If I Were You

This Christian historical fiction novel is based on an unlikely friendship between two women in London during World War ll. It was written beautifully and Very well researched. Constant plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat!

ABSOLUTELY RIVETING!!!! From the gorgeous cover inviting me in to the very last sentence, I was hooked. Austin has such a way with words that draws you in and make you feel as though you are a part of the scene itself. The story is perfectly beautiful and broken and redeemed in all of the best ways. If I hadn't already been a fan of Lynn Austin, this would have made me become one. I highly recommend this book. I received and advanced readers copy to read and review. These options expressed are completely my own.

With every Lynn Austin book I read, I anticipate wonderfully developed characters, an interesting plot and a captivating writing style that all bewitch me into leaving all household chores undone until I've finished the book! This book was no different. The historical setting alone is worth reading the book. Austin is masterful at researching the historical context and using subtle details to help us understand the larger picture, in this case, WWII. Unlike other books set in this time period, the setting is not in continental Europe nor in the United States, but primarily in England. We are introduced to Eve and Audrey, the two main characters, who are both interestingly best friends as well as a maid and her mistress. These two must face both internal and external challenges that at times threaten to tear them apart or bring them together. They discover the pains and joys of true friendship and each challenge the other to grow in ways they perhaps could not on their own. They challenge one another's faith in believing that God is good and God is near to those who are broken-hearted. There is romance, wartime adventure, deaths, births and many other life experiences that mark their journeys together. The switch in time periods- from late 1930's to 1950's, throughout the book lends to its unique twists. Austin not only provides a beautiful story with inspiring characters set in a fascinating setting, but does so in a way that reminds the readers of the most important truths of all-- the truths of the Gospel. Her subtle but purposeful message highlights the timelessness of the hope and salvation that all men and women need, regardless of nationality, economic status, age, time period. Austin weaves these truths throughout the book in such a way as to not distract from the plot or characters, but to develop them in a very realistic and intentional way. I recommend this book to you as a beautiful piece of historical fiction than will do more than leave you saying, "what a great book" and instead leave you considering, "what a wonderful Savior"!

From the first to the last page, Lynn Austin’s new novel is a beautifully spun tale of friendship and courage as wonderful and unique as her other novels. Her characters are real and raw, more like actual people than characters in a book and her plot is fresh and engaging. I appreciate the way she uses history as both a backdrop for her stories and a catalyst for the plot, while staying true to the events as they were and the impact they had on those who lived through them. I will always suggest Lynn Austin’s books to those looking for something historically based, artfully written, and thought invoking.