Friends and Enemies is one story historical fiction fans will be happy to get their hands on. It sweeps the reader into the past with fascinating settings, inner turmoil, and suspenseful action. I felt like I learned a lot about WWII history while reading this book.
I was hooked from the start, but the second half really picked up the pace for me. It was interesting to see the different characters and different worlds collide and face surprising challenges. There were a few repetitious parts to me, but historical readers will appreciate the details and research that so evidently went into this story.
While there were hints of a romance, I’m not sure I would call it a love story. It was a very small part of the greater adventure. I liked these brave characters, but I did wish to see more of them falling in love. I didn’t quite connect to them as much as I hoped to.
All in all, though, there was still plenty to enjoy. There are some neat twists and sweet children and history to really draw you in. I could easily picture each setting and scene. In one way, I felt like I was there with them. Historical fiction fans will not be disappointed. 😉
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the author for my copy.
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ABOUT THE BOOK:
Christian Historical Romance set in World War 2
In 1943, widowed seamstress Heidi Wetzel finds new meaning in life by caring for evacuated children on a rural farm in war-torn western Germany. Never a supporter of National Socialism, she takes pleasure in passive resistance, but must exercise caution around neighbors who delight in reporting to the Gestapo.
Flying cadet Paul Braedel’s wife dies while he trains for the U.S. Army Air Corps. Following bereavement leave, he returns to training but he’s lost his zest for life and heads to England, not caring if he lives or dies. When he and his crew are shot down over Germany, he evades capture and, for the first time since Rachel’s death, hears the voice of God whisper guidance: “Find Heidi.”
When Heidi stumbles into a man she recognizes, she is shocked to realize he is a friend from her high school days in the United States, and the husband of her best friend Rachel. Aiding an enemy downed airman is punishable by execution, but she agrees to help.
Then they’re betrayed.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Terri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.
Visit her Website, Facebook, and Pinterest.
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Terri recently visited the blog to chat. If you missed our interview, you can read it here…
This sounds like an excellent page turner, not to be started just before bedtime! THANKS for sharing!
Yeah, you’re probably right, Barb! 🙂 Thanks for reading my review. Hope you get a chance to read this book too. 🙂