When Valleys Bloom Again

by Pat Jeanne Davis

Finalist--2020 Serious Writer Book of the Year Award

As war approaches in 1939, Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.

Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage?

Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the US Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home and find happiness with Jim?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Christian Romance, Clean Romance

209 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 16, 2019

About the author

PAT JEANNE DAVIS has a keen interest in 20th Century United States and British history, particularly the period of World War II. Her longtime interest in that era goes back to the real-life stories she heard about family members who served during the war.

When Valleys Bloom Again is a debut inspirational romance set in WWII on the Philadelphia Main Line, in London and on Normandy.

She enjoys flower gardening, genealogy research and traveling with her British-born husband. She writes from her home in Philadelphia, Pa. Pat has published essays, short stories and articles online and in print. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith, Hope & Love Christian Writers. She enjoys hearing from her readers. Visit her at https://www.patjeannedavis.com

READ this Q&A with Pat in the March 2020 Issue of Family Fiction Magazine
https://www.familyfiction.com/histori...

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pat Jeanne Davis has debuted her historical romance novel “When Valleys Bloom Again” which released in 2019. The characters go through some troubling times but they are wrapped in God's goodness. This is a fascinating historical novel set during WWII , dangerous and dark times in America, England, and France. Abby is sent from her home by her father, a British diplomat for her own safety at the start of the war. She is sad and lonely and feels abandoned by not only her family but God as well. How could he let this happen she thinks? The characters are very well done and thought out, some likable some not. You can really feel the emotion of the characters, very realistic. I really enjoyed this book ,the wonderful realistic plot kept me reading to see how things would be resolved. I got a good feeling reading this, encouraged at the faith messages throughout.
Published January 16th 2019 by Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was Mrs. Davis' debut novel and may I just say that it was amazing. This was not an all time favorite but I definitely would recommend it.

Mrs. Davis definitely put a lot of time and effort into the research and history. It was refreshing to read a book that was written for its era.

The storyline was both amazing but also lacking. Don't get me wrong, I loved the storyline and it really picked up half way through the book, but the first half seemed rather rushed and it just seemed to be missing something.

I really enjoyed reading a book set in America during World War 2. Most of my World War 2 novels are either set in Europe or the Pacific, so it was enjoyable to read something set in my home country.

I really enjoyed getting to know the characters throughout this book. I felt like however that at some parts in the beginning where the characters were lacking character, but then as the story picked up I got more engrossed with the characters and their story.

I really enjoyed seeing the development of Abby's and James' characters. I really liked how Abby's aunt changed and grew throughout the story as well. I would have to say that Uncle William was one of my favorite characters. He put a smile on my face almost every time he talked.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read more of Mrs. Davis' work in the future!

*I received this book from Interviews and Reviews in exchange for my honest opinion. This review did not have to be positive.*

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love listening to audiobooks, especially when reading a physical book isn’t an option, such as while I’m driving or cleaning the house. I’m usually captured by a story rather easily. I must admit, it took me a little longer than usual to sink into When Valleys Bloom Again, partly due to the narrator’s tone and inflection.

D.L. Marlin offers a saccharine sweet narration, using various voices for a diverse cast of characters, which I found somewhat distracting. I felt more as if I was being read to, rather than the story fully coming to life.

I’ve always been drawn to stories with a war setting or backdrop. Perhaps due to the strength and perseverance of those who battle, whether on the field or at home. I sympathized with Abby and imagined walking in her steps. I enjoyed her growth through war, separation, faith building, and love.

Overall, Pat Jeanne Davis’ When Valleys Bloom Again is a sweet, inspirational WWII story with themes of finding purpose and love, as well as following God’s lead. After an unhurried start and time to become accustomed to the narrative voice, the story ultimately picks up pace and delivers an entertaining tale.

Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis is a fabulous debut novel set during WWII. It is full of Godly wisdom and insight.
During a time of war, people need God more than ever. “Where are you, Lord, in all this?” We cannot always see Him but Jesus has promised to never leave us.
There are times in life when we feel abandoned, even by God. “God has forgotten me.” The presence of God has nothing to do with our feelings, He is beside us, whether we ‘feel’ Him or not.
The reader is treated to locations in England, France, North Africa and mainly America. We ‘see’ the war on the home front and on the battlefield. Both are hard, presenting different and unique challenges. They require characters with backbones.
Pat Jeanne Davis has created a wonderful selection of personalities. Some are very likable others elicit feelings of mistrust as they perform underhand dealings.
A warm and welcoming atmosphere pervades the novel. As homes are opened to family, so the reader feels included as the warmth reaches out from the pages of the novel to encompass us.
Leaving the familiar behind is hard. The reader has empathy for the character who wonders if “perhaps she’d left God back in England.” Where we go God goes, as we carry Him in our hearts.”
There is the motif of tending the garden. This reminds the reader that Jesus is the Master Gardner who cares for and nurtures us.
A major theme is that of true worth. Some see treasure is the form of wealth, status, power and possessions. Others realise that true treasure is to be found in people. True treasure is always in a ‘who’ and never a ‘what.’
War throws up the question of trust. As an air of mistrust rises, see if you can spot the enemy.
Pat Jeanne Davis promises to be a fabulous new author. I thoroughly enjoyed When Valleys Bloom Again. She captured my attention from the start, drawing me into a fantastic plotline with wonderful characters.
Remember the name – Pat Jeanne Davis – she deserves to be a best seller.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a journey we embark on as we turn the pages of this book, some of the hardest times that we have had, and we are there to walk in their shoes, so to speak, but the reality of what is happening in the world, and although fiction, this book is based on rfacts.
When Abby Stapelton arrives in America, her parents wanted her out of England, and, and away from the danger of WWII, she doesn't realize how much her life is about to change.
There are secrets here, and unknown danger, besides the war, but there is also a bit of sweet romance. We wonder if all we are let to care about will make it to the end, and if the evil that seems to be lurking everywhere will win or with justice prevail, you will be quickly page turning for answers here.
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Kailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a book by this author. I tried the audiobook. While the story was very descriptive and intriguing, I was pulled out of it by the narrator’s voice. I’m not sure how to describe it other than that she sounded too sweet and happy for this kind of story. I really enjoyed Abby and Jim and reading their story! I liked this book more than I thought I would since this isn’t my go to time period. I would definitely recommend the book, but not the audiobook. I wouldn’t mind going back and reading the paperback for myself.



I was given a free review copy of the audiobook and have voluntarily left this review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Mimi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a nice story if you're a fan of WWII. It's not often we read stories of someone being sent to America as the war is starting.

I liked Abby who has such a sweet innocence when she arrives back in the States. She has such a sweet relationship with her uncle, but her aunt is another story to begin with.

Being a gardener myself, I enjoyed the character of Jim, who falls for Abby, whose station is above his. Being sent to Europe to fight in the war is so contrary to his nature is hard to see him go.

I couldn't figure out where the tension world come in with this story until Henri made an appearance. Talk about a character who is easy to dislike.

There are some unexpected moments in the story and some sweet highs!

*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.

[Alysha (For The Love of Christian Fiction) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t really connect with the characters or the story.
I had a really hard time reading it. 😞

3/5 stars.

[Lynda · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of my favorite time periods to read about is WWII, so it was with eagerness I picked up this story. The back cover description contained an interesting premise and I was curious to see how it would all work out. Unfortunately, while the plot is interesting, the book does have a few hiccups that hindered my enjoyment.

I had a hard time relating to Abby for the first part of the book. She seemed a bit immature to me; perhaps that is due to overdone parental sheltering, or maybe a lack of self-esteem due to her stutter, but her reactions often seemed more on par with a 15 year old rather than a young woman embarking on her second year of college.

It does get better as the character changes and grows, but it seems to take much longer than the circumstances warrant. Many things happened to Abby, but it didn't seem to change her in a big way. Losing her friend, possibly losing her family, her home, it seemed as if more material changes would have been visible more quickly than they actually appeared.

Most of the disappointment I experienced could likely be solved by a skillful editor that could help adjust pacing. The author has a massive amount of time eclipsed in this book, which must be very difficult to manage. There are also characters that seem to be left out—they appear briefly and then never show up again, and I was left wondering what happened. Perhaps this was intentional on the author’s part, to show the uncertainty of the times and in relationships of varying degrees.

Where this novel shines brightest is in its historical detail. There are a lot of instances where the author gives us tidbits about the time during World War II, about rationing, censored letters home, women working and the resulting need for childcare, hardships experienced on the homefront, both in the US and in the UK, and even a bit about some of the civilian volunteer positions, such as aircraft observers, and the training they experienced to help in the war effort. It brought home how very different times are, and the important sacrifices and services all people provided at this point in history.

While a mixed bag for me, I think those who enjoy family sagas will find a worthwhile story here due to the layered family dynamic, as well as those with an interest in WWII. It is a clean read, even with memories of battle scenes, nothing becomes graphic and there is no foul language on page. It would be suitable for mid teens and up.

I received a review copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby Stapleton, daughter of an English diplomat, is sent to live with her aunt and uncle because of the impending danger of World War II. Once in the United States, she begins going to college and forging a new life. She finds herself involved with Jim, who works as a gardener on her uncle’s estate. At first the relationship between Abby and her aunt oozes with tension and discord, especially when Jim and Abby become involved with each other. But through the pages of the book, her aunt comes to recognize how good Jim is for her niece.

I loved getting to know Abby and her family throughout the pages of the story. But even in the United States, Abby finds herself caught up in the war. Jim is drafted, and a German spy attempts to take everything that is dear to the two. He essentially uses his daughter as a pawn in his “game”.

Truly this book takes twist turns and covers two continents as well as the war, but in the end I basically was satisfied with how the book ended. But I have to say, I think there is a lot more that can and possibly needs to be written about these characters.

So if you like historical fiction, check out this book

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Valleys Bloom Again is a charming debut novel that explores the impact of WWII on people across the globe. Through evocative description the reader is immersed in the dust and rubble of London, the dearth and rationing of America, and the fear and loss of the soldiers. I struggled a bit to relate to Abby, but that is probably because she is significantly younger than me. Her world has turned upside down several times through events that are out of her control. Her emotions in response to the changes and upheaval in her life are realistic, including the times she is somewhat immature. She has been protected and provided for all her life, so when she is thrown into the harsh day-to-day ugliness of war and its affects, she is ill-prepared. She learns as the war progresses, and matures and grows as the story progresses. I liked Jim. He is a salt-of-the-earth kind of guy and does what has to be done. His respect for Abby’s family is commendable, and how he handles meeting her folks is a great scene. Henri is unlikeable (as he should be) and is a well-developed “villain.” The book covers almost the entire war, so there are “jumps” forward in time. I would have preferred a shorter time period to be covered in order to provide more in-depth scenes. An enjoyable read.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Will war tear them apart or bring them closer?

It's been a little bit since I last read a novel set during WWII so I thought it was time to head back to the era my grandma was born in. In addition, When Valleys Bloom Again is the first time I've actually listened to an audiobook with a WWII setting.

Pat Jeanne Davis' book had more of a sweet historical romance feel to it for much of the story...and then...boy, did it get going! Between the hero literally fighting for his life in Normandy, in Italy, and beyond, and the heroine trying to dodge a gentleman bent on ruining her life, it kinda got a little exciting there. Oh, and did I mention The Blitz?

As I mentioned I did listen to this novel as an audiobook. The production was seemed OK for the most part though there were a couple of minor things. First, I loved how many voices the narrator did, and she had a lot of accents to handle with these characters. There was absolutely no echo or background noise but there were times I had a little trouble understanding the narrator. Also, I had to turn the volume up a bit on my phone as the recording seemed to have been done on a lower volume setting.

When Valleys Bloom Again is a tale of love and loss and hanging onto faith when things seem darkest and it made for some decent listening. So, if you are looking for a somewhat lighter and sweeter historical romance with a few surprises up its sleeve, and you just want to chill for awhile and listen to an audiobook, this novel from Pat Jeanne Davis might be one to check into...

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Becca Rae · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having the right narrator is so important and can make or break a read. In this case, the narrator's voice didn't match the energy or mood of the story, and it threw me off as a reader. Her voice seemed almost "singsongy" while the content was anything but. I could tell that the narrator had a lot of enthusiasm and excitement for the read, but it just didn't match the story at all. I would recommend reading a physical copy of this book.
*I received an audible copy through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[A.D. Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me hooked from the beginning! The author's voice was beautiful, and it's clear much research went into the book. Loved the twists and turns. Can't wait to read more from this author!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very well written book. It has suspense, drama and romance and keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book. I received a copy from the author, but was not required to write a review. This is my honest opinion.

[Becca (Reflections From My Bookshelves) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to part of this as an audiobook. The narrator was ok. I had a lot of difficulty understanding her when she did her male characters. The female characters were easier to understand.
I enjoyed this book once I got into it. It was a little slow at the beginning but it picked up about half way through. I thought the characters were interesting. I like Abby and Jim. It was fun to see their interaction. A couple characters I did not like at all. I liked the all the biblical truth spread throughout the story. Set during ww2 it was neat to read about that time period. It was a tough time for everyone and Pat Jeanne Davis showed that well.
This is a cute love story!
I recommend my family and friends.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Sydney · Rating 3 out of 5]

From the home front to the battlefield of WWII, readers will be intrigued by this detailed historical story. Although the story has an interesting premise, the story tends to drag most of the way, picking up a little towards the end, making it hard for readers to connect with the characters. Readers may find the audiobook especially hard to follow with the monotone and un-enthusiastic narrator. Due to this, readers may prefer to read a print or e-copy of the book. The story focuses mainly on a couple during the war and how their relationship stands the test of separation during the war. It’s about a time of struggle, danger, and feeling alone, but with the help of family and God, all is well.

Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: Elk lake Publishing
Narrator: DL Merlin
Publication date: Feb 8, 2021 (audiobok)
Number of pages:209

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting story set during a dangerous and uncertain time. I liked learning more about what both the soldiers and their family back home went through at different times in the war. Abby grew in wisdom and confidence as the war went on, though sometimes she still seemed immature and naive. She also grew in her faith as she had to rely on God more when Jim went off to war. There was some romance and some suspense. The narrator was okay but I did have to listen at 2.25 speed as the normal speed felt too slow. You might enjoy this if you like historical fiction.

I received a free Audible copy of this audiobook from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.

[BrendaLee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook and I enjoyed the narrator and the story. A WWll story that will touch your heart. I felt for Abby because I would not have wanted to be sent away from my parents like she was. With the war coming to her parents she did not know if she would ever see them again. Abby and Jim’s romance was sweet and I enjoyed them working together on her Uncle’s estate. Jim was such a great guy but that Henry was a schemer for sure and I was afraid for Abby. Oh I can’t forget that I loved Abby’s Uncle. He was a wonderful person but it took me awhile to like her aunt. I away enjoy reading about how people survive a war. It inspires me and makes me think when I complain. We have it easy nowadays from what our ancestors went through. This is a good book for readers that enjoys WWll stories.
I was given a copy of this audiobook but volunteered to review. I was not required to write a positive. All opinions are my own.

[Cara BookShelfMomma · Rating 3 out of 5]

I pondered over this audiobook review for a while. Thank you to the author and Just Read Tours for the gifted audiobook version in exchange for my honest review.

My first reaction was that the narration threw me off. Something about the tone felt “babyish” to me. So I think I would have preferred to read the physical copy.

The story line was full of a lot of wonderful historical information. Abigail was a character that grew throughout the novel. She was shipped off to America when the war started. The beginning started extremely slow. I will say I really enjoyed the ending though. Abby did grow into a wonderful woman and was there for the people that needed her in the end.

Overall I gave this 3 stars.

[Jerah Alvarado · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast read or listen set WWII that doesn't focus on the gruesome details of the war as much as it did the struggles. I wish it had a tighter resolve with the mother daughter story aspect but t'is the way of life. :) I did like the romance part of the story and the dynamics the war played in it. I listened to the audio and the narrator was good but it took me a moment to adjust to the voice and at times she seem to be smiling in non-smiling parts of the story. But all in all a charming novel to check out if you enjoy this era.

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Valleys Bloom Again is a story that sweeps almost the whole span of World War II, following Abby Stapleton as she’s sent to stay with relatives in America for the duration of the war. Over these years Abby encounters family tension, class tension, romance, revenge, loss, and all the other struggles that come with the uncertainty of war, and she learns to trust God’s leading and find her own way to serve, even in far-off America.

Pat Jeanne Davis’s writing gently evokes Abby’s world and makes for a pleasant read, but I did feel as though the time span of this story worked against it. The story often glossed over months at a time or jumped them completely, which meant that tension within the story either arose and resolved quickly or lost momentum as time passed. That said, some of those threads did build up good momentum through the last quarter of the story!

Similarly, I felt the episodic timeline didn’t allow me to identify with these characters as deeply as I would have liked—kind of a dipping in and out relationship rather than a walking alongside relationship. And there was one plot element in particular that didn’t really resolve, or at least, came to something of an anti-climax, but perhaps that was to pave the way for a future book.

Those things notwithstanding, the story maintained my interest throughout and will be an enjoyable read for those who want a wholesome WWII story featuring a young woman on the home front.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

With so many historical books set during and around World War II, it’s hard to stand out. In When Valleys Bloom Again, Pat Jeanne Davis introduces readers to Abby. As she shelters in America while her family endures the lengthening war, she has challenges of her own.

It took me a little while to really get into this story (it’s not until Henri enters the picture that things really start happening). Abby is young and naïve when we first meet her, but she does grow throughout the story, and despite the formulaic nature of the book, I did want to finish it to get to Jim and Abby’s happily ever after (although, I believe this is book one in a series, so maybe it’s more of a happy for now ending).

I listen to a lot of audiobooks, and while DL Merlin’s narration was a bit less polished than many of the books I’ve read, I felt it was a good fit for Abby’s character.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Terri Wangard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Journey to the days of World War II with its myriad challenges for survival. Parents want to protect their children, even when they’re legally of age. England isn’t safe in 1939, and Abby Stapleton’s parents are determined to send her to America.

She arrives at her aunt and uncle’s estate in Pennsylvania. Aunt Val is abrasive and Abby doesn’t understand why. Her uncle is a dear, but his health is failing.

Abby meets Jim, whom her parents wouldn’t approve of. He’s a poor gardener on the estate. Uncle Will’s nephew Henri is his self-absorbed attorney who has secrets of his own. He decides Abby would make a beautiful, pliable wife.

Abby wants to marry Jim. He’s drafted and sent to Europe. She can tell from his letters that the war is changing him. Does he still love her?

When Valleys Bloom Again covers a wide time frame, from 1939 to 1945. That necessitates skimming over some events that would be interesting to delve into further. For instances, is Henri really Uncle’s nephew or did something sinister happen? He’s nothing like Uncle Will.

Pat Jeanne Davis weaves a story of young people challenged through difficult times and still finding happiness. An intriguing debut novel of separation and duplicity, love and loss.

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Learning to bloom in times of trouble

My rating is 3.5 stars

Jim didn't feel that he had many talents, yet his skills as a gardener helped Abby's uncle transform his estate into a place of great beauty. I really liked Jim's humility, care for his mother, and his ability to enjoy life without worrying about what others thought about him. He was a little insecure, however. Then again, aren't most of us?

Abby was a little bit of a spoiled brat, at least at the beginning of the book. She sulked over her parents sending her to America where she would be further away from the war that was threatening to come to England. And when her aunt treated her less than kindly, she did everything she could to avoid her. Abby did grow on me, however.

One of the things I really appreciated about When Valleys Bloom Again was the way the garden theme carried subtly throughout the story, and yet gardens played a role in Abby's life in many ways.

I also liked the way that the Queen Mary was the same boat that transported Abby to America and then transported Jim to England for his military service.

The story spans several years, and I have found novels that encompass a span of time like this can often drag as the author interjects snippets from the intervening time. Pat Jeanne Davis actually did quite well with this and had a good sense of when to add a glimpse of life at a point in time.

The plot was interesting and, for the most part, was executed well. There were some things I didn't feel made sense or seemed a little out of character. The characters did not quite seem three dimensional, and I didn't relate to them as well as I like to. While the author used a conversational method of imparting historical details in places, some of these felt forced and a bit like an information dump rathen than showing the reader these things.

I do recommend this for lovers of WWII fiction.


Read my full review with a Preview at Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Megan Hamsher · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis
takes place during WWII, from 1939-1944,
mostly taking place in USA;
the beginning and ending in London,
and a few glimpses into Jim's soldier world are sprinkled throughout the book.

Abby Stapleton was sent by her parents from London, England
to live with her aunt and uncle in USA as war threatens Europe in 1939.
Over the course of the war, she learned to be a Ground Observer Corps member and a teacher ...
what a true home means ... and love.

Jim Wright was just a poor guy who loved tending to flowers, plants, and grounds of Abby's family estate.
Despite the rocky start to the relationship, love grew stronger as time went on..
but will it survive the war and sustain him through his toughest battles?

Henri Frey might be a shrewd lawyer,
but whatever you do, don't put your trust in him.
Not the kind of guy to hang out with.
You'll have to read to find out why, though!

Among other characters, there is:
Simon (a childhood friend she left behind),
Abby's parents, Uncle Will, and Aunt Val
(with a complication that Abby didn't know about included...)
Jim's sister, Carol
Vicar Cooper

It's an "easy" writing style to enjoy reading.
I learned about the Ground Observer Corps in particular.
There were plenty of complicated relationships
and engaging characters.
It got to the point that I don't know who was more eager
for a letter from Jim .. Abby or me!

And, while there was a satisfying ending,
there were a few loose strings still floating around.
Maybe this won't be the last we see of this crew?

Fave quotes:
"You realize I''ll have to join up when the fighting starts?"
"What about your intention to a concert pianist?
"P-p-playing the piano and fighting don't seem to go together."
Simon and Abby
page 4

"...Remember that determination is half the battle.
The other half is jolly hard work."
Uncle Will to Abby
page 30

Abby ran her finger over her armband.
She wasn't heroic as Simon or her brother
or parents and sister, under daily threat of invasion.
She could do little to help secure peace for the world.
But she'd do her best with this chance to serve.
page 78

Women all over the world were daily in agonies over their men,
praying for them to come home.
Like those millions of others, she wanted peace in the world.
page 103

[Catherine Castle · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Valley s Bloom Again/ Book Review


Forced to leave her parents and home before WWII breaks out in England, Abby Stapleton is ripped away from family and friends she loves and sent to her aunt’s home in America.
Feeling isolated, angry that God allowed her parents to send her away, and worried about her loved ones facing mortal danger in London, Abby wonders if she’s losing her faith along with her family. Just as she begins to adjust to her new normal in America Pearl Harbor is attacked. The U.S.A. enters the war and Abby’s world is turned upside down…again.

Author Pat Jeanne Davis paints a great historic picture of WWII, in both England and America. The details of events showed the author had done her research. Battle scenes were intense without being over the top or graphic. I loved the touch of the censored letters from the battlefields. It gave a measure of the frustration family at home must have felt when precious words from their loved ones were blacked out in their correspondence.

The antagonist is very sneaky and evil. He had me on the edge of my seat as he tried to sabotage Abby’s relationships and life. I anxiously awaited his demise, wondering how he was going to get caught.

Although listed on Amazon as Christian fiction, the book was not preachy at all. Given the subject matter of war and worrying for your loved one, the faith element was naturally woven into the story. I think even non-Christians would enjoy this book.

The one thing that bothered me was that I wanted to see the plot thread between Abby and her aunt tied up, but maybe the author has another book planned for that. I’ll wait and see. (P.S. I spoke to the author and she said that's for another book. Happy to know that.)

All in all this was an enjoyable read, clean of language and sex, and suitable for YA and adult readers. The author has a nice writing style, making the book easy to read. I received a complimentary copy and was under no obligation to leave a review. I just liked the story so much I wanted to tell others about it.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. But then again I enjoy any historical book where I can learn new things about our past that I never knew about. I love how the author can make the past come alive for us readers.

Pat has done a remarkable job in doing her research and is a wonderful storyteller!

Jim and Abby are proof of that.

I love how Abby does things sometimes because she's just like me in that regard. I love her too for being a red head. After all, us redheads have to stick together!!

Jim is ok too. I think I like him. He's handsome and perfect for Abby.

I love to read debut books and helping out new authors. I look forward to reading what the book has to offer. I especially like books about history. We're never too old to learn something new!!

I just love the cover of this book!! It never ceases to amaze me how they can come up with some awesome covers!!

Love is a strange thing. It can sneak up on you or sometimes if you're meant to be together it has a way of working out whether our folks want it to or not. Love can happen anywhere even in the midst of a war!

Abby's aunt is ok. I almost feel kind of sorry for her but in a way I still like her. She's a good supporting character. I think in a way I'll always remember. I think it's because of her tough love for Abby and taking care of Abby even tho she didn't really want to. Abby's aunt is just like me in ways too!! I can always tell when something is out of place lol!! Especially one of my books!!

Uncle Willard is special. He understand Abby. I think I would want him to be my uncle for sure!! I can see him smile and hear him laugh even now.

Y'all there's a special surprise at the end of this book but I won't tell you what it is because I want you to pick it up and read it.



I will reread this book again because I love the events that surround it. I received a copy of this book with no compensations received and all opinions are my own!!

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook version. Pat Jeanne Davis brings us Abby's story, focused during WWII in the US. I have not read many books with a main character staying in the US for the war duration so it was interesting and informative. How frustrating it must have been to have their letters so censored, dealing with rations, and seeming removed but yet a part, of the war.

I did like how it focused more on the home front. While we do get scenes from Jim's perspective with fighting, it doesn't overwhelm the story. I know that war is an awful ugly thing, but I appreciate a WWII story that stays away from the disturbing while bringing the reality.
It is difficult for any story to cover so many years in a timeline and When Valleys Bloom again faces that struggle. I alternately felt like I was getting too little information (told briefly about events afterward) or too much (especially early in the story where we see a lot of Abby and not so much or Abby WITH Jim). The second half of the book is much more balanced with less internal dialogue and more interaction. A few strings are left hanging, but enough wrap up to give it a satisfying ending. I do hope there'll be a second book where you see them adjusting to home life and Abby's relationship with Valarie.

I listened to this audiobook at in increased speed. DL Merlin's narration is on the slow side, which doesn't deter me; it gives more options for the listener to control the speed they listen. But, in addition to the slow narration, the story drags in several points and a faster narration helps move it along. I disagree with some others about her voice being to sweet. for me, it kept a heavy topic a little lighter.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a riveting World War II story that takes the reader back in time to a historic and horrific era. Abby Stapleton leaves her home in London to reside in the United States at the insistence of her father, who sees the dangers of impending war in Europe. She falls in love with Jim, an employee on her aunt and uncle’s estate, who is drafted into the U.S. Army and is sent to the battlefront. While Jim faces the peril of possible death, Abby is threatened with the loss of everything dear to her by a scheming suitor she rejects.

This novel delves deep into the hearts of those who endured World War II, both the horrors of battle and the interminable waiting of those at home who longed for word from their loved ones. The story is authenticated by the author’s research, which enabled her to reconstruct the fears, doubts, homesickness, and faith of a soldier in combat.

Pat Jeanne Davis also portrays well the restrictions imposed on civilians during this war-time era. Her use of descriptive detail revealed some facts about this period in history that were new to me and brought to light the destructive aftermath of an enemy attack. Her strong characterization provided a basis for tension and a triumph of good over evil achieved through faith, courage, loyalty, and love.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-researched story set during World War II with the elements of intrigue, romance, tension, and strong characterization. Some lapses in time jolted me out of the story a bit, but not enough to distract me from the overall flow of the novel.

I received a complimentary copy of When Valleys Bloom Again and have provided an honest review based on my reading experience, which I thoroughly enjoyed.