I have been eagerly looking forward to Barclay Pierce’s story since being introduced to him in A Name Unknown. He is a charming thief with an absolute heart of gold and I was so pleased he finally got his happy ending. Evelina is a bit more subdued with her emotions and took a little longer to warm up to but she stole my heart as well. Roseanna M. White never disappoints and knows how to finish a series as strongly as she starts one. There was romance, intrigue and danger lurking around every corner and I could not put this book down. I would not suggest reading this series out of order as there are threads from the previous two books.

I was so excited to learn Margot will be the heroine of the next book and absolutely can’t wait to delve deeper into the world of codebreaking!

I was given a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This was one of those books that took me longer to get through – but not in a bad way! It was almost frustratingly hilarious. At one point, my kindle estimated that it would take me 5 hours to finish a chapter. Cue the facepalm. Mostly because I loved this book, and real life should have more reading breaks. I wanted to finish it overnight.

Some of my favorite romances are the ones where the couple figures out fairly early that they like one another – there’s no doubt about that – the doubt comes from whether or not they can make it work. An Hour Unspent most definitely falls into that category. I LOVED Evelina and Barclay – their instant spark, his unraveling past (ever wonder about how he ended up on the streets?) and her distrust of it.

After all, who would trust a thief? Even a reformed one? It’s a bit of a morbid fascination for Lina given how much she enjoys his patchwork family. She just might risk it to spite her own dysfunctional family.

Their growth was fun to watch as well. I think, over the course of the series, we’ve enjoyed seeing Barclay as the good natured and ever-resourceful “older brother” and all the more so in An Hour Unspent, but Evelina’s arc was my favorite. We see she’s a suffragette as the story opens. But Barclay challenges her, causing her to wonder if she’s lost sight of what she’s fighting for. It was so interesting to see her explore that. And also to watch her family transform. Part of my struggle to finish came from taking breaks when things in Evelina’s life struck an accord. Maybe a little too close to home.

Still. So good. So worth it. And the history was just fantastic. I loved how it lends to the plot. From the origins of Rolex and the wrist watch to the zeppelin bombing of London.

I was so happy to finally read Barclay's story, and what a story it was! White had me sold on this series in the very first chapter of book one, so I already knew I was in for an adventure. But Barclay and Evelina's story just might be my favorite! Barclay is the kind of man everyone wants in their family - strong, loyal, and always tries to put family first. In this story we also learn about his faith walk, and ever growing interest in what the Lord has to say. That was a whole other story in itself, and one I enjoyed reading. I found it fascinating how one particular verse kept coming to his mind, and I have to admit it's not one I've really thought of, until now. Isn't it lovely when a book can point something biblically out to you?

White also weaves a story of time, war, and places tidbits of historical facts throughout the book in perfect form. Yes, I learned some things while reading this, the whole series actually. White has managed to teach, inspire, and make a girl swoon all in one sitting! My favorite scene in the whole book was probably Barclay and Evelina's first kiss. It isn't your typical first kiss, and that is what made it so wonderful. Evelina's mother and aunt are characters to laugh over, actually mostly roll your eyes over. You wonder how Evelina turned out like she did, and then her father spits something out that makes you literally laugh out loud, and then you understand. She is completely and utterly her father's daughter. I loved him too by the way.

With romance, mystery and faith themes that will speak right to your heart, you can't help but love the latest in this wonderful series. I encourage you to visit 1915 England. Be sure to make room in your schedule too. I did not want to put this down once I started. To be honest, it's been like that with every book in this series. But be prepared for the emotions that will come as you read the last words. It's like saying goodbye to family. Thank goodness it's a book that can be read over and over again!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Title: An Hour Unspent

Author: Roseanna M White

Series: Shadows Over England book 3

Chapters: 33 plus Epilogue

Pages: 416

Genre: Christian Historical fiction, Christian Historical Romance

Rating: 5 stars

An Hour unspent is the third and final book in the Shadows Over England series by Roseanna M White. It's Barclay's story, the story that I've been waiting for since I read the first book in the series. Barclay's the "older brother" of Rosemary and Willa and the rest of the rag tag group of orphans. He's a reformed thief who now uses his skills for the good of England.
Evelina Manning is the daughter of a clockmaker who just may have the key to helping England win the war against German. Barclay is sent to steal the secrets any way he can. But what he doesn't count on befriending both Evelina and her father. But he doesn't' feel like he would ever fit into Evelina's world. But on that same note Evelina who walks with a limp do to a polio like disease as a child doesn't think any man can love her for herself. She knows her former fiance didn't not really. Can these two misfits find a place together.
Out of the three books in this series, An Hour Unspent was my favorite, I loved Barclay and Evelina did finally grow on me after a while. I enjoy books set during WWI but I haven't found many of the Christian fiction market. So I was thrilled to discover that Roseanna had this series especially this year being the hundred anniversary of the end of WW I.
Evelina and Barclay are both flawed characters but they both grow throughout the book especially in their faith. I loved the ending especially when Barclay was able to "steal" the thing that his sister challenged him to steal. Got a love an honorable reformed thief. This was my favorite book of the series to me Roseanna saved the best character for last, but I am sad that this series is over. Barclay has been added to my list of favorite book heroes. I look forward to the next book or hopefully next series from Roseanna M. White.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction. WWI history especially if you want stories about the home front and the social aspects of the war like I do. Not only I am a book nerd, I'm a history nerd.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

It’s no secret that Roseanna White is one of my absolutely favorite authors, and this series, Shadows Over England, has been absolutely fascinating! The setting being WWI, there has been intrigue, suspense, and spies! What could be better?

Honestly, it is so difficult to say that one book is better than another, but if such a thing were possible, this was the best!

Ever since book 1 Barclay has been one of my favorite characters so I was eagerly anticipating his story, and he certainly did not disappoint. We get to find out his backstory and how that plays out in the present. So wonderful!

And then Evelina. I know some people have mixed/negative feelings about her, but I really liked her! I didn’t necessarily agree with her at all times, but I very much enjoyed seeing her growth, and the relationship/resolution with her mother was so well done.

Then of course we get to see other characters from previous books (including a couple glimpses of Margo)!

The story line was amazing!

The suspense as good or better than any of read.

Spiritual content was spot on.

Resolution perfect!

I’m giving this story 6 out of 5 stars!!! 😀

Can’t wait for the next series!

*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from Bethany House Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

I remember in high school AP European History, learning about the idea of Deism. Deists believed that we can know there is a God based on natural evidence: all the laws of science and things we see in nature. But theirs is a view of a God like a clockmaker, who set the world in motion with all its logic and reason and natural laws and order, and then left the world (the clock) to operate on its own. (And in those days, a clock left on its own would eventually wind down and have to be reset!). In their view, God was not active in our world or concerned with our lives.

Who is this clockmaker God?
By the time of "The Great War," this idea had been around for more than a century (it was popular among educated Europeans and Americans in the late 18th century). But the author of An Hour Unspent reframes and redefines this idea of a God like a clockmaker in a way that delighted me. Barclay, a reformed thief turned government agent, watches a master clockmaker restore an old pocket watch found in a gutter. Amazed at a God that would deign to be involved in his own life, Barclay considers that old watch.

But perhaps if one viewed God like a master clockmaker. Every cog, every gear, every spring was important. If one was out of line, no matter how small and insignificant, the entire device would fail. Why shouldn't the Lord love every member of humanity with the same level of care Cecil Manning had given that watch Barclay had found in a gutter?

I really enjoyed reading An Hour Unspent.
You'll have to suspend disbelief when you get to know this band of thieves gone straight that has adopted each other as a family...there are so many of them! But I adored them. They reminded me a lot of Dee Henderson's O'Malleys. And here's the thing...stories are more true than facts, and this family that has chosen each other may be more like God's family than you realize.

The historical setting is well done, and it was interesting to read this alongside The Mending of Lillian Cathleen, set in the same period (Lillian takes place in 1914 USA, while An Hour Unspent starts in 1915 England). It's lighter, not as gripping as Lillian, which was frankly a relief. You can't get too heavy all the time. And can I just say that I love anything with spies from the "old days?" I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a little bit of mystery and a lot of family.

Is God like a clockmaker?
Yes, but not the way the Deists thought. Our God, like a clockmaker, knows each of us intimately and remains active in our lives, even restoring us when we've been in the gutter.

I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Perfect finale to this series by Roseanna White!

Barclay has been somewhat of an enigma throughout the previous two books. It has been fun to get to know the character that brought this family of London orphans together. Survival and determination to make a better life for those under his care has driven him since childhood. Always searching for his blood brother, whom he hasn't seen since that time.

Meeting Evalina was somewhat of a rollercoaster ride. She begins to be championing women's rights, then her efforts appear fickle and almost like she doesn't really truly understand the cause or the impact she personally is making. She wasn't an easy character for me to warm to. The constant ups and downs were frustrating, but she seems to solidly find her true character in the end. All of that said, I often wonder if this was similar for many women at the time. Campaigning for the lofty goal of suffragettes, yet, always going home to security and comfort at the end of the day. In a way the opportunities that the War afforded the women at home seems to have steered the way forward, more than any of the efforts of the suffragettes.

The timing of this story comes during World War 1, and the plot is driven largely on events that take place during this pivotal time in the worlds history. As always I appreciated the authors notes, which piece together the fact and the fiction in history.

It was extra special for me to read this during the 100 yrs since the Armistice. Thank you for another well written and researched novel, full of rich characters and engaging storyline.

I received this eARC from Netgalley. This is my honest review.

Who will triumph, Love or the enemy, during WWI?

I've only read two books by Roseanna M. White, An Hour Unspent is the second, but I am already very much a fan. And I find myself wondering why I waited so long to check them out?!

With the 100th anniversary of WWI occurring over the last 4 years there has been a surge in interest in The Great War. This interest has brought forth quite a few books, both fiction and non-fiction, and I have to say that of the fiction variety Shadows Over England has been one of my absolute favorites. Roseanna M. White's blend of romance and suspense against the backdrop of an England at war and the turmoil of social reform on the homefront is a winning combination. Her attention to historical detail is such that the reader honestly feels transported to the time and place.

An Hour Unspent was a story that I greatly enjoyed. The setting and history are fascinating but it was the characters that really made it interesting. By turns I loved them, wanted to shake some sense into them, sympathized with their problems, and felt like giving a few of them a real comeuppance! I definitely recommend this particular book from Roseanna M. White as well as the series in general. Don't miss it!

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

This series from Roseanna White has been one of my all-time favorites when it comes to historical fiction! This is the third book in this series, and the main characters are a "family" (orphans/street urchins) of thieves and pickpockets roaming the streets of London in the early 1900s. Each book has a different member of this family as the main focus, and this book is Barclay's story. (Although this is the third book in the series, it can, quite easily, also be read as a stand-alone novel)

This family/band has done their best to reform, but they still have many of their old habits and instincts. And now England is in the middle of WWI. Who could be better at being a spy than a former thief? And yes, that is just what Barclay finds himself doing at the request of his latest assignment from the mysterious and enigmatic "V" he works for.

Then he meets Evelina, who captures his attention, because she is also not who she appears to be at first glance. A suffragette at heart, and one who dearly longs for independence of women, Evelina has become a strong person because of childhood difficulties. Can she learn to let her feelings come through? Can she accept herself for who she really is?

This story, like its predecessors, had a way of catching and holding my attention from the first page. Bringing that war-torn England to life right before my very eyes, I found myself both sighing and holding my breath, as I raced through the pages, eagerly wanting to see what would happen next.

Not only is this a top-notch historical fiction, it also includes a mystery, which makes it even better!

If you enjoy historical fiction, be sure and read this one!!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Every book in this trilogy is delightful - unique and engaging and suspenseful. This family of thieves-turned-government agents (of a sort) is pure gold. I just can't get over what a fantastic idea it was to create a series around a family of orphans, bound together by choice, who suddenly find their lives changed! And then you add World War I. England. Refugees. Government spies. Did I already say it was delightful? (I ended up getting all three signed from Roseanna’s website, and now they’re sitting on my shelf and it makes me smile.)

Things I liked:

BARCLAY. Of course. Everyone wanted his story, right?! I was intrigued when I found out that An Hour Unspent would unravel his lovely character for us. And I loved him! He's like the perfect older brother. He was so well-rounded. And his heart for others...adorable. Seriously. The way he takes care of his entire family and then wants to reach out to others as well is what made him such a cool fictional hero. But he was realistic, too, not without flaws and doubt, but with a bravery that is so admirable! The whole family just GETS ME in the heart. ;)

THE SETTING. I mean, everything. It’s fantastic. I haven’t read many books set in the first World War, but Roseanna ties history into her novels without it becoming dry and stodgy (now that I used that word I’m thinking about The Great British Baking Show. Not joking.) The setting and time period came alive - they’re so vivid! The stories have pieces of actual history interwoven and that just makes me enjoy them all the more. They feel real and intricately done.

SUSPENSE. Um, yes, please! I ADORE the fact that Roseanna writes these stories with heart and romance and faith but then adds a big dash of suspense - and not just romantic tension. The spies and the street thugs and the government agencies… It adds such great depth to the novel.

Things I didn’t like as much:

THE ROMANCE. So before I start, I want to say that I definitely liked the romance throughout this series. Barclay and Evelina's relationship progressed in a pretty realistic way. The depth was present. And the start to their unlikely duo? *laughs* So unexpected! I was just sitting there grinning and had to reread it. Just… *laughs again* Delightful. However, what I didn’t enjoy was the drama. I KNOW, I KNOW. Every romance has to have drama. But for some reason I was getting a bit frustrated with the drama in here? Mostly concerning Evelina. I loved the way Barclay thought about their relationship though. “I play for keeps.” HOW ADORABLE. That scene. <33 But yeah, back to my point… I totally, totally understood where Evelina was coming from, and yet I was slightly like “Get over yourself, girl!” (This is partially because she was so brutal to Barclay in that one scene… O.O) It might have even been my frame of mind whilst reading, but sometimes the drama made me like: -_- It also slightly irks me when characters kiss before they have any real attachment… Of course, I adored some of the quirky loveliness in this, but part of me felt frustrated that they - well, Evelina, really - was partially just spending time with Barclay for fun. Which she consciously decided to do. I hate to complain! I don’t want to sound like I didn’t enjoy it, but it just...it bothered me. A bit. And it was basically just Evelina. Barclay’s take on things was fabulous. *ahem* And basically all three of the novels in this series had the guys taking the relationships very seriously and the girls not so much. It just felt more pronounced in this.

UM, I can’t really think of anything else specifically? Except that the writing style tends to feel a bit “tell-y” at times. I think it’s just the way the authoress writes, and it doesn’t bother me too much, but I thought it worth mentioning. It’s just not quite the style I usually really enjoy! So I was a bit "meh" at times reading...

Overall, I liked this! BUT I didn’t love it - A Song Unheard holds the favorite spot in my heart - so I was a bit disappointed after enjoying the second one so much. But there were many pluses to this series! I’m SO looking forward to reading The Number of Love when it comes out next year! I was stoked when I found out it tied into Shadows Over England.

I received a free review copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. The views expressed above are my own.

Ended up DNFing. Just wasn't interested in finishing it. Lost my interest on page 55. It wasn't the book's fault; I think there was just too much spy/mystery stuff and too much romance for me as a reader. It had nothing to do with the book; just with me, the reader.

However, I would probably recommend it to others!

Ever wondered about Barclay Peirce? The enigmatic big brother/father figure to the gang of London Thieves who form the bases of this trilogy. An Hour Unspent is his story. Barclay is a former thief and reformed criminal with a big heart, who took in street children and orphan's like himself. His self-sacrificial and giving nature really comes across in this story. Despite his background he wants to do what's right in the best way he can.
Now working with the 'Admiralty' really the Secret Service, Barclay is given an assignment to work with an Austrian born clock-maker, but the first person he meets is his daughter Evelina who he runs into when she's about to be mugged. Barclay finds ‘Lina fascinating for her inner strength and caring nature.

Both Barclay and Evalina struggle with their past to find their place in the world. Evalina believes she can neither love nor be loved, that her coldness, aloofness and determination put people off. She puts her efforts into the Suffragette cause to fill the void of what she believes is her loveless life.
Barclay cares for his adoptive ‘family’ but in this we find out that he is in some sense compensating. He lost contact with a birth brother as a child and took in other orphans to save them from the poverty and misery he believes his brother suffered. Barclay and Eve’s relationship develops and simmers slowly, without insta-love or too many mushy scenes.

As with the other books in this series, the historical backdrop is strong, and Mrs White has a great way of working history into the story. This was set in 1916, by which time WWI was underway, and Britain is threatened by Zeppelin raids. The detail is wonderful: not just the historical detail, but also smaller details about London streets and boroughs and which ones were considered richer and more upper class, and there was even a smattering of Cockney Rhyming Slang.
I also liked how Barclays work with the clockmaker was made to tie up perfectly with some other details from the period: like the invention of Rolex wristwatches and early aeroplane technology. The author even managed to work in a reference to little known battle.

Also, the cast of secondary characters added a lot of depth and interest to the story, especially Barclays brothers and sisters. Rosemary and Willa, the protagonists from the last two stories return: but some of the younger children also come into their own including Lucy the half-Indian girl who doubles and a cook and an impromptu spy. Despite being rescued as a baby, Lucy apparently had some sense of her background with her love of spicy dishes.

The faith elements were also worked very well into this story without being preachy, and there were some wonderful messages about love, loyalty and family.
I only noticed one or two errors. One character refers to a ‘sidewalk’, which is an Americanism. Also, I’ve noticed with several stories like this the confusion between ‘pence’ which is supposed to be plural and ‘penny’ the singular form. ‘without a pence to my name’ just does not sound right. Even my computer wants to correct it as a grammar error,

An Hour Unspent was a worthwhile and truly worthy conclusion to the trilogy, although there is a hint that some characters may reappear in a new series that the author is working on. Even for someone who has only started reading novels set in this period recently (a couple of years ago), I would rank this series as one of my favourites.

I requested a paperback of this title from the publisher’s UK distributors and purchased the audiobook of my own volition. I was not required to write a positive review an all opinions expressed are my own.

This book has been a journey that I was sad to see end. It has a wonderful description of London in 1915. It was a time when war was prevalent and danger was everywhere. I enjoyed getting to know Lina and how passionate she is about the treatment of women. She has always wanted her independence but it wasn't easy . Lina has a good relationship with her father and I found her devotion to be sincere. Her mother can be somewhat of a snob at times and take her husband for granted. Does she not realize how brilliant he is? Can you imagine being on the brink of making something so important that could change how the war is fought? Someone recognizes how important his work is and will do anything to have it.

I was excited to learn more about Barclay. He has had a hard life and I liked the background on him and how he became known as a thief. He is a driven man and now has changed his ways. He has been asked to help the war effort which will include working with Lina's father. The author does a great job of giving details about clock making and I could hear chimes in the background as he worked on his secret invention. Barclay will do whatever is necessary to fulfill his orders.

There is intrigue and lots of danger in the story that keeps readers turning pages as fast as they can. When Lina's father is in danger, can she depend on Barclay to help her? What happens when Lina finds out that Barclay was a thief? Can she trust him to keep her safe? One of the things I really liked about the story was the relationships the characters had with each other. It was interesting to read how Lina and her mother had taken her father for granted for so many years. We can get so wrapped up in ourselves, that we forget to thank those who protect us and care for us.

Barclay has some issues he needs to work through as well. His years of growing up without parents has taken a toll on him. He wants to help everyone but a part of him wants to be accepted as well. His selflessness could get him killed as he tries to help Lina and her father. I loved his humbleness and how deeply he loved those around him. He has become a changed man and he will do what is right even if it means sacrificing his life. Get ready for an explosive ending that will have you on the edge of your seat. I hate to see the story end, but the author has done an exceptional job of giving her readers a grand closure to an epic tale.

" Love. The thing worth fighting for. Worth dying for. But more-worth living for'"

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

An Hour Unspent by Roseanna M. White is the third and final book in the Shadows Over England series. While this is the first book I have read by Roseanna M. White it will not be my last. This book stands alone and you do not have to read the others to enjoy this one. However, I do plan on reading the first two stories. The author is an excellent historical fiction writer. She has obviously spent many hours researching information for this book. The author is able to transport you back in time to the early 1910's in England during WWI prior to the US’s entrance into the war. The main character is Barclay whom you come to like. The author’s character development is excellent. As you read this book you an just feel it is filled with energy. The author develops a story line that has many twists and turns. The story has a suspenseful side which keeps you turning the pages. The story is simply wonderful and very well done.

I would like to thank Roseanne M. White, Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Blissful sigh.

Is that enough of a review? Because it’s about all my mind is capable of doing at the moment. And not just because of the romance – although… while we’re talking about it… SWOON. No, I’m sighing blissfully because this is the kind of book that, as soon as you finish it, you want to read it again and hug it and squeeze it and love it forever.

The historical details, the mood, the setting, the characters, the message – all of it is perfection.

Barclay is such a fabulous hero – i’ve loved him since book one and thoroughly enjoyed the journey that White took him on in his story. Watching him navigate his new faith in Christ as well as his new role as a ‘respectable thief’, working for the government to aid in the war efforts with his own special skill set. Evelina is such a marvelous match for him, and his family is exactly what she needs. The scene where she first meets them is so exquisitely written – I could hear the chatter and the clamor and the ‘family noise’ emanating from every corner of the page – a lovable chaos – the kind that Evelina has always dreamed of. I felt the scene from her perspective – as well as Barclay’s love for each member of his ragtag family.

And Barclay and Evelina’s first kiss(es)?? Heaven, have mercy. I’ve still not recovered.

The theme of clockmaking is intricately and seamlessly woven throughout the story (and – sidenote – I love Evelina’s dad and couldn’t help picturing him like Belle’s dad in Disney’s animated Beauty and the Beast lol!). White crafts a tender message of a God who is the ultimate Clockmaker. Not one who puts the pieces together and then leaves us alone, but rather a true Clockmaker who is continually fine tuning his masterpieces, always working on them, because He loves them.

Bottom Line: If we have to say goodbye to this ragamuffin band of thieves-turned-family, An Hour Unspent is the perfect sendoff. Flawed but endearing characters, a compelling message of hope, and enough suspense and adventure to keep you glued to the page. The romance is swoonworthy in its own right – with plenty of sparks and chemistry and knee-weakening kisses – but the love story White has written is even more poignant. A picture of family in its truest form – and a reminder of how deeply our Father loves us. This whole series is a must-read!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

An Hour Unspent. Prior to reading the book, I was convinced this was a very awkward title. Having finished the book, book three in Rosanna M. White’s Shadows Over England, I now applaud the author her doubly apt title.

Who could not fall in love with White’s portrayal of Barclay Pearce, an ex-thief, now spying for the English? He is constantly trying to square his new-found faith with the deception required to perform for his country. However, what really draws the reader into Barclay Pearce is the way he is so compassionate for others. He cares for almost anyone needy around him. He has even built his own family, chock-full of “adopted siblings” who have chosen to belong to each other. They care for each other, laugh with each other, and love each other. While not in the least bit related by blood, they would die for each other if need be. Pearce’s family is very reminiscent of the O’Malley family group created by Dee Henderson.
Evalina “Lina” Manning falls in love with this noble thief, but then waffles over who he really is. One of them deserves someone much better than the other.
Quotables:
“And if the Master Clockmaker took such care with each cog, shouldn’t said cogs have the good sense to obey him when they felt that nudge?”
“There’s no such thing as too late. Not with God.”
Intrigue in World War I; regrets of a splintered blood family vs. the riches of a cobbled family that values its members; knowing who you are; and seeking God, are all themes of this new favorite book of mine. Don’t miss Rosanna M. White’s An Hour Unspent. (Note: I have not yet read the first two books. This story stood well on its own.)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a review and all opinions are my own.

What an interesting story! Once London’s top thief, Barclay has turned his skills to help his nation by helping a clockmaker with a project that could definitely give them an upper hand. Intrigue, mystery, war as it affects their home, London and family drama.. I loved Barclay’s story.

arclay Pearce, former thief extraordinaire, has encountered Jesus and turned from crime to espionage. His knowledge of London's underworld and mastery of Robin Hood techniques now serve the Crown. He's also the patriarch of a brood of fellow orphans who have claimed one another as family. When his assignment to steal plans which could turn the tide of the war brings him into contact with a lovely young woman whose wit and grit match his own, will she steal this thief's heart?

Evelina Manning chafes at the restrictions of her handicap, her mother's expectations, and society's gender roles. She kicks at the traces of these impediments, yet can't quite shake their weight. Beneath her boldness, her tender heart longs for acceptance. The love shared among Barclay and his rag-tag band of "siblings" draws her like a moth to flame. When she is suddenly pulled far deeper into his assignment than anyone could predict, will his secrets drive them apart and threaten everything she loves?

I was unaware when I began reading that this is the third (and final) novel in a series. I had not read the previous two books in the series, and it was pretty evident within the opening chapters that I was entering a story already in progress. While the plot line of this novel could stand alone, the cast of secondary characters was a confusing whorl. The primary characters, however, were well-developed and relatable. Ms. White does an admirable job of developing Evelina, a budding feminist and suffragist, whose desire for significance and equitable treatment are juxtaposed against both the rigid strictures of the early 20th century and the exploitive machinations of some political reformers.

While I enjoyed the book, I found some of the twists and turns rather dizzying. Some major events seemed disconnected from the rest of the action, although I understand their inclusion from a perspective of historic significance. While I liked Barclay and Evelina as characters, I was often frustrated by moments when their interaction seemed forced or they acted in a way which seemed 'out of character.' (Admittedly, it feels strange as a reader to make judgements about what is 'in' or 'out of character' for characters I did not write!) The dialogue just often felt relationally inauthentic and the plot hit some rough patches.

Overall, I enjoyed the book, but with reservations. It didn't grip me and pull me along. I willingly finished, but was happy to set it aside and move on to my next read. Readers who enjoy clean historical fiction, however, may find this a satisfyingly sweet tale. Since sites like Goodreads don't offer the option of a half star, I gave the book the benefit of 'rounding up' and assigned it a four star rating. I don't plan to immediately read the other books in the series, though.

I received a free Advance Reader Copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley and my review is completely my own thoughts and opinions.

This is an incredible novel set during WWI in London!

This is a standalone story within a series. There is a core nucleus of characters that are in all three books. Their lives are ongoing and progress as anyone’s life will. Each book has one of these characters as the central figure of the story.

I adore the main characters in this book! We’ve learned a lot about Barclay Pearce in the previous books in this series. But this book focuses on him and his background. We learn more about what formed him as he was growing up. His loyalty to family is fantastic. I also appreciate the fact that he is striving to learn to rely on God.

Evelina Manning’s whole demeanor has been formed by tragic health issues as a child. How her parents reacted in the aftermath has truly affected the whole family and how they interact with each other. I loved seeing how Evelina and her parents grow and work through issues that have been held inside for years.

The plot of this book is very intricately woven. I was caught up in the little mysteries that all tied together into a wonderful story of intrigue.

One of my favorite aspects of the story is the deep look as to what makes a family. Is it simply the blood flowing through people’s veins? Or is it a choice to stick together to face whatever comes up?

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion

Some characters make you want to know them from the minute they walk onto the page, and so it was with Barclay Pearce in A Name Unknown. And A Song Unheard. And now, FINALLY, he gets the spotlight! He’s the father-figure-slash-big-brother for a rag-tag bunch of orphans, he’s a reformed thief, and he’s a gentleman by nature if not by status. What’s not to love?

Nothing, as it turns out. He lived up to every expectation I had and then some. I loved the tension his new-found faith brought to his life, particularly as he walked the sometimes-blurry line drawn by his job working for V and the Admiralty. And I loved the many ways this story explored what it means to be a family. This guy has such a big heart, but it’s not without its wounds.

Evelina was a great character, too. She and Barclay were the perfect mix of contrast and complement, their stories shining a light on each other’s shadows, which was particularly eye-opening for Evelina. And she was a little bit sassy, too! I’ll give you two words: first kiss. You’ll know what I mean once you read it! But that aunt of hers! Whew! If you’re the kind of person who gets the irrepressible impulse to purse-whomp, you might want to make sure you leave your handbag at home. Either that or make sure you pack your biggest tome to give it some extra weight . . .

There were some fascinating historical tidbits sprinkled through this story, particularly the beginnings of the Rolex wristwatch, along with many other smaller historical details that brought the setting to life. Even more intriguing was the way in which the analogy of clockmaking was used by Barclay to better understand why God would be interested in one seemingly insignificant person: that is, himself: “Every cog, every gear, every spring was important. If one was out of line, no matter how small and insignificant, the entire device would fail. Why shouldn’t the Lord love each member of humanity with the same level of care Cecil Manning had given that watch Barclay had found in a gutter?”

Roseanna M. White’s books are always a treat for historical fiction lovers, but they’re a well-rounded, satisfying read even if historical fiction isn’t your go-to genre. You get history, romance, and suspense all mixed in together, characters you’ll be loath to say goodbye to, and a story that will spirit you away to another time and place. Who could ask for anything more?

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.