor decides to use the photo and asks for an accompanying article.  Before the original photo can be used, it is inadvertently destroyed.  Ellis tries to find the children in the original photo and retake it.  He learns they are no longer there but the sign is.  He makes a decision  to ask the mother of two neighboring children for permission to use her children and the sign.  No one could imagine the far reaching consequences this would have.  The mother, who believes she is dying,  sells her children to a banker believing she is giving them a chance at a wonderful life after she is gone.  The reporter, who moves to a new job in New York, continues to be plagued by the switch in photos unaware of what they set in motion.  He and Lily Palmer, a young woman he met at his first job, and the one who mistakenly brought the photo to the editor’s attention in the first place, discover the mother is still alive.  Not only is she alive but she had been misdiagnosed and now wants to be sure her children are being cared for and loved.  This request sets in motion a quest to find the children; a quest that will be fraught with danger and will involve lies, mental illness and the world of the mob.  Set during depression era America this read will make you ponder what you would do if you thought you were dying and the opportunity arose to give your children a good life after you were gone.   children and the sign. No one could imagine the far reaching consequences this would have. The mother, who believes she is dying, sells her children to a banker believing she is giving them a chance at a wonderful life after she is gone. The reporter, who moves to a new job in New York, continues to be plagued by the switch in photos unaware of what they set in motion. He and Lily Palmer, a young woman he met at his first job, and the one who mistakenly brought the photo to the editor’s attention in the first place, discover the mother is still alive. Not only is she alive but she had been misdiagnosed and now wants to be sure her children are being cared for and loved. This request sets in motion a quest to find the children; a quest that will be fraught with danger and will involve lies, mental illness and the world of the mob. Set during depression era America this read will make you ponder what you would do if you thought you were dying and the opportunity arose to give your children a good life after you were gone.

As some reviewers have noted, the cover and the title was an immediate draw, and I downloaded the book to my Kindle in warp speed. The photograph of a forlorn depression-era child, his head buried on his knees, a dilapidated suitcase beside him, opened up realms of dramatic possibilities. I was so eager to see what dreadful circumstances would lead parents to think selling a child or children was the only answer to economic disaster. I wanted to read about how the Depression affected not only the truly desperate but also the struggling blue and white-collar workers in towns and suburbs and the countryside. I was looking forward to reading about a harsh, hopeless period in American history through the lens of fictional characters coping with a world suddenly set on its head.

Finally, given the putative subject of selling children in desperation, I expected a story similar to Lisa Wingate’s emotional tour-de-force, Before We Were Yours. Alas. This book was a pale imitation and a wasted opportunity to fully realize the historical and human potential of the subject. Unfortunately I found the two main characters, the obligatory struggling reporter Ellis Reed and the equally obligatory Woman with a Big Dark Secret, secretary Lillian Palmer who also wants to be the next Nellie Bly. So there we have it, folks: the impoverished children become wallpaper, more or less, for the struggles and romance and so forth and so on between Ellis and Lillian.

I didn’t feel much for these two, either; they were both fairly predictable, with little depth or mystery about them. I didn’t feel much for the supposed historical setting of the Depression, either. The richness of detail was missing, other than a passing mention of Ellis’s tiny apartment, his meager wages, and how expensive it was for Lillian to travel on weekends to visit her child. Thus this rather thin tale could have been set anywhere, at any time.

The whole time I was reading the book my inner critic was working overtime, making suggestions about fleshing out scenes, painting the landscape with deeper colors, making dialogue less stilted, penciling out the interminable clichés, and trying to add more emotional investment.

But it is what it is, and I can’t change it. Apparently enough readers were more than satisfied, so I will leave it to them to enjoy.

Many thanks to Netgalley for my ARC.

Kristina McMorris has written an engaging story about what happens when a well-meaning reporter resorts to staging a photograph to save his job. The story perfectly captured the desperation of many families in the 1930’s as they struggled to earn a living and raise a family.

Reporter Ellis Reed took a photograph of two boys for sale, which illustrated the drastic measures some families had to resort to during the depression. As luck would have it, the photograph was damaged before going to press and Ellis was sent out to take another one. But when Ellis returns to the home, the family is nowhere to be found. What Ellis decides to do next will have devastating consequences.

Ellis joins forces with his friend and co-worker, Lily, and together they set out to right the situation at great expense to their own jobs and personal safety. With mob connections, a deranged farmer and a mentally unstable woman, Ellis and Lily prepare for possible disaster.

A very enjoyable read and one that I highly recommend to historical fiction lovers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read an advance copy and give my honest review.

A real page turner. Ms. McMorris was able to bring me back to a time , post depression in the United States, when the country was struggling to get back to a bit of normalcy. However, normal was something that was all but forgotten by many of the victims of the stock market crash.
The author begins by introducing us to her wonderful cast of characters:
- A ‘cub’ reporter who while on assignment, would take advantage of the newspapers state-of-the-art photographically equipment, and shoot a few extra pictures for his private collection. A collection that included one picture of a struggling family.
- The secretary to the newspaper editor, who is instrumental in making the reporter and one of his photos famous.
- A mother and her two children who were the center of many surprising twists and turns.
- A supporting cast of family, co- workers, the rich and famous and even a mobster or two.

I was infringed by the way the story took me on a journey that I had never expected. The frustration and hopelessness experienced bunso many during the Depression vs. the human spirit that would never give up hope. The inner ability we all have to rationalize the irrational so that we may make it to another day. And finally the knowledge that the ‘easy way out’ sometimes is really the most difficult.

I’ve always enjoyed reading historical fiction books about the 1930’s in America: the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, FDR’s New Deal. Kristina McMorris’s Sold on a Monday tells the story of a desperate journalist who makes a snap decision to take a staged picture and the ramifications of his actions on so many people, innocent or not.
It was a slightly slow start; I thought we were going to dwell on the flirtations between Ellis and Lily. But Lilly became a strong female lead role, which was refreshing. Ellis went through a major transformation after realizing how damaging his zest to succeed could be to others. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the setting, and the historical accuracy that McMorris strived for. I was surprised to find while reading her acknowledgments where she got the idea for the novel. I could easily see this becoming a movie in the near future.
I plan to read more of McMorris’s work, which she bases on historical events. Thoroughly good reading!
(I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. Thank you to Landmark for making it available.)

Wow! Just looking at the books' cover, pulls at your heart! I came into this book blind, having no expectations placed on the author. I do not typically read historical fiction novels, but the cover had me intrigued.

The book is about Ellis Reed, who is a struggling reporter in 1931. He snaps a the infamous photo, which is not meant to be for public consumption. But the photo is the big break of his lifetime, but at what cost? Intertwining, is the story of Lily Palmer, a young unwed mom trying to climb the corporate ladder in the male workforce of 1931.

I connected almost immediately with the character of Lily. As a single mother of a teenager and being Black. I definitely know the struggle! The author does a masterful job of describing the time period and the characters. I, surprisingly, found myself enjoying learning about this time period and viewing it from a different lens. I recommend reading this book! It will make you question certain things about yourself that you thought were easy, but if circumstances where different, what would you really do?

Many thanks to Netgalley for the an ARC of this book for an honest review.

Powerhouse of a book, Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris will change the way you judge people, question the harsh realities of life and want to go out to do something that will make a difference in someone’s life.

Opening description – “The sign is a last resort. It sits on a farmhouse porch in 1931 but could be found anywhere in an era of breadlines, bank runs, and broken dreams. It could have been written by any mother facing impossible choices.”

Just reading this line made me want to know more, about the sign, the children, the mother and the photographer. To learn more I certainly did, thanks to the astounding storytelling ability of the author. I was spellbound, transform back to the time of scarcity in this country. My mother would speak of life as a depression era child, but this story brought those days to vivid, heartbreaking life.

It is one of the most memorable books that I have read this year. Highly recommend.

The publisher through Net Galley provided an ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

Sold on a Monday is a beautifully written story that is based on depression era desperation, when families, who couldn't afford to feed their children, sent them to relatives, or gave them up for adoption. This novel is based loosely on a case that some children were sold to less than scrupulous people.

Ellis Reed, a struggling newspaper reporter, is out in the country outside Philadelphia, where he finds two children perched on a porch holding up a sign, "Two Children for Sale". .After taking a photograph, his career takes a turn, he is faced with a dilemma that will veer his career path to a place not suspected. Ellis then needs to decide if doing the right thing is worth the career ending choice. The book examines ethics, as well as a sweet budding love story embedded in family dysfunction and struggles.

Kristina McMorris has developed characters that are relatable and heart warming, as they make mistakes and attempt to do what's right, all within a great story.

I highly recommend this novel to others who enjoy historical fiction.

Cub reporter, Ellis Reed is out looking for a story. When he least expects it, he finds an unusual and disturbing sign, “2 Children for Sale”. Seated beside the sign are the two children. How could that be? How could a parent sell a child? It is, however, 1931, after all, and the bread lines are long, and food is in short supply for many. Ellis snaps a picture out of habit, not intending to use it for a story.

Soon, Lillian Palmer, secretary at his newspaper, chances upon the photo, which embroils her in the story. Together, Ellis and Lillian discover how an innocent picture can trap them into an unforgettable adventure and a life-risking struggle to do the right thing.

In this story based on an actual photograph, Kristina McMorris realistically portrays an unfathomable time in our nation’s history. She peoples her story with unforgettable and realistic characters, making her tale both exciting and memorable. She explores how our actions often effect the outcome of events. She also investigates how a person’s desperation can allow the unthinkable to occur.

This is a wonderfully written book by Kristina McMorris. Sent to me by Netgally and the publisher for review.

The setting is during the depression when desperation took over many families who could not feed or take care of their families. Ellis a young reporter who cant' seem to get a good storyhappens across a house with two little boys wearing a for sale sign. He takes a picture which somehow was destroyed so he goes back to take another picture. The family is gone the home deserted. Ellis finds two other children down the street and pays the Mom to let him take the picture with her little girl and boy. The picture and story make the front page and is circulated all around .
From there the story begins with the consequenses of the lie ! a lot of heartbreak, hardship and yet heartwarming at times.
I felt the characters of the book were strongly developed and story flowed extremely well.
I found this book to be one that I was eager to read and enjoyed emmencely although I don't normally choose history related books. I am glad I did!

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher, Sourcebooks, for a copy of this book for an honest review.

"Sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the ones we love."

When I read this quote from the book, Sold on a Monday, by Kristina McMorris, it seemed to convey to me the essence of this story which started with a picture of two children sitting on a porch in a rural area of Laurel Township, Pennsylvania with a sign reading, "2 children for Sale." Ellis Reed, a photographer for the Philadelphia Examiner newspaper, took the picture and wrote a story about Geraldine Dillard having to sell her children out of desperation in 1931. The story was a catalyst for promotion to a New York newspaper for Ellis Reed when it made headlines across the nation and changed the lives of the children. Ellis and his friend, Lily, spend the rest of the novel trying to right the irreversible wrongs caused by the article in the paper.

Kristina McMorris has written a book based on an actual newspaper photo that appeared in a Chicago newspaper in 1948 which shook the nation. It is a story of ambition, love, family and the far reaching effects of our actions. The characters are drawn in such a way that you find yourself caring about what happens to them. There is a strong sense of place in the novel and you can feel yourself in the streets of Philadelphia and the surrounding area trying to help find where the children are and who has them. There are lots of historical references to the Italian and Irish mob, prohibition, speakeasies and the affects of corruption on the characters.

I found this book to be a fascinating read and look forward to reading more of McMorris' novels. I would highly recommend this book to those who love historical novels that tug at your heartstrings.

SOLD ON A MONDAY by Kristina McMorris is an engrossing story of love, family, ambition and honor. It is set in the early 1930s during the Depression when many people had to resort to desperate measures just to have food for their families to eat. A struggling young reporter happens upon a heartbreaking scene where two young boys sit in front of a sign that says “2 children for sale”. He snaps a photograph that ultimately gets submitted to his newspaper for publication. What follows is a gripping tale of how seemingly innocent, well-meaning decisions and actions can have far-reaching and life-changing consequences. The author’s vivid descriptions and outstanding character development drew me in and made me feel I was right there in the story. I could not turn the pages fast enough to get to the book’s dramatic conclusion. To know that this novel was inspired by an actual newspaper photo made it even more touching and heart-wrenching. I will not soon forget this powerful and emotional book and I highly recommend it.

Sold on a Monday was a gripping historical fiction novel about survival during the depression in 1931. and being torn between being ethical or having success. Ellis Reed, a newspaper reporter, happens on two children perched on a porch holding up a shocking sign. After taking a photograph and developing it, his career takes a turn, where he is faced with a virtuous dilemma that will snowball his career path to unknown depths. Ellis has to decide if doing the right thing is worth the possibility of his newfound success ending. Throughout the tale, there is a sweet love story budding, family struggles, and constant quandary of morality.

Kristina McMorris developed interesting characters that you wanted to rut for as they made life-altering decisions. A sequel would be perfect for this book. You won't want to miss this one! I was stunned and compelled to keep reading this mouth-dropping tale.

I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Sold on a Monday
Kristin McNorris
I received this copy from NetGalley for an honest Review:
#NetGalley #SoldOnAMonday
They say 'a picture is worth a thousand words'; well whoever 'they' are they are right about that! This book was a wonderful story about a photo; one that spoke to a newspaperman in the 1930's enough that his first big story came out of this photo that he took of a couple of kids on a porch with a 'children for sale' sign.
The story is a re-imagining of a really photo taken back in the day and the story definitely has twists and turns enough to keep you wondering how the characters and those children make out.
I truly enjoyed the world concept. I loved the characters who were very much what you would expect from that time era with a bit more spunk for the way they lived their lives and the chances they took ignorer to find those 'sold' children.
There's a love story inter-woven, family issues, morals and values.
A truly enjoyable read!

This was quite a book. The topic of children for sale during the early 1930's is a tough one from my perspective as a mother. I can't imagine what it was like to be so poverty-stricken to actually think of selling a child just to make ends meet. I am very happy to live in a much different time.

I loved this book. It has mystery, romance, and some suspense. Ellis was a wonderful character that while at first he strayed from who he started out to be in the end showed his true character. Lily was a force. I would love to have a strong, determined, wonderful mother like her on my side (in reference to my mother, she is quite a force herself, much like Lily). While you don't really get to know Ruby and Calvin very well, it is obvious that they are wonderful children that love their mother fiercely. The Millstones were quite the couple. Alfred seems to have a good heart and was trying to do the right thing, but Sylvia is in some desperate need of help. While this book was a heavy topic it was not difficult to read. I had a hard time putting it down.

This is the first book I have read by Kristina McMorris, based on this book I will be looking for her books in the future. I highly recommend this book.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book (from NetGalley). All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a very good book! A roller coaster of emotions covered the whole spectrum a few times over. I cried on several occasions from the possible devastating realities unfolding in Sold on a Monday. I definitely enjoyed the telling of this historical fiction, but I think I was maybe expecting the story would be told in a way that integrated the children's paths more right from the start or even from the perspective of the children themselves--rather than the reporters/newspaper employees. (I think because I was expecting that, I didn't really become invested until after the first third of the book--around chapter 15 or 16--when the children became the focal point of the novel. My recommendation is to hang in there, though because the novel in its entirety is well worth the acquiring the background information in Part 1.). Part two and three were certainly attention grabbing, suspense filled and action-packed enough to satisfy!!! For the sake of everyone involved, I am glad this one was not a true story!

The Great Depression was a difficult time for many. Down on their luck, some people were quite desperate and unable to care for their children. Even knowing this, Ellis Reed was shocked when he saw a sign advertising the sale of the two boys, prompting him to snap some photos. Little did he know that his editor would see the photos and order him to write a story about it. When the photo is ruined and his boss sends him out to take more photos, Ellis finds himself in a dilemma as the children are no longer available. This leads Ellis to be creative in writing his story, unaware that it would have unforeseen consequences for both the family in his story and for himself.
Sold on a Monday is a brilliantly written historical fiction that captures the despair of the time and questions what people are willing to do to survive. It has wonderfully fleshed out characters and lots of action that keep you wanting to read more. I would love to read a second novel that continues on from the ending because I feel there is much more to tell about Ellis and Lily.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of the book, the opinions are my own.

I truly enjoyed reading this book. I am always drawn into stories that are based on an actual event or happening, such as, in this instance, the publication of a picture showing a mother placing her children for sale. I appreciated the way the author brought focus to the humanity of the characters in this book, the struggles each faced with the happenings in their lives at any particular time. The storyline took a couple of different turns that I was not expecting, which added to my enjoyment, and i felt did not detract from the story. And really, as I read the book, I felt there were instances we should note where it wasn’t just about the sale of children, but also of personal values and beliefs. The story takes place in a very desperate time for many unfortunate families, where parents really didn’t know how to be able to take care of their children while facing their own dire circumstances. I recommend to other readers that you take the time to read this book and meet the characters Ellis and Lily while they attempt to help the family behind the picture...and at the same time ease their guilty conscience for what they feel happened to this family due to their involvement. I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review, which this is.

1931 and the Great Depression was 2 years old. Bread lines, homeless families, desperation! A young journalist, Ellis Reed, stumbles across two boys sitting next to a sign "Children For Sale" and with one flick of his camera sets in motion a drama that will grab hold of your heart. That picture was not meant to be published, by as fate often steps in, what happens next takes you on an incredible journey.

From start to finish this novel just couldn't be put down. Ms. McMorris simply didn't write a story, she brought to life one of the most distressing times of our country. These characters jumped off the pages, giving us glimpses of the 30's....the gangsters, the city life, journalism and the people struggling just to live their lives. Her research was impeccable, her writing over the top. This is a book not to be missed, it is a "must" read. My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

"Sold on a Monday" by Kristina McMorris

It's 1931. A very hard time for many families. The stock market crash hurt millions. Prohibition didn't help. With so many enjoying a beer with friends and family to help them get a better perspective on their lives, they had nowhere to go....unless it was snuck in.

Out in the country families were in turmoil. Women were sole parents a lot of the time. There were no vaccines or good medicines at that time. A mother came down with a bad illness. She had two children.

At the same time, a gainfully employed journalist drove by and saw a sign: 2 children for sale. It stopped him in his tracks.

This book is about how a kind man made the impossible possible. It's about love, respect, kindness and fighting for what's important. It's about helping those who can't help themselves.

A beautifully written book. Pick up a copy and start reading.

At first I was a bit disappointed wanting to read about the kids but ones I got to know the characters I wanted to know about their lives and how they would proceed with some of the situations that occurred. The book is set during the depression year of 1931. It gives a solid reflection of that time period. The hardship people endured. The treatment of woman in the workforce and in general what was accepted and not accepted as proper behavior.
To most us as a mother it seems hard to accept that somebody would be willing to sell their children but then it is still happening in this day and age. For whatever reason; desperation, better to sacrifice one so others might survive or simply greed or convenience.
All by all it was a very satisfying read and I do recommend when you finished the book you take the time to read the Author's Note and "A Conversation with the Author". I feel it adds to the story.

Sold on a Monday

A Novel

by Kristina McMorris

SOURCEBOOKS

Landmark

General Fiction (Adult) , Historical Fiction

Pub Date 28 Aug 2018

I am reviewing a copy of Sold on a Monday through Sourcebooks/Landmark and Netgalley.

It started with a picture! A picture that spoke of how bad things were when the photo showed children for sale.

It was 1931 and The Great Depression had held on with a tight grip! The pictures Ellis captured told a story, a story of how dire things were! Lily Palmer a newspaper Secretary helps Ellis tell the story by adding the text to an article that accompanies the photo.

This powerful story takes us back to a painful time in history a time when parents were forced to make tough decisions!

I give Sold On A Monday five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

3 1/2 ⭐️‘s
Suppose while doing your job, a mistake was made and by innocently covering up that mistake your actions caused catastrophic consequences for someone else. What would your reaction be? Would you ignore those consequences, or would you go to whatever lengths necessary to right that wrong? A quick read filled with characters you can really get behind, this historical fiction novel was based on an actual photo from 1948. McMorris does a nice job of depicting the novel’s 1931 timeline and the way the newsroom worked at that time. The struggle woman had in the workplace and the stigma of being an unwed mother were also well written. While this was a very interesting read, and one I certainly enjoyed, my one wish is that there had been more emotional depth for such an emotion packed story. Thank you to Sourcebooks and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Sold on a Monday tells the story of the desperation during The Great Depression and the years following. When you would rather sell your children than see them starve at your own hands, a choice that probably tore people in two.
We meet Ellis, the guy who wrote the article telling the story and Lily, a woman trying to work her way up in her field, despite being a woman, a fact that held so many knowledgeable women back during the times. She's also a single mother, a double whammy against her in a world that doesn't want to see her succeed.
Historical Fiction is my favorite genre and I feel McMorris did very well portraying what life was like back then, for parents, for women, for everyone that was caught in the struggle. It was well-written, often emotional, with deep and strong characters, and stays true to life during this time, a compelling read.

This was a really good book with really good characters (especially the two main characters- Ellis and Lily) and a great plot. It all started with a photo...seems so simple and innocent, and yet it unraveled a whole series of events that were the basis for the story. The book kept my attention throughout - both because of the action-packed events that occurred as well as the evolution of Ellis and Lily and how they came together and trusted one another to right a wrong. Throughout the book, I was reminded of how far we've come with technology and medical advancements. Every time Ellis was trying to make a quick getaway I held my breath because he had to crank the engine and, occasionally, it wouldn't start (and now we can push a button to start our cars!). I thought this book was very well-written. I highly recommend it, especially if you enjoy historical fiction!

I hesitated to read this book because of the subject matter. I'm not a fan of Depression Era stories but this book is so much more than a description of the what and why of that time. Kristina McMorris saw a photo taken in 1948 that showed four children sitting on the front steps along with a sign "4 children for sale inquire within." She has written a compelling story to go along with that picture. The book is easily read and populated with interesting characters. There's something for everyone in this book: mystery, missing children, family drama and protagonists with a strong desire to do the right thing in spite of the possible consequences. I'm still thinking about this book after finishing it several days ago. That makes it a winner in my estimation. I received an ARC from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion.
#Sold on a Monday #NetGalley

This was an enjoyable book to read. The author does a wonderful job of making you feel as if you are right there. Her descriptions of the towns, the newspaper offices, the clothing the characters are wearing, even the turning of the crank to get the Model T started were spot on. My best description of this book would be Ellis and Lily’s kaper, the quest to right a wrong that needed to be done.
The writing was superb, she makes you feel for the characters, and you can envision walking down the street and seeing the town in the 1930’s. I’m sure after the market crashed, times were very hard for so many and the situations in the story could have really happened, even though this is a fiction book, it was all very believable. I would highly recommend.
I thank Net Galley and SourceBooks/Landmark for allowing me the opportunity to read this for my review.

Five Stars are not enough for this Golden book! Kristina McMorris is such a gifted writer that I dare say all her words are gold!

This story of Ruby and Calvin, grabbed my heart, squeezing it till it shattered and then with the spunk of Ruby and the gentle tuck from Calvin it was put back together!

In this story you have mobsters, Packards, grizzled newsman, night time sleuthing and women who find out how strong they truly are...what more can you want in a story?

Truly a five star Gold! A must read!

Sold on a Monday, by Kristina McMorris is a story set in the 1930s. Its main characters, Lily, Ellis and Clayton work for a NYC newspaper. Ellis shoots a picture of a depression wracked family which needs to be reshot, and then sparks all the controversy of the story.

Everyone has a very stereotypical role for that era. Lily is a secretary with a deep secret, doing the 1930’s secretarial duties, while wishing to get noticed as a writer. Ellis is a feature writer and photographer, while Clayton is, well, Clayton.

There are misunderstandings, an orphanage, abused adopted kids, romantic pursuits, and cloak and dagger investigations. The reader will see the occasional use of 1930s cliched vocabulary words, such as “swell, joint, dough, pal, the mob,” which are oddly dropped in, and miss their mark to make you feel the story is written about that time period.

The pace quickly picks up from Chapter 26 to the end, allowing Lily a chance to show her stuff atypical of her 1930s female role. There is one difficulty after another which culminates in a predictable, if not satisfying, conclusion.

All in all, Sold on a Monday will make an easy book club read which will appeal to many.

#netgalley#depression#workingwomen#adoption#newspaperreporters

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. I have found a new author to enjoy with this title. Sold on a Monday drew me right in from the first page. Set in the times of the prohibition, a young journalist is trying to make a name for himself and takes a photo that is bound to garner some attention. I won't give any spoilers, but that picture, and the story behind it, causes a whole domino effect for several people...some good, some bad, and some trying to find their way. I felt the author did great justice to this story, and I was just as intrigued with the back story included at the end, explaining how she got the idea for this novel, and the background behind an actual photo with similar circumstances. Do yourself a favor, read this book. I think you'll love it.

This story has left me breathless. Sold on a Monday is a thought-provoking, heartfelt journey.

Kristina McMorris’ writing is beautiful. She takes us on a journey of heartbreak, desperation, compassion, and hope that resonates deep within. The characters touch you. You feel everything they are experiencing and going through; their apprehensions, their pain, their fears, their hope. I loved Lily and Ellis’ perseverance, fight, and passion. I felt as though I was right there with them through it all. There were turns of events that were unexpected and heartbreaking. My heart was racing, and I couldn’t wait to see how everything was going to work out.

I was completely immersed in this story from start to end. This powerful, heartfelt story that started with a picture, is one that won’t be forgotten.

Sold On A Monday by Kristina McMorris is a thought-provoking story. It is the early 1930s and Ellis Reed is a young reporter trying to get his career started at the newspaper. While writing for the social column Ellis runs across two children sitting on a porch with a sign saying "2 Children for Sale." Ellis snaps a picture for his personal use but one of his coworkers sees the photo in the darkroom at the paper and submits it to the editor. Ellis is asked to write a story to go along with the picture. He has reservations about writing the story but does. After one gigantic snafu, the story and picture are printed and then printed in other papers as well. This article has repercussions for many and even though some seem to be for the better, things don't always work out for the best.

The power of the press! When reporter Ellis comes across two boys with a sign that they were for sale, he takes a photo of them which was not intended for publication. Coworker Lillian sees the photo and slips in with other photos for publication. When the editor wants to publish it, the negative and photo are missing. Ellis goes back to the area and after not finding the original boys, he does find the sign and "borrows" two other children to recreate the photo.. The photo sets off a trajectory of events for many different people, both personally and professionally. Although set in the Great Depression this book is very relevant to things happening in the press today. The characters are well developed and the story holds the reader's interest throughout. I highly recommend this book.

Thx to Net galley, sourcebooks, and Kristina McMorris for this ARC. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the title of this book, but I’m glad I gave it a read. The title was very captivating and the cover of the book was one that I would pick up in a bookstore as it would capture my attention. . I found the storyline to be fascinating and never realize that things like this actually did happen in that time period. I’m glad it was brought to my attention in such a way with this book.
The story of someone that would have to sell her children for both of their survival was a sacrifice no mother should ever have to make. I did find this book interesting, and enjoyable. The characters are very caring and the intertwining of stories was fascinating. This is one book I think our fiction book club will be anxious to read.

While reading this story, I could not help but think about my own mother who was a child from a poor family during the same time period. Many families faced dire circumstances since they did not have the resources that are available today through various assistance programs. I have heard so many stories of adults searching for the siblings they were separated from during childhood. It is especially heartbreaking to learn that so many were taken in by other families for the sole purpose of cheap labor. The author did a masterful job of crafting an emotional and suspenseful story. I will be recommending Sold on a Monday as a future selection for my book clubs as well as seeking out other books by Kristina McMorris. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

I finished this incredible book with a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes. It all started with a picture...Sold on a Monday Is a riveting tale of desperation, the consequences of even the most seemingly innocent decision and the ripple effects that follow, and loss and family and ultimately doing what’s right. The most wonderful characters live in the pages of this book; people who are shaped by circumstances and choices in their past, looking for a future which will bring them happiness, love, fulfillment, and redemption. The backdrop of the Depression adds so many layers to this story, and provides readers with an understanding of how and why the events in this story unfold. This wonderful book is written with warmth, heart, compassion, and deep emotions.

This is a well-written historical novel that will keep you guessing until the very end. McMorris's characters are very believable, and I cared about what happens to them. She does an excellent job of revealing bits and pieces of the backstory of the two main characters, as well as throwing in plot twists to keep up the suspense. It's not necessarily an enjoyable read, as the historical setting is the years of the Great Depression, with injustice, poverty, and difficult times for many. The author's treatment of forgiveness, honesty, and other such issues makes it a memorable and challenging read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Sourcebook Landmark through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Ellis Reed makes a selfish bad decision and spends the next year trying to right it. His photograph of two boys under a sign reading Children for Sale is set to be published when it and the negative are ruined. Because he wants his nascent journalism career to move forward, he uses the same sign with two other children- Ruby and Calvin- and the resulting compelling photo causes a cascade of problems. Lily, his co-worker, has her own secret- a son Samuel. She's working as a secretary but wants to be writer as well. These two team up to find the kids, whose mom could not care for them. There are some very good twists in this, a lot of emotion, and all in all, it's good storytelling. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is for fans of historical fiction.

This is a gripping book. It has an interesting storyline and captivating characters. It is set in Pennsylvania in the early 1930’s. It is a difficult time for Americans. Those that were lucky enough to have jobs tried their best to hold onto them at all costs. Lily is the main female character. She is single and working as a secretary for the head of the local newspaper. There are two male reporters that are interested in Lily. That is all I’m going to say about the story. Suffice it to say that I spent a lot more time reading these last few days than I normally do. But it was time well spent. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy for my honest review. Yes I will recommend to family and friends.

Very good book. A reporter Ellis stumbles onto sign 2 children 4 sale. He had been out taking pictures anyhow so stopped a took some of these 2 boys. . A Mother who was the editor unknowing gives picture to the chief and its lost. Ellis is instructed to fix the mistake. The first 2 boys are gone so can not get the picture redone but just down street is 2 dirty looking kids with same sign. Hw is confused but takes pictures anyhow as reporters need to do things to get stories in. Things go wrong the kids was not to be sold That Mother had thought she was very ill but doctor was wrong. Lilly the editor helps Ellis fix the wrong. The children are in end back with real Mother and Ellis and Lilly are together. . Very good, I would recommend this

During the Depression, Reporter Ellis' staged photo of siblings for sale affects a family forever. Inspired by a real photograph, Sold on a Monday follow Ellis and his coworker, Lily, as they try to right their wrongs. The story also begs the question, is a child always better off with their biological parents, or can money buy happiness?

The premise of this book was so intriguing, but unfortunately, I just never connected with the characters or the story. If only it had focused more on the children like I'd expected and the title implies, then I think I would have loved it.

I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Location: 1931 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and New York City

Lately when I read historical fiction, I realize I don’t know that much history. Sure, I know the basics—the wars, dates, etc—but I don’t know the details or the stories. And I didn’t know this heartbreaking reality—that during the depression, some families sold their children.

This book tells one such story from the viewpoint of two aspiring reporters and how one—what seems like innocuous decision—spirals out of control until only their united teamwork can repair it. Family in all its variations are explored in this wonderful read.

This is the kind of book that makes you wish you’d asked your grandparents more questions about their lives or if they’re still alive, inspire you to ask those questions.

I received an ARC of this title. All opinions are my own.

Ellis Reed is a Depression-era reporter who also enjoys photography for fun. One day he comes across a peculiar, heart-wrenching scene—two forlorn children beside a sign: “two children for sale.” He snaps his photo but can’t get them out of his mind, and rightly, because their story will become even more tragic than it appears.

Lily is merely a secretary to the editor, but her discovery of the photos in the lab, and Ellis’ revelation of the story to her will entangle her as well.

Sold on a Monday is part suspense, part historical drama, and entirely addicting as both main characters and the children earn your empathy and a desire for a happy, hopeful reunion for each of them.

Thanks to NetGalley for providing this book to me for review.

Set during the Great Depression, a young reporter for a newspaper, Ellis Reed, captures a picture of two children for sale that captures the hearts of readers. Through a lapse in judgement and a series of unexpected events, this results in unexpectedly consequences.. Ellis befriends secretary Lillian Palmer, who feels some responsibility for Ellis' plight having recommended his picture to the chief. Together the two try to undo the damage caused by the photo and along the way better understand themselves.. This story captured my interest and transported me to an interesting historical time period. It felt like watching an old black and white movie as the story, setting, characters, and the language all fit together.

In 1931, struggling reporter Ellis Reed comes across 2 little boys on a porch next to sign that says "2 children for sale". He takes a picture which gets submitted to the editor. He writes an article about the face of poverty to go with the photo and it causes his career to skyrocket. It also creates a domino effect of unforeseen consequences and Ellis will have to go to great lengths to set everything right again.

This story was in turns heart-wrenching and exhilarating. The characters were ones I was rooting for and the story was so captivating I didn't want to put it down. This is definitely a must-read!

It's 1931, and Ellis Reed, a newspaper reporter, takes a picture of two young boys with a sign near them saying 2 CHILDREN FOR SALE. The picture wasn't supposed to be published, but Lily Palmer sees the picture in the darkroom and passes it on to her boss, the editor. What ensues afterwards is a haunting story about damaged people and what happens when you try to right a wrong. I can't give more details because I don't want to give away any of the story. The is the first book I've read by McMorris, but it won't be my last.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy. This was my honest review.

Wow!! Just Wow!

Completely and utterly heart wrenching AND heart warming!!! This books absolutely CONSUMED me! I could not part with it until I knew the outcome. I’m still left in awe at how much this story hit my heart. That ending!!!! Tears!!

My first book by this author... absolutely won’t be my last. I am currently looking up more books by her and following her author pages everywhere. A new must read author for me.

I had such a hard time parting with this story, that I even had to read the authors note, twice. I needed to know more. So much love for this book.

Historical fiction inspired by a true story of hard times and children sold for money. Sold on a Monday seemed a little slow in the beginning but quickly turned into a fast very paced story with exciting twists and turns. Set in 1931 in Philadelphia and New York area this story is full of crime, poverty, evil, life during the depression, gangsters, and a few decent people. Well worth the read for the historical perspectives but the thrills and suspense just make this book a very good read. My thanks to the author, the publisher and netgalley for making this book available for me to read and review.

While the picture on the cover doesn’t really match the storyline, the story was both heartbreaking and inspiring. The main characters work at newspapers in the early 1930’s in a time when people were desperate for money and a way to care for their children. After coming across two boys on a porch with a “Children for Sale” sign in front of them, Ellis Reed decides to write an article exposing this desperation. What transpires through the book are examples of family and love, but also what can happen when you make bad choices out of desperation and the inspiration from doing what it takes to correct them.

Imagine living in a time where people sold their children to survive. Imagine being a photographer who took a picture of said children. Imagine being the children who were sold and where their lives are now.
This book take you through this time we follow the photographer and a journalist as they look for these children to put make things right.
I could not put this book down it really made me think about the history of this and how many children are out there that this happened to.

** i received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

i enjoyed the story and the characters in this book. i think it's hard for us today to know how hard things were during the Great Depression. even sometimes the easy things. this book did a good job of reminding me how families must have struggled back then.
i also enjoyed the underlying current of love that is woven throughout the book in many ways.
i have found myself thinking about scenes over the past several weeks which i believe is a sign of a great book (when it makes you think).

i received an ARC of this book. all opinions are my own. :-)

A historical novel that's less a mystery than the story behind a chance photograph of a family suffering through the Depression that changes the life of everyone involved., especially the children and their mother, whose picture sets off the young journalist's overnight success, the woman who falls in love with him, and the secret none of their newspaper colleagues knows. It's a pleasant read, colored by nostalgia, and very nicely crafted, but it's not a page turner; no murders, disappearances, bloodshed or violence. The perfect read for those who prefer cozies to thrillers.