Book Recommendation – Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky

Today I’m sharing a book recommendation from our ACW archives. Last weekend Carrie Turansky’s historical romance novel Across the Blue was announced as a finalist in the 2019 ACFW Carol Award. Congratulations Carrie!

From the publisher:

Isabella Grayson, the eldest daughter of a wealthy, English newspaper magnate, longs to become a journalist, but her parents don’t approve. They want her to marry well and help them gain a higher standing in society. After she writes an anonymous letter to the editor that impresses her father, her parents reluctantly agree she can write a series of articles about aviation and the race to fly across the English Channel, but only if she promises to accept a marriage proposal within the year.

When James Drake, an aspiring aviator, crashes his flying machine at the Grayson’s new estate, Bella is intrigued. James is determined to be the first to fly across the Channel and win the prize Mr. Grayson’s newspaper is offering. He hopes it will help him secure a government contract to build airplanes and redeem a terrible family secret. James wants to win Bella’s heart, but his background and lack of social standing make it unlikely her parents would approve. If he fails to achieve his dream, how will he win the love and respect he is seeking? Will Bella’s faith and support help him find the strength and courage he needs when unexpected events turn their world upside down?

My thoughts:

Last year I was given the wonderful opportunity to read this historical novel by American author and Edwardian England specialist Carrie Turansky. This novel explores the fascinating world of those involved in the start of the aviation industry, something I’m quite unfamiliar with, so I felt I learned a lot through the rich descriptions of historical details of both the aviation and newspaper worlds of that time.

I also enjoyed the element of adventure and mystery, as various characters struggle with the idea of identity and learning more about their background, and how this affects their faith, and their relationship.

In keeping with the depictions of social class presented the tone feels polite, which may jar with those who prefer more contemporary renditions of character angst and unfettered emotions. But if you’re looking for a Christian historical novel of hope and determination ‘Across the Blue’ may be one you’ll enjoy, with scenes destined to make your pulse soar. Available from Amazon.

Have you read any fiction books connected to the aviation industry?