Wings Like a Dove

by Camille Eide

Can the invisible walls that separate people ever come down?
In 1933, Anna Leibowicz is convinced that the American dream that brought her Jewish family here from Poland is nothing but an illusion. Her father has vanished. Her dreams of college can't make it past the sweat-shop door. And when she discovers to her shame and horror that she's with child, her mother gives her little choice but to leave her family. Deciding her best course of action is to try to find her father, she strikes out...hoping against hope to somehow redeem them both.

When Anna stumbles upon a house full of orphan boys in rural Indiana who are in desperate need of a tutor, she agrees to postpone her journey. But she knows from the moment she meets their contemplative, deep-hearted caretaker, Thomas Chandler, that she doesn't dare risk staying too long. She can't afford to open her heart to them, to him. She can't risk letting her secrets out.

All too soon, the townspeople realize she's not like them and treat her with the same disdain they give the Sisters of Mercy--the nuns who help Thomas and the boys--and Samuel, the quiet colored boy Thomas has taken in. With the Klan presence in the town growing ever stronger and the danger to this family increasing the longer she stays, Anna is torn between fleeing to keep them safe...and staying to fight beside them.

Oh, that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest...

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Romance, Christian

298 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2019

About the author

​Camille loves to encourage fellow travelers on their journey of faith. She writes contemporary and historical stories woven around family, faith, and redemption, with truckloads of grace. Her third novel, The Memoir of Johnny Devine, received Romantic Times' Best Inspirational Romance award and Seal of Excellence. The Memoir of Johnny Devine and Wings Like a Dove each received the Cascade Christian Writers' Historical Fiction award.​

Camille lives in Oregon with her husband and is Mom to three married adults and Grammy to eight. She's a church office manager, boomer, lead foot, and baker. She’s in awe of the amazing grace and patience of God, and is grateful for her PhD in Learning Stuff the Hard Way, which fuels her blog at Along the Banks (https://camilleeide.wordpress.com/).

Be sure to check out the rest of her full-length novels at www.CamilleEide.com .

Reviews

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four and a half stars
Anna Leibowicz and her mother and siblings come to America, seeking a better life. But it seems the American dream is just that , a dream. Anna’s father has disappeared and her dreams of college look destined to never become reality. An evening out soon turns into a nightmare when she is forced to leave her family.her plan is try and find her father, apparently last known to be in Chicago. Will she be able to locate him?
When she encounters some orphan boys in rural Indiana she chooses to delay her journey for a while. She agrees to help Thomas Chandler, by tutoring the boys. But the majority of the townsfolk are far from friendly , treating her with contempt as they do the Sister of Mercy nuns and the coloured boy Samuel. Samuel is mute, terrified by the hoods he has seen. Meanwhile the Ku Klux Klan is growing stronger and bolder. Danger looms, but what can one or two people do to stop their horrific influence?
The story is set in the 1930s. Times are tough plus prejudice, racism, hatred and unfounded suspicions and accusations abound. At one point Anna writes to her sister Shayna, ‘ I have learned that bigotry thrives in the shadows of ignorance, that intolerance can make people do ugly things……..etc.’
Anna, Thomas and the boys, especially Samuel are lovely characters that capture the reader’s heart. Sarah has her admirable moments in a town where so many of the others are dominated by bigotry and hatred.
A new author to me and despite some things feeling a little rushed towards the end, I found it an interesting and, in so many ways, heartbreaking read. This historical novel conveys a realistic portrayal of the times and attitudes. I would be interested to read other books by this author.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wings Like a Dove really took me by surprise - I knew I would like it, but this really blew my expectations out of the water. This story touches on so many things and strikes such a delicate balance between so many elements that make a story good - there's historical realism, an endearing cast of characters, and a sweet romance. Eide does not shy away from the realities of prejudice and racism, but nor do I feel there is any unecessary drama added in either. It's just a quality story about hard-working and caring people facing a rising tide of hatred and prejudice.

It begins with Anna taking a journey to escape the plight found in New York City, as well as to search for her absent father. Though she reaches safety in small-town Indiana, a plight of an entirely different sort greets her. A group of orphans needs her help, and she knows she needs a safe place to land. Bigotry in the guise of morality is the mode of operation for many of the townspeople, though Eide does a good job of not making caricatures out of anyone. Friendships are formed and tested, and despite her wish to remain aloof from the boys and their caretaker, Thomas,
she is compelled to stay.

I loved the natural progression of this plot and the relationships that go from aloof to enduring. Anna is a flawed, endearing character, and I loved the friendships that took root first between her, the boys, and Thomas. The story unfolds so well, and suffice it to say, this is my favorite of Eide's novels that I've read so far. She has already proven herself to be a versatile author, with both contemporary and historical stories. I highly recommend this novel to readers of historical fiction.

I felt a deep connection to this story and loved this quote:
"I have learned that wherever we find ourselves, we must have the courage to stretch out roots and produce something useful, even in times of difficulty. We must bloom boldly in whatever field our seed has fallen."

I love the reminder that even if things turn out differently than we thought, we can always choose to tend our "field" the best we can and look for the beauty there. This is a reminder that my heart needs often.

I received an advanced copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review. This review is my honest opinion.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If only I could give this book more than five stars. It really touched a spot in my heart.
The main character, Anna is a young Jewish woman who immigrated from Poland to America with her family to find the American dream.
Her mother is heart broken though with her husband not being around so Anna sets off to find him and bring him home.
Set in 1933 in New York the depression is in full swing and the struggles are real . During this poverty some have the best in themselves brought out as they share what little they have with unfortunate others.
I found myself really enjoying this book a lot. The plot is solid and believable . The characters I enjoyed them as well and could see them as actual people living during this time period. I read historical books for what I can learn from them and learning about Jewish customs was interesting.
Forced to flee her home because of a shame she brought on herself Anna Leibowicz faces judgement, bigotry and intolerance. It's easier for someone to hate you than try to understand you she finds out.
I highly admired Anna and Thomas's care of the rag tag group of boys Thomas cares for. She gives her heart and soul to the boys teaching them and they return it ten fold with admiration and compassion for her. This book is a superb historical fictional book. Raw just like things at times are, heart wrenching dealing with so many subjects. There is so much to learn from this book, many valuable lessons on truth,compassion,acceptance for our self and others.
I HIGHLY recommend this book. It is one not to be passed up!
Published December 1st 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book while working with Celebrate Lit. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Sarah Sundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both gorgeous and harrowing, Wings Like a Dove shows the dangers of allowing hatred and racism to grow in a community – and the importance of standing up for right, even when it’s dangerous. Anna, Thomas, and Samuel are lovely characters full of depth and strength, and Thomas shows the beauty of faith in action. With a poignant romance, the story satisfies on every level. Camille Eide has penned another memorable novel. Don’t miss it!

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I think people dislike those they do not know because t hey cannot see the good in others.” One of Anna’s insights about the struggles and differences she observed in the fictional town of Corbin, Indiana where she found herself after leaving her Jewish family and community.

Wings like a Dove by Camille Eide is a poignant and heart wrenching story of bigotry and intolerance to immigrants or anyone who was different from the leaders of the town, but is still prevalent in America today. I admired the determination, dedication, hardworking, compassion that Thomas and Anna gave to the six young boys that Thomas was caring for. The history of America shined forth throughout the story with the ugliness of hatred, prejudice and events that many have forgotten is part of our history. Eide penned a superb historical romance that was raw at times to moments of compassion, forgiveness and acceptance being given. I highly recommend Wings like a Dove to fans of historical Christian fiction. There are many lessons that can be applied to our culture today. Another thought to ponder from Anna: “Will not all need mercy at some time in our lives? Mercy we do not deserve? It is a precious gift and yet it is free. Forgiveness and mercy are always possible because they are gifts from God.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. I was under no obligation to write a positive review but I have expressed my own sincere thoughts. I’m glad I decided to read this book while it’s on tour with Celebrate Lit Bloggers.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a difficult journey. A young Jewish woman originally from Poland comes with her mother and siblings to live in New York and find her father. This novel highlights prejudices that existed in the early 1930s against Jews, African Americans and Catholics.

[Ruth Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

Where do I even begin to review such a masterpiece as this book? This is one of those extraordinary stories that has everything and then some. And all while being a Christian book with nothing offensive in it!

First of all, I adore historical fiction, and this reviews a time in history that I know something about, but not in the way the author illustrated it. I have often been taught about the persecution and prejudice of Jews around the world, but somehow, I didn't realize how it affected my own country. To read an account of a Jewish woman who is ostracized fiercely for who she is, where she came from, and an unfortunate incident that occurred genuinely broke my heart. Yet again, I find myself ashamed of what people have done throughout the centuries to Jewish people in the name of Christ. I sympathized with our brave heroine, and I totally fell in love with her spirt and demeanor not to mention her strength of character.

Secondly, this book highlighted one of the exceptions to the rule in this country. I was enraptured with Thomas and his love for his boys as well as Anna. This is godly love portrayed in an extraordinary fashion during a time when it was hard to demonstrate that love to the unlovely and the outcasts. To be honest, there are many parallels in today's society as it is still very difficult to live out our faith in a world that believes it is their right to dictate how we should live as "Christians," and if you buck the system, you will be ostracized for adhering to your godly principles in a similar manner to the way in which Thomas was treated.

This is easily one of the most special books I have read in recent times. While I do know the author personally and expected to love the book, I had not idea just how much I would love it! The writing is impeccable. Camille has such an incredible way of detailing the story so that feel as though you are right there in the midst of the moment, witnessing the action from a close but safe vantage point. The reader almost wishes he/she can reach out and intervene in the most difficult of situations, but we know we have no choice but to let the story play out.

I walked away from this story with a new knowledge and understanding of this volatile time in our nation's history, and I have an even more profound respect for the author and the way in which she writes a narrative. I highly recommend this book to anyone!

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wings Like A Dove by Camille Eide is a powerful Christian historical novel that has its foundations in fact. Camille Eide has woven a fabulous tale.
The novel is set in 1933 in New York and a rural town in the heart of America. It is a time of the Great Depression. There is much poverty. Out of their poverty, some characters give what little they have to those who have even less. Where they see a need, it is met.
In contrast there are some bigoted, racially intolerant characters who work together to make life impossible for those whose skin is a different colour or whose religion is not seen as the ‘right’ one. “You could be despised for the odious crime of simply being born.” Prejudice is rife. The reader sees the appalling lengths some people will stoop to as characters see themselves as racially and morally superior.
All the characters are well drawn. They individually elicit various responses from the reader from love to dislike. My personal favourite has to be Sam, a young Negro boy, so traumatised that speech eludes him. He certainly brought out all my mothering instincts.
There will always be those who take advantage of others. Mistakes are made. Forgiveness needs to be given, especially to the face in the mirror. We often judge ourselves far too harshly. God is the God of second chances and new beginnings, so why do we find it so hard to accept His gift of forgiveness and grace?
There are some huge kind-hearted characters who draw others to them with their kindness and care.
I loved Wings Like A Dove, it gave a glimpse into the harsh realities of the Depression era and the courage, kindness and strength of character needed to overcome racial, religious and moral intolerance and prejudice. It was a truly marvellous read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those stories that grabs your heart and runs off with it. You’re helpless to do anything other than follow where the story leads until you finally reach the end and find your heart’s been returned to you, somehow a little fuller despite having been wounded and pummelled along the way.

First there’s Anna—unwed and pregnant, adrift and alone in a country that is unwelcoming to Jews at best. Then there’s the ad hoc family of orphan boys—including a young coloured boy, Samuel—and their caretaker Thomas, who have planted their feet against a tide of bigotry and bullying from townspeople who advocate a very narrow-minded view of Americanism, one this makeshift family doesn’t conform to. Each of these characters pulls at the heart from the moment you meet them, and that tug only gets stronger as you witness the outright bigotry and hatred they endure as they go about life minding their own business.

I loved the strength and resilience of these characters, particularly Thomas, the kind of man who helps a neighbour in need, no matter the cost to himself. “If helping people costs all I have or brings me up short, it’s okay. He takes up the slack. He’s come through too many times for me to stop trusting Him now, to take my eyes off those in need.” The way his friendship with Anna gradually deepened as they got to know one another was heartwarming too. And some surprise turns in the plot in the last part of the book had me riveted until the final, poignant page.

This is a beautifully written story—a journey from shame and condemnation to forgiveness and reconciliation, and a reminder to look beyond our superficial differences: “Mercy, grace, and compassion are the key to accepting what we do not understand, whether it be people who are different, or a heritage beyond our choosing, or a Love that gives up what is most precious of all.”

I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wings Like a Dove by Camille Eide tells of harsh times in our nation’s history when bigotry ruled in the name of moral justice.
“We will never have unity as long as people demand sameness. Unity is not sameness, but oneness of purpose. But whose purpose.”
This story takes place in the 1930’s when almost everyone was poor and jobs were scarce.
Anna Leibowicz is forced to flee her life in New York City through a humiliation she brought on herself. She starts out for Chicago in search of her father, who has been missing for six years. She is led to a small town in Indiana where she finds work as a tutor for six orphaned boys in exchange for room and board until she can resume her journey.
She is making progress with her students and coaxing a small, mute black boy to speak, but she is wary of making friends. As soon as the town finds out she is a Jew, she is ostracized along with Sam, the black child.
This story is raw, it is real, it doesn’t shy away from hard things and yet it is filled with compassion and Grace.
“Will not all need mercy at some time in our lives? Mercy we do not deserve? It is a precious gift and yet it is free. Forgiveness and mercy are always possible because they are gifts from God.”
“If love is genuine, then compassion must follow, because compassion is the most basic act of love.”
“If ultimate love is found in the ultimate sacrifice, then I will consider what the cross of Christ truly means.”
This story holds eternal truths that have applications yet today. In my opinion, Ms. Eide has done a superior job of giving us much to think about and apply to our own lives.
*I received a complimentary ebook from WhiteFire Publishers on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Katie Andersen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my top reads of the year! The characters, (and there were quite a few!) had so much depth and some were just so touching and wonderful and others so endearing and fun that I feel a bit at a loss right now after finishing this book. The message is so wonderful and shown in so many ways throughout the book, that it will stick with the reader long after turning the last page. It was hard for me to read at times, because I was scared what was going to happen next in those turbulent times, but the author kept it hopeful enough that it never got too heavy for me. I did laugh and I did cry though, so I absolutely found it touching. I feel the group of boys in this book are real and want to go meet them. And while I know that isn’t possible, it does show the talent this book portrays. I highly recommend Wings Like a Dove!

I received an e-copy of this book, all views are my own.

I give Wings Like a Dove 5 stars!

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m speechless. So, so crushingly beautiful, and I couldn’t put it down. The themes of understanding and acceptance, grace and forgiveness are so powerful in Anna & Thomas’s story, but the growing love between them was palpable. I smiled, I wept, and I rejoiced. Camille Eide has blessed her readers again, and allowed us a peek into crafting the stitches of an unforgettable quilt.

[Rebecca Geary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eide has once again swept me away with her poignant storytelling. This time, into the Great Depression, to witness the harsh reality faced by a young Jewish woman in a society that reflects intolerances similar to those we’re experiencing today.

With page-turning anticipation, Anna leaves her mother and siblings to spare them the certain shame, danger and hardship that her secret, when exposed, will bring. Starving and alone, she befriends a pack of orphans and their benevolent caregiver, only to be faced with unimaginable prejudice and bigotry from the townspeople. I found myself yelling at the pages of the book in desperate attempts to steer the characters (tissue box at my side).

But, what of mercy and forgiveness? Will they melt the stone-cold and brainwashed hearts?

This is one of my all-time favorites. I hope to see it on the big screen someday.

[Carly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books can be devoured in a day. Other books require more methodical dissection. “Wings Like a Dove” was the latter for me. It caused me to pause. Chew. Reflect. I wished for a hard copy in my hands so I could highlight and make notes in the margins. It is powerfully written, doesn’t shy away from the ugliness of the past, and caused me to look for ways I can press on for change in my heart and community. I felt all of the emotions, and it’s depth deserves a second reading because there is more nourishment to be had.

One of my favorite quotes:

“We will never have unity as long as people demand sameness. Unity is not sameness, but oneness of purpose. But whose purpose? Who gets to decide? If only everyone would stop shouting and hating and burning down and forcing out, perhaps we would hear the voice of wisdom. Perhaps.”

I highly recommend Camille Eide’s latest novel. I hope you will be enlightened, encouraged, and challenged as I have by Anna’s story.

Anna said quietly. “If these past months have taught me nothing else, they have taught me that though I am only a seed blowing in the wind, I must still be fruitful wherever I land. I have learned that wherever we find ourselves, we must have the courage to stretch out roots and produce something useful, even in times of difficulty. We must bloom boldly in whatever field our seed has fallen.”

[Donna Hues · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterful read, Wings Like a Dove will draw the reader in to examine their own prejudices that may be hiding behind closed doors they never wanted to open. Anna, a young Jewish girl, gets caught up in a society which structures the community to meet their own bigoted needs. Expertly written with reflexive questions at the end for ages teens through adult.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough good things about this book. Rich, real characters and storyline even though I am ever grateful that I didn't live in that time. At times devastating but greatly uplifting.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid reader of Christian historical fiction, finding a distinctive work that truly stands out from the rest and also covers a little-known time period can be challenging. Earlier this year I read Cathy Gohlke’s “The Medallion” and appreciated it for being a different type of Holocaust narrative. Throughout college, I took courses on and studied the Holocaust, focusing mostly on the concentration camps. However, I do not remember studying the earlier years of Hitler’s rise to power, nor do I recall reading accounts of Jewish life in America prior to WWII. This is obviously not to say that they don’t exist, but rather that literature, especially when fictional, tends to focus on the War and the atrocities perpetrated therein. Part of the reason why I loved “Wings Like a Dove” so much is that it diverges from the conventional novel about Jewish people during this era.

Writing with verdant detail, Camille Eide cultivates a poignant story within the pages of “Wings Like a Dove.” Interestingly, this story takes place in America in 1933, the same year in which Hitler became Chancellor of Germany. After leaving their native Poland, Anna Leibowicz and her family are struggling to make a life in America, which is turning out not to be the promised land of opportunity for everyone. Anna is such an interesting, multi-faceted character, and her growth and maturation are beautiful yet heartrending to witness. After becoming pregnant out of wedlock, she is forced to leave her home and make her own way, which lands her in the role of tutor to six orphaned boys whose caretaker’s deeply-held Christian beliefs both baffle and intrigue her. She has always lived in a community in which neighbor took care of neighbor, but she doesn’t understand the workings of Christianity: “A choice? To belong to a religion? How strange. Being a Jew was not a choice.” This was eye-opening for me because it offers perspective; being a Christian is a matter of asking Jesus into your heart as Lord and Savior, whereas being Jewish is something that you are born into.

A fact that I did not fully realize before reading this novel is that living in America did not exempt Jewish people from persecution. Although America became a safe haven for Jewish refugees during and after WWII, and I have always considered those who immigrated prior to Hitler’s invasion of Poland as being secure, “Wings Like a Dove” sheds light on how dangerous it was to be Jewish: “All she knew was you could be tormented for a heritage you did not choose. You could inherit a life of constant upheaval and uncertainty whether you wanted it or not. You could be despised for the odious crime of simply being born.” This is the crux of the story’s conflict both within Anna herself and in the world around her. Sadly, this is something that we still see today, but we must remember that accepting Jesus brings us to a glorious eternal inheritance regardless of race or nationality.

Eide deftly works the historical atmosphere into “Wings Like a Dove.” The Campbell Home for Mothers and Children in this novel puts me in mind of Georgia Tann and the Tennessee Children’s Home Society and highlights some of the potential danger faced by the orphan boys. In the same manner, Sam’s elective mutism bespeaks past trauma inflicted due to the color of his skin. As aforementioned, xenophobia plays a major role in the story, with the Jewish people being discriminated against along with Catholics, Negroes, and other immigrants. The Ku Klux Klan enters into the narrative as well. I applaud Eide for demonstrating that racism is always wrong and that we should offer Christ’s love to everyone because that is what will ultimately triumph. For further exploration, there are discussion questions included at the end of the book, followed by more generalized discussion questions about broader points.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story! Set in 1930's New York City and small town Indiana, Wings Like a Dove shines a light on the racism and xenophobia that we like to pretend doesn't exist. (Seriously, I'm positive I never learned about the rampant antisemitism that was present in America's heartland prior to World War II.)

Anna's story is maddening, heartbreaking, and inspiring. The prejudice she faced made me so mad, but I cheered her spine and resiliency. Also, I loved her relationship with the boys she tutored, especially Samuel (and I really appreciated the glimpse into Samuel's future at the end).

All people are worthy of love and respect, and a person's past shouldn't define his present--just two of the things I was left thinking about as I closed the last page. Also, I appreciated that Eide didn't tie everything up into a neat bow at the end, though there was quite a bit of resolution.

Wings Like a Dove is a wonderful story that is absolutely worth your time. And, though it's set in the 1930's, it is very much applicable today.

Disclosure of material connection: I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.

[Donna C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
Wings like a Dove is a historical fiction or historical romance set in 1933. It follows Anna Leibowicz, a Jewish immigrant who fled Poland to escape persecution only to find that the American dream her family’s hopes had crashed when her father disappeared leaving her to support her mother and siblings.

What you might need to know:
Anna became pregnant and blamed herself for it, however based on what she said in the book it was date rape.

My thoughts on this book:
Camille Eide has written a beautiful, but tough book that shows how difficult times can be defined by how you treat other people. Anna had been raised with a sense of community that she does not find once she is forced from her home. Anna is instead faced with prejudice once people realize she is “different” than them. Thomas also faced prejudice for choices he made, but he was a wonderful character. I loved the strength he showed , how he looked beyond race or circumstance to see the person. The Boys were a delight, I could picture them and their antics and loved the elements they brought to the story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! The old saying, how do you eat an elephant....one bite at a time...describes how to take in this beautifully crafted novel. There are so many nuggets of gold to glean if you take your time. It shines the light on judgement, prejudice, preconceived notions, and fear of what we don’t understand. It takes place in the 1930’s but could have just as well been written in present day. The strength of character that Anna shows is impressive although she was carrying burdens of secrets and blaming herself. It is a story that has you weeping and feeling sorry for the injustices that take place. It will open your heart to love and show compassion on your fellow man, as we are all created by God. I loved this book from the characters to the details of the story line. I can’t find all the right words to describe what I want to say without spoilers, so I will just say it needs to be read. This is a new author to me and I will be looking to reading more by her.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great idea for a story! I appreciate the topics this book brings up because, while this is a historical novel, it is something that can be just as relevant today. Anna is a terrific character and the story line seems to flow nicely. I think the main takeaway from a novel like this is how it makes you think. That is the reason books like this are important, they make you stop and ponder. You think about the past and how things were historically and then you also consider how people are today. You consider how we think and act in our communities and out in the world. I appreciate a story that makes a person pause and consider. I am anxious to read more by Camille Eide.

“Thanks to the publisher for offering me a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an amazing story of mercy, grace, and forgiveness. There are many difficult subjects dealt with in this book. Some are quite horrific. One of my favorite passages is, "Will we not all need mercy at some time in our lives? Mercy we do not deserve?..." Sadly, it is a much-needed lesson for today's world.
The author also gives us heart touching, sweet moments. I loved how Anna met the boys. Those boys melted my heart. I loved how they stuck together, even on the newly imposed "wash day." Samuel was a very special child.
I cannot complete this review without mentioning Thomas. He loves his apprentices more than a true father would. And I liked the bargain he made with Anna.
I loved the Sisters Mary too.

This book is not a quick easy read. It is a very thought-provoking look at some ugly realities. I enjoyed the Discussion questions at the end.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. The opinion expressed is entirely my own.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was drawn into Anna's story from the very first page. It is well known how Americans struggled through the 1930's. Those were dark days. But there were some who had an even more difficult fight and Camille has expertly captured one of those stories. I fell in love with the characters and was outraged at others. I cheered and I cried as my heart broke for Anna and others. I held my breath for a perfect outcome, right to the end.

This beautiful story will stay with me for a very long time. Thank you Camille for another excellent read.

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books is The Memoir of Johnny Devine by Camille Eide. So I was really excited to read Wings Like a Dove. This story is set in 1933. With the presence of the Klan, there is a lot of bigotry, hate, and heartbreak in this story. But, there is also a lot of hope, love, and forgiveness.

I was drawn into this story from the first page and even when I wasn’t reading, I kept thinking about the characters. The things that Anna and Samuel go through will make your heart ache. I really loved Anna and her resilience and how she always made the best of her circumstances. I especially loved her relationship with Samuel. Thomas was a wonderful character. I love how he had taken in the boys to keep them from having to go to an orphanage. He truly showed the love of Christ.

This story is both heartbreaking and beautiful - a story you won’t want to miss.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Tracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camille Eide’s Wings Like a Dove is so well-written! I was hooked immediately and did not want to stop reading. Eide’s writing has exactly the right balance of emotion, description, and action. The story has an unlikely cast of characters—six orphan boys, two nuns, a former minister, and a Jewish girl—that seem perfectly plausible in the setting and are completely loveable. I hope someone nominates this book for a Christy. Highly recommended reading for any who love good fiction.

[Carol Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful read and very timely considering the on-going racial injustices that continue to occur in our country. Camille Eide wrote a story set in the 1930s that portrays the injustices against Jews and against black people in America. Anna, a young woman wrought with shame from her illicit pregnancy in 1933 also suffers the affects of anti-Semitism and abandonment by her father. In spite of these trials, Anna gives her heart and wisdom to a group of orphan boys. In turn, she receives healing through a few people who extend God’s love to her in spite of very real threats lobbied against them—including the horrific actions of local Ku Klux Klan group. This book pierced my heart with almost every emotion.

[Yvonne Kays · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camille Eide has created a very moving picture of the terrible prejudices existing in communities as America was settled. Courage, perseverance, compassion, forgiveness and second chances played a huge part in forging ahead of a painful past and blossoming in God’s love.

[Barb Ratcliffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jewish girl meets Christian guy early 1900s.****

[Kailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I wasn’t sure what to expect since this author is new to me, I was very pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this book. I loved the lessons on loyalty, acceptance, forgiveness, but most of all love and hope. This book had great examples of seeing the goodness in the bad and ugliness of life. I would definitely recommend this book!


I was given a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author, but was not required to write a review. The thoughts and comments are my own.