After receiving notification that her brother --and only relative -- is killed in action during the Great War, 21-year-old Charlotte Zielinski enlists as a medical volunteer. She eventually begins working in the death ward of the field hospital near Soissons, France, holding dying men's hands and singing them into eternity.
Dr. Paul Kilgallen is a Canadian surgeon working at the field hospital. During a siege by the enemy, everyone evacuates except for Paul and Charlotte, who volunteer to remain in the basement of the chateau to care for the critically ill soldiers.
During those three days, Charlotte sees a side of Paul that very few have seen and finds herself falling in love with him. Before Paul leaves for the front, he abruptly tells her that he cannot love her, and it would be best to “forget him.”
Just when the war is coming to a close, Charlotte is surprised by two events that are destined to change her life forever.
Ellen Gable (Hrkach) is an award-winning, bestselling author of thirteen books, contributor to numerous others, ghostwriter of five books, and publisher/editor of 60 other books. Her newest book, Life From the Bottom Shelf, is a humorous look at being short. Her novel, Where Angels Pass, was #1 in New Releases on Amazon.ca. for two days and won first place in Religious Fiction in the 2022 CMA Book Awards. Four of her other books have also won literary awards. She and her husband, James Hrkach, are the parents of five adult sons, three beautiful daughters-in-law, and grandparents to four precious and entertaining grandchildren. Her books are available in several languages and on Audible. When not writing, Ellen enjoys watching classic movies, reading, researching her family tree, and playing board games with her family.
An excellent book in a great series. ... Over the last few years I have read a number of non-fiction books about Military Chaplains, and this book is not about a chaplain but about the same times and circumstances. This historical fiction book, and the other available in the series are both excellent reads. Once I heard that this book was coming out, it was immediately added to my to be read list. And it did not disappoint.
I stated in my review of book one of this series: “I must admit as a middle-aged man this book would not be my normal reading. I do read a lot of YA, but hardly any romance. And this book is really so much more than that.” But as a father of daughters who is trying to install a life long reading habit in them I find I read a lot of books with my kids that I would not pick up for myself. But as much as I look forward to reading this book with my girls when they are a little older, I was eager to read this book because of how much I enjoyed book one.
This story overlaps a little with book one and has a few cross over characters. But it can be read on its own. It is a complete story and what a story at that. The main characters in this novel are Charlotte Zielinski, a medical volunteer. She enlisted for service after her father had passed away and she received notice that he brother had been killed in the war. She had no family left and wishes to server helping other men like her brother. She has a special skill with men who are dying, and she ends up volunteering to serve in the death ward. Spending most of her time reading to, singing for, and just being present for those who are terminal. The other is Dr. Paul Kilgallen, a Canadian surgeon serving in the field hospital. Paul who has experienced loss, is determined not to be mired in a relationship. But after the two remain behind with the critically wounded, when the rest of the hospital is evacuated. The three days allows each to see the other in a new light. But in love and in war things do not always go as planned and as hoped.
To find out what happens to these two you will need to read the book. Give it a try I am sure you will not be disappointed. I have yet to read a book from Full Quiver Publishing, that I did not really enjoy. The tag line for Full Quiver on their website is "Theology of the Body Fiction”. And I am following this author and all Full Quiver publications closely. Another great read by Ellen Gable and from FQ publishing. A great book for readers of all ages!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Ellen Gable.
Charlotte’s Honor includes a little bit of everything: WWI history, sweet romance, and a little mystery/suspense.
This page-turning love story (it’s a fast read!) is built on a foundation of faith and above all, the dignity of human life.
Charlotte (whose honor has more than one meaning here) devotes herself to the care of dying soldiers. Her simple ministry to these men - reading and singing - is a beautiful testament to the value of life, the care for the terminally ill and injured, and all those who serve in that capacity whether in war or in peace.
It is through this calling that Charlotte meets and falls in love with Paul, a skilled surgeon who has closed his heart to the possibility of romance. Until a certain aide comes along.
Expect a little humor amidst the backdrop of wartime brutality and a couple of surprises along the way. Charlotte’s Honor is a not only a pleasant romantic escape but edifying as well.
Set toward the end of the Great War, Charlotte’s Honor allows readers to glimpse ugliness and death, blossoming relationships, and the most challenging experiences a person could face, juxtaposing the brutality of war with the beauty of sacrificial love. The main character, Charlotte Zielinski, is a strong woman who not only doesn’t flinch at pain and hard work, she lives on the edge, risking her life daily to care for the wounded often dangerously close to the front. Her risk taking and willingness to sacrifice stems from the pain of having lost so much. Now she struggles to find purpose in her life. Her faith influences her choices and helps her to grow over the story, creating several poignant scenes which brought tears to my eyes. Dr. Paul Kilgallen also knows pain and hard work, but he enlisted for other reasons and he holds a “tight rein on his emotions.” This story had me admiring the medical personal through the years who have not only chosen to help people but to risk their lives to do it. The ending is so dreamy and wraps around to the beginning of the story so well.
Charlotte's Honor is a delight from start to finish, giving readers a poignant, uplifting look at life and love during the Great War. This latest treat from Ellen Gable had me turning pages, clenching my teeth with the suspense, and then sighing with absolute joy at the satisfying end. Another sweet read--bring on the next in the series!
This is the second book in Ellen Gable’s Great War Great Love series. These love stories are clean and refreshing and such a joy to read. Combine these faith-based romances with a touch of history and mystery and you’ve got a winning novel. Charlotte’s Honor is about a young American, Charlotte, who has traveled to France to work as a nurse during World War 1. Fans will be happy to know that some of the same characters in Julia’s Gifts, the first book in the series, also appear in this book. But, reading the first book is not necessary to thoroughly enjoy Charlotte’s Honor. There are so many themes that I enjoy in these books: good can come out of the destructive tragedies of war, small moments of our time can make an enormous impact on another person, love and friendship can happen at the most unlikely times, and a strong faith is the foundation to get you through difficulties. I look forward to the next Great War Great Love book.
Charlotte’s Honor, Great War – Great Love Book 2 is a beautiful historical romance that also doubles as a Christian book of virtue for both adolescents and adults. The main character in Charlotte’s Honor serves as an exemplary model of virtue. Charlotte Zielinski is not perfect, but she is a wise woman of extraordinary virtue. A courageous and compassionate young woman, Charlotte tenderly and zealously cares for the sick and the dying, reading to them and praying for each of them. Throughout the novel, Charlotte deals with the challenges presented to her with charity, patience, piety, perseverance, and self-sacrifice.
Charlotte also has a playful side. She loves to play Irish tunes on the violin to entertain patients, but is not adept at her craft. While the injured soldiers don’t seem to mind, her imperfect skills grate on Paul’s nerves. He is a classical musician who has received many years of formal instruction on the violin. She desperately needs violin lessons. Therefore, he is forced to interact with Charlotte outside of the operating room. The two develop a good relationship, which is deepened by their mutual dedication to the care of the critically ill.
Charlotte is independent and strong, yet she yearns for authentic love – a husband and children of her own. When she meets the handsome Doctor Paul Kilgallen, she becomes vulnerable. She is attracted to him and believes that the feeling is mutual. However, he withdraws his feelings quite abruptly. When he leaves for active duty on the front, he tells her to forget him.
The characters in Charlotte's Honor are well-developed and seem very realistic. It is easy to identify with the main characters and to empathize with them. The plot holds your interest and keeps you turning the pages.
Charlotte’s Honor is a Christian historical romance novel that will inspire us all how to act with virtue in the face of trials and adversity. It contains a sweet love story, with a little mystery and suspense, and some satisfying surprises. Charlotte’s Honor is a fascinating, and heart-warming read for both adolescents and adults. It is certainly one of my favorites!
Charlotte’s Honor is a beautiful, tender, and moving story set during World War One. Charlotte, to whom we were first introduced in Julia’s Gifts, is a strongly positive role model for our daughters. She endures trials throughout this story that most of us cannot imagine facing today, yet the genuine manner in which the characters react and respond rings true for all time. I would add Charlotte’s Honor to the must-read list for any historical fiction, mother-daughter generational, or virtue-based book club. Of course, Gable’s tales are perfectly delectable as a personal poolside treat as well!
Charlotte's Honor is the perfect mix of historical detail and romance. This second installment in Gable’s "Great War - Great Love" Trilogy will not disappoint.
I enjoyed reading this second book in the Great War Great Love series, but I didn't like it quite as much as the first book: Julia's Gifts. In this story, we follow Charlotte as she serves overseas in Europe during the war. It's nice to have a love story that isn't lurid or scandalous. That's one of the best things about reading books by Ellen Gable. She tells a good love story without it being immoral or racy. I have every intention of reading the next book in the series.
I'm a fan of Ellen Gable's writing and really enjoy her Great War Great Love series. They're quick reads, which I appreciate. In each book a young woman from the United States volunteers to serve in the medical units in France during WWI and meets her true love, by chance a Canadian soldier or doctor, during her time there. The stories are sweet romances but with enough conflict and suspense to keep you turning the pages. I'm looking forward to reading the third book in the series, Ella's Promise. I'd love to see this series turned into a movie or series of movies!
If, like me, you are always looking for the opportunity to curl up with a good book — and if, like me, you like to have a pile of good TBR books at the ready — allow me to recommend this one.
Read this if you like a nice, tidy story, if you like historical fiction, if you like romance and the weaving of mystery. Read this if you’re looking to have a nice afternoon, with your mind being toasted and rewarded.
It’s the sequel to Julia’s Gifts (which I reviewed here), but it stands on its own. If you enjoyed the adventures and romance in Julia, you’ll find much of the same in Charlotte. You may, in fact, remember reading a bit about Charlotte. But if you happen upon this and haven’t read (or don’t want to read) Julia,
In this novel, you’ll meet 21-year-old Charlotte Zielinski, who has enlisted as a medical volunteer in World War I (the “Great War,” in the context of the story and life at that time). In the book, she’s near Soissons, France, working in the death ward of the field hospital.
You’ll also get to know Dr. Paul Kilgallen, a handsome surgeon who’s also working at the field hospital. The two become acquainted, and then get thrown together (quite literally).
No spoiler: They fall in love. Also not a spoiler: They face a great hurdle. The ending has at least two big reveals, and while you may have figured one of them out, you probably won’t have figured them both out.
It’s a charming story, and while Charlotte seems too good to be true, I can’t help but remind myself that I have real-life friends who seemed that way before I got to know them.
Charlotte’s Honor has fit right in with my reading of late, tales of Anne Elliot and adventures of Anne Shirley. This is a story that delights my woman’s heart and one that tells the story of the time period in a way meant to captivate.
4.5 stars (4 on Goodreads, 5 on Amazon) This is a clean historical romance set during World War I, a war skimmed over in the study of history when I attended school. The main characters, especially Charlotte, brought the war to life for me, and I enjoyed the mystery woven into the plot. Some parts describing the conditions of the soldiers that Charlotte attended to were quite touching, but nothing was so graphic that I think a sensitive reader couldn't handle. Charlotte is an endearing character and good role model for young women, and I recommend this historical novel for teens and adults.
After receiving notification that her brother --and only relative -- is killed in action during the Great War, 21-year-old Charlotte Zielinski enlists as a medical volunteer. She eventually begins working in the death ward of the field hospital near Soissons, France, holding dying men's hands and singing them into eternity. Dr. Paul Kilgallen is a Canadian surgeon working at the field hospital. During a siege by the enemy, everyone evacuates except for Paul and Charlotte, who volunteer to remain in the basement of the chateau to care for the critically ill soldiers.During those three days, Charlotte sees a side of Paul that very few have seen and finds herself falling in love with him. Before Paul leaves for the front, he abruptly tells her that he cannot love her, and it would be best to “forget him.” Just when the war is coming to a close, Charlotte is surprised by two events that are destined to change her life forever. The Canadian Army Medical Corps (CAMC) played an essential role in keeping soldiers alive.Casualties among Canadian troops in France and Belgium were so heavy that more than half of all Canadian physicians served overseas to treat them.The terrible battlefield wounds required that medical personnel adapt their practices, or create new ones, to save lives.The wounded were passed through many medical units for their treatment.Surgery could be performed at any of the medical units, depending on the patient’s need for immediate or deferred care.Following an initial recovery from surgery, patients could proceed to stationary and general hospitals in France and England for long-term care.In French-speaking countries,a hotel-Dieu meaning hostel of God was originally a hospital for the poor and needy,run by the Catholic Church.Now these buildings or institutions have either kept their function as a hospital or converted into hotels,museums or general purpose buildings.There is a Hotel Dieu Hospital in Kingston,Ontario.
This second book in the "Great War Great Love" series is the story of Charlotte, whose parents are deceased and whose brother died in action, serving as a medical volunteer near Soissons, France. Charlotte has a heart for aiding the most critically wounded patients, patiently comforting the dying soldiers. She shows her strength when she volunteers to stay behind with these patients and a surgeon when the field hospital is evacuated due to enemy fire. Charlotte's unique combination of devotion and grit attracts the attention of Dr. K, whose own heartbreak steers him away from pursuing a relationship with her. Another volunteer is jealous of the time Dr. K spends with Charlotte and tries to undermine Charlotte's character.. Meanwhile, Charlotte discovers a cryptic note in a hidden old chapel, a note which leads to a surprising discovery. I appreciated the connection to "Julia's Gifts" in this novel. Charlotte was a friend of Julia, so the stories, which take place concurrently, intertwined nicely.
Ellen Gable delivers another impressive historical romance novel, a worthy sequel to her first book in the Great War Great Love series. When Charlotte Zielinski, a medical volunteer, meets skilled surgeon Dr. Paul Kilgallen at a field hospital in France during World War I, they face great hardships that require courage, dedication, hope—and faith. Charlotte’s Honor is an authentic story filled with compassion, self-sacrifice, and the true meaning of love. A wonderful read and highly recommended!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was quite good. I really enjoyed the story and the narrative. Being a Historical Fiction book about the Great War is some of my favorites. The bravery of our men and women is something that stands out to me. Especially the women. They worked so hard and some of them not used to hard work but wanted to do their share. Some of them that were close to the fighting in tents trying to save a life were especially brave. The author’s descriptions of the battle field and the makeshift hospitals were so real and the narrator just brought it all to life. Paul and Charlotte were very brave when the enemy was right at them. And a little romance didn’t hurt the story either while lightening the horror of wartimes. I recommend this audiobook to my friends that likes historical fiction. I received a free copy of this audiobook but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I loved the first book (I shipped so hard Julia and Major Winslow that they became one of my top 5 couples lol haha) but Charlotte's Honor kept me hanging on and I couldn't stop reading until I reached the last page!
Fun, cute with a bit of mystery and tension in many moments, this second book of the Great War Great Love trilogy warms sore hearts, gives a bit of hope in humanity and also the presence of God is stronger on this novel. Charlotte is a lovely character and a sweet heroine with a big heart. I loved her beloved, Paul Killgallen that I almost fell in love with him myself hahahaha.
I enjoyed this story about a volunteer and a surgeon during a time of war. It took place in France. I am a nurse that works in surgery so I can appreciate the horrid conditions that these wonderful men and women had to work in. The story focused a lot on Charlotte and her desire to spend time on the death ward easing the pain of those that could not be saved. She fell in love with the surgeon. The surgeon had his own issues to overcome. The characters were both kind people who wanted to serve others.
This book was emotional and realistic. It stirred in me a new appreciation for those who dedicate themselves to making life more tolerable for the wounded and dying in war. The darkness of war was somewhat eased by the sweet romance the story offered. The characters are wonderfully portrayed, even the not-so-nice people.
The narrator read in a choppy manner at times and needs to work on that. It was more like reading rather than natural conversation.
I requested this audiobook from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
To be honest I only read the second one in this series as we had no internet on holidays so I couldn't download another book to my kindle. But Im glad I did, it was a nice clean story. Again it lacks the gritty details most fiction set in the Great War contain. I like a more realistic outlook but many people don't so for those readers it would be very satisfying I think as it was a cute story. Im not going to read book 3 though.
I enjoyed this book so much as I have all Ellen's previous books. She is a suburb author who writes her books with historical substance while being romantic in a beautiful way. They are pure with no use of profanity or unclean parts. I can't wait to read the next book in the Great War Great Love Series.
Could not put this book down. Without giving away the story just think of a great story from the past. Cannot image living through those times. Today we have it so easy we tend to put God on a shelf until needed. No matter if your life is easy or hard we need to listen to God daily. Thanks to Ellen Honor
I gave this book 3 and a half stars. It was enjoyable but very superficial. Everything happened very quickly in an almost unbelievable way. The characters weren't fully fleshed out, except maybe Charlotte, and the subplot was, I felt, completely contrived.
The actual story touched my heart. That is why I read to the end. However, the majority of the book was spent in telling, not experiencing. Also, a lot of the book related unnecessary information that had little to do with the story. This book could have been so much more.
This book was well written and the characters were believable. The imagery also was believable. Amid the horror there was beauty. I think the inclusion of Hannah wad brilliant.
This ww1 the good and bad parts. History to help us know how things went on. How the drs took care of the soldier's. No sexual contact thank you. Enjoyed getting to know the characters.
A love story with so much compassion for soldiers in the front line during the war. It's amazing how God uses ordinary human beings when they avail themselves to Him.
This story is so great warming. It makes me think of war and the casualties that come from it. Hopefully there are nurses like Charlotte who care for those on their deathbed.
Can one survive helping soldiers die to find love for one's self? A gift for calming the sick and terminal, Ella uses her faith and talent in France during WWI. What she also survives and finds is priceless life.
Such a sweet story of the sacrifice people are called to make during war. A story of some who find their calling and some who serve out of obligation. I love that the heroine served God in this story.