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War-Torn Heart
Abigail Walker, a young woman from rural South Carolina, is on the cusp of womanhood, aching to be able to run wild as the younger children do, yet yearning for things she has yet to understand.
Awkward and unsure of herself, Abby is flustered when she meets Harvey Nicholas, a cadet from Clemson College. As summer begins, Abby finds herself constantly in the company of Harvey and falling quickly in love with him.
As rumors of war begin to reach the States, Abby begins to fear what may come for her older brother and Harvey.
Once Pearl Harbor is bombed, the boys are eager to protect their home and the women they love. But will Abby and Harvey's love be able to withstand distance, rumors, loss, and hurt? Or will the war be what tears apart Abby's heart?
War-Torn Heart is a kleenex-box book with a story of hope, of love, and of perseverance through World War II, which will make the reader cry, scream, and long for more.
Awkward and unsure of herself, Abby is flustered when she meets Harvey Nicholas, a cadet from Clemson College. As summer begins, Abby finds herself constantly in the company of Harvey and falling quickly in love with him.
As rumors of war begin to reach the States, Abby begins to fear what may come for her older brother and Harvey.
Once Pearl Harbor is bombed, the boys are eager to protect their home and the women they love. But will Abby and Harvey's love be able to withstand distance, rumors, loss, and hurt? Or will the war be what tears apart Abby's heart?
War-Torn Heart is a kleenex-box book with a story of hope, of love, and of perseverance through World War II, which will make the reader cry, scream, and long for more.
- GenresFiction
Audiobook
First published March 1, 2019
3 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Allison Wells
23 books112 followersAllison Wells is an author, wife, and mother who is also a logophile (a lover of words).
The desire to write came early for Allison. After graduating from Clemson, Allison became a newspaper reporter. Tired of constantly writing bad news, she began writing novels. Now, Allison writes for regional publications and enjoys writing southern novels with elements of faith.
In her writing, Allison feels led to bring an element of reality to her readers. She recognizes that living a Christian life does not mean everything is rosy all the time, and she wants to represent that with her writing, while still wrapping things up with a happy ending.
Allison's motto is Life is Short, Eat the Oreos.
The desire to write came early for Allison. After graduating from Clemson, Allison became a newspaper reporter. Tired of constantly writing bad news, she began writing novels. Now, Allison writes for regional publications and enjoys writing southern novels with elements of faith.
In her writing, Allison feels led to bring an element of reality to her readers. She recognizes that living a Christian life does not mean everything is rosy all the time, and she wants to represent that with her writing, while still wrapping things up with a happy ending.
Allison's motto is Life is Short, Eat the Oreos.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 22, 2019
I have developed a complicated relationship with War Torn Heart. Honestly, for the first 20 pages or so, I didn't think I would like it at all. Then, a miniscule detail just reached out and grabbed me:
"Mrs. Newman poured him an iced tea, and he drank it down in two gulps. Harvey raised an eyebrow to Abby and winked, which neither older woman noticed. Abby certainly noticed."
I met my husband when I was 17, and the first thing he did to catch my attention was wink at me. 20 years later, and he still does it. Such a tiny gesture that probably changed my life.
And Abby's. One thing leads to another to first love. Harvey and Abby share something special, but will it last? My intrest turned to Abby's character at this point and how she affects the overall picture.
In my opinion, one of the definitive marks of a great story is the author's ability to weave genuine actions into the fiber of their characters. Through this, the reader feels or remembers something significant from the past, and a connection is made.
I found this story to be character driven. Abby is the center holding everything together. All is well until her one true love and her brother join the war after Pearl Harbor. Nothing could stop their leaving. In the men's absence, Abby cares for everyone and everything. Through tragedy and joy, Abby is a steadfast presence to her family and friends.
This story is a stark reminder of the horrors of war and their far reaching consequences. Abby endures hopeless hope, betrayal, tragedy, despair and bleak acceptance.
She is so young, not even twenty, and deserves some happiness. If given one chance at overwhelming redemption, will Abby take it? Is she strong or hopeful enough to stand tall and speak her truth?
True love conquers all, right?
Allison Wells has written a beautiful story about an ugly part of history. Every family was changed in some way by WWII. Abby and her family are one little example. Imagine how many untold sorrows have been laid to rest. Remember them.
Thank you to Just Read Tours and Allison Wells for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
"Mrs. Newman poured him an iced tea, and he drank it down in two gulps. Harvey raised an eyebrow to Abby and winked, which neither older woman noticed. Abby certainly noticed."
I met my husband when I was 17, and the first thing he did to catch my attention was wink at me. 20 years later, and he still does it. Such a tiny gesture that probably changed my life.
And Abby's. One thing leads to another to first love. Harvey and Abby share something special, but will it last? My intrest turned to Abby's character at this point and how she affects the overall picture.
In my opinion, one of the definitive marks of a great story is the author's ability to weave genuine actions into the fiber of their characters. Through this, the reader feels or remembers something significant from the past, and a connection is made.
I found this story to be character driven. Abby is the center holding everything together. All is well until her one true love and her brother join the war after Pearl Harbor. Nothing could stop their leaving. In the men's absence, Abby cares for everyone and everything. Through tragedy and joy, Abby is a steadfast presence to her family and friends.
This story is a stark reminder of the horrors of war and their far reaching consequences. Abby endures hopeless hope, betrayal, tragedy, despair and bleak acceptance.
She is so young, not even twenty, and deserves some happiness. If given one chance at overwhelming redemption, will Abby take it? Is she strong or hopeful enough to stand tall and speak her truth?
True love conquers all, right?
Allison Wells has written a beautiful story about an ugly part of history. Every family was changed in some way by WWII. Abby and her family are one little example. Imagine how many untold sorrows have been laid to rest. Remember them.
Thank you to Just Read Tours and Allison Wells for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 18, 2019
3.5 stars
This story set during the 1940s is a bit different than most World War II stories. Instead of following the men off to war, Allison Wells leaves readers in America with the people left waiting and worrying for them men.
As Abigail meets a young man, falls in love, sees him off to war, and worries for Harvey and her brother, the emotions that readers go through are a veritable rollercoaster (and I’m talking about the ones with the twists turns, and gut-dropping falls). Wells does not shy away from the realities of war and life. There is loss, sickness, worry, and pain but the author also counterbalances that well with some more joyful events.
War-Torn Hearts will toe (and probably cross) the line for some readers when it comes to the physical interaction of the two young lovebirds. The kissing starts early and often and sometimes gets a little intimate and perhaps a little repetitive. In fact, I’d say about 40% of this book is the physical interactions and Abby’s reaction to Harvey with the other 60% focusing on emotions. So if you are a fan of kissing books and don’t shy away from a realistic portrayal of the temptation before marriage and a story that will wring you out emotionally, this is one for your TBR list.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This story set during the 1940s is a bit different than most World War II stories. Instead of following the men off to war, Allison Wells leaves readers in America with the people left waiting and worrying for them men.
As Abigail meets a young man, falls in love, sees him off to war, and worries for Harvey and her brother, the emotions that readers go through are a veritable rollercoaster (and I’m talking about the ones with the twists turns, and gut-dropping falls). Wells does not shy away from the realities of war and life. There is loss, sickness, worry, and pain but the author also counterbalances that well with some more joyful events.
War-Torn Hearts will toe (and probably cross) the line for some readers when it comes to the physical interaction of the two young lovebirds. The kissing starts early and often and sometimes gets a little intimate and perhaps a little repetitive. In fact, I’d say about 40% of this book is the physical interactions and Abby’s reaction to Harvey with the other 60% focusing on emotions. So if you are a fan of kissing books and don’t shy away from a realistic portrayal of the temptation before marriage and a story that will wring you out emotionally, this is one for your TBR list.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
March 20, 2019
War Torn Heart by Allison Wells is a wonderful YA historical Christian novel that takes the reader through the homefront in America during WWII.
The heroine is just sixteen years old but already a strong young woman who wants more than just a traditional role. “You’re a strong, godly woman who should always look up.” We need to focus on God when circumstances threaten to overwhelm us.
Dreams and future plans are disrupted by WWII. Life is on hold. Young men are entrusted into the hands of God as they go off to war. War tears families apart. “Why do You allow this?... Can’t You hear all of us praying?” God does not ‘allow’ war. God gave free will to man. It was the choice of some men to go to war. Good men stood up to fight evil.
I am considerably older than a YA but I really enjoyed this book. It was a delight to watch characters grow and develop and to witness their dreams and love. Close knit families and friendships helped to overcome the horrors of war.
A very warm coming of age and overcoming novel.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The heroine is just sixteen years old but already a strong young woman who wants more than just a traditional role. “You’re a strong, godly woman who should always look up.” We need to focus on God when circumstances threaten to overwhelm us.
Dreams and future plans are disrupted by WWII. Life is on hold. Young men are entrusted into the hands of God as they go off to war. War tears families apart. “Why do You allow this?... Can’t You hear all of us praying?” God does not ‘allow’ war. God gave free will to man. It was the choice of some men to go to war. Good men stood up to fight evil.
I am considerably older than a YA but I really enjoyed this book. It was a delight to watch characters grow and develop and to witness their dreams and love. Close knit families and friendships helped to overcome the horrors of war.
A very warm coming of age and overcoming novel.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 13, 2019
If you'd like a book that focuses on one family's journey through WWII, one that you can really do a deep-dive on, this may be your book. "War-Torn Heart" picks up before Pearl Harbor and follows Abby's family as they respond to the "day of infamy" and the overall course of the war.
I unfortunately didn't care for "War-Torn Heart," myself. While the premise was interesting, I found the characters one dimensional, and the plot fairly slow moving. (Though this might have been partially due to reading a very fast-paced and short trilogy at the same time as this book -- Robin Patchen's "Beauty in Flight" series!)
Inclusion of nearly all (if not all) of FDR's Pearl Harbor speech seemed out of place to me. While certainly a significant and moving speech, its full inclusion decreased the gravity of the situation and didn't advance the plot.
The writing was very wordy and left little to the imagination, including several franker-than-I'd-like discussions on certain topics. In general, I didn't feel enough was left to the reader's own inference -- many components felt explained overmuch.
That being said, the book did provide a look at a fascinating and sad point in world history. I did enjoy reading about Harvey's time as a cadet at Clemson College. It was an all-male military school at that time (indeed, until 1955) -- very different from now! (It actually reminded me a little bit of Gilbert Morris and Lynn Morris's "Toward the Sunrising" in that regard. Shadrach Forrest Luxton, anyone?)
I received a copy of the book from JustReads Publicity Tours. All opinions are my own.
I unfortunately didn't care for "War-Torn Heart," myself. While the premise was interesting, I found the characters one dimensional, and the plot fairly slow moving. (Though this might have been partially due to reading a very fast-paced and short trilogy at the same time as this book -- Robin Patchen's "Beauty in Flight" series!)
Inclusion of nearly all (if not all) of FDR's Pearl Harbor speech seemed out of place to me. While certainly a significant and moving speech, its full inclusion decreased the gravity of the situation and didn't advance the plot.
The writing was very wordy and left little to the imagination, including several franker-than-I'd-like discussions on certain topics. In general, I didn't feel enough was left to the reader's own inference -- many components felt explained overmuch.
That being said, the book did provide a look at a fascinating and sad point in world history. I did enjoy reading about Harvey's time as a cadet at Clemson College. It was an all-male military school at that time (indeed, until 1955) -- very different from now! (It actually reminded me a little bit of Gilbert Morris and Lynn Morris's "Toward the Sunrising" in that regard. Shadrach Forrest Luxton, anyone?)
I received a copy of the book from JustReads Publicity Tours. All opinions are my own.
March 23, 2019
I enjoyed this WWII story tremendously! Abby is young when she falls for Harvey in South Caroline in the early 1940's. When Pearl Harbor happens, both Harvey and her brother are sent off to war. While at times, I would of liked more details about what happens in the gaps, I thought that the author did an excellent job of bringing the characters to life, along with their time period. This is a great story for those who enjoy a sweet romance or historical fiction.
I received this book from Just Read Tours. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.
I received this book from Just Read Tours. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.
March 12, 2019
As an adult, I really enjoyed the story. The characters had some depth, and the novel showed many different perspectives on the war, both from a soldier's point of view and from the homefront. Some of the novel was predictable, but there was a few twists. The author does a good job of setting the scene in 1940s South Carolina, and I could feel that I was on the road trip from Greenville to Charleston. The one thing I took issue to was this -- it is a novel targeted at a teen audience, but there are many graphic scenes (not sex scenes, just graphically romantic) throughout the novel. Removing, or downplaying, them would not have affected the plot or story at all, and so I wonder why they were included. As a parent, I would say that this is only for the maturest of teens, and probably not a story that boys would be interested in anyway. Again, as an adult, I enjoyed the book.
January 10, 2019
War-Torn Heart is a roller coaster of emotions, and I'm happy I got to take the ride!
Allison Wells marvelously captures the essence of South Carolina in the early 1940s. I enjoyed the imagery of the setting, as well as the history in the story, which seemed very well-researched. The author juxtaposes the beauty of a soldier's bravery and the tragedy of lost time and lost lives during WWII, in a way that made me feel both.
I cried many tears reading the love story of Harvey and Abby. Some of the kissing scenes are a little too descriptive for my taste, but all in all, it's a great story!
Allison Wells marvelously captures the essence of South Carolina in the early 1940s. I enjoyed the imagery of the setting, as well as the history in the story, which seemed very well-researched. The author juxtaposes the beauty of a soldier's bravery and the tragedy of lost time and lost lives during WWII, in a way that made me feel both.
I cried many tears reading the love story of Harvey and Abby. Some of the kissing scenes are a little too descriptive for my taste, but all in all, it's a great story!
March 22, 2019
In War-Torn Heart, Abigail and Harvey meet in small town South Carolina in 1941 and quickly fall in love. When Pearl Harbor is bombed and Harvey enlists in the Army, Abigail is devastated and understandably worried about their future.
This story is one that is common to the time period, to those men and women who went to war and left loved ones behind who prayed for their return. With the threat of injury, death, and PTSD, everyone was affected in one way or another, and War-Torn Heart addresses some of these situations. Without giving anything away, I will say that the story is sweet and simple, and it reminds me of books from the past. As others have mentioned, there is great detail and emphasis on young love and the kissing and temptations that come with that. The pacing of the story was also a bit off at times. Sometimes there were a lot of details like the radio broadcast of President Roosevelt’s speech when he declared war. That felt a little out of place. Other times, a chapter would skip ahead months or years into the future. I would’ve preferred a more fluid timeline.
Overall, this story is a sweet glimpse into the past but definitely not for young readers due to its level of romance. I received a copy of this book from JustRead Tours and am under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This story is one that is common to the time period, to those men and women who went to war and left loved ones behind who prayed for their return. With the threat of injury, death, and PTSD, everyone was affected in one way or another, and War-Torn Heart addresses some of these situations. Without giving anything away, I will say that the story is sweet and simple, and it reminds me of books from the past. As others have mentioned, there is great detail and emphasis on young love and the kissing and temptations that come with that. The pacing of the story was also a bit off at times. Sometimes there were a lot of details like the radio broadcast of President Roosevelt’s speech when he declared war. That felt a little out of place. Other times, a chapter would skip ahead months or years into the future. I would’ve preferred a more fluid timeline.
Overall, this story is a sweet glimpse into the past but definitely not for young readers due to its level of romance. I received a copy of this book from JustRead Tours and am under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.
March 16, 2019
This novel, set in the WWII era, describes the time period and demographics well. I found the premise of the story to be very well researched as the author’s description of the war and the Clemson cadets are very interesting. Although the novel provides some plot twists, I found it to be fairly predictable and had difficulty relating to the characters. There was also a lot of romantic “fluff” that renders the book unsuitable for a younger audience. There is nothing graphic, but it seemed irrelevant to the plot.
The story of Harvey and Abby and their sometimes quirky families will at times tug at your heartstrings, yet is heart-warming as well.
I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to give a positive review.
The story of Harvey and Abby and their sometimes quirky families will at times tug at your heartstrings, yet is heart-warming as well.
I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to give a positive review.
March 25, 2019
War torn love is a love story set during World War war. War is messy and each person is affected by it in some way. This story follows the life of Abby and her family during a time of uncertainty.
The style of writting was more narrative and that took awhile to get used to. Because of the narrative style, I had a hard time getting into the story. I found that the characters did not feel realistic to me. It was harder for me to connect with them.
There is a strong Christian message throughout this book. The message is good but felt forced at times. I like that the reader can learn the Lord's truth along with Abby and her family.
I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest review.
The style of writting was more narrative and that took awhile to get used to. Because of the narrative style, I had a hard time getting into the story. I found that the characters did not feel realistic to me. It was harder for me to connect with them.
There is a strong Christian message throughout this book. The message is good but felt forced at times. I like that the reader can learn the Lord's truth along with Abby and her family.
I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest review.
March 25, 2019
The setting is 1940 in South Carolina. The time period of World War 2. The characters of the book, Abby and Harvey, form a romantic relationship and then Harvey is sent to fight in War. The story then becomes about enduring a long distance relationship during War Time.
The story is intriguing at times, especially when Abby and Harvey are enduring their love relationship long distance. The book is geared towards Young Adult, but due to some of the Romantic content, I would think it would be mature teens and College aged students.
I did enjoy the book and the Author, Allison Wells, is a great new author. Good book for those who enjoy the War time stories and for a good reading of history while reading leisurely.
The story is intriguing at times, especially when Abby and Harvey are enduring their love relationship long distance. The book is geared towards Young Adult, but due to some of the Romantic content, I would think it would be mature teens and College aged students.
I did enjoy the book and the Author, Allison Wells, is a great new author. Good book for those who enjoy the War time stories and for a good reading of history while reading leisurely.
March 22, 2019
》A lovely story set in the 1940's. It is a unique story in that it focuses on the thoughts, actions and emotions of the people left state side. I thought it was an encouraging and thought provoking book, and it really didnt gloss over different aspects of being newly in love which I appreciated as it made the book more realistic than some :) . I truly enjoied reading this book even though at first I wasn't sure that i'd like it. I do recommend reading it, as it has a ver believable perspective. I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feed back, the opinions expressed within are my own.
October 10, 2019
War Torn Heart follows the life of Abby, a young woman who finds herself falling in love. When the book begins, we find Abby as a 16 year old who doesn't really understand how the world works. I think the author does a great job showing how Abby matures while dealing with war, loss, and love. With all she goes through, Abby transforms into a brave woman who is sure of herself. This story is interwoven with faith and doubts. It does a great job detailing the struggles of this woman finding her way, even in the struggles of life.
March 24, 2019
An amazing emotional read that takes a close look at relationships during one of our country's time of turmoil. When young love meets war time can the heart survive or forever be torn apart?
June 18, 2019
I greatly enjoyed seeing Abigail grow up through the trials. She went from a young woman of girl-ish beliefs to a woman that had been through struggles and come out knowing who she was in her faith. The heartbreak in the book was – so- heartbreaking – it – hurt. There were twists and turns that I was impressed with. I did do a full review of this on my blog - thestartofagoodlife.com that goes more into what I liked and didn't like, about War Torn Heart
July 1, 2019
My thoughts:
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It was not what I thought it was going to be. There were several more twists and turns than I expected for what I assumed was a feel good romance.
This is a great well developed read. I fell in love with the characters. And yes, I cried. I don't normally cry while reading books but this one did me in. The WWII time period is one that I have read and studied quite a bit as it's one that is near to our hearts. In fact, my husband reenacts this era in addition to our whole family doing Civil War era.
I loved Abigail. She's personable. Just enough Southern soft with backbone of steel to keep her going. She reminds me some of myself though I've not been through near the same amount of trials she had to endure.
Let's not get me started on the lying conniving no good fortune hunter that comes into the picture. Well, to be fair she's always been in the picture but unwanted. I'm not sure I could have been so gracious to her, either before the war or after Harvey came home.
I have to admit I didn't expect Abigail to make Harvey wait until after the war to marry. My mind was imagining a double wedding with her brother, but it wasn't to be. Oh and then throw in the cutest baby in the world and life gets so full of love until tragedy strikes. Definitely one you need to read.
I received an ebook copy of this book to facilitate my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and not coerced in any way.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It was not what I thought it was going to be. There were several more twists and turns than I expected for what I assumed was a feel good romance.
This is a great well developed read. I fell in love with the characters. And yes, I cried. I don't normally cry while reading books but this one did me in. The WWII time period is one that I have read and studied quite a bit as it's one that is near to our hearts. In fact, my husband reenacts this era in addition to our whole family doing Civil War era.
I loved Abigail. She's personable. Just enough Southern soft with backbone of steel to keep her going. She reminds me some of myself though I've not been through near the same amount of trials she had to endure.
Let's not get me started on the lying conniving no good fortune hunter that comes into the picture. Well, to be fair she's always been in the picture but unwanted. I'm not sure I could have been so gracious to her, either before the war or after Harvey came home.
I have to admit I didn't expect Abigail to make Harvey wait until after the war to marry. My mind was imagining a double wedding with her brother, but it wasn't to be. Oh and then throw in the cutest baby in the world and life gets so full of love until tragedy strikes. Definitely one you need to read.
I received an ebook copy of this book to facilitate my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and not coerced in any way.
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January 1, 2019Watch for my review coming in the Spring 2019 edition of the Hope by the Book Magazine (https://www.hopebythebook.com/).
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews