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Until June
When seventeen-year-old seamstress, Josephine Nimetz, agrees to take care of a WWI amputee in a remote Alaskan lodge, there's enough friction to melt the Mendenhall Glacier. Her position is only until June, and it pays well enough to overlook the hardship of managing a rustic home and a shell-shocked veteran.
Geoff Chambers makes it clear that he isn't too fond of the runt sent to take care of his needs, nor of her painful mistakes. Dealing with a depressed and addicted veteran, pushes Josephine to the brink of leaving, if not for the money her salary brings.
But Josephine is a perfectionist, determined to get Geoff back on his feet—figuratively...Although, sending a rich, handsome veteran back into society may cost Josephine the man she has grown to love.
Geoff Chambers makes it clear that he isn't too fond of the runt sent to take care of his needs, nor of her painful mistakes. Dealing with a depressed and addicted veteran, pushes Josephine to the brink of leaving, if not for the money her salary brings.
But Josephine is a perfectionist, determined to get Geoff back on his feet—figuratively...Although, sending a rich, handsome veteran back into society may cost Josephine the man she has grown to love.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2020
19 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Barbara M. Britton
13 books248 followersBarbara M. Britton lives in Wisconsin and loves the snow—when it accumulates under three inches. She writes romantic adventures for teens and adults. Barb has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Romance Writers of America, and American Christian Fiction Writers. You can visit Barb online at www. barbarambritton.com or follow her on Facebook and twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 31, 2023
I love this story by Barbara Britton about a hurt man who falls in love with his care giver. I read this style of book in a regular romance novel with a lot of sex and Until June and clean and with that you fall so in love in love with the characters. The main male character lost both legs in the WWl. Back then there was hardly any hope for these men. Jo the female character believes in him even before they fell in love, so much so she gets him off of morphine. While he is healing he sees how much Jo really does care. I really enjoyed reading the book and I highly recommend it. This version is so much better than the romance book I read. So check it out!
June 22, 2020
“No two persons ever read the same book.” (Edmund Wilson)
When I sat down to compile my thoughts about this book, Edmund Wilson's quote came to mind. I feel my life experiences contributed greatly to my enjoyment of this story. For starters, I've read all of Barbara Britton's books so I was already familiar with her style of writing. While she has written biblical fiction exclusively up to this point, her foray into 20th-century historical fiction was every bit as delightful. The second thing that connected me to the story was the setting. I lived in Anchorage and Eagle River, Alaska from December 2001 to April 2006. It's one thing to visit that great state and a whole other thing to experience the life and culture of the people who live there. Britton captured the grit and grandeur of the people and the land. Finally, I joined the US Air Force at the age of 17 where I served nearly 10 years in the medical corps. Later, I married a military pilot who's since deployed 8 times! It was easy to see a little of my own naivete in Josephine "Jo" Nimetz as well as to sympathize with the veteran she cared for. While neither my husband nor I have experienced the same horrors of war as Geoff, we have seen the effect of PTSD on service members and their families. Britton draws attention to this diagnosis without allowing it to define her character.
Between these pages, you'll find a little mystery, a budding romance, and a message of hope. Regardless of the fact that you will come to this book with different experiences, you will turn the last page feeling uplifted and satisfied.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
When I sat down to compile my thoughts about this book, Edmund Wilson's quote came to mind. I feel my life experiences contributed greatly to my enjoyment of this story. For starters, I've read all of Barbara Britton's books so I was already familiar with her style of writing. While she has written biblical fiction exclusively up to this point, her foray into 20th-century historical fiction was every bit as delightful. The second thing that connected me to the story was the setting. I lived in Anchorage and Eagle River, Alaska from December 2001 to April 2006. It's one thing to visit that great state and a whole other thing to experience the life and culture of the people who live there. Britton captured the grit and grandeur of the people and the land. Finally, I joined the US Air Force at the age of 17 where I served nearly 10 years in the medical corps. Later, I married a military pilot who's since deployed 8 times! It was easy to see a little of my own naivete in Josephine "Jo" Nimetz as well as to sympathize with the veteran she cared for. While neither my husband nor I have experienced the same horrors of war as Geoff, we have seen the effect of PTSD on service members and their families. Britton draws attention to this diagnosis without allowing it to define her character.
Between these pages, you'll find a little mystery, a budding romance, and a message of hope. Regardless of the fact that you will come to this book with different experiences, you will turn the last page feeling uplifted and satisfied.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
December 29, 2022
One of the best books I've ever read. Clean and sweet. not preachy. Loveable characters. Beautifully written. 7/5 stars
LOVE this Book!
LOVE this Book!
May 25, 2020
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
3.5 stars.
An enjoyable read with a very young and severely wounded hero, “Until June”, by Barbara M. Britton (Pelican Group Book), is a great depiction of physical and psychological trauma inflicted by war.
Geoff is an extraordinary hero, tortured and broken, but with a self-deprecating sense of humor and an amazing down-to-earth perspective about his condition.
Josephine is also a straightforward person, but her approach seems sometimes a bit rude and her actions and knowledge feel unexpected for such a young person.
I liked the dynamics of their relationship and how slowly Geoff reached his new normal. Some interesting secondary characters and a picturesque setting make this an entertaining story.
3.5 stars.
An enjoyable read with a very young and severely wounded hero, “Until June”, by Barbara M. Britton (Pelican Group Book), is a great depiction of physical and psychological trauma inflicted by war.
Geoff is an extraordinary hero, tortured and broken, but with a self-deprecating sense of humor and an amazing down-to-earth perspective about his condition.
Josephine is also a straightforward person, but her approach seems sometimes a bit rude and her actions and knowledge feel unexpected for such a young person.
I liked the dynamics of their relationship and how slowly Geoff reached his new normal. Some interesting secondary characters and a picturesque setting make this an entertaining story.
June 4, 2020
Josephine Nimetz slipped into a perfect replica of a wool coat, one she had drawn, designed, and patterned on old newspaper.
[Opening line of Until June]
What a beautiful, inspiring story! Until June just oozes with nostalgia and has a strong undercurrent of respect and honor for the dedication and sacrifices our Veterans make. This story carries a blended essence of simplicity, innocence, cost, and atonement. I sank in immediately and couldn’t put it down. The pacing was steady, but the central pulse of the story urged me to keep turning pages.
The early 1900s Alaskan setting is unique and picturesque. I could visualize the landscape with clarity and the lodge became familiar, with a warmth I didn’t want to leave.
The characters are what makes a story come to life (for me) and I adored Josephine’s virtuousness, inner strength, and determination. She is good to the core, desiring the comfort and protection of others over herself. Even though she is young, she’s unwavering, and inexperienced, yet resolute. She initially struggles to find her footing while caring for Geoff, but gradually discovers her strength and confidence, showing extraordinary growth by the end of the story.
Geoff has suffered much during the war, and the aftermath is just as difficult. With severe injuries to his body and his mind, he has much to overcome. He is angry, resentful, in pain, and dealing with addiction. He’s certainly not in search of love or healing, but in need of both. I respected and loved him even when he acted unlovable, and that grew even stronger when Josephine began to chip away his hard exterior.
The secondary characters carried weight as well, with varying roles and personalities (such as the annoying sister, dependent mother, and several genuine and not-so-genuine friends.)
The thread of hope and faith throughout this story gives such depth and meaning, and the sweet romance softens the edges of the traumatic mental and physical injuries Geoff carried with him.
I highly recommend Until June. It is a beautiful story of love, perseverance, sacrifice, and healing. It honors our Veterans and displays sweet and selfless love.
#BarbaraBritton #UntilJune #CoverLove
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy of this book.
July 31, 2020
Such a great book!
I so enjoyed this book. It was unique in that it was set in Alaska in 1918. The author made the characters come alive and dance across the pages. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened. Read it in only a couple of days. Would highly recommend.
I so enjoyed this book. It was unique in that it was set in Alaska in 1918. The author made the characters come alive and dance across the pages. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened. Read it in only a couple of days. Would highly recommend.
April 30, 2020
This compelling historical romance novel is set in Alaska as the First World War (that WAR to end all WARS!) was in its final year. At that same time the 1918 flu pandemic was ravaging the globe. Talented seamstress Josephine is only seventeen when we meet her on the opening page. During the course of the novel, which spans nearly a year, she learns wide-ranging truths about society, about life, about relationships, and about her place in the world.
Soon after her introduction to readers, Josephine is quickly affected by demanding and menacing men, including her drunken step-father and a well-to-do veteran, Geoff, who has lost both legs to the war. The damaged young man is barely a few years older than Josephine on the calendar, but is generations older in life experience. Despite his privileged social and financial status, his depression and anger are obvious and seem legitimate.
The circumstances in which two first meet and eventually find themselves forging a working relationship are surprisingly plausible. This successful impact on the reader is due to the quality research underpinning the plot. Britton’s storytelling is as smoothly-seamed and finely-detailed as the polished garments Josephine designs and creates. As a result, readers fall into step with both characters as they stumble through anger, confused expectations, inadequacy, and personal histories, gradually achieving a balance of respect and interdependence.
Josephine (Jo) and Geoff must navigate their challenges in island isolation, yet secondary characters are effectively developed. They provide varying aspects of charm, appeal, distaste, and ambivalence for readers to explore. Each plays a significant role in motivation, ratcheting tension, and reflecting the societal and financial distance between Jo and Geoff.
There are engaging parallels between Jo’s journey from teen to womanhood and Geoff’s path from despair to determination. Jo’s tentative efforts become more proficient and wide-ranging, including her eventual claim to a meaningful voice and agency within a male-managed realm. Geoff’s emotional and physical rehabilitation is unpredictable and halting, with setbacks and strengths that surprise and enrich their blended progress. The eventual emergence of romantic attraction and tension has an equally unsteady development, with a satisfying tug-of-war that resolves with a happy ending.
Something for readers of many interests: romance, veterans, history, women's history, resilience, and more. Would make a great read for book clubs, too. Put it on your want-to-read-list: coming soon!
Soon after her introduction to readers, Josephine is quickly affected by demanding and menacing men, including her drunken step-father and a well-to-do veteran, Geoff, who has lost both legs to the war. The damaged young man is barely a few years older than Josephine on the calendar, but is generations older in life experience. Despite his privileged social and financial status, his depression and anger are obvious and seem legitimate.
The circumstances in which two first meet and eventually find themselves forging a working relationship are surprisingly plausible. This successful impact on the reader is due to the quality research underpinning the plot. Britton’s storytelling is as smoothly-seamed and finely-detailed as the polished garments Josephine designs and creates. As a result, readers fall into step with both characters as they stumble through anger, confused expectations, inadequacy, and personal histories, gradually achieving a balance of respect and interdependence.
Josephine (Jo) and Geoff must navigate their challenges in island isolation, yet secondary characters are effectively developed. They provide varying aspects of charm, appeal, distaste, and ambivalence for readers to explore. Each plays a significant role in motivation, ratcheting tension, and reflecting the societal and financial distance between Jo and Geoff.
There are engaging parallels between Jo’s journey from teen to womanhood and Geoff’s path from despair to determination. Jo’s tentative efforts become more proficient and wide-ranging, including her eventual claim to a meaningful voice and agency within a male-managed realm. Geoff’s emotional and physical rehabilitation is unpredictable and halting, with setbacks and strengths that surprise and enrich their blended progress. The eventual emergence of romantic attraction and tension has an equally unsteady development, with a satisfying tug-of-war that resolves with a happy ending.
Something for readers of many interests: romance, veterans, history, women's history, resilience, and more. Would make a great read for book clubs, too. Put it on your want-to-read-list: coming soon!
June 9, 2020
Until June is a novel that whisks you to a different time and place while exposing realities that reach from then to now. Nearing the end of WWI and set in Alaska, Josephine displays a heart of compassion, first for her ailing mother and later for Geoff, a wounded warrior. Her heart shows forgiveness to a step-father with many faults.
Geoff returns from war after losing both legs to an explosion. He’s hurting, both physically and emotionally, and he makes it difficult for those around him. Josephine’s job is to care for him until June.
Through the journey of care, we see the real Geoff. The man behind the injury. Characterization is so strong and well written as we see the unfolding of his true personality. We see a man who never anticipated the turn his life would take. In time, Josephine sees the man, not the injury.
This is a powerful message for all people—a challenge to see wounded warriors and people with physical impairments for who they are, not for their disability. I highly recommend it.
Geoff returns from war after losing both legs to an explosion. He’s hurting, both physically and emotionally, and he makes it difficult for those around him. Josephine’s job is to care for him until June.
Through the journey of care, we see the real Geoff. The man behind the injury. Characterization is so strong and well written as we see the unfolding of his true personality. We see a man who never anticipated the turn his life would take. In time, Josephine sees the man, not the injury.
This is a powerful message for all people—a challenge to see wounded warriors and people with physical impairments for who they are, not for their disability. I highly recommend it.
June 11, 2020
Seventeen-year-old Josephine takes the job of caretaker to 20-year-old Geoff Chambers, a WWI double amputee. They stay alone at the Chambers’ isolated island lodge. Josephine breaks Geoff’s addiction to morphine and he becomes his old self.
The relationship between them is fascinating. They go to the island virtually as strangers, but quickly share feelings and concerns. She’s clumsy in caring for him physically at first, and while he taunts her at times, he never really lashes out at her.
He teaches her to play gin rummy, which would horrify her mother. She tends the bedsores on his backside. Kind of racy for Christian fiction. While there is mention of God and prayer, it’s light on a Christian message.
June 11, 2020
Geoff lost both legs in the war and is understandably struggling. His family don't know what to do with him, so they arrange to ship him off to their holiday home on an Alaskan island. When their plans for a nurse fall through on the very day that Josephine suffers concussion and ends up being nursed at their home, they ask her to take the nurse's place looking after Geoff until June. She has limited nursing experience and no training. Geoff isn't happy about it, and Josephine herself only agrees because her family desperately need the money. Will she be able to get him to accept the past and move into the future? And what of her own future?
I wanted to like it - but it really ended up just okay in my opinion. The writing was generally fine and the content was clean, though a few times I wondered where it might be going. However, I was bothered by things like the impropriety of sending a young, unmarried female nurse to live alone on an island with a young, albeit injured, unmarried man - and no one really seemed to think there was anything wrong with it, though a few did make assumptions that underline why I find it hard to believe it would ever have been considered okay back then. I also didn't really connect with, or even 'get', the characters, particularly Geoff. I didn't feel like he was really portrayed as suffering from his circumstances, merely as being thoroughly entitled and generally obnoxious. All in all, while others might like it, I wouldn't particularly recommend it and probably won't read anything more by the author - indeed, I'm not sure I would have finished this one except that I had agreed to review it.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I wanted to like it - but it really ended up just okay in my opinion. The writing was generally fine and the content was clean, though a few times I wondered where it might be going. However, I was bothered by things like the impropriety of sending a young, unmarried female nurse to live alone on an island with a young, albeit injured, unmarried man - and no one really seemed to think there was anything wrong with it, though a few did make assumptions that underline why I find it hard to believe it would ever have been considered okay back then. I also didn't really connect with, or even 'get', the characters, particularly Geoff. I didn't feel like he was really portrayed as suffering from his circumstances, merely as being thoroughly entitled and generally obnoxious. All in all, while others might like it, I wouldn't particularly recommend it and probably won't read anything more by the author - indeed, I'm not sure I would have finished this one except that I had agreed to review it.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
June 11, 2020
A classic story all around. Perfect addition to anyone's to-be read list. Once started, you'll have a hard time putting this one down. You'll find that it ended way too soon.
August 4, 2021
I have read and enjoyed many of Barbara Britton’s Biblical historical fiction books, so I wondered how she would tackle a story in a completely different time period. I wasn’t disappointed.
Ms. Britton gives just enough setting details to picture Alaska in 1918, through Josephine’s eyes. Not to mention the challenge of taking a job caring for a WWI vet who repels her at every turn. But she needs the money.
Of course, going into this book, we know it’s a romance, but it begs the question--how in the world is that going to happen with this unlikely pair? On top of Geoff Chambers’ physical limitations and temperament, these two people exist in different social strata. Yet Ms. Britton makes it believable with a variety of well-chosen scenes and situations.
The relationship dynamics are further challenged by visits to the mine that Geoff manages; Josephine’s mom, sister, and sister’s fiance; the boat captain who brings the mail; and Geoff’s snobbish friend who scorns Josephine.
Something I appreciate about Ms. Britton’s writing style is the fresh similes and metaphors she employs to fit the emotional tone of each occasion. No hackneyed, moth-eaten phrases here.
Certain expectations arise when reading stories in the “Christian” romance category. One is reading without fear of encountering graphic sex scenes, which is good. But I also appreciate the lack of prudishness. There’s a realness, an earthiness, in Ms. Britton’s romance novels. And as far as the “Christian” aspect, expect to be entertained by a wholesome story through a Christian worldview lens without being bombarded by cliches and the “Christian-ese” of preachy characters and ruminations.
As the story wrapped up, I had a few questions about certain characters’ responses (which I can’t mention without giving too much away), but all in all, “Until June” is a very satisfying read. I was caught up in the story and highly recommend it!
Ms. Britton gives just enough setting details to picture Alaska in 1918, through Josephine’s eyes. Not to mention the challenge of taking a job caring for a WWI vet who repels her at every turn. But she needs the money.
Of course, going into this book, we know it’s a romance, but it begs the question--how in the world is that going to happen with this unlikely pair? On top of Geoff Chambers’ physical limitations and temperament, these two people exist in different social strata. Yet Ms. Britton makes it believable with a variety of well-chosen scenes and situations.
The relationship dynamics are further challenged by visits to the mine that Geoff manages; Josephine’s mom, sister, and sister’s fiance; the boat captain who brings the mail; and Geoff’s snobbish friend who scorns Josephine.
Something I appreciate about Ms. Britton’s writing style is the fresh similes and metaphors she employs to fit the emotional tone of each occasion. No hackneyed, moth-eaten phrases here.
Certain expectations arise when reading stories in the “Christian” romance category. One is reading without fear of encountering graphic sex scenes, which is good. But I also appreciate the lack of prudishness. There’s a realness, an earthiness, in Ms. Britton’s romance novels. And as far as the “Christian” aspect, expect to be entertained by a wholesome story through a Christian worldview lens without being bombarded by cliches and the “Christian-ese” of preachy characters and ruminations.
As the story wrapped up, I had a few questions about certain characters’ responses (which I can’t mention without giving too much away), but all in all, “Until June” is a very satisfying read. I was caught up in the story and highly recommend it!
June 11, 2020
When a proper young Alaskan miss and a wounded and bitter WWI veteran are bound together by need, romance isn’t the first order of business.
Too determined to get Geoff on his feet, albeit wooden, once Jo finds the amputee’s wooden legs hidden in a closet, Jo forgoes dignity and gossip as they spend time together at an island lodge off the cost of Juneau, Alaska in 1918 and 1919. Birthdays and holidays pass over the course of nine months as Josephine turns to nurse and helpmeet from her work as a seamstress to help provide for her family after her stepfather is brutally murdered. The murder case remains open, and anxiety over the potential perpetrator keeps the sense of suspense present under the main theme of the story.
When most girls are completing high school, Josephine is stuck on a deserted island with a grumpy young man addicted to drugs. Worse yet, he’s trigger-happy, calls her a runt, and forces her to sin—by playing card games with him. When he calls her out on romantic stories she reads in a women’s magazine and dares her to enter a writing contest, Jo slowly amends her initial impressions of the soulful Geoff.
Scarcely older than Jo, Geoff had enlisted in army only to be wounded dreadfully early on. With his bad attitude, his prognosis is grim, and he’s sent away to recover or die in a secluded place where he won’t bother his stepmother and younger half-brother. But Geoff surprises everyone, including himself, when he realizes his life is far from over.
Told through our young heroine’s eyes, Britton has created an earthy and heartwarming romance filled with down-to-earth characters. Frankness and realism pepper this journey of healing from the inside out. Britton’s fans won’t find much of a leap from Biblical Israel to historical territorial America as her latest tale unfolds with her usual storytelling aplomb
Too determined to get Geoff on his feet, albeit wooden, once Jo finds the amputee’s wooden legs hidden in a closet, Jo forgoes dignity and gossip as they spend time together at an island lodge off the cost of Juneau, Alaska in 1918 and 1919. Birthdays and holidays pass over the course of nine months as Josephine turns to nurse and helpmeet from her work as a seamstress to help provide for her family after her stepfather is brutally murdered. The murder case remains open, and anxiety over the potential perpetrator keeps the sense of suspense present under the main theme of the story.
When most girls are completing high school, Josephine is stuck on a deserted island with a grumpy young man addicted to drugs. Worse yet, he’s trigger-happy, calls her a runt, and forces her to sin—by playing card games with him. When he calls her out on romantic stories she reads in a women’s magazine and dares her to enter a writing contest, Jo slowly amends her initial impressions of the soulful Geoff.
Scarcely older than Jo, Geoff had enlisted in army only to be wounded dreadfully early on. With his bad attitude, his prognosis is grim, and he’s sent away to recover or die in a secluded place where he won’t bother his stepmother and younger half-brother. But Geoff surprises everyone, including himself, when he realizes his life is far from over.
Told through our young heroine’s eyes, Britton has created an earthy and heartwarming romance filled with down-to-earth characters. Frankness and realism pepper this journey of healing from the inside out. Britton’s fans won’t find much of a leap from Biblical Israel to historical territorial America as her latest tale unfolds with her usual storytelling aplomb
June 30, 2020
Until June by Barbara M. Britton is a charming romance set in the aftermath of WWI. The storyline revolves around 17-year old Josephine Nimetz, a poor seamstress in Juneau, AK, and 21-year old injured WWI veteran, Geoff Chambers who happens to own the mine where Jo's stepfather works. A series of events finds the two together in an isolated Alaskan hunting lodge, with Jo serving as Geoff's nurse and companion until the following June.
The author does a good job of characterization in this book: Jo is sweetly innocent, dutiful and teeters between wanting to held Geoff recover from his injuries, and wanting to just feed him to the local bears. Her reactions are authentic and her internal dialogues are insightful. Geoff, on the other hand, comes off a little more one-dimensional, as I felt the author didn't go far enough in making him real. Even then, his transformation is both satisfying and believable.
I've been reading a lot of deeply researched historical fiction and this was not of that order. It was set in WWI Alaska, but there was little of the local flavor or history that usually keeps me coming back to this genre. I found Until June to be more of a budding romance set against the vague backdrop of a location. There was little context.
The was a nice little book to curl up with on a rainy afternoon and enjoy. The writing was well done, the plotting was effective if a tad predictable, and the characters changed and grew, which I always look for in books like this.
This review is based on an advance copy read.
The author does a good job of characterization in this book: Jo is sweetly innocent, dutiful and teeters between wanting to held Geoff recover from his injuries, and wanting to just feed him to the local bears. Her reactions are authentic and her internal dialogues are insightful. Geoff, on the other hand, comes off a little more one-dimensional, as I felt the author didn't go far enough in making him real. Even then, his transformation is both satisfying and believable.
I've been reading a lot of deeply researched historical fiction and this was not of that order. It was set in WWI Alaska, but there was little of the local flavor or history that usually keeps me coming back to this genre. I found Until June to be more of a budding romance set against the vague backdrop of a location. There was little context.
The was a nice little book to curl up with on a rainy afternoon and enjoy. The writing was well done, the plotting was effective if a tad predictable, and the characters changed and grew, which I always look for in books like this.
This review is based on an advance copy read.
April 26, 2020
UNTIL JUNE is such an amazing book! It takes place in Alaska, one of my favorite destinations. The leading male is an amputee veteran. It touches on a pandemic, which is what we are living thru now. And it also touches on PTSD, before there was a name for it. What I wasn’t sure about would be the historical factor, 1918-1919. It’s been awhile since I’ve read historical and wasn’t sure how I’d take to it, but this story just flowed. I read it in one sitting. If you pull pivotal parts from the book, you would believe it to be sad, heartbreaking, difficult to read, but it wasn’t at all. There were many times that I found myself smiling or laughing out loud!
The struggles that Josephine and Geoff faced and then the banter that ensued made for such an enjoyable read. So refreshing to read of a budding, building relationship that is clean reading! Such wonderful characters and personalities! Beautiful visuals painted by the author of the lodge, the landscape and the attire worn during that era. I also enjoyed Josephine’s excitement of arriving magazines and personal mail.
I’ll even admit that it caused me to ask Siri of a couple of questions regarding things mentioned in the book, only to learn that those things I researched were really over 100 years old! I didn’t only enjoy my reading time, but I learned a few things too! Author Barbara M.Britton never disappoints in her story telling or her research!
The struggles that Josephine and Geoff faced and then the banter that ensued made for such an enjoyable read. So refreshing to read of a budding, building relationship that is clean reading! Such wonderful characters and personalities! Beautiful visuals painted by the author of the lodge, the landscape and the attire worn during that era. I also enjoyed Josephine’s excitement of arriving magazines and personal mail.
I’ll even admit that it caused me to ask Siri of a couple of questions regarding things mentioned in the book, only to learn that those things I researched were really over 100 years old! I didn’t only enjoy my reading time, but I learned a few things too! Author Barbara M.Britton never disappoints in her story telling or her research!
April 28, 2020
I have read every one of Barbara Britton’s books. She is a great writer whose characters are realistic and relatable, and whose descriptions immerse me in the local and era of the story. Therefore, I was thrilled to hear she has a new book coming in June that is set during WWI, and I snapped up the opportunity to be an advanced reader. Although, unlike any of her biblical novels, this is a Barbara Britton story, and you are going to love it. Be prepared to laugh, sigh, and cry. What an amazing story. I love Geoff and Josephine. They're both broken, but in different ways, and I loved watching them heal each other. I loved how as Geoff began to believe in Josephine, she gained confidence. The author took an incredibly difficult topic and handled it with realism but sensitivity. Wow. Josephine’s sister, Ann was perfectly annoying. I wanted to slap her a couple of times, but appreciated that Josephine was more mature than I was with her! Loved, loved, loved Tubby, especially at the end when he was so protective of Josephine and shared about his own loss. I could go on, but suffice it to say you will want to read this book.
I received a free ARC from the author, and a positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
I received a free ARC from the author, and a positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
June 12, 2020
Barbara M. Britton has made a complete departure from her fantastic biblical series with her newest release, UNTIL JUNE. Set in post WWI Alaska, Geoff, the gravely wounded son of a wealthy mine owner needs a caretaker. The Spanish flu is ravaging the lower states. With Geoff’s health already in jeopardy, he needs to be secluded. The family approaches Josephine, a seamstress who is scraping by to make ends meet for her mother and sister. When approached by the mine owner to take on the job of Geoff’s caretaker, she hesitates. It’s hardly appropriate for a single young woman to be alone on a remote island with a single young man for nearly a year. Two things weigh in favor of accepting the position—the high salary, and the fact that a man who is missing both feet will hardly pose a danger to Jo’s innocence. Surely, she can last until June. But once deposited at the lodge alone with Geoff, Josephine questions the wisdom of her choice. No amount of money could be worth the trial of caring for an ornery man who seems to be determined to die. It will take a monumental effort to endure until June for both of them. Britton’s story is unflinching in its honest portrayal of the painful physical and emotional journey wounded veterans face every day. I loved this book.
August 15, 2020
Until June by Barbara Britton is the story of a severely physically and emotionally traumatized World War One veteran and his seventeen-year-old caregiver. Isolated on an island in Alaska in 1918, Josephine Nimetz learns a great deal more than she expected to about her patient and about herself.
The author demonstrates excellent character development as she delves into the wounds of veteran Geoff Chambers. Josephine’s stamina, compassion, and courage bring about miraculous changes in Geoff’s attitude, healing, and outlook on life.
The historical time period and location of the story provide a perfect backdrop for this sweet romance. I liked how this couple. who seemed so at odds with each other developed a mutual respect that grew into affection and finally a deep love.
The after effects of war are well portrayed in the battles Geoff and Josephine face together as they struggle through Geoff’s morphine addiction, self-esteem issues, and capacity to love.
Barbara Britton brings to light the sacrifice so many of our military men and women offer on the battlefield. She exposes the deep scars that continue to fester long after the battle has been won.
Thank you to the author, Barbara Britton, for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
The author demonstrates excellent character development as she delves into the wounds of veteran Geoff Chambers. Josephine’s stamina, compassion, and courage bring about miraculous changes in Geoff’s attitude, healing, and outlook on life.
The historical time period and location of the story provide a perfect backdrop for this sweet romance. I liked how this couple. who seemed so at odds with each other developed a mutual respect that grew into affection and finally a deep love.
The after effects of war are well portrayed in the battles Geoff and Josephine face together as they struggle through Geoff’s morphine addiction, self-esteem issues, and capacity to love.
Barbara Britton brings to light the sacrifice so many of our military men and women offer on the battlefield. She exposes the deep scars that continue to fester long after the battle has been won.
Thank you to the author, Barbara Britton, for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 29, 2020
Barbara Britton's work, Until June, is different than other romances I've read and keeps the reader turning pages. Kudos to her. Set in post-World War 1, the story is centered around Geoff Chambers, a handsome soldier who lost both legs in battle.
The story's heroine, seamstress Josephine Nimetz, is hired to care for Geoff as he recovers from war injuries and assimilates into civilian life again. No easy task. She agrees to leave her home in Anchorage and spend the winter months attending to the wounded soldier.
The lodge tucked into the beauty of Alaska's majestic lakes and forests is the centerpiece of the story. Geoff convalesces at the dwelling which is assessable by boat only. It is a place of protection from the dangers outside, yet cannot guard against the authentic human emotions of admiration, courage, and romance which reside within.
Until June leaves nothing to the reader's imagination as Geoff suffers the trauma of his severed legs and the pain that only morphine can help him tolerate.
The story which is dedicated to all veterans allows the reader to share the raw feelings of pain, embarrassment, and fear. The story will capture the reader's heart and not let go.
The story's heroine, seamstress Josephine Nimetz, is hired to care for Geoff as he recovers from war injuries and assimilates into civilian life again. No easy task. She agrees to leave her home in Anchorage and spend the winter months attending to the wounded soldier.
The lodge tucked into the beauty of Alaska's majestic lakes and forests is the centerpiece of the story. Geoff convalesces at the dwelling which is assessable by boat only. It is a place of protection from the dangers outside, yet cannot guard against the authentic human emotions of admiration, courage, and romance which reside within.
Until June leaves nothing to the reader's imagination as Geoff suffers the trauma of his severed legs and the pain that only morphine can help him tolerate.
The story which is dedicated to all veterans allows the reader to share the raw feelings of pain, embarrassment, and fear. The story will capture the reader's heart and not let go.
October 6, 2020
Until June is a clean romance novel set in a lodge in Alaska at the end of World War I. The setting in itself makes the story unique, the characters, even more so. The heroine of the story is hired to care for an ailing veteran who has lost both his legs. The main characters are very young, but act much older, perhaps because of all they had to deal with in their short lives. The characters are well-developed and believable. It’s a bit surprising to imagine a single woman was left alone to care for a single man in that day and age, but the story worked beautifully. Barbara’s style of writing is engaging, and the characters follow you in your mind even when you put the book down (which is hard to do). The romance develops gradually and is quite believable. You find yourself rooting for the young love to develop, and the expected happy ending delivers. I enjoyed the book from beginning to end.
September 9, 2021
I received a copy of this book for review purposes last year, and I completely fell in love with the story. It was a unique WWI story plot, and it touched on subjects I'd not really thought about in relation to the War. To be honest, one of my favorite things about the book was the heroine's determination to help the veteran overcome his pain medicine addiction and find life beyond the pain. This book is definitely one a recommend to others.
What I loved: This brought another aspect of the Great War I'd never thought about to life. The injuries of any war or horrific, but knowing what I do of trench warfare, the soldiers of WWI endured far more than I can or want to imagine. Watching a veteran work his way through his injuries, break free of addiction, and find hope again were aspects of the story that have stuck with me from the very first time I read it more than a year ago.
Favorite Character and Why: Josephine really stuck to her guns and helped Geoff to move beyond his injuries to a hopeful future. Her tenacity and loyalty to family were things I could identify with.
Who would like this? Lovers of historical romance, especially stories of homefront heroes, injured veterans, and love that overcomes harsh challenges.
What I loved: This brought another aspect of the Great War I'd never thought about to life. The injuries of any war or horrific, but knowing what I do of trench warfare, the soldiers of WWI endured far more than I can or want to imagine. Watching a veteran work his way through his injuries, break free of addiction, and find hope again were aspects of the story that have stuck with me from the very first time I read it more than a year ago.
Favorite Character and Why: Josephine really stuck to her guns and helped Geoff to move beyond his injuries to a hopeful future. Her tenacity and loyalty to family were things I could identify with.
Who would like this? Lovers of historical romance, especially stories of homefront heroes, injured veterans, and love that overcomes harsh challenges.
August 9, 2020
Until June
by Barbara M. Britton
Pelican Book Group
Christian | Historical Fiction
Pub Date 11 Jun 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Until,June through Pelican Book Group and Netgalley:
Josephine Nimetz is a seventeen year old seamstress who agrees to take care of a World War 1 Amputee in a remote Alaskan lodge, with it becomes enough friction to melt the Mendenhall Glacier. She only has the position until June, but it pays well enough to manage a rustic Alaskan home and a shell shocked Veteran.
Geoff Chambers has made it more than clear that he doesn’t care much for the runt sent to care for his needs, nor does he care for the painful mistakes she makes.
Josephine finds herself dealing with a depressed Veteran who is addicted to Morphine, which pushes her to the point of wanting to lead, but her family needs the money her Salary brings.
Josephine the perfectionist is determined to get Geoff back on his feet, figuratively speaking, Despite the fact that sending the handsome Veteran back in society may cost Josephine the man she has come to love.
I give Until June five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Barbara M. Britton
Pelican Book Group
Christian | Historical Fiction
Pub Date 11 Jun 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Until,June through Pelican Book Group and Netgalley:
Josephine Nimetz is a seventeen year old seamstress who agrees to take care of a World War 1 Amputee in a remote Alaskan lodge, with it becomes enough friction to melt the Mendenhall Glacier. She only has the position until June, but it pays well enough to manage a rustic Alaskan home and a shell shocked Veteran.
Geoff Chambers has made it more than clear that he doesn’t care much for the runt sent to care for his needs, nor does he care for the painful mistakes she makes.
Josephine finds herself dealing with a depressed Veteran who is addicted to Morphine, which pushes her to the point of wanting to lead, but her family needs the money her Salary brings.
Josephine the perfectionist is determined to get Geoff back on his feet, figuratively speaking, Despite the fact that sending the handsome Veteran back in society may cost Josephine the man she has come to love.
I give Until June five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
May 3, 2020
When I first read the description of this book, I was immediately interested for the mere fact that it's set in Alaska and my family happens to have a trip booked there in 2021.
Within the first couple pages, though, I knew I had made a good choice in picking up this book, and by the halfway point I was hopelessly devoted and couldn't put it down.
The story is beautiful. The characters are real, and their problems are real--but the entire story is handled with such HOPE. I loved it, start to finish.
Until June gets two big thumbs up from me.
***I was given a review copy of this book. I was not required to leave a review, and these thoughts are entirely my own.***
Within the first couple pages, though, I knew I had made a good choice in picking up this book, and by the halfway point I was hopelessly devoted and couldn't put it down.
The story is beautiful. The characters are real, and their problems are real--but the entire story is handled with such HOPE. I loved it, start to finish.
Until June gets two big thumbs up from me.
***I was given a review copy of this book. I was not required to leave a review, and these thoughts are entirely my own.***
June 26, 2020
I was curious about the story as soon as I saw the title and read the blurb, especially the setting. Ms. Britton pulls a reader right in and one must keep reading. The setting and the time intrigued me. War is hell and the world a hundred years ago lacked modern medicine. Oh, the passion of youth. I sympathized with Josephine immediately due to her rearing, and then was frustrated at times over her blunders as she cared for Geoff. But I have to think hard to remember my life at age 18. And I felt such compassion for him. Every time they went outside I expected a bear to appear. Their first month of seclusion, with his dependence on morphine, was rough on them both. His words, “I’m more alive now” settled sweetly in my soul. And then he laughed. I rooted for these two to overcome and mature and love from the moment they met. Highly recommended.
May 11, 2020
I really enjoyed this unusual plot involving a WWI injured veteran and a young girl hired as his caregiver. The author tactfully deals with all of the issues involved in his injury, trauma, hopelessness, addiction, and lack of faith in his caregiver's abilities. She, the caregiver, also has emotional and physical pain to overcome but working together they are able to give and receive healing in their lives. I was given an ARC copy of this book for my honest review. I highly recommend this for your TBR stack and suggest it be one of those on top to read soon.
June 3, 2020
The idea of what life in SE Alaska was like at the end of WWI is the historical part of this fictional tale. Along with some inspiration about past inhabitants of a lodge outside Juneau.
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale. Gentle romance with no offputting sex scenes. And enough of a taste of Alaska to whet your appetite for more. I spent a decade in SC Alaska, but never got down to SE Alaska.
I would definitely put this on a list of beach reads or for a cool day spent snuggled under a blanket.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an electronic advance reader copy. No promises of a review were made and thoughts are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale. Gentle romance with no offputting sex scenes. And enough of a taste of Alaska to whet your appetite for more. I spent a decade in SC Alaska, but never got down to SE Alaska.
I would definitely put this on a list of beach reads or for a cool day spent snuggled under a blanket.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an electronic advance reader copy. No promises of a review were made and thoughts are my own.
June 1, 2020
A compelling read that takes you to the wilds of Alaska shortly after the end of WWI. Both of the main characters are wounded souls in search of healing. This story highlights their pain in a powerful, yet caring manner that will tug at your heartstrings.
Josephine is healing from emotional issues. While Geoff struggles with physical and mental healing or what we now would call PTSD. The story is well written and the details pull you into the remote Alaskan lodge they are staying at. Faith, healing and just a touch of romance meld together making this a wonderful read.
Josephine is healing from emotional issues. While Geoff struggles with physical and mental healing or what we now would call PTSD. The story is well written and the details pull you into the remote Alaskan lodge they are staying at. Faith, healing and just a touch of romance meld together making this a wonderful read.
May 11, 2020
If you liked JoJo Moyes, 'Me Before You,' you will love this book. It was a very pleasant, easy read and the characters were easy to love. I couldn't put the book down and read it in 2 afternoons!
May 22, 2020
I couldn't put this book down. I stayed up way too late reading about Josephine and Geoff's adventures, challenges and relationship. Themes that were touched upon: the effects of war on soldiers and those close to them, pandemic, class, family, and love. I was invested in the story , and appreciated how the author developed it to a satisfying but not sappy conclusion. Thank you to Net Galley for the opportunity to review this book. Pub date is 11 Jun 2020 by Pelican Book Group.
May 28, 2020
This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it was wonderful. The author made the book come to life with her words. If you are looking for a wonderful historical fiction book, grab this book. I loved it! Thank you Pelican Book Group via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
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