It’s for the Best
Janet K. Shawgo
Five Ladies Press (2021)
ISBN: 978-1733404525
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (06/2025)
Janet K. Shawgo’s novella, It’s for the Best, is a fast-paced story that spans over four decades. It begins in 1936 and continues onwards. It is set against the backdrop of a small Texas town named Glenmore. Despite its modest length of 116 pages, Shawgo does an excellent job of creating a rich cast of characters and plotlines. She manages to develop complex personalities with a concise narrative.
The protagonist, Blessan, is a resilient and resourceful young woman who is determined to right the wrongs inflicted on the townsfolk by her unscrupulous grandfather, Ambrose Glenmore. Shawgo paints a vivid picture of the town’s close-knit community. The warm and caring community contrasts sharply with the greed and deception of the more powerful members of the town. Gean is introduced in the earlier chapters of this story. She is Ambrose’s daughter and eventually Blessan’s mother. As a teenager, she becomes aware of her father’s true nature. Her rebellion and marriage to a young man that her father despises sets the stage for the drama that continues into her daughter Blessan’s young adult life.
Shawgo excels at character development, especially in portraying the villainous figures whose greed and corruption threaten the harmony of the town. The solidarity of the townsfolk adds a heartfelt touch because it emphasizes the importance of community and integrity. Blessan’s alliance with key characters shows her ingenuity and determination to challenge her grandfather’s legacy. The plot thickens as secrets are unveiled, culminating in a clever plan to expose the villain and restore justice.
What really impressed me about It’s for the Best was Shawgo’s ability to condense a multi-generational saga into a compact and compelling read. The narrative pacing is fast, yet it does not sacrifice emotional depth. Readers will find themselves quickly caught up in this poignant drama.
Overall, this novella is an enjoyable blend of suspense, family drama, and small-town charm. Shawgo’s storytelling highlights human nature, whether it is for good or bad. Readers will enjoy this story and find themselves looking forward to reading more works by Janet K. Shawgo, as I am. It’s for the Best is a must-read for fans of heartfelt, well-crafted fiction and a treat for fans of novellas with their shorter investment of time.