Once London’s top thief, Barclay Pearce has turned his back on his life of crime and now uses his skills for a nation at war. But not until he rescues a clockmaker’s daughter from a mugging does he begin to wonder what his future might hold.Evelina Manning has constantly fought for independence, but she certainly never meant for it to inspire her fiancé to end the engagement and enlist in the … in the army. When the intriguing man who saved her returns to the Manning residence to study clockwork repair with her father, she can’t help being interested. But she soon learns that nothing with Barclay Pearce is as simple as it seems.
As 1915 England plunges ever deeper into war, the work of an ingenious clockmaker may give England an unbeatable military edge–and Germany realizes it as well. Evelina’s father soon finds his whole family in danger–and it may just take a reformed thief to steal the time they need to escape.
more
This book! This series, these characters! Shadows Over England by Roseanna M. White now officially ranks among my all-time favorite series, and Roseanna is officially one of my favorite authors. Her writing is superb. In An Hour Unspent, about a clockmaker’s daughter, I loved all the clock/watch and time metphors and themes she wove in. For all of you who told me this book is your favorite in the series, and that Barclay is your favorite hero of the three–I get it! The redemption arcs in all three books are exquisite. In An Hour Unspent, the action and characterization are a perfect blend, and the amount of romance was just right. I can’t say enough good about this novel and series.
Also-the narrator, Liz Pearce, is phenomenal. I’m going to see what else she’s done and listen to her more.
It’s a given that An Hour Unspent by Roseanna M. White is a remarkable story. Without a doubt, the characters are exceptionally drawn out, the plot is completely engaging, and the historical time period is so well researched and illustrated that I truly felt like I was transported back in time to 1915 London. An Hour Unspent is an excellent final installment to what has been a stellar series. I so very much enjoyed my time with Evelina and Barclay, and I am a bit emotional about having to say goodbye. I feel like Barclay’s family has sort of become my family!
We humans take time for granted. We set alarms to make sure we wake up on time. We calendar in on our planners important dates, appointments, and meetings. We plan our days according to various things we have to accomplish at certain times. We deal with time every day, but we very rarely think about what time means, or who is the Boss of it. Somehow, we believe that by setting alarms we are somehow controlling our time, but that is far from the truth. In An Hour Unspent, Evelina loses someone close to her, and it’s only after this loss that she realizes how much she took her time with that person for granted. Of the many topics discussed in this novel, this notion resonated with me the most. This past June 1, I had a brother named Tim. He was 42 years old, and one of the healthiest humans I’ve ever known. In a million years I never thought he would die so young. June 2, I lost my brother in a freak accident. Not a day has gone by that I don’t think about him and miss him. An Hour Unspent really drove home how important it is to not take one single second of our time for granted. It is imperative to cherish the time we have with the people we love. We cannot assume someone will be there tomorrow. If you need to call your mom, call her now. If you need to hug your son, hug him now. If you need to see your best friend, do it now. Don’t wait until it is too late.
What I love so much about all three novels in the Shadows Over England series is how brave the main characters are. Rosemary, Willa, and Barclay are SO strong and courageous. They willingly do whatever is necessary to protect their loved ones AND do what is right for all of mankind. Yes, they go through periods of doubt and uncertainty, but they don’t stay there. Barclay is a good man. He cares for others because he knows it is the path God has set him on. Rosemary and Willa were the same in their stories. In this day and age where good is bad and bad is good, it is so refreshing to escape into a world where people are brave because the alternative is unfathomable. My biggest take away from A Name Unknown, A Song Unheard, and An Hour Unspent is to fight my fear. Fear is a liar. Fear says it is bigger than God, but I know better. I want to be like the members of Barclay’s family — willing to do what is necessary for the betterment of others regardless of my fears!
An Hour Unspent is a wonderful read. I chuckled a bit, I cried a little, I was terrified by the Zeppelin attack, and I cheered for Evelina and Barclay the whole time. This book took me through the whole gamut of emotions, and then some! I am truly going to miss my time with Barclay’s phenomenal family.
I received a review copy of this novel in paperback form from the author via Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
If you ever read a book by this author and decided her works were not for you, I urge you to give this series a try. All three in this series so far have made it into my list of all-time favorites. Barclay was my favorite “sibling’ from the first. I’ve been looking forward to his story and wasn’t disappointed. I’m already biting at the bit for the next one!
Who will triumph, Love or the enemy, during WWI?
I’ve only read two books by Roseanna M. White, An Hour Unspent is the second, but I am already very much a fan. And I find myself wondering why I waited so long to check them out?!
With the 100th anniversary of WWI occurring over the last 4 years there has been a surge in interest in The Great War. This interest has brought forth quite a few books, both fiction and non-fiction, and I have to say that of the fiction variety Shadows Over England has been one of my absolute favorites. Roseanna M. White’s blend of romance and suspense against the backdrop of an England at war and the turmoil of social reform on the homefront is a winning combination. Her attention to historical detail is such that the reader honestly feels transported to the time and place.
An Hour Unspent was a story that I greatly enjoyed. The setting and history are fascinating but it was the characters that really made it interesting. By turns I loved them, wanted to shake some sense into them, sympathized with their problems, and felt like giving a few of them a real comeuppance! I definitely recommend this particular book from Roseanna M. White as well as the series in general. Don’t miss it!
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
An Hour Unspent is book number three in the Shadows Over England series by Roseanna M. White. Roseanna has outdone herself again, she has written another book that is better than the last. I am a lover of historical fiction. This story practically came to life before my eyes. Be sure to get your copy of An Hour Unspent today.
“But perhaps if one viewed God like a master clockmaker, then every cog, every gear, every spring was important. If one was out of line, no matter how small and insignificant, the entire device would fail.”
Roseanna White never fails to deliver high-quality, well-researched, and intensely gripping inspirational historical romance. This book is number 3 in the Shadows Over England series and can definitely be read as a stand-alone, though I highly recommend the other two books for background stories of Rosie/Peter and Will/Lukas and just for the sheer joy of reading such well-written novels. The dialogue in this book is quite clever and witty. There is great history, such as women’s suffrage movement in England and the birth of watch making from clock making, weaved into the fabric of the story. There is a good dose of intrigue and suspense and World War I espionage expertly mixed into great writing, intricate plot, and vividly memorable characters. There is even an intimate look at poverty, orphanhood, and racism that is still relevant today. The romance in the book is tender, the theme of faith and sacrificial love is real and down-to-earth, and emotions are so raw yet eloquent that quite a few scenes in the book made me cry.
I have to say I wasn’t a huge fan of Barclay until this book. But he has changed dramatically since the beginning of the series and his noble character shines clearly in this story as he realizes whom God wants him to be. He’s an incredible man – resolved to turn away from his life of thievery, resourceful, intelligent, devoted to his family, so so tender and loving, and exquisitely sweet even if a little too overprotective. He has such a big heart and Evelina can’t help but fall in love with him. Evelina is a polio-surviver, brilliant, stubborn, and independent yet unsure of who she is. As the daughter of a renowned clock and toy maker, she feels like one of her father’s automatons. When one of her father’s ingenious designs brings the Navy’s attention and Barclay to her family’s door, sparks fly even as they all become entrenched in the dealings of war.
I really enjoyed the roles that Rosie/Peter and Willa/Lukas had in this book and loved being the witness to their happy unions. The mysterious V – Barclay’s boss – actually reveals himself in this book and we learn about who he was and who he is now, which is so satisfying. And it’s incredibly fun to see how Barclay actually steals an hour from the Big Ben!
I am so sad that the series has come to an end. It would have been wonderful to read about each and every one of Barclay’s adopted siblings… but there is a new series on the horizon so I’m waiting in anticipation for the first book!
I received a copy of the book from Baker Publishing Group via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
An Hour Unspent, by Roseanna M. White, is the third book in the fantastic Shadows over England series. Set in England and France at the beginning of WWI, An Hour Unspent is a truly fabulous historical fiction novel. Ms. White perfectly incorporates elements of history, suspense, mystery, faith, and romance into a thoroughly satisfying story that is entertaining and enthralling.
With great skill, thorough research, and thoughtful insight, Ms. White creates characters that are utterly engaging. As WWI begins to change the outlook of everyday life, the characters endeavor to overcome their insecurities, face their fears, and make courageous choices for the good of others. Authentic and vulnerable, the characters are inspiring and intriguing as they struggle with their doubts and develop their faith against a backdrop of uncertainty. Like the second hand moving across the face of a clock, the characters persevere, and their experiences are consistently unforgettable even after the book has been finished.
Within this novel, there are also deep themes that enrich the story and provide plenty of ideas to ponder. The choices and actions that stem from poverty are pivotal to the storyline, as are the moments of grace that balance the moments of despair. There is redemption for the lost, but there is also struggle, pain, and doubt. There are patterns of sorrow and loss that can only be overcome with honesty, humility, and forgiveness as the characters find wholeness in the unconditional love of Jesus. There are no easy solutions to difficult problems, but there are always gentle reminders of hope that whisper into the darkest hours offering new beginnings and changed hearts.
With each carefully crafted paragraph, Ms. White has succeeded in creating a well-written story that is unique, intriguing, and compelling. An Hour Unspent is an immensely satisfying novel that is very enjoyable, touching, and thought-provoking. I recommend it eagerly.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
I enjoyed every one of the many hours I took to fully immerse myself into this delightful story! Roseanna White expertly writes such dynamic characters and expansive settings that I just can’t help but be blissfully lost within the pages of her books!
I was super excited to get the chance to read Barclay’s story and to meet Evelina! Both of these strong characters grabbed a hold of my heart and wouldn’t let go. From the bustling streets of London to the French countryside at the edge of the war, this book will take you on a literary journey you won’t soon forget!
I especially appreciated how Roseanna White drew a connection between the master clock-maker and our Heavenly Father, as well as the reminder that we all are granted the same amount of hours and that we need to spend our time wisely.
While you could read this story as a stand-alone, you would miss out on the stories of Barclay’s sisters, each of which has their own amazing stories!
This book is one that you will want on your keeper shelf to pull out and enjoy again and again! I give this book 5 stars and encourage you to pick up a copy to enjoy today!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Absolutely LOVED it! Roseanna White has created an adventure filled masterpiece! Mystery, intrigue, war and a wonderful family. One of my favorite paragraphs; “But family isn’t blood-you know that. It should be, but it isn’t, not always. Family is choice. Love.”
These words touch my heart in ways I cannot express. There is a message of faith, new faith for Barclay, learning to trust in something other than the street smarts he learned as a means to survive. I loved seeing this and the example he sets for the family.
Barclay meets Evelina Manning, saving her from a mugging. No spoilers from me.
I think the author could write stories about these family members for a long time but I know she must move on.
This was a perfect ending to a wonderful series.
Bravo! Ms. White will not disappoint her readers in the long anticipated ending of this series. The Shadow of England series focuses on an adopted family of reformed thieves who use their talents for the British Admiralty war efforts of WWI. While each book can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend reading them in order.
I was so happy to finally read Barclay’s story. He is by far my favorite in a wonderful, emotional, messy family that is easy to love. In Barclay, Ms. White has given us a character that demonstrates that relationships have the power to transform, especially a relationship with God.
Barclay has been given the task to assist a clockmaker named Cecil Manning in his work with technical designs that have attracted attention from both sides of the conflict. Barclay and Evelina, the clockmaker’s daughter, navigate affairs of the heart as they race against time in this story filled with intrigue and danger.
Ms. White masterfully crafts a story rich in historical content, lyrical prose that appeals to the senses and a spiritual message that is relevant in any setting.
A few of my favorite quotes:
“But perhaps if one viewed God like a master clockmaker, then every cog, every gear, every spring was important.”
“…a man only has so much time upon this earth. It seems to me that if you spend it all regretting what you haven’t accomplished, you’ve only managed to waste what hours you have, which you ought to be spending with the people who make them count.”
“the Lord uses even our broken pieces in the most remarkable ways.”
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Page turning plots of intrigue, heart stirring romance, life like characters and a thoroughly researched historical setting that consumes the imagination…these are things I’ve come to expect from Roseanna M. White, and “In An Hour Unspent,” she once again succeeded to check every single box.
My favorite thing about this story, third in the Shadows over England series, was the addition of clockwork themed imagery, brilliant inventions, and delightful automaton toys courtesy of Evelina’s clockmaker father. Highly recommend!
I loved Barclay in this story. He is an amazing character. Admittedly though I found Evelina’s character kind of annoying. Her trust issues seemed more annoying than realistic at times. Besides her being annoying at times, I really enjoyed the story.
I would LOVE if there were at least novellas for Elinor, Rhetta, and Lucy.
Three books–three great men! I loved Peter (book 1). Then I really liked Lucas (book 2). But then I got to read more about Barclay in this book. Oh, my goodness–his heart for his family and for children, his code of honor, his determination to follow God to the best of his understanding! While I enjoyed this family of orphaned and abandoned kids, and while the storylines were tense and fun and thoroughly enjoyable, I’d read this series again simply to learn more from the heroes Roseanna White created.
I was really looking forward to reading Barclay’s story and I was not disappointed. I absolutely loved Barclay—from his fiercely loyal nature to his desire to turn toward the life that God wanted him to lead. What a great story of redemption just in one man. Full review is at my website: LoraineNunley.com
I received this book complimentary from a book giveaway. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.
Oh. My. Word. I adored this novel from start to finish. The hero, Barclay…BARCLAY…What an amazing character! This was my favorite book out of the series and I’m so sad to see Barclay and his patch-work family of former thieves go.
In one word, An Hour Unspent by Roseanna M. White is exquisite. I don’t know when the theme of a series and its characters have more completely captured my heart. These stories – A Name Unknown, A Song Unheard, and An Hour Unspent – are so very well written, rich with interesting historical detail, and filled with memorable characters who tug at the heartstrings. Reading the entire series in order will provide the most fulfilling reading experience, but An Hour Unspent stands alone and should be read, no matter what.
White’s stories feature women who are strong, and the clockmaker’s daughter, Evelina Manning, continues that trend. It took me a while to warm up to her, but that certainly happened as some of her insecurities and family background came to light… “The Manning house…it hadn’t been alive, not really, in fifteen years. It had just kept ticking along, because that was what gears did when set in motion.”
The heart of this story, and one of its strengths, is Barclay Pearce – founder, caregiver, leader. Barclay, who we’ve followed as a background character through the two previous books. Barclay, once a thief, now a moral leader working to assist the government as war deepens. Barclay, father to the most precious group of orphans, who emulate what real family means. Barclay, longing to find his brother who “had vanished into London’s orphanage system as surely as their mother had into its prisons.” And Barclay, a relatively new-to-the-faith Christian who struggles with the same questions that seasoned believers face as he asks, “When one’s government told one to slip back into one’s old habits…was it wrong? Or justified?” I have been hoping for and eagerly anticipating his story, and it is so much more than I could have imagined.
The element of faith is the sustaining thread that flows gently and effectively throughout. As Roseanna said in her guest post below, this is “a story about how far people should go for love.” And really, should there ever be any limit, deadline, or last chance? An Hour Unspent is an incredibly moving story and Barclay one of my favorite characters ever. While this may complete the series, I certainly hope to see this family and the younger siblings in the future.
I can’t resist adding this thought… While the cover perfectly fits the story’s theme, I would love for Barclay to have been featured on it.
An Hour Unspent is an all-time favorite, best of the best, highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House through the author and Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
This is the best of the three in the Shadows over England Book! Well done Roseanna. If you’ve enjoyed the first 2 you’ll really like this one. Have gotten my friends hooked on Roseanna and they agree this one is good!
This is her third in a series and I adored it , along with the other two!
I have been eagerly looking forward to Barclay Pierce’s story since being introduced to him in A Name Unknown. He is a charming thief with an absolute heart of gold and I was so pleased he finally got his happy ending. Evelina is a bit more subdued with her emotions and took a little longer to warm up to but she stole my heart as well. Roseanna M. White never disappoints and knows how to finish a series as strongly as she starts one. There was romance, intrigue and danger lurking around every corner and I could not put this book down. I would not suggest reading this series out of order as there are threads from the previous two books.
I was so excited to learn Margot will be the heroine of the next book and absolutely can’t wait to delve deeper into the world of codebreaking!
I was given a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Roseanna White has delivered another impressive and historically fascinating story. Set in 1915 London, it made my heart pound when I read about the airships dropping their bombs. I was captured by the detailed war atmosphere and I could feel the tension and fear fueling much of the cast of characters emotions and mindsets.
Barclay Pearce has undertaken great responsibilities with his ragtag family of orphans. I love how determined he is to instill a sense of security in each one and make sure that they are gently and lovingly cared for. He has a big heart, along with a compassionate and giving spirit. He has become one of my favorite fictional characters.
There is so much more to this story, that I find it challenging to put the words on paper. Suffice it to say that if you are a fan of historical fiction filled with plenty of action, intrigue, forgiveness and renewal, you will enjoy An Hour Unspent, the thrilling conclusion to Shadows Over England series.
I was provided a copy of the book from the author and publisher. No review was required. No compensation received.