What do you think?
Rate this book
The Great War #3
Springtime of the Spirit
By the fall of 1918, the Great War has ended and the world is at peace, but there is little to celebrate in Germany. After four years of fighting for his homeland, Christophe Brecht returns to find there is little left of what he once called home. So when family friends ask him to travel to Munich to bring back their runaway daughter, Christophe agrees.
When he finally locates Annaliese Duray, he discovers she is far different from the girl he once knew. Headstrong, idealistic, and beautiful, she is on the front lines of the city’s political scene, fighting to give women and working-class citizens a voice in Germany’s new government.
As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Annaliese and Christophe. With an army from Berlin threatening to squash everything Annaliese has worked for, both she and Christophe are forced to choose between love and loyalty.
When he finally locates Annaliese Duray, he discovers she is far different from the girl he once knew. Headstrong, idealistic, and beautiful, she is on the front lines of the city’s political scene, fighting to give women and working-class citizens a voice in Germany’s new government.
As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Annaliese and Christophe. With an army from Berlin threatening to squash everything Annaliese has worked for, both she and Christophe are forced to choose between love and loyalty.
377 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
33 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Maureen Lang
38 books209 followersMaureen Lang
Maureen Lang has always had a passion for writing. She wrote her first novel longhand around the age of 10, put the pages into a notebook she had covered with soft deerskin (nothing but the best!), then passed it around the neighborhood to rave reviews. It was so much fun she's been writing ever since.
Most of her books are historical, with an emphasis on faith and romance.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 7, 2011
This is one of those books that make me think of irony. I've avoided "war" books because I tend to read mostly for escape and entertainment and I don't enjoy stories about wars. I do love historical fiction and this was offered to me for my honest review so I thought I might as well take a chance on it. The first thing I learned was that this isn't really a book about war ~ it's a book about people.
The author has written some compelling characters that are exactly the kind I prefer. These aren't marshmallow fluff characters that leave you feeling as if you may need to visit the dentist because they are just a tad too sweet - too perfect to actually walk planet Earth. Annaliese is basically in rebellion against her parents, her government and her faith. Christophe is so angry at what has happened that one of the first things we see him do is try and destroy a poster of the Kaiser - his mind full of thoughts about how the army was lied to and betrayed by the people who led them into the war.
Another reason I don't much like "war" books is because I would like to keep all the horrible scenes and issues in the past - thinking it has no relevance on life today. I cringed more than once as I read the well-meaning Annaliese describe to Christophe why socialism was the right thing for Germany. Too often her speeches, along with those of her mentor, Jurgen, could have been ripped from today's headlines.
What surprised me the most was how much I liked this book. It put a human face on a difficult period in Germany's history. Christophe's love and dedication to Annaliese wasn't conditional. He didn't stop caring for her because her views were different, or when she did things he didn't approve of. In many ways I think his love was a great example of how God loves us - patiently, completely and for who we are.
This book featured wonderful characters that exhibited great strength as well as weaknesses. I think it was one of the best books I've read so far this year and I thank Tyndale House for providing it to me in exchange for my honest review.
The author has written some compelling characters that are exactly the kind I prefer. These aren't marshmallow fluff characters that leave you feeling as if you may need to visit the dentist because they are just a tad too sweet - too perfect to actually walk planet Earth. Annaliese is basically in rebellion against her parents, her government and her faith. Christophe is so angry at what has happened that one of the first things we see him do is try and destroy a poster of the Kaiser - his mind full of thoughts about how the army was lied to and betrayed by the people who led them into the war.
Another reason I don't much like "war" books is because I would like to keep all the horrible scenes and issues in the past - thinking it has no relevance on life today. I cringed more than once as I read the well-meaning Annaliese describe to Christophe why socialism was the right thing for Germany. Too often her speeches, along with those of her mentor, Jurgen, could have been ripped from today's headlines.
What surprised me the most was how much I liked this book. It put a human face on a difficult period in Germany's history. Christophe's love and dedication to Annaliese wasn't conditional. He didn't stop caring for her because her views were different, or when she did things he didn't approve of. In many ways I think his love was a great example of how God loves us - patiently, completely and for who we are.
This book featured wonderful characters that exhibited great strength as well as weaknesses. I think it was one of the best books I've read so far this year and I thank Tyndale House for providing it to me in exchange for my honest review.
January 21, 2012
Christophe Brecht, a German sniper, has returned from war to find his country in ruins. Eager for work, he accepts an offer from the wealthy weapons manufacturer, Herr Düray. But when Christophe learns that his job entails finding Herr Düray’s runaway teenage daughter, he refuses payment, believing it is his duty to help bring the girl back to her parents’ country mansion. Christophe easily finds Annaliese, but is disturbed to discover that the girl has become a socialist activist. Christophe joins the socialists to be near Annaliese and the two fall for each other as Christophe tries to convince Annaliese that socialism is not God’s way. At first, Annaliese resists Christophe, but when communists try to take over Germany by force, she realizes she loves God and Christophe.
This novel is historically and theologically problematic. Lang unapologetically aligns Christian theology with capitalist ideology, promoting voluntary sharing over government safeguards for the poor as truer to Christian teachings. The desperate conditions of the German working class born of the industrial revolution, the war, and the deaths of nearly one million civilians in 1918 due to malnutrition and influenza hardly figure into this story. Christophe admits the churches pushed for war, but maintains that God should not be blamed for what churches wrongly teach. In addition, he argues that some men are more talented and hard-working than others and should not be forced to share with those who are not. Christophe sympathizes with the Dürays despite their war profiteering, food hoarding, and plans to abandon Germany for better opportunities in America because they are believers. The socialists, on the other hand, he sees as misguided do-gooders willing to resort to force to impose ‘sharing’ on the people.
This novel is historically and theologically problematic. Lang unapologetically aligns Christian theology with capitalist ideology, promoting voluntary sharing over government safeguards for the poor as truer to Christian teachings. The desperate conditions of the German working class born of the industrial revolution, the war, and the deaths of nearly one million civilians in 1918 due to malnutrition and influenza hardly figure into this story. Christophe admits the churches pushed for war, but maintains that God should not be blamed for what churches wrongly teach. In addition, he argues that some men are more talented and hard-working than others and should not be forced to share with those who are not. Christophe sympathizes with the Dürays despite their war profiteering, food hoarding, and plans to abandon Germany for better opportunities in America because they are believers. The socialists, on the other hand, he sees as misguided do-gooders willing to resort to force to impose ‘sharing’ on the people.
March 5, 2011
There is always one thing I know I can always count on when reading one of Maureen Lang’s novels: details. Maureen is an expert when it comes to providing her readers with rich historical details that make her books come alive. I was interested in reading Springtime of the Spirit primarily because it takes place right at the end of World War I and I cannot think of another World War I book that actually takes place at the end. I find that time period of world history fascinating and I knew Maureen Lang would do it justice. And boy, did she ever.
Not only was the history and the setting incredibly interesting, but the story that develops between Christophe and Annaliese was interesting as well. I felt that this story really got going and picked up the pace once Christophe sets out to find Annaliese, his childhood friend. The story continues to unfold from there and it just kept getting more and more interesting as political unrest develops in Germany and romance develops between these two unlikely souls.
Overall, Springtime of the Spirit is by far much more than I was expecting. I knew it would be good, but I was surprised by how quickly it read and how it held my attention. Maureen Lang has a talent for educating her readers and entertaining them at the same time.
This book was provided for review by Tyndale. I was not obligated to write a positive review. This review is my honest opinion.
Not only was the history and the setting incredibly interesting, but the story that develops between Christophe and Annaliese was interesting as well. I felt that this story really got going and picked up the pace once Christophe sets out to find Annaliese, his childhood friend. The story continues to unfold from there and it just kept getting more and more interesting as political unrest develops in Germany and romance develops between these two unlikely souls.
Overall, Springtime of the Spirit is by far much more than I was expecting. I knew it would be good, but I was surprised by how quickly it read and how it held my attention. Maureen Lang has a talent for educating her readers and entertaining them at the same time.
This book was provided for review by Tyndale. I was not obligated to write a positive review. This review is my honest opinion.
July 2, 2011
I had read "Whisper on the Wind" also by Maureen Lang and had thoroughly enjoyed it. So, when I saw Amazon had this one discounted to 99 cents, I grabbed it. This one is also set in the time period of the "Great War", or right after the end of World War I. It's a time period I don't often read about, and I did enjoy the first one, which was actually set during the war itself. This one was set in Germany at the end of the war, when people were still struggling and the movements of Socialism and Communism were trying to take root. This book had too much politics for me, too much long discourse on the tenets of each and how it affected the people of Germany and Europe. I wanted more of the love story and of the story of coming back to believing in God, after losing faith. I did like it, but not as much as I would have if there had been less politics to it.
May 6, 2012
Springtime of the Spirit shows true compassion and sacrifice as the core of the story, but this book didn't quite work for me getting stale at times and making it not too hard to put down.
September 16, 2021
By the fall of 1918, the Great War has ended and the world is at peace, but there is little to celebrate in Germany. After four years of fighting for his homeland, Christophe Brecht returns to find there is little left of what he once called home. So when family friends ask him to travel to Munich to bring back their runaway daughter, Christophe agrees.When he finally locates Annaliese Duray, he discovers she is far different from the girl he once knew. Headstrong, idealistic, and beautiful, she is on the front lines of the city’s political scene, fighting to give women and working-class citizens a voice in Germany’s new government.
As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Annaliese and Christophe. With an army from Berlin threatening to squash everything Annaliese has worked for, both she and Christophe are forced to choose between love and loyalty.After four years of hostilities in World War I from 1914 to 1918 with heavy losses, Germany was exhausted and sued for peace under desperate circumstances. Awareness of imminent defeat sparked revolution, the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II, Germany surrendered, and the Weimar Republic was proclaimed on 9 November 1918.From 1918 to 1923, the Weimar Republic suffered grave problems, such as hyperinflation, political extremism, including political murders and two attempted power seizures by contending paramilitaries, as well as contentious relationships with the victors of the First World War.Kurt Eisner(14 May 1867 – 21 February 1919)was a German politician, revolutionary, journalist, and theatre critic. As a socialist journalist, he organized the Socialist Revolution that overthrew the Wittelsbach monarchy in Bavaria in November 1918, which led to him being described as "the symbol of the Bavarian revolution".Eisner subsequently proclaimed the People's State of Bavaria but was assassinated by far-right German nationalist Anton Graf von Arco auf Valley in Munich 21 February 1919.Women in the Weimar Republic got the vote in 1919 under Article 109.There was conflict between the "New Women" and traditional gender roles.
As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Annaliese and Christophe. With an army from Berlin threatening to squash everything Annaliese has worked for, both she and Christophe are forced to choose between love and loyalty.After four years of hostilities in World War I from 1914 to 1918 with heavy losses, Germany was exhausted and sued for peace under desperate circumstances. Awareness of imminent defeat sparked revolution, the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II, Germany surrendered, and the Weimar Republic was proclaimed on 9 November 1918.From 1918 to 1923, the Weimar Republic suffered grave problems, such as hyperinflation, political extremism, including political murders and two attempted power seizures by contending paramilitaries, as well as contentious relationships with the victors of the First World War.Kurt Eisner(14 May 1867 – 21 February 1919)was a German politician, revolutionary, journalist, and theatre critic. As a socialist journalist, he organized the Socialist Revolution that overthrew the Wittelsbach monarchy in Bavaria in November 1918, which led to him being described as "the symbol of the Bavarian revolution".Eisner subsequently proclaimed the People's State of Bavaria but was assassinated by far-right German nationalist Anton Graf von Arco auf Valley in Munich 21 February 1919.Women in the Weimar Republic got the vote in 1919 under Article 109.There was conflict between the "New Women" and traditional gender roles.
March 31, 2018
This is very well written and a good take on the war back then. The characters were great. It did take me some time to get into the book and Annaliese made me annoyed in some parts when it was a lot of drama from her. Those parts really made me not want to read anymore. I can understand how she acted the ways she did in a way. I thought it was neat how her name is close to my own daughter's name. My daughter's name is Annalisa. How awesome is that!
Anyways, if you like war books these are good ones but they are not for me. I knew how this book would end almost half way through it.
I gave 4 stars for the writing. characters and picture in your mind of war when you read the book. I wanted to give it 3 stars but changed my mind.
Anyways, if you like war books these are good ones but they are not for me. I knew how this book would end almost half way through it.
I gave 4 stars for the writing. characters and picture in your mind of war when you read the book. I wanted to give it 3 stars but changed my mind.
May 8, 2017
very good novel
February 26, 2018
This was a very disappointing book. I did not finish this book.
June 22, 2019
Interestingly
I enjoyed the book, and while there were a couple of places that seemed rough the overall read was well worth the time.
I enjoyed the book, and while there were a couple of places that seemed rough the overall read was well worth the time.
April 28, 2020
interesting.
October 1, 2016
Good clean christian historical book
It took me awhile to connect with the characters,but once I did the connection was strong. Have God so much a part of the lives made the story line even better for me. I loved historical info. I learned. I recommend this author she is very talented and is able to include God into the lives and still educating the reader about the history of the time.
It took me awhile to connect with the characters,but once I did the connection was strong. Have God so much a part of the lives made the story line even better for me. I loved historical info. I learned. I recommend this author she is very talented and is able to include God into the lives and still educating the reader about the history of the time.
April 14, 2011
A historical presence of political passion in Germany during the early 1900's with the mix of romantic allure, heat and lust of two men for one woman who is stronger than they are both.
Meet Annaliese a feisty young woman not yet 18 who has left the only family she has, her parents, behind in her search finding something to believe in. Who is she? What does she care about? Annaliese seems to be stuck in a love triangle between a man who shares her passion of rallies and causes for socialism and a man from her past. The stage is set in the early 1900's after the end of the cold war, a war which still lingers with food shortages and unemployment. Annaliese is determined to put blame on the very man who comes to save her, blaming him for the death of her sister, while feelings of passion for him linger in her heart. Christophe is the man who was sent to fetch her, a soldier, a major who after returning from the war has come home to nothing. His only family his sister has left for America, his parents having died shortly after the death of his brother. Christophe although filled with sadness for his current situation, which includes not only coming back to an empty home, but also bitter from losing the war and feeling it a total waste, yet still holding onto his belief in God. A belief that Annaliese has long pushed aside, as she has also done to her family, her traditions and her past social class which she hides by not placing her last name forth for the very cause she so supports.
I felt the pain and passion carried by Annaliese through Springtime of the Spirit from the beginning of the book to the very end. Christophe is quite the man, strong, patient, level headed, just what Annaliese needs to balance her. While Jurgan her partner in the political rallies and her other love interest seems like the basic playboy of the 1900's, something Annaliese senses and has seen first hand. I could sense the lust Jurgan carries for Annaliese then his curiosity toward Christophe, his rival who seems to appear out of nowhere. Jurgan's curiosity slowly turns into jealousy, in this triangle of passion. Springtime of the Spirit is a mix of history, love of a country, anger, God and so much more. I lost myself in this book and if you are a romantic who likes to feel the struggle of two men for the love and attention of one women, this book is for you.
Meet Annaliese a feisty young woman not yet 18 who has left the only family she has, her parents, behind in her search finding something to believe in. Who is she? What does she care about? Annaliese seems to be stuck in a love triangle between a man who shares her passion of rallies and causes for socialism and a man from her past. The stage is set in the early 1900's after the end of the cold war, a war which still lingers with food shortages and unemployment. Annaliese is determined to put blame on the very man who comes to save her, blaming him for the death of her sister, while feelings of passion for him linger in her heart. Christophe is the man who was sent to fetch her, a soldier, a major who after returning from the war has come home to nothing. His only family his sister has left for America, his parents having died shortly after the death of his brother. Christophe although filled with sadness for his current situation, which includes not only coming back to an empty home, but also bitter from losing the war and feeling it a total waste, yet still holding onto his belief in God. A belief that Annaliese has long pushed aside, as she has also done to her family, her traditions and her past social class which she hides by not placing her last name forth for the very cause she so supports.
I felt the pain and passion carried by Annaliese through Springtime of the Spirit from the beginning of the book to the very end. Christophe is quite the man, strong, patient, level headed, just what Annaliese needs to balance her. While Jurgan her partner in the political rallies and her other love interest seems like the basic playboy of the 1900's, something Annaliese senses and has seen first hand. I could sense the lust Jurgan carries for Annaliese then his curiosity toward Christophe, his rival who seems to appear out of nowhere. Jurgan's curiosity slowly turns into jealousy, in this triangle of passion. Springtime of the Spirit is a mix of history, love of a country, anger, God and so much more. I lost myself in this book and if you are a romantic who likes to feel the struggle of two men for the love and attention of one women, this book is for you.
June 9, 2011
Maureen Lang in her new book “Springtime Of The Spirit” Book Three in The Great War series published by Tyndale House Publishers takes us to Munich in 1918.
The Great War, as World War I was called, is over and soldiers from all sides are returning home. Christophe Brecht, a German, has been fighting for four years and is weary but the town he left is not the town he returns home to. The war has been devastating on Germany and much has changed, more than Christophe can deal with. So when he is given the opportunity to travel to Munich to bring back Annaliese Duray he jumps at the chance.
Annaliese is working to bring about change in her country. However, she does not realize that the people she is working with want to turn her country to communism and that is where the conflict really begins to boil. Christophe stays to protect her and the romance between them begins to flourish.
This is a fun read, it is an interesting read with many themes that you will need to think about long after you finish the book. I do not recommend starting this book late at night because it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down. Ms. Lang is an excellent writer and knows how to twist your nerve endings as she tightens the suspense.
If you missed the interview for “Look To The East” Book One in the series and would like to listen to it or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The Great War, as World War I was called, is over and soldiers from all sides are returning home. Christophe Brecht, a German, has been fighting for four years and is weary but the town he left is not the town he returns home to. The war has been devastating on Germany and much has changed, more than Christophe can deal with. So when he is given the opportunity to travel to Munich to bring back Annaliese Duray he jumps at the chance.
Annaliese is working to bring about change in her country. However, she does not realize that the people she is working with want to turn her country to communism and that is where the conflict really begins to boil. Christophe stays to protect her and the romance between them begins to flourish.
This is a fun read, it is an interesting read with many themes that you will need to think about long after you finish the book. I do not recommend starting this book late at night because it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down. Ms. Lang is an excellent writer and knows how to twist your nerve endings as she tightens the suspense.
If you missed the interview for “Look To The East” Book One in the series and would like to listen to it or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 20, 2011
At the end of World War I, Germans were caught between two conflicting political parties: one that wanted freedom and one that wanted communism to rule the land. Caught in the battle is Annaliese, a young and fearless woman who is willing to sacrifice herself for the good of her country. As she campaigns for women’s rights in Munich, Annaliese joins a cause to give the working class a voice in the government, completely unaware the leaders of the group are pushing towards a communistic takeover of the country. When Christophe, her girlhood crush, comes to take her home for her own safety, Annaliese must confront her own feelings about herself, for Christophe, and for the beliefs she holds dear. Will she have to give up her dreams for working towards social justice for a chance at true love?
Springtime of the Spirit is the first book I’ve read by Maureen Lang, and I will definitely read more. I love history, and this book was a great mix of historical information about the clashes between the political groups in Germany after WWI with a love story that includes family and honor. The main characters were likeable, and growth in both characters was evident throughout the novel. At a few points, the dialogue about the differing views on the government grew weary. Instead of focusing on the different ideas and arguing back and forth, more time could have been spent with Annaliese as she visits her friend Meika. Annaliese’s visit with Meika was a turning point for her spiritually, but it was glossed over in the book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will check out the other books in the Great War Series. I recommend this novel to Christian fiction readers, especially those fond of historical fiction.
I received this complimentary book from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of reviewing.
Springtime of the Spirit is the first book I’ve read by Maureen Lang, and I will definitely read more. I love history, and this book was a great mix of historical information about the clashes between the political groups in Germany after WWI with a love story that includes family and honor. The main characters were likeable, and growth in both characters was evident throughout the novel. At a few points, the dialogue about the differing views on the government grew weary. Instead of focusing on the different ideas and arguing back and forth, more time could have been spent with Annaliese as she visits her friend Meika. Annaliese’s visit with Meika was a turning point for her spiritually, but it was glossed over in the book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will check out the other books in the Great War Series. I recommend this novel to Christian fiction readers, especially those fond of historical fiction.
I received this complimentary book from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of reviewing.
August 19, 2011
Title: SPRINGTIME OF THE SPIRIT
Author: Maureen Lang
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
March 2011
ISBN: 978-1-4143-2437-1
Genre: Inspirational/historical/romance
In 1918, the Great War had come to an end. Germany is still struggling to get back on it’s feet. Christophe Brecht has fought for four years for his country, and now he’s lost. Nothing at home is as he remembers. His parents are gone and his sister has left for America. So, when he’s offered a job by family friends to travel to Munich to find their daughter, Christophe agrees.
Annaliese Duray has grown to be headstrong, idealistic and beautiful, and right now she is on the front lines of the city’s political scene, fighting to give women and working-class a voice in Germany’s new government.
As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Christophe and Annaliese. But a Berlin army threatens to squash everything Annaliese is working for—and she is forced to choose between love, loyalty, and her life.
Maureen Lang has long been one of my favorite historical authors, and SPRINGTIME OF THE SPIRIT didn’t disappoint. Full of political tension, the characters are forced to make major decisions about everything, because it all affects their lives. Tightly written, the story holds the readers attention, making them care about the characters and the decisions that they make.
If you are looking for a good historical romance then SPRINGTIME OF THE SPIRIT is a book to consider. This is much more than a fluffy romance—it is full of sustenance. It is the third book in Ms. Lang’s The Great War series, but it easily stands alone. An author’s note is included at the end of the book. $12.99. 324 pages.
Author: Maureen Lang
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
March 2011
ISBN: 978-1-4143-2437-1
Genre: Inspirational/historical/romance
In 1918, the Great War had come to an end. Germany is still struggling to get back on it’s feet. Christophe Brecht has fought for four years for his country, and now he’s lost. Nothing at home is as he remembers. His parents are gone and his sister has left for America. So, when he’s offered a job by family friends to travel to Munich to find their daughter, Christophe agrees.
Annaliese Duray has grown to be headstrong, idealistic and beautiful, and right now she is on the front lines of the city’s political scene, fighting to give women and working-class a voice in Germany’s new government.
As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Christophe and Annaliese. But a Berlin army threatens to squash everything Annaliese is working for—and she is forced to choose between love, loyalty, and her life.
Maureen Lang has long been one of my favorite historical authors, and SPRINGTIME OF THE SPIRIT didn’t disappoint. Full of political tension, the characters are forced to make major decisions about everything, because it all affects their lives. Tightly written, the story holds the readers attention, making them care about the characters and the decisions that they make.
If you are looking for a good historical romance then SPRINGTIME OF THE SPIRIT is a book to consider. This is much more than a fluffy romance—it is full of sustenance. It is the third book in Ms. Lang’s The Great War series, but it easily stands alone. An author’s note is included at the end of the book. $12.99. 324 pages.
May 5, 2012
After the end of the Great War, Christophe Brecht returns to his home in Braedon, Germany in hopes of peace. What he finds there is that the home that he longed for no longer exists. When family friends ask him to travel to Munich to look for their daughter, Annaliese Duray, he agrees. Arriving in Munich, he finds the city in the midst of a political upheaval and Annaliese in the thick of it all. She's not the girl he remembers. He's not the man that she once had a crush on. The years of the war have changed them both. But as the situation in Munich grows more and more violate, they each find themselves drawn to the other. Will love prevail or will these two let the politics drive them apart?
This is the third book in the Great War Series, and thankfully I didn't need to read the others to make sense of this one. This is also the first book I've read of Maureen Lang's. While the book did start off slow, as the story moved along, I found myself drawn into it. I don't think I've ever read a book that was set in Germany after WWI. To see the political upheaval following the war brought to light, made me wish I knew my history a bit better. Christophe is a very strong character and I love the way that though the War changed him, he held fast to his faith and didn't let circumstances take that from him. Annaliese's character is one that shows just how frequently we as humans can question why bad things happen to good people. She grows a lot in the course of the book, and is even able to figure out what she exactly believes.
Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this book. Especially people who want to read a book set in a setting that most authors don't write about.
Rating - 4 stars
This is the third book in the Great War Series, and thankfully I didn't need to read the others to make sense of this one. This is also the first book I've read of Maureen Lang's. While the book did start off slow, as the story moved along, I found myself drawn into it. I don't think I've ever read a book that was set in Germany after WWI. To see the political upheaval following the war brought to light, made me wish I knew my history a bit better. Christophe is a very strong character and I love the way that though the War changed him, he held fast to his faith and didn't let circumstances take that from him. Annaliese's character is one that shows just how frequently we as humans can question why bad things happen to good people. She grows a lot in the course of the book, and is even able to figure out what she exactly believes.
Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this book. Especially people who want to read a book set in a setting that most authors don't write about.
Rating - 4 stars
April 12, 2011
Springtime of the Spirit was difficult for me to put down. I read the story in just a few days, and it's not a short book. I think this is Maureen Lang's best book. I enjoyed the previous book in the Great War series, but this even tops that one, probably because of the communist versus socialist theme during that time period.
I've always found it tragic that Europe has gone through so many wars and so much bloodshed. It's even more tragic when countrymen kill each other with the hopes of making the country better, only to make things worse. The developing emotional relationship between Annaliese and Christophe was incredible to witness. While drawn to each other, they fought closeness for many different reasons. I worried for their safety but also admired them for their bravery and commitment to what mattered to them.
The spiritual arc in this story was impressive, too. It came out naturally but it also made a lot of practical sense. It's so true that we each need to find a relationship with God for ourselves. Sometimes that's hard to do when we want to please someone else. In fact, that may influence things to the point where it's not the result of a true desire to know God, but more like the desire to have a connection with the person you don't want to lose. That was very well done.
I could go on about all of the things I loved about this book, but I'd have to say that true Christian compassion and sacrifice really struck me as the main theme in this story. Forgiveness played a part, but it was showing Christian love that hit home for me. There is something in every book that Lang writes that reaches my heart. This one was no exception.
I've always found it tragic that Europe has gone through so many wars and so much bloodshed. It's even more tragic when countrymen kill each other with the hopes of making the country better, only to make things worse. The developing emotional relationship between Annaliese and Christophe was incredible to witness. While drawn to each other, they fought closeness for many different reasons. I worried for their safety but also admired them for their bravery and commitment to what mattered to them.
The spiritual arc in this story was impressive, too. It came out naturally but it also made a lot of practical sense. It's so true that we each need to find a relationship with God for ourselves. Sometimes that's hard to do when we want to please someone else. In fact, that may influence things to the point where it's not the result of a true desire to know God, but more like the desire to have a connection with the person you don't want to lose. That was very well done.
I could go on about all of the things I loved about this book, but I'd have to say that true Christian compassion and sacrifice really struck me as the main theme in this story. Forgiveness played a part, but it was showing Christian love that hit home for me. There is something in every book that Lang writes that reaches my heart. This one was no exception.
June 21, 2011
This particular book is part of a series called, The Great War Series. I had never heard of it before, but I love anything historical in nature. Springtime is book number 3 and I definitely will be picking up the first two of this series. I was given the opportunity to read this book through the publishing company, Tyndale Publishing. It has been since my pre-teen years that I have read Christian fiction. I had just never found a book that interested me; and you would be more likely to find me reading True Crime, historical Non-Fiction, or a mystery crime fiction type book. So, when I was asked to review this I jumped at the chance; not only for the Christian-fiction aspect of it, but because it historical in nature. This book is set in 1918 Germany, with a great setting and real-life people woven into the story line, which I thought was really cool. The book was an easy and enjoyable read. Some sections seemed to drag on a bit, but I enjoyed it. I also enjoyed the weaving in of Christian principles and attitudes. It played right along well with the story and fit in wonderfully. Parts of the book were very emotional, and as always - me being a girl - i was quite happy with the way the book ended. Anyone who is looking for a Christian Fiction book to read, with a little romance, a little History, this is the book for you. I think it is difficult to do all that in one book, and do it will might I add. Maureen Lang has certainly done that in this book.
3 Stars from me on this one
3 Stars from me on this one
March 18, 2011
I just finished reading "Springtime of the Spirit" by Maureen Lang. I was given a free copy to read and review from Tyndale House Publishers. It's a story set in German in the early 1900s.
Annaliese is a young woman drawn into the political battle of a torn Germany. She and her colleagues fight for women and the working-class in Munich. Or at least, that is what Annaliese thinks. An old childhood friend joins her cause unexpectedly and forces Annaliese to question everything she stands for. She must find her own voice. She must forgive and forget. What will she choose?
I like how the book is a nice balance of historical, political and romance. There's just enough of everything. The book has a nice flow and is well written. There were many instances of a lack of capitalization at the start of a sentence, but that is a publisher-author issue.
I can say that despite the urge to avoid a story about Nazi German, I am glad I read the book. It teaches that there is always hope and forgiveness even in the midst of such turmoil. The only other book I can think of that is similar is "Amiee & Jaguar" by Erica Fisher. Another very good historical romance book, I must say.
Maureen Lang has written numerous other novels. She has also won many awards for her writing. Her website is maureenlang.com.
Annaliese is a young woman drawn into the political battle of a torn Germany. She and her colleagues fight for women and the working-class in Munich. Or at least, that is what Annaliese thinks. An old childhood friend joins her cause unexpectedly and forces Annaliese to question everything she stands for. She must find her own voice. She must forgive and forget. What will she choose?
I like how the book is a nice balance of historical, political and romance. There's just enough of everything. The book has a nice flow and is well written. There were many instances of a lack of capitalization at the start of a sentence, but that is a publisher-author issue.
I can say that despite the urge to avoid a story about Nazi German, I am glad I read the book. It teaches that there is always hope and forgiveness even in the midst of such turmoil. The only other book I can think of that is similar is "Amiee & Jaguar" by Erica Fisher. Another very good historical romance book, I must say.
Maureen Lang has written numerous other novels. She has also won many awards for her writing. Her website is maureenlang.com.
August 16, 2016
Christof Brecht komt vermoeid terug in Munchen na het vechten in de grote oorlog. Hij verlangt naar vrede en voorspoed, maar helaas zo ver is het nog niet. Hij gaat in opdracht van de ouders van Annaliese naar haar op zoek in Munchen, om haar mee terug te nemen naar het platteland. Zij blijkt in Munchen een enthousiaste socialistische vrouw te zijn geworden en peinst niet over terugkomen. Ze strijd samen met Jürgen voor gelijkheid voor iedereen. Naast deze strijd zullen de mannen ook strijden voor haar hart. Wie wint haar liefde? En zal ze zich nog om haar ouders bekommeren nu die op het punt staan om Duitsland te verlaten?
Dit boek blijkt een derde deel uit een serie, maar prima los te lezen. De grote oorlog en de nasleep daarna in Duitsland wordt niet vaak beschreven en dat maakt dit een leuke insteek voor het verhaal. De driehoeksverhouding is wat langdradig, zoals eigenlijk de schrijfstijl van Lang. Aan de ene kant geeft dat mooie overdenkingen van de personages, maar aan de andere kant vertraagt dit het verhaal terwijl de verloop van omstandigheden toch erg voorspelbaar is. Dat maakt 'kom mij tegemoet' al met al een vermakelijk verhaal, niet al te diepzinnig, maar toch net een andere insteek door de socialistische groepering.
Dit boek blijkt een derde deel uit een serie, maar prima los te lezen. De grote oorlog en de nasleep daarna in Duitsland wordt niet vaak beschreven en dat maakt dit een leuke insteek voor het verhaal. De driehoeksverhouding is wat langdradig, zoals eigenlijk de schrijfstijl van Lang. Aan de ene kant geeft dat mooie overdenkingen van de personages, maar aan de andere kant vertraagt dit het verhaal terwijl de verloop van omstandigheden toch erg voorspelbaar is. Dat maakt 'kom mij tegemoet' al met al een vermakelijk verhaal, niet al te diepzinnig, maar toch net een andere insteek door de socialistische groepering.
April 3, 2011
Caveat: Maureen's a friend. Yes, I am brave enough to review my friends' books.
Normally the words "inspirational" and "romance" send me scurrying off in the opposite direction, but I enjoyed Springtime of the Spirit. The main characters, Annaliese and Christophe, were engaging and there was enough complexity in the cast of characters to keep me interested. Above all, I loved the historical setting. I'm a big fan of the period immediately after the First World War, but I didn't know much about the situation in Germany. There was enough detail of the politics and setting in this novel to leave me feeling that I'd learned something. Annaliese's spiritual growth was plausible, although I felt that she reverted rather quickly from Socialism to sympathy with the bourgeois. A fast, pacy read that sets up its story well and sustains the tension throughout.
Normally the words "inspirational" and "romance" send me scurrying off in the opposite direction, but I enjoyed Springtime of the Spirit. The main characters, Annaliese and Christophe, were engaging and there was enough complexity in the cast of characters to keep me interested. Above all, I loved the historical setting. I'm a big fan of the period immediately after the First World War, but I didn't know much about the situation in Germany. There was enough detail of the politics and setting in this novel to leave me feeling that I'd learned something. Annaliese's spiritual growth was plausible, although I felt that she reverted rather quickly from Socialism to sympathy with the bourgeois. A fast, pacy read that sets up its story well and sustains the tension throughout.
December 9, 2011
Christophe returned home from the war with no greeting and no welcome. Annaliese jubilantly shouted as the crowd rallied to hear of freedom call. Their cries so different from the communists. Hunger dictates the country as the citizens of Germany celebrate the end of the war. Annaliese has won the attention of an important admirer, looking for a victory in the election, and one who can further the socialists party. Annaliese is reacquainted with someone from her past but could it ruin everything she has worked so hard for? Christophe is sent on a journey to recover what was lost. Will he truly find what he is searching for?
A novel of politics, loyalty and discovery set in the time of the Great War. The scene of the storyline worked very well and I can see myself in the era as I read this book. I found the book to be much better and more entertaining than the other books before it.
A novel of politics, loyalty and discovery set in the time of the Great War. The scene of the storyline worked very well and I can see myself in the era as I read this book. I found the book to be much better and more entertaining than the other books before it.
April 21, 2011
*Goodreads First Read*
Well, it wasn't terrible, but it also wasn't great. It was just...okay. The characters were fine, but it seemed like the book couldn't decide what it wanted to be. Historical fiction? Romance? Mystery? Young adult? Religious? I'm not a fan of "inspirational" books, but the religious parts were minimal and believable for the characters, so they didn't bother me that much; in fact, if you don't mind the religious references, I'd recommend this for a young adult, as it's an easy read. Even though the story is fairly simple, Lang does a nice job navigating the political turmoil of the time and portraying both sides.
Well, it wasn't terrible, but it also wasn't great. It was just...okay. The characters were fine, but it seemed like the book couldn't decide what it wanted to be. Historical fiction? Romance? Mystery? Young adult? Religious? I'm not a fan of "inspirational" books, but the religious parts were minimal and believable for the characters, so they didn't bother me that much; in fact, if you don't mind the religious references, I'd recommend this for a young adult, as it's an easy read. Even though the story is fairly simple, Lang does a nice job navigating the political turmoil of the time and portraying both sides.
September 26, 2012
I tried for several days to read this book but just could not get into it. I have read several other books by Maureen Lang and have enjoyed them very much, but this one was just so dry and lacking in something. I just couldn't engage with the characters and I was so excited to read it because I am very interested in this time period in Germany.
I love that she wasn't afraid to keep God in her books as usual and that she tried very hard to keep it pure, but there is something missing in this book that I just can't put my finger on. And this saddened me. Hopefully someone else who reads it will get more into it than I have.
I love that she wasn't afraid to keep God in her books as usual and that she tried very hard to keep it pure, but there is something missing in this book that I just can't put my finger on. And this saddened me. Hopefully someone else who reads it will get more into it than I have.
June 28, 2012
This book was a great look at life in Germany following World War 1 - I liked that it showed the turmoil that characterized that time, I liked that it showed the struggle the heroine went through in coming to terms with her political beliefs and their ramifications. That said, this book didn't captivate my attention as much as the book I read before it - the 2nd book in the series. Looking over the summaries of the books, it appears I haven't read the first book in the series - I will have to read it...
April 7, 2011
Another is Ms Lang's Great War series, Springtime of the Spirit is set in Munich after the end of the war. Passion for change and the political unrest of that time infect the reader. The war and its aftermath are emotional catalysts for the character's beliefs, fears and actions. The characters are as multi-faceted as the onyx pin the heroine holds dear. Flaws in the characters and the politics make this an intriguing read and demonstrate how passion for a cause can lead and can mislead. ms Lang subtly weaves romance with the history making both believable and a "can't put it down read".
May 3, 2011
Lang does a phenomenal job getting the reader enveloped in the passion of politics and religion surrounding the people of Germany post WWI. You can‘t help but become attached to the characters and all their beliefs, fears and actions. With such a variety of personalities the book is nothing but intriguing. It demonstrates how easily lead or mislead one can become when the flaws of people and politics are exposed. The delicate way she intertwines romance with the history makes it both believable and a “page turner.”
July 7, 2012
This novel covers a very volatile period in the history of Germany at the end of WW I when capitalists, socialists, and communists were all competing for power. Even though it was interesting, there were parts that seemed to drag a little. Romance, suspense, and history are all rolled together in this fictional account. Annaliese seemed a little bit immature and unsure as far as her beliefs were concerned, but at least she matured and changed some in the end. Christophe was the type of person you would want to be your advocate or protector. Historical fiction lovers will enjoy this very much.
June 22, 2011
Author Lang has done a good job in taking me into the heart of a period that I knew nothing about; Gemany post World War One, 1918. Set in Munich the love story revolves around Annaliese, an idealistic rebel from her family's privelege and Christophe, a soldier returning from France. Munich, like the rest of Germany is in turmoil brought on by competing factions including communists and more democratic factions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews