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Until the Last Note: A Titanic-Inspired Novel
Two couples over a century apart. One antique diary that ties them together.
Present Junior college student Greyslin Rogers enjoys a good challenge. But when she takes on an extra credit assignment in theater class, she realizes she may have overestimated her abilities. Encouraged by her best friend, Stanley Pritchard, to give it her best, Greyslin dives into researching the Titanic encounter and writing her script. After coming across an antique diary as an inspiring memento for her project, little does she know the tragedies and beauties the century-old words will uncover. When concerning signs in Stanley's health cause worries to arise, and as their friendship develops into something deeper, Greyslin finds herself relating with the diary’s writer, whose words shed more light on the present than she ever could have imagined.
Spring of 1912: Newlywed Renita (Davis) Burton’s marriage is off to a bumpy start when her husband, Daniel, accepts an at-sea musician position aboard the RMS Titanic. As she wrestles with the loneliness and unsettled feelings his absence creates, Renita turns to the comfort of a favorite pastime—keeping a diary. Her faith, new friends, and unexpected joys carry her through the long days ahead, but nothing could have prepared her for when she finds out the ship that carries her husband has sunk.
As Renita struggles between hope and grief while she awaits to hear of her husband’s fate and as Greyslin faces the greatest trial of her life, will the lessons unlocked by the diary help Greyslin embrace the same love and courage portrayed in the past to face her own uncertain future with the man she loves?
Present Junior college student Greyslin Rogers enjoys a good challenge. But when she takes on an extra credit assignment in theater class, she realizes she may have overestimated her abilities. Encouraged by her best friend, Stanley Pritchard, to give it her best, Greyslin dives into researching the Titanic encounter and writing her script. After coming across an antique diary as an inspiring memento for her project, little does she know the tragedies and beauties the century-old words will uncover. When concerning signs in Stanley's health cause worries to arise, and as their friendship develops into something deeper, Greyslin finds herself relating with the diary’s writer, whose words shed more light on the present than she ever could have imagined.
Spring of 1912: Newlywed Renita (Davis) Burton’s marriage is off to a bumpy start when her husband, Daniel, accepts an at-sea musician position aboard the RMS Titanic. As she wrestles with the loneliness and unsettled feelings his absence creates, Renita turns to the comfort of a favorite pastime—keeping a diary. Her faith, new friends, and unexpected joys carry her through the long days ahead, but nothing could have prepared her for when she finds out the ship that carries her husband has sunk.
As Renita struggles between hope and grief while she awaits to hear of her husband’s fate and as Greyslin faces the greatest trial of her life, will the lessons unlocked by the diary help Greyslin embrace the same love and courage portrayed in the past to face her own uncertain future with the man she loves?
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 13, 2024
“Make a difference in this world. Be a friend.”
For 21-year-old Greyslin Camry Rogers, finishing her college degree with a major in theatre is one of the last hurdles to complete before enjoying a life of adventure outside St. Louis, Missouri before settling down and getting married. Her boyfriend, who also happens to be her English tutor, her neighbour, and her long-time bff, Stanley Pritchard, is shocked at learning Greyslin’s plan for her future. Does he learn to ‘let go and let God’ or does he plan on persuading ‘Camry’ to see the future through his eyes?
When she begins a project for class and finds a dusty book on the library shelf, Greyslin becomes focused on the Davis family. Reading about Daniel and Renita’s experience softens her heart and prepares her for what’s ahead. Burdened by the weight of leaving behind an ailing grandfather, an expectant new bride and sailing for the first time, Daniel Stephen Burton boards the RMS Titanic as a cellist on the maiden voyage. Despite all his worries, he befriends passengers and makes a difference in the lives of many. Worried and pregnant, Renita Evelina Davis takes comfort in her diary. Can she learn to leave her troubles in God’s hands?
The central theme of ‘In His Time,’ is a wonderful one to start a new year. We all need reminders that God is in control and our meddling doesn’t change the timing or the outcome.
This wonderful Titanic-inspired dual timeline novel may focus on leaving our worries in God’s hands, but it’s also about:
🙏Learning to have a servant’s heart
🙏The power of music
🙏Carrying misplaced guilt
🙏Rising above our sorrows
🙏Being a friend
🙏Leaning on God
🙏Keeping our eye on the present and future blessings from God even in an unwanted situation
🙏Praying for grace to deal with difficult people
🙏The importance of making a difference
🙏Learning to pray for the strength and faith to weather the storms
🙏Repairing relationships that aren’t whole to begin with
🙏How to experience a sense of peace amid chaos
🙏Learning to be a blessing to others
🙏How we limit God’s work when we try to take control of the reigns
I’m looking forward to Gavin and McKenna’s story next!
This beautiful story, a friends-to-more trope, is inspirational, sweet and thought-provoking and needs a place on every Christian fiction lover’s book list.
The significance of the publication date isn’t lost on me!
For 21-year-old Greyslin Camry Rogers, finishing her college degree with a major in theatre is one of the last hurdles to complete before enjoying a life of adventure outside St. Louis, Missouri before settling down and getting married. Her boyfriend, who also happens to be her English tutor, her neighbour, and her long-time bff, Stanley Pritchard, is shocked at learning Greyslin’s plan for her future. Does he learn to ‘let go and let God’ or does he plan on persuading ‘Camry’ to see the future through his eyes?
When she begins a project for class and finds a dusty book on the library shelf, Greyslin becomes focused on the Davis family. Reading about Daniel and Renita’s experience softens her heart and prepares her for what’s ahead. Burdened by the weight of leaving behind an ailing grandfather, an expectant new bride and sailing for the first time, Daniel Stephen Burton boards the RMS Titanic as a cellist on the maiden voyage. Despite all his worries, he befriends passengers and makes a difference in the lives of many. Worried and pregnant, Renita Evelina Davis takes comfort in her diary. Can she learn to leave her troubles in God’s hands?
The central theme of ‘In His Time,’ is a wonderful one to start a new year. We all need reminders that God is in control and our meddling doesn’t change the timing or the outcome.
This wonderful Titanic-inspired dual timeline novel may focus on leaving our worries in God’s hands, but it’s also about:
🙏Learning to have a servant’s heart
🙏The power of music
🙏Carrying misplaced guilt
🙏Rising above our sorrows
🙏Being a friend
🙏Leaning on God
🙏Keeping our eye on the present and future blessings from God even in an unwanted situation
🙏Praying for grace to deal with difficult people
🙏The importance of making a difference
🙏Learning to pray for the strength and faith to weather the storms
🙏Repairing relationships that aren’t whole to begin with
🙏How to experience a sense of peace amid chaos
🙏Learning to be a blessing to others
🙏How we limit God’s work when we try to take control of the reigns
I’m looking forward to Gavin and McKenna’s story next!
This beautiful story, a friends-to-more trope, is inspirational, sweet and thought-provoking and needs a place on every Christian fiction lover’s book list.
The significance of the publication date isn’t lost on me!
July 6, 2024
This book was powerful++.....a first time for this author for me but definitely will buy and read more by her. I felt so immersed with the characters, almost as if sharing their emotions and hurts... especially when the musicians were playing and the Titanic was sinking; the sheer sorrow so many experienced during that anguished time! The author incorporated real life figures along with her created ones to bring even more authenticity. The pastor who swam about frantically to let others know to at least call upon Jesus to save their souls before they perished, then gave his life jacket to another he felt needed it instead. "Greater love has no man than he lay down his life for another" was a theme often expressed. The two timelines and different perspectives flowed together well.
One of the main characters Daniel; truly made such a difference in the lives of others and a future impact. It was just such a compelling read that I didn't want to stop very often! A true Christian and inspirational writing with so many fabulous spiritual elements throughout so well worth checking out and to recommend from me.
** A line (word really) that stood out as not being likely to have been used within a sentence back in 1912 was the word "Can" I call upon you to visit?..........Just a mere laughable point for me as most likely one would have asked "May" I call upon? etc with their correct word usage during that time period. That did not affect my pleasure in any shape nor form ;)
That aside, this was just wonderful as I am in awe and it will stay with me for quite awhile :)
One of the main characters Daniel; truly made such a difference in the lives of others and a future impact. It was just such a compelling read that I didn't want to stop very often! A true Christian and inspirational writing with so many fabulous spiritual elements throughout so well worth checking out and to recommend from me.
** A line (word really) that stood out as not being likely to have been used within a sentence back in 1912 was the word "Can" I call upon you to visit?..........Just a mere laughable point for me as most likely one would have asked "May" I call upon? etc with their correct word usage during that time period. That did not affect my pleasure in any shape nor form ;)
That aside, this was just wonderful as I am in awe and it will stay with me for quite awhile :)
April 10, 2024
This is an enjoyable and thought-provoking split time novel. One timeline is 1912 and involves the sinking of the Titanic. The second timeline is current day and features two college students who are best friends and yet struggling to take the steps to see their relationship become more serious.
It's clear that Baker did her research. I appreciated learning things about the Titanic disaster that I had not known before. Also, the perspective of a musician was fresh and engaging.
The modern timeline stole my heart, as Greyslin fought her pull toward Stanley, masking her true fears and feelings. This created the most awkward proposal scene ever! :) Of all the characters, Greyslin grew the most throughout the book. She learned a lot through entering her Titanic script in the playwriting contest, but even more through the old diary.
The faith content is strong and the romance is sweet and clean. I would give this book to my 12 year old daughter to read without hesitation.
Thank you, B.M. Baker, for a delightful read!
It's clear that Baker did her research. I appreciated learning things about the Titanic disaster that I had not known before. Also, the perspective of a musician was fresh and engaging.
The modern timeline stole my heart, as Greyslin fought her pull toward Stanley, masking her true fears and feelings. This created the most awkward proposal scene ever! :) Of all the characters, Greyslin grew the most throughout the book. She learned a lot through entering her Titanic script in the playwriting contest, but even more through the old diary.
The faith content is strong and the romance is sweet and clean. I would give this book to my 12 year old daughter to read without hesitation.
Thank you, B.M. Baker, for a delightful read!
July 8, 2024
Wow this book! It starts out with a contemporary timeline and jumps to the Titanic era. We follow a diary of a newlywed woman Renita who stays behind as her husband Daniel is aboard the ship hired to play cello in the band. We also follow Daniel’s perspective. I loved the grand descriptions of the interior of the ship and the atmosphere felt like I was right there. Daniel’s faith and witnessing was so inspiring. This book is so rich in faith. How selfless he and other band mates were to continue to play their instruments to try to calm others even though they knew death was imminent. It’s hard to comprehend but with God we know he gives us what we need when we need it. There are also struggles in the MC Greyslin’s timeline and her friend/love interest Stanley. Greyslin has so much growth in her faith as she struggles through trials and Stanley is a wonderful godly man much like Daniel. I did enjoy both timelines. This book is heartbreaking which I knew going in but the hope in it is resounding. I will be looking forward to the next book! Should you read this book? Definitely!
April 11, 2024
Wonderful and heartbreaking. This is a split timeline story, where Greyslin is wanting to do an extra credit assignment for her college coursework. The assignment is to put on a play about a historical event. After finding a diary of a woman whose husband was a band member on the Titanic she decides to make her play around the Titanic. Greyslin has full support from her best friend, Stanley. Stanley is ready to marry Greyslin, but she isn’t sure she is ready based on the past concerning her mother. While Stanley and Greyslin are figuring out their situation we also have the woman’s diary and her and her husband’s story when he is aboard the Titanic. This story is so heartbreaking of course, but also shows great faith in God. I really enjoyed both stories and how they were connected. I loved all the Christian content and what it means to trust God. I definitely teared up in this one. Overall, this is a great story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Content: death surrounding the Titanic, and death from childbirth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Content: death surrounding the Titanic, and death from childbirth
September 6, 2024
4.7 stars (5/10 hearts). If you know me, you know I am a Titanic buff. I’ve aways been fascinated by it, and I’m always on the lookout for more info or reading material. So when I discovered B.M. Baker was writing a Titanic novel and releasing it on the anniversary of the sinking, I had to read it.
The plot is split into two parts—2023 and 1912. My favourite part was undeniably the 2023 part. I just didn’t connect with Renita very well… I found her too modern for 1912. I know, I’m a snob. I’m sorry. But I also found her a bit stilted and preachy? Maybe because we were less in her head than in her diary. I liked Daniel, though… although again, at times he was too perfect and wooden for me to really appreciate as a character. But most of all I liked Greyslin and Stanley a lot. They were such a cute friends-to-more couple! Stanley is so sweet and Greyslin is super relatable. And their friends + family are just amazing.
Without giving any spoilers, I love how the two plot lines paralleled each other and merged finally… (I never expected that final revelation!). I enjoyed getting to see G+S navigate college life and their emotions. Greyslin’s arc was particularly epic—I LOVE the message about fear and trust that she learned. And Stanley’s storyline was unexpected but awesome. ALSO, I love the whole part of the play about the Titanic, and Greyslin’s story for that, and how she found the diary, and alllll that part. It was splendid!
And that leads me to the Titanic. I really appreciate how B.M. Baker pulled this off. She clearly did her research and had so much respect for the people who perished in this disaster. She handled things very well. That last scene was pretty poignant. And I love the open-ended ending so much.
So, Titanic fans, definitely check this novel out. And people who aren’t Titanic fans, if you love musicians, school stories, slowburn but super cute moments, illness, deep messages, and anything else I mentioned in this review, you should give this a shot!
Content: mild mentions of attraction; a couple places where G&S almost kiss; G keeps thinking about kissing S.
A Favourite Quote: “You haven’t abandoned me. Forgive me, Jesus. You’re still here with me. You’re not just walking beside me, You’re carrying me in Your arms right now. Thank You for the reminder.” And just like the hymn writer said, Greyslin had not been promised a life of ease and free of sorrow but one where God would give her what she needed to face whatever came her way.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
The plot is split into two parts—2023 and 1912. My favourite part was undeniably the 2023 part. I just didn’t connect with Renita very well… I found her too modern for 1912. I know, I’m a snob. I’m sorry. But I also found her a bit stilted and preachy? Maybe because we were less in her head than in her diary. I liked Daniel, though… although again, at times he was too perfect and wooden for me to really appreciate as a character. But most of all I liked Greyslin and Stanley a lot. They were such a cute friends-to-more couple! Stanley is so sweet and Greyslin is super relatable. And their friends + family are just amazing.
Without giving any spoilers, I love how the two plot lines paralleled each other and merged finally… (I never expected that final revelation!). I enjoyed getting to see G+S navigate college life and their emotions. Greyslin’s arc was particularly epic—I LOVE the message about fear and trust that she learned. And Stanley’s storyline was unexpected but awesome. ALSO, I love the whole part of the play about the Titanic, and Greyslin’s story for that, and how she found the diary, and alllll that part. It was splendid!
And that leads me to the Titanic. I really appreciate how B.M. Baker pulled this off. She clearly did her research and had so much respect for the people who perished in this disaster. She handled things very well. That last scene was pretty poignant. And I love the open-ended ending so much.
So, Titanic fans, definitely check this novel out. And people who aren’t Titanic fans, if you love musicians, school stories, slowburn but super cute moments, illness, deep messages, and anything else I mentioned in this review, you should give this a shot!
Content: mild mentions of attraction; a couple places where G&S almost kiss; G keeps thinking about kissing S.
A Favourite Quote: “You haven’t abandoned me. Forgive me, Jesus. You’re still here with me. You’re not just walking beside me, You’re carrying me in Your arms right now. Thank You for the reminder.” And just like the hymn writer said, Greyslin had not been promised a life of ease and free of sorrow but one where God would give her what she needed to face whatever came her way.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
May 2, 2024
I did something I rarely do -- I saw this book in a cover reveal post, I had never heard of it or its author, but I signed up right then and there. Yes, I judged a book by its cover. :D And by its title. Oh, and the blurb.
Because with a compelling title like Until the Last Note, a stunning cover, and the mention of "Titanic" and "dual timeline" - I couldn't help it. I didn't actually have time for another ARC and I knew it, but at that moment I didn't care - I would make time. This was NOT a book I could miss.
Well, firstly, the writing style was not at all what I expected, but I loved it. Vivid and quite fast-moving while not actually fast-paced, the best way I can describe it is to say it felt more like I was watching a movie than reading a book -- which is a type of writing I personally love. Especially on the contemporary side, although that's probably just because of all the diary entries on the historical side, but really on both. Come to think of it, this would seriously make an amazing movie. I honestly had difficulty putting it down.
The characters felt so, so real. There were four POV characters - and I loved them all. And as for the side characters! Okay, particularly one side character... but I just have to highlight him because he was possibly my favourite part of the book. Johnny... just aww. I absolutely loved that storyline and particularly how it ended. I so loved Daniel, and together... just aw.
Did I enjoy the historical or contemporary side more? I don't know. They were both so good in different ways. And it's very rare for me to enjoy contemporary as much or more than historical, especially when it's historical fiction about some favourite time era or event (like the Titanic), so that just shows how good it was when I'm almost inclined more to the contemporary side. I can say that on the historical side, Daniel's chapters were my favourite. Naturally enough - they were the actual Titanic parts after all. I didn't know anything about the Titanic musicians, and I found that aspect fascinating. Daniel's story didn't end the way I'd hoped, but it was realistic and just so good. Especially with Johnny... <3<3
As for the contemporary side, that did NOT end the way I was expecting - and I don't know that I'm at all a fan of it! There were two opposite outcomes I'd expected, and I'd definitely hoped for one over the other... And it didn't follow either of them! I thought this book was a standalone, so I was pretty outraged when I reached the last page, but then I saw there's going to be a sequel and I calmed down a bit. :D So yes - The ending is nooot my favourite normally, but it certainly does make me want to read the next book, and I grudgingly have to like it. ;) It's better than one of the alternatives would have been, anyway! And the more I think about it, the more I see how from a writer's perspective it was really one of the best possible ways the book COULD have ended, under the circumstances... especially with what they did right before the end which I love even though it's so sad and sweet... so yes. XD Maybe I am a fan after all. It certainly was unexpectedly unusual!
Unfortunately, I do have to say that the romance on the contemporary side was more detailed than I'm comfortable with, at times. There was no actual content or anything bad enough to make me stop reading or to make me feel particularly uncomfortable, and overall it stayed clean, which I appreciated, but there were a couple moments I could have done without and a lot of thoughts and feelings, particularly from Greyslin, which I really didn't need to read about. I think the romance was just generally a whole lot stronger and a bigger part of the story than I'd expected from the blurb, and while I actually liked it a lot (friends to more is my favourite romance trope and this was so well done) and loved both characters so much, there were quite a few moments that had me rolling my eyes or wanting to skim ahead. Because of this, I'd be careful about who I'd recommend it to - definitely not younger teenagers, and possibly not some older teenagers either. It's also the only reason I'm lowering my rating to 4 stars, because it could have easily been a 5 star read otherwise.
There's so much more I could say about it, but I'll end the review there because otherwise it will be very long. Overall, I'm glad I read it. Despite the Titanic being a longtime interest of mine, I don't think I've ever read any fictionalised stories set around it, and so I'm happy to say that I have now, and that it was so well done. Same goes for dual timeline - I really haven't read much of it myself, but I love it, and this one was sooo good. The transitions were natural and well-timed, and kept me turning the pages without ending up hating either side for taking time away from the other - something that's quite hard to do! And let's just say, I somehow never expected the two stories to merge. At all. (I know... I really haven't read a lot of dual timeline XD) And the final revelation was sooo good and another of my favourite things about the book.
In conclusion, because of the romance I would be at least cautious in recommending it to just anyone, and also in reading other books by this author, but depending on what I can find out about it, I am very interested in reading the next book. I love the writing, and this is such a sweet, compelling story - or stories, rather! Sucked me right in and I read on and off almost all day to finish it. Very gripping and enjoyable, with some beautiful themes and amazing characters.
Note: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Because with a compelling title like Until the Last Note, a stunning cover, and the mention of "Titanic" and "dual timeline" - I couldn't help it. I didn't actually have time for another ARC and I knew it, but at that moment I didn't care - I would make time. This was NOT a book I could miss.
Well, firstly, the writing style was not at all what I expected, but I loved it. Vivid and quite fast-moving while not actually fast-paced, the best way I can describe it is to say it felt more like I was watching a movie than reading a book -- which is a type of writing I personally love. Especially on the contemporary side, although that's probably just because of all the diary entries on the historical side, but really on both. Come to think of it, this would seriously make an amazing movie. I honestly had difficulty putting it down.
The characters felt so, so real. There were four POV characters - and I loved them all. And as for the side characters! Okay, particularly one side character... but I just have to highlight him because he was possibly my favourite part of the book. Johnny... just aww. I absolutely loved that storyline and particularly how it ended. I so loved Daniel, and together... just aw.
Did I enjoy the historical or contemporary side more? I don't know. They were both so good in different ways. And it's very rare for me to enjoy contemporary as much or more than historical, especially when it's historical fiction about some favourite time era or event (like the Titanic), so that just shows how good it was when I'm almost inclined more to the contemporary side. I can say that on the historical side, Daniel's chapters were my favourite. Naturally enough - they were the actual Titanic parts after all. I didn't know anything about the Titanic musicians, and I found that aspect fascinating. Daniel's story didn't end the way I'd hoped, but it was realistic and just so good. Especially with Johnny... <3<3
As for the contemporary side, that did NOT end the way I was expecting - and I don't know that I'm at all a fan of it! There were two opposite outcomes I'd expected, and I'd definitely hoped for one over the other... And it didn't follow either of them! I thought this book was a standalone, so I was pretty outraged when I reached the last page, but then I saw there's going to be a sequel and I calmed down a bit. :D So yes - The ending is nooot my favourite normally, but it certainly does make me want to read the next book, and I grudgingly have to like it. ;) It's better than one of the alternatives would have been, anyway! And the more I think about it, the more I see how from a writer's perspective it was really one of the best possible ways the book COULD have ended, under the circumstances... especially with what they did right before the end which I love even though it's so sad and sweet... so yes. XD Maybe I am a fan after all. It certainly was unexpectedly unusual!
Unfortunately, I do have to say that the romance on the contemporary side was more detailed than I'm comfortable with, at times. There was no actual content or anything bad enough to make me stop reading or to make me feel particularly uncomfortable, and overall it stayed clean, which I appreciated, but there were a couple moments I could have done without and a lot of thoughts and feelings, particularly from Greyslin, which I really didn't need to read about. I think the romance was just generally a whole lot stronger and a bigger part of the story than I'd expected from the blurb, and while I actually liked it a lot (friends to more is my favourite romance trope and this was so well done) and loved both characters so much, there were quite a few moments that had me rolling my eyes or wanting to skim ahead. Because of this, I'd be careful about who I'd recommend it to - definitely not younger teenagers, and possibly not some older teenagers either. It's also the only reason I'm lowering my rating to 4 stars, because it could have easily been a 5 star read otherwise.
There's so much more I could say about it, but I'll end the review there because otherwise it will be very long. Overall, I'm glad I read it. Despite the Titanic being a longtime interest of mine, I don't think I've ever read any fictionalised stories set around it, and so I'm happy to say that I have now, and that it was so well done. Same goes for dual timeline - I really haven't read much of it myself, but I love it, and this one was sooo good. The transitions were natural and well-timed, and kept me turning the pages without ending up hating either side for taking time away from the other - something that's quite hard to do! And let's just say, I somehow never expected the two stories to merge. At all. (I know... I really haven't read a lot of dual timeline XD) And the final revelation was sooo good and another of my favourite things about the book.
In conclusion, because of the romance I would be at least cautious in recommending it to just anyone, and also in reading other books by this author, but depending on what I can find out about it, I am very interested in reading the next book. I love the writing, and this is such a sweet, compelling story - or stories, rather! Sucked me right in and I read on and off almost all day to finish it. Very gripping and enjoyable, with some beautiful themes and amazing characters.
Note: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 25, 2024
Titanic in the sub-title will probably give a reader a good sense that there could be some hard-as-an-iceberg subject matter in this split time novel. And they'd be right. But it's also balanced with tender themes and enduring faith and I think the author made a good choice to weave the historical era within a contemporary storyline because you can hope that at least one (if not both) of the storylines will end happily. The theme of embracing what comes in life and not to be afraid truly shines through these characters. If the author had not put in her note that she'd never written a historical novel before, I would never have guessed it. Everything--even the tone of exchanged letters--captured the era perfectly. I hope the author will continue to take more chances in writing historical fiction, because I think she's made a great start here.
May 2, 2024
I know I’m not alone in having a Titanic-obsessed phase, and this story ticked all the boxes my younger self could have hoped for!
While the conspiracy around something as big and horrific as the Titanic is immense, Baker handled the story with a grace and thoughtfulness I appreciated. She captures the realness of the events in a way that emphasises the personal realities and the tragic consequences, regardless of the politics at play.
The dual timelines wove together so well! I did prefer the contemporary plot (rare for me!) in the way I felt better connected to the characters, but the historical plot was still engaging (& heartbreaking) and solid in its attention to detail. And Stanley is the sweetest, just saying! 🤭
And that ending?! I was utterly unprepared for that. After being sent through the wringer, I need book 2 asap, please and thanks, because my heart is determined on shattering. Open endings often stress me out (& in all fairness, this one did), but I totally get what Baker was trying to achieve and it worked really well!
If you’re a Titanic history lover, who appreciates sweet romance with friends to something more, musical details, a solid faith message about trusting God & facing our fears, and a cover that’s beyond stunning, I highly recommend this one!
*Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
While the conspiracy around something as big and horrific as the Titanic is immense, Baker handled the story with a grace and thoughtfulness I appreciated. She captures the realness of the events in a way that emphasises the personal realities and the tragic consequences, regardless of the politics at play.
The dual timelines wove together so well! I did prefer the contemporary plot (rare for me!) in the way I felt better connected to the characters, but the historical plot was still engaging (& heartbreaking) and solid in its attention to detail. And Stanley is the sweetest, just saying! 🤭
And that ending?! I was utterly unprepared for that. After being sent through the wringer, I need book 2 asap, please and thanks, because my heart is determined on shattering. Open endings often stress me out (& in all fairness, this one did), but I totally get what Baker was trying to achieve and it worked really well!
If you’re a Titanic history lover, who appreciates sweet romance with friends to something more, musical details, a solid faith message about trusting God & facing our fears, and a cover that’s beyond stunning, I highly recommend this one!
*Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 21, 2024
As someone who loved all things Titanic since well before the 1998 movie, I was beyond thrilled when B.M.Baker announced that she was writing this story. Showing the Titanic from the band’s perspective is one I had never seen and I honestly wished we had gotten to spend more time with that side of the story. The time she did spend though was well used, showing how one man was able to change the lives and faiths of many people in just a few days’ time.
I loved the dynamics between the two main couples and how their stories wove together with an interesting twist at the end. This book, in its short span, starts out strong, becomes a little slower in the middle, then punches you with a rollercoaster of emotions for the last half. Even though I went in knowing the tragedy of Titanic, I was surprised at how many tears I shed over these characters.
The only reason I gave this 4 stars was because of the ending. It ends bittersweet and without a firm resolution. After a story such as this, I needed a little more closure. Thankfully, the author notes that a sequel is forthcoming.
I loved the dynamics between the two main couples and how their stories wove together with an interesting twist at the end. This book, in its short span, starts out strong, becomes a little slower in the middle, then punches you with a rollercoaster of emotions for the last half. Even though I went in knowing the tragedy of Titanic, I was surprised at how many tears I shed over these characters.
The only reason I gave this 4 stars was because of the ending. It ends bittersweet and without a firm resolution. After a story such as this, I needed a little more closure. Thankfully, the author notes that a sequel is forthcoming.
April 14, 2024
B.M. Baker’s latest novel, “Until the Last Note,” is a beautiful story. With dual timelines, sweet love stories, an intriguing diary, heartbreak, and loss, the novel has everything you want.
A Titanic-inspired story, the novel follows Daniel, a cellist on the Titanic. He is a fictional character, but his story was very real for the individuals aboard the Titanic, which struck the iceberg on this day in 1912. We know Daniel’s fate — but you will be on the edge of your seat with everything else that happens in the story. He has a wife, and she’s expecting their first child. In the present day, two college kids are figuring out their romantic feelings — and Daniel’s wife’s diary helps them in more ways than one. Throughout it all, they must trust God. He knows their plans.
As a reader, I was right there with the characters. My heart ached for Daniel’s wife. I was intrigued by the diary in the story, and the two college students who are trying to figure out, well, life. The characters are very relatable. They aren’t perfect (because no one is), but they must trust God and the plans He has for them.
This is a beautiful story with every emotion. B.M. Baker takes readers on a journey to the past while considering our own journeys. You will love this story! This is one of my favorite books of 2024.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. All of my opinions are shared voluntarily.
A Titanic-inspired story, the novel follows Daniel, a cellist on the Titanic. He is a fictional character, but his story was very real for the individuals aboard the Titanic, which struck the iceberg on this day in 1912. We know Daniel’s fate — but you will be on the edge of your seat with everything else that happens in the story. He has a wife, and she’s expecting their first child. In the present day, two college kids are figuring out their romantic feelings — and Daniel’s wife’s diary helps them in more ways than one. Throughout it all, they must trust God. He knows their plans.
As a reader, I was right there with the characters. My heart ached for Daniel’s wife. I was intrigued by the diary in the story, and the two college students who are trying to figure out, well, life. The characters are very relatable. They aren’t perfect (because no one is), but they must trust God and the plans He has for them.
This is a beautiful story with every emotion. B.M. Baker takes readers on a journey to the past while considering our own journeys. You will love this story! This is one of my favorite books of 2024.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. All of my opinions are shared voluntarily.
April 9, 2024
This was a good read. Gritty and painful, but still a good read. And a bit of a cliffhanger.
I loved the dual timeline. And how the stories intertwined. I was really hoping that somehow Greyslin and Stanley would meet someone related to Renita, but wasn’t sure how the author would make it all work.
B.M. Baker did an amazing job of making the characters realistic, by giving them real-life problem instead of goofy fictional ones. I love the many adventures that Greyslin and Stanley went on together. Their relationship was super cute.
Whenever the timeline would shift I held my breath a bit knowing what Renita would most likely have to experience, or the worry she would face while waiting for news and thinking “what if” thoughts.
The faith themes woven into the story were absolutely perfect. Always directing the reader to God and the fact that no matter what happens He is in control.
I loved the dual timeline. And how the stories intertwined. I was really hoping that somehow Greyslin and Stanley would meet someone related to Renita, but wasn’t sure how the author would make it all work.
B.M. Baker did an amazing job of making the characters realistic, by giving them real-life problem instead of goofy fictional ones. I love the many adventures that Greyslin and Stanley went on together. Their relationship was super cute.
Whenever the timeline would shift I held my breath a bit knowing what Renita would most likely have to experience, or the worry she would face while waiting for news and thinking “what if” thoughts.
The faith themes woven into the story were absolutely perfect. Always directing the reader to God and the fact that no matter what happens He is in control.
April 14, 2024
This is by far B.M. Baker's best book yet. It is so deep, moving, intricate and meaningful in every possible way. Both storylines are heartbreaking and beautiful and so special. The underlying themes are so poignant yet subtle at the same time, and very relatable too. I won't forget this story for a very long time.
April 15, 2024
I knew when I seen B. M. baker writing a book based on the Titanic, I knew I needed it in my life. Little did I know just how much I needed this book. She done such an incredible job bringing this tragic part of history to life with this masterpiece.
I don’t have the words to express my love for this book. It was heartbreakingly beautiful. I laughed. I cried. I had my heart broken and put back together again. And then I might have cried some more. Just trust me and grab your tissues before you start! They will be used! (Just ask my husband who heard me sniffling while I was reading and asked me “if I was okay?”😂)
These two interwoven love stories were written so well that I found myself anticipating what every chapter would bring. I fell in love instantly with Stanley, Greyslin, Daniel and Renita. Stanley was so sweet and patient with Greyslin. He stole my heart! I loved Greyslin with her sweet spirit and kind heart. Her and Stanley’s love story was one of true hardships and enduring love. And sweet Daniel!! He was the kindest, most selfless MMC I’ve read. His and Renita’s love story was heart wrenching, but so beautiful. Her journal entries were so beautiful and their letters to each other made me swoon.
My fav part was how God’s amazing love was displayed throughout the whole story. His sacrificial love. I loved how all four of the MC’s relied on the Lord for strength and trusted Him in all things. They always prayed His will be done.
I don’t want to say much more and give away pieces of the story because I want you to read and experience it like I did, with awe and admiration. This was such a beautiful, deep, heart-wrenching story that will always stay with me.
Things I Loved:
🎻The zoo visit
🎻The diary
🎻Tender moments
🎻Dual timeline
🎻Titanic history
🎻The Gateway Arch
🎻Almost kisses
🎻The Titanic side characters
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I don’t have the words to express my love for this book. It was heartbreakingly beautiful. I laughed. I cried. I had my heart broken and put back together again. And then I might have cried some more. Just trust me and grab your tissues before you start! They will be used! (Just ask my husband who heard me sniffling while I was reading and asked me “if I was okay?”😂)
These two interwoven love stories were written so well that I found myself anticipating what every chapter would bring. I fell in love instantly with Stanley, Greyslin, Daniel and Renita. Stanley was so sweet and patient with Greyslin. He stole my heart! I loved Greyslin with her sweet spirit and kind heart. Her and Stanley’s love story was one of true hardships and enduring love. And sweet Daniel!! He was the kindest, most selfless MMC I’ve read. His and Renita’s love story was heart wrenching, but so beautiful. Her journal entries were so beautiful and their letters to each other made me swoon.
My fav part was how God’s amazing love was displayed throughout the whole story. His sacrificial love. I loved how all four of the MC’s relied on the Lord for strength and trusted Him in all things. They always prayed His will be done.
I don’t want to say much more and give away pieces of the story because I want you to read and experience it like I did, with awe and admiration. This was such a beautiful, deep, heart-wrenching story that will always stay with me.
Things I Loved:
🎻The zoo visit
🎻The diary
🎻Tender moments
🎻Dual timeline
🎻Titanic history
🎻The Gateway Arch
🎻Almost kisses
🎻The Titanic side characters
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
Until the Last Note is both a historical romance and contemporary one with its dual timeline. B.M. Baker does an amazing job of creating two storylines that flow side by side and then come together. Each storyline drew me in and tugged at my emotions.
In the contemporary storyline Greyslin Rogers and Stanley Pritchard are college students with a friends to more relationship. When she decides to write a play based on the Titanic the book introduces the love story of Renita and Daniel Burton.
In addition to the two stories, another fun addition is the start of a story described for Greyslin’s Titanic play.
Faith is a huge part of the four main characters lives and drives them to honor God. This book is very clean contains only kisses of married couples and talk of kissing.
Until the Last Note is both a historical romance and contemporary one with its dual timeline. B.M. Baker does an amazing job of creating two storylines that flow side by side and then come together. Each storyline drew me in and tugged at my emotions.
In the contemporary storyline Greyslin Rogers and Stanley Pritchard are college students with a friends to more relationship. When she decides to write a play based on the Titanic the book introduces the love story of Renita and Daniel Burton.
In addition to the two stories, another fun addition is the start of a story described for Greyslin’s Titanic play.
Faith is a huge part of the four main characters lives and drives them to honor God. This book is very clean contains only kisses of married couples and talk of kissing.
May 11, 2024
When I saw B.M Baker had another book out I jumped at the chance to sign up to ARC read. I love her books and this one sounded so good with its dual time period and is based on the Titanic too 🚢. I love a good clean love story but never expected it to be as big of a part of the story as it was.
I loved reading the diary and hearing about the lives of people during the time of the Titanic, you can tell a lot of research went into writing this. There was a lot I didn't know like about the Titanic musicians. It's beautifully written and described as if you were there watching the events and story unfold. It is such a heartbreaking and wonderful story.
📖If you love historical, contemporary, dual time periods, clean read, Christian fiction i’d highly recommend this book to you.
I loved reading the diary and hearing about the lives of people during the time of the Titanic, you can tell a lot of research went into writing this. There was a lot I didn't know like about the Titanic musicians. It's beautifully written and described as if you were there watching the events and story unfold. It is such a heartbreaking and wonderful story.
📖If you love historical, contemporary, dual time periods, clean read, Christian fiction i’d highly recommend this book to you.
April 28, 2025
Until the Last Note tells two stories. In the contemporary timeline, a college student researching for a play she’s writing about the Titanic discovers a diary written by someone whose husband was one of the Titanic’s musicians. The diary entries are fantastic, and we also get to follow the diary writer - and her husband. I really love the historical timeline. The modern timeline is good, too, but I love historical fiction, so I’m sort of biased. 😁
The historical timeline starts a while before the Titanic sails. Even though I know what happens to the Titanic, I could not stop reading! If you like clean, Christian fiction and romance, you will probably really like this one! There’s even a nice little twist at the end, but I don’t want to give any spoilers. Fans of dual timeline stories will probably like this as well. Thumbs up!
The historical timeline starts a while before the Titanic sails. Even though I know what happens to the Titanic, I could not stop reading! If you like clean, Christian fiction and romance, you will probably really like this one! There’s even a nice little twist at the end, but I don’t want to give any spoilers. Fans of dual timeline stories will probably like this as well. Thumbs up!
June 7, 2025
If you liked the movie Titanic, this may be your next read. It has a unique two-era storyline - one during the early 1900s and another, in the early 2000s. Not time travel, just dual timelines.
In 1900s, a newly married couple deal with the beginnings of life and his new work opportunity onboard the new ship, RMS Titanic as a musician. It has her POV via a diary and his via letters back home.
In 2000s, a college female is trying to make her dreams of becoming a play writer true with a script based on the Titanic’s story, with the use of a diary she found in a thrift store. Her boyfriend encourages her every step of the way, but doesn’t understand why she doesn’t want to marry him.
As the stories become interwoven, more Weston’s may be asked than answered.
In 1900s, a newly married couple deal with the beginnings of life and his new work opportunity onboard the new ship, RMS Titanic as a musician. It has her POV via a diary and his via letters back home.
In 2000s, a college female is trying to make her dreams of becoming a play writer true with a script based on the Titanic’s story, with the use of a diary she found in a thrift store. Her boyfriend encourages her every step of the way, but doesn’t understand why she doesn’t want to marry him.
As the stories become interwoven, more Weston’s may be asked than answered.
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