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Wings of Glory #3
Blue Skies Tomorrow
Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril.
After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?
Filled with daring and romance, Blue Skies Tomorrow will capture listeners' hearts.
After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?
Filled with daring and romance, Blue Skies Tomorrow will capture listeners' hearts.
419 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2011
99 people are currently reading
2249 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Sundin
22 books3,585 followersSarah Sundin enjoys writing about the drama and romance of the World War II era. She is the bestselling author of Mists over the Channel Islands (coming February 2026) Midnight on the Scottish Shore (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. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as co-director of the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.
A mother of three, Sundin lives in Southern California and teaches Sunday school. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as co-director of the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 321 reviews
July 7, 2016
I think I might have a book hangover after this...
April 29, 2025
January 1st 2018:
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH IT'S STILL GOOD AND WOW I LOVE RAY HE IS PERFECT. He reminds me of my Peter. <3
Oh! I just remembered I had one other thought while I read it this time. (And it's a spoiler so read at your own risk.)
October 12th 2016: Oh my gosh ... I read that so fast that I didn't even get a chance to mark it as 'currently reading' on Goodreads! That was the most amazing, fantastic, wonderful book ever!!! :D Wow. Wow. Wow.
December 12th 2016:
I can’t believe this fantastic series is over! Three books is really too few! I can’t stand it! *chokes*
Okay, so, this was a fantastic book. I didn’t like it as much A Memory Between Us, but it was as heartbreaking if not more so. Being hurt by someone you neither love nor trust is very different from being hurt by someone whom you love and trust, and … gosh. I was in tears … especially that scene where
Although Helen was reacting incorrectly to what happened to her (heroizing Jim), it was really realistic! I totally understood why she did it. In fact, it’s fantastic how well we got into both the main characters’ heads.
I loved Ray. He was a simply fantastic character, a great guy. Sure, he had his problems, but I was like, “I DON’T CARE. YOU’RE PERFECT. STOP TRYING TO PERFECT THE PERFECTION, MAN!!!”
Helen … oh, Helen. I really sympathized with Helen, even as I was frustrated with her. ‘Cause being scared of a kid a quarter your size? But it’s understandable considering the circumstances.
The way Helen and Ray met and got to know each other and everything … I must say that was just perfect! I loved it.
I was a little upset with Mr. Novak about not interfering when he knew what was happening. I mean, he’s the pastor. I know he can’t force anything on anyone, but … he should definitely have dealt with it. It wasn’t ‘none of his business.’ When someone’s being hurt, it’s always your business to interfere and try to help them!
I found it hilarious how Jack and Walt didn’t recognize Ray until he mentioned the stain on the runner! Best (happy) scene in the book!
Anyway, this is a fantastic novel – though not quite the same as A Memory Between Us; nothing’s gonna trump that – and I really enjoyed it. I can’t wait to get my hands on something new by Sarah Sundin!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH IT'S STILL GOOD AND WOW I LOVE RAY HE IS PERFECT. He reminds me of my Peter. <3
Oh! I just remembered I had one other thought while I read it this time. (And it's a spoiler so read at your own risk.)
October 12th 2016: Oh my gosh ... I read that so fast that I didn't even get a chance to mark it as 'currently reading' on Goodreads! That was the most amazing, fantastic, wonderful book ever!!! :D Wow. Wow. Wow.
December 12th 2016:
I can’t believe this fantastic series is over! Three books is really too few! I can’t stand it! *chokes*
Okay, so, this was a fantastic book. I didn’t like it as much A Memory Between Us, but it was as heartbreaking if not more so. Being hurt by someone you neither love nor trust is very different from being hurt by someone whom you love and trust, and … gosh. I was in tears … especially that scene where
Although Helen was reacting incorrectly to what happened to her (heroizing Jim), it was really realistic! I totally understood why she did it. In fact, it’s fantastic how well we got into both the main characters’ heads.
I loved Ray. He was a simply fantastic character, a great guy. Sure, he had his problems, but I was like, “I DON’T CARE. YOU’RE PERFECT. STOP TRYING TO PERFECT THE PERFECTION, MAN!!!”
Helen … oh, Helen. I really sympathized with Helen, even as I was frustrated with her. ‘Cause being scared of a kid a quarter your size? But it’s understandable considering the circumstances.
The way Helen and Ray met and got to know each other and everything … I must say that was just perfect! I loved it.
I was a little upset with Mr. Novak about not interfering when he knew what was happening. I mean, he’s the pastor. I know he can’t force anything on anyone, but … he should definitely have dealt with it. It wasn’t ‘none of his business.’ When someone’s being hurt, it’s always your business to interfere and try to help them!
I found it hilarious how Jack and Walt didn’t recognize Ray until he mentioned the stain on the runner! Best (happy) scene in the book!
Anyway, this is a fantastic novel – though not quite the same as A Memory Between Us; nothing’s gonna trump that – and I really enjoyed it. I can’t wait to get my hands on something new by Sarah Sundin!
May 27, 2018
4.5 stars
Ooooh this was a wonderful, wonderful book!!
And to think that when I first picked it up two years ago, right after having finished A Distant Melody and A Memory Between Us, I abandoned it! Granted, it was only because I wasn't in the mood for a WWII story at the moment, and because I was busy, not because I didn't like it - although I don't remember being sucked into the story as I was when I tried reading it again last week.
My goodness, but I loved it. Definitely my favourite in this series.
Sarah Sundin writes WWII fiction like no other (not that I've really read that much WWII fiction by other authors, but yeah), and if you've seen some of my other reviews (namely the three books in the Wings of Nightingale series), then you know I rave about her and recommend her books shouting from the rooftops (not literally, sadly).
Blue Skies Tomorrow was the perfect blend of adventure and romance, with a wonderfully well-executed double storyline as the heroine remains in small-town Antioch, California, dealing with battles of her own, while her hero is off fighting the Germans in Europe. I loved Helen, and I absolutely adored Ray - what an absolute darling, and seriously, could anyone get any dreamier? I'm very jealous of Helen and desperately want one of his long, luxuriously silky kisses too.
The romance was beautiful; sweet and tender and loving, with cute moments and swoony kissing scenes, but also enough grief, sadness, and hardships to make it all the more sweeter in the end. This was a love founded on strong mutual respect, budding friendship, and deep understanding. It went deeper than the surface-level attraction that often passes for love in CF novels. Ray and Helen's romance was so much more, and given that an ocean separates them for most of the book, this was no small achievement and was made all the more impressive. Sigh <3
The adventure and suspense levels were also superbly well-done; gotta love those air battles, and a hero who ends up stuck in Germany for over two months! It was exciting, real, and I couldn't get enough. I know nothing of planes, much less of B-17 fighters, but let me tell you, you'll definitely learn alot about them just by reading this book! I didn't really understand it all, and most of the technical terms just went over my head, but it was still very interesting, and I did not find it boring (because, well, I find planes very exciting).
Helen's story was also painfully amazing; I hurt for her, felt for her, sympathized with her. She was as strong and brave as Ray, and made an incredible heroine. I also loved seeing Ray's brothers and family again (they're my favourites), and honestly cried tears of joy at the end of this wonderful story.
I love this book and highly, highly recommend it!!
P.S. - Recommended for mature audience, because, well, war-book, and .
Ooooh this was a wonderful, wonderful book!!
And to think that when I first picked it up two years ago, right after having finished A Distant Melody and A Memory Between Us, I abandoned it! Granted, it was only because I wasn't in the mood for a WWII story at the moment, and because I was busy, not because I didn't like it - although I don't remember being sucked into the story as I was when I tried reading it again last week.
My goodness, but I loved it. Definitely my favourite in this series.
Sarah Sundin writes WWII fiction like no other (not that I've really read that much WWII fiction by other authors, but yeah), and if you've seen some of my other reviews (namely the three books in the Wings of Nightingale series), then you know I rave about her and recommend her books shouting from the rooftops (not literally, sadly).
Blue Skies Tomorrow was the perfect blend of adventure and romance, with a wonderfully well-executed double storyline as the heroine remains in small-town Antioch, California, dealing with battles of her own, while her hero is off fighting the Germans in Europe. I loved Helen, and I absolutely adored Ray - what an absolute darling, and seriously, could anyone get any dreamier? I'm very jealous of Helen and desperately want one of his long, luxuriously silky kisses too.
The romance was beautiful; sweet and tender and loving, with cute moments and swoony kissing scenes, but also enough grief, sadness, and hardships to make it all the more sweeter in the end. This was a love founded on strong mutual respect, budding friendship, and deep understanding. It went deeper than the surface-level attraction that often passes for love in CF novels. Ray and Helen's romance was so much more, and given that an ocean separates them for most of the book, this was no small achievement and was made all the more impressive. Sigh <3
The adventure and suspense levels were also superbly well-done; gotta love those air battles, and a hero who ends up stuck in Germany for over two months! It was exciting, real, and I couldn't get enough. I know nothing of planes, much less of B-17 fighters, but let me tell you, you'll definitely learn alot about them just by reading this book! I didn't really understand it all, and most of the technical terms just went over my head, but it was still very interesting, and I did not find it boring (because, well, I find planes very exciting).
Helen's story was also painfully amazing; I hurt for her, felt for her, sympathized with her. She was as strong and brave as Ray, and made an incredible heroine. I also loved seeing Ray's brothers and family again (they're my favourites), and honestly cried tears of joy at the end of this wonderful story.
I love this book and highly, highly recommend it!!
P.S. - Recommended for mature audience, because, well, war-book, and .
August 25, 2017
Oh my, this was so sweet! And definitely a favorite Sarah Sundin. Helen and Ray's story was amazing! At first it was so emotional that I had to prepare myself to be in tears, but there were so many happy moments too. Ray's scenes in Germany were amazing...I was literally wide-eyed reading them. The Novak brother's interaction was so realistic and brought so many little smiles to my face.
So yep, Ray is my favorite brother ;)
Romance wise, there were a few kisses, a couple slightly detailed. But mainly at the beginning and end. I'm so impressed with the spiritual content. So many lessons to make you think and ponder!!
I hightly recommend this to later teens and up. It's full of historical events, and will sweep you away into the 1940s. We just need a movie, and I'll be happy ;)
So yep, Ray is my favorite brother ;)
Romance wise, there were a few kisses, a couple slightly detailed. But mainly at the beginning and end. I'm so impressed with the spiritual content. So many lessons to make you think and ponder!!
I hightly recommend this to later teens and up. It's full of historical events, and will sweep you away into the 1940s. We just need a movie, and I'll be happy ;)
April 20, 2023
I LOVE this series so much!
Every romance has perfect chemistry with the main characters. The storylines are engaging with just a touch of heartbreak and redemption.
Helen and Ray are no exception. I think I loved Helen's story the most, where she comes from an abusive marriage to having a second chance at love. I cried at the end of this book when they finally got together because it was such a beautiful moment. 😍
The Novak brothers are all so different, but oh so wonderful! I would love to read even more about them and their lives and how they continue on after the war is over.
Sarah Sundin once again hits it out of the park for me.
Every romance has perfect chemistry with the main characters. The storylines are engaging with just a touch of heartbreak and redemption.
Helen and Ray are no exception. I think I loved Helen's story the most, where she comes from an abusive marriage to having a second chance at love. I cried at the end of this book when they finally got together because it was such a beautiful moment. 😍
The Novak brothers are all so different, but oh so wonderful! I would love to read even more about them and their lives and how they continue on after the war is over.
Sarah Sundin once again hits it out of the park for me.
July 10, 2018
This book was so hard to read. I applaud the author for capturing the controlling personality well. It terrified me and brought back painful memories, making it a challenge to get through the book. I was determined to make it, and I’m glad I did, because finding out what happened to everyone in the trilogy was a neat way to finish it off.
I was confused at first that Ray wasn’t already overseas to start off the book. The indication I got in book two was that he had already made it overseas. I didn’t realize till over one hundred pages into this story that the books overlapped in the time frame. That was weird to me, and there was no warning (the dates in the headings didn’t help me keep it straight, as I didn’t read the books back-to-back).
I was appalled at the indication of a man skinny-dipping and a crude comment, as well another comment that was both crude and sexual in nature. There was also a bit of sexual innuendo, which creeped me out.
Something I really loved about this book was that a polio victim was the leading lady. That is something I have never before seen in a novel, and her affliction was highlighted well and used to the best potential within the confines of the story. I wish I could have enjoyed Helen’s story more, because she was definitely a character I could root for.
The faith journeys of Helen and Ray were spectacular and well written. Those moments of great growth and clinging to hope were what kept me reading when I wanted to burn the book for all the horrible memories it conjured up.
Other folks how haven’t been through controlling and abusive relationships will enjoy this book. Those who have been through those difficulties, please read this book with caution. The characterization is very good, and some characters and scenarios may be disturbing for you. However, there is also oodles of hope for folks who find themselves in those situations. I hope that is the part that shines the brightest for you as you read this book.
Rating: 2 stars
Reasons: This just wasn't the book for me, because of the controlling/abuse issues, though they were written well. There were several things (as mentioned above) that I found creepy or disturbing in some way. Overall, it was an okay book for me. Others will most likely enjoy it.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
I was confused at first that Ray wasn’t already overseas to start off the book. The indication I got in book two was that he had already made it overseas. I didn’t realize till over one hundred pages into this story that the books overlapped in the time frame. That was weird to me, and there was no warning (the dates in the headings didn’t help me keep it straight, as I didn’t read the books back-to-back).
I was appalled at the indication of a man skinny-dipping and a crude comment, as well another comment that was both crude and sexual in nature. There was also a bit of sexual innuendo, which creeped me out.
Something I really loved about this book was that a polio victim was the leading lady. That is something I have never before seen in a novel, and her affliction was highlighted well and used to the best potential within the confines of the story. I wish I could have enjoyed Helen’s story more, because she was definitely a character I could root for.
The faith journeys of Helen and Ray were spectacular and well written. Those moments of great growth and clinging to hope were what kept me reading when I wanted to burn the book for all the horrible memories it conjured up.
Other folks how haven’t been through controlling and abusive relationships will enjoy this book. Those who have been through those difficulties, please read this book with caution. The characterization is very good, and some characters and scenarios may be disturbing for you. However, there is also oodles of hope for folks who find themselves in those situations. I hope that is the part that shines the brightest for you as you read this book.
Rating: 2 stars
Reasons: This just wasn't the book for me, because of the controlling/abuse issues, though they were written well. There were several things (as mentioned above) that I found creepy or disturbing in some way. Overall, it was an okay book for me. Others will most likely enjoy it.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
May 16, 2016
Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril. After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home.
This is the third and final book in the Wings of Glory series. Each features one of the Novak brothers, and the brothers are as dissimilar as possible. Ray has always been the meek, quiet one. Now he wonders if he has the bravery to face actual combat. Helen has lived what appears to everyone as a storybook marriage becoming a widow when her husband is killed in combat. Both have demons to overcome and it takes lots of missteps for each of them to become strong enough in their faith to fight their demons.
This was my favorite of the three books. Sundin dealt with some hard topics in this book focusing on spousal abuse and the right and wrong of killing in war time. I felt this book was much deeper and complex than the first two. There were times when my heart was torn in two and others where it melted as Ray and Helen overcame their hurdles. Helen's problems with her first husband broke my heart, and I will never understand how one person could treat another like that. I loved the part that covered Ray's adventure when his flight goes wrong and no one believes him when he returns to base. Great insight by Sundin regarding the problems pilots ditching their planes encountered when they landed in enemy territory.
Overall, a great World War II historical read.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
"I won't make you deny your past in order to have a future."
"Sometimes the hardest person to forgive is yourself."
"Fear didn't make a man a coward, but rather the inability to act due to fear."
This is the third and final book in the Wings of Glory series. Each features one of the Novak brothers, and the brothers are as dissimilar as possible. Ray has always been the meek, quiet one. Now he wonders if he has the bravery to face actual combat. Helen has lived what appears to everyone as a storybook marriage becoming a widow when her husband is killed in combat. Both have demons to overcome and it takes lots of missteps for each of them to become strong enough in their faith to fight their demons.
This was my favorite of the three books. Sundin dealt with some hard topics in this book focusing on spousal abuse and the right and wrong of killing in war time. I felt this book was much deeper and complex than the first two. There were times when my heart was torn in two and others where it melted as Ray and Helen overcame their hurdles. Helen's problems with her first husband broke my heart, and I will never understand how one person could treat another like that. I loved the part that covered Ray's adventure when his flight goes wrong and no one believes him when he returns to base. Great insight by Sundin regarding the problems pilots ditching their planes encountered when they landed in enemy territory.
Overall, a great World War II historical read.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
"I won't make you deny your past in order to have a future."
"Sometimes the hardest person to forgive is yourself."
"Fear didn't make a man a coward, but rather the inability to act due to fear."
February 13, 2012
This book could not be any better. It is easily one of my favorite novels I have read in the last year. Here’s why:
■There is tension from the very first sentence, making it hard to stop turning the pages.
■The dilemmas for Helen and Ray are so intriguing, so believable, and yet so heart-wrenching, you just cannot help but love these characters!
■The dilagoue is smart, not cheesy. Loved it.
■It covers an aspect of World War 2 I hadn’t read much about before, and I’ve read quite a bit about World War 2.
■It deals with a very difficult, more common than we’d like to admit, problem for women. I can’t tell you what that problem is because I don’t want to give anything away!
■By the end of the book, both characters have changed, grown, evolved in remarkably redeeming ways.
■The “Christian” part of this book is woven in beautifully. In fact, sometimes the most powerful inspiration came from symbolism that was not explicitly explained. But it was the understatement that made it so beautiful. Sarah doesn’t preach, and she doesn’t have to. The story itself is full of hope and redemption, and the characters’ transparency in their own faith journeys speaks volumes.
■It’s high on entertainment value! If you like to read to escape, this is your book. You’ll be lost in the story world for sure.
■There is tension from the very first sentence, making it hard to stop turning the pages.
■The dilemmas for Helen and Ray are so intriguing, so believable, and yet so heart-wrenching, you just cannot help but love these characters!
■The dilagoue is smart, not cheesy. Loved it.
■It covers an aspect of World War 2 I hadn’t read much about before, and I’ve read quite a bit about World War 2.
■It deals with a very difficult, more common than we’d like to admit, problem for women. I can’t tell you what that problem is because I don’t want to give anything away!
■By the end of the book, both characters have changed, grown, evolved in remarkably redeeming ways.
■The “Christian” part of this book is woven in beautifully. In fact, sometimes the most powerful inspiration came from symbolism that was not explicitly explained. But it was the understatement that made it so beautiful. Sarah doesn’t preach, and she doesn’t have to. The story itself is full of hope and redemption, and the characters’ transparency in their own faith journeys speaks volumes.
■It’s high on entertainment value! If you like to read to escape, this is your book. You’ll be lost in the story world for sure.
April 28, 2020
I loved this whole series!!!! Oh my word this book was the perfect ending to the series. I love the Novak brothers so much! I loved how the ending turned out for all of them! So good! Now I have to read her other series!
May 23, 2020
Very well done!! I definitely recommend this book. It was such a great book to read. So many twists and turns that I didn't want to put it down. This book is a really great ending to the series. So looking forward to reading more books by this author!
August 25, 2011
Sarah Sundin wraps up a fantastic series with this awesome third book. I remembered some things mentioned in the previous books when the major incident with Ray came down to the wire. I love how the author overlapped the three novels that way. That's not easy to do well, but this author makes it seamless. The setting is also well done from both stateside and Europe. I felt like I was there with them, especially the scenes where there was some flying. I was worried every time they were in the air fighting those missions!
I adored the hero, Ray, and loved his heart for God. I especially loved his heart for Helen. They had some serious chemistry going on there and their interaction was quite potent at times. I loved how Ray had to resist temptation and how needy Helen was because of her past abuse. She was operating out of fear and her desperation was totally believable. I was impressed with the way that Sarah wrote about the domestic violence that Helen had contended with and the subtle message about her having to "fake" so many things to keep the dirty little secret about her deceased husband. That was very well done as was the way the various abused women in the story acted. Most authors don't get so real with the painful truth, but Sundin doesn't hold back, making this book a favorite of mine.
Helen was a sweetheart, too. She, like so many abused women, believed that she somehow deserved it. The abuse is a pathology of sorts and part of the sickness is getting the victims to believe they earned the abuse by being flawed. What Helen had gone through was horrible, but I've met many, many women who were abused in a similar fashion so it was very realistic. Her internal growth throughout the story was uplifting and I sensed her growing stronger as she experienced each victory, no matter how small. I also loved how she wanted to protect her son and all of the ramifications that her tolerating the way she was treated by Jay Jay's grandparents played out. She had choices to make and they all came with consequences.
Honestly, I loved all three books in this series, so they were all special to me for different reasons. It was cool how each brother had a major character flaw that interfered with their spiritual lives and their relationships, and how they essentially killed any future happiness the brothers would have in marriage until their flaws were dealt with. It's awesome how God knows exactly what circumstances we need to find ourselves in so that we'll learn and grow despite the hardships that come our way. It wouldn't be loving for God to allow us to stay the way we are, so He guides things in our lives that cause us to deal with our weaknesses one way or the other. By not doing anything to change we're aren't helping ourselves or the ones we love.
I really loved how the author showed how each character needed to overcome their spiritual obstacles with God and not expect other people to pull them through. In the end it's just us and God, right? Bottom line was this book was well-written, spiritually uplifting, emotionally gripping, and something I could totally related to. I think it will help women who see themselves in Helen's character and will hopefully compel them to do something to change their situation. I highly recommend this story!
I adored the hero, Ray, and loved his heart for God. I especially loved his heart for Helen. They had some serious chemistry going on there and their interaction was quite potent at times. I loved how Ray had to resist temptation and how needy Helen was because of her past abuse. She was operating out of fear and her desperation was totally believable. I was impressed with the way that Sarah wrote about the domestic violence that Helen had contended with and the subtle message about her having to "fake" so many things to keep the dirty little secret about her deceased husband. That was very well done as was the way the various abused women in the story acted. Most authors don't get so real with the painful truth, but Sundin doesn't hold back, making this book a favorite of mine.
Helen was a sweetheart, too. She, like so many abused women, believed that she somehow deserved it. The abuse is a pathology of sorts and part of the sickness is getting the victims to believe they earned the abuse by being flawed. What Helen had gone through was horrible, but I've met many, many women who were abused in a similar fashion so it was very realistic. Her internal growth throughout the story was uplifting and I sensed her growing stronger as she experienced each victory, no matter how small. I also loved how she wanted to protect her son and all of the ramifications that her tolerating the way she was treated by Jay Jay's grandparents played out. She had choices to make and they all came with consequences.
Honestly, I loved all three books in this series, so they were all special to me for different reasons. It was cool how each brother had a major character flaw that interfered with their spiritual lives and their relationships, and how they essentially killed any future happiness the brothers would have in marriage until their flaws were dealt with. It's awesome how God knows exactly what circumstances we need to find ourselves in so that we'll learn and grow despite the hardships that come our way. It wouldn't be loving for God to allow us to stay the way we are, so He guides things in our lives that cause us to deal with our weaknesses one way or the other. By not doing anything to change we're aren't helping ourselves or the ones we love.
I really loved how the author showed how each character needed to overcome their spiritual obstacles with God and not expect other people to pull them through. In the end it's just us and God, right? Bottom line was this book was well-written, spiritually uplifting, emotionally gripping, and something I could totally related to. I think it will help women who see themselves in Helen's character and will hopefully compel them to do something to change their situation. I highly recommend this story!
September 5, 2011
Blue Skies Tomorrow is in my opinion everything that a book should be. The emotional depth, the romance, the plot, the action, and adventure, is fantastic.
The plot alone makes this book stand out, I could go on and on for hours about how well done this book was plotted out. The historic settings were rich, and authentic. The history was woven into the story with great care. I think Ms. Sundin got the balance perfectly. The writing and dialog were excellent, I lost myself in the story. There were no over done, mind boggling descriptions, or unwieldy words that can at times jog me from the spell of a story. The focus was wholly on the story and conveying it in a straightforward and natural manner, that swept me back to another time and place.
The characters were so realistic in all their raw emotions. The whole cast shone, not just the main characters, Helen and Ray. I really liked Esther Jones, who though a character with a small role, stood out as a strong woman who loved her husband and stood for what was right.
This book had me on the edge of my seat, staying up way past midnight to find out what would happen next. There were times when I was sure that there was no way out, but Ms. Sundin surprised me many times over. I kept telling myself, "I'll go to sleep when I find a stopping place." The only problem was that there weren't any "stopping places!"
Overall, this was one of the best historical fiction books that I have read in a long time. There were some violent scenes that had to do with Helen's troubled past, and Ray being a soldier in WWII, so that's just a heads up. Also I wanted to say that I haven't read the first two books in the series (but I plan to in the future), and I found this to be a stand alone novel that could be easily picked up out of order and fully enjoyed. I really enjoyed this book, and I hope that you decide to give it a shot. It's worth it! Thanks so much :)
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3423-7
“Available August 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
Thanks so much to Donna Hausler and Revell Publishing company for providing this book to me free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
The plot alone makes this book stand out, I could go on and on for hours about how well done this book was plotted out. The historic settings were rich, and authentic. The history was woven into the story with great care. I think Ms. Sundin got the balance perfectly. The writing and dialog were excellent, I lost myself in the story. There were no over done, mind boggling descriptions, or unwieldy words that can at times jog me from the spell of a story. The focus was wholly on the story and conveying it in a straightforward and natural manner, that swept me back to another time and place.
The characters were so realistic in all their raw emotions. The whole cast shone, not just the main characters, Helen and Ray. I really liked Esther Jones, who though a character with a small role, stood out as a strong woman who loved her husband and stood for what was right.
This book had me on the edge of my seat, staying up way past midnight to find out what would happen next. There were times when I was sure that there was no way out, but Ms. Sundin surprised me many times over. I kept telling myself, "I'll go to sleep when I find a stopping place." The only problem was that there weren't any "stopping places!"
Overall, this was one of the best historical fiction books that I have read in a long time. There were some violent scenes that had to do with Helen's troubled past, and Ray being a soldier in WWII, so that's just a heads up. Also I wanted to say that I haven't read the first two books in the series (but I plan to in the future), and I found this to be a stand alone novel that could be easily picked up out of order and fully enjoyed. I really enjoyed this book, and I hope that you decide to give it a shot. It's worth it! Thanks so much :)
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3423-7
“Available August 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
Thanks so much to Donna Hausler and Revell Publishing company for providing this book to me free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2011
What I love about Sarah Sundin’s stories is her ability to weave a historical setting as rife with conflict as World War II with a love story that moves my heart and soul with its vibrancy.
There is a delicate balance between too much history and ignoring the love story. Or an overwhelming love story angle with the war as only a distant background. There is a near perfect balance in “Blue Skies Tomorrow”.
The character development in this story is amazing. Sundin took her characters to places I don’t often see in fiction and I loved it. She delved deep into the makeup of both Helen and Ray, found what made them tick and used it against them. Masterful. It’s the only word I can use to describe it.
As the story moved overseas, I thought a bit of the momentum was lost in a few too many historical details, but not much and I didn’t lose interest. Turns were made and devastation brought on the characters.
I know I’m reading a good book when I become very emotional and this book had me up in arms in the defense of Helen against her in-laws. Sundin took me from the height of anger to the beauty of a new love.
It’s a great conclusion to the end of the series and I look forward to more from this very promising author!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available August 2011 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers**
There is a delicate balance between too much history and ignoring the love story. Or an overwhelming love story angle with the war as only a distant background. There is a near perfect balance in “Blue Skies Tomorrow”.
The character development in this story is amazing. Sundin took her characters to places I don’t often see in fiction and I loved it. She delved deep into the makeup of both Helen and Ray, found what made them tick and used it against them. Masterful. It’s the only word I can use to describe it.
As the story moved overseas, I thought a bit of the momentum was lost in a few too many historical details, but not much and I didn’t lose interest. Turns were made and devastation brought on the characters.
I know I’m reading a good book when I become very emotional and this book had me up in arms in the defense of Helen against her in-laws. Sundin took me from the height of anger to the beauty of a new love.
It’s a great conclusion to the end of the series and I look forward to more from this very promising author!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available August 2011 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers**
November 9, 2015
Not my favorite couple or book of the series, but I still really loved this book! Helen and Ray are great characters, and I thought they were very well written. I loved seeing their characters change and develop throughout the story.
This book is another example of the wonderful way Sarah Sundin has of balancing history and romance. I love that I can thoroughly enjoy both when I read her books!
I wish that I had time to write a proper review for this book-- I feel that I haven't anywhere near done it justice. Really, let me just say that I highly recommend this book, as well as any of the others I've read by this author because they have all been wonderful! :)
This book is another example of the wonderful way Sarah Sundin has of balancing history and romance. I love that I can thoroughly enjoy both when I read her books!
I wish that I had time to write a proper review for this book-- I feel that I haven't anywhere near done it justice. Really, let me just say that I highly recommend this book, as well as any of the others I've read by this author because they have all been wonderful! :)
June 1, 2020
Ok y'all! What an end to the Wings of Glory series!
Both characters had to overcome their fear. And this was such a great message to the book. I loved how they held each other accountable and really stood strong when they were tempted to just fall back into the familiar fear patterns. Also, the characters grew so much thought these pages!
I especially loved learning and reading about this timeframe.
The cover (and really the covers in the whole series) is AMAZE! Just, perfect! <3
The characters: for the most part, I really liked them. There were a few things that I didn't care for (more so in regard to Helen.) But, she grew on me. And some of the side characters... hmm.
Honestly, the back of the book didn't even begin to explain the complicated story inside. The plot thickened pretty fast. And you could really see the internal struggle that the characters had. Helen was between a rock and a hard place, for sure.
The romance was a little on the heavy side for me. Didn't care for that part, especially so soon at the beginning.
This book dealt with some tough topics ** Spoiler alert: Helen's late husband and father-in-law were abusive. And there was details shared. ** End spoiler.
It suffice to say, is for older readers in my opinion. Definitely mature content...
But, life is real. Life is hard. And this book didn't shy away.
I loved seeing the other characters from previous books! That was a plus!
Overall, this book was really good and I'm sad to see the series come to an end. My favorite was book one, and I liked book three better book two.
Thanks for reading my review! I hope these thoughts helped you decided if you'd like to read Blue Skies Tomorrow. (Also, sorry this review is all over the place!)
Both characters had to overcome their fear. And this was such a great message to the book. I loved how they held each other accountable and really stood strong when they were tempted to just fall back into the familiar fear patterns. Also, the characters grew so much thought these pages!
I especially loved learning and reading about this timeframe.
The cover (and really the covers in the whole series) is AMAZE! Just, perfect! <3
The characters: for the most part, I really liked them. There were a few things that I didn't care for (more so in regard to Helen.) But, she grew on me. And some of the side characters... hmm.
Honestly, the back of the book didn't even begin to explain the complicated story inside. The plot thickened pretty fast. And you could really see the internal struggle that the characters had. Helen was between a rock and a hard place, for sure.
The romance was a little on the heavy side for me. Didn't care for that part, especially so soon at the beginning.
This book dealt with some tough topics ** Spoiler alert: Helen's late husband and father-in-law were abusive. And there was details shared. ** End spoiler.
It suffice to say, is for older readers in my opinion. Definitely mature content...
But, life is real. Life is hard. And this book didn't shy away.
I loved seeing the other characters from previous books! That was a plus!
Overall, this book was really good and I'm sad to see the series come to an end. My favorite was book one, and I liked book three better book two.
Thanks for reading my review! I hope these thoughts helped you decided if you'd like to read Blue Skies Tomorrow. (Also, sorry this review is all over the place!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2024
2024 Review: This story has grown on me since the last time I read it. I loved Ray so much and I had new appreciation for many aspects of the story. I really enjoyed rereading this series.
I love how God's redeeming grace is poured into the lives of others and healing comes.
Content notes: There is a lot of kissing and once scene where Ray tells Helen he has to leave because he doesn't want to stop kissing her. Abuse is a major topic in the story. This is a minor spoiler: Bigger spoiler
I love how God's redeeming grace is poured into the lives of others and healing comes.
Content notes: There is a lot of kissing and once scene where Ray tells Helen he has to leave because he doesn't want to stop kissing her. Abuse is a major topic in the story. This is a minor spoiler: Bigger spoiler
February 1, 2025
The third and final book in the series was an emotional roller coaster.
Ray had so many insecurities and concerns about the fact that he was placed on desk duty instead of going to combat. His feelings for Helen pushed him to go beyond his own boundaries.
Helen had a difficult and troubled story. The author and narrator did a wonderful job in showing the readers her struggle to remain the dutiful widow while facing the truth about her abusive past. There was one scene where she came undone before Ray which was so raw and honest, I think I was holding my breath while reading.
Though I had faith that Ray and Helen would have a happy ending, I was not sure since Helen made decisions which would take her further away from Ray.
I enjoyed how the book started a bit back in time to overlink with scenes we already read in book one and two, just from a different angle.
*I listened to the audiobook on Everand.*
Ray had so many insecurities and concerns about the fact that he was placed on desk duty instead of going to combat. His feelings for Helen pushed him to go beyond his own boundaries.
Helen had a difficult and troubled story. The author and narrator did a wonderful job in showing the readers her struggle to remain the dutiful widow while facing the truth about her abusive past. There was one scene where she came undone before Ray which was so raw and honest, I think I was holding my breath while reading.
Though I had faith that Ray and Helen would have a happy ending, I was not sure since Helen made decisions which would take her further away from Ray.
I enjoyed how the book started a bit back in time to overlink with scenes we already read in book one and two, just from a different angle.
*I listened to the audiobook on Everand.*
February 18, 2020
I still hold to the opinion that I think A Distant Melody might be one of my favorite books ever. I also quite loved A Memory Between Us. When I first started Blue Skies Tomorrow I was expecting the same feelings from page one, but they were not quite there. However at about the halfway point when a few things picked up, I was once again enthralled and love the writing from Sarah Sundin!! My reading status at about 195 pages in said:
I loved the first two books in the series and say that the first one might even be one of my favorite books ever. This one not so much, but I think it is because I am having such a hard time digesting the character of Jim. Even if he is dead, he is very much active in the lives of the others. Some reason I keep wanting Ray's mother to fix everything. I don't know why but I feel like she could... Yet then after finishing the book, my first thoughts were: Around halfway thru this novel really kicked up and was the same fiction that I love. I cried and rejoiced. Awesome second half to finish. Definitely want more from Sarah.
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 the second and third installment with the Wings of Glory those feelings continue on. 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.
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 Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
I loved the first two books in the series and say that the first one might even be one of my favorite books ever. This one not so much, but I think it is because I am having such a hard time digesting the character of Jim. Even if he is dead, he is very much active in the lives of the others. Some reason I keep wanting Ray's mother to fix everything. I don't know why but I feel like she could... Yet then after finishing the book, my first thoughts were: Around halfway thru this novel really kicked up and was the same fiction that I love. I cried and rejoiced. Awesome second half to finish. Definitely want more from Sarah.
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 the second and third installment with the Wings of Glory those feelings continue on. 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.
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 Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
March 22, 2019
Um final surpreendente para esta trilogia!
Personagens fortes que têm de enfrentar os seus medos e o seu passado, e lutar pelo que acreditam para no fim encontrar o amor.
Fabuloso!
Personagens fortes que têm de enfrentar os seus medos e o seu passado, e lutar pelo que acreditam para no fim encontrar o amor.
Fabuloso!
March 9, 2019
Este merece mesmo as 4,5 estrelas.
Não chega às 5 estrelas porque, apesar de tudo o que tem de bom, tem partes bastante previsíveis...
Não chega às 5 estrelas porque, apesar de tudo o que tem de bom, tem partes bastante previsíveis...
August 16, 2011
Blue Skies Tomorrow deals with some very difficult issues and I think that Saran Sundin did a great job of writing about them. As with her other books (A Distant Melody and A Memory Between Us) the main characters have lessons to learn and fears to overcome. This story starts a little bit before where A Memory Between Us ends and I really enjoyed reading about some of the happier moments of that book from a different perspective.
I remember while reading A Distant Melody how bad I felt for Helen when her husband Jim died, leaving her all alone to raise their infant son. However, after reading this book and knowing what Jim did to her, I now feel relieved that he is no longer around to hurt her anymore. Helen had polio as a child and so she has a slight limp, which Jim used as an excuse for all of Helen's injuries.
When Ray was mentioned in the previous books, I remember that I wanted to know more about him. His background story is sad but in a different way. He was engaged twice but both times it was broken off by the women he was engaged to, leaving him to feel a distrust of women. Ray's family doubts whether he will ever get married and in this book you learn that Ray is beginning to have his doubts about it as well. Like both of his younger brothers, Ray is a pilot; but unlike his brothers, he has never been in combat. He has chosen to stay stateside as a flight instructor, but when the Army makes it a requirement that all instructors have at least one tour of duty, Ray has to choose between a desk job or go to war. Ray takes the desk job, but when he feels that everyone thinks that he is a coward for not going into combat, himself included, he decides to go. This will test Ray like he has never been tested before.
The only thing that I remember not liking about this book was all the details of the planes. Almost every time a plane was mentioned, there would be a very detailed description of it - I found the repetitiveness of that quite boring. However, I thought that the rest of the story more than made up for it.
Blue Skies Tomorrow is a wonderful conclusion to the Wings of Glory series. I will miss this family greatly, but what a way to end! While I enjoyed all three books in the series, there was something about this book that I especially enjoyed. I highly recommend this book, but strongly suggest that you read this series in order so that some of the key details aren't revealed to you beforehand.
I received a copy of this book to review from LitFuse. I did not receive any compensation other than the book. I was not required to give a positive review, but only asked to share my opinion of the book, which I have done.
I remember while reading A Distant Melody how bad I felt for Helen when her husband Jim died, leaving her all alone to raise their infant son. However, after reading this book and knowing what Jim did to her, I now feel relieved that he is no longer around to hurt her anymore. Helen had polio as a child and so she has a slight limp, which Jim used as an excuse for all of Helen's injuries.
When Ray was mentioned in the previous books, I remember that I wanted to know more about him. His background story is sad but in a different way. He was engaged twice but both times it was broken off by the women he was engaged to, leaving him to feel a distrust of women. Ray's family doubts whether he will ever get married and in this book you learn that Ray is beginning to have his doubts about it as well. Like both of his younger brothers, Ray is a pilot; but unlike his brothers, he has never been in combat. He has chosen to stay stateside as a flight instructor, but when the Army makes it a requirement that all instructors have at least one tour of duty, Ray has to choose between a desk job or go to war. Ray takes the desk job, but when he feels that everyone thinks that he is a coward for not going into combat, himself included, he decides to go. This will test Ray like he has never been tested before.
The only thing that I remember not liking about this book was all the details of the planes. Almost every time a plane was mentioned, there would be a very detailed description of it - I found the repetitiveness of that quite boring. However, I thought that the rest of the story more than made up for it.
Blue Skies Tomorrow is a wonderful conclusion to the Wings of Glory series. I will miss this family greatly, but what a way to end! While I enjoyed all three books in the series, there was something about this book that I especially enjoyed. I highly recommend this book, but strongly suggest that you read this series in order so that some of the key details aren't revealed to you beforehand.
I received a copy of this book to review from LitFuse. I did not receive any compensation other than the book. I was not required to give a positive review, but only asked to share my opinion of the book, which I have done.
August 19, 2014
I should have been born in the 40′s.
I love the clothes, the music, the movies. Yes, it was a harrowing period in our history. But a world at war laid bare the issues most important in life, and the times invited people to rise to new challenges. Those who did astounded themselves, and the world, by what they were able to accomplish. They are now called The Greatest Generation.
When I want to visit the 40′s time period, I know I can count on author Sarah Sundin to take me there. Sarah captures the essence of those years in her three-book series, Wings of Glory. This trilogy follows the lives of the Novak brothers, Jack, Walt, and Ray. The last book, Blue Skies Tomorrow , tells Ray’s story.
Ray has a preacher’s heart. He loves nothing better than to teach, counsel, and comfort the folks God brings his way. When lovely Helen Carlisle crosses his path, he is drawn to her sweet spirit and tender heart. Helen, a war widow struggling to raise a young son, blossoms under Ray’s love and attention. However, their time together is cut short when Ray volunteers to give up his stateside assignment and fly bombing missions.
Both Ray and Helen end up fighting the important battles God brings to their separate journeys. Both, in their own way, find themselves pretending to be people they’re not in an effort to survive. And both surprise themselves as they discover the depths of courage God is able to draw from within them. The drama of each character’s story kept me turning pages until the heartwarming, supremely satisfying conclusion.
I often share how the books I read remind me of movies I’ve enjoyed. Many stories in the inspirational market remind me of old movies. Some would say what Christian books and old movies have in common is that they bypass real life to show a sanitized version of truth.
I disagree. I think these genres do take on tough problems and real life situations. But the writers do it with subtlety, restraint, and grace—as Sarah Sundin does.
Want to see what I mean? Follow this link to purchase Blue Skies Tomorrow for yourself. You’ll find yourself humming Glen Miller tunes, styling your hair with pin curls, and wishing your town had an old-fashioned soda fountain.
Follow this link to enter the giveaway at my blog Doorkeeper.
When I want to visit the 40′s time period, I know I can count on author Sarah Sundin to take me there. Sarah captures the essence of those years in her three-book series, Wings of Glory. This trilogy follows the lives of the Novak brothers, Jack, Walt, and Ray. The last book, Blue Skies Tomorrow , tells Ray’s story.
Ray has a preacher’s heart. He loves nothing better than to teach, counsel, and comfort the folks God brings his way. When lovely Helen Carlisle crosses his path, he is drawn to her sweet spirit and tender heart. Helen, a war widow struggling to raise a young son, blossoms under Ray’s love and attention. However, their time together is cut short when Ray volunteers to give up his stateside assignment and fly bombing missions.
Both Ray and Helen end up fighting the important battles God brings to their separate journeys. Both, in their own way, find themselves pretending to be people they’re not in an effort to survive. And both surprise themselves as they discover the depths of courage God is able to draw from within them. The drama of each character’s story kept me turning pages until the heartwarming, supremely satisfying conclusion.
I often share how the books I read remind me of movies I’ve enjoyed. Many stories in the inspirational market remind me of old movies. Some would say what Christian books and old movies have in common is that they bypass real life to show a sanitized version of truth.
I disagree. I think these genres do take on tough problems and real life situations. But the writers do it with subtlety, restraint, and grace—as Sarah Sundin does.
Want to see what I mean? Follow this link to purchase Blue Skies Tomorrow for yourself. You’ll find yourself humming Glen Miller tunes, styling your hair with pin curls, and wishing your town had an old-fashioned soda fountain.
Follow this link to enter the giveaway at my blog Doorkeeper.
June 1, 2017
Tenho. Tantas. Emoções. Neste. Momento. Oh. Meu. Deus.
'Asas de Glória' é sem dúvida alguma das melhores trilogias que já li. Quem me dera que houvesse mais livros. Adorei tanto estas três histórias e todas as personagens e tudo o que compõe estes três magníficos livros. Certamente irei relê-los um dia mais tarde. Só acrescentar que... ADOREI.
'Asas de Glória' é sem dúvida alguma das melhores trilogias que já li. Quem me dera que houvesse mais livros. Adorei tanto estas três histórias e todas as personagens e tudo o que compõe estes três magníficos livros. Certamente irei relê-los um dia mais tarde. Só acrescentar que... ADOREI.
December 20, 2011
It was really awesome. I wish that I had been able to read the other two first, but I had no trouble understanding the story. It was very sweet and I fully intend to read it again someday! Definitely glad I own it. :)
Still love it, several months later, after reading it aloud!
Still love it, several months later, after reading it aloud!
March 22, 2015
This was my favorite of the series. Initially, it was just an ok read, but things really picked up about halfway through. The character development of Helen and Ray was phenomenal.
I recommend the Wings of Glory series for those that enjoy historical fiction.
I recommend the Wings of Glory series for those that enjoy historical fiction.
March 30, 2018
Ray is not Jack, but it´s also amazing.
A full 4* to this love and war story.
A full 4* to this love and war story.
November 1, 2023
I adored this book and this entire series. I didn't want it to end! I grew so attached to the characters, and the storyline was so gripping that I stayed up way too late every night because I simply couldn't stop reading. I have definitely discovered a new favorite series. 🤎
I am now going to go read the Waves of Freedom series to fill the void in my life that was left by finishing these beautiful books. ;)
I am now going to go read the Waves of Freedom series to fill the void in my life that was left by finishing these beautiful books. ;)
July 17, 2023
This book drew me in from the very beginning and had me holding on until the very end! The author did a great job of making this story distinct from the other two, while also intricately weaving in details from them. I loved the the themes central to this story and how everything was brought full circle!
May 7, 2020
Review Coming :)
April 29, 2023
I truly enjoyed the journey of the Novak brothers and their individual stories. This last book had my heart racing and blood boiling with certain actions of the characters. It was a wonderful way to end the three novels. Thank you to Sarah Sundin for capturing the historical and personal touch of each of the character’s lives. Love this book!
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