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To Fly on Broken Wings

Mississippi Delta, 1941

Lila Rose never expected life to offer her more than the quiet rhythm of cotton fields and small-town whispers. Raised in poverty and caring for an alcoholic father, she's learned not to hope for much.

Then she meets Graham, a young pilot from one of Mississippi's wealthiest families. Their unlikely love changes everything.

But when war tears them apart and Graham is reported killed in action, Lila believes the future she'd dreamed of has died with him. Determined to move forward, she remarries and begins building a new life.

Until Graham comes home.

351 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 24, 2026

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About the author

Fayla Ott

8 books32 followers
Fayla is a southern belle with a strong, southern accent and an even stronger cup of coffee that's always within reach. Living amidst the scenic views of the East Tennessee mountains, Fayla creates tales of American history, mostly set in the south, that capture the heart and challenge the spirit. When she's not crafting stories that time-travel to the days of yore, you can find her teaching college English as a full-time professor, home educating her youngest son, or buzzing around her local church and community, coffee in hand.

Wife, Mom to four boys, and Marmee to her three grandchildren, Fayla is a family-oriented lady who enjoys museums, hiking, music, photography, and culinary experiments. She cherishes her time traveling with her family, exploring new places and creating memories. On weekends, she might be spotted tending to her garden and farm animals, proving that she’s as versatile as the characters in her novels.

So buckle up and prepare to travel with Fayla, as her stories offer you a passport to the past, where you’ll find adventure, suspense, and inspiration on every page.

Be sure to connect with Fayla on these platforms:

Facebook: Fayla Ott, Author

Instagram: faylaottauthor

If you want to contact Fayla, you can email her at fayla@faylaott.com

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5 stars
48 (87%)
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6 (10%)
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1 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Stacy Wilson .
341 reviews182 followers
July 23, 2026
Welp, I really thought I'd get through this book without crying, but that ending😭

This was truly rough and I'd say I want on update on all of these characters, but I don't know if I could handle it.

I asked if I could get this arc after reading Afflicted by this author and being blown away by it. She did it again! Truly outstanding at giving all the feels and also putting you in that time and place!
Profile Image for Geneiva  Hopkins.
29 reviews2 followers
July 26, 2026
This was one of those books that stays with you long after you've turned the last page. One of my favorite aspects was the strong faith-based foundation woven naturally throughout the story. As a reader, that's something I truly value, and it added so much depth and meaning to the characters' journeys.

The author's writing is phenomenal. The descriptions were so vivid that I felt like I could stroll the streets of Belhaven and Greenwood myself, and I could picture every detail of Mr. Foley's shop as if I'd been there. The settings came alive in a way that completely immersed me in the story.

I grew to love each of the characters. I felt their joys and heartbreaks, mourned their losses, and celebrated every victory alongside them. They felt like real people whose lives I had the privilege of sharing for a while.

I enjoyed every single page, and my only disappointment is that the story had to end. I'm already wishing there was more. If you enjoy beautifully written, faith-filled stories with unforgettable characters and richly developed settings, I can't recommend this book enough.
Profile Image for Shilo Goodson.
Author 1 book10 followers
August 24, 2026
This book caused so many emotions. I've read some really emotional books lately, and while I've been really close to tears with them, I held back with the other books. That was not the case with this one. I was crying for several chapters.

This book creates a huge dilemma for the main character. She loved a man. He went to war. He's declared missing. She waits for him. The army declares him dead. She still doesn't believe it, and she waits. Eventually, she falls in love with another man and finally allows herself to move on, marrying the second man. Then her first husband is found alive, and she's forced to decide which man she wants to be with. It's really one of those books where there's no right decision. Either way, someone (or rather more than just one person) is going to be seriously hurt. I won't say which man she picks or whether I feel like she made the right or the wrong decision. That would ruin the story. Once you've read the story, based on my opinions of the guys, you'll probably have a pretty good idea of if I think she made the right decision.

I will say that one of the main reasons this was a 4-star book for me was that I don't feel like the relationship between Lila and Graham was very well-developed. The beginning of the book dragged a bit, and I never really felt like I understood why they fell in love. It felt very much like it was young love and like if they hadn't gotten married before he left for war, they likely would have gone their separate ways, and both would have married someone else. Their relationship would have just been a fond memory of someone they'd once cared about.

I won't reveal the second husband's name. I will say, though, that I liked them together a lot more than Lila and Graham. I felt like their relationship was deeper and more mature. They supported each other and knew each other in a way that Lila and Graham never did. I felt like she fit into the second guy's life better and was more comfortable being herself around him and his family than she was around Graham's family. Okay, I'll admit it. I was rooting for Lila to pick him, not Graham.

The second reason this book got 4 stars was that the end felt rushed. The book description only really mentions Lila having to decide between the two guys. We are almost 90% of the way through the book before Graham returns. She's only remarried a chapter before that. I feel like the story was rushed once Graham got back.

This is a clean book. You won't find any swearing, sexual content, or graphic violence. It may cause some emotional turmoil, though.

I received a free ARC from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.
Profile Image for N.L. Mayers.
Author 3 books7 followers
October 1, 2026
To Fly on Broken Wings is a story that won't leave once you've read it. A riveting story that begins with just the hint of war brewing overseas and follows through to the end of that war and beyond.

All of the characters rang true to life, from our heroine Lila Rose, whose past shaped her actions in good and bad ways, and whose judgment was not always kind or fair, but was always understandable. I loved her, wanted to shake some sense into her, cared for her, and cheered for her when good things came her way. I also cried for her when they didn't.

All of the characters were well-imagined and realistically fleshed out: Graham, the handsome young crop duster pilot from the well-to-do-background, who only had eyes for the girl from the other side of the tracks. Characters like Nate and Charlie— Graham's two best friends who cared for him like a brother (Charlie, the fun-loving frat-type prankster. Nate, the loyal, sensible friend who never let himself get in the way when it came to helping someone else).

Lila Rose's best friend Geraldine made me laugh out loud in the best possible way. My own mother's name was Geraldine. She was 19 when war began, and I'm convinced the author must have interviewed her to get insights into this character's personality! She didn't, of course—I have never met the author or corresponded with her—but her Geraldine and mine were so similar that I was astonished.

All of the supporting characters were wonderful (Graham's parents, Lila's granny and daddy, the shopkeepers' ill wife who became one of Lila's dearest friends). On and on. I don't want to reveal anything about the plot because this one is a page-turner and the barest hint might spoil things for the reader. It does have a twist at the end I didn't expect. I actually gasped.

I love stories about the Greatest Generation. I intend to promote this novel on my own website, and encourage everyone to grab a copy of this well-written, character-driven page-turner.

I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily. That having been said, I intend to buy a hard copy for my library.
Profile Image for Cindy.
113 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 19, 2026
To Fly on Broken Wings by Fayla Ott is a Christian historical novel set during World War II but is so much more. It is a story that I just finished but is also a story that I never wanted to end. It is a story of love and loss that took me on a journey through so many emotions and tugged on my heartstrings over and over again.

Lila, a young girl becoming a woman, has spent her life caring for her drunkard father in the absence of her mother. She has also spent her life sacrificing the things she wanted in order to be with him. She had spent that same life hiding from others and questioning herself as she has been the center of rumors and gossip because of her family and the poor life they live.

While working in the cotton fields with her best friend Geraldine who is like a sister to her, she meets a young crop duster—Graham—who only has eyes for her. As their relationship is tested, Geraldine decides to choose a different life for herself, leaving Lila more at odds with her own life.

The age old question of whether or not two people who are so different can join their lives into one but also bring their families along is sharply addressed in To Fly on Broken Wings. Family is who we are raised with but can acceptance by others also follow when that love is strong but loneliness overpowers?

A tale of love, heartbreak, loss and love, To Fly on Broken Wings teaches us the importance of faith in our own lives and in those we love as well as the need for grace in relationships, regardless of feelings and emotions, as worlds collide.

I hope that Ms. Ott will write a sequel to this book. It is that good. Even minor characters like Nate and Sheila and the Foleys will leave you wanting more. Ott has a wonderful writing style that endears the characters to the readers. Her writing leaves you feeling as though you, too, were part of Lila’s story.

I was honored to be a part of this team launch and also to be an ARC reader.
Profile Image for Patricia  N..
202 reviews1 follower
Read
August 12, 2026
To Fly on Broken Wings
by Fayla Ott

Rating: 5 star rating

I just finished reading To Fly on Broken Wings by Fayla Ott and it completely broke my heart.

Set in a small town called Belhaven in the Mississippi Delta right around World War II, the book follows a quiet girl named Lila. She has had a really tough time growingup, but everything changes when she meets Graham, a wealthy crop duster pilot.

Even though they come from totally different social circles, they fall in love and get married. But right after their wedding, Graham enlists to fight in the war, leaving Lila behind. Before long, Lila receives the devastating news that Graham's plane went down and he is presumed dead.

The author does an great job showing Lila's painful journey as her heart is broken, leaving her to figure out how to rebuild her life when her entire world completely falls apart.

Because this is a Christian historical fiction book, there is a focus on faith and trying to trust God through the worst and most heartbreaking choices a person could ever face.

The author builds up the tension so well, and you will find yourself hurting for the characters as they try to navigate impossible circumstances. The ending is incredibly emotional and tears your heart out, leaving you crying for the characters because of a heart breaking choice that has to be made.

I am seriously hoping the author writes a sequel so the other guy can get his own happy ending. If you love emotional wartime dramas or a deep romance that completely tests the heart, it is a fantastic, fast-paced read that will definitely make you cry.

Thank you, NetGalley, Heritage House Publishing, and author Fayla Ott for this ebook review consideration. All review opinions are my own.

#NetGalley
#HeritageHousePublishing
#FaylaOtt author
#ToFlyonBrokenWings

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Profile Image for Cate.
97 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 19, 2026
This book impacted me deeply. I cried. I even yelled at it once. “No. No you don’t. Don’t you dare! Argh!” Apologies to the author, but I was completely invested in the story.

The book explores the themes of the messiness of life and what do you do when there are no good choices - when people are going to get hurt no matter what you do. Set in the 1940’s (before, during, and after the United States got involved in WWII), we see what life was like for those who were left to hold things together when the men went off to war. A wife saves sugar a teaspoon at a time for three months so she can bake and send a cake to her husband, knowing it will probably be broken and stale by the time it gets there. Everyone is put on an instant diet. Letters are the lifeblood of daily life. Young people must grow up way too fast, while everyone else ages before their time. And what happens when someone is declared missing in action, but there is no body and no word of what happened? How do you keep putting one foot in front of the other every day amid fear and uncertainty?

This is an important book, because it shows us something deeply true: when the hard times come, our faith is revealed. Is it in God? Ourselves? The government? A family member? I’m walking that path right now with a loved one, and it’s not pretty. We need to build our faith in God in the quiet times, so it’s there when the hard times come. He is the only One who will never leave or forsake us.

My only complaint is that I would have liked an epilogue set a year or more in the future, so I would know that the characters were all right. What can I say? I care about my fictional friends.

I strongly recommend this book. Bring tissues. Want more great books? Look for Fayla Ott - she has never let me down.

I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lori Parrish.
199 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 20, 2026
Just letting y'all know that I loved this book very much
This quote is very very true and I agree wholeheartedly with it.
“Reckon a man better enjoy something like that. Ain't no use risking your neck over something you hate.”“That's how I see it.”
Here's another good quote,
Seems like mamas and daddies spend half their lives making plans for their children, and the children spend the other half making plans of their own.”
I just finished this wonderful story and it broke my heart but it also tells the truth about one's heart.
It might not be that day, but sometime in the future, Lila knew he'd ask about everything that happened during the war. When he did they would tell him a story of love, loss, impossible grace, and the God who had carried them through every season they thought would surely break them. For now, his laughter was enough..
I loved this story soooooo very much! I just finished it. I believe this is a story full of truths some hurtful some told with love and some about how people move on even when we're not ready for them to.
Love is strong. Even through the tough times.
My heart broke for Nate but I believe God put him there for a reason. I loved in getting to know him which is why my heart hurt for him. I loved how forgiveness fits into this precious story of love
I'm giving this story 5 stars for keeping me turning the pages and for a job well done.
I believe that this book will resonate with me for a long time.
I hate war and everything about it. I wish it didn't have to happen but I wanted to thank these wonderful men and women for their service.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
Profile Image for Angela Laird.
8 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy
July 16, 2026
To Fly on Broken Wings by Fayla Ott is a gripping, don’t-want-to-put-it-down, just gotta read one more chapter World War 2 story of Lila Rose, Graham, and Geraldine. Lila Rose is a girl from the “wrong side of the tracks” living in poverty with a no good alcoholic daddy. She, and her “floozy” best friend, Geraldine, seem inseparable no matter what life throws at them. But then, handsome, wealthy, cultured Graham, a crop duster notices Lila Rose. They talk, they dance, they fall in love, they marry. Then war takes him away! When he is shot down and declared MIA, Lila Rose waits while living with Graham’s parents. The Army eventually declares him dead and she realizes that her future she had planned is gone. Lila Rose goes back to her Granny’s shack to try to rebuild some sort of life. She eventually marries, but she still holds Graham in her heart while trying her best to move on with her new life and family. Then one day…Graham comes home! Lila Rose has some decisions to make.
The story takes off from page 1 and had me laughing, crying, trying to read faster because I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. It is rare that a book gives me all the emotions that this book gave me. There were a few parts that really resonated with me on a personal level, The characters and their journey touched me in a profound way. The vivid descriptions of the cotton fields, the Delta, and Foley’s store made me feel like I was right there, in the heat, almost tasting the RC soda, feeling the condensation on the bottle, and reaching down to pet Hank.
Fayla Ott has outdone herself with this book! This is the first book that I have read from this author, but I will be searching out her other books to read. Well Done!!! Go buy this book!
Profile Image for Jodica.
28 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 23, 2026
This book had all the feels. I was happy, sad, broken hearted, laughed out loud, frustrated, joyous. It was a roller coaster ride of emotions. Bring Kleenex! I loved this book. It’s set in the 40’s during WW2.

I loved the way the author wrote. Her descriptions I could see, smell, touch. I love a writer who paints with words.

A part that resonated with me as I enjoy rereading books and it was so accurate to me was this.

Lila took it from her and found herself holding a worn copy of Rebecca.
“I loved this one. Have you read it before? “
“Twice.”
“Then why are you reading it again?”
Irene settled deeper against the pillows. “For the same reason people visit old friends. I already know what they are going to say, but I miss the sound of them saying it.”
Lila looked down at the book. She understood that more than she wanted to.

Another set of lines I loved was this.

Lila bent over the box and wept, but not like she had when the telegram came. Not in the way that she left Greenwood with Charlotte’s rejection fresh on her heart. This grief was smaller somehow, and because it was smaller, it found places inside her the larger grief had missed.

Such great lines, such a great book. I felt I was along for the journey in their lives. I was apart of the story. These characters became my friends too. And I will reread it!!
I give it 5 stars, and will read more of her works for sure. This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.

I sure hope there is a sequel.
Profile Image for Taylor Puckett .
38 reviews3 followers
July 31, 2026
**update**
I finished this book last night and wow was it a ride. I cried three separate times.
Graham coming home was nothing like I expected, I felt so deeply for Lila Rose in her heartbreak and mourning. But at the same time, felt that Nate balanced her out in a way Graham never did. She felt so at home in his home, compared to the chapters on chapters of her feeling so unwelcome and unfit to stay with the Ashfords. Nate changed everything for her and loved that little boy so much. I can’t help but put myself in her shoes. I can’t say I would make the same final decision she did…but I’m not in her shoes. By the end, I felt a peace with Lila I hadn’t felt the entire book. She kept me on edge in a way that’s hard to describe. Granny was the most perfect and precious grandmother. She is rough around the edges and speaks her mind plainly but everyone needs one of those ladies. Nate, gosh, I saw some much selfless love and dedication in him. He reminded me of things my husband would do. Graham was different, I don’t know that I was rooting for him in the end.
A beautiful story and writing. I highlighted quite a few sentences and paragraphs that were beautifully written and conveyed so much emotion.

Technically haven’t finished this book yet but it’s been a joy to read and i want to help the author meet her goal! Got this book as an ARC and wow, from the title I was hooked. The character development has been real so far. I’ve gone through the emotions with Lila Rose and felt so connected to the story. I will be recommending this book to friends for sure!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 17, 2026
To Fly on Broken Wings is the first book I’ve read by Fayla Ott, and she is now a new favorite author for me. I was lucky enough to be part of the early access launch team and so got an early read.

Ott’s descriptions of both people and place are so vivid that I felt as if I were in the Delta, surrounded by characters I truly knew. Lila and Graham stole my heart right away, but every character feels understandable and real. There are no caricatures here, and no simple villains—just imperfect people trying to do their best in difficult situations.

I especially appreciated the book’s thoughtful slow build. It never feels slow-paced; instead, it gives the reader time to understand the people, the place, and the situations without rushing in.
From start to finish, To Fly on Broken Wings held not only my attention but also my heart. Lila’s journey is bittersweet, deeply human, and impossible not to care about. You root for her and, at times, you hurt for her too.

The ending does not feel incomplete, but it does leave room for a possible sequel. Or maybe that is just me not wanting to let go of these characters.

Definitely five stars. Do yourself a favor and put this book at the top of your reading list!
233 reviews8 followers
July 26, 2026
I loved this book. It should come with two warnings however - it will keep you reading late into the night and you need the box of tissues handy.

WWII romances are books I always enjoy and this one truly delivered. It had the historical detail that brings these books to life (eg sugar rationing) and a storyline that kept me reading addictively, never wanting the story to stop. This book took me on an emotional journey from the highs and to the lows and everywhere in between. It is not often I come across a book that makes me feel the emotions like this one has. I was totally immersed in this story and couldn't stop thinking about it. I would love to know what happens next with the characters ... a sequel please.

There were themes of heartbreak, healing, social divides and the security of home.  There were vivid descriptions of places and dress that really had me picturing it in my mind. I loved the Christian message throughout, All together this created a book that I know I will read again and again. I totally recommend it.

Fayla Ott is a new to me author but one that I have added to my must read list. I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kristin Whitlow.
24 reviews3 followers
August 1, 2026
This novel is described as historical fiction, but aside from being set during World War II, the historical setting feels largely incidental. There are few, if any, meaningful historical events, battles, or wartime struggles woven into the story. In many ways, the plot could have taken place during almost any period of conflict in which a loved one was sent overseas.

I also had a difficult time connecting with the characters. Relationships develop so quickly that I never felt I knew the characters well enough to become invested in their love story. Several major plot points and significant life events are glossed over with very little detail, making the emotional moments feel rushed. While the story includes loss and tragedy, the limited character development made it difficult to experience the emotional weight the author seemed to be aiming for.

That said, the story has a gentle, wholesome quality, and I appreciated the strong faith element. The author portrays seasons of doubt, struggle, and spiritual crisis in a realistic way, ultimately pointing readers back to trusting God. While the novel wasn’t a favorite for me, readers who enjoy light, faith-based romance may still find it appealing.
Profile Image for Jeanette Durkin.
1,756 reviews60 followers
August 9, 2026
This is a wonderful book! My emotions were all over the place. There were some very sad times, and some good times. The ending was neither happy nor sad but a place in between. A place filled with hope and grace.

The characters are relatable and genuine. I was invested in their "lives" and I hope that the author writes another book that offers closure for a few characters. Lila is a "person" that I have mixed feelings about. She often made decisions that baffled me. On the flip side of that, she's compassionate, kind and loyal. Graham also made decisions that baffled me. He often thought that his decisions wouldn't affect people the way that they did. Nate is the one for whom my heart breaks. He's a nice, dependable guy and his heart gets trampled on time after time.

One of the themes that resonated with me is that God is faithful. Horrible things can happen: people die, relationships crumble and some seasons last forever. But, .."God who carried them through every season they thought would surely break them." He is faithful every day, in every season, forever.

I was provided a complimentary ARC copy of the book from the author through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 15, 2026
A Beautifully Real Story

I really don't know where to begin to describe this book. It was beautiful, hopeful, heartbreaking at times and uplifting. I certainly cried for the characters at times, but it wasn't a sad story- but it was incredibly real. I won't read a book if it's not a definite happily-ever-after and at times I was sure this was going to end sadly because the situations and choices just didn't seem to allow for a happy ending-but somehow it did. There's no pretence that the characters lives can be neatly wrapped up with a perfect little bow and all the loose ends are wrapped up and everyone goes on to live perfect lives. Fayla has embraced the messiness and complexity of real life while managing to keep the warmth and hope and deep joy that is also present in this world. To Fly on Broken Wings is beautiful, messy, and won't let you stop turning pages till the end. Beautifully written. It's rare I absolutely love a book written this century, but this one is going on the shelf with my favourites.

A must read if you like historical fiction, real characters, and unique plots.
Profile Image for Jess.
40 reviews3 followers
July 28, 2026
To Fly on Broken Wings Book Review

This book is so eloquently written and beautifully tells the tale of two friends who are living during the era of WWII. The author writes so wonderfully that the reader truly feels that s/he is living this book right along with the characters. Following the lives of these two friends and their loves, losses, friendships, and way of life during a time that was tumultuous at best, the reader will laugh, cry, rejoice, and live every moment.

This book is absolutely one that keeps you, the reader, on your toes! The circumstances are not what you think they will be and the characters' decisions keep you on the edge of your seat! I couldn’t believe some of the twists and turns this story takes!!

As an avid reader, I genuinely love reading Christian fiction, but Christian historical fiction is probably my most favorite. This book is set during one of my favorite times to read about in fiction.

Thank you, Fayla Ott, for creating such a masterpiece and sharing it with your faithful readers! I am very excited to read your next wonderful work!!
Profile Image for Jeanette Fallon.
845 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 20, 2026
New author alert!  I can't tell you how excited I was to start reading this book. I never heard of Fayla Ott.  But the cover and title drew me in.  

Lila had a difficult childhood.  Her mother left when she was young. She stayed with her father. He needed her.  His problems became her problems. She was looked down upon by most.  

But one day a young pilot noticed her. Her world changed. He saw her beauty and her wisdom. He wanted to marry her despite his parents' objections.

This book really made me cry.  Lila's life before and after meeting Graham was one of tragedy and hope.  

Their love and marriage was interrupted by WWII.  Her struggles got to me.  I prayed she would have a happy ending.  I never imagined how the book actually ended.  I won't tell. You need to read it for yourself!

I was fortunate enough to receive an early reading copy to review from the author.  Believe me, I will now keep an eye out for future books by Fayla Ott. 

10 STARS!!
5 reviews
July 24, 2026
An unbelievably great book. Usually when reading a Christian fiction book, once you have read the 1st chapter, you know how the book is going to go & what is going to happen. This isn't the case with To Fly on Broken Wings. I was continually surprised by happenings in the book, so much so, I didn't know how the book was going to end until the very end of the book.

I love how Fayla Ott makes her characters come alive & you can put yourself in their shoes. Makes you stop & think how would I handle the situation if it was happening to me. Above all, I love how her books challenges your relationship with God. And this book was no different. Throughout the course of the book, I have to stop & think about what I would do in the different situations and would I trust God in those circumstances.

Another one of her books, that I will read time & time again. You will not regret purchasing this book.
7 reviews
July 31, 2026
This is one of those books that lingers in your heart long after you've finished the last page.

I didn't just read this story—I felt like I lived it. Fayla Ott created characters with so much depth that I became completely invested in their lives. Their heartbreak, courage, and hope felt incredibly real, and there were moments that genuinely brought tears to my eyes.

I also loved how the story explored the complicated realities of war. It wasn't simply about historical events; it was about the people whose lives were forever changed by them. That emotional depth is what made this book so powerful for me.
Even now, I'm still thinking about these characters and their journey.

Historical fiction fans who love character-driven stories full of heart will definitely want to pick this one up.

Thank you, Fayla Ott, for trusting me with an advance reader copy. It was an unforgettable reading experience.
250 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2026
This story starts before the US is involved in WWII. Lila has a very troubled childhood, her mother left both her father and Lila. Her father didn't deal very well with it and she ended up taking care of him more than the other way around. She never finished school and the main part starts close to her 19th birthday.

Graham is a crop duster pilot, from a well-to-do family in a town some miles from her hometown. He sees her during one of his runs and begins to find reasons to be in her town. Soon they are dating and being from opposite sides of town doesn't stop the romance.

There's marriages, deaths, war, birth and friends that change causing relationships to fracture or grow in unexpected paths. Much of the story focuses on those left at home during the war. How everyone copes and deals with the differences in their loved ones when they do return, makes for a very powerful story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,340 reviews500 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 19, 2026
This is a WWII story, a story begins with the opinion that the US is to stay neutral, but as we know things happen and we are in the fight.
This is a boy meets girl story, with a happy ending? Not with a war going on, life is in turmoil.
Now the boy, young man has a passion for flying, and you can guess with a war on whom becomes a great demand. Off goes Graham, not long after they are married. Life continues, and we are there as she is left with his family.
Life doesn't always turn out like we want and this read sure has a lot of twist and turns, some really sad moments, and some very heart warming.
This is a beautifully written Christian read, I became so involved in the lives of these characters, impossible decisions, and yet?
A don't miss read, full of life's choices.
I received this book through Net Galley and Heritage House Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
607 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 21, 2026
I'm always on the lookout for new authors and I really hit the jackpot with Fayla Ott! I first saw the cover of this book on Facebook and I was intrigued. After I read the blurb, I knew I had to read it, especially when I found out it was set in the Delta less than 20 miles from where I live. I told myself that if she didn't at least mention mosquitoes in this book, she didn't do her research. She did! She also took some of the most imperfect characters and wove a story that will break you, put you back together, and break you again. I love the banter between the characters and I ache for them through their search for a God they aren't even sure exists. This book will grab you by your shirtfront, shove you in your chair, and won't let you up until you turn the last page. And then it's over before you are ready.
752 reviews8 followers
August 11, 2026
This is a very well written book with good character development. The first fourth of the book is a very sweet love story. I really liked Graham. The part I didn't care for was how Lila reacted when her father died and how it impacted the relationship with her husband. Then the war complicated everything. I could appreciate the complexities of the relationship between Lila and her mother-in-law and appreciated how Charlotte really tried to accept Lila into the family. I knew that the happily ever was not going to happen for everyone, which is why I wasn't sure I wanted to read the book. It is a great book and is worth reading.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
2,532 reviews70 followers
August 26, 2026
Excellent faith-based tale of WWII love and loss

Boy, nothing was simple in this book. I loved it but it sure caused the feelings to happen.

Lila is a simple country girl who meets more worldly Graham, who is a crop duster but also comes from a more wealthy family. They have strong feelings for each other from the beginning but don't let obstacles stand in their way.

Then WWII hits. And that might be one obstacle too many.

I loved the author's writing style, the setting, the side characters.

I'm not sure what choice I would have made at the end. I know why Lila made the one she did but I'm not sure I would have made the same one. Very emotional story.

I received this Digital Review Copy from Heritage House Publishing through NetGalley. Thank you.
Profile Image for Vicki F.
481 reviews58 followers
Read
September 22, 2026
You know when you are behind on your reading and need to get the book finished. Then you think, "I'll just do a quick read/scan?" You open the book and begin to read and before you know it, you are reading every...single...word? You don't want to miss a single detail. Yep! It's that kind of book. Full of laughter, tears, romance, more tears, and a tugging on your heart strings.

I originally chose to request reading the ARC of this book because I have a sister named Fayla and it was about WWII. I never thought it would develop into one of the best reads that I have had in some time.

Released July 24th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Monica.
47 reviews
July 16, 2026
I was given the opportunity to be part of the early access team for this book and I’m so grateful! I love historical fiction and this one is beautifully written. The characters feel so real. Lila struggles hard and I loved watching her come to depend on God and actually give Him the opportunity to sway her decisions. The grief felt raw and I felt it. I could feel Lila’s emotional struggle with feeling outcast and different from everyone else. Overall an incredible book and I can’t wait to purchase a copy
Profile Image for Elaine .
1,147 reviews66 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 18, 2026
To fly on a broken wing.
Fayla Ott.


A war story like no other, absolutely a wonderful story .

Lila rose, her story is like no other
Her story pulls at the heart strings. A girl who becomes Becoming a woman a mother a wife, and so much more.

The war began in 1941 ended by 1945.

Lila rose becomes the strong woman.She's expected to be.


Simply a wonderful story.
This is one of my favorite books.
I've read 77 books this year i've had three favorites, and this is one of them.
This is also a new author for me.And I absolutely loved this story.
598 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 20, 2026
This is an unique book set during WWII. It is by a new to me author but I gladly recommend her book.
The characters are well developed and I was able to connect with several. Their struggles with hard choices, control of life, and their faith in God were all realistic.
There is romance but it is more about true love, commitment, sacrifice, compassion and hard choices. Also God's faithfulness.
I will.only say there is both joy and great sadness. Don't want to spoil the story but warning you..
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 15, 2026
This is a story you will quickly become attached to the characters and feel like you are back in the 1940's with them. It made me feel all of the emotions from the first page to the last. You get such a feel of how it must have been like for the soldiers that had to go into the unknown and fight and for the ones that they had to leave behind and what they all had to endure. Highly recommend if you love stories set in this time period.
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