The German invasion of the British Channel Islands shatters Dr. Ivy Picot’s peaceful world, forcing her to shoulder the weight of her father’s medical practice and hold together a family unraveling under the strain of war. As conditions worsen in Jersey with the arrival of thousands of forced laborers, Ivy’s quiet allegiance to the Allies compels her to risk everything–providing medical aid to escaped workers even as danger closes in.
Dutch engineer and resistance member Gerrit van der Zee volunteers to build fortifications for the Germans so he can secretly send maps and diagrams to the Allies. On his arrival in the Channel Islands, he crosses paths with Ivy, who shows him contempt for the uniform he wears. As tensions mount and their missions grow increasingly dangerous, Ivy and Gerrit must confront the cost of courage, the meaning of sacrifice, and whether love can survive in the shadow of war. Will their covert efforts turn the tide–or will they pay the ultimate price for defiance?
A renowned author of World War II fiction, Sundin showcases a compelling tale of loyalty and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
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Summary
Reviewed by Rebecca
"Man's hatred cannot destroy God's love. Man's wickedness can't destroy God's goodness. Seeing the Lord amidst all this evil isn't easy, but he's here and he's good."
Choosing to stay on her beloved Jersey Channel Island in spite of the pending German occupation, Dr. Ivy Picot is determined to serve the residents of her community while maintaining her family's long-standing medical practice. As the everyday stresses of rules, regulations, and rations begin to strangle her livelihood, her teen brother quits school in order to locate work, while her older sister becomes more and more belligerent, causing friction between the sisters to the point of compromising their principles.
Dutch engineer Gerrit van der Zee, along with a fellow resistance member, reluctantly volunteers to evaluate the construction of German fortifications along the shores of Jersey Island while seeking opportunities to send vital maps, along with intelligence details, back across the Channel to British Allies. In a orchestration of details that only Providence could arrange, Gerrit crosses paths with Ivy and her brother Charlie, catching the admiration of one while earning scorn from the other. As secrets come to light and crossroads become critical, Ivy struggles to trust Gerrit to be exactly who he appears not to be, subsequently grabbing hold of the chance to serve her country in ways that she never thought possible. If only their two hearts were not as entangled as their circumstances.
A shining example of inspirational historical romance, this niche setting is perfectly suited for its characters, adding to the intensity of their situation while epitimizing the charm of their attraction. Even though the time line spans years of history, it never feels stalled or rushed, crediting the author's lovely word flow and obvious knowledge of the subject matter.
A title that will surely appear on many top reads of the year listings, including mine!
