I loved how the author allowed readers to experience history through three different people’s point of view. Millie Stevens, a diplomat’s daughter, and code breaker at Bletchley; Karl Lang, a wealthy Austrian who escaped Nazi persecution and enlisted in the merchant marine is searching for his missing sisters. Rolf Denhart, a German radio operator on a Nazi U-boat. I liked how the author shows Rolf, home on leave with his wife Frieda, who begins to doubt the Third Reich’s ideology. Rolf is alarmed that his wife is assisting Jews in fleeing persecution and worries for her wellbeing.

The plot twists and turns in Karl and Millie's narrative that surprised me in several ways. The author takes readers on a crazy ride as characters dodge torpedoes, crack codes, attempt to survive perilous situations, deal with loss, experience successes, witness unconditional love in action and watch regular people displaying bravery and having the guts to do the right thing. As I read, I felt as if I were watching a movie. I had trouble putting this novel down. The story is captivating, tragic, heartbreaking and beautiful as readers are given a peek into the daily lives of ordinary people living through war.

This book provided a fresh perspective on life at sea. I tried to envision what it must have been like for my family who served in the navy; the thought of being on board one of these ships during war was awful. Karl is exposed to the risks of being at sea when Nazi U-boats start patrolling the area. I like how the writer gave readers a behind-the-scenes look at the sacrifices sailors made to foil the Germans' war preparations while expertly combining action-adventure, suspense, drama, and a touch of romance.
This is the first novel I’ve read by this author it won’t be the last. This would make for a great book club pick.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

This book. What can I say about this book? The Enigma, Bletchley Park, the secrecy and codes and these two characters.

The Chemistry between Karl and Millie was beautiful. I was happy to see them again after a brief introduction in the book, Heirs of Falcon Point. WWII is one of those eras for me where history is so rich and the people did extraordinary things in the name of survival.

Karl and his shipmates were a rich and developed story as well. I came to love these characters as well. The little surprise was the POV of the radio man on the U-boats. It was interesting seeing this from everyone's eyes.

I will say that there were long moments of tears as well as screaming at the book. The emotions were real and raw. I am sure my husband thought I was crazy, yelling at the book. I regret nothing.

I received an early copy from the publisher through netgalley and this is my honest review.

This story is SO GOOD. Every A.L. Sowards book I pick up leaves me totally immersed and on the edge of my seat and this one certainly did the same! This particular story was slightly slower in nature, but it was just as captivating!

I absolutely LOVED Karl and Millie’s sweet love story. I can’t even imagine what it would be like falling in love or just trying to get to know someone better during a time of war. For the majority of this book Millie and Karl are far apart. But the letters they send to each other helped build that deep connection. Of course the chapters where they reunite in person are extra special and you savory them no matter how short lived.

Besides the love story we have a LOT of action happening as far as world events go! WWII is raging and the fight on the seas is one of the main focuses in this book. Merchant ships, corvettes, destroyers, lifeboats, and U-boats all play a major role. But we also get some time spent at Bletchley Park and a little glimpse into specific workplace Huts. I liked having the different perspectives from various occupations and their take on what was happening. First hand accounts up and close in the war torn waters and cracking codes back at the Park.

As always with this author, I really enjoyed the historical mixed with the fiction of the story. Definitely a good read! No spoilers of course, but the epilogue with its many connections and revelations is what steals the show! If you haven’t tried an AL Sowards book yet, I highly recommend that you do!

Codes of Courage by A. L. Sowards captures perfectly why historical fiction is my favorite genre. I get to learn about little-known slices of history while enjoying a riveting story. With obvious impeccable historical research, richly painted settings, and characters that come alive on the page, this tale kept me engrossed to the end. There were a few twists and turns that surprised me and had my emotions all over the place.

The story is told from various points of view. Karl Lang, Millie Stevens, and Rolf Denhart are all pulled into WWII, and their lives are irreparably changed because of it. It was interesting to have the different POVs, as they added much to the tale. Poignant and heart-breaking, yet also tender and healing, it’s a perfect read for historical fiction lovers. Although it can be read as a standalone book, more about Karl Lang’s story is told in Heirs of Falcon Point. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

A fascinating perspective of WWII fiction. I really enjoyed the aspects of codes and encryptions that were included in this story. This story will stay with you long after you have finished it. A.L. Sowards is definitely an author that you don't want to miss any of her books!

I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

Readers of “Heirs of Falcon Point” will recognize Karl Lang or Karl “Ecker” Eckerstorfer. “Codes of Courage” starts eight months after the events of “Heirs of Falcon Point.” I have loved Karl since I first read the beginning of his story and have been anxiously awaiting this book. Knowing that this was going to be an emotional read, I was blown away by the author’s ability to bring out so many emotions and still leave me wanting to read this book again.

I was intrigued by the multiple POVs of this book. The characters of “Codes of Courage” each played such an integral part in each other’s lives and in their roles during the war. I would have been perfectly content just getting Karl and Millie’s POVs but adding Rolf’s made the story and its message more powerful and endearing.

It’s always special when an author can take a part of history and transport their readers there. Sowards does this with all the detail and research that she puts into her stories. As a reader, I could tell of her devotion to the history of the time and her desire to share that with me. I have always been a fan of WWII fiction but this book touched me in a different way than others and is a new favorite.

“Codes of Courage” is a beautifully written story that allows readers to experience three points of view of war, romance and resilience. I say romance but this is definitely a historical novel with a hint of romance. As one who loves reading romances, I did love this story and thought the moments between Karl and Millie, while few, were well done and gave the perfect romance addition.

“Codes of Courage” is part of the “Heirs of Falcon Point” series. It picks off where Karl’s story ends in that book. It could be read as a stand alone but I do think it is better to read “Heirs of Falcon Point” first. You’ll appreciate Karl’s story a little more.

I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it and can’t wait to read it again.

Thank you to the author and Covenant Communications for an advanced copy. These thoughts are my own.

Words are failing me. It was absolutely beautiful! Sowards has a way of making a war story transcend the obvious hardships and heartaches. I don’t know how she does it but she does. This story was no different. It was unique, poignant, and so heartfelt. I sobbed. Sobbed I’m telling you.
This is the story of Karl Lang and Millie Stevens. I feel like anything more I say takes away from the beautiful story Sowards has written.

Codes of Courage is a spin off of the Heirs of Falcon Point series. It can be read without reading the others but I highly recommend them.

“I like to think that not even a war can stop people from falling in love...”

An achingly beautiful and bittersweet story that takes place during WWII. There is a lot of action and intense moments, but underneath is all is a tender and sweet romance.

Karl Lang had to flee Austria after the death of his father. Due to his heritage he is unable to help Britain in the fight against Germany, but he still wants to do his part by bringing in much needed supplies on a merchant ship. No ships are safe during the war and Karl has to endure repeated attacks by the Germany military.

Millie Stevens has traveled around the globe with her family due to her father’s line of work. Now, while he is working in England, she is doing secret work for the British government. By chance, she runs into Karl after meeting him years previously. The two begin a correspondence that will forever change both of their lives.

Rolf works on a U-boat for the German military. We get to see his perspective as a German, thinking that other countries are the enemy and how his allegiance was owed to his mother country, but as the story goes on he begins to question what he was really fighting for. I loved his addition to the story.

I loved all of the characters, but especially Karl and Millie and the way they worked to have a relationship in such an unstable time.

This story has some hard moments so I recommend having a box of tissues handy.

If you have read the book Heirs of Falcon Point, you will recognize Karl’s character. It is not necessary to read that book first (my copy is on my nightstand waiting to be read) but reading Heirs first will give you a bit of a different outlook on the book.

If you enjoy war time stories, I highly highly recommend Codes of Courage!

This book is rich with historical information. Do yourself a favor and make sure you read the author’s notes at the back of the book. I always love hearing their inspiration and getting a behind-the-scenes look at their research.

TW/CW: This is a war book and with that comes a certain level of death and destruction. Mentions of death, injury, and bombing.

This is a well researched and well written book. Karl and Millie are both incredible characters. Karl goes to fight the injustice that took his family away. There is a little romance but it more about war, courage and the human spirit. I enjoyed how the story was weaved together. I highly recommend it.

If you love historical fiction, Read This Book! If you enjoy war and espionage stories, Read This Book! If you are a hopeless romantic, Read This Book! I was so excited for Karl’s story. And boy, it did not disappoint! Intrigue, espionage, secrets, war, comrades, family, sweet romance, heartbreak, and happily ever after. The story had everything. The author has delved into history to bring realistic events to a gripping story. The descriptions make you feel as if you are right there experiencing every emotion, every up-and-down. The characters are well defined, and you feel their joys and sorrows through every turn. Even though this book ties into the Heir of Falcon Point series It can be read as a standalone, but I encourage you to read them all. They are exceptionally researched and written. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

All the stars for this favorite book! This heart wrenching, achingly tender story is still living in my heart. It’s romantic, action packed, poignant, thought provoking, and bittersweet. Ever since reading Heirs of Falcon Point, I wanted to know what happened to Karl and his sisters. Codes of Courage is Karl’s powerful story told from three different perspectives.

Forced to flee Austria after the murder of his father, Karl Lang’s determined to join the Allied Forces & fight the Nazis who took everything from him. But because of his nationality, no one will take him on. He finally finds a job on a supply steamer. It’s a dangerous job with German U-boats posing a constant threat. Several chance encounters with the beautiful Millie Stevens gives him renewed hope.

Millie Stevens is a code breaker at Bletchley Park. Her secretive work is essential in discovering the enemy’s U-boat activity. After meeting Karl, every encounter makes her fall in love with him a little more. But, is loving him worth the risk.

Rolf is a patriotic German working on a U-boat. He’s willing to do whatever it takes to support his country. As the war continues, his loyalties are challenged.

A.L. Sowards brilliantly weaves a compelling story of love, loss, death, war, and ultimately hope. WWII history comes alive in this fast-paced story that will have you reading late into the night. I loved learning more about the U-boats, codebreaking, & sea warfare.

The romance between Millie & Karl was so good. There were so many twists in their story and I found myself reeling from the suspense. I loved Millie’s letters, doing crossword puzzles, and every fleeting moment they spend together.

I loved the way Karl’s, Millie’s, & Rolf’s stories all intersected. Rolf provides such an essential view point in understanding the complexities of war. It’s a poignant, amazing story that will stay with you long after reading it. Have some tissues handy.

Highly recommend to historical fiction/romance fans! Though it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Heirs of Falcon Point first. Now I can’t wait for Anna’s & Ingrid’s stories. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

Simply phenomenal. A.L. Sowards has quite the talent for writing historical fiction. I loved reading Karl and Millie's story. I loved reading from Rolf's perspective as well. This story is a journey. I laughed, I cried. My heart broke and found peace again. The focus on code breaking was so fascinating. Also, I never have given much thought to the supply ships and how brave the many sailors on those ships were. I'm glad my eyes have been opened to their valiant efforts.

Do you like books that make you cry? I usually do not. But this book. This author is one I would trust with my tears. I'm still reeling from the emotional impact of this book. It was so, so good. But it's war, so most things are not happy or easy. My tears weren't necessarily happy ones but they were born from real emotion and it's always amazing to me when an author can draw that out of me. I really felt the anxieties, struggles and conflicts of war. The courage too. While it wasn't all sunshine and roses, the author did a great job of giving me hope and ending in a place where I felt some resolution and peace.

I learned so much while reading this book which is one of the reasons I love historical fiction. U-boats and pack hunting were something I had vaguely heard of but now I can really visualize how that must of been. The rules of combat on the sea were also so interesting to me. Sink a ship but let the survivors live to see another day? And code breakers? Wow, the stress and secrecy of that job. I loved all these elements. I know so much more now. So fascinating.

This author does such a good job of building a world where I can see everything like a movie in my head. I loved the characters and became emotionally invested in them.

This novel comes after (as far as release day) the Heirs of Falcon Point book that was co-authored by A.L Sowards, Traci Hunter Abramson, Sian Ann Bessey and Paige Edwards. They are writing spin off books from information and characters in that book so you really should read it first. This book goes back into the past to reveal Karl's story, who is one of the original heirs of Falcon Point.

Content: war time violence, peril, death. Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

A hands-down incredible romantic historical fiction book about love and courage in the midst of World War II. This is a story that will stick with me for a long long time.

Karl and Millie meet in England during the beginning of World War II, and through a series of circumstances, continue to see each other over time and write letters to one another as friends. Their friendship grows into love as they both help the war effort in different capacities. They encounter many hardships, but grow as people and as a couple through their trials.

Their jobs as a code-breaker (Millie) and a merchant naval seaman (Karl) are interesting and written with vivid real detail to educate the reader about history in a fascinating way. I digested/read this 344 page book much slower than I normally read, because each page is packed with important details and new developments in the story.

I loved the element of faith in God and prayer that was weaved throughout the story, and I appreciate the Bible verses mentioned in a few places in the story. It felt like a very natural way to weave faith into the book, and it anchored the characters well.

I highly recommend reading Heirs of Falcon Point before reading this book, to get perspective on Karl's back-story.

There was no explicit sexual content, just kissing and implied closed-door between husband and wife. There were some difficult situations dealing with war injuries and death. Nothing gory; everything was tasteful. I don't think there was any explicit swear words either.

Overall impression: An excellent historical fiction book packed with characters you will love, and by reading it you will learn a ton about WWII. Although some of the topics are hard to pallet (war isn't pretty!) it will be well worth your time.

Thank you to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for this complementary copy of the book. My review is honest and in no way influenced by the publisher.

There are some authors that consistently write novels of excellence. A.L. Sowards is one of them. Her books include multiple Whitney finalists and a Whitney Award winner as well as a Gold Medal winner in the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards. I believe her latest novel, Codes of Courage, is another winner bound to please her readers. It certainly pleased me!

Readers of The Heirs Of Falcon Point, a novel jointly written by Sowards, Traci Hunter Abramson, Sian Ann Bessey and Paige Edwards will already be familiar with Karl Lang, the eldest of the Lang siblings, members of an Austrian family broken apart as they are forced to escape from their Austrian home to avoid the Nazi looking to take over their ancestral home. This book is not required reading before starting Codes of Courage. Readers who really enjoy the romance element of the book may prefer to read it first while those who gravitate to the historical wartime elements of the book may find it less important.

Codes of Courage is actually a prequel spinoff which focuses on Karl Lang and what happened to him once he was separated from his siblings and made his way to England. Although he is the main character, the novel also tells the story of Millie Stevens, an American woman Karl met and was intrigued by on his journey, and Rolf Denhart, a German serving on a U-boat who at times questions his duty to his German masters. Different chapters focus on each of these characters and tell the story of the many ways their lives become entwined.

Imagine arriving as a refugee to a strange country. Karl speaks the language, but his accent marks him as different and suspicious. He is determined to do his part to defeat the Germans but is not allowed to join the regular British services. He does however, manage to join the merchant marine who are tasked with providing supplies to England so she can continue to battle the Nazi's. It is a dangerous job and not all who serve survive. After his ship was sunk, Karl faces prejudice in England and spends some time in lock-up until Millie is able to seek help to obtain his release and return to service.

Throughout the novel, the reader will fall in love with Karl and Millie as their relationship deepens. Millie is a puzzle-solver and finds herself doing her part for the war at Bletchley Park working to help with translations and ultimately code-breaking while Karl continues to serve in the Merchant Marine while dreaming that someday he can join the Royal Navy. Hand written letters sent between them show their deepening love for each other and when Karl can get a brief leave, he does his best to visit Millie and cement their relationship, knowing that in the blink of an eye, things could change if his ship is destroyed.

The book is not all romance though. It is filled with historical detail about the merchant marine service, the navy and the German U-boats Descriptions of life in a submarine, the smells, stale air and the ever present fear that their presence will be detected and they will lose their lives underwater. It makes for a gripping story told through the eyes of Rolf Denhart, whose U-boat has more than one clash with ships on which Karl is serving. Soward's descriptions make you feel as if you are right there and part of the action.

The capture of German U-boats certainly played a huge part in solving the mystery of how the Enigma machine worked. This was key to Britain being able to read German messages and have some foreknowledge of planned attacks. While Sowards admits to using some fictional license in her telling of how the code keys were captured from German submarines, it all blends beautifully with the interactions of the three main characters. This novel has many surprises within its pages and in spite of my having read the book quite some time before as a Beta reader, I was still taken by surprise and shed multiple tears as the story unfolded and drew to its conclusion. I defy anyone to read this book and remain unmoved. It is definitely a keeper on my book shelf!

I was gifted an advance reader copy of this book via #NetGalley, Covenant Communications and the author. All opinions are entirely my own unbiased ones.

My heart and mind are still reeling from this compelling and tender story from the depths of WWII.

Karl is determined to fight against those who stole his family from him and finds himself battling in the ocean. Torpedoes and danger can’t stop him and two chance encounters with beautiful Millie fills his life with love and hope.

I love these characters individually and was absorbed in their roles in the war efforts, but together, they stabbed my heart in all the good ways. It was a treat to get to know them better through their letters and brief interactions when on leave.

I was fascinated by the intensive research that went into the book. A.L. Sowards is no stranger to historical fiction, but this story blew me away. It made me ponder what feelings and experiences people on both sides felt and went through, because deep in the trenches, it’s not always a case of good vs evil. It made me feel so many things, all the things.

My mind was riveted to the fact that pieces of multiple lives come together in such intricate ways that we can’t always understand in the moment, or even for years to come. The way this story came together caught me off guard and yet felt so right. My heart was torn out and assembled back together again.

This book is a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and romance. It’s not one I will forget anytime soon.

Content: mild+ violence/danger/peril due to war (nothing too graphic); mild romance; very mild references to religion

*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*

Codes of Courage was such a good read. It is a historical romance set in 1940 and was full of action. It was a captivating story from the very beginning. I enjoyed getting to be back in this world that I loved so much in Heirs of Falcon Point. I definitely recommend you give this a read.

I havent cried this hard from a book in a while. I knew it was about the war but man alive. Especially the epilogue. Just have tissues handy. You’ll need them.

It was cool to read this so soon after going to DC and learning about World War 2. I do think that contributed to the tears, though. 😅

If you like history, books about WW2, romance, letter writing, heroes, and books that make you cry, check this one out. It’s one of those ones they make memes about - the books that devastate you but you want everyone to read.

I finished reading this book several days ago and still don't have all my thoughts about it organized. Wow, just wow!! This story is told from 3 POV. Karl Lang--who escaped the Nazi's in Austria and is now a refugee in England; Millie Stevens--daughter of an American diplomat living in England; and Rolf Denhart--a German serving on a U-boat. These individuals end up intersecting in ways I couldn't imagine.

I loved Karl and Millie's story! It's sweet and gentle, and I loved how they found each other at a time when life was very uncertain. Getting married during war time is never easy but both of them had jobs they couldn't talk about to each about. Especially Millie who was working as a codebreaker; if they could break the German's unbreakable codes thousands of lives would be saved.

The characters are written in such a way that the reader becomes connected to them and the descriptions are done so well I could picture everything as I read. I was not prepared for some of the twists and was in shock a few times. A.L. Sowards does an amazing amount of research and I learned a lot about U-boats, pack hunting, and the Enigma coding machine, which I'd never heard of before. This is one reason I love reading historical fiction.

This book can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend you read Heirs of Falcon Point to get a more complete picture of Karl Lang's background. The author does a great job reminding us of what happened to him but you'll get a much better understanding of his character by reading his story in Heirs of Falcon Point.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.

Content: war time violence, peril, death. Kissing.

I previously read Heirs of Falcon Point and was excited to read the next book in this collection: Codes of Courage. It wasn’t necessary to have read Heirs of Falcon Point but I felt having read it brought further depth and background into this book.

Karl’s father was murdered , betrayed by a Nazi . Karl lost his sisters because of the Nazis and now Karl is on the hunt for his sisters and revenge against the Nazis. Only it’s incredibly hard (to say the least) because he is from Austrian, speaks German and sounds German.

He runs into a woman, Millie and can’t get her out of his mind and when he sees her again he’s hooked .

The author is a master at weaving three different stories and perspectives into this book: Karl, Millie and Rolf : a German soldier.

Karl and Millie are both code breakers but honestly are never able to tell each other their full jobs due to the high level of security of their jobs. This doesn’t prevent them from making a life with each other despite a war going on.

Their love story is slow and beautiful. Millie’s family is supportive and loving. They depend on each other and are there for each other throughout the war.

Karl works as a merchant sailer because at that time foreigners can’t be a part of the British navy. I never knew how much merchant sailers did in ww2. There is also mention of navy and death in Africa during WW2 which I also didn’t know much about. Reading this book peaked my interest in learning more about Ww2 than I have in a long time.
Karl eventually joins the British navy because he’s tired of his ships being hit by the Germans . Instead he wants to be the one to do the attacking against the Nazis.
The story also follows slightly Rolf’s story . I felt like his story wasn’t as long or as strong as Karla and Millie’s .
Rolf struggles with knowing whether to turn his wife in for helping the enemy or to ignore her help . He struggles with an internal battle of what is right and wrong and if what he hears from time to time is true : that the Jewish are being out in concentration camps and /or being killed.
In the meantime he works hard to attack and dismantle the enemy’s ships. What is to believe ?
I did not like the ending of the book. I won’t wreck it for you and you may differ in your opinion but I felt the story was beautiful and told such a wonderful love story of Karl and Millie and the family and friends they built to survive and support each other during war time.

The ending of the book was sad incredibly. and wrapped up within 1-2 chapters . I wish it would have taken a little longer to wrap up. I also understand that all books can’t have happy endings especially historical Ww2 books. I’m curious as to why /how Rolf met Millie later in life. The book leaves open what happened to Karl’s remaining sister . I hope her story is continued .

This was a beautifully written novel . It kept my interest the entire time and made me do more research of the time period and U-boats. I highly recommend the book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book for an unbiased review. All opinions are my own.