BOOK DESCRIPTION
Hazel Thornton has one great ambition: to help the sick and wounded as a nurse. But that dream can never become a reality. After a devastating childhood trauma, she has spent her life battling fits of panic that make it impossible to finish her studies. Everything changes, however, when a trip to Spain takes a perilous turn that derails her plans to visit her father for Christmas and immediately plunges her into the dangers of a brutal war.
With single-minded focus, she springs into action to help her fellow travelers. To ensure their continued care, she begins work at a Spanish hospital alongside Dr. John Jackson—a man whose only emotion seems to be wariness of his new assistant. Armed with gifts of support from each of her dearest friends, a group that dubs themselves the Blue Orchid Society, Hazel embarks on a journey of hope and healing to battle the demons of her past with the help of the doctor who has captured her heart.
MY REVIEW
I love this series, but even more than that, I love Hazel. Her anxieties and imperfections combined with her pure determination make her beautifully flawed and completely relatable. She is brave and compassionate in the most unexpected and harrowing circumstances. This story left me breathless for her at moments. Dr. Jim Jackson is an American on a mission for the red cross. He is determined to save all he can from the ravages of war, no matter the side. Headstrong Hazel is definitely his match and challenges his long held beliefs and his determination to stay alone. This story has these two thrown together, working side by side. Hazel had not been able to finish her nurses training due to unresolved trauma and she is thrown into a situation where she has to face those fears head on. Beyond the drama of the story, there is a piece I love about this series. It is the enduring support and friendship of this group of ladies. They cheer for each other, lift each other, and support each other. There is no competition between them. Together they work to overcome. Even as Hazel is facing unexpected circumstances beyond her control, she depends on these ladies and their love for strength. This is a story about the best of women. It is Hazel's story but it is also brought to pass through this society. The truth about this story is the growth that is experienced by both Hazel and Jim. They work through their pasts and come together. It rings true and realistic but with the escape of the happy ever after. I could not put this one down and read it in one sitting. If you haven't read these books, this is a good place to start. I received an early copy of this book through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
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