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Wings of Glory #2
A Memory Between Us
Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge--until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she carries a shameful secret that keeps her from giving her heart to any man. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?
A Memory Between Us is the second book in the WINGS OF GLORY series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II.
A Memory Between Us is the second book in the WINGS OF GLORY series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II.
432 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2010
254 people are currently reading
2538 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Sundin
20 books3,519 followersSarah Sundin enjoys writing about the drama and romance of the World War II era. She is the bestselling author of Midnight on the Scottish Shore (February 2025) and Embers in the London Sky (2024). Her novels have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Booklist. Until Leaves Fall in Paris received the 2022 Christy Award, The Sky Above Us won the 2020 Carol Award, The Sound of Light was a finalist for both the Christy Award and the Carol Award, and When Twilight Breaks and The Land Beneath Us were Christy Award finalists.
A mother of three, Sundin lives in Southern California and teaches Sunday school and women's Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as program director for the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.
A mother of three, Sundin lives in Southern California and teaches Sunday school and women's Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as program director for the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
June 28, 2024
2024 reread:
This book still has content that was hard to read, and it still has a message I need to hear. I love how Sundin tackled how ugly pride can be without looking all that bad on the surface.
2014 Review:
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up for romance, violence, and thematic elements
Best for Ages: 18 and up
I was having a really rough day and didn’t feel like doing anything. I was trying to push through the mountain of work I had to do, but it just wasn’t working. Mom called to me to check my email, so I opened it up. There was an email saying she had gifted me the second book in Sarah Sundin’s Wings of Glory series. The rest of the day I spent reading this amazing story.
The only thing that kept me from loving the book as much as the last one was Ruth’s very tough past, and once scene where she is almost taken advantage of. Nothing was graphic, and for the subject matter covered, I felt Sundin handled it very well. However, those types of thing are never easy to read, no matter how well they are handled.
I don’t think a fiction book has touched my heart as much as this one has in years. Jack and I have a sad trait in common; we are both very prideful, but often we can’t see it. I spent a lot of time while I was reading and afterword praying and examining myself. Sundin tackles issues in her books that Christian’s struggle with, but often paint as acceptable sins. I applaud and thank her for not shying away from the big issues.
Jack was my favorite character in this book. I wasn’t sure I was going to like the ladies-man of the family. As I said, though, he and I have some failings in common. Jack grew on me with each page. I loved watching him change and mature. I still like Walt best, but Jack also now has a special place in my heart.
Ruth was such a broken girl, my heart went out to her. I loved her loyalty to her family and her journey from doubt to faith. It seemed so realistic. My only thing I didn’t understand is why her instructors/boss’ never seemed to believe her when she said one of the men was giving her issues. She seemed very trustworthy, and they are always talking about what a good nurse she is, but for some reason they get mad if she says a guy is treating her wrong.
This story was one of those you never want to put down. I started reading, and I didn’t stop until midnight when I read the last page. The backdrop of WWII makes this story even more compelling. It was one of those rare books where faith, not romance, took the center stage, even though the romance is a huge part of the book.
I highly recommend this book to those who like compelling stories, tales of God’s grace and redemption, and books that make you think.
This book still has content that was hard to read, and it still has a message I need to hear. I love how Sundin tackled how ugly pride can be without looking all that bad on the surface.
2014 Review:
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up for romance, violence, and thematic elements
Best for Ages: 18 and up
I was having a really rough day and didn’t feel like doing anything. I was trying to push through the mountain of work I had to do, but it just wasn’t working. Mom called to me to check my email, so I opened it up. There was an email saying she had gifted me the second book in Sarah Sundin’s Wings of Glory series. The rest of the day I spent reading this amazing story.
The only thing that kept me from loving the book as much as the last one was Ruth’s very tough past, and once scene where she is almost taken advantage of. Nothing was graphic, and for the subject matter covered, I felt Sundin handled it very well. However, those types of thing are never easy to read, no matter how well they are handled.
I don’t think a fiction book has touched my heart as much as this one has in years. Jack and I have a sad trait in common; we are both very prideful, but often we can’t see it. I spent a lot of time while I was reading and afterword praying and examining myself. Sundin tackles issues in her books that Christian’s struggle with, but often paint as acceptable sins. I applaud and thank her for not shying away from the big issues.
Jack was my favorite character in this book. I wasn’t sure I was going to like the ladies-man of the family. As I said, though, he and I have some failings in common. Jack grew on me with each page. I loved watching him change and mature. I still like Walt best, but Jack also now has a special place in my heart.
Ruth was such a broken girl, my heart went out to her. I loved her loyalty to her family and her journey from doubt to faith. It seemed so realistic. My only thing I didn’t understand is why her instructors/boss’ never seemed to believe her when she said one of the men was giving her issues. She seemed very trustworthy, and they are always talking about what a good nurse she is, but for some reason they get mad if she says a guy is treating her wrong.
This story was one of those you never want to put down. I started reading, and I didn’t stop until midnight when I read the last page. The backdrop of WWII makes this story even more compelling. It was one of those rare books where faith, not romance, took the center stage, even though the romance is a huge part of the book.
I highly recommend this book to those who like compelling stories, tales of God’s grace and redemption, and books that make you think.
April 2, 2018
Oh my goodness! I've been impressed with the three other books by Sarah Sundin, but mainly because I love the setting. This one was absolutely astounding with the spiritual content and characters. I was swept away emotionally and loved both main characters equally.
Content wise, there is a very disturbing scene concerning Ruth. She also has a past that is pretty awful. A few years ago this would have really bothered me, but reading about her emotions, about how she struggled with God's plan, I felt myself understanding why the author gave some details. I was close to tears when I realized the lessons that was being given. Are we willing to trust even when something bad happens to us? That is real test of faith!
Jack and Ruth's little rhyming game was so cute. And all their misunderstandings. And how they both had to trust in God at the end during situations that brought up their past. This had such a wonderful 40s feel (even more than her other books) and half the time I just wanted to hug the book :)
There are several kisses, a couple semi-detailed. Without those (and the other disturbing scene) I would have given this book a hearty 5 stars!
I recommend this book to readers 18/19+. Especially those who love a good 1940s, war story :)
Content wise, there is a very disturbing scene concerning Ruth. She also has a past that is pretty awful. A few years ago this would have really bothered me, but reading about her emotions, about how she struggled with God's plan, I felt myself understanding why the author gave some details. I was close to tears when I realized the lessons that was being given. Are we willing to trust even when something bad happens to us? That is real test of faith!
Jack and Ruth's little rhyming game was so cute. And all their misunderstandings. And how they both had to trust in God at the end during situations that brought up their past. This had such a wonderful 40s feel (even more than her other books) and half the time I just wanted to hug the book :)
There are several kisses, a couple semi-detailed. Without those (and the other disturbing scene) I would have given this book a hearty 5 stars!
I recommend this book to readers 18/19+. Especially those who love a good 1940s, war story :)
April 2, 2023
Sarah Sundin just amazes me every time with her stories that she spins. I have only read 3 of her novels so far, but she has become a new favorite author! I would read these books over and over again. I want to buy them and keep them on my shelves.
Jack and Ruth are like fire upon fire, fighting each other but getting nowhere, until God. The faith content in these books is so perfect. Trust in God is the main theme of this story. Can we trust that God is good even when our circumstances are not? Can we trust Him to care for us?
I love the touch of humor this series has! It made me smile and laugh. But, the serious subjects this book touches on are very well done. How do you move past hurts in your life that have scarred you forever without the help of our heavenly Father?
I cannot wait to read the next book!
Jack and Ruth are like fire upon fire, fighting each other but getting nowhere, until God. The faith content in these books is so perfect. Trust in God is the main theme of this story. Can we trust that God is good even when our circumstances are not? Can we trust Him to care for us?
I love the touch of humor this series has! It made me smile and laugh. But, the serious subjects this book touches on are very well done. How do you move past hurts in your life that have scarred you forever without the help of our heavenly Father?
I cannot wait to read the next book!
May 20, 2018
This review is tough for me to write. There were pieces of the story I enjoyed, such as the spiritual journeys of defeating pride and gaining trust in the Lord. Yet, there were many more things that I disliked and cannot support. Those aspects overshadowed the majority of this story for me, dropping my rating by a couple of stars.
The sexual content was thick in this one. It made me uncomfortable at times, was awkward at others, and was dispersed throughout the entirety of the story. It included innuendos, groping, rape, and crude comments. Kissing was a main and heavy theme, including its being a main goal for one of the lead characters. A joke about cross-dressing seemed out of place within the genre of Christian fiction to me.
Many times, bad language came into play. While there were no profanities that I noticed, there were at least two expletives, one expletive phrase, and another three or so cut off expletive phrases (which still inserted the bad words into my mind). Three derogatory terms about a woman were also present. Beyond that, there were many instances of replacement expletives, which seemed to be used in order to thicken the book and grunge up the dialogue. They came in little bursts from a character who otherwise did not use them. I failed to see what motivated him to do so in those instances or why he would break his own character and moral standards to use such vile word choices.
Other things that did not necessarily affect my rating: tobacco products, pubs and alcohol, and missing commas in direct address.
The featured topics of pride and trust were handled expertly. They came on subtly at first, then built up through the experiences in the story, cresting with the climactic trial for each of the lead characters. Those journeys were amazing to read about. I felt fully immersed in the leads’ struggles, as if I were living them out alongside Ruth and Jack.
One major plot point was completely predictable to me, as I saw it coming from the moment it was stated to be impossible. That did not cloak that moment at all for me, but I thought the way the twist was revealed was precious, mostly for the reactions of the other characters involved than the one whose fate was easily foreseen. The feelings those characters went through at that big reveal moment were pure, authentic, and completely believable. I only wish the “surprise” had been more cleverly disguised so that I could have been shocked into tears over it.
I loved the military aspects of the story. So rich in detail, they added an incredible amount of atmosphere to this adventure. I appreciated the glimpse into what it might have been like to serve as a pilot or nurse in the Army Air Forces during World War II. From the training and sexual abuse that nurses might have encountered to the below-freezing temperatures and mishaps in flight the pilots and crew must have endured at times, it seemed a little bit of everything was blended together fairly well to create a solid look into the past.
Though this series has not been one of my favorites, I can see how others may find it especially satisfying and entertaining. Several of my dear friends have enjoyed it, as I’m sure many other readers will too.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
The sexual content was thick in this one. It made me uncomfortable at times, was awkward at others, and was dispersed throughout the entirety of the story. It included innuendos, groping, rape, and crude comments. Kissing was a main and heavy theme, including its being a main goal for one of the lead characters. A joke about cross-dressing seemed out of place within the genre of Christian fiction to me.
Many times, bad language came into play. While there were no profanities that I noticed, there were at least two expletives, one expletive phrase, and another three or so cut off expletive phrases (which still inserted the bad words into my mind). Three derogatory terms about a woman were also present. Beyond that, there were many instances of replacement expletives, which seemed to be used in order to thicken the book and grunge up the dialogue. They came in little bursts from a character who otherwise did not use them. I failed to see what motivated him to do so in those instances or why he would break his own character and moral standards to use such vile word choices.
Other things that did not necessarily affect my rating: tobacco products, pubs and alcohol, and missing commas in direct address.
The featured topics of pride and trust were handled expertly. They came on subtly at first, then built up through the experiences in the story, cresting with the climactic trial for each of the lead characters. Those journeys were amazing to read about. I felt fully immersed in the leads’ struggles, as if I were living them out alongside Ruth and Jack.
One major plot point was completely predictable to me, as I saw it coming from the moment it was stated to be impossible. That did not cloak that moment at all for me, but I thought the way the twist was revealed was precious, mostly for the reactions of the other characters involved than the one whose fate was easily foreseen. The feelings those characters went through at that big reveal moment were pure, authentic, and completely believable. I only wish the “surprise” had been more cleverly disguised so that I could have been shocked into tears over it.
I loved the military aspects of the story. So rich in detail, they added an incredible amount of atmosphere to this adventure. I appreciated the glimpse into what it might have been like to serve as a pilot or nurse in the Army Air Forces during World War II. From the training and sexual abuse that nurses might have encountered to the below-freezing temperatures and mishaps in flight the pilots and crew must have endured at times, it seemed a little bit of everything was blended together fairly well to create a solid look into the past.
Though this series has not been one of my favorites, I can see how others may find it especially satisfying and entertaining. Several of my dear friends have enjoyed it, as I’m sure many other readers will too.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
August 12, 2015
Another great read from Sarah Sundin! :)
This was a very interesting story. I laughed, I cried... you know the drill. This book put me through the wringer! But it was so worth it. Great story. Lovable, though often frustratingly realistic, characters. I knew I was going to love Jack and I did -- flaws and all. And I really liked Ruth too. And May and Charlie? They were wonderful!
The journeys these characters took were not easy by any means, but they were necessary for the growth that I really enjoyed seeing take place. So, while it may be agonizing at times, don't give up! It all turns out well in the end and they are all better off for it.
One last thing: Due to certain content -- which was handled quite well, I must say (Kudos to Ms. Sundin for being realistic without being too explicit.) -- I recommend this book for more mature readers. There is discussion of a past rape that I wouldn't consider appropriate for younger readers, no matter how well it was handled.
This was a very interesting story. I laughed, I cried... you know the drill. This book put me through the wringer! But it was so worth it. Great story. Lovable, though often frustratingly realistic, characters. I knew I was going to love Jack and I did -- flaws and all. And I really liked Ruth too. And May and Charlie? They were wonderful!
The journeys these characters took were not easy by any means, but they were necessary for the growth that I really enjoyed seeing take place. So, while it may be agonizing at times, don't give up! It all turns out well in the end and they are all better off for it.
One last thing: Due to certain content -- which was handled quite well, I must say (Kudos to Ms. Sundin for being realistic without being too explicit.) -- I recommend this book for more mature readers. There is discussion of a past rape that I wouldn't consider appropriate for younger readers, no matter how well it was handled.
August 18, 2018
This book is completely AMAZING. I adore Jack and Ruth and their character journeys are emotional and inspirational, particularly Ruth’s. She had terrible things happen to her but rose above them. They also put a big grin on my face with their teasing!
I’m always blown away by the amount of research the author must do for her books, and this book is no exception!
I also love this quote: “Prayer takes you above the gray. It doesn’t always take it away.” (pg 238)
I’ve read this book several times and love it more each time. My favourite Sarah Sundin book (at least, so far!).
I’m always blown away by the amount of research the author must do for her books, and this book is no exception!
I also love this quote: “Prayer takes you above the gray. It doesn’t always take it away.” (pg 238)
I’ve read this book several times and love it more each time. My favourite Sarah Sundin book (at least, so far!).
June 30, 2016
SO good! I loved this one. I was on the edge of my seat for the last half, which was fine by me; the library bought the copy at my request, but it has holds, and expires tomorrow, so I needed to cram. I may regret it at 6:30 am, but right now I'm just feeling warm fuzzies and hoping to find my own copy soon.
So much for a coherent review. But I loved the foursome: Jack, Ruth, Charlie, and May...and it was great to have the little cameos of Walt and Allie from the first book.
So much for a coherent review. But I loved the foursome: Jack, Ruth, Charlie, and May...and it was great to have the little cameos of Walt and Allie from the first book.
October 15, 2022
A quick re-read of an old favorite of mine. Out of all Sundin's books, Ruth is one of the characters that has stayed with me the most. Every time I read her story I just want to give her a big hug, and Sundin writes her pain and struggles so gracefully. I adored reading about her friendship with May, and how much they leaned on each other. Grief and shame are big topics in this book, and I think they were written really well for the most part. And you can't go wrong with the historical details!
However, the romance in this book just was not my favorite. I really did not like Jack at all. He was annoying, rude, pushy, and at times downright cruel to Ruth. I think she forgave him far too quickly the first time around and instead of giving her some space and helping her heal as a friend, he jumps straight to a platonic marriage?? I'm sorry, but absolutely not.
If romance wasn't such a huge part of the plot I wouldn't rate this 3 stars, as I love everything else about this book, but I really did not like Jack and how he treated Ruth.
However, the romance in this book just was not my favorite. I really did not like Jack at all. He was annoying, rude, pushy, and at times downright cruel to Ruth. I think she forgave him far too quickly the first time around and instead of giving her some space and helping her heal as a friend, he jumps straight to a platonic marriage?? I'm sorry, but absolutely not.
If romance wasn't such a huge part of the plot I wouldn't rate this 3 stars, as I love everything else about this book, but I really did not like Jack and how he treated Ruth.
October 11, 2012
A opinião contêm SPOILERS
“Nas Asas da Memória” segundo livro da trilogia “Nas Asas da Glória” leva-nos de novo aos anos 40 do século XX e ao período conturbado da Segunda Guerra Mundial.
Desta vez, Sarah Sundin a história de Jack, irmão de Walter, j�� apresentado no livro anterior “Nas Asas do Amor” e de Ruth, uma jovem enfermeira que viveu tempos difíceis para aliviar o fardo dos pais. Acabando por ficar órfã e encarregue de oito irmãos, fez de tudo para os sustentar e devido a isso carrega um segredo vergonhoso.
Consumida pelo pecado que cometeu, não ambiciona nem namoros nem casamentos até ao dia em que Jack vai parar na sua enfermaria ferido. A relação entre os dois nasce e apesar das tentativas do major, a aversão de Ruth ao amor, o medo de ver descoberto o seu segredo íntimo faz com que feche o coração numa carapaça de ferro bem dura, que nem o maior amor de Jack consegue amolecer.
Mas não é só a protagonista que carrega culpa nos seus ombros. Jack por sua vez, não se sente inteiramente feliz pois, devido à família, sempre esteve dividido entre a vida militar e o sacerdócio. Envergonhado por nunca ter ouvido o chamamento de Deus, decidiu enveredar por uma carreira de piloto, mantendo um orgulho de ser um dos melhores a comandar as tropas em combate.
É logo a partir dos problemas pessoais das personagens que a minha birra com este livro começou. Achei ambos os protagonistas muito lamechas, sempre descontentes com a vida que tiveram.
Por um lado entendo bem o motivo de Ruth ser como é, muito tímida, fechada, não querendo entregar-se a ninguém, depois do que lhe aconteceu. Mas o facto de ter sido violada, não diminui as suas acções no passado! Para já, achei todo o “segredo vergonhoso” muito previsível, presumi logo que tinha sido violada. Bingo E depois toda aquela explicação de “eu sou a vítima, não tive culpa” também não caiu muito bem.
A sério então ela não tem dinheiro, aqui tudo bem, mas ah até dizem que eu beijo bem, vou montar um negócio de beijos, aos 13 anos (muito precoces estas jovens!) para ganhar uns trocos. Façam fila à porta se quiserem, ou tirem senha. Claro que não tardou muito até que alguns destes rapazes quisessem mais que um beijo.
Achei todo este motivo muito nem sei, sem qualquer sentido, a autora nem precisava de ter inventado o negócio dos beijos só para caracterizar uma personagem de frágil, magoada, atormentada pelo passado. Apenas a dor de perder ambos os pais e de ter de sustentar os irmãos serviria para mostrar o desinteresse de Ruth em relação ao amor. Mas claro que sendo este um romance cristão, tinha de haver algo polémico que mostrasse que todos pecamos e esperamos pelo perdão de Deus. Eu não tenho muita paciência para estas religiosidades e portanto esta parte foi um dos grandes problemas que tive com o livro. Mas o pior de tudo é que apesar de já ter sofrido no passado, Ruth volta-se a envolver num novo esquema para ganhar mais dinheiro! Que burra!
O começo do romance demorou muito para aparecer, só a partir da página 330 é que os protagonistas se entenderam, ou seja a 100 páginas do fim. E digo começo porque não há mais nada para além disso. Depois de juntos e tirando algumas páginas no final, não há cenas românticas. Que desilusão. Foi outro dos aborrecimentos deste livro, o amor dos dois apresentou-se como algo morno, sem emoção e principalmente sem química. Que livro mais sem sal
Concluindo, este segundo livro foi “um tiro ao lado” e achei-o bastante mais fraco que o primeiro. Mesmo assim aguardo pelo terceiro volume da trilogia “Nas Asas do amanhã” a ser publicado em 2013.
“Nas Asas da Memória” segundo livro da trilogia “Nas Asas da Glória” leva-nos de novo aos anos 40 do século XX e ao período conturbado da Segunda Guerra Mundial.
Desta vez, Sarah Sundin a história de Jack, irmão de Walter, j�� apresentado no livro anterior “Nas Asas do Amor” e de Ruth, uma jovem enfermeira que viveu tempos difíceis para aliviar o fardo dos pais. Acabando por ficar órfã e encarregue de oito irmãos, fez de tudo para os sustentar e devido a isso carrega um segredo vergonhoso.
Consumida pelo pecado que cometeu, não ambiciona nem namoros nem casamentos até ao dia em que Jack vai parar na sua enfermaria ferido. A relação entre os dois nasce e apesar das tentativas do major, a aversão de Ruth ao amor, o medo de ver descoberto o seu segredo íntimo faz com que feche o coração numa carapaça de ferro bem dura, que nem o maior amor de Jack consegue amolecer.
Mas não é só a protagonista que carrega culpa nos seus ombros. Jack por sua vez, não se sente inteiramente feliz pois, devido à família, sempre esteve dividido entre a vida militar e o sacerdócio. Envergonhado por nunca ter ouvido o chamamento de Deus, decidiu enveredar por uma carreira de piloto, mantendo um orgulho de ser um dos melhores a comandar as tropas em combate.
É logo a partir dos problemas pessoais das personagens que a minha birra com este livro começou. Achei ambos os protagonistas muito lamechas, sempre descontentes com a vida que tiveram.
Por um lado entendo bem o motivo de Ruth ser como é, muito tímida, fechada, não querendo entregar-se a ninguém, depois do que lhe aconteceu. Mas o facto de ter sido violada, não diminui as suas acções no passado! Para já, achei todo o “segredo vergonhoso” muito previsível, presumi logo que tinha sido violada. Bingo E depois toda aquela explicação de “eu sou a vítima, não tive culpa” também não caiu muito bem.
A sério então ela não tem dinheiro, aqui tudo bem, mas ah até dizem que eu beijo bem, vou montar um negócio de beijos, aos 13 anos (muito precoces estas jovens!) para ganhar uns trocos. Façam fila à porta se quiserem, ou tirem senha. Claro que não tardou muito até que alguns destes rapazes quisessem mais que um beijo.
Achei todo este motivo muito nem sei, sem qualquer sentido, a autora nem precisava de ter inventado o negócio dos beijos só para caracterizar uma personagem de frágil, magoada, atormentada pelo passado. Apenas a dor de perder ambos os pais e de ter de sustentar os irmãos serviria para mostrar o desinteresse de Ruth em relação ao amor. Mas claro que sendo este um romance cristão, tinha de haver algo polémico que mostrasse que todos pecamos e esperamos pelo perdão de Deus. Eu não tenho muita paciência para estas religiosidades e portanto esta parte foi um dos grandes problemas que tive com o livro. Mas o pior de tudo é que apesar de já ter sofrido no passado, Ruth volta-se a envolver num novo esquema para ganhar mais dinheiro! Que burra!
O começo do romance demorou muito para aparecer, só a partir da página 330 é que os protagonistas se entenderam, ou seja a 100 páginas do fim. E digo começo porque não há mais nada para além disso. Depois de juntos e tirando algumas páginas no final, não há cenas românticas. Que desilusão. Foi outro dos aborrecimentos deste livro, o amor dos dois apresentou-se como algo morno, sem emoção e principalmente sem química. Que livro mais sem sal
Concluindo, este segundo livro foi “um tiro ao lado” e achei-o bastante mais fraco que o primeiro. Mesmo assim aguardo pelo terceiro volume da trilogia “Nas Asas do amanhã” a ser publicado em 2013.
January 3, 2021
Well, I really enjoyed reading this second book in the Wings of Glory series by Sarah Sundin!
The cover is so perfect for the story! I really liked Ruth and Jack. And I thought it was sweet to have the reoccurring inside joke rhyming with moon, and June. As much as I liked these two main characters, my favorite characters would by far be their friends- Charlie and May! (this couple needs a book about them!)
I also thought that it was cool to hear more about Walt and Allie from the first book (love those two!)
The author of A Memory Between Us did an amazing job with this book, and I love her writing style so much!!! :) I am so looking forward to reading more books by Sarah Sundin!
I liked how each main character had a fear they overcome, and the message I received was of letting God have control and putting our trust in Him (Giving Him our worries and fears.)
This book dealt with some very hard topics including rape. And for this reason, I do NOT recommend this book to younger readers, or readers sensitive to this subject.
I was not bothered by the main character (Ruth) remembering her past, but when her past became a reality for her to overcome at the end of the book, that part bothered me. That is why I have such a hard time rating this book. On one hand it was a great book, but on the other, I felt like that last part (where both main characters had to face their fears- literally) I felt was unnecessary to the story. Too much detail for me. In other words, if my family were watching that last scene (involving Burnsy) as a movie, I would be quickly jumping up for the remote to turn it off...
In my mind, they could have overcome their fears (for Jack it was water and drowning, for Ruth it was a hard past including evil men...) without having to go through what they did. If I were to rate chapters 49 through 60, my star rating would be considerably lower.
In the end, I really liked reading this book and it helped pass the time on my return trip (a five hour drive!) I am excited to continue on with this series!
Thank you for reading some of my thoughts on A Memory Between Us! I hope this review helped you decide if you would like to read this book or not...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2010
There aren’t many historical novels that can pull off a great love story while entertaining the reader and giving them a taste of the era without overwhelming the reader.
I believe that A MEMORY BETWEEN US is one of those few books. I thought the information on WWII was interesting, but not overwhelming. It gave me just what I needed to know without making me skim. The love story was incredible. The chemistry between the characters while the memories of their past ripping at their relationship was ingenious! At several points in the novel I seriously thought that the story was going to feel over, but no. It just moved onto another area of tension, taking me right along with it.
Topics were tackled in this novel that I don’t often see in historical fiction, but I thought they were discussed with a grace and utilized in the best way to heighten tension and bring forth emotions. The character’s journeys were deep and wide and very believable. None of us are perfect on the first time around and I loved that about this story.
It isn’t the normal status quo.
I will say one other thing: never have I anticipated a kiss more.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publisher for my copy to review.
Available September 2010 from Revell a division of Baker Publishers at your local bookstore.
I believe that A MEMORY BETWEEN US is one of those few books. I thought the information on WWII was interesting, but not overwhelming. It gave me just what I needed to know without making me skim. The love story was incredible. The chemistry between the characters while the memories of their past ripping at their relationship was ingenious! At several points in the novel I seriously thought that the story was going to feel over, but no. It just moved onto another area of tension, taking me right along with it.
Topics were tackled in this novel that I don’t often see in historical fiction, but I thought they were discussed with a grace and utilized in the best way to heighten tension and bring forth emotions. The character’s journeys were deep and wide and very believable. None of us are perfect on the first time around and I loved that about this story.
It isn’t the normal status quo.
I will say one other thing: never have I anticipated a kiss more.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publisher for my copy to review.
Available September 2010 from Revell a division of Baker Publishers at your local bookstore.
December 3, 2023
Following Jack and Ruth's story was heart-wrenching at times. This isn't for younger readers, as it deals with a woman who has been taken advantage of. But for an adult reader, I thought Sarah Sundin handled the reality of the situation well. I was definitely right there along with the characters mourning their failures and rejoicing with their victories.
The theme of pride and trust were very strong in this book. I loved the Christian themes that wove throughout the entire story and the lessons the characters learned. It was a very solid, edifying read.
The theme of pride and trust were very strong in this book. I loved the Christian themes that wove throughout the entire story and the lessons the characters learned. It was a very solid, edifying read.
December 7, 2016
**Originally posted on Reveries Reviews (reveriesreviews.wordpress.com)
Wow. Just wow.
I’m sorry. It’s been almost two months, and I still can’t form words into sentences to describe this book.
It is so emotional.
It is so heartbreaking.
It is so beautiful.
I am almost crying while I write this, guys. Just thinking about the book is making me tear up.
I can’t really tell you a lot about the book itself, therefore. It’s … it’s just amazing. Read it. Now.
Except … well, I do have some content concerns (which are mentioned here). Therefore, I wouldn’t recommend it to younger teens without parental guidance. Older teens, however, should be able to handle it. It’s very delicately written, just like any ’40s movie. Except this is a ’40s book. And it wasn’t written during the ’40s. Doesn’t that just blow your mind? Sundin is incredibly talented.
This is an incredible story, from wonderful characters – every one like a real person with their ups, their downs, their ghosts – to fast-paced action scenes, to slower romance scenes (that were often cute … or heartbreaking … or both …).
Read the rest of the review on my blog, reveriesreviews.wordpress.com.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
Wow. Just wow.
I’m sorry. It’s been almost two months, and I still can’t form words into sentences to describe this book.
It is so emotional.
It is so heartbreaking.
It is so beautiful.
I am almost crying while I write this, guys. Just thinking about the book is making me tear up.
I can’t really tell you a lot about the book itself, therefore. It’s … it’s just amazing. Read it. Now.
Except … well, I do have some content concerns (which are mentioned here). Therefore, I wouldn’t recommend it to younger teens without parental guidance. Older teens, however, should be able to handle it. It’s very delicately written, just like any ’40s movie. Except this is a ’40s book. And it wasn’t written during the ’40s. Doesn’t that just blow your mind? Sundin is incredibly talented.
This is an incredible story, from wonderful characters – every one like a real person with their ups, their downs, their ghosts – to fast-paced action scenes, to slower romance scenes (that were often cute … or heartbreaking … or both …).
Read the rest of the review on my blog, reveriesreviews.wordpress.com.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
June 12, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was cool that Ruth and May were nurses in the military. I thought Jack and Ruth were perfect for each other! Just like Allie and Walt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2020
Such a great book!! It was really hard to put it down - which I had to do because I was reading it along with a friend of mine. I just really wanted to see what happened next. Could hardly wait! Well done!
February 18, 2020
This is the second novel in the Wings of Glory series, but could easily stand alone telling the story of the next brother in the Novak clan. When I read the first book in the series, A Distant Melody I fell completely in love with the writing of author Sarah Sundin and my feelings have not changed. This past spring brought a treasure with the discovery of adventure within the pages guided by Sarah. About the first book I said... This is a historical romance that has all of the elements that one's heart looks for and while at the same time bringing forth events of a war time past that are true and hard to accept. Usually I am not a fan of war time novels, but this one captures my heart. Then with this second installment with the Wings of Glory those feelings continue on.
Penelope Ruth is such a character. Spunky, yet timid. Jack is a hoot and a half and their personalities both make me laugh as they come off the page. I absolutely love these characters as they are so witty and fun. Even our secondary characters of Charlie and May, they show the joys and hard true and realities of the time. War novels are not usually for me, but even with terminology that is a different language to me, the story really comes through and paints and incredible picture. It is a picture that is sometimes gray and sometimes vibrant with blue skies and sometimes a sepia tone with mud, but it's there all the same.
It's amazing how much can be told in such a short amount of pages it seems. Watching and learning all the different snippets of what brought Jack and Ruth to certain points in their lives is interesting and I was hooked to find out what would come in the next chapter and the next. Things can be so complicated, but with issues of love and pride and trust the plot even though historical is very relevant to today and any reader's life. So many directions the characters could go and hanging on for the ride with my heart beating and my emotions running is such a journey.
Even the characters of questionable nature make me plot in my mind what their turn of events could be and in the end, isn't it always true that we have to trust God over all. Watching the come and go and relationship with God with Jack, Ruth and even May enlightens things that I may have once thought as absolute. Yet what is so beautifully shown in their lives is that even in the turmoil there is a role that God is playing, we just have to trust.
I am delighted to have found Sarah as an author for my permanent shelves of books and I will impatiently wait for the next book and the next!
*Thanks to Donna Hausler of Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
Penelope Ruth is such a character. Spunky, yet timid. Jack is a hoot and a half and their personalities both make me laugh as they come off the page. I absolutely love these characters as they are so witty and fun. Even our secondary characters of Charlie and May, they show the joys and hard true and realities of the time. War novels are not usually for me, but even with terminology that is a different language to me, the story really comes through and paints and incredible picture. It is a picture that is sometimes gray and sometimes vibrant with blue skies and sometimes a sepia tone with mud, but it's there all the same.
It's amazing how much can be told in such a short amount of pages it seems. Watching and learning all the different snippets of what brought Jack and Ruth to certain points in their lives is interesting and I was hooked to find out what would come in the next chapter and the next. Things can be so complicated, but with issues of love and pride and trust the plot even though historical is very relevant to today and any reader's life. So many directions the characters could go and hanging on for the ride with my heart beating and my emotions running is such a journey.
Even the characters of questionable nature make me plot in my mind what their turn of events could be and in the end, isn't it always true that we have to trust God over all. Watching the come and go and relationship with God with Jack, Ruth and even May enlightens things that I may have once thought as absolute. Yet what is so beautifully shown in their lives is that even in the turmoil there is a role that God is playing, we just have to trust.
I am delighted to have found Sarah as an author for my permanent shelves of books and I will impatiently wait for the next book and the next!
*Thanks to Donna Hausler of Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
September 12, 2010
A Memory Between Us is WWII era fiction at it's best. The romance, the setting, the dialog, and the little details the author included throughout the story had me firmly planted in the 1940s. I loved the realism of the combat, the scenes of pilots flying missions where some made it and some didn't, and the whole scenario regarding the nurses and their unpleasant pasts. The romantic tension between characters was breathtaking, too. This author really knows how to turn up the heat while at the same time providing substance to her story. My eyes teared up more than once as I grieved and celebrated with the characters through some of their trials.
My favorite fiction always has edgy content, and this story had some amazingly realistic scenes that really drew me in. The heroine's flashbacks were flawlessly executed and well-written. Because they were so full of emotion, I understood the helpless feeling Ruth experienced when she was attacked, and how it negatively influenced her ability to trust everyone, including God. Shame is a powerful weapon that the enemy uses to keep us from knowing true peace and joy. I loved how the author brought both the hero and the heroine through their own individual trials to show that only God can give each of us what we need in our lives in order to grow.
When Ruth revisited painful memories, the transition was seamless every time. Both women had believable histories of abandonment, especially Ruth. Her perspective on what happened and that she somehow deserved it rang true for me. I was a bit disappointed with Jack's reaction, but because he was still a bit self-righteous and prideful, it made sense. God hadn't finished working on softening Jack's heart.
I loved that the author showed how many times Jack's motivation toward Ruth was wrong. His outreach to her was often more about building himself up, meeting his goal, winning the struggle for her heart, etc. Ruth was right when she said God had to be first and that Jack's interference was keeping her from growing in the Lord. So true.
Both the hero and the heroine were complex characters. They had numerous internal and external conflicts that needed to be worked through before they would be whole enough to love each other the way they both needed to be loved. The author left no stone unturned, and I loved that. She was not afraid to make her characters suffer. Just when you thought things couldn't get any worse, they did.
A Memory Between Us was the perfect title, too, because it summed up the main barrier between them. Ruth had to work through some of those issues on her own in order to heal. So did Jack. I loved how she triumphed over her greatest fears, and Jack overcame his, too. This was an incredible story, and though a bit long, I enjoyed it very much.
My favorite fiction always has edgy content, and this story had some amazingly realistic scenes that really drew me in. The heroine's flashbacks were flawlessly executed and well-written. Because they were so full of emotion, I understood the helpless feeling Ruth experienced when she was attacked, and how it negatively influenced her ability to trust everyone, including God. Shame is a powerful weapon that the enemy uses to keep us from knowing true peace and joy. I loved how the author brought both the hero and the heroine through their own individual trials to show that only God can give each of us what we need in our lives in order to grow.
When Ruth revisited painful memories, the transition was seamless every time. Both women had believable histories of abandonment, especially Ruth. Her perspective on what happened and that she somehow deserved it rang true for me. I was a bit disappointed with Jack's reaction, but because he was still a bit self-righteous and prideful, it made sense. God hadn't finished working on softening Jack's heart.
I loved that the author showed how many times Jack's motivation toward Ruth was wrong. His outreach to her was often more about building himself up, meeting his goal, winning the struggle for her heart, etc. Ruth was right when she said God had to be first and that Jack's interference was keeping her from growing in the Lord. So true.
Both the hero and the heroine were complex characters. They had numerous internal and external conflicts that needed to be worked through before they would be whole enough to love each other the way they both needed to be loved. The author left no stone unturned, and I loved that. She was not afraid to make her characters suffer. Just when you thought things couldn't get any worse, they did.
A Memory Between Us was the perfect title, too, because it summed up the main barrier between them. Ruth had to work through some of those issues on her own in order to heal. So did Jack. I loved how she triumphed over her greatest fears, and Jack overcame his, too. This was an incredible story, and though a bit long, I enjoyed it very much.
May 11, 2015
I consider the Wings of Glory series to be fun, guilty pleasure reading for WWII historical fiction fans. It's a fairly good mix of romance and war without getting too overbearing on both.
I have to give the edge to the first book in the series though, A Memory Between Us fell a little flat for me. I think I just didn't find Jack or Ruth all that wonderful compared to Allie and Walt however all of them are frustrating at one point or another! I guess that's the authors prerogative. I guess my issue here was I thought the author dragged the inevitable out a bit too long.
I'm also going to let readers know this book goes heavy on the religious ideas. I'm not bashing that or saying it's a bad thing, but if that kind of thing doesn't interest you, you're not really going to enjoy this book or this series.
I'm going to close by saying that this book/series is a lot of fun but don't read it looking for a riveting story, read it because you like your romance with a side of history.
I have to give the edge to the first book in the series though, A Memory Between Us fell a little flat for me. I think I just didn't find Jack or Ruth all that wonderful compared to Allie and Walt however all of them are frustrating at one point or another! I guess that's the authors prerogative. I guess my issue here was I thought the author dragged the inevitable out a bit too long.
I'm also going to let readers know this book goes heavy on the religious ideas. I'm not bashing that or saying it's a bad thing, but if that kind of thing doesn't interest you, you're not really going to enjoy this book or this series.
I'm going to close by saying that this book/series is a lot of fun but don't read it looking for a riveting story, read it because you like your romance with a side of history.
March 22, 2019
Perigo e acção, segredos e inocência, são os ingredientes deste fabuloso livro, que nos traz a história de mais um irmão Novak.
Vamos lá ao número 3...
Vamos lá ao número 3...
November 20, 2024
This is not an easy book to read. It's a good one, but there is sexual assault in it, and also almost drowning. It was hard to listen to, but really good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2021
Well done.
November 9, 2024
A Memory Between Us by Sarah Sundin
Genre: Historical ficiton/Christian romance
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1943-44
Location: Mostly England
Characters:
Lieutenant Ruth Doherty: American nurse in England
Major Jack Novak: American bombing pilot
Charlie de Groot: Jack’s best friend, and bombardier
Lieutenant May Jensen: Ruth’s best friend, also a nurse
Ruth Doherty had a past she wants to tuck into some recess and forget entirely. But this past colors the way she reacts to men, keeps her from offering or accepting friendship with women, or trusting God to be loving and forgiving. She’s kind and always professional with her patients, but rebuffs any further attention. Because she avoids friendships, she’s unapproachable with her roommates and most everyone else.
Jack Novak went through seminary with the intent of becoming a pastor like his dad. But because a war was on he joined the Air Corp. Injured on a flight and hospitalized, he meets the lovely nurse Doherty. He enjoys light conversation with her, but she’s adamant about not dating. Jack sees a challenge in that, and believes to his core that he can get Ruth to fall for him. This turns out to be far more difficult than he ever expected. But the goal is one that doesn’t honor God, although rationalization has him believing it does. God has plans that neither Ruth nor Jack have in mind, and getting there is going to be a bumpy ride.
In A Memory Between Us, some characters have to really face themselves, and the lessons learned are hard won. Jack loves God, but trusts himself too often. Ruth doesn’t trust God, and resists when her roommate speaks of God’s goodness.
Much of this book was fascinating, but some of it was difficult. One scene of a tragedy about to happen was particularly hard to read. Also, several times Jack's reactions had me shaking my head. In three words… over the top. Where was the “pastor” in him? And flashback scenes of one character’s mistakes were also a bit much.
But Ms. Sundin is perfection in her descriptions of WWII history, and of European theater of war. The story is flawless in illustrating what pilots, bombardiers, gunners and navigators aboard bomber aircraft went through on their heart stopping runs over Germany, and of evading or attacking the Luftwaffe in the air. You are there with the crew as they approach targets. You are with them in preflight or post bombing-run excitement. It puts you in all the action as if you are part of the crew. Amazing.
Fascinating. Good book, for the most part. Cute teasing dialog between Jack, Ruth, Charlie and May had me smiling, and leant fun comic relief often.
Minor warning... If you are sensitive to the topic of rape, this might be a tough read.
Genre: Historical ficiton/Christian romance
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1943-44
Location: Mostly England
Characters:
Lieutenant Ruth Doherty: American nurse in England
Major Jack Novak: American bombing pilot
Charlie de Groot: Jack’s best friend, and bombardier
Lieutenant May Jensen: Ruth’s best friend, also a nurse
Ruth Doherty had a past she wants to tuck into some recess and forget entirely. But this past colors the way she reacts to men, keeps her from offering or accepting friendship with women, or trusting God to be loving and forgiving. She’s kind and always professional with her patients, but rebuffs any further attention. Because she avoids friendships, she’s unapproachable with her roommates and most everyone else.
Jack Novak went through seminary with the intent of becoming a pastor like his dad. But because a war was on he joined the Air Corp. Injured on a flight and hospitalized, he meets the lovely nurse Doherty. He enjoys light conversation with her, but she’s adamant about not dating. Jack sees a challenge in that, and believes to his core that he can get Ruth to fall for him. This turns out to be far more difficult than he ever expected. But the goal is one that doesn’t honor God, although rationalization has him believing it does. God has plans that neither Ruth nor Jack have in mind, and getting there is going to be a bumpy ride.
In A Memory Between Us, some characters have to really face themselves, and the lessons learned are hard won. Jack loves God, but trusts himself too often. Ruth doesn’t trust God, and resists when her roommate speaks of God’s goodness.
Much of this book was fascinating, but some of it was difficult. One scene of a tragedy about to happen was particularly hard to read. Also, several times Jack's reactions had me shaking my head. In three words… over the top. Where was the “pastor” in him? And flashback scenes of one character’s mistakes were also a bit much.
But Ms. Sundin is perfection in her descriptions of WWII history, and of European theater of war. The story is flawless in illustrating what pilots, bombardiers, gunners and navigators aboard bomber aircraft went through on their heart stopping runs over Germany, and of evading or attacking the Luftwaffe in the air. You are there with the crew as they approach targets. You are with them in preflight or post bombing-run excitement. It puts you in all the action as if you are part of the crew. Amazing.
Fascinating. Good book, for the most part. Cute teasing dialog between Jack, Ruth, Charlie and May had me smiling, and leant fun comic relief often.
Minor warning... If you are sensitive to the topic of rape, this might be a tough read.
October 11, 2010
I have a new book to add to my list of favorites and a new hero to add to my list of exemplary writers. The question is, which/who do I fuss over first? (Flipping coin...fumbling it onto floor...picking it up...flipping it again...book wins!)
When I reviewed her debut novel, "A Distant Melody," I noted that Ms. Sundin had set the bar so high, I was concerned she'd be able to match it with her second installment in the "Wings of Glory" series. I needn't have feared.
"A Memory Between Us" excels on several planes. (No pun intended...well, okay, maybe it was a little bit intended.) The tale revolves around Major Jack Novak, a B-17 pilot (and brother of Walt Novak, our hero in "Memory"), and Lieutenant Ruth Dougherty, the nurse who tends to his wounds after a rather rude burst of Nazi flak grounds him. Jack notices the attractive Ruth through his morphine-induced stupor, but she has fended off the advances of so many male patients that she has a withering retort prepared before the first words are even out of his mouth. Imagine her surprise when he slurringly professes God's love fore her instead of his own. Then he drops off to sleep.
Thus begins the stutter-stopping relationship between a woman so emotionally incapacitated by guilt over a horrible childhood secret that she can barely function in a social setting, and a man so self-absorbed he can't figure out whether he's falling in love with the woman or just trying to charm her into falling in love with him. Enter a well developed supporting cast that includes the lovable May, who chips away at the wall around Ruth's heart, and stolid Charlie, who chips away at the pride around Jack's, and you've got a great recipe for an even greater storyline.
Now for the author. As in "Melody," Ms. Sundin delivers the raw grit and terror of WWII aerial warfare with all the skill of one who must surely have been there, seen that. She paints an equally vivid picture of the imperfect human heart as it trips along in all its glorious failings on the road to redemption. But another interesting facet of her writing surfaces in "Memory" that was only hinted at in "Melody."
In addition to adeptly portraying the gamut from heart-wrenching turmoil to heart-warming love, Ms. Sundin displays a unique versatility in that she can present the reader with a playful scene--yes, playful--without it coming across as trite or goofy. That's not as easy as it might sound. What do I mean? Shall I share an example or two? Sorry. Read the book.
"A Memory Between Us" is a worthy sequel to "A Distant Melody"--and that's saying something. Thanks for a great read, Sarah. Can't wait for the third book!
When I reviewed her debut novel, "A Distant Melody," I noted that Ms. Sundin had set the bar so high, I was concerned she'd be able to match it with her second installment in the "Wings of Glory" series. I needn't have feared.
"A Memory Between Us" excels on several planes. (No pun intended...well, okay, maybe it was a little bit intended.) The tale revolves around Major Jack Novak, a B-17 pilot (and brother of Walt Novak, our hero in "Memory"), and Lieutenant Ruth Dougherty, the nurse who tends to his wounds after a rather rude burst of Nazi flak grounds him. Jack notices the attractive Ruth through his morphine-induced stupor, but she has fended off the advances of so many male patients that she has a withering retort prepared before the first words are even out of his mouth. Imagine her surprise when he slurringly professes God's love fore her instead of his own. Then he drops off to sleep.
Thus begins the stutter-stopping relationship between a woman so emotionally incapacitated by guilt over a horrible childhood secret that she can barely function in a social setting, and a man so self-absorbed he can't figure out whether he's falling in love with the woman or just trying to charm her into falling in love with him. Enter a well developed supporting cast that includes the lovable May, who chips away at the wall around Ruth's heart, and stolid Charlie, who chips away at the pride around Jack's, and you've got a great recipe for an even greater storyline.
Now for the author. As in "Melody," Ms. Sundin delivers the raw grit and terror of WWII aerial warfare with all the skill of one who must surely have been there, seen that. She paints an equally vivid picture of the imperfect human heart as it trips along in all its glorious failings on the road to redemption. But another interesting facet of her writing surfaces in "Memory" that was only hinted at in "Melody."
In addition to adeptly portraying the gamut from heart-wrenching turmoil to heart-warming love, Ms. Sundin displays a unique versatility in that she can present the reader with a playful scene--yes, playful--without it coming across as trite or goofy. That's not as easy as it might sound. What do I mean? Shall I share an example or two? Sorry. Read the book.
"A Memory Between Us" is a worthy sequel to "A Distant Melody"--and that's saying something. Thanks for a great read, Sarah. Can't wait for the third book!
October 4, 2010
If you read my review of Sarah's first book, A Distant Melody, then you know she quickly became a fave author for me. I absolutely loved it, and fell in love with the Novak family. As soon as I finished A Distant Melody, I was already looking forward to reading Jack's story. Guess what? Now I can't wait to find out what happens to Ray in Blue Skies Tomorrow! Alas, I have to wait 'til August 2011 to get my next Novak "fix" -- how will I ever wait that long? *heavy sigh* As you've probably already gathered, I enjoyed A Memory Between Us immensely. Though not quite as good as A Distant Melody, in my humble opinion, it's still a most excellent read, and I highly recommend it.
Jack Novak grew up as his legendary father's namesake and has been lead to believe that he will follow in those hard-to-fill footsteps by becoming a pastor. Even though he has already been to seminary, he still isn't sure becoming a pastor is in God's plan for his life. Jack thrives on the action and adventure he lives in on a daily basis with the military, and is starting to consider the possibility of making the military his life-long career. However, he is hesitant to broach the subject with his father, as he knows he has his heart set on Jack becoming a pastor -- just like Jack's grandfather, father, and older brother, Ray.
Jack and Charlie de Groot, his best friend in the whole world, meet and quickly fall for, two lovely ladies. As it turns out, both Ruth Doherty and May Jensen are army nurses. Unfortunately, neither Ruth, nor May, is looking for a relationship. Ruth has no desire for intimacies of any kind with the opposite sex, due to painful issues from her past, and May is still working through the tragic loss of her fiancé.
Jack doesn't realize it, but he has a BIG problem with pride. It takes a point-blank observation from Charlie to bring this tendency to Jack's attention. He denies any such thing, of course, which causes Charlie to make a request that hurts Jack's feelings. Sadly, Jack's feelings aren't the only thing to be hurt the next time he lets his pride, as well as fears from his past, influence an extremely foolhardy decision he makes during a history-making mission.
This is an emotional, action-packed, historical romance that takes place during WWII. Even though I am not a fan of war-themed romances, Sarah's books are the exception as they are in no way whatsoever boring or dull. Thank you for making history enjoyable, Sarah!
Jack Novak grew up as his legendary father's namesake and has been lead to believe that he will follow in those hard-to-fill footsteps by becoming a pastor. Even though he has already been to seminary, he still isn't sure becoming a pastor is in God's plan for his life. Jack thrives on the action and adventure he lives in on a daily basis with the military, and is starting to consider the possibility of making the military his life-long career. However, he is hesitant to broach the subject with his father, as he knows he has his heart set on Jack becoming a pastor -- just like Jack's grandfather, father, and older brother, Ray.
Jack and Charlie de Groot, his best friend in the whole world, meet and quickly fall for, two lovely ladies. As it turns out, both Ruth Doherty and May Jensen are army nurses. Unfortunately, neither Ruth, nor May, is looking for a relationship. Ruth has no desire for intimacies of any kind with the opposite sex, due to painful issues from her past, and May is still working through the tragic loss of her fiancé.
Jack doesn't realize it, but he has a BIG problem with pride. It takes a point-blank observation from Charlie to bring this tendency to Jack's attention. He denies any such thing, of course, which causes Charlie to make a request that hurts Jack's feelings. Sadly, Jack's feelings aren't the only thing to be hurt the next time he lets his pride, as well as fears from his past, influence an extremely foolhardy decision he makes during a history-making mission.
This is an emotional, action-packed, historical romance that takes place during WWII. Even though I am not a fan of war-themed romances, Sarah's books are the exception as they are in no way whatsoever boring or dull. Thank you for making history enjoyable, Sarah!
July 21, 2016
SUMMARY: Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she carries a shameful secret that keeps her from giving her heart to any man. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways? A Memory Between Us is the second book in the Wings Of Glory series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B17 bomber pilots with the U.S. Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II.
REVIEW: Sarah Sundin never disappoints. Her attention to detail and her historical research put your right into the pilot's seat with these Army Air Force pilots. I love the way she draws the reader in to the story from her first word to her last.
Filled with characters to love and to hate, each one is full of depth and realism. Ruth, so filled with guilt, that she can't allow herself to have a life other than her work as a nurse: no friends, no dates, nothing but focus on her siblings and their needs. She doesn't feel she deserves anything and that her sins are too deep to forgive. Jack, ridden with pride, doesn't realize how he judges and uses other people while being gifted with leadership abilities. He also doesn't realize that things in his past are causing him issues in making flight decisions that affect his entire squadron. And then there's the characters who make life difficult for both Ruth and Jack. Burnsey and Lt. Shepherd make life difficult for Ruth with their lies and indifference. Babcock's political wheeling and dealing cause Jack problems as he tries to climb the ranks.
Sundin brings WW II to life with the split second decisions pilots need to make, their terror, the injuries and death, the heartache. The nurses attempts not to become involved with their patients as they care for them and try to lift their spirits. This book would make a wonderful movie and definitely is among my 2016 favorites.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "No matter how gray life seems, prayer takes you above it all, to clear blue hope."
"Forgiveness doesn't require approval....God never approves of sin, but he still forgives us."
"Love isn't getting her to meet my needs. No...Love is meeting her needs."
REVIEW: Sarah Sundin never disappoints. Her attention to detail and her historical research put your right into the pilot's seat with these Army Air Force pilots. I love the way she draws the reader in to the story from her first word to her last.
Filled with characters to love and to hate, each one is full of depth and realism. Ruth, so filled with guilt, that she can't allow herself to have a life other than her work as a nurse: no friends, no dates, nothing but focus on her siblings and their needs. She doesn't feel she deserves anything and that her sins are too deep to forgive. Jack, ridden with pride, doesn't realize how he judges and uses other people while being gifted with leadership abilities. He also doesn't realize that things in his past are causing him issues in making flight decisions that affect his entire squadron. And then there's the characters who make life difficult for both Ruth and Jack. Burnsey and Lt. Shepherd make life difficult for Ruth with their lies and indifference. Babcock's political wheeling and dealing cause Jack problems as he tries to climb the ranks.
Sundin brings WW II to life with the split second decisions pilots need to make, their terror, the injuries and death, the heartache. The nurses attempts not to become involved with their patients as they care for them and try to lift their spirits. This book would make a wonderful movie and definitely is among my 2016 favorites.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "No matter how gray life seems, prayer takes you above it all, to clear blue hope."
"Forgiveness doesn't require approval....God never approves of sin, but he still forgives us."
"Love isn't getting her to meet my needs. No...Love is meeting her needs."
May 16, 2017
As a huge Sarah Sundin fan, I think she's the best World War II author out there today. This 2010 release proves how much she has grown since she first became a published author.
Set mainly in England in 1943, this story follows Jack Novak, Air Force flyboy, as he lives for the thrill of the next bombing mission or chance for promotion. While he always assumed he would grow up to be a pastor like his father, Jack is beginning to wonder if the military is his life calling after all.
Ruth Doherty scrimps and saves every penny she earns from her nurse's salary in order to support her orphaned younger siblings. She has no time for dating, even if her life is full of military men. Not with her responsibilities, and especially not with her past.
When Jack and Ruth meet, Jack becomes determined to be the one to break Ruth's resolve and win her heart. As the two grow close, he has no idea of the vulnerability lying behind Ruth's strong exterior. Could it be that he is wooing her more for the challenge than for true regard of who she is? As motives unfold and truth comes out, both will have the chance to come to terms with their shortcomings before wholeness can be found.
This novel had a few problems. The main one was that the author seemed to beat the reader over the head with the characters' perceived struggles and flaws. I also had a hard time with the categorizing of teenage kisses as sins, which was a major driving force of false guilt that was never resolved. Additionally, I feel the need to say that if you have triggers from sexual assault or sexual harassment, this is not the book for you. As I mentioned earlier, I consider this author a favorite and this is the first time I've been disappointed with one of her titles. I highly recommend her other works, and I will continue reading her in the future. I'm glad she's improved as an author since this sophomore release!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
Set mainly in England in 1943, this story follows Jack Novak, Air Force flyboy, as he lives for the thrill of the next bombing mission or chance for promotion. While he always assumed he would grow up to be a pastor like his father, Jack is beginning to wonder if the military is his life calling after all.
Ruth Doherty scrimps and saves every penny she earns from her nurse's salary in order to support her orphaned younger siblings. She has no time for dating, even if her life is full of military men. Not with her responsibilities, and especially not with her past.
When Jack and Ruth meet, Jack becomes determined to be the one to break Ruth's resolve and win her heart. As the two grow close, he has no idea of the vulnerability lying behind Ruth's strong exterior. Could it be that he is wooing her more for the challenge than for true regard of who she is? As motives unfold and truth comes out, both will have the chance to come to terms with their shortcomings before wholeness can be found.
This novel had a few problems. The main one was that the author seemed to beat the reader over the head with the characters' perceived struggles and flaws. I also had a hard time with the categorizing of teenage kisses as sins, which was a major driving force of false guilt that was never resolved. Additionally, I feel the need to say that if you have triggers from sexual assault or sexual harassment, this is not the book for you. As I mentioned earlier, I consider this author a favorite and this is the first time I've been disappointed with one of her titles. I highly recommend her other works, and I will continue reading her in the future. I'm glad she's improved as an author since this sophomore release!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
February 5, 2016
I was actually really disappointed in this book. One of the very last scenes (an attempted rape on the heroine) rubbed me the wrong way, knocked the rating a full star down, as a matter of fact. The good news is that trying to formulate why that scene bothered me so much, especially from this author who had yet to let me down, forced me think about the rest of her writing and put into concrete thoughts and words why I like it so much.
I've been saying since the first thing I've ever read of her that Sarah Sundin wrote Christian Fiction that didn't feel like regular Christian Fiction. It didn't feel preachy. I never quite put my finger on why, and just attributed it to the WWII setting. Now that I found something that did feel preachy and wrong in the writing, I am better able to put into words what it is that I actually liked about the rest of the writing.
The heroes and heroines of Sarah Sundin are Christians who struggle with their faith in a way that feels natural to me, and I've always been able to appreciate the way those struggle are resolved. It was never about God saving them from an external force even if it feels that way sometimes with the characters surviving a brutal war. It has always been about finding an inner grace, about accepting some weakness of character and becoming a better person. The fact that the source of inspiration for that change was a Bible never bothered me, because ultimately it wasn't that important. The people were important.
And they still are, which is why I'm going to keep reading Sarah Sundin. I'll just be a bit more weary from now on.
I've been saying since the first thing I've ever read of her that Sarah Sundin wrote Christian Fiction that didn't feel like regular Christian Fiction. It didn't feel preachy. I never quite put my finger on why, and just attributed it to the WWII setting. Now that I found something that did feel preachy and wrong in the writing, I am better able to put into words what it is that I actually liked about the rest of the writing.
The heroes and heroines of Sarah Sundin are Christians who struggle with their faith in a way that feels natural to me, and I've always been able to appreciate the way those struggle are resolved. It was never about God saving them from an external force even if it feels that way sometimes with the characters surviving a brutal war. It has always been about finding an inner grace, about accepting some weakness of character and becoming a better person. The fact that the source of inspiration for that change was a Bible never bothered me, because ultimately it wasn't that important. The people were important.
And they still are, which is why I'm going to keep reading Sarah Sundin. I'll just be a bit more weary from now on.
September 29, 2010
A Memory Between Us is a awesome book of the redemptive power of God! I loved the first book in this series and was absolutely amazed at this story.
A beautiful young nurse, Ruth Doherty with a no nonsense approach to life, and a no dating rule, finds herself in the sites of the great Jack Novak. He is convinced no matter what she says, he can make her fall in love with him. What he doesn't know, is that behind that frigid countenance is a young woman who is shattered and convinced she is so broken and that no one would ever want her if they knew her truly.
Jack, a pilot/pastor is so full of himself that he cannot see that pride has taken a stronghold over his life. His friend Charlie, tries to tell him, but to no avail. Only when his pride causes him to make a call that ends up costing the lives of twenty plus, including Charlie, does Jack wake up and face the facts. Unfortunately this awakening also comes with the truth about the beautiful young nurse. His rejection and condemnation breaks her heart, but the war must go on, and so must she.
Will God heal Ruth's brokenness, will Jack realize that his condemnation is not of God? Will they come through this war intact, physically, emotionally and spiritually.
A beautiful love story, Sarah Sundin truly has blessed us with the telling of this wonderful story. A book you will NOT want to miss! 432 pages US $14.99 5 stars
Available September 2010 where your favorite Revell books are sold.
This book was provided for review purposes only.
A beautiful young nurse, Ruth Doherty with a no nonsense approach to life, and a no dating rule, finds herself in the sites of the great Jack Novak. He is convinced no matter what she says, he can make her fall in love with him. What he doesn't know, is that behind that frigid countenance is a young woman who is shattered and convinced she is so broken and that no one would ever want her if they knew her truly.
Jack, a pilot/pastor is so full of himself that he cannot see that pride has taken a stronghold over his life. His friend Charlie, tries to tell him, but to no avail. Only when his pride causes him to make a call that ends up costing the lives of twenty plus, including Charlie, does Jack wake up and face the facts. Unfortunately this awakening also comes with the truth about the beautiful young nurse. His rejection and condemnation breaks her heart, but the war must go on, and so must she.
Will God heal Ruth's brokenness, will Jack realize that his condemnation is not of God? Will they come through this war intact, physically, emotionally and spiritually.
A beautiful love story, Sarah Sundin truly has blessed us with the telling of this wonderful story. A book you will NOT want to miss! 432 pages US $14.99 5 stars
Available September 2010 where your favorite Revell books are sold.
This book was provided for review purposes only.
January 23, 2013
I didn't like this book as much as I have others of hers. The characters were okay at best - they seemed like the sort of characters who are great in supporting roles, like they were in the first book, but can't really hold a narrative of their own.
December 13, 2023
This was another great WW2 story delivered by Sarah Sundin.
Jack Novak is a charmer and a leader, but his struggles with arrogance kept him from of a life of fullness. I enjoyed how the people in his life knew when to step up and show him how his attitude can affect his relationships and his career. He had a lot of character growth to go through.
Ruth with her tainted heartbreaking past also had to deal with her worth in God's eyes. And she had to learn when to trust and stand strong when others wanted to subdue her.
Beth's was my favourite secondary character, and my heart broke for her a few times.
This story kept me engaged and at the edge of my seat with all the danger the characters found themselves in.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
Jack Novak is a charmer and a leader, but his struggles with arrogance kept him from of a life of fullness. I enjoyed how the people in his life knew when to step up and show him how his attitude can affect his relationships and his career. He had a lot of character growth to go through.
Ruth with her tainted heartbreaking past also had to deal with her worth in God's eyes. And she had to learn when to trust and stand strong when others wanted to subdue her.
Beth's was my favourite secondary character, and my heart broke for her a few times.
This story kept me engaged and at the edge of my seat with all the danger the characters found themselves in.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
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