The Sky Above Us

Sundin continues her Normandy at Sunrise series (following The Sea Before Us) with this lovely tale of a budding romance, the strength of faith, and finding small comforts during the tumult of war. Lt. Adler Paxton starts off WWII cocky, determined to become a lead pilot as quickly as possible, despite what appears to be his permanent wingman status. Violet Lindstrom had imagined herself in Africa doing missions to help the needy, but with the outbreak of war joins the Red Cross to serve in Europe. Her only consolation is the prospect of working with the children affected by the war, but instead she is assigned to assist U.S. airmen. Having her heart broken by a former fiancé, Violet is determined to make the best of her time with the Red Cross, hoping that it will be her ticket to getting a mission position despite the fact that she’s a single woman. Paxton, meanwhile, appears to be a good and honorable man, but carries the secret sins of his past. As Adler and Violet’s friendship deepens, romance begins to blossom. Featuring secondary characters from the previous book and a cliffhanger, this Paxton family saga will appeal to inspirational fans of Martha Hall Kelly and Kristin Hannah. (Feb.)