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Virtues and Valor #1
Temperance's Trial
The Third Reich Seeks to Extract the Information She Alone Knows
MARIE GILBERT and her elder brother flee from Vichy France after the Gestapo arrest her father for suspicion of aiding Jewish children to escape the oncoming fascist front. Once in London, Marie is recruited into an experimental all female cohort dubbed the Virtues, a collection of seven extraordinary women with highly specialized skills.
Known only by her code name, TEMPERANCE, she is trained to operate a wireless radio and returns to her beloved France. With a new identity, Marie clandestinely communicates vital intelligence directly back to Headquarters but unwillingly attracts the attention and apparent adoration of a handsome but ruthless Nazi officer, Oberleutnant LEOPOLD SCHÄFER.
As the H-hour to execute their daring mission draws ever closer, Marie plays a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with the unrelenting and merciless young Lieutenant Schäfer and the Nazi soldiers under his command.
TEMPERANCE’S TRIAL is part one of eight serialized novellas entitled the Virtues and Valor series.
Seven valorous women — different nationalities, ethnicities, and social backgrounds — come together as a team called the Virtues.
In 1941 Great Britain a special war department assembles an experimental and exclusively female cohort of combat operatives. Four willing spies, a wireless radio operator, an ingenious code breaker, and a fearless pilot are each hand-picked, recruited, and trained to initiate a daring mission in Occupied France. As plans are laid to engineer the largest prison break of Allied POWs in history, the Nazis capture the Virtues’ radio operator. It will take the cohesive teamwork of the rest of the women to save her life before Berlin breaks her and brings the force of the Third Reich to bear.
Some find love, some find vengeance, and some discover the kind of strength that lives in the human heart when all they can do is rely on each other and their shared belief. Courage, faith, and valor intersect but, in the end, one pays the ultimate price.
Introducing the Virtues and Valor series by Hallee Bridgeman. Eight serialized novellas, each inspired by real people and actual events, reveal the incredible story of amazing heroines facing the ultimate test of bravery.
MARIE GILBERT and her elder brother flee from Vichy France after the Gestapo arrest her father for suspicion of aiding Jewish children to escape the oncoming fascist front. Once in London, Marie is recruited into an experimental all female cohort dubbed the Virtues, a collection of seven extraordinary women with highly specialized skills.
Known only by her code name, TEMPERANCE, she is trained to operate a wireless radio and returns to her beloved France. With a new identity, Marie clandestinely communicates vital intelligence directly back to Headquarters but unwillingly attracts the attention and apparent adoration of a handsome but ruthless Nazi officer, Oberleutnant LEOPOLD SCHÄFER.
As the H-hour to execute their daring mission draws ever closer, Marie plays a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with the unrelenting and merciless young Lieutenant Schäfer and the Nazi soldiers under his command.
TEMPERANCE’S TRIAL is part one of eight serialized novellas entitled the Virtues and Valor series.
Seven valorous women — different nationalities, ethnicities, and social backgrounds — come together as a team called the Virtues.
In 1941 Great Britain a special war department assembles an experimental and exclusively female cohort of combat operatives. Four willing spies, a wireless radio operator, an ingenious code breaker, and a fearless pilot are each hand-picked, recruited, and trained to initiate a daring mission in Occupied France. As plans are laid to engineer the largest prison break of Allied POWs in history, the Nazis capture the Virtues’ radio operator. It will take the cohesive teamwork of the rest of the women to save her life before Berlin breaks her and brings the force of the Third Reich to bear.
Some find love, some find vengeance, and some discover the kind of strength that lives in the human heart when all they can do is rely on each other and their shared belief. Courage, faith, and valor intersect but, in the end, one pays the ultimate price.
Introducing the Virtues and Valor series by Hallee Bridgeman. Eight serialized novellas, each inspired by real people and actual events, reveal the incredible story of amazing heroines facing the ultimate test of bravery.
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First published September 15, 2014
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267 people want to read
About the author
Hallee Bridgeman
66 books1,013 followersWith nearly a million book sales, USA Today bestselling author Hallee Bridgeman writes action-packed romantic suspense focusing on realistic characters who face real-world problems. Her work has been described as everything from refreshing to heart-stopping exciting and edgy.
An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.
When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.
Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.
Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com
An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.
When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.
Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.
Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 13, 2019
This novella was very interesting but way too short. It really felt like the entire middle of the story was missing, because we basically got introduced to the lead and her goals and then skipped ahead to the climax of her story. None of her personal goals were solved, so I’m wondering if those are just dropped off now or will be answered in another heroine’s story within the series. Even the romance was hardly begun and did not come to a satisfactory solution—good or bad.
The concept of female spies being crucial to the Allies’ winning WWII is a relatively new one to me, but I’m grateful to have read several nonfiction books about this topic shortly prior to reading this novella. All of them together are creating a heartbreakingly beautiful picture in my mind of just how many people and events helped win the war, and filling in the massive scope of espionage that began long before the Cold War era of America’s—and the world’s—history.
The term “Arian” was used where I think “Aryan” was intended. They have completely different meanings, as “Arian” is in reference to a theological dispute and “Aryan” refers to a historical race concept that Adolf Hitler bought into. Also, white Americans would not have been considered by Nazi-era Germans to be of the “Aryan race,” as was indicated by this line: “Negroes and Ar[y]ans hardly ever socialize in America.” These mistakes were quite glaring for WWII fiction, and I’m surprised they weren’t caught and fixed during editing.
I adore that the author has chosen to write a collection of novellas inspired by true heroines of WWII. This should shine a spotlight on this aspect of that era that might be lesser known to a lot of readers. It’s neat that she’s included a little note at the back about the woman whose actions inspired the lead of the novella’s story. I’m so curious to learn more about these women as I go deeper into this series.
Content: nudity, torture
The concept of female spies being crucial to the Allies’ winning WWII is a relatively new one to me, but I’m grateful to have read several nonfiction books about this topic shortly prior to reading this novella. All of them together are creating a heartbreakingly beautiful picture in my mind of just how many people and events helped win the war, and filling in the massive scope of espionage that began long before the Cold War era of America’s—and the world’s—history.
The term “Arian” was used where I think “Aryan” was intended. They have completely different meanings, as “Arian” is in reference to a theological dispute and “Aryan” refers to a historical race concept that Adolf Hitler bought into. Also, white Americans would not have been considered by Nazi-era Germans to be of the “Aryan race,” as was indicated by this line: “Negroes and Ar[y]ans hardly ever socialize in America.” These mistakes were quite glaring for WWII fiction, and I’m surprised they weren’t caught and fixed during editing.
I adore that the author has chosen to write a collection of novellas inspired by true heroines of WWII. This should shine a spotlight on this aspect of that era that might be lesser known to a lot of readers. It’s neat that she’s included a little note at the back about the woman whose actions inspired the lead of the novella’s story. I’m so curious to learn more about these women as I go deeper into this series.
Content: nudity, torture
did-not-finish
January 29, 2021I just couldn't get into this story. I've heard such good things but... While the writing was solid, I kept feeling like I was missing chapters. It was like the writer just skipped anything they didn't feel like writing. I mean, the story was good, the writing was solid, it just wasn't enough to tell a good story.
May 4, 2017
This thrilling read is the first of a 7-novella series based on real women who worked against the Nazis in World War II. Marie escapes from occupied France as a child, and parachutes back in as a grown-up wireless operator. She must navigate the complex network of Nazi collaborators to find sympathetic French patriots from whose safe houses she can transmit coded messages to London. German soldiers both hostile and overfriendly pose a threat to their Resistance and to her personally.
This is a clean but real and gritty book. There are scenes and descriptions of Nazi interrogation and tortures, including stripping and humiliating female prisoners, jets of ice-cold water, sleep deprivation, breaking bones and beatings. (Non-graphic and suitable for preteens with discussion.) It's fast-paced and exciting, and ends in a cliffhanger as each lady's story continues in the next books of the series. Most of all, the Christian perspective is refreshing and encouraging.
This is a clean but real and gritty book. There are scenes and descriptions of Nazi interrogation and tortures, including stripping and humiliating female prisoners, jets of ice-cold water, sleep deprivation, breaking bones and beatings. (Non-graphic and suitable for preteens with discussion.) It's fast-paced and exciting, and ends in a cliffhanger as each lady's story continues in the next books of the series. Most of all, the Christian perspective is refreshing and encouraging.
March 30, 2015
“The story is dedicated to the amazing women who have worked, planned, strategized, served, led, and fought alongside men throughout human history.” Author Hallee Bridgeman.
An amazing story of bravery and heroism! It’s very important that you remember this novella is only part one of a 7 part series. So, while the book ends in a cliff hanger, you won’t be disappointed. This was an awesome Saturday afternoon read for me. This story focuses on Marie Gilbert, who is part of an experimental all female spy ring during World War II based out of London. The story immediately draws you in and never releases you from the heroic drama that unfolds. The best stories always include heroes or heroines who are willing to risk their own lives to save others. Therefore, this is one of those stories. Though the story is fiction, it is inspired by historical people and events. The additional actual history at the end of the book is extremely fascinating. I am ready for the second installment. This novella easily earns 5 stars from me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
An amazing story of bravery and heroism! It’s very important that you remember this novella is only part one of a 7 part series. So, while the book ends in a cliff hanger, you won’t be disappointed. This was an awesome Saturday afternoon read for me. This story focuses on Marie Gilbert, who is part of an experimental all female spy ring during World War II based out of London. The story immediately draws you in and never releases you from the heroic drama that unfolds. The best stories always include heroes or heroines who are willing to risk their own lives to save others. Therefore, this is one of those stories. Though the story is fiction, it is inspired by historical people and events. The additional actual history at the end of the book is extremely fascinating. I am ready for the second installment. This novella easily earns 5 stars from me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
February 6, 2020
Temperance's' Trial by Hallee Bridgeman
Dedication starts this book off and prologue goes over the 1940's in France from one families life.
Marie and her brother are sent away as the soldiers come to get their father. They escape and get separated and she ends up in England in 1941.
With her new identity and papers she is sent to occupied France where with the help of others she's posing as a seamstress but is really a coder.
She collects information and codes it into the machine and sends them off to England to help them overtake the soldiers in France.
There is one time she learns of the farmers and they are going to be captured and while trying to send a message about the fires she is not so careful about the wireless machine.
Hard to read about the torture they put her through til a German soldier that she's friends with comes to her rescue but that's not the end of the story.
It continues on in the next book.
The real events that inspired this book are also told, British words and phrases, French and German are also explained.
Other cool things are vehicles are explained.
Next books in the series are summarized and there are discussion questions for your club to answer.
Many quotes from the Bible are also given. Excerpt from the next book is included at the end.
About the author is included also at the end along with links to her social media sites.
Other works by the author are highlighted also.
Dedication starts this book off and prologue goes over the 1940's in France from one families life.
Marie and her brother are sent away as the soldiers come to get their father. They escape and get separated and she ends up in England in 1941.
With her new identity and papers she is sent to occupied France where with the help of others she's posing as a seamstress but is really a coder.
She collects information and codes it into the machine and sends them off to England to help them overtake the soldiers in France.
There is one time she learns of the farmers and they are going to be captured and while trying to send a message about the fires she is not so careful about the wireless machine.
Hard to read about the torture they put her through til a German soldier that she's friends with comes to her rescue but that's not the end of the story.
It continues on in the next book.
The real events that inspired this book are also told, British words and phrases, French and German are also explained.
Other cool things are vehicles are explained.
Next books in the series are summarized and there are discussion questions for your club to answer.
Many quotes from the Bible are also given. Excerpt from the next book is included at the end.
About the author is included also at the end along with links to her social media sites.
Other works by the author are highlighted also.
April 6, 2018
Temperance's Trial is set in WW2, 'Temperance' being the code name of a radio operator in a team of all-female undercover Allied operatives.
Bridgeman's story is engaging and interesting, taking us from Marie's (aka Temperance's) flight from France, to the end of her training in Great Britain, then back to France as an undercover radio operator. Her main secondary character, a German junior officer, is an interesting study as I wondered whether his devotion to Hitler's cause is as strong as he makes out, or if he MIGHT end up being a hero of the story in the end.
While I found the story interesting and appreciated the historical detail, I must admit that the story left me wanting MORE- more time to get to know Marie, more detail of just what her undercover operations entailed, and more of an idea of just how Marie ended up on this elite team.
Perhaps some of this is rectified in the rest of the series- Temperance's Trial felt more like a first chapter than an entire novel, and the rest of the books (judging by the synopsis) continue and presumably complete her story.
Bridgeman's story is engaging and interesting, taking us from Marie's (aka Temperance's) flight from France, to the end of her training in Great Britain, then back to France as an undercover radio operator. Her main secondary character, a German junior officer, is an interesting study as I wondered whether his devotion to Hitler's cause is as strong as he makes out, or if he MIGHT end up being a hero of the story in the end.
While I found the story interesting and appreciated the historical detail, I must admit that the story left me wanting MORE- more time to get to know Marie, more detail of just what her undercover operations entailed, and more of an idea of just how Marie ended up on this elite team.
Perhaps some of this is rectified in the rest of the series- Temperance's Trial felt more like a first chapter than an entire novel, and the rest of the books (judging by the synopsis) continue and presumably complete her story.
April 1, 2020
Temperance's Trial is the first book in Hallee's new Virtues and Valor series based on WWII efforts. In the beginning it starts off with Marie and her brother fleeing the Nazis and then it fast forwards to Her learning to be a wireless radio operator. She and the other "operatives" are from different backgrounds but come together to pray. Marie is finally called upon to put her training into action when the last wireless radio operative s captured. I don't want to give a way too much but the ending was shocking! I saw it coming but then again I didn't see it coming. Marie codename was Temperance.
I read this book from start to finish not wanting to put it down!! This novella, like her other books, will want you wanting more! I can't wait to read the other novellas in this series!!
**I was given this book by the Author for an HONEST review
I read this book from start to finish not wanting to put it down!! This novella, like her other books, will want you wanting more! I can't wait to read the other novellas in this series!!
**I was given this book by the Author for an HONEST review
March 18, 2021
I started this book because I love the author and she was doing a scavenger hunt. Because it was a known author, I did not read the blurb. It was enjoyable to go in blind, so to say, and get to experience things. The World War setting with hidden things was intriguing and interesting to get immersed in. It is comforting to read these kinds of books while knowing the outcome. It tugs a bit harder when you sit in that space and really let the reality of what you are reading sink in. I like how these books are listed as episodes because it really provides a connection and continuity that is needed to be realized. It was very interesting learning the real life inspiration for this story, because I've recently read another book containing the Nearnes. It was cool to integrate the two pieces together.
December 3, 2017
I just finished reading Hallee Bridgeman's series "Virtues and Valor". It's an 8 book series (long novellas) and I read all of them in 3 days. I couldn't put them down. They are a group of unique women chosen for a special team during WWII. They are a Christian team with special skills. Each one will be putting their lives on the line.They are page turners, will touch you emotions and even had me crying. I have dry eyes so its not easy to bring me to tears running down my cheek and sniffling. Highly recommend this series.
No one asked me to leave reviews on these books and all opinions are my own. I bought them on my Kindle and I've never been disappointed in anything that Hallee Bridgeman has written.
No one asked me to leave reviews on these books and all opinions are my own. I bought them on my Kindle and I've never been disappointed in anything that Hallee Bridgeman has written.
November 27, 2023
After their father is arrested by nazis, Marie and her older brother flee their home. Marie is recruited to an all-female resistance group called The Virtues. Her own codename is Temperance, and she specializes in radio transmissions under the cover of a French seamstress. But someone is onto her.
Apparently, each of these women are based on a real life heroine from World War II! Amazing concept. It actually felt like a stretch in a fictional book, but I guess the truth is stranger than fiction. Love her relationships with her family and the other Virtues and her reliance on God. Dang cliffhanger!
Apparently, each of these women are based on a real life heroine from World War II! Amazing concept. It actually felt like a stretch in a fictional book, but I guess the truth is stranger than fiction. Love her relationships with her family and the other Virtues and her reliance on God. Dang cliffhanger!
September 23, 2019
A riveting and spellbinding tale, based on a true-life character, of a young woman's escape from France to Great Britain during the Nazi invasion during WWII, and then her return to France as a spy. Bravery, courage, & her faith in God keep her, until one day. . .I really enjoyed the history and story surrounding this tale. My only disappointment is that the book stops abruptly, and I need to buy the next book to hopefully read of the heroine's fate. I would have given the book 5 stars if not for the cliffhanger. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this book.
June 15, 2020
This intriguing biography of a WWII heroine who was spying in occupied France, where she was from, for Britain was informative despite being somewhat depressing. It depicted her dedication to the cause after her father was captured, and her torture by the Germans for information which she refused to provide. She deserved to be recognized and honored for her efforts, also revealing what the Nazis would resort to for information. The story was short, however emotionally draining, depicting the inhumanity of the times. Had an epilogue, but didn't indicate the fate of her father and brother.
March 18, 2020
I was very interested in the story when it came to a sudden end. That was disappointing! It did not really end though the explanation of the true person represented in the book was very interesting & I enjoyed. That part also, to me, brought about a form of conclusion to the book. Like other reviewers, I do not like that it seems to really get a conclusion I would need to read all the books in the series which I am not willing to do at the price.
September 30, 2020
Don't judge a book by its cover! I was almost put off by the style of the cover portraits of the books in this series, but I have loved other books by this author, so I took a chance. The portraits are based on real people, just as the main character in each book is. This first book is exciting, but the ending leaves you hanging. That's because this a series that you must read in order. The books overlap and build on each other. And they show WWII from different perspectives.
March 23, 2019
Faith and courage
This makes me stop and think about my own level of or lack of courage. I have heard it said that the Lord gives you what you need when the need is there. Men and women of faith who are willing to sacrifice for others in the face of persecution have been and continue to be sources of inspiration. This is the story of one such woman.
This makes me stop and think about my own level of or lack of courage. I have heard it said that the Lord gives you what you need when the need is there. Men and women of faith who are willing to sacrifice for others in the face of persecution have been and continue to be sources of inspiration. This is the story of one such woman.
March 3, 2021
A Realistic View
“Temperance’s Trial” gives the reader a realistic view into German-occupied France during World War II. The Virtues, a hand-picked group of women, play a pivotal role for the Allies, sending secret missives, smuggling notes and more. This was a wonderful look into this part of history. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
“Temperance’s Trial” gives the reader a realistic view into German-occupied France during World War II. The Virtues, a hand-picked group of women, play a pivotal role for the Allies, sending secret missives, smuggling notes and more. This was a wonderful look into this part of history. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
May 23, 2021
Book 3 of Virtues of Valor
I love these books! I'm a lover of anything WWII and to read of the heroic actions of these women is so encouraging! Code name Temperance flees her home to escape being caught by the Germans. She is trained as a code sender in occupied France & is caught.
I love these books! I'm a lover of anything WWII and to read of the heroic actions of these women is so encouraging! Code name Temperance flees her home to escape being caught by the Germans. She is trained as a code sender in occupied France & is caught.
April 6, 2018
The Virtues
Hallee does it again
A riveting tale of a group of female spies .
I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series! I especially liked the true history behind stories and the pictures of the vehicles
Hallee does it again
A riveting tale of a group of female spies .
I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series! I especially liked the true history behind stories and the pictures of the vehicles
March 8, 2021
This is a really good read. It is a great insight to how
resourceful people were during the war. It also goes into great detail of situations real people faced and their endurance in the face of hardship. I like that it is based on a real person.
resourceful people were during the war. It also goes into great detail of situations real people faced and their endurance in the face of hardship. I like that it is based on a real person.
January 5, 2026
Learned too late that this was just one part of an eight part story. What I read was very riveting and fast paced and would love to read the rest. The book itself ends abruptly leaving many questions.
July 27, 2017
A great novella to start this series.
I'm on to book two because this book
will send you flying to the others in
the series.
I'm on to book two because this book
will send you flying to the others in
the series.
April 27, 2018
It is gritty, hard to believe what they went through, to help.end the war.
Well written, with the tension, fear, of what they were doing and their lives on a day by day basis.
Well written, with the tension, fear, of what they were doing and their lives on a day by day basis.
November 6, 2018
Truly enjoyed this WWII Spy book. Wonderfully written, looking forward to reading more from Author Hallee Bridgeman!
July 24, 2020
Very well written. Being a female veteran it's always nice to read stories about females who fought for their country
March 7, 2021
Suspenseful
Danger around the corner is sààààeen several times yet she stays calm and composed under pressure. Amazing fortitude for such a young lady.
Danger around the corner is sààààeen several times yet she stays calm and composed under pressure. Amazing fortitude for such a young lady.
March 17, 2025
Wonderful first chapter in the novella series!
November 11, 2014
About the Series:
To better understand what the book, Temperance's Trial is about, we must first become acquainted with the Virtue and Valor series. This is a series like a television mini-series, in which an entire tale is told in seven episodes. Every book in this series is inspired by real people and real events. The setting and time frame is World War II in Occupied France, and England. "Seven women from different backgrounds and social classes come together on the common ground of a shared faith. Each will earn a code name of a heavenly virtue. Each will risk discovery and persevere in the face of terrible odds."
Part 1: Temperance's Trial
Part 2: Homeland's Hope
Part 3: Charity's Code
Part 4: A Parcel for Prudence
Part 5: Grace's Ground War
Part 6: Mission of Mercy
Part 7: Flight of Faith
About the book:
One night Marie and Edward were awakened with pounding at the door of their home and they knew their moment had arrived. Brother and sister fled out the back window while their father distracted the forces at the front door. Eventually Marie and Edward Gilbert made it safely to England where they promptly joined the Royal forces to fight back. Even Marie joined a special unit for undercover work in the war. Her code name was Temperance. She and other women in her unit underwent rigorous training in their specific skill sets. She was trained in sending and receiving coded messages quickly. She was given the cover story, and even learned, to be the local town's seamstress.
Once ensconced in her role and war work in France, many months passed without incident. A Nazi Lieutenant began to pay her attention. Temperance wondered if he suspected her real occupation or was just attracted to her naturally. She needed to be careful. Because her transmissions could be triangulated, she needed to find a different place to transmit her messages each time. Then one day she was alerted by courier that her position had been compromised. She managed to send out a partial code to London before she was captured and arrested. In prison, she was interrogated, beaten, stripped and humiliated, doused with frigid water repeatedly, and suffered broken bones, without mentally breaking. She knew a large resistance operation was coming soon, and she would not betray them. The story ends with a cliffhanger. It continues in the next episode of the series.
My review:
The author has written a suspenseful, action-packed story that I was able to read in just a couple of sittings. I enjoy reading historical fiction filled with details as a result of good research. This is that kind of book. I found it easy to imagine myself along side the main characters. I felt admiration, fear and concern for Marie as she faced constant danger weekly in France. Her personality is written well and I feel that readers of all ages will identify with her plight.
The one element I found to be most compelling was the faith and support of the seven members of the special team--the Virtues. They trained together, prayed together, worshiped together, and offered each other emotional support. Once in France, Marie worked alone most of the time. She read her Bible often and prayed, leaning on God for her comfort. Her faith in Him played an important part of her character. As short as this episode is, I felt I had come to know this character, and could have called her a friend. I am looking forward to reading more novellas in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from The Book Club Network on behalf of the author and Olivia Kimbrell Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
To better understand what the book, Temperance's Trial is about, we must first become acquainted with the Virtue and Valor series. This is a series like a television mini-series, in which an entire tale is told in seven episodes. Every book in this series is inspired by real people and real events. The setting and time frame is World War II in Occupied France, and England. "Seven women from different backgrounds and social classes come together on the common ground of a shared faith. Each will earn a code name of a heavenly virtue. Each will risk discovery and persevere in the face of terrible odds."
Part 1: Temperance's Trial
Part 2: Homeland's Hope
Part 3: Charity's Code
Part 4: A Parcel for Prudence
Part 5: Grace's Ground War
Part 6: Mission of Mercy
Part 7: Flight of Faith
About the book:
One night Marie and Edward were awakened with pounding at the door of their home and they knew their moment had arrived. Brother and sister fled out the back window while their father distracted the forces at the front door. Eventually Marie and Edward Gilbert made it safely to England where they promptly joined the Royal forces to fight back. Even Marie joined a special unit for undercover work in the war. Her code name was Temperance. She and other women in her unit underwent rigorous training in their specific skill sets. She was trained in sending and receiving coded messages quickly. She was given the cover story, and even learned, to be the local town's seamstress.
Once ensconced in her role and war work in France, many months passed without incident. A Nazi Lieutenant began to pay her attention. Temperance wondered if he suspected her real occupation or was just attracted to her naturally. She needed to be careful. Because her transmissions could be triangulated, she needed to find a different place to transmit her messages each time. Then one day she was alerted by courier that her position had been compromised. She managed to send out a partial code to London before she was captured and arrested. In prison, she was interrogated, beaten, stripped and humiliated, doused with frigid water repeatedly, and suffered broken bones, without mentally breaking. She knew a large resistance operation was coming soon, and she would not betray them. The story ends with a cliffhanger. It continues in the next episode of the series.
My review:
The author has written a suspenseful, action-packed story that I was able to read in just a couple of sittings. I enjoy reading historical fiction filled with details as a result of good research. This is that kind of book. I found it easy to imagine myself along side the main characters. I felt admiration, fear and concern for Marie as she faced constant danger weekly in France. Her personality is written well and I feel that readers of all ages will identify with her plight.
The one element I found to be most compelling was the faith and support of the seven members of the special team--the Virtues. They trained together, prayed together, worshiped together, and offered each other emotional support. Once in France, Marie worked alone most of the time. She read her Bible often and prayed, leaning on God for her comfort. Her faith in Him played an important part of her character. As short as this episode is, I felt I had come to know this character, and could have called her a friend. I am looking forward to reading more novellas in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from The Book Club Network on behalf of the author and Olivia Kimbrell Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
December 5, 2014
The first in a series of 7 novellas, so a quick read but so much excitement and drama. I am a big fan of Hallee and her writing, but this new series was even more than I could expect. I was hooked from the very first chapter. Talk about knowing how to get your attention. This book starts in France, 1940, with pounding on the door, which for anyone whom has read or watched war time movies knows these visits can come day or night, and one had to always be ready for them. And Marie Gilbert and her brother Edward definitely were. He was to take her to Switzerland while dad would be dealt with by the Vichy police as well as the Nazis. Plans had been made, things were set in place, including a car and how to get away fast and without leaving any trace of themselves.
And what crime had this family committed? They had sheltered Jewish children from the Germans, although thankfully no children were present at the time of their father's arrest.
1941 England We meet the members of this elite group, called Virtues: Hope-really Virginia Benoit, famous musician and entertainer, Faith-who looked no older than sixteen, Mercy-physician, Prudence-aristocrat, Grace-military strategist, Charity-British housewife who "could decode encrypted messages in her head nearly as fast as they could be written down." pg. 13 and of course Temperance-Marie.
TEMPERANCE Prohibitioin, moderation, or self-restraint, (especially in eating and drinking). Constant mindfulness of others and one's surrounding; practicing constant self-control, abstention, and moderation. Sobriety. pg. 10
The seven women would meet twice a week with a chaplain for worship, although more times where, "they gathered together to read scripture, pray for each other, sing a few hymns, and steal a few hours just talking in fellowship." pg. 10 What a blessing to know that when they would be split up, and they would be, that there were these ladies holding them and their situations up in prayer.
Marie is given her first assignment as a seamstress, and this cover was harder to learn how to operate the machine and its code.
Temperance and Prudence are dropped off in the middle of the night, out of an airplane. But all the while Temperance knew that God had His hand on her and all would be well. And things do seem to be going well. While biking to her new destination and life she feels alone and then remembers, "..she was never alone. Whispering to God as she pedaled, she thanked Him for safe arrival and prayed for continued protection." pg. 26
She is directed to a landlady whom rents to single women and quickly sets up shop there. Praetorian, her contact on the ground, also sets her up with a farmer willing to let her transmit on his property.
But then things start going wrong, and it all begins with pounding on the door again, and a German officer standing on the other side. The emotions she faces, panic-has she been discovered already?, nervous which she tries to play down with comedy, not wanting to offend but also not wanting to help, anger, nauseous and gratitude to God.
You will have to read on, as I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say that after reading the first one, can't wait to get my hands on the second one. So many questions to be answered, and I can't wait to learn more about these real women on whom these books are based. Even when the world was at its darkest, God was still alive and at work. Pick up this book and start the journey for yourself. You'll be glad you did.
I was given this book by bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
And what crime had this family committed? They had sheltered Jewish children from the Germans, although thankfully no children were present at the time of their father's arrest.
1941 England We meet the members of this elite group, called Virtues: Hope-really Virginia Benoit, famous musician and entertainer, Faith-who looked no older than sixteen, Mercy-physician, Prudence-aristocrat, Grace-military strategist, Charity-British housewife who "could decode encrypted messages in her head nearly as fast as they could be written down." pg. 13 and of course Temperance-Marie.
TEMPERANCE Prohibitioin, moderation, or self-restraint, (especially in eating and drinking). Constant mindfulness of others and one's surrounding; practicing constant self-control, abstention, and moderation. Sobriety. pg. 10
The seven women would meet twice a week with a chaplain for worship, although more times where, "they gathered together to read scripture, pray for each other, sing a few hymns, and steal a few hours just talking in fellowship." pg. 10 What a blessing to know that when they would be split up, and they would be, that there were these ladies holding them and their situations up in prayer.
Marie is given her first assignment as a seamstress, and this cover was harder to learn how to operate the machine and its code.
Temperance and Prudence are dropped off in the middle of the night, out of an airplane. But all the while Temperance knew that God had His hand on her and all would be well. And things do seem to be going well. While biking to her new destination and life she feels alone and then remembers, "..she was never alone. Whispering to God as she pedaled, she thanked Him for safe arrival and prayed for continued protection." pg. 26
She is directed to a landlady whom rents to single women and quickly sets up shop there. Praetorian, her contact on the ground, also sets her up with a farmer willing to let her transmit on his property.
But then things start going wrong, and it all begins with pounding on the door again, and a German officer standing on the other side. The emotions she faces, panic-has she been discovered already?, nervous which she tries to play down with comedy, not wanting to offend but also not wanting to help, anger, nauseous and gratitude to God.
You will have to read on, as I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say that after reading the first one, can't wait to get my hands on the second one. So many questions to be answered, and I can't wait to learn more about these real women on whom these books are based. Even when the world was at its darkest, God was still alive and at work. Pick up this book and start the journey for yourself. You'll be glad you did.
I was given this book by bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2014
Temperance’s Trial is the exciting first novella in Hallee Bridgeman’s Virtues and Valor serial. Marie Gilbert, Code Name Temperance, is one of a group of ladies known to each other only as The Virtues in World War II Europe. Each Virtue had a unique assignment that they were trained for in an effort to help the Allied Forces win the war. They were an experiment in the use of women from various countries to help in the fight against the Nazis. Each novella is about one of the Virtues, and while they might meet and encourage each other, they know nothing about each other. This series is based on a similar group of actual heroines from World War II.
Marie’s father had been arrested by the Reich on suspicion of helping Jewish children escape imminent takeover of the Nazi regime. She and her brother escaped France and went to Great Britain to help the Allied Forces during Europe’s time of need.
Temperance’s particular assignment was as a wireless radio operator, and she had to find places to hide – and places where she could transmit information via – the wireless radio. This radio was not a little hand-held like we imagine today – more along the size of a 1950’s or 1960’s radio. The average time allowed for encrypting and sending messages was 30 minutes to avoid being caught by the Germans. And – my curiosity led me to look up more about the radios used and the operators – the average life of a wireless radio operator without being captured was about a month. This assignment, as well as the assignments the other Virtues worked, could possibly be a suicide mission for the cause that they firmly believed in, to win the war and put an end to the Reich.
Temperance is the primary character that we will meet; others include a man who is with the Third Reich who is interested in her and, to keep from blowing her cover, she went out with him. She also had a job as a “cover” for herself. The primary traits we learn about Temperance are those that make her who she is as a woman on assignment for the freedom of her French homeland. Those characteristics demonstrate very well who Temperance is as related to her Code Name. The author shows clearly how this young woman has what it to be willing to risk all for her faith, family and homeland.
Hallee Bridgeman has a way with writing that brings the reader into the story – one can see what the main character sees, hear what they hear, and do what they do. Temperance’s Trial is rich with details that help one who has not lived in a war-torn land begin to understand. The plot is complex as war tends to be, especially for those who become part of the solution.
I highly recommend Temperance’s Trial to young adults and adults of all ages who are interested in World War II fiction or well-written historical novellas with female heroes full of suspense and intrigue. As someone who recently began to appreciate World War II novels, I am looking forward to continuing with the series as time permits.
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Marie’s father had been arrested by the Reich on suspicion of helping Jewish children escape imminent takeover of the Nazi regime. She and her brother escaped France and went to Great Britain to help the Allied Forces during Europe’s time of need.
Temperance’s particular assignment was as a wireless radio operator, and she had to find places to hide – and places where she could transmit information via – the wireless radio. This radio was not a little hand-held like we imagine today – more along the size of a 1950’s or 1960’s radio. The average time allowed for encrypting and sending messages was 30 minutes to avoid being caught by the Germans. And – my curiosity led me to look up more about the radios used and the operators – the average life of a wireless radio operator without being captured was about a month. This assignment, as well as the assignments the other Virtues worked, could possibly be a suicide mission for the cause that they firmly believed in, to win the war and put an end to the Reich.
Temperance is the primary character that we will meet; others include a man who is with the Third Reich who is interested in her and, to keep from blowing her cover, she went out with him. She also had a job as a “cover” for herself. The primary traits we learn about Temperance are those that make her who she is as a woman on assignment for the freedom of her French homeland. Those characteristics demonstrate very well who Temperance is as related to her Code Name. The author shows clearly how this young woman has what it to be willing to risk all for her faith, family and homeland.
Hallee Bridgeman has a way with writing that brings the reader into the story – one can see what the main character sees, hear what they hear, and do what they do. Temperance’s Trial is rich with details that help one who has not lived in a war-torn land begin to understand. The plot is complex as war tends to be, especially for those who become part of the solution.
I highly recommend Temperance’s Trial to young adults and adults of all ages who are interested in World War II fiction or well-written historical novellas with female heroes full of suspense and intrigue. As someone who recently began to appreciate World War II novels, I am looking forward to continuing with the series as time permits.
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
July 8, 2015
This series is about a special team of operatives called, “The Virtues.” The author states, “Every story in the Virtue and Valor series was inspired by real people and real events” This is the first novel in the series taken from historical events in 1941 Great Britain. A special war department assembles an experimental exclusively female cohort of combat operatives, hand-picked and trained.
This series kicks off with a young girl named Marie Gilbert code named Temperance. The team was made up of seven women from different walks of life, training, backgrounds and social classes. These brave women come together in their faith to help the underground work in fighting the enemy in WWII. Each will rick everything to get the job done.
Marie and Edward leave their father to join the war effort. Their father was arrested for hiding Jews. Marie says, “Edward, how can we leave him?”
“Because he said we must!.”..”She’d never felt so alone in her life. Then she remembered – She was never alone. Whispering to God as she thanked him for safe arrival and prayed for continued protection.”
These brave women knew the risks. They could be tortured to obtain information. “They had courage, faith and valor – As their plan is laid to engineer the largest prison break of allied POW’s in history; the Nazis capture the radio operator Marie. It will take the cohesive team work of these women to save her life before they break her and bring the force of the third Reich to bear.”
I think this series would be great for anyone interested in WWI and for those who homeschool. Not only does this author do a good job of bringing history to life through these remarkable women but there is bonus material that helps takes readers deeper into history and the war effort.
The author gives details about the real person that inspired the story. In this first novel based on Eileen Mary “didi” Nearne. She’s twenty three and served as the wireless radio operator. There is a picture of her and more details about her life. The author also lists key words and Phrases that the French, Germans and British used. They were helpful in understanding the circumstances better. There is a section about the vehicles used back then. I liked the six discussion questions that the author included in the back. They will help spark lively discussions in your group.
There are six other books in this series. The titles are 2. Homeland’s Hope, 3. Charity’s Code, 4. A Parcel for Prudence, 5. Grace’s Ground War, 6. Flight of Faith, 7. Mission of Mercy. Each of these books delves into the life of a female operative doing her part in fighting the enemy in WWII. If you love history and/or want to share this with your children this is a series for you!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
This series kicks off with a young girl named Marie Gilbert code named Temperance. The team was made up of seven women from different walks of life, training, backgrounds and social classes. These brave women come together in their faith to help the underground work in fighting the enemy in WWII. Each will rick everything to get the job done.
Marie and Edward leave their father to join the war effort. Their father was arrested for hiding Jews. Marie says, “Edward, how can we leave him?”
“Because he said we must!.”..”She’d never felt so alone in her life. Then she remembered – She was never alone. Whispering to God as she thanked him for safe arrival and prayed for continued protection.”
These brave women knew the risks. They could be tortured to obtain information. “They had courage, faith and valor – As their plan is laid to engineer the largest prison break of allied POW’s in history; the Nazis capture the radio operator Marie. It will take the cohesive team work of these women to save her life before they break her and bring the force of the third Reich to bear.”
I think this series would be great for anyone interested in WWI and for those who homeschool. Not only does this author do a good job of bringing history to life through these remarkable women but there is bonus material that helps takes readers deeper into history and the war effort.
The author gives details about the real person that inspired the story. In this first novel based on Eileen Mary “didi” Nearne. She’s twenty three and served as the wireless radio operator. There is a picture of her and more details about her life. The author also lists key words and Phrases that the French, Germans and British used. They were helpful in understanding the circumstances better. There is a section about the vehicles used back then. I liked the six discussion questions that the author included in the back. They will help spark lively discussions in your group.
There are six other books in this series. The titles are 2. Homeland’s Hope, 3. Charity’s Code, 4. A Parcel for Prudence, 5. Grace’s Ground War, 6. Flight of Faith, 7. Mission of Mercy. Each of these books delves into the life of a female operative doing her part in fighting the enemy in WWII. If you love history and/or want to share this with your children this is a series for you!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
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