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Beyond The Surface: A Novel
In 1944, Anna Mitchell is running from a life bound to suffocate her, the life her mother mapped out for her. She tosses aside that figurative map to draw a new one, enlisting as a U.S. Army nurse. Despite her mother's vehement protest, Anna embarks across the Atlantic, not knowing what to expect - certainly not expecting Paul.
Paul O'Reilly is part of the Army Specialized Training Program, which is supposed to keep him safe while World War II tears through Europe. But when the program is disbanded, he finds himself on the front lines with the rest of the 66th Division, the Army's promises dissolved.
When Paul meets Anna, he can't deny his feelings, though she pretends he doesn't mean more to her than any other soldier. When the SS Leopoldville transports the nurses across the English Channel one week before Christmas, Anna could never imagine that same ship would sink to the bottom on Christmas Eve with Paul and the rest of the Black Panthers left to fight for their lives.
Beyond the Surface is a story of going the distance for one's calling. It is also a tribute to the men of the 66th Division and a remembrance of their sacrifice, bringing to light what was long kept in the dark. The survivors of the sinking of the SS Leopoldville bore witness to a tragedy so great they could have easily been pulled beneath the waves that engulfed them on Christmas Eve, never to surface again. Still, they rose, battered, bruised, and worse for wear, but no less strong. Perhaps even stronger than before.
Paul O'Reilly is part of the Army Specialized Training Program, which is supposed to keep him safe while World War II tears through Europe. But when the program is disbanded, he finds himself on the front lines with the rest of the 66th Division, the Army's promises dissolved.
When Paul meets Anna, he can't deny his feelings, though she pretends he doesn't mean more to her than any other soldier. When the SS Leopoldville transports the nurses across the English Channel one week before Christmas, Anna could never imagine that same ship would sink to the bottom on Christmas Eve with Paul and the rest of the Black Panthers left to fight for their lives.
Beyond the Surface is a story of going the distance for one's calling. It is also a tribute to the men of the 66th Division and a remembrance of their sacrifice, bringing to light what was long kept in the dark. The survivors of the sinking of the SS Leopoldville bore witness to a tragedy so great they could have easily been pulled beneath the waves that engulfed them on Christmas Eve, never to surface again. Still, they rose, battered, bruised, and worse for wear, but no less strong. Perhaps even stronger than before.
437 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2024
1 person is currently reading
44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 10, 2024
I don't read many WWII books because I believe they are entirely overdone. Though I do love the era, I tend to get tired of the same ol' stories.
This book is set in 1944/1945 but it wasn't your typical WWII tale. I really liked how the overall tone of the book was slightly lighter than I usually think when I hear WWII. I think just by the nature of the characters, the locations, and the brotherhood/sisterhood friendships. I really loved that.
I was honestly surprised by the approach and the pacing of this story. I didn't know how I felt about it at first but I ended up liking how the author gives us great depth to the characters before dumping us off to war. Also, I freaking love Paul. His sweet, beta, heroic character is all the things I love in a man. 🫠
I appreciated Sarah's desire to share a not well known TRUE story about the sinking of the SS Leopoldville, a troopship that was torpedoed on Christmas Eve of 1944. I loved reading the fact v. fiction in her thorough author's note as well.
Going in, I was informed that there was "a bit of a love story intertwined', which is fine. My romance-obsessed heart can handle the romance as a subplot on occasion. 😅 BUT Sarah, you wrote the little love story scenes so well I CRAVED more! I loved their dialogue and their tender moments. I understand the choice to let the love story be a whisper amidst the bigger story here, just know I was SO here for AB & PB!
This book is set in 1944/1945 but it wasn't your typical WWII tale. I really liked how the overall tone of the book was slightly lighter than I usually think when I hear WWII. I think just by the nature of the characters, the locations, and the brotherhood/sisterhood friendships. I really loved that.
I was honestly surprised by the approach and the pacing of this story. I didn't know how I felt about it at first but I ended up liking how the author gives us great depth to the characters before dumping us off to war. Also, I freaking love Paul. His sweet, beta, heroic character is all the things I love in a man. 🫠
I appreciated Sarah's desire to share a not well known TRUE story about the sinking of the SS Leopoldville, a troopship that was torpedoed on Christmas Eve of 1944. I loved reading the fact v. fiction in her thorough author's note as well.
Going in, I was informed that there was "a bit of a love story intertwined', which is fine. My romance-obsessed heart can handle the romance as a subplot on occasion. 😅 BUT Sarah, you wrote the little love story scenes so well I CRAVED more! I loved their dialogue and their tender moments. I understand the choice to let the love story be a whisper amidst the bigger story here, just know I was SO here for AB & PB!
October 11, 2024
In 1944, Anna Mitchell defies her mother’s wishes by enlisting as a U.S. Army nurse, seeking freedom and a new path. Paul O’Reilly, part of the Army Specialized Training Program, is unexpectedly sent to the front lines after his unit is disbanded. When the two meet, Paul is drawn to Anna, though she hides her true feelings. As the SS Leopoldville sinks on Christmas Eve, with Paul fighting for survival, their bond is tested in the chaos of war.
💭 My thoughts:
Remind me again that this was a debut novel! Wow! It definitely did not read as one!
I love stories, especially from this time period, that shed light on lesser known historical events. I had never heard of this tragic sinking but I will not soon forget after reading this moving account.
The author set up the novel with incredible detail, making sure the reader got to know the characters in depth before they went overseas to serve and eventually meet. Each character felt incredibly real, with rich, well developed personalities that made them easy to connect with. I particularly loved the dual POV and the endearing Mr. Perkins. The bonds of deep friendship between the nurses and army comrades were a big theme.
Be sure to read the author’s note at the end which offers valuable insight into the true events that inspired the novel.
Content: mild language/war injuries/death
Thank you to @sarahkrizek for #gifting me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
💭 My thoughts:
Remind me again that this was a debut novel! Wow! It definitely did not read as one!
I love stories, especially from this time period, that shed light on lesser known historical events. I had never heard of this tragic sinking but I will not soon forget after reading this moving account.
The author set up the novel with incredible detail, making sure the reader got to know the characters in depth before they went overseas to serve and eventually meet. Each character felt incredibly real, with rich, well developed personalities that made them easy to connect with. I particularly loved the dual POV and the endearing Mr. Perkins. The bonds of deep friendship between the nurses and army comrades were a big theme.
Be sure to read the author’s note at the end which offers valuable insight into the true events that inspired the novel.
Content: mild language/war injuries/death
Thank you to @sarahkrizek for #gifting me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
September 27, 2024
I LOVED this World War II historical fiction read. It’s told in two points of view: Anna and Paul.
Anna is a nurse in the Army. She meets Paul who is part of the 66th division.
Their paths cross a few times in both England and France. Paul is on the ship SS LEOPOLDVILLE that is hit by a German torpedo while crossing the English Channel on Christmas Eve.
All of the characters in this book felt so real. I think the way the author portrays real events and characters along with the fictional is what enhanced that authenticity for me.
I enjoyed the way the reader gets a lot of backstory of both Anna and Paul. Having a daughter that’s a nurse, I really appreciated reading about the ins and outs of nursing during the War.
This is the author’s historical fiction debut and it’s a great one with action, romance, and intricate characters.
Anna is a nurse in the Army. She meets Paul who is part of the 66th division.
Their paths cross a few times in both England and France. Paul is on the ship SS LEOPOLDVILLE that is hit by a German torpedo while crossing the English Channel on Christmas Eve.
All of the characters in this book felt so real. I think the way the author portrays real events and characters along with the fictional is what enhanced that authenticity for me.
I enjoyed the way the reader gets a lot of backstory of both Anna and Paul. Having a daughter that’s a nurse, I really appreciated reading about the ins and outs of nursing during the War.
This is the author’s historical fiction debut and it’s a great one with action, romance, and intricate characters.
August 18, 2024
Here's a short review for you:
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was exceptionally well-written, with captivating storytelling that kept me hooked from start to finish. The characters were richly developed, and the plot was both engaging and thought-provoking. It's a must-read for anyone looking for a book that combines excellent writing with a compelling narrative.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was exceptionally well-written, with captivating storytelling that kept me hooked from start to finish. The characters were richly developed, and the plot was both engaging and thought-provoking. It's a must-read for anyone looking for a book that combines excellent writing with a compelling narrative.
December 11, 2024
A breathtaking journey awaits within the pages of this remarkable novel, where the author’s extraordinary talent shines through, crafting one of the finest historical fiction experiences imaginable. Each word is steeped in rich detail and profound emotion, effortlessly transporting readers to a bygone era. The characters’ intertwined paths unfold with a magnetic pull, drawing you into their separate yet converging journeys, where romance blossoms amidst the backdrop of history.
Each encounter between the characters is charged with an intensity that makes your own heart race, as their feelings deepen with every shared moment. The emotional weight of the story is palpable, immersing you in a whirlwind of joy and heartache. I was touched to the point of tears multiple times.
What makes this tale even more poignant is its foundation in actual historical events, paying homage to the brave souls of the 66th Division and honoring their sacrifices. It’s a tribute that resonates deeply, making the narrative feel all the more authentic and impactful. Altogether, this is the kind of book that invites you to lose yourself within its pages, a timeless treasure that beckons for repeated readings, each time revealing new layers of beauty and depth.
Each encounter between the characters is charged with an intensity that makes your own heart race, as their feelings deepen with every shared moment. The emotional weight of the story is palpable, immersing you in a whirlwind of joy and heartache. I was touched to the point of tears multiple times.
What makes this tale even more poignant is its foundation in actual historical events, paying homage to the brave souls of the 66th Division and honoring their sacrifices. It’s a tribute that resonates deeply, making the narrative feel all the more authentic and impactful. Altogether, this is the kind of book that invites you to lose yourself within its pages, a timeless treasure that beckons for repeated readings, each time revealing new layers of beauty and depth.
September 12, 2024
4.5 stars. Great debut novel!
This book was told from the POVs of Paul and Anna as they served during WWII. While it was centered around a little-known historical event (the sinking of the SS Leopoldville), a lot of the story followed the main characters through their day-to-day lives during training and getting sent overseas, which was a different focus from other WWII books I have read. While it wasn’t a very fast-paced book, I really appreciated the attention to detail, and the way the author brought this time period to life. I liked how the characters spoke in a way that reflected the time period better than some other WWII books I’ve read.
The writing was very good, and I felt immersed in the story. One of my favorite parts was when Anna was staying in England with Mr. Perkins. The scene of the two of them having tea outside with the rising sun provided beautiful imagery. I loved Mr. Perkins! The relationships between the servicemen and servicewomen were well done too, and I cared about each of the groups of friends. I enjoyed the nursing aspect and getting a look at what it might have been like for women serving in the military during this time.
This book made me chuckle at times, as well as brought me to tears, and I love a story that makes me feel emotion. There was also a faith aspect that I appreciated, which flowed naturally with the story and time period. While there was some swearing, I felt it was realistic for the setting and characters.
Beyond the Surface was an excellent debut novel, and I recommend it to lovers of historical fiction who enjoy a touch of romance. A good portion of it takes place in the fall and winter, so I think it’d be a perfect book to read around this time of year.
Content info: Clean romance, some swearing, death.
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an e-ARC of this book.
This book was told from the POVs of Paul and Anna as they served during WWII. While it was centered around a little-known historical event (the sinking of the SS Leopoldville), a lot of the story followed the main characters through their day-to-day lives during training and getting sent overseas, which was a different focus from other WWII books I have read. While it wasn’t a very fast-paced book, I really appreciated the attention to detail, and the way the author brought this time period to life. I liked how the characters spoke in a way that reflected the time period better than some other WWII books I’ve read.
The writing was very good, and I felt immersed in the story. One of my favorite parts was when Anna was staying in England with Mr. Perkins. The scene of the two of them having tea outside with the rising sun provided beautiful imagery. I loved Mr. Perkins! The relationships between the servicemen and servicewomen were well done too, and I cared about each of the groups of friends. I enjoyed the nursing aspect and getting a look at what it might have been like for women serving in the military during this time.
This book made me chuckle at times, as well as brought me to tears, and I love a story that makes me feel emotion. There was also a faith aspect that I appreciated, which flowed naturally with the story and time period. While there was some swearing, I felt it was realistic for the setting and characters.
Beyond the Surface was an excellent debut novel, and I recommend it to lovers of historical fiction who enjoy a touch of romance. A good portion of it takes place in the fall and winter, so I think it’d be a perfect book to read around this time of year.
Content info: Clean romance, some swearing, death.
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an e-ARC of this book.
October 5, 2024
This is a powerful and emotional WWII historical novel that centers around the sinking of the SS Leopoldville on Christmas Eve, 1944. The SS Leopoldville was a converted troopship that was torpedoed and sunk by the Germans in the English Channel. Over 800 soldiers and crew perished.
We are drawn into the story as we get to know Anna, who, fleeing from her smothering parents, enlists as an army nurse and travels across the Atlantic. She meets Paul, who finds himself on the front lines with the 66th division as the war rages through Europe. The two bring a tender romance to the story. But Paul is on the SS Leopoldville when it is hit.
The story is masterfully written, from fine details to vivid imagery. While the true story of this horrific shipwreck is enough to pull at your heart, having characters to walk alongside made it all the more heartwrenching. A beautiful remembrance to those who lost their lives on SS Leopoldville.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @sarahkrizek for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
October 19, 2024
Beyond The Surface by Sarah Krizek is a fantastic debut novel.
When I read this historical fiction novel, I was surprised this was a debut novel.
The story occurs during WWII time period.
Anna Mitchell defies enlisting in the U.S. Army nurse in 1944. Her mother is not pleased with this, but she is determined.
Paul O’Reilly is in Army Specialized Training Program and sent to the front lines of war.
Paul and Anna meet and when the SS Leopoldville sinks on Christmas Eve, both of their lives are turned on its head.
I really enjoyed reading about the SS Leopoldville as I had not known about this part of WWII history. The author's research was excellent.
The characters were well written, complex and fleshed out.
The story was incredible peppered with the reality and chaotic nature of wartime.
I really appreciated the note at the end of the book, how the author talks about the true events that inspired her to write the novel.
When I read this historical fiction novel, I was surprised this was a debut novel.
The story occurs during WWII time period.
Anna Mitchell defies enlisting in the U.S. Army nurse in 1944. Her mother is not pleased with this, but she is determined.
Paul O’Reilly is in Army Specialized Training Program and sent to the front lines of war.
Paul and Anna meet and when the SS Leopoldville sinks on Christmas Eve, both of their lives are turned on its head.
I really enjoyed reading about the SS Leopoldville as I had not known about this part of WWII history. The author's research was excellent.
The characters were well written, complex and fleshed out.
The story was incredible peppered with the reality and chaotic nature of wartime.
I really appreciated the note at the end of the book, how the author talks about the true events that inspired her to write the novel.
October 30, 2024
Beyond the Surface
Sara Krizek
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5 stars
What a rich World War II historical fiction. It was wonderfully written, so powerful and emotional. The book brings the SS Leopoldville to light and those events that happened on Christmas Eve 1944.
The story was truly captivating, the way, Sara Krizek wrote out the scenes, it’s was as if a movie was playing out in my mind.
I truly enjoyed Anna and Paul, they were such great characters. I enjoyed getting to know them and their backstory. The romance was sweet and tender, and brought an extra element to the story.
All historical fiction lovers will truly appreciate this book.
Also, whatever you do, do not miss out on the authors note!
Sara Krizek
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5 stars
What a rich World War II historical fiction. It was wonderfully written, so powerful and emotional. The book brings the SS Leopoldville to light and those events that happened on Christmas Eve 1944.
The story was truly captivating, the way, Sara Krizek wrote out the scenes, it’s was as if a movie was playing out in my mind.
I truly enjoyed Anna and Paul, they were such great characters. I enjoyed getting to know them and their backstory. The romance was sweet and tender, and brought an extra element to the story.
All historical fiction lovers will truly appreciate this book.
Also, whatever you do, do not miss out on the authors note!
October 27, 2024
This is a fantastic debut novel of WWII historical fiction, based on facts, that follows the lives of Anna and Paul as they face some of the worst of life's challenges. I enjoyed getting to know these interesting characters and what their lives were like before they went off to war. It gave more depth to their experiences and really pulled me in to the story. I always love reading the author's notes at the end and I appreciate the extra bit of background it gives the book. The tragedy and bravery of that fateful Christmas Eve deserves to be told in such a beautiful way that honors those involved and the sacrifices made.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2024
This takes us back to World War II and touches on the true events of the sinking of the SS Leopoldville on Christmas Eve 1944. A historical event I've never really heard of before. I loved Anna and Paul and how Anna decided to become a U.S. Army nurse. I love reading about nurses during the war, their strength and courage always amazes me. I found this to be a powerful and well written debut. I really enjoyed.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
October 7, 2024
This was such a nice change of pace with this genre! This topic is very well touched on in many many books but I dare say this brings a fresh take?? Give this a try because not only do we get proper war time material but we get love interwoven through the build up to the war. Not just dumped right in. I think it brought a richness and depth to the characters that had you rooting for them.
Thank you to Suzy approved book tours and the author!
Thank you to Suzy approved book tours and the author!
October 29, 2024
I’ve read a quite a few historical fiction novels based on WWII but this one was exceptional. I wasn’t familiar with the Leopoldville tragedy before reading this and it was compelling. I have so much respect for the soldiers and nurses who have served in the military. Paul and Anna’s stories as individuals and as a couple really touched my heart - - two beautiful souls that experienced terrible things at such a young age. The author’s note was an added bonus. What an incredible debut.
September 14, 2024
If you like historical fiction you need to read this book. I had no idea about the sinking of the SS Leopoldville during WWII and the author incorporates this true event in her captivating novel. A story about survival, love and strength. Vivid, immersive and moving. Loved it.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 released August 6, 2024.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 released August 6, 2024.
September 28, 2024
This story is beautifully written with a riveting plot and well defined characters.
The book touches on a lot of true events I didn’t know about. The men of the 66th Division and the sinking of the SS Leopoldville is a tiny fraction of sacrifice and perseverance of the men and woman during this era.
Nurses are so loyal and true to the cause.
Awesome debut!
The book touches on a lot of true events I didn’t know about. The men of the 66th Division and the sinking of the SS Leopoldville is a tiny fraction of sacrifice and perseverance of the men and woman during this era.
Nurses are so loyal and true to the cause.
Awesome debut!
September 19, 2024
4.50☆ - full review on IG!
September 30, 2024
This was a well written debut. I loved that it featured an event of WWII that has not be touched on much that I know of. Getting to see the training of not only the soldiers but the nurses as well was really interesting. I loved seeing the close friendships develop between the two sides. There were a lot of different personalities, but they worked well together. There was action, and a small bit of romance. Again, the banter between the friends were some of my favorite moments. It allowed some humor and light moments in between all the pain and loss from the war.
Thank you @sarahkrizek @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @sarahkrizek @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews