In spring 1918, Lieutenant Colin Mabry, a British soldier working with MI8 after suffering injuries on the front, receives a message by carrier pigeon. It is from Jewel Reyer, the woman he once loved and who saved his life–a woman he believed to be dead. Traveling to France to answer her urgent summons, he desperately hopes this mission will ease his guilt and restore the courage he lost on the … the battlefield.
Colin is stunned, however, to discover the message came from Jewel’s half sister, Johanna. Johanna, who works at a dovecote for French Army Intelligence, found Jewel’s diary and believes her sister is alive in the custody of a German agent. With spies everywhere, Colin is skeptical of Johanna, but as they travel across France and Spain, a tentative trust begins to grow between them.
When their pursuit leads them straight into the midst of a treacherous plot, danger and deception turn their search for answers into a battle for their lives.
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I loved learning about WWI and how carrier pigeons were used to get messages to and from certain areas. This had a great amount of history and just the right amount of romance. There was even some intrigue thrown in. I loved the characters of Colin and Johanna. It is fun to see how they learn to trust one another during these trying times. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
This book is quite an escapade for intrigue. I liked the two main characters, Colin Mabry and Johanna Reyer. They played nicely against each other since he was fast becoming a wallflower with his war injuries and she with her devil may care attitude for her cause. As they joined forces to find the missing Jewel Reyer, it was easy to see how their chemistry made them a formidable team.
Kate Breslin’s characters come alive and their complexities make this suspenseful novel one that is hard to put down. I was surprised to learn how much carrier pigeons were used in World War I to convey intricate details for intelligence. Colin may have had a debilitating injury when he lost his hand but that did nothing to stop him from playing an important role in deciphering the coded messages sent from allies. Johanna pioneered women when she donned tunics and slacks to drive her motorcycle in and out of danger to deliver messages. I enjoyed her spirit and her first hand experience handling the pigeons who carried messages across the channel.
The two were joined together on a mission that grew larger than life. Kate kept the story going with several twists and turns to make this one big caper for freedom. There is a good bit of faith and values in this story that brings together a man who was grounded in his faith and a woman who never before heard the word of God. The love Colin begins to feel for Johanna is built within his faith and as she grows to love him, she opens her heart to a new and simmering faith. I enjoyed this story very much and recommend it to the reader who enjoys mysteries of an espionage nature.
I look forward to every book with Kate Breslin’s name on the cover and snapped up the opportunity to read her March release. Astute readers will remember briefly meeting Colin Mabry in Not By Sight. And now he gets his own book.
This World War I romance introduced me to the use of carrier pigeons during the war. The entire book is so well researched, I felt like I was right there with these characters are they travel from England to France to Spain.
Now, let’s talk Colin and Johanna, a hero and heroine who are excellently developed through the course of the story. Despite Colin’s past war experiences—which certainly could make a man bitter—this particular man is kind, loyal, and filled with integrity. And Johanna. Oh, I just loved her. She’s courageous yet vulnerable, and sometime just a tad hilarious (as are Colin’s thoughts toward her schedule-keeping).
The mystery woven throughout Far Side of the Sea is revealed in a way that leaves several surprises in store for readers. A romance that seems doomed to fail steadily takes root in the midst of danger, and the spiritual thread is spot-on.
Bottom line, if you haven’t read a book by Breslin yet, you need to so why not start here?
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The story takes place just over 100 years ago last spring. Kate Breslins talent in bringing this time period into focus with compelling characters, vivid descriptions and a page turning adventure.
If it was not for the war the main characters, Lieutenant Colin Mabry and Johanna Reyer, would never have met nor enter into a journey with danger, espionage and betrayal. Adding interesting visuals and historical elements adds a depth of intrigue that takes this story into a memorable and believable tale. Not only does Kate Breslin cover the spiritual aspects with a natural rhythm but in a very believable way.
I highly recommend this book. I even got teary eyed toward the end with the vivid descriptions of the emotional scenes. This is a very adventurous book that will leave you wanting more.
Journey back 100 years to the first World War and messages sent via carrier pigeons! You will feel sympathy and admiration for Lieutenant Colin Mabry who lost his hand in battle but refuses a desk job. There turn out to be two “J” Reyers but which country are they loyal to? Johanna Reyer is a victim of her past but decides to risk love by being truthful. Far Side of the Sea has lots of action and you are not sure who is a spy and which side they are on! History buffs will love this book! I received a complimentary advance copy of Far Side of the Sea from the author, Kate Breslin, and Bethany House Publishers. This is my honest opinion,
This is an amazing book. It really kept me riveted, very hard to put down to do anything!
1918 England we find Lieutenant Mabry receiving a letter via carrier pigeon from a woman who he thinks is another woman he met previously. Upon agreeing to meet her and help her he finds it’s not the woman he thought it was but her sister that he agrees to help . Trust is not something that comes easily to Lieutenant Mabry and he is tense around the woman, Johanna. Johanna is a dovecote for French Army Intelligence. After finding her sister’s diary she has an urgency to find her and believes her father is with her sister Jewel. Spies are absolutely everywhere and spies trust no one especially other spies. Can’t let your guard down even for a minute as it could mean capture or even worse death. Venture forth as this intensely gripping story takes you through France and Spain. I could not predict this one, I just didn’t see what was coming with the many twists and turns. I was fascinated to read how the carrier pigeons were used during WWI even flying and doing their duty after being injured, amazing! Encryption played a big part in this book too. Bravo, I was fascinated with your book, Kate.
Published March 5th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
The cover for Kate Breslin’s latest novel drew me in from the moment I saw it. Once I began reading this incredible story of bravery, however, I found myself living the pages with the characters. In many ways it was a difficult novel, as it deals with real issues faced by characters who seemed very real as I read, but it is one I highly recommend.
Johanna is not necessarily the most common of heroines—we first meet her in mud-splattered clothing from traveling on a motorcycle. But she is a perfect complement to Colin, a wounded hero who still has some recovery ahead of him. The two of them interact with tension and a bit of distrust, but when spying is involved, knowing how much to say and to whom is a complicated business.
The history is fascinating. I knew very little about WWI, and even less about how carrier pigeons played a role in it, at least before reading this novel. Espionage, steganography, “plants,” fake cities, and defections also receive some mention, but I love how this all just forms the backdrop for a well-plotted tale. Now my interest is piqued, however, and I look forward to learning more about this time after reading this book.
The spiritual content is fantastic; both characters have some growth to do, but I loved how Colin doesn’t let his own struggles keep him from pointing Johanna in the right direction. And it is an encouragement to know that God really does have a plan, even when we cannot see it in the middle of our own valleys.
This is an excellent story, beautifully crafted. Those who have an interest in WWI Europe, carrier pigeons, or historical spycraft will find much to love in this novel, but it can be easily enjoyed by anyone without deep knowledge of any of these topics simply for the engrossing tale of family, love, and healing.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
Having read—and LOVED—Kate Breslin’s previous novels, I can honestly say I couldn’t wait for the release of Far Side of the Sea. So much so, the poor postal service lady was no doubt tired of me stalking my mailbox in hopes of this coveted bookish mail. And just like its predecessors, I devoured this story from start to finish.
War had left a brutal mark on Colin, not only physically but emotionally. Possessing a loyal heart but nursing a wounded soul, Colin became a hero worth championing for. The author did an excellent job of pairing this world-weary soldier with determined and thirsty-for-answers heroine, Johanna. And can I just say the incorporation of carrier pigeons in this story is an interesting touch?! I love learning new things while reading a story so fabulously entertaining.
My mystery-lovin’ self enjoys guessing story plots, and usually I’m a fairly decent predictor. Nope, not with this one. Kate Breslin has outdone herself with this twisty-turvy book. I kinda want to dub her the Plot Twist Queen because this story kept me scratching my head until the very end! Amongst the mystery, the danger, and the complex backdrop of WWI, Colin and Johanna have to learn to trust—both each other and an unfailing God.
I love how the author emphasizes God’s ever-present help in times of trouble and His overwhelming love that finds us even in the darkest moments.
This story engages the mind and bolsters the heart. I thoroughly enjoyed its gripping mystery and hope-giving message.
*I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
In her newest novel, Far Side of the Sea, Kate Breslin takes the reader on a dangerous, courageous journey from England to France and on to Barcelona. Set during the first World War and brimming with historical detail, this story has lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing what would happen next. Breslin is a master at creating multi-layered characters that come alive on the page. The main characters, Colin Mabry and Johanna Reyer, are vividly drawn and endearing, and I enjoyed the interaction and bond between them. The secondary characters are interesting and colorful, including a special carrier pigeon named Little Corporal. I was delighted with the inclusion of the carrier pigeons in the story and enjoyed learning about their part in the war effort.
Breslin masterfully unfolded the tale layer by layer and kept the suspense up to the very end of the book. There is something for everyone in this book—history, intrigue, suspense, romance, and sprinklings of forgiveness, courage, faith, hope, and love.
“And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Kate Breslin never disappoints, and every book is better than the last. Far Side of The Sea was the kind of book that keeps you up at night! I took in on my silver wedding anniversary trip and hated to put it down. Every chance I got…I snuck in a bit of Colin and Johanna’s story.
There was mystery, drama, spies, well-researched history and travel to far away places. Far Side of The Sea was a great escape, and also an inspiring story featuring a character in Mrs. Breslin’s previous novel, Not By Sight. I loved having a re-visit and taste of the happily ever after for the characters in that book PLUS the happily every after in Far Side Of The Sea. What a bonus.
Colin and Johanna get tangled up in quite a drama that spans a european continent and involves espionage, danger, terrible wounds, and the plot twists…well, you’re in for a wild ride. I really didn’t want the story to end, it was that good.
When you read a book and hate to part with the characters and scenery, you know it was well-written. Kate Breslin is an immaculate researcher and writer. Over the past few years she has risen in rank to my favorite author. This book seals the deal!Not by Sight Kate Breslin
Far Side of the Sea by Kate Breslin is a fantastic, well researched story set in World War I.
This was a real joy to read. My favorite kind of historical novel is about the World Wars and behind-the-scenes spy craft. This book captured me with the first chapter and the subject of carrier pigeons and coding messages. From England, to romantic Paris, to beautiful Toulouse and sumptuous Barcelona, the scenery Ms. Breslin depicts puts you right there among the constantly changing intrigue. It was fascinating to see how cleverly the author fit together all of the pieces like an intricate puzzle.
Johanna Reyer begs for help from Lieutenant Colin Mabry. She wants to find her father and sister. He sets out for Paris to meet Johanna. Will they get more than they bargained for? Who can they trust during this war-torn time?
The relationships are complex, including the one between Colin and his boss Jack. Colin’s sister is engaged to Jack. Colin and Jack are more than future brothers-in-law, they are comrads in battle and both have been injured. But they have a focus of loyalty to their country and a thirst to see the war end.
This novel has a steady pace that keeps your interest page after page. It is the sequel to Not By Sight by the same author. It is beneficial to read that book but not necessary for the enjoyment of Far Side of the Sea.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
Far Side of the Sea is another hit for Kate Breslin. Picking up where Not By Sight left off, in this story we learn about Colin, a WWI veteran who lost part of his arm in the war and suffers emotionally from his experience. The female lead in this story, Johanna, was quite loveable. She is desperately searching for her father and sister and enlists Colin’s help. The two go on quite the adventure together!
I really loved their story. The historic detail is right on point, not too much, not too little. I enjoyed learning how they used carrier pigeons in WWI. There is intrigue that kept me guessing until the very end. And the romance was very well written. I love rooting for a couple with great chemistry!
I highly recommend you take the team to read this fantastic story! And although it can be read alone, I also recommend you read Not By Sight…because why not!? It’s just as good!
I received a complementary copy of this book from Bethany House. A positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is a beautifully written story about a WW1 hero who lost his arm in the war and his beautiful and brave heroine searching for her father and sister. She enlisted his help to find them and crossed over several countries and encountered spies and clandestine meetings in their search. But the most amazing thing they found was love. This is an amazing book that kept me turning the pages. I loved every bit of this story.
*I was given a copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers. This is my honest opinion.
FAR SIDE OF THE SEA is an enthralling tale of espionage, love, and faith set in World War I. Lt. Colin Mabry of the British Army suffered injuries resulting in the amputation of his left hand. Colin deals with reoccurring nightmares, anger, shame, and some insecurity because of his disability. He now serves his country decoding messages for M18, including those delivered by carrier pigeon. He receives a message he believes is from Jewel Reyer, the young French woman who nursed him back to health from a leg injury in German occupied France a year earlier. Upon his arrival in Paris, he meets her sister, Joanna, who enlists his help finding Jewel and their father. This begins their adventure across France and to Spain, becoming embroiled in a spy plot. Just when I thought I had the spies straight (good guys vs. bad guys), there would be a twist to confuse things again. This is a book that is difficult to read and carry on with regular life, since it gets very hard to put down. I love to learn more about history from fiction and I know Kate Breslin is an author who works hard to include correct details. I highly recommend FAR SIDE OF THE SEA.
I received a complementary copy of the book from the publishers. All thoughts are my own.
I’ve been waiting a long time for Kate Breslin to release a new book. Well, it FINALLY came! In Breslin’s latest, Far Side of the Sea, she features the characters of Colin and Johanna as they wade through the intrigue of WWI where nothing is what it seems. From war torn England to spy ridden Spain, this novel sweeps you into a story of faith, hidden identity, long held hopes, and gut wrenching pain. But through it all is the quest for truth – which both unites and divides the diverse cast of characters as the plot is unveiled with each page. With careful attention to detail, the plot brimming with the unexpected, and characters that come alive before your eyes mark this novel as one you will not want to miss.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Far Side of the Sea was a breathtaking journey back to WWI! The author definitely made me feel as if I was right in the middle of the action, cowering as the bombs dropped in Paris, journeying across the countryside in an effort to determine who was friend and who was foe, and juggling the intricacies of espionage.
I really liked the main characters. Colin Mabry was such a fabulous hero, overcoming his injury, yet still carrying uncertainty about how others viewed him. He also struggled with some “shell shock”, yet he was a truly heroic character, thinking of Johanna’s protection above his own. Johanna and Colin’s interest in each other grew naturally and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
4.5 stars
“We’ve had quite the adventure together, haven’t we, Lieutenant?”
When British Lieutenant Colin Mabry is skillfully coerced into a covert meeting with a women he feared to be dead, his life takes on new meaning. . . . .if he remains alive to live it. However, it’s a stranger who meets him in Paris; a lovely young woman with her half-sister’s diary and a fiery determination to find the woman that Colin once fancied himself to love, but regrettably left behind to brave the ravages of war-torn France on her own.
Johanna Reyer is also following her father’s trail; a man who spoke with both tenderness and regret upon their only meeting. Working at a dovecote for the French Army Intelligence, Johanna is well versed in subterfuge, which proves to be a distinct advantage, for it’s going to take every bit of military savvy that Colin Mabry possesses to lead Johanna through the twisted trails of messages and messengers that they encounter on their trek across France and Spain. In reality, their mission is not at all what it seems.
What a sweet, brilliant mix of hold-your-breath intrigue and be-still-my- heart romance!
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
I always enjoy trying to find out where the title of a book comes from and this one had a double meaning. My favorite meaning is from scripture, Psalm 139:9-10. I also like real history depicted in a fiction novel. It makes learning more fun and the author did her homework. Most interesting to me was the fact that pigeons were trained and used as secret message carriers during WWI, and in doing so saved many lives.
This begins in France, 1918, at the tail end of the war. Colin Mabry returns from active duty in the war with a missing left hand. He has to adjust to using prosthetics and hides his “hand” as often as he can. He feels very self conscious, especially when he thinks people are staring at “it”. He meets Johanna, the sister of Jewel. Jewel helped him during one of his times being wounded but is now missing. He inlists Colin to help her not only find her sister but her father as well. Johanna has her own issues with growing up illegitimate and the stigma that it places on her. Both of these characters were wounded physically and/or emotionally. I enjoyed seeing their changes come about throughout the story.
Included were all the elements that come about during wartime. Unsavory characters, spys, secret meetings, and of course romance. This was a great page turner with a few surprises. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
After reading and absolutely loving High as the Heavens back in 2017, I have been eagerly anticipating Kate Breslin’s next book. I really enjoyed Far Side of the Sea, but I didn’t love it the way I did High as the Heavens, perhaps my expectations were so incredibly high that there was no possible way this book could meet them. I immediately liked Johanna, she was such a great blend of spunk and sweetness! I totally fell for Colin, wow, can you say swoon worthy?! He is definitely one of my favorite heroes of 2019 so far! Something I wasn’t expecting and absolutely loved was the humor and super fun banter between Jo and Colin, I laughed out loud numerous times!
I did not realize that carrier pigeons served in WWI and I was not only fascinated by the history of these plucky little birds, but became quite attached to Johanna’s favorite pigeon, Little Corporal!
This book has several thrilling twists and turns! I think I enjoyed the second half a bit more than the first half because of the fabulous action and suspense, the first half was definitely good and interesting enough to keep me turning pages, but honestly there were moments where I became a bit bored and wished for a bit more action, but once I passed the halfway mark things just took off and the pages started flying!
Overall, though High as the Heavens is still my favorite, Far Side of the Sea is a great book that I really enjoyed reading and highly recommend to fans of Christian historical romance! I recently purchased Kate Breslin’s first WWI novel, Not By Sight which I am very much looking forward to reading soon, and I can’t wait to see what else Ms. Breslin has in store for us!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. The above review is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
Once I began this read, I was hooked, a wonderful historical story, set in western Europe, and deep into WWI, we are often in the line of fire. Even more we are surrounded by spies, and don’t know whom to trust, and warning don’t get too comfortable with a few of these individuals!
Deceit is abundant here, some for positive reasons and others, well!
I loved that we are reminded of this period of trial by true things that were happening, including the use of carrier pigeons. Also, the flu that was rampant during this time, and using the illness to one’s advantage!
A little sweet romance is offered, and in the beginning our main character Colin, we aren’t sure whom he is interested in, and in the end, can anything work out once secrets are revealed.
When all is done, and the last page is turned, a sense of loss was felt!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.