Two people finding love against the odds... By the Stars by Lindsay B. Ferguson (Review & Giveaway)

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Welcome to my stop for this touching and inspirational story set during WWII, based on a true love story. Check out my full review and enter the giveaway below...

By the StarsBy the Stars
by Lindsay B. Ferguson
LDS Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 320 Pages
March 8th 2016 by Cedar Fort Publishing & Media

Summary

When Cal finally gets a chance with Kate, the girl he's loved since grade school, their easy friendship quickly blossoms into a meaningful romance. Spirited and independent, Kate keeps a guarded heart due to a painful past, and Cal wants nothing more than to gain her trust. But World War II soon cuts their time far too short, and Cal prepares to part from her – possibly for good. After he's gone, what Kate does next changes everything. 

In the suffocating jungles of the Philippines Cal encounters the chilling life of a soldier and deadly battles of war. With Kate's memory willing him on, Cal must put his trust in God to survive if he hopes to ever return to her. Inspired by a true story, By the Stars is a romance that stands the test of time and the most intense obstacles.

 
  
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My Review

BY THE STARS was a heartfelt story about one man, his life, and the woman he falls in love with during a difficult time in history. The book felt nostalgic and like a story being retold. The characters were likable and the plot was engaging, with heartbreaking moments balanced by full and sweet ones. A beautiful and enjoyable read that is perfect to share with others and read in book groups.

These characters were really great! I loved their individual personalities as well as how well they complimented each other. I also loved how the characters develop over time and through their experiences. There were some really sweet moments between the two main characters, but also between them and others as their story is told. I loved their relationships with their family and Cal's with his fellow soldiers.

The historical setting came through in the clothing styles, language, and actions and language of the characters so that as a reader I felt immersed in this time in history. It's the first story I've read where one character is back in the US while the other is out fighting the war overseas, which allowed for a different perspective and one that I appreciated viewing. There are some really desperate moments in the story, but the author handled it all very well - conveying the feel and ugliness of the situation without things being too descriptive or depressing. There was a good balance of heart and hope against the stark realities of war.

For a debut I felt the author did a fantastic job telling this story based on an actual couple. I'm looking forward to seeing what she writes next and will definitely be grabbing a copy!

Content: Some references to violence during the war setting and some innuendo, but clean.

Source: From tour host/NetGalley/ebooksforreview.com, which did not affect my review in any way.

About the Author

lindsaybferguson_author

As a Communication graduate from the University of Utah, Lindsay Ferguson worked as a PR and marketing writer for a computer software company for several years before resigning to focus on raising her family. As a contributor to Deseret Digital Media, she has had lifestyle articles published byksl.com, Deseret News, and FamilyShare.com. She lives in a suburb of Salt Lake City with her husband and four children. By the Stars is her first novel.


Giveaway

ebook of By the Stars by Lindsay B. Ferguson (provided by the publisher)
Open internationally
Ends April 4th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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