Review: Hope at Dawn by Stacy Henrie

Publication: June 24, 2014, Forever. 384 pages
My Source: I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Description: IN A TIME OF WAR, LOVE IS THE INSPIRATION.

With her brothers away fighting the Great War overseas, Livy Campbell desperately wants to help her family. Her chance comes when she meets a handsome stranger who lands her a job as a teacher in a place far from her parents' farm. But the war casts a long shadow over the German-American town that Livy now calls home-and the darkness will test everything she thought she knew about family and love . . .

More than anything, Friedrick Wagner wants to be part of his adopted country's struggle for peace. But when the bitter animosity between Germans and Americans soon turns citizens against newcomers, friend against friend, he will do whatever it takes to protect Livy from the hysteria that grips their town. As tragedy-and dark secrets from the past-threaten their future, Friedrick and Livy have one chance to stand up for what's right . . . and one chance to fight for their love.

My Review: First of all, this is a cover that I absolutely adore. It leaves a lot to the imagination, yet is really gorgeous. Next, I loved this story! I haven't read many books that take place during WWI. My great-grandfather fought in this war and passed away when I was really little. I don't know about many things that he experienced and the way life was then. This story made it really easy to picture how things were in my mind. I thought the writing was almost lyrical and the storyline was very engaging, with very likable characters.

Livy has always wanted to be a school teacher and when she gets a tip about a school, she jumps at the chance. I love the way she jumps right in, even though it isn't ideal and is hard work. She doesn't let the little prejudices deter her, nor does she let the big ones. I would be scared to death to teach in a school in an area with such strict laws. She does the best she can and is such a strong and determined woman, standing up for what's right any time she can.

I love Friedrick! He's so gentle and patient. I could feel the pain and embarrassment he had over not being able to serve his country. He's so willing to do whatever it takes to show his loyalty, even at the risk of putting his family in poverty. I love the way he sticks up for others, but does so in a very kind, persistent, understated way.

I thought the author did a fantastic job of weaving fiction with truth. I have ancestors who Americanized their surnames and now I understand why. I learned some things that I didn't realize before. I can't wait to see what's next--Ms. Henrie is definitely an author to watch!

Content:
language--none
violence--vague talk of war and death; threatening situations; a fight
romance--clean kissing
religious--mention of church, prayer, faith, but not preachy 

 

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About the Author:

Stacy Henrie has always had an avid appetite for history, fiction and chocolate. While she had a goal to write and publish a book one day, she turned her attentions first to graduating with a bachelor's degree in public relations. Not long after, she switched from writing press releases and newsletters to writing inspirational historical romances as a stay-at-home mom. Stacy loves reading, interior decorating, romantic movies, and most of all, laughing with her husband and three kids. She appreciates the chance to live out history through her characters, while enjoying all the modern conveniences of life in the 21st century. 

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