MoonglotexasSet in 1909, Across The Blue by Carrie Turansky has at it’s centre the first flight across the English Channel. Attempting this amazing feat, James Drake encounters Isabella Grayson, daughter of the Daily Mail newspaper’s owner and aspiring journalist. Both Christian, they rely on God’s guidance and support as they strive towards their dreams. Sharing this journey draws them close but several obstacles come up to prevent their relationship and reaching their goals. The book tracks their progress and development of their faith. The story has all it should to be interesting and it’s well-written with developed characters but, for me, the descriptions were too detailed and the progress too slow, I like a faster pace and slightly less intricate prose. It’s a three out for five.
From the back cover:
Set in Edwardian England and ideal for readers who enjoy Julie Klassen novels, this romance about an English aviation pioneer and the girl who falls in love with him is filled with adventure and faith. 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?
I received a complimentary copy of the book from WaterBrook and Multnomah through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
