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Brothers in Arms #1
Sons of Thunder
Sophie Frangos is torn between the love of two men and the promise that binds them all together. Markos Stavros loves Sophie from afar while battling his thirst for vengeance and his hunger for honor. Dino, his quiet and intelligent brother, simply wants to forget the horror that drove them from their Greek island home to start a new life in America. One of these "sons of thunder" offers a future she longs for, the other—the past she lost. From the sultry Chicago jazz clubs of the roaring twenties to the World War II battlefields of Europe to a final showdown in a Greek island village, they’ll discover betrayal, sacrifice and finally redemption. Most of all, when Sophie is forced to make her choice, she’ll learn that God honors the promises made by the Sons of Thunder.
367 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
83 people are currently reading
1467 people want to read
About the author
Susan May Warren
213 books3,625 followersI can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
June 5, 2018
Sons of Thunder is the first book in the Brothers in Arms series. The story takes place over a lot of years and you see the roaring twenties, as well as WW2. This book had my emotions on a roller-coaster and I almost didn't want to finish it (because I was weary of what was going to happen next)...but I couldn't put the book down. ;)
The story is not an easy one to read and does have some content I wasn't a fan of. I would definitely say it is edgy Christian fiction, as it had a great redemption story, but because of the premarital sex (no details) I only recommend it to mature readers.
The romance was crazy. I wasn't sure how things would go and there were so many ups and downs in the story. I loved reading it and it had a satisfying ending.
All in all, I loved Sons of Thunder. I recommend it to fans of this genre, as long as you don't mind some edgy elements.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
The story is not an easy one to read and does have some content I wasn't a fan of. I would definitely say it is edgy Christian fiction, as it had a great redemption story, but because of the premarital sex (no details) I only recommend it to mature readers.
The romance was crazy. I wasn't sure how things would go and there were so many ups and downs in the story. I loved reading it and it had a satisfying ending.
All in all, I loved Sons of Thunder. I recommend it to fans of this genre, as long as you don't mind some edgy elements.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
February 18, 2021
Just not my thing. The story focuses on a trio of youngsters who go to America in the 1930s for new opportunities. However, they end up with a relative involved in the mob and the opportunities aren’t what they thought.
The book follows the three through many issues and up through WW2. I hoped things would improve but the story was very difficult, especially the part where a woman is nearly raped and then gives herself to one man and then another ...it was just too much of the gutter and just a few chapters about the redemption.
Not my thing.
The book follows the three through many issues and up through WW2. I hoped things would improve but the story was very difficult, especially the part where a woman is nearly raped and then gives herself to one man and then another ...it was just too much of the gutter and just a few chapters about the redemption.
Not my thing.
November 10, 2022
Incredibly romantic, tragically beautiful, heart-wrenching, and deeply moving, Sons of Thunder swept me away. This first novel in Susan's new series pulls you into each of the characters' lives in a powerful way. The passion, the heartache, the longing for love and acceptance. It's all in this story as well as the struggle to survive, the yearning for identity, the desire for someone Who will love you and always be there for you. This passionate tale of love and betrayal brilliantly portrays how an abiding faith in God is passed on by example and illustrated through an unwavering spiritual connection to the One Who is faithful and true. It also shows how God knows our greatest need and often allows us to go through the fire to bring us to where He wants us to be. Our trials cause us to grow up and live for others and not just ourselves.
There were so many incredible lessons to be gleaned within the pages of this powerful story that I could go on and on. The bottom line is that this was, in my opinion, Susan May Warren's best novel yet because she captivated me and made me care about every character in this story in a way that rarely happens when I'm reading. I've heard it said that the best stories are ones where the author imagines the worst thing that could happen to their character in every scene, then makes that very thing happen. Susan does a perfect job at building tension and providing a realistic plot that moved me to tears several times. And talk about edgy. Wow! But so tastefully done. These characters were so real to me and I learned a lot from them. Can you tell I loved this book? Sons of Thunder is making my top fiction list for 2010.
There were so many incredible lessons to be gleaned within the pages of this powerful story that I could go on and on. The bottom line is that this was, in my opinion, Susan May Warren's best novel yet because she captivated me and made me care about every character in this story in a way that rarely happens when I'm reading. I've heard it said that the best stories are ones where the author imagines the worst thing that could happen to their character in every scene, then makes that very thing happen. Susan does a perfect job at building tension and providing a realistic plot that moved me to tears several times. And talk about edgy. Wow! But so tastefully done. These characters were so real to me and I learned a lot from them. Can you tell I loved this book? Sons of Thunder is making my top fiction list for 2010.
February 23, 2010
Yet another wonderful WWII novel!! I would DEFINITELY classify this one as "edgy" inspirational, with the ganster violence, underground clubs, and other subject matter. This is NOT for the younger Christian fiction reader! One of the best books I've read this year.
Full review in March for the tour with Litfuse publicity group!
Full review in March for the tour with Litfuse publicity group!
February 18, 2010
BOOK RECAP:
Sophie Frangos is torn between the love of two men and the promise that binds them all together. Markos Stavros loves Sophie from afar while battling his thirst for vengeance and his hunger for honor. Dino, his quiet and intelligent brother, simply wants to forget the horror that drove them from their Greek island home to start a new life in America. One of these sons of thunder offers a future she longs for, the other the past she lost. From the sultry Chicago jazz clubs of the roaring twenties to the World War II battlefields of Europe to a final showdown in a Greek island village, theyll discover betrayal, sacrifice and finally redemption. Most of all, when Sophie is forced to make her choice, she'll learn that God honors the promises made by the Sons of Thunder.
Sons of Thunder launches the new Romantic Suspense line for Summerside Press - it will be available to purchase in Wal-mart mid-January. Also - its uniquely written - its an epic suspense story written as three novellas - 3 points of view, 3 settings.
MY THOUGHTS:
I enjoyed the lesser known history that was woven into the plot of this fiction book. It gave a fascinating view of life back then n ways that we normally do not think about. I also enjoyed the take of the book being written like 3 novellas. It added depth to the characters and thickness to the plot which makes the book a longer and more enjoyable read. Especially for those who can breeze through a book in just a few hours - it makes you feel you got your money's worth! However, while it is a lengthy book, the storyline moves so fast that it is still easy to read as you become sucked into the plot.
Susan May Warren is a gifted writer and has taken three settings with little in common (Chicago's clubs, WWII battlefields, and the Island of Greece) and created a romantic story filled with drama and suspense.
However, despite the attention capturing storyline, I recommend discernment in reading this book because of the shallow presentation of the Gospel and due to some of the content and situations addressed in this book, namely the Chicago club scenes. I would not suggest this book for teen girls.
I have enjoyed several other great books by Susan May Warren, and recommend the Team Hope Series if you like suspense.
MEET THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the award-winning author of seventeen novels and novellas with Tyndale, Steeple Hill and Barbour Publishing. Her first book, Happily Ever After won the American Fiction Christian Writers Book of the Year in 2003, and was a 2003 Christy Award finalist. In Sheep's Clothing, a thriller set in Russia, was a 2006 Christy Award finalist and won the 2006 Inspirational Reader's Choice award. A former missionary to Russia, Susan May Warren now writes Suspense/Romance and Chick Lit full time from her home in northern Minnesota.
Learn more about Susan here: www.susanmaywarren.com
* * * * *
This review copy was provided courtesy of LitFuse Publicity.
Sophie Frangos is torn between the love of two men and the promise that binds them all together. Markos Stavros loves Sophie from afar while battling his thirst for vengeance and his hunger for honor. Dino, his quiet and intelligent brother, simply wants to forget the horror that drove them from their Greek island home to start a new life in America. One of these sons of thunder offers a future she longs for, the other the past she lost. From the sultry Chicago jazz clubs of the roaring twenties to the World War II battlefields of Europe to a final showdown in a Greek island village, theyll discover betrayal, sacrifice and finally redemption. Most of all, when Sophie is forced to make her choice, she'll learn that God honors the promises made by the Sons of Thunder.
Sons of Thunder launches the new Romantic Suspense line for Summerside Press - it will be available to purchase in Wal-mart mid-January. Also - its uniquely written - its an epic suspense story written as three novellas - 3 points of view, 3 settings.
MY THOUGHTS:
I enjoyed the lesser known history that was woven into the plot of this fiction book. It gave a fascinating view of life back then n ways that we normally do not think about. I also enjoyed the take of the book being written like 3 novellas. It added depth to the characters and thickness to the plot which makes the book a longer and more enjoyable read. Especially for those who can breeze through a book in just a few hours - it makes you feel you got your money's worth! However, while it is a lengthy book, the storyline moves so fast that it is still easy to read as you become sucked into the plot.
Susan May Warren is a gifted writer and has taken three settings with little in common (Chicago's clubs, WWII battlefields, and the Island of Greece) and created a romantic story filled with drama and suspense.
However, despite the attention capturing storyline, I recommend discernment in reading this book because of the shallow presentation of the Gospel and due to some of the content and situations addressed in this book, namely the Chicago club scenes. I would not suggest this book for teen girls.
I have enjoyed several other great books by Susan May Warren, and recommend the Team Hope Series if you like suspense.
MEET THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the award-winning author of seventeen novels and novellas with Tyndale, Steeple Hill and Barbour Publishing. Her first book, Happily Ever After won the American Fiction Christian Writers Book of the Year in 2003, and was a 2003 Christy Award finalist. In Sheep's Clothing, a thriller set in Russia, was a 2006 Christy Award finalist and won the 2006 Inspirational Reader's Choice award. A former missionary to Russia, Susan May Warren now writes Suspense/Romance and Chick Lit full time from her home in northern Minnesota.
Learn more about Susan here: www.susanmaywarren.com
* * * * *
This review copy was provided courtesy of LitFuse Publicity.
March 12, 2010
I loved the concept of Sons of Thunder. It had great potential and I’ve seen tons of five-star reviews for it. Sadly it didn’t meet my expectations.
I had a hard time reading it for a few reasons. One was the writing. It had a sort of funny style. It was as if short dramatic phrases were placed at the end of a paragraph, but the phrases were not dramatic in any way, nor were the necessary. It made the whole thing feel awkward. It was also hard to follow and I got confused a lot.
The second was the romance. I immediately saw and understood how Markos looked at Sofia. But their relationship jumped around from courteous to in-love to friends to not-talking, and I couldn’t understand where they actually stood or how they saw each other. It was like a whole first chunk of their relationship was missing from the book. There was no connection to the characters.
Third, I didn’t like the Chicago club stuff at all. It turned me off right away.
As I mentioned above I didn’t finish Sons of Thunder. There was nothing compelling me to continue, there wasn’t any plot, and the characters were beginning to aggravate me and I didn’t connect with them. I skipped to the very last page just to see what happened, and was not surprised to see that exactly what I thought would happen, did happen.
I was very disappointed by Sons of Thunder, especially considering all the five star reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. I really wish I had loved it, but I must share my 100% honest opinion. Please know that I and the few other readers who didn’t like it are the minority by a landslide. I hope you’ll consider other reviews before you make a decision.
I had a hard time reading it for a few reasons. One was the writing. It had a sort of funny style. It was as if short dramatic phrases were placed at the end of a paragraph, but the phrases were not dramatic in any way, nor were the necessary. It made the whole thing feel awkward. It was also hard to follow and I got confused a lot.
The second was the romance. I immediately saw and understood how Markos looked at Sofia. But their relationship jumped around from courteous to in-love to friends to not-talking, and I couldn’t understand where they actually stood or how they saw each other. It was like a whole first chunk of their relationship was missing from the book. There was no connection to the characters.
Third, I didn’t like the Chicago club stuff at all. It turned me off right away.
As I mentioned above I didn’t finish Sons of Thunder. There was nothing compelling me to continue, there wasn’t any plot, and the characters were beginning to aggravate me and I didn’t connect with them. I skipped to the very last page just to see what happened, and was not surprised to see that exactly what I thought would happen, did happen.
I was very disappointed by Sons of Thunder, especially considering all the five star reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. I really wish I had loved it, but I must share my 100% honest opinion. Please know that I and the few other readers who didn’t like it are the minority by a landslide. I hope you’ll consider other reviews before you make a decision.
April 11, 2018
I first read Susan May Warren’s Sons of Thunder while relaxing on a beach in Mexico and celebrating my 10th wedding anniversary. Needless to say, I was pretty excited to hear that the book was being re-released, even though my hubby wouldn’t take me back to the same spot to read it again.
Markos and Dino just want to do the right thing. They want to be men of honor. When unfortunate events at their brother’s wedding start to undo their careful plans, they must flee from their beautiful Greek island to America. They travel with the beautiful Sofia and end up in Chicago at the height of prohibition. While in America, they must re-learn what it means to do the right thing, what it means to be men of honor. Will their faith in God carry them through?
The first in the Brothers in Arms series, Sons of Thunder does not disappoint, even when reading it in my own living room instead of on a beach chair by the sea. I once again enjoyed the raw, realness of the people in this story. They had hard choices to make, and they didn’t always make the right ones. A good read, especially if you, like me, enjoy reading about Greece (the food! Swoon!), gangsters in Chicago, or WWII.
Markos and Dino just want to do the right thing. They want to be men of honor. When unfortunate events at their brother’s wedding start to undo their careful plans, they must flee from their beautiful Greek island to America. They travel with the beautiful Sofia and end up in Chicago at the height of prohibition. While in America, they must re-learn what it means to do the right thing, what it means to be men of honor. Will their faith in God carry them through?
The first in the Brothers in Arms series, Sons of Thunder does not disappoint, even when reading it in my own living room instead of on a beach chair by the sea. I once again enjoyed the raw, realness of the people in this story. They had hard choices to make, and they didn’t always make the right ones. A good read, especially if you, like me, enjoy reading about Greece (the food! Swoon!), gangsters in Chicago, or WWII.
March 24, 2010
Excellent! Filled with suspense, intrigue, and real characters. I loved this book. The writing was superb and the plot will draw you in from page one. Sofia is dealing with problems that many women face today. Feeling worthless, unloved, and alone. She is human and makes mistakes, but who doesn’t? Dino and Markos are great characters. There is real growing up that takes place in this book; physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This is a book that you don’t want to pass up. Move this to the very top of your TBR pile!!
September 15, 2010
Highly recommended for readers interested in unique settings. The story takes place in pre-World War II Greece and Chicago, and it wraps up in Greece during WWII. Writing style is poetic. Story is grittier than a lot of inspirationals. I enjoyed it.
March 17, 2010
wheeee!!! girly epic WW2 romance. So sue me if I like this stuff.
kindle-to-read
December 20, 2011Forgot that I got this one as a Kindle freebie!
April 16, 2018
Drama, pathos, love, sacrifice, and a winding, suspense-filled road to redemption—I was hooked from the first page to the last! This story is definitely on the edgy side of Christian fiction, and it involves its fair share of sorrow, but if you’re after a story that will take you somewhere different and hold you in its grip the whole way, then this is your ticket.
Susan May Warren has a wonderful ability to bring a setting to life, and I love that she’s turned that talent to such diverse places as 1920s Chicago and a Greek island village. It’s not just the sights and sounds; she captures the ambiance of each setting and embeds it in every line of the story, transporting you seamlessly to another time and place.
She also doesn’t hesitate to put her characters in difficult situations, and that is the case with all three of these main characters, so don’t expect an easy ride! Sofia’s story was particularly heart-wrenching for me. Each of these characters must reach the end of themselves before they surrender to God, but Sofia goes from being an innocent young girl to a strong, but broken woman who has done what she needed to do to survive.
But through all the mistakes, they each learn that God is the God of second chances—not because we deserve it, but because it’s who He is. He doesn’t deliver us from trouble, but through trouble. “We have to open our angry, stubborn fists and let it go. That’s when we find our deliverance.”
This was authentic and riveting storytelling. I’m already a fan of Susan May Warren’s contemporary books, but now I’ll be hunting down the rest of her historical ones as well!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Susan May Warren has a wonderful ability to bring a setting to life, and I love that she’s turned that talent to such diverse places as 1920s Chicago and a Greek island village. It’s not just the sights and sounds; she captures the ambiance of each setting and embeds it in every line of the story, transporting you seamlessly to another time and place.
She also doesn’t hesitate to put her characters in difficult situations, and that is the case with all three of these main characters, so don’t expect an easy ride! Sofia’s story was particularly heart-wrenching for me. Each of these characters must reach the end of themselves before they surrender to God, but Sofia goes from being an innocent young girl to a strong, but broken woman who has done what she needed to do to survive.
But through all the mistakes, they each learn that God is the God of second chances—not because we deserve it, but because it’s who He is. He doesn’t deliver us from trouble, but through trouble. “We have to open our angry, stubborn fists and let it go. That’s when we find our deliverance.”
This was authentic and riveting storytelling. I’m already a fan of Susan May Warren’s contemporary books, but now I’ll be hunting down the rest of her historical ones as well!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 29, 2021
Excellent book. You need to read carefully to start with to familiarize yourself with the characters. Gripping and well written. Looking forward to reading more
March 15, 2010
Brothers Markos and Dino Stavros lived relatively idyllic lives as fishermen on the Greek island of Zante in the 1920s. Markos, the older of the two, quietly loved the beautiful Sofia Frangos, who worked in his family’s taverna, and dreamed of a future with her. Those hopes were destroyed on the fateful night the Stavros patriarch and oldest son were murdered, and Markos himself was involved in the bloodshed when he killed one of their attackers. Trying to escape the past, Markos, Dino, and Sofia flee to America to start their lives anew, but instead of the sanctuary they’d hoped for, their “fresh start” turns into a crucible that will test their character and threaten to destroy the promises binding them together. Epic in every sense of the word, Sons of Thunder follows Markos, Dino, and Sofia from the gang-ridden streets of 1920s Chicago to the war-torn battlefields of Europe. Gritty and heart-rending, these three passionate individuals are broken and battered by the turbulence of the times they live in, only to discover the sweet promise of deliverance and redemption found in surrender.
I absolutely love it when I read a book and the journey within those pages meet me right where I’m at in my faith walk. Markos, Dino, and Sophia are three very different personalities, bound together by mutually shared tragedy and hardship. Despite the wildly varied paths their lives take, each one of them needs to learn what deliverance looks like in their lives – not something that can be forced or earned or saves them from trouble, but a precious gift that teaches them the true source of strength and deliverance is found in reliance on a never-changing God and His promises. This is probably Warren’s grittiest, emotionally raw, real offering to date. The pain these characters endure and their joy at discovering hope and redemption brought me to tears on more than one occasion. Just when I think it’s not possible for a favorite author to get any better, Warren surpasses herself with Sons of Thunder. This isn’t a preachy novel at all – this is faith and hope finding individuals in their darkest hour, changing their lives forever. It’s one of the best examples of seeing faith lived out in the pages of a novel that I’ve ever come across – spiritual truths are wrapped in compelling, unforgettable storytelling.
Since Susan May Warren is one of my all-time favorite authors, and World War II is the historic time period I love to study the most, this Brothers in Arms series is a dream come true. Sons of Thunder took a bit longer for me to really get into than other Warren novels, but once I found the rhythm of the story it grabbed my heart and refused to let go until the final pages. The novel is divided into thirds, the first section told from the point of view of Markos, then Dino, and finally Sofia. Since the book is basically three novellas strung together by common experience, the narrative can occasionally feel a bit choppy. That is most likely the reason this novel didn’t “grab” me until towards the end of Markos’s section of the story. There’s so much action and emotional highs and lows packed within the pages of this novel, I would’ve been thrilled to see it as a trilogy. Warren presents a compelling, satisfying, life-changing story that left me wishing it would never end. With superb pacing, characters so real they’ll break your heart, and a healthy dose of suspense set against the backdrop of world war, Sons of Thunder is a story to savor, the pages saturated with hope. I can’t wait to read Warren’s next installment in the series!
I absolutely love it when I read a book and the journey within those pages meet me right where I’m at in my faith walk. Markos, Dino, and Sophia are three very different personalities, bound together by mutually shared tragedy and hardship. Despite the wildly varied paths their lives take, each one of them needs to learn what deliverance looks like in their lives – not something that can be forced or earned or saves them from trouble, but a precious gift that teaches them the true source of strength and deliverance is found in reliance on a never-changing God and His promises. This is probably Warren’s grittiest, emotionally raw, real offering to date. The pain these characters endure and their joy at discovering hope and redemption brought me to tears on more than one occasion. Just when I think it’s not possible for a favorite author to get any better, Warren surpasses herself with Sons of Thunder. This isn’t a preachy novel at all – this is faith and hope finding individuals in their darkest hour, changing their lives forever. It’s one of the best examples of seeing faith lived out in the pages of a novel that I’ve ever come across – spiritual truths are wrapped in compelling, unforgettable storytelling.
Since Susan May Warren is one of my all-time favorite authors, and World War II is the historic time period I love to study the most, this Brothers in Arms series is a dream come true. Sons of Thunder took a bit longer for me to really get into than other Warren novels, but once I found the rhythm of the story it grabbed my heart and refused to let go until the final pages. The novel is divided into thirds, the first section told from the point of view of Markos, then Dino, and finally Sofia. Since the book is basically three novellas strung together by common experience, the narrative can occasionally feel a bit choppy. That is most likely the reason this novel didn’t “grab” me until towards the end of Markos’s section of the story. There’s so much action and emotional highs and lows packed within the pages of this novel, I would’ve been thrilled to see it as a trilogy. Warren presents a compelling, satisfying, life-changing story that left me wishing it would never end. With superb pacing, characters so real they’ll break your heart, and a healthy dose of suspense set against the backdrop of world war, Sons of Thunder is a story to savor, the pages saturated with hope. I can’t wait to read Warren’s next installment in the series!
March 30, 2013
Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren
As much as I really tried to like this book, I felt lost amidst the deja vu of the movie Pearl Harbor.
Markos and Dino Stavros are forced to flee their home in Greece when their older brother's wedding ends with multiple deaths including their brother and father. They leave for America with Sofia and her grandfather. Nothing seems to go well for them. Sofia's grandfather dies before they reach NY so she remains with the Stavros brothers. Circumstances separate them in Chicago. Sofia and Dino end up in Minneapolis where December 7,1941 eventually reunites Sofia and Dino. Again circumstances separate Sofia and Dino. All three spend a few years drifting without sight of each other. The brothers find each other for a brief flash of time before they again are separated. Eventually Markos and Sofia return to Greece as WWII rages around them.
This story is a tale of the consequences of our decisions and how we take responsibility or allow the guilt to dictate our future decisions. The setting in Greece is phenomenal and I wanted to be there with the sun caressing the waves of the blue ocean. As the story moved to the streets of Chicago, I was transported to that time with flapper dresses and Tommy guns. The story ends in Greece as WWII changes the landscape of so many Nazi inhabited countries.
Unfortunately, I couldn't get swept away enough in Sons of Thunder to separate it from Pearl Harbor. The stories are too similar. Glaringly is the fact that Pearl Harbor, HI was attacked in this book. Even the twist of a third love interest for Sofia couldn't distract from knowing it was Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett fighting over Kate Beckinsale. Sons of Thunder has more characterization and back story, but still the similarities were too multiple and it weakened Sons of Thunder for me.
As Laurie says in Little Women "my compositions are only a mediocre copy of another man's genius." Pearl Harbor is the mediocre one if comparing these two stories, however Pearl Harbor is the medium with more punch. I was waiting for Faith Hill to being singing as I reached the end of the book. Pearl Harbor also gave brilliant visuals. While Sons of Thunder never visited Pearl Harbor for a setting, it didn't distinguish itself enough to KO Pearl Harbor and take the title.
As much as I really tried to like this book, I felt lost amidst the deja vu of the movie Pearl Harbor.
Markos and Dino Stavros are forced to flee their home in Greece when their older brother's wedding ends with multiple deaths including their brother and father. They leave for America with Sofia and her grandfather. Nothing seems to go well for them. Sofia's grandfather dies before they reach NY so she remains with the Stavros brothers. Circumstances separate them in Chicago. Sofia and Dino end up in Minneapolis where December 7,1941 eventually reunites Sofia and Dino. Again circumstances separate Sofia and Dino. All three spend a few years drifting without sight of each other. The brothers find each other for a brief flash of time before they again are separated. Eventually Markos and Sofia return to Greece as WWII rages around them.
This story is a tale of the consequences of our decisions and how we take responsibility or allow the guilt to dictate our future decisions. The setting in Greece is phenomenal and I wanted to be there with the sun caressing the waves of the blue ocean. As the story moved to the streets of Chicago, I was transported to that time with flapper dresses and Tommy guns. The story ends in Greece as WWII changes the landscape of so many Nazi inhabited countries.
Unfortunately, I couldn't get swept away enough in Sons of Thunder to separate it from Pearl Harbor. The stories are too similar. Glaringly is the fact that Pearl Harbor, HI was attacked in this book. Even the twist of a third love interest for Sofia couldn't distract from knowing it was Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett fighting over Kate Beckinsale. Sons of Thunder has more characterization and back story, but still the similarities were too multiple and it weakened Sons of Thunder for me.
As Laurie says in Little Women "my compositions are only a mediocre copy of another man's genius." Pearl Harbor is the mediocre one if comparing these two stories, however Pearl Harbor is the medium with more punch. I was waiting for Faith Hill to being singing as I reached the end of the book. Pearl Harbor also gave brilliant visuals. While Sons of Thunder never visited Pearl Harbor for a setting, it didn't distinguish itself enough to KO Pearl Harbor and take the title.
March 5, 2010
The Brothers in Arms Collection
A Novel
Susan May Warren
2010
Summerside Press
Fiction/General/Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by Cindy Loven
Two brothers left in the wake of a disastrous wedding celebration. The groom, their oldest brother, was dead, their father was dead and Kostas, the jilted fiance was also dead. Kostas' father is breathing revenge swearing he will kill the two brothers Markos and Dino. Sending her only remaining sons away Ava, sends them to her brother hoping they will find a better life in America. The only thing they find, is themselves in the middle of a pre World War II mafia war. Their uncle turns out to be Jimmy the Greek and he is battling Al Capone.
In a twisty turny sort of way this story keeps developing. You have to pay close attention because it can be rather confusing in parts. The story is of Markos, Dino brothers sent to America, and a village girl, Sofia, from their village on her way to America with her grandfather who dies on the voyage. Sofia is convinced that being around her or with her is poison, her mother dies when she is a baby, she is taken in by an adopted grandfather who dies on the voyage to America, and now she is in the middle of a mafia mess. Markos and Dino come up with a plan to get away from the mafia, but in turn Markos has to leave them and she is sure he too has died. What will happen to Dino and Sofia, will they make it without Markos? Will they survive World War II, which begins a few years after Markos disappears? Will they ever return to their Greek island of Zante? The book is divided into three sections each section telling each person's story.
As I said earlier you must pay careful attention to this book, you can easily get confused. The story is very interesting, just one to pay close attention to. 367 pages $12.99 US 3 and half stars.
This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
A Novel
Susan May Warren
2010
Summerside Press
Fiction/General/Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by Cindy Loven
Two brothers left in the wake of a disastrous wedding celebration. The groom, their oldest brother, was dead, their father was dead and Kostas, the jilted fiance was also dead. Kostas' father is breathing revenge swearing he will kill the two brothers Markos and Dino. Sending her only remaining sons away Ava, sends them to her brother hoping they will find a better life in America. The only thing they find, is themselves in the middle of a pre World War II mafia war. Their uncle turns out to be Jimmy the Greek and he is battling Al Capone.
In a twisty turny sort of way this story keeps developing. You have to pay close attention because it can be rather confusing in parts. The story is of Markos, Dino brothers sent to America, and a village girl, Sofia, from their village on her way to America with her grandfather who dies on the voyage. Sofia is convinced that being around her or with her is poison, her mother dies when she is a baby, she is taken in by an adopted grandfather who dies on the voyage to America, and now she is in the middle of a mafia mess. Markos and Dino come up with a plan to get away from the mafia, but in turn Markos has to leave them and she is sure he too has died. What will happen to Dino and Sofia, will they make it without Markos? Will they survive World War II, which begins a few years after Markos disappears? Will they ever return to their Greek island of Zante? The book is divided into three sections each section telling each person's story.
As I said earlier you must pay careful attention to this book, you can easily get confused. The story is very interesting, just one to pay close attention to. 367 pages $12.99 US 3 and half stars.
This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
September 15, 2011
Even though I am not Christian nor am I a religious person, I somehow keep finding my way to Christian Fiction books because of the historical element many possess. And you know what? The ones I have read have been pretty good and this one is no exception. This is the story of two brothers, Markos and Dino, who are forced to leave their Greek island home after a tragedy and run to America. They travel to America with a woman, Sofia, who is also leaving the island for her own reasons and who it happens Markos is in love with. Ms. Warren's story captivated me from the moment we were introduced to the picturesque Greek Island of Zante, to the trip across the ocean to land in Ellis Island, to the Al Capone/Gangster era of Chicago, to the chill of a 40's era Minneapolis holiday season still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor, to the front lines of Omaha Beach and back to a Nazi-infiltrated Zante. I loved the individuality and strength of each of the main characters, and was completely invested in what happened to them. They all had secrets, secrets that were always near being uncovered and kept us on our seat waiting to see what would happen. The love triangle was well done, and the ending was appropriate. While the supporting characters and scenery took at back seat to the main stars and story, they were extremely well-written and added a necessary depth to the story. At times this book brought me back to old favorites of mine from the same era and similar locale, Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. If you liked those books, you will definitely like this book as well. With regard to the religious element, it is definitely in there. However, to me it was more about hope and faith than preaching, and it didn't bother me at all. Overall, a great read and a worthwhile read for fans of historic romance.
January 22, 2011
Inspy Award winning novels are books that possess exceptional literary qualities and respectfully grapple with some element of the Christian faith. The Romance/Romantic Suspense category was filled with outstanding choices and those of us on the panel found it a very difficult category to judge. We debated right down to the wire, but I'm confident we made the right decision.
Our 2010 Inspy Award winner is Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren-an epic story which spans a couple of decades, and takes place on several continents. Though I don't usually care for World War II novels, the setting of this one swept me away. Warren took us from the Greek Isles to prohibition era Chicago, and back again, with enough description to make me feel like I've lived in both places.
She filled the book with rich detail, multi-layered characters, and plot twists I never saw coming. I loved how she weaved the story around historical events and actual people.
Fair warning, this is no light and fluffy read (a fact that suits this edgy christian fiction lover just fine). Warren has mastered the art of brainstorming the worst possible thing that could happen to her characters-then writing it in. These are flawed people who've drawn the short straw in life and nothing's off the table when it comes to self preservation. But resourcefulness will only get them so far. At some point each must decide if "God will deliver us" is just a platitude or a promise he can believe in.
Sons of Thunder easily places in my top ten of 2010. It's the kind of novel that would make an excellent movie. I wonder if anyone's bought the film rights yet. Hollywood, are you listening?
Our 2010 Inspy Award winner is Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren-an epic story which spans a couple of decades, and takes place on several continents. Though I don't usually care for World War II novels, the setting of this one swept me away. Warren took us from the Greek Isles to prohibition era Chicago, and back again, with enough description to make me feel like I've lived in both places.
She filled the book with rich detail, multi-layered characters, and plot twists I never saw coming. I loved how she weaved the story around historical events and actual people.
Fair warning, this is no light and fluffy read (a fact that suits this edgy christian fiction lover just fine). Warren has mastered the art of brainstorming the worst possible thing that could happen to her characters-then writing it in. These are flawed people who've drawn the short straw in life and nothing's off the table when it comes to self preservation. But resourcefulness will only get them so far. At some point each must decide if "God will deliver us" is just a platitude or a promise he can believe in.
Sons of Thunder easily places in my top ten of 2010. It's the kind of novel that would make an excellent movie. I wonder if anyone's bought the film rights yet. Hollywood, are you listening?
April 29, 2013
This book was filled with suspense and thrills. Every new chapter kept you wanting more. Susan May Warren created a tale about three characters each finding deliverance through their struggles and strife. The first third of the book follows Markos a strong and violent boy who finds that despite himself God is reaching for him, wanting a relationship. The second main character is Dino, Markos younger brother he finds that he can't run from his identity but rather has to embrace who God created him to be. The final character happens to be Sofia, a beautiful young women who both brothers love. She also believes herself to be poison and has to overcome her own hurt, pain to find the deliverance that God has promised each of them. The author sets this disparaged characters during the roaring twenties, filled with gangsters, flappers, the first world war and the culture and heritage of a the Greek Isles. The overall theme can be summed up by this passage from page 262: "'Everyone thinks that believing in God means that He will deliver us from trouble. But this isn't true--God delivers us through trouble. It is in the middle of trouble that we truly discover what it means to live, who we truly are. Our God says that He has overcome everything the world throws at us--but we are stubborn, we want to handle it ourselves. Or we believe that because of our sins He won't help us. Or even, because of what has happened to us, that God has turned His back.But when we try and deliver ourselves, our strength will give out. We have to open our angry, stubborn first and let it go. That's when we find our deliverance.'"
June 3, 2010
I really liked this book. It's different from the other books by Warren I have read, including the PJ Sugar series. In the book's introduction, Warren talks about how she came up with the story idea after getting into a conversation with a stranger on a flight - it's amazing what you can glean from one of these "God-instance" conversations.
The storyline, following Sophie and the two Stavros brothers, provided an interesting hook. You want to keep reading - as you follow the characters from Greek to America and well, back to the European theatre of World War II.
With a few unexpected twists and turns, Warren's novel is full of realism. In fact, that realism amazed me at times.
Warren did not shy away from the "grit and grime of life" in several scenes. In fact, I'm impressed that her editors let a few scenes into the novel - I'm used to the vanilla nature of Christian fiction.
Without being gratuitous, Warren shows us some of the painful choices the characters are forced to make (by their choices or because of the actions of others) because of life circumstances. This "realism" allows Warren to show how God's grace can work in the lives of everyone - despite our broken, frail human nature.
I'm looking forward to seeing where Warren takes this series. The realism in this storyline complements the "humor" found many of her other novels.
(Pst...spoiler alert - want to know more about Book 2 - Click here! Breath of Lions is set to come out in August.)
March 9, 2010
From my blog...[return]Two brothers sharing a terrible past, faced with different views of the future, and both yearning for the same woman is just the beginning of Susan May Warren's epic Brother In Arms novel, Sons of Thunder is a deeply heart-wrenching and astonishingly beautiful novel filled with tragedy, betrayal, love, hope and redemption. Markos and Dinos Stavros are being sent to America in the aftermath of their brother Theo's tragic wedding reception. Their mother has chosen to stay behind in Greece and live with Theo's widower Zoë on Ramone Island. Meanwhile, for their safety, Markos and his younger brother Dino must be sent off to America to live with their uncle in Chicago. Faius Frangos and Sophia escort the boys to America. Once in America Markos and Dino desperately try to put the past behind them. Markos, Dinos and Sophia capture the readers heart in Susan May Warren's Sons of Thunder . Warren's novel is so achingly beautiful and masterfully written one cannot help but read from cover to cover without end. I sincerely enjoyed reading the three-part epic novel, Sons of Thunder, the lives of the characters, the lessons this story has taught as well as astonishingly vivid prose. I cannot praise Warren's Sons of Thunder enough and strongly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a beautiful, suspense-filled romance in a time long past.
May 10, 2010
Susan May Warren had my attention from the start of this book – I loved it!
It was slightly reminiscent of the movie Pearl Harbor in that the story line revolves around two brothers who are in love with the same woman and they are all affected by World War II. The book starts out with the three living in Greece and builds a rich background of their stories and connections. When a tragedy strikes at a family wedding, the three find themselves fleeing to America, pledging to stick together and watch out for one another. Facing culture shock, poverty and having no where to go – they find themselves trapped under the forceful hand of “Uncle Jimmy” – the only family member they have to rely on. Unfortunately, Uncle Jimmy is deeply involved in the dark world of gangsters (the likes of Al Capone) and his life of crime and violence have Markos, Dino and Sofia looking over their shoulders and walking on eggshells.
This novel combined many of my favorite historical subjects and I thought the added touch of jazz clubs, Al Capone and gangsters was a nice twist from the usual Christian fiction. I look forward to reading more of Susan’s books.
Read an excerpt here: http://susanmaywarren.typepad.com/fil...
April 9, 2018
This fantastic story took me from a small village in Greece to the life of immigrants in Chicago, and on into the middle of WWII.
The characters are so real. The story line is hauntingly beautiful in all its tragedy.
Markos. Dino. Sofia. I love them. Their charming home in Greece. And then everything turns over and it becomes a huge nightmare.
Their journey, and then the life in Chicago. So "heart-strings-tugging" good.
I've been a fan of Susan May Warren's books for quite some time, but this is completely different from anything of hers I've read before. I just didn't quite know what to expect (because I do love her contemporary style...). I was hooked from the first page.
This is a must read for lovers of historical Christian fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
The characters are so real. The story line is hauntingly beautiful in all its tragedy.
Markos. Dino. Sofia. I love them. Their charming home in Greece. And then everything turns over and it becomes a huge nightmare.
Their journey, and then the life in Chicago. So "heart-strings-tugging" good.
I've been a fan of Susan May Warren's books for quite some time, but this is completely different from anything of hers I've read before. I just didn't quite know what to expect (because I do love her contemporary style...). I was hooked from the first page.
This is a must read for lovers of historical Christian fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
September 26, 2011
This was a tough book to read- so depressing with very little redeeming moments to uplift you and give you hope. Even after the end of the book I still felt a little depressed even though it is supposed to be a happy ending. Maybe this book is just a little too much like real life- too much tragedy and too much suffering and death...
I am usually affected emotionally by what I read, and this book made me very melancholy, so be warned if you suffer from the same affliction.
One of the other reviewers mentioned that this book is refreshingly complex in its examination of the tough choices that people sometimes have to make and how God's grace can work within those circumstances even when we don't realize it. I agree that this book does try to tackle in an authentic and probing way how we handle true tragedy and heartbreak when it doesn't "make sense" and things are not fair. They also commented that this is the first book in a series- I would definitely consider reading the next book.
I am usually affected emotionally by what I read, and this book made me very melancholy, so be warned if you suffer from the same affliction.
One of the other reviewers mentioned that this book is refreshingly complex in its examination of the tough choices that people sometimes have to make and how God's grace can work within those circumstances even when we don't realize it. I agree that this book does try to tackle in an authentic and probing way how we handle true tragedy and heartbreak when it doesn't "make sense" and things are not fair. They also commented that this is the first book in a series- I would definitely consider reading the next book.
April 29, 2012
Having read Susan May Warren's other books, I was so excited to see Sons of Thunder on the Kindle free books! I'm not sure what I was expecting (probably more of a suspense book like her Russian series), but certainly not the EPIC novel I read.
I loved how Ms. Warren was real about the lives of these kids. She didn't sugarcoat what "might" have happened to three teenagers immigrating to the United States. I applaud her and the publishing house for not dumbing down the story for the sake of making Christians feel good. I think we get too comfortable and don't want to talk about "real" life because too many times it is pretty ugly. Ms. Warren didn't shy away from this reality and as a result had a fabulous book that although on the darker side is a brilliant look at redemption.
Bravo!
I loved how Ms. Warren was real about the lives of these kids. She didn't sugarcoat what "might" have happened to three teenagers immigrating to the United States. I applaud her and the publishing house for not dumbing down the story for the sake of making Christians feel good. I think we get too comfortable and don't want to talk about "real" life because too many times it is pretty ugly. Ms. Warren didn't shy away from this reality and as a result had a fabulous book that although on the darker side is a brilliant look at redemption.
Bravo!
January 2, 2013
The book has a tragic beginning which quickly launches the reader into the story of two brothers, Markos and Dino, and the girl they both love, Sophia. From the beauty of Greece, to the hard neighborhoods of pre-war Chicago (jazz clubs and the mob), to battlefields in Europe... there is never a dull moment.
The story reveals a God who delivers us through forgiveness, heals our deepest aches, and shows us his amazing compassion.
Quote: "Maybe we're all supposed to be a little broken, a little afraid, a little overwhelmed by our own sweeping mistakes. Otherwise, we might believe we can save ourselves, instead of letting God deliver us. Maybe being on our knees is the only way we can every be used by God." pg 225
The story reveals a God who delivers us through forgiveness, heals our deepest aches, and shows us his amazing compassion.
Quote: "Maybe we're all supposed to be a little broken, a little afraid, a little overwhelmed by our own sweeping mistakes. Otherwise, we might believe we can save ourselves, instead of letting God deliver us. Maybe being on our knees is the only way we can every be used by God." pg 225
June 1, 2015
The Book:
Markos and his brother Dino leave their Greek island to start new in America. Sophie Frangos traveled with them and is torn between the two men. The three start in a Chicago Jazz club during the roaring twenties and becomes entangled in danger. Then to World War II of the battlefields of Europe. Throughout it all the characters are changed and forced to choose.
My Thoughts:
Susan May Warren is one of my favorite authors. She weaves together a story that leaves me wanting more and missing the characters once I’ve turned the last page. Sons of Thunder is such a story. I grew to love Markos, Dino and Sophie. They were put in difficult circumstances and came out changed. I enjoyed taking the journey with these people and I received a sense of the roaring twenties.
Markos and his brother Dino leave their Greek island to start new in America. Sophie Frangos traveled with them and is torn between the two men. The three start in a Chicago Jazz club during the roaring twenties and becomes entangled in danger. Then to World War II of the battlefields of Europe. Throughout it all the characters are changed and forced to choose.
My Thoughts:
Susan May Warren is one of my favorite authors. She weaves together a story that leaves me wanting more and missing the characters once I’ve turned the last page. Sons of Thunder is such a story. I grew to love Markos, Dino and Sophie. They were put in difficult circumstances and came out changed. I enjoyed taking the journey with these people and I received a sense of the roaring twenties.
May 10, 2016
I have long been a fan of Susan May Warren's writing, especially the humor that she brings to her stories. I was surprised to find Sons of Thunder a departure from the style I have come to associate with her writing, but I was not at all disappointed. The poignant brokenness brought about by disappointment and tragedy in the lives of her characters make the light of redemption shine all the brighter.
I also enjoyed the history and the descriptions of Greece that made the story come alive. It was not a light novel and at times the reality of the tragedy portrayed felt heavy to me, but in the end, the reality of that heaviness is what made the light of redemption stand out with such pure contrast.
I also enjoyed the history and the descriptions of Greece that made the story come alive. It was not a light novel and at times the reality of the tragedy portrayed felt heavy to me, but in the end, the reality of that heaviness is what made the light of redemption stand out with such pure contrast.
March 12, 2010
When I saw the cover of this book, I was intrigued enough to read the synopsis. I knew from that it would be a decent story, but I had no idea the emotions it would stir in me.
When a book can bring a tear to your eye, it must be great! The author must be conveying the story in a way that you feel it and connect with it. I really did with this book.
I sincerely hope the author considers a second book. I would love to know what happened to the characters, after the war.
This is definitely on my recommendation list!
When a book can bring a tear to your eye, it must be great! The author must be conveying the story in a way that you feel it and connect with it. I really did with this book.
I sincerely hope the author considers a second book. I would love to know what happened to the characters, after the war.
This is definitely on my recommendation list!
March 14, 2010
This first novel in Susan's new series pulls you into each of the characters' lives in a powerful way. This passionate tale of love and betrayal brilliantly portrays how an abiding faith in God is passed on by example and illustrated through an unwavering spiritual connection to the One Who is faithful and true. Susan May Warren beautifully and skillfully captures the time period and the setting. From Greece to Chicago to Minneapolis to the WWII battlefield...the story world is vibrant with detail and feeling. I LOVED Sons of Thunder and I think you will too.
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