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These Blue Mountains
A moving story of love, betrayal, and the enduring power of hope in the face of darkness.
German pianist Hedda Schlagel's world collapsed when her fiancé, Fritz, vanished after being sent to an enemy alien camp in the United States during the Great War. Fifteen years later, in 1932, Hedda is stunned to see Fritz's name in a photograph of an American memorial for German seamen who died near Asheville, North Carolina. Determined to reclaim his body and bring closure to his ailing mother, Hedda travels to the US. Her quest takes a shocking turn when, rather than Fritz's body, his casket contains the remains of a woman who died under mysterious circumstances.
Local deputy Garland Jones thought he'd left that dark chapter behind when he helped bury Fritz Meyer's coffin. The unexpected arrival of Hedda, a long-suffering yet captivating woman, forces him to confront how much of the truth he really knows. As they work together to uncover the identity of the woman in the casket and to unravel Fritz's fate, Hedda and Garland grow closer. But with Hedda in the US on borrowed time while Hitler rises to power in Germany, she fears she'll be forced to return home before she can put the ghosts of her past to rest.
"These Blue Mountains is a masterful tale that weaves together two continents, two wars, and two lives defined by longing and resilience."--PATTI CALLAHAN HENRY, New York Times bestselling author
"North Carolina's mountains hide the secrets of a war long past and a young love cut short in this atmospheric tale of unexpected hope."--LISA WINGATE, New York Times bestselling author
This inspirational historical fiction is set in the mountains of North Carolina in the tumultuous years before World War II. With threads of intrigue, romance, and an international cast of characters, These Blue Mountains is the perfect book club pick and Southern fiction read.
German pianist Hedda Schlagel's world collapsed when her fiancé, Fritz, vanished after being sent to an enemy alien camp in the United States during the Great War. Fifteen years later, in 1932, Hedda is stunned to see Fritz's name in a photograph of an American memorial for German seamen who died near Asheville, North Carolina. Determined to reclaim his body and bring closure to his ailing mother, Hedda travels to the US. Her quest takes a shocking turn when, rather than Fritz's body, his casket contains the remains of a woman who died under mysterious circumstances.
Local deputy Garland Jones thought he'd left that dark chapter behind when he helped bury Fritz Meyer's coffin. The unexpected arrival of Hedda, a long-suffering yet captivating woman, forces him to confront how much of the truth he really knows. As they work together to uncover the identity of the woman in the casket and to unravel Fritz's fate, Hedda and Garland grow closer. But with Hedda in the US on borrowed time while Hitler rises to power in Germany, she fears she'll be forced to return home before she can put the ghosts of her past to rest.
"These Blue Mountains is a masterful tale that weaves together two continents, two wars, and two lives defined by longing and resilience."--PATTI CALLAHAN HENRY, New York Times bestselling author
"North Carolina's mountains hide the secrets of a war long past and a young love cut short in this atmospheric tale of unexpected hope."--LISA WINGATE, New York Times bestselling author
This inspirational historical fiction is set in the mountains of North Carolina in the tumultuous years before World War II. With threads of intrigue, romance, and an international cast of characters, These Blue Mountains is the perfect book club pick and Southern fiction read.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2025
53 people are currently reading
5889 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Loudin Thomas
16 books773 followersSarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her historical fiction is often set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia.
Sarah holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Coastal Carolina University and is the author of the acclaimed novels The Right Kind of Fool–winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year–and Miracle in a Dry Season–winner of the 2015 Inspy Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award, ACFW Carol Award, and the Christian Book of the Year Award.
Sarah’s career includes six years in the PR Department at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, and she served as the inaugural director of Jan Karon’s Mitford Museum in Hudson, NC. She currently divides her time between ministry work serving foster and adoptive families and writing. She and her husband live in western North Carolina.
Sarah holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Coastal Carolina University and is the author of the acclaimed novels The Right Kind of Fool–winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year–and Miracle in a Dry Season–winner of the 2015 Inspy Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award, ACFW Carol Award, and the Christian Book of the Year Award.
Sarah’s career includes six years in the PR Department at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, and she served as the inaugural director of Jan Karon’s Mitford Museum in Hudson, NC. She currently divides her time between ministry work serving foster and adoptive families and writing. She and her husband live in western North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
October 20, 2024
Yes, it's me, the author. I'm giving my new novel a 5-star rating because I wouldn't send it out to you, the readers, unless I thought it was the best I could make it. Well, almost the best. I always think I could make a story just a smidge better but then the deadline rolls around, and I have to turn it in. So, make that a 4.95.
I stumbled on the inspiration for this story while researching the Flood of 1916 in western NC. You know, the one that was just repeated and then some in 2024. While the flood doesn't play a direct role in this story, it did lead me to learn about the German enemy alien encampment in Hot Springs during WWI. A fascinating bit of history I couldn't resist building a story around. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
I stumbled on the inspiration for this story while researching the Flood of 1916 in western NC. You know, the one that was just repeated and then some in 2024. While the flood doesn't play a direct role in this story, it did lead me to learn about the German enemy alien encampment in Hot Springs during WWI. A fascinating bit of history I couldn't resist building a story around. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
August 16, 2025
Tangled Threads was a five-star read for me, so I was excited to read this one!
Have you ever had NO closure to an experience? Stayed awake at night wondering what happened? Wondering if you could have done something, anything, sooner? Have you ever been told, “Perhaps everything turned out for the best”?
I’d feel anger and bitterness. I’d need to know answers.
So did Hedda Schlagel.
Loudin Thomas explores the echoes of war, in particular, those women who’ve been left behind, not knowing if their sweethearts/husbands have survived or the details surrounding their deaths.
How do you carry on when you don’t know if your loved one is still alive?
One day, Hedda Schlagel stopped receiving letters from her beloved, who’d joined the navy during WW1. When she realized that her mother-in-law-to-be had also stopped receiving letters from Fritz, she presumed he’d died. Her 14-year-long mourning comes to an abrupt stop … you’ll have to read what prompted Helga to finally DO something and discover what steps she took to move on with her life.
Hedda wanted to be more than “the girl whose fiancé never came home.”
I read about the power of place and of art, about how our past influences our present and our future, and about the freedom in taking risks. I learned about Hot Springs, North Carolina and its role during WW1.
This book about finding our past was a compelling historical fiction novel. I felt it could have been a five-star read if there had been more emotion. I needed convincing that Hedda loved Fritz, that Lotte missed her son, that Hedda’s second choice was made from her heart, not her head…and I wanted to backhand Fritz for his lack of backbone.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Have you ever had NO closure to an experience? Stayed awake at night wondering what happened? Wondering if you could have done something, anything, sooner? Have you ever been told, “Perhaps everything turned out for the best”?
I’d feel anger and bitterness. I’d need to know answers.
So did Hedda Schlagel.
Loudin Thomas explores the echoes of war, in particular, those women who’ve been left behind, not knowing if their sweethearts/husbands have survived or the details surrounding their deaths.
How do you carry on when you don’t know if your loved one is still alive?
One day, Hedda Schlagel stopped receiving letters from her beloved, who’d joined the navy during WW1. When she realized that her mother-in-law-to-be had also stopped receiving letters from Fritz, she presumed he’d died. Her 14-year-long mourning comes to an abrupt stop … you’ll have to read what prompted Helga to finally DO something and discover what steps she took to move on with her life.
Hedda wanted to be more than “the girl whose fiancé never came home.”
I read about the power of place and of art, about how our past influences our present and our future, and about the freedom in taking risks. I learned about Hot Springs, North Carolina and its role during WW1.
This book about finding our past was a compelling historical fiction novel. I felt it could have been a five-star read if there had been more emotion. I needed convincing that Hedda loved Fritz, that Lotte missed her son, that Hedda’s second choice was made from her heart, not her head…and I wanted to backhand Fritz for his lack of backbone.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 17, 2025
Absolutely fantastic! This story is set in the 1930s right around when things are getting very bad in Germany. Hedda is German and she has been living with her deceased fiancé’s mother for years. Her fiancé, Fritz, died 15 years ago in America. One day she sees a picture of his tombstone in the paper and decides to fly to America to reclaim his body. Upon arrival she meets Deputy Garland. Garland knew Fritz and helps Hedda. When Fritz’s burial place is dug up, Fritz is not in it but a woman’s remains are. Then we have a mystery of who is the woman and what happened to her, and where is Fritz?
This story is just amazing! I was completely hooked from the beginning! It’s so interesting and engaging. The writing is so good. I love Hedda and Garland. Hedda is so kind. She does run into some complications with Fritz of course but also immigration problems. Garland is determined to help her figure out what happened and his own part in the mystery. I really liked how well they got along and cared for each other. There may be a surprise or two in store for the reader. Great Christian content as well. I just loved everything about this story! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: digging up bodies
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This story is just amazing! I was completely hooked from the beginning! It’s so interesting and engaging. The writing is so good. I love Hedda and Garland. Hedda is so kind. She does run into some complications with Fritz of course but also immigration problems. Garland is determined to help her figure out what happened and his own part in the mystery. I really liked how well they got along and cared for each other. There may be a surprise or two in store for the reader. Great Christian content as well. I just loved everything about this story! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: digging up bodies
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 9, 2025
The story slowly pulled me in . I thought the characters were good and interesting.
A beautiful woman finding her past and during WW2 engaged.
Hedda and deputy Garland try to solve a mystery about what happens to Hedda 's fiance.
I thought Garland was a sweet guy with a tender heart
I could see why he fell in love with Hedda .
A beautiful woman finding her past and during WW2 engaged.
Hedda and deputy Garland try to solve a mystery about what happens to Hedda 's fiance.
I thought Garland was a sweet guy with a tender heart
I could see why he fell in love with Hedda .
July 15, 2025
“God is good even when the world is not.”
I first learned about the enemy alien internment camp that detained German civilians (not soldiers) in Hot Springs, North Carolina (yes, the US) during World War 1 while reading The Thorn Healer by Pepper Basham. My mind was officially blown. I knew about the camps for Japanese civilians during World War 2 but had no idea about the US internment camps for German civilians in either war. The camp in Hot Springs was particularly fascinating to me as the Germans there showed such great creativity and ingenuity in building a little village for themselves, complete with a carousel and a church built with materials they salvaged, including tin cans. (You can see pictures HERE.) While These Blue Mountains is set between the wars, during the earliest stirrings of World War 2 and Hitler’s rise to power, that internment camp in Hot Springs plays a vital role in the story and continues to intrigue me.
This latest immersive read from Sarah Loudin Thomas once again brings the mountains of North Carolina – and its people – to life in some unexpected ways that settled in my heart of hearts, where ‘these blue mountains’ already reside. We first meet Hedda, a German pianist whose seaman fiance Fritz vanished 15 years ago after being detained at the Hot Springs camp. That would be compelling enough but then she and his ailing mother see his name on a newspaper photograph of a memorial for those who died at the camp, and Hedda travels to North Carolina to bring his body – and closure – home. This is when our story begins in earnest, because it’s not his body in that coffin but that of a woman who appears to have been murdered. So … where is Fritz’s body? If he’s still alive, why didn’t he come home or at least contact his mother? Needless to say, that hook that immediately got me invested in how things would play out… but it isn’t the only – or most important – story being told on these pages.
At its core, These Blue Mountains is about finding ‘home’ and healing in unexpected places and with unlikely people. I loved getting to know sweet Hedda with the heart of gold and watching her become part of the vibrant Black Mountain community, and I really appreciated the nuanced layers the author gave to Hedda’s time in this country. There’s a lot to unpack there – and it would make a wonderful book club read – but I don’t want to say too much more so I don’t spoil any major plot points. BUT I will say this: one of the great powers of story is its ability to help us see things from another perspective and develop greater empathy in the process, and These Blue Mountains did that for me, not only for the people in that time period but for people to whom present-day news headlines apply too. And then there’s Garland Jones, who won my heart with his sincerity and genuineness as much as Hedda did with her engaging spirit. Garland has connections to the Hot Springs Camp too – and to Fritz – which adds dimension to his character and complexity to his deepening friendship with Hedda. Their slow burn romance simmers in the background of the story but of course made this KissingBooks fan quite happy.
Bottom Line: These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas is a richly layered and poignant story that combines gripping history, vibrant and complex characters (Lucy!), a fifteen year mystery, a dash of romance, and the resilient heart of western North Carolina. I became immediately engrossed in Hedda’s story and the history it represented, and I remained so until the last word. I fell in love with Hedda and Garland and the community they have around them, and my heart went through a gamut of emotions while watching the narrative unfold from Germany to the Blue Ridge Mountains. As I said before, this would make a wonderful book club read, with more layers to unpack the more you linger in the themes presented. It’s bittersweet in places, joyous in others, and captivating as a whole, and I predict that you’ll enjoy the journey and its varying forks in the road, just as I did.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I first learned about the enemy alien internment camp that detained German civilians (not soldiers) in Hot Springs, North Carolina (yes, the US) during World War 1 while reading The Thorn Healer by Pepper Basham. My mind was officially blown. I knew about the camps for Japanese civilians during World War 2 but had no idea about the US internment camps for German civilians in either war. The camp in Hot Springs was particularly fascinating to me as the Germans there showed such great creativity and ingenuity in building a little village for themselves, complete with a carousel and a church built with materials they salvaged, including tin cans. (You can see pictures HERE.) While These Blue Mountains is set between the wars, during the earliest stirrings of World War 2 and Hitler’s rise to power, that internment camp in Hot Springs plays a vital role in the story and continues to intrigue me.
This latest immersive read from Sarah Loudin Thomas once again brings the mountains of North Carolina – and its people – to life in some unexpected ways that settled in my heart of hearts, where ‘these blue mountains’ already reside. We first meet Hedda, a German pianist whose seaman fiance Fritz vanished 15 years ago after being detained at the Hot Springs camp. That would be compelling enough but then she and his ailing mother see his name on a newspaper photograph of a memorial for those who died at the camp, and Hedda travels to North Carolina to bring his body – and closure – home. This is when our story begins in earnest, because it’s not his body in that coffin but that of a woman who appears to have been murdered. So … where is Fritz’s body? If he’s still alive, why didn’t he come home or at least contact his mother? Needless to say, that hook that immediately got me invested in how things would play out… but it isn’t the only – or most important – story being told on these pages.
At its core, These Blue Mountains is about finding ‘home’ and healing in unexpected places and with unlikely people. I loved getting to know sweet Hedda with the heart of gold and watching her become part of the vibrant Black Mountain community, and I really appreciated the nuanced layers the author gave to Hedda’s time in this country. There’s a lot to unpack there – and it would make a wonderful book club read – but I don’t want to say too much more so I don’t spoil any major plot points. BUT I will say this: one of the great powers of story is its ability to help us see things from another perspective and develop greater empathy in the process, and These Blue Mountains did that for me, not only for the people in that time period but for people to whom present-day news headlines apply too. And then there’s Garland Jones, who won my heart with his sincerity and genuineness as much as Hedda did with her engaging spirit. Garland has connections to the Hot Springs Camp too – and to Fritz – which adds dimension to his character and complexity to his deepening friendship with Hedda. Their slow burn romance simmers in the background of the story but of course made this KissingBooks fan quite happy.
Bottom Line: These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas is a richly layered and poignant story that combines gripping history, vibrant and complex characters (Lucy!), a fifteen year mystery, a dash of romance, and the resilient heart of western North Carolina. I became immediately engrossed in Hedda’s story and the history it represented, and I remained so until the last word. I fell in love with Hedda and Garland and the community they have around them, and my heart went through a gamut of emotions while watching the narrative unfold from Germany to the Blue Ridge Mountains. As I said before, this would make a wonderful book club read, with more layers to unpack the more you linger in the themes presented. It’s bittersweet in places, joyous in others, and captivating as a whole, and I predict that you’ll enjoy the journey and its varying forks in the road, just as I did.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
July 11, 2025
1932-1933 North Carolina
What a unique tale! Fifteen years after German Hedda Schlagel last heard from her fiancé, she finds a possibility of bringing closure for both herself and her fiancé's mother. Hedda believes Fritz may have been buried in North Carolina in a POW camp and travels to the U.S. to find out.
Once Hedda arrives in the blue mountain state, she is in awe of its beauty while simultaneously staying focused on finding out what happened to Fritz. It's an engaging story that unfolds. One that had me listening longer than planned to find out what would happen next.
Nice job by the narrator.
My gratitude to publisher Bethany House for a complimentary audiobook copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
What a unique tale! Fifteen years after German Hedda Schlagel last heard from her fiancé, she finds a possibility of bringing closure for both herself and her fiancé's mother. Hedda believes Fritz may have been buried in North Carolina in a POW camp and travels to the U.S. to find out.
Once Hedda arrives in the blue mountain state, she is in awe of its beauty while simultaneously staying focused on finding out what happened to Fritz. It's an engaging story that unfolds. One that had me listening longer than planned to find out what would happen next.
Nice job by the narrator.
My gratitude to publisher Bethany House for a complimentary audiobook copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 15, 2025
This is superb in my opinion as it checks all the boxes for me. I love to learn new things about history and when it is flawlessly interwoven with fictional characters to make it realistic you have captured my attention. I absolutely loved this story and the characters- oh these characters are so realistic they feel like family when you are finished. I could hear Hedda playing the beautiful notes on the piano of lost love, hurt, longing, and of hope for more. As we travel from Germany to America and walk with Hedda through truths that are revealed and navigate a new way of life your heart will never forget. Hedda is a woman that is strong and follows through on obligations and doing the right thing for others. An example of being the hands and feet of Jesus. I loved the way Garland was there for Hedda but also how even though he didn’t want to he was there for Lucy and watching her shell crack was wonderful. Doing the right thing even when we don’t want to is what God wants in our lives. I loved the twists and turns of this story and the growth of these characters. An all around exquisite reading experience that I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
June 30, 2025
My rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WWI historical fiction
Light romance
Christian themes
What a wonderful book to kick off the summer! This is my first book by Sarah Loudin Thomas. Our main character Hedda is a pianist trying to find her fiancee, Fritz, who disappeared during WWI. She wants closure after not knowing his fate for years. My heart broke for Hedda and Frizt’s mother, not knowing what happened to him for so long. This is an edge of your seat historical novel that will leave you shocked as you uncover the truth. No content warnings in this book. Although not heavily Christian, we see the main characters praying and leaning on their faith in God throughout the trials they face. I read this book fairly quickly, it’s a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
WWI historical fiction
Light romance
Christian themes
What a wonderful book to kick off the summer! This is my first book by Sarah Loudin Thomas. Our main character Hedda is a pianist trying to find her fiancee, Fritz, who disappeared during WWI. She wants closure after not knowing his fate for years. My heart broke for Hedda and Frizt’s mother, not knowing what happened to him for so long. This is an edge of your seat historical novel that will leave you shocked as you uncover the truth. No content warnings in this book. Although not heavily Christian, we see the main characters praying and leaning on their faith in God throughout the trials they face. I read this book fairly quickly, it’s a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
September 1, 2025
These Blue Mountains tells a beautiful story. Sarah Loudin Thomas wrote this moving tale. It is set in 1932 Germany and the USA. This was just before Hitler’s reign of terror began. Hedda’s fiancé, Fritz, vanished in World War I. Fifteen years passed with no news while she lived with Fritz’s mother as they shared grief and sadness over Fritz's disappearance. Then, Hedda saw a photo. It showed a gravestone with Fritz’s name. The photo was from an alien enemy camp in Asheville, North Carolina. This camp was active during WWI. Hedda traveled to North Carolina to bring Fritz’s remains home for his mother.
This novel is a combination of grief, hope, shock, and forgiveness. The plot truly moves forward when Fritz’s grave is opened. A woman is found inside, instead of him. This reveals a great mystery. Hedda showed great strength as events unfolded, and this impressed me so much. She got help from Garland, a deputy law officer. I really liked his character and how he strived to make things right. The beautiful setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains was perfect for this story of love, heartache, and redemption. These Blue Mountains is an unforgettable Historical Fiction novel. It captivated me with its heart, mystery, and romance
This novel is a combination of grief, hope, shock, and forgiveness. The plot truly moves forward when Fritz’s grave is opened. A woman is found inside, instead of him. This reveals a great mystery. Hedda showed great strength as events unfolded, and this impressed me so much. She got help from Garland, a deputy law officer. I really liked his character and how he strived to make things right. The beautiful setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains was perfect for this story of love, heartache, and redemption. These Blue Mountains is an unforgettable Historical Fiction novel. It captivated me with its heart, mystery, and romance
August 15, 2025
These Blue Mountains captivated me and took me right into 1932 during the Great War and had me traveling from Germany to Asheville, NC. I love when historical fiction teaches you something new about history you had no clue about. I had no clue that the US had an enemy alien internment camp that detained German civilians (not soldiers) in Hot Springs, NC during WWI. So it was neat to stop my reading to go in a history rabbit trail!
Anyways this story revolves around this as we meet Hedda whose fiance vanished 15 years ago but we find out that he has been detained at the Hot Springs camp. She heads to NC to bring his body back home and this is where the mystery of the story begins because as they exhume the body it is not Fritz who is in the coffin but rather a woman who also disappeared around the same timeline that Fritz did. Immediately I was hooked and needed to find out how this was going to play out.
I loved meeting Garland and he made such a great leading man. There were moments when I didn’t know what was going to happen and Ms. Thomas definitely threw me for a loop when certain things came to pass but I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and loved that the faith theme of God being good no matter what and finding healing in the most unexpected places is woven throughout the story.
If you are looking for a historical fiction story set in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina then I would recommend this one!
I received this book for review. All views are my own.
Anyways this story revolves around this as we meet Hedda whose fiance vanished 15 years ago but we find out that he has been detained at the Hot Springs camp. She heads to NC to bring his body back home and this is where the mystery of the story begins because as they exhume the body it is not Fritz who is in the coffin but rather a woman who also disappeared around the same timeline that Fritz did. Immediately I was hooked and needed to find out how this was going to play out.
I loved meeting Garland and he made such a great leading man. There were moments when I didn’t know what was going to happen and Ms. Thomas definitely threw me for a loop when certain things came to pass but I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and loved that the faith theme of God being good no matter what and finding healing in the most unexpected places is woven throughout the story.
If you are looking for a historical fiction story set in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina then I would recommend this one!
I received this book for review. All views are my own.
August 13, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This book really took me by surprise! What a crazy and wild plot that immediately draws you in. I’ve read a lot of WWI and WWII novels, but this story takes place right in between the two. Such a unique inside look during this period – the chaos, fear and confusion as Germany is quickly changing.
The year is 1932 in Germany and Hedda Schlagel has spent the past 15 years wondering what became of her fiancé, Fritz. He disappeared after being sent to a prison camp in the U.S. during the Great War. All these years of grief and lack of closure have been weighing on her. Hedda has been living with Lottie, the woman who would have become her mother-in-law had she had the chance to marry Fritz as planned. Both women have spent over a decade battling heartbreak and confusion. One day Hedda spots an article mentioning Fritz’s name. It’s an American memorial for some of the fallen soldiers near Asheville, NC.
This story really takes off when Hedda decides to travel to the U.S. to unearth and claim what she feels certain is her fiance’s body and plans to return it to Germany for proper burial in his own country. What they find, however, is NOT Fritz within the casket. I’m telling you – you’ll be glued to these pages once this mystery begins to unfold. Quite a few unexpected twists in this fascinating story!
A beautiful story of strength, perseverance and hope. The reality of how challenging it was for those living during the rise of Hitler are heartbreaking to read, but Sarah does a wonderful job of penning this story and making you feel deeply for these characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This book really took me by surprise! What a crazy and wild plot that immediately draws you in. I’ve read a lot of WWI and WWII novels, but this story takes place right in between the two. Such a unique inside look during this period – the chaos, fear and confusion as Germany is quickly changing.
The year is 1932 in Germany and Hedda Schlagel has spent the past 15 years wondering what became of her fiancé, Fritz. He disappeared after being sent to a prison camp in the U.S. during the Great War. All these years of grief and lack of closure have been weighing on her. Hedda has been living with Lottie, the woman who would have become her mother-in-law had she had the chance to marry Fritz as planned. Both women have spent over a decade battling heartbreak and confusion. One day Hedda spots an article mentioning Fritz’s name. It’s an American memorial for some of the fallen soldiers near Asheville, NC.
This story really takes off when Hedda decides to travel to the U.S. to unearth and claim what she feels certain is her fiance’s body and plans to return it to Germany for proper burial in his own country. What they find, however, is NOT Fritz within the casket. I’m telling you – you’ll be glued to these pages once this mystery begins to unfold. Quite a few unexpected twists in this fascinating story!
A beautiful story of strength, perseverance and hope. The reality of how challenging it was for those living during the rise of Hitler are heartbreaking to read, but Sarah does a wonderful job of penning this story and making you feel deeply for these characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
August 1, 2025
“God is good, even when the world is not”.
This was my first introduction to this author and I will definitely be looking up other books she’s written!
This book is beautiful. The storyline is written so well. I suspected parts of it but other parts surprised me and everything wrapped up perfectly in the end. I absolutely fell in love with these characters (although one of the male characters, I wanted to smack upside the head a few times 🤣) and I was not ready to say goodbye! The historical aspects were so interesting and made me curious to learn more about Germans in the U.S. during WWI. All in all, this was an incredibly well written story and I am SO glad I picked it up!
⛰️Takes place in the 1930s ~ mainly in North Carolina but a few parts in Germany.
⛰️A clean, closed door romance is threaded through out in a beautiful way
⛰️The historical aspects are very well researched and made me interested to research more!
⛰️I loved the underlying message, that the author wove through, of God being in control and working all things out for His good, even when we can’t fully understand or see. So many times *we* think we know best, but then when we look back we realize that God ultimately knew best! 🩵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first introduction to this author and I will definitely be looking up other books she’s written!
This book is beautiful. The storyline is written so well. I suspected parts of it but other parts surprised me and everything wrapped up perfectly in the end. I absolutely fell in love with these characters (although one of the male characters, I wanted to smack upside the head a few times 🤣) and I was not ready to say goodbye! The historical aspects were so interesting and made me curious to learn more about Germans in the U.S. during WWI. All in all, this was an incredibly well written story and I am SO glad I picked it up!
⛰️Takes place in the 1930s ~ mainly in North Carolina but a few parts in Germany.
⛰️A clean, closed door romance is threaded through out in a beautiful way
⛰️The historical aspects are very well researched and made me interested to research more!
⛰️I loved the underlying message, that the author wove through, of God being in control and working all things out for His good, even when we can’t fully understand or see. So many times *we* think we know best, but then when we look back we realize that God ultimately knew best! 🩵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 12, 2025
When I first picked up These Blue Mountains, I thought, “Oh no—another book on this topic.” It’s not that the subject isn’t important, I just wasn’t ready for another story like it. But I was wrong. This book offered a fresh, moving perspective, following a young German woman as she builds a new life in the U.S. The storytelling felt both unique and heartfelt, and I loved the major decision she made at the end. A powerful and unexpected read.
July 19, 2025
[Thank you to Bethany House Fiction for my gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.]
Set in the 1930’s, this phenomenal Christian historical fiction title follows Hedda, a German citizen, as she seeks to find answers regarding her fiance, Fritz, a German sailor who went missing overseas fifteen years prior. Hedda’s search ultimately brings her to the mountains of North Carolina, where she learns that there is much more to the mystery of Fritz’s disappearance than she originally thought.
This story had me HOOKED from the very beginning! I love Sarah Loudin Thomas’ writing, and her thorough research is always so appreciated. Even as a North Carolinian, I learned more North Carolina history through reading this book!
Read this for:
1930’s/WWI/WWII foreshadow
Germany and North Carolina settings
Multiple POVs
Rich faith themes
Light romance
Mystery
Fascinating history of US Internment Camps for Germans during WWI in Hot Springs, NC
I enjoyed this story so much and have already recommended it to so many of my friends offline.
Highly recommend!
Set in the 1930’s, this phenomenal Christian historical fiction title follows Hedda, a German citizen, as she seeks to find answers regarding her fiance, Fritz, a German sailor who went missing overseas fifteen years prior. Hedda’s search ultimately brings her to the mountains of North Carolina, where she learns that there is much more to the mystery of Fritz’s disappearance than she originally thought.
This story had me HOOKED from the very beginning! I love Sarah Loudin Thomas’ writing, and her thorough research is always so appreciated. Even as a North Carolinian, I learned more North Carolina history through reading this book!
Read this for:
1930’s/WWI/WWII foreshadow
Germany and North Carolina settings
Multiple POVs
Rich faith themes
Light romance
Mystery
Fascinating history of US Internment Camps for Germans during WWI in Hot Springs, NC
I enjoyed this story so much and have already recommended it to so many of my friends offline.
Highly recommend!
July 4, 2025
Such a great story! This was my first time reading Sarah Loudin Thomas’ work, and I truly loved it. Her writing is flawless, and her descriptions are so vivid I could picture everything clearly in my mind from the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains to the stark contrast of WWII-era Germany. I loved every character, especially Hedda and Garland. Also, the narrator, Pilar Witherspoon, is absolutely incredible. She had me hanging on to her every word, and her many different accents, from Hedda’s German to Garland’s slow southern drawl, were spot on and just amazing. I will definitely search for more of Sarah and Pilar’s work. If you love sweet, faith-based historical romances, then I highly recommend These Blue Mountains.
(DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this title from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own).
(DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this title from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own).
October 20, 2025
Sarah Loudin Thomas’s latest historical romance, THESE BLUE MOUNTAINS, delves into another little-known historical fact: German POW camps in North Carolina during WWI. Building on this foundation, she takes us through an emotional journey of love lost, love found, and explores what true love really means. Through the eyes of her compelling characters, Thomas reveals how war and circumstance challenge their hearts and redefine their understanding of loyalty and connection.
THE STORY: German pianist Hedda has spent fifteen years grappling with the disappearance of her fiancé, Fritz, who vanished during WWI. The discovery of Fritz’s name on an American memorial to German POWs reignites compels her to journey to the United States in search of answers and to bring Fritz’s body home to his ailing mother. As Hedda delves into Fritz’s past, she uncovers cover-ups and personal betrayals—secrets that force her to confront everything she thought she knew about Fritz and herself. With another world war looming, Hedda’s desperate search for the truth could either heal her heart or shatter it forever.
Another immersive historical romance with the beautiful Blue Mountains of North Carolina as the backdrop. Thomas gives us bitter details of what humanity can do to one another, yet gives us beauty and art with descriptions that color our imagination. I do have to say that I wanted to slap Hedda’s love interests and scream, “Grow a spine!”
Highly recommended for Sarah Loudin Thomas fans, historic romance, WWI, WWII, rural stories, arts, pianists, and a beautiful faith journey.
I received an ARC from Bethany House for my honest review.
THE STORY: German pianist Hedda has spent fifteen years grappling with the disappearance of her fiancé, Fritz, who vanished during WWI. The discovery of Fritz’s name on an American memorial to German POWs reignites compels her to journey to the United States in search of answers and to bring Fritz’s body home to his ailing mother. As Hedda delves into Fritz’s past, she uncovers cover-ups and personal betrayals—secrets that force her to confront everything she thought she knew about Fritz and herself. With another world war looming, Hedda’s desperate search for the truth could either heal her heart or shatter it forever.
Another immersive historical romance with the beautiful Blue Mountains of North Carolina as the backdrop. Thomas gives us bitter details of what humanity can do to one another, yet gives us beauty and art with descriptions that color our imagination. I do have to say that I wanted to slap Hedda’s love interests and scream, “Grow a spine!”
Highly recommended for Sarah Loudin Thomas fans, historic romance, WWI, WWII, rural stories, arts, pianists, and a beautiful faith journey.
I received an ARC from Bethany House for my honest review.
August 15, 2025
This novel was so fascinating in that it was partial based in fact and a true story. Hedda has been mourning her fiancé for over a decade. She nor his mother has heard from him since the letters stopped in 1917 and when Hedda comes across a photograph that has his name on a memorial for the German seamen who died, she now has confirmation that he did die during the Great War. Hedda heads to the US to claim and return his body to Germany, but as they are interring the remains it is found that a woman's body is in Fritz's grave. A mystery is now on their hands and Hedda doesn't even know where to begin. How could this happen and where then is Fritz Meyer's body? Holding out hope Hedda wonders if maybe Fritz is still alive, but if he is, how could he have abandoned her and his mother for so long? While Hedda seeks answers, another war is rising in Germany and she is told to stay in the US if she can. But in this time of fear, German's are not very welcome and she has already overstayed her visa. Fighting to find answers from the first war and now this second war just might take that all away and more, when the truth of who Fritz really is comes to light. Such a well written novel! Mystery, history and some romance make for such a great read. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and this storyline. Thank you to the author and publisher for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
July 30, 2025
"She'd been stuck, suspended in time since she'd lost Fritz. Finding him again, in whatever way, made her feel that she might, at long last, be more than the girl whose fiancé never came home."
This was such a beautiful tale of mystery, hope, and healing. I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I have very little understanding of the POW camps in America during WW1, and I learned so much in these pages! History came alive through the eyes of characters who had suffered great losses.
The plot was slow-moving, but as soon as the climax hit, I was completely hooked! I had no idea what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed how each of the characters had realistic flaws and struggles. They were doing their best in a time when the world seemed to be going crazy. There were a lot of themes that are relatable to the issues of our time.
5/5 Stars
Read if you enjoy:
Historical Fiction
Christian Fiction
Mystery
Stories of Hope & Forgiveness
* Thank you so much to Bethany House for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
This was such a beautiful tale of mystery, hope, and healing. I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I have very little understanding of the POW camps in America during WW1, and I learned so much in these pages! History came alive through the eyes of characters who had suffered great losses.
The plot was slow-moving, but as soon as the climax hit, I was completely hooked! I had no idea what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed how each of the characters had realistic flaws and struggles. They were doing their best in a time when the world seemed to be going crazy. There were a lot of themes that are relatable to the issues of our time.
5/5 Stars
Read if you enjoy:
Historical Fiction
Christian Fiction
Mystery
Stories of Hope & Forgiveness
* Thank you so much to Bethany House for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 10, 2025
1932 Germany, Hitler is “ruling”, and secrets can be deadly. Hedda is living with and taking care of Lotte, her fiancée’s mother. Learning of his death in a prison camp, she heads to North Carolina to claim his body and take it back to Germany. More complications arise than she could have ever imagined.
This was a story not soon forgotten. I loved both the history aspect as well as the fictional human aspect. Murder, romance and big surprises written within the pages.
This was a personal purchase and I’m writing my review of my own free will.
This was a story not soon forgotten. I loved both the history aspect as well as the fictional human aspect. Murder, romance and big surprises written within the pages.
This was a personal purchase and I’m writing my review of my own free will.
June 21, 2025
I love historical romance and I adored this book! 5 stars! This is such an interesting story. I was enthralled the entire time!
5 stars!
Many thanks to Net Galley and RBMedia for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars!
Many thanks to Net Galley and RBMedia for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2025
Writing really helps you understand the people, their dilemmas, and history.
July 27, 2025
Great story
Loved this book, its characters and the heart of the story!. Highly recommend it! I love this author, and waited for many months for this book to be released, and it was SOOO worth the wait!
Loved this book, its characters and the heart of the story!. Highly recommend it! I love this author, and waited for many months for this book to be released, and it was SOOO worth the wait!
December 29, 2025
A well written story with well developed characters. This book kept me wondering what was going to happen and how it would turn out.
December 27, 2025
This was a fantastic Historical Christian fiction book set just prior to WWII. The story was believable and the characters were heartwarming. I was able to listen to an audiobook copy of this book via Hoopla, but it did not in any way affect my review. All opinions are my own.
September 1, 2025
A deeply moving story of a woman finding her past.
A German pianist who has thought her fiance past away years ago, but with no evidence to prove that. When she finds a picture in a newspaper she travels to the US to bring his body home...
I loved the romance in the story. The author did a great job at keeping me guessing on how things would turn out. I loved the mystery aspect and the characters were relatable and enjoyable to read. I didn't want the story to end.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
A German pianist who has thought her fiance past away years ago, but with no evidence to prove that. When she finds a picture in a newspaper she travels to the US to bring his body home...
I loved the romance in the story. The author did a great job at keeping me guessing on how things would turn out. I loved the mystery aspect and the characters were relatable and enjoyable to read. I didn't want the story to end.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
November 2, 2025
Hedda thinks she’s going to bring her dead fiancée remains back to Germany after Fritz disappeared all those years ago. Along the way she finds friendship mystery and love. It was an amazing read and I loved the story.
July 22, 2025
These Blue Mountains was so different from any other book I’ve read before. It takes place right before WW2, when Hitler came into power.
Hedda was engaged to be married during WW1, but her fiancé who worked on a ship was taken captive by America as an enemy alien. While living in a camp for Germans, he is believed to have died. Hedda never hears from him again. While reading the news back in Germany she sees a picture of a gravesite for Germans who died on American soil inside the internment camps. Her fiancé’s name is on the grave marker. In an effort to obtain closure, she travels to America to bring the remains back home to Germany to bury. When the graves are excavated, it becomes clear that her fiancé Fritz was not buried there.
Solving the mystery becomes her next quest, with the help of local law enforcement. I loved how this book takes multiple twists and turns. It shows the world in turmoil and the plight of immigrants during war time. It is about love that was lost and new connections that come after. It’s about heartache and hope. It’s about making hard decisions. I enjoyed the journey I took with Hedda and the way it opened my eyes to see those around me in this world in a different light.
Hedda was engaged to be married during WW1, but her fiancé who worked on a ship was taken captive by America as an enemy alien. While living in a camp for Germans, he is believed to have died. Hedda never hears from him again. While reading the news back in Germany she sees a picture of a gravesite for Germans who died on American soil inside the internment camps. Her fiancé’s name is on the grave marker. In an effort to obtain closure, she travels to America to bring the remains back home to Germany to bury. When the graves are excavated, it becomes clear that her fiancé Fritz was not buried there.
Solving the mystery becomes her next quest, with the help of local law enforcement. I loved how this book takes multiple twists and turns. It shows the world in turmoil and the plight of immigrants during war time. It is about love that was lost and new connections that come after. It’s about heartache and hope. It’s about making hard decisions. I enjoyed the journey I took with Hedda and the way it opened my eyes to see those around me in this world in a different light.
July 5, 2025
I absolutely love a great historical fiction book! These Blue Mountains was amazing! 😍 Essentially a love story. A story about war, distance and love. It had my complete attention through the entire book. It was so captivating in every way. If you love historical fiction books, you must read this book!! It may just become a favorite.
#thesebluemountains #netgalley
#thesebluemountains #netgalley
July 30, 2025
I’m so torn on what to rate this book. First it’s important to mention that the main synopsis of the story was really only about the first part of the book. At about the halfway point, the mystery is resolved. I was really invested in this section of the story and was very interested to see what would happen!
The second half of the book seemed almost disconnected to the first half. It felt like a different story altogether as I was then reading a story heavy on deportation? During this part, the characters also seemed too passive and detached at the revelation they received earlier in the story. I was somewhat frustrated with the misleading of what the story was fully about and was antsy to be done with the book.
Big key moments in the story that I highly wanted to read how it would happen, seemed to have been glossed over or skipped entirely and given a brief summary in an after conversation.
First half of the book is a solid 4 stars! The second half fell flat at 2 stars. Overall, the story was an entertaining read but would have been much better if it were only about the mystery the whole way through and the length of the book was given to have better character and event development.
The second half of the book seemed almost disconnected to the first half. It felt like a different story altogether as I was then reading a story heavy on deportation? During this part, the characters also seemed too passive and detached at the revelation they received earlier in the story. I was somewhat frustrated with the misleading of what the story was fully about and was antsy to be done with the book.
Big key moments in the story that I highly wanted to read how it would happen, seemed to have been glossed over or skipped entirely and given a brief summary in an after conversation.
First half of the book is a solid 4 stars! The second half fell flat at 2 stars. Overall, the story was an entertaining read but would have been much better if it were only about the mystery the whole way through and the length of the book was given to have better character and event development.
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