Unfit to Serve

by Sandra Bretting

When the United States military adopts a newfangled test from France called the “intelligence quotient test” during the first world war, no one expects the turmoil that follows. Thousands of immigrants fail it and are forced to return to homelands devastated by war, disease, and famine.

For Josephine Pembrooke, the shy schoolmarm at Camp Travis in Texas, the problem quickly becomes apparent. How can soldiers pass a test they can’t even read? So, Jo labors in secret to create a better test. Knowing all along it can't save the one soldier she'd hoped to help.

336 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published August 16, 2024

About the author

Author Sandra Bretting made the switch from writing traditional mysteries to writing inspirational historical fiction in 2024. Her first historical novel, called Unfit to Serve, revolves around the chaos caused by the U.S. military when it adopts a brand-new test from France called the IQ test during World War 1. Based on real events, the novel features a courageous school teacher who fights to help the immigrants who can't read the test and fail it by the thousands.

During a career that spans two decades, Bretting also wrote the Missy Dubois Mystery Series, which earned distinction as an Amazon national bestseller.

She graduated from the University of Missouri's School of Journalism and previously wrote for the Los Angeles Times and Houston Chronicle. You can get to know Bretting's books at www.sandrabretting.com.

Reviews

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very intrigued by this test that was called “intelligence quotient test.” It was started during World War I and brought to America. I have never heard about this test so I quickly set to read this story.

Josephine is introduced to army life by being at a women’s meeting where some silly presentation about embroidery knots is the agenda . I giggled as I saw her utter confusion of why this is what the women’s group found important. The Red Cross is in need of socks for the men overseas so why aren’t the women doing this project? Already you can see that Josephine is causing a little snafu in their plans. After all shouldn’t the focus be on helping the servicemen? I couldn’t wait to see how Josephine will fit in. Her husband will be in for a surprise when he returns to find his sweet wife has ruffled a few feathers.

Albigence is having his own issues with bullying going on. Even when he was younger he was made fun of. You would think grown men wouldn’t act this way. He takes his responsibility serious and wants to be well informed of the material he needs to know. Being put on the spot the instructor call Albigence to the front as a guinea pig. He must now take the test he will give to the soldiers when he returns to base. Underlining of this test is to weed out those who can’t pass or as some called, use”reverse psychology” on the hopeful soldiers.

The story takes a look at immigrants and how they were treated. Some thought a certain group were lazy while other were thought to be untidy. Josephine explains to her students that just because someone from a different background is different doesn’t mean the whole group is different. I liked how she explained that many came to America from boats where they didn’t have any way to bathe. But not everyone from that culture were dirty. A hard lesson for the children to grasp when their parents have said unkind things about immigrants in front of their own children.

What transpires next is a hope that those who come to America can receive help by giving them lessons on how to speak English. People are set up for failure if they don’t understand what is being said to them. Prejudice is running rampant and the test the men have to take are difficult if they do not understand English. I began to wonder how many men were turned away with nowhere to go. Did they lose hope?

Josephine tries to change how the test is given so immigrants have a fair chance of passing. I loved her heart that wanted everyone to be treated with dignity. She has this strength that could only come from God. As she is fighting for the rights of others her husband is fighting for the men who have fought in the war. Their battle scars can’t be seen yet they are deep. We know this illness as PTSD but during this time period it was called battle fatigue or shell-shock. It was hard to read about the treatments the men were given until Albigence comes to give them hope.

There is so much depth to this story and I could feel emotions spilling across the pages. This story will be something I will never forget. It is a realistic look at what men and women faced everyday as they served our country. I don’t want to ever forget the sacrifice that was made for our freedom.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfit to Serve by Sandra Bretting gives readers a unique glimpse into a sad chapter of World War I history. Unfit to Serve tells the story of husband and wife Albigence and Josephine who are recently married and are living at the Army’s Camp Travis in Texas where Albigence serves as the Camp’s Psychologist and Josephine serves as the Camp’s School Teacher. Albegence and Josephine are very much alike and yet completely different. Albigence seems to be thriving at Camp Travis while Josephine is trying to find her place at Camp. Albigence is transferred soon after arriving and encourages Josefine to find something to occupy her time and make a difference until the school year starts. Josephine unintentionally comes across the truth about the Army’s Intelligence Quotient Test, ruffling the Army’s feathers when her views become public. To save face and provide safety for Josefine, Albigence agrees to serve oversees while Josefine stays at Camp Travis where both of their lives are taken down paths they never even imagined.

Unfit to Serve by Sandra Bretting took me down roads that I wasn’t sure the book entailed as a reader just based off the synopsis. Albigence and Josefine were written stereotypically for the time. (Which I appreciated, but at the same time wanted to scream, “Women can do things too!”) I enjoyed that Unfit to Serve took place on the early days of a base/training facility. I cringed while reading Unfit to Serve at times in regards to how Immigrants were treated by the Army, especially with the Army’s Intelligence Quotient Test. I appreciated the growth that Albigence and Josefine made in their Spiritual and personal lives. My heart broke for what they went through as a married couple. While Unfit to Serve did not give me as much of an escape as I usually like in my reading, I appreciate that Ms. Bretting wrote it and introduced me to this part of history. I really liked what I read in Unfit to Serve, I just wanted more from the book because I felt like a lot of things were left unanswered. (Maybe Ms. Bretting can write another book to continue Albigence and Josefine’s story–which if she does I will definitely read it!) My opinions do not detour me from recommending Unfit to Serve, because it’s still a great read that talks about rough parts of history that we can’t escape. If you are a fan of historical fiction that doesn’t sugarcoat or gloss over it’s harsh realities, then I highly recommend Unfit to Serve by Sandra Bretting!

Have you read Unfit to Serve? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Unfit to Serve to review, for letting me be a part of the Unfit to Serve Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set during World War I, Unfit to Serve by Sandra Bretting is Inspirational historical fiction. The United States elects to utilize a newfangled test from France, called the “intelligence quotient test”. However, no one is prepared for the turmoil the test causes. Josephine Pembrooke, the shy schoolmarm at Camp Travis in Texas, finds herself quickly caught up in the turmoil from the test. She recognizes that men can not pass a test if they can not read. So, she works to find a solution. She and her friend work to create a new test aimed at fixing the issues.

In the meantime, her husband, a psychologist in the Medical Corps for the Army, finds himself caught up in the ramifications of his wife’s actions. Those actions send him overseas to the Western Front and eventually near the frontlines. He finds his life changed forever when trying to work to help soldiers dealing with battle fatigue or shellshock.

I loved how the author described the camp in Texas and the characters’ characteristics and physical features. The book kept me engaged and reading. It is interesting to think of someone working so hard to help soldiers pass the test to join the military.

So, if you are looking for an Inspirational historical book, check out Unfit to Serve by Sandra Bretting. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Tammie Barham · Rating 5 out of 5]

For any fan of historical fiction, “Unfit to Serve” is definitely a great read. Not only is the story interesting, but I learned so much about the soldiers of World War 1 especially the intelligence test that was used at the time and the problems it created. The book did a good job of drawing the reader into the story with a variety of likable characters. "Unfit to Serve" is a gripping story that deftly combines intrigue and character depth. The plot is well-constructed, with a series of twists and turns that keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. I highly recommend this book.

[Kimberly Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy reading historical fiction this book will not disappoint. The book is set during WWI with engaging characters and the introduction of the “intelligence quotient test”. We meet Josephine Pembrooke and follow along on her journey and efforts to change this test and how it was administered to soldiers during this time period.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never heard of the test that is featured in Unfit to Serve. So of course I had to do some research and I loved that the author is spot on! Yeah for learning new things daily without even trying.

This book takes you back to the years of WW1. One shy and quiet school teacher is determined to create a new test. One that maybe is easier to pass. One that maybe can save people. Even though the man she loved isn’t getting saved from it.

I found this novel to read quickly. The characters were fun to get to know. I enjoyed seeing them grow and mature as the book went on.

Josephine I could relate to. Who cares about embroidery when soldiers have real needs! Shouldn’t we be caring for the real needs? It was also eye-opening about the treatment of immigrants during this time period. I knew of the deportation camps in the WWII time period but I did not know about any kind of immigrant issues during WWI.

Grab your copy and take a walk back in history today!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfit to Serve is a Christian historical fiction by author Sandra Bretting. This is the first book that I have read by her, and I was pleasantly surprised. It was extremely well written and grabbed my attention early. I was captivated until the very end.

Set during World War I in 1918, this is the story of Josephine (Jo) Pembrooke. She is a school teacher living at Camp Travis in Texas while her husband has been deployed somewhere overseas. This story involves a test, “intelligence quotient test,” that the United States has just begun using for soldiers. She found it to be extremely difficult and rallies to help the soldiers pass it.

The strong believable characters, vivid descriptions, and inspirational Christian message make this book a riveting novel. I did not want to put it down. It is filled with action and emotion. The author did her research well and provided information that I did not know. It is great to learn something while reading for entertainment.

I highly recommend this phenomenal book. It would make a wonderful book club selection or gift for a fan of WWI books. It receives a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Fiction is one of my favorite Genres. Unfit To Serve by Sandra Bretting is the latest in this genre that I have read. Sandra Bretting is a "new to me" author, as I haven't previously read any of her books!

WOW, this book really grabbed my attention from the first chapter and kept me intrigued until I was finished reading. The time period of WWI is always an interesting read. I feel like I learn a lot from reading Historical Novels and I sure did learn a lot from this book. Josephine Pembrooke is one of the main characters in this book. Her husband was deployed and she is finding many soldiers are being sent home due to not passing a test that the US just started using called the “intelligence quotient test”. She discovers the test needs some tweaking for the Soldiers to be able to pass the test. I LOVE her drive and determination in creating a new test that will be in line with the US Soldiers knowledge and they will be able to pass. The book is action packed, filled with Historical Facts, and the characters are really strong for the story. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction. WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Priscilla Bettis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfit to Serve is a historical Christian novel set in Camp Travis, Texas, and France during WWI. Josephine is married to a stuffy, detached psychologist, Albigence. I didn’t like Albigence, but he does have one redeeming quality: he’s very interested in treating battle fatigue (PTSD) when other people dismiss troubled soldiers as being cowards or faking it.

Josephine is a terrific woman. She’s smart and determined. She loves learning and teaches in a one-room schoolhouse at Camp Travis. I felt sorry for her because she wanted to be a lawyer, but her father nipped that silly notion in the bud when she was just a child because “women are prone to hysterics” and “can’t work together because they’d start catfights” and all that (eye roll).

Oh, the journeys both Josephine and Albigence went on! They each had to muster strength they didn’t know they had. They both had to pray and try to do what was right even when things weren’t fair.

There were some editing misses. Not misspellings or incorrect punctuation, just things like “piecing” instead of “piercing.” They weren’t TOO distracting, so only one star off.

Overall, an interesting read!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be perfectly honest when I picked up this book, I really wasn't looking forward to reading it because I was judging the book by the cover which you should never do as this book proved perfectly. "Unfit to Serve"was a really good book and I'm glad I got the chance to read it. This book had sad things happening in it, but it was real life As this book is based on real history of the IQ test that was given to American soldiers before entering the service. Both the male and female main characters change for the better in this novel, but neither one is bad before the change but I definitely like the main character better after he changed. He changed because of the accident that happened. I'll let you read the book and discover for yourself what that accident was. I would like to another book with these characters to find out what happened to the bad doctor. Well, I hope I perk your curiosity enough into picking up a copy and reading this book for yourself.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit , and these opinions are my own.

[Jeannine Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sandra Bretting’s Unfit to Serve is a heartfelt and thought-provoking look at resilience and fairness during World War I. Set at Camp Travis, Texas, the story centers on Josephine “Jo” Pembrooke, a shy yet determined schoolteacher who uncovers the tragic flaws in the military’s new IQ testing system. Immigrants who can’t read are unfairly branded as unfit and sent back to war-torn homelands, and Jo quietly works to create a better test, knowing it might be too late to help the soldier she cares about most.

Bretting masterfully combines historical detail with emotional depth, showing both the systemic injustice of the time and Jo’s personal struggle to make a difference. Jo’s quiet courage and moral determination make her a compelling protagonist, while the historical setting feels vivid and immersive. The result is a powerful story about standing up for what’s right, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jump into the midst of a little known slice of World War I history. The story begins at a remote army camp in Texas, where prejudice runs deep and can be dangerous. This raw tale realistically portrays the situation at that time, where immigrants from Europe and Mexico didn’t have much chance to succeed or even to try. One woman fights to change this situation—the post schoolteacher, Josephine Pembrooke. Her husband serves as a psychologist at Camp Travis and administers the newly adopted IQ test to recruits. Of course, the foreigners can’t pass a test written in English. The results of her efforts could dramatically change their lives. The author did a great job bringing the tense circumstances to life and showcasing authentic reactions in the characters as well as their growth. The story contains twists and surprises along the way. This novel could make a compelling choice for a book club discussion. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Betti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Women weren’t created to think for themselves - the general opinion in 1917. However, Josephine Pembrooke was the opposite of the rule. She was interested in the law as a child, but when father slammed the door, she became a teacher. Married to Dr. Albigence Pembrooke, psychologist, she arrived at Camp Travis, San Antonio, TX. when he joined the army. Life got very interesting from there. Being in the background was not high in her books, so the sparks did fly.

A story of what it was like to be part of those in the background at an army base, while loved ones served to the best of their ability. A new Intelligence Quotient (IQ) test was the method of screening new recruits. However, it was biased to those that were fluent in English. Who would turn out to be unfit to serve? A very interesting read!

A copy was received through Elk Lake Publishing and CelebrateLit. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfit to Serve is my first introduction to Sandra Bretting's books. I thought it was a great, inspirational story. The writing style was different and unique. It was refreshing for me. Some of the scenes were so vivid that made me feel transported back in time and watching it unfold in real time. It was intriguing to learn some historical details given. The author obviously did her research when creating this compelling story.

I am going to give Unfit to Serve a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for fans of clean historical fiction, particularly those from the World War I era. I would be interested in finding other books from Sandra Bretting.


I received a copy of Sandra Bretting's Unfit to Serve from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Peggy Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent World War I Historical Novel

In Unfit to Serve, Sandra Bretting gives us the reality of life on a Texas military base in 1917 and following. Josephine, a young bride from a wealthy Eastern family, arrives at Camp Travis full of hope to continue life as she knew it. That was not to be. Her groom, Albigence, was a typical man of his era in his attitude toward a woman’s place. Both learn the realities of military life in Texas and war-torn France. According to people who apparently know, the label “Women’s Fiction” applies only to contemporary situations. I disagree. Unfit to Serve meets all the requirements of Women’s Fiction, rising above the label “romance.” Romance is present, but the depth of story in Unfit to Serve deserves the Women’s Fiction label. I highly recommend Unfit to Serve to readers who want the nitty-gritty of life.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfit to Serve, by Sandra Bretting, is a historical fiction story that takes place in 1918 during WWI. The Pembrookes are stationed in Texas when he is set up by another psychologist and volunteers to go to France to avoid punishment. His wife is left behind without being told where he is or why.
This is a story that grabbed my attention right at the start and held it to the very end. I hope the author decides to write a follow up story. I just loved the character of Jo Pembrooke, she is so strong and wants to help others instead of sitting back and doing nothing. She make's other people's need a top priority in her life.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandra Bretting draws her readers into the throes of WWI via action-packed dialogue, rich visuals, and strong character development. Unfit to Serve is stylized with alternating chapters, capturing the Pembroke's unique POVs, interactions, and events catapulting them towards unexpected resolutions. Modern-day themes will be recognized in this historically-based story, providing for rich discussion and contemplation. I highly recommend Unfit to Serve to anyone who enjoys a great read.

[Kathleen Farris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandra Bretting’s book, “Unfit to Serve”, is a great book that gives the reader insight to what it was like during WWI. It is a historical fiction that describes the relationships between the military, their families and friends and the strong bonds of friendships formed during a very hard war time. The book also gives insight to the formation of the IQ test and how it affected the military enlistment process. I enjoyed and I highly recommend the reading of Sandra Bretting’s “Unfit to Serve”. Kathleen Farris

[C Thompson]

I enjoy reading historical fiction. I judge books (also, movies) by whether my interest is piqued enough to look into the historical events the story has been built around. Sometimes I will stop and search out the facts partway through, but I couldn’t find a stopping place this time. Sandra Bretting, in her debut historical fiction novel, Unfit to Serve, grabbed my attention and kept me reading until I finished the book.
Newlyweds Josephine and Albigence are beginning their marriage at Camp Travis, Texas during WWI. Albigence serves as an army medical psychologist, and Josephine is the military post schoolteacher. The novel portrays the ups and downs of their new life, including the realities of men’s and women’s roles in 1917, and their adjustment to unique aspects of military life as they both do their part to serve during wartime.
Sandra Bretting takes on a variety of topics I had little or no knowledge of as the story unfolds. She builds an engaging and believable story while delving into the development and role of intelligence testing by the army during WWI, and the difficulties for non english speaking immigrants seeking to answer the call to serve in their new country. Trench warfare, the evolution of more humane psychological treatment for battle fatigue, a raging epidemic, prejudice against foreign immigrants, and the difficulties women faced as they sought to have their ideas validated are all brought into this story. I enjoy any book that makes me want to learn more about the historical events that form the framework for the novel, and Sandra Bretting’s Unfit to Serve did just that. It was interesting and entertaining, and sparked my interest in learning more about our nation’s history during WWI. I heartily recommend it, and hope Bretting will continue to write in this genre. Cathy Thompson

[Wendy Andrus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfit to Serve is an intriguing story. Sometimes I got frustrated with Albigence, with the way he treated Josephine...but I also realize that's the way it was back then. But the "mustached stranger" made me downright angry! LOL

I enjoy stories about school teachers (since I am a TK), as well as stories set during World War 1. They aren't as plentiful as stories set during WWll. This is the first book I have read by Sandra Bretting, and I certainly look forward to reading more from her.

If you enjoy historical fiction, with a dose of faith and a touch of romance, you will certainly want to add Unfit to Serve to your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.