BOOK BLURB

All of England thinks Phillip Camden a monster–a man who deliberately caused the deaths of his squadron. But as nurse Arabelle Denler watches the so-dubbed “Black Heart” every day, she sees something far different: a hurting man desperate for mercy. And when their paths twist together and he declares himself her new protector, she realizes she has her own role to play in his healing.

Phillip Camden would have preferred to die that day with his squadron rather than be recruited to the Admiralty’s codebreaking division. The threats he receives daily are no great surprise and, in his opinion, well deserved. What comes as a shock is the reborn desire to truly live that Arabelle inspires in him.

But when an old acquaintance shows up and seems set on using him in a plot that has the codebreakers of Room 40 in a frenzy, new affections are put to the test.

MY THOUGHTS

I really liked the characters in this read. In general, when reading stories based during the war, I tend to enjoy the history more than anything else. That is in abundance in this novel, but I was drawn in by the characters. Being a plain woman like Arabelle is definitely something with which I could relate. I could also relate to her never thinking a man would fall in love with her. I don’t relate on the family part, but I certainly had empathy towards her as I loved growing up in my large family. Her being so desperate to have a family to love that would love her in return resonates much in today’s society, I think.

The hero in this book is well done. Who doesn’t love a hero that transforms to a better person from the beginning to end? Phillip is a wonderful hero, and his story is the story of many in this world. He’s a multifaceted individual who this reader came to really like. His growth came with trial, and he fought with God. His spiritual journey was incredibly well done, as well.

The plot was a fascinating one, and it makes the book hard to put down. Nothing incredibly surprising, but such a tremendous story to tell. This author is so very good at weaving a terrific story with plenty to keep the reader engaged.

Perhaps my favorite part of the book was the faith theme. It’s strong in this book, yet woven incredibly well within the characters lives. It’s a story of faith, hope, and redemption that’s sure to please this authors fans as well as lovers of historical fiction.

I received this book from the publisher. 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. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.