I love Lynn Austin's books, they are always well researched, well written and thought out. This one from the first page had me hooked into the story with the characters and Eve pretending for years to be Audrey after WWII ended. But I have to say the middle part of the books and all of the WWII details with Eve and Audrey got to be be way to long for me. The story slowed down way to much and had me wishing I could just get to the end to figure out what was going to happen. The end result was a good story with too much in the middle.

This book was SO good. I have never read anything by Lynn Austin before but from the first chapter, i was hooked on her writing style! I loved the characters she created and the ways they interacted. I just loved everything about this book. 1000/10. Amazing

Very interesting story! It took me a while to figure out who was who and follow the storyline between the different eras. A very creative story about the struggles and wonders of a lifelong, female friendship.I found myself flipping between empathy and compassion for each of the two main characters, t0 frustration. I wanted to see justice done, and yet could see where each one was coming from. A clever and heartfelt story.
I received this as a free e-book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

As I pen this review, I truly wonder if my words will do this story justice. Lynn Austin has masterfully created a beautiful, heartbreaking and yet heartwarming, story of friendship, war, love and life. Her well-researched historical facts come alive on the streets on 1940’s London as German bombs fall from the sky and terrorize the city and surrounding countryside. Her deeply dimensional characters drew me into their daily lives, celebrating with them, grieving with them and persevering with them. What an incredible novel this was to immerse myself in!

I enjoyed the alternating dual-narrative from both Eve’s point of view as well as Audrey’s point of view, allowing readers a glimpse into each woman’s heart and mind. This story flowed well, starting with a shocking discovery and then back-tracking over the history of the friendship and connection between the two women. It was uplifting to see how each woman encouraged the other in various ways, inspiring one another and displaying the beauty of friendship that perhaps may not have even been a strong one at that time. Through trials and hardships, success and grief, readers will watch this friendship blossom and grow. I loved learning about the bravery that Great Britain’s people demonstrated during WWII and the destruction that country faced. Eve and Audrey’s volunteer service and bold hearts, even in the face of great fear, were encouraging and empowering.

The ending perhaps, though, was my favorite part. I found myself in tears as I watched these two women who’d lost nearly everything dear to them, find forgiveness, joy and even strength in one another. A powerful, moving likeness to the love God offers those who come to Him seeking to lay their burdens at His feet, finding forgiveness and freedom.

Overall, this story was fantastic and one I’d highly recommend to those who enjoy historical fiction, and even those who do not. The faith elements in this story are light, yet profound. The history is deeply rich, moving and powerful. The story of friendship and the choices we make that lay the paths of our lives is hard, yet rewarding and this novel showcases the grief and wonder of that. A truly well-done novel.

This has got to be my favorite book of 2020! The main characters, Eve and Audrey, are complex and likeable. Each spends way too much time envying the other's perceived strengths and opportunities, although they are more alike than they realize. Grief and loss are frequent visitors (I wonder how I'd endure a TENTH of what they faced!), and yet these women manage to keep finding a way to survive. Then one awful day, their options narrow, until there seems to be only one choice - one identity - left between the two of them.

I love the natural way faith is woven throughout this story. It is childlike, it is coveted, it is tested, it is lost, and it is found. The image of the Good Shepherd appears repeatedly at each of these points and Eve's understanding of His love changes as she finally accepts responsibility for her actions.

This tale of growth and discovery and love really gripped me like nothing else I've read this year. I kept thinking what a great movie it would make (bring the Kleenex if that ever happens!). Such an incredible example of friendship between two strong women and the trials that forged their sisterhood. It will be a while before I can pick up another book; I can give it no higher compliment. I received a digital copy from Netgalley, and was under no obligation to post a review.

Lynn Austin is a fabulous author, and I’ve read many of her books. I love the cover of this book, and I was looking forward to reading this one.

There are some great things about this book. The historical research added much to the storyline. I especially was pulled into the wartime scenes in London, and I could feel the fear of the people in the city as they hid from the bombs. The author drew a very clear description of the separation that existed at that time between the social classes in England, and that played a major part in this story. I also thought the author did a very good job with the spiritual aspect of the story: No matter how many years you run from God, He’s always waiting to forgive and make you whole again.

But I have to admit that although I admired these things about the book, I never connected with either of the characters, and I found it difficult to like either of them. I wanted to care what happened with them at the end of the story, but I didn’t. I think maybe part of it was that this book is so lengthy. Trying to keep up with both the main characters’ stories became somewhat of a job. However, just because this story isn’t for me, that doesn’t mean that you won’t love it. There are some great reviews for this book, so read it for yourself to see what you think. I’ll always be a Lynn Austin fan and look forward to reading her next book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

If I Were You was amazing! I've heard wonderful things about Lynn Austin's books for a while, but I've never actually read one until now…I've been missing out!

From the first chapter I was captured by the characters and their story. The book switches from present time to the past and yet it is easy to follow along. Because of the way it is written, I found myself trying to figure things about before they were revealed…and sometimes I was right, but others I was completely wrong.

All in all, If I Were You was a book I didn't want to stop reading and it took me on an emotional roller coaster. I highly recommend it!

*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/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and 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 a very well written, well researched story that takes place during World War II in England and later in the United States. This is a wonderfully written story that touches on how the war affected everyone where is was being fought.
There are so many things that stand out to in this story. The people who lived in the war torn countries suffered so much and the widows were left to find ways to support their families. In this story, Eve's mother works for a very wealthy family and does not want Eve to end up doing the same. They work and save so Eve can go to school to have a better life. Eve's mother was so dedicated to her employer that she would give up her life for her employer.
Eve became like a sister to their employer's daughter. Their friendship showed having money did not bring happiness.
The things that stands out for me is that both Eve and her mother would do anything they needed for their children. Another is how when the war was over, the European countries were left to rebuild and the Americans were able to go on with their lives so much easier.
I received an e-book copy of this book from Tyndale House through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

Lynn Austin has long been a favorite author of mine, so I was pleased to receive a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley in order to give my opinions. This story takes place mostly in England between 1930 and 1950, in a time of social upheaval between the classes. In a Downton-esque type story, two girls become best friends in spite of having more than just their social standings as differences. Audrey is the daughter growing up in Wellingford Hall, and Eve is the scullery maid who works there. Each girl wishes she could be like the other, but they develop a friendship that grows even stronger as they face the struggles of World War II. At the end of the war, they end up going in separate directions as they try to determine how to face an uncertain future. Eve takes on Audrey's identity and seems to have a wonderful life until the day Audrey shows up to reclaim it.

Lynn Austin often masterfully takes her readers on a journey back and forth in time as she weaves her stories, so the "almost end of the story" was early in the book, and the events leading to that time were introduced more slowly. I was amazed that at the 90% mark, I still had no idea how this was going to end, nor even how I was hoping it would end. It kept me gripped to the very last chapter. The most engaging parts were the descriptions of the attacks in the war scenes which brought a whole new perspective to my mind. I heartily recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction.

I rarely pass up an opportunity to read a book by Lynn Austin, and I am happy that I did not pass up this chance. If I Were You carries the reader through World War II in England, and then to America after the war is over.

Eve met Audrey in the woods behind Audrey's house when they were both twelve years old. Through a series of circumstances, Eve ended up living in Audrey's house for four years as a maid. When Audrey goes to finishing school, Eve goes to typing school so that she can be more than just a scullery maid.

When the war started, Eve is working at what she feels is a dead-end job, while Audrey is forced to house over thirty children at the family estate. After the war is over, Audrey is a pregnant widow and Eve is pregnant, but without the benefit of marriage. Audrey has the opportunity to go to America and be with her late husband's parents, but chooses not to go. Eve takes her immigration documents and goes in her place.

It all falls apart when Audrey shows up four years later to claim her place in her late husband's family. Eve has so many lies to uncover and put to rights and it is so hard for her to come to grips with all that she has done.

Lynn Austin is one of my favorite writers, and this is a great book to read for those who like World War II fiction. She has a feel for the times and for the drama of the war. One of my favorite parts is when there was a call for all kinds of boats to ferry soldiers from France to England, Audrey and Eve took Audrey's family boat up the coast to Dover so that the Navy could use it.

Lynn never skips the spiritual lessons that can be learned through her characters, but she is never preachy about it. She makes it part of the warp and woof of the character's growth. Forgiveness and grace are spread throughout this book and make it deeper and richer. This is a five star book with two thumbs up and a lamb returned to the fold.

Tyndale House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This story starts off in London, Nov 1945 the war is over. Eve Dawson suddenly wakes to banging on the door….” The pounding is frantic…Her flat mate, Audrey, sat up in the narrow bed beside her. “What’s going on?”

Eve opens the door and hears the police constable say, “You need to get out. Straightaway! They found an unexploded bomb in the rubble across the street. Come on, come on!”

There is a panic as these longtime close friends still suffer the after math of war. Then the story switches to 1950 USA I was drawn into the relational dynamic of this special friendship between Audrey and Eve. These girls were raised to play their part in society. Eve’s mother a lady’s maid would not be entering Audrey’s world of polite society. As Audrey studied, she watched Eve. She seemed to be free and full of life. Eve was not bound by her station like Audrey was.

This is a time slip story about two girls that meet in a surprising way and remain friends through the years. The story starts out in current time and then flips back to their childhood. I was pleasantly surprised as I did not expect this story to go the way it did considering all that transpires between these two as the battle ragged. War changes everything for these two ladies. They drove ambulances and saw things no one should ever see. Yes, they were drawn to do their part. Rose above all odds and learned to take care of themselves and others. They faced their fears to help others get to safety.

Eve says, “It’s a bit like life, don’t you think? We make plans, but we really can only see a little way ahead. The thing was, we had a purpose back then. A goal to accomplish. Ever since the war ended, I’ve been fooled into thinking that life was like a voyage on an ocean liner, and the seas should always be smooth….But ships have destinations, Eve. They’re going somewhere, and storms are part of the journey. I haven’t had a purpose since the war ended.”

Audrey replies, “I know what you mean. We fought the war and helped save England. We accomplished something big, and now…”

Author note, “..as I dove into the research, I discovered how greatly the two World Wars altered everyday life in England, putting an end to the divide between the upper classes and their servants. Being a huge fan of the TV series Downtown Abbey. I knew I wanted to take my story in that direction. Audrey and Eve (and their mothers) quickly sprang to life. Then all the rest – their friendship, their rivalry, their loves and losses – fell beautifully into place as these two women searched to redefine who they really were.”

This is a novel I could not put down. The story builds up to a satisfying ending that choked me up and brought tears to my eyes. Well done. Well done. The depth of character is amazing. I highly recommend this for your next book club pick. It’s a rich story with lots to talk about.

I do not think I’ve ever read a book by this author; it definitely won’t be the last.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

Unfortunately I could not get into this book. The two main characters were not my favorite and the story line did not intrigue me so I stopped reading about 40% of the way through.

What would you do if you discovered someone had stolen your identity and had lived a comfortable life imitating you? This is what war widow Audrey discovers when she comes to America to live with her husband's family. Not only has this individual built a close relationship with Audrey's in-laws, the person doing it is her friend Eve.

Although best friends since childhood, the two had lived very different lives in England. Audrey had a life of privilege with every material thing, except her parent's love. Eve was well-loved, however, both she and her mother worked as servants in Audrey's home. Besides betrayal and shock, the two women must come to terms with what to do about the situation.

Is it ever okay to lie, or can it be justified if it doesn't seem to hurt anyone? What if it will help change a desperate situation? Can the truth come out without destroying everything? If you could, would you change identities?

Exploring the "what if's" of a situation like this made for a very interesting story line. It kept me glued to the pages to find out what happened. This tale is told against the backdrop of WWII. Besides all the scary things that happened then, the war forever changed the lives of people like Audrey and Eve. The faith-journey the women took both towards and away from God was realistic and added to the tale. I recommend this 5-star book to those who enjoy stories that take place during WWII or of friend relationships.

Tyndale House Publishers through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, If I Were You, for the purpose of review.

If I Were You, by Lynn Austin, is certainly an unforgettable work of historical fiction. Sweeping across two decades and continents, this epic novel is engrossing and thoroughly moving as it tells the remarkable story of two friends bonded together through love and adversity. This book is skillfully written and filled with heart, hope, and redemption. From the gripping plot, to the extraordinary characters, to the compelling themes, this thoughtful novel delighted my imagination and easily held my attention page after page making it the type of book I long to ponder and enjoy. If I Were You is a novel that enriched my life with hours of pleasurable reading time.  

Within this novel, the well-researched details and descriptions ensure that every moment spent reading this book is a thoughtful experience to be savored. The well-developed characters are simply captivating and abound with authenticity and credibility. Their questions, their insecurities, their fears, their needs, and their desires are wholly believable, heart-wrenching, and inspiring. As they struggle through much loss and uncertainty, they grapple with their faith and God’s specific purposes for their lives. Yet through it all, they demonstrate determination and courage as they bravely endeavor to help each other and save others during many perilous situations brought on by war and its aftermath. The opportunities, the choices, and the trials that the characters endure are intricately developed, and from them there unfolds a story that is truly surprising, enriching, and ultimately uplifting.

With elements of adventure, history, and romance, this novel is one of faith, friendship, family, and new beginnings. With a thematic emphasis on courage, forgiveness, love, and acceptance, Ms. Austin has crafted a story that inspires as well as entertains. Ms. Austin is an incredibly talented author with a real gift for meaningful story-telling. If I Were You is a book I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who enjoys terrific historical fiction. 

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

With a time-shift plot and endearing characters, Lynn Austin brings the events surrounding WW2 to life. Two girls, one of privilege and the other, a servant are brought together in friendship, but part ways when resentment and ”the grass is greener” syndrome begins. But, as the author points out, ”War is the great leveler.” Can these two women, lives intertwining during the war, fight their internal wars and be victorious. Austin also says in her notes: ”But if you learn only one thing, my prayer is that you will begin to believe that God has a unique plan and purpose for your life.” With twists and turns that surprise the reader, this historical fiction is not to be missed! It can change life.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel, but my opinions are my own.

"If I Were You" is a Christian historical set in 1931-1950 in England and then America. Eve's family is poor because her father died in World War I. Her mother works as a lady's maid for Audrey's mother. Eve struggles to better herself, starting as a scullery maid, then working as a typist, then working as an ambulance driver during the war. But Eve's first love interest can't overlook her low origins. She envies Audrey her wealthy, high-class, easy life. Audrey envies Eve because she so easily makes friends, is loved by many people, and is so brave. They're supportive, best friends that build each other up until a series of choices leads to Eve impersonating Audrey until Audrey's arrival forces her to face her sins and find forgiveness.

The characters were all complex, realistic people. I cared about what happened to Audrey and Eve and to the people they cared about. Historical details about what life was like during and after World War II in England were woven into story. Audrey and Eve witnessed some of the major events that happened in England during the war. The story was mostly about their teenage years up to the end of the war with only the wrapping up of loose ends happening in 1950. All of the choices made earlier culminated in 1950 as they faced the various consequences of their choices.

Initially, Eve was the one who believed in God, but she blamed God for allowing so many people she cared about to die. Eve's faith sparked Audrey's belief in God, and she increasingly turned to God through the hard times and grief. Of course, the Good Shepherd seeks out the lost lamb, Eve. There were no (graphic) sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this well-written, touching historical fiction.

Lynn Austin has this amazing capability of taking ordinary people and creating the most extraordinary stories! Here we have two British women, from different life stations, who lives continuously intertwine. They experience tragedy and triumph together, until that fateful day when their lives become so intertwined that one steps into the other. The story flashes back and forth from present day to the past - spending more time trekking through the past - and helps the reader to understand reasons behind the choices that were made. It sort of makes you wonder where these characters end up five years later...

Audrey, a poor little rich girl, and Eve, a scullery maid, become best friends. They serve together as ambulance drivers in World War 2. Audrey envies Eve's loving mother, many friends, and joyous nature. Eve envies Audrey's wealthy home and opportunities, and encourages timid Audrey to be brave.
Audrey marries an American soldier and bears his child. Before she can join him in America, he dies. She throws away her papers to go to the US. Eve retrieves them and takes her place with her illegitimate son. Then Audrey loses her home in England and goes to see her in-laws. A surprise awaits her.
This is a fascinating look at two very different women living in difficult times.

What's in a name... or an identity...

This story's intriguing premise hooked me in, & though it was a bit melodramatic, it kept me immersed to the end, wondering how it would all play out.

There's an interesting play on what makes up one's identity interweaving the book. Audrey & Eve essentially change who they are for the better & for the worse throughout the course of their lives - as we all do. So much of who we are is malleable & formed by free will.

Despite some contrived moments, the story is well done, with the two main characters being fully developed & sympathetic. Even when they make choices we wish they wouldn't, the things motivating those decisions are always clear.

The first part of the resolution was believable, but following the denouement, things were too easy to believe. Robert's mom, in particular, would be the most likely candidate to be angry & upset, & need time to deal with the emotional aspects of what had happened before responding rationally.

Even though there were parts of the end that I found implausible, the story was both happy & thought-provoking, and I enjoyed the read.

*Clean romance level: one of the protagonists commits adultery with an American soldier, however, it's told discreetly with no salacious or graphic details

*Religion: overtly Christian, it's handled in a way that's organic to the story, for the most part, but a couple of parts at the end do feel overly preachy

A Christian WW II historical fiction about friendship, self-discovery and faith.

Despite the author being known for winning numerous Christy Awards (honored Christian novels of excellence, imagination, and creativity) I did not grasp the meaning of what that meant until I read this book. There was various biblical references and just the right about amount of "spiritual" dialogue. It did catch me off guard a bit because I don't go out of my way to read this sub-genre of novels so I appreciate that it didn't overpower the story.

The historical fiction aspect of the novel on the other hand was very impressive. Amply researched and very down to earth. The growth of the two main characters were genuine. The romances were heartwarming and the incorporation of life during WW II in England was authentic. Lynn captured the devastation of the blitz through the eyes of first responders. I've read novels with main characters as nurses and doctors but not ambulance drivers digging through debris for blitz survivors and driving back them back and forth to the hospital from the demolished sites for 48 hours straight. I loved how Lynn brought out the class system that existed back in England between the upper class and the servants. Since, both classes had to fight together whether you were an earl or a butler this class system receded as a result. Another cool thing I learned was Lynn is a huge fan of Downton Abbey and I absolutely saw that Downton Abbey drama and twists included in this novel that everyone loves from the show. I was disappointed with the last chapter. I thought the direction was clear and I felt it didn't conclude in line with the story's structure.

Overall, this read was a solid and well rounded novel for a WW II historical fiction. It will be one I keep in mind when giving recommendations.