The Land Beneath Us by Sarah Sundin

Overcoming obstacles . . . Christian Historical 1944. I'm excited to read this story, back with old friends and learning about the others who had been in the background in the previous books, bringing it all together. This can be read stand alone, but you'll find you want to read the rest. It's easy to become invested in these characters lives. The three brothers have issues that tore them, their family apart. They each join the war effort, under different branches of the service. Their struggles to learn their way in the world on their own after being so close are heart wrenching. Both Clay and Leah, with their backgrounds, need to find their self worth, strengths. He's half Mexican, she's an orphan. Orphans were terribly looked down on at that time. She especially needs to develop courage to step out into the world, other people and groups and find where she fits in. We're all given our own strengths and talents, and she learns that she has a lot to contribute. Expertly told story that weaves these characters lives together, sometimes on bumpy roads. Beautiful story of love as it grows.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. 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.”
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Deepest Roots of the Heart by Chautona Havig

I hate to judge a book by it's cover, but I put off reading this one because of it. The description sounded good, but the cover made it look boring. Not so at all - it's an excellent read! This is a historical romance within a historical romance.  Very well written, you form a bond with each of the characters. You can feel the depth of family honor, tradition and history of Avelino Carrillo. He returns from fighting WW2 in the Philippines with the intention of getting back his home and vineyard that has been in the family for generations.  It was nearly lost by his brother and signed over to a landshark, but Avelino is able to make a deal with him to earn it back by working in the vineyards for no salary for seven years. A deal that may not be what it seems.

The property has been rented out by the landshark. Thinking to rub it in, he sends Avelino to live in the garage apartment instead of the house. But Avelino is able to make a connection with the renters, Amelia and her Grandfather, who have a great respect for the Carillos and have started to restore the vines and vineyard.

Avelino is a talented storyteller,and little by little tells the story of the first Avelino who fought in the Mexican-American war and made his way from Texas to found the Ranchero. And he tells the story of his Great-Great Grandmother, whom Amelia resembles.  Amelia becomes entranced with the history and with Avelino. Between the stories and the struggles with day to day life, love begins to take root and entwine itself around them. But prejudice seems to surround Avelino wherever he goes, and he does not want to expose her to that.  Also his family is traditionally Catholic, hers is Baptist.  There is strength and honor in both families. Things are not always what they seem and a great deal is revealed about the townspeople. This is book one in a new series. I can't wait to read the next!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterfall Press- Netgalley book review bloggers program. 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”.

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