If you enjoy gripping wartime romances by Sarah Sundin and Roseanna M White, you'll love this heart-stopping story of love, chance and consequence.
RAF Bottesford, November 1942: Maggie Morrison joined the Women's Auxiliary Air Force for a free ticket into the romance she craved, away from her sleepy life as a vicar's daughter. But the men of Bomber Command are careless with the hearts of women. She hides the pain of her broken heart and mother's sudden death behind calm confidence on the airfield radio, as the last voice men hear before they fly into danger. Australian pilot Alec Thomas is a gambling man on a winning streak. Every night when he flies with RAF Bomber Command, the odds of surviving are fifty-fifty. And every night so far, he's made it back to English soil. But as the battles over Europe intensify, Alec's luck feels less certain. When Alec bets with his crew he can get Maggie to kiss him before the year is out, he has no idea it's the most important wager he'll ever make. But pursuing her leads Alec to reexamine everything he believes about his so-called luck, prompting him to question what-or who-is behind it all. Even if Alec can win his bet, can his risk-taking ways win her heart? Or will his luck in the brutal air war over Europe run out before their first kiss?
Australian author Jennifer Mistmorgan sometimes feels like she was born in the wrong era. So she writes romantic historical fiction set in the 1940s, against the backdrop of WWII and its aftermath. Her romances are always sweet but sometimes gritty, infused with hard-core historical research, gentle faith and foodish flair. She lives in Canberra with her family and a wonky-eared West Highland terrier.
Heart in the Clouds is a historical romance by Jennifer Mistmorgan during World War II. In 1942, Maggie Morrison joined the war effort by joining the Women's Auxiliary Air Force at RAF Bottesford. Hearing her voice on the airfield radio before they go on a mission for the bomber pilots on the base strengthens them to face what lies ahead. However, one of the Australian pilots, Alec Thomas, has a wager with his crew that he will kiss Maggie Morrison before the year's end. Will Alec Thomas and Maggie Morrison get together, or will Alec Thomas's winning streak run out? Heart in the Clouds readers will continue to follow Maggie Morrison and Alec Thomas to discover what happens.
The story of Heart in the Clouds was excellent; however, I found it a little slow, which stopped me from really engaging with it. Heart in the Clouds was not a book I would place in my Unable to Read catalogue because I did finish reading it. Jennifer Mistmorgan did a fantastic job portraying her characters and how they intertwine with each other throughout this book. The settings of Heart in the Clouds were described well by Jennifer Mistmorgan, which complemented the book's plot.
Jennifer Mistmorgan's Heart in the Clouds was well-researched, allowing her readers to learn about the time, stress, and role of a wartime bomber pilot.
Thank you to the author and publisher for my ARC copy of Heart in the Clouds in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
Very good! The only thing is, I wish the ending weren't quite so abrupt. Excited to read book 2, which will be the last one in this series I haven't read. Annoying, as apparently I have gobbled the last two up in two days, meaning I will not have reading material for nearly long enough. :P
I enjoyed this debut novel from Australian author Jennifer Mistmorgan.
Maggie Morrison, a member of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), wants to do her bit to serve her country, but she has sworn off airmen after a cad in uniform broke her heart. It's disconcerting enough that handsome Australian pilot Alec Thomas makes her heart flutter, but she'd not falling for that routine again, especially after she hears the lads have been taking bets in the Sweatheart Sweepstakes.
Alec just wants to get through the 30 missions on his tour of duty and come out the other end alive. He can't be distracted by anyone, even someone as beautiful and annoyingly hard-to-get as vicar's daughter Maggie. But hearing her voice guide him home in the control tower every night makes him realise how much he wants to stay alive because there is someone to come home to.
There's a lot to enjoy in this WWII romance set in England. The author obviously loves this era and has been meticulous in research. There are lots of little details that make the story believable, with interesting subplots along the way. It brings home the sacrifice people have to make in wartime, but also the hope that sees them through. There is also a Christian faith element in the story which is handled well, without being preachy. When your life's on the line, it puts the big picture into perspective and makes you think of the deeper questions of life.
The writing is very good and the character's voices were well-done. There were also some interesting secondary characters, who I see will be more prominent in later books in the series.
I can't give details due to spoilers, but I did get a little frustrated that Maggie stayed angry with Alec for so long. She had every reason to do so at the beginning, but I thought it could have been resolved sooner. The suspense could have also been brought out a bit more during some of the life-and-death situations. But it was an enjoyable read overall and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
If you enjoy WWII-era romances, with some deeper questions about faith and the meaning of life, this book could be for you.
This witty and warm WWII romance novel reminded me very much of the themes and heart of Mrs Miniver and Random Harvest. It's filled with dashing and enthusiastic pilots working alongside strong intelligent WAAFs, as well as their civilian connections, all dealing with the ever-present fears of living through such a harrowing time. Maggie - an English vicar's daughter - meets Alec - a charming Australian. Both are ever so far from home. Both have their own challenges around their wartime service and past hurts, and each has a different way of viewing the powers in control of their present. The action scenes are gripping. The intimate moments sweet and cosy. It passed the 'can't go to bed until it is finished' test. The author's research is thorough, and the details are rich because of it. I was pleased to read in the Author's Note that she used journals from her own family records - this perhaps explains some of the personal connection and authenticity in the story. I was lucky to read an advance copy of Heart in the Clouds - 'lucky' being an appropriate word in this context, used with a wink. My paperback is on pre-order and I can't wait!
You know a book has captured you when you think about it between readings, when you wonder what the characters are doing when the book is closed. This tender romance delightfully captures you and draws you into a different time and place, inhabited by Alec and Maggie. It is a gentle read, easy to pick up but oh so hard to put down. With a thorough knowledge of the Second World War, you can tell the author has an understanding of the atmosphere in which her characters come to life. Bigger issues of faith, life, death and other things are expertly woven into the story without ever feeling they are artificially implanted. In fact, the questions of faith invite the reader to reflect on our own beliefs and what/who we turn to with our big questions in life. A beautiful read.
“Real grace isn’t blind. Maggie— you know that. It sees all the messiness and forgives it anyway.” I enjoyed this book set on an RAF base sharing life for both the RAF flight crew and WAAF workers. The interactions on and off base were entertaining. Maggie was witty and determined. She definitely had some personal challenges to overcome and some forgiving to do. Alex was charming. I loved that when he realized how much he liked Maggie he completely cleaned up his act. I also really enjoyed the faith elements of the story.
I absolutely loved this book! It's interesting, full of surprises, and a cute love story!
Maggie is amazing! She's strong, good at her job, and a true friend. She's had a hard time with love, but her heart is still tender. Alec is a ladies' man. Then he meets Maggie! He must prove himself worthy of her heart!
I liked all of the information about airplanes! I found it fascinating!
This is a definite must read! The author is new to me. I look forward to reading more of her books!
From the minute I picked up Heart in the Clouds I was pulled into a portal that took me deep into the era of WW2. It was certainly much more engaging than any history lesson taught to me in school, especially seeing as there is the perfect amount of romance found in this book to satisfy any hopeless romantic. Jennifer Mistmorgan writes so beautifully that I barely got distracted while reading this. It was a struggle for anyone to get me to look up from the book, whether I was admiring the cover, smelling the pages or being immersed in the story. I found that when I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about it almost constantly. What would happen next? How will the relationship between the smart, capable, pretty heroine Maggie and the handsome, strong, charismatic hero Alec go? What event might take place next in the war? Many true events based off Jennifer’s grandfather’s logbooks from when he served in the war as part of the New Zealand Air Force, is something that makes this book even more intriguing. And lastly, the pure, beautiful love seen in it and the development in the character’s faith found in between the pages of this book has made me wish to have a sweet, faithful, Christian relationship such as Maggie and Alec’s more than any other romance novel has. Jennifer, keep using your beautiful talent of writing that God has given you to write even more incredible books such as this one.
This is a very good debut novel! It has all the qualities one looks for in great storytelling: strong, vulnerable characters who grow through the story, a compelling plot, and strong themes. I found it hard to put it down. It excites me even more knowing that Jennifer is an Aussie with a heart after Jesus and weaves faith through the story in a gentle manner that adds substance to the story. I particularly appreciated the different perspectives on faith she explored: the non-believer coming to find God, the devout vicar who questions his faith, another devout vicar who acts as a guiding light to helping Alec find God and the steady faith of a young woman who encourages those around her to know Jesus.
Set in war-tore Britain at the end of 1942, start of 1943, Alec Thomas is a cocky Aussie pilot stationed in Bottesford to fly operations over Germany. He is required to complete 30 such flights before being released back to Australia. As each flight has only 50/50 odds of success, he counts each one down hoping to be fortunate enough to achieve the target.
Maggie Morrison has recently joined the WAAF. She too has been stationed at Bottesford and is recovering from a betrayal in her previous relationship with a pilot. I enjoyed how Mistmorgan developed the Alec/Maggie infatuation which turns to friendship then into relationship. It was believable and well paced.
I enjoyed the scenes in the air, the camaraderie of the flight crew (less the misogynistic banter but that was the reality of the times) and that of the WAAF crew. It wasn’t perfect with a couple of strange moments, eg, the thief sub-plot, but I wouldn’t expect it in a debut.
All up this is a very enjoyable story and I’m keen for the second one which I believe focuses on another of the WAAF crew.
Highly recommended for all those who enjoy WWII historical romance.
Come with me to Bottesford, an airbase in England, and meet Maggie and Alec and a supporting cast of interesting and lovable characters. Superb research makes this story feel like real life. I learned about the WAAF and the vital part they played in guiding the pilots who were called to disrupt and destroy Hitler’s plans. Maggie is a delightful woman with strengths and flaws just like many of us. Her journey to healing past hurts and learning to look at love again is done with sweetness, humor, and gentleness. I enjoyed her relationship with the other women on the base and the friendships formed. We should all have a best friend like Grace. Alec is a dreamboat and all that implies, conceited, dashing, and a flirt but also a man who takes his job and responsibilities to his flight crew seriously. He also has a journey ahead of him as he learns how to win the affections of the woman belonging to the voice in his radio guiding his plane taking off and landing. His pursuit of Maggie is quite humorous and at times sad. I found myself both rooting for him and scratching my head. The faith element was skillfully woven throughout the book and is an important part of the changes that both Maggie and Alec undergo. There is history, friendship, intrigue, a villain or two, sweet romance, tragedy, family dynamics and faith. This book is beautifully written and will have you eagerly waiting for the next book. A wonderful debut novel for Jennifer Mistmorgan.
Heart in the Clouds - I am glad I read the other two short stories first, which did carry in some ways into Clouds. Immersing story lines with wonderful characters blended together into an interesting tapestry of storytelling. While bad bits and bobs of WWII are present, the story mainly concentrates on the characters, their thoughts and their actions. No gory, in detail descriptions of violence, and no profanity. An enjoyable read and a good way to be introduced to all sides of a war and its tragedies and triumphs for the history novice. Source: The author, ARC. 5*
Tastes Like Home - This short, well written, quickly read romance is set during WWII in Australia. The Yank sailor and the Aussie department store clerk meet at a Red Cross dance when he first arrives in Syndey. After writing letters, they share Christmas with her family and friends. He shares an American tradition. Lovely story, just perfect for a quick break and a cuppa. Source: Bookfunnel freebie. 5*
Finishing School - They were on opposing debate teams when they were in school. All grown up, with histories, they meet again but on the same team fighting the Germans in WWII. Training in Glasgow, decisions must be made. A quickly read, sweet romance perfect for a coffee break. Source: BookFunnel freebie. 4*
Heart in the Clouds is Jennifer Mistmorgan’s debut novel, and at the risk of sounding cliché, she hit it out of the park. Her writing is evocative, and I was immersed in the era from the first sentence. Descriptions were sprinkled, not poured into the story and I was able to hear, see, and smell what it was like to work at an airfield on the ground and in the planes. The author has obviously done her research and quite knowledgeable of the era and military bases of the time. There were lots of characters, but each one was unique to so there was no confusion about who was who, with secondary and minor characters being fully developed. Internal dialogue got me into the characters’ heads and even though they were dealing with life and death issues, the story didn’t get maudlin. I enjoyed Alec’s journey from cocky, reckless pilot to confident integrity-filled man. Maggie is delightful as she matures and comes into her own. The only disappointment was the five or so instances of profanity. The words did nothing to further the plot or character development, and I prefer my Christian fiction to be void of such words.
A WWII novel with evenly matched main characters, Heart in the Clouds by Jennifer Mistmorgan features a bold but focused Australian pilot and an invaluable member of the RAAF. These complex characters deal with the conflicts of war, poisoned past relationships, and uncertain futures, all while serving their countries.
Alec is a Clark Gable lookalike who looks death in the face whenever he flies. He is counting down his required missions, hoping to complete them and return home to his mother and sister before his luck runs out. Mostly, he keeps his relationships with women on the lighter side since he's not ready to commit.
Maggie's hard work and responsibilities in the RAAF are a far cry from her beginnings as a vicar's daughter from a sleepy village. As for relationships? Maggie had opened her heart to a man who used it horribly and convinced her never to trust another pilot with her affections. Now, she's focused on her fellow WAAFS and her work as a radio operator. Romance can wait.
Heart in the Clouds is a phenomenal start to what promises to be a brilliant series.
I read ‘Heart in the Clouds’ as a competition entry I was judging and was so impressed by the story I asked the officials if I could contact the author to let her know directly how much I thought the manuscript was a winner and on par with one of my favourite WW2 romance fiction authors Sarah Sundin.
I’m so glad the author has published this wonderful emotional and warm WWII romance!
After dealing with the heartache of losing her beloved mother, Maggie, a Vicar’s daughter and WAAF radio operator won’t let past hurts interfere with her wartime duty. No matter if it drives a wedge between her and her now emotionally distant father, or how handsome or charming Alec the Australian Pilot.
Navigating love during a time of war was never meant to be easy.
The historical details of ‘Heart in the Clouds’ is on point, the action sequences realistic and gripping and the love story infused with heart and faith. A recommended read for all lovers of WW2 romances!
I've just finished reading Heart in the Clouds, and am having trouble getting used to my life in 2023 again. This book grabbed me and placed me squarely in England during the Second World War. It was captivating to read of England during those war days, and particularly enjoyable to have moments of luxury and recreation interspersed with the challenging moments of tension and combat and sadness.
The romance between Alec and Maggie is of course central to the tale, and Jennifer is masterful at portraying this. I became so lost in the characters' journeys and wanted nothing more than happiness for them, knowing that they would be tested on the way. That finding God is central to actualising their love is the bedrock of the story.
The peripheral stories added horror, sorrow, anxiety and humour and captured me even further.
I highly recommend Heart in the Clouds, and want to keep reading more of Jennifer Mistmorgan's work!
Challenges, wartime service, fears, past hurts, alley cat morals, thieves, superstitions and faith unfortunately are a part of war and woven throughout Heart in the Clouds.
Jennifer Mistmorgan is a new to me author. Hearts in the Clouds is a historical page turning WW2 novel – part romance, part suspense. Australian pilot Alec Thomas a RAF Bomber Command pilot and Maggie Morrison in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force face the ever-present fears of the time. Each relying on their friends and each other.
In the Acknowledgments Jennifer Mistmorgan states that many of Alec’s lucky escapes come directly from the pages of her grandfather’s Allan Fisher flight log book. Thus giving the story an authentic vibe.
Great look at a little known aspect of WWII. As a radio operator for the women's axillary air force Maggie's voice is the last one Alec hears as he leaves british air space, and the first one he hears when they return. What starts out as a bet, develops into a sweet romance. You will love Heart in the Clouds if you like: WWII Suspense history presented where you don't realize you are learning. A faith arc that is realistic I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. in no way did it affect my review. all thoughts are my own
This book was simply delightful! Though I am not always a historical fiction gal, I was swept up by the compelling story and authentic characters. The heavy issues were handled with grace and poise, and I appreciated the way faith was depicted in a very real, not cheesy, way. Some of the heavier moments brought tears to my eyes. The romance had me giggling, gasping, and cheering along for Alec and Maggie to get together. A book as heartwarming and delightful as a good cup of tea!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I like the imperfections of the characters and the way they grew and developed throughout the story. I thought the whole side story about the local farmer stealing things was unnecessary and really didn't add anything to the story. My biggest complaint is the same as similar books of this style and genre, the last quarter of the book always feels rushed and the story ends too abruptly. Overall though, I did enjoy the story and the writing and would likely read additional works from this author.
I somehow picked another WWII book...and enjoyed this one almost as much as the one that was made into a miniseries.
The only flaw was the way the heroine behaved in the beginning...I hope people will be more mature than to treat someone flying into mortal danger with so much stereotyping. For goodness sake, control yourself.
Sorry for the rant. At the same time, who am I to judge anyone living through such a terrible time? Also, they were all so young.
God please help us not to have such terrors again...oh, wait.
This is the first book I’ve read by Jennifer Mistmorgan and I’m looking forward to reading more. Heart in the Clouds is a fabulous read set in England during World War II. Australian pilot Alec Thomas is smitten by Maggie Morrison from the first time they meet. But Maggie’s history with dashing pilots is tainted, and she’s not willing to trust Alec. As they work together and get to know one another, friendship begins to blossom. But will they get their happily ever after? This story of faith, love and work in war-time Britain will captivate you.
I became delightfully invested in the characters in this well-crafted and extensively researched WWII novel and really hope to read more about them in the future! Lots of historical details were woven into the plot in such a way as to enhance the story. It’s gritty but not graphic, and includes themes around (Christian) faith as a natural extension of the characters’ own beliefs. Find yourself a copy and join me firmly in Maggie’s corner, cheering her on and wanting the best for her!
Got the book last night and spent this morning on the couch reading and enjoying. Been a long time since I abandoned the call of housework for an uninterrupted binge read. It's well paced, well written and well researched (cos historical inaccuracies really spoil a book for me), with a heroine who manages to combine softness with spine! Perfect weekend/ holiday reading and now I want to know what the deal is with Grace Deroy... bring on The Map Maker's Secret!
Although not a reader of romance novels, more of a Tom Clancy/JRR Tolkien man; and a WWII aviation buff with a now deceased relative who flew Lancasters with an Australian squadron based at Bottesford during WWII, the cover notes got me in. And I'm glad they did. A terrific read: real and relatable characters, relationships and 'on base' events along with authentic, obviously deeply researched, technical and operational detail made it hard to put down. A genuine 5/5 for me.
I loved the idea of a strong female radio operator coming out of terrible tragedy and obviously difficult relationships with her grieving sister and father but then really relished the idea of her being so important in her role! I will admit that I grumbled about him gambling on a bet to kiss her (I thought he was a good guy?!) but prob good for me to realise we are all flawed in some way!! And beautiful ending- can’t wait for another!!
I really appreciated how well the characters in this story were presented. You could feel their emotions and you really got to know what was behind their actions. There was Romance, mystery, action and friendship displayed. I got chocked up when there were some issues with the flights that they would go on. I don't want to give anything away, so, just know that you'll run a range of emotions as you read this story.
I really enjoyed this lovely story. The characters draw you in and it is a great page turner. The WWII setting is immersive but hopeful. Lovely romance story to read, especially as aspects of the characters faith is woven through the book. I hope there will be a sequel!
Engaging WWII romance! Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2023 Who can resist an Australian Pilot who looks like Clark Gabel in a uniform? Maggie Morrison, that’s who! Loved this well researched story and the development of the characters. Mistmorgan has a solid debut here.
What a wonderful read. Both Maggie and Alec captured my heart and kept me turning the pages well into the early hours of the morning. Loved how faith was weaved into the book in a natural yet powerful way
I am not much of a romance reader but love WW2. The author caught the feel of that era well. A romance with a bit of mystery. Loved the Christian elements although they took quite a while to show and I would have preferred that the main female character was clearer in these aspects.