Violet Lindstrom has settled on serving in the Red Cross after a broken engagement and being turned down for a position as a missionary overseas. She longs to serve children, not grown oafish men, with their crude jokes and coarse ways.



Lt. Adler Paxton is determined to prove his mettle as an ace with the 357th Air Force Fight Group, he understands the planes and has a knack for flying. But he is also running from his past, he can't let himself forget the night that he tried to kill both his brothers, driving one way, and betraying the other. Despite his best efforts he is drawn to the statuesque blonde, with her love for the local English children and dream of missionary work.



A powerful tale of WWII valor and the battle fought in the air, as well of faith, family, friendship, and forgiveness.



A powerful story of faith and forgiveness on the front lines. I don't know how she does it but every book by Sarah Sundin is better than the one before--every single one of which I have given five stars! This book checked all the boxes for me, I am really fascinated by aviation during WWI and WWII and was thrilled that Adler takes to the air in this amazing installment in the Sunrise at Normandy Series. There is a strong message of faith, and bother Adler and Violet as surrounded by a fantastic circle of friends, and meet each challenge before them with determination, despite setbacks.



Violet makes the best of a situation that to her mind is less than ideal. She is clever, determined, and compassionate, she has her moments of temporary defeat, but that only made me like her more. I love how she grows in her faith, and comes to see how God brought her to the Red Cross to make a difference. She has a love for children and gift for encouragement.



Adler is haunted by his past, and the falling out with his brothers. He holds himself responsible for everything that happened. He is a man of character, he struggles with pride, and in many ways is a man of contradictions. I loved his journey in this book, and how his heart is slowly changed, yet he is honest about his callings, and a natural leader.



Engaging and extremely well-researched, fast-paced and compelling, I can't wait to read Clay's story. I loved the camaraderie between the men, especially Adler's friendship with Nick. Violet is an admirable heroine, I loved how she grew from being aloof and defensive to more honest with herself and compassionate, learning discernment, trusting God with everything. There is so much to love about this book, but what stood out the most to me was the strong faith and character of Adler and Violet. I enjoyed seeing Dorothy and Wyatt again, and the next book can't come soon enough for me. Highly recommend this action packed and compelling read!





Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

This is my first novel by Sarah Sundin. The Sky Above is a second in a trilogy from what I can gather.This book definitely stands alone but I am definitely going back to read the first book. I enjoyed reading this story about Adler Paxton and Violet Lindstrom. The historical details were accurate and interesting.. The characters are endearing, vibrant and multifaceted. The plot was well written and Sundin even tossed in a surprise that I didn't see coming! There seems to be only one downside and that is I have to wait a year before I can get my hands on the next book.

Love the mix of history, romance and second chances in Susan’s books. Can’t wait to read the next book to see how this wonderful family comes together with the help of some beautiful ladies. Thank you NetGalley and the publishers.

I really enjoyed this second book in the Sunrise at Normandy series. I absolutely loved the characters. I also loved seeing scenes from the first book from the other person's perspective. I have rarely seen that in a series. I really loved that. I found that the characters were well written and the plot was everything I have come to expect from Sarah Sundin. I love the theme of forgiveness in this series. I can only imagine what the conclusion will bring!

I received a copy of this book in order to facilitate my review. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions are my own.

The Sky Above Us is the second book in the Sunrise at Normandy series by Sarah Sundin, but it can be read as a stand alone novel. Violet Lindstrom joined the Red Cross and is tasked with running the Aeroclub, which provides soldiers a place to relax while on the battlefront during World War II. Adler Paxton joined the US military to become an ace pilot for the Allied cause and put a troubled past behind him. As their lives intersect, there is irresistible attraction between them, but a thief and past filled with secrets threaten their budding relationship. Can Violet and Adler overcome these obstacles to embrace true love?

Sarah Sundin is one of my most favorite historical romance writers, each and every book she writes is so good and it feels as if history is coming alive while reading. "The Sky Above Us" is book 2 in Sarah's Sunrise at Normandy series and we return to reading about the Paxton family, this time the focus in on Adler. Adler is not only in the midst of war, but he is also fighting internal battles and Violet is determined she can help him, she can feel it in her heart. I have to say that Violet is one of my favorite characters in all of Sarah Sundin's books, there's something about her that really tugs on my heart; however so does Adler, so maybe it's how she approaches him and their interactions as well. Adler and Violet are both independent and strong characters, and Violet has a heart for missions and helping others and she is truly following her passion and helping so many during this treacherous time. This book just puts a whole new perspective on World War II and what war was really like for so many, whether they be in the midst of battle, or trying to keep spirits up. All the while they are individuals still dealing with things in their personal lives in addition to the daily battles fought each day for the country. For anyone whom enjoys history, this is a must-read, as it truly brings this historical time period to life and will have you falling in love with the characters and left wanting to read more!

In this continuing story about the next brother in the tale of brothers, we get to meet Adler. I found myself loving how these books need to be read in order to get the most out of the story. Violet was different for me, with her height and draw to the mission field. I related to her on the mission field calling, and as she fought through what that meant to her, I loved it. 

This book was an expert tale of giving you insight into WW2, and what happened on the ground and in the air. It gave you insight into the family dynamics and struggles some people faced, and how they used their faith to battle them out and win. 

I felt like I lived through that part of the war when I finished this book, it was so vividly portrayed, yet I didn't feel like it was overly graphic and violent. It still though gave a very accurate picture that I see. 

Excellent storytelling! I would highly recommend. 

I obtained this book from the publisher. My opinions contained herein are my own!

The Sky Above Us is book two in the Sunrise at Normandy series by Sarah Sundin. The book is set in World War II England in 1943.

Summary: Lt. Adler Paxton may have joined the Air Force to outrun his demons, but they aren’t that easy to escape. He is tortured by memories of how his actions destroyed his family that one fateful night.

All Violet Lindstrom wants to do is serve God as a missionary. Without a spouse she can’t go on her own, so the Red Cross is the next best thing.

Can Violet help Adler see he is worth more than he believes? And what about the mysterious thief that keeps stealing from the Aeroclub she manages? Will she be sent home in disgrace and lose everything she has ever dreamed of?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. The writing is wonderful, the characters are well-developed and flawed, and the story continues and builds upon the first (although it is not necessary to have read the first one) to explain more of what happened on that one night in Texas.

My favorite thing about this book (and the reason I like it even better than the first), is that more war action was included in this story-making for a riveting read.

There are several themes woven through this book as well-grace, forgiveness, redemption, and relying on God-no matter what you have done; how we have all sinned, and one sin is not worse than another.

I am quite curious to see what will happen in the third book. The author has set the series up for an interesting conclusion, and I am really looking forward to reading it as well.

Overall, I would say this book is worth buying-which is the highest opinion I can give a book. It was quite the enjoyable read-especially if you enjoy books set during World War II.

As always, I thank Revell for providing me with a digital copy of this book for my unbiased review. Thank you!

The Sky Above Us
By Sarah Sundin

Sarah Sundin in my opinion takes the lead in World War II Christian fiction. She immerses you in time and culture and history. She takes the hurt and broken people in her novels and takes you on a journey with them to the forgiveness and relief that only God can give. With lovely romance intertwined.

The Sky Above Us
by Sarah Sundin

Revell

Christian

Pub Date 05 Feb 2019

I am reviewing a copy of The Sky Above Us through Revell and Netgalley:

Lt Adler Paxton is numbered by grief and hiding shameful secrets when in 1943 he is shipped to England with the US 357th fighter group in 1943. Adler is determined to become an ace pilot. Adler finds himself battling the German Luftwafe in the skies over France as the allies struggling for control of the air before the D-Day invasion.

Violet Lindstrom wanted to be a missionary, but for now she serves in the American Red Cross, where she arranges entertainment for the men of the 357th in the Aeroclub on base and sets up programs for local children. She finds herself drawn to the mysterious Adler, and enlists his help with her work and urges him to reconnect with his family after spending a long time avoiding them.

Adler finds his defenses crumbling when it comes to Violet, despite trying to hold up those walls. But D-day is drawing near. And secrets can’t stay buried forever.

I give The Sky Above is five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

Memorable...A Real Gem!

When I find an author whose books I like, I want to read all of them. That’s why I was excited to find author Sarah Sundin’s newest book The Sky Above Us, which is the second book in her Sunrise at Normandy Series.

The story of the Paxton family continues in The Sky Above Us as we are introduced to the middle brother, Lt. Alder Paxton. He is making his way to England where he will be stationed with American Air Force in 1943, as they join the battle to prepare for D-Day. Though he is trying to leave his past behind him, it has a way of catching up. What are the chances that 5,000 miles from home Alder will see his estranged brothers Wyatt and Clay? Onboard ship, Alder will meet the lovely Violet Lindstrom who is with the American Red Cross. She has her sights set on serving as a missionary one day, in a faraway land. Little did she know that the Lord would open her eyes to a different mission field that would resonate with her heart’s longing and desires.

I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book. Not only did I like the setting, WWII in England as D-Day approached, but also the characters and how they fit into a pivotal time in our history. Sarah must have done a lot of research to make the dogfights and battles seem so realistic and easy to visualize. In reading The Sky Above Us, I got a taste of what the people who lived through that era may have experienced.

Prior to reading this book, I didn’t know much about the history of the American Red Cross and their roll in helping servicemen as they served abroad. Those women who served were hardworking and brave and they too put their lives on the line.

As much as I was intrigued and fascinated with the setting and characters, I loved and learned from some of the themes in the book. Forgiveness was looked at from many different angles. Compassion, mercy, humility, obedience, friendship, self-righteousness, repentance and God’s calling were some of the other themes.

I very much liked Adler and Violet, but my favorite character was Nick Westin. He was a wonderful friend, mentor, brother in Christ, father and husband. I’d love to see a book about this character. He was memorable and very dear.

Not only did I love The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin, but I learned from it. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the greatest generation and what they did to save our Country and the Western world from Nazism. This is a book I will read again and would definitely give it as a gift. I took my time reading this book and I didn’t want it to end. It was so enjoyable to read it at the end of each day. Though it’s part of a series, it works well as a stand-alone book.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Revell Publishing Group for the opportunity to read The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin in exchange for an honest review. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.

My favorite time period in history to study or read novels based during has always been WWII and especially the time surrounding D-Day, so this was a perfect read for me.

It has been really neat to get to know these brothers in this series. I love how Sundin decided to have each brother in a different branch of service and I especially enjoyed the research she put into pilots for this book. I could almost smell the fuel and hear the engines throughout this book. The red cross members in this book also made great characters. It was neat to put yourself in their shoes and I was quite impressed with Violet because she had a lot of opinions throughout the book, but she was able to let God teach her many lessons in spite of her own thoughts.

Adler was such a great hero. I loved how realistically flawed he was, but I especially loved the tremendous growth he saw in the book. I think that his professional AND spiritual growth added a dimension to this book that made it hard to put down. At times I was annoyed by Violet, but she also underwent some changes and ended up growing a lot too. I really enjoyed watching the relationship evolve.

Between the WWII setting and the amazing characters, this is one of the best books I've read this year.

I received an advanced copy through the publisher. This is my honest review.

The Sky Above Us, the second installment from Sarah Sundin's Sunrise at Normandy series. I thought it was a great read. I give it four and a half stars.

This is the second book in Sarah Sundin's Sunrise at Normandy series. It focuses on the middle brother in the Paxton family, Adler. Adler left his home in Texas after a terrible argument with his oldest brother Wyatt (the focus of the first book in the series). He ended up as a pilot during World War II, stationed in London. Just as it seemed a romance with Red Cross volunteer Violet Lindstrom would help him heal his heart, there was a new surprise from home.

I absolutely love Sarah Sundin's books. She is consistently my favorite historical fiction author. This series about Normandy is amazing! The wealth of historic detail is great, and I love the characters. Each book in the series is about a different brother in the family -- Wyatt (Navy), Adler (Air Force), and Clay (Army).

I loved Violet as a character -- she was so sweet and sincere and really tried to make a difference with her work and her life. I enjoyed the way her story with Adler unfolded.

I already am looking forward to the next book in this series!

Whoa. This story was honestly one of the best World War 2 fiction books that I have ever read. It really made me appreciate what those men who fought in WWII went through and it definitely brought the D-Day battle to life for me.
This is my first ever Sarah Sundin book (yes, I know it is part of a series, but I haven’t read the first yet, oops) and I will definitely be reading more of her work in the future.
As I said above, this story really brought the D-Day battle to life for me and I was able to better appreciate what those men did for us. I was honestly surprised at how well the story came to life in front of me when I read this book. I’ve only had that happen a few times, and I think it is one of the signs of a good author when they are able to bring history events to life in such a real way.
To be completely honest, one of my least favorite parts of this story was Violet. I did appreciate that she changed and grew throughout the story, that added another layer of “realness” to the book as a whole, but I also wasn’t able to relate to her very well. And to be completely honest, I kind of got frustrated with her as well with her slightly narrow-minded thinking.
One of my favorite things about this book, besides the compelling and well-written story, was Adler. Oh my goodness. My heart really went out to him in his hurting and, gosh, I can’t say enough good things about him! Yes, Adler will be joining my fairly short list of favorite book heros.
All in all, I thought this story was very well done, my only complaint being Violet, and even then, I loved watching her grow and learn as the story progressed. I think people will really be able to relate to the faith elements throughout this story as well as the struggles that the characters faced, and ultimately overcame. Even from this first introduction to her writing, I can tell that Ms. Sundin is a wonderful and powerful writer. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series as well as her other books!

**I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my own.**

"Once again, God was winning the wrestling match, and Adler silently thanked him. For most of his life, he thought he'd deserved all of it. God had waited to give it to him until Adler knew he deserved none of it."

What an incredibly gripping story about true forgiveness and reconciliation set against the backdrop of air fights during WWII! Sarah Sundin delivers another winning combination of well-written prose and dialogue, meticulous research, beautifully crafted plot, unforgettable characters, and real and applicable spiritual truths and lessons. If you enjoy engaging historical romance, you will love this book. It's a must-read. Though it's the second book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone and the ugly backstory behind the Paxton brothers' falling-out is detailed from Adler's eyes in this book.

Adler is a hot-headed second brother in the Paxton family who has racked up a lot of mistakes in his sordid past. He runs from home and joins up with the Air Force as a fighter pilot but can't seem to outrun his past. Though torn and bruised, Adler is still honorable, thoughtful, tender, and an administer of mercy and justice. His encounter with Nick, another officer in his squadron, changes his life (absolutely LOVED Nick!) and has Adler seeking a different way of life and perspective. Violet is a part of the Red Cross stationed at the air base but really wants to be a missionary. She has a big heart, is tender and loving and hopeful. Even though her faith is strong, Violet struggles where God has planted her and doesn't see God's plan for her until much later in the story. Both Adler and Violet's maturation is profound and inspiring.

I can't wait to read the last book in the series The Land Beneath Us!
I received a copy of the book from Revell (Baker Publishing Group) via Interviews and Reviews and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

After reading The Sea Before Us, I was excited to read the second book in the series, The Sky Above Us. I loved it! It has all the makings of a good story, likeable characters, flowing plot line, a hint of mystery and a bit of romance. Sarah Sundin is a very good writer, who transports the reader to a different time and place.

I love the settings, descriptions, and characters. I would recommend anyone who loves historical fiction and light romance to read The Sky Above Us!

This is the second book of a trilogy, & I had previously enjoyed all of the writer’s other books very much. It is still quality writing, (& I really like the opening chapter given of the third book to come), but I was very surprised at some of the content. I suppose – maybe – this sort of thing did happen, but I was not expecting to be reading about it in a Christian book. Just one of the storylines would have been bad enough, but I felt this took things way too far. The author has managed to make the characters’ changes of course convincing, which cannot have been easy to manage, but I still felt it was too much to expect of them. (Violet’s in particular seemed rather too pat, too convenient.) The girl who was the greatest victim seems to have been overllooked; & what of her parents? And yet – it did reinforce the grace of God...

As usual, Sarah Sundin has written an absorbing and enjoyable tale! The characters practically hop of the pages in vibrant colors and the setting is nearly as easy to visualize.

Violet struggles with insecurity about her height (six feet) and is passionate about becoming a missionary. But there are niggles of doubt in her soul that she summarily hushes, thinking contentment in her current place is a reluctance to go for her calling. Before the war she had intended to marry and go on the mission field, but when her fiancé changed his mind about the mission field, she broke the engagement. But her mission board doesn't send single women and Violet hasn't had another chance to marry. She's not certain she ever will, now that she's in her late twenties. She's heard about the Red Cross helping refugee children and signs up, thinking perhaps that is a way to get closer to her mission field.

Adler's story began in book one when his controlling habits indirectly caused the death of his fiancée. With her death, his family ruptured overnight, sending all three brothers to the four winds. Haunted by the guilt of her death and of the horrible things he did while crazed with grief, he drifts from place to place, and is now in the air force as a pilot. He runs across Violet just before embarking for England, and they are on the same ship for the crossing. She interests him and challenges him, but he's sure he isn't suited to be even a friend to any woman after what he's done.

There is a gentle thread of mystery in the second half of the book as well as tons of wonderful detail about wartime on an English military base and in the Red Cross's canteens for the soldiers, including a nice coverage of D-Day.

I'd advise 16+ on this one, not for actual content, but just because of the details of how bad Adler's past actually got. There is also a bit of mild innuendo from the soldiers.

Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.

The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin transports readers to October of 1943. Lt. Adler Paxton is shipping to England with the 357th Fighter Group. He is ashamed of what he did three years prior and is estranged from his family in Texas. Adler is determined to become an ace pilot, but his commanding officer has other ideas. If Adler is to have the business he dreams of after the war, he needs to become a flying ace. Maybe God has other plans for this flyer. Violet Lindstrom wishes to become a missionary, but she will not be accepted without a husband. Violet was teaching in her hometown until she turned twenty-five and joined the Red Cross. She wants to work with children, but instead is assigned to be director of an aeroclub. Violet and Kitty Kelly work to provide entertainment and food to the men of the 357th. Violet even comes up with a program to help the local children and she recruits Adler to assist her. Slowly Adler opens up to Violet about his past and she along with Nick Westin encourage him to write to his family. Can Adler overcome his misjudgments? He needs to come to terms with what happened and ask for God’s forgiveness. Adler also needs to find a way to forgive himself. D-Day is quickly approaching, and Adler will be in the thick of the battle. Come along for Adler’s journey in The Sky Above Us.

The Sky Above Us is a well-written and captivating historical novel. The pacing is mixed throughout the book. Sarah Sundin captured the time-period and historical elements very well. I can tell that the author did her research for this series of books. Lt. Adler Paxton loves to fly, and his dream is to become an ace pilot. Major Shapiro believes Adler needs to learn to be a team player and assigns him to be the wingman for Capt. Nick Westin. You can feel the struggle Adler is going through with this new assignment. Violet wants to become a missionary, but they only accept married couples. Her former fiancé, Dennis Reeves was influenced by money and decided to take a different path. Violet now finds herself in England working for the Red Cross and managing an aeroclub. Her job is to feed and entertain the off duty pilots. Unfortunately, thefts are thwarting her mission. Violet will lose her job if she does not find the culprit. There is plenty of activity in The Sky Above Us. Adler is flying mission, Violet setting up the aeroclub, both are dealing with their past, activities with local children, uncovering a thief, and much more. I like how Sarah Sundin incorporated the Christian elements into the story. One of my favorite phrases is “only God can take away the pain”. The author provides vivid details that brought the story alive. As a reader, I could visualize the scenes and characters thanks to Sarah Sundin’s writing. It was interesting to learn more about aeroclubs and how the pilots flew their missions. I did find the book slowed down in the middle and I could have done without some of the kissing scenes (they were a bit much). I did, though, like how Violet and Adler’s relationship progressed, and how she never let go of her Christian values. The Sky Above Us can be read alone if you have not picked up The Sea Before Us. There is a preview of the next Sunrise Over Normandy novel included which features Clay Paxton and Leah Jones. Discussion questions are also provided which are a good aid for book clubs. If you are looking for an intriguing historical novel, then look no further than The Sky Above Us.