Just Once us another emotional novel from Karen Kingsbury. I thought it was pretty good and am giving it four and a half stars.

Many years ago we first encounter Irvel Holland toward the end of her story. In Just Once Kingsbury takes us back to where it all started, as a young woman growing up in Bloomington, Indiana.
Irvel’s best friend, Hank Myers, goes away and along comes Hank’s older brother, Sam. Sam is devoted to Jesus, smart, and dedicated to his family. Irvel and Sam grow closer together. He’s ready for more when WW2 comes knocking at Pearl Harbor. As Sam goes off to war he leaves Irvel and encourages Hank to take care of things on the home front.
When Irvel is drafted as an OSS spy she’s told she cannot tell anyone. She too leaves Hank behind.
The pages of this novel tell the daring story of what has been deemed our greatest generation. Warriors and hero who gave everything to ensure people are free.
I enjoyed this story. It’s always good to have a clean romance to knock off my TBR list. Kingsbury’s style is dependable and wholesome. I am thankful for what she adds to Christian fiction.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This is a beautifully written story! It is full of emotions and you can feel every one of them. Once you start reading it, you don't want to stop. Loved it!!
I received a complimentary copy from Atria Books via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

What an incredibly heartwarming, and also heart wrenching at times, love story. Karen Kingsbury is an amazing storyteller, and this one is truly special. Hank and Irvel’s life long romance touched my heart and kept me reading long into the night. The author’s dedication to detail and accuracy of the events transpiring during WWII and the formation of the OSS, made it that much more interesting and enjoyable. Beautifully done and inspiring!

Wow... This book was beautiful!
I mean, I’m not surprised, because every Karen Kingsbury book I’ve read has been an absolute delight! Even if it emotionally wrecks me in the process haha!

Irvel and Hank had such an incredible story that deserved to be told, and I’ll forever be thankful that they exist in Bloomington, Indiana.

-Irvel’s birthday present?! When I tell you I S O B B E D

-“I’ll be seeing you”?! Are you kidding me? It’s the perfect song!

I’ve read many Karen Kingsbury books, especially from the Baxter family set in Bloomington, IN. It was great to hear the story of Irvel and Hank because I remember her from books that featured Ashley Baxter working at Sunset Hills Adult Care.
This book, like many Karen Kingsbury books, was rather predictable. I knew what was going to happen to the brother and you knew that Hank and Irvel ended up together right from the start. I did feel like the book was a bit overly drawn out and there was a bunch of unnecessary parts with presumptions of death. Maybe it’s something that happened often in WWII, but the book didn’t let on to that fact.
This was a rather quick read for 384 pages. It didn’t take too long and it was a page turner even with the predictability aspects. I would recommend this book to fans of Karen Kingsbury.

I received this book as ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is Karen Kingsbury's first historical fiction novel. She did a great deal of research and accuracy and it shows (in a good way). In short, Just Once, follows Irvel, Sam, and Hank as they battle life, war, and love together. These characters are likable and the reading is easy. Unfortunately, I couldn't rate it higher because I knew what was going to happen. I've read a lot of similar stories. But that's me. If you like Christian romance set in WWII this book is for you. 3.5 stars!

I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

This is the quintessential romance. It tugs at your heart strings because the three main characters are all good people. Add to the mix a love triangle and war. Ah the tears.

Another beautiful book by Karen Kingsbury. I still have tears in my eyes as I have just finished this historical WWII story. I found these wonderful fictitious characters blended so well with actual history. I leaned about the OSS, which was a precursor of sorts to the current CIA. Four thousand women were military spies. I won't say more, but to warn you to have tissues close by. This is a very heartwarming story that makes you appreciate the sacrifices made for our freedoms. Lest we forget, please read this book and share it with others.
*thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
4.5 stars

Just Once
by Karen Kingsbury
Publisher: Atria Publishing
Series: None
Rated: 4
Obtain: Buy or borrow
Back of the Book: “In 1941, beautiful Irvel Holland is too focused on her secret to take much notice of the war raging overseas. She’s dating Sam but in love with his younger brother, Hank—her longtime best friend—and Irvel has no idea how to break the news. Then the unthinkable happens—Pearl Harbor is attacked. With their lives turned upside down overnight, Sam is drafted and convinces Hank to remain in Indiana, where he and Irvel take up the battle on the home front.
While Sam fights in Europe, an undeniable chemistry builds between Irvel and Hank but neither would dare cross that line. Then, two military leaders pay Irvel a visit at the classroom where she teaches. The men have plans for her, a proposition to join a new spy network. One catch: She can tell no one.
With Irvel caught between two brothers thousands of miles apart, can love find a way, even from the ashes of the greatest heartbreak?”

Impressions: This was a well-written, easy-to-read novel. The storyline hops at the beginning and end but it is simple to follow. Much of the story was set during WW2 with glimpses into the different roles that were played by the American people. As war disrupted so much in people's lives, a love story emerges and love persists. This story combines the somewhat complicated aspects of romance with the challenges war brings to relationships. I feel like there was a balance of good and bad events in the story that made it believable and engaging. The characters went through a full spectrum of emotions in their journey to each other that I found relatable. This was a sweet love story set during a challenging time.

Quotes: “Scripture is our best weapon when we’re afraid.”

“’ Privates, when it’s your turn to take the beach, you will see things a man should never have to see. Death will be all around, and it may come to you. Do not be afraid...Rather remember this. War is only won at a very great cost. And we will win this war.’”

“‘I’m surviving out here only because of God’s promises. His words I carry them like a sword.’”

“Jesus. He’s the Savior, the one who came to earth and died for your sins and mine. You want God to hear your prayers, you gotta get things right with Jesus.’”

I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

Classic Karen Kingsbury. It’s been years since I read one of her novels, but it is such a heartfelt story while still having God at the forefront.

Wow! Where do I start? JUST ONCE is not my first book by Karen Kingsbury and it totally will not be the last! I was so wrapped up in this story from page one. I came to know and love all of these characters very deeply. JUST ONCE is a truly heartbreaking book so keep the tissues handy! I knew this was going to be a heart tugging story and I was a bit afraid to read it.

Along with the heartbreak in JUST ONCE, there is also hope, faith, and healing. I felt so close to the characters as I finished up the book and really didn’t want it to end. Karen is an excellent story teller and she gets you so caught up in their lives right from the very first page and never lets you go. JUST ONCE is a book that will stay with me for a very long time! I’m keeping my review short on purpose. I don’t want to spoil JUST ONCE for anyone and its hard to discuss this story without ruining it for a person who hasn’t read it yet. Do yourself a favor, grab this book now! You can thank me later!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Atria Books through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Contemporary writer Karen Kingsbury, explores the bond between family, friends, and colleagues in her latest offering Just Once. Set in the present day, the story goes back in time through most of the narration, touching the reader in a profound way as Kingsbury invites observers to be that family member, who discovers unique qualities about their ancestors. She shows readers that some of the most simplest people in the world can perform acts of pure altruism and heroism.

A historical romance that takes the audience through the trials and tribulations of childhood friends Irvel Holland and Hank Myers, Kingsbury unfolds the tale at a leisurely pace, giving the reader time to absorb information about the leading characters and the new experiences they encounter, and the global events that affect their lives. She moves the story slowly, allowing the reader to not be overwhelmed by information or lost in the narration.

Irvel and Hank's love story takes place during World War II while residing in Bloomington, Indiana. Chapter by chapter, the present-day family members of the Myers learn about the lover's lives and develop an appreciation and admiration for their ancestor's bravery and patriotism. Kingsbury explores how the Christian faith pulls people through their darkest days, providing inspiration to move towards the light at the end of the tunnel.

In true Kingsbury spirit, the story offers audiences a pleasing ending that leaves a lasting impression on the reader, witnessing how positive energy prevails.

A wonderful historical, fictional romance book. The first one I have read in a long time. I have always enjoyed Karen’s books and, like always, she left me with wanting more. She pulls at the heart strings and just when you think you know what will happen next, she surprises you.
Irvel Meyers has always loved Hank, but has never been able to tell if he loves her back like he says he does. When his brother takes an interest in courting her, Irvel agrees. Then the United States gets involved in World War 2 and both Hank get involved. As well as Irvel in a special way.
You’ll have to read to find out what happens next.



I graciously received an advance e-copy from netgalley for review. All opinions are my own.

Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this moving story. This stand alone book follows the story of Irvel and Hank's love story throughout their lives. I loved the strong faith in God each of the characters had and their reliance on Him. It would have been nice to have more details about the coding and missions Irvel was involved in. Predictable at times but enjoyable.

Sometimes I have to take a break from mysteries and psycho thrillers and read a good love story. I hesitated to read this one because I’m a little tired of the WWII genre, but I love Karen
Kingsbury’s books, and I’m glad I did read it. I remembered the character Irvel from one of her earlier Baxter family books and I enjoyed reading her story. This is a book that I would definitely recommend!

I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

In 1941, Irvel Holland navigates a complex love triangle with Sam and his brother Hank as World War II unfolds. When Pearl Harbor is attacked, Sam is drafted, leaving Irvel and Hank to battle on the home front. Amidst the chaos, Irvel faces a secret proposition from military leaders to join a spy network, complicating her already tumultuous romantic entanglement. As love is tested, can it endure the heartbreak of war?

I am always moved to tears as I read a novel by Karen Kingsbury. Her emotionally charged writing reminds us what matters most as she shares heartbreak and hope. Before reading, I thought this book was going to feel suspenseful. Which brother will she choose? Do they survive the war? Those answers are actually given within the first two chapters of the book, allowing us to focus on their journey and experiences rather than simply an outcome. Though Irvel is a math genius and a spy, it’s her courage and convictions that make her inspiring.

Thank you @atriabooks and @netgalley for the eARC. I will always remember this emotional and moving story ♥️

Perfect for you if you like:
A balance of faith elements with contemporary issues
Emotionally driven stories
Inspirational characters

Similar to:
One Tuesday Morning by Karen Kingsbury
One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
*None of these are WWII historical fiction, they are emotionally driven novels

✅this book is clean
⚠️anxiety, war trials, death

Just Once by Karen. Kingsbury is her first historical fiction book and does not disappoint. Irvel and Hank have known each other their whole lives. The love story during World War II is super sweet with a few twists and turns that I won’t ruin for you but I highly recommend reading this standalone book if you like Karen Kingsbury dramas with a twinge of sadness but overall good storytelling. I rarely give 5 stars but this book is worthy of a 5 star rating.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.

Irvel has been a background yet very important character in the Baxter family books and we finally and fantastically get her story! A story started long before most of us were born, before her she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. What a life she led!

So begins the love story of Irvel and Hank growing up and falling in love with the backdrop of WW2
This was an amazing love story and I cried from beginning to end. And I loved every page!

This book started out slow for me. I almost put it aside to read later, but I'm glad I didn't. I also find it fitting that I'm reviewing this book on Veteran's Day. The story is about WW II and the people who fought in it. The book is not graphic in its scenes of war, but you get the idea of how bad it was. This book should be read and discussed by every young person who has no idea of the sacrifices that were made so that they could enjoy their freedoms. Unfortunately the younger generation today has no idea of the price that was paid by so many. Being a military family (brother, husband, son), I could feel all the feels that the characters experienced. I know of the uncertainties that families experience when they don't hear from their loved ones for months on end. I know the anxiety of seeing a loved one go off to war. I also know the unmitigated joy of seeing a son return from war in one piece and sound mind.

This book is an amazing tribute to those who gave so much, not just those in the military but also the families that suffered right along with the soldiers. If you are a military family, you will readily relate to the history in this book.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy for my honest review.