Through Waters Deep (Sarah Sundin)

My first year attending the Mount Hermon Christian Writers' Conference, I met another writer of Historical Fiction - Sarah Sundin. Interestingly enough, that same year, she received, "Writer of the Year" for her book, "A Distant Melody."

I picked up that book, figuring it had to be good if she was awarded for it, and it quickly became one of my favorites. I've been purchasing her novels ever since and I've yet to read a book of hers I didn't like.

"Through Waters Deep" arrived in my mailbox about a week ago. And honestly, I didn't know what to expect - Sarah Sundin's previous books were very well written, historical romance, taking place predominantly in Europe with the characters' primary involvement in the Air Force, be it the pilots of B-17's or flight nurses. This novel, ventures into new waters (see what I did there?).

Here's the BCC:

War is coming. Can love carry them through the rough waters that lie ahead? 

It is 1941 and America teeters on the brink of war. Handsome and outgoing naval officer Ensign Jim Avery escorts British convoys across the North Atlantic in a brand-new destroyer, the USS Atwood. On shore, Jim encounters Mary Stirling, a childhood friend who is now an astute and beautiful Boston Navy Yard secretary.  

When evidence of sabotage on the Atwood is discovered, Jim and Mary must work together to uncover the culprit. A bewildering maze of suspects emerges, and Mary is dismayed to find that even someone close to her is under suspicion. With the increasing pressure, Jim and Mary find that many new challenges--and dangers--await them.

See what I mean? Still WWII, but now we're pre-war, home-front, Navy, and not just historical romance... but a mystery. Very Nancy Drew.

But while different... I LOVED EVERY MINUTE.

Sarah Sundin does not disappoint.

I haven't read a mystery novel since I was in elementary school, but my goodness, the ah-ha moment - you'll appreciate it. And the very sweet, budding romance between Mary and Jim was adorable. I think every young woman who's ever felt mousey will instantly love Mary. And Jim - he's wonderful in an out-of-step sort of way. The characters are perfectly endearing and you'll be rooting for them the whole way.

But I have to say... Sarah Sundin is a master of "will-they-or-won't-they." I was on the edge of my seat for several hours, frustrated (in the best sort of way) and worried for the characters as they press forward, facing challenges that only with God's strength and courage can they overcome.

Looking forward to #2 in the Waves of Freedom series

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