A Blend Of Fact & Fiction

A Winter By The Sea by Julie Klassen is a most charming Christian historical novel that I loved. It is the second book in On Devonshire Shores series but can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading the books in order for character progression and continuity as each book begins as the previous one ends.

This book begins in the winter of 1819 at Sidmouth. There is an accurate timeline that shows the Duke and Duchess of Kent plus their baby, the future Queen Victoria, staying in Sidmouth. There are other actual figures from the time included too.

This story focuses on Emily, who is the twin to Viola who was the focus of book one. Emily is very creative with a huge heart to help others. Her heart threatens to lead her astray as a face from the past appears.

We see characters fixated on social standing and marriage alliances rather than following their heart.

The poor society features once more, as we drop in on those who volunteer their time and resources. There is a rescue to perform too.

Faith is important. Sometimes we just have to trust that God is good, even when life isn’t. “Why some prayers were answered, and some were not.” God always answers prayers but not always in the way we expect.