Look to the East

The Great War #1

by Maureen Lang

At the dawn of the First World War, the French provincial village of Briecourt is isolated from the battles, but the century-old feud between the Toussaints and the de Colvilles still rages in the streets. When the German army sweeps in to occupy the town, families on both sides of the feud must work together to protect stragglers caught behind enemy lines. Julitte Toussaint may have been adopted from a faraway island, but she feels the scorn of the de Colvilles as much as anyone born a Toussaint. So when she falls in love with one of the stragglers—a wealthy and handsome Belgian entrepreneur—she knows she’s playing with fire. Charles Lassone hides in the cellar of the Briecourt church, safe from the Germans for the moment. But if he’s discovered, it will bring danger to the entire village and could cost Charles his life. First in a three-book series.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian, Fiction, Historical, World War I

368 pages, Paperback

First published August 22, 2009

About the author

Maureen Lang

Maureen Lang has always had a passion for writing. She wrote her first novel longhand around the age of 10, put the pages into a notebook she had covered with soft deerskin (nothing but the best!), then passed it around the neighborhood to rave reviews. It was so much fun she's been writing ever since.

Most of her books are historical, with an emphasis on faith and romance.

Reviews

[Heather C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a series that I have been dying to read for awhile because it is set during The Great War (WWI) and I have not read anything set during that era. I have had books 2 and 3 but was having a difficult time finding book 1. I can honestly say that this was worth the wait!

This book takes place in a small village in France where the villagers had a feud like the Hatfields and the McCoys. Throughout the book we meet characters from both sides of the feud and see them grow and come together during a time of great turmoil for their town. It shows how in the face of adversity things can be put aside for the time to deal with a greater issue.

This is a Christian fiction novel and the religiosity is upfront but not the absolute focus of the entire novel. The main character, Julitte, prays at many times throughout the novel but it is very fitting within the events they are going through. She questions God and how they could be put through such events. These are common occurrences during times of war and created a depth to her character and felt very fitting and believable to the setting.

The beginning of the novel was my only issue with the whole book. It was a little slow and awkward. I think it needed a little more in the exposition of introducing us to the characters. Once we get into the war period, the story comes together, it picks up and charges to the end. One of the strongest aspects of the novel is the emotions of the characters. You can vividly feel the fear, love, and internal struggles that they face and were the aspect that really helped suck you into the story.

The main character of book 2 is mentioned briefly in passing in this book and I can’t wait to find out more about her.

This book was received through a giveaway win from the Goodreads First Look Program - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.

[Elizabeth Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am new to Maureen Lang's writing, this is my 1st book from her "The Great War Series" ... can not wait to read more ... such a fan. What pulled me in 1st .. the cover. love it. I enjoy this kind of read, the time period of WWI ... got it thank to my Mom who has a public library and I borrow from her. It was in Large Print ... have you ever read large print? Reading goes so much quicker ... I guess that is the reason so many folks enjoy their kindle or nook (or other e-reader). I love holding a real book though, took it on a camping getaway and read it so quick. ( ;

Can't wait to read more from Maureen Lang very very soon.

[Tima · Rating 2 out of 5]

Julitte lives with her adopted family in the small village of Briecourt. Long before France went to war with the Germans, the town has been at war. Two families have been feuding since before any of them can remember. So when the Germans invade their town, the Toussaints and the de Colvilles must decide whether to unite against them or stay in their feud.

The book began by telling the story from two different view points; one of a Belgium man and the other from Julitte. It began slow and didn't pick up for me until about two thirds of the way through the book. But once it picked up I enjoyed the interaction between the villagers, the faith message, and a couple of the secondary characters. Most of the characters never really stood out to me, it was definitely more plot driven then character driven. This is a dark time in history and the author was able to convey the seriousness and hardships the villagers endured. There was a strong message of faith woven throughout the book, especially with the two main characters. Overall impression - In looking back after I finished the book, I can say that I liked it. But since it took so long to pick up for me, I can see others quitting before they get that far. There were some questions for me that weren't filled in after finishing the story, holes in the plot. While not a favorite of mine, I think the author is talented and readers who enjoy that period in history will really enjoy this story.

I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Look to the East” by Maureen Lang is one of three novels in the Great War Series. This particular novel takes place in France in 1914. The little village of Briecourt is located near the Belgian border. There are two family factions in this village, the Toussaints and the deCovilles, neither of the two trusts the other and it has been this way for centuries. The families are not even sure why the feud is ongoing. Even though this village is very small and seemingly nonconsequential it is eventually occupied by the Germans, trapping a Belgian businessman behind enemy lines. Trying to get back to the border, Charles Lassone hides in the church at Briecourt and is eventually discovered by the lovely Juliette Toussaint. Living with daily deprivations and trying to stay out of sight of the Germans, Juliette and Charles become romantically involved. There are at least ten men being hidden by the villagers and eventually some are smuggled out and make it back to their lines. Charles cannot forget Juliette and comes back to rescue her before the German army can decimate the town in its retreat. It is impossible to know whom to trust amongst the townspeople.

I loved this book. I especially enjoy all novels set in World War II times and this one proved to be dangerously exciting and enjoyable to read. I recommend this book highly. I was sent a print copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in return for my honest review.

You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-h6. Other reviews can be found at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.

[Casey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book definitely takes you into that period of history that was so rife with conflict. The characters are put into situations that you know and understand the difficulties. Tension and drama abound in the war-torn setting.

I would have liked more dialogue. At times I became lost in all the introspection or description and would have really liked to “live” the story more through the dialogue between characters.

I did enjoy the love story between the hero and heroine. As the interest between the two of them grew and as they had to sneak about to keep it hidden from enemy soldiers, I couldn’t help but feel for their struggles.

The ending is well done and sweet. I honestly did not know how they were going to get out of their seemingly hopeless situation. The tension was strong and I held my breath for those final pages and as I got closer and closer to the end I was nervous about how it would close. It was more than satisfying.

Aside from being confusing and a bit wordy at times, it’s a good historical story that I think history buffs more than anything will enjoy.

This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.

[Brooke Barenfanger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Look to the East was a book with a solid plot. It also showed that the author did much research about World War II. Look to the East was the winner of Inspirational Reader's Choice contest, so I expected it to be good. Sadly, I was disappointed. It had no amazing points to it. At times, it dragged on horribly because the characters had the same worries over and over again with no resolution until the very end.

The only thing that stood out to me was that Julitte, one of the main characters, seemed to have visions of heaven when somebody died. Charles, the man Julitte falls in love with, is a weak character. He starts out as weak, perhaps becomes a bit more honorable during the middle, and ends out being only slightly stronger in the reader's mind than before. But not much.

Herman Melville said that "To have a mighty book one must have a mighty theme". I could not find the theme in this book. Nor could I find the might.

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A village under seige. A love under fire.
FRANCE, 1914
The small village of Briecourt may be isolated from early battles of World War I, but a century-old feud between the de Colvilles and Toussaints rages in the streets. Despite being adopted as a child, Julitte Toussaint endures the scorn of the de Colvilles more than most, given the folklore surrounding her heritage.Then everything changes the day the German army sweeps in to occupy Briecourt, trapping a handful of outsiders behind enemy lines, including Belgian entrepreneur Charles Lassone. When Julitte discovers Charles hiding in the church basement, an unexpected and dangerous love blossoms between them.
But heroes aren’t made in cellars. Eager to join the Allied forces—and prove himself worthy of Julitte’s love—Charles convinces the de Colvilles and the Toussaints to finally work together to smuggle him out.Yet with the life of every villager on the line, who can be trusted? And when the line between ally and enemy is blurred, will faith and courage be enough to sustain them all?From August to October 1914, the German army seized most of the Belgian territory, as well as large areas of northeastern France. It faced the hostility of the civilian population,due to the destruction, humiliation, and massacres which accompanied the invasion.Networks were also set up early on to help Allied soldiers, escape.Hidden in the forests or secretly hosted by local people, hundreds of military personnel were helped by escape lines to cross the Dutch border or, more rarely, to pass to Switzerland.The network in which the British nurse Edith Cavell was active also facilitated the escape of young Belgian and French volunteers, eager to enlist, and workers whose skills could contribute to the allied war effort.The geostrategic context of the Great War saw the development of a very particular form of resistance, namely clandestine postal services.All resistance endured until the end of the war,but the length of the conflict, the increasing operational difficulties and the harshness of the occupier's repression generally limited full commitment by the occupied population.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raised by a loving adopted family, Julitte Toussaint nevertheless struggles with her identity and place in Briecourt, a small town bitterly divided by a decades-old feud pitting Toussaint against de Colville. But in the first weeks of the conflict that would come to be known as the Great War, Toussaint and de Colville alike find themselves bidding farewell to fathers, sons, and brothers, called upon by a common love of country to fight the encroaching menace of the German army. Despite sharing a common enemy and worry for imperiled loved ones, the bitter partisanship that divides the town continues to rage unabated -- until the fateful day the war comes home to Briecourt in the form of German soldiers. And thus the citizens of Briecourt are faced with a greater threat than the prejudices that have for so long divided neighbor against neighbor -- soldiers who demand obedience, who commandeer supplies, and seek to keep a frightened populace under control with an iron hand.

The occupation becomes something more than simple survival when Julitte stumbles upon the town's greatest secret -- hidden refugees, including wealthy, handsome Belgian businessman Charles Lassone, caught behind enemy lines before he was able to return to his homeland and join his countrymen in their fight against Germany. The attraction between them is immediate, giving Julitte hope of not only a future following the war but of a life free from the shadow of her past. However, Charles isn't content to sit out the war in hiding, and bolstered by his love for Julitte and inspired by her faith in a God who would have a plan for even his dissolute life, he determines to escape Briecourt and join the Allies. But in a town physically occupied by the enemy and spiritually divided by a poisonous prejudice, Charles's risky bid for freedom threatens to destroy more than his hope for a future with Julitte...

Maureen Lang's The Great War series has been on my radar for quite some time. She's one of the first inspirational-market authors in my experience to explore the rich history of the first World War, which is a natural extension of my fascination with the second World War, as the roots of that later conflict were first birthed in the horror of the trenches. And thanks to the popularity of Edwardian era set programs such as Downton Abbey and most recently, Mr. Selfridge, Lang's fiction set during this time period is surely poised for fans new and old alike to discover her evocative, poignant portrait of ordinary people struggling to survive extraordinary times.

While the passage of time is a bit too fluid for my liking -- the novel covers approximately two years, but the actual passage of time is only remarked on in the haziest of terms -- Lang's setting and depiction of the struggles of an occupied people are one of the novel's greatest strengths. I was powerfully reminded of a recent miniseries I discovered -- Monsignor Renard, a Masterpiece production detailing the travails of a French town under Nazi occupation. In both book and film the terrific strain the townspeople were forced to endure, the overwhelming force brought to bear to keep a subjugated people in line are powerfully told -- the means not always involving outright brutality, but more often than not psychological warfare, instilling in the conquered a paralyzing fear of action -- anything to avoid reprisals. The suspicion Julitte's best friend, Ori, faces for collaboration is a particularly effective illustration of the manner in which the occupiers could break a people's will -- by tearing the fabric of trust between family and friends. The long-standing feud Lang puts in play adds another layer of conflict, as the lack of any true community in Julitte's hometown is the first front in the war she and her neighbors must wage if they are to survive.

I loved Julitte and Charles's romance -- achingly sweet, replete with stolen glances and dreamed-of kisses, but stitched through with a refreshingly genuine, honest exploration of spiritual matters and the importance (initially on Julitte's side alone) of a shared faith. Charles is a particularly well-drawn hero, as his struggle to define himself outside the parameters of his family's name and wealth and the accompanying life of privilege he so enjoys is sorely tested by the advent of war and its rapid destruction of his high-minded ideals regarding the conflict. The stark reality of probable, imminent death forces Charles to confront not only what he believes about patriotism but himself and his goals and purpose in life -- heretofore directionless without the grounding of the faith his sister and Julitte so fervently share. And while I loved Julitte's gentle spirit and quiet faith, one aspect of her characterization was troubling -- the to my mind unnecessary inclusion of the townspeople's belief that she is some sort of miracle-worker. It wasn't explored in great enough depth to really substantively further ostracize Julitte (any moreso than her status as adopted Toussaint, child of a leper colony). That aside, Julitte's struggle to reconcile the tenets of her faith with the evil and hardship she encounters under German occupation is among the freshest, most honest illustrations of a believer grappling with the unthinkable in fiction of this ilk.

Look to the East is a fascinating glimpse into a world at war and its impact on the lives of a handful of ordinary citizens called to make extraordinary sacrifices. Lang's research is stellar, transporting readers to a world under siege, where an entire way of life undergoes irrevocable change in the crucible of war. With clear, articulate prose and a deft hand weaving matters of faith, doubt, and identity throughout, through Julitte and Charles's experiences Lang weaves a rich tapestry detailing the French wartime experience. For that matter, it is so refreshing to read war-set fiction that focuses wholly on the everyday European's experience (while Charles is half-American, it is an incidental plot point) -- so often American authors focus on the wartime experiences of Americans (understandably so). I fell in love with the history and Lang's well-drawn characterizations -- with a tighter, more clearly articulated timeline and a more focused plot climax (Julitte's Greek grandfather is a poorly-conceived deus ex machina in an otherwise carefully-meted story arc), I have high hopes for my future experiences delving into Lang's crisp prose and lovingly-crafted, relatable characters.

[Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a bit disappointed with some things as with all the Scripture and prayer and talk of God and His miracles I anticipated a plot more in keeping with Biblical tenets.

I struggled with the inclusion of these:

Julitte sneaks off to spend unaccompanied time with Charles, she is careful not to lie about her whereabouts but doesn’t seem to care about the deception and disobedience to Father Bernabé who forbade her to go to the cellar, nor the fact that she’s alone with a young man

While alone Julitte and Charles share several passionate kisses and there is hinted a temptation to carry it further

Ori is out til wee hours daily; it insinuated that she is sleeping with a German officer, there is more talk about her being a traitor than there is about the sexual impurity

Ori and Julitte are nearly raped several times, just intense and credible but adult material that could cause trauma for some readers

Julitte dines with German officer and though he is Christian it is insinuated that he wants to have sex with her that evening

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in 1914 Northern France, Julitte Tousaint lives in the small town of Briecourt. The First World War has just begun when the town is overrun by the Germans. Julitte stays busy taking care of her aunt Didi who is struggling with health issues. When she meets Charles an English man, sparks begin to fly between them, and Julitte's strong faith begins to change Charles as begins to know God. But will Julitte and Charles be able to develop their relationship or will he need to hide and try to leave to avoid being captured by the Germans?

Well written World War 1 novel that brought the tragedy of war to life in the small town of Briecourt, Northern France.

[Sandy Duke · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. I was disappointed. I liked the setting and appreciated the author's research, but there was just something missing in her character development. The characters seemed one dimensional. The plot plodded. Much more could have been done with the relationships between the feuding families and the struggle the main character had with her "gift".

[Mary Bronson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book. I enjoyed reading it. The beginning was a little slow, but the plot picked up through the middle of the book. I loved the characters of the story. Julitte and Charles are such great characters and I liked how the POV went back and forth between the two of them. I can not wait to continue the series.

[Elaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was interesting to read and see how people were treated in the war they were facing. Some parts were confusing until I figured out what she was going on. I thought it was a good book with being brave, fighting for their lives and keeping faith.

[writer... · Rating 4 out of 5]

excellent. suspense + romance. WWI
#bookbuddyathon 2017

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story, can't wait to read the next book!

[Scout Moellering · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another war novel! And prob the most impactful story of faith that’s actually a story. Huge recommend!

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of interviewing Maureen Lang, author of “Look To The East” which is the first book in The Great War series published by Tyndale House Publishers.

The book begins with Charles Lassone meeting Julitte Toussaint in the little village of Briecourt in Northern France in August of 1914, the beginning of World War I. Charles is going home to his native Belgium to fight for the King yet he never makes it out of France and has to retreat back to Briecourt for sanctuary and to see Julitte again. However by this time Briecourt has been overrun by the Germans and Charles, as well as a few other survivors, are hidden all over the town.

The town of Briecourt is unique in that the two major families, the Toussaints and the de Colvilles are feuding families and have been for so long that the current generation doesn't know why. The war between these two families in this town is a microcosm of the war going on across the world.

In addition to this being a romance between Charles and Julitte there is also the wonderful theme of waiting on God effectively woven throughout the storyline. With the Germans taking everything from them food is scarce and they are beginning to starve, yet the whole town is praying for deliverance and it doesn't seem to come. It takes faith to believe in God when it seems as though He isn't listening or is delaying to long. However, what Ms. Lang allows us to see is how God is working to bring His deliverance to the town and what is, seemingly, causing the delay. The people of Briecourt never really know where the deliverance comes from but we know and we cheer every single time.

This is a fun read, it is an interesting read with many themes that you will need to think about long after you finish the book. I do not recommend starting this book late at night because it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down. Ms. Lang is an excellent writer and knows how to twist your nerve endings as she tightens the suspense. We look forward to book two which is coming soon.

If you missed the interview for “Look To The East” and would like to listen to it please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where it is available On Demand.

To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Look to the East by Maureen Lang
Tyndale House, 2009
345 pages
Inspirational Historical Romance
3/5 stars
First in the Great War Series

Source: Library

Summary: Julitte lives in the small village Briecourt in France, which is soon invaded and taken over by Germans in 1914. In the cellar of the local church, she discovers Charles, a Belgian in hiding from the Germans. Will she have the faith in God to survive this terrible war?

When I've read other Christian historical romances, I've found it helpful to break the book down and look at each genre separately because that's how I think about them as I read.

Historical: The historical aspects were very strong, in my opinion the best part. While the story opens in a peaceful small village in northern France, war soon begins and the Germans occupy leading to privation that only gets more extreme as the book goes from 1914 to the middle of 1916. I don't know as much about WWI as I do about WWII but everything seemed on target. I could feel the hunger that gripped the population and the fear from being occupied and from not knowing what was going on with loved ones at the front.

Religion: There is a lot of God talk in this book, definitely not recommended for any non-Christians. It is believed in the village that Julitte has been gifted with miraculous powers and that her prayer is more powerful. Additionally Julitte is a faithful Christian who prays a lot especially as the war drags on and she is separated from her love. She sees so much death even among a civilian and her only recourse is to turn to God. I liked that one of the Germans is also able to express his faith and hope for an end to the war. While most of the Germans are painted as villains (obviously), there were some nuances.

Romance: This was the part that was weakest for me and I didn't particularly care for either Julitte or Charles. I appreciated that their romance took some time to grow although it was an instant attraction kind of love. They talked with each other and she encouraged his faith, which was nice to see. His determination to be a "hero" annoyed me as it seemed foolhardy and maybe not even what God wanted (not everyone's a hero).

The End: I'm not sure I entirely buy it. SPOILER: Did Ori sell out the hidden men or how were they discovered? The change to safety occurred so rapidly as Charles returns to spying and Julitte goes off to rediscover her family.

Overall: This book never clicked for me. I don't know if it was something about Julitte's character or maybe Charles's but despite the many things I liked about it, I feel only neutral towards the book as a whole.

[GothChickVibing · Rating 1 out of 5]

Title: Look to the East.

Author: Maureen Lang.

Genre: Christian, Romance, Historical Fiction.

Plot: Stuck in a tree, Julitte Toussaint finds herself meeting the handsome Charles in a very awkward way when her tin box goes crashing down on his head. The wealthy young man, half American and half Belgium, is intent on going the Belgium army as World War One begins but when his car is commandeered, Charles wanders around the forested countryside of France, eventually befriending a French officer named Pepin and getting it into his head to take refuge in the village where he meet the pretty girl in the tree. Meanwhile, Julitte soon finds her hands full when her village is taken over by the Germans and the squabbling Toussaints and de Colvilles are forced to temporarily set aside their quarrels.

Born on a distant island to an American father and a Greek mother, and then adopted by Narcisse Toussaint, Julitte feels the de Colvilles’ contempt. She is isolated in the little isolated village and rumors fly about the village concerning her, all more or less false. When Julitte finds Charles hiding in the church basement, the whole situation dramatically alters.

Likes/Dislikes: While this is Christian and the characters do all pray which is nice, and while it is set in France during the First World War, this book came across to me more as a glorified romance than a historical fiction. When I read historical fiction, I read it for the historical portion written in an engaging style; if I wanted romance or plain old fiction I could get that anywhere. I also didn’t feel a connection with the characters: Charles spent the first half of the book a crowd and bemoaning his cowardice while I never felt the least connection to Julitte. In all her scenes, she just seemed so out of it. The plot also dragged a little and I lost interest halfway through it. All in all, a disappointing book and waste of my time.

Rating: PG-15 and up for content {none of which was graphic thankfully, only suggestive of violence} and reading level.

Date Report Written: July 8, 2011.

I received this book free from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in the above review are my own.

[Arminzerella · Rating 2 out of 5]

Julitte is the adopted daughter of Narcisse Toussaint, who brought her home from a leper colony somewhere off the Greek isles when she was just a girl. Despite her beauty, her faith, and her rosy health, however, many of the townsfolk continue to believe that she is dirty, diseased, and somehow contaminated by her origins. When war comes to France, Julitte and her neighbors take a great burden and risk upon themselves to hide several soldiers from the Germans who take over their town. Among them is Charles Lassone, a wealthy Belgian-American who sees beyond Julitte’s past and hopes to be part of her future. But before they can come together, they must survive the German occupation, and World War I. Charles makes a daring escape, and then an even more daring return to save Julitte.

This has a rather intriguing beginning (beautiful woman in the French countryside with inauspicious beginnings who attracts the attention of a handsome stranger passing through), and then about 25 pages in we’re hit with Julitte’s faith – which comes down like a sledgehammer. Up until this point there’s been no mention of how religious she is, or how the other townspeople look to her for miracles. It’s a little overwhelming. Too much is made of the feud between the two prominent families of Briecourt – the Toussaints and the de Colvilles (at least at the beginning). But this feud never really manifests itself in any meaningful way and could just as well have been left out without affecting the story. The real tension is between the Germans and the townsfolk, and in this Maureen Lang does well – describing their privations, the Germans’ cruelty, the untenable position of the single women left behind (and the temptations they present to the soldiers). The religious/inspirational elements of this book were a little over the top for me – too many references to god, prayer, praying, faith, etc. It seemed unbelievable/unrealistic, which could be due to my being non-religious. I found these constant references to be distracting to the point that they detracted from my enjoyment of the story.

[Gayle Pace · Rating 4 out of 5]

REVIEW

Setting: World War I.

The Toussaints and de Colvilles have been feuding forever. The setting is a little village of Briecourt France. As the enemy enters the village they take homes, food, clothing and practically everything they could grab. The town was completely alone from the rest of France. Being a village that is alone, the townspeople begin to look into how to defend themselves as they depend on each other.They find people that have been detained behind the enemy lines and they hide them. They even helped them to escape to different places in order to save themselves. Will this work? Have they done this in time?

The Church has a stranger in hiding, Charles Lassone, a Belgian entrepreneur. Juliette Toussaint is an outcast in the village but is adopted. She begins to help Charles and discovers she in falling in love. She helps him to escape to France to warn the people. This is where the Germans are camped. As she does this she is filled with hate and hunger. Will it be too late or will the village survive?

The author has given the reader a lovely picture of France's country. You visualize the villagers who live a simple life. If you love history, a little romance, knights in shining armor and war, then you will go on an adventure that you won't forget for some time.
The reader will be taken in by Charles and Juliett from starting the first page. The reader will find that the story isn't one you can figure out from the start. True this is fiction and usually you can figure fiction out by at least half way through, but not this one. The author has woven a web that keeps the reader turning the pages needing to know what is next. The one thing that really stayed with me through the book was 'fighting for your freedom'. To me that's not just the freedom of the land, but your own personal freedom. The author went right to the core of the reader's heart with this book. You can't help but become totally into this book.

I received this book from Tyndale House Awards.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of the east comes a terror that will attempt to destroy the world.

At the dawn of World War I, the village of Briecourt is nestled in relative safety. That all changes when the German Imperial Army marches in and takes over. Life will never be the same for the villagers, who have had a family dispute for generations. Will having a common enemy finally bring them together? Julitte Toussaint, the adoptive daughter of a seaman, has to withstand the scorn of the de Colvilles for the shadows of her past. When she finds an unexpected "visitor" hiding in the cellar of the church, she feels the pull of love for this man she hardly knows. Charles Lassone is a Belgian entrepreneur caught behind enemy lines. He longs for escape so that he can join the Allies cause and win the respect and love of Julitte. With a dispute running so rampant, who can be trusted? The difference between friends and foes could not become more complicated.

This is both the first book that I have read by Maureen Lang and my first book set during World War I. Unfortunately, The Great War is not always as popular of a topic as its "sequel" is. Labor camps were in full effect during this period and the Germans were just as ruthless. The difference in time period wouldn't seem so drastic, but, I learned that they didn't believe it was safe to drop soldiers from planes during 1916. The tactics and methods were much more advanced come time for World War II. I became very emotionally attached to the characters. Their fight for freedom had me cheering them on with every turn of the page. Something that Julitte learns is that God sometimes uses us in ways that we can't explain, to ourselves or to others. He will work everything out, even if it's not how we had it planned. There is still evil in the world because God gave us a free will. But He will not abandon us. We must keep our eyes on Him and our hope in His promises.

I received a free copy of Look to the East from Tyndale House Publishers through their Tyndale Rewards Program. I was not required write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the dawn of the First World War, the French provincial village of Briecourt is isolated from the battles, but the century-old feud between the Toussaints and the de Colvilles still rages in the streets. When the German army sweeps in to occupy the town, families on both sides of the feud must work together to protect stragglers caught behind enemy lines.

Julitte Toussaint may have been adopted from a faraway island, but she feels the scorn of the de Colvilles as much as anyone born a Toussaint. So when she falls in love with one of the stragglers—a wealthy and handsome Belgian entrepreneur—she knows she’s playing with fire. Charles Lassone hides in the cellar of the Briecourt church, safe from the Germans for the moment. But if he’s discovered, it will bring danger to the entire village and could cost Charles his life.

In the novel, Look to the East by Maureen Lang, the reader is whisked away to France at the dawn of the First World War with tale between war families much like the Monteques and Capulets from Romeo and Juliet. This is a tale of war, secrets and love that can be found in the most unlikely of places.

I received this book compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and have to rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars. The storyline is difficult to get into at the beginning but perseverance will lead to a captivating tale of romance set among the horrors of a war.

[Margaret Chind · Rating 3 out of 5]

*This is a review of an ARC version.*

Maureen Lang has a great way with words to weave into a story. I enjoyed this book. Historical Fiction is my favorite genre, although I like to stay in the happier romances. This book was filled to the brim of chill-bump romance and true love, but the entire tone of the book was sad and cold because of the war background setting. For me that brought the book down a couple stars, but that is only my book preference. As far as the character likability, the main characters Julitte and Charles were fabulous and extremely amiable. The antagonists both German and French were highly detestable. Emotions really run rampant with this novel and it reads almost like a two person diary. In my opinion, Maureen is an author to be watched. I just personally need to stick to happier time periods, yet even with that said, I will definitely be looking for the sequels to this series. The peace of God highly showed through in the characters thoughts and actions, and those that needed to grow were shown with heightening strength. Even the characters that were to "fall" as a reader you find yourself thinking of prayers for similar people in your life. It was a very powerful read, and besides the devastation of war a fabulous story.

[Janna Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maureen Lang has written some good books. I enjoyed "On Sparrow Hill" which was a nice blend of historical and modern and then "My Sister Dilly" was a women's fiction with heart. But now she brings us "Look to the East", the first in The Great War series and I am very excited. While there seem to be lots of historicals written during WWII, I don't seem to find many that take place during WWI. This series looks like it will fill a gap in that era. And if "Look to the East" is any indication, then I think it will be a great addition to WWI historicals.

Julitte lives in a tiny village in France that has been split for generations by a Hatfield/McCoy type feud. She is the adopted daughter on one side of the feud and we meet up with her as the war has broken out and her father has already left to fight and her brother is leaving. She stays in the village and gets involved in hiding some soldiers from the Germans after their village is taken over. A couple years pass and now could Julitte have an effect on winning the war?

I really enjoyed this book, the characters and especially the era and setting. Very good and I really look forward to book two and seeing where Maureen will take us next in WWI.

[Gaile · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a christian romance with much praying, many references to God and his help in human affairs.
Julitte Toussaint adopted from an island near Greece when her parents died is unaware that her very wealthy grandparents living in Greece are hunting for her. Living in the small village of Briecourt in France, she meets Charles Lassone who is caught behind enemy lines and has to live in hiding before deciding to escape using the route of smugglers.
The line is very well done. The descriptions of the war, the occupation, the lack of food, fear of the soldiers patrolling the street also well done. Characterization is excellent.
Although Julitte is warned against falling in love with Charles, her faith sustains her through everything.
In spite of the religion in this book, I have given it four stars because it is well written. The author never mentions the name of the religion Julitte has. I will say like the other christian books I read that novels like these were common before the 1960s. They were not placed in a christian category as now. A character's faith was considered to be part of the character.

[Holly (2 Kids and Tired) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adopted as a child, young Julitte Toussaint grew up in a small French village. A century-old fued between her family and the deColvilles divides their small town. As World War 1 begins, the Germans invade Briecourt and the villagers hide some refugees. When Julitte falls in love with Charles Lassone, a Belgian trapped behind the German lines, she knows that danger awaits the village if he's discovered. As the war progresses and the Germans become more entrenched in Briecourt, Julitte must rely on her faith in God to see her through.

A simply charming novel, with characters you like and others you don't. Julitte is sweet, her faith is strong. Charles is the hero, returning to rescue the woman he loves, after finding freedom himself. Claudette and her selfishness make you angry and you feel a bit sorry for Ori, even as you distrust her for falling in love with one of the Germans.

A fast, easy read that captures your attention and leaves you anxious for the next book in the series.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book based on the First World War. The story takes place in Northern France, in a small Village Briecourt. I felt like I was at the Village, with the pictures Maureen Lang presented. Maybe sitting at the Well, and smelling the scents coming from Uncle Guys Bakery...sounds like a lovely place to live back in the early 1900's. The feud that has been going on as long as anyone can remember separates the villagers...the Toussaints and the de Colvilles...it didn't sound like anyone even remember why, but it still existed.
The character of Julitte Toussaint was like a breath of fresh air, she was willing to do whatever the Lord put on her heart. Loved how she shared her God with all who were willing to receive Him.
The story does offer some great surprises,a beautiful Love story, and is a delightful read.
I was provided with a copy of this book by the Publisher Tyndale, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Lyndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

The subject of this book, being in the WW1 time period wasnt a big pull for me, as it is a depressing subject. Nor did the cover attrack me to this book. But seeing it from the point of view from the villages that the Germans took over was one I had not thought about before. So that in itself was good for me. I looked at the next 2 books and I am not sure if these characters are in it. One is about Charles' sister. I got the 2nd one for free from B & N awhile back, since I have it, I will read it, but it sounds like it is going to be similar to this. I liked it ok, but not sure if I would go as far as recommending it to anyone. Nor would I re-read it. Maybe because there are more books in the series will you actually find out what happens to the characters, as it didnt end really.
First book for me by this author. And this particular book didnt make me want to go out and read everything by her.

[Nancy]

My favorite genre is historical fiction with emphasis on WWII. One of the dangers of reading about war, of course, is being bombarded with soldier-talk which usually includes content I'd rather not use or hear, including a lot of "f" words. Lang uses her colorful language to articulate the story and dialogue without having to pepper the reader with other colorful language I would rather not read without changing the tone of the truth that war is ugly and people do not act the way they would during times of peace.

The feuding families was a small distraction to me. I much preferred to read about the occupation, hiding the soldiers and the treatment of soldiers and townspeople alike. I am always enlightened when I read about heroes in war who do the humane thing, risking life and limb for a stranger. In this book, the Christlike deeds go both directions.

Interesting story. Well written.