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Breaking Point #4
Trial and Tribulation: A Novel of World War II
It is 1943. In the skies above war-torn Europe a savage battle continues as Allied bomber crews rain down fire and destruction on Hitler’s cities and Luftwaffe fighters tear the bombers to pieces. Faced with the destruction, Churchill asks, “Are we barbarians?”
Back in England, after the Siege of Malta and continents away from her estranged husband, fighter pilot Johnnie Shaux, strategic military analyst Eleanor Shaux is ordered to develop plans for the systematic destruction of Hitler’s wartime economy. To do so, she must navigate the quicksand of Allied politics and face the relentless male chauvinism of the bureaucratic and military establishments on both sides of the Atlantic—not to mention battling with the qualms of her own conscience.
Meanwhile, decorated air combat hero Johnnie Shaux is at work developing ways to make Allied bombing more effective. He’s a survivor in a war in which very few survive, where casualty rates are sixty percent, and the only rule is “kill or be killed.” But he is finding it harder to view enemy soldiers as worthy of killing. When Eleanor discovers that Johnnie is back in England and is flying one last horribly dangerous mission—a mission she recommended—she rushes to await him. Will he survive? If he dies, can she live with her complicity in developing the mission he flew?
In the fourth book of the award-winning Breaking Point series, John Rhodes weaves the fictional story of fighter pilot Johnnie Shaux and military strategist Eleanor Shaux into the heartbreaking, inspiring historical fabric of World War II.
Back in England, after the Siege of Malta and continents away from her estranged husband, fighter pilot Johnnie Shaux, strategic military analyst Eleanor Shaux is ordered to develop plans for the systematic destruction of Hitler’s wartime economy. To do so, she must navigate the quicksand of Allied politics and face the relentless male chauvinism of the bureaucratic and military establishments on both sides of the Atlantic—not to mention battling with the qualms of her own conscience.
Meanwhile, decorated air combat hero Johnnie Shaux is at work developing ways to make Allied bombing more effective. He’s a survivor in a war in which very few survive, where casualty rates are sixty percent, and the only rule is “kill or be killed.” But he is finding it harder to view enemy soldiers as worthy of killing. When Eleanor discovers that Johnnie is back in England and is flying one last horribly dangerous mission—a mission she recommended—she rushes to await him. Will he survive? If he dies, can she live with her complicity in developing the mission he flew?
In the fourth book of the award-winning Breaking Point series, John Rhodes weaves the fictional story of fighter pilot Johnnie Shaux and military strategist Eleanor Shaux into the heartbreaking, inspiring historical fabric of World War II.
- GenresFiction
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2023
91 people are currently reading
1780 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 23, 2024
Thank you Roundel House for allowing me to read and review Trial and Tribulation: A Novel of World War II Breaking Point series, book 4 on NetGalley.
Published: 06/06/23
Stars: 2.5
Pedals -- he loves me; he loves me not. Not for me. There are too many facts that read like a telephone book, one after another. It was unrelenting. I read the first 20% twice over a period of months and had the same reaction. I tried again today and fatigue has set in. I hear droning. I'm left wondering why the author didn't write a nonfiction book.
I am a voracious reader who enjoys historical fiction in a storytelling fashion. Trial and Tribulation is a book not a story. There is a market for this style and I would gift this; however, it's all about knowing the reader.
Published: 06/06/23
Stars: 2.5
Pedals -- he loves me; he loves me not. Not for me. There are too many facts that read like a telephone book, one after another. It was unrelenting. I read the first 20% twice over a period of months and had the same reaction. I tried again today and fatigue has set in. I hear droning. I'm left wondering why the author didn't write a nonfiction book.
I am a voracious reader who enjoys historical fiction in a storytelling fashion. Trial and Tribulation is a book not a story. There is a market for this style and I would gift this; however, it's all about knowing the reader.
April 29, 2023
This, the fourth in the series, continues the stories of John Shaux and his wife Eleanor tow people caught up in British service in WW2. My copy of the novel is an advanced reader copy which I received via Net Galley.
The previous episode ended with John and Eleanor living on the embattled, besieged island of Malta. John’s fatalism has grown almost crippling. After another ditching his Spitfire in the Med when the overstressed wings failed during violent combat, John has become more remote. Since he is the only other person Eleanor is close to on the island ( their dog doesn’t quite count as human) she feels as if she has made a mistake left when behind her job she as an analyst for the War Office. There she was in close daily contact with the highest levels of the Cabinet , even the PM himself. Stress cracks are showing in their marriage, too.
Still, it was a bit of a surprise when T&T begins with the two lovers separated. The fog of war extends into their personal lives. Both are in England, but not together. Eleanor left John in Malta, brooding, and she does not know that he is stationed but a few miles away, combat flying the new Mosquito fighter. “ Trials and Tribulations” is about two lovers apart in a world that offers them little to live for. She is involved with planning for the invasion, he does not think more than a day ahead.
The author continues to give his readers realistic portrayals of the stress and dangers aerial combat. In this book , he adds more of a look into the loneliness of two despairing lovers torn apart by war.
I thought that this was the best in the series so far. I look forward to the next book
The previous episode ended with John and Eleanor living on the embattled, besieged island of Malta. John’s fatalism has grown almost crippling. After another ditching his Spitfire in the Med when the overstressed wings failed during violent combat, John has become more remote. Since he is the only other person Eleanor is close to on the island ( their dog doesn’t quite count as human) she feels as if she has made a mistake left when behind her job she as an analyst for the War Office. There she was in close daily contact with the highest levels of the Cabinet , even the PM himself. Stress cracks are showing in their marriage, too.
Still, it was a bit of a surprise when T&T begins with the two lovers separated. The fog of war extends into their personal lives. Both are in England, but not together. Eleanor left John in Malta, brooding, and she does not know that he is stationed but a few miles away, combat flying the new Mosquito fighter. “ Trials and Tribulations” is about two lovers apart in a world that offers them little to live for. She is involved with planning for the invasion, he does not think more than a day ahead.
The author continues to give his readers realistic portrayals of the stress and dangers aerial combat. In this book , he adds more of a look into the loneliness of two despairing lovers torn apart by war.
I thought that this was the best in the series so far. I look forward to the next book
August 5, 2023
Trial And Tribulation is a World War II story that features British RAF pilots. This is the fourth book in the Breaking Point series. I was lucky enough to read and review the first two books in the series, but I have missed book three. However, I was still able to enjoy this story; I may even go back and read the third book at some point as I do enjoy this author’s work.
Johnnie Shaux may only be twenty-five-years-old, but that is a veteran age for a fighter pilot in this war. He’s flown a large variety of planes and his previous part in the Battle Of Britain has earned him accolades which he'd rather not have received. This book opens with him being used as a marketing pawn for recruits and funding around the world.
Eleanor Shaux is an incredible mathematician and Johnnie’s estranged wife; she uses statistics to predict the outcomes of battles and situations. She has become respected by Churchill, and while her thoughts and mathematical solutions may impress world leaders, she’s not as popular with many of the generals and other politicians.
Set in 1943, this story includes the allied plans to turn the tide in Europe, while the extended war in the pacific also calls for attention. Eleanor is asked to use her systems to find how Germany can be weakened; here she is pushed and pulled in all directions during the political dance between the super powers. While Eleanor battles in the conference rooms, Johnnie is back flying his beloved planes; just how many more flights will there be before his luck runs out?
As the war moves forward, this story includes a lot more politics than the first two books. There is also quite a bit of pilot jargon during Johnnie’s chapters; however, it was pretty easy to follow. There is a soft minor romantic thread; will Johnnie and Eleanor reunite? Fortunately this doesn’t overwhelm the main storyline. Overall, another good story in this series.
Johnnie Shaux may only be twenty-five-years-old, but that is a veteran age for a fighter pilot in this war. He’s flown a large variety of planes and his previous part in the Battle Of Britain has earned him accolades which he'd rather not have received. This book opens with him being used as a marketing pawn for recruits and funding around the world.
Eleanor Shaux is an incredible mathematician and Johnnie’s estranged wife; she uses statistics to predict the outcomes of battles and situations. She has become respected by Churchill, and while her thoughts and mathematical solutions may impress world leaders, she’s not as popular with many of the generals and other politicians.
Set in 1943, this story includes the allied plans to turn the tide in Europe, while the extended war in the pacific also calls for attention. Eleanor is asked to use her systems to find how Germany can be weakened; here she is pushed and pulled in all directions during the political dance between the super powers. While Eleanor battles in the conference rooms, Johnnie is back flying his beloved planes; just how many more flights will there be before his luck runs out?
As the war moves forward, this story includes a lot more politics than the first two books. There is also quite a bit of pilot jargon during Johnnie’s chapters; however, it was pretty easy to follow. There is a soft minor romantic thread; will Johnnie and Eleanor reunite? Fortunately this doesn’t overwhelm the main storyline. Overall, another good story in this series.
August 28, 2024
The last in the quartet of this excellent series, that successfully blends personal lives and loves with global history in the form of WW2. A 3.5 star as opposed to the 4 I've given the preceding three books as two things jarred with me in this final instalment. Firstly, the estrangement of the two main characters seemed to come out of nowhere and seemed at odds with the interaction and feeling between them previously, and secondly, the book seemed to skid to a halt rather abruptly, leaving me wanting to see how the personal events resolved themselves, and how they each got through (or maybe didn't) the world and society changing events they were caught up in and influencing.
That said, the events and political machinations at senior and international level were fascinating and telling, illustrating well how ego and hubris of a few dictated the lives and fate of millions.
That said, the events and political machinations at senior and international level were fascinating and telling, illustrating well how ego and hubris of a few dictated the lives and fate of millions.
July 5, 2023
I read this as a standalone, but now I want to go back and read the rest of the series. The author gives enough of a background to understand what happened in the past books, so I was not confused. I loved getting a POV from a fighter/bomb pilot. I have yet to read a WWII novel featuring the people flying the planes. The planning and risks that Johnnie’s squad had to take just to test a diversion to see if the plan could work was crazy to think about. On the other side Eleanor was the one calculating the risks too see if those lost lives were worth the possible victory. I loved how strong Eleanor was, she had a reputation for being difficult, but she was doing a job that many higher ups didn’t respect a woman in that position. The way the planes were described I could picture myself being a passenger. It wasn’t as emotional as other WWII novels, but it still captured my attention. I loved the strategies that were being discussed as the leaders were deciding the battles of war and the role Eleanor had in it.
Thank you @pubvendo for the gifted copy.
Thank you @pubvendo for the gifted copy.
September 13, 2023
Very Disappointed!!!
This was a good book on World War II details. However, I feel the author didn't offer enough information about Johnnie and Eleanor's relationship.
The only time they spent together was at night in bed. This relationship was very dry and unfulfilling. They never spoke about their personal problems which would have added a positive twist to their story. The ending was too brash, again without a word spoken between them. It leaves the reader hanging. Did they end up together. Who knows? Did they have children, what did tcryhey do after the war? Several unanswered questions. I won't read books by this author again. This story could have been so much better.
This was a good book on World War II details. However, I feel the author didn't offer enough information about Johnnie and Eleanor's relationship.
The only time they spent together was at night in bed. This relationship was very dry and unfulfilling. They never spoke about their personal problems which would have added a positive twist to their story. The ending was too brash, again without a word spoken between them. It leaves the reader hanging. Did they end up together. Who knows? Did they have children, what did tcryhey do after the war? Several unanswered questions. I won't read books by this author again. This story could have been so much better.
July 22, 2023
My favorite so far...
This one ends in a cliffhanger! It was a bit slow getting started. The 3rd book about Malta was very slow for me and it took a bit for this one to pick up the thread and gain momentum, but it was worth it. I didn't realize there are more books coming in the series, so I'll have to wait for the next one to see what happens next! I never thought about the great impact that new technologies have on the balance of war. Very interesting to think about WWII from both an economic and mathematical perspective, as well as a bird's eye view from a cockpit, so to speak. And I enjoy following the relationship between the main characters as well.
This one ends in a cliffhanger! It was a bit slow getting started. The 3rd book about Malta was very slow for me and it took a bit for this one to pick up the thread and gain momentum, but it was worth it. I didn't realize there are more books coming in the series, so I'll have to wait for the next one to see what happens next! I never thought about the great impact that new technologies have on the balance of war. Very interesting to think about WWII from both an economic and mathematical perspective, as well as a bird's eye view from a cockpit, so to speak. And I enjoy following the relationship between the main characters as well.
January 21, 2025
The pilot moves to Mosquitoes, probably the best twin-engine bomber of WW2. He, and his squadron fight to extinction as they undertake many very difficult and dangerous missions as escorts, deceivers, low-level bombers, and ground attack prototypes for this "Wooden Wonder".
The analyst continues to produce excellent briefs and accurate projections for senior allied strategy and policymakers. Many are ignored for political reasons and the personal agendas of the men in power. This series continues to provide valuable insights into the difficulties faced by participants in this all-encompassing world war.
The analyst continues to produce excellent briefs and accurate projections for senior allied strategy and policymakers. Many are ignored for political reasons and the personal agendas of the men in power. This series continues to provide valuable insights into the difficulties faced by participants in this all-encompassing world war.
June 11, 2023
Best Book of the Series
I had preordered this book and knowing it would be released on June 6, I reread the first three books in the series and while I have enjoyed the first three this is clearly the best of the series and I hope it will not be the last. The courage of the pilots, the politics of the war and the love story of Eleanor and Johnny are perfectly interwoven. If you have an interest in World War II historical fiction, I recommend you read this series.
I had preordered this book and knowing it would be released on June 6, I reread the first three books in the series and while I have enjoyed the first three this is clearly the best of the series and I hope it will not be the last. The courage of the pilots, the politics of the war and the love story of Eleanor and Johnny are perfectly interwoven. If you have an interest in World War II historical fiction, I recommend you read this series.
January 21, 2024
Frankie and Johnnie were lovers
Mercy how they could love
But what happens when Frankie dumps Johnnie "for the higher good."
This one stands out among the copious WW2 airmen and wives genre because it actually confronts some of the moral issues of war, and focuses on not just the microscopic view, but the grand scheme in the minds of the war leaders. And not a lot of copyreader errors that I could find. (I'm an old editor and hard to please.)
Mercy how they could love
But what happens when Frankie dumps Johnnie "for the higher good."
This one stands out among the copious WW2 airmen and wives genre because it actually confronts some of the moral issues of war, and focuses on not just the microscopic view, but the grand scheme in the minds of the war leaders. And not a lot of copyreader errors that I could find. (I'm an old editor and hard to please.)
June 30, 2023
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think this is the best of author John Rhodes' excellent saga about John and Eleanor Shaux and their roles in WWII, whether flying or strategizing. Suffering survivor's guilt, John tours the US but wishes to return to England possible reconciliation with Eleanor. Excellent flying knowledge and great characters. Recommended.
I think this is the best of author John Rhodes' excellent saga about John and Eleanor Shaux and their roles in WWII, whether flying or strategizing. Suffering survivor's guilt, John tours the US but wishes to return to England possible reconciliation with Eleanor. Excellent flying knowledge and great characters. Recommended.
August 14, 2023
Great Series .. insights into WWII
LIKE SITTING IN THE CRUTICAL MEETINGS & CONFERENCES WITH THE WORLD LEADERS & THEIR TOP MILITARY LEADERS AS WELL. WITH AN ADDED BONUS OF SOME OF THE CRITICAL MILITARY ACTIONS.
LIKE SITTING IN THE CRUTICAL MEETINGS & CONFERENCES WITH THE WORLD LEADERS & THEIR TOP MILITARY LEADERS AS WELL. WITH AN ADDED BONUS OF SOME OF THE CRITICAL MILITARY ACTIONS.
October 5, 2023
enjoyable read
A bit kitschy, but I enjoyed it! Plot was far fetched, but acts as a vehicle for an engrossing story. Same device used in the “Lanny Bud’ novels and “Winds of War”, but on slower scale. Tempted to say it’s mostly implausible, perhaps not!
A bit kitschy, but I enjoyed it! Plot was far fetched, but acts as a vehicle for an engrossing story. Same device used in the “Lanny Bud’ novels and “Winds of War”, but on slower scale. Tempted to say it’s mostly implausible, perhaps not!
June 16, 2023
awesome
Just can’t put it down. I feel like I know Shaun like a brother. So much great and correct detail about the flying.
Let’s have ten more volumes!
Just can’t put it down. I feel like I know Shaun like a brother. So much great and correct detail about the flying.
Let’s have ten more volumes!
June 24, 2023
Excellent story telling with complicated characters!
What a story! John Rhodes has managed to create a brilliant series, but this book is by far the best.
What a story! John Rhodes has managed to create a brilliant series, but this book is by far the best.
January 7, 2024
Good read
The final chapter of this series. It covers the time from Malta to the D Day invasion preparations for. It also covers the life of Enemies and Johnny during this time.
The final chapter of this series. It covers the time from Malta to the D Day invasion preparations for. It also covers the life of Enemies and Johnny during this time.
June 28, 2025
excellent well written book
The whole series was gripping from start to finish with a really good storyline interweaved with historical facts and realities.
The whole series was gripping from start to finish with a really good storyline interweaved with historical facts and realities.
June 11, 2023
When I started reading Trial and Tribulation I didn't realize it was book four in the series. It didn't matter because the author never left me confused about what had happened in past books. He wrote a story that grabbed me from the beginning and kept me reading well past my bedtime. He left me in such a wonderful state after finishing the story that the first three books are already on my Kindle.
The two main characters, Johnnie and Eleanor, gave me great insight into some of the going ons during the war. As an Analyst with personal contact with Winston Churchill, Eleanor was in the thick of things as the allies plotted and planned future invasions. She travelled back and forth to the United States illustrating the importance of communication and the unfortunate situation of stroking egos. Everyone knew best, but her numbers don't lie. Eleanor had left Johnnie in a recent book, (I can't wait to read all about it.) Her actions created a bridge between her defense planning and his actions in the sky. Without realizing it she will put him in great danger.
Johnnie's side of the story is brilliant. I have never read so much detail about missions. I never understood what went on between all of the flyers. I didn't realize the tedious testing and practice that was done before a plan was initiated. The author opened my eyes to some of the many challenges, not just physically but emotionally as well, that pilots experienced. It must have been so difficult to keep living when every day you lost one or more people you knew.
If you enjoy WW2 historical fiction this is a must read. The different perspectives made for an amazing read. The behind the scenes situations give understanding to bits of the past. I can't wait to go back and read the other books, and hope that there will be more.
The two main characters, Johnnie and Eleanor, gave me great insight into some of the going ons during the war. As an Analyst with personal contact with Winston Churchill, Eleanor was in the thick of things as the allies plotted and planned future invasions. She travelled back and forth to the United States illustrating the importance of communication and the unfortunate situation of stroking egos. Everyone knew best, but her numbers don't lie. Eleanor had left Johnnie in a recent book, (I can't wait to read all about it.) Her actions created a bridge between her defense planning and his actions in the sky. Without realizing it she will put him in great danger.
Johnnie's side of the story is brilliant. I have never read so much detail about missions. I never understood what went on between all of the flyers. I didn't realize the tedious testing and practice that was done before a plan was initiated. The author opened my eyes to some of the many challenges, not just physically but emotionally as well, that pilots experienced. It must have been so difficult to keep living when every day you lost one or more people you knew.
If you enjoy WW2 historical fiction this is a must read. The different perspectives made for an amazing read. The behind the scenes situations give understanding to bits of the past. I can't wait to go back and read the other books, and hope that there will be more.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews