Numbed by grief and harboring shameful secrets, Lt. Adler Paxton ships to England with the US 357th Fighter Group in 1943. Determined to become an ace pilot, Adler battles the German Luftwaffe in treacherous dogfights in the skies over France as the Allies struggle for control of the air before the D-day invasion.Violet Lindstrom wanted to be a missionary, but for now she serves in the American … American Red Cross, where she arranges entertainment for the men of the 357th in the Aeroclub on base and sets up programs for local children. Drawn to the mysterious Adler, she enlists his help with her work and urges him to reconnect with his family after a long estrangement.
Despite himself, Adler finds his defenses crumbling when it comes to Violet. But D-day draws near. And secrets can’t stay buried forever.
Bestselling author Sarah Sundin returns readers to the shores of Normandy, this time in the air, as the second Paxton brother prepares to face the past–and the most fearsome battle of his life.
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Amazing book from Sarah Sundin, I loved her main characters they both were not the perfect characters but they had such a great chemistry. I can’t wait for the next book on the series to come!
Sarah Sundin always writes great stories.
I listened to this book on audio and heartily recommend it!
I finished reading The Sky Above Us two days ago, and as I thought about what I would say in my review, all I could come up with was “Wow.” It’s been a while since I’ve had a chance to read one of Sarah Sundin’s novels, so I’d forgotten how deftly she intermingles character and plot development with historical references and information that immerses the reader into the era. Knowing that “wow” isn’t a helpful review to potential readers, let me continue. Adler and Violet are realistic, and my heart alternately soared and fell as they moved forward in their journey toward personal maturation and a relationship with each other. Violet’s struggle to reconcile her feelings about Adler with what she feels is a call to ministry is real and relatable. She has trouble getting out of her own way and is often mired in prejudices and pre-conceived notions, (aren’t we all?) but not so much that she isn’t open to others’ input. I wept for Adler, mired in guilt and assumptions. He is a deep and complex character, with a past that includes terrible deeds. I have not often seen a character like this in Christian fiction. I found it very refreshing. He does not change overnight. Being more well-versed in the WWII home front than in the combat side, I loved learning about the military aspect of the war. The information was woven throughout the story, typically in two to three sentences at a time, which is just enough to aid in understanding the situation. There were several wonderful secondary characters, but I enjoyed Nick the most. I’d love to see him get his own story. This is book two in a series and I read it easily as a stand-alone.
Heartwarming WWII novel with well-drawn characters I could really root for!
The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin is the second book in her Sunrise at Normandy series. Adler Paxton fled from his home in Texas three years ago. Running from his mistakes and the guilt, he joins the Army as an airplane pilot. Stationed in England in the days leading up to the invasion of France at Normandy he meets Red Cross volunteer, Violet Lindstrom. Adler and Violet not only must learn to trust in each other but in a loving and forgiving God. I love World War 2 stories but this one went above and beyond. The history was well woven in, the action was believable and the romance was sweet. What else could you want? The underlying theme of repentance and forgiveness was a great reminder that all we have to do is truly be sorry and ask for forgiveness. The healing that comes afterward is so sweet and refreshing. I can’t wait for the next book!
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
With this book, Sarah Sundin has given us another excellent story in this series set in World War II. This book follows Adler Paxton, the second of the three estranged Paxton brothers. Adler and Violet’s story is compelling, but their road to romance has many obstacles to overcome. Adler needs to find peace with God and reconcile with his brothers; Violet needs to determine exactly whether or not God wants her to serve on a mission field or is calling her to another, unexpected area of service. There’s a lot of spiritual growth in the characters of Violet and Paxton as the story progresses and it makes for interesting reading.
The thing that I enjoyed the most, however, was the research that the author incorporated into this story. The battle scenes are intense and realistic. I always learn something new from her books, and in this one I learned more the role of the brave women of the Red Cross as they served overseas in the airmen’s camps. You don’t have to have read the first book in this series to enjoy this one, but you’ll love both the books in this series. I’m looking forward to reading Clay’s story in the third book of the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Violet Lindstrom has settled on serving in the Red Cross after a broken engagement and being turned down for a position as a missionary overseas. She longs to serve children, not grown oafish men, with their crude jokes and coarse ways.
Lt. Adler Paxton is determined to prove his mettle as an ace with the 357th Air Force Fight Group, he understands the planes and has a knack for flying. But he is also running from his past, he can’t let himself forget the night that he tried to kill both his brothers, driving one way, and betraying the other. Despite his best efforts he is drawn to the statuesque blonde, with her love for the local English children and dream of missionary work.
A powerful tale of WWII valor and the battle fought in the air, as well of faith, family, friendship, and forgiveness.
A powerful story of faith and forgiveness on the front lines. I don’t know how she does it but every book by Sarah Sundin is better than the one before–every single one of which I have given five stars! This book checked all the boxes for me, I am really fascinated by aviation during WWI and WWII and was thrilled that Adler takes to the air in this amazing installment in the Sunrise at Normandy Series. There is a strong message of faith, and bother Adler and Violet as surrounded by a fantastic circle of friends, and meet each challenge before them with determination, despite setbacks.
Violet makes the best of a situation that to her mind is less than ideal. She is clever, determined, and compassionate, she has her moments of temporary defeat, but that only made me like her more. I love how she grows in her faith, and comes to see how God brought her to the Red Cross to make a difference. She has a love for children and gift for encouragement.
Adler is haunted by his past, and the falling out with his brothers. He holds himself responsible for everything that happened. He is a man of character, he struggles with pride, and in many ways is a man of contradictions. I loved his journey in this book, and how his heart is slowly changed, yet he is honest about his callings, and a natural leader.
Engaging and extremely well-researched, fast-paced and compelling, I can’t wait to read Clay’s story. I loved the camaraderie between the men, especially Adler’s friendship with Nick. Violet is an admirable heroine, I loved how she grew from being aloof and defensive to more honest with herself and compassionate, learning discernment, trusting God with everything. There is so much to love about this book, but what stood out the most to me was the strong faith and character of Adler and Violet. I enjoyed seeing Dorothy and Wyatt again, and the next book can’t come soon enough for me. Highly recommend this action packed and compelling read!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”
Wow. As always, Sarah Sundin pulls me into her WWII world from the very beginning and leaves me out of breath & hungering for more at the end. The people in her books are so real & well-developed that I hesitate to even call them “characters”.
My pop was a pilot, & I’ve always wished I could’ve been also. He taught me to love WWII planes, so this book was right up my alley with the P-51 Mustangs! The details that Sarah Sundin uses in the battle strategies, descriptions of planes, dogfights, etc. shows a tremendous amount of research & knowledge. She is my favorite author of the WWII era. Can’t wait for Book #3!
Whoa. This story was honestly one of the best World War 2 fiction books that I have ever read. It really made me appreciate what those men who fought in WWII went through and it definitely brought the D-Day battle to life for me.
This is my first ever Sarah Sundin book (yes, I know it is part of a series, but I haven’t read the first yet, oops) and I will definitely be reading more of her work in the future.
As I said above, this story really brought the D-Day battle to life for me and I was able to better appreciate what those men did for us. I was honestly surprised at how well the story came to life in front of me when I read this book. I’ve only had that happen a few times, and I think it is one of the signs of a good author when they are able to bring history events to life in such a real way.
To be completely honest, one of my least favorite parts of this story was Violet. I did appreciate that she changed and grew throughout the story, that added another layer of “realness” to the book as a whole, but I also wasn’t able to relate to her very well. And to be completely honest, I kind of got frustrated with her as well with her slightly narrow-minded thinking.
One of my favorite things about this book, besides the compelling and well-written story, was Adler. Oh my goodness. My heart really went out to him in his hurting and, gosh, I can’t say enough good things about him! Yes, Adler will be joining my fairly short list of favorite book heros.
All in all, I thought this story was very well done, my only complaint being Violet, and even then, I loved watching her grow and learn as the story progressed. I think people will really be able to relate to the faith elements throughout this story as well as the struggles that the characters faced, and ultimately overcame. Even from this first introduction to her writing, I can tell that Ms. Sundin is a wonderful and powerful writer. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series as well as her other books!
**I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my own.**
4.5 Stars
As I was reading the middle Paxton brother’s story, I was taken with the research and attention to detail Sarah Sundin pours into her books. She puts readers in the cockpit of World War II airplanes and takes them to the sky with Adler while keeping them grounded with Violet.
Adler is a man haunted by anger, brashness, and regret. A man wrestling with the need for forgiveness while caring his gilt as penance for his past sins. Violet Lindstrom has big plans for her life and serving airmen in England at the Aeroclub is not what she hoped her Red Cross stint would entail.
I loved that Sundin put these two people together in The Sky Above Us. A man who sees himself a sinner, one who believes he has committed unforgiveable sins and a woman who sets her sight so far ahead to her missionary work she is blinded to the mission field at her feet.
Readers are educated on the air force’s role the days leading up to and during D-Day, and Sundin runs this story parallel to Wyatt’s story (The Sea Before Us) in a way that made me want more.
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.
What a joy to be able to read the second book in this series and learn Adler Paxton’s full story. Book one, The Sea Before Us, followed Wyatt Paxton throughout the time surrounding the D-Day invasion. This series is about three brothers who were torn apart through a tragedy a few years earlier. I believe that you could pick up The Sky Above Us and read it as a stand alone, however, reading the details from both books gives a better understanding of what occurred between the brothers and how the oldest two brothers were impacted. It sounds as if Clay, the youngest brother, will have a lot to forgive and overcome in book three.
I liked Adler so much! I loved reading about the man he had been and then seeing as he became a changed man once he gave his heart over to God. He still struggled with forgiving himself, or feeling worthy sometimes, even after he turned to God.
I had a harder time liking Violet. The things that bothered me about Violet were the things that she had to learn to overcome and recognize as failings in herself throughout the story. So, as she became aware of her shortcomings and changed her heart about things, I liked her more and more. I did love the way she grew in this story.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This book gives you all the feels! Action, romance, suspense, inspiration, it’s all there and I love reading books like this! This was a definite page turner. The family background of Adler was very crazy and made you keep wondering if his family would ever be able to forgive him. I highly recommend this book!
I enjoyed my time spent reading this story about Adler Paxton. The historical details are exceptional as to be expected. The characters are vibrant and multifaceted. The plot was well written and Sundin even tossed in a surprise that I didn’t see coming! The only downside is that I have to wait a year before I can get my hands on the next book.
Violet has dreamed of becoming a missionary since she was a little girl. On the cusp of seeing that dream come true, it was snatched away when her fiance decided that he no longer wanted to be a missionary or get married. Devastated Violet turned to the Red Cross deciding that she could do good elsewhere even it wasn’t what she had first planned. Even though she is homesick for her family, she is determined to step out on her own and make a difference.
Adler has been running ever since that horrible day 3 years ago when he lost his fiance and then got into a fight with his brothers. Running from trouble and difficulties has become so second nature that he hardly even stops to think about it. But when his past starts catching up with him, he realizes that it’s time to stop running. Will his new friends stand by his side when the ugly truth of his past is brought to light? Will Adler be strong enough to forgive himself for what is in the past?
I appreciated how Sarah Sundin seamlessly wove strong threads of faith and Biblical truth throughout this story. An overarching theme of forgiveness and humility. A gentle reminder that all have sinned and fallen short.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Experience World War II from the British airfields! You will admire Violet, a teacher from Kansas, who joins the Red Cross and is sent to England! Adler is a pilot who carries secrets from his past. Adler’s goal is to be an Ace but he learns that sometimes being second is best. Violet learns that sometimes God wants us to be willing to be a missionary but may not be asking us to be one! The Sky Above Us is extremely well-written! I recommend it to others. I received a e-book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
This is an absolutely incredible historical romance!
The characters are extremely well developed. I connected with both Adler and Violet very quickly. They were both on journeys learning to trust God. They each had a great friend that supported and encouraged them.
I was captivated by the story from the beginning. The period of WWII leading up to D-day is very compelling. It is hard facts to read about with all the lives lost on both sides. Yet I’m drawn to keep the history alive about what all the troops, in all branches of the service when through. This book did a marvelous job of that.
The connection between this book and the first book in the series is fantastic. I love the way the author is presenting the three brother, their pasts, and the presence. I’m really looking forward to the third book, Clay’s story. The wait for it to come out is going to be hard.
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.
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.*
History comes alive through the words of Sarah Sundin! The concept behind the Sunrise at Normandy series is magnificent. We first saw D-Day through the eyes of Paxton brother, Wyatt, who is a Lieutenant in the US Navy in The Sea Before Us. In The Sky Above Us, Lt. Adler Paxton shares his prospective on D-Day from a P-51 Mustang in the US Air Force. Next, we will be introduced to the youngest Paxton brother, Clay, who’s has joined the US Army. It’s a real treat to have one series show how these different branches of our US military worked together on D-Day!
In this story, Adler Paxton is running from his memories, his guilt, and the consequences of the night his fiance fell to her death. He believes he is fully responsible for what happened to her, so he runs away and ends up joining the Air Force…where God introduces him to Nick and Violet. His goal is to make ace pilot (shooting down 5 enemy aircraft) and open his own shipping business. But in order to make ace, Adler’s going to have to learn how to be second before he can be first.
Violet Lindstrom has every intention of becoming a missionary, but when her fiance breaks their engagement the mission team won’t allow her to go as a single woman. So, Violet does the next best thing, she joins the American Red Cross. She intends to work with children, but when she’s assigned to work with the pilots, she attempts to mesh the two and gets the pilots to help her arrange programs for the local children. Violet is very relatable. She’s sweet and has a good heart, she loves the Lord and wants to serve Him, but she’s got a lot to learn and needs a little humbling.
The relationship between Adler and Violet is precious. They are both extremely cautious, but they’re very attracted to each other. Each of them has a lot of maturing to do and they help one another in that. I appreciated how their attraction grew.
I’m already “chewing-at-the-bit” to read Clay’s perspective of the Paxton Brothers drama! And see just how/if these three brothers can come together at last!
I received a complementary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Dogfights, deception, and dreams
Oh my! I loved this book. Not that I’m surprised. I’ve already read a couple of other books by this author and loved those as well.
Adler was, on the outside, your stereotypical, cocky pilot seeking glory by becoming an ace in the war. He was brimming with arrogance. Yet as we learn of his story in The Sea Before Us, we discover that he was dealing with a horrendous amount of guilt over multiple events from that day he was forced to leave his home. While his actions had been repulsive, his sincere regret over them showed that he was already changed by them. Yet his pride (once again!) almost caused another tragedy. . .
I was so drawn to this Texas cowboy/pilot. Despite his shameful past, he had a heart of gold and was so protective and noble. He was so determined to not make the same mistakes again. . .
Violet was a fascinating character. When she was cast into a situation that was so different from what she had expected, she made the best of what she could, and in such creative ways. Yet she also had some serious heart matters that needed to be dealt with. In addition to them, she had a mystery to solve – if she didn’t, she would be sent home in shame and her dreams would have been destroyed.
I really enjoyed reading about the events leading to D-Day from the air force and Red Cross’ perspectives. If you have been to the author’s website or her Twitter feed, you know that she immerses herself in WWII history and does copious research for her books. And it shows. The details she includes are amazing and yet not overwhelming.
I can’t wait for Chad’s story! He will obviously have a lot of baggage to deal with because he was the brother who was the most abused in the rift that occurred – he hadn’t done anything wrong and yet both of his brothers betrayed him in a big way. I have a feeling that he is going to be my favorite Paxton brother.
Write quickly, Sarah Sundin! Write quickly!
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I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
I believe you can’t go wrong with a Sarah Sundin novel. With every novel, Sundin invites me back in time to a world at war. She convinces readers to climb aboard the airplane or ship and fight for the American dream. With her second installment in the Sunrise at Normandy series, The Sky Above Us, Sundin allowed me to fly above the clouds and take a ride with Alder as he tries to run from his past and his family. The hurt of the main character gripped my heart. The moments of transformation and repentance made me a little misty. The plot around D-Day in the air was a wonderful new take on the horrific day. The only gripe I have with this story, and it doesn’t happen a lot for me when it comes to Sundin’s books, is the romance. It appeared to be the main focus of the story. The D-Day invasion didn’t appear to be such an issue until the day of. Violet and Alder had to work through their issues from the past and the future in order to grow together, but their romance was rushed and then it became too gushy for me. I was a little disappointed. I don’t remember there being this much focus on the romance in her previous books. While I still enjoy Sundin’s writings, The Sky Above Us just wasn’t one of my favorite novels of hers. I still believe the amount of forgiveness and seeing another Paxton brother is worth it to pick up this novel and add to my collection.
I received a complimentary copy of The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin from Revell Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Adler was wanting to get oversea’s to do some good.with flying planes.
Violet going overseas as part of the Red Cross. A Texan who was their commanding officer, told the guys to respect them as ladies and being in uniform. An unwelcome kiss, he had the guy apologize, any more trouble to let him know, his name was Adler. The mission was for the servicemen, not children as she had been told. She was a teacher and chosen for her administration duties. To finally settle in and to enjoy her job.
Alder as he battles the German luftwaffe. The author did her homework and one feels like you are living in those days of WW II. Stationed at the same base this follows the growth with God leading them during this time. Another good story to follow the first in this series.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion by Net Galley and Revell.