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A Poppy in Remembrance
Spanning three countries and the four years of World War I, A Poppy in Remembrance tells the epic story of a young American woman’s struggle to become a journalist in her father Jock Meacham’s world. As she searches for where she belongs professionally in London, Claire Meacham meets Reverend Oswald Chambers who opens her eyes to a completely different life. Working as Jock’s stenographer, Claire journeys to Egypt in 1916 where unbeknownst to him, she volunteers at Chambers’ YMCA ministry for ANZAC soldiers. Claire finds her heart divided between a YMCA worker and a New Zealand soldier, while her reporting opportunities increase. When Jock demands she choose between her family and her faith, Claire struggles to find a balance. Chambers’ death throws everything into confusion as she and Jock transfer to France for the final year of the ghastly war. Poppies mark WWI battlefields, but also serve as a mythological sign of hope. As Claire survives the final days of war in France, how will she find a way to encourage a ravaged world, a man to share it with and that elusive byline?
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2018
22 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Ule
17 books111 followersABOUT MY BOOK REVIEWS
IF NO STARS, it means I know the author, so, on principle I do not review unless I absolutely adore the book--and I will tell you why.
ONE STAR means I didn't like the book.
FIVE STARS are rare . . .
BIO
“Tell me a story,” has been my question since birth.
Since I love them so much, what better way to share the fun and interesting things I've learned than in writing stories myself?
I'm a “retired” Navy wife who has lived all over the United States and even Hawai’i.
Raised in San Pedro, California, a melting pot of many languages and cultures, I've traveled the world meeting people and laughing my way through ridiculous circumstances.
I love history, music, books, reading, my terrific family, amusing friends, travel opportunities and irony.
A New York Times and ECPA bestselling author of five novellas and a Navy SEAL novel, in 2017 I'm the biographer of Mrs. Oswald Chambers and essayist in Utmost Ongoing: Reflections on the Legacy of Oswald Chambers.
IN 2018, I published A Poppy in Remembrance, a World War I coming-of-age story.
You can learn more about me, my books, thoughts, stories and ideas at my website: www.michelleule.com
Note to readers: As part of my job as editorial assistant, I've been asked not to review books represented by Books & Such Literary Agency, though I can include them in my "read" list.
IF NO STARS, it means I know the author, so, on principle I do not review unless I absolutely adore the book--and I will tell you why.
ONE STAR means I didn't like the book.
FIVE STARS are rare . . .
BIO
“Tell me a story,” has been my question since birth.
Since I love them so much, what better way to share the fun and interesting things I've learned than in writing stories myself?
I'm a “retired” Navy wife who has lived all over the United States and even Hawai’i.
Raised in San Pedro, California, a melting pot of many languages and cultures, I've traveled the world meeting people and laughing my way through ridiculous circumstances.
I love history, music, books, reading, my terrific family, amusing friends, travel opportunities and irony.
A New York Times and ECPA bestselling author of five novellas and a Navy SEAL novel, in 2017 I'm the biographer of Mrs. Oswald Chambers and essayist in Utmost Ongoing: Reflections on the Legacy of Oswald Chambers.
IN 2018, I published A Poppy in Remembrance, a World War I coming-of-age story.
You can learn more about me, my books, thoughts, stories and ideas at my website: www.michelleule.com
Note to readers: As part of my job as editorial assistant, I've been asked not to review books represented by Books & Such Literary Agency, though I can include them in my "read" list.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 12, 2018
Sweeping from London to Cairo to Paris, A Poppy in Remembrance by Michelle Ule traces the poppy-strewn path of the First World War. Through the eyes of a plucky young woman trying to make a name for herself in journalism, we see the devastation of the war on a grand and on a personal level. The faith, courage, and optimism of Oswald Chambers (author of the classic devotional My Utmost for His Highest) and his wife, Biddy, have a great influence on Claire - and on the reader. A sweet and touching romance adds to the appeal of this beautifully written novel. Highly recommended!
February 3, 2019
There were so many things to love about this book. Spanning three countries, England, Egypt, and France as Claire Meacham and her father Jock, a journalist for the Boston News Service, along with her mother travel for her father's coverage of World War I. Claire is a trained stenographer so works with her father, but her true dream is to become a news journalist like her father. This book is a true coming of age story as Claire grows in her faith and her understanding of love and life.
Ule's writing was extremely descriptive without being too graphic as Jock covers the various war fronts. She brought WWI to life as you pictured what the citizens of each country were enduring. From the busy streets of London, to the deserts sands and heat of Egypt, and to the death trenches of France, I felt like I was right there as the war was taking place. Her characterizations were amazing. Claire's mother, Anna, playing the high society lady to garner information from the officer's wives. Nigel and Jock the strong atheists. Jim the quiet, introspective YMCA worker. Each played an important role throughout the story. The inclusion of Oswald and Biddy Chambers and their Christian work throughout the War with the YMCA was a special part of this book. I am sure each of the soldiers whose lives they touched were never the same again.
The final thing that touched me was the role the poppies played in the book. I remember as a child that Nov 11 was called Remembrance Day or Poppy Day and Veterans would pass out artificial poppies in front of the stores for people to wear. . I knew about the poppies from the Field of Flanders poem, but never really understood their significance. I'll close with two quotes from the book that tell of their significance:
"Poppies spring up on land near freshly buried corpses...They were a gift for Demeter, to remind her of Persephone left in the underground. Poppies symbolize remembering the hopeful in the midst of the difficult."
"Claire the plucky poppy stands up despite the slaughter all around her. The little red flowers flourish in the sunshine and remind us tomorrow will be another day." "The poppy flourishes after the seeds lie dormant for years. It's when events churn the soil around them they germinate. What does the poppy teach? A glimpse of the future, life goes on, beauty can survive ugliness, and hope exists in the world.
This book helped me remember my grandfather, Sgt Albert Lowery, who served with the Canadian Expeditionary Forces in England and France. He was gassed with mustard gas and had heart problems the rest of his life. This is a book I will read and enjoy again, and I highly recommend it.
** I received a complimentary copy from the author in a Facebook giveaway to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
Ule's writing was extremely descriptive without being too graphic as Jock covers the various war fronts. She brought WWI to life as you pictured what the citizens of each country were enduring. From the busy streets of London, to the deserts sands and heat of Egypt, and to the death trenches of France, I felt like I was right there as the war was taking place. Her characterizations were amazing. Claire's mother, Anna, playing the high society lady to garner information from the officer's wives. Nigel and Jock the strong atheists. Jim the quiet, introspective YMCA worker. Each played an important role throughout the story. The inclusion of Oswald and Biddy Chambers and their Christian work throughout the War with the YMCA was a special part of this book. I am sure each of the soldiers whose lives they touched were never the same again.
The final thing that touched me was the role the poppies played in the book. I remember as a child that Nov 11 was called Remembrance Day or Poppy Day and Veterans would pass out artificial poppies in front of the stores for people to wear. . I knew about the poppies from the Field of Flanders poem, but never really understood their significance. I'll close with two quotes from the book that tell of their significance:
"Poppies spring up on land near freshly buried corpses...They were a gift for Demeter, to remind her of Persephone left in the underground. Poppies symbolize remembering the hopeful in the midst of the difficult."
"Claire the plucky poppy stands up despite the slaughter all around her. The little red flowers flourish in the sunshine and remind us tomorrow will be another day." "The poppy flourishes after the seeds lie dormant for years. It's when events churn the soil around them they germinate. What does the poppy teach? A glimpse of the future, life goes on, beauty can survive ugliness, and hope exists in the world.
This book helped me remember my grandfather, Sgt Albert Lowery, who served with the Canadian Expeditionary Forces in England and France. He was gassed with mustard gas and had heart problems the rest of his life. This is a book I will read and enjoy again, and I highly recommend it.
** I received a complimentary copy from the author in a Facebook giveaway to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
March 28, 2022
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. There were things I really liked, and things that I didn’t like. I don’t know if I can sort all my feelings into a review that makes sense or not, but I’ll try.
Thinks I liked:
The setting. Having done a lot of research and writing about WWI, I enjoyed reading another story set in London, Egypt, and France during that time. It was fun to have a glimpse of T. E. Lawrence, and read more about the war in Africa and the Middle East and not just Europe. I also enjoyed having Oswald Chambers and his family in the story.
The characters. I enjoyed Claire, and Jim, and Peter, and all the rest. And having Oswald and Biddy Chambers in the story was fun as well, even if there were a few times when the conversations felt a bit stiff and not natural.
There were some good thoughts on the war and what was going on socially in places.
There were some characters I didn’t really like, but that’s to be expected.
I never felt connected with the characters in a way that made me feel their pain or sorrow. That might have been partly because it covers so much time and it jumps times often. I was drawn into the story and it was well written and kept my attention, but I can’t say I really sympathized with them.
Things I didn’t like:
In the first place, Claire is not a Christian. She’s had no upbringing in Christian things and yet, when she went to the Bible Training School, she never had the Gospel explained to her. She was never told that she was a sinner and needed to accept God’s forgiveness which He offered through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. She was just basically told to read the Bible and pray. And she started praying for people and felt better. That made me wonder if salvation was actually mentioned in this book. It really wasn’t. And because it wasn’t, it made me wonder if Oswald Chambers really preached the gospel to the troops or not. I’m sure he did, but this book didn’t make it seem like it.
Several times it was mentioned that someone “absolved” someone else of sin. Are they God? The Bible clearly states that only God can forgive sin.
And one time Claire was pretty much told she was lying and disobeying her parents because she was coming to learn about the Bible and what it was about but hadn’t told her father because he wouldn’t approve. Her mother knew. According to this book she was sinning even though she was over 20. Does this mean that if a child wants to know about Jesus and has to come to church without telling one parent, she shouldn’t come and find out about God and salvation? That’s the impression I got. Not sure if that’s the author’s view, or if that’s what she thinks would have happened during that time period, or if she thinks that’s what Oswald and Biddy Chambers would have thought.
It was stated that Influenza killed in the first 24 hours. Um, I’m not sure where that idea came from since in all my research and reading, I have never heard of it before. And it doesn’t fit with all the facts.
Because of all that, I'm undecided about this book. I wouldn't hand it to just anyone, but if a reader was going into it knowing that there were some issues, and they liked history, they might enjoy it. But I don't know if I'd recommend it.
Thinks I liked:
The setting. Having done a lot of research and writing about WWI, I enjoyed reading another story set in London, Egypt, and France during that time. It was fun to have a glimpse of T. E. Lawrence, and read more about the war in Africa and the Middle East and not just Europe. I also enjoyed having Oswald Chambers and his family in the story.
The characters. I enjoyed Claire, and Jim, and Peter, and all the rest. And having Oswald and Biddy Chambers in the story was fun as well, even if there were a few times when the conversations felt a bit stiff and not natural.
There were some good thoughts on the war and what was going on socially in places.
There were some characters I didn’t really like, but that’s to be expected.
I never felt connected with the characters in a way that made me feel their pain or sorrow. That might have been partly because it covers so much time and it jumps times often. I was drawn into the story and it was well written and kept my attention, but I can’t say I really sympathized with them.
Things I didn’t like:
In the first place, Claire is not a Christian. She’s had no upbringing in Christian things and yet, when she went to the Bible Training School, she never had the Gospel explained to her. She was never told that she was a sinner and needed to accept God’s forgiveness which He offered through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. She was just basically told to read the Bible and pray. And she started praying for people and felt better. That made me wonder if salvation was actually mentioned in this book. It really wasn’t. And because it wasn’t, it made me wonder if Oswald Chambers really preached the gospel to the troops or not. I’m sure he did, but this book didn’t make it seem like it.
Several times it was mentioned that someone “absolved” someone else of sin. Are they God? The Bible clearly states that only God can forgive sin.
And one time Claire was pretty much told she was lying and disobeying her parents because she was coming to learn about the Bible and what it was about but hadn’t told her father because he wouldn’t approve. Her mother knew. According to this book she was sinning even though she was over 20. Does this mean that if a child wants to know about Jesus and has to come to church without telling one parent, she shouldn’t come and find out about God and salvation? That’s the impression I got. Not sure if that’s the author’s view, or if that’s what she thinks would have happened during that time period, or if she thinks that’s what Oswald and Biddy Chambers would have thought.
It was stated that Influenza killed in the first 24 hours. Um, I’m not sure where that idea came from since in all my research and reading, I have never heard of it before. And it doesn’t fit with all the facts.
Because of all that, I'm undecided about this book. I wouldn't hand it to just anyone, but if a reader was going into it knowing that there were some issues, and they liked history, they might enjoy it. But I don't know if I'd recommend it.
December 10, 2018
One hundred years ago, the war to end all wars ended, leaving the world a very different place, and, ironically, setting the stage for the next world war. Geographic boundaries would shift and entire countries would be swallowed up or renamed, but even more seismic changes were at work in the spiritual realm as hearts were softened and minds were startled awake by the devastation and loss of life.
Oswald Chambers is best known for the classic devotional work My Utmost for His Highest, but some of his most important pastoral work happened against the backdrop of World War I as he ministered to troops stationed in Egypt. In A Poppy in Remembrance, Michelle Ule, author of the biography covering the life of Chambers’s wife Biddy, has applied her sanctified imagination to a subject she knows well–the lives of Oswald and Biddy Chambers–and has created a cast of realistic and relatable characters who were impacted by the Chambers’s ministry.
A Story and a Message
Claire Meacham grew up to the staccato of typewriters and the echoing excitement of whatever was in the news as she traveled the world with her father Jock, collecting stories for the Boston Newspaper Syndicate. Radcliffe-educated and American-born, Claire ached to see her own byline in newsprint, but, stationed in a conservative London newsroom, found herself perpetually thwarted by cultural bias and her parents; insistence that she devote herself to more “appropriate” womanly pursuits. Given the task of transcribing notes from her father’s war reporting, Claire was haunted by the appalling numbers of casualties and the descriptions of war on a colossal scale, and, after hearing biblical truth through Chambers’ ministry, she turned to Christ, first as a coping mechanism to survive the war, but ultimately as a Savior and reliable Guide for her future.
Ule anchors her characters in early 20th century England and France with vivid multi-sensory descriptions of honking taxis and rumbling horse drawn transports that combined for nose-assaulting bedlam — this along with an affluent socialite aunt who played bridge with “Clemmie” Churchill and a worship service in which Robert E. Lee’s disenfranchised daughter turns up veiled in black and wandering Europe.
Relevant Counsel from Chambers
Chambers’s counsel to Claire in her spiritual pilgrimage comes directly from the pages of his sermon notes, so not only does it ring true, but it applies to present day believers as well:
“I find it helps to brood on the unknown and let it sit in your soul.” (33)
“Sanctification means intense concentration on God’s point of view. Every power of body, soul, and spirit are chained and kept for God’s purpose.” (121)
Through Claire’s eyes, the reader experiences the heat, the lice, and the drills of soldiers deployed in Egypt and also the heartache and terror of the European front that hit close to home and left grief in its wake. With nearly 17 million deaths all tolled, many emerged from their experience of World War I without hope. Even the poppies that sprouted from soil churned by tanks and soldiers’ boots were taken as a symbol of the war and a sign that beauty can, indeed, survive ugliness, but lasting hope comes only through submitting one’s entire life to the God who already owns it.
Our yesterdays present irreparable things to us; it is true that we have lost opportunities which will never return, but God can transform this destructive anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness for the future. Let the past sleep, but let it sleep on the bosom of Christ. Leave the irreparable past in His hands, and step out into the irresistible future with Him.” ~Oswald Chambers (397)
Many thinks to the author for providing this book to facilitate my review which is, of course, offered freely and with complete honesty.
Oswald Chambers is best known for the classic devotional work My Utmost for His Highest, but some of his most important pastoral work happened against the backdrop of World War I as he ministered to troops stationed in Egypt. In A Poppy in Remembrance, Michelle Ule, author of the biography covering the life of Chambers’s wife Biddy, has applied her sanctified imagination to a subject she knows well–the lives of Oswald and Biddy Chambers–and has created a cast of realistic and relatable characters who were impacted by the Chambers’s ministry.
A Story and a Message
Claire Meacham grew up to the staccato of typewriters and the echoing excitement of whatever was in the news as she traveled the world with her father Jock, collecting stories for the Boston Newspaper Syndicate. Radcliffe-educated and American-born, Claire ached to see her own byline in newsprint, but, stationed in a conservative London newsroom, found herself perpetually thwarted by cultural bias and her parents; insistence that she devote herself to more “appropriate” womanly pursuits. Given the task of transcribing notes from her father’s war reporting, Claire was haunted by the appalling numbers of casualties and the descriptions of war on a colossal scale, and, after hearing biblical truth through Chambers’ ministry, she turned to Christ, first as a coping mechanism to survive the war, but ultimately as a Savior and reliable Guide for her future.
Ule anchors her characters in early 20th century England and France with vivid multi-sensory descriptions of honking taxis and rumbling horse drawn transports that combined for nose-assaulting bedlam — this along with an affluent socialite aunt who played bridge with “Clemmie” Churchill and a worship service in which Robert E. Lee’s disenfranchised daughter turns up veiled in black and wandering Europe.
Relevant Counsel from Chambers
Chambers’s counsel to Claire in her spiritual pilgrimage comes directly from the pages of his sermon notes, so not only does it ring true, but it applies to present day believers as well:
“I find it helps to brood on the unknown and let it sit in your soul.” (33)
“Sanctification means intense concentration on God’s point of view. Every power of body, soul, and spirit are chained and kept for God’s purpose.” (121)
Through Claire’s eyes, the reader experiences the heat, the lice, and the drills of soldiers deployed in Egypt and also the heartache and terror of the European front that hit close to home and left grief in its wake. With nearly 17 million deaths all tolled, many emerged from their experience of World War I without hope. Even the poppies that sprouted from soil churned by tanks and soldiers’ boots were taken as a symbol of the war and a sign that beauty can, indeed, survive ugliness, but lasting hope comes only through submitting one’s entire life to the God who already owns it.
Our yesterdays present irreparable things to us; it is true that we have lost opportunities which will never return, but God can transform this destructive anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness for the future. Let the past sleep, but let it sleep on the bosom of Christ. Leave the irreparable past in His hands, and step out into the irresistible future with Him.” ~Oswald Chambers (397)
Many thinks to the author for providing this book to facilitate my review which is, of course, offered freely and with complete honesty.
July 9, 2021
This historical story followed Claire as she strives to become a journalist during WWI. The intermingle of the life of Oswald Chambers and his family was marvelous to get a glimpse of their strong faith, determination to share God’s love and Word wherever they went. I appreciate the insight into the earlier years of the YMCA during this era in serving overseas for military personnel.
There are complex characters, plots that are heartbreaking, accomplishments and hardships of military men and their families and journalists to gain the truth for the news plus times faith is grown and developed during the dark days. Add in some romance for Claire and this is a worthwhile read.
I borrowed this book from a family member and was under no obligation to write a review. I have shared my own thoughts.
There are complex characters, plots that are heartbreaking, accomplishments and hardships of military men and their families and journalists to gain the truth for the news plus times faith is grown and developed during the dark days. Add in some romance for Claire and this is a worthwhile read.
I borrowed this book from a family member and was under no obligation to write a review. I have shared my own thoughts.
November 20, 2021
I’m not usually one to read historical fiction, but I really enjoyed this book. It was a wonderful balance of WWI history and the intriguing story of Claire Meachum, a young lady trying to navigate her way in the male dominated profession of being a news reporter while struggling what it means to have faith in Jesus. I loved learning more about Oswald Chambers and Biddy, his wife, and the work they did to share the love of God during that time period.
May 17, 2019
One of the reasons I love historical fiction is that it gives me the chance to learn things about our world that I never knew before, or perhaps didn't retain if I ever did know them. In A Poppy in Remembrance, Michelle Ule brings to life some sides of The Great War that I have not seen explored in fiction - specifically the African campaigns and the work of the YMCA. In addition, real life historical figure Oswald Chambers is a prominent secondary character, giving the novel extra draw for those who - like myself! - have been blessed by Chambers' legacy.
Our heroine in this story is Claire Meacham, a young woman having grown up in her journalist father's shadow who now desires to become a foreign correspondent herself. Though journalism is a male-dominated field, the war is taking all the young men off to fight, leaving Claire an opening to assist her father and grow in the craft of writing. She works tirelessly and faithfully, longing for the day when she can see her own byline in print.
Duty calls them to Egypt, where Claire's father had been stationed once before. The demanding climate and family history in the area make it a challenging stay, but allows Claire and her mother to assist Oswald and Biddy Chambers whenever they have opportunity. Claire's burgeoning faith begins to grow.
This story opens in 1914 and stretches all the way to the signing of the armistice on Nov. 11, 1918. It covers many different settings - not just Egypt but also London, Paris, and even the front line trenches. I could tell this novel was well-researched and thorough in its presentation of The Great War and how it affected the citizens of the world, specifically those in Europe.
Although Claire is in her twenties during the whole novel, it often reads like young adult fiction. I wouldn't hesitate to hand this over to any history-minded youngster. The emotions of the characters were harder to access, leaving me feeling disconnected and puzzled by their reaction to things around them. I couldn't predict whether Claire would be sad, angry, or happy at events as they unfolded. Overall, however, this book taught me a lot of history that had escaped my notice before, and I appreciated that about it.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
Our heroine in this story is Claire Meacham, a young woman having grown up in her journalist father's shadow who now desires to become a foreign correspondent herself. Though journalism is a male-dominated field, the war is taking all the young men off to fight, leaving Claire an opening to assist her father and grow in the craft of writing. She works tirelessly and faithfully, longing for the day when she can see her own byline in print.
Duty calls them to Egypt, where Claire's father had been stationed once before. The demanding climate and family history in the area make it a challenging stay, but allows Claire and her mother to assist Oswald and Biddy Chambers whenever they have opportunity. Claire's burgeoning faith begins to grow.
This story opens in 1914 and stretches all the way to the signing of the armistice on Nov. 11, 1918. It covers many different settings - not just Egypt but also London, Paris, and even the front line trenches. I could tell this novel was well-researched and thorough in its presentation of The Great War and how it affected the citizens of the world, specifically those in Europe.
Although Claire is in her twenties during the whole novel, it often reads like young adult fiction. I wouldn't hesitate to hand this over to any history-minded youngster. The emotions of the characters were harder to access, leaving me feeling disconnected and puzzled by their reaction to things around them. I couldn't predict whether Claire would be sad, angry, or happy at events as they unfolded. Overall, however, this book taught me a lot of history that had escaped my notice before, and I appreciated that about it.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
May 6, 2019
Review Title: WWI Loves and Losses from a Woman Journalist's Viewpoint (review of A Poppy in Remembrance by Michelle Ule)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
***** 5 Stars
Michelle Ule has written a page turning account of a lady who prepared to be a journalist at a time when ladies did not consider such possibilities. Set during WWI, the novel is fascinating with its accurate historical details of prominent people and places of the time. The tragedies of WWI are not glossed over, but expect no graphic violence in the book. The reader is left to their imagination for scenes of wartime brutality. However, the results of the aches felt by those losing loved ones to the war are touchingly portrayed.
The main character, Claire Meacham, finds herself needed to prepare articles to help her father in his journalist position as wartime correspondent. Over the years she acquired skills and kept putting herself in the right place at the right time to hopefully break through traditional barriers that kept women out of important positions in journalism. Her diligence and tenacity paid off.
A love story develops as Claire is pursued to be a romantic partner, and she is not sure how she truly feels about her admirer whose values don't mesh well with her own. She has two strong examples of true married love which she observes in her parents relationship and in the spiritual and eternal union in the Oswald and Biddy Chambers marriage.
A rich history of the Bible Training College and the ministry of Oswald Chambers during WWI makes the story worth reading for that alone, but so much more awaits the reader who follows the well developed characters through the reporting of the war.
Lawrence of Arabia makes an appearance in the book to draw in readers who are not as familiar with much of WWI history. Seeing the war from the journalist's point of view and being privy to behind the scenes restrictions as to what they can and can not report adds fascination and engagement for the reader. Censoring supposedly helped with security and morale.
This story would be a perfect read for anyone interested in WWI, or for those wanting wartime love stories, and for those wanting to see behind the scenes of the ministry of Oswald Chambers. It is also a great revealing of the difficulties of women who desired to break in to the male dominated careers such as journalism during that time period. Rich character development, a well paced plot, foreign settings, and believable struggles of those deciding whether the Christian life and faith is to be surrendered to makes this book a joy to read.
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
***** 5 Stars
Michelle Ule has written a page turning account of a lady who prepared to be a journalist at a time when ladies did not consider such possibilities. Set during WWI, the novel is fascinating with its accurate historical details of prominent people and places of the time. The tragedies of WWI are not glossed over, but expect no graphic violence in the book. The reader is left to their imagination for scenes of wartime brutality. However, the results of the aches felt by those losing loved ones to the war are touchingly portrayed.
The main character, Claire Meacham, finds herself needed to prepare articles to help her father in his journalist position as wartime correspondent. Over the years she acquired skills and kept putting herself in the right place at the right time to hopefully break through traditional barriers that kept women out of important positions in journalism. Her diligence and tenacity paid off.
A love story develops as Claire is pursued to be a romantic partner, and she is not sure how she truly feels about her admirer whose values don't mesh well with her own. She has two strong examples of true married love which she observes in her parents relationship and in the spiritual and eternal union in the Oswald and Biddy Chambers marriage.
A rich history of the Bible Training College and the ministry of Oswald Chambers during WWI makes the story worth reading for that alone, but so much more awaits the reader who follows the well developed characters through the reporting of the war.
Lawrence of Arabia makes an appearance in the book to draw in readers who are not as familiar with much of WWI history. Seeing the war from the journalist's point of view and being privy to behind the scenes restrictions as to what they can and can not report adds fascination and engagement for the reader. Censoring supposedly helped with security and morale.
This story would be a perfect read for anyone interested in WWI, or for those wanting wartime love stories, and for those wanting to see behind the scenes of the ministry of Oswald Chambers. It is also a great revealing of the difficulties of women who desired to break in to the male dominated careers such as journalism during that time period. Rich character development, a well paced plot, foreign settings, and believable struggles of those deciding whether the Christian life and faith is to be surrendered to makes this book a joy to read.
October 26, 2018
I was drawn into this book right from the beginning. I wanted to know what would happen in the life of Claire. Would she become the journalist she longed to be, even though such a thing was almost unheard of in her day? Would she marry one of the young men currently in her life? Would they survive the great war that was raging in the world? How would the war change her life and that of those she loved? I did find the answers that I sought for all of these questions. I also found that I missed Claire when the novel was finished.
I haven't read many novels that take place during the first world war. I know Michelle's research is impeccable and that I could trust her to get the details right. That is important to me when I read historical fiction. I also want to be interested in the characters and want them multifaceted. I found all of this to be true of this novel.
I received this book free to do an honest review.
I haven't read many novels that take place during the first world war. I know Michelle's research is impeccable and that I could trust her to get the details right. That is important to me when I read historical fiction. I also want to be interested in the characters and want them multifaceted. I found all of this to be true of this novel.
I received this book free to do an honest review.
November 17, 2018
Claire Meacham’s dream of being a reporter was about to come true, but she never dreamed it would be under such terrifying circumstances. Britain declared war; hundreds of young men were enlisting. This created holes in the newsroom. Jock Meacham (Claire’s dad) ran the news room. He knew she had a nose for news, she had a talent for writing and checking copy and it didn’t hurt that her short hand speed was 175 WPM. Jock wasn’t going to cut Claire any slack he explained the rules, they needed to be followed period the end. Journalism was a male-dominated field. If she really wanted this job, she’d have to be tough, do what he said, and there would be no crying. She knew people needed to know what was happening out on the battle field. That was easier said than done, when the story came in she thought, …”I tell myself to act like a machine, not a person. If I don’t picture what the words describe. I can do my job.”
Claire’s mother Anne says to her, “You need to follow your dreams. Why do you think your father allowed you to work in the newsroom?”
I felt like I was in Claire’s shoes as she wrestled to do what it took to report the news. I appreciated her transparency in the struggle and how she relied on God’s strength to do the impossible.
I loved that this story was told from a reporter’s point of view through Claire and her father Jock’s eyes. I’d never read a WWI story through a reporter’s POV. It was a very different perspective. The author brilliantly wove in a natural faith message and gave the reader a well-rounded perspective as the reporter is interviewing family members, men on the battle field and in the trenches.
Jock told Claire…”Collect the facts. Examine them and apply information you know. Draw your own conclusions.” He wanted her to do this with everything including God. Her father didn’t want her to be taken in by a smooth-talking preacher. He told her, “You don’t need a God crutch. The BNS and I need your shorthand abilities. Your life won’t be lived in vain, trust me.”
Jim Hodges shows Claire around and teaches her the ropes of the newsroom. He mentions to Claire that he goes to Bible training classes. He invites her to meet Oswald and Biddy Chambers who teach at the Bible Training school. She had never met a preacher before. She is struck by his calm and humble deminer. He is not pushing anything just being real. She loves his wife Biddy and their daughter Kathleen. I had read Utmost for His Highest but didn’t know anything about the Chambers. I found this side of the story very interesting. I liked how the author followed Claire’s natural curiosity about God, herself and others. How did this war thing fit into the big scheme of things? Why didn’t God stop all of it?
I instantly connected with Claire and her family situation. I too was curious about God which made my parents uncomfortable because I wanted to go to church more than just Christmas and Easter. Jock and Anne went to St. Paul’s church every Sunday to be seen and to fact find Jock told Claire. But Claire wanted more. Her parents didn’t understand why. They were afraid this Mr. Chambers wanted to make Claire his disciple. Claire’s internal struggle was what to believe? Were her parents wrong, or was Oswald, right? The Chambers kept telling her to go get alone with God and hear from him; which was the struggle. How did she do that? …”Claire no longer thought her father possessed all the answers she’d need to find them for herself.”
Soon, Claire’s father leaves London, heads to Cairo, Egypt and Paris to cover the war. Her father wants to be on the front line to describe what’s happening. He tells his wife Anne who is worried about Claire being in the trenches, “First hand stories are powerful.
There Jock, Anne and Claire see another side of Oswald and Biddy Chambers in Cairo, Egypt. They all see the holy spirit move in mysterious ways which gets them thinking Claire might be onto something.
I couldn’t put this novel down as I became attached to this cast of characters and their situations; which showed no one was left untouched by war. The author paints a realistic view of the battle and the family dynamic I hadn’t realized and/or thought about before.
I liked that the story had hopeful and tender moments midst the ugliness of war. I enjoyed this heartfelt story filled with family, a splash of romance, courage humor and compassion all the while keeping the main thing the main thing. These characters and their situations will stay in your heart long after you close the book. This is the first novel I’ve read by this author it won’t be the last. This novel would work well as a book club pick too! There is so much to discuss.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher. 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
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://www.bookfun.org/page/past-iss...
Claire’s mother Anne says to her, “You need to follow your dreams. Why do you think your father allowed you to work in the newsroom?”
I felt like I was in Claire’s shoes as she wrestled to do what it took to report the news. I appreciated her transparency in the struggle and how she relied on God’s strength to do the impossible.
I loved that this story was told from a reporter’s point of view through Claire and her father Jock’s eyes. I’d never read a WWI story through a reporter’s POV. It was a very different perspective. The author brilliantly wove in a natural faith message and gave the reader a well-rounded perspective as the reporter is interviewing family members, men on the battle field and in the trenches.
Jock told Claire…”Collect the facts. Examine them and apply information you know. Draw your own conclusions.” He wanted her to do this with everything including God. Her father didn’t want her to be taken in by a smooth-talking preacher. He told her, “You don’t need a God crutch. The BNS and I need your shorthand abilities. Your life won’t be lived in vain, trust me.”
Jim Hodges shows Claire around and teaches her the ropes of the newsroom. He mentions to Claire that he goes to Bible training classes. He invites her to meet Oswald and Biddy Chambers who teach at the Bible Training school. She had never met a preacher before. She is struck by his calm and humble deminer. He is not pushing anything just being real. She loves his wife Biddy and their daughter Kathleen. I had read Utmost for His Highest but didn’t know anything about the Chambers. I found this side of the story very interesting. I liked how the author followed Claire’s natural curiosity about God, herself and others. How did this war thing fit into the big scheme of things? Why didn’t God stop all of it?
I instantly connected with Claire and her family situation. I too was curious about God which made my parents uncomfortable because I wanted to go to church more than just Christmas and Easter. Jock and Anne went to St. Paul’s church every Sunday to be seen and to fact find Jock told Claire. But Claire wanted more. Her parents didn’t understand why. They were afraid this Mr. Chambers wanted to make Claire his disciple. Claire’s internal struggle was what to believe? Were her parents wrong, or was Oswald, right? The Chambers kept telling her to go get alone with God and hear from him; which was the struggle. How did she do that? …”Claire no longer thought her father possessed all the answers she’d need to find them for herself.”
Soon, Claire’s father leaves London, heads to Cairo, Egypt and Paris to cover the war. Her father wants to be on the front line to describe what’s happening. He tells his wife Anne who is worried about Claire being in the trenches, “First hand stories are powerful.
There Jock, Anne and Claire see another side of Oswald and Biddy Chambers in Cairo, Egypt. They all see the holy spirit move in mysterious ways which gets them thinking Claire might be onto something.
I couldn’t put this novel down as I became attached to this cast of characters and their situations; which showed no one was left untouched by war. The author paints a realistic view of the battle and the family dynamic I hadn’t realized and/or thought about before.
I liked that the story had hopeful and tender moments midst the ugliness of war. I enjoyed this heartfelt story filled with family, a splash of romance, courage humor and compassion all the while keeping the main thing the main thing. These characters and their situations will stay in your heart long after you close the book. This is the first novel I’ve read by this author it won’t be the last. This novel would work well as a book club pick too! There is so much to discuss.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher. 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
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://www.bookfun.org/page/past-iss...
November 6, 2018
I love this novel. I am shaken, feeling closer to God, knowing that I want to walk ever closer to Him, and certain that I want Jesus to bloom on my life's many battlefields.
November 17, 2018
Prepare to be swept away to WWI in this book from Michelle Ule. Set in England, France, and Egypt, this book tells the story of a young woman trying to pursue her dream of becoming a reporter and how the war and those she meets along the way change her life. This is a story I will long remember.
This story is full of complex characters, fictional and real. The author does a great job of creating those characters readers will easily care about. I liked reading about Claire and her dream of becoming a news reporter, which was still very much a man's job during WWI. I liked her determination and strength. The author includes Oswald and Biddy Chambers who were real-life missionaries during the war. Claire not only struggles with her dream of becoming a reporter but also finding faith when it went against her parents' ideals. The relationship between Claire and her parents was at times tense but very realistic.
The story takes place during the entirety of WWI and the author does a fantastic job of describing the settings of all the countries Claire and her family live in. It was easy to imagine myself in England at the start of the war, under the hot sun of Egypt, and in France during the difficult final days of the war. It is easy to see the settings were well researched and it really made the story come to life.
There is a lot going on in this book as it's not only a story about a war and a young woman trying to find her way in a man's world. It also has a bit of romance in it and I thought the author did a great job of tying it all together to create a well-written story. A Poppy in Remembrance is a story that I won't soon forget. This was my first book by this author and I'm hoping to get my hands on more of her work as I love the way she brings history to life. This is a book I can easily recommend to fans of historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
This story is full of complex characters, fictional and real. The author does a great job of creating those characters readers will easily care about. I liked reading about Claire and her dream of becoming a news reporter, which was still very much a man's job during WWI. I liked her determination and strength. The author includes Oswald and Biddy Chambers who were real-life missionaries during the war. Claire not only struggles with her dream of becoming a reporter but also finding faith when it went against her parents' ideals. The relationship between Claire and her parents was at times tense but very realistic.
The story takes place during the entirety of WWI and the author does a fantastic job of describing the settings of all the countries Claire and her family live in. It was easy to imagine myself in England at the start of the war, under the hot sun of Egypt, and in France during the difficult final days of the war. It is easy to see the settings were well researched and it really made the story come to life.
There is a lot going on in this book as it's not only a story about a war and a young woman trying to find her way in a man's world. It also has a bit of romance in it and I thought the author did a great job of tying it all together to create a well-written story. A Poppy in Remembrance is a story that I won't soon forget. This was my first book by this author and I'm hoping to get my hands on more of her work as I love the way she brings history to life. This is a book I can easily recommend to fans of historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
November 26, 2018
A Poppy in Remembrance is one of the most artfully crafted novels that I've had the pleasure of reading. The author drew me into the story from the first page and although it takes place during World War 1, the focus is on the journalistic side of the conflict and not so much the battle itself.
I loved having the protagonist, Claire Meacham in her own battle against the male dominated occupation of journalism. I loved her determination and her strong faith but what I loved most of all is the mixture of real life characters with the fictional ones. It was interesting to read about Oswald and Biddy Chambers the real life missionaries that were an integral part of the story and of Claire's life. I enjoyed the time Claire spent at the Bible Training school and found the teachings of Oswald and Biddy uplifting and made me respect and appreciate not only them but all missionaries more than I already do.
The relationship between Jock and Claire was a bit fraught at times to put it mildly, but understandable to a certain degree because Claire is his daughter and he wanted her to be on her game while working in his world. I didn't like that both of her parents only went to church to be seen and when Claire wanted more it became a conflict which added to the story and held my attention.
The fact that the author touched on the family dynamic and not just the ugliness of the war was something else that made me love this book. There is something going on all the time in this book and yet Ms. Ule does an exceptional job of tying the characters together and leaving no loose ends. This is the first book that I've read by the author and now I'm anxious to read more of her work because I found her writing to be very much to my liking.
For fans of Historical fiction, I highly recommend adding this one to your Christmas list.
I received a copy from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
I loved having the protagonist, Claire Meacham in her own battle against the male dominated occupation of journalism. I loved her determination and her strong faith but what I loved most of all is the mixture of real life characters with the fictional ones. It was interesting to read about Oswald and Biddy Chambers the real life missionaries that were an integral part of the story and of Claire's life. I enjoyed the time Claire spent at the Bible Training school and found the teachings of Oswald and Biddy uplifting and made me respect and appreciate not only them but all missionaries more than I already do.
The relationship between Jock and Claire was a bit fraught at times to put it mildly, but understandable to a certain degree because Claire is his daughter and he wanted her to be on her game while working in his world. I didn't like that both of her parents only went to church to be seen and when Claire wanted more it became a conflict which added to the story and held my attention.
The fact that the author touched on the family dynamic and not just the ugliness of the war was something else that made me love this book. There is something going on all the time in this book and yet Ms. Ule does an exceptional job of tying the characters together and leaving no loose ends. This is the first book that I've read by the author and now I'm anxious to read more of her work because I found her writing to be very much to my liking.
For fans of Historical fiction, I highly recommend adding this one to your Christmas list.
I received a copy from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
November 1, 2018
As World War I breaks out, Claire Meacham struggles to carve out a place in the male-dominated world of journalism. She struggles to hang on to hope while war tears her world apart. When she meets Oswald and Biddy Chambers, she adds another challenge—how to live out the teaching of Scripture. As the war grinds on, her new-found faith is tested and stretched.
I like stories where I’m drawn into the story world so well that I feel like I’m there. An author’s ability to do this can be a problem in stories with ugly or painful settings. And WW I was certainly that. But Michelle Ule’s skill keeps this from being a depressing read. Much like Kristy Cambron’s novels of WW II and the Holocaust, Ule balances gritty historical fact with storylines that include tenderness, humor, and insight. She's done an amazing job of braiding together stories that could each be a book unto itself: history, biography, romance, and an interesting coming-of-age tale. She weaves the various elements with sparks of beauty, wit, and wisdom.
Her characters are realistically drawn with a wide variety of personalities, points of view, and burdens. Dialog is crisp, never superfluous. Ule’s descriptions are gripping, fresh, and engage the senses. The settings are captured so well that, rather than simply reading, at times I seemed to look at a painting. Other times, the sights and sounds were so real, I felt as if I’d stepped into a new land.
Claire’s journey is a poignant, powerful one with a satisfying ending.
I like stories where I’m drawn into the story world so well that I feel like I’m there. An author’s ability to do this can be a problem in stories with ugly or painful settings. And WW I was certainly that. But Michelle Ule’s skill keeps this from being a depressing read. Much like Kristy Cambron’s novels of WW II and the Holocaust, Ule balances gritty historical fact with storylines that include tenderness, humor, and insight. She's done an amazing job of braiding together stories that could each be a book unto itself: history, biography, romance, and an interesting coming-of-age tale. She weaves the various elements with sparks of beauty, wit, and wisdom.
Her characters are realistically drawn with a wide variety of personalities, points of view, and burdens. Dialog is crisp, never superfluous. Ule’s descriptions are gripping, fresh, and engage the senses. The settings are captured so well that, rather than simply reading, at times I seemed to look at a painting. Other times, the sights and sounds were so real, I felt as if I’d stepped into a new land.
Claire’s journey is a poignant, powerful one with a satisfying ending.
April 8, 2021
Ule has written a powerful novel spanning the four years of WWI. Her research makes the battles come alive, and her inclusion of historical figures like OC Chambers and General Pershing taught me things I never knew, especially about Chambers' ministry in the YMCA camps during the war. Her story takes us to Cairo, Paris, London.
Claire tries to break into the business of hard news - considered to be the realm of men only at that time. Her persistence, starting with stenography skills, then preparing details for her father to write, results in frustration when she writes copy he sends to the BNC under his own name. But she continues pursuing her dream.
There is romance in the story - one woman, two suitors. I felt Ule's descriptions of the different ways each made Claire feel rang true; and while I was eager to get to the end to learn what happened, ths is a novel I didn't want to see end. I will look for more of Ule's books, and highly recommend this one.
Claire tries to break into the business of hard news - considered to be the realm of men only at that time. Her persistence, starting with stenography skills, then preparing details for her father to write, results in frustration when she writes copy he sends to the BNC under his own name. But she continues pursuing her dream.
There is romance in the story - one woman, two suitors. I felt Ule's descriptions of the different ways each made Claire feel rang true; and while I was eager to get to the end to learn what happened, ths is a novel I didn't want to see end. I will look for more of Ule's books, and highly recommend this one.
January 31, 2019
I loved this book!
Claire Meacham was born into a newspaper family. She has printing ink in her blood and a nose for news. It’s not her fault she was born at a time when women could be teachers and stenographers, but not reporters. Nellie Bly, excepted.
World War I has broken out in Europe and Claire accompanies her parents to London, Egypt, and Paris, assisting her father in his quest for war news to wire back to the States. While in London, Claire crosses paths with renowned Bible teacher Oswald Chambers, his wife Biddy, and daughter Kathleen. Her life is changed by loss, by love, and by the Chambers family. In many ways.
Michelle Ule has crafted a rare work combining historical detail, emotional and spiritual depth, and compelling story.
I highly recommend it!
——–
I received an advance copy of the manuscript in exchange for an honest review.
Claire Meacham was born into a newspaper family. She has printing ink in her blood and a nose for news. It’s not her fault she was born at a time when women could be teachers and stenographers, but not reporters. Nellie Bly, excepted.
World War I has broken out in Europe and Claire accompanies her parents to London, Egypt, and Paris, assisting her father in his quest for war news to wire back to the States. While in London, Claire crosses paths with renowned Bible teacher Oswald Chambers, his wife Biddy, and daughter Kathleen. Her life is changed by loss, by love, and by the Chambers family. In many ways.
Michelle Ule has crafted a rare work combining historical detail, emotional and spiritual depth, and compelling story.
I highly recommend it!
——–
I received an advance copy of the manuscript in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2023
The Meachem family - Jock, Anne, and daughter Claire - arrived in London on the eve of the Great War. Jock, a long-time journalist for a Boston paper, has accepted this assignment for a variety of reasons, financial straits being one of them. They are staying with his wife Anne's sister who suddenly lost her husband. Claire, not yet 20, has been studying history at Radcliffe and dreams of becoming a reporter like her father. The novel is a coming of age story set against the drama of the First World War. Woven around Christian themes that touch on love, loss, purpose, desire, and faith, the story is well-crafted from beginning to end. Though predictable and lengthy, the author does a good job expressing the anxieties and fears of a young woman searching for a path forward in a life complicated by war.
October 26, 2018
Throughout the story I found myself hoping that Claire would be able to achieve her dream of becoming a reporter and find love.
This book is very well researched and well written, it made me feel like I was travelling around with Claire and her family amongst the war ravaged countries. Even though it has a satisfying ended, I felt as if I lost a friend and missed Claire as I closed the book after I had finished reading.
As must read for anyone who loves reading about history, WWI, or strong Christian people and their faith.
I received an ARC copy of the book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
This book is very well researched and well written, it made me feel like I was travelling around with Claire and her family amongst the war ravaged countries. Even though it has a satisfying ended, I felt as if I lost a friend and missed Claire as I closed the book after I had finished reading.
As must read for anyone who loves reading about history, WWI, or strong Christian people and their faith.
I received an ARC copy of the book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
January 13, 2019
A Poppy in Remembrance by Michelle Ule is a beautifully crafted story set in World War l. The story takes you to Egypt, France, and England along with Claire, a fledgeling news reporter, and her family.
Through, meeting Oswald and Biddy Chambers, Claire's faith is strengthened as the horrors of war ravage the European nations. Her family is not left untouched by this war as well. Yet, through everything, she remains a source of strength for her family and others. Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this book and romance readers as well. There are moments of bliss between Claire and another. An excellent book overall.
Through, meeting Oswald and Biddy Chambers, Claire's faith is strengthened as the horrors of war ravage the European nations. Her family is not left untouched by this war as well. Yet, through everything, she remains a source of strength for her family and others. Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this book and romance readers as well. There are moments of bliss between Claire and another. An excellent book overall.
November 1, 2018
I read this book because I loved reading the author's biography of Mrs. Oswald Chambers. Oswald Chambers is the author of the famous devotional, My Utmost for His Highest. Well, actually, Mrs. Oswald Chambers is the one who did the writing, but for more on that read the biography!
I read a lot of biographies and many are dry and boring, but Michelle Ule was able to keep me on the edge of my seat with her writing while I learned at the same time. So when I heard that Michelle came out with a new book, I was eager to read it!
This book, A Poppy in Remembrance, is so clever since the author imagined what it would be like for a young woman living during World War I to actually meet Oswald Chambers and his wife. So I appreciated the history that gets presented during the time. Plus this novel spans the entire length of World War I so I learned a little about the war and what people living during that time felt while the war was going on.
If you like historical fiction, I recommend this book. Especially if, like me, you miss shows like Downton Abby that transport you back to Edwardian times.
I read a lot of biographies and many are dry and boring, but Michelle Ule was able to keep me on the edge of my seat with her writing while I learned at the same time. So when I heard that Michelle came out with a new book, I was eager to read it!
This book, A Poppy in Remembrance, is so clever since the author imagined what it would be like for a young woman living during World War I to actually meet Oswald Chambers and his wife. So I appreciated the history that gets presented during the time. Plus this novel spans the entire length of World War I so I learned a little about the war and what people living during that time felt while the war was going on.
If you like historical fiction, I recommend this book. Especially if, like me, you miss shows like Downton Abby that transport you back to Edwardian times.
July 6, 2020
I use Oswald Chamber's Devotional, "My Utmost For His Highest" each day. Michellelle Ule's book is beautifully written, researched, and beyond my expectations. I was transported into a time when I wasn't born and learned about WWI, many cultures, beautifully written characters, and have a greater understanding of what Oswald and Biddy sacrificed for the call of God on their lives.
I not only recommend this book but Michelle's other book, "Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman behind the World's Bestselling Devotional".
I not only recommend this book but Michelle's other book, "Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman behind the World's Bestselling Devotional".
April 23, 2019
Exceptional historical fiction. Well woven on several levels--a woman trying to be a reporter back then, the Great War (especially interesting to me as three of my great uncles from Iowa served in France), the role of the YMCA during the war, Oswald Chambers and his family, poignant backstories of the main characters, candid insights of someone struggling with what it means to truly trust God, especially in the midst of so much loss and misery. Very satisfying.
July 22, 2020
I have been remiss in writing my review of this most engaging well research story written by Michelle. Historical facts, many of which I was unaware, were woven so flawlessly into this story. This is a page turner you will not want to put down until you have finished. And at that, you may find yourself not wanting the book to end! I do not desire to reveal details of this book in my review as I want the reader to experience the delight of it all on their own. Just do it, you will be blessed.
March 16, 2019
Excellent read. Great characters.
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