Dogfights, deception, and dreams

Oh my! I loved this book. Not that I'm surprised. I've already read a couple of other books by this author and loved those as well.

Adler was, on the outside, your stereotypical, cocky pilot seeking glory by becoming an ace in the war. He was brimming with arrogance. Yet as we learn of his story in The Sea Before Us, we discover that he was dealing with a horrendous amount of guilt over multiple events from that day he was forced to leave his home. While his actions had been repulsive, his sincere regret over them showed that he was already changed by them. Yet his pride (once again!) almost caused another tragedy. . .

I was so drawn to this Texas cowboy/pilot. Despite his shameful past, he had a heart of gold and was so protective and noble. He was so determined to not make the same mistakes again. . .

Violet was a fascinating character. When she was cast into a situation that was so different from what she had expected, she made the best of what she could, and in such creative ways. Yet she also had some serious heart matters that needed to be dealt with. In addition to them, she had a mystery to solve - if she didn't, she would be sent home in shame and her dreams would have been destroyed.

I really enjoyed reading about the events leading to D-Day from the air force and Red Cross' perspectives. If you have been to the author's website or her Twitter feed, you know that she immerses herself in WWII history and does copious research for her books. And it shows. The details she includes are amazing and yet not overwhelming.

I can't wait for Chad's story! He will obviously have a lot of baggage to deal with because he was the brother who was the most abused in the rift that occurred - he hadn't done anything wrong and yet both of his brothers betrayed him in a big way. I have a feeling that he is going to be my favorite Paxton brother.

Write quickly, Sarah Sundin! Write quickly!


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I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

When I think of fabulous WWII historical fiction autors, Sarah Sundin comes to mind. Her latest novel in her Sunrise at Normandy Series, The Sky Above Us, is a resouding addition. Although you will want to have read its predecessor, The Sea Before Us, this novel is not to be missed. Focusing on the flight portion of D-Day, Sundin gives her readers a clear glimpse into the men who bravely fought and risked everything for freedom.

Although D-Day was the backdrop for this novel, Sundin filled the pages with the day to day struggles of humanity – the difficulty of being far from home, of living in a war torn city, of past regrets, and of new hope for a future. Her characters have depth and round out Sundin's plot with dimensions that engulf her readers. With this book, Sundin truly composed a story that captures the mind and heart.

I highly encourage you to pick up this series. Prepare to be entertained, encouraged, and inspired into a life of forgiveness, renewal, and purpose.

I was provided a copy of this book by Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Wow! The Sky Above Us is every bit as good as the first book in Sarah Sundin's "Sunrise at Normandy" series. The Sky Above Us runs parallel with book 1, The Sea Before Us, but tells the story of second born Adler and American Red Cross employee Violet, both stationed in England. This book COULD stand alone easily, but makes even more sense if read after book 1 in the series. I can't wait to read book #3! Filled with details about WWII, Red Cross activities, romance, and forgiveness, this book is very hard to put down!

Sarah Sundin is one of those rare authors who never seems to put a foot wrong -- every book is a heart-pounding, uplifting delight! Adler & Violet's story is no exception, as both characters learn through love and war the true meaning of humility and grace. Highly recommend!

The detailed accounts of the lives of World War II airmen and the vivid mental images Sundin paints with her descriptions of the D-Day invasion on the beaches of Normandy set this book apart from many other World War II era books that I have read. We met American naval officer Wyatt Paxton in book one of this series, becoming familiar with the tragic circumstances that tore the Paxton family apart. In this second book we see the situation through the eyes of his middle brother, Captain Adler Paxton of the US Army Air Force. Both brothers encounter God and His grace and mercy while serving in Europe, but will they be able to put this family back together?

We also meet Red Cross worker Violet Lindstrom in The Sky Above Us. Under the misconception that she is going to Europe to work with displaced children, Violet is discouraged to find herself running a Red Cross Aeroclub on an air base. God has many hard lessons for Violet to learn during her time in Europe, life-altering lessons from which we as readers may also benefit.

I will be anxiously awaiting the story of Army Ranger Clay Paxton, the youngest of the three brothers, betrayed by both of his older brothers and also serving in Europe. It is wonderful that our God is a God of forgiveness and reconciliation. Readers will hope that Clay too encounters God.

I am grateful to have received a copy of The Sky Above Us from Revell Books via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

📚WWII ✈️ ➕, 🚚🛤️🌦️🇬🇧🇺🇸 #christianfiction

The Sky Above Us is a lot of fun! The drama, action character development and a little bit of mystery made this a book i couldn't put down.

I relate well with Violet. Upstanding citizen, raised in church, desire to help... I'm sure I have an equally skewed perception. While I don't see any one group as less in need of encouragement and help than any other, I AM less willing to help some than others. And I'm good at justification (my safety, don't know how, other responsibilities...) ouch!

The adventures are fun, and heartbreaking and encouraging. Adler grows up a lot in a short time.

I was impressed by the reminders of 1. being willing to let God change your mind, and 2. That you're a missionary wherever you are. It doesn't have yo to be a foreign country or an inner city.

📌 I received an advance copy of the book from @NetGalley, and while I am grateful, that does not influence my review. All thoughts are my own.

When you pick up a book by Sarah Sundin, you know you’ll get a story with a quick pace, loaded with facts about WWII, and a sigh-worthy romance between a life-like hero and heroine.

The Sky Above Us is another winner from Sarah Sundin. I liked the heroine, Violet. She was a sweet person and a gentle soul, though I have to admit that at times, it felt like she was overshadowed by her counterpart. Adler had been through a lot, and so there was a lot to be worked out, yet he wasn’t the easiest character to like, which did take away from my enjoyment of this book a little. But I still really liked the book and found myself flying through the pages, just like I always do with Sundin’s novels. She has such a light, snappy style of writing; it really draws the reader in and makes it hard to put her books down. And in the midst of such a tragic time in our world’s history, Sundin’s writing portrays a message of hope that is timeless and uplifting.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Many thanks to Revell and NetGalley for the complimentary copy of this lovely WWII novel.

I look forward to Sarah Sundin’s latest release each year. This year, it is Book 2 in the Sunrise at Normandy series. Each book in the series focuses on one of the three Paxton brothers who serves in a branch of the US military involved with the D-Day invasion. Book 1 centered on Wyatt Paxton who serves in the Navy. Book 2 is about Adler Paxton who serves in the Army Air Corps. The Paxton brothers are estranged because of a tragedy that occurred just prior to the war. Consequently, the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation permeates the entire series.

Lt. Adler Paxton is sent to Leiston air base to fly missions in preparation for the allied invasion such as destroy German munitions factories and weaken the Luftwaffe. Six-foot-tall Violet Lindstrom works for the Red Cross and is in charge of the Aeroclub at Leiston. Adler is assigned the wingman position for flying ace Nick Westin: a secondary role. Violet had hoped to be a missionary, but when her fiance changed his mind about missions, the board would not send an unmarried woman to the field alone. Violet views Red Cross work as second place to her original calling.

Of course, each of these books has a mystery to accompany the history and romance. This time, food supplies keep disappearing from the Aeroclub. Violet is held responsible for the mismanagement and resulting losses. With her job on the line, she struggles to implement tracking systems and stop the theft.

As their relationship grows, Violet and Adler wonder if their career goals will ever be compatible. They come to an agreement whereby they will ask God to change one of their minds, but not themselves try to force a change. Their effort to surrender to God’s will and to hold dreams loosely will resonate with many readers.

WWII is not an era that I usually read. Don't know why, perhaps for the lack of book written during this era that seems even remotely interesting to me. Which make this one stand out from the crowd. As with the first book in this series. I loved it. The characters are real and struggle with forgiving themselves with plenty of self blaming going around. Not your normal romance, overall a fantastic read.

There aren't many books that I greet with as much anticipation and delight as a new one from Sarah Sundin. Her books never disappoint and The Sky Above Us is another stellar WWII romance from one of the masters.

The whole concept of this series is so great. To get a look at the events leading through D-Day from the eyes of the three estranged Paxton brothers is fascinating and informative. In the first book we were at sea with Wyatt, this time we're in the air with Adler, and next time we'll be on the ground with Clay.

I seriously can't say enough good things about this book. Sundin's attention to detail, the flawless way she weaves fact with fiction, the heartfelt spiritual message, the wonderful characters, the swoonworthy romance... I could go on and on. I was sad when I reached the final page. I didn't want the story to end. I didn't want to say goodbye to Adler or Violet. It was just so good. I highly, highly recommend it and can't wait for Clay's story!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

The Sky Above Us is part of a series that I have not read. I recommend reading the series in order. The story was good but not memorable. I've read a lot of historical fiction with the same premise. It's okay for historical fiction fans. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

This is the second in the Sunrise at Normandy series. Adler, like his older brother, Wyatt ran from home after the incident in the first book. Three years later, Adler is in England serving as a fighter pilot but is tormented by his past behavior. The author paints a vivid picture of a fighter pilot's days leading up to and during D-Day. Nick was my favorite character; his steadfast faith and friendship was something Adler desperately needed. Violet is a perfect example of a person seeking the answer to God's will. Forgiveness is the powerful theme throughout the story. I'm looking forward to the next book about Clay, the youngest brother. Highly recommended!

*This book was provided by Baker Publishing through Interviews & Reviews.*

If you've read a Sarah Sundin book before you probably know what to expect, but yet she still surprises and brings out amazing truths and fascinating tid-bits of wartime and serving the Lord through difficult choices.

I knew I would be hooked with the storyline as I'm serving the Lord in another country, so it was interesting to see how Violet grasped what the Lord's plan for her throughout the book. I loved that she and Alder truly sought the Lord's will. It didn't mean there weren't hiccups along the way, but even after a wrong choice or action, they were able to look back and realize they hadn't made the right choice.

The scenes in England and the air force raids and the bond of pilots and Red Cross workers really warmed my heart. I could picture everything and I loved learning a few details I hadn't known about the Air Force or the Red Cross.

I noticed that for a short time in the middle of this book the storyline fell a bit short for me. I know some of it was the romance and kisses. If there was one kiss in a scene, it was followed by many all over the woman's face, which became a bit too much for me. Saying all that, I did like the progress of the relationship and there was meaningfulness to the relationship which is getting harder to find in Christian fiction these days.

But I truly enjoyed this book and although I would rate it with the all-time-favorites, I still highly recommend it and know I will be continuing to pick up her books because she sure knows how to write a good war story!

The Sky Above Us
By Sarah Sundin
Following the Paxton brothers, The Sky Above Us is the second book in Sarah Sundin’s series, Sunrise at Normandy.
Lt. Adler Paxton serves on the 357th Fighter Group in 1943 England. While struggling to keep his past in the past Adler only makes himself more miserable. The past has created so much of who he is while his guilt and shame prevent him from fully moving forward. Fighting for peace internally and physically as he fights off the Nazis Adler feels a pull towards the manager of the aeroclub. Will he be able to protect her or will he ultimately let her down?
Meanwhile, Violet Lindstrom wants to follow in her aunts’ footsteps and become a missionary. To Violet, there is no worthier act of service but will managing the Aeroclub for the men of the 357th change her heart? How is she supposed to serve the Lord wholeheartedly when Lt. Adler Paxton keeps stealing her thoughts?

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I share here.

"The Sky Above Us" is a Christian historical romance set from Oct. 2, 1943 to June 24, 1944 in England. It shows the lead up to D-Day and the invasion from the viewpoint of a USA fighter pilot and a Red Cross volunteer at his airbase. This book is the second in a series. Though it includes enough information that it can be read as a stand alone, the three books are linked as each brother is motivated by a shared painful incident in their past.

Adler is very competitive and is determined to make ace pilot while forgetting how badly he wronged his two brothers in the past. He's ordered to be wingman to another pilot who's a friend, but being wingman will prevent him from making ace. God keeps placing him in positions where he must put others before himself, and he learns humility, compassion, and how to accept forgiveness.

Violet has been urged by a relative to become a missionary. She loves God enough to do that, but the missions board won't send a single woman. She loves children, so she goes to England thinking she'll be helping the refuge children. Only she's assigned to serve donuts to rough-around-the-edges American pilots. Adler seems more of a gentleman than the others, and she wants to help him heal and find God's love. She progressively realizes that she's been looking down on others and feeling self-righteous when she has no right to.

The main characters acted realistically to events and had depth. After having grown through the events in the book, the hero and heroine end up as a good match with shared goals and values. The fighter pilot scenes were suspenseful. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this excellent and exciting historical romance.

I loved getting to know Adler. Knowing this series was about brothers, I was curious to see Adler's point of view after being introduced to Wyatt's point of view first. I was not disappointed. There are some horrible relational sins to be exposed and overcome; the forgiveness, mercy and grace shown are just beautiful. It leaves me hungry for Clay's story now.
I love the military background to a wonderfully exciting, tense, and dark historical period. The research is thorough and spot on. I felt like I was there in the hanger with the characters in their downtime, or in the cockpit with the airmen during their flights. Thank you for bringing this story to life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

First I would like to thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.

I love military romance books with a Christian element. This book has it all. It also has characters dealing with troubled pasts. Lt. Adler Paxton wants to be an ace and to leave his memories of his past behind. Violet Lindstrom wants to be a missionary in Africa doing what she believes God had called get to do. She did not know that that would lead her to England and working with the Red Cross. That is where our two MCs meet but will the war or their pasts tear them apart.
This book had me wanting to know more. I read it in one day.

I enjoyed reading Adler's story. It was well done and I would look forward to reading the last story. I like the depth of characters but it did seem a little bit of "been there, read this before...." from the author.

This is the second book in the series. The first one is called The Sea Before Us, and book 3, The Land Beneath Us, is scheduled to come out in 2020. The series follows the lives of three brothers who participate in D-Day. This book is about Adler, the middle brother.

Adler’s been bottling up his pain for three years, since the night he ran away from home in disgrace. Now, he’s a fighter pilot and determined to do his part in the war. A chance meeting gives him a new friend in Violet, a worker for the Red Cross. She thinks she’s on her way to work with children in England, but her role is a lot different than she imagined.

Adler and Violet end up in the same unit, but they resist giving in to their feelings. Violet plans on becoming a missionary in Africa, and Adler just wants to start up a business. Violet ends up being good for Adler, but he doesn’t want to let her too close. In his eyes, when she knows everything, she’ll think very differently about him.

I usually like Sundin’s books, and this was no exception. Part of it is the history (I’m drawn to the WWII era), and part is the characters. The main characters were great, but I liked some of the supporting cast as well, namely Nick. Sometimes the descriptions get a little too technical for me, but you can tell the author does her homework. I liked the tiny bit of closure at the end, and I’m hoping for a great ending in the third book. All 3 brothers, all together – preferably after the war!

The hardest part is going to be waiting until the third book comes out. Poor Clay has reason to be angry with both his brothers, and I can’t wait to read his story. Good Book!

*I received a copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The Sky Above Us is a well written historical romance set during WWII. I enjoyed the plot, characters and the author’s writing. I look forward to reading more books by this author. I received an arc from Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.