The Highest of Hopes
By Susan Anne Mason
This is the second in Susan Anne Masons series following three strangers as they travel to Canada in search of their future. I think that the book was well written with characters that were relatable. I am sure we have all faced the fear of rejection at some point in life. It is a scary thought but when we discover our heavenly Fathers acceptance we better navigate through life’s more challenging situations.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I share here. https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com

After reading the first book in this series, The Best of Intentions, I couldn’t wait to hear Emma’s story. I could tell she was going to be a blast to get to know, and I was not disappointed. I loved how she always tried to be positive and see the best in every situation. Having a best friend along who can always make her smile definitely helped. The problem is, when that best friends feelings go beyond friendship. Jonathan cant imagine his life with out Emma as his wife. Knowing he loves her, and convincing her to fall in love with him are two very different things. I liked how protective he was of her, and how he wanted her to have everything she ever dreamed of. Of course that doesn’t stop them both from making mistakes. I had so much fun going along for the ride. I couldn’t imagine thinking you were an orphan and then years later finding out otherwise. You don’t want to miss out on the amount of family drama that caused. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. Mason kept my interest the whole time, and I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. This book is a great stand alone, so no need to worry about reading the series in order. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Susan Anne Mason brings readers another WWI era historical novel. It’s late in the spring of 1919, and Emmaline Moore has sold her grandfather’s watch shop in the village of Wheatley, England, and purchased passage to Canada. Her best friend, Jonathan Rowe, has come along to ensure her safety.

Emmaline based her spur-of-the-moment decision on letters she found hidden in her grandfather’s desk. Letters from a father she had no idea was alive. Jonathan and his Aunt Trudy, a dear friend as well, counsel Emma to wait before showing up on her father’s doorstep. But Emma feels compelled to travel to Toronto immediately to meet the father she never had but always wished for.

Emma hasn’t told Jonathan yet, but she’s determined to stay in Toronto after meeting her father—after all she has no family left in England. Ever the optimist, Emma knows she’ll find work. Once she’s settled, she’ll be able to send Jonathan back to England and his dreams of Oxford University.

Jonathan has a feeling that things won’t turn out for Emma the way she envisions. But he wants to be there when she needs him. Even though she blithely explains their relationship to people as ‘best friends,’ and claims he’s ‘like a brother’ to her, he wants so much more.

They may have started out as best friends and siblings, but ever since before he went away to war he’s known he felt more for her. Jonathan knows he’ll follow Emma to the ends of the earth. Especially when she seems headed for disaster.

Mason fills the story with historical details about England and Canada in the year following the end of World War I. Jonathan battles shell shock and his frustrations with Emma’s decisions. Emma makes choices that seem to draw her closer to her new family—and away from the man who loves her.

Fans of Rosanna White and Kate Breslin will enjoy this book.

I really loved the hero, Jonathan, and his friend Reggie in this book. Their friendship is far from the focal point, but it was one of my favorite parts. Good solid guy friendships and underrepresented in Christian Fiction in my opinion!

I also really loved how Mason handled the past trickling into present day for multiple characters. Her research for how the past affected different characters really made the problems realistic.

Truthfully I didn't love most of the female characters! But that probably reflects more on my personality than anything else. Girl drama is not my favorite and is probably why I related well to Jonathan!

I do love these books set in Canada written by a Canadian author. A new perspective is so welcome.

Oh! Another favorite part were the kisses! Lots of great kissing scenes that will give you all the feels!

There are quite a few moments when various characters are less than honest... Mason had her reasons, but if that offends you then you might not love this book.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest opinion.

Wow!! Another winner from Susan Anne Mason!!
I loved "The Best of Intentions" and was eagerly awaiting for "The Highest of Hope" to arrive. I was looking forward to read about Emmaline Moore's story. And I have to say that my eagerness was completely satisfied, beacause it was such a touching book.
After Emmaline's beloved grandfather passing, she discovers some letters that her "apparently" deceased father had written to her over the years. So, after her initial shock, she is determined to travel overseas from England to Canada to search for his father and get acquainted with him and get some answers about her origins.
Jonathan, Emma's childhood best friend, is a war veteran that is dealing with PTSD, and hopelessly in love with her. So when Emma decides to travel to Canada, he decides to go with her and keep her save, in hopes of gradually winning her love in the trip. But things are complicated, and he never expects Emma's plans to permanently stay in Canada.
On top of things, Emmaline's father and his family don't seem very thrilled to welcome her into their lives. Randall is running for Toronto's mayor and the appearance of his long-lost daughter could risk the coming elections. So he asks her to pretend to be his niece. Jonathan is annoyed and worried about Emma's heart, but she just holds on to hope that her new family (her father remarried and has two daughters) will gradually accept and love her. Will that happen or will her heart be shattered if she discovers she doesn't belong? Jonathan has being accepted in Oxford and he wants to fulfill his father's dream, but how can he stand to leave Emma behind?
This was a beautiful story with wonderful characters. Emmaline was a wonderful woman, maybe a bit immature at first, but I loved her determination and constant optimist in spite of the circumstances she finds. She's also kind and caring for others. It was humbling how she matures and slowly puts the needs of others before hers.
And I loved the way Jonathan explains to her that her true and unconditional Father is God, who loves her infinitely and just the way she is.
The plot is engaging and the characters rich. Even Vera, Randall's wife, one of the antagonists, is so vividly portrayed, that you really want to throttle her!
An inspirational message about seeking God's guidance in your decisions, and about discovering in God your self worth.
The love story is sweet and clean. I was rooting for Jonathan to win Emmaline the whole book until the end. And I loved the ending very much.
I totally recommend this book to lovers of the historical genre. The writing style is very good and rich in detail, descriptions and dialogue.
I received a copy of this book from the Bethany House Publishers via Netgalley and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

THE HIGHEST OF HOPES by SUSAN ANNE MASON is an historical romance novel which takes place in England and Canada in the early twentieth century.
When Emma Moore and her best friend, Jonathan, set off by ship for Canada to find Emma's father, they have no idea what trouble this is going to cause for everyone involved.
I love the characters especially Emma with her enthusiasm and determination, and Jonathan with his dependability and staunch support. The characters are all very real, and we see how they react as they find themselves in a very awkward situation. It brings out the best in some, and the worst in others.
Everyone wants to be loved and feel special to someone, and to belong in a family. We are reminded in this story that God's love for us is more than enough, that He will never leave us or let us down, and that we are important members of His family.
It is altogether a most enjoyable read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

The Highest of Hopes is the second book in the Canadian Crossings series written by Susan Anne Mason. It can be read as a stand alone, as the first book in this series focuses on Grace, one of four characters who traveled to Canada together on a ship. While an enjoyable story, I think I liked the first book in this series a little more. While I really loved Jonathan's character, Emma's singular focus tended to irritate me a little. Many times I felt that Jonathan deserved better. The story is rich in themes of redemption, forgiveness and love.
I am Canadian (I live an hour outside of Toronto), and I would have liked it if there was a more bits of Canadian history added to enrich the setting....I felt like the story could have been set anywhere as nothing really set it apart as being Canadian other than a few place names and the name of the University. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series


The Highest of Hopes is currently available for purchase from your local or online book retailer.

Thank you Bethany House and Net Galley for the free copy of The Highest of Hopes. The opinions expressed here are my own.

For Emmaline Moore it had been a week since she’d left England on a journey to Nova Scotia. “Six weeks since she’d found her beloved grandfather dead on his bedroom floor. Two weeks since she’d sold Grandad’s watch shop and handed over the key to the new owner. All because of a packet of letters she’d found in his desk that had turned Emma’s life upside down” (location 44). What an intriguing start! It raised so many questions that I wanted to have answered. Although some were answered quickly, both Emma and her friend Jonathan kept a big secret from the other. Just when I thought everything was out in the open, a twist would change things.
I loved Jonathan’s character. He is so faithful and protective towards Emma. He knows her propensity to be impulsive and tries to reign her in at times but you can’t tie up the wind. Emma is a real mix of positive and negative traits. She rushes in without thinking of the consequences to herself or others. She sees only the grief in her upbringing and glosses over the love and sacrifice of her grandparents for too long. She takes the good things in her life for granted. Yet she also sees potential in others and believes the best about them. She’s not afraid of a little adventure. She helps others see reality even when she can’t see the same for herself. In the end, she’s a lot wiser and has really grown. It’s very satisfying.
I would highly recommend this book. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with an e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for the free review copy. All opinions are my own. 

This is a second in a series, but could be read as a stand alone novel. 

I loved being back in Canada in this book with another character that was introduced in book one. I loved Emma's character. Her stubborn, positive, strong spirit was just what I needed to help me make it through this week. She attacked her problems straight on, and I loved the optimism she held onto throughout the book. Even as hurts came her way, she still continued to do what she wanted because that's what she wanted to do. If you can't tell, she is a very independent character, which does cause some conflict, but it made the outcome of the conflict even better. 

It was also great to see the character of Mrs. C and Reverend Burke again. I also loved the representation of Marianne's character. How wonderful it is to have a historically accurate character, and have them also represent the diversity of people in the world.

The Highest of Hopes is the 2nd book in Susan Anne Mason's Canadian Crossings series. I haven't read the first book in the series yet, but this book can definitely be read as a stand alone novel. The author created an enjoyable historical novel of family, difficult journeys, and the chance for romance. This was such a fun book to read and is one that I would recommend for fans of historical fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Fantastic! I had a hard time putting this book down. I loved the history and the romance. The story had many twists and turns. I was surprised by some of the revelations. I did feel that Emmaline was a bit selfish at times. I loved Jonathan. It is interesting to read about Canada. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

4.5 stars for this newest release from Susan Anne Mason! This book is book 2 in Canadian Crossings series but can be read as a stand-alone. I did not read the first book and was able to follow the storyline without any problems. It seems that this book actually parallels the timeline set in the first book (Best of Intentions) so going back to read the first book shouldn't cause any confusion. With her trademark fluidity and skill, Susan Anne Mason weaves a story of hurt, longing, mistakes and blunders that are triumphed by grace, repentance, forgiveness, healing, and unconditional love set in 1919 Toronto. The thread of faith and real trust runs throughout the story; multiple characters in the story grow tremendously in their faith and trust. If you enjoy well-written historical romance, you will really enjoy this one.

There are several characters in the story that lend their voices to bring the plot together. The main characters are Emma, who leaves her home in England to find her father in Toronto whom she had believed had died, and Jonathan, Emma's childhood friend who is secretly in love with her. Emma is quite obstinate, blunt, impulsive, careless, and a bit selfish as she enters her father and his family's life with the force and surprise of a hurricane. Jonathan is industrious, level-headed, loyal, tender, and loving though he suffers from PTSD after the war. Then there is Emma's father Randall, who basically abandoned his infant daughter in England to be raised by her grandparents, and his younger daughter Corinne, who is spiteful, conniving, and cruel in her selfishness. Though the only person whom I really liked was Jonathan at the beginning, Emma and Randall and Corinne all realize redemption and forgiveness and love are possible even in the midst of human bungling and became quite likable.

I am hoping there is a third book in the series and can't wait to be able to read it! I was given a copy of the book by Bethany House and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

My Review:

Genre: Historical fiction, Christian fiction.

My Rating: 4 and 1/2 stars.

Recommendation: 13 up for romance.

My favorite character is: Emma is a sweet girl and I loved following along with her as she searched for her family and even though I felt that at times she was naive I still loved reading about her.

My Verse for Emma is Psalm 27:10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. (King James Version.)

My thoughts: Aw, this book is so sweet even if a good bit sad for several reasons. The story was so cute and adorable because of Jonathan and Emma's relationship and I also liked how this book and the previous one were connected and I look forward to reading more from Mrs. Mason!



Slight spoilers!



Warnings: Slight scandals because of politics and an unwed pregnancy.

(I received this book in exchange for my honest review and am truly happy to provide it.)

The Highest of Hopes might take place one hundred years ago, but its characters are so relatable! Emmaline Moore is impulsive, strong-willed, and stubborn. I can relate to her well! Jonathan Rowe, her best friend since childhood, is more level-headed and much slower to act. They make such a lovely team, and I was rooting for them from the beginning!

Throughout the story Emmaline is consumed with trying to win the affection of her father and his family. Jonathan is always supportive, always there to help her despite the possibility of his heart breaking. He has his own issues to work through, and I admire his determination in trying to better himself even while he’s so far from home.

When nothing turns out like Emmaline has planned, she is reminded of the truth that we all need to keep in our hearts, the message of eternal, unconditional love from our Heavenly Father. I never tire of the reminder, and the story’s conclusion leave you feeling full of joy and hope!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House and am under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This book pulled me in and didn’t let go, trying to place myself in the shoes of these character’s Emmeline and Jonathan, and their love story.
I can’t imagine the pain Emmeline receives as she goes to meet her father, one has to remember that this is a different time and place, a period of rebirth right after the Great War.
Also, as we walk with Jonathan and see what a hard time he seems to be having both in his war experience and what seems to be his unrequited love of Emmeline.
This becomes a real page turner as we want to know how everything ends, but then I really wanted to spend more time immersed in this book.
Now not so patiently waiting for the next in the Canadian Crossing Stories.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

Susan Anne Mason has given us an entertaining and heart-tugging Christian historical novel. The year is 1919 and the setting is in the city of Toronto, Canada. I enjoyed the historical details that the author used all throughout the story, especially when she described the ladies’ dresses for different occasions. I also loved the fact that this book was based in part on facts from the life of the author’s grandmother.

This story is character-driven and the two main characters, Emma and Jonathan, have very different personalities. Emma is impulsive; has strong opinions on how things should be done and is always full-steam-ahead in carrying out her plans. Jonathan is more thoughtful; thinks things through; and listens to the counsel of others. There were times that I would have loved to made Emma sit down and not get up until she really listened and thought through the advice Jonathan was trying to give her. On the other hand, I wanted Jonathan to step up and take charge at times. This was part of the fun of the plot, and their personalities kept my interest through the book.

The heart-tugging aspect comes from the hurts that both Emma and Jonathan suffered in their young lives. Both were orphans raised by caring relatives. Jonathan had just returned home from the war and was suffering flashbacks to times of battle. Emma was thrilled to discover her father was alive, but suffered from his decision to not acknowledge her as his daughter. Emma and Jonathan struggled as they transitioned from best friends to romantic interest. The author does a great job of incorporating all of this in their stories and it gives the story its heart.

This is the second book of a series, but the previous characters are only briefly mentioned, so this book is very easily read as a stand-alone story.

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

This is a remarkable historical romance novel!

I love each of the main characters in this book. They truly took me on an emotional roller coaster. At times I wanted to just wrap them in my arms and hug them until the hurt was made well. At other times I was so frustrated with the decisions they were making that I wanted to slap them silly. They just didn’t want to listen to me though and insisted on taking the long and difficult journeys that the author wrote for them to take.

I did appreciate the fact that they listened to their wise friends and sought God. That is truly the place to go for guidance and wisdom.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.

The Highest of Hopes is the second installment from Susan Anne Mason’s series, Canadian Crossings. I loved the first book, The Best of Intentions, and this one does not disappoint. I loved Emmaline and Jonathan’s story. Their journey to Canada brings them on a adventure they could not have ever predicted. I enjoyed watching them grow throughout the book.
The Highest of Hopes gets a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend this clean, sweet and delightful book to other readers.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Family dynamics play a strong role in “The Highest of Hopes” and it's what motivates Emma to cross an ocean to try to discover her place with her father long thought deceased. What she finds isn't what she pictured in her minds eye. She will face many heartaches and it's her resiliency that will shape her character throughout the story. There were many moments that my heart broke for her, especially her inner thought of her own worthlessness. But at the end, one wise person reminded her of how Christ sees her—

“There's only one parent's love you truly need: your heavenly Father's. And the good news is you don't have to earn it, and you don't have to prove yourself worthy to receive it. You are loved for exactly the person you are, with all your faults and flaws. In His eyes, you are a masterpiece. His own wondrous creation.”~page 303

Her best friend since childhood, Jonathan Rowe tags along in spite of his reservations on the kind of reception she may find on the other end. He's the more level-headed of the two and is willing to help Emma through any crisis. In spite of fighting his own demons stemming from the aftereffects of war, he's protective of her and would do anything to prove his love. Though he's always kept that part of his heart hidden. He too will be shaped and molded with the trails and tribulations he faces and eventual realization that love can sometimes be a sacrifice of self.

“Love should never be viewed as a competition. Love requires compromise and sacrifice. There's no place for ego in a marriage.”~pg. 357

Susan Anne Mason writes in such a way that makes you care deeply about her characters and their plight in life. Her stories are highly emotional and always tug at my heartstrings. This was difficult at best to put down when real life interrupted my reading time. Though this is the second book in the “Canadian Crossings” series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. I eagerly await the next installment!

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House on behalf of the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed her are my own. *

Susan Anne Mason is a wonderful writer of historical romance. With her newest novel The Highest of Hopes, Mason crafted a story filled with heart, romance, and wonderful characters. Mason brought the world of 1919 Canada to life with her words and her descriptions. While the plot isn't original, I did enjoy reading it and flew through the pages of the story. The romance between Emmaline and Jonathon was one-sided for the majority of the story. I really liked how Mason created a romance from Jonathon's perspective before Emmaline came on board. This was really unique, and I enjoyed it. Jonathon's emotions rang true, even when Mason described the symptoms of PTSD from Jonathon. Overall, The Highest of Hopes was an entertaining read populated by wonderful characters. This book definitely belongs on my keeper shelf with all of Mason's other novels.

I received a complimentary copy of The Highest of Hopes by Susan Anne Mason from Bethany House Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.