Until Leaves Fall in Paris

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH

UNTIL LEAVES FALL IN PARIS

When the Nazis march toward Paris, American ballerina Lucie Girard buys her favourite English-language bookstore to allow the Jewish owners to escape. The Germans make it difficult for her to keep Green Leaf Books afloat. And she must keep the store open if she is to continue aiding 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. But in order to carry out his mission, he must appear to support the occupation -- which does not win him any sympathy when he meets Lucie in the bookstore.

In a world turned upside down, will love or duty prevail?

My Review:

Truly amazing! The kind of story that pulls at all a reader's emotions and makes her squirm a bit besides. Had me considering so many questions. Put in the same situations these characters were in, would I stand firm in my faith? Stick to my morals? Would I be willing to risk everything to help a noble cause? Or would I look away, try to rationalize dire circumstances into something more palatable? Or worse, ignore my conscience altogether and look for ways to profit from others misfortunes? These questions seem all the more pertinent these days as we watch a very similar situation play out in Ukraine.

I learned so much history from this book! And you'd think by now, after all the WWII novels I've read, I would know it all! :-) But no, clearly, I need more educating. For instance, I had no idea there were so many English speaking foreigners in Paris at the time of the German occupation. While British citizens had been rounded up and sent to internment camps, the Americans were allowed to conduct their business as usual.

For Lucie Girard that means running the English Language bookstore for her dear friends, Jewish owners who must flee the country before the German occupation takes a more deadly turn. She has sacrificed a career in the ballet in order to do that, but it isn't long before she's faced with decisions to sacrifice even more!

And Paul Aubrey lives under the scrutiny and scorn of his former American friends as he keeps his car manufacturing company running to supply the Germans with trucks and vans. He's considered a greedy opportunist and a Nazi collaborator though he's really spying for the US Army (and doing a bit of sabotage on the side!) It's bad enough that society is shunning him, but he wasn't prepared for that to carry over into his young daughter's life.

And then Paul and little Josie walk into a certain English language bookstore and...

Oy, the angst of the love story because vibrant, opinionated, impetuous Lucie discovers that Paul is a collaborator -- only she can't reconcile the kind, thoughtful, doting father with the cold mercenary of a businessman. (And for good reason, as we readers know!) So we have a doomed romance as the war amps up, with both the hero and heroine aiding the resistance in different ways, with neither knowing what the other is doing! My heart about stopped a hundred times during this read!

Sarah Sundin brings her unique flare and an interesting approach to another riveting World War II novel and I hung on every word. 

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.

Goal Update: #5 Diversify my reading -- set in France

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback copy.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Until Leaves Fall in Paris, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday March 26 2022. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck 

When Twilight Breaks

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH

WHEN TWILIGHT BREAKS

Munich, 1938. Evelyn Brand is an American foreign correspondent as determined to prove her worth in a male-dominated profession as she is to expose the growing tyranny in Nazi Germany. To do so, she must walk a thin line. If she offends the government, she could be expelled from the country -- or worse. If she fails to truthfully report on major stories, she'll never be able to give a voice to the oppressed -- and wake up the folks back home.

In another part of the city, American graduate student Peter Lang is working on his PhD in German. Disillusioned with the chaos in the world due to the Great Depression, he is impressed with the prosperity and order of German society. But when the brutality of the regime hits close, he discovers a far better way to use his contacts within the Nazi party -- to feed information to the shrewd reporter he can't get off his mind.

This electric standalone novel from fan-favorite Sarah Sundin puts you right at the intersection of pulse-pounding suspense and heart-stopping romance.

My Review:

"I hate depending on others. It makes me weak..."

"Don't you know God makes us strong? He didn't create us to be completely independent, but interdependent."

Whoa! Another gobsmacker to make my top ten 2021 reading list and it's only February. And, while the content is historical, it is also very pertinent to our times which makes the story all the more fascinating/appalling.

This is Sundin at her best. Flawed characters growing through their faith journey, stunner plot, compelling historical details -- well, it all just took my breath away! And kept me frantically reading right to the end.

The pre-war Germany setting was especially intriguing for me. I've read a ton of WWII novels, but this is the first that solely focuses on the events leading up to the war. A chilling look at the insidious build to the horrors of the holocaust. 

And we get an insiders view from an intrepid reporter and a bemused foreign student. The author's brilliance shines in the unlikely pairing of this hero and heroine making of a heart-in-throat reading atmosphere. There's espionage and danger and Nazi arrogance and brutality...along with betrayal. I told you, page-turning stuff!

Book provided courtesy of Baker's Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback copy

If you would like a chance to win a copy of When Twilight Breaks, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winners announced on Saturday February 27  2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck! 

The Land Beneath Us

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
THE LAND BENEATH US

In 1943, Private Clay Paxton trains hard with the US Army Rangers at Camp Forrest, Tennessee, determined to do his best in the  upcoming Allied invasion of France. With his future stolen by his brothers' betrayal, Clay has only one thing to live for -- fulfilling the recurring dream of his death.

Leah Jones works as a librarian at Camp Forrest, longing to rise above her orphanage upbringing and belong to the community, even as she uses her spare time to search for her real family -- the baby sisters she was separated from so long ago.

After Clay saves Leah's life from a brutal attack, he saves her virtue with a marriage of convenience. When he ships out to train in England for D-Day, their letters bind them together over the distance. But can a love strong enough to overcome death grow between them before Clay's recurring dream comes true?

My Review:

Honestly, I'm a blubbering mess. I bawled my way through this novel in a heart-wrenching ugly cry kind of way. Partly because I'm current on this series so some aspects of Clay's story touched me deeply. Having said that, you could read The Land Beneath Us as a standalone but I don't  really recommend it. It will make way more of an impact if you have followed this family saga from the very beginning. Besides, you definitely want to savor every blessed minute with these Paxton men! (She says, fanning herself furiously.)

I have to express heartfelt thanks to Sarah Sundin for including a significant and very powerful inspirational thread. This story would have fallen a part without it. Touched me on so many levels. And I appreciated the fresh perspective of the Prodigal Son told from the point of view of the brother who stayed.

And Leah's quest to belong -- wrenched my heart right out of my chest! She's a heroine who has honed the ability to find blessings even in the bleakest situations. It's almost like a game for her. Kind of a grown up Pollyanna with a healthy dose of grit. :-)

As with all of Sundin's novel, her research is impeccable and she brings this time period to life -- from the homefront to the realistic training exercises through to the D-Day battles. Gut-wrenching and awe-inspiring.

And the story that ties it all together is the very essence of storytelling perfection. I hate to grade novels but this just might be my #1 read of the year and, yes, I know it's only February but it would take a lot to top The Land Beneath Us!

I listened to the audbile version of this book -- a good thing too since an actual book would have been water-logged from all my tears. Happy, sad, mad. Stunned, shocked, appalled. I cried over it all. :-) And glad to have the soothing voice of Sarah Zimmerman to keep me company throughout.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Land Beneath Us, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday February 22 2020 . Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Sky Above Us

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
THE SKY ABOVE US

Numbed by grief and harboring shameful secrets, Lt. Adler Paxton ships to England with the US 357th Fighter Group in 1943. Determined to become an ace pilot, Adler battles the German Luftwaffe in treacherous dogfights in the skies over France as the Allies struggle for control of the air before the D-Day invasion.

Violet Lindstrom wants to be a missionary, but for now she serves in the American Red Cross, arranging entertainment for the men of the 357th and setting up programs for local children. Drawn to the mysterious Adler, she enlists his help with her work and urges him to reconnect with his family after a long estrangement.

Despite himself, Adler finds his defenses crumbling when it comes to Violet. But D-day draws near and secrets can't stay buried forever.

My Review:

No matter what I say in this review, I can't begin to do justice to the magic of Sarah Sundin's storytelling. And this time, I listened to the audio version which enhanced my enjoyment even more. It kinda felt like I had traveled back in time to the 1940s and was huddled next to my radio absorbing every precious word of a serial installment broadcasting over the BBC. The historical ambience is over-the-moon delectable! Being forced back into my 21st century reality got just plain annoying when I had to do real life stuff. Much preferred hanging out with Violet and Adler.

Sundin creates images with her words -- from the every day details of life on an Air Force base to the nail-biting, action-packed aerial fight scenes to the emotionally charged romantic entanglements of a hero and heroine trying to make sense out of the challenges they face.

And what a story! The way it unfolds and builds is sheer perfection. Sarah Sundin is one of my favourite authors because she doesn't shy away from including realistic, transforming faith threads and the inspiration in this book is heart-stopping! It gave me pause, had me grappling and reassessing situations in my own life and I so love being challenged by my fiction!

So, in case you haven't clued in by now -- I rather liked (scratch that -- LOVED) The Sky Above Us. Highly recommended. Really, I'd kind of like to bully everyone into reading it but that would be wrong...even if y'all thanked me for it later. :-)

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like to win  acopy of The Sky Above Us, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title of the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday April 13 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Sea Before Us

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
THE SEA BEFORE US

Nothing but love could heal the wounds of war

In 1944, American naval officer Lt. Wyatt Paxton arrives in London to prepare for the Allied invasion of France. He works closely with Dorothy Fairfax, a "Wren" in the Women's Royal Naval Service, who pieces together reconnaissance photographs with holiday snapshots of France -- including those of her family's summer home -- in order to create accurate maps of Normandy. Maps that Wyatt turns into naval bombardment plans for D-day.

As the two spend concentrated time together in the pressure cooker of war, their deepening friendship threatens to turn into something more. But both of them have too much to lose to give in to love...

My Review:

A book that is as luscious as this cover promises! And how exciting to be at the beginning of this new series. I adore the way Sarah Sundin brings her historical novels to life. From characters to setting to the World War II backdrop -- this author has a talent for weaving facts and fiction together in a most compelling way.

And I especially appreciate the strong faith thread she has woven into the fabric of this story. Bold but not preachy,  I was never in doubt that I was reading Christian fiction. And honestly, that deeply tangled and sometimes frayed inspirational thread makes this story so much richer, transforming this book into an experience to be savored.

Wyatt is my favourite kind of hero -- emotionally wounded and valiantly trying to compensate. Here is a man anchored by his faith, even though he still wrestles with his past. I love that he's a work in progress -- just like me! And while Dorothy is just as committed to contributing to the war effort, she has let her faith slide as she wrestles with finding God in the midst of the ravages of war. These two have some amazing discussions as their friendship deepens.But, honestly, Dorothy can be such an addlepated ninny at times that I just wanted to box her ears and send her home on more than one occasion. :-) Luckily Wyatt is more patient than I am.

So, along with the angsty romance, Sundin treats her readers to epic battle scenes filled with action (but not bogged down by too much technical detail). And there are some disagreeable secondary characters that need a good purse whomping. Gah! But I do so enjoy being all righteously indignant on behalf of a hero and heroine and the author provides plenty of those moments here. And to top it all off there's even a bit of mystery percolating in the background -- one that brings Wyatt and Dorothy closer together and then threatens to pull them apart.

And can I just say that Sarah Sundin is the queen of epic blockbuster endings?! I'm still all twitterpated over this one.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Sea Before Us, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday February 25, 2018. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

When Tides Turn

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
WHEN TIDES TURN

Tess Beaumont is tired of being thought of as just a pretty face. Eager to do her part for the war effort, she joins the Navy's newly established WAVES program for women. Perhaps there she can convince people that there is more to her than meets the eye.

Lt. Dan Avery has been using his skills in the fight against German U-boats and hoping to make admiral. The last thing he wants to see on his radar is a girl like Tess. Convinced that romance will interfere with his goals, Dan is determined to stay the course, no matter how intriguing a distraction Tess is.

But love, like war, is unpredictable. When Dan is shipped out at the peak of the Battle of the Atlantic, he finds himself torn between his lifelong career goals and his desire to help the beguiling Tess root out a possible spy on shore. Could this fun-loving glamour girl really be the one?

My Review:

The kind of compelling story that sparks your imagination and plays through your mind like a cinematic wonder. It contains all the elements that make up a blockbuster hit -- a World War II theme with plenty of action and intrigue and glorious romance. Sundin is such a smooth storyteller. Her words drew me in until I was immersed in the lives of characters who are as real to me as my own family and friends (maybe more so!) I'd truly love to see this whole series on the silver screen!

If you like a hero that sets your heart all aflutter look no further than Lt. Dan Avery. A true Navy hero, he's married to his career. He doesn't have time for a woman in his life -- particularly not one as bubbly and outgoing as Tess. He is one serious man with his life all mapped out and every goal and advancement involves the Navy. If Tess manages to coax a half smile out of him she counts it as a good day. :-)

She's been the pretty, popular girl all her life. The proverbial adornment for a gentleman's arm. No one really takes Tess seriously until she joins the WAVES where being the pretty girl threatens to hold her back from her dream of contributing to the war effort. This is a really interesting twist for a heroine to struggle with and it makes for a fascinating -- and sometimes infuriating -- read. Especially since some of her harshest critics are women!

The historical details are divine! They are what made When Tides Turn such a vivid read for me. I'm not sure that I can explain how the author does it but the history is never at the expense of the story. There are just so many subtle ways she fits it in from fashion to '40s banter to battle drills! And, oh my goodness, those battle maneuvers! I don't know how she does it but they are full of accurate details that lend authenticity to some stellar action scenes. But not so technical that it's hard for the layman(woman) to absorb. All very rivitng (and nail biting) stuff.

The only bad thing about this novel is that it brings the Waves of Freedom series to an end. I had a bit of a bibliophile's hissy fit when I reached the last page. Saying goodbye to beloved characters can be such a hard cross for a dedicated reader to bear. But I'm on the road to recovery -- especially since I've just discovered that Sarah Sundin has a new series in the works. Here's a sneak at the gorgeous cover of the first book due out in Feb 2018

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of When Tides Turn, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email to your comment remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from Spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please put the title in the subject line so that it's easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday June 25 2017. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

A Memory Between Us

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
A MEMORY BETWEEN US

Can they overcome the past to find a brighter future?

Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge -- until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth`s heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man.

As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch. Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?

From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes on a journey through love, forgiveness and sacrifice.

My Review:

I'm catching up on Sarah Sundin's first series and I'm as gobsmacked over this one as all the others I've read. I swear she has a secret time machine that she uses to travel back and get all those 1940's details just right. And I pour over every word. From fashion to dialogue to nursing and flight details -- this is the kind of read that sweeps you away.

And the World War II backdrop brings a real sense of urgency to Jack and Ruth's romance...which is really a rocky friendship. These are two flawed characters who struggle to put the past behind them. Jack is just a tad too cocky -- so self-assured that he can't believe Ruth isn't willing to date him. But Ruth has her reasons for holding back and her story is heart-breaking. Sundin kept me on tenterhooks over both the romance and the war angst.

A strong faith element transforms both characters throughout the course of story. Both learn to trust the Lord in new ways and consequently experience the healing power of His love. A powerful reminder that I took to heart.

Another exceptional read from a favourite author.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of A Memory Between Us please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday January 8. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Anchor in the Storm

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
ANCHOR IN THE STORM

One Plucky Female Pharmacist + One High-Society Naval Officer = Romance--and Danger

For plucky Lillian Avery, America's entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg's attentions only annoy--even if he "is" her brother's best friend.

During the darkest days of the war, Arch's destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves--and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian's trust and affection?

Sarah Sundin brings World War II to life, offering readers an intense experience they won't soon forget.

My Review:

Sublime. Truly -- there aren't any words...almost. Give me a second to recoup from my post-reading euphoria. Honestly, Sarah Sundin knows how to tell a compelling tale. What an incredible talent. It is so easy to slide right into a scene and when I'm reading I feel like we have all the time in the world for the story to unfold. Nothing is rushed or abrupt but the pacing never lags.

Though a mystery casts a shadow over our intrepid hero and heroine, there's still room for a relationship to develop in a normal boy/girl kind of way. Well, perhaps 'normal' isn't the right word for these two somewhat misguided individuals. I really wanted to knock some heads together a time or two. Gah, just when I thought things were going along famously -- they weren't. My heart feels like it's been stretched up and down like a yoyo!

I love the title tie-in to the faith thread -- such a powerful reminder that struck a deep chord with me. Both Archer and Lillian have issues that they need to come to terms with and God is the only way through.

Fascinating historical details, a dashing hero, a spunky heroine and plenty of action and intrigue make this a sit-down-and-read-in-one-go kind of novel. Exceptional.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  Anchor in the Storm  please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 16 2016. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Through Waters Deep

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
THROUGH WATERS DEEP

It is 1941 and America teeters on the brink of war. Outgoing naval officer Ensign Jim Avery escorts British convoys across the North Atlantic in a brand-new destroyer, the USS Atwood. Back on shore, Boston Navy Yard secretary Mary Stirling does her work quietly and efficiently, happy to be out of the limelight. Yet, despite her reserved nature, she never could back down from a challenge. When evidence of sabotage on the Atwood is found, Jim and Mary must work together to uncover the culprit. A bewildering maze of suspects emerges, and Mary is dismayed to find that even someone close to her is under suspicion. With the increasing pressure, Jim and Mary find that many new challenges--and dangers--await them.

My Review:

Best declaration of love ever...ever, ever, EVER!!!! Classic film worthy. I wanted to stand up and cheer! Ahem -- please excuse my euphoric tizzy -- I guess I should start at the beginning.

Love the way Sundin brings the early 1940s to life. From the slang to the mannerisms and the clothes -- especially the dresses -- completely captivating and served to make me feel like I'd slipped back in time or right into a vintage movie.  And all the naval details! And actions scenes. Not to mention the political climate in pre-war America that I was totally unaware of. Thrilling stuff!

Adored Mary's intrepid sleuth tendencies as well as the Nancy Drew references peppered throughout the novel. Here's where I reveal what a hopeless book nerd I am because I fell into a frenzied fever when I realized that -- gasp -- Mary had actually read first edition Nancy Drews because she was alive when they were being written and published. Take a moment to process that profound thought. Yeah -- I bet some of you are experiencing the same kind of thrill, right?

Okay -- back to the mystery. Intriguing doesn't begin to describe it. And I loved Mary's doggedness. She has to fight her natural tendencies to hang back and keep a low profile in order to fight for what she believes to be right. Definitely gives Nancy a run for her money!

The romance is sweet and slow and exasperating in a page turning kind of way. There were times I wanted to knock some heads together. Lucky for the characters I couldn't fit in the pages so they were safe. I had to rely on the expertise of the author, thankfully, because I was able to swoon my way through that aforementioned declaration of love scene she delivered at the end. Blissful sigh.

A wonderful inspirational thread about placing your trust in God -- forging ahead in His purpose -- in order to fulfill your destiny affects both Mary and Jim in different ways. Sundin creates a powerful parallel between their two stories which turns into a profound conclusion.

Honestly, this book has it all, intrigue, romance, action and a killer declaration of love scene (did I mention that already?). Definitely one for my keeper shelf.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Through Waters Deep please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday August 23 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Where Treetops Glisten

GIVEAWAY

GOYER, TRICIA
PUTMAN, CARA
SUNDIN, SARAH
WHERE TREETOPS GLISTEN

The crunch of newly fallen snow, the weight of wartime 
Siblings forging new paths and finding love in three stories,
filled with the wonder of Christmas

Turn back the clock to a different time, listen to Bing Crosby sing of sleigh bells in the snow, as the realities of America’s involvement in the Second World War change the lives of the Turner family in Lafayette, Indiana.

In Cara Putman’s White Christmas, Abigail Turner is holding down the Home Front as a college student and a part-time employee at a one-of-a-kind candy shop. Loss of a beau to the war has Abigail skittish about romantic entanglements—until a hard-working young man with a serious problem needs her help.

Abigail’s brother Pete is a fighter pilot hero returned from the European Theater in Sarah Sundin’s I’ll Be Home for Christmas, trying to recapture the hope and peace his time at war has eroded. But when he encounters a precocious little girl in need of Pete’s friendship, can he convince her widowed mother that he’s no longer the bully she once knew?

In Tricia Goyer’s Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meredith Turner, “Merry” to those who know her best, is using her skills as a combat nurse on the frontline in the Netherlands. Halfway around the world from home, Merry never expects to face her deepest betrayal head on, but that’s precisely what God has in mind to redeem her broken heart.

The Turner family believes in God’s providence during such a tumultuous time. Can they absorb the miracle of Christ’s birth and His plan for a future?

My Review:

What?! I can see your minds whirling in confusion. A Christmas book already? It's only September. To which I say, it's never too early for Christmas fiction when it is as exceptional as this one! The collaboration of three talented authors of this calibre promises immense satisfaction. Rest assured,  they deliver in this stunning novella collection that celebrates the real meaning of Christmas.

I can't pick out my favourite story. In fact, each novella is so well meshed with the others that Where Treetops Glistens reads as fluidly as novel. The continuity in the Turner family and the town they live in is seamless. Gave me the feel of getting to read a three book series one after the other. Talk about reader gratification!

The Word War II setting brings a special poignancy to each story. I don't know if it's because so much of my Christmas traditions are anchored in classic movies from that era, but the hope of Christmas seems more magical somehow. The romance stirs me more. Life in general seems more vibrant because so many lives are in peril. Goyer, Putnam and Sundin deliver compelling stories that honor the season and the brave Americans who lived their lives to the fullest despite crushing odds. Where Treetops Glisten is the kind of read that will herald in the warmth of the season and leave you basking in its glow right through to Christmas.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Where Treetops Glisten please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday September 21 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

My thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and Waterbrook Press for a review copy of this book.
http://litfusegroup.com/author/glisten

With Every Letter

GIVEAWAY

SUNDIN, SARAH
WITH EVERY LETTER

As part of a World War II morale-building program, flight nurse Lt. Mellie Blake begins an anonymous correspondence with Lt. Tom MacGilliver in North Africa. As their letters crisscross the Atlantic, they develop a deep friendship. But when they're both transferred to Algeria, will their future be held hostage by the past---or will they reveal their identities?

My Review:

Stunning. Compelling. A not-to-be-missed-and-you-won't-want-to-put-it-down-once-you-start-reading kind of book. :-). In fact, I did just that yesterday -- leaving all my weekend chores undone so I could read and read and read some more.  

First off the premise is fabulous! A great twist on a letter-writing romance. You would think that under the mask of anonymity,  Mellie and Tom would choose to embellish their stories but instead they do the unexpected. They reveal their real selves to each other, developing a relationship founded upon truth. I just love how Sundin built the plot around those letters. It made for a powerful emotional impact and was one of the reasons I couldn't put the book down. 

And the author has crafted some engaging characters. Even the secondary ones have a depth that I'm yearning for Sundin to reveal. Luckily this is the first in a series so I'll have plenty of time to get to know them well in future books. 

I connected with heroine, Mellie, from the first page. Shy and awkward in some ways but oozing with confidence in others. And Tom, congenial, affable but hiding a mountain of pain behind his ready smile.Both flawed by their upbringing, but their family life strengthened them too; each the perfect compliment for the other. 

The World War II setting adds a sense of urgency to their romance while it presents ethical dilemmas and challenges that I'm sure many men and women serving in the forces faced time and time again. Sundin brings this period of history to life in a heart-stopping way.

I can't say enough good things about this book.  Prepare to be captured by a story that you won't want to put down until you reach the end!

Giveaway Opportunity:

 If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of With Every Letter, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday September 9 2012. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".