Fate plays a big hand in the destiny of Winifred Douglas
and Henry Whitfield. It all began when they met when Winnie
was photographing soldiers, and continued as their lives
intertwined with repeated meetings. It was as though a force
was at work to keep them together, despite the odds against
them.
As a photojournalist, Winnie went in search of the
perfect photo. Her search and courage led her
right to the battle trenches. She wanted her photos to
capture the soldier's experience, from the recruiting center
to the danger at the battle lines. Her choice of career
wasn't without some challenges. Leaving the states to live
in France was a difficult decision, but she was determined
to succeed and become independent. What she experienced went
far beyond her expectations as she developed a core of
amazing friends and co-workers.
Both Henry and Winnie were reluctant to open their hearts
and fall in love. Henry was still nursing a broken heart
over the loss of his childhood sweetheart just a month shy
of their wedding day. But he couldn't deny his encompassing
attraction to Winnie. She was an unwelcome part of his
subconscious during the long nights on watch and while he
was gearing up for the next battle. Winnie also was waging a
losing battle with herself. She longed to be with Henry at
any opportunity but was determined to keep her heart
protected from any further hurts. Their greatest battle was
yet to come as they faced the biggest obstacle to their
future together -- the ability to trust in their love. Were
they willing to fight to stay together? Or would they once
again steer clear of love to avoid leaving themselves
vulnerable. Bravery comes in many forms, Winnie and Henry
displayed theirs over and over again. Love would be their
greatest test, leaving them with the most to lose.
Jackie M. Smith draws a vivid image of the life of
soldiers in the throes of battle; presenting both their fear
and commitment to the job for which they enlisted.
They are portrayed with an honesty that gives the readers
a scary and decidedly un-romanticized view of
warriors. Smith is equally sure handed in her ability to
give us a glimpse into the life of the people left at home.
Enjoy.
Winnie Douglas always loved taking pictures of her family
and her hometown. One day, while reading a war magazine,
pictures of the soldiers whose strength and courage touched
her. With her family’s blessing, she journeys to Paris where
a French magazine hires her to take pictures of the war.
Henry Whitfield answers the call of duty and travels halfway
across the world to fight in the war. Far away from his
family and Canadian hometown, he feels the loneliness. On
the battlefield, he meets an angel. Afraid she is just a
dream, he befriends Winnie.
War brought them together. Will it tear them apart?