Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Where Trees Touch the Sky by Karen Barnett hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About The Book
Title: Where Trees Touch The Sky
Series: National Parks
Author: Karen Barnett
Publisher: Kregel
Release Date: August 13, 2024
Genre: Christian Fiction, Dual Timeline
Some secrets have shadows as long as the redwoods are tall.
In the early 1920s, the accelerating destruction of the California redwoods is more than nature-loving Marion Baker can bear. Throwing herself headlong into the work of the Save the Redwoods League, she is shocked to learn that Frank Duncan, a man she’s grown to love, is the son of one of the area’s worst timber barons. Though devastated by the betrayal, she realizes this could also be an opportunity–if only she can convince him to help preserve her favorite grove from his father’s greedy grasp. Is her love strong enough to persuade him to save these precious trees? Or will Marion choose to sacrifice her beliefs to keep Frank by her side?
Nearly fifty years later, in 1972, polio survivor June Turner is deeply proud of the legacy her great aunt Marion has left as a redwood warrior. And despite her disability, June is determined to prove herself capable as a ranger at the recently established Redwood National Park, even if it means taking to the trails with her crutch in hand. What better way to carry on the family tradition of preserving Gods magnificent creation?
When aspiring film student Adam Garner approaches June to help make a documentary about Marion’s life, she swiftly grabs the opportunity to spread her aunt’s worthy reputation. That is, until they unearth a secret that might shatter the family legacy. In the scramble for answers, June may lose not only her family pride but also her own dreams.
Karen Barnett’s beautifully crafted split-time novel, set against the majestic backdrop of a beloved national park, immerses the reader in history that feels as fresh as if it happened yesterday.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop
Excerpt
Sitting in the superintendent’s office at Redwood National Park was the answer to a thousand desperate prayers. The only trouble was, they hadn’t been hers.
June shifted on the hard wooden chair and tapped the toe of her wafflestomper hiking boot, the red laces done up so tight the stiff leather nearly cut off the circulation at her ankles. Most women would put on a dress for the first time meeting a new boss. But since she already had the hiring papers in hand, it seemed appropriate to look the part. Better yet, these wide-legged corduroys completely covered her brace. This job was a huge opportunity—a chance to live out her brother’s dream—and the last thing she wanted was unnecessary distractions.
A gray-haired man appeared in the doorway, his shoulders drawn stiffly back beneath his uniform. “Miss Turner?”
My Impressions:
Karen Barnett’s National Parks novels are always a treat. I have never been to Redwood National Park, but now after reading Where Trees Touch The Sky, a visit there is on my bucket list. The book shows the author’s love for our country’s treasures and the importance of preserving them for future generations. I really liked the dual timelines that showed the very early beginnings as well the inaugural year of the park. Both stories were compelling in their historical context. But this book was not a documentary — its a novel full of hope, forgiveness, and God’s good grace. Characters in both the 1923 and 1972 stories know God, but they forget that His forgiveness is free — no working to make up for past mistakes or to have value in others’ eyes. This truth is delivered in a natural way, no preachiness involved. I loved how the storylines and the themes progressed naturally. There’s some romance as well, though the happily-ever-afters are up to the reader’s imagination. That suits me — I like to have a part in how relationships end up. 😉
Where Trees Touch The Sky is a good addition to the National Parks series — you are going to love its history, romance, and message. And if you never get to see a redwood in person, this book will make you feel like you did!
Recommended.
Audience: Adults.
(Thanks to Kregel for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Also Available:
About The Author
Tour Giveaway
(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Where Trees Touch the Sky and book related goodies!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 14, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 21, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
Recent Comments