reviewsbyerin

The year is 1915 when we rejoin the Ramsey family, whom we have followed in The Governess of Highland Hall and The Daughter of Highland Hall. With England embroiled in the Great War, many men are joining the armed forces, including Alex Goodwin, longtime friend of Julia and Jonathan. A fearless pilot, Alex agrees to correspond with Penny Ramsey when he is shipped off to France.

With Zeppelins bombing London, Penny and her sister Kate retreat to the safety of their family home in the country, bringing with them Kate's large family of adopted children. Helping with the boisterous youngsters keeps Penny busy, but not so busy to keep from missing her new friend and praying for his safety.

As Alex goes on missions and builds up a reputation, he takes great comfort thinking of Penny's sweetness and growing affection towards him. After a turbulent home life while growing up, it seems too good to be true that he could have a hope for a happy future. If he survives the war, that is. With the short life expectancy for pilots, Alex knows there's no guarantee for tomorrow.

While this book almost seemed to have too many characters, I would have missed any storyline that was left out. The novel was fascinating from a World War I standpoint, with an emphasis on the new ways war was being waged in the sky, with Germany thinking they had superior air technology with their Zeppelins. I also had not realized there were German internment camps in England during World War I, and the story of Marius being imprisoned for his heritage was very touching. I love learning history through a well-written story!

Through all the long and uncertain days, Penny, Alex, Marius, and the rest face challenges that will shake their faith. I greatly enjoyed this series by Carrie Turansky and would definitely recommend it to all historical fiction fans.