To Find Her Place
by Susan Anne Mason
Pub DateJun 08 2021
Bethany House |Bethany House Publishers
Christian| Historical Fiction| Romance




Bethany House and Netgalley provided me with a copy of To Find Her Place for review:


You will remember this book long after you read the last word:




With uncertainty around them, can they find their way to a better future?



As the Second World War raged, Jane Linder devoted all of her energy and dreams for a family to the Toronto Children's Aid Society. In her role as acting director, Jane hopes for a permanent appointment so that she can continue to make a difference in the lives of children. However, everything would change if the board discovered she was divorced.


The Children's Aid Society has hired Garrett Wilder to overhaul operations and investigate reports of misused funds. His goal is to impress the board members with his findings and earn the vacant director's position.


Despite Garret's early suspicions and their competing interests, a friendship develops. Jane finds herself at a crossroads when she receives an unexpected opportunity that could fulfill her deepest desires. Is she able to discern the path to true happiness?


I give To Find Her Place five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down, in the best way.

Susan Anne Mason weaves a tale that keeps you wondering what is going to happen and if Garret and Jane will ever get things figured out. There were some twists that I totally did not see coming and I love it when that happens in a book.

Thoroughly entertaining, I learned a few things about history and fell in love with these characters. I'd call that a big win.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. My opinion is my own.

To Find Her Place is a great addition to Susan Anne Mason's Redemption's Light series. I loved it and highly recommend it for those who love to read historical romance. Five stars.

I really enjoyed this book. It had so many sweet moments and I loved the main characters. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance. I can't wait to see what is next from Susan Anne Mason! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Set in Toronto, during WWII, To Find Her Place, by Susan Anne Mason is an inspiring and emotional tale that will captivate readers from the beginning.

​I loved Jane! Her character was precisely what the CAS needed in a directress. She loved the children and really cared about them. Especially one boy, who we get to know a bit more as the story progresses. The author did an excellent job introducing us to Martin and his story in the foster care system.

It was not lost on me how women are still trying to find their place today and this book really brought that home to me.

The blossoming interest between Garrett and Jane blended well with the story. With a plot twist, I wasn't expecting, this story had me hooked to the very end. The faith element showed the importance of trusting in and waiting on God.

​This was a sweet story with all the right strings to pull at your heart! I highly recommend it!

I fully enjoyed reading To Find Her Place. It is easy to connect to the characters and think about them when you have had to set the book down until that next moment when there is time to relax and read. Susan Anne Mason has a gift for bringing the characters alive and she has certainly been successful with Jane and Garrett. Both have issues that they feel prevents them from developing anything other than a good working relationship.

Both vying for the same job, each has a reason that compels them to seek the vacant director's job. As a reader, of course I could see the obstacles they face but also the realization that life is full of things that can be overcome. I admired Jane's dedication to both her mother and to a difficult career working with orphaned children. Garrett, a casualty of the war, faced unusual challenges yet was devoted to helping his family financially. In the end, the charity and grace they showed to each other showed qualities we don't often see in today's society. I highly recommend this book and if you have not read any of Susan Anne Mason's books, you don't know what you have been missing.

There are children who need a place
For here second book in the "Redemption Light" series Susan Anne Mason entitled "To Find Her Place" and published by Bethany House Publishers Mason has researched the "Children's Aid Society of Toronto" in order to be true to historical details. Nevertheless, this is a novel that takes place in Toronto in 1943, a time when people, morale, and finances were suffering. Jane Linder is the acting director of the Children's Aid Society, she urgently needs this job since she is divorced and has to care for her elderly mother who has a weak heart. She is trying to do her best financially and for the children for whom she is looking for foster parents which is anything than easy. Garrett Wilder arrives as an independent advisor with the task to organize the finances of the Children's Aid Society, but he hopes to get the job as director. He cannot work on his father's farm due to a war injury and also needs this job. So Jane and Garret are not only competing for the same job, they have to deal with the children and their challenges, one of them, Martin, who likes to run away – and they have to deal with the attraction that develops between them.
This was the second book of this author which I read and I highly recommend it for readers who love inspirational historical novels that are realistic, with an amount of romance, and great and believable characters. Although it is the second book in the series it also can be read as a stand-alone. I am looking forward to reading more books by Mason.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#ToFindHerPlace #NetGalley

An absolutely beautiful, heart-touching story with wonderful characters that that went straight to my heart. Susan Ann Mason’s writing is very compelling, and I also love how she incorporates historical details into the book that bring this story to life. Although this is the second book in the series, this one can be read as a stand-alone. But once you have read this one, you’ll want to read more by this talented author. Be prepared to be care for these characters and find your heart overflowing once you finish it.

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

I read the first book in this series and thoroughly enjoyed it so I definitely wanted to read the second on and I have to say this one is just as good.

I loved getting to know Jane and Garrett and the heartache they had to overcome. I knew there would be a wrench thrown into the mix at the end, and honestly there were a few wrenches, but it all works out at the end, of course. But the journey to get there is very interesting and a great read.

If you enjoy historical fiction I have no doubt you will be thrilled with this book.


A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

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

This is the second book in a series, and I haven't read the first book, but it didn't diminish my enjoyment of this book. It could definitely be read as a stand alone. I really enjoyed this book!

I enjoy reading books I can learn something from. This was one of those books. Set in Toronto, it’s a different setting and then the Canadian Children’s Aid Society and how they helped children. Stories involving children and adoption interest me a lot. The main character is divorced. That in and of itself is unusual during this time period. She has kept it a secret from her job. She’s the temporary director of the children’s home. Jane has always wanted to be a mother and sees her position as a substitute especially since she’s divorced. Garrett is hired to come evaluate the children’s aid society. He befriends Jane and her mother. They take a journey to find who’s taking money and to help a troubled little boy. A story that has tragedy and sorrow and most importantly hope. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.

This was a great fictional look into the lives of WWII era families in Toronto, Canada. I love that Mason researches so well for her books. It was neat to read even a fictional representation of the Children's Aid Society.

I loved Jane's heart for the kids, especially Martin. I connected with her on so many levels - even the hard ones. (See content warnings if you have triggers).

I loved Garrett. He has a good head on his shoulders and while he isn't perfect he also has a big heart for the kids and the organization working to help them. I also loved how supportive he was of his family.

There are quite a few triggers in this book but I think it is important to be reminded that WWII era was hard. That soldiers went missing, were injured, and even killed. I appreciated the way people were supportive in Garrett's life after his accident. I also thought Mason handled his post accident recovery attitude well.

Note for those of you that like kissing books: this one is for you. Plenty of hot kisses and attraction.

I look forward to more from Mason in this series.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

Very engrossing story of struggle for these characters. Real enough you'll feel you have to tell someone what just happened as you go along. Men are fighting and those still at home are frowned upon. Women are having to step in to fill positions, but are still not taken seriously. Jane is divorced in 1943 Toronto and acting as the Directress of the Children's Aid Society. She had been a caseworker and is completely committed to the children and making things better. Since her husband left her, and her brother is in the war, she has to support herself and her sick mother. She desperately needs this job to become permanent. Garrett is brought in to audit the business, and Jane, and is planning on submitting his application for the Director position. He also needs the money to help support his parents farm. It's quite a story of difficulties during the war and heartaches, but also has lessons of faith. Circumstances seem to dictate their paths, but we know that God is in control. Excellent read.
I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. #ToFindHerPlace #NetGalley

This has been one of my favorite stories so far this year. I loved Jane and Garrett. It was nice to read a book that takes place during WWll but does not go too much into the horrors that occurred. It was fascinating to learn some about how foster care and adoptions were handled in Canada during the time of WWll. This story made me laugh and cry. I did not want to put this book down. These two characters go through some trials to figure out how they want to spend their lives. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

I just couldn't get in to this one. The description is everything I usually like reading. There was just something about the main characters. I know women of this time weren't treated well when they were in positions of power. So it wasn't surprising that the leading man had those same ideas to start with. I'm sure at some point in the book he evolves and everything works out. I just wasn't in the mood to read about the struggle in between.

To Find Her Place
by Susan Anne Mason
Back of the Book: “Can they find their way to the right future amid the uncertainty that faces them? In the midst of WWII, Jane Linder pours all her energy and dreams for a family into her career at the Toronto Children's Aid Society. As acting directress, Jane hopes for a permanent appointment so she can continue making a difference in the lives of children. But if the board were to find out she is divorced, everything would change. Garrett Wilder has been hired to overhaul operations at the Children's Aid Society and investigate a report of misused funds. He hopes to impress the board members with his findings and earn the vacant director's position. A war injury ended his dream of taking over his parents' farm, but with the security of the director's job, he'd be able to contribute financially and help save the family business. Despite their competing interests and Garret's early suspicions, a friendship grows and feelings begin to blossom. But when Jane receives an unexpected opportunity that could fulfill her deepest desires, she finds herself at a crossroads. Can she discern the path to true happiness?”
Impressions: This was a super sweet historical romance.
Rated: kisses
Liked: While reading this book I fell in love with the characters. Jane and Garrett were so caring, kind-hearted. It was easy to wish them together as the story evolved. I also wanted to adopt Martin myself. I have a soft spot for adoption and would love for our family to pursue foster care or adoption when the time is right.
Disliked: I didn’t like Jane’s decision to settle during part of this story. Her decision appeared to be made in haste and with unwise reasons. It seemed out of character for her to even ponder the idea let alone agree to it but I understand that when stressed we tend to make rash decisions. When I’m anxious or stressed it’s as if I have blinders on and can’t see what my options are; I just the negative doom and gloom.
Quotes: “We don’t solve problems with violence. We talk about what’s bothering us and come up with reasonable solutions.” – Spoken to a child but universal in wisdom.
I received a copy of this novel via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

This is the second installment to the wonderful Redemption’s Light Series. The setting is in Toronto, Canada, during WWII. This series is very historical, it’s based on true events even if the characters are fictional. That’s what makes these books so special. It’s as if you’re transported to another time and place like in a movie, and live the character’s battles and struggles with them as if they were your own. This is how good the author writes and how well historically researched these books are.
In Book 1, “A Haven for her Heart” we follow Olivia’s heart wrenching journey as she endeavors to start a Maternity Home, to help abandoned women in need, as she once was. A beautiful, touching and inspiring story! Now, this new story, in continuity to the first, deals with Jane Linder and the Toronto’s Children’s Aid Society. Jane, after working as a case worker aiding orphaned children in getting adopted or into the care of foster families, is left to temporarily direct the institution, after Mr. Mills’s retirement. Having worked alongside with him, she aims to devote herself to this career, so she can keep helping troubled children have a better life. She also harbors deep wounds, after her husband left her because, after two miscarriages, the doctor diagnosed her as unable to carry a child. But she earnestly wishes for and needs the job, as she is the caretaker of her mother whose health continues to decline. So, when the Board Members, with an air of distrust, assign her a man to supervise the operations at the Children's Aid Society, and she how they can be improved, she can’t help getting tense. Especially when said man is also competing for the same position as Director that she seeks with all her heart! And if they find out that she’s a divorcee, she will definitely have no chance!
Garret Wilder has been hired, not only to oversee the operations of the Children’s Aid Society, but to investigate a report of misused funds. Through this investigation he wants to earn the vacant director’s position. A war injury impedes him to take over his parent’s farm, but with a secure job he can help save the family business and that means a great deal to him.
But sweet, kind and professional Jane is not the person he expected to meet, the same as Jane is surprised to discover her investigator is not as mean intentioned as she expected. As a friendship blossoms between them as they care for some of the children’s needs, feelings start to grow, despite being at odds competing for the director’s position. Will this friendly competition attempt to destroy the fragile yet beautiful and sweet relationship they are starting?
Then, Jane’s ex-husband unexpectedly visits with a very tempting proposition, putting Jane at odds. Will her decision take her away from Garrett and from the life of service to needy children that has fulfilled her so much until now?
This was a beautiful story that tugged all the strings of my heart! I love that it is really a historical novel, as the Children Aid Society of Toronto existed and the author did a deep researched about how it started, operated, etc. Even Mr. Mills, the managing director who retired was a real character! Jane and Garrett, and the rest, are fictional characters, of course, but their story felt so realistic to me, probably because of how well researched the setting and historical period was, I really felt as if I was transported with them to Toronto in WWII era!
I also fell in love with the characters. I rooted for Jane and her desire to make a difference in the children’s lives. Her kind and compassionate heart inspired me, as I learned from her patience, prudence, strong determination, and loving nature. The way she cared for her mother and was so selfless that she didn’t have practically time for herself. I also struggled with her when she had tough decisions to make, but the way she let God guide her through it all humbled me. Garrett was a wonderful hero too. A bit stiff at the start, but I quickly warmed up to him as his lighthearted nature began to shine, his love of family and children, his generosity too. He had a heart of gold too, and I loved his way with the children! And the way he talked to God was endearing and humbling, he was so honest and wanted to do what was right for everyone. There were also secondary characters I loved, best of all cute and rebellious little Martin, he tore at my heart. No child should ever feel unwanted, and Jane and Garrett made sure of that! I also liked the way Garrett made Jane feel beautiful and worthy, when she was struggling so much with self-worth, because of her inability to have children.
The plot of the story was engaging, it never dragged, it had enough twists, like the mystery of the disappearing money, and I was so sad when the story ended, I wanted more time with these characters!
All in all, a truly inspiring story of unconditional love, true worthiness (which is always so big to the eyes of God) and sacrifice! I vividly recommend it to anyone, especially historical romance lovers!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the Publisher via NetGalley but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Tugging at the heartstrings

This book tugs at the heartstrings -- orphans, unwanted children, injured soldiers, unwanted wives, and injured dogs! That being said, it is a well-written historical novel set in late ww2, after the 'thrills' of war have turned into the reality of added work, grief for the dead and those MIA, and the problems that the war gave to society's outcasts. A good way to spend a rainy day curled up on your sofa.

Thank you to the publisher who lent me a time-constrained e-arc via netgalley; this review is optional and my own opinion.

To Find Her Place
By Susan Anne Mason is a compelling read. This story takes place in Canada during World War II and follows two characters that vie for the directorship of the Toronto children’s Aid Society. The role of working women is also explored as characters struggle to best serve homeless children with few financial and Human Resources. An interesting aspect of WW 2 life in Canada.

Finding suitable care for orphaned children during WWII was difficult as this novel portrays. Women in the workforce, much less directors were still relatively new in the forties. Jane, the interim director of the Toronto Children's Aid Society took her job very seriously and had a heart of gold. As Garrett, an accountant, seeks to find out who is behind the embezzlement of aid funds Jane fights for Martin, an eight year old orphan deemed unadoptable. Will Garrett find out the truth? Will Jane find a home for Martin? Readers will enjoy finding out the answers plus other details from this time in history. Recommended!