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The One True Love of Alice-Ann
Living in rural Georgia in 1941, sixteen-year-old Alice-Ann has her heart set on her brother's friend Mack; despite their five-year age gap, Alice-Ann knows she can make Mack see her for the woman she'll become. But when they receive news of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Mack decides to enlist, Alice-Ann realizes she must declare her love before he leaves. Though promising to write, Mack leaves without confirmation that her love is returned. But Alice-Ann is determined to wear the wedding dress her maiden aunt never had a chance to wear--having lost her fiance in the Great War. As their correspondence continues over the next three years, Mack and Alice-Ann are drawn closer together. But then Mack's letters cease altogether, leaving Alice-Ann to fear history repeating itself. Dreading the war will leave her with a beautiful dress and no happily ever after, Alice-Ann fills her days with work and caring for her best friend's war-torn brother, Carlton. As time passes and their friendship develops into something more, Alice-Ann wonders if she'll ever be prepared to say good-bye to her one true love and embrace the future God has in store with a newfound love. Or will a sudden call from overseas change everything?
418 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2017
About the author
Eva Marie Everson
64 books399 followersEva Marie Everson is a best-selling, multiple award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction. She is the CEO of Word Weavers International and the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference. She enjoys teaching and speaking at writers events across the US. Eva Marie was the 2022 recipient of the Yvonne Lehman Legacy Award and the 2022 recipient of the AWSA Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2023 her book, The Third Path, won the Golden Scroll Book of the Year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
December 10, 2022
Everson's book is slightly slow to start, but it does pick up once America enters World War II and it begins to affect people in the small town of Bynum, Ga. The romance is quite poignant and touching; it truly makes the reading of this novel worthwhile. Alice-Ann is slightly annoying with her obsession over Mack, and after years go by and she is still hung up on him, it almost gets to the point of being grating. However, the ending ultimately redeems the book and will bring tears of joy to the readers’ eyes.
Sixteen-year-old Alice-Ann Branch has been carrying a torch for her older brother's best friend Mack for years. Now that she is older, she wants to let him know how she feels about him. Then Pearl Harbor is bombed and many of the local residents of their small Georgia town join the military to fight, and Mack is one of the first to join up. He and Alice-Ann write letters and get to know each other more intimately. When Alice-Ann's best friend's brother Carlton returns from the war injured, Alice-Ann begins to read to him and the two of them grow closer. How can she choose between the two men that she loves?
Sixteen-year-old Alice-Ann Branch has been carrying a torch for her older brother's best friend Mack for years. Now that she is older, she wants to let him know how she feels about him. Then Pearl Harbor is bombed and many of the local residents of their small Georgia town join the military to fight, and Mack is one of the first to join up. He and Alice-Ann write letters and get to know each other more intimately. When Alice-Ann's best friend's brother Carlton returns from the war injured, Alice-Ann begins to read to him and the two of them grow closer. How can she choose between the two men that she loves?
May 25, 2024
Happy sigh. I just absolutely adore this book - it's probably one of my favorite romance books ever. The relationship between Alice-Ann and Carlton is so sweet and gentle, and the coming-of-age side of the story for Alice-Ann is well paced and so lovely to read.
If you are looking for a sweet romance with a good message and lots of heart, I cannot recommend this book enough!!♡♡
If you are looking for a sweet romance with a good message and lots of heart, I cannot recommend this book enough!!♡♡
November 2, 2016
What a beautiful story!!! While the description tries to bill this as a love triangle, it is really a sweet, coming-of-age story about a young girl on the WWII home front discovering the meaning of true love. There were some parts of the book that dragged a bit, especially the first five chapters, and some of the conflict felt a bit too contrived, but the characters are what make this book shine. It's been a long time since a truly tender hero made my heart pound! He, in particular, will stay with me a long, long time. A definite must-read for fans of sweet historical romance!
October 31, 2017
The One True Love of Alice-ann, was a delightful story full of sweet charm and realness, that will make you fall in love with this book! This was one of those books where I totally fell in love with the cover art, it's just so awesomely vintage. So I was all kinds of happy that the content didn't let me down. :-)
Alice-ann was a character you cannot help but like. Living in rural Georgia, 1941, Alice-ann at 16 years-old has a huuuge crush on her older brother's friend Boyd Mackay (Mack). She is just sure Mack is the one and only for her, despite their 5 year age gap. But when news arrives about the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mack and other young men in her town decide to enlist. Alice must to declare her love for Mack before leaves for war. Promising to write Alice-ann, Mack leaves without comfirming his feelings for her, but Alice-ann is determined that he will see her as the woman she has become and not just her brother's kid sister. The two of them correspond through letter for three years. But when the letters stop suddenly, Alice-ann fears the worst has happened.
Dreading the war has taken her dreams of being Mack's wife, she keeps busy working and caring for her friend's war-torn brother Carlton by reading to him everyday, and as time passes their friendship grows into more. (I know! be still my book nerd heart! Lol, I was so team Carlton)
Alice struggles between moving forward with Carlton and letting go "what might have been" with Mack.
The author did and amazing job of creating light heartwarming moments of a young girl and and her crush but also cultivating a meaningful story about real love, family, and trusting God with your future and heart. Plus you got a glimpse into the unease and heartbreak people felt waiting to hear from loved ones fighting in the war.
This is definitely a book to add in the keep and re-read collection. 4.5 stars!!
♥ ♥ My Favorite Qoutes ♥ ♥
" “Do you like to read?” “I love reading, when I have time. Seems like lately, what with school getting harder and harder, and more chores around the house than ever, and helping Papa when I can with the farm, there hasn’t been much of that. But if I can get a book a week at the school library or from the bookmobile when it comes out this way, I’m happy.” "
""You can’t help who you fall in love with, but you can help who you marry.’”
"‘Life,’ she said, ‘doesn’t always seem fair. But when we trust God with our decisions, it all turns out all right.’”
"For a boy—a man—like Nelson, bringing over a mess of fish was tantamount to bringing a rare pearl after an oyster dig.”"
April 14, 2017
Such a beautiful story! Alice-Ann comes of age in the early 1940's in rural Georgia. She plans to have a 16th birthday party and all her friends are coming. A few hours before the party though, horrible news. On the radio everyone hears about the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Naturally the party is cancelled. Alice-Ann fancies herself in love with her older brother's friend, Mack despite the five year age difference. She had been planning to tell him that during her party. When Mack goes off to war,him and Alice-Ann continue to write back and forth for 3 years before his letters stop coming leading everyone to fear the worst. During the war her best friends brother,Carlton is honorably discharged for injuries sustained. Alice-Ann spends her days caring for this hometown hero. Their relationship develops from friendship into mutual trust,respect and something more, finally love. Is she ready to give up hope and the childhood dream of Mack though?
I highly recommend this to all who enjoy historical and wwii fiction. Very high on my list of favorite wwii fiction!
Pub Date 01 Apr 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. for a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
I highly recommend this to all who enjoy historical and wwii fiction. Very high on my list of favorite wwii fiction!
Pub Date 01 Apr 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. for a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
April 28, 2018
To be honest I started this book with very low expectations. The title, the plot—everything—sounded a little cheesy to me, and so when the book began with the infatuation of a 16-year old girl and a strained family relationship, I just wanted to roll my eyes. Instead by the end, I finished the book with a delighted sigh and reflections on how just beautifully sweet the whole story was. (Obviously, the book redeemed itself so stay with me.) Indeed, life stepped in; and for Alice-Ann, it came in the form of the bombing of Pearl Harbor. However, that was just a sounding call because no one expected such a long war or could have imagined the toll it would take.
Now three years later, Alice-Ann is still treasuring every letter from Mack, her childhood crush, but is chipping in, working at the bank and helping out with the family farm. Still dreaming but living and praying. Trying to understand her family.
The letters stop, and when her older brother’s other best friend returns from the war blind, lame, and emotionally hurting as his “girl” takes one look at him and leaves, Alice-Ann responds, albeit with a little prodding, with compassion and a gentle patience that’s so characteristic of her.
While the charm and setting of the book won me over first, a close second was the characters—characters that the author had to win me over to, but ones that by the end I had come to understand. A lovely World War 2 homefront read, and I look forward to reading more by this author.
Now three years later, Alice-Ann is still treasuring every letter from Mack, her childhood crush, but is chipping in, working at the bank and helping out with the family farm. Still dreaming but living and praying. Trying to understand her family.
The letters stop, and when her older brother’s other best friend returns from the war blind, lame, and emotionally hurting as his “girl” takes one look at him and leaves, Alice-Ann responds, albeit with a little prodding, with compassion and a gentle patience that’s so characteristic of her.
While the charm and setting of the book won me over first, a close second was the characters—characters that the author had to win me over to, but ones that by the end I had come to understand. A lovely World War 2 homefront read, and I look forward to reading more by this author.
February 24, 2017
A wonderfully written coming of age story, set during World War Two, told from the perspective of a young woman in a rural Georgia town.
Learning what true love really is comes to Alice through a lot of soul searching, prayer, heartbreak, secret letters, and a tender romance. An engaging read, one that made me want to actually visit this place called Bynum, Georgia, and share a glass of sweet tea on Alice-Ann's porch, get a soda in town, buy some Jergen's lotion at the Five and Dime, and attend church with Aunt Bess. These characters really grow on you. A good reminder also that true beauty comes from within. It brought to mind the Bible verse that says to "put on a gentle and quiet spirit." Alice-Ann is a good example of this. A lovely story all around!
Refreshing read, perfect for any age from young teens and up. Recommend!
(An e-copy was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
Learning what true love really is comes to Alice through a lot of soul searching, prayer, heartbreak, secret letters, and a tender romance. An engaging read, one that made me want to actually visit this place called Bynum, Georgia, and share a glass of sweet tea on Alice-Ann's porch, get a soda in town, buy some Jergen's lotion at the Five and Dime, and attend church with Aunt Bess. These characters really grow on you. A good reminder also that true beauty comes from within. It brought to mind the Bible verse that says to "put on a gentle and quiet spirit." Alice-Ann is a good example of this. A lovely story all around!
Refreshing read, perfect for any age from young teens and up. Recommend!
(An e-copy was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
May 17, 2017
What a darling story. I can't say I loved it, but it was darling all the same. ;)
3.5 stars!
(Full review to come should I feel like writing one.)
3.5 stars!
(Full review to come should I feel like writing one.)
April 23, 2017
More coming-of-age than romance, this is a sweet story of the journey of Alice-Ann from infatuated teen to maturing young woman. A great deal of that maturing has to do with recognizing the difference between a childhood infatuation and real, true love.
Accompanying the endearing and frizzy-haired Alice-Ann is a lively cast of characters. These are well-rounded characters whose back-stories you can almost feel, even when they are not given. I remain curious about a potential work-place romance at the bank where Alice-Ann works after high school, and I would have like more of Aunt Bess' story in particular.
Set in rural Georgia, primarily during America's involvement in World War II, the small town feel pervades this novel without being stereotypically Southern. While I appreciated the almost universal 1940's-small-town-America, it did sometimes seem that the Great Depression was a more distant memory than I would expect.
The story itself starts off with a bit of a 30's/40's teen movie vibe, where I can almost hear some of the young contract actors of the time reading lines. Very quickly, however, the story develops into something deeper and more engrossing with a very realistic feel to the events and dialogue. To continue the movie comparison, it became less Love Finds Andy Hardy (MGM, 1938) and a bit more The Best Years of Their Lives (RKO, 1946) while retaining the sweetness and small town feel established from the beginning.
Alice-Ann's story was not what I expected it to be, and I enjoyed it tremendously. Each aspect was so well handled, from her first confession of love to her slow realization of what love truly is, from her learning more about prayer to the changes in perspective as her experience of life widened, even in the predictable and inevitable - but again, not quite as expected - makeover scene. This was kept rather low-key and completely obliterated my earlier annoyance at her constantly tugging at her frizzy hair.
I've had a reticence of late when it comes to World War II stories. A feeling that I wouldn't enjoy them as much as I do stories from the decades before the 40's. In choosing to read Eva Marie Everson's World War II story, I did so knowing that she had previously made me almost like a Dickens story, and that is no mean feat. Based solely on my enjoyment of her Christmas novella, God Bless Us Every One (it left me wanting to read more by her, but not Dickens), I expected her to deliver a novel that would be likely to cure me of my reticence. I think it has.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy well-written novels with well-developed characters, coming of age stories, and romance that is both sweet and respectful.
This review refers to a finished copy requested through the Tyndale Blogger Network and received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Accompanying the endearing and frizzy-haired Alice-Ann is a lively cast of characters. These are well-rounded characters whose back-stories you can almost feel, even when they are not given. I remain curious about a potential work-place romance at the bank where Alice-Ann works after high school, and I would have like more of Aunt Bess' story in particular.
Set in rural Georgia, primarily during America's involvement in World War II, the small town feel pervades this novel without being stereotypically Southern. While I appreciated the almost universal 1940's-small-town-America, it did sometimes seem that the Great Depression was a more distant memory than I would expect.
The story itself starts off with a bit of a 30's/40's teen movie vibe, where I can almost hear some of the young contract actors of the time reading lines. Very quickly, however, the story develops into something deeper and more engrossing with a very realistic feel to the events and dialogue. To continue the movie comparison, it became less Love Finds Andy Hardy (MGM, 1938) and a bit more The Best Years of Their Lives (RKO, 1946) while retaining the sweetness and small town feel established from the beginning.
Alice-Ann's story was not what I expected it to be, and I enjoyed it tremendously. Each aspect was so well handled, from her first confession of love to her slow realization of what love truly is, from her learning more about prayer to the changes in perspective as her experience of life widened, even in the predictable and inevitable - but again, not quite as expected - makeover scene. This was kept rather low-key and completely obliterated my earlier annoyance at her constantly tugging at her frizzy hair.
I've had a reticence of late when it comes to World War II stories. A feeling that I wouldn't enjoy them as much as I do stories from the decades before the 40's. In choosing to read Eva Marie Everson's World War II story, I did so knowing that she had previously made me almost like a Dickens story, and that is no mean feat. Based solely on my enjoyment of her Christmas novella, God Bless Us Every One (it left me wanting to read more by her, but not Dickens), I expected her to deliver a novel that would be likely to cure me of my reticence. I think it has.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy well-written novels with well-developed characters, coming of age stories, and romance that is both sweet and respectful.
This review refers to a finished copy requested through the Tyndale Blogger Network and received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 12, 2018
Very Good! Although I thought it started a little slow, I really ended up enjoying this book. The book was set during WWII, and I thought the author did a beautiful job of describing the time period and associated struggles. I loved seeing Alice-Ann work through her inner turmoil, and the hero truly captured my heart.
October 5, 2016
The Greatest Generation is slipping away and I hope it will be books like this one that keep those heroes and heroines of WWII alive for us. When I read about Alice-Ann, Mack, and Carlton I can see them in people I know. Reading Everson's story is almost like stepping into the past of neighbors and friends--couples who survived the war, stayed married, had children, and lived into their 90s with their sense of humor and spunk intact. The One True Love of Alice-Ann is a priceless snapshot from a time that shaped a generation.
January 1, 2017
Eva Marie Everson gets better and better with each book she writes! The One True Love of Alice-Ann is a masterpiece. A story of young love, of loss, and coming-of-age, it's the consummate love story. Set against the greatest generation of WWII in a small Georgia farming community, I didn't just read it, I experienced all the yearning and angst of having a loved one off at war. I highly recommend this book and I'm taking it to my book club.
June 4, 2017
I'm conflicted (as per the usual) because the story itself was interesting, yet lacking; the characters were varied, yet shallow; the plot easy, yet predictable. BUT the cover is abso-freaking-lutley gorgeous! And, for the most part, I truly did enjoy reading this novel. The beginning is rather slow but it definitely picks up after America enters the war, then slows down again until the last 10% of the book. I enjoyed watching Alice-Ann grow up and mature. I think the hardest part for me was the romance aspect of the novel: It was so sugary and smaltzy and had me cringing a little bit. That's never happened to me before in a romance novel. Some of the conversations between Alice-Ann and her beau are just...too, too much. Oy vey.
I would certainly recommend this book to others, if not for the story itself then certainly for the cover. That alone makes it worthy of any shelf.
*My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.*
I would certainly recommend this book to others, if not for the story itself then certainly for the cover. That alone makes it worthy of any shelf.
*My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.*
July 18, 2023
Wow! Wow wow wow WOW!!
Astounding, beautiful, breathless book.
How to describe how magnificent it was. A true written masterpiece.
If this book were a painting, it should sell for millions.
I have never read one of Eva Marie Everson's books before, but her writing style is magical. Words cannot express the sheer beauty of her gift to craft these words together in such a heart-throbbing way.
The romance of this book was the purest of the pure-but not unrealistic. I'm talking like a biblical model still with broken humanity in it, but pieced together to call broken humans to a higher place of pure, godly love. Of desiring to have and honour God in the midst of a serious relationship. It was a model of unconditional love.
And can I just say that Alice-Ann's dilemma has got to be so relatable to so many girls, and yet Carlton just pushed through with his unfailing love. His true love.
Wow, what a catch.
What a story.
This is well over 5 stars.
Read it.
Buy it. Now!
You won't want to miss this one.
My comments while reading through The One True Love of Alice-Ann:
1st time:
"I don't even have to finish the book to know that this is well over five stars... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"
"Can somebody please make this into a movie?
This is a movie-worthy book.
Times ten.
Like, it is the sweetest, most beautiful romance ever."
“If this book were a movie, it would rival the likes of La La Land, The Notebook, and Far From the Madding Crowd.
Except for this romance is clean and pure, and doesn't have the crap that the movies above have.
This movie would actually be way better than them. “
2nd time:
"Even if it is my second time reading through this book... oh how it leaves me breathless. Oh, how it leaves me whispering silent prayers to my heavenly Father for a love so holy, pure, divine, and genuine as this one. Oh God... that I could have a man so like Carlton Hillis; so precious, genuine, loveable, godly, and everything that I have ever prayed for."
"I expect to read this book a 3rd time. A 4th and 5th time, too."
"Can I rate this book five stars a second time?"
Astounding, beautiful, breathless book.
How to describe how magnificent it was. A true written masterpiece.
If this book were a painting, it should sell for millions.
I have never read one of Eva Marie Everson's books before, but her writing style is magical. Words cannot express the sheer beauty of her gift to craft these words together in such a heart-throbbing way.
The romance of this book was the purest of the pure-but not unrealistic. I'm talking like a biblical model still with broken humanity in it, but pieced together to call broken humans to a higher place of pure, godly love. Of desiring to have and honour God in the midst of a serious relationship. It was a model of unconditional love.
And can I just say that Alice-Ann's dilemma has got to be so relatable to so many girls, and yet Carlton just pushed through with his unfailing love. His true love.
Wow, what a catch.
What a story.
This is well over 5 stars.
Read it.
Buy it. Now!
You won't want to miss this one.
My comments while reading through The One True Love of Alice-Ann:
1st time:
"I don't even have to finish the book to know that this is well over five stars... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"
"Can somebody please make this into a movie?
This is a movie-worthy book.
Times ten.
Like, it is the sweetest, most beautiful romance ever."
“If this book were a movie, it would rival the likes of La La Land, The Notebook, and Far From the Madding Crowd.
Except for this romance is clean and pure, and doesn't have the crap that the movies above have.
This movie would actually be way better than them. “
2nd time:
"Even if it is my second time reading through this book... oh how it leaves me breathless. Oh, how it leaves me whispering silent prayers to my heavenly Father for a love so holy, pure, divine, and genuine as this one. Oh God... that I could have a man so like Carlton Hillis; so precious, genuine, loveable, godly, and everything that I have ever prayed for."
"I expect to read this book a 3rd time. A 4th and 5th time, too."
"Can I rate this book five stars a second time?"
June 1, 2017
Eva Marie Everson's One True Love of Alice-Ann is a story about 16 year old Alice Ann and the love of her life Mack. Set during the second World War, Mack decides to enlist after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Alice decides it's time to declare her love for Mack despite their 5 year age difference. He promises to write her and leaves without telling her whether he loves her too. Alice and Mack write to each other for three years and they grow closer, but then Mack's letters stop coming. Fearing what happened to her aunt is happening to her Alice throws herself into work and caring for her best friend's war torn brother. But soon enough their friendship begins to blossom into something more. Can Alice-Ann let go of her first love and begin anew with a new love?
Eva Marie Everson's new novel is absolutely beautiful, heart wrenching, romantic, and thrilling. The One True Love of Alice-Ann very much felt like in the vein of Francine Rivers. Francine could have wrote this book, but Eva did making her a new favourite author.
Eva Marie Everson's new novel is absolutely beautiful, heart wrenching, romantic, and thrilling. The One True Love of Alice-Ann very much felt like in the vein of Francine Rivers. Francine could have wrote this book, but Eva did making her a new favourite author.
March 30, 2019
4.5 stars
Okay, I'm so glad I picked this up! The second historical novel I've read by Eva Marie Everson, The One True Love of Alice-Ann was such a heartfelt, endearing, thoughtful story! I really, really appreciated the lessons on love woven throughout. It truly is something that young ladies thinking about romance and marriage need to hear!
I won't spoil the story for you, but this book is about young Alice-Ann and her tumultuous love life, set against the backdrop of World War II. I adored all the different characters, friendships, and relationships. And spending just a little bit of time in the 1940s, of course! I love how the story ended, and all the sweet things! Sometimes we over-complicate life. The One True Love of Alice-Ann, though difficult at times, ended up being so heartwarming and perfect. I very much enjoyed!
Okay, I'm so glad I picked this up! The second historical novel I've read by Eva Marie Everson, The One True Love of Alice-Ann was such a heartfelt, endearing, thoughtful story! I really, really appreciated the lessons on love woven throughout. It truly is something that young ladies thinking about romance and marriage need to hear!
I won't spoil the story for you, but this book is about young Alice-Ann and her tumultuous love life, set against the backdrop of World War II. I adored all the different characters, friendships, and relationships. And spending just a little bit of time in the 1940s, of course! I love how the story ended, and all the sweet things! Sometimes we over-complicate life. The One True Love of Alice-Ann, though difficult at times, ended up being so heartwarming and perfect. I very much enjoyed!
October 2, 2017
While this novel was rather predictable, it was a sweet story. I especially loved how Alice-Ann's relationships with Irene, Aunt Bess and her father grew.
February 15, 2019
A sweet, simple coming-of-age/love story in my favorite setting—World War II home front. In the same vein as The Magic of Ordinary Days. Lovely.
May 30, 2017
Set on the homefront in WWII, it depicts the the hardships of those at home--the anxiety of waiting to hear from loved ones, the devastation to the whole town at a death. I could just hear the southern Georgia drawl in the dialogue, and the author brings the sweltering southern setting to life.
Sweet and gentle, the story takes its time. I wasn't surprised by the direction it takes, or any of the twists, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment. It's less a romance and more a coming-of-age story. Oddly, there were moments that reminded me strongly of Gone With the Wind, and it wasn't just the Georgia setting and background of war. For all that both physically and personality-wise Alice-Ann is the direct opposite of Scarlett O'Hara, there were several moments in their respective romances that paralleled each other. I suppose in large part it's because both girls have some growing up to do to learn the difference between infatuation and love. They each have their "Ashley, I love you" moment, and the moment they have to choose who they truly love.
And as Aunt Bess says, "You can't choose who you fall in love with, but you can choose who you marry." Thankfully Alice-Ann has Aunt Bess for advice (Scarlett surely could have used her!)
Sweet and gentle, the story takes its time. I wasn't surprised by the direction it takes, or any of the twists, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment. It's less a romance and more a coming-of-age story. Oddly, there were moments that reminded me strongly of Gone With the Wind, and it wasn't just the Georgia setting and background of war. For all that both physically and personality-wise Alice-Ann is the direct opposite of Scarlett O'Hara, there were several moments in their respective romances that paralleled each other. I suppose in large part it's because both girls have some growing up to do to learn the difference between infatuation and love. They each have their "Ashley, I love you" moment, and the moment they have to choose who they truly love.
And as Aunt Bess says, "You can't choose who you fall in love with, but you can choose who you marry." Thankfully Alice-Ann has Aunt Bess for advice (Scarlett surely could have used her!)
March 31, 2017
"If her heart grew any warmer, it could have baked a pound cake." And so goes the southern comfort description of strength, dignity, and kindness demonstrated by Alice-Ann and her small-town Georgia community.
Alice-Ann's story begins as America enters World War II. Literature set during this time period is one I have been deeply affected by since grade-school. Yet, I have read few, if any, novels depicting our country's daily life during the war. Thankfully this novel changed that for me. It is set in the fields and on the back porches of those who stayed home. Of those anxiously waiting for loved ones to return. Of those drawing upon the courage and determination it takes to do the work on the home front. This is backbone of Alice-Ann's beautiful love story--a love story that does not disappoint.
Eva Marie Everson's prose is a tall glass of sweet iced-tea on a steamy summer day. Smooth and fluid, Everson weaves her words with skill, allowing her readers to become lost in the lives lived on her pages. It's the kind of book you take to the back porch with a warm piece of pound caked to savor and sip on each word.
Alice-Ann's story begins as America enters World War II. Literature set during this time period is one I have been deeply affected by since grade-school. Yet, I have read few, if any, novels depicting our country's daily life during the war. Thankfully this novel changed that for me. It is set in the fields and on the back porches of those who stayed home. Of those anxiously waiting for loved ones to return. Of those drawing upon the courage and determination it takes to do the work on the home front. This is backbone of Alice-Ann's beautiful love story--a love story that does not disappoint.
Eva Marie Everson's prose is a tall glass of sweet iced-tea on a steamy summer day. Smooth and fluid, Everson weaves her words with skill, allowing her readers to become lost in the lives lived on her pages. It's the kind of book you take to the back porch with a warm piece of pound caked to savor and sip on each word.
May 27, 2018
I'll admit that Alice-Ann had me a bit worried at the start. Somehow, the perspective of a love-sick sixteen-year-old who's convinced she's an adult and is laying her plans to declare her love to her brother's best friend does not always come off as endearing... But one of the best parts of the story was seeing her grow and mature from a love-sick sixteen-year-old into a sweet, responsible young woman.
Actually, I was very impressed with the characters in this story. Some of them grew and changed, some of them peeled back deeper layers of feeling, and some were just good and constant. I liked watching and getting to know Aunt Bess and Papa and Nelson--and even Irene! And then Carlton--oh, don't get me started!!!
Even among the minor characters, no one felt flat, although I do admit to being overwhelmed with the author's habit of introducing whole families at a time when we were only meeting one member. (My eyes started to glaze over about the fourth time we met someone who was the wife of [husband's name] the [profession] and had two boys, [sons' names], one of whom had been in school with her...) Not to mention that I didn't remember a thing about any of them by the time I saw them again. After the initial introductions were over, though, things went a lot more smoothly. ;)
I was a bit afraid with the length of the book that it would end up being an emotional roller coaster, and I was very glad to find that it wasn't. Even though much of the plot centers around Alice-Ann's thoughts and feelings, they progressed naturally and without too much drama. (We are talking about a teenage girl's love life, after all!) The romance was for the most part very respectful and natural. There were several instances of kissing as it progressed, although the descriptions were mostly low-key. I also appreciated the boundaries they put in place, although these seemed to be mostly mentioned when someone forgot to follow them.
Probably one of my favorite aspects of the book was the friendship and the honesty that grew between Alice-Ann and Carlton. The way he didn't let her get away with hiding her feelings or her thoughts made a great foundation for their relationship and helped to keep the inevitable conflict and hurt within bounds when it came. And even just their little day-to-day conversations were such a joy!
Actually, I was very impressed with the characters in this story. Some of them grew and changed, some of them peeled back deeper layers of feeling, and some were just good and constant. I liked watching and getting to know Aunt Bess and Papa and Nelson--and even Irene! And then Carlton--oh, don't get me started!!!
Even among the minor characters, no one felt flat, although I do admit to being overwhelmed with the author's habit of introducing whole families at a time when we were only meeting one member. (My eyes started to glaze over about the fourth time we met someone who was the wife of [husband's name] the [profession] and had two boys, [sons' names], one of whom had been in school with her...) Not to mention that I didn't remember a thing about any of them by the time I saw them again. After the initial introductions were over, though, things went a lot more smoothly. ;)
I was a bit afraid with the length of the book that it would end up being an emotional roller coaster, and I was very glad to find that it wasn't. Even though much of the plot centers around Alice-Ann's thoughts and feelings, they progressed naturally and without too much drama. (We are talking about a teenage girl's love life, after all!) The romance was for the most part very respectful and natural. There were several instances of kissing as it progressed, although the descriptions were mostly low-key. I also appreciated the boundaries they put in place, although these seemed to be mostly mentioned when someone forgot to follow them.
Probably one of my favorite aspects of the book was the friendship and the honesty that grew between Alice-Ann and Carlton. The way he didn't let her get away with hiding her feelings or her thoughts made a great foundation for their relationship and helped to keep the inevitable conflict and hurt within bounds when it came. And even just their little day-to-day conversations were such a joy!
February 2, 2019
I really enjoyed this book - set during World War II, one of my favorite time periods for books to be set in, it is a story of a young girl coming of age and realizing what true love is. Possible spoiler alert: part of the plot was somewhat predictable (as in I kind of expected the twist that was coming towards the end) but that did not really take away from my enjoyment of the book. As a reader, I was satisfied with the author's resolution and the overall story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2017
Oh my goodness. This was the most amazing book. First of all, the cover is gorgeous. I wish they showed the full dress because the small part of it that is shown makes me want to wear it for my wedding day. I laughed, I wanted to cry. I truly love Alice-Ann, and Carlton is the sweetest. I was holding my breath through the ending. I was a bit scared...everything turned out fine, though :)
I did not care for all of the kissing. Alice-Ann and her boyfriend (and later fiancé and husband) kissed quite a bit. I also was annoyed that a character actually said they enjoyed Arsenic and Old Lace (just kidding...a bit). Ugh. That movie is awful.
Oh, I also loved all of the references to the movie stars and movies and songs of the 1940s…makes me feel so smart when I recognize them. :)
I would definitely recommend this book. Eva Marie Everson did a fantastic job on it. I will absolutely read another book of hers.
I did not care for all of the kissing. Alice-Ann and her boyfriend (and later fiancé and husband) kissed quite a bit. I also was annoyed that a character actually said they enjoyed Arsenic and Old Lace (just kidding...a bit). Ugh. That movie is awful.
Oh, I also loved all of the references to the movie stars and movies and songs of the 1940s…makes me feel so smart when I recognize them. :)
I would definitely recommend this book. Eva Marie Everson did a fantastic job on it. I will absolutely read another book of hers.
July 26, 2017
What a delightful read! From the moment I saw this book I have been looking forward to reading it and I am so thrilled it didn't disappoint! The lush cover and beautiful description were nothing compare to the actual story! I devoured this book in one evening, it was that good!
This beautiful coming to age story about a young woman during World War 2 is a sweet whisper of a bygone age. Alice-Ann is a memorable heroine who is feisty and strong. One of the things I really appreciated about this character is how the author didn't go on and on about how beautiful she was on the outside, but instead focused on her inward beauty which is a rare thing to find in Christian fiction and is one of my biggest pet peeves.
I loved the character of Cartlon. such a strong, wonderful hero. I loved watching their story grow and develop. It was a sweet subtle love story with more going on which made it much better.
Well written with excellent characters, this book is everything a historical fiction should be! I think the author did a good job at trying to capture the feel of the times which I really appreciated.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest opinion.
This beautiful coming to age story about a young woman during World War 2 is a sweet whisper of a bygone age. Alice-Ann is a memorable heroine who is feisty and strong. One of the things I really appreciated about this character is how the author didn't go on and on about how beautiful she was on the outside, but instead focused on her inward beauty which is a rare thing to find in Christian fiction and is one of my biggest pet peeves.
I loved the character of Cartlon. such a strong, wonderful hero. I loved watching their story grow and develop. It was a sweet subtle love story with more going on which made it much better.
Well written with excellent characters, this book is everything a historical fiction should be! I think the author did a good job at trying to capture the feel of the times which I really appreciated.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 3, 2017
Eva Marie Everson's The One True Love of Alice-Ann is not your typical WWII novel, although that is the setting for this touching story.
When I finished the book -- which, by the way, was very hard to put down -- my heart was full. Alice-Ann's journey from her sixteenth birthday on the day Japan attacked Pearl Harbor to the same date three years later was a sentimental story of love, loss, and longing. Eva Marie Everson transports her readers to rural Georgia into the lives of people real enough to be their neighbors.
Fans of great inspirational fiction, with a nice dash of southern flavor, should enjoy The One True Love of Alice-Ann.
Thanks to Tyndale Publishers for providing a copy of this book. I am delighted to share my own thoughts for this review.
When I finished the book -- which, by the way, was very hard to put down -- my heart was full. Alice-Ann's journey from her sixteenth birthday on the day Japan attacked Pearl Harbor to the same date three years later was a sentimental story of love, loss, and longing. Eva Marie Everson transports her readers to rural Georgia into the lives of people real enough to be their neighbors.
Fans of great inspirational fiction, with a nice dash of southern flavor, should enjoy The One True Love of Alice-Ann.
Thanks to Tyndale Publishers for providing a copy of this book. I am delighted to share my own thoughts for this review.
February 8, 2019
If you like romantic love triangles and are interested in reading a love story that’s set in small town/rural Georgia during WW2, this book’s for you. The romance novel is an easy read and touches on traditional Christian faith and quotes scripture but doesn’t preach or include a strong evangelical slant. The perspective of home life during WW2 was interesting, but I thought the story was just okay. I didn’t really connect with any of the characters, was annoyed by the overuse of dashes instead of commas, and felt annoyed with Alice-Ann for leading Carlton on when she had feelings for Mack. However, I did appreciate the spiritual content and clean story that also touched on prejudice, relationships and family dynamics.
March 22, 2017
About the Book:
Living in rural Georgia in 1941, sixteen-year-old Alice-Ann has her heart set on her brother's friend Mack; despite their five-year age gap, Alice-Ann knows she can make Mack see her for the woman she'll become. But when they receive news of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Mack decides to enlist, Alice-Ann realizes she must declare her love before he leaves. Though promising to write, Mack leaves without confirmation that her love is returned. But Alice-Ann is determined to wear the wedding dress her maiden aunt never had a chance to wear--having lost her fiancé in the Great War. As their correspondence continues over the next three years, Mack and Alice-Ann are drawn closer together.
But then Mack's letters cease altogether, leaving Alice-Ann to fear history repeating itself. Dreading the war will leave her with a beautiful dress and no happily ever after, Alice-Ann fills her days with work and caring for her best friend's war-torn brother, Carlton. As time passes and their friendship develops into something more, Alice-Ann wonders if she'll ever be prepared to say good-bye to her one true love and embrace the future God has in store with a newfound love. Or will a sudden call from overseas change everything?
My Review:
Those coming of age stories are really hard most of the time. Poor Alice-Ann just wants to be loved. She has her heart set on Mack, her brother's good friend. But when he goes off to war it seems all too soon that the relationship they developed starts to fade or so it seems. Soon Alice-Ann is very busy taking care of Carlton, her best friends brother that is home from the war. Carlton soon takes her mind off of Mack in more ways than one. This is a crossroads that Alice-Ann now finds herself.
This down home country story is so lovely and refreshing. It reminded me of my childhood here in Alabama, even though the time periods were completely different. It reminded me of old country porches, dirt roads, and banana popsicles. Its a story that will take you back and remind you about what is important in life.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. All opinions are my own.
Living in rural Georgia in 1941, sixteen-year-old Alice-Ann has her heart set on her brother's friend Mack; despite their five-year age gap, Alice-Ann knows she can make Mack see her for the woman she'll become. But when they receive news of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Mack decides to enlist, Alice-Ann realizes she must declare her love before he leaves. Though promising to write, Mack leaves without confirmation that her love is returned. But Alice-Ann is determined to wear the wedding dress her maiden aunt never had a chance to wear--having lost her fiancé in the Great War. As their correspondence continues over the next three years, Mack and Alice-Ann are drawn closer together.
But then Mack's letters cease altogether, leaving Alice-Ann to fear history repeating itself. Dreading the war will leave her with a beautiful dress and no happily ever after, Alice-Ann fills her days with work and caring for her best friend's war-torn brother, Carlton. As time passes and their friendship develops into something more, Alice-Ann wonders if she'll ever be prepared to say good-bye to her one true love and embrace the future God has in store with a newfound love. Or will a sudden call from overseas change everything?
My Review:
Those coming of age stories are really hard most of the time. Poor Alice-Ann just wants to be loved. She has her heart set on Mack, her brother's good friend. But when he goes off to war it seems all too soon that the relationship they developed starts to fade or so it seems. Soon Alice-Ann is very busy taking care of Carlton, her best friends brother that is home from the war. Carlton soon takes her mind off of Mack in more ways than one. This is a crossroads that Alice-Ann now finds herself.
This down home country story is so lovely and refreshing. It reminded me of my childhood here in Alabama, even though the time periods were completely different. It reminded me of old country porches, dirt roads, and banana popsicles. Its a story that will take you back and remind you about what is important in life.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. All opinions are my own.
June 7, 2018
In 1941, Alice-Ann is a sixteen-year-old with her heart set on her brother's friend Mack. But when he leaves no promises when WWII calls him away, she is left wondering about his affection for her. They write letters for years, but then the letters stop altogether. Heartbroken though she is, Alice-Ann still finds the strength to be there for her best friend's brother, Carlton, as he heals from a terrible injury. Will she be able to discover who her true love really is?
The One True Love of Alice-Ann is a sweet romance set during WWII. When all the men go off to war, how will a young woman discover who will be her true love? Alice-Ann certainly has trouble figuring it out. During this book, she grew from a teenager with a crush to a young woman who knows her heart, but it took her a long time and a lot of pain.
This book went at a relatively slow pace as readers follow Alice-Ann's struggle through the years of the war. She certainly grows up as a young lady, but the central romantic focus takes some time to develop. There is a little bit of a love triangle, but it takes until the middle of the book to even discover who the second young man is, much less who she will choose.
Despite the relative slowness, it was an interesting book. I enjoyed the peek into the life of a WWII woman waiting through the war at home in the US. It could not have been easy, but even during the war, life goes on.
Overall, I enjoyed The True Love of Alice-Ann, and I recommend it to fans of sweet historical romance.
I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for sharing them.
The One True Love of Alice-Ann is a sweet romance set during WWII. When all the men go off to war, how will a young woman discover who will be her true love? Alice-Ann certainly has trouble figuring it out. During this book, she grew from a teenager with a crush to a young woman who knows her heart, but it took her a long time and a lot of pain.
This book went at a relatively slow pace as readers follow Alice-Ann's struggle through the years of the war. She certainly grows up as a young lady, but the central romantic focus takes some time to develop. There is a little bit of a love triangle, but it takes until the middle of the book to even discover who the second young man is, much less who she will choose.
Despite the relative slowness, it was an interesting book. I enjoyed the peek into the life of a WWII woman waiting through the war at home in the US. It could not have been easy, but even during the war, life goes on.
Overall, I enjoyed The True Love of Alice-Ann, and I recommend it to fans of sweet historical romance.
I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for sharing them.
June 10, 2017
The One True Love of Alice-Ann is set in the deep south of rural Georgia during WWII. The story is told through the eyes of Alice-Ann who is turning sixteen and is sure that she has found her one true love. But before she can make her declaration and solidify the relationship the attack on Pearl Harbor happens.
The story follows her life for the next three years. During that time much changes in not only her life but also the lives of her family and community. It was interesting to follow along as she matured and developed into a young woman that was admired for her selfless acts.
There were several side stories that intertwined with Alice-Ann's story and helped to lend depth and context to the internal struggle that Alice-Ann felt. We were reminded that everyone has suffered through some sort of tragedy in their life and how they process it shapes their character.
Ms. Everson is a talented author and this book is one of her best. I found myself crying towards the end of the book . . . not from sadness, but rather from the beauty of the ending.
This would make an excellent read for book clubs. There are discussion questions included that delve into the intricacies of the story. I look forward to sharing this book with my friends.
The story follows her life for the next three years. During that time much changes in not only her life but also the lives of her family and community. It was interesting to follow along as she matured and developed into a young woman that was admired for her selfless acts.
There were several side stories that intertwined with Alice-Ann's story and helped to lend depth and context to the internal struggle that Alice-Ann felt. We were reminded that everyone has suffered through some sort of tragedy in their life and how they process it shapes their character.
Ms. Everson is a talented author and this book is one of her best. I found myself crying towards the end of the book . . . not from sadness, but rather from the beauty of the ending.
This would make an excellent read for book clubs. There are discussion questions included that delve into the intricacies of the story. I look forward to sharing this book with my friends.
April 23, 2018
Setting: Bynum Georgia 1941
Family farmhouse on the outskirts of town
Hill's Five and Dime
Tucker's Soda and Ice Cream Shoppe
Theater with Saturday afternoon matinees
An enjoyable little town.
Alice-Ann, 16, has her heart set on Mack, 21. Then Pearl Harbor happens on her birthday. Mack enlists, but before he leaves, she declares her love for him.
Love during war seems more special as light appears brighter in the midst of darkness. As the war continued, tensions grow upon news of the dead or wounded soldiers.
I read this book slowly with the determination to study the writing, in order to improve my own. Drawn in right from the start, I thought about the story in between readings. Immediately I cared about the main characters.
Alice-Ann and the love she has for Mack.
Alice-Ann's father, a man of honor.
Her brother, a young man to be admired.
Her aunt, the person who holds the family together.
Having been in the Navy myself, I cherished letters from home. In the book, the letters from Europe to Alice-Ann were heartfelt and added to the story. It brought back many memories for me.
I loved this book and will long remember it.
Family farmhouse on the outskirts of town
Hill's Five and Dime
Tucker's Soda and Ice Cream Shoppe
Theater with Saturday afternoon matinees
An enjoyable little town.
Alice-Ann, 16, has her heart set on Mack, 21. Then Pearl Harbor happens on her birthday. Mack enlists, but before he leaves, she declares her love for him.
Love during war seems more special as light appears brighter in the midst of darkness. As the war continued, tensions grow upon news of the dead or wounded soldiers.
I read this book slowly with the determination to study the writing, in order to improve my own. Drawn in right from the start, I thought about the story in between readings. Immediately I cared about the main characters.
Alice-Ann and the love she has for Mack.
Alice-Ann's father, a man of honor.
Her brother, a young man to be admired.
Her aunt, the person who holds the family together.
Having been in the Navy myself, I cherished letters from home. In the book, the letters from Europe to Alice-Ann were heartfelt and added to the story. It brought back many memories for me.
I loved this book and will long remember it.
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