Knowing You, by Tracie Peterson is the third book in the Pictures of the Heart series. While this is a nice stand alone story, it follows the previous books with characters, events and location so it is best to read them in order. This is a moving story that takes place in Seattle 1899. May is one of the Camera Girls and Lee is an officer stationed at the Expo. They were friends when they were young but Lee’s family moved and they no longer saw each other. May has struggled with being of mixed race while Lee grew up in a family whom hate the Japanese.

This is such a good story in that it is fast paced, with action, suspense, mystery and romance. I enjoyed that it followed through with the other girls and the camera shop owners. This story is so well written, I found it easy to get caught up in the story and was able to imagine the happenings and surrounds. I enjoyed the friendship and growing fondness Lee and May had for each other. While they were separated for years, their friendship was still there and they easily got reacquainted. It’s also enjoyable to see that May’s parents did not hold any judgement against Lee and his family even when his family held judgement against him. This is a story that shows how powerful prayer can be in healing others prejudices and helping them move forward. It is also a great story to remind the reader to help to those in need.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

This novel clearly shows the prejudice against Asian immigrants in the late 19th century. It reflects a general hatred people expressed toward those different than themselves. The racism was within the Christian community too, some believing that Asians could not be saved. Peterson also explores the attitudes Christians expressed about inter-racial marriage, examining the supposed biblical injunction against it. There is also quite a bit about the history of Japan, such as the government's desire to westernize and those opposed to it.

Those main issues are surrounded by a potential romance and a possible burglary. The romance must face the tradition of arranged marriages, especially when such a marriage would enhance business dealings.

Peterson's writing style is entertaining and the plot moves along at a good pace. I felt that some dialogue was a bit forced, crafted to convey information. This novel reminds readers of ungodly attitudes in the past but also that God is in the business of changing bitter hearts.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

I have been enjoying the Pictures of the Heart series and this book is no exception. In this series the setting is the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. Camera Girls there take pictures with Brownie cameras and sell them to the tourists. This book features May Parker, a Japanese American woman. She has an interest in Japanese art, which is the focus of the book. She is also trying to learn more about her Japanese heritage, but it makes her mother sad to talk about her past in Japan. There is a lot of discrimination in the book which made me sad to read about the unfair treatment. May has been discriminated against since childhood and when, as a child, her best friend, Lee Munro moves away she knows she won't have any easy time of it. Camera Girl, May Parker enjoys her work but when a piece of Japanese art is switched with a forged piece she decides to investigate and is reunited with her childhood friend Lee. I loved seeing the happy reunion between these two characters who had not forgotten each other over the years and had missed each other a lot. As their age has increased so has their maturity and that childhood friendship blossoms into a true love. Lee is now a police officer and is involved in solving the forged art piece case and tasked with locating it and tracking the criminals in this crime ring. Such a fascinating story. You could feel the tension rolling off the pages as the danger of the heist comes to the front. A strong story of faith, compassion, intrigue and romance. I suggest you read this series in order as each story builds on the last. Highly recommended!

Pub Date 07 Nov 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

I know I am a broken record, but I love discovering new authors on Booksta. I hadn’t read the previous books, but I was drawn to the story by the description and the cover and I am a big fan of historical fiction.The author tells a great story and hard subject matters are handled well. I loved Lee and how he was there for May. And their reunion all those years later grew into a lovely romance. Even though Lee’s parents didn’t approve. Along with the romance, I enjoyed the touch of suspense that was brought to the story.
I enjoyed learning about the Japanese culture as I read and appreciate the different themes of friendship, hope and kindness. It is a great story.
Thank you to the publisher for the approval for tour purposes. All views and opinions expressed are my own.

I loved the ease of reading Knowing You. It was almost like listening to a story told by an old friend. May and Lee are both such sweet souls, and I love that they had one another during both good times and bad. That unwavering support of such a strong friendship is goals. The author did an excellent job of filling in the gaps from the first two books, the details from previous novels were added in so seamlessly that it made reading this as a standalone perfection.

Racism runs rampant in this novel, and it truly made my blood boil to read it. How people can see themselves better than others is just beyond me. I am white but I was raised to believe that we are all God’s children, and that race and culture is something to be admired and respected. For a long time I thought that was how everyone believed, so when I experienced racism for the first time at a young age it was a complete shock to me. I am in a biracial marriage and even in 2023 I am shunned for it, not only by perfect strangers but even members of my husband’s family! It angers me and breaks my heart but all I can do is pray for those people and live what I believe: that we are all equal. When I read about what Lee and May would face it hit very close to home, but the redemption made by some gives me hope and reminds me that God is bigger than racism and that He can soften anyones hearts. True redemption is so magnificently beautiful!

One of my favorite parts of this novel were the parts about the Japanese culture. I always love learning new things about other cultures and seeing the world through different lenses, so I soaked up all of the cultural tidbits that are sprinkled throughout the narrative with earnest. I found myself looking up different words as a I read and even got into a discussion with a friend of mine who has studied the Japanese culture extensively. So fascinating!

May’s strength in her faith was also so inspiring. Turning to the Lord in all things in prayer is something I’ve always struggled with, but to May it’s as natural as breathing. Oh, to have that kind of relationship with my Lord! It is clear that she lives what she believes and it was a sound reminder to myself to do the same.

Knowing You is hands down one of my favorite novels of the year! Add in a mystery, theft, and love on top of the cultural and historical aspects, plus strong writing and endearing characters, and you’ve got one novel that truly has it all!

Knowing You is the third book in its series, so reading this book meant I jumped into that storyline without having any idea of what took place prior to this book. I didn't find it too difficult, and enjoyed the story in spite of that fact.

May is a half Japanese girl living during those days when all foreigners, and especially those with Japanese blood, were looked at with suspicion. She was an outcast among white Americans, and her life was not an easy one.

But, she had a wonderful friend, Lee. I enjoyed seeing their relationship progress, in spite of the racial tensions they faced, from his family in particular.

This story deals with these racial issues, as well as many others. One of my favorite things about this book is the heist they are aware might take place, and how they work against the villains of this tale.

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

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

Knowing You is the third book in a series (Pictures of the Heart) that takes place around the turn of the century. It’s sure to captivate you! Tracie Peterson is a wonderful author that you’re going to love if you haven’t read anything by her before. This is the third book in a series. You should definitely read them all and read them in order. I’m a huge proponent of always reading series as the author wrote them.

This book focuses on Japanese art. And May, our main character, wants to learn more about her Japanese heritage. She’s doing this through learning about the art. But when things start to go wonky can she figure out what’s going on?

To help her we meet her old friend Lee who is a police detective. Together can they team up and figure out what’s going on while staying safe throughout it all?

I loved watching the characters throughout the novel. Within these pages, you’ll find romance, mystery and faith. But you’ll also find a glimpse into what the turn of the century was like for those who were Asian or of Asian descent. And you’ll learn a bit of their cultural heritage along with the main character May.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

I’ve read several books by Tracie Peterson and have never been dissatisfied, so I was delighted to pick up “Knowing You.”

The story centers on May Parker, a young woman with a white father and Japanese mother, and the prejudices she experiences being bi-racial. It’s easy to connect with her and empathize with her through her trials.

There are wonderful elements of the Japanese culture, examples of friendship, and touches of romance, but my favorite element is the beautiful faith thread throughout.

Even though this is the third book in the series, it serves well on its own. It’s a wonderful blend of friendship, romance, mystery, and faith for those who enjoy Christian fiction.

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

I was intrigued when I read the description of a story about the Yukon Pacific Exposition; May Parker, one of the Camera Girls; Lee Munro, a police detective, and a Japanese exhibit of a samurai suit of armor. This proposed to be an interesting tale, and it certainly was.

May Parker was my favorite character in the book. She is such a forgiving, resilient young lady as she encounters all types of people who judge her unfairly because she is AmerAsian. She was an example throughout the book of seeing beyond people’s prejudice. She counted on her faith to help her pardon people and keep a joyful attitude.

I loved the atmosphere of the Yukon Pacific Expo with its sites and sounds. I could imagine being a part of the crowd viewing the exhibits. I loved Lee Munro’s part as the detective who must see that the samurai suit is safely returned to Japan. While this is the third book in the Pictures of the Heart series, it can be read as a standalone. This would be a great book to read and discuss with a friend.

I was given a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This Was a Very Moving Book!

My heart broke so many times for May and for Lee. The topic of hatred and racism hits home even today. I love the way Tracie Peterson brings Scripture out and the change of hearts that prayer and God bring about.

I felt this story was very engaging and I didn’t want to put it down. The characters were well developed and it was great to see changes in characters from the other books in the series.

I cannot wait to find out if there will be another book in the series!

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

3.5 Stars

Tracie Peterson’s Knowing You is the third book in her Pictures of the Heart series and focuses on May Parker, who paints color onto the photographs the other ladies take at the expo in Seattle.

I enjoyed the twist into May’s work and her other artistry. And I am always happy to read a friends-to-more romance. Lee was May’s closest friend, so when he comes back into her life, there is already a solid history between them.

While there was a small element of mystery in this story, the relationship between Lee and May and all the obstacles they had to overcome—class distinctions, prejudice, and family to name a few.

This book was a pleasant read with a couple of twists and turns that kept the story interesting. Historical romance fans will want to pick up a copy of Knowing You.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.

This is the third in the Pictures of the Heart series - but easily a stand alone read. I read book two and now this one and enjoyed them both.

Childhood friends torn apart when one moved, find each other at the exposition and rekindle romance. The characters are in depth and well written, learning about the samurai and Japanese culture was interesting.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.

Tracie Peterson has long been a favorite author who introduced me to the Christian historical fiction genre. I jumped at the chance to read Knowing You even though I hadn’t read the previous books in the series. Without knowing much going in, I was pleasantly surprised by the unique storyline and sensitively handled look at racism against Asian Americans at the turn of the century. The rich cultural descriptions, romance, mystery, and faith kept me eagerly turning the pages.

May Parker desires to know more about her Japanese heritage, but her mother is adamant about not discussing her homeland. As a half white, half Japanese American, May’s felt the sting of racism and endured teasing as a child. The person who came to her rescue over and over again was her friend Lee Munro. Lee’s parents disapproved of his friendship with May and moved away.

Now May’s a talented artist working as a Camera Girl during the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition and makes money coloring the photographs. Her talent is noticed by an older couple and they commission her to sketch a portrait of the samurai armor currently on display at the Exposition’s Japanese exhibits. When the samurai armor is stolen and replaced with a forgery, May finds herself in the middle of trouble.

Her friend Lee who rescued her as a child is now a police detective assigned to the Exhibition. Meeting again after 10 years, they quickly resume their friendship which grows to something more. But, Lee’s parents have a distinct hatred of Asian people. Can he convince them to accept May? Lee has even more to worry about than his parents’ disapproval when a known forger is spotted at the Exhibition and May’s life is in danger.

I loved learning more about Japanese history and culture through this story! The brief glimpse into May’s life and her mother’s family was fascinating. The romance was enjoyable and I loved watching May’s and Lee’s childhood friendship turn to more. I enjoyed the mystery and action-packed ending. I also loved the themes of forgiveness and hope.

Racism is a major theme in the story. I liked the way the author dispelled misinterpretations of the Bible which some have used to justify prejudice. I loved the overarching theme that God looks on the heart not the outward appearance. While this is such an important topic, I felt that the discussion of racism became somewhat repetitive and wished other aspects of the story had been developed more.

All in all a great read with a beautiful story of love, hope, and triumph over evil. Though I wasn’t familiar with the previous books, I felt like this book stood well on its own. Looking forward to going back and reading the other books in the series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through LibraryThing. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

Historical fiction readers will enjoy the conclusion to the Pictures of the Heart series. The stories of the camera girls set in Seattle during the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Expo in 1909 were wonderfully told. I loved the history behind this story. It was interesting to learn more about May's mother's background. The topics of discrimination and racism were handled well. Faith was a powerful message in this heartfelt book. Recommended.

Knowing You is the third book in Tracie Peterson's Pictures of the Heart series set in Seattle at the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition in 1909. While the characters refer to events that took place in the first two books of the series, Knowing You does work well as a stand-alone read. This time with the Camera Girls working for Fisher Photography, we focus on May Parker, a young woman of Japanese-American descent. May touches up photographs with paint to colorize attendees' memories of the exposition. May does not feel Japanese enough or white enough as she has rarely been accepted by either culture due to prevalent prejudices of the time. A chance encounter with a dear childhood friend, Lee Munro, has the potential of making May feel less alone in the world, as does her growing friendships with the Camera Girls.

Tracie Peterson has addressed the themes of racial prejudice and forgiveness in a way that is easily translated into today's society. She has created memorable characters using plain, simple language. I recommend this book to historical fiction fans who want a book with important themes and that is written with an emphasis on hope. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Knowing You from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

What an amazing book! Tracie Peterson once again crafts a story so engaging that I could hardly put it down! There's mystery, intrigue, and a love story! There is also a difficult subject addressed: racism. I absolutely loved how Tracie incorporated scripture and grace to the topic of racism.

The characters are relatable and genuine! I loved the continuation of Pearl and Otis' stories! I also enjoyed reading about the rest of the Camera Girls' lives. May absolutely blew me away! She is full of grace and beauty. She loves fully, and she believes in the true goodness of people. Lee is a Godly man! He's strong, loving, and committed to his job and his family.

The theme of forgiveness is prevalent throughout the book. May's mother struggles with this, and so do Lee's parents. Lee and May gently guide their parents towards God and that they should give their troubles to Him.

This is a definite read! I would start with the rest of the series, "Remember Me" and "Finding Us," so that you can get to know the characters better!

I was provided a copy of the book from Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

May is half Japanese and half White American. She and her mother have faced racism her entire life. She was even bullied as a child, but her childhood friend Lee came to her rescue. Unfortunately, even though Lee is not racist, his family is, and they move away. Years later, when they are grown, they meet again at the Alaska Yukon Pacific Expo in Seattle. May is an artist, who adds color to photographs. She wants to know about her Japanese heritage, but her mother doesn't want to talk about it. She is asked to paint a painting of Samurai Armor that is on display at the expo for a couple. Lee is a police detective, who after meeting up with May again, is suspicious of a man he has been after stealing the Samurai Armor and replacing it with a fake. Lee and May rekindle their friendship but there seems to be something more there than just friendship this time. And although May's family is fine with Lee, Lee's family is not fine with May.

This is book 3 in the "Pictures of the Heart" series. I loved the first two books, so I was excited for the third one. You don't have to read the first two to enjoy the third, but there are reoccurring characters. I enjoyed this story. I felt so bad for May and her mother having to deal with all the racism. I felt like the author portrayed that well. I loved how much Lee cared for May that he protected her and stood up for her even against his family. I loved May and Lee's relationship, and that first kiss was great. There is also a little bit of danger in this story with the bad guy, to add some more drama. Overall, I really liked this story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley and the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

This book is set in the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition in Seattle. May is a talented artist; she’s adding color to the black-and-white photos for a photographer. She’s fascinated by her heritage from Japan even though her mother won’t speak of it.

She’s intrigued by a Samurai suit of armor & sketches & takes pictures of it so she can paint it. Unfortunately some undesirables want the armor. Because of that Lee Munro, a local detective & May’s old friend, is asked to protect the armor.

After the two old friends meet again, they quickly fall in love. Things get complicated because of rampant prejudice against the Japanese. May & Lee will need every ounce of courage & the strength of their love to defeat the bad guys & convince his family to accept their relationship.

I really enjoyed this book. I’m giving an honest review in exchange for the ARC provided by LibraryThing. Thank you! 4 stars.

Knowing You by Tracie Peterson is the third book in the Pictures of the Heart series and is an engaging read from the first to the last page.

We meet new characters and once again catch up with old ones. I was particularly interested in Esther's story, as I couldn't remember it! I have read all the books so far, and I'm stumped as to her backstory. I wish more had been added to this final book about her so that I could understand what she had done to one of the other characters.

Other than that one little mind-blip for me, I really enjoyed this book. May Parker and her parents, who have endured so much hatred for their looks, were the perfect example of Christ's love and forgiveness in action. I greatly appreciated how the author dealt with racism and how May reacted to those who treated her badly because of her looks.

The love story between May and Lee is sweet, and I was pleased to see how they both supported one another despite the hatred of those around them and Lee's family members. I loved how the author presented the gospel message and how God was definitely glorified in this book.

The heist of the Samurai armour was very interesting and added to the excitement in this book. A definite 5 stars from me. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House and NetGalley for my honest opinion.

I have enjoyed this book very much. I have read the whole series and am looking forward to more from this author. The setting has been at large expos in history. I found the scriptural references on the subject of racism of any kind to be very helpful and was glad to see a clear presentation of the gospel. I was given this book as a complimentary copy from the publisher.