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lynnuwatson's review
5.0
This one checks all the boxes and will keep you up well past your bedtime with each twist and turn. The characters are amazing. One of my favorites of the books I've read this year.
english_lady03's review
3.0
I'm stepping rather outside my comfort zone with my Netgalley requests for this year. Not by sight is a Romance set during the First World War- no doubt inspired by the massively popular Downton Abbey series, and the first book of this Genre I have ventured to read set in this period.
With the plot based around espionage, I almost imagined something that might be after the order of the classic spy thriller, 'The Thirty Nine-Steps'. There were perhaps shades of the more recent BBC Adaptation with the elements of Romance, and some unexpected characters being pulled in- but the Drama was more of a Domestic, cosy kind, based on the relationships and interactions between the leading characters.
It would also be possible to see some shades of series such as 'The Land Girls', given the Emphasis on the lives, loves, and struggles of Grace, and her fellows in the Women's Forage Corps that 'flesh out' the book.
It must be said, it’s not the best spy novel in the world. The culprit was a bit predictable, and neither side seemed especially sharp in their methods of detection. Yet, I got the impression that this was not supposed to be the main thrust of the story.
Some have complained about the lack of action in the main section of the novel, and its focus (perhaps over-emphasis) on the girls and their farming activities. This did not bother me per se, as that was what they were there to do, and it allowed for the development of some interesting backstories for the minor characters, even if some of these were a little on the melodramatic side.
Admittedly, the story it did drag a little in places, though I enjoyed some of the descriptive passages that others may have had little time for. Then again, it might not have been entirely necessary for the characters to explain the way that being confronted with reality had changed them, when this was made obvious elsewhere.
As to the protagonists, I took to Jack reasonably well, and his reactions and attitudes seemed reasonably realistic (except perhaps falling head over heels for a women who may have been working for the enemy). Grace, whilst, likable and caring at times, could be a bit of a goody- two-shoes, and rather self-righteous in places, convinced that her political ideology was the only solution to almost all of the problems in her society.
Maybe it’s just that I don't get on with people who like to get on their soapbox, and preach about the evils of anything that does not fit into their preconceived belief system to the point that their outlook becomes rather unrealistic. For instance, Grace complains about women 'bearing the brunt' of arranged marriages, but does not seem to consider than men were subject to them just as often- and of apparently will not even entertain the idea that such arrangements could even possibly be happy.
The romance itself was something of a mixed bag. Sometimes the characters behaved sensibly and courteously like mature adults, and the idea of getting past appearances to find out what a person was really like was done well. As things got further on, there seemed to be more emphasis on kissing, touching, and 'longing' for one another, with sudden changes in emotion or outlook.
The historical details were interesting, and the faith elements worked well-even if they were a little clichéd. My main complaint was the whole story being absolutely riddled with Americanisms in the character's speech, and even some of their manners.
I'm sure there were a couple of scenes in which the characters were eating with only a fork, as Americans are accustomed to, rather than a knife and fork, as is more usual in Britain, and would have been amongst the upper classes at this time. I suppose it’s to be expected, but this still irks me. I almost think, if an author chooses to set a novel is a culture and country other than their own, they should research the speech patterns, and customs of that culture, and try to accurately represent them to some degree.
The geographical descriptions of the region in which the story was set were correct as far as I could tell, and real effort seems to have been put in to making sure this was the case, so why not for other aspects as well?
I would consider reading more by this author, and perhaps this one again, but I feel there was some scope for improvement.
I received an E-book version from the Publisher via Netgalley for review. I was not required to write a positive one and all opinions expressed are my own.
With the plot based around espionage, I almost imagined something that might be after the order of the classic spy thriller, 'The Thirty Nine-Steps'. There were perhaps shades of the more recent BBC Adaptation with the elements of Romance, and some unexpected characters being pulled in- but the Drama was more of a Domestic, cosy kind, based on the relationships and interactions between the leading characters.
It would also be possible to see some shades of series such as 'The Land Girls', given the Emphasis on the lives, loves, and struggles of Grace, and her fellows in the Women's Forage Corps that 'flesh out' the book.
It must be said, it’s not the best spy novel in the world. The culprit was a bit predictable, and neither side seemed especially sharp in their methods of detection. Yet, I got the impression that this was not supposed to be the main thrust of the story.
Some have complained about the lack of action in the main section of the novel, and its focus (perhaps over-emphasis) on the girls and their farming activities. This did not bother me per se, as that was what they were there to do, and it allowed for the development of some interesting backstories for the minor characters, even if some of these were a little on the melodramatic side.
Admittedly, the story it did drag a little in places, though I enjoyed some of the descriptive passages that others may have had little time for. Then again, it might not have been entirely necessary for the characters to explain the way that being confronted with reality had changed them, when this was made obvious elsewhere.
As to the protagonists, I took to Jack reasonably well, and his reactions and attitudes seemed reasonably realistic (except perhaps falling head over heels for a women who may have been working for the enemy). Grace, whilst, likable and caring at times, could be a bit of a goody- two-shoes, and rather self-righteous in places, convinced that her political ideology was the only solution to almost all of the problems in her society.
Maybe it’s just that I don't get on with people who like to get on their soapbox, and preach about the evils of anything that does not fit into their preconceived belief system to the point that their outlook becomes rather unrealistic. For instance, Grace complains about women 'bearing the brunt' of arranged marriages, but does not seem to consider than men were subject to them just as often- and of apparently will not even entertain the idea that such arrangements could even possibly be happy.
The romance itself was something of a mixed bag. Sometimes the characters behaved sensibly and courteously like mature adults, and the idea of getting past appearances to find out what a person was really like was done well. As things got further on, there seemed to be more emphasis on kissing, touching, and 'longing' for one another, with sudden changes in emotion or outlook.
The historical details were interesting, and the faith elements worked well-even if they were a little clichéd. My main complaint was the whole story being absolutely riddled with Americanisms in the character's speech, and even some of their manners.
I'm sure there were a couple of scenes in which the characters were eating with only a fork, as Americans are accustomed to, rather than a knife and fork, as is more usual in Britain, and would have been amongst the upper classes at this time. I suppose it’s to be expected, but this still irks me. I almost think, if an author chooses to set a novel is a culture and country other than their own, they should research the speech patterns, and customs of that culture, and try to accurately represent them to some degree.
The geographical descriptions of the region in which the story was set were correct as far as I could tell, and real effort seems to have been put in to making sure this was the case, so why not for other aspects as well?
I would consider reading more by this author, and perhaps this one again, but I feel there was some scope for improvement.
I received an E-book version from the Publisher via Netgalley for review. I was not required to write a positive one and all opinions expressed are my own.
lielos99's review
5.0
There aren't too many books out there that are fictional accounts of the Great War, so anytime I find a book that will give you more background I get so excited. Plus I love Kate Breslin's writing and stories. She does such an excellent job with her research, and creating engaging characters. You will not only have an adventure and romance, but learn a few things along the way without even realizing it.
lizzielemon's review
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
reneesmith's review
5.0
My students* loved this book so I'm rating it for them. They say it reminded them somewhat of Jane Eyre, another favorite. They're looking forward to Kate's next book!
*I teach English in a Christian high school & share my favorite authors with my students through my classroom library.
*I teach English in a Christian high school & share my favorite authors with my students through my classroom library.
rbmommareads's review
5.0
This story was really intriguing from the start. I learned a few things that I previously was unaware of during WW1. I didn't know what a splatter mask was, and I also didn't know about the Women's Forage Corps; I had only known about Land Girls (Women's Land Army). I love a great historical fiction novel that teaches me bits of history along with a good, solid story.
The characters in this novel are well-rounded and likable people. Even the ones that you think will be hard to care about make you feel for them during their sorrows and feel delighted in their joys.
The FMC grows so much throughout this story, and her growth doesn't seem pushed, nor rushed, it is very detailed and organic as she learns to be less judgemental and offer the grace that she knows Christ offered her. Her testimony helps lead others to reflect upon their own lives and eventual spiritual journeys.
The MMC is such a wounded soul. His personal demons really are of his own making. He is almost a mystical being to the local villagers, as he is reclusive and never seen. The folklore around him is disturbing for him, causing him emotional distress, and this, alongside his emotional trauma and physical pain, just make him angry all the time. As he begins to heal, emotionally, physically, and even spiritually, I was absolutely joyful.
The audio performance is really good. Justine Eyre brought a richness and depth to the characters; her cadence and manner of narrating being very pleasant to hear.
The characters in this novel are well-rounded and likable people. Even the ones that you think will be hard to care about make you feel for them during their sorrows and feel delighted in their joys.
The FMC grows so much throughout this story, and her growth doesn't seem pushed, nor rushed, it is very detailed and organic as she learns to be less judgemental and offer the grace that she knows Christ offered her. Her testimony helps lead others to reflect upon their own lives and eventual spiritual journeys.
The MMC is such a wounded soul. His personal demons really are of his own making. He is almost a mystical being to the local villagers, as he is reclusive and never seen. The folklore around him is disturbing for him, causing him emotional distress, and this, alongside his emotional trauma and physical pain, just make him angry all the time. As he begins to heal, emotionally, physically, and even spiritually, I was absolutely joyful.
The audio performance is really good. Justine Eyre brought a richness and depth to the characters; her cadence and manner of narrating being very pleasant to hear.
waclements7's review
3.0
A re-telling of beauty and the beast, sort of, during WWI Britain. I didn't realize it was inspirational historical fiction--I usually don't read inspirational fiction, and this wasn't too bad but does verge on preachy at times, especially near the end. If you like inspirational fiction, it will definitely be your cup of tea. It was pretty enjoyable and a quick read. I did fact check a couple of things because I am pretty interested in WWI. I learned that there were air raids, which I hadn't known. One major thing near the end which is incorrect, however, is the use of the term "concentration camp." It wasn't a concentration camp, it was an internment camp--I make that distinction because it is a major difference between the two wars. They are really not interchangeable terms. It's used as a factor in the betrayal of one of the characters, because she is forced to spy as her family is in grave danger in the "concentration camp." Wiki calls Holzminden a "Internierungslager," and while not described as a pleasant place was a far cry from an actual concentration camp.
caslater83's review
4.0
This is a wonderful book. It's not terribly deep in war information like some other books are. This is WWI and it focuses on the Women's Forage Corps. It's not as well known as other war groups, but anyone who served in the WFC deserves a medal of honor for their hard work!
Espionage is a big part of almost every war. I like how Kate Breslin utilizes a masquerade ball in her story. Grace Mabry is a wonderful Christian woman with a heart as big as her country. She has the patriotic mindset: "For God, king, and country." She lives to serve. Unfortunately, her good intentions land her in a world of trouble and she's packed off to the countryside to join the WFC. As a high-society London girl, she really doesn't know anything about farm life. She has her own dreams of becoming a writer. But meeting the small gang of girls allows her to continue making a positive difference while she pursues her writing dreams.
Jack is a wounded man who still serves in quiet ways. He prefers to live as a recluse due to his burns and scars. It takes a series of adventures with Grace to overcome his wounds and learn to live life again.
It's a pleasing story with twists and turns. I hope to read more of Kate Breslin's work in the future.
Espionage is a big part of almost every war. I like how Kate Breslin utilizes a masquerade ball in her story. Grace Mabry is a wonderful Christian woman with a heart as big as her country. She has the patriotic mindset: "For God, king, and country." She lives to serve. Unfortunately, her good intentions land her in a world of trouble and she's packed off to the countryside to join the WFC. As a high-society London girl, she really doesn't know anything about farm life. She has her own dreams of becoming a writer. But meeting the small gang of girls allows her to continue making a positive difference while she pursues her writing dreams.
Jack is a wounded man who still serves in quiet ways. He prefers to live as a recluse due to his burns and scars. It takes a series of adventures with Grace to overcome his wounds and learn to live life again.
It's a pleasing story with twists and turns. I hope to read more of Kate Breslin's work in the future.
darbar's review against another edition
1.0
This was really cheesy. I didn't love it. After giving up on it once I tried again. Man is a secret agent, woman is a patriot. I am not sure this was worth a second attempt at reading? Just not for me.