This story is set in the period just before and during the U.S. becoming involved in the First World War (1916-1918), and the place is probably Pittsburg. The danger in the title can refer to the war, to the changing social norms, and to actions different characters take that endanger either their physical lives or their way of life and relationships. There's significant suspense but little mystery--this is more of a social drama. I found it hard to keep reading when it seemed that everybody was in such a dreary situation with little hope of any change except for the worse. However, some twists and turns of plot near the end result in an upbeat ending for at least some.The one thing I'm liking about Mary Roberts Rinehart's novels of this period is seeing the self-determination of the female characters. This novel shows clearly how this can be both a positive or a negative thing, underscoring that true equality means cooperation, not competition nor repression. In at least one character, this novel also shows a woman breaking away from male oppression can be both dangerous and in danger--and that's a good thing.
This was an interesting glimpse into what American life was like in the run up to World War I. I learned some things--such as that sabotage was a very real threat in those days--and appreciated Rinehart's perspective on the attitudes of the time, both for and against entering the war. This was an inspirational read that vividly showed the difference between people who live their lives according to a moral code, even if it means turning their backs on happiness, and people who live only for themselves: Some time during the evening his thoughts took this form: that there were two sorts of people in the world: those who seized their own happiness, at any cost; and those who saw the promised land from a far hill, and having seen it, turned back.
Do You like book Dangerous Days (2007)?
I did enjoy this book, not just because it was a free download to my Kindle. It takes place during the years before America's entry into WW1. Some of the people are just amazing, and I would have enjoyed knowing them. One in particular, however, was so unlikable that I admired her husband more than I expected. His patience, and his love for another woman and how he handled that, made him a true hero in the story. The ancillary characters were mostly good people. Moral standards were definitely higher in that period than they are now.
—Judy
