Far Side of the Sea

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Breslin, Kate. Far Side of the Sea. Bloomington, MN: Bethany House Publishers. 2019.

SUMMARY:
Set during WWI, Far Side of the Sea shares the story of Lt. Colin Mabry as he overcomes his war injuries, now decoding messages rather than in battle. Receiving a personal message meant for him, Colin is certainly surprised to find another person waiting for him in Paris other than the expected woman, Jewel. Johanna, Jewel’s half sister, requires Colin’s help in locating Jewel and their father; however, they soon find themselves caught in a web of espionage, not sure whom to trust nor where to turn. As uncertainty grows, feelings develop, emotions ignite, and danger ensues, the risks and mystery only continue to develop throughout the new novel by author Kate Breslin.

A PENNY FOR MY THOUGHTS:
Having read other books by this author, I knew I just had to add this one to my list. Full of unexpected twists, a developing romance, historical references and subtle faith, Far Side of the Sea is actually the second book following Not by Sight, which I absolutely enjoyed (https://savurbks.com/2015/08/24/not-by-sight/). As an added interest to this novel, carrier pigeons are included as a role in the story, causing me to delve further into the subject of their use in WWI. With added notes on the period history as well as a few discussion questions, I know I made the right decision to read this book. I am already looking forward to Kate Breslin’s next book!

RATING:
4.75 (out of 5) pennies

*I received a complimentary copy of Far Side of the Sea from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review*

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Not by Sight

Breslin, Kate. Not by Sight. Bloomington, MN: Bethany House Publishers. 2015.

SUMMARY:
notbysightJack Benningham, heir to the Earl of Stonebrook by the death of his older brother, finds himself scarred and blinded after an explosion while following a path of spies. Haunted by the emerald dress and auburn curls of the woman delivering the white feathers, he must come to terms with his difficult situation. Made to join the Women’s Forage Corps to bale hay, sew sacks and drive the wagons to support the troops, Grace Mabry literally stumbles upon Jack, the Tin Man. Will he recognize her? Does he remember the white feather of cowardliness? Does he blame her for his blindness?

A PENNY FOR MY THOUGHTS:
As a new author to me, I was thrilled with Kate Breslin’s novel, Not by Sight. Reminiscent of Leroux’s Phantom of the Opera but also Beauty and the Beast, it was perfect for me. Full of descriptive passages, a history lesson (on the Women’s Forage Corps), striking romances, an unsettled suspense and a memorable story-line, this novel was outstanding.  I thought the main characters were well portrayed as well as the secondary ones, all combined with a story-line I adored.   Cover-to-cover and everything in-between, I enjoyed it. My only regret? It ended.

RATING:
5 (out of 5) pennies.

*I received a complimentary copy of Not by Sight from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review*