The Long Journey by G. L. Gooding is third audiobook in Velma’s story, narrated by Kate Wisniewski. The author continues the story of Velma and her family as World War II changes things for the young family. Love, loss, moves, and family made this story memorable and left me hoping for another book.
by G.L. Gooding
Series: Velma's Story #3
Narrator: Kate Wisniewski
Length: 12 hours and 17 minutes
Genres: Historical Fiction
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible | Libro.fm *affiliate
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
As World War II looms ahead, Velma and Jack Gooding's joy of welcoming a healthy son into the world is soon overshadowed when Jack falls gravely ill with Tubercular Pneumonia. To aid his recovery, the family moves to a small farm, where Jack slowly recovers and eventually takes on part-time work. The attack on Pearl Harbor, a turning point for all Americans, propels the Goodings to California. There Jack builds B-17s, while Velma manages their home life with now two young sons. After the war, they welcome a third son and plan to stay in California, but urgent news from Iowa pulls them back to care for Velma's injured mother, Alice Steele. Eventually, Jack's job back in Iowa demands yet another move—to Peoria, Illinois. There, a fateful encounter with a little girl changes everything, pushing Velma's courage, resilience, and strength to the edge of heartbreak.
The Long Journey is a moving story of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of family ties that transcend time and distance.
A lasting tribute to American families who bravely faced the challenges of the Great Depression and then World War Two, The Long Journey is Book 3 in the heartwarming series that mirrors the struggles of a generation, shining a special light on the Midwestern love for God, the land, hard work, family, and friendship.
In The Long Journey Home, we continue following Velma and Jack Gooding from joyous births to the impacts of the war. Author Gooding brings this period of American history to life, showcasing the day-to-day trials of this Midwest family. I recommend following Velma’s journey from the beginning.
I have loved this journey with Velma from her childhood on a farm to her life with Jack and their children. I’ve heard stories from my grandparents about life during and after WWII, and by Gooding sharing his own mother’s story gave all of us an up-close and personal glimpse.
When Jack becomes ill, the family moves into a small farmhouse, leaving the city behind. Velma’s resilience during this time showed her strength and further endeared her to me. With the war underway, and Jack recovered, the family makes their way to California, and Jack takes a position building B-17s. Hoping to own their own home, they move into a dilapidated home to watch over a new residential building site with homes destined to be demolished. The end of the war brings unexpected changes, and when Velma’s mother is injured, they head home. The story pulled me in and never let go.
Gooding tugged at my heartstrings as I cheered them on, understood Velma’s desire to contribute and the losses, joys and setbacks they dealt with. Velma’s tenacity made me laugh, notably her resolve about driving. Their encounter with a sweet little girl was bittersweet, and I confess to shedding tears.
Kate Wisniewski narrates the series and captures the personalities and voices of these characters, from sibling squabbles to their fears. I highly recommend listening as the story comes to life through audio.
While I felt The Long Journey Home ended well, I am sincerely hoping Gooding gives us the rest of Velma’s story.
*kindleunlimited
About G.L. Gooding
American novelist G. L. Gooding is the author of five novels that have warmed the hearts of audiences around the globe. Gooding and his wife, Sarah, live in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Gooding is at work on the next adventure in his Wandering Woodie Mystery series as well as the next chapter of historical series Velma's Story.
About Kate Wisniewski
Audiobook Narrator and VO Artist with professional home studio. Audiobooks work via Tantor and Bee Audio. Acting Company member Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
Stay Caffeinated!
Never miss a post by adding Caffeinated to your Inbox
Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- 2025 Audiobook Challenge
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Vicki
This is the second book of this genre that I’ve seen today. I might get a copy.
Mary Kirkland
That sounds good. Such a hard time that time period was.
Bree Dalton
Interesting!