Among the Poppies

4.5 stars

"Why must life always be a choice? . . . . For once, could You not make the path split? Make one straight, unquestionable way filled with sunshine and daffodils?"

Gwyn Ruthers is on a mission to see the world. Using the travel list that her now deceased mother drafted many years earlier, Gwyn is convinced that obtaining a pilot's license is her ticket to freedom from her simple life as a chauffeur's daughter. Quite the automobile expert, Gwyn manages to secure a position as an ambulance driver for a privately funded all-female ambulance unit stationed in France, during the throes of the Great War; impatiently waiting for her acceptance into flight training. It's there that her path forward becomes rather murky, for the handsome Captain William Crawford, who catches her "feet under the car" is all about order and routine, or so he thinks.

Set against the blazing torments of one the worst wars in modern history, Gwyn and William experience the best and worst that the heart has to offer, before finding that their sweetest dreams can reside "among the poppies".

Among The Poppies is a brilliantly written debut novel. J’nell Ciesielski has showcased her ability to write historical fiction in a way that will not only hold your attention, but leave you on the tips of your toes wanting more. I applaud the author’s ability to write so vividly that I felt as if I was experiencing the story. I could hear the ambulance trotting down the road, I could feel the breeze, I could smell the foul odor that cames from the injured soldiers, and I could feel the attraction between William and Gwyn. Oh my…..this was one of those couples where I was screaming at the hero – “kiss her already”! I don’t do that often, but these two just got to me. It was almost like this unspoken, forbidden lust. And rightly so, as Gwyn was putting Cecelia’s needs before her own. And as much as I loved the story between William and Gwyn, the novel as a whole was so much more than that. Not once did I feel it was too mushy, or taking away from the war story. It was a perfect balance between war and love.

Gwyn was such a strong heroine, and so easy to root for. She wasn’t afraid to work hard, get her hands dirty, and help out during a crucial and dangerous time in history. I admired her gumption, her willingness to stand her ground, and her ability to every once in a while show her vulnerability, even if in small doses. You can’t help but be swept into her story, and wish you were there instead of Cecelia. Gwyn is one of those characters that I would love to be friends with. We could talk romance, war, cars, engines, and more! And then there is the swoon-worthy William Crawford. Captain Crawford. A man who likes his woman to think outside the box, to hold a conversation with, to go against the grain. So many of our historic heroes want their future spouse to be proper, a lady, and beautiful on the outside. Quite the contrary with William, and I think that held even more appeal for me. Gwyn’s challenging ways called to him instead of making him run. Their story was a story I would love to read more about, even as secondary characters in a future book (hint, hint).

Love story aside, J’nell Ciesielski has brought history to life in this novel. She shows the darkness of the way, but writes it in a way that beckons you to keep reading. To not look away. While staying true to history, she managed to gracefully include the gruesome details, choosing her words carefully as to not scare the reader. Yes, awful things happened. And yes, it was still a little hard to read. But word choice says a lot, and the fact that there was not one scene in which I wanted to shut the book immediately says a lot. I don’t do well with bloody war scenes, in text or on the big screen.

Bottom line – Among the Poppies is a must read for all. It is full of action, wit, romance, and charm. Your fingers will be turning the pages so fast you won’t want to stop. Remember this book, and remember the name J’nell Ciesielski. I hope to see a lot more from her! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A different type of story. I really enjoyed how J'nell Ciesielski took a different approach to telling a story about World War I. This story is filled with a lot of different tension moments surrounding the heroine. She is a brave woman. I really liked how Ciesielski placed the heroine in tight places and wasn't afraid to tighten the noose around her neck. The romance develops through the high danger, so I wonder if the heroine and hero will actually stay together longer or was this just a romance for the time? This was a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours. Definitely can't wait to see what else Ciesielski comes up with next.

I love it when I find a new author! Especially one as gifted as J'Nell Ciesielski. Where has she been hiding?

Among the Poppies is a wonderful historical romance that is rich in detail, historical facts and of course - romance! Set during WWI, we meet our main characters - Gwyn Ruthers who is not your average girl. She loves to tinker with cars, hates to be told what to do and has dreams of travelling to see the world. Of course, jumping headfirst into a war as an ambulance driver probably isn't the best way to see the world, but it does allow for some terrific writing by the author!

Also, let's not forget Gwyn's romantic interest Captain William Crawford - all spit, polish and rules and Gwyn's total opposite. But of course, that's what makes for a great romance. This book has it all. Put it on your must-read pile. Pre-order it now as it releases on June 11, 2018. You won't be sorry!

This debut novel kept me turning pages! I became so connected to these characters that I had to finish their story. Ciesielski’s wartime story is realistic and engaging. She balances suspense with the perfect amount of romance. Among the difficulties of war, hope and beauty can be found. I can’t wait for her second novel. Actually, a sequel would be nice! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are mine.

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut book from author J'nell Ciesielski. The characters were well developed and drew you into their lives and stories. I enjoyed the families, friendships and experiences that the characters went through. A truly enjoyable read.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views expressed here are my own.

I actually read through this several times, and even though I knew what was coming next, I still got emotional as Gwen and Will struggled to survive the ravages of war. It's one thing to make me want to re-read a book, but it's a true talent to stir up that kind of emotional response upon several readings.