Teen Book Review - Julia's Gifts

Julia’s Gifts by Ellen Gable

Awards

2018 Catholic Writers Guild Seal of Approval

Amazon Description

As a young girl, Julia began buying gifts for her future spouse, a man whose likeness and personality she has conjured up in her mind, a man she calls her “beloved.” Soon after the United States enters the Great War, Julia impulsively volunteers as a medical aid worker, with no experience or training. Disheartened by the realities of war, will Julia abandon the pursuit of her beloved? Will her naïve ‘gift scheme’ distract her from recognizing her true “Great Love?” From Philadelphia to war-torn France, follow Julia as she transitions from unworldly young woman to compassionate volunteer.

Review

What a lovely teen, historical romance. The book is set in France during World War I and is about Julia, a young lady from America, who decides to volunteer for the Red Cross and work at a field hospital in France. As a teenager, Julia began collecting gifts for her future husband – her beloved. She doesn’t know who this person might be, but she knows he’s out there somewhere.

I loved the premise of the book. I’ve always liked the idea of prayer for a future spouse so enjoyed the idea of buying special gifts for them. I don’t want to give anything away, but love how the story unfolds and how the gifts become part of the story.

Historic fiction is always so interesting, a wonderful way to learn new things. This book did a great job showing the heart-break and devastation of war. Yet the author also highlighted the good in humanity that can arise amid such horror.

A beautiful love story.

Amazon Link

Ellen Gable's Website

A Note from the Reviewer:

As a writer and a mother, I’m always searching for wonderful Catholic books for teens of all ages. I truly believe one way we can encourage teens in their faith is through fiction with positive messages, embedded in great stories. There are many fantastic Catholic teen novels out today, but they can be hard to find. I’m excited to share some of these books with you. www.LesleaWahl.com

Leslea Wahl