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Catching the Wind
What happened to Brigitte Berthold?
That question has haunted Daniel Knight since he was thirteen, when he and ten-year-old Brigitte escaped the Gestapo agents who arrested both their parents. They survived a harrowing journey from Germany to England, only to be separated upon their arrival. Daniel vowed to find Brigitte after the war, a promise he has fought to fulfill for more than seventy years.
Now a wealthy old man, Daniel’s final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby’s tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons―and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel’s lawyer, Lucas Hough―the lure of Brigitte’s story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.
A 2018 Christy Award finalist!
That question has haunted Daniel Knight since he was thirteen, when he and ten-year-old Brigitte escaped the Gestapo agents who arrested both their parents. They survived a harrowing journey from Germany to England, only to be separated upon their arrival. Daniel vowed to find Brigitte after the war, a promise he has fought to fulfill for more than seventy years.
Now a wealthy old man, Daniel’s final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby’s tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons―and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel’s lawyer, Lucas Hough―the lure of Brigitte’s story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.
A 2018 Christy Award finalist!
416 pages, Hardcover
First published May 9, 2017
893 people are currently reading
6481 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Dobson
50 books1,743 followersWriting fiction is a fun excuse for Melanie to explore ghost towns and old houses, travel to unusual places, and spend hours reading dusty books and journals. She writes both contemporary and historical fiction with threads of romance and suspense.
Melanie is the award-winning author of almost thirty time-slip, historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels including Catching the Wind, The Winter Rose, and The Wings of Poppy Pendleton. Five of her novels including Chateau of Secrets have won Carol Awards, Catching the Wind won the Audie 2018 Inspirational Fiction award, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana won Best Novel of Indiana. Catching the Wind and Memories of Glass were both finalists for Christy Awards in historical fiction.
Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters. After moving numerous times with Jon's work, the Dobsons have finally settled near Portland, Oregon, and they love to travel and hike in both the mountains and the cliffs above the Pacific. When Melanie isn't writing or researching, she enjoys line dancing, biking, and making up stories with her kids.
More information about her and her books is available on her website at www.melaniedobson.com. You can also connect with Melanie at www.facebook.com/melaniedobsonfiction.
Melanie is the award-winning author of almost thirty time-slip, historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels including Catching the Wind, The Winter Rose, and The Wings of Poppy Pendleton. Five of her novels including Chateau of Secrets have won Carol Awards, Catching the Wind won the Audie 2018 Inspirational Fiction award, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana won Best Novel of Indiana. Catching the Wind and Memories of Glass were both finalists for Christy Awards in historical fiction.
Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters. After moving numerous times with Jon's work, the Dobsons have finally settled near Portland, Oregon, and they love to travel and hike in both the mountains and the cliffs above the Pacific. When Melanie isn't writing or researching, she enjoys line dancing, biking, and making up stories with her kids.
More information about her and her books is available on her website at www.melaniedobson.com. You can also connect with Melanie at www.facebook.com/melaniedobsonfiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 765 reviews
October 4, 2019
..
Melanie Dobson created a magical telling of a story in 'Catching the Wind'. Although there were struggles, danger, and separation between many characters, it was all woven together in the conclusion so magnificently!
The audible narration by Nancy Peterson presented the story in a most engrossing manner, that completely absorbs the reader's mind and attention fully.
What happened to Brigitte Berthold?
That question has haunted Daniel Knight since he was thirteen when he and ten-year-old Brigitte escaped the Gestapo agents who arrested both their parents. They survived a harrowing journey from Germany to England, only to be separated upon their arrival. Daniel vowed to find Brigitte after the war, a promise he has fought to fulfill for more than seventy years.
Now a wealthy old man, Daniel’s final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby’s tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons—and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel’s lawyer, Lucas Hough—the lure of Brigitte’s story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.
The Desiderius Erasmus, The Manual of a Christian Knight is a very popular 16th-century guide book on how to live a moral, Christian life while avoiding formal ritual and observances.
The truth was out here . . . she couldn't step away from either story now.
But always take heed that thou fight with this mind and hope. That thine enemy once overcome to his shame, shall never afterward come upon thee again. Desiderius Erasmus, The Manual of a Christian Knight [1501]
He had a deep commitment and persevered throughout his entire life searching for his childhood friend, the lost maiden, who had been taken from him. The separation of their childhood bond choked him with guilt under a cloud of grief. Long ago he had promised to find and protect her and his intention was to continue to do so.
I usually do not enjoy the bouncing back and forth of two different time frames. However, in this case, the author was able to transition from one time to another without distracting the reader or losing them in the blink of an eye. There are lots of historical details, amiable and believable characters, and tons of mystery popping clues here and there for all the curious sleuths.
This is a clean and wholesome tale that includes Christian inspiration. The narrator, Nancy Peterson, provided an enchanting eloquence to the telling of such a poignant story.
-----------------------------------------------
Catching the Wind Kindle Edition
by Melanie Dobson (Author)
Print Length: 375 pages
Amazon Review: "Catching the Wind is a sweeping and beautifully written historical novel that showcases Melanie Dobson's ability to tell a complex and enduring tale, one that will captivate readers with how love transcends the ravages of war." (Kellie Coates Gilbert, author of The Texas Gold novels and Sun Valley Series)
Coat of Armor: Freedom from evil -- The power of the wind New Life!
..
Melanie Dobson created a magical telling of a story in 'Catching the Wind'. Although there were struggles, danger, and separation between many characters, it was all woven together in the conclusion so magnificently!
The audible narration by Nancy Peterson presented the story in a most engrossing manner, that completely absorbs the reader's mind and attention fully.
What happened to Brigitte Berthold?
That question has haunted Daniel Knight since he was thirteen when he and ten-year-old Brigitte escaped the Gestapo agents who arrested both their parents. They survived a harrowing journey from Germany to England, only to be separated upon their arrival. Daniel vowed to find Brigitte after the war, a promise he has fought to fulfill for more than seventy years.
Now a wealthy old man, Daniel’s final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby’s tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons—and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel’s lawyer, Lucas Hough—the lure of Brigitte’s story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.
The Desiderius Erasmus, The Manual of a Christian Knight is a very popular 16th-century guide book on how to live a moral, Christian life while avoiding formal ritual and observances.
The truth was out here . . . she couldn't step away from either story now.
But always take heed that thou fight with this mind and hope. That thine enemy once overcome to his shame, shall never afterward come upon thee again. Desiderius Erasmus, The Manual of a Christian Knight [1501]
He had a deep commitment and persevered throughout his entire life searching for his childhood friend, the lost maiden, who had been taken from him. The separation of their childhood bond choked him with guilt under a cloud of grief. Long ago he had promised to find and protect her and his intention was to continue to do so.
I usually do not enjoy the bouncing back and forth of two different time frames. However, in this case, the author was able to transition from one time to another without distracting the reader or losing them in the blink of an eye. There are lots of historical details, amiable and believable characters, and tons of mystery popping clues here and there for all the curious sleuths.
This is a clean and wholesome tale that includes Christian inspiration. The narrator, Nancy Peterson, provided an enchanting eloquence to the telling of such a poignant story.
-----------------------------------------------
Catching the Wind Kindle Edition
by Melanie Dobson (Author)
Print Length: 375 pages
Amazon Review: "Catching the Wind is a sweeping and beautifully written historical novel that showcases Melanie Dobson's ability to tell a complex and enduring tale, one that will captivate readers with how love transcends the ravages of war." (Kellie Coates Gilbert, author of The Texas Gold novels and Sun Valley Series)
Coat of Armor: Freedom from evil -- The power of the wind New Life!
..
May 19, 2017
"But the stories kept them both pressing forward."
I always begin a Melanie Dobson novel with a sense of eager anticipation. While I haven’t read all of her novels, I have read her more recent ones, which includes a couple of dual-time novels In Catching the Wind, past and present meet in a most compelling, beautiful way. I’ve read my fair share of dual-time novels, but Dobson brings a freshness to it that kept me equally invested in both times.
Typically, in a novel that has both contemporary and historical components, I find the contemporary lacking in some way. Whether it’s the lack of high stakes in the present day in comparison to the past, or the fact that I just like find the past more interesting than the present, it’s not every book that I like both sets of characters and both storylines equally. Though the stakes were more life-and-death in the historical narrative, they were just as poignant and intriguing in the present day, albeit in a much different way.
In the present-day, Quenby is an easy character to like. She finds her purpose in her career, but despite her success as an investigative journalist, she always feels like that big break story is just out of reach. When Daniel Knight requests her help specifically to look for a person he lost contact with years ago during World War II, she accepts the challenge, though she doesn’t fully believe that she will be successful. Adding to her insecurity is the instant clash with Lucas Hough, Mr. Knight’s prickly lawyer, as well as her own emotional baggage as the search for Brigitte Berthold becomes more and more personal and precious to her.
In the past, Dietmar and his friend Brigitte are literally running for their lives. In order to do the right thing, Dietmar purposely separates himself from Brigitte, hoping that separated she will be safe, but not expecting that she would disappear from his reach for good. I didn’t expect to follow the story from both Dietmar and Brigitte’s perspective, but I was pleasantly surprised to follow both of them for a short time. While part of that was a device in order to promote the mystery, it also works to propel the plot, each piece overlapping one another in both past and present to keep readers intrigued from one time period to the next. With the past being filled with harrowing and tragic circumstances, the present day sections provide the reader with a moment to catch their breath, but they are no less compelling.
The themes touched on in this novel include dealing with feelings of abandonment, letting go of bitterness and forgiving yourself for past choices. Quenby, Daniel, and even Brigitte, all must deal with the consequences of choices they made, as well as choices made by others that affected them profoundly. I was moved by the forgiveness and reconciliation that these characters experienced throughout the story. Though it’s not the primary focus at all, there is a sweet romantic thread, and I was glad that it stayed more in the periphery, rather than central to the plot.
With powerful emotion and lyrical writing, this story satisfied me completely. While some instances may have felt a bit spectacular, strange things do happen in life, especially during dangerous and tumultuous times, to those who matter the least to those around them, like a little German girl at the mercy of pro-Nazi conspirators in England. Catching the Wind is now my favorite Dobson novel to date and one of my favorite novels of 2017.
I always begin a Melanie Dobson novel with a sense of eager anticipation. While I haven’t read all of her novels, I have read her more recent ones, which includes a couple of dual-time novels In Catching the Wind, past and present meet in a most compelling, beautiful way. I’ve read my fair share of dual-time novels, but Dobson brings a freshness to it that kept me equally invested in both times.
Typically, in a novel that has both contemporary and historical components, I find the contemporary lacking in some way. Whether it’s the lack of high stakes in the present day in comparison to the past, or the fact that I just like find the past more interesting than the present, it’s not every book that I like both sets of characters and both storylines equally. Though the stakes were more life-and-death in the historical narrative, they were just as poignant and intriguing in the present day, albeit in a much different way.
In the present-day, Quenby is an easy character to like. She finds her purpose in her career, but despite her success as an investigative journalist, she always feels like that big break story is just out of reach. When Daniel Knight requests her help specifically to look for a person he lost contact with years ago during World War II, she accepts the challenge, though she doesn’t fully believe that she will be successful. Adding to her insecurity is the instant clash with Lucas Hough, Mr. Knight’s prickly lawyer, as well as her own emotional baggage as the search for Brigitte Berthold becomes more and more personal and precious to her.
In the past, Dietmar and his friend Brigitte are literally running for their lives. In order to do the right thing, Dietmar purposely separates himself from Brigitte, hoping that separated she will be safe, but not expecting that she would disappear from his reach for good. I didn’t expect to follow the story from both Dietmar and Brigitte’s perspective, but I was pleasantly surprised to follow both of them for a short time. While part of that was a device in order to promote the mystery, it also works to propel the plot, each piece overlapping one another in both past and present to keep readers intrigued from one time period to the next. With the past being filled with harrowing and tragic circumstances, the present day sections provide the reader with a moment to catch their breath, but they are no less compelling.
The themes touched on in this novel include dealing with feelings of abandonment, letting go of bitterness and forgiving yourself for past choices. Quenby, Daniel, and even Brigitte, all must deal with the consequences of choices they made, as well as choices made by others that affected them profoundly. I was moved by the forgiveness and reconciliation that these characters experienced throughout the story. Though it’s not the primary focus at all, there is a sweet romantic thread, and I was glad that it stayed more in the periphery, rather than central to the plot.
With powerful emotion and lyrical writing, this story satisfied me completely. While some instances may have felt a bit spectacular, strange things do happen in life, especially during dangerous and tumultuous times, to those who matter the least to those around them, like a little German girl at the mercy of pro-Nazi conspirators in England. Catching the Wind is now my favorite Dobson novel to date and one of my favorite novels of 2017.
September 20, 2018
Two timelines meet in an intriguing tale of love and searching.
This was such a sweet story! I've seen this author's name around, but this is the first book I've read by her. I'm impresed with how she connected the two storylines and brought to life each character. Quenby's name made me smile. I love unique names! And then there's Lucas and Daniel Knight. *sigh* This was such a wonderful journey!
I felt the last fourth of the book had a lot more telling than showing, and it took me a few minutes to figure out the connections of everyone. So many names and double names :) But the ending was satisfying and everything came together well.
What I didn't like:
-There are a few casual drinking scenes. I don't agree with Christians drinking, so this was a disappointment, but thankfully it was only brief mentions.
-One married character was having an affair with a woman. There was two scenes that were a little awkward with them (nothing more than kissing and not detailed).
Besides the above mention, the romance was great! There are a couple brief kisses at the end, but I felt in general the story was not focused on the couple getting together so much as the characters learning and understanding through their journey.
Definitely a book to look out for when it's published! I'm interested in possibly reading more by this author :)
*I received this from Netgalley and Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review*
This was such a sweet story! I've seen this author's name around, but this is the first book I've read by her. I'm impresed with how she connected the two storylines and brought to life each character. Quenby's name made me smile. I love unique names! And then there's Lucas and Daniel Knight. *sigh* This was such a wonderful journey!
I felt the last fourth of the book had a lot more telling than showing, and it took me a few minutes to figure out the connections of everyone. So many names and double names :) But the ending was satisfying and everything came together well.
What I didn't like:
-There are a few casual drinking scenes. I don't agree with Christians drinking, so this was a disappointment, but thankfully it was only brief mentions.
-One married character was having an affair with a woman. There was two scenes that were a little awkward with them (nothing more than kissing and not detailed).
Besides the above mention, the romance was great! There are a couple brief kisses at the end, but I felt in general the story was not focused on the couple getting together so much as the characters learning and understanding through their journey.
Definitely a book to look out for when it's published! I'm interested in possibly reading more by this author :)
*I received this from Netgalley and Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review*
February 16, 2022
This was an engaging time-slip novel. My heart broke for Dietmar and Brigette because of the war and passage of time that separated them. There are quite a few viewpoint characters in the book, something I love when done well, which this was.
There were memorable lines within the novel, but this one spoke to me as a writer: "There is power in story . . . We may be powerless at times in life, but on paper, we can chase our demons away."
I listened to the audiobook and can see why it won an Audie Award. Excellent job by the narrator.
There were memorable lines within the novel, but this one spoke to me as a writer: "There is power in story . . . We may be powerless at times in life, but on paper, we can chase our demons away."
I listened to the audiobook and can see why it won an Audie Award. Excellent job by the narrator.
November 24, 2017
Full review on Faithfully Bookish
Oh my heartstrings, sweet little Brigitte and brave young Daniel will completely capture your reader heart and soul with their terrifying escape to freedom. Daniel's steadfast dedication to reuniting with his dearest friend spans decades and Quenby is his final hope to locate Brigitte. Although Quenby is reluctant to accept assistance from Daniel's young (and handsome) lawyer, Lucas patiently proves himself to be a trustworthy gentleman.
Dobson provides readers with complex characters and settings which are individually engaging and an intricate storyline that weaves past and present into a moving and heartfelt adventure.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
Oh my heartstrings, sweet little Brigitte and brave young Daniel will completely capture your reader heart and soul with their terrifying escape to freedom. Daniel's steadfast dedication to reuniting with his dearest friend spans decades and Quenby is his final hope to locate Brigitte. Although Quenby is reluctant to accept assistance from Daniel's young (and handsome) lawyer, Lucas patiently proves himself to be a trustworthy gentleman.
Dobson provides readers with complex characters and settings which are individually engaging and an intricate storyline that weaves past and present into a moving and heartfelt adventure.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 5, 2018
Dietmar and Brigitte's escape from the Nazis was breathtaking. Dietmar (13) is only three years older than Brigitte (10) yet he takes ownership of getting her to safety. 70 years later and Dietmar hasn't been able to find Brigitte after they separated. He hires American Quenby Vaughn to find her. Catching the Wind is definitely a page turner!
December 22, 2018
This audiobook won the 2018 Audie Award in Historical Fiction. The story goes back and forth by chapters from past to present. In one chapter we are following two children: 13-year-old Dietmar and 12-year-old Brigitte. Their parents have been killed by the Nazis and they are fleeing Germany trying to get to England. The other chapter is in modern times features Quenby Vaughan, an investigative journalist, who has been hired by Dietmar (Daniel Knight) to find out what happened to Brigitte.
The book is well written and researched. The novel manages not only to show the big picture but the intimate personal situation. As Dodson slowly reveals the facts, the suspense builds throughout the story. The author also paints interesting scenery. The characters are most interesting and believable. I could hardly put the book down.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is ten hours and twenty-five minutes. Nancy Peterson does a great job narrating the book. Peterson expertly expresses the gamut of emotions in the novel. Peterson is an actress and audiobook narrator. She has won the Audie Award for narration.
The book is well written and researched. The novel manages not only to show the big picture but the intimate personal situation. As Dodson slowly reveals the facts, the suspense builds throughout the story. The author also paints interesting scenery. The characters are most interesting and believable. I could hardly put the book down.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is ten hours and twenty-five minutes. Nancy Peterson does a great job narrating the book. Peterson expertly expresses the gamut of emotions in the novel. Peterson is an actress and audiobook narrator. She has won the Audie Award for narration.
September 26, 2020
Catching the Wind is such a sweet story that keeps you wondering the entire time "Is this book going to have a happy ending, or a sad ending?" I won't spoil things by saying which it was, just know that it was a good story. It was a bit confusing in the beginning, but once I got that part figured out I really enjoyed the book! The characters were loveable, the plot was a little slow but not too bad. The whole book was rather endearing as a man hired someone to look into the disappeance of a long-lost friend whom he had promised to care for. So sweet! 😍
dnf
February 26, 2018I received this via Goodreads Giveaways in exchange for an honest review. All my opinions are my own:).
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Tried but couldn't get into it :( I appreciate winning it but not my cuppa
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Tried but couldn't get into it :( I appreciate winning it but not my cuppa
tbr-2
May 12, 2022Free on Amazon!
May 9, 2017
Readers are transported back to July 1940 Moselkern, Germany and introduced to a young boy named Dietmar Roth; a young warrior in charge of knights sworn to protect ten-year-old “pretend” princess named Brigitte Berthold. Their kingdom was a treehouse that had an amazing view of the forest and the back sides of their homes. From the treehouse, they could clearly see the outside world banging down the doors of their homes. They watched in horror as their parents were interrogated. Dietmar Roth grabbed Brigitte by the hand and ran. He’d seen enough to know they were in danger. With only the clothes on their backs, they ran for their lives, just as Dietmar's parents had trained him to do.
Just when readers are emotionally invested in the flight of these two little ones; the author seamlessly switches to the current time, where they meet Quenby Vaughn. She’s an American journalist working in London who has a particular way of finding missing people. She has a private and emotional investment in a related WWII espionage story. This is why Mr. Knight wants to hire her. It’s the reason the reader cares for her.
Daniel (aka Dietmar) will do what ever it takes to find Brigitte. He would make good on his childhood promise. He believed Quenby would succeed when others had failed. He’d studied her, followed her career and knew her well.
This author masterfully weaves current time with past events. I liked the fact that in current time when they discovered something related to the past she would switch to the past and have that event play out first hand; so that the reader and Quenby Vaughn would find out about that situation at the same time. I liked the author's use of humor and thought-provoking ideas to defuse some intense situations. Here’s an example.
Mr. Knight says this about life, “…Our lives are like the jigsaw puzzles you like to put together Quenby. All the pieces are out there, but we have to frame it before we complete the inside.”
Quenby was driven to dig for the truth.…”working on someone else’s story kept her from having to reflect on her own.” Quincy’s mission – it was about a girl lost long ago. A girl who’d never seemed to find her way home.” “Quenby knew what it was like to be left alone.” Be that girl.
This novel would work well for book clubs as there are 13 discussion questions and in author notes, there is valuable information that would also help create lively conversations in your group.
The author says in her notes, “the power of story has transformed my own life, and I’m incredibly grateful to Jesus Christ, the author, and finisher of faith, for enduring pain and humiliation and ultimately conquering the evil in this world, redeeming and healing because of his boundless love for his kids.”
This author masterfully connects past and present events to create a powerful, heart-rending story. It was a fascinating and beautifully written novel of two unspeakable tragedies, of love and loss and learning to love again. As I read, I kept thinking about the characters, their situation and all the other WWII stories out there. This moving novel told through the eyes of children; stayed on my mind and close to my heart long after I shut the book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publisher. 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”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine
SVP Promotions
Just when readers are emotionally invested in the flight of these two little ones; the author seamlessly switches to the current time, where they meet Quenby Vaughn. She’s an American journalist working in London who has a particular way of finding missing people. She has a private and emotional investment in a related WWII espionage story. This is why Mr. Knight wants to hire her. It’s the reason the reader cares for her.
Daniel (aka Dietmar) will do what ever it takes to find Brigitte. He would make good on his childhood promise. He believed Quenby would succeed when others had failed. He’d studied her, followed her career and knew her well.
This author masterfully weaves current time with past events. I liked the fact that in current time when they discovered something related to the past she would switch to the past and have that event play out first hand; so that the reader and Quenby Vaughn would find out about that situation at the same time. I liked the author's use of humor and thought-provoking ideas to defuse some intense situations. Here’s an example.
Mr. Knight says this about life, “…Our lives are like the jigsaw puzzles you like to put together Quenby. All the pieces are out there, but we have to frame it before we complete the inside.”
Quenby was driven to dig for the truth.…”working on someone else’s story kept her from having to reflect on her own.” Quincy’s mission – it was about a girl lost long ago. A girl who’d never seemed to find her way home.” “Quenby knew what it was like to be left alone.” Be that girl.
This novel would work well for book clubs as there are 13 discussion questions and in author notes, there is valuable information that would also help create lively conversations in your group.
The author says in her notes, “the power of story has transformed my own life, and I’m incredibly grateful to Jesus Christ, the author, and finisher of faith, for enduring pain and humiliation and ultimately conquering the evil in this world, redeeming and healing because of his boundless love for his kids.”
This author masterfully connects past and present events to create a powerful, heart-rending story. It was a fascinating and beautifully written novel of two unspeakable tragedies, of love and loss and learning to love again. As I read, I kept thinking about the characters, their situation and all the other WWII stories out there. This moving novel told through the eyes of children; stayed on my mind and close to my heart long after I shut the book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publisher. 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”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine
SVP Promotions
April 20, 2017
That question has haunted Daniel Knight since he was thirteen, when he and ten-year-old Brigitte escaped the Gestapo agents who arrested both their parents. Where is Brigitte Bertholde? They survived a harrowing journey from Germany to England, only to be separated upon their arrival. Daniel vowed to find Brigitte after the war, a promise he has fought to fulfill for more than seventy years.
Now a wealthy old man, Daniel's final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby's tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons--and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel's lawyer, Lucas Hough--the lure of Brigitte's story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.
This book was absolutely exquisite! In every way. Simply outstanding. Dobson engages the readers right away with her writing which is so full of depth and emotion. I could barely put this book down to do life. I read it in one day! Quenby Vaughn is a young woman struggling with her past, and has shielded herself from much in life, living in fear of one event in her past. The reader connects with her right away, as they do Lucas and even the secondary characters in this book. I was mesmerized the entire time.
I love history and the author has done her homework with accuracy. This is one of the best books I've read this year. I completely did nothing one day but read. I loved every moment. There was so much to take in and then the author throws a curve ball near the end that had me gasping in surprise. God cares about His children and sometimes it takes a while, but His purposes will be revealed in time. I thoroughly enjoyed every sentence in this book and I highly recommend it!
*I was given a preview copy of this book by the publisher via Net Galley. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Now a wealthy old man, Daniel's final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby's tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons--and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel's lawyer, Lucas Hough--the lure of Brigitte's story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.
This book was absolutely exquisite! In every way. Simply outstanding. Dobson engages the readers right away with her writing which is so full of depth and emotion. I could barely put this book down to do life. I read it in one day! Quenby Vaughn is a young woman struggling with her past, and has shielded herself from much in life, living in fear of one event in her past. The reader connects with her right away, as they do Lucas and even the secondary characters in this book. I was mesmerized the entire time.
I love history and the author has done her homework with accuracy. This is one of the best books I've read this year. I completely did nothing one day but read. I loved every moment. There was so much to take in and then the author throws a curve ball near the end that had me gasping in surprise. God cares about His children and sometimes it takes a while, but His purposes will be revealed in time. I thoroughly enjoyed every sentence in this book and I highly recommend it!
*I was given a preview copy of this book by the publisher via Net Galley. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.
June 25, 2017
WOW! Just wow.....this book is AMAZING! The way the Melanie wove the story the story and brought the threads together....this is definitely one of the best books I will read in 2017. I love the World War Two era and stories set in it. Catching the Wind has two timelines: WW2 and present day with Quenby(what a cool name!) trying to solve the mystery of what happened to a German girl who fled to England to escape the Nazis. The young girl fled with her best friend who has spent the last 75 years searching for her and is trying one last time to find his friend. The story kept me guessing and wanting to know what would happen next, would they find her? What had happened to her over the last 75 years? The mystery was intriguing and it's conclusion was spectacular. This is a book destined for my keeper shelf.
August 7, 2019
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary ecopy of this book from NetGalley. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts.
There were both high and low points in this book for me. I liked the WWII thread best, but the contemporary one featured a lovely mystery. The depth of both storylines was wonderful and kept me entertained and interested from beginning to end. Themes of forgiveness and redeeming the lost were beautiful the majority of the time.
Things got a little awkward when some child sexual abuse showed up. That part was tough to read, but I was happy to see some defenders arrive on the scene.
The largest issue I had with this book was the questionable theology in these lines: “I believe in a God who forgives when I ask. I’m not convinced that He forgets… It almost makes the grace cheap if He forgets it all. I like thinking, at least in my limited understanding, that in His great love, He remembers and still forgives.” While that is a charming concept, it is perhaps not a realistic one. According to Jeremiah 31:34, part of God’s new covenant with Israel (which was fulfilled with Jesus’s sinless life, sacrificial death, resurrection, and ascension) was that God “will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” If God does not remember forgiven sins, that means He actually does forget them. This does not cheapen His grace. It’s a clear and beautiful expression of His fathoms-deep love for us. Love chooses to forgive and “keeps no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV). Keeping no record of wrongs is choosing to forget the sins, which just might be one of the greatest forms of love in existence.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. That one dip in theology tripped me up a little, but the rest of the biblical content presented was sound.
The time-slip style worked perfectly for this particular story. The mystery was awesome. This book will most likely have many fans.
Narrator Nancy Peterson was marvelous. Her voice lent itself well to the drama and depth of both eras.
Content: alcohol, tobacco, child abuse (including sexual abuse), marital affairs
There were both high and low points in this book for me. I liked the WWII thread best, but the contemporary one featured a lovely mystery. The depth of both storylines was wonderful and kept me entertained and interested from beginning to end. Themes of forgiveness and redeeming the lost were beautiful the majority of the time.
Things got a little awkward when some child sexual abuse showed up. That part was tough to read, but I was happy to see some defenders arrive on the scene.
The largest issue I had with this book was the questionable theology in these lines: “I believe in a God who forgives when I ask. I’m not convinced that He forgets… It almost makes the grace cheap if He forgets it all. I like thinking, at least in my limited understanding, that in His great love, He remembers and still forgives.” While that is a charming concept, it is perhaps not a realistic one. According to Jeremiah 31:34, part of God’s new covenant with Israel (which was fulfilled with Jesus’s sinless life, sacrificial death, resurrection, and ascension) was that God “will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” If God does not remember forgiven sins, that means He actually does forget them. This does not cheapen His grace. It’s a clear and beautiful expression of His fathoms-deep love for us. Love chooses to forgive and “keeps no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV). Keeping no record of wrongs is choosing to forget the sins, which just might be one of the greatest forms of love in existence.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. That one dip in theology tripped me up a little, but the rest of the biblical content presented was sound.
The time-slip style worked perfectly for this particular story. The mystery was awesome. This book will most likely have many fans.
Narrator Nancy Peterson was marvelous. Her voice lent itself well to the drama and depth of both eras.
Content: alcohol, tobacco, child abuse (including sexual abuse), marital affairs
June 2, 2020
Took awhile to get into it. I didn’t like the writing but found the story interesting enough to persevere. Either I got used to the writing or it improved later. :-). A young boy and girl who are best friends escape the Nazis but then get separated. Many decades later the man hires a woman named Quenby to help him find her. Quenby’s research and flashbacks piece together the story of the young woman’s life.
July 29, 2018
I would probably generously rate this a 3.5 but several elements defer my giving this book a higher score. This is a war telling of a sort of Hansel and Gretel tale. Two children flee Hitler's atrocities. Their bond and friendship is strong and becomes the motivating action in the book - the search to reunite. There are numerous themes in this novel: abandonment, survival, resiliency, doubt, courage, trust, hypocrisy, friendship, love, faith, etc. The Christian elements seemed an afterthought to me. Not having read much Christian literature, I am not experienced in this genre. The quotes and ideas felt more like an "add on" to me and rather preachy.
The book advocates the power of story. I felt that the book relied too heavily on action rather than character development and emotional engagement. The simplicity of this novel has appeal, but the realist in me could not suspend as much disbelief as needed with how all elements in this tale were woven together. Dickens it is not though it is an uplifting quick read. My sister recommended it, and it will be fun to discuss with her.
The book advocates the power of story. I felt that the book relied too heavily on action rather than character development and emotional engagement. The simplicity of this novel has appeal, but the realist in me could not suspend as much disbelief as needed with how all elements in this tale were woven together. Dickens it is not though it is an uplifting quick read. My sister recommended it, and it will be fun to discuss with her.
March 7, 2017
Catching the Wind may my favorite book written by Melanie Dobson yet. It starts off during World War II Germany with Brigitte Berthold and Daniel Knight escaping the Gestapo, who had already their parents. Their journey takes them to England where they are separated. These two go to a place in history they never thought possible.
I love this story! Melanie Dobson has weaved quite a tale. To be honest, I was not sure what I thought of Quenby in the beginning. I quickly began to like her more and more as I continued to read. The mystery of what happened to Brigitte kept me guessing where she was. Is she alive? Did she die during the war? Where was she? I could not have predicted how it all unfolded. One of the best books I have read in a very long time. This book is a keeper!
An excellent novel that I highly recommend. I would most definitely give this story 100 stars if I could.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is of my own honest opinion.
I love this story! Melanie Dobson has weaved quite a tale. To be honest, I was not sure what I thought of Quenby in the beginning. I quickly began to like her more and more as I continued to read. The mystery of what happened to Brigitte kept me guessing where she was. Is she alive? Did she die during the war? Where was she? I could not have predicted how it all unfolded. One of the best books I have read in a very long time. This book is a keeper!
An excellent novel that I highly recommend. I would most definitely give this story 100 stars if I could.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is of my own honest opinion.
September 9, 2017
Really enjoyed this book and the plot twists throughout! I was engaged from the first chapter, and enjoyed all of the characters. Without giving any details away, I'd highly recommend this book to those who love a good intrigue and a very involved mystery with lots of treachery involved. The time-slip part of the book was handled very well. Just a good book overall, and who doesn't love a book that involves German espionage in WWII in such a frightening setting? :)
March 21, 2017
4 1/2 stars TOP PICK
February 26, 2024
I thought this was a very beautiful and sweet story! I loved how all of the characters intertwined and connected at some point in the novel. I really enjoyed the interaction with Quenby and Lucas first meeting. Her judgments toward him changed throughout the storyline, and I like how they became very close in the end. It was also very thoughtful how the details were placed. Following their detective work to find Brigitte was perfect for this city.
March 2, 2018
I loved Beneath the Golden Veil, but this book totally blew me away! What a work of art. The beautiful, poetic, melodic, soulful writing sucked me right in at page one. The intricate plot that spans multiple generations and countries/cultures gave depth and layers to create a story that all clicks in the end. Intrigue, suspense, and a bit of romance were so well combined and thoroughly stirred that I couldn't put the book down. History was also stitched into the fabric of the book by having half of the story take place during WWII, while modern day pursuit ensues to find the girl who was lost during wartime. If you're a fan of historical fiction and contemporary romantic suspense, this book is a must read.
Faith is a prominent factor throughout the novel. It was really interesting to see parallel faiths blossom even in the midst of a great tragedy like WWII in the past and through a tough life and circumstances in the present. Through it all, Deitmar/Daniel and Lucas are great sources of wisdom and faith.
And the characters.....
Quenby is hurt, angry, afraid of people and letting them into her life. Yet she so hungers for love and wants a family to call her own. Lucas is.....a quintessential hero. A knight in shining armor. I would have liked a bit more on his past though - like details on his rebellious years, how he met and ended up working for Daniel, what shaped him into such a loyal, compassionate, loving man.
Daniel and Bridget play a huge part in the book since the premise of the entire story is Daniel wanting to find Bridget after seventy-something years. Their friendship, commitment to each other, and love that remained pure and true through all those years is heart-warming. The resilience of the human spirit, taken in God's hands and molded by Him (as seen in Daniel and Bridget), is amazingly incomprehensible.
I received a copy of the book from Tyndale via NetGalley. I was not required to give a review or a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Faith is a prominent factor throughout the novel. It was really interesting to see parallel faiths blossom even in the midst of a great tragedy like WWII in the past and through a tough life and circumstances in the present. Through it all, Deitmar/Daniel and Lucas are great sources of wisdom and faith.
And the characters.....
Quenby is hurt, angry, afraid of people and letting them into her life. Yet she so hungers for love and wants a family to call her own. Lucas is.....a quintessential hero. A knight in shining armor. I would have liked a bit more on his past though - like details on his rebellious years, how he met and ended up working for Daniel, what shaped him into such a loyal, compassionate, loving man.
Daniel and Bridget play a huge part in the book since the premise of the entire story is Daniel wanting to find Bridget after seventy-something years. Their friendship, commitment to each other, and love that remained pure and true through all those years is heart-warming. The resilience of the human spirit, taken in God's hands and molded by Him (as seen in Daniel and Bridget), is amazingly incomprehensible.
I received a copy of the book from Tyndale via NetGalley. I was not required to give a review or a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
April 27, 2017
I thought this book rather different. I enjoyed it very much and I must say blending past with present day certainly keeps it interesting!
It's a story searching for truth and wanting to know what happens to certain people.
I like it because its like a puzzle piece waiting to be put together again to make life whole.
It's amazing what people can do to one another in times of war or whether they be doing illegal activity. It is hard to believe that they do those kinds of things even during war time.
I love it too when stories come out ok.
It's uncanny how friends still want to find each other or when new friends are found.
This is a must read because I just adore history. History is our past and it is who makes us who we are today. I sometimes wonder what our forefathers would think of today? They'd probably turn over in their graves now.
I think Lucas has to be my favorite character with Quenby falling in 2nd. They are the two people I most admired. Quenby because she's had a lot to overcome and with Lucas guiding her and helping her. He becomes an automatic friend to Quenby.
Folks friends at very hard to come by. if you find one you'd better keep them!!
I just want to say again how much I enjoyed this story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was in no way required to review this book.
Thanks Melanie Dobson for another so wonderful story!!!!
It's a story searching for truth and wanting to know what happens to certain people.
I like it because its like a puzzle piece waiting to be put together again to make life whole.
It's amazing what people can do to one another in times of war or whether they be doing illegal activity. It is hard to believe that they do those kinds of things even during war time.
I love it too when stories come out ok.
It's uncanny how friends still want to find each other or when new friends are found.
This is a must read because I just adore history. History is our past and it is who makes us who we are today. I sometimes wonder what our forefathers would think of today? They'd probably turn over in their graves now.
I think Lucas has to be my favorite character with Quenby falling in 2nd. They are the two people I most admired. Quenby because she's had a lot to overcome and with Lucas guiding her and helping her. He becomes an automatic friend to Quenby.
Folks friends at very hard to come by. if you find one you'd better keep them!!
I just want to say again how much I enjoyed this story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was in no way required to review this book.
Thanks Melanie Dobson for another so wonderful story!!!!
June 3, 2019
Dual timeline books can be hit or miss for me, but I loved the flow of this one. Melanie Dobson had me turning page after page far into the night as I wondered what happened to Brigitte and if she could possibly survive long enough to be reunited with Deitrich/David. The minute I opened the cover and started reading, I began to scold myself for having waited so long to pick it up. It has a lot of pages, but it doesn't feel long at all.
Quenby was an interesting character and I loved how her job of investigative journalist played into her drive and talents of hunting down what happened to Brigitte so many years before. I was shocked right along with her as clues she found along the way began to give her some answers about her own past as well.
I really appreciated how the romance was downplayed in order to let the mystery take front and center, and how the subtler hints made it feel more romantic by imagination. And that Dumbo ride...so wonderfully romantic a thing to do!
Content: drinking, illegitimate children
Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A positive review was not required.
Quenby was an interesting character and I loved how her job of investigative journalist played into her drive and talents of hunting down what happened to Brigitte so many years before. I was shocked right along with her as clues she found along the way began to give her some answers about her own past as well.
I really appreciated how the romance was downplayed in order to let the mystery take front and center, and how the subtler hints made it feel more romantic by imagination. And that Dumbo ride...so wonderfully romantic a thing to do!
Content: drinking, illegitimate children
Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A positive review was not required.
May 10, 2017
Intricate and lyrical, Catching the Wind tells intertwining stories of lost souls and faithful hearts. Once again, Melanie Dobson pens a novel full of fascinating historical detail and characters as real as your best friends – and worst enemies. Engrossing, beautiful, and thoughtful, this is a novel to be savored.
August 18, 2018
Great mystery, touching story from the past, satisfying ending! Deals with themes of loss, betrayal, overcoming personal tragedy & redemption. Inspirational.
May 21, 2017
The novel Catching the Wind by Melanie Dobson is a historical fiction novel with strong themes that speak of the Christian romance genre. mainly addresses the heart-wrenching aches of abandonment, and seeks to satisfy the longing for redemption, reconciliation, and reunion.
A couple of things that made this book enjoyable for me as a reader:
The first thing is the plot structure. I really appreciated about the book was how the different threads woven throughout the story ended up being connected in the end. While it seemed too neat of a connection at times, I still think it’s cool that there were no loose ends, every puzzle piece fit at the conclusion, even though the threads all seemed separate in the beginning.
The second was that there was heartache, scandal, and pain. What I mean by this is that there is sometimes a stereotype of Christian fiction that it presents itself as unrealistic: the stories aren’t as messy as real life. And yet Dobson did a brilliant job of including broken marriages, affairs, unforgiveness, betrayal, and other difficult themes to give the story the depth of reality.
The third thing was the history. The historic aspects of the story were really educational as well. I learned a ton about WWII, about the London Blitz, and about the tragedy faced by so many during the war. I was totally unaware of the existence of Hutchinson Camp, smack dab in the middle of Douglas, on the Isle of Man. Throughout my primary education, I hadn’t been really informed of all of England’s part in the war, and Dobson successfully piqued my interest in this part of world history.
A couple of things that made this book difficult for me as a reader:
The first thing was the writing. There was a lot of telling but not a lot of showing. I didn’t feel like I had to work to figure out the story because all of my questions were answered for me through Dobson’s exposition laid out in Quenby’s mind. I think that if Dobson put more of what Quenby was thinking into dialogue with the other characters, it would’ve been a more challenging read. As in, I would be having to figure out Quenby’s wounds and difficulties and values instead of her just telling me everything, and in the end, when Dobson would seek to expose big things about Quenby, I would’ve either enjoyed my success at “figuring out” Quenby, or I would’ve grown through my misinterpretation. There were also several times when the point of view shifted that were awkward and distracting because the shift was inconsistent.
The second thing was Lucas and Quenby’s relationship. I don’t feel like two weeks together was enough time for them to bring in romantic love, at least not when it seemed like Quenby was meant to seem so averse to getting close to anyone…I feel like Lucas would’ve had to work a lot harder. Also, there were times when Quenby thought through how she didn’t care about Lucas’s opinion, or stated that he’d have to gain her trust, or mentioned that he was annoying and that there was nothing between them, and these thoughts came up really often, as if Quenby were convincing herself of them as well as trying to convince the reader, when, in reality, the very fact that convincing was needed suggested that the opposite was true: she likes Lucas from the beginning, she doesn’t find him annoying, she’s trusting and depending on him already and freely.
The third thing was the presence of faith. I don’t feel like faith carried as much weight in the story as Dobson desired. While the gospel of Jesus Christ was brought in at both the most heart-wrenching and the most casual of moments in the book, faith didn’t really seem that important to any of the characters. Brigitte seemed to be the most faith-driven character in the book, and yet we’re not privy to her relationship with Jesus before she gets to England. I feel like for some characters the presence of faith in their lives could’ve been removed and nothing would have changed. If Dobson’s intention was to make faith central to the book, then I would’ve appreciated seeing more of the small ways Quenby and Lucas operated out of their relationship with Christ, and more of the big ways they sought to obey Him. I think I wanted their faith to be central to their lives, when it didn’t seem that way at all, but came off more as seeing Jesus as their Savior, but not necessarily as their Lord.
Despite the criticisms, I would recommend this book if you’re looking for a wild journey through the history of friendship between two old souls, for a realistic look at the suffering of war victims, and through the transformation of being wounded and then finally, after so long, being healed.
A couple of things that made this book enjoyable for me as a reader:
The first thing is the plot structure. I really appreciated about the book was how the different threads woven throughout the story ended up being connected in the end. While it seemed too neat of a connection at times, I still think it’s cool that there were no loose ends, every puzzle piece fit at the conclusion, even though the threads all seemed separate in the beginning.
The second was that there was heartache, scandal, and pain. What I mean by this is that there is sometimes a stereotype of Christian fiction that it presents itself as unrealistic: the stories aren’t as messy as real life. And yet Dobson did a brilliant job of including broken marriages, affairs, unforgiveness, betrayal, and other difficult themes to give the story the depth of reality.
The third thing was the history. The historic aspects of the story were really educational as well. I learned a ton about WWII, about the London Blitz, and about the tragedy faced by so many during the war. I was totally unaware of the existence of Hutchinson Camp, smack dab in the middle of Douglas, on the Isle of Man. Throughout my primary education, I hadn’t been really informed of all of England’s part in the war, and Dobson successfully piqued my interest in this part of world history.
A couple of things that made this book difficult for me as a reader:
The first thing was the writing. There was a lot of telling but not a lot of showing. I didn’t feel like I had to work to figure out the story because all of my questions were answered for me through Dobson’s exposition laid out in Quenby’s mind. I think that if Dobson put more of what Quenby was thinking into dialogue with the other characters, it would’ve been a more challenging read. As in, I would be having to figure out Quenby’s wounds and difficulties and values instead of her just telling me everything, and in the end, when Dobson would seek to expose big things about Quenby, I would’ve either enjoyed my success at “figuring out” Quenby, or I would’ve grown through my misinterpretation. There were also several times when the point of view shifted that were awkward and distracting because the shift was inconsistent.
The second thing was Lucas and Quenby’s relationship. I don’t feel like two weeks together was enough time for them to bring in romantic love, at least not when it seemed like Quenby was meant to seem so averse to getting close to anyone…I feel like Lucas would’ve had to work a lot harder. Also, there were times when Quenby thought through how she didn’t care about Lucas’s opinion, or stated that he’d have to gain her trust, or mentioned that he was annoying and that there was nothing between them, and these thoughts came up really often, as if Quenby were convincing herself of them as well as trying to convince the reader, when, in reality, the very fact that convincing was needed suggested that the opposite was true: she likes Lucas from the beginning, she doesn’t find him annoying, she’s trusting and depending on him already and freely.
The third thing was the presence of faith. I don’t feel like faith carried as much weight in the story as Dobson desired. While the gospel of Jesus Christ was brought in at both the most heart-wrenching and the most casual of moments in the book, faith didn’t really seem that important to any of the characters. Brigitte seemed to be the most faith-driven character in the book, and yet we’re not privy to her relationship with Jesus before she gets to England. I feel like for some characters the presence of faith in their lives could’ve been removed and nothing would have changed. If Dobson’s intention was to make faith central to the book, then I would’ve appreciated seeing more of the small ways Quenby and Lucas operated out of their relationship with Christ, and more of the big ways they sought to obey Him. I think I wanted their faith to be central to their lives, when it didn’t seem that way at all, but came off more as seeing Jesus as their Savior, but not necessarily as their Lord.
Despite the criticisms, I would recommend this book if you’re looking for a wild journey through the history of friendship between two old souls, for a realistic look at the suffering of war victims, and through the transformation of being wounded and then finally, after so long, being healed.
January 14, 2018
This is story of lost girls being found. It alternates between the story of Brigitte who escaped the Germans in World War Two and of Quenby, a modern day reporter. There is sadness and disappointment but in the end their is redemption and forgiveness. I wish I could write a better review but I don't want to give out any spoilers. This is a special book and I am very thankful to the author for sharing it with me. I loved this delightful treasure.
May 4, 2017
"I shall make a wish on this tree, . . . . . . I want you to capture the wind." . . . . . .says the princess to her knight.
Childhood friends, Dietmore Roth and Brigitte Berthold, saw their lives torn apart before their very eyes, when Gestapo agents violently raided their homes and disposed of their parents . Outside playing in Dietmore's tree house, the two frightened children literally ran for their lives, crossing borders and nearly starving, before Dietmore made a painful decision that haunted him the rest of his life.
Journalist Quenby Vaughn has been researching the possibility that the prominent wife of a British Lord consorted with German officials during WWII, using her vast estate as a safe house. Frustrated that Lady Ricker's descendants refuse to talk to her, Quenby is nominally curious when she is approached by a prominent young London solicitor, Lucas Hough, on behalf of his client, who is diligently search for a woman that he lost contact with nearly seventy five years earlier; convinced that Quenby can find his "Princess Adler".
A feeble man's request takes Quenby and Lucas down a path riddled with multi-layers of hidden secrets that will ultimately either break hearts of mend them, for "I tried and tried" he said, "but I never caught the wind". . . . . . "I caught it, (she said) . . . and it blew me back to you".
Melanie Dobson has written an absolutely beautiful story. I am grateful to the author and publisher for a copy; the opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Childhood friends, Dietmore Roth and Brigitte Berthold, saw their lives torn apart before their very eyes, when Gestapo agents violently raided their homes and disposed of their parents . Outside playing in Dietmore's tree house, the two frightened children literally ran for their lives, crossing borders and nearly starving, before Dietmore made a painful decision that haunted him the rest of his life.
Journalist Quenby Vaughn has been researching the possibility that the prominent wife of a British Lord consorted with German officials during WWII, using her vast estate as a safe house. Frustrated that Lady Ricker's descendants refuse to talk to her, Quenby is nominally curious when she is approached by a prominent young London solicitor, Lucas Hough, on behalf of his client, who is diligently search for a woman that he lost contact with nearly seventy five years earlier; convinced that Quenby can find his "Princess Adler".
A feeble man's request takes Quenby and Lucas down a path riddled with multi-layers of hidden secrets that will ultimately either break hearts of mend them, for "I tried and tried" he said, "but I never caught the wind". . . . . . "I caught it, (she said) . . . and it blew me back to you".
Melanie Dobson has written an absolutely beautiful story. I am grateful to the author and publisher for a copy; the opinions stated above are entirely my own.
April 23, 2017
Melanie Dobson has yet to write a book I didn't love. I have read my fair share of WWII novels but somehow Dobson has a way of making each story its own, completely different. This novel has two different time periods that go back and forth, which are written so well you won't even be confused! I loved all the characters in this book, but I think Brigitte will always have a special place in my heart. The history is fascinating and once again I learned a ton that I will have to do more research on. Wonderful side romance story and real life heart issues when it comes to abandonment. There is a pretty big twist near the end that I have mixed feelings about but you must read for yourself on that note.
There were a couple of things (small little insignificant things) that I thought were perhaps a little far fetched or over the top for this particular story. Otherwise this is one of the best books I have read so far this year!
Five stars.
"I received this book from Tyndale Publishing for free. All opinions are my own."
There were a couple of things (small little insignificant things) that I thought were perhaps a little far fetched or over the top for this particular story. Otherwise this is one of the best books I have read so far this year!
Five stars.
"I received this book from Tyndale Publishing for free. All opinions are my own."
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