Yesterday’s Tides
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In 1942, Evie Farrow is used to life on Ocracoke Island, where every day is the same--until the German U-boats haunting their waters begin to wreak havoc. And when special agent Sterling Bertrand is washed ashore at Evie's inn, her life is turned upside down. While Sterling's injuries keep him inn-bound for weeks, making him even more anxious about the man he's tracking, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Evie, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own.
Decades earlier, in 1914, Englishman Remington Culbreth arrives at the Ocracoke Inn for the summer, but he doesn't count on falling in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper's daughter. When war breaks out in Europe, and their relationship is put in jeopardy, will their love survive?
As Evie and Sterling work to track down an elusive German agent, they unravel mysteries that go back a generation. The ripples from the Great War are still rocking their lives, and it seems yesterday's tides may sweep them all into danger again today.
Bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White whisks you away to two periods fraught with peril in this sweeping and romantic dual-time tale.
Additional information
| Weight | .9 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9 × 6 × 1 in |
24 reviews for Yesterday’s Tides
Phyllis R –
What war separates takes time to bring back together.
This book earns a 5* rating when one considers the intricate intertwining of the two timelines and the vast difference in character personalities spread throughout the storylines. The beautiful, emotional writing makes this book a gem among historical romances.
Two wars, two generations, two worlds away…Glimpses of 1942 are carefully slipped into the “yesterday’s” (1914) storyline, pushing the reader toward trying to figure out how these timelines meet. Clues were laid out bit by bit, with perfect pacing, until the threads come together.
If you are a reader of White’s previous books, some of her beloved characters are snuck in to round out the story and give a nod to her readers.
Themes: God’s Providence, prayer, racial barriers and love in the midst of obstacles
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
Candice –
An outstanding WWI and WWII timeslip, heart wrenching tale of how the groundwork of yesterdays effect the todays.
Roseanna’s description and character depth always amazes me, she puts you right in the middle of her world and characters (which if you are a huge Roseanna fan, you’ll spot several cameo’s to all of her series before, but not needed to enjoy this amazing work – it was an amazing tribute to her readers and all the work she’s done before).
The suspense and how the characters relate to one another just keeps you on your toes until the very end – Overall a great story of how deep loves goes! One you don’t want to miss
Erika Luther –
Thank you to Roseanna M. White for my advanced reader copy. All views given are my own.
The book covers two timelines. WWI and WWII. It is set on Orakoke island.
This book is a wonderful mix of romance and history. It deals with tough issues like loss, prejudice and the fear and horror of war. Secrets, mystery and family drama are woven throughout the book. I recommend it to fans of Roseanna’s previous books and fans of Historical fiction.
Allyson Jamison –
This book forever has my heart! I can’t do thinking about the characters or the story. It was all so beautiful! And the message and themes tied into the story were breath taking. I loved everything about it!!
Anna D. –
Where can I even begin with this book? It’s got everything a great story needs: lost love, family drama, spies and intrigue, a beautiful setting, found family, and faith elements. And it’s got a dual timeline, with one story set during the Great War and one during World War Two. Though I have to say, my favorite parts were probably when character’s from Roseanna’s other books made appearances. It was like seeing old friends again. I think I’ve said this several times, but this may truly be my favorite work of hers. I really couldn’t put it down! I enjoyed her writing style, as always (clear and not repetitive, yet full of delicious details). The characters were complex and easy to root for (except the ones who weren’t supposed to be); I thought I would like Evie’s storyline the best, but I think Louisa’s is my favorite. She had to make some difficult choices and she did so and came out the other side okay. And Rem, he is a sweet hero. And of course I loved both romances, though I wondered how quickly Evie’s would actually come about. It did feel like the main focus was on Louisa’s story, and more time devoted to her plot line, however I guess if not for hers then Evie’s would not exist. I also appreciated the way we found out, right along with Sterling (who is also a great hero) where some of the ladies had ended up in the 1940’s. I could go on! This is a fantastic book and you should most definitely read it!
I received a complimentary copy of the book for review. All thoughts and opinions of this book are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.
Kristina from Blessed & Bookish –
Yesterday’s Tides by Roseanna M. White is an exceptional work in historical fiction/romance. Spanning two generations, two world wars, and the Atlantic Ocean, this dual-timeline story will immediately grab your attention. I always love the mystery between timelines in stories like this, and in Yesterday’s Tides I was completely obsessed with knowing how Louisa and Rem’s story from the WWI era would blend into Evie and Sterling’s WWII era story. The history surrounding the U-boats off the east coast of the United States is fascinating. Ocracoke Island is charming and inviting, a perfect setting for holding secrets. And the romance is genuine and swoon-worthy. I fell in love with the strong women in this story who battled through prejudice, injustice, and persecution with strength, grace, and faith. The spiritual wisdom and maturity of these ladies inspired me and challenged me in my own walk of faith–a mark of a great Christian fiction novel in my eyes.
There are many references to Roseanna’s other books in Yesterday’s Tides, but I haven’t read them all and never felt out of place. Historical romance lovers will want this at the top of their TBR stack.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Monica Mikhail –
Oh my…this book…is absolutely amazing! I could not put it down! This is no ordinary WWI and WWII book; the way both stories are connected with family and friends that survived both wars is simply captivating. It felt like a puzzle and throughout reading, each piece slid into place. I loved all the characters’ personalities and their growth throughout the book; they each had their unique qualities. This book was very well researched and wonderfully descriptive and emotional, with a perfect blend of intrigue. One of my all-time favorites! Highly highly recommend!
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Jackie L –
Oh, this book took me on a ride, not wild, but heart-stuttering and fabulous. This book is a stand-alone, splitting time between 1914 and 1942. I will admit I (my fault) was struggling to get into the story. I kept trying to read a couple chapters at a time. I realized that was the reason I was having a hard time getting into it! After realizing that I sat down and just read, I couldn’t stop. It pulled me in and did not let go. I was laughing and crying at parts! I LOVED getting glimpses of old friends. Seeing where they are in life and I’m just going to say Georgie Pearce! So good to see him!
Again, it’s a stand-alone, but there are characters from four other series that are mentioned or are in the story. You won’t miss anything if you haven’t read the other series, but for those of us that have it’s like a wave from friends.
Some of the themes in this book were sad, but life sometimes is sad. One of my favorite quotes from the book was;
“That’s the best way, I think, to handle what life throws at us. Grab hold of it. Make whatever we can with whatever pieces we have.”
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Ashton Dorow –
Oh goodness, you guys, this was a good one! From the first chapter, I was sucked into the world of Ocrakoke Island and the Outer Banks and the characters Roseanna has created! I’m not usually a split-time reader, but when Roseanna announced this book was coming out, I got excited because 1.) Her books are always amazing, and 2.) She said that one of the MCs was a side character from her Codebreakers series (which is my favorite series of hers so far). Happily, Roseanna didn’t disappoint with this split-time story. In fact, she blew my mind afresh with her skills!
From beginning to end, this book is filled with mystery. It gradually unravels like a ball of yarn, and you just want to keep unraveling and unraveling it so you can make sense of how the two storylines connect and how each one will turn out. Even when information about the WW1 timeline was revealed in the WW2 timeline and it seemingly gave away what was going to happen next, every time, it turned out that there were still twists and turns and secrets to uncover. It was all so cleverly and skillfully woven together!
Roseanna continues to excel at crafting unique characters. I love the cast she put together for this one–Remington Culbreth, from the Codebreakers, of course, and his tools-and-mechanics-loving Louisa, tender-hearted Evie with all her many mysteries and honor bound Sterling. Plus, you can’t forget all the lovely secondary characters like Grandma See, Grann, Garret, Celeste, the many local Ocracokers, and more.
And the CAMEOS!!!! Roseanna has been linking together all her Edwardian/WW1 era series of the last several years in fun ways, but this takes it to a whole new level. Not only is one of our heroes from a previous series, but you can spot so many beloved faces from all corners of Roseanna’s backlist. I won’t spoil the fun by telling you who you can expect to see. You’ll just have to read the book yourself and enjoy the “easter egg hunt”!
Due to the complex nature of this story, there were times early on where I was mixing up the two timelines or getting otherwise confused, but that cleared up the further I got into it. That problem could have been because I’m not used to reading split-time stories, too! All in all, it was an EXCELLENT read that I enjoyed so much, possibly one of my favorite books of Roseanna’s now. There’s so much to love–a complex plot, a large cast of lovable characters, beautiful family dynamics of both the blood and chosen variety, strong friendships, sweet romance, drama and intrigue, spys and codebreaking, a fascinating island setting–this book has it ALL!
Bravo, Roseanna! 5/5 Stars!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
nicole –
I loved the way this story unfolded, as White deftly wrote the interconnected stories in a way that kept me guessing about what would happen next. I also adored the little cameos from other series she’s written such as the Culper Ring and Ladies of the Manor and Codebreakers series. The characters were all unique, engaging, and it cast light on an interesting time and place. I loved the romances between the characters and they were all very sweet! Thank you to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine.
Paula Shreckhise –
Ms. White has ventured into the dual timeline genre and has come up with a fresh way to tie the two World Wars together. You can tell she has done extensive research about the wars and the setting. Additionally, she has woven favorite characters from previous books into the fabric of the story. She meshed the two stories so well that the hinge was a complete surprise.
Historical fiction is a favorite genre and this novel was so interesting. I enjoyed learning about Ocracoke Island and its inhabitants as well as seeing what was going on in the Admiralty in England at the time.
Ms White always depicts fascinating characters with real life problems to overcome through faith. I connected with Evie and her jewelry making because I dabble in that too. She took sea glass and shells and used them as prayer tools to make something significant. “Holding on to something helped remind her that they were real things, those prayers- things with substance, just like faith.”
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip back in time on the East Coast of North Carolina. Highly recommended for fans of historical Christian Fiction.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Sarah Y (verified owner) –
Where do I start this review?
Do I start with the fact that I don’t normally do time-slips but I have to read a new Roseanna M. White book set in BOTH world wars? How about the fact that I was going to give this four stars until about the 80% mark of the book? Or maybe I should talk about how heart-rending this book was to read. Because all of those things are flying through my mind.
This is an unusual time-slip because the two time periods are so close together and the people from the earlier time are still around. Most time-slips that I’ve read, (granted, I haven’t read many), are decades, if not centuries, apart. So that was something that I thought was really cool. I love Roseanna’s work and reading about these time periods, so I was totally going to give this one a chance.
I was trying to guess the people and connections from Evie’s time back to the Great War and I did well with some and totally struck out with others. It was a fun little mystery, my own way of playing along with Sterling, I guess. While this is not a mystery book in that our characters are trying to solve a mystery, it rather is like one for the reader as pieces are revealed. Because of that, much of this book was really, really sad. There were several plot twists that I did not see coming – some that were good and some that were not so good. Like I said, until close to the end, I was so sad that I just didn’t know how I could give this five stars. I mean, it’s amazingly well written, but I don’t love sad books. However, some things managed to change my mind.
I really enjoyed the portrayal of ASL in this book. I thought it was a neat element and added a sweetness to the story. I also really like how White portrays prayer. The first time she introduced her unique ideas of praying was in “The Number of Love” but it continues here with the coded messages and the sea glass. I just think it a cool perspective and I appreciate how she is including it in her books.
What I can’t believe is that I didn’t make the connection of WWI in England means CAMEOS!!!! A few were just a name mentioned, but several people from Shadows Over England and The Codebreakers are actual characters and we even see an event from The Number of Love from a new perspective in this book. I just can’t recall this character being in that book and I’m wondering if I just missed them? And apparently there are cameos from her Culper Ring series (which I’m going to have to figure out a way to read) and The Lost Isles. I just love how she tied this stand-alone book into all her other books.
Roseanna does an incredible job weaving this story together. The ties are astounding – I almost need a chart to make sense of it all – and the redemption… all I can say is WOW! And I absolutely LOVED the parts with the little kids. They were so cute and the little girl’s perception was precious. If only it had changed things.
This is a book of choices. Of intense love. Of family – born and found. This is a book that shows how decisions and actions have a ripple effect and how God can work good out of horrible, horrible things. This is a book that felt a lot different from the other books I’ve read by White but was somehow still totally her. I ended up loving it, I will read it again, and I will definitely be getting a physical copy to own. Roseanna M. White has done it again!
I received a copy of this book from the author and Netgalley as a part of the launch team. This does not affect my review and all of this is my own opinion. A favorable review was not required.
CoverLover –
This cover is GORGEOUS, the author is talented, and the story tugs on the heart. And the first line pulled me in swiftly.
If you love dual timelines, especially when the transitions between the two eras flow smoothly, such as in Yesterday’s Tides. The WWI and WWII settings are engaging and feel authentic, and the characters are unforgettable in this well-crafted story. Roseanna M. White is a talented storyteller. I’ve read several books by this author and have never been even the slightest bit disappointed.
These characters! I grew attached to them, especially Evie and her peaceful nature, but so many people touched me. Through all their struggles, the light of courage, faith, and love shines through. The story includes secrets, romance, loss, history, and suspense. A rich story that brought me to tears as well as consoled my soul. I loved the inspiring foundations of faith, family, trust, and hope.
First Line: The first light of sunrise turned the water of the Pamlico Sound to gold, the clouds to rose, and the dark to morning, promising Evie Farrow that today would be just like yesterday.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Erin L. –
Another wonderful story by Roseanna M White! This is the first of hers that is a dual timeline and though I typically thoroughly enjoy that genre, this one took me a little bit of time to connect with because the timelines were both historical and closer together than is typical. Due to my sporadic reading schedule, I found myself confused a bit early on. I’d say this could easily be combated by reading full chapters at a time and taking breaks with the timelines, which I didn’t do. However, I say that to say that even if you do find the beginning a bit confusing, I’d encourage you to power through as once you get in to the depths, both stories fully suck you in. And because the timelines are close together and both historical, they tie up even more nicely at the end.
Both timelines take place in the Outer Banks on Ocracoke Island and the Ocracoke Inn. The “yesterday” timeline follows Louisa Adair who helps run the inn with her mother and Grann and her world is turned upside down when 2 young men show up for the summer. This story starts just before WWI and encompasses the duration of the war. The “today” timeline takes place during WWII and follows Evie Farrow whose life has hit a bit of a rut when a stranger washes up on her shore and changes everything.
Both story lines drew me in completely and all of the characters were likable and relatable. I enjoyed learning more about the wars from the viewpoint of the States and how people were impacted. The mysteries kept me turning pages, I enjoyed the romances in both timelines and the conflicts that arose within the families. I also enjoyed how Evie broke free of the family mantra at the end. There were quite a few twists and turns and surprises. I found myself angry with the author at one moment and singing her praises at the next. I enjoyed the faith thread that was solid throughout and enjoyed Evie’s connection of prayers and sea glass. I’m considering doing something similar in my own life in order to keep my prayers front and center.
Fans of this author’s other works will be glad to see characters from several of her previous series (Culper Ring, Ladies of the Manor, Shadows over England, and Codebreakers – as well as a small Easter Egg from the Secrets of the Isles), though if you haven’t read them you won’t be lost at all. This book is technically a stand-alone, but I love that she tied in several other characters that I’ve loved over the years. All in all, this was a wonderful book that I’d definitely recommend to fans of inspirational historical romance. Special thanks to the Publisher for an advance copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
labornotinvain –
A gripping dual-timeline novel of two women decades apart, facing their pasts and realities of a world at war.
A wonderfully written book, that weaves two timelines together in a way that flows and had me loathe to put it down. Evie and Louisa are decades apart but share a home on the North Carolinian shores of Ocracoke, they each face trials and questions about the past, as secrets are uncovered and their faith and ability to hope are tested.
A beautiful standalone that is not without reader payoff for longtime fans of Ms. White. I was swept into the heartfelt story of heartbreak, trial, and hope, and loved the family of blood and friendship that Louisa and Evie had to support them.
This book is a standout, and my new favorite book by this author, (though to be honest I haven’t read a book by her that I haven’t said that about!). An engrossing story that knit itself together in surprising, yet satisfying ways, shifting easily from the different perspectives and timelines, pulling me in and not letting me go. I highly recommend this amazing story of family, faith, secrets and new beginnings.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Lelia “Lucy” Reynolds –
What an amazing split time that spans from the Great War to WWII and ticks all the boxes to put it already in my favorite reads for this year. My heart loved the romance, family, and strong women of faith while my mind loved the history contained within the pages that until a week ago I knew nothing about. It’s surprising how close WWII was and we are not aware of. The intense research shows through without overwhelming the other aspects of the storyline. My heart broke for the lies and deception that separated Rem and Louisa and I felt the author handled the racial divide with delicate and well thought out insight into the time period. The story has many surprise elements and keeps you guessing at how each person ties into the next and I loved how it all came together in a satisfying ending although it had me shed several tears along the way. The author has crafted characters that immerse you into their lives and that you want to be apart of. The tides of yesterday sweep us into the future of our tomorrow’s with emotional turmoil that leaves us breathless. The beautiful cover draws us in while the tides sweep us away, pull us under, and deposit us back ashore with a story we won’t quickly forget.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Amy –
Yesterday’s Tides is Roseanna M. White’s best novel yet – and that’s saying something! She is a master craftsman of the surprise, the symbolic, the deep – and I love how she ties so many of these elements together in unexpected ways in this story.
That kept happening with this one. I mean, unless you’re reading Nicholas Sparks, where someone always seems to die tragically, with most romance-type books the cool people get together, right? Yet Yesterday’s Tides doesn’t fit that pattern. It kept me on my toes all the way through the book, not only about who would end up together, but also about the big picture, the subplots, and so much more. I wasn’t confused, but I was actively trying to figure out what was going to happen – and it was good. White drew me in and totally engaged me with the story, the setting, and her characters.
White’s notorious for examining an issue from every perspective in her books. I love the way that she helps readers wrestle with big ideas right along with her characters, and typically that occurs in beautiful, lyrical lines that jump off the page and beg to be highlighted. In Yesterday’s Tides, she handles it a bit differently. I feel that there are still big ideas that are being looked at carefully, but more than ever, the reader is doing this through the eyes of the characters. It’s much more subtle, and while I love that other style, I’m still finding myself pondering the issues long after turning the last page.
Books that draw me in and take me away and then make me think before sending me back home are the best ones, I think. They provide an escape but also a lesson, some wisdom and beauty to add to your life. White excels at this, too, but that’s not even the most exciting thing about this particular story, because if you’ve read any of her others, there’s something else you need to know.
White hid Easter eggs in Yesterday’s Tides for all of her other series/standalones! They’re fantastic! All of her story worlds collide in this one novel, in one way or another, and it happens naturally and wonderfully and made me want to sit up and clap. If you haven’t read the others, you won’t miss anything; but if you have, those mentions will add extra joy to your day.
So put Yesterday’s Tides on your TBR list, or better yet, pre-order it now so you can start reading it on Tuesday, when it releases; and then when you’re done, let’s talk – because this is one book you won’t be ready to close for good.
Melissa Dow –
“They’d become part of the earth. Part of the people. Part of the story they’d all tell. The yesterday whose tides would carve tomorrow.”
Yesterday’s Tides may just be my favorite Roseanna M. White book yet! This story completely drew me in from the first page. I was delighted to find not only two compelling stories, but a love letter to all of her previous series. There are so many Easter eggs which reference her previous books and I loved finding them. But, don’t worry, if you haven’t read her previous series, this story is completely a standalone and will make you want to go back and read all her other books.
It’s a dual time period novel covering both WWI and WWII with mystery, intrigue, suspense, and romance as well as endearing characters you’ll fall in love with. Each story deals with betrayal, prejudice, and loss. There are several villains in the story who are down right evil. I found myself reading late into the night to find out what happens next. I may have stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish because I just couldn’t put it down.
In 1942, Evie’s become comfortable in her daily routine. When disaster strikes and a handsome but injured Englishman washes up on her shore, her life suddenly has new purpose. Sterling is not just any Englishman, but a man on a mission searching for a German spy. But can he trust Evie? Who is she getting telegrams from on this isolated Ocracoke Island. Evie has experienced unspeakable loss. Though she’s attracted to the new visitor, is she ready to love again? How will her family’s past affect their future?
In 1914, Louisa’s life is filled with keeping their family’s inn going. She’s an intelligent, mechanically minded young woman who yearns to go to college. When a wealthy young Englishman comes to stay at the inn, she’s attracted to the thoughtful, kind young man. But, there are secrets about her heritage which threaten their new relationship. Will others’ prejudice and hatred tear them apart?
Both stories were amazing and I loved how they were connected. Along with the heartfelt romances are beautiful spiritual truths expertly woven into the story. It’s one of Roseanna M. White’s best and I’m so glad she finally got to tell this story. The location will have you googling to see photos as she really makes the small island of Ocracoke come alive. Highly recommended this five star read! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Alyssa M –
I’m not time-slip fiction’s biggest fan. At best, they usually drive me nuts during the switch in storylines, with me wishing I was still in one or the other. I don’t usually pick them up. But when I saw Roseanna White was writing one, I knew I’d be giving it a shot. I was even more intrigued when I learned it didn’t have the typical historical and contemporary timelines, but instead just a generation apart, set in both WWI and WWII.
This is the BEST time-slip book I’ve ever read. So hear me, even if you don’t love time-slip but you love historical fiction, it’s a winner. The switches between storylines were actually more switches between timelines. They didn’t just connect at the end- they connected right from the start.
With the same characters in both timelines, White cleverly makes the mystery of figuring out who is who (with the same person going by a different variation of their name in the other generation) one of the driving forces that actually made me want to switch between the timelines. I was so invested in putting the pieces together it felt like one entire story instead of two connected. Both couples- Evie and Sterling, and Rem and Louisa felt so real and complex. I think that also contributed to how much I enjoyed each timeline. I truly loved watching this character puzzle come together throughout the book. It’s even worth a reread before a lot of detail is forgotten, simply to see what was missed in the beginning before having the knowledge you had by the end.
Yesterday’s Tides is completely recommended and so well done!! I love White’s books, and this is no exception, even though it’s a little different. If you’re a long-time Roseanna White fan, there are nuggets throughout in this book referencing her previous characters and series, like a treat for her long-time readers. But no worries if you haven’t read them- but it just might make you want to!
I received a complementary copy of this novel from the publisher and was not asked to leave a positive review. All of my opinions are my own.
Kathryn D. –
Roseanna M. White has done it again! Her newest faith-based historical fiction novel, Yesterday’s Tides, drew me in from the very start and kept me fully engaged to the last page. It is a masterfully written book told from four points of view and set in two time periods, 1914 (World War I) and 1942 (World War II). Both stories take place in Ocracoke Island in North Carolina’s coastal Outer Banks region.
Although this sounds as if it might be confusing, I found both storylines easy to follow and filled with intriguing, well-developed characters. Those like me who have read some of White’s other books will get a special surge of joy when characters we have met previously pop into Yesterday’s Tides. However, it is not necessary to have read her other novels to fall in love with this book!
Both storylines offer a perfect blend of history, suspense, and romance that really touched my heart. As in all of White’s stories, the level of historical research that was done is readily evident, and the characters rely on God to get them through the challenges they face. The timelines weave together in the end to create a beautiful picture of grace, redemption, and forgiveness.
I received a complimentary copy of Yesterday’s Tides from the publisher. I recommend this book highly to people like me who enjoy reading clean, well-researched historical fiction. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
TJ –
Many books set in World War I or World War II tend to be set mainly in Germany, France, or England. However, the author set her story in a tiny island off the coast of North Carolina, that I had never heard of previously. As a history person, I now want to know more about this place, and its role in these wars.
The heroine of the story, or rather, heroines, have a somewhat mysterious background that may not seem mysterious at first, but rather unfolds gradually, and becomes even more intriguing and intertwined, as each of their stories are told in alternating sets of 2-3 chapters, occurring during both World Wars. This mystery was carried out to the end, and resolved well.
Without saying too much, as I don’t want to spoil it, I was delighted to see how characters were connected, including some cameo appearances from several of Roseanna’s other books that seemed quite natural. I have not read all of them (so far, only the “Codebreakers” series), but recognized names and settings from the ones I had read, and realized that some others were from other series, further causing me to want to read those soon. I was curious if the character in Yesterday’s Tides that was interacting with the characters from the “Codebreakers” had been mentioned in that series, and so I flipped through one of them, and did indeed find him there! (Now I’ll have to go back and re-read those, too.)
From a more contemplative and spiritual perspective, I appreciated such elements in the story as several of the characters’ focus on prayer, how they trusted God even when things didn’t make sense to them or didn’t seem fair, and how they responded to realistic issues such as wrestling with hurts, slights, misunderstanding, prejudices, losses, fear, and making difficult decisions. In the end, things turned out o.k., which is always what one hopes for. Sometimes story resolutions seem to wrap up all too easily, but I did not find that to be true in this one. Roseanna M. White did a masterful job of crafting this dual-time story, and I highly recommend it.
(On a side note, sea glass is an important object to the main character throughout the book. Roseanna M. White has made available on her website some beautiful sea glass jewelry, now on my personal wish list, to tie in with Yesterday’s Tides.)
* Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. There was no requirement for me to give a positive review. The opinions expressed in my review are my own, as is my plug for the coordinating jewelry.
Erin Slocum –
I personally love a great historical fiction novel. This one fits the bill and takes it a step higher in that it’s a historical fiction novel with a dual timeline that takes you through both the Great War (World War I) and WWII. Each story follows a set of characters but they are somehow entwined with each other. I can’t tell you how or I’d give it all away! But do know it’s amazing!
The setting for both books is primarily on Ocracoke Island. This is one of the outer banks islands. I can’t say that I had ever heard of or done a lot of research on this island before I read this book but now I’ve learned loads and looked up even more.
In this story you follow Evie who happens to find a special agent ( Sterling Bertrand) washed ashore. She works to save him and keep him alive as well as learn his story and why he’s here. While also hiding her secrets from him. War is raging, U-Boats are off their shores and Sterling is on a mission he doesn’t share all of. They each have their secrets. Can they trust each other and help each other or will they work against each other?
For the dual timeline portion we head back to the first World War on the same islands with a different set of characters. It’s just before war starts and an Englishman happens to be staying at the inn. Remington finds himself drawn to the innkeepers daughter Louisa. But she has secrets of her own and the war will wait for no one.
There is so much suspense in here and intertwining and also just some great romance as well. Throw in the fact that somewhere along the line the characters come together. I can’t share too much because I don’t want to give it away.
It’s so hard to find a good book with clean romance plus lots of mystery and suspense on the market today. Roseanna M White always writes ones that fit the bill. It’s why I always look forward to her new books coming out. I’m already hoping that this one will have a sequel because I’m going to need to know more of Celeste’s story.
Please do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this book. You’re going to love it! It also brings in some cameos of other books and characters that Roseanna wrote about the Great War and the Codebreakers. I’m in love with them and loved getting to say hello to them again.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through the author and her Launch Team. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
KristyBurtenshawLMTSI –
Delightful & Unexpected:
Adventure? Check.
History? Check.
Spiritually connected? Check.
Proper Romance? Three stories?! Check.
Deep insights? Check.
Easter eggs all over the place? delightful check!
If you haven’t read the rest of the books then you’ll have a lot of exciting surprises and just a little more adrenaline heart stopping moments. Yet, it is a standalone and it’s delightful.
If you want to read the books that lead up to it and are either loosely or specifically connected in the book I’ll give you the list at the end. There is even more depth and a bit more joy if you read them first. Having read some of the other reviews I came back to tell you that you’ll probably really improve your reading experience if you read the others first. Some is getting to understand Roseanna’s writing style (she has lovely introspection and thought that would take the blink of an eye, but they’re in the middle of conversations and interactions), the other is that you’ll have so much backstory that it’ll feel deeper and you’ll be able to follow it better.
Any time you read time slips you’ll have to keep track of whether you’re in the 1914 or 1942 characters, so it takes a bit to keep everyone’s names straight. Don’t worry, it’s worth it.
I love that Roseanna had sensitivity readers for how men think, the perceptions of African American’s life experiences in history, and the Deaf world. There is a lot to ponder on, so much history to love and weep over, and insight on how we deal with life now. It’s so easy to believe we are the right person, and she has such excellent plot twists that you’re going to joy as you grip your book and devout it.
These are books I keep in the physical form because my husband and children all read them, so we need to be able to pull them off the shelves at any given time. Digital is all and good for a passing read; but this is worthy of permanent space in your physical bookshelf.
List of pre-reads:
Whisper from the shadows & Code of Secrets
(circle of spies)
The Lost Heiress
(ladies of the manor)
A Name Unknown
A Song Unsung
An Hour Unspent
(shadows over england)
The Number of Love
On Wings of Devotion
Portrait of Loyalty
(codebreakers)
For the record, I’ve purchased all the other books in each series as signed copies *new* on Roseanna’s website because after we borrowed them from the library my husband loved them. (We have read aloud since our courtship while we drive and as a dates, which means nearly 19 years of reading aloud with him. There are few authors he’s enjoyed as much as Roseanna, so they are signed to him gifted for father’s day and birthdays :D)
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
That pretty much cover’s it for legalities on reviewing the book as part of the launch…but it doesn’t say that I was absolutely privileged to read the book early and that I am honest enough that had it been a terrible read, or had there been anything I truly didn’t like, I would have included it. Period. It pains me to do so because I know it’s vulnerable to write books; but readers do deserve to know if an author fudged historical things or wrote poorly. In the case of this book I can totally forgive Roseanna for not including the dredging of the canal during the 1942 part of the book, so I have no negatives to share.
enjoy. truly.
Oy, I had the opportunity to interview Roseanna on IG today, live. You can find it on her instagram as well as on mine.
KristyBurtenshawLMTSI –
Delightful & Unexpected:
Adventure? Check.
History? Check.
Spiritually connected? Check.
Proper Romance? Three stories?! Check.
Deep insights? Check.
Easter eggs all over the place? delightful check!
If you haven’t read the rest of the books then you’ll have a lot of exciting surprises and just a little more adrenaline heart stopping moments. Yet, it is a standalone and it’s delightful.
If you want to read the books that lead up to it and are either loosely or specifically connected in the book I’ll give you the list at the end. There is even more depth and a bit more joy if you read them first. Having read some of the other reviews I came back to tell you that you’ll probably really improve your reading experience if you read the others first. Some is getting to understand Roseanna’s writing style (she has lovely introspection and thought that would take the blink of an eye, but they’re in the middle of conversations and interactions), the other is that you’ll have so much backstory that it’ll feel deeper and you’ll be able to follow it better.
Any time you read time slips you’ll have to keep track of whether you’re in the 1914 or 1942 characters, so it takes a bit to keep everyone’s names straight. Don’t worry, it’s worth it.
I love that Roseanna had sensitivity readers for how men think, the perceptions of African American’s life experiences in history, and the Deaf world. There is a lot to ponder on, so much history to love and weep over, and insight on how we deal with life now. It’s so easy to believe we are the right person, and she has such excellent plot twists that you’re going to joy as you grip your book and devout it.
These are books I keep in the physical form because my husband and children all read them, so we need to be able to pull them off the shelves at any given time. Digital is all and good for a passing read; but this is worthy of permanent space in your physical bookshelf.
List of pre-reads:
Whisper from the shadows & Code of Secrets
(circle of spies)
The Lost Heiress
(ladies of the manor)
A Name Unknown
A Song Unsung
An Hour Unspent
(shadows over england)
The Number of Love
On Wings of Devotion
Portrait of Loyalty
(codebreakers)
For the record, I’ve purchased all the other books in each series as signed copies *new* on Roseanna’s website because after we borrowed them from the library my husband loved them. (We have read aloud since our courtship while we drive and as a dates, which means nearly 19 years of reading aloud with him. There are few authors he’s enjoyed as much as Roseanna, so they are signed to him gifted for father’s day and birthdays :D)
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
That pretty much cover’s it for legalities on reviewing the book as part of the launch…but it doesn’t say that I was absolutely privileged to read the book early and that I am honest enough that had it been a terrible read, or had there been anything I truly didn’t like, I would have included it. Period. It pains me to do so because I know it’s vulnerable to write books; but readers do deserve to know if an author fudged historical things or wrote poorly. In the case of this book I can totally forgive Roseanna for not including the dredging of the canal during the 1942 part of the book, so I have no negatives to share.
enjoy. truly.
Oy, I had the opportunity to interview Roseanna on IG today, live. You can find it on her instagram as well as on mine.
Spoiler alerts of the review:
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I don’t know if you’ve ever read Lady Susan written by Jane Austen, but narcissism isn’t new. There was more than one villain, in Yesterday’s Tides, but the one who seems less threatening ends up being pretty awful.
If knowing about the depravity of how the German Nazis treated the French people, be aware it is lightly touched on.