Terri Wangard

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres and this book certainly doesn't disappoint! The Storm Breaks Forth begins in 1917, as the United States enters World War I, and author Terri Wangard once again proves her ability to spin a tale that is both entertaining and educational. Maren and Peter Bloch are both great characters, and this story is told through each of their perspectives. Maren remains at home in Wisconsin, working for the war effort, worrying about her husband, and worst of all, enduring intense prejudice because she is of German descent. Peter faces his own trials after being asked to be a spy once he is sent to France. Even though they are Christian believers, Peter and Maren both face moments of fear and doubt. Can Maren prove to the townspeople that she is a loyal American? Will Peter face serious injury, or even death, in his efforts to serve his country? Does their future include being together again?

Wangard does an excellent job depicting the many emotions of Maren and Peter, and her story illustrates that prejudice and misinformation aren't new to our society. The Storm Breaks Forth reminds us that, while men are fallible, our God is ever present and ever loving. I learned so much about this era and was reminded that this war was expected to be the last great war that would involve the United States. Instead, it was only the beginning of many more conflicts for our country! This is an intriguing book that I won't soon forget.

I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from the author but I wasn't required to write a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.… (mehr)

The Storm Breaks Forth by Terri Wangard is a truly wonderful books that tells the story of soldier and their families during WWI. The story focus on Peter Bloch of the Wisconsin National Guards and the family he left behind. The story also shows how those of German decent were treated at that time, regardless of how they actually felt about the situation.
I totally enjoyed reading this story. I enjoyed the character of Maren so much. She did so much to help others during that time. From collecting reading materials for the soldiers to helping make a cookbook to aid the homemaker with new dietary restrictions, she stayed very busy. Even after having her home broken into and her mail stolen, she remained a positive person. One of the parts of the book that stands out to me is how Peter pressed a small bouquet of flowers he was given so he could send them home to Maren. His friends teased him about this.
I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this story provided by JustRead Tours. This is my honest review.… (mehr)

Impeccable research and details of both the front lines and the home front of World War I make The Storm Breaks Forth by Terri Wangard a novel not to miss.

Maren and Peter have faced tragedy in their marriage, but with the declaration of joining the war, their challenges mount. While Peter trains with the Wisconsin National Guard, Maren and her family are under scrutiny because of their German roots.
The way in which Maren continues to contribute to her community despite the treatment she and her family get from some of the locals is admirable. She steps out in courage to take on a few things she’s not comfortable with.

With compelling characters and a moving story line, The Storm Breaks Forth reminds us that prejudice and mistreatment of people is not something specific to today. But it also offers hope because for all those people targeting this family, there are more who stand beside them when battles rage.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.… (mehr)