"Midnight on the Scottish Shore" is another wonderfully written WWII novel by Sarah Sundin. Sundin's storytelling keeps getting better and better! This book is a standalone, however Cilla is the cousin of Aleida who we met in Sundin's last release "Embers in the London Sky". Cilla feels she needs to flee the Nazi occupied Netherlands and finds her chance to do so by going through Nazi spy training, though she never plans on sending information back to the Nazi's once she arrives to the U.K. She ends up in Northern Scotland and is found by Lachlan, a naval officer stationed at Scapa Flow which is a strategic base for the British military. Cilla turns double agent to work for the British military, ends up being assigned to a lighthouse in Northern Scotland and the story takes off from there.

This book is filled with rich historical detail and as with Sundin's other novels, there are intriguing side characters and a story of intrigue to bring our heroine to a happy ending of her own. This story shows a lot of character growth for Cilla and growth in a faith towards God. This is a very faith filled story in certain parts. I was on the edge of my seat with certain parts of this book and couldn't put it down because I wanted to find out what would happen next! The author's descriptions of Scotland were beautiful and her words paint a picture of beauty in this remote part of the world.

For anyone that has enjoyed Sundin's other books, they won't want to miss this one. If you are a fan of Christian WWII fiction, you won't want to miss reading this one. I haven't read any others that take place in this part of the world in the WWII fiction realm so it was refreshing to see a different part of the war, but one that wasn't as safe as many might think it was during the war.

I recommend this one for age 16+ due to espionage, death and bombing scenes. The romance in this one is light and only kissing and holding hands are mentioned.

Thank you to Revell fiction and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

I loved this romantic tale full of intrigue and historical detail! I learned so much about Scotland during WWII and could just feel the wind and smell the heather in Sundin’s descriptive writing. Lachlan was a dream male protagonist - he has all of the best qualities of my favorite Scottish hero, Jamie Fraser. Cilla was a perfect mix of vulnerability and strength. I like how she didn’t rely on others to do what was needed - she was full of action.

I especially loved the themes of God’s forgiveness and protection throughout the book. This was the first book I’ve read by Sundin and I can’t wait to get to her backlist.

Every time I pick up a book by Sarah Sundin, I always know I am in for an amazing historical read. Her WWII novels have been some of my absolute favorite historical reads. One of the things that I love is that despite having written so many by now, each one is unique and seems to open my eyes to a unique aspect of the war that I'd not heard much (if anything) about before. This one was absolutely no exception. World War II, spies and romance... honestly, what more could you ask for in a good book? I was drawn into this story right away and held captive right through to the end... it truly was just the right blend of historical details, a deliciously slow burn romance and enough intrigue and danger to keep me wondering how it was all going to play out. If you enjoy Christian historical romance, you absolutely won't want to miss this one.

**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.

This is the 3rd year in a row I've started the year with a Sarah Sundin book, in order that I can rest assured that my first read of the year will be stellar. And as always, Sundin delivers with her upcoming release Midnight on the Scottish Shore. Sundin is the master of WWII fiction and it shines through in the various plot lines and locations she chooses for her WWII novels. This one takes place primarily in Scotland, which is an unusual setting for a WWII novel. This book follows Cilla van der Zee, who is a part of the Dutch resistance playing the part of an undercover Dutch Nazi. When the man she's admired is killed in a Nazi raid and she is expected to rejoice, she seeks a way out before she blows her cover. When she finds the perfect way to escape, things don't turn out as she expects when she is arrested as a spy upon landing on the Scottish shore. Only time will tell if she will be able to prove her loyalty to the allied cause in Scotland, or if she will be executed as a spy.

This book had a little bit of everything - WWII history, a wounded hero, a slow burn romance (that also included the enemies to lovers trope and the grumpy/sunshine trope), spycraft and espionage (including MI5), family disputes, and a solid faith thread. The faith thread was a bit slow going, but once it came shining through, it became a powerful plot enhancer and themes of forgiveness and surrender abounded. I enjoyed the strong character development in this one as both Cilla and Lachlan had some major growth throughout the story. Though they were strong likable characters from the get-go, they grew into stronger and more likable characters as the story progressed. I had tears at several times during their growth scenes, particularly one between Lachlan and his brother. The romance was sweet and slow, as Lachlan eventually learned to trust, and the overall story line was fresh and interesting. If you've read Embers in the London Sky, you'll enjoy seeing some familiar faces in this book, but if you haven't, you won't be lost at all. I always enjoy seeing guest appearances from old, familiar friends along the way though. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable story and one I can heartily recommend to fans of historical (especially WWII) fiction. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin is an epic historical novel that immerses readers in WWII, Scotland. The story catapults you into a world of intrigue, code-breaking, danger and spying.

Cilla van der Zee is a vibrant, intelligent girl who infiltrates the Nazi party in the Netherlands, to escape to Britain, where she plans to stay with her aunt for the duration of the war. However, not everything goes her way, and she is captured as a Nazi spy. Despite being on the allies’ side, they treat her like the enemy, forcing her to become a double agent. The author has captured the intricacies of spying during the war and has created a story that reads like a movie.

The supporting cast of characters makes this book hard to put down. As usual, Sundin has done her research and takes the reader on an adventure that is filled with intrigue, danger, faith and love. If you like WWII historical fiction, you will love Midnight on the Scottish Shore.

I received a complimentary ebook from Revell through NetGalley for my honest review.

This is my 3rd novel by Sundin, and she always give a riveting historical fiction novel. You can tell she has done her research.
In this novel we follow Cilla van der Zee who has to do the unthinkable when she has to spy for the Nazis while in Britain.
She wants to work for the Allies instead and is pulled in many ways. While trying her mission she is found by a Lt Mackenzie on the Scottish sore and turns her over. She is to be executed.
British intelligence decide to send her to Scotland to use radio as a means to deceive Germany, working with the Lt. How will they work together when trust has been broken?
A sweeping saga which will wish you away to those frightening times.

Took me awhile to warm up to Lachlan, as he was just so harsh, but by the end, thought the book was just as good as Sundin's normally are. I have a special interest in the Orkneys and was pleased to see a book set there. The history was interesting, once I could wrap my mind around the setting and what was happening there.
Cilla seemed to have a conversion experience that was only named in vague terms. For something so life changing, I would have liked to see the source of the change be spelled out more, but the mentions of the Beatitudes were used in just the right places and overall, faith was given its place.
This was ultimately a satisfying read, and I learned some things. I'm grateful to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ebook I could read in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

"Midnight on the Scottish Shore" is a Christian romantic suspense set in 1941-1942, mostly in Scotland. Cilla spies on the Nazis for a Dutch resistance group until it gets dangerous. Desperate to escape the danger, she charms a German intelligence officer into taking her into training to spy for Germany on British soil. But things go terribly wrong when she's dropped off. She's captured by Lt. Lachlan, who unknowingly sends her to the British counter-intelligence to be trained as a double agent. No one believes that she's not truly a German spy, but she's determined to be pleasant and do a good job if it'll help the British war efforts.

The characters were well-developed, had complexity, and acted realistically to events. They felt like real people who really lived through these events. The historical details were woven into the story and brought the story alive in my imagination. Lachlan and Cilla worked well together, finding ways to convince Cilla's German contact that she's loyal while providing only information of minimal importance. Lachlan struggled with forgiving his brother, who betrayed him by deliberately ruining his naval career. Cilla found the freedom that God offers, even when we're physically confined. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable historical romance.

Set in Scotland during World War 2, Sarah Sundin has introduced us to her latest character who wants to escape the German's which triggers the start of our story. As always when reading a Sundin book, I learnt a new aspect about the war - in this case, more about Scotland's part in the war.

It was nice to have a previous pairing introduced as a side characters. I liked the main characters growth over the course of the story. I did not immediately relate to the characters or their choices however their issues helped them become more likeable - the themes of forgiveness and trust were central to the story.

I receive complimentary books for various sources, including Netgalley, Authors, and other such sources. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received compensation.

If you are interested in a happy ending World War 2 novel without a lot of the heaviness of war, Sarah Sundin is always a good choice! I learned a bit about double agents and how the Allied powers used spies to win the war. Plus the romance is always enjoyable!

A young woman in the Dutch resistance in World War IIs tries to flee by acting as a German spy, but ends up as a double agent in Scotland, working with a stern military man who is determined not to fall for her charms. I enjoyed the story, although there was a bit too much detail on espionage for my taste.

[Thank you to @netgalley and Revell for my gifted e-copy in exchange for an honest review.]

Set in World War II Scotland, Cilla van der Zee is a young Dutch woman who is desperate to escape Nazi’s occupation of the Netherlands. In order to escape, Cilla decides to do something unconscionable: agree to become a spy for the Nazis in order to escape once they deliver her to Britain. When the time comes for Cilla to escape, she’s caught by a Scottish officer in the Royal Navy who immediately turns her in for being a Nazi spy.

I absolutely adore Sarah Sundin novels. I’ve been so excited for Midnight on the Scottish Shore since it was announced! World War II historical fiction, especially Christian historical fiction is one of my all-time favorites, and World War II espionage is always fascinating. I knew I would love this book!

Cilla and Lachlan were such a great slow burn romance, and I loved their characters together and individually. This book was full of biblical themes, redemption, particularly. The author takes the opportunity in this story to explore wrestling with the conscience, as well as what loyalty means and who and what is truly worthy of it. I love an excellent story with deep themes!

Towards the end this book really started to feel like a romantic suspense novel with a historical setting. I’m here for that! So good!

Highly recommend Midnight on the Scottish Shore.

Sarah Sundin has done it again, bringing WWII alive. This time we begin in the Netherlands, and through the eyes of Cilla van der Zee, as she personally witnesses the brutality of the German War Machine. She wants out and love the twist she develops, as she gets to Scotland, with the German's help.
Now Lt. Lachlan Mackenzie is out for a walk, he need to clear his head, when he finds a spy entering his beloved country. He can't believe his eyes, and has his pistol handy, and it doesn't take long that he realized the He he sees is a She.
Not what Cilla was hoping for, but boy now the she is in another predicament, and in another dangerous situation.
What a story the author weaves, spies, counter spies, espionage, and then the family drama. You will be quickly page turning for answers, and they do come, but with a lot of surprises.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Wow. I can't believe that I am NOT giving five stars to a book set in Scotland... with a kilt-wearing, bagpipe-playing, red-headed hero... written by one of my all-time favorite authors... but this one just didn't do it for me. The beginning action in the Netherlands felt way too rushed, so that I never connected emotionally with Cilla or her plight for freedom from the Nazi occupation. And for a writer who is usually so meticulous with research and details to get something as basic as how to play the bagpipes wrong... well, I can't lie. That really killed the story for this piper. This book just missed the mark for me overall, I'm sorry to say.

When I first started reading this book, I really liked Cilla. She was smart, savvy, and she knew how things were coming down. She did have a bit of selfishness in looking for a way of escape for herself first. As the plot moved on, she became rather superficial and silly, to a degree. Usually I like the protagonists in Sarah Sundin's novels, but I found it hard to like Cilla. Lachlan, on the other hand, was completely likable and personable.

Normally Sarah's books strike a chord with me and they are easy to get into. This one just didn't hit the mark for me. Lachlan didn't trust Cilla at first and it took a while for her to build trust with Lachlan. She was guarded by two WRENS and an army officer while living in a lighthouse. She is utilized as a spy feeding false information to the Germans.

The setting is one of the saving graces of the book. It's a rugged, seashore area that would have been susceptible to German attacks but because of the armaments, stayed relatively safe.

This is a three-star book, simply because of Cilla's flibberty-gibbet personality.

Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Sarah Sundin never disappoints! Midnight on the Scottish Shore has the wonderful writing style, character complexity and development, and thoroughly-researched detail that are Sundin's hallmarks, I loved Lachlan's integrity and Cilla's determination - including her playfulness in difficult circumstances. Though they both have to grow with God's help, Lachlan and Cilla are courageous, noble, and intelligent. And on that note, I was really impressed with Sundin's creation of very clever & complicated cover stories & spy plots.

The cast of supporting characters is also excellent. In fact, one of my favorite moments in the book is a conversation between Cilla and Lachlan's brother Neil in a pub. It was also so fun to get appearances from Hugh and Aleida Collingwood.

This book has action, excitement, and some wonderful moments of romance. Faith elements are woven into the story, but I think readers who aren't Christian can definitely still enjoy this book. Anyone who loves historical fiction will love Midnight on the Scottish Shore!

Thank you to Sarah Sundin and her team for the free advanced review copy. I was not required to leave a positive review; these are my honest opinions.

This review is cross-posted on Goodreads. It will be posted on my Instagram and on Amazon upon the book's publication.

Midnight on the Scottish Shore
A Novel of World War II
by Sarah Sundin
Publisher: Revell
Series: None
Rated: 4
Obtain: Borrow or buy
Back of the Book: “In a time of war, danger lurks beneath the water--and in the depths of the human heart
As the German war machine devours the Netherlands, the only way Cilla van der Zee can survive the occupation is to do the unthinkable--train to become a spy for the Nazis. Once dispatched to Britain, she plans to abandon her mission and instead aid the Allies. But her scheme is thwarted when naval officer Lt. Lachlan Mackenzie finds her along the Scottish shore and turns her in to be executed.
Yet perhaps she is more useful alive than dead. British intelligence employs her to radio misleading messages to Germany from the lighthouse at Dunnet Head in Scotland--messages filled with naval intelligence Lachlan must provide. If the war is to be won, Lachlan and Cilla must work together. But how can he trust a woman who arrived on his shores as a tool of the enemy--a woman certain to betray both him and the Allied cause?”

Impressions: This was an interesting novel. I’ve not really thought of Scotland's involvement in WW2, and this enlightened me about their service. Cilla was introduced as being burdened with justice as well as being the responsible, protective sister. The ramifications of being a double-crossing spy would have scared me silly. I can’t imagine the Nazi training was subtle or gentle; especially after seeing them kill an innocent person. Rather than being compliant and serious once captured she was sarcastic and playful. Her lighthearted and cheerful demeanor was confusing considering how she was introduced. I suppose I was just confused with her constant reasoning for her actions as they didn’t match her beginning character. It was engaging and interesting to read though. I liked the spy element.

Quotes: “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy...blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God...For a dozen years, he’d been waiting to show mercy until Neil apologized. Waiting for Neil to make peace. Lachlan had it reversed. He needed to show Neil mercy and strive for peace, regardless of Neil’s actions.”

“’ Boredom sparks creativity.’”

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

In Midnight on the Scottish Shore, Sarah Sundin delivers a captivating tale set against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows Cilla van der Zee, a Dutch resistance fighter turned reluctant spy, and Lachlan Mackenzie, a naval officer navigating the burdens of his past. From their first tense encounter to their reluctant partnership, Sundin expertly crafts a slow-burn relationship built on mutual respect, shared struggles, and the hope of redemption.

Sundin’s attention to historical detail is unparalleled. From the covert operations of MI5’s Double Cross program to the moral complexity of life, the story captures the era with authenticity and precision. The author skillfully balances the high stakes of espionage with intimate character moments, giving readers a glimpse into both the broader conflict and the personal battles of her protagonists. Themes of faith and freedom permeate the story, offering a refreshing perspective on the complexities of war.

What sets Midnight on the Scottish Shore apart is its moral depth. Both Cilla and Lachlan wrestle with their consciences, grappling with questions of loyalty, deception, and the cost of doing what is right. The biblical underpinnings of their decisions add layers of meaning to the narrative, making it as thought-provoking as it is compelling.

For fans of historical fiction, romantic suspense, or stories of redemption, this novel delivers on every front. Sundin’s evocative prose, richly developed characters, and expertly plotted twists make Midnight on the Scottish Shore an unforgettable read. Whether you’re new to Sarah Sundin’s work or a longtime admirer, this book is a standout addition to her repertoire.

Perfect for book clubs and readers who appreciate thought-provoking fiction with heart.

I received a digital advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

I've been reading Sarah Sundin books for well over a decade now, and each time I learn something new about WWII. I thought by now I would've been introduced to most of the different players and storylines, but she's always amazes me by bringing something new to the table! She does a fantastic job of researching and introducing enough fact and historic characters into her fiction that it feels like you're really there living it. This time we're in Scotland, a region that I imagine I realized was marginally involved in the war, but not to the extent that I've learned about now. It had all the elements...mystery, intrigue, romance, faith, and history...woven together beautifully.

So. Good.

That's about all the words penetrating my Scottish-spy-WWII-induced brain fog. I LOVED Midnight on the Scottish Shore. I discovered Sarah Sundin's books about a year ago and I quickly added her to the books I will be looking forward to every year! I devoured this book in a day; I loved the characters and it was very believable and well-thought out, but not too complex for my lil brain.

I love a good Scottish accent, and Cilla was a wonderfully humorous character. I was cackling through some scenes, much to my family's confusion.

Overall, five stars!

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