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Rose Among Thornes
Forgiveness is the deadliest force on earth.
War might be raging overseas, but Rose Onishi is on track to fulfill her lifelong goal of becoming a concert pianist. When forced by her government to leave her beloved home in Vancouver and move to the Canadian prairie to work on the Thornes' sugar beet farm, her dream fades to match the black dirt staining her callused hands. Though the Thorne family is kind, life is unbearably lonely. In hopes that it might win her the chance to play their piano, Rose agrees to write letters to their soldier son.
When Rusty Thorne joins the Canadian Army, he never imagines becoming a Japanese prisoner of war. Inside the camp, the faith his parents instilled is tested like never before. Though he begs God to help him not hate his brutal captors, Rusty can no longer even hear the Japanese language without revulsion. Only his rare letters from home sustain him especially the brilliant notes from his mother's charming helper, which the girl signs simply as Rose.
Will Rusty survive the war only to encounter the Japanese on his own doorstep? Can Rose overcome betrayal and open her heart? Or will the truth destroy the fragile bond their letters created?
War might be raging overseas, but Rose Onishi is on track to fulfill her lifelong goal of becoming a concert pianist. When forced by her government to leave her beloved home in Vancouver and move to the Canadian prairie to work on the Thornes' sugar beet farm, her dream fades to match the black dirt staining her callused hands. Though the Thorne family is kind, life is unbearably lonely. In hopes that it might win her the chance to play their piano, Rose agrees to write letters to their soldier son.
When Rusty Thorne joins the Canadian Army, he never imagines becoming a Japanese prisoner of war. Inside the camp, the faith his parents instilled is tested like never before. Though he begs God to help him not hate his brutal captors, Rusty can no longer even hear the Japanese language without revulsion. Only his rare letters from home sustain him especially the brilliant notes from his mother's charming helper, which the girl signs simply as Rose.
Will Rusty survive the war only to encounter the Japanese on his own doorstep? Can Rose overcome betrayal and open her heart? Or will the truth destroy the fragile bond their letters created?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
40 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Terrie Todd
13 books170 followersTerrie Todd's debut novel, The Silver Suitcase, won the 2017 Word Guild award for Historical Fiction. Her second, Maggie's War, won the same award for 2018 while her third, Bleak Landing, was a finalist. In 2018, she was awarded the Janette Oke Award by Inscribe Christian Writers Fellowship. She has published eight stories with Chicken Soup for the Soul, two full-length plays with Eldridge Plays and Musicals, and writes a weekly faith and humor column for her hometown paper. 135 of the most popular columns are found in Terrie's first nonfiction book, Out of My Mind: A Decade of Faith and Humour. Her fourth novel, Rose Among Thornes, released in August, 2021 and her fifth, The Last Piece. in November, 2021.
After 20 years leading a church drama team, Terrie worked part-time as an Administrative Assistant at City Hall. Recently retired, she lives with her husband, Jon, on the Canadian prairies where they raised three children and where her novels are set. Over the years, Terrie has pursued acting, vegan cooking, and playing the saxophone, all with mixed reviews. You can catch up with her latest escapades at www.terrietodd.blogspot.com
After 20 years leading a church drama team, Terrie worked part-time as an Administrative Assistant at City Hall. Recently retired, she lives with her husband, Jon, on the Canadian prairies where they raised three children and where her novels are set. Over the years, Terrie has pursued acting, vegan cooking, and playing the saxophone, all with mixed reviews. You can catch up with her latest escapades at www.terrietodd.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 1, 2021
Thoughtful and timely. In Rose Among Thornes, Terrie Todd shows the difficult conditions faced by Japanese-Canadians in World War II—a topic rarely explored in novels—as well as the horrific treatment of prisoners of war. Both Rose and Rusty have reasons to hate, reasons never to forgive. Through their struggles, we see the cost of not forgiving and the blessings of forgiveness. A beautiful story that makes you feel—and think. Highly recommended!
June 27, 2021
I’m not one to read a lot of historical fiction, but - Wow!
This was a deeply touching story to read. I actually loved it for many reasons.
I had no idea the Canadian-Japanese people experienced the same things as the American-Japanese people did. I was captivated and taken on an emotional journey through this book.
Being married to a man whose parents are American-Japanese, I learned they experienced many of the same things, but they were American-Japanese citizens.
I’ve always felt what these individuals went through was a shame. The one thing about American/Canadian-Japanese people is that you will very rarely hear them complain or demand justice for the wrongs done to them. Terri Todd brought in a phrase that they used, and it is so true to their lives. Shikata ga nai means, “It cannot be helped.” This is their nature and the way they pay honor to their families. I’m proud to be related to them.
Terri Todd does a wonderful job depicting many of the struggles these dear people dealt with. Her story flowed and was well written. The images of what these characters went through on a daily basis held my interest.
Thank you, Terri Todd, for writing such a wonderful story of devotion, honor, respect, love, and forgiveness. And a story of God’s healing hand.
I highly recommend you pick this book up and read it, it just might change how you view things, and each moment in your life!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a deeply touching story to read. I actually loved it for many reasons.
I had no idea the Canadian-Japanese people experienced the same things as the American-Japanese people did. I was captivated and taken on an emotional journey through this book.
Being married to a man whose parents are American-Japanese, I learned they experienced many of the same things, but they were American-Japanese citizens.
I’ve always felt what these individuals went through was a shame. The one thing about American/Canadian-Japanese people is that you will very rarely hear them complain or demand justice for the wrongs done to them. Terri Todd brought in a phrase that they used, and it is so true to their lives. Shikata ga nai means, “It cannot be helped.” This is their nature and the way they pay honor to their families. I’m proud to be related to them.
Terri Todd does a wonderful job depicting many of the struggles these dear people dealt with. Her story flowed and was well written. The images of what these characters went through on a daily basis held my interest.
Thank you, Terri Todd, for writing such a wonderful story of devotion, honor, respect, love, and forgiveness. And a story of God’s healing hand.
I highly recommend you pick this book up and read it, it just might change how you view things, and each moment in your life!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
tbr-2
December 28, 2022Free on Amazon (26.12.22).
January 16, 2022
Terrie Todd has done it again. A horrible, haunting, yet beautiful tale full of dichotomies. The rich faith shown and the crises of faith experienced practically glow with authenticity.
I love how each "perfect" character... isn't as well. Rose resists, accepts, and resists again. At times, she seems too good to be true, and at other times, you can't help but go, "I get you. I totally get you." Her faith journey is such a rich, wonderful process to live with her. And if all that weren't enough, her letters fill your heart with hope and joy.
Though Russell endures a crisis of faith, it didn't occur when expected. Every time I thought he'd collapse, something bolstered it up until he finally quit relying on THE bolster. Watching his journey back to the Lord--so convicting.
War is horrible and ugly, and this book doesn't hide any of that. However, Todd is brilliant in showing it without going too far.
Recommended for lovers of WWII fiction, epistolary novels (this one is only semi-epistolary, but there are elements), and fiction full of faith that strengthens your own. Not recommended for readers who like to pretend that "our side" of the war was blameless.
I love how each "perfect" character... isn't as well. Rose resists, accepts, and resists again. At times, she seems too good to be true, and at other times, you can't help but go, "I get you. I totally get you." Her faith journey is such a rich, wonderful process to live with her. And if all that weren't enough, her letters fill your heart with hope and joy.
Though Russell endures a crisis of faith, it didn't occur when expected. Every time I thought he'd collapse, something bolstered it up until he finally quit relying on THE bolster. Watching his journey back to the Lord--so convicting.
War is horrible and ugly, and this book doesn't hide any of that. However, Todd is brilliant in showing it without going too far.
Recommended for lovers of WWII fiction, epistolary novels (this one is only semi-epistolary, but there are elements), and fiction full of faith that strengthens your own. Not recommended for readers who like to pretend that "our side" of the war was blameless.
July 28, 2022
Terrie Todd has written a breathtaking novel, which doesn’t sugar coat the ugliness of history while leaving the reader with hope and truth. The characters of Rose and Rusty develop throughout, exposing both their flaws as well their strengths. This novel explores what it is to walk through struggles and becoming broken by them, but also the power and invitation that God offers each person. I appreciate Christian fiction that explores the hard topics and I hope for more!
July 4, 2021
Terrie has done extensive research for this story which is woven seamlessly into the telling of this period of Canada's history. Overall, I felt a great sense of humility , which I think is a good starting point on the road to seeking forgiveness. I will endeavor to remember this as a Settler in this great country.
ebooks-i-own
December 28, 2022This book was / is free for 12/28/2022. I'd seen it the day before, and it looked interesting enough that I decided to add it to my ebook collection today. We'll see if I end up liking it. The cover is beautiful!
April 2, 2022
In 1941 Vancouver, BC, Rose was living the life of a 16-year-old pianist, dreaming of attending the University of British Columbia and becoming a concert pianist. Then on December 7, Pearl Harbor was attacked, and Japanese Canadians like Rose were interned. She and her family eventually went to Manitoba to work on a sugar-beet farm. I've enjoyed all of Terrie Todd's well-written historical fiction.
September 15, 2021
Terri Todd tells a story of the difficult times and conditions that the Japanese-Canadians had during WWII in her novel Roses Among Thorns. This story describes some of the horrible treatment that took place to these “prisoners of war” and people of whom many of were born and raised in Canada and had never even set foot on Japanese soil. This is a though provoking and beautifully written story that readers will be drawn to. It is thoroughly researched and the details of the story really bring to life what these amazing people went through. This book comes highly recommended.
Genre: Christian, historical fiction
Publisher: Stream Media (Heritage Beacon)
Publication date: August 31, 2021
Number of pages: 336
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: Christian, historical fiction
Publisher: Stream Media (Heritage Beacon)
Publication date: August 31, 2021
Number of pages: 336
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
December 3, 2025
3.5
This book had a slow start and felt kind of dry at first. Pushing through it, it started to pick up near the middle. It handled some hard themes, but I thought they were handled well. There were so many cool quotes and one I even wrote down in my journal. I enjoyed the characters, but it took awhile for to get into them and really feel their struggles.
This book had a slow start and felt kind of dry at first. Pushing through it, it started to pick up near the middle. It handled some hard themes, but I thought they were handled well. There were so many cool quotes and one I even wrote down in my journal. I enjoyed the characters, but it took awhile for to get into them and really feel their struggles.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
Rose Among Thornes by Terrie Todd is a really powerful historical Christian novel that revolves around the theme of forgiveness. It has its roots grounded in fact.
The story is set from 1941 in Canada and also in Japanese Prisoner Of War camps. Some Canadians had Japanese roots and were viewed with suspicion by many. ”Overnight, the Onishis had become the enemy.” The Canadian government rounded them all up to re-house them either on farms or in internment camps.
Terrie Todd has written a marvellous tale showing the imprisonment of many during the war years. Some prisons carried on beyond the end of the war as characters imprison themselves through bitterness and unforgiveness.
The racial prejudice towards fellow Canadians is awful to see. “They were patriotic Canadians.” Many of the Japanese Canadians had not stepped foot on Japanese soil, being born in Canada.
Life in a Japanese P.O.W was atrocious. There are some hard to read scenes but the reality would have been far worse. Belief in God was as vital as air and food to survive. Soldiers needed hope for their souls. “Either God did not see him… or He didn’t care, or He was not as powerful.” To question the presence of God was understandable as the cruelty raged. Doubt is not the opposite of faith. Soldiers needed to rely on the deep foundations of their faith in order to call upon it and to cling on to the hope that God did see and would deliver.
Experiences can make us bitter or better. We must forgive others or risk forever living in a prison of bitterness.
War inflicts horrendous pain on all sides. As a historian who has studied WWII in detail, I did find it hard to read about the nuclear bombs being dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as I knew the devastation caused, and our son had recently been to the Peace Museum in Hiroshima and found it incredibly moving. There was much to forgive on both sides.
The whole novel is grounded in God. There are portions of scripture and lessons for us all to learn.
We are all sons and daughters of the King. Sometimes our battles are not against flesh and blood, they are spiritual ones.
Rose Among Thornes was a tremendously powerful novel that totally consumed me.
I received a free copy from Just Read. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The story is set from 1941 in Canada and also in Japanese Prisoner Of War camps. Some Canadians had Japanese roots and were viewed with suspicion by many. ”Overnight, the Onishis had become the enemy.” The Canadian government rounded them all up to re-house them either on farms or in internment camps.
Terrie Todd has written a marvellous tale showing the imprisonment of many during the war years. Some prisons carried on beyond the end of the war as characters imprison themselves through bitterness and unforgiveness.
The racial prejudice towards fellow Canadians is awful to see. “They were patriotic Canadians.” Many of the Japanese Canadians had not stepped foot on Japanese soil, being born in Canada.
Life in a Japanese P.O.W was atrocious. There are some hard to read scenes but the reality would have been far worse. Belief in God was as vital as air and food to survive. Soldiers needed hope for their souls. “Either God did not see him… or He didn’t care, or He was not as powerful.” To question the presence of God was understandable as the cruelty raged. Doubt is not the opposite of faith. Soldiers needed to rely on the deep foundations of their faith in order to call upon it and to cling on to the hope that God did see and would deliver.
Experiences can make us bitter or better. We must forgive others or risk forever living in a prison of bitterness.
War inflicts horrendous pain on all sides. As a historian who has studied WWII in detail, I did find it hard to read about the nuclear bombs being dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as I knew the devastation caused, and our son had recently been to the Peace Museum in Hiroshima and found it incredibly moving. There was much to forgive on both sides.
The whole novel is grounded in God. There are portions of scripture and lessons for us all to learn.
We are all sons and daughters of the King. Sometimes our battles are not against flesh and blood, they are spiritual ones.
Rose Among Thornes was a tremendously powerful novel that totally consumed me.
I received a free copy from Just Read. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2021
Oh my goodness, I just finished this marvelous story. Thank you author Terrie Todd for writing such an important story on so many levels. I loved it. I'm still pondering this amazing story. Rose Among Thornes would make a terrific movie. This beautiful and captivating story will stay with me long after I finished the last page. Topics of friendship, enemies, love, hate, very difficult wartime experiences, and forgiveness are honestly examined.
Author Terri Todd brilliantly paints a picture both at home and abroad of real injustices committed during WWII. In this powerful story, a soldier struggles with forgiveness after being severely mistreated as a prisoner of war in Japan, and a superbly talented hoping-to-be concert pianist is forced to leave home with her family by the government and moved to the interior of Canada to do manual labor.
The impeccable research that went into the telling of this story, and the talented pen of Terrie Todd make for a compelling and unforgettable story. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would!
I highly recommend Rose Among Thornes, thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own. I also purchased a copy for my keeper shelf!
Author Terri Todd brilliantly paints a picture both at home and abroad of real injustices committed during WWII. In this powerful story, a soldier struggles with forgiveness after being severely mistreated as a prisoner of war in Japan, and a superbly talented hoping-to-be concert pianist is forced to leave home with her family by the government and moved to the interior of Canada to do manual labor.
The impeccable research that went into the telling of this story, and the talented pen of Terrie Todd make for a compelling and unforgettable story. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would!
I highly recommend Rose Among Thornes, thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own. I also purchased a copy for my keeper shelf!
August 19, 2022
Both Canada and the USA took their citizens with Japanese bloodlines, many of whom had been living in their nations for generations, and in late 1941 and early 1942 began herding them into internment camps. It is a story of shame. It is gently told here - more gently than I would tell it - along with a love story between a Canadian soldier imprisoned by the Japanese army in Hong Kong and a Japanese-Canadian woman working with sugar beets at the young man’s home farm. A story based on a true love story, as it turns out.
It was a good decision to balance the internment narrative in Canada with a narrative of the disgraceful maltreatment of POWs by the Japanese military in Asia during WW2. The tragic consequences of war are powerfully felt right across the board.
An important story and it’s very well told. Highly recommended.
It was a good decision to balance the internment narrative in Canada with a narrative of the disgraceful maltreatment of POWs by the Japanese military in Asia during WW2. The tragic consequences of war are powerfully felt right across the board.
An important story and it’s very well told. Highly recommended.
September 3, 2021
I love this genre and I love this book! In the beginning we are introduced to the Onishi family who live a very modern life in Vancouver. The daughter has her dream, of being a professional pianist, in sight until Pearl Harbor changes everything. When America and Canada are drawn into WWII, fear of Japanese citizens goes out of control. Canada, like the US, decides to place all citizens of Japanese heritage into camps. Rose and her family must give up everything to be moved around like cattle. They are forced to live under terrible conditions and treated like slaves.
Thankfully, God was with them and had a plan to bring good out of all the sadness. The family ended up working for a farm family, who were very kind. The Onishi family lived in a poorly constructed cabin and had to work in the fields, get wood to heat the stove, and prepare their own food. The farmers were Mr and Mrs Thorne and their son Rusty, who was in the service. They were a Christian family. As Mrs Thorne befriended Rose, she encouraged her to write letters to Rusty. Rose and Rusty became close through their letters, but Rusty didn’t know Rose was Japanese.
When Rusty was captured by the Japanese, he was tortured and abused in various prison camps. The book describes many of the horrible things he went through. In addition, he had a crisis of faith. On one hand, he was the strong Christian who encouraged those around him with songs and verses. On the other hand, he had times where he couldn’t see or feel God’s presence.
When Rusty is finally freed and returns home the sight of Rose is horrifying to him. The Thornes decide to keep the Onishi family away from their son, as they prayed for him to forgive. Rusty isn’t the only one who was filled with hate. The author also points out how the entire country had hate for the Japanese. The country wanted to ship them all to Japan.
Rose and her family had much fear and didn’t know what was going to happen to them next. Rose was facing the end of her dreams. Would she have to move to a country she didn’t even know?
You will find that this is a wonderful Christian book and one that you can’t put down. I highly recommend this book to everyone. There is some content about the war that is hard to read, but it is handled sensitively. The author studied real experiences of Japanese citizens to write this book. You’ll really have to think about the issue of forgiveness and how it’s the right thing, especially for a Christian.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Thankfully, God was with them and had a plan to bring good out of all the sadness. The family ended up working for a farm family, who were very kind. The Onishi family lived in a poorly constructed cabin and had to work in the fields, get wood to heat the stove, and prepare their own food. The farmers were Mr and Mrs Thorne and their son Rusty, who was in the service. They were a Christian family. As Mrs Thorne befriended Rose, she encouraged her to write letters to Rusty. Rose and Rusty became close through their letters, but Rusty didn’t know Rose was Japanese.
When Rusty was captured by the Japanese, he was tortured and abused in various prison camps. The book describes many of the horrible things he went through. In addition, he had a crisis of faith. On one hand, he was the strong Christian who encouraged those around him with songs and verses. On the other hand, he had times where he couldn’t see or feel God’s presence.
When Rusty is finally freed and returns home the sight of Rose is horrifying to him. The Thornes decide to keep the Onishi family away from their son, as they prayed for him to forgive. Rusty isn’t the only one who was filled with hate. The author also points out how the entire country had hate for the Japanese. The country wanted to ship them all to Japan.
Rose and her family had much fear and didn’t know what was going to happen to them next. Rose was facing the end of her dreams. Would she have to move to a country she didn’t even know?
You will find that this is a wonderful Christian book and one that you can’t put down. I highly recommend this book to everyone. There is some content about the war that is hard to read, but it is handled sensitively. The author studied real experiences of Japanese citizens to write this book. You’ll really have to think about the issue of forgiveness and how it’s the right thing, especially for a Christian.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 30, 2025
4 Stars
Completed: June 30/25
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: FFF’s “Asian ties”
Book #78 of 2025: I love when a novel teaches me something about history that I did not know, or only knew parts of. Especially something in the province I live in. Warmongers around the world have done so many horrific and unconscionable things.
For whatever reason, I enjoyed the latter half of this book much more than the first half. I think it is because I was anticipating the letters between Rose and Rusty. That was certainly what I was waiting for.
I respected the fact that physical meeting between the couple was realistic. Considering all he had been through, it was raw and honest. While it wasn’t fair to Rose, I think anyone who had experienced such horrors would have reacted the same way.
The accident that drew them together was heartbreaking, yet the loss brought about so much good. Rose even saw the blessing eventually. It shows the truth of how God can work anything for good to those who love Him.
This novel is educational and about the resolute human spirit. Every more so, it is about growing in the Lord, learning-and giving-forgiveness.
Completed: June 30/25
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: FFF’s “Asian ties”
Book #78 of 2025: I love when a novel teaches me something about history that I did not know, or only knew parts of. Especially something in the province I live in. Warmongers around the world have done so many horrific and unconscionable things.
For whatever reason, I enjoyed the latter half of this book much more than the first half. I think it is because I was anticipating the letters between Rose and Rusty. That was certainly what I was waiting for.
I respected the fact that physical meeting between the couple was realistic. Considering all he had been through, it was raw and honest. While it wasn’t fair to Rose, I think anyone who had experienced such horrors would have reacted the same way.
The accident that drew them together was heartbreaking, yet the loss brought about so much good. Rose even saw the blessing eventually. It shows the truth of how God can work anything for good to those who love Him.
This novel is educational and about the resolute human spirit. Every more so, it is about growing in the Lord, learning-and giving-forgiveness.
March 7, 2023
Manitoba author alert! My mom bought me this Christian historical fiction book for me for Christmas, it’s even signed by the author! I was surprised at how much I ended up enjoying it.
During WW2, Japanese-Canadian, Rose and her family are forced to move to a farm in Manitoba from Vancouver. Not familiar with farming, the family must learn a lot. Rose especially misses her friends from back home and the ability to play the piano. The family they are forced to help have a son, Rusty, in a POW camp run by Japanese. Rose begins writing letters to Rusty to encourage him while he too is imprisoned.
There was lots of action and some twists along the way. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I wanted to keep reading it!
Did I judge it for being Christian historical fiction? Yes. And I won’t lie, there’s a lot of scripture and prayer woven in, but I didn’t feel like it took over from the story. Overall, I’m giving it a 4⭐️ rating since I really didn’t want to put it down!
During WW2, Japanese-Canadian, Rose and her family are forced to move to a farm in Manitoba from Vancouver. Not familiar with farming, the family must learn a lot. Rose especially misses her friends from back home and the ability to play the piano. The family they are forced to help have a son, Rusty, in a POW camp run by Japanese. Rose begins writing letters to Rusty to encourage him while he too is imprisoned.
There was lots of action and some twists along the way. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I wanted to keep reading it!
Did I judge it for being Christian historical fiction? Yes. And I won’t lie, there’s a lot of scripture and prayer woven in, but I didn’t feel like it took over from the story. Overall, I’m giving it a 4⭐️ rating since I really didn’t want to put it down!
July 28, 2021
This book is absolutely excellent from beginning to end! I have read a lot of WWII fiction and somehow managed to never learn that the Canadian government forced all Japanese Canadians into camps. It was eye-opening for sure. The amount of details and vivid descriptions that are such a big part of the story really made it come alive for me. I felt like I was part of every scene. I loved the characters and they are written in a way that made them all relatable. Rusty's experiences as a prisoner of war are heart-wrenching and yet, at times my spirit was lifted by them. This is a beautiful, well researched, faith-filled story that everyone should read.
I received an advance copy and all opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy and all opinions are my own.
September 1, 2021
In Rose Among Thornes we get a rare glimpse into a much less talked about narrative that occurred during World War II, something that I didn't realize until reading this book not only happened in America, but in Canada as well: the imprisonment of many innocent Japanese people. So much about World War II makes me sick to my stomach, and ripping peoples lives away from them and imprisoning them based off of their ethnicity is no exception. Rose Among Thornes shows one such case of two beautiful families who, due to the war, their lives are stolen from them (in different ways, of course), but because of their faith they are able to persevere and overcome their circumstances, bringing about something no evil can ever dare touch: true love and forgiveness.
The reader gets to see through the eyes of Rusty Thorne, a young man who goes into the war as a soldier full of faith, but the hardness and ravages of war quickly jade him, and Rose Onishi, a promising pianist who fights her own personal war after the anti-Japanese movement sweeps the nation after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. What had once been a safe haven becomes brutal, friends become enemies, and prejudice against the Japanese saturates the world, including in the hearts of those that had originally thought their faith could overcome any hate.
What I found so interesting about this novel was how my feelings for Rusty changed just like the nations feelings changed for Rose and her family. The author did an incredible job of showing how easy it is to change ones opinions of a person when their beliefs no long align with your own. Insanely powerful and eye opening!!
Though I did love this novel, there were parts that did tend to drag for me, making me wonder if I was going to be disappointed by the end, but once it picked back up I couldn't put it down. By the time the story starts to ramp up you are so invested in these characters you have to see how everything plays out, and I am so thankful I did not give up.
A very powerful and thought-provoking read, Rose Among Thornes is as true now as it was back then: forgiveness is a mighty powerful thing and love truly does conquer all.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited for JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
The reader gets to see through the eyes of Rusty Thorne, a young man who goes into the war as a soldier full of faith, but the hardness and ravages of war quickly jade him, and Rose Onishi, a promising pianist who fights her own personal war after the anti-Japanese movement sweeps the nation after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. What had once been a safe haven becomes brutal, friends become enemies, and prejudice against the Japanese saturates the world, including in the hearts of those that had originally thought their faith could overcome any hate.
What I found so interesting about this novel was how my feelings for Rusty changed just like the nations feelings changed for Rose and her family. The author did an incredible job of showing how easy it is to change ones opinions of a person when their beliefs no long align with your own. Insanely powerful and eye opening!!
Though I did love this novel, there were parts that did tend to drag for me, making me wonder if I was going to be disappointed by the end, but once it picked back up I couldn't put it down. By the time the story starts to ramp up you are so invested in these characters you have to see how everything plays out, and I am so thankful I did not give up.
A very powerful and thought-provoking read, Rose Among Thornes is as true now as it was back then: forgiveness is a mighty powerful thing and love truly does conquer all.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited for JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
July 3, 2021
This is a well-crafted, well-researched story. It weaves together two very different families at a time when differences divide, and we see how the long fingers of war reach into ordinary lives to steal dreams and cause personal suffering and loss. We watch as young love takes root--only to be tested when it is most fragile. And we realize that strong family faith and philosophy are what give people the capacity to endure. If you want to gain a better understanding of human resilience in times of war (and more specifically the internment of Japanese Canadians), this is an excellent read.
October 18, 2021
Excellent Story
This was an excellent story that plumbed the heights and depths of emotions and told of those whose faith was put to the greatest test. The situations the characters endured were well-written and heart wrenching. A wonderful book.
This was an excellent story that plumbed the heights and depths of emotions and told of those whose faith was put to the greatest test. The situations the characters endured were well-written and heart wrenching. A wonderful book.
September 19, 2021
You can’t put it down!
Terrie Todd has once again written a magnificent book. Her research on the treatment of the Japanese during WWII is heart wrenching. A story of determination, endurance, love and most of all, forgiveness. You won’t be able to put it down.
Terrie Todd has once again written a magnificent book. Her research on the treatment of the Japanese during WWII is heart wrenching. A story of determination, endurance, love and most of all, forgiveness. You won’t be able to put it down.
September 1, 2021
Engrossing, beautiful, heartbreaking. A must-read for historical fiction lovers.
Rose is in many ways a typical high school girl in Vancouver in 1941. She and her best friend love film stars, movies, cute boys--and music. Rose is an exceptional pianist who dreams of college and then, touring the world as a concert pianist.
Rusty is in the Canadian army, and a small-town boy from the Winnipeg area of Manitoba. He's on his way to the Far East, ending up in Hong Kong to work alongside British soldiers in case of a Japanese attack.
Both end up where they'd never imagined they would: Rose, in an internment camp and later in a sugar beet farm in Manitoba; and Rusty, in a Japanese POW camp.
Letters begin to connect them. Rose's strengthen Rusty's faith, in a terrible place where death and mistreatment are commonplace. Rusty's engage Rose's heart and imagination. Both long for the time, years ahead, when the war is over, and they might meet. Only one problem (aside from the war, their separation, the constant threats against Rusty) exists; Rusty has no idea that Rose's racial identity--Canadian, of Japanese origin--has the same roots of his hated captors.
More is ahead for both of them. Will they survive, and can they overcome their greatest struggles?
Terrie Todd's book is beautifully written, and readers will love and engage with Rusty, Rose, and the surrounding characters. She ably and skillfully creates a sense of place, faith, and emotion in all her characters and settings. It's wonderful. I recommend this lovely and poignant book wholeheartedly.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Rose is in many ways a typical high school girl in Vancouver in 1941. She and her best friend love film stars, movies, cute boys--and music. Rose is an exceptional pianist who dreams of college and then, touring the world as a concert pianist.
Rusty is in the Canadian army, and a small-town boy from the Winnipeg area of Manitoba. He's on his way to the Far East, ending up in Hong Kong to work alongside British soldiers in case of a Japanese attack.
Both end up where they'd never imagined they would: Rose, in an internment camp and later in a sugar beet farm in Manitoba; and Rusty, in a Japanese POW camp.
Letters begin to connect them. Rose's strengthen Rusty's faith, in a terrible place where death and mistreatment are commonplace. Rusty's engage Rose's heart and imagination. Both long for the time, years ahead, when the war is over, and they might meet. Only one problem (aside from the war, their separation, the constant threats against Rusty) exists; Rusty has no idea that Rose's racial identity--Canadian, of Japanese origin--has the same roots of his hated captors.
More is ahead for both of them. Will they survive, and can they overcome their greatest struggles?
Terrie Todd's book is beautifully written, and readers will love and engage with Rusty, Rose, and the surrounding characters. She ably and skillfully creates a sense of place, faith, and emotion in all her characters and settings. It's wonderful. I recommend this lovely and poignant book wholeheartedly.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 14, 2021
Terrie Todd has written a novel that is not an easy light read.
The plight of the Japanese Canadians during World War II was gut wrenching. To be torn away from your life because suddenly you couldn’t be trusted is unimaginable.
On the opposite side is the Canadian soldier who lives through the atrocities of being held pow by the Japanese.
This is an story of forgiveness and grace, that we can all learn from.
The plight of the Japanese Canadians during World War II was gut wrenching. To be torn away from your life because suddenly you couldn’t be trusted is unimaginable.
On the opposite side is the Canadian soldier who lives through the atrocities of being held pow by the Japanese.
This is an story of forgiveness and grace, that we can all learn from.
September 1, 2021
Rose Among Thornes offers a unique story that I don’t believe a lot of people are aware of, especially Americans.
As an American, I knew there were Japanese internment camps in the United States during World War II. I didn’t realize this happened in Canada as well. The story told in his book will open the eyes of many Canadians to their nation’s history, which, sadly, is as heartbreaking as my own nation’s past.
It’s hard to read Todd’s book without falling in love with the main characters, Rose and Rusty. Their story is what carries the reader on through the pages, hoping to find some happiness within the very difficult journey they both find themselves in the midst of.
Rusty’s story of being a prisoner of war and Rose’s of being forced into an internment camp are equally heartbreaking. This book isn’t only about heartbreak, though. It’s about forgiveness, about not judging an entire race or group of people based on what one person or small group has done, and it’s about hope rising out of what looks like hopeless situations.
Rating: 4 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and Just Read Blog Tours. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
As an American, I knew there were Japanese internment camps in the United States during World War II. I didn’t realize this happened in Canada as well. The story told in his book will open the eyes of many Canadians to their nation’s history, which, sadly, is as heartbreaking as my own nation’s past.
It’s hard to read Todd’s book without falling in love with the main characters, Rose and Rusty. Their story is what carries the reader on through the pages, hoping to find some happiness within the very difficult journey they both find themselves in the midst of.
Rusty’s story of being a prisoner of war and Rose’s of being forced into an internment camp are equally heartbreaking. This book isn’t only about heartbreak, though. It’s about forgiveness, about not judging an entire race or group of people based on what one person or small group has done, and it’s about hope rising out of what looks like hopeless situations.
Rating: 4 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and Just Read Blog Tours. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
September 2, 2021
Having grown up in the US, I am unfamiliar about Canadian history, but found this story quite compelling. While the US had a similar internment practice of the Japanese during WWII, I think the Canadian process was just as intense.
I was struck by the willingness of the Onishi family to comply with the government and then the farm rules, just to keep the peace. This was a real sign of power, in my opinion.
The love story between Rose and Rusty was precious. Both were looking out for the best in the other, but had a vision in their minds of how it would end. Both were quite shocked and disappointed when the reality did not meet their “dream.” However, God’s love and forgiveness was shown over and over in this story.
I enjoyed the book. Readers should be aware that it does describe the terrible situation the POW’s and internees endured during the war, some my find these details difficult to read.
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions shared are my own.
I was struck by the willingness of the Onishi family to comply with the government and then the farm rules, just to keep the peace. This was a real sign of power, in my opinion.
The love story between Rose and Rusty was precious. Both were looking out for the best in the other, but had a vision in their minds of how it would end. Both were quite shocked and disappointed when the reality did not meet their “dream.” However, God’s love and forgiveness was shown over and over in this story.
I enjoyed the book. Readers should be aware that it does describe the terrible situation the POW’s and internees endured during the war, some my find these details difficult to read.
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions shared are my own.
June 26, 2021
This is a book I would bring to my Book Club. Just so many things to discuss. There is the war history both of the POW camps in Japan and the internment of Japanese Canadians. Then there is the hard work of sugar beet farming....who knew this was an important source of sugar during the war? Then the questions we ask about where would each of us draw the line of forgiveness when horrible events take over. So many themes. So much to discuss. And a sweet love story thrown in for good measure is just balm for the soul. Well worth the read!
September 6, 2021
Forgiveness is the deadliest force on earth.
War might be raging overseas, but Rose Onishi is on track to fulfill her lifelong goal of becoming a concert pianist. When forced by her government to leave her beloved home in Vancouver and move to the Canadian prairie to work on the Thornes’ sugar beet farm, her dream fades to match the black dirt staining her callused hands. Though the Thorne family is kind, life is unbearably lonely. In hopes that it might win her the chance to play their piano, Rose agrees to write letters to their soldier son.When Rusty Thorne joins the Canadian Army, he never imagines becoming a Japanese prisoner of war. Inside the camp, the faith his parents instilled is tested like never before. Though he begs God to help him not hate his brutal captors, Rusty can no longer even hear the Japanese language without revulsion. Only his rare letters from home sustain him—especially the brilliant notes from his mother’s charming helper, which the girl signs simply as “Rose.”Will Rusty survive the war only to encounter the Japanese on his own doorstep? Can Rose overcome betrayal and open her heart? Or will the truth destroy the fragile bond their letters created?The Battle of Hong Kong (8–25 December 1941),was one of the first battles of the Pacific War in WWII. On the same morning as the attack on Pearl Harbor, forces of the Empire of Japan attacked the British Crown colony of Hong Kong, without declaring war against the British Empire. The Hong Kong garrison consisted of British, Indian and Canadian units, also the Auxiliary Defence Units and Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps.Sham Shui Po is an area of Kowloon,HK.Under Japanese occupation, a concentration camp was maintained here for most of the duration of the war.Japanese Canadians were forcibly relocated and interned in the name of national security.The majority were Canadian citizens by birth.This decision followed the events of the Japanese invasions of British Hong Kong and Malaya, the attack on Pearl Harbor.This forced relocation subjected many Japanese Canadians to government-enforced curfews and interrogations,job and property losses,and forced repatriation to Japan.
War might be raging overseas, but Rose Onishi is on track to fulfill her lifelong goal of becoming a concert pianist. When forced by her government to leave her beloved home in Vancouver and move to the Canadian prairie to work on the Thornes’ sugar beet farm, her dream fades to match the black dirt staining her callused hands. Though the Thorne family is kind, life is unbearably lonely. In hopes that it might win her the chance to play their piano, Rose agrees to write letters to their soldier son.When Rusty Thorne joins the Canadian Army, he never imagines becoming a Japanese prisoner of war. Inside the camp, the faith his parents instilled is tested like never before. Though he begs God to help him not hate his brutal captors, Rusty can no longer even hear the Japanese language without revulsion. Only his rare letters from home sustain him—especially the brilliant notes from his mother’s charming helper, which the girl signs simply as “Rose.”Will Rusty survive the war only to encounter the Japanese on his own doorstep? Can Rose overcome betrayal and open her heart? Or will the truth destroy the fragile bond their letters created?The Battle of Hong Kong (8–25 December 1941),was one of the first battles of the Pacific War in WWII. On the same morning as the attack on Pearl Harbor, forces of the Empire of Japan attacked the British Crown colony of Hong Kong, without declaring war against the British Empire. The Hong Kong garrison consisted of British, Indian and Canadian units, also the Auxiliary Defence Units and Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps.Sham Shui Po is an area of Kowloon,HK.Under Japanese occupation, a concentration camp was maintained here for most of the duration of the war.Japanese Canadians were forcibly relocated and interned in the name of national security.The majority were Canadian citizens by birth.This decision followed the events of the Japanese invasions of British Hong Kong and Malaya, the attack on Pearl Harbor.This forced relocation subjected many Japanese Canadians to government-enforced curfews and interrogations,job and property losses,and forced repatriation to Japan.
April 21, 2024
Oh my goodness gracious. This book is SO GOOD.
Do not let the cover lead you astray. If it hadn’t been for the book recommendation, I wouldn’t have picked it up. But I am so happy I did! This book is an amazing read. It’s truly a story about forgiveness, but there are so many other lessons throughout the book that are encouraging and uplifting. It also has a sweet hint of romance, but that’s all I’ll say to avoid spoilers. I went in partially blind and finished the book happier that I was able to experience this story.
This set in 1940s Canada, and it focuses on two families - one Japanese and one Caucasian - and the effects of WWII on their daily lives. Although it’s a fictional story, the events are based on true history - awful things that really happened back then. It tells readers, through the eyes of a young Japanese-Canadian girl, how cruel their government and society was on their families simply because of their heritage. As a third-culture kid myself, this kind of behavior from society drives me insane. We need to know about these stories. I believe it’s so important for us to remember what happened back then so that we can learn from it and use it to fix our mistakes and build a better future.
Again, this book is amazing. It deserves more reads. It’s one of those rare books that takes you to a different world. Target audience could be anywhere from high school to young adults, but really, I think anyone above middle school age would find this book so inspiring and interesting. And I’m convinced: Forgiveness truly is the most powerful thing in the whole world.
Do not let the cover lead you astray. If it hadn’t been for the book recommendation, I wouldn’t have picked it up. But I am so happy I did! This book is an amazing read. It’s truly a story about forgiveness, but there are so many other lessons throughout the book that are encouraging and uplifting. It also has a sweet hint of romance, but that’s all I’ll say to avoid spoilers. I went in partially blind and finished the book happier that I was able to experience this story.
This set in 1940s Canada, and it focuses on two families - one Japanese and one Caucasian - and the effects of WWII on their daily lives. Although it’s a fictional story, the events are based on true history - awful things that really happened back then. It tells readers, through the eyes of a young Japanese-Canadian girl, how cruel their government and society was on their families simply because of their heritage. As a third-culture kid myself, this kind of behavior from society drives me insane. We need to know about these stories. I believe it’s so important for us to remember what happened back then so that we can learn from it and use it to fix our mistakes and build a better future.
Again, this book is amazing. It deserves more reads. It’s one of those rare books that takes you to a different world. Target audience could be anywhere from high school to young adults, but really, I think anyone above middle school age would find this book so inspiring and interesting. And I’m convinced: Forgiveness truly is the most powerful thing in the whole world.
June 24, 2021
I was swept away by this story set in Canada during World War Two. Rose Onishi, a typical 1940s Canadian teen, is enjoying life in Vancouver, dreaming of becoming a concert pianist one day. Her life is full and satisfying--until her family’s possessions are confiscated, and they are shipped to an internment camp simply because of their Japanese ancestry. In a parallel story, Rusty Thorne, a farm boy from Manitoba, volunteers for the war effort and joins the Allied forces in Hong Kong. Unfortunately, he and his best friend are captured and he spends most of the war years in a Prisoner of War camp, enduring unspeakable cruelty and inhumane conditions. Meanwhile, Rose’s family eventually end up half way across the country working on a Manitoba sugar beet farm, which is where the two stories intersect. I won’t let any spoilers slip, so will end the discussion of the plot here. Suffice to say, there is real depth to this story in both the characters’ journeys and the obstacles they face, both from within and without. The author did her research and the events that unfold are complex. This is so much more than a historical novel or a romance. It highlights the deep need each one of us has to surrender to God. I loved this book. I highly recommend it and will likely read it again. It's another win for Terrie Todd!
December 30, 2022
This book will stick with me
Book review: Rose Among Thornes by Terrie Todd
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What a truly fantastic book. The writing was so captivating that reality fades away and I was drawn in to the story of faith, perseverance, lifting others, and forgiveness in the face of injustice. As with any war novel there is much to learn about being a better human. This book made me reflect on my own faith. It made me wonder if my own faith would be strong enough to endure something so horrific. Rusty and Rose were so dynamic and grew so much throughout the book. Their trials were incomprehensible and the fact that they were based on true events is heart wrenching. I love how Rusty uses his parents’ own trials as an example of how they held on to faith even though they are nothing like what he is experiencing. He doesn’t diminish what was hard for them because what he is going through could arguably be considered much worse. They are both trials in his eyes and he can learn from his parents. I loved watching Rose grow her faith amidst her trials and find gratitude despite her circumstances. This book is a great reminder of who the true enemy is and how we can defeat him. This is a book that will stick with me.
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My rating: a resounding ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: descriptions of POW camps, death, violence, racism
Book review: Rose Among Thornes by Terrie Todd
.
What a truly fantastic book. The writing was so captivating that reality fades away and I was drawn in to the story of faith, perseverance, lifting others, and forgiveness in the face of injustice. As with any war novel there is much to learn about being a better human. This book made me reflect on my own faith. It made me wonder if my own faith would be strong enough to endure something so horrific. Rusty and Rose were so dynamic and grew so much throughout the book. Their trials were incomprehensible and the fact that they were based on true events is heart wrenching. I love how Rusty uses his parents’ own trials as an example of how they held on to faith even though they are nothing like what he is experiencing. He doesn’t diminish what was hard for them because what he is going through could arguably be considered much worse. They are both trials in his eyes and he can learn from his parents. I loved watching Rose grow her faith amidst her trials and find gratitude despite her circumstances. This book is a great reminder of who the true enemy is and how we can defeat him. This is a book that will stick with me.
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My rating: a resounding ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: descriptions of POW camps, death, violence, racism
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