Publisher's Synopsis
It is 1943. Sassy, smart Ellen Cunningham believes that women are finally making social strides. After all, women can vote, go to college, work in what has always been considered men's fields and now that America is at war women can join the military, too. A teacher by trade, she is drawn to the idea of joining the U.S. Navy. She wants to do her part to support the war effort.
Within the walls of the naval bureau Ellen meets five women who teach her the meaning of friendship. On the job they work hard. Their work is demanding and important. Their free time is a different story. Together, the women discover how to balance work and play. Far from her family, Ellen experiences independence and what it means to be a modern woman. The ASTP is a new program instituted by the U.S. Army to meet wartime demands for soldiers with technical skills. Serious, dependable Ben Rosenberg is a civil engineer. He possesses one of the critical technical skills the Army needs. He is drafted and becomes a trained soldier prepared to do whatever it is his country asks of him. At first, he's surprised to learn that he will remain stateside to teach civil engineering courses to his fellow soldiers. Midwestern boy meets East Coast girl at the going away party of a mutual friend. When the two meet, the connection is instant and unmistakable. However, there is a war on. The timing is not right. Despite these facts, their mutual attraction grows and when Ben returns to his post, he suggests they keep in touch. Unexpectedly, Ben gets orders. He's going to the front. Before he leaves, he wants to see Ellen one more time. Ellen wants a promise he will come back. Inspired by true events and real people this is a story of personal growth, love and loss. It explores family dynamics and friendship, as well as the notion of putting yourself first and following your heart.
