Until Leaves Fall In Paris by Sarah Sundin

 

As the Nazis march toward Paris in 1940, American ballerina Lucie Girard buys her favorite English-language bookstore to allow the Jewish owners to escape. Lucie struggles to run Green Leaf Books due to oppressive German laws and harsh conditions, but she finds a way to aid the resistance by passing secret messages between the pages of her books.

Widower Paul Aubrey wants nothing more than to return to the States with his little girl, but the US Army convinces him to keep his factory running and obtain military information from his German customers. As the war rages on, Paul offers his own resistance by sabotaging his product and hiding British airmen in his factory. After they meet in the bookstore, Paul and Lucie are drawn to each other, but she rejects him when she discovers he sells to the Germans. And for Paul to win her trust would mean betraying his mission.

Master of WWII-era fiction Sarah Sundin invites you onto the streets of occupied Paris to discover whether love or duty will prevail.

My thoughts:

It’s always exciting to read a book by Ms. Sundin because I know I am going to be completely engaged in the story.  This one did not disappoint as I was quickly transported to a sad, historical time in history. I loved getting to know Paul Aubrey, his precious four-year-old daughter and Lucie Girard.  I cannot imagine having the bravery these characters had when faced with the challenges of occupied Paris and their resistance.

There were several times that I was fearful that they would be discovered and something horrible would happen to them.   It’s a very emotional read which I loved for a change, it turned out to be a rather fast read for me simply because I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen in the lives of characters that became very dear to me.

Overall, I loved everything about this novel and of course I still find the author to be a masterful storyteller. 

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox

Book Description

When Ivy Rose returns to her hometown to oversee an estate sale, she soon discovers that her grandmother left behind more than trinkets and photo frames--she provided a path to the truth behind Ivy's adoption. Shocked, Ivy seeks clues to her past, but a key piece to the mystery is missing.

Twenty-four years earlier, Harvey James finds an abandoned newborn who gives him a sense of human connection for the first time in his life. His desire to care for the baby runs up against the stark fact that he is homeless. When he becomes entwined with two people seeking to help him find his way, Harvey knows he must keep the baby a secret or risk losing the only person he's ever loved.

In this dual-time story from debut novelist Amanda Cox, the truth--both the search for it and the desire to keep it from others--takes center stage as Ivy and Harvey grapple with love, loss, and letting go. 

My thoughts:

The Edge of Belonging is the heart-stirring, dual-time line debut novel penned by Amanda Cox. I loved every single thing about this book from beginning to end. I fell in love with the characters, they are caring, selfless and they came to life before my eyes as I read their story.

I should give a heads up and let readers know to have a box of tissue handy because you will probably shed a few tears as you go on the journey with Ivy Rose as she discovers the truth behind her adoption. In addition to Ivy Rose, I absolutely adored Harvey James and the other characters so lovingly crafted by this talented author.

Overall, I thought this was an impressive debut novel that is beautifully written and deserves more than a five-star rating. This is a must read in my opinion and will go on my keeper shelf.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are completely my own.

One More River to Cross by Jane Kirkpatrick

Book Desription

In 1844, two years before the Donner Party, the Stevens-Murphy company left Missouri to be the first wagons into California through the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Mostly Irish Catholics, the party sought religious freedom and education in the mission-dominated land and enjoyed a safe journey--until October, when a heavy snowstorm forced difficult decisions. The first of many for young Mary Sullivan, newlywed Sarah Montgomery, the widow Ellen Murphy, and her pregnant sister-in-law Maolisa.

When the party separates in three directions, each risks losing those they loved and faces the prospect of learning that adversity can destroy or redefine. Two women and four men go overland around Lake Tahoe, three men stay to guard the heaviest wagons--and the rest of the party, including eight women and seventeen children, huddle in a makeshift cabin at the headwaters of the Yuba River waiting for rescue . . . or their deaths.

Award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick plunges you deep into a landscape of challenge where fear and courage go hand in hand for a story of friendship, family, and hope that will remind you of what truly matters in times of trial.In 1844, two years before the Donner Party, the Stevens-Murphy company left Missouri to be the first wagons into California through the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Mostly Irish Catholics, the party sought religious freedom and education in the mission-dominated land and enjoyed a safe journey--until October, when a heavy snowstorm forced difficult decisions. The first of many for young Mary Sullivan, newlywed Sarah Montgomery, the widow Ellen Murphy, and her pregnant sister-in-law Maolisa.

When the party separates in three directions, each risks losing those they loved and faces the prospect of learning that adversity can destroy or redefine. Two women and four men go overland around Lake Tahoe, three men stay to guard the heaviest wagons--and the rest of the party, including eight women and seventeen children, huddle in a makeshift cabin at the headwaters of the Yuba River waiting for rescue . . . or their deaths.

Award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick plunges you deep into a landscape of challenge where fear and courage go hand in hand for a story of friendship, family, and hope that will remind you of what truly matters in times of trial.

My thoughts:

I have loved every book that I have read by Jane Kirkpatrick and this one is just as well written as her other novels.  It was also well researched as I discovered in the authors notes at the end of the book.

Set in 1844 a group of families leave Missouri and travel into California where they encounter bad weather forcing them to make difficult decisions regarding their journey. This was an interesting storyline as they split up into 3 different groups, each facing hardships along the way.   I am always in awe of those pioneers and their bravery.  Traveling by wagons, facing uncertainty, running low on food and sheltering in place wherever they were.

I always love a story about strong women and the author certainly delivered in this one, making it impossible for me to choose just one.  I read One More River to Cross at a slower pace than I normally read but that's because I wanted to take in every detail described within the pages and imagine each character in each situation.  I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and think it will appeal to all who like historical fiction.  

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Westering Women by Sandra Dallas

Book Description

From the bestselling author of Prayers for Sale, an inspiring celebration of sisterhood on the perilous wagon-trail west

"If you are an adventuresome young woman of high moral character and fine health, are you willing to travel to California in search of a good husband?"

It's February 1852, and all around Chicago Maggie sees the postings soliciting "eligible women" to travel to the gold mines of Goosetown. A young seamstress with a small daughter and several painful secrets, she has nothing to lose.

So she joins forty-three other women and two pious reverends on the dangerous 2,000-mile journey west. None of them are prepared for the hardships they face on the trek through the high plains, mountains, and deserts. Or for the triumphs of finding strengths they did not know they possessed. And not all will make it.

As Maggie gets to know the other women, she soon discovers that she’s not the only one looking to leave dark secrets behind. And when her past catches up with her, it becomes clear a band of sisters will do whatever it takes to protect one of their own. From the bestselling author of Prayers for Sale, an inspiring celebration of sisterhood on the perilous wagon-trail west

"If you are an adventuresome young woman of high moral character and fine health, are you willing to travel to California in search of a good husband?"

It's February 1852, and all around Chicago Maggie sees the postings soliciting "eligible women" to travel to the gold mines of Goosetown. A young seamstress with a small daughter and several painful secrets, she has nothing to lose.

So she joins forty-three other women and two pious reverends on the dangerous 2,000-mile journey west. None of them are prepared for the hardships they face on the trek through the high plains, mountains, and deserts. Or for the triumphs of finding strengths they did not know they possessed. 

And not all will make it.

As Maggie gets to know the other women, she soon discovers that she’s not the only one looking to leave dark secrets behind. And when her past catches up with her, it becomes clear a band of sisters will do whatever it takes to protect one of their own. 

My thoughts:

This is the first book that I have read by Sandra Dallas, but the cover and book description appealed to me so I was happy to have the opportunity to read it.  I am so glad I did because the author penned a compelling novel that held my interest throughout.

The women who signed up to take the 2000-mile journey to California were brave souls to say the least, sure some were fleeing from abusive relationship but the danger and hardships they face on their travels are definitely not for the faint of heart.  I have to say I admired them for leaving a life of certain cruelty and misery by taking the chance for trying to find a better and brighter future.  The hardships the group faced were heartrending but I kept rooting for the ladies because I started to care about them and wanted them to live long, happy, safe lives.

The women shared an unbreakable bond as they grew closer, experiencing unimaginable loss along the way but they were there for each other through the painful loss of lives, what few personal possessions they had managed to take with them but they kept looking forward in search of happiness.

Ms. Dallas has written a gripping story with compelling characters and gained a new fan with this novel.  I look forward to reading more of her work.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.  Opinions expressed in this review are completely are my own.

The Spice King (Hope and Glory #1) by Elizabeth Camden

About the book

Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building a successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Tasked with gaining access to the private Delacroix plant collection, Smithsonian botanist Annabelle Larkin unwittingly steps into a web of dangerous political intrigue and will be forced to choose between her heart and her loyalty to her country.

My thoughts:

Elizabeth Camden has been one of my must read authors for quite sometime, so I was thrilled to receive an advanced copy of The Spice King, which is the first book in her new series, Hope and Glory.  Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres and I love the way the author takes a subject that I never considered interesting but after reading a few pages, I find it fascinating, especially in this novel.

Annabelle Larkin is such a great character, she is sweet, kind and tenacious. She's a botanist at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC and when she begins a correspondence with Gray Delacroix to see his private plant collection, she shows just how determined she can be.  Gray is equally determined so I knew these two would become near and dear to my heart. I'll be honest here and admit that I never expected the world of spices and politics to work so well into a storyline but the two merged spectacularly. 

They are both fantastic characters and I could easily imagine them spending time together,

Another character who held my interest is Elaine, Annabelle's blind sister who works at the Library of Congress which I think would be an awesome job for anyone. I was glad to learn of her experiences with coping with her disability.   

Overall, The Spice King is impeccably written and is filled with instantly likeable characters and also has a few twists that I didn't expect.  A definite must read in my opinion.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  Opinions expressed are my own. 

Under Moonlit Skies (Prairie Sky Series Book 3) by Cynthia Roemer

Book Description

Her life was planned out ~ until he rode in ~ Illinois prairie ~ 1859

After four long years away, Esther Stanton returns to the prairie to care for her sister Charlotte’s family following the birth of her second child. The month-long stay seems much too short as Esther becomes acquainted with her brother-in-law’s new ranch hand, Stewart Brant. When obligations compel her to return to Cincinnati and to the man her overbearing mother intends her to wed, she loses hope of ever knowing true happiness.

Still reeling from a hurtful relationship, Stew is reluctant to open his heart to Esther. But when he faces a life-threatening injury with Esther tending him, their bond deepens. Heartbroken when she leaves, he sets out after her and inadvertently stumbles across an illegal slave-trade operation, the knowledge of which puts him, as well as Esther and her family, in jeopardy. Her life was planned out ~ until he rode in ~ Illinois prairie ~ 1859

After four long years away, Esther Stanton returns to the prairie to care for her sister Charlotte’s family following the birth of her second child. The month-long stay seems much too short as Esther becomes acquainted with her brother-in-law’s new ranch hand, Stewart Brant. When obligations compel her to return to Cincinnati and to the man her overbearing mother intends her to wed, she loses hope of ever knowing true happiness.

Still reeling from a hurtful relationship, Stew is reluctant to open his heart to Esther. But when he faces a life-threatening injury with Esther tending him, their bond deepens. Heartbroken when she leaves, he sets out after her and inadvertently stumbles across an illegal slave-trade operation, the knowledge of which puts him, as well as Esther and her family, in jeopardy. 

My thoughts:

This entire series has been a favorite of mine with each and every novel surpassing the one before it.  I have been waiting for this one and boy was the wait worthwhile.  Ms. Roemer has a knack for crafting characters who I truly care for, I celebrate their happiness and share in their sorrows.  

This storyline was captivating because I didn't expect some of the plot twists so that added to my overall enjoyment of this book.

Watching Esther grow and mature has been wonderful and I was so glad to reconnect with not only her but with Charlotte and Chad, too.   Meeting Stew was a pure delight, he is a selfless, wonderful character who deserved all the good life had to offer him.  I have loved this series and will think of the characters fondly from time to time, but I'm excited to find out what the author has in store for her readers in the future. The Prairie Sky series has been such a joy to read and I think fans of Historical and Christian fiction will enjoy the three novels as much as I have.

I received a complimentary but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

A Reluctant Belle (Daughttry House #2) by Beth white

Book Description

Impoverished Southern belle Joelle Daughtry has a secret. By day she has been helping her sisters in their quest to turn the run-down family plantation into a resort hotel after the close of the Civil War. But by night and under a male pseudonym, she has been penning articles for the local paper in support of the construction of a Negro school. With the Mississippi arm of the Ku Klux Klan gaining power and prestige, Joelle knows she is playing a dangerous game.

When childhood enemy and current investor in the Daughtry house renovation Schuyler Beaumont takes over his assassinated father's candidacy for state office, Joelle finds that in order to protect her family and her home, she and Schuyler will have to put aside their longstanding personal conflict and develop a united public front. The trouble is, what do you do when animosity becomes respect--and even love--if you're already engaged to someone else?Impoverished Southern belle Joelle Daughtry has a secret. By day she has been helping her sisters in their quest to turn the run-down family plantation into a resort hotel after the close of the Civil War. But by night and under a male pseudonym, she has been penning articles for the local paper in support of the construction of a Negro school. With the Mississippi arm of the Ku Klux Klan gaining power and prestige, Joelle knows she is playing a dangerous game.

When childhood enemy and current investor in the Daughtry house renovation Schuyler Beaumont takes over his assassinated father's candidacy for state office, Joelle finds that in order to protect her family and her home, she and Schuyler will have to put aside their longstanding personal conflict and develop a united public front. The trouble is, what do you do when animosity becomes respect--and even love--if you're already engaged to someone else?

My thoughts:

I'm always unsure if a second book in a series will live up to the first one but this one absolutely did! It you haven't read the first book,A Rebel Heart there is enough of the back story that you'll have no problem with what's been happening. 

Joelle is determined to do what she thinks it right and fair even though others may not agree with her and  it is dangerous.  You have to love a lady who is no shrinking violet and one who will go the extra mile to treat all human beings with respect and dignity.  As a fan of historical fiction, I think Ms. White has captured the aftermath of the Civil War in this realistic and well written story. She blends adventure and danger with a touch of faith and a bit of romance.

I am eager to read the third book in the series to find out what adventure the author has in store for her readers.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson

Book Description

Cassie Kendrick is on the run. Her abusive father arranged her marriage to a despicable man, but she's discovered an escape. Disguised as a man, Cassie enlists in the Union army, taking the name Thomas Turner. On the battlefields of the Civil War, keeping her identity a secret is only the beginning of her problems, especially after she meets Gabriel Avery, a handsome young photographer.

Anxious to make his mark on the world and to erase the darkness and guilt lurking from his past, Gabriel works with renowned photographer Matthew Brady to capture images from the front lines of the war. As Gabriel forges friendships with many of the men he encounters, he wonders what the courageous, unpredictable Thomas Turner is hiding.

Battling betrayal, their own personal demons, and a country torn apart by war, can Cassie and Gabriel learn to forgive themselves and trust their futures to the God who births hope and healing in the darkest places?

My thoughts:

Tara Johnson has written one the best Civil War novels that I have read and I have read several because historical fiction is one of my favorite genres.  Ms. Johnson is a new to me author but after reading Where Dandelions Bloom, I can easily see her becoming one of my must read authors.

With limited choices on how to escape her abusive father who has arranged her marriage to an equally wretched man, Cassie Kendrick enlists in the Union Army disguised as a man. Thomas Turner is the name she has taken and let's just say that Thomas goes through a lot to keep her identity a secret on the battlefield.  Gabriel Avery is the handsome photographer who is sent to capture images on the front lines of the war.  He is carrying baggage from his past but desperately wants to escape his demons, too.  I liked how Cassie and Gabriel both took action to remove themselves from situations they didn't welcome in their lives. Though their home lives were vastly different from each other, they still were determined to have better futures.

The secondary characters left a lasting impression on me as much as Cassie and Gabe did.  Cassie's grandmother was one of my absolute favorites, she is so kind and caring which left me wanting to meet her.  Kudos to the author for creating characters who seemed so real to me.  Where Dandelions Bloom is a beautifully crafted and memorable novel and one of my favorites of 2019. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Johnson's work.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

The Secrets of Paper and Ink by Lindsay Harrel

Book Synopsis

Lindsay Harrel presents a powerful story of healing, forgiveness, and finding the courage to write your own story.

A year after the death of her abusive fiancé, domestic violence counselor Sophia Barrett finds returning to work too painful. She escapes to Cornwall, England--a place she's learned to love through the words of her favorite author--and finds a place to stay with the requirement that she help out in the bookstore underneath the room she's renting. Given her love of all things literary, it seems like the perfect place to find peace.

Ginny Rose is an American living in Cornwall, sure that if she saves the bookstore she co-owns with her husband then she can save her marriage as well. Fighting to keep the first place she feels like she belongs, she brainstorms with her brother-in-law, William, and Sophia to try to keep the charming bookstore afloat.

Two hundred years before, governess Emily Fairfax knew two things for certain: she wanted to be a published author, and she was in love with her childhood best friend. But he was a wealthy heir and well out of her league. Sophia discovers Emily's journals, and she and William embark on a mission to find out more about this mysterious and determined woman, all the while getting closer to each other as they get closer to the truth.

The lives of the three women intertwine as each learns the power she has over the story of her life.

Paperback, 326 pages

Published February 26th 2019 by Thomas Nelson

My thoughts:

The Secrets of Paper and Ink is an artfully written time-slip novel with characters who have lingered in my mind long after I finished reading it.  The three female characters stories are woven together and each of their POV is told seamlessly. I usually love the past storyline more than the present but that wasn't the case in this book because I genuinely cared about Sophia, Ginny and Emily equally and wanted to know as much about them as I could. 

 This is a gripping and emotional story in which the characters suffer through abusive relationships  and rejection while learning so much about themselves along the way. I love how strong the ladies were as much as I loved the heroes who showed them what love, patience and understanding in a relationship is . I could easily imagine Sophia and Ginny in the bookstore as they worked together and became friends just as I could imagine finding a cozy spot to sit and choose which books I would purchase to enjoy during my stay in Cornwall. 

Ms. Harrell touched my heart in this captivating story and this is already one of my favorite books of 2019.  I look forward to reading more of her work but in the meantime, I will read this again at some point.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.  All opinions are my own. 

Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham

Book Description

For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people's mail. Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the Dead Letter Office. Still she dreams of something more--a bit of intrigue, a taste of romance, or at least a touch less loneliness. When a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love falls into her hands, Penny seizes this chance to do something heroic. It becomes her mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.

Thomas left his former life with no intention of ending up in Azure Springs, Iowa. He certainly didn't expect a happy ending after what he had done. All he wanted to do was run and never look back. In a moment of desperation, he began to write, never really expecting a reply.

When Penny's undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter and yet she finds herself caring--perhaps too much--for the one who wrote it. For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people's mail. Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the Dead Letter Office. Still she dreams of something more--a bit of intrigue, a taste of romance, or at least a touch less loneliness. When a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love falls into her hands, Penny seizes this chance to do something heroic. It becomes her mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.

Thomas left his former life with no intention of ending up in Azure Springs, Iowa. He certainly didn't expect a happy ending after what he had done. All he wanted to do was run and never look back. In a moment of desperation, he began to write, never really expecting a reply.

When Penny's undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter and yet she finds herself caring--perhaps too much--for the one who wrote it. For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people's mail. Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the Dead Letter Office. Still she dreams of something more--a bit of intrigue, a taste of romance, or at least a touch less loneliness. When a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love falls into her hands, Penny seizes this chance to do something heroic. It becomes her mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.

Thomas left his former life with no intention of ending up in Azure Springs, Iowa. He certainly didn't expect a happy ending after what he had done. All he wanted to do was run and never look back. In a moment of desperation, he began to write, never really expecting a reply.

When Penny's undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter and yet she finds herself caring--perhaps too much--for the one who wrote it. For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people's mail. Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the Dead Letter Office. Still she dreams of something more--a bit of intrigue, a taste of romance, or at least a touch less loneliness. When a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love falls into her hands, Penny seizes this chance to do something heroic. It becomes her mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.

Thomas left his former life with no intention of ending up in Azure Springs, Iowa. He certainly didn't expect a happy ending after what he had done. All he wanted to do was run and never look back. In a moment of desperation, he began to write, never really expecting a reply.

When Penny's undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter and yet she finds herself caring--perhaps too much--for the one who wrote it.

My thoughts:

Rachel Fordham is becoming one of my favorite authors.  I loved her debut novel The Hope of Azure Springs and hoped I would love this one just as much which I did!

Penny works in the Dead Letter Office where part of her job is looking for anything valuable for the Government as she opens mail day after day.  When she opens a letter from Thomas,she finds something more meaningful and precious than she has found during the three years she has worked there. His letters have a profound effect on her which is frowned upon but she is determined to get his letter to the intended recipient if possible. After reading the letters Thomas wrote I cant say I blame her for trying to help him.

After much searching she winds up in Azure Springs where we reconnect with some of my favorite characters and meet Thomas who wrote those heartfelt letters. Penny is not only caring but I think she had a lot of spunk in her to go in search of a perfect stranger the way she did.  Not only does she find Thomas, she finds new friends, a bit of mystery and more action than she ever could have imagined as she is drawn into a long held grudge that had me sitting on the edge of my seat. 

Out of the many things I loved about this book is when Penny finally receives letters of her own which is something she has wanted for a long time. It's the little things that mean a lot, right?

Yours Truly, Thomas is a poignant and wonderfully written novel which is why I recommend it.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

All Manner of Things by Susie Finkbeiner

Book Description

When Annie Jacobson's brother Mike enlists as a medic in the Army in 1967, he hands her a piece of paper with the address of their long-estranged father. If anything should happen to him in Vietnam, Mike says, Annie must let their father know.

In Mike's absence, their father returns to face tragedy at home, adding an extra measure of complication to an already tense time. As they work toward healing and pray fervently for Mike's safety overseas, letter by letter the Jacobsons must find a way to pull together as a family, regardless of past hurts. In the tumult of this time, Annie and her family grapple with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand, even as they learn to turn to the One who binds the wounds of the brokenhearted.

Author Susie Finkbeiner invites you into the Jacobson family's home and hearts during a time in which the chaos of the outside world touched their small community in ways they never imagined.

My thoughts:

Oh, I loved this book so much!  It's the kind of story where you are compelled to keep reading page after page not wanting to stop for one second.  So, I didn't!  I read this book in one day getting to know the Jacobson's who were a family I could easily imagine spending time with.

In this beautifully crafted story I celebrated the happy times and cried so hard during the bad times because the author made me feel the same emotions her characters felt.  Set during the Vietnam War this novel is about family, faith, forgiveness but most of all love.  A family who is all too familiar with war and the effects it has on their love ones leaving Annie, Mike, Joel and their mother on their own while the father faces his own demons.  The one character I wasn't sure I would like turned out to be one of my favorites and I can picture him and his diner in my mind.

The letters exchanged between Mike and his family during his deployment are poignant and I looked forward to reading each and every single one of them.  I don't know for sure but I imagine the author became emotional while composing them because they certainly got to me. I am in awe of the gift Ms. Finkbeiner possesses because she pulls me into her characters lives.  She makes me feel like I am in their home, their workplace or wherever she chooses to take me which is the reason she is one of my must read authors.  If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would.

If anyone is looking for a superbly written novel with unforgettable characters then I highly recommend All Manner of Things. This is one of my favorite books that I've read this year and I hope it will be one of yours.

I received a copy from the publisher but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own. 

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My Dearest Dietrrich (A Novel of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Lost Love) by Amanda Barratt

Book Description

A staggering love illuminating the dark corners of a Nazi prison
Renowned German pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is famous for his resistance to the Nazi regime and for his allegiance to God over government. But what few realize is that the last years of his life also held a love story that rivals any romance novel.

Maria von Wedemeyer knows the realities of war. Her beloved father and brother have both been killed on the battlefield. The last thing this spirited young woman needs is to fall for a man under constant surveillance by the Gestapo. How can she give another piece of her heart to a man so likely to share the same final fate? Yet when Dietrich Bonhoeffer, an old family friend, comes to comfort the von Wedemeyers after their losses, she discovers that love isn't always logical.

Dietrich himself has determined to keep his distance from romantic attachments. There is too much work to be done for God, and his involvement in the conspiracy is far too important. But when he encounters a woman whose intelligence and conviction match his own, he's unprepared for how easy it is to give away his heart.

With their deep love comes risk--and neither Dietrich nor Maria is prepared for just how great that risk soon becomes.

Based on detailed historical research and including photos from both Maria's and Dietrich's lives, this is a true love story at once beautiful and heartrending. My Dearest Dietrich sheds new light on a world-famous theologian . . . and the woman who changed his life.

My thoughts:

Amanda Barratt penned a beautiful and heartfelt story within the pages of My Dearest Dietrich. I had been waiting to read this novel since I first heard about it and I can tell you it was well worth the wait.

This is the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer the German pastor who was known for his staunch resistance to Nazi Dictatorship and the young and spirited Maria von Wedemeyer and the love they had for each other.  Their love was pure but certainly not easy for them due to their age difference and the time they lived in.  The pain and loss they suffered through seems unimaginable but sadly it's all very true.
I knew a little about the lives of Dietrich and Maria but once I started reading this book I wanted to know more about them, their families and friends.  So the countless trips to my local library will continue until I have read everything they have to offer.

My Dearest Dietrich is artfully written, well researched and one of the best novels I have had the pleasure of reading which is why I highly recommend it. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Barratt's work.

I received a copy from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review.  All opinions are my own.

           About the author

ECPA best-selling author Amanda Barratt fell in love with writing in grade school when she wrote her first story—a spinoff of Jane Eyre. Now, Amanda writes romantic, historical novels and novellas, penning stories of beauty and brokenness set against the backdrop of bygone eras not so very different from our own. Her novel My Dearest Dietrich: A Novel of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Lost Love, releases from Kregel Publications in June 2019.
She’s also the author of My Heart Belongs in Niagara Falls, New York: Adele’s Journey, as well as seven novellas with Barbour Publishing. Two of her novellas have been finalists in the FHL Reader’s Choice Awards.
Amanda lives in the woods of Michigan with her fabulous family, where she can be found reading way too many books, plotting her next novel, and jotting down imaginary travel itineraries for her dream vacation to Europe.
Connect with her on Facebook and visit her online at amandabarratt.net.

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The Number of Love (Codebreakers #1) by Roseanna M.White

Book Blurb

The Toughest Puzzle She'll Have to Solve

Might Be the Wishes of Her Own Heart

Three years into the Great War, England's greatest asset is their intelligence network--field agents risking their lives to gather information, and codebreakers able to crack German telegrams for hints of the enemy's plans. Margot De Wilde thrives in the environment of the secretive Room 40, where she spends her days deciphering intercepted messages. But when her world is turned upside down by an unexpected loss, she discovers for the first time in her life that numbers aren't enough.

Drake Elton returns wounded from the field, followed by an enemy who just won't give up. He's smitten quickly by the quick and brainy Margot, but soon the dangers of the war draw ever closer. 

Margot and Drake will have to team up to save themselves from the very secrets that brought them together.

My thoughts:

The Number of Love was one of my most anticipated reads of 2019 but boy did I get more than I anticipated!  I knew the book would be terrific because Ms. White's writing is always impressive.  I will say that this is one of the most compelling novels that I have ever read.

I absolutely loved the young and brilliant Margo De Wilde who deciphers intercepted messages during WW1 in Room 40 which was a highly secretive British Intelligence Organization.  Margo is a mathematical genius who tends to have an analytical mind which made her interesting to me.  It was refreshing to find a character during that time period who was less interested in finding a husband than other girls her age.  That's not to imply that she is unfeeling because she is a loving daughter and sister.  The fact that she was highly respected and an asset in what was typically a male dominated profession added my love of this book.

Drake Elton added a bit of humor to the storyline and his interactions with Margot were some of my favorites as they become better acquainted. It's not all fun and games for Drake though since he is a spy and his life is in danger.  I loved his relationship with his sister who is a complicated young lady but one who I really liked.  

There are just so many things to love about this book, from reconnecting with characters from the authors previous books to meeting new and exciting ones in this book.  I loved the fast-paced and riveting storyline and the fact Ms. White clearly does her research.  It will be hard to wait for the next book in the series to be released but in the meantime, I will read this one again.  I highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction or anyone who loves a well written fantastic novel.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review.  All opinions are my own.

                                                          About the author

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com

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The Pink Bonnet: True Colors: Historical Stories of American Crimes by Liz Tolsma

About the book

A Desperate Mother Searches for Her Child
Step into True Colors -- a new series of Historical Stories of Romance and American Crime

Widowed in Memphis during 1932, Cecile Dowd is struggling to provide for her three-year-old daughter. Unwittingly trusting a neighbor puts little Millie Mae into the clutches of Georgia Tann, corrupt Memphis Tennessee Children’s Home Society director suspected of the disappearance of hundreds of children. With the help of a sympathetic lawyer, the search for Millie uncovers a deep level of corruption that threatens their very lives.
 

How far will a mother go to find out what happened to her child?

My thoughts:

The Pink Bonnet is the second book in the True Colors a series of Historical Crimes written by different authors so they each standalone.  I plan on reading each of the books as they release because so far they have both been so good.

In this novel, author Liz Tolsma tells the true story of Georgia Tann who ran an adoption agency in Memphis, Tennessee from 1924 to 1950.  Unfortunately the children she took were taken without their parents permission or knowledge.  I have to admit that I was unaware of this corrupt practice she and others were engaged in and it really made me so angry and sad that this happened.

Young widowed Cecile Dowd and her three year old daughter, Millie stole my heart as they fall prey to this horrible practice and are suddenly separated from each other.  The author wrote the emotions of both mother and daughter so realistically that I teared up several times while reading this well crafted story.  We meet several really horrible characters in this book but there are a few good ones who I liked so much and who helped Cecile as she searched for her child.

I quickly got caught up in the storyline as the search continued to find Millie and the pure love Cecile had for her as she searched tirelessly for her.

I loved the action and suspense that had me sitting on the edge of my seat as the search continued and had me turning pages as fast as I could.  If there are any readers out there looking for  historical stories of true crimes or a great book in general, I highly recommend this one because it truly well worth the read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to  post a review.  

  

More Than Words Can Say (Patchwork Family #2) by Karen Witemeyer

Book Description

After being railroaded by the city council, Abby needs a mans name on her bakery's deed, and a man she can control, not the stoic lumberman Zacharias who always seems to exude silent confidence. She cant even control her pulse when she's around him. But as trust grows between them, she finds she wants more than his rescue. She wants his heart. 

Paperback, 384 pages
Expected publication: June 4th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers (first published June 2019)

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My thoughts:

Oh how I loved this book!  This is the second book in the Patchwork Family series and one of my most anticipated reads of 2019, partly because I have often thought of Zach since meeting him in More Than Meets the Eye and I have been waiting for his story but mainly because I love anything written by Karen Witemeyer.  

Abby was instantly likeable and her story made me so glad that I live in a world where it's perfectly acceptable for women  to own a business without having a man's name to put on the deed.  That's  how things were during the 1800's and since her father's death the city council started giving her a hard time. So, what's a single woman  who owns and operates a successful bakery to do?  Well, she decides to enter into a marriage of convenience which adds several humorous interactions with a couple of the single men in town.  My goodness, Abby is determined she is not giving up her bakery and livelihood without a fight and that's when I rooted for her to have the best life had to offer her.

Things didn't  get off to a good start as Abby went through the list of suitable men to marry, there were some duds who frequented her bakery but there was that one man she thought would be a good choice.  Unfortunately he disagreed much to my disappointment but luckily Abby has a sister who  has her back so that was a wonderful surprise when she pays Zach a visit.   Zach has changed so much since the first book and the change has been positive making this readers heart so happy. I have admired the sacrifices he made for his Patchwork family and was so happy to reconnect with Evangeline and Seth.  I didn't always condone Zach's behavior but knew he had little choice in how he provided for his family.

I think the author strikes the perfect blend of humor, love of family and faith in this wonderful story.  This could be read as a standalone but I recommend reading  the books in order to fully appreciate the characters and the fantastic writing of Ms. Witemeyer. 

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.