All of England thinks Phillip Camden a monster–a man who deliberately caused the deaths of his squadron. But as nurse Arabelle Denler watches the so-dubbed “Black Heart” every day, she sees something far different: a hurting man desperate for mercy. And when their paths twist together and he declares himself her new protector, she realizes she has her own role to play in his healing. Phillip … Phillip Camden would have preferred to die that day with his squadron rather than be recruited to the Admiralty’s codebreaking division. The threats he receives daily are no great surprise and, in his opinion, well deserved. What comes as a shock is the reborn desire to truly live that Arabelle inspires in him.
But when an old acquaintance shows up and seems set on using him in a plot that has the codebreakers of Room 40 in a frenzy, new affections are put to the test.
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On Wings of Devotion is the second installment in The Codebreakers series by Roseanna M. White, but could be read as a standalone. The smooth writing transported me into the setting and the characters’ minds. The perfectly paced plot held my attention from beginning to end. I loved the beautiful cover, the generous Arabelle, and the romance between Phillip and Ara. However, the powerful themes in the story shined the brightest.
In both On Wings of Devotion and its predecessor, The Number of Love, I appreciated that the author didn’t spew out easy, pat answers about life hardships. The characters struggle for truth and victory. As the characters grow, the novel’s powerful themes emerge. I won’t attempt to name them all, but I’ll share a favorite quote here: “Whatever He [God] asks of us, whether it be a fortune or a pittance or our time or our devotion, we can be sure it will be painful. Cutting out what stands between us and God always is. But we can also trust that in the giving, we’ll gain something far more precious. (Page 103)” I enjoyed contemplating such wise thoughts that are peppered throughout the story.
I recommend On Wings of Devotion by Roseanna M. White to readers who enjoy inspirational historical fiction with the perfect blend of mystery, romance, and character development.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Arabelle is curious about Camden, known as Black Heart, and what hurts he’s hiding behind. When Camden’s mom has a mission for him, he can’t turn her down. This story takes off fast and keeps the suspense going as to plans for Camden. Ara and Camden develop a friendship, one where they both admonish the other to think better of themselves. Seeing some familiar faces, like Brook, Justin, Margot and Drake, as well as some other Room 40 people and DID Hall is fun and add well to the story. Alvin and Dee add to the intrigue in this one which along with learning more about Ara and Camden primarily keep the pages turning to find out what happens. Set in February/March 1918, we are brought back into life during a war, and the decisions people made, or were forced to make. I love Ara and her heart to help and the fears and growth she has, as well as Camden learning to forgive himself and live again. Beautiful story that keeps the intrigue building nicely until the end. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
In On Wings of Devotion, nurse Arabelle Denler plays a key role in the healing of Philip Camden, nicknamed “Black Heart.” Philip believes (as does all of England) that he was instrumental in the deaths of his entire squadron, and struggles with survivor’s guilt, refusing to defend himself at his court-martial.
Alone for most of her life (her mother is deceased and her father leaves her frequently for adventuring expeditions abroad), Arabelle fills her life with nursing work, even while dreaming of having love and a family of her own. Arabelle sees Philip as a man who needs mercy and healing, regardless of what others think.
Reluctantly recruited to the Admiralty’s codebreaking division, Philip earns the respect of co-workers. Caring for Arabelle awakens a new desire in him to live a better life. He finally surrenders himself to God while facing his court-martial. Meanwhile, an old acquaintance tries to use him as a pawn in a plot against the Crown. Will his redemption be more than just spiritual? Will Arabella’s devotion to Philip provide the key to his release from possible execution?
White excels at both character and plot development. Rich in plot twists, historical detail, romance, and adventure, On Wings of Devotion is an excellent read. The faith element is evident but not heavy-handed. Relationships are clean, making the book suitable for adults and older teens. Readers will delight to see characters from her earlier series make an appearance, and will look forward to the final book in this series.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are written for books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, or authors. I voluntarily reviewed this cbook, and my review represents my honest opinion
Arabella and Camden were a different pairing than I expected. Both of them are varying degrees of jaded. Both of them have been hurt. Arabella comes from an affectionate family, but one who has kept her at arm’s length her whole life. She has been hurt by the choices of her family and wrestles with her own bitterness because of it. However, she fights that bitterness throughout the entire book and refuses to let it conquer her. She makes a conscious decision every time she is hurt to love people, no matter who they are or what they have done. I appreciate the way the author portrayed this as a strength rather than a weakness. Arabella is no pushover. She stands her ground on the things that are important and champions the cause of others.
Camden comes from a loving family that has always been there for him. While Arabella fights her bitterness, Camden has been swallowed by it. He carries so much guilt and anger over past decisions that resulted in the death of his comrades. The world has painted him a villain and he embraces that persona as a mask because he cannot forgive himself. In spite of the darkness that he lives under, I love how he still comes out to champion those he cares about. Reading his transformation, the slow cracking of his shell, and the way he slowly started to open up to those around him was a beautiful thing.
I loved Ara and Camden’s witty banter, their solid friendship that slowly morphed into love, and the way they chose each other when others wouldn’t.
Another thing Roseanna White does well in all of her books is incorporating historical details beyond just the setting of the book and bringing the reader back in time with the characters. I really enjoyed the author’s note at the end of the book and finding out how much of the story was based on actual people and events. It makes the story even more real. She does her research well and weaves a great story with what history has given her.
Whether you are looking for a great historical read with fantastic character development, or, like Ara and Camden, are struggling to choose love when the hurt is so prevalent, I highly recommend this book.
I am a fan of Christian historical fiction, and this book represents all the best elements of that genre.
I have loved each one of Roseanna M. White’s historical novels set during the Great War. This one, however, is my absolute favorite. (Have I said that about each book? I’m not sure, but I mean it about this one.) This story has the perfect blend of drama, suspense, romance, and history. After I read the first chapter of this book, I could not put it down. And oh, how I loved the two main characters, Arabelle and Camden. Although they seem to be total opposites, they made the perfect match. Arabelle is a compassionate and unselfish woman of strong faith. Camden’s lived his life almost totally for himself, and the consequences of the mistakes of his past have caught up with him. They find themselves in extraordinary circumstances that not only have an impact on their personal lives, but that of the whole nation.
I love how this author can take historical facts and bring them to life in a story. By the time I finished this book, I felt as if I had walked those London streets; visited in the hospital ; and knew everyone that worked as a codebreaker for Admiral Hall. I’m glad there’s another book in this series. I’m not quite ready to let go of these characters yet.
This book is part of a series, but you can enjoy it without having read the first book. If you’ve read the first one, you’ll enjoy getting a glimpse of those characters again.
I received a complimentary copy The Number of Love from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Ara and Camden deserve top honors on any bookshelf! Ara is a kind, loving nurse who resolutely believes Camden is not the monster he has been accused of being. As a nurse myself, I loved the representation of Ara as a healer who sees the real pain behind the mask. She sees needs, brokenness, and pain and selflessly cares for others experiencing these things, even to her own detriment. Camden’s own painful, mysterious story is explored and finally explained and becomes obvious how these two beautiful, courageous souls are drawn to one another. Character development is phenomenal the story moves at a pace that you can’t help but be sucked in. I loved everything about this book and cannot recommend it highly enough.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and all expressed opinions are solely my own.
Oh My Goodness! This was my first read of 2020 and what a fantastic way to start the year! This book is everything I could ask for. It’s romantic, it’s witty, it’s intriguing, it’s engaging, and it’s spiritual. The characters are so engaging! Ara is strong and believable, Cam is perfect…I mean, he’s enticing and broken. Ara is a natural healer, her heart longs to heal people’s wounds, so when the man called Black Heart walks into her life, she can see behind the front he puts on. Their banter and playfulness is super fun and their chemistry is spot on. I absolutely loved everything about this book and cannot wait to read the third book in this Codebreakers series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Oh this book, be still my heart! Words simply cannot express the depth of my adoration for this story!
To be honest I didn’t like Phillip Camden very much in The Number of Love, he struck me as an arrogant jerk, even though there were hints that he had quite a lot of baggage, however I felt the exact same way about Willa in A Name Unknown and actually wasn’t planning to read A Song Unheard because I disliked her so much but I was persuaded to give her story a try and it became one of my all time favorite books. So I was willing to give On Wings of Devotion a try because I knew that Roseanna could make me like Phillip, and boy did she ever!
I was drawn into this story from page one and I absolutely hated to set it down!
I instantly liked Arabelle. I was blown away at times by the depths of her generosity and kindness, and I’m challenging myself to be more like her! I could also very much relate to her as I too am quite tall and definitely far from drop dead gorgeous. The way Camden fell in love with her heart and who she truly was totally melted me into a puddle!
This story is everything and more! It is an absolute treat to read, and I loved every minute I spent immersed in it! Fellow fans of Roseanna M. White’s books will be absolutely thrilled by the cameo appearances of several of our favorite characters, I literally grinned and squealed every time one of my beloved friends showed up on the page!
On Wings of Devotion was my first read of 2020 and I already know it will have a spot on my list of favorite reads of the year!
I could go on and on forever gushing about how amazing this book is and how much I totally and completely adored it! My life is richer and happier for having read On Wings of Devotion! Love, love, LOVED IT! On Wings of Devotion is definitely one for the keeper shelf, and I can’t wait for the third book in The Codebreakers series! Trust me, you need this book in your life, go grab yourself a copy ASAP! You can thank me later!
(5 Stars, but I wish I could give it more!)
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
I have been a fan of Roseanna M. White’s writing since discovering her earlier Culpepper Ring series and she never disappoints. Her writing is lyrical, characterization deep, storylines complex and unique. A gifted author from the beginning, White just keeps getting better and better. There are tie-ins to characters from previous series in this second Codebreakers book, but it totally works as a standalone. If this is your initial introduction to White’s writing, however, I can almost guarantee you will be hurrying to obtain more.
On Wings of Devotion is an epic story, exquisitely blending history, romance, courage and faith in ways that touched this reader on every page. It’s like stepping into the pages of history. Small liberties are taken here and there for the sake of story, but the historical framework is firm and accurate, inspired by hero and villain alike. Spies, espionage, treachery and deceit are contrasted with honor, integrity and compassion.
This series shines the light on an incredible group of people who worked with skill and dedication as codebreakers in London’s Room 40, thwarting numerous attempts of the enemy to kill and destroy. Hell … It’s name was War, and it existed right here on earth. And when the demons of hell roamed freely, even men who never saw direct action, like the codebreakers he now served with, experienced their horrors in one way or another. These men and women are an inspiration to us all.
Phillip Camden and Arabelle Denler leap off the page and are two of the most memorable characters I’ve ever encountered. Phillip is a wounded hero – complex, deep, loyal and heroic – but flawed from the years he lived for self and carrying the weight of guilt from a horrible tragedy in which he was the lone survivor. A man who “wears his pain like a uniform.” I loved that Arabelle is not the typical beautiful leading lady, but rather tall and plain, and we are shown what true beauty is through her caring, compassion and faithful witness.
When the story opens, Arabelle is engaged to marry Braxton, caught up in a loveless relationship designed to provide mutual benefit … the home and family she craved while providing the means to keep his ancestral home from ruin. There’s some delightful humor and witty dialogue throughout. The scene surrounding the initial meeting between Arabelle and Phillip is pure genius.
I loved Phillip’s gradual maturing and transformation. On Wings of Devotion is about gently growing romantic devotion on a human level, but the overall theme reflects life’s true romance with God. We see God as the patient pursuer and faith lived out in daily life as the gospel message is presented in a realistic way.
The narrative moves at a steady pace, keeping me eager to turn pages, yet allowing time to savor every word and nuance. On Wings of Devotion goes on my favorites list.
Very highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours and Bethany House. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I really liked the characters in this read. In general, when reading stories based during the war, I tend to enjoy the history more than anything else. That is in abundance in this novel, but I was drawn in by the characters. Being a plain woman like Arabelle is definitely something with which I could relate. I could also relate to her never thinking a man would fall in love with her. I don’t relate on the family part, but I certainly had empathy towards her as I loved growing up in my large family. Her being so desperate to have a family to love that would love her in return resonates much in today’s society, I think.
The hero in this book is well done. Who doesn’t love a hero that transforms to a better person from the beginning to end? Phillip is a wonderful hero, and his story is the story of many in this world. He’s a multifaceted individual who this reader came to really like. His growth came with trial, and he fought with God. His spiritual journey was incredibly well done, as well.
The plot was a fascinating one, and it makes the book hard to put down. Nothing incredibly surprising, but such a tremendous story to tell. This author is so very good at weaving a terrific story with plenty to keep the reader engaged.
Perhaps my favorite part of the book was the faith theme. It’s strong in this book, yet woven incredibly well within the characters lives. It’s a story of faith, hope, and redemption that’s sure to please this authors fans as well as lovers of historical fiction.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This is one of my picks for Best Books of 2020. It was phenomenal! The plot was so interesting, with details about WWI that really take the reader to England during the war. There were some good twists but not so many to make the story feel contrived. Beyond that, the characters were amazing! I’m a character-driven reader, so a book that has a good plot but the characters are meh won’t do it for me; I’m thrilled to say that both Ara and Phillip are characters who I will be thinking about for a long time. They are both so well-developed. Ara has a kind heart and a sincere desire to help others, mixed with her insecurities about her appearance and whether anyone can truly love her and want to stay with her, while Phillip is so torn up by his own poor choices and thinks he’s beyond redemption but finds himself desperately wanting it and, despite his poor opinion of himself, reaches out to others more than he even realizes. Both of these characters had so much depth and were so relatable. I just adored them both! There are terrific themes of healing and redemption, and there was some terrific dry humor. All in all, just a fantastic read! An easy 5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I had very high expectations after reading the first book in the Codebreakers series by Roseanna M. White. Having said this, I needn’t have worried! The second book, On Wings of Devotion, did anything but disappoint!
The main characters in this second installment are Arabelle Denler, a nurse at England’s Charing Cross Hospital, and Major Phillip Camden, the “Black Heart” pilot blamed in the British media for the deaths of his entire squadron. Deeply compassionate, Arabelle has devoted her life to caring for others. She sees in Phillip not the evil villain he is portrayed to be, even in his own mind, but as a deeply wounded soul worthy of love and mercy.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this is truly a story worth reading and one I will be thinking about for quite some time. The author’s depth of research is evident in the historical details she has included in this World War I era novel, and her rich character development makes you feel like you are stepping back in time into Phillip and Arabelle’s world when you open the book. White’s incredible gift for storytelling, readily evident in this book, has secured her place as one of my favorite authors.
Even though it is the second book in the series and I am glad I read The Number of Love first, it was not essential, as this is a stand-alone story. I do have one caution, however: Make sure you have plenty of time when you begin reading because once you start, you won’t be able to put it down!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but there was no requirement of a positive review. The opinions I’ve expressed are entirely my own.
I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. I first met Phillip Camden when I was blessed to read The Number of Love, which is the first book in this series. I wanted to get to know him more and was really hoping he would get his own story. On Wings of Devotion can easily be read as a standalone novel. Although many of the characters from the first book make an appearance, and I really enjoyed catching up with them, so for fun I would recommend you read that book as well. Phillip wasn’t dubbed as Black Heart for no reason, and he seems to like the pain certain things cause. Being a survivor when the rest of your squadron didn’t make it can cause someone to have all kinds of survivors guilt. Phillip has a story to tell, but rather than let the truth out, he wants to protect those involved. Meeting Arabelle changed him in more ways that he thought possible, but will his past ruin his hope for a future?
This book was a lot of fun to read. The characters were very unique and I enjoyed that a gorgeous man just might learn to love a woman most would not consider pretty. Arabelle had such a good heart and had her own hurts and reasons she didn’t want anyone to get to close. I enjoyed watching their chemistry and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. This book kept me on my toes. There are several scenes where I was almost biting my nails and holding my breathe while turning the page. Roseanna M. White is a lot of fun to read and I will be keeping my eye out for what she writes next. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This story grabbed and held me from page one to the end, I loved getting lost in England during the first World War.
This is the second book in this series of Code Breakers, and this one can be read alone, but what a job to do, I think I would love solving these necessary puzzles.
This book does take on more than code breaking, and my heart was in my throat wondering what was going to happen, especially after the arrest.
The author gives us colorful people as spies, but we don’t want them to win, and their evil preserved. We are also given some characters that love the Lord and they live their lives as Christians, and see them rewarded for their beliefs.
You don’t want to miss this one, I wanted it to go on and on!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.
4.5 stars
“Everyone always chose something – or someone – else.
Seemingly underestimated, unnoticed, and underappreciated, Arabelle’s Denler’s broken engagement gave one more indication that she was never going to measure up. After all, her nursing career could provide fulfillment; it could, it absolutely could . . . .until a pilot with a broken spirit lands on her doorstep and opens up an infinity of possibilities.
Major Phillip Camden, dubbed Black Heart for the mistake that he would always regret, knows that he is fortunate to be among the living. Number one; he was the lone survivor of a mission that took the lives of his entire squadron and number two; his court martial was postponed amidst public protest in order for him to serve as a codebreaker for the Admiralty. But when an entirely different kind of assignment presents itself, the young woman whose life he disrupts manages to elude common bitterness in order to choose grace in its stead. What kind of person determines to be “better despite (her) circumstances”? Arabelle Denler testifes that it is God’s unconditional love, alive in her heart, that makes all the difference.
While Ara and Phillip cautiously approach a deepening friendship, Phillip’s past reappears in the sultry form of one whose sole purpose is to wreak havoc, until death; tossing their fragile relationship to the very edges of its boundaries and sending Phillip to his knees.
Written with this author’s unmistakably smooth style, “On Wings of Devotion” exalts the mighty healing power of a God who can transform the darkest of hearts and assure the lonely ones of His everlasting presence.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Author Roseanna M White is on my must-read list, and it was with great anticipation that I read “On Wings of Devotion.” I really enjoyed this excellent historical fiction story and I love the whole series. In “On Wings of Devotion”, Phillip Camden, a pilot, is dubbed “Black Heart” and accused of causing the deaths of his squadron. When we meet him, he is angry and hurting without any hope for the future. Arabelle Denler is an excellent nurse and one who sees his faults and his potential. I adored these main characters, there was so much depth to them. On Wings of Devotion is an absolute page-turning story with a mix of intrigue, espionage, betrayal, redemption, and romance. I highly recommend On Wings of Devotion to anyone who loves a riveting story!
Special thanks to NetGalley for an advanced e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the opinions contained herein are my own.
Do you ever read a book that is so wonderful you have a hard time picking up or getting into the next one? That’s exactly what happened to me after reading On Wings of Devotion. There are so many things I loved about this book.
First, there’s Phillip Camden. The wounded hero who hides a good heart behind isolation and grumbling. The public has decided what to think of Camden, and he’s content to let them, but you get a small peek into his true character when he’s dealing with his sister’s situation. His growth throughout this book is engaging and exciting.
Arabelle Denler is someone I admired. Her faith is strong, she’s a determined and hard worker, she has a sweet bedside manner with the soldiers and patience with the voluntary aid workers, and she uses her wealth to help others.
One of my favorite elements of this story is Phillip’s perception of Arabelle. At first, he sees only her physical appearance and is unimpressed, yet as he spends time with her, he finds her more and more beautiful. That, right there, is love.
Roseanna M. White again weaves fascinating facts of World War I into this story while with a mystery to solve. And it was fun to find so many cameos from White’s previous two series in this one.
Disclosure statement:
I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book was excellent! I absolutely loved everything about it! The intriguing plot draws the reader into the story and the characters are so very real, and flawed and perfect! Cam is going on my favorite hero’s list! His brash nature and natural humor have this magical balance that completely works! I loved Ara’s strength and up front approach to situations. She had a unique way of being practical, but also caring. Her faith really manifested itself in her actions, but also her words. Cam and Aria’s first kiss will go down in history as one of the most memorable and basically melted my heart into a puddle.
The underlying danger in this story really added intrigue and suspense to this plot. I was basically hooked on every word in this book! This book was the perfect addition to this series! I loved it just as much as the first one, and I really didn’t think that was possible!
*I received a complimentary copy The Number of Love from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
On Wings of Devotion
The Codebreakers #2
By Roseanne M. White
Major Phillip Camden should have died that day – if he had he wouldn’t have to live with the guilt or the nightmares. And he wouldn’t be known to all of England as that traitor Black Heart. But live he did and now he finds himself not in the prison cell he expected to live out his few remaining days but rather in service to the Admiralty’s codebreaking division. He tries to avoid everyone and any possibility of friendship or attachments – he doesn’t deserve any.
When Camden’s sister Cassandra gets herself into a situation he must use his persuasive charms (some of which are less than charming) to help her out. But first, he needs to convince Arabelle Denler to break off her engagement.
Arabelle, or Ara to those who know her best, is doing her bit for king and country as a nurse caring for soldiers who have come back injured in the war. The work is hard and heartbreaking but she feels called to help the hurting to heal. As she obverses the Black Heart as he goes by the hospital where she works she sees not the villain he has been labeled but rather a man hurting and in need of God. What she never expected was actually meet him, having her own dreams destroyed in the process, and starting an acquaintance that would have the most unexpected results.
Ara knows no man would ever look twice at her and her only attraction is her fortune. When Phillip Camden begins to escort her home she is at a loss as to reason until he admits to his guilt at the situation she is soon to find herself in – with her fortune and the potential, it will offer to gentlemen in need of capital being the draw. She wants nothing to do with Camden’s plan but he is just as stubborn as she is and she feels that he needs to do this.
What neither Ara or Camden know is that someone is working against him and he is about to become the means to their goal – a goal that could severely cripple England and allow Germany to obtain the upper hand in the war. Will the codebreakers of Room 40 uncover the truth before it is too late?
On Wings of Devotion is a fantastic sequel to The Number of Love. And those who have followed Roseanna M. White’s previous series will be delighted to have some of them make an appearance in this book. The book is most definitely one you won’t want to put down once you start reading so set aside a weekend or a long afternoon and read away – you won’t regret it. I read this last night when I got the mail at 6:30 pm and stayed up until the wee hours of the morning (4:30 am) because for some reason the “just one more chapter” promise to myself was too easily broken when the end of the said chapter came.
This book is Historical Romance Fiction and is set in England during the early months of 1918. The war is the backdrop throughout as it is an ever-present threat affecting the lives of all who live beneath its shadow. The characters are well developed and easy to click with. Even though this is the second book of the series it can easily be read as a stand-alone, though once you’ve read it you will want to read the first book. An altogether lovely book that I highly recommend adding to your home as you’ll want to reread this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via the publisher with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion – all thoughts expressed are my own.
This is a book you cant put down! The characters are so personable, Arabelle lives out her faith and is my favorite. This story has so many components that just pull you in and keeps you fully engaged. Phillip’s hurting soul, the forgiveness he so badly needs from God had me hurting for him. Arabelle and her need to be loved, cherished and her lack of love for herself pulls at your heartstrings. White does a wonderful job of maturing the characters through their ever growing friendship. The story is never dull with the danger lurking to destroy the lives of the very ones who serve and protect. The suspense builds, bringing the story and reader to the edge. This masterpiece will render the reader spellbound with all of its twist and turns leaving you in complete awe!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.