Review: Saving the Rifleman

Reviewed by Jen
 

I don't come across too many historical romances set during WWII, so this really was a nice change of pace.  The story follows a British Red Cross nurse who works in a German hospital.  Maria cares for all wounded soldiers who cross her path, including the British, at no small risk to herself.  She even helps the men get back across the border to safety when she can.

John is one of those soldiers.  He was shot across enemy lines and seeks refuge in the hospital where Maria works. But he is discovered by a German officer. From that point, he and Maria must make a run for friendly territory before they are caught and killed.

As they travel, it gets harder and harder for John and Maria to fight their growing attraction.  Their biggest external problems are John's injury and the constant threat of danger from the Germans. But internally, there is a stumbling block too.  John and Maria come from different classes, and though he could care less, it weighs on her throughout the story. She feels like her low background will forever prevent them from having a real future.

I enjoyed the story. The writing was good. I liked both characters and I liked them together. The pacing was good and the WWII backdrop made it fresh for me.  I felt, at times, like a bit too fine of a point was put on the class difference issue in Maria's mind.  It was on the border of overkill. And these two were claiming to be in Love within a matter of days.  This earned an eye roll or two, but overall, it was a sweet romance with a feel-good ending.

Rating: B-

*ARC Provided by Carina Press via NetGalley

Click to purchase: Amazon

Saving the Rifleman

by Julie Rowe

Release Date: October 8, 2012

Publisher: Carina Press