Book Review: Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky

Review by Carolyn Miller

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:

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to read this soon-to-be-released 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. Releases February 20, preorder available now.

About Carolyn Miller

Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. Together with her husband she has pastored a church for ten years, and worked part-time as a public high school English and Learning and Support teacher.

A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature, and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. 

Her Regency novels include The Elusive Miss Ellison, The Captivating Lady Charlotte, and The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey, all available from Amazon, Book Depository, Koorong, etc

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