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.
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An Hour Unspent is the third book in Roseanna M. White’s Shadows Over England series and definitely worth reading.
Barclay Pearce once was a thief, but has left his past life behind in order to use his skills helping a nation at war. He has been keeping his eye on a talented engineer and one night finds himself rescuing the engineer’s daughter from a mugging.
Evelina Manning has always been independent, but her independence drives her fiance to call off their wedding and to enlist in the Army. After Barclay saves her from a mugging and shows up at her home to work with her father she is more than just a little intrigued, but they soon find themselves in danger wherever they turn and it might take Barclay’s old skills to keep them safe.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
This book has been a journey that I was sad to see end. It has a wonderful description of London in 1915. It was a time when war was prevalent and danger was everywhere. I enjoyed getting to know Lina and how passionate she is about the treatment of women. She has always wanted her independence but it wasn’t easy . Lina has a good relationship with her father and I found her devotion to be sincere. Her mother can be somewhat of a snob at times and take her husband for granted. Does she not realize how brilliant he is? Can you imagine being on the brink of making something so important that could change how the war is fought? Someone recognizes how important his work is and will do anything to have it.
I was excited to learn more about Barclay. He has had a hard life and I liked the background on him and how he became known as a thief. He is a driven man and now has changed his ways. He has been asked to help the war effort which will include working with Lina’s father. The author does a great job of giving details about clock making and I could hear chimes in the background as he worked on his secret invention. Barclay will do whatever is necessary to fulfill his orders.
There is intrigue and lots of danger in the story that keeps readers turning pages as fast as they can. When Lina’s father is in danger, can she depend on Barclay to help her? What happens when Lina finds out that Barclay was a thief? Can she trust him to keep her safe? One of the things I really liked about the story was the relationships the characters had with each other. It was interesting to read how Lina and her mother had taken her father for granted for so many years. We can get so wrapped up in ourselves, that we forget to thank those who protect us and care for us.
Barclay has some issues he needs to work through as well. His years of growing up without parents has taken a toll on him. He wants to help everyone but a part of him wants to be accepted as well. His selflessness could get him killed as he tries to help Lina and her father. I loved his humbleness and how deeply he loved those around him. He has become a changed man and he will do what is right even if it means sacrificing his life. Get ready for an explosive ending that will have you on the edge of your seat. I hate to see the story end, but the author has done an exceptional job of giving her readers a grand closure to an epic tale.
” Love. The thing worth fighting for. Worth dying for. But more-worth living for'”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
An Hour Unspent. Prior to reading the book, I was convinced this was a very awkward title. Having finished the book, book three in Rosanna M. White’s Shadows Over England, I now applaud the author her doubly apt title.
Who could not fall in love with White’s portrayal of Barclay Pearce, an ex-thief, now spying for the English? He is constantly trying to square his new-found faith with the deception required to perform for his country. However, what really draws the reader into Barclay Pearce is the way he is so compassionate for others. He cares for almost anyone needy around him. He has even built his own family, chock-full of “adopted siblings” who have chosen to belong to each other. They care for each other, laugh with each other, and love each other. While not in the least bit related by blood, they would die for each other if need be. Pearce’s family is very reminiscent of the O’Malley family group created by Dee Henderson.
Evalina “Lina” Manning falls in love with this noble thief, but then waffles over who he really is. One of them deserves someone much better than the other.
Quotables:
“And if the Master Clockmaker took such care with each cog, shouldn’t said cogs have the good sense to obey him when they felt that nudge?”
“There’s no such thing as too late. Not with God.”
Intrigue in World War I; regrets of a splintered blood family vs. the riches of a cobbled family that values its members; knowing who you are; and seeking God, are all themes of this new favorite book of mine. Don’t miss Rosanna M. White’s An Hour Unspent. ( Note: I have not yet read the first two books. This story stood well on its own.)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a review and all opinions are my own.
My Penny’s Worth
Did this book steal my imagination?
With sentences like “A smile appeared out of the web of wrinkles she called a face, revealing gums with only half their teeth” I’d say so. Again, Rosanna M White produces a book filled with beautiful descriptions.
There are pearls of wisdom
Barclay, finally we get to read his story. In this third book, the greatest thief in England comes to life. Stealing my heart. The head of the family, who is warm, flawed, and honest – yes a paradox, runs through the pages. His necessity to steal to put food on the table for his family may not have been what his father meant when giving this advice:
“There is no shame in working with your hands. In crafting or fixing. We use our minds; we use our words – if God did not want us to use our hands, too, He would not have given us such capable ones.”
However, Barclay uses all these gifts to help those living under the breadline. His heart is pure gold.
A great double act
Evelina, a polio victim, comes crashing into Barclay’s world. A young woman who wants to make a difference to those less fortunate. Hurt and betrayed, browbeaten and different. Evelina is determined, strong but vulnerable. A thorn in the side for Barclay at times. And her character works to drive the story forward. But will Barclay be able to steal and tame her?
The supporting characters are brilliant
Ms. White’s characters bring another level to the story. They are horrid snobs with typical attitudes of the day. I loved Barclay’s thoughts of Evelina’s mother.
“Perhaps the Admiralty could just unleash her on the unsuspecting Germans. The war would be over in hours.”
The winner’s cup, in my opinion, goes to Aunt Beatrice with her snide comments and brilliant timing. Oh how you just want to shake her, but instead you are left with an open mouth thinking, did she really say that?
“He’d come to realize, how the Lord worked. At least for him. He didn’t remove the bad – He just lent him the strength to face it.”
I had a few niggles
There wasn’t a lot I didn’t like, yes I am afraid there is a but – Sorry. But there were some minor mistakes with terminology that many authors make about railway terms. My hubby is always correcting people over this so it must have rubbed off onto me!
Another sorry, yes I know, I felt the book stretched reality a bit towards the end. Don’t get me wrong it all tied in well, though I am not sure the final chapters were plausible in 1915. Without a spoiler is it hard to be specific so dear reader, you will have to read the book and come back to me to have this conversation.
But don’t let these niggles put you off, I’ll just go and take something for them!
“When it came down to it, all you ever had forever was what you carried inside. Memories. Faith. Love.”
Would I recommend An Hour Unspent.
Yes. Getting to know Barclay and the family better is well worth it and a fitting finale to the series. He will tell you how to steal an hour.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favourable review was not required, and the opinions are my own.
This is an incredible novel set during WWI in London!
This is a standalone story within a series. There is a core nucleus of characters that are in all three books. Their lives are ongoing and progress as anyone’s life will. Each book has one of these characters as the central figure of the story.
I adore the main characters in this book! We’ve learned a lot about Barclay Pearce in the previous books in this series. But this book focuses on him and his background. We learn more about what formed him as he was growing up. His loyalty to family is fantastic. I also appreciate the fact that he is striving to learn to rely on God.
Evelina Manning’s whole demeanor has been formed by tragic health issues as a child. How her parents reacted in the aftermath has truly affected the whole family and how they interact with each other. I loved seeing how Evelina and her parents grow and work through issues that have been held inside for years.
The plot of this book is very intricately woven. I was caught up in the little mysteries that all tied together into a wonderful story of intrigue.
One of my favorite aspects of the story is the deep look as to what makes a family. Is it simply the blood flowing through people’s veins? Or is it a choice to stick together to face whatever comes up?
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.
Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I knew I was going to love Barclay’s story from the moment I knew there was a Barclay Pearce. This excellent thief, big brother extraordinaire, man-as-real-as-they-come is everything worth waiting for, and so was his story.
Roseanna M. White has a rare skill when it comes to storytelling, and an even rarer ability to weave the Gospel like threads of gold through her stories. Unimposing, ever present, glinting only when the sunlight strikes it. An Hour Unspent is no exception to either talent.
This third book in the Shadow Over England Series explores the truth of family, of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. And I dare you to finish it without fighting back the urge to gather up every lonely child into your arms, feed and clothe even your enemy, and to never put your loved ones at risk when it’s within your power to improve your chances.
Also, don’t fight that urge.
It might carry risks. But with the greatest risks…. (I’ll let you figure that one out).
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, even if I also purchased the (stunningly beautiful) audiobook. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
What an interesting story! Once London’s top thief, Barclay has turned his skills to help his nation by helping a clockmaker with a project that could definitely give them an upper hand. Intrigue, mystery, war as it affects their home, London and family drama.. I loved Barclay’s story. I was gifted a copy, my review is voluntary.
On a scale of cotton candy to Brussels sprouts, An Hour Unspent by Roseanna M. White is an Alfie’s French Creme cookie. Sweet through and through, this sandwich cookie may be a bit crunchy on the outside but the creme-center is soft and delectable. A cup of tea is the perfect compliment.
[copy received, opinions my own]
Evelina can take care of herself, and she’s on a mission for women’s vote. When she’s mugged on the street, she meets Barclay Pierce, a man who looks like a gentleman but makes threats like a street thief. She’s isn’t sure what to make of him. Meanwhile, Barclay has been hired by Mr. V to help Evelina’s clockmaker father build something to further the war effort. Every day, Evelina finds herself interacting with the interesting Barclay and discovering there’s more than meets the eye.
An Hour Unspent concluded the 3-book series, Shadows Over England, in a most satisfactory way. It was everything that I wanted, with a gutsy heroine and kind hero. I especially have a soft spot for character development in the arc of the story, and I delighted in seeing growth in even secondary characters. I think Roseanna White outdid herself with this final installment to the Shadows Over England series.
If you enjoy history, romance, and adventure, then you need to read An Hour Unspent.
Barclay Pearce has undergone a transformation since A Name Unknown and A Song Unheard, the first two books in this series. Then, he was a thief and the leader of a large adopted family of thieves. He’s now been persuaded of the truth of the gospel and the associated need to change his ways. His newfound honesty is challenged when V, his mysterious boss, asks him to befriend Mr Manning, a clockmaker who has made what could be a revolutionary discovery.
As Barclay befriends Mr Manning, he also meets and befriends Miss Evelina Manning. This is an interesting relationship to watch develop, as Lina has recently been jilted because her fiance didn’t think she loved him. Now she’s wondering if she can love anyone …
And, as with the other books in this series, there is a bet within the members of Barclay’s makeshift family—and again, it relates to the title.
White has the ability to take little-known factoids from history and incorporate them into her story without it feeling forced (for example, the origin of Rolex watches, and the presence of internment camps in England in World War I).
World War I is an excellent backdrop to this romance story about two people damaged by their parents and trying to rise above their histories to become better people. It’s the third book in the Shadows Over England series, and while it can be read as a standalone novel, you’ll enjoy it more if you read the other two first.
Recommended for historical romance fans.
Thanks to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
These books just keep getting better. This last book in the Shadows over England series follows Barclay, the big brother of the orphan family. The plot and new characters do not disappoint and it is a delightful wrap-up to the series.
Masterful!
It is masterful the way that the author took the theme of clocks and threaded it throughout the entire story. From Mr. Manning’s profession to the dare given to Barclay by his sister, to the way that Lina looked at her inability to feel, to the realization Barclay had about God, and so very much more. There were even references to Alice in Wonderland where, of course, a major theme was the white rabbit looking at his watch, “I’m late!” I can’t remember another book I’ve read that has done such an incredible job at doing this.
I wasn’t far into the book when I realized there were others that had come before it that told the story of two of Barclay’s sisters. Though it was clear a familiarity of their stories wasn’t essential to understanding this one, I was very tempted to set this aside to read them immediately. If only I had time! But I will be picking them up to read. I’m hooked!
I was touched by Evelina’s heartbreak and struggles with understanding her worth. And I adored Barclay, with his street-wise ways and heart of gold. I loved the way he had taken in an entire house of orphans and didn’t think it unusual. He was simply amazing. His deep love for others became so evident when he told his story to the four-year-old orphan, Clover, to set her at ease so she would be willing to go home with him, despite the fact that Lina was there to hear some of the sordid details she had previously been unaware of.
The intrigue and mystery were very interesting as was the deeper look into clocks and the history of an item we don’t even think twice about today. The spiritual lessons were insightful and powerful. And, of course, the romance was sweet and lovely.
I can’t recommend reading this book strongly enough!
Read with a Preview and Guest Post at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a free copy of this item. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
An Hour Unspent is the third book in Roseanna M. White’s Shadows Over England series, which follows characters in the early years of World War I. Having read the first book in the series I knew what to expect with Ms. White’s stories and I was not disappointed. I will say that even though there is enough background information about the characters in this third book, I feel like I missed another good story since I didn’t read the second book. A person could read this and find it an entertaining and satisfying tale but reading the complete series brings a depth to the tale you wouldn’t want to miss. Barclay and Evalina’s story is wonderfully enchanting and yet fraught with obstacles and difficult situations. Barclay has led a checkered past and his family is a mish-mash of orphans and former street thieves who have learned what family truly is and it’s not just blood–it is choice–the choice to love no matter what. He will do anything to give his adopted siblings what they need. Evalina’s from the wealthier side of London and her family is nothing like this raucous, teasing, loving bunch. When her former fiancé confronts her with the fact that she truly doesn’t love him, Lina begins to doubt herself and wonder if she can change from the automaton-like feelings she shows others and truly love. And what about God–is He like a clockmaker who just winds things up and then watches as things play out however they might. Or is He, as Barclay is coming to realize, a personal God who is involved in our lives, giving grace and wisdom and bringing help and guidance. I liked how the characters (and not just Lina and Barclay) are so realistic in their feelings and actions and how they grow and mature in their emotional and spiritual lives as the story unfolds. And of course, there are those characters that you really just don’t like, adding a little extra charm and appeal to the story. Interest is kept high as there are several surprise twists to the plot and a climactic ending that is rather edge-of-the-seat suspenseful. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more of this author’s works.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
An hour unspent
Before reading the book I wandered where the title came from, well, if I say why the title of An hour unspent it may be a spoiler. So, you have to read to find out. It is not because of Evelina’s father being a watch maker.
I loved the characters of Evelina and Barclay. Loved how Barclay has such a big adopted family. When Evelina meets them they find things in common right off. Loved how she helped a couple of the children. Evelina is strong willed and will stick up for people not being treated fair.
This seemed like a long book but when I started reading it went fast, the story had good flow and kept me entertained.
I received an complementary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
So much HEART! This is how I can define this book… the entire series, in fact!
I’ve been very much looking forward to writing this review. But I’m feeling SO MUCH I don’t know how to put it into words!
Barclay Pearce is a figure! Still finding his steps in this new called faith but with a heart as big as the family he’s grown. Steadfast and loyal, he’s having a blast seeing his sister find happiness and welcoming new brothers into the family. And as this said patched family grows and find their own footing in the world, the question remaining is who will take care of Barclay?
One who loves so well and fiercely needs some as determined and passionate as him.
Evelina Manning knows what it means to march for a cause, to have to shout, to tackle every nuance life throws her way and win. But, along the way, she has forgotten that she’s a mear human BEing and has conformed to a human DOing – not meeting the expectations of those around her.
If her fiancé leaving her isn’t a surprise enough to have her pondering than the honesty and openness of one Barclay Pearce is sure to unbalance her out of the fastidious environment she’s used to be in, though always leaving her smiling.
I love how their interaction started organically, without an agenda. With Lina’s fire bringing out the protectiveness inside Barclay and his compassion challenging and breaking down the walls around her. These two have many valleys to get through, but there is one thing that ties all the different layers of the story together; something precious grown inside us by the Greatest Clockmaker who doesn’t see us as mere tools, but seen and known, good workers with a vocation, redeemed. And this secret is something no treasure or merit can gain, but only grace. This secret that twines it all together is love.
An Hour Unspent is the third installment from Roseanna M. White exciting series, Shadows Over England. I have loved series and this one did not disappoint me at all. I loved Evelina and Barclay’s story. To me, they had instant chemistry that made me enjoy their scenes together and, also, the best parts of the book. In addition to the romance, there was an element of mystery and suspense that they were thrown into that made me want to find out how they were going to solve. The historical details were so vivid, I felt like I was right there among the characters.
An Hour Unspent is my favorite book from the Shadows Over England. I am giving it a well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend this book, as well as, the other books in the series. Great job, Roseanna! I recommend this book for readers who love a good, clean, suspenseful and romantic historical.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Barclay Pearce has given up stealing, except when it’s for his job as a secret agent for the British government. His current project is to infiltrate the household of a clockmaker, ensure that he finishes his plan to upgrade the guns on England’s World War I aircraft, and then turn that plan over to the British government. But when Barclay meets the clockmaker’s daughter, Evelina Manning, his job becomes more intriguing…and more difficult.
Evelina’s fiance Basil has just called off the engagement. As much as he admires Evelina’s determination to fight for women’s suffrage and better conditions for factory workers, he finds her incapable of any real romantic feeling. Horrified to be thought an automaton, Evelina throws herself at Barclay Pearce, the new neighbor who has been befriending her father. But as she learns more about Barclay’s criminal past, she begins to doubt his intentions as much as she doubts her own capabilities for love. When a mysterious foreign agent steals something they both need, Barclay and Evelina must band together to get it back.
This book concludes the Shadows over England series and tells the much-anticipated story of Barclay. As the head of the family of street orphans, Barclay has always sacrificed to take care of the others. Now, he must struggle to find his own happiness with a girl who might not fit into his world. Along the way, the story of Barclay’s long lost family emerges, and Barclay must learn to trust Jesus enough to wholly abandon his old ways.
This book was a satisfying finale to a great series. Barclay has always been my favorite character of the bunch, and it was delightful to see more of his protective and honorable heart. I loved the historical details, such as the zeppelin bomb run over London, the rationing of sugar, and the trench warfare in France. The heroine, who is new to the reader, takes a little getting to used to, but her lameness from childhood polio helps one develop a sympathy for her, and her determination ends up impressing the reader as much as it does her admirers. Recommended.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ever since reading about Barclay Pearce in the first book in this series, A Name Unknown, I have been crushing on him. Finally getting to read his story only makes me feel stronger towards him. I know, he’s not real, but a girl can dream can’t she. Anyway, this is about Barclay and how he has changed his life for the better. He has stopped stealing, well for the most part. He works for Mr. V and has had a few occasions to steal, with permission of course.
Then he is given a mission that will further change his life for the better, eventually. Barclay has to help Mr. Cecil Manning, a clockmaker with designs to build a piece of equipment that will help fighter pilots shoot intermittently through their propellers without hitting the blades. This will revolutionize warfare. Barclay meets Cecil’s daughter, Evelina, and is suddenly attracted to her. However, she is engaged. Until her fiance’ joins the Army and breaks their engagement. Where does that leave things between Barclay and Evelina?
Well, I don’t want to get to far into the story and spoil things for you. Just know that Barclay is a real man and he proves it many times in his work life and his personal life. This story is a wonderful one and I believe everyone who likes clean, Christian historical romance will love this one even better than the first two books in this series. Enjoy!
An Hour Unspent is the third and final book in Roseanna M. White’s Shadows Over England Series and it is just as excellent as the first book, A Name Unknown. A Song Unheard, the second book in the series, is waiting in my Kindle app, as I type, to be read as soon as I have a chance to get to it. Just to let you know, reading them out of order did not hinder my ability to understand or enjoy An Hour Unspent; rather it served to make me even more ready to go back and read A Song Unheard. On to the good stuff!
This Family!
My heart was already involved in this makeshift family of former thieves from being introduced to them in A Name Unknown. An Hour Unspent only served to make me fall more in love with them. There wasn’t a character among them whom I didn’t wish I could meet and spend time with by the end of the book. How I would love to have been at the table for one of their gatherings of extended family and friends at Pauly’s. Just beware that if you take a chance on this series, this family will draw you in, make you want to be one of their own, and you’ll wish you didn’t have to say goodbye.
This Hero!
Okay, so I am not typically one to have a “book boyfriend” list, but if I did Barclay Pearce would, without a doubt, be on it. I’ve noticed that the heroes who tend to make me swoon the most are ones that remind me of my husband. Not that my husband’s a thief (well, maybe of my heart ), but there are so many traits in Barclay Pearce that are the very ones that made me fall in love with my husband and make me so thankful he’s mine. He’s all about taking care of his family, he is patient, kind, laid back, observant, intelligent, confident, he knows what it means to love sacrificially and he does it. If that list right there doesn’t make your heart swoon, Barclay Pearce himself will. He’s the real deal. He’s what a real man should be, and I love to find those kinds of heroes in the books I read. My husband is my own real life hero and he’s proof that those kinds of men exist outside of fiction. At times, I found Evelina to be a bit frustrating, but I loved what Barclay took the time to see in her and how he helped her grow and begin to become who she was meant to be. Hmm, yet another similarity Barclay Pearce shares with my husband.
That Kiss!
And y’all, there was a kiss scene that took place in this book, that was just, well . . . whew! A “be still my heart” kind of scene. So completely sigh worthy that it had me melting right there on the spot. I dare you to read it and see if you don’t melt right there, too! (For those of you who might be concerned, the scene was not, in any sort of way, inappropriate, just so you know! It was very tastefully and romantically and sweetly done!)
The Story!
Every aspect of this story—from what it means to be family, to mystery, to spyish parts, to romance, to loving people who others won’t, to eyes being opened to real need around them, to surprising discoveries, to hurting people beginning to find truth, to broken hearts encountering hope—simply every part of this story was masterfully done. I don’t know how Ms. White does it, but with each book she writes, she writes such realistic characters (both physically and emotionally) who grow and change in a real and meaningful way. She writes stories that engage and that speak to hearts, and in the Shadows Over England Series, a lovely family that I am sad to say goodbye to. If you want a book that will do those things for you—engage you, speak to you, and make you not want to see it come to an end, then this book and this series are the ones for you!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
An Hour Unspent #3 Shadows Over England by Roseanna M. White
1915, Poplar, London, England. We finally learn Barclay Pearce’s story! I love everything about Barclay, his devotion to his “family”, the manner in which they became a family, his tender heart toward those less fortunate, bravery, compassion, strength, weaknesses and growing faith. Even with such a wonderful family there is one thing Barclay does not have, a wife and children of his own. Will he ever find that with his background and current employment? Then he meets Evelina Manning, a clock maker’s daughter, and his life is never the same again.
Evelina is another favorite in this book. She comes from a wealthy family and lives in an affluent neighborhood. However, she is not really happy and is caught up in attaining independence. She too has faced challenges in her life, a bit different than the challenges Barclay has faced, and has overcome some of those challenges. I love her heart for the women working in the factories as their husbands are fighting in the war and the way she helps them. Evelina is vulnerable and has self-doubts but ultimately finds she has strengths and value as well as she learns to trust God in all areas of her life. Evelina clearly sees the contrast with her own home life in comparison to Barclay and his family. I think she is seeing what makes a family a family. I for one enjoyed his family’s banter, fun, compassion and love they shared.
The clock making terms and theme woven within the story-line is very interesting and adds a special element to the story. It also adds some suspense and intrigue in regards to the war (not saying how, don’t want to spoil anything). I love the vivid descriptions of the timepieces, clocks and history. I love the backstory regarding the mysterious Mr. V.
An Hour Unspent is a fantastic Edwardian, historical romance, filled with mystery and intrigue, danger, fears and suspense, joys and sorrows, judgments and forgiveness, second chances, love and faith. We see first-hand contrasts between those with wealth and those living in poverty, fear and strength, those without faith and those with strong faith woven within the story-line and the characters lives. I love the historical aspects of the story and the author’s attention to detail brings the story to a level above others. I enjoyed the author’s historical notes giving us more details regarding this era. I appreciate the inspirational elements of the story, especially the life-lessons about trust, being used by God and how He uses our broken pieces in ways we never imagined. One favorite quote on page 382… “Well, the Lord uses even our broken pieces in the most remarkable ways, doesn’t He?” Indeed He does.
While Barclay and Evelina’s story can be read as a stand alone, reading the first two books first will give the reader a deeper understanding of the characters that appear in the series. I am sorry to see this series end, but am hoping to see some of the characters from this series in future books. Mr. V. Margot. Hint, hint!
~I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
An Hour Unspent is the concluding book in the Shadows Over England series. It ties up many loose ends, gives updates on previous characters, and further insight into some of the secondary characters we have grown to love, including Pauly and V. While it easily reads as a standalone, those who have enjoyed previous books will certainly catch more nuances and have a deeper understanding of many of the characters.
This is Barclay’s book, and we get to know him much better, watching much of the action through his eyes and the lens of a new believer trying to do the best he can to live a life honoring God. I have loved him since the first novel, but reading about his backstory and how the family formed was beautiful as well as heartbreaking. In this particular book, we see Barclay “adopting” some new siblings. These pages fiercely squeezed my heart while cementing adoration of this character.
Evelina is a fascinating woman in her own right, seemingly having everything, yet her life has many difficulties of different sorts. Watching her determine her priorities and what she is truly willing to fight for, and with whom she fights alongside, made me like her even more.
The romance is stellar. Barclay and Evelina may have little in common on the surface, but the connection between them is rapid and strong. Wondering how it could possibly work out given misunderstandings and attempts to protect the other kept me turning pages long after I should have turned out the lights!
More so than the previous novels, this one deals with a nation at war, with trying to hold on to your identity and character as the world around you runs mad. Paramount is trusting God with your loved ones. This is probably a struggle that most readers can relate to but I imagine it is even more difficult in a time of war and, as Barclay discovers, not just for those engaged in formal combat.
Oh, how I love this patchwork family! The scenes showing the contrast between blood family and a family of love, choosing to stick with each other, even knowing the others aren’t perfect, was poignant and had me crying. How Barclay’s family loves—fully and completely—is beautiful to see depicted in the novel and challenges me to love my own family better.
I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy romantic historical fiction, mystery and suspense, or those with an interest in WWI in particular. The details are outstanding, the characters (including secondary ones) are ones to root for, and the plot kept me guessing and hoping along with those involved. It is an exciting, engrossing read, sure to be enjoyed by new fans and devoted ones, too!
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed are both honest and my own.