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The Mapmaker's Secret: Sweet wartime romance with a dash of intrigue
He’s there to uncover her secrets. She’s determined to hide them. Can he gain her trust without blowing his cover … or falling in love? If you enjoy gripping wartime romance with a dash of mystery and intrigue, you'll love The Mapmaker's Secret!
May 1943, Lincolnshire, England: Grace Deroy’s family estate is requisitioned by the Air Ministry, so she takes a job in the new cartography facility to protect what used to be her home, a small cog in the vast machinery of war. When the new American intelligence officer Jack Marsden arrives, she has no idea he’s been sent to spy on her.
Jack has little experience with espionage, but his real task is simple get close to Grace and find out whether she’s leaking Air Ministry secrets to the enemy. It should be a dream assignment, but Jack finds himself tongue tied and awkward every time he comes in contact with his target––a sure sign he’s falling in love.
Grace isn’t the Nazi sympathizer that MI5 suspects, but that doesn’t mean she’s got nothing to hide. When compromising stories about her appear in the press, Grace fears someone she trusts––someone working in her own home––is trying to expose her. Can she find out who before all the shameful secrets from her past are laid bare? And can she trust this quiet new American to help her work out who the real traitor is?
Book 2 of the On Victory's Wings series, The Mapmaker's Secret is easily read as a standalone novel.
Praise for Heart in the Clouds by Jennifer “A sweet and compelling romance that doesn’t shy away from the difficulties of war. Heart in the Clouds is beautifully researched. Perfect for both World War II buffs and for those who simply enjoy a lovely story and characters who feel like friends. Don’t miss this one!” ~ Sarah Sundin, bestselling and Christy Award-winning author of The Sound of Light and Until Leaves Fall in Paris
"Jennifer Mistmorgan soars into the World War fiction scene with a debut that will steal your heart. Characters that are flawed but compelling, a plot that keeps you turning the pages, and writing that will have you coming back for more makes Heart in the Clouds a must-read for historical romance fans!" ~ Roseanna M. White, bestselling and Christy-Award winning author
“An enthralling historical romance set against the backdrop of WWII Britain when the heroic men of RAF Bomber Command took to the skies night after night and courageous women did their part for the cause of victory. From their witty banter to the heartache and hope of their unfolding love in a perilous time, Alec and Maggie's journey is one readers will long remember. Jennifer Mistmorgan's expert research infuses every page in this compelling and inspiring novel. Highly recommended for fans of Sarah Sundin and Kate Breslin.” ~ Amanda Barratt, Christy Award-winning author of The Warsaw Sisters and Within These Walls of Sorrow
May 1943, Lincolnshire, England: Grace Deroy’s family estate is requisitioned by the Air Ministry, so she takes a job in the new cartography facility to protect what used to be her home, a small cog in the vast machinery of war. When the new American intelligence officer Jack Marsden arrives, she has no idea he’s been sent to spy on her.
Jack has little experience with espionage, but his real task is simple get close to Grace and find out whether she’s leaking Air Ministry secrets to the enemy. It should be a dream assignment, but Jack finds himself tongue tied and awkward every time he comes in contact with his target––a sure sign he’s falling in love.
Grace isn’t the Nazi sympathizer that MI5 suspects, but that doesn’t mean she’s got nothing to hide. When compromising stories about her appear in the press, Grace fears someone she trusts––someone working in her own home––is trying to expose her. Can she find out who before all the shameful secrets from her past are laid bare? And can she trust this quiet new American to help her work out who the real traitor is?
Book 2 of the On Victory's Wings series, The Mapmaker's Secret is easily read as a standalone novel.
Praise for Heart in the Clouds by Jennifer “A sweet and compelling romance that doesn’t shy away from the difficulties of war. Heart in the Clouds is beautifully researched. Perfect for both World War II buffs and for those who simply enjoy a lovely story and characters who feel like friends. Don’t miss this one!” ~ Sarah Sundin, bestselling and Christy Award-winning author of The Sound of Light and Until Leaves Fall in Paris
"Jennifer Mistmorgan soars into the World War fiction scene with a debut that will steal your heart. Characters that are flawed but compelling, a plot that keeps you turning the pages, and writing that will have you coming back for more makes Heart in the Clouds a must-read for historical romance fans!" ~ Roseanna M. White, bestselling and Christy-Award winning author
“An enthralling historical romance set against the backdrop of WWII Britain when the heroic men of RAF Bomber Command took to the skies night after night and courageous women did their part for the cause of victory. From their witty banter to the heartache and hope of their unfolding love in a perilous time, Alec and Maggie's journey is one readers will long remember. Jennifer Mistmorgan's expert research infuses every page in this compelling and inspiring novel. Highly recommended for fans of Sarah Sundin and Kate Breslin.” ~ Amanda Barratt, Christy Award-winning author of The Warsaw Sisters and Within These Walls of Sorrow
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2024
14 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Mistmorgan
7 books62 followersAustralian 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 22, 2024
The setting for the book is England in 1943-44, a historical romance. The book kept me glued to the pages from the beginning. This is the first book I've read from this author but plan to read more. Her vivid descriptions, historical elements,, and many-layered characters placed in suspenseful circumstances made for a great story.
When Lieutenant Jack Marsden, works in photographic intelligence but finds himself involved in espionage, things don't end the way he hoped. He is assigned to spy on Grace Deroy, a WAAF Corporal at the Bartondale facility.
The storyline is filled with distrust, deception, and lies, but also forgiveness and faith. A very exciting read.
When Lieutenant Jack Marsden, works in photographic intelligence but finds himself involved in espionage, things don't end the way he hoped. He is assigned to spy on Grace Deroy, a WAAF Corporal at the Bartondale facility.
The storyline is filled with distrust, deception, and lies, but also forgiveness and faith. A very exciting read.
February 20, 2024
I loved this book! It has beautiful romance and reunions (ok, that made me cry) but also flawed characters that I could feel for as they struggled with family and war and things and people taken from them but could see possibilities and forgiveness. Have decided I want to be like Grace when I grow up…
April 16, 2024
Delightfully unputdownable! The only problem with these books is I can't seem to stop reading them until they're finished... Grace's story drew me in and I was so stirred by her courage and honesty. Can't wait to read the next one!
July 8, 2025
Another winner! This was so fun!
I have one complaint but it's a spoiler and doesn't make any logical sense, so beware:
I have one complaint but it's a spoiler and doesn't make any logical sense, so beware:
February 22, 2024
You know the writing is amazing when you forget there is a writer. I was so gripped by Mistmorgan’s descriptions that it felt like they supernaturally existed, not written by the hand of a person creating a plot, characters and world.
Jennifer Mistmorgan’s second full length novel is just as ‘can’t-put-down-able’ as her first.
I particularly appreciate the maturity in her writing, something I’m finding rare these days. Characters are believable - flawed and real - while we get carried along by their situations and dramas. Descriptions are rich, setting scenes that come alive in the imagination. And the story is so very easy to read, and hard to put down.
Can’t wait for the next one!
Jennifer Mistmorgan’s second full length novel is just as ‘can’t-put-down-able’ as her first.
I particularly appreciate the maturity in her writing, something I’m finding rare these days. Characters are believable - flawed and real - while we get carried along by their situations and dramas. Descriptions are rich, setting scenes that come alive in the imagination. And the story is so very easy to read, and hard to put down.
Can’t wait for the next one!
March 10, 2024
You know those books that just suck you in? And you don’t want to put them down?
Yep, this is one of those books!
The details of this book were beautifully written, causing history to come to life. Jennifer’s writing makes you feel like you’re there.
Grace and Jack’s story was a wonderful journey of healing, for Jack due to the loss of his wife and for Grace it was healing and forgiveness for mistakes made in the past.
I loved the twists and turns that the story took. I tried my best to figure out the culprit and the why behind the mystery.
If you love history, mystery, faith, and romance you will love this story!
Yep, this is one of those books!
The details of this book were beautifully written, causing history to come to life. Jennifer’s writing makes you feel like you’re there.
Grace and Jack’s story was a wonderful journey of healing, for Jack due to the loss of his wife and for Grace it was healing and forgiveness for mistakes made in the past.
I loved the twists and turns that the story took. I tried my best to figure out the culprit and the why behind the mystery.
If you love history, mystery, faith, and romance you will love this story!
April 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this WWII mystery romance! The twist at the end I did not see coming. It was hard to put this one down to go to bed at night. One thing I would have liked to see was Grace showing a bit more effort in her relationship with Christ. That didn’t have much emphasis in the story until the second half, but I think it would have fit in well all throughout. Anyway I still loved it and need to read the other 2 in the series!
February 17, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. There was mystery, suspense, pain, scandal, redemption and love.
Jack went through heartbreaking pain and loss 4 years ago, when he became a widow. But now, his superiors have decided that he is perfect for reconnaissance and should get close to a woman to prove her involvement in espionage. Can he get past his past to love again and save lives?
Grace has secrets. Her past has her ashamed and keeps digging itself up. In order to save lives, she must expose her secrets and her heart.
Jack went through heartbreaking pain and loss 4 years ago, when he became a widow. But now, his superiors have decided that he is perfect for reconnaissance and should get close to a woman to prove her involvement in espionage. Can he get past his past to love again and save lives?
Grace has secrets. Her past has her ashamed and keeps digging itself up. In order to save lives, she must expose her secrets and her heart.
March 17, 2024
Wow, The Mapmaker’s Secret by Jennifer Mistmorgan is a wonderful WWII historical romance novel. I was pulled right into this story about Grace and Jack that takes place in England during the last couple of years of WWII.
Lieutenant Jack Marsden is actually an American who is being sent in to spy on WAAF Corporal Grace Deroy because there is the belief that she has been leaking secrets to the Nazis. The military has taken over her family’s estate, as they did with multiple homes during the war, and they are suspicious as to why she would insist on being stationed there.
So, Jack’s job is to get close to Grace to ferret out the truth of the situation.
We see both Grace and Jack’s point of view, so we know she is hiding something, but it’s almost clear from the beginning that she is not the one guilty of leaking the secrets.
Jack himself doesn’t feel like she’s the traitor, but is he thinking clearly, seeing as he has become infatuated with her?
Jack’s superiors are adamant that Jack get to the bottom of what’s going on. They insist he needs to get closer to her, no matter how he feels.
What exactly is the secret (or secrets) that Grace is keeping hidden? Are her secrets in any way connected to the leak?
She really doesn’t want something to come out, yet there is someone who is going to great lengths to make sure her secret is brought to light, but why?
I loved all the intrigue and the mystery, the inclusion of faith with forgiveness and redemption through Christ, and the love story that was brewing. But will the love be able to survive the fact that Jack and Grace’s relationship began with a huge deception?
I also loved learning more details about things that went on behind the scenes during WWII, with the mapmaking to help with the accuracy of the Allies’ bombing.
This was my first book by this author and I loved it. I do wish I had had a chance to read Heart in the Clouds first. Though The Mapmaker’s Secret can work as a stand alone story, it is obvious from reading it that there are a bunch of characters that are first introduced in Heart in the Clouds. I know some people don’t mind reading series out of order, but if there is anything that is going to be spoilerish when it comes to how relationships turn out or such, I would much prefer to read in order. That said, I have every intention of reading book one as soon as possible. I am sure it will be as good as this second book, which is a book I highly recommend, especially for fans of WWII romances. The author brought these characters to life and I sort of pictured what was going on in their lives in relation to other books I have read, wishing they could all meet up, even though the stories are written by different authors.
I received an ARC of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
Lieutenant Jack Marsden is actually an American who is being sent in to spy on WAAF Corporal Grace Deroy because there is the belief that she has been leaking secrets to the Nazis. The military has taken over her family’s estate, as they did with multiple homes during the war, and they are suspicious as to why she would insist on being stationed there.
So, Jack’s job is to get close to Grace to ferret out the truth of the situation.
We see both Grace and Jack’s point of view, so we know she is hiding something, but it’s almost clear from the beginning that she is not the one guilty of leaking the secrets.
Jack himself doesn’t feel like she’s the traitor, but is he thinking clearly, seeing as he has become infatuated with her?
Jack’s superiors are adamant that Jack get to the bottom of what’s going on. They insist he needs to get closer to her, no matter how he feels.
What exactly is the secret (or secrets) that Grace is keeping hidden? Are her secrets in any way connected to the leak?
She really doesn’t want something to come out, yet there is someone who is going to great lengths to make sure her secret is brought to light, but why?
I loved all the intrigue and the mystery, the inclusion of faith with forgiveness and redemption through Christ, and the love story that was brewing. But will the love be able to survive the fact that Jack and Grace’s relationship began with a huge deception?
I also loved learning more details about things that went on behind the scenes during WWII, with the mapmaking to help with the accuracy of the Allies’ bombing.
This was my first book by this author and I loved it. I do wish I had had a chance to read Heart in the Clouds first. Though The Mapmaker’s Secret can work as a stand alone story, it is obvious from reading it that there are a bunch of characters that are first introduced in Heart in the Clouds. I know some people don’t mind reading series out of order, but if there is anything that is going to be spoilerish when it comes to how relationships turn out or such, I would much prefer to read in order. That said, I have every intention of reading book one as soon as possible. I am sure it will be as good as this second book, which is a book I highly recommend, especially for fans of WWII romances. The author brought these characters to life and I sort of pictured what was going on in their lives in relation to other books I have read, wishing they could all meet up, even though the stories are written by different authors.
I received an ARC of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
October 27, 2025
This is Book 2 in the 'On Victory's Wings' series, but it can be read alone. It picks up the story of Grace Deroy, who was a secondary character in Book 1.
In wartime England, Grace's family estate has been requisitioned by the Air Ministry for important work in producing maps for the bomber missions over Europe. Grace has taken up employment in her old family home to keep an eye on things; however, she unwittingly becomes the prime suspect when sensitive information is leaked. Enter reluctant 'spy', Lieutenant Jack Marsden from the US forces. He has been ordered to take up a position at Bartondale and get close to Grace so he can ascertain if she is the traitor. This goes against Jack's ethics. He is still grieving the death of his wife four years previously and doesn't want to get close to anyone ... until he meets Grace Deroy. As much as he hates to admit it, there are a few suspicious goings on. Grace is definitely hiding something, but is it what his superiors think it is?
I really enjoyed this wartime romance. The historical details were interesting and there was a lot of intrigue that kept me turning pages. I liked the ethical dilemmas, especially regarding what is acceptable in wartime that wouldn't be acceptable in peacetime. Faith issues were interwoven into the story, but with a light hand which I appreciated. The villain was suitably vile, and the scandal sheets have much in common with the modern-day experience of lies and deception in some parts of the media (only worse now with social media and AI). I liked the way that no matter what we have done in the past, God can wipe the slate clean and make us new creations.
If you like shows like 'Foyle's War', mixed with romance and some interesting faith issues, there is much to enjoy in this book. I liked it even better than the first in the series. Now onto Book 3!
In wartime England, Grace's family estate has been requisitioned by the Air Ministry for important work in producing maps for the bomber missions over Europe. Grace has taken up employment in her old family home to keep an eye on things; however, she unwittingly becomes the prime suspect when sensitive information is leaked. Enter reluctant 'spy', Lieutenant Jack Marsden from the US forces. He has been ordered to take up a position at Bartondale and get close to Grace so he can ascertain if she is the traitor. This goes against Jack's ethics. He is still grieving the death of his wife four years previously and doesn't want to get close to anyone ... until he meets Grace Deroy. As much as he hates to admit it, there are a few suspicious goings on. Grace is definitely hiding something, but is it what his superiors think it is?
I really enjoyed this wartime romance. The historical details were interesting and there was a lot of intrigue that kept me turning pages. I liked the ethical dilemmas, especially regarding what is acceptable in wartime that wouldn't be acceptable in peacetime. Faith issues were interwoven into the story, but with a light hand which I appreciated. The villain was suitably vile, and the scandal sheets have much in common with the modern-day experience of lies and deception in some parts of the media (only worse now with social media and AI). I liked the way that no matter what we have done in the past, God can wipe the slate clean and make us new creations.
If you like shows like 'Foyle's War', mixed with romance and some interesting faith issues, there is much to enjoy in this book. I liked it even better than the first in the series. Now onto Book 3!
March 9, 2024
1943 England. The home of Grace Deroy has been taken over by the military and turned into a mapmaking/ checking facility for the air forces, renamed Bartondale. Grace moves into the caretaker's cottage and works for the facility, hoping to keep an eye on her family's things.
In the meantime, after Jack Marsden's wife dies in childbirth, he steps away from medicine, and at the start of the war contributes by using the skills of mapmaking he learned from his dad. With those skills, he is assigned against his will to become a spy at Bartondale. He is tasked to determine if Grace is working for the Nazi's and releasing confidential materials. Jack knows he is not the person for the job, and when he meets Grace this is reaffirmed by his growing feelings for Grace. As he gets to know her, he is sure that she is not the guilty party, but who is.
Grace and Jack each have a past that has greatly influenced who they have become, what they do and how they behave. Past heartache has led one toward God, and one away from God. Their current circumstances continue to add trials, betrayals, and fear. I personally think people/ characters can "fall to fast," and I would have liked to see these characters ease into their feelings a little more. The element of faith is faint but there. The plot moves the novel forward fluidly. Grace and Jack both have interesting backstories, and I appreciated the subplots and minor characters included. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of clean romance and historical fiction.
In the meantime, after Jack Marsden's wife dies in childbirth, he steps away from medicine, and at the start of the war contributes by using the skills of mapmaking he learned from his dad. With those skills, he is assigned against his will to become a spy at Bartondale. He is tasked to determine if Grace is working for the Nazi's and releasing confidential materials. Jack knows he is not the person for the job, and when he meets Grace this is reaffirmed by his growing feelings for Grace. As he gets to know her, he is sure that she is not the guilty party, but who is.
Grace and Jack each have a past that has greatly influenced who they have become, what they do and how they behave. Past heartache has led one toward God, and one away from God. Their current circumstances continue to add trials, betrayals, and fear. I personally think people/ characters can "fall to fast," and I would have liked to see these characters ease into their feelings a little more. The element of faith is faint but there. The plot moves the novel forward fluidly. Grace and Jack both have interesting backstories, and I appreciated the subplots and minor characters included. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of clean romance and historical fiction.
March 25, 2024
Dearest Readers, I am thrilled to recommend to you the captivating book "The Mapmaker's Secret" by the talented Jennifer Mistmorgan.
In The Mapmaker's Secret, set in May 1943 in Lincolnshire, England, Grace Deroy's family estate is taken over by the Air Ministry, so she takes a job at the cartography facility to protect her former home. Unbeknownst to her, American intelligence officer Jack Marsden is sent by M15 to spy on her. Jack's mission is to determine if Grace is leaking Air Ministry secrets to the enemy, but he finds himself falling in love with her instead. Grace, who is not a Nazi sympathizer, suspects someone close to her is trying to expose her deepest and darkest secrets. She must uncover the truth before her past is revealed, and she must decide if she can trust Jack to help her find the real traitor.
This book had me completely engrossed from the very beginning till the end. The level of intrigue and suspense was simply gripping! Right from the opening pages, I found myself completely hooked and unable to put it down. The characters were incredibly well-developed, and the plot was filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. What truly stood out to me was the author's ability to create flawed and authentic characters, making their journey even more relatable and compelling. Alongside the thrilling historical backdrop, the book explores themes of faith and delivers a heartwarming love story that adds an extra layer of sweetness to the overall narrative. If you enjoy wartime romance with mystery and intrigue, The Mapmaker's Secret is the perfect read for you.
In The Mapmaker's Secret, set in May 1943 in Lincolnshire, England, Grace Deroy's family estate is taken over by the Air Ministry, so she takes a job at the cartography facility to protect her former home. Unbeknownst to her, American intelligence officer Jack Marsden is sent by M15 to spy on her. Jack's mission is to determine if Grace is leaking Air Ministry secrets to the enemy, but he finds himself falling in love with her instead. Grace, who is not a Nazi sympathizer, suspects someone close to her is trying to expose her deepest and darkest secrets. She must uncover the truth before her past is revealed, and she must decide if she can trust Jack to help her find the real traitor.
This book had me completely engrossed from the very beginning till the end. The level of intrigue and suspense was simply gripping! Right from the opening pages, I found myself completely hooked and unable to put it down. The characters were incredibly well-developed, and the plot was filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. What truly stood out to me was the author's ability to create flawed and authentic characters, making their journey even more relatable and compelling. Alongside the thrilling historical backdrop, the book explores themes of faith and delivers a heartwarming love story that adds an extra layer of sweetness to the overall narrative. If you enjoy wartime romance with mystery and intrigue, The Mapmaker's Secret is the perfect read for you.
March 25, 2024
I enjoyed reading The Mapmaker’s Secret and I’m looking forward to reading future books in the series. Grace is a strong and independent woman who signed up for the WAAF when her family’s country estate was procured for the war effort. She’s living in a small cottage on the estate and works in the mapmaking facility that’s operating in her childhood home. Grace is hiding a scandalous secret from her past that took place before she came to faith.
Jack is an American intelligence officer who’s given the job of spying on a beautiful English lady. MI5 have reasons to believe that Grace might be a Nazi sympathizer due to her family’s aristocratic connections. Jack’s a widower who’s totally captivated by his first meeting with Grace and, as a result, he can barely string a coherent sentence together in her company. He wants to believe she’s innocent, and he can’t let romantic feelings cloud his judgment and derail his mission to get close to Grace and collect espionage evidence.
Grace is intrigued by Jack, who’s working with her and seems interested in getting to know her. Their romance is sweet and I loved how their relationship is challenged when the mysteries in the story unravel and reveal secrets that have massive consequences. I recommend The Mapmaker’s Secret to historical romance readers who like WW2 spy novels set in England with mystery, intrigue, and a relevant faith element in the story.
Many thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.
Jack is an American intelligence officer who’s given the job of spying on a beautiful English lady. MI5 have reasons to believe that Grace might be a Nazi sympathizer due to her family’s aristocratic connections. Jack’s a widower who’s totally captivated by his first meeting with Grace and, as a result, he can barely string a coherent sentence together in her company. He wants to believe she’s innocent, and he can’t let romantic feelings cloud his judgment and derail his mission to get close to Grace and collect espionage evidence.
Grace is intrigued by Jack, who’s working with her and seems interested in getting to know her. Their romance is sweet and I loved how their relationship is challenged when the mysteries in the story unravel and reveal secrets that have massive consequences. I recommend The Mapmaker’s Secret to historical romance readers who like WW2 spy novels set in England with mystery, intrigue, and a relevant faith element in the story.
Many thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.
June 26, 2024
I read the first book in the On Victory's Wings series and was so blown away that I looked immediately for book two, only to discover it hadn't been released yet. So, when Jennifer Mistmorgan announced the launch of the second book, The Mapmaker's Secret, I quickly downloaded it and began to read, gladly sacrificing a night of sleep to find out what would happen next. This book has LAYERS! The plot centers around a former great house that has been requisitioned to become a military outpost where intelligence is translated into maps of enemy territory. Unfortunately, some of its secrets are being leaked, and MI5 has a perfect suspect--the head librarian whose family once lived at the massive estate. MI5 also has the perfect spy--a handsome American cartography expert who is instructed to "get close" to the beautiful young lady despite his objections that he's not a professional spy and he finds such an assignment distasteful. Especially when he realizes that aside from her own carefully kept secrets, his target is a professional, a patriot, and a believer. It's a beautifully written, well-developed, and intriguing story.
March 26, 2024
Since the end of Jennifer Mistmorgan's previous book Heart in the Clouds, I've been a bit worried about Grace Deroy. She seemed thoroughly reliable and likable, but I knew this book would make me question her loyalties. Like the main male protagonist, I was taken with Grace from when I first met her, and I thoroughly enjoyed this chance to go deeper into her story, her secrets and her motivations. I won't give spoilers to the plot, because at least half the fun of Mistmorgan's books is that they are page-turners, but I will say that she has once again delivered a book with a careful and well-executed balance of historical detail, rounded and realistic lead characters, gentle romance and honest depictions of what faith looks like. I needed an escape this week, and my only complaint would be that I would have liked this to be longer!
March 31, 2024
Ripping, gripping yarn to be relished
What a brilliant second novel! As a military aviation enthusiast/researcher, I'd started reading, and really enjoyed Jennifer Mistmorgan's (JM's) first novel, Heart in the Clouds, because I'd heard that the Lancaster bomber crew mission experiences were well written; but had found the overall story and the characters captivating. So, I didn't know what to expect from Mapmaker's secret.
Well, from start to finish (which, again, happened way too quickly) I was taken in by the characters, one of whom I'd already met in Heart in the Clouds, and the unfolding story. And, again, the characters stayed with me well after I'd finished the book. I think it must be all part of JM's diabolical plan to get me addicted to her stories . . . well, it's working!
What a brilliant second novel! As a military aviation enthusiast/researcher, I'd started reading, and really enjoyed Jennifer Mistmorgan's (JM's) first novel, Heart in the Clouds, because I'd heard that the Lancaster bomber crew mission experiences were well written; but had found the overall story and the characters captivating. So, I didn't know what to expect from Mapmaker's secret.
Well, from start to finish (which, again, happened way too quickly) I was taken in by the characters, one of whom I'd already met in Heart in the Clouds, and the unfolding story. And, again, the characters stayed with me well after I'd finished the book. I think it must be all part of JM's diabolical plan to get me addicted to her stories . . . well, it's working!
May 28, 2024
Book 2 of On Victory’s Wings series is full of adventure, intrigue, history, romance, and interesting characters, some we may have met before in Heart in the Clouds.
Taking place in the English countryside during WWII, we are introduced to the brave men who flew bombers to keep the skies and land free from German occupation and the women who helped them by the secret operations behind the scenes. Steeped in history and research, the author has given us an exciting story that will keep you turning pages wanting to know what happens next. Of course there is a villain, but it might not be whom you suspect. The romance that blooms between our hero and heroine is sweet and gentle and full of secrets and lies. Faith and forgiveness and hope weave through the pages. I highly recommend this book and am excitedly awaiting book 3.
Taking place in the English countryside during WWII, we are introduced to the brave men who flew bombers to keep the skies and land free from German occupation and the women who helped them by the secret operations behind the scenes. Steeped in history and research, the author has given us an exciting story that will keep you turning pages wanting to know what happens next. Of course there is a villain, but it might not be whom you suspect. The romance that blooms between our hero and heroine is sweet and gentle and full of secrets and lies. Faith and forgiveness and hope weave through the pages. I highly recommend this book and am excitedly awaiting book 3.
February 16, 2025
I loved this story so much! The characters were introduced so well, so naturally, There is a wide cast of family, friends and coworkers, but I was never confused. The main characters were wonderful! Learning about their pasts and how they have matured, then their romance, made me love Grace and Jack. Swoon.
The war and military aspects were laid out well. I learned a lot and even looked up a few things to gain more information. The mystery was amazing! I was able to clearly see who the suspects were, but I couldn't quite figure it out until the end.
I was even teary-eyed a few times. Happy sigh. I highly recommend this novel!q
The war and military aspects were laid out well. I learned a lot and even looked up a few things to gain more information. The mystery was amazing! I was able to clearly see who the suspects were, but I couldn't quite figure it out until the end.
I was even teary-eyed a few times. Happy sigh. I highly recommend this novel!q
March 3, 2025
WWII, espionage, and romance? Yes, please!
A wonderful story with twist and turns, personal histories coming to light, family wartime drama, love, broken hearts, forgiveness, and restoration. The faith elements were subtle but very much interwoven in Jack and Grace’s lives. The mystery of the mole isn’t super deep but the route taken to expose them is very involved.
Jack and Grace were flawed but real and their journey was compelling.
It was fun to see Maggie and Katie from ‘Heart in the Clouds’. Which you don’t need to have read but you totally should. 😍 I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
A wonderful story with twist and turns, personal histories coming to light, family wartime drama, love, broken hearts, forgiveness, and restoration. The faith elements were subtle but very much interwoven in Jack and Grace’s lives. The mystery of the mole isn’t super deep but the route taken to expose them is very involved.
Jack and Grace were flawed but real and their journey was compelling.
It was fun to see Maggie and Katie from ‘Heart in the Clouds’. Which you don’t need to have read but you totally should. 😍 I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 2, 2025
Another great book!
This is a must read, I don’t know why it had stayed on my TBR pile as long as it did! I love this author and the historical books she writes! I knew Grace had a big secret in her past from the few comments in the previous book ( Maggie’s story Heart in the Clouds) and now I know what it was! Jack is a great character and together they have a realistic love story based in war torn Britain. It is truly clean and I recommend it to everyone who likes a good, clean, WWII /historical read! Thanks Jennifer, I can’t wait to read the next one!
This is a must read, I don’t know why it had stayed on my TBR pile as long as it did! I love this author and the historical books she writes! I knew Grace had a big secret in her past from the few comments in the previous book ( Maggie’s story Heart in the Clouds) and now I know what it was! Jack is a great character and together they have a realistic love story based in war torn Britain. It is truly clean and I recommend it to everyone who likes a good, clean, WWII /historical read! Thanks Jennifer, I can’t wait to read the next one!
July 14, 2024
The Mapmaker's Secret by Jennifer Mistmorgan is the second book in the On Victory's Wings series and a definite must read if you love inspirational historical romances set during World War II.
This is the first book by Jennifer Mistmorgan that I've read and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books by her in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
This is the first book by Jennifer Mistmorgan that I've read and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books by her in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
September 24, 2024
A brilliant read
This book had everything; history, well thought out story, strong characters with both weaknesses and strengths, clean romance, a spiritual thread - giving good human dimension, and moved at a perfect pace. A thoroughly enjoyable read and one suitable for ages 18+. Both men and women would enjoy this story.
This book had everything; history, well thought out story, strong characters with both weaknesses and strengths, clean romance, a spiritual thread - giving good human dimension, and moved at a perfect pace. A thoroughly enjoyable read and one suitable for ages 18+. Both men and women would enjoy this story.
March 5, 2024
Jennifer Mistmorgan a new to me author is fabulous! Her upcoming book “The Mapmakers Secret” is a wonderful read! It has a bit of everything I enjoy in a book! Historical fiction, a bit of romance and a lot of suspense! It is the perfect combination! Check it out! You won’t be disappointed!
April 9, 2024
Even better than the first one in the series. This novel is well written, the characters are engaging. What’s not to love about a wartime romance novel, with espionage thrown in for good measure. I loved it, and am looking forward to the next one.
May 28, 2024
WW2 account of romance
The book shows the difficulties of living in WW2 in England and the risks of love. The book has twists and turns with espionage. There is small amount of Christian beliefs and information about God.
The book shows the difficulties of living in WW2 in England and the risks of love. The book has twists and turns with espionage. There is small amount of Christian beliefs and information about God.
June 16, 2024
A Good WWII Historical
I enjoyed reading this book.
If you like to read faith-based stories of second chances (both spiritual and relational), this fits the bill nicely. Also it takes place in Britain during WWII, which is a favorite time period of mine to read about.
I enjoyed reading this book.
If you like to read faith-based stories of second chances (both spiritual and relational), this fits the bill nicely. Also it takes place in Britain during WWII, which is a favorite time period of mine to read about.
March 30, 2025
Great story
I've been glued to this story! The is so much action and intrigue that I didn't want to put it down. Absolutely a page turner with excellent characters and spectacular storyline! Recommend this book is a ten out of ten.
I've been glued to this story! The is so much action and intrigue that I didn't want to put it down. Absolutely a page turner with excellent characters and spectacular storyline! Recommend this book is a ten out of ten.
May 19, 2025
Intrigue, WW2, A love story, A spy abroad
This book has it all! I didn't stop reading until I finished this book! Great story, great characters and an excellent ending... What more could you ask for?
This book has it all! I didn't stop reading until I finished this book! Great story, great characters and an excellent ending... What more could you ask for?
March 28, 2024
Oh Wow! Jennifer's done it again! Filled with mystery, suspense, and romance that will keep you turning the page non-stop to the end. Highly recommend.
May 20, 2024
I enjoyed this read. It was easy to read, engaging and as satisfying as sticky date pudding on a cold winters' night!
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