Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War

Heroines of WWII #4

by Mary Davis

A WASP Goes Above the Call of Duty to Free Captive American Soldiers
 
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
 
Peggy Witherspoon, a widow, mother, and pilot flying for the Women’s Airforce Service in 1944 clashes with her new reporting officer. Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg was injured in combat and is now stationed at Bolling Field in Washington D.C. Most of Peggy’s jobs are safe, predictable, and she can be home each night with her three daughters—until a cargo run to Cuba alerts her to American soldiers being held captive there, despite Cuba being an “ally.” Will Peggy go against orders to help the men—even risk her own life?

​Don’t miss these other stories about Heroines of WWII:
The Cryptographer’s Dilemma by Johnnie Alexander
Picture of Hope by Liz Tolsma
Saving Mrs. Roosevelt by Candice Sue Patterson

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Romance, World War II, Christian Historical Fiction

256 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2022

About the author

Mary originally earned her college degree in elementary education. So where did the passion for inspirational romance books begin? In her head! Her characters would not leave her alone. They kept her from sleeping at night, and focusing on anything else during the day. Over forty titles later, they still keep bothering her to this day - luckily for her readers and fans!

Quiet-natured and creative, Mary also enjoys many crafts such as porcelain doll making, quilting, knitting, and many others!

Neither her dyslexia nor the cat on her laptop has kept her from producing award-winning and bestselling works such as her Quilting Circle series, Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War, and Newlywed Games. Her published works have been on Publisher’s Weekly bestselling lists several times.

Additionally, she contributes to the writing world as a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers).

She currently resides in Washington State with her husband, a black cat named Buffy, and her favorite weather: the rain.

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really been enjoying this series, Heroines of wwII.
I have learned so much from it and have seen so many brave women in the pages of this series.
In Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War I was very impressed with Peggy Witherspoon's war effort .
She has had an interest in flying and fixing planes from a very young age when men discouraged her and told her she couldn't do it. She is now a WASP (Women's Air force Service Pilots) despite men still telling her she doesn't measure up. She doesn't let this hold her back though, she has confidence in herself and knows she is well trained and equipped for the job.
Despite going through many trials and tribulations this woman is strong. "Mama Bird" is a widow and mother but she also demands the men she works with don't treat her any differently than they would a fellow male co-worker.
I was very impressed by all the research the author put into this book. I learned a lot. I look forward to what comes next in this series.

Published February 1st 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably about a 3.5 for me, personally! Found a lot of it interesting, but the romance wasn't my favorite.


About this book:

“Peggy Witherspoon, a widow, mother, and pilot flying for the Women’s Airforce Service in 1944 clashes with her new reporting officer. Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg was injured in combat and is now stationed at Bolling Field in Washington D.C. Most of Peggy’s jobs are safe, predictable, and she can be home each night with her three daughters—until a cargo run to Cuba alerts her to American soldiers being held captive there, despite Cuba being an “ally.” Will Peggy go against orders to help the men—even risk her own life?”


Series: Part of the series “Heroines of WWII”, but is not connected to any other book.


Spiritual Content- Ecclesiastes 3:1 and 8 at the beginning; A few Scriptures are remembered; Prayers & Thanking God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; A few talks about God & praying; Peggy has a strained relationship with the Lord & feels as if God doesn’t hear her prayers due to praying for her husband’s safety and him still being killed in action (she prays for others though and hopes her prayer doesn’t “fall on death ears like all her others had”; When something happens, she thinks that “that’s was what she got for praying”; She makes a few more comments in her head that imply God let her down and her bitterness towards Him, thinking that God tore her heart apart from turning away from her; *Spoilers* About halfway, she starts a more regular communication with God again and finds comfort in praying as though “Someone were actually listening”; She feels guilt for neglecting God and later thinks that God loves her even though He answered most of her prayers with no *End of Spoilers*); Peggy hears God’s voice directing her (x3); Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; A handful of mentions of churches & church going (Peggy goes to church for the sake of her daughters); A couple mentions of miracles; A mention of Peggy wondering about God having more important things to worry about than a get-together; A mention of guardian angels;
*Note: Howie thinks that while he had cursed being injured when it happened, he now wonders if it was a blessing after all; A couple mentions of good luck.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘shut up’ and five forms of stupid; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A but of eye rolling; Flying (both calm and dangerous flights with injuries), jumping out of a plane, a fire/smoke, gunfire, being shot at, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); A training exercise ends up with someone accidentally being shot (up to semi-detailed); Seeing someone chokehold another & make them unconscious (barely-above-not-detailed); *Major Spoilers* Peggy and other WASPs plan an unauthorized rescue mission, go on the mission through a hurricane looming, and have to eject out of the plane when it’s damaged causing others to believe that Peggy is MIA (up to semi-detailed) *End of Major Spoilers*; Peggy’s husband was shot down over Germany fifteen months prior to the book starting (we see some grief from her, barely-above-not-detailed); Howie recalls his plane being shot down & crashing (including his major injuries, up to semi-detailed); Peggy’s oldest daughter makes a comment about wanting to shoot down the bad people who did that to her father; Set during World War II & many mentions of wars, deaths, prisoners of war, soldiers missing in action, actual events, fighting, being shot at, gunfire, injuries, & pain (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of fires, smoke, crash landings; Mentions of injuries, pain, surgeries and possible amputation, broken bones, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); A handful of mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of torture; A few mentions of the possibility of being killed or captured as a prisoner of war; A few mentions of traitors & spies; A few mentions of the possibility of being court marshaled and/or jailed; A few mentions of nightmares (particularly military men when they come back home); A few mentions of the Great Depression; A few mentions of a young boy teasing and taunting a little girl; A few mentions of smoking & pipes; A couple mentions of casualties; A couple mentions of the possibility of being killed; A couple mentions of the possibilities of a plane exploding; A mention of the possibility of bleeding out; A mention of a bully who is drunk on power;
*Note: Howie has signs of PTSD (not named) from his plane being shot down and crashing (he recalls the event, up to semi-detailed; in regards to the crash: Howie doesn’t take his sleeping medication because it makes him feel drugged and no longer in control; Howie thinks of himself as a cripple and a half-crippled man); Peggy & the other WASPs face prejudice, discrimination, and dangerous situations because of being female pilots from others (men, women, and a little boy) & many mentions of this throughout the book (written out comments as well); Peggy wants herself and the other female pilots to be treated as equal to the male pilots & voices it a few times throughout the book; At first, Howie doesn’t believe women should be in the military because he was raised that ladies would be protected and cherished (which is why he reacts to the WASP women being put in danger); Peggy and other WASPs fix a plane that they don’t think the government will miss for a few hours (not asking permission nor officially gaining it); Mentions of car brands; A mention of some men believing women to be too emotional; A mention of Shirley Temple; A mention of a book (The Velveteen Rabbit).


Sexual Content- A hand kiss, an almost kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and two semi-detailed kisses; Remembering kisses, almost kisses, & touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Mentions of kisses, almost kisses, & embracing; Mentions of romantic entanglements & fraternizing (between the WASPs and military men) being discouraged; A few mentions of dates, dating, & a handsome boy; A couple mentions of crushes; A mention of a man wolf whistling at a WASP; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of Peggy feeling pain that is comparable go childbirth (which she felt like her baby was going to “tear her in two”).

-Margaret “Peggy” Witherspoon, age
-Howie Berg
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1944 (Prologue in 1927)
305 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)

Like a prior book I’ve read in this multi-authored series, it’s set in World War II but not super heavy on the sadness that comes with that time period. There’s high stakes and lives at risk, but we’re not overseas with the characters fighting or hiding for their lives like many other World War II fiction books. I personally really like that difference and definitely plan to check out more of the series.

Howie meant well, but he’s kind of clueless. At the beginning, he went on too much about the WASPs being women and that they shouldn’t be doing it—not because of them being women but due to being raised that ladies should be protected. He had a lot to learn (and unlearn, really) about women involved in the war.

On the other hand, Peggy was very tough and strong, which felt so odd against their romance. I actually started to hope that there would be no romance between them, but no, there was a romance. She was very stand-offish towards him in his point of view, but when it switched to her’s, she was thinking about him in a non-work, possible romance related way. It felt a little bit out of left field and rushed. So, the romance was my least favorite part about this book…I think it would’ve been better with no romance.

At first I thought it was a bit too much about all the flying, planes, and technical talk, but as the book continued I started to become more interested in it all, especially towards the end. I honesty think that if done well, this could be a really neat movie. I found myself getting goosebumps at times towards the end, especially. There were quite a few parts that I felt like weren’t the most realistic, but it’s a fiction book so I’m going to let it slide because I overall enjoyed it.



Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...



*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

[Deacon Tom F. (Recovering from a big heart attack) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional

I loved this book! The strength of the female hero, Mrs. Witherspoon was exceptional in every way.

The book was impossible to put down.

This is the best story on the series.

I highly recommend.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peggy Witherspoon has joined the WASPS as she is both a pilot and an airplane mechanic. She is now assigned to a base in Washington D.C. and is busy ferrying repaired planes to their needed destination. Even though she is a widowed mom of 2 daughters, she still is enthralled by what she is able to do for the War effort. Her friends, Jolene and Brownie, are ready for any adventure perhaps even one that is not condoned by their base commander.

Well written with a wonderful glance into the the world of the WASPS during World War II. Mary Davis, a new-to-me author, did such a wonderful job of depicting the problems the WASPS put up with from the men in the military along with showing how capable they were of doing the work that men were doing and sometimes even outperforming the men.

Peggy aka Mama Bird (her flight name) was such a strong, courageous, determined young woman. She looked out not only for her crew but also for the men who were fighting the war. I thoroughly enjoyed the developing relationship between Major Berg and Peggy but loved how it played in the background and did not overwhelm the main story line. Davis also did an excellent job of winding a faith thread throughout the plot wherever it was appropriate.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting and exciting adventure. Mrs. Peg Witherspoon is a war widow who has been a pilot for a very long time. She uses her expertise to become a WASP during WWII. This story showcases the jobs WASPs did, from ferrying planes to being a mechanic and beyond.
I liked the way the female characters bolstered each other and showed their patriotism. The book also shed light on the way the WASPs were treated by their male counterparts, sometimes not so well. The romance with Major Howie Berg was slow and steady since neither wanted to jeopardize their jobs. And through it all, Peg returns to her faith since it faltered since the death of her husband.
Some highlights were when the ladies scavenged a plane from the graveyard of abandoned airplanes. And danger had me on the edge of my seat more than once.
This is a great addition to the Heroine of WWII series. I recommend this enjoyable book.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Missy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite era to read historical fiction, and this one did not disappoint. Peggy was such a strong woman, both as a WASP pilot but as a woman and mother too. She did what she had to do to keep her family together, to be the best pilot she could be, and to help fight the war in a way few though was "honorable".

This is the story of Peggy who was determined to fly planes, beginning when she was young buying one that would not fly, but bought the parts and taught herself how to fix it. After her husband is killed in Europe, Peggy is flying for the WASPs outside Washington DC. She knows what it is like to be a wife of a soldier missing, killed, and how it affects the family. She is a determined woman that will stop at nothing to help the effort, even if it has to be secret. With her friends Nightingale and Brownie, and the intervention of Major Berg, those that were bound to be forgotten were not.

This was an interesting look at how the WASPs were used during the war with the men off fighting on both sides of the world. Good enough to repair and rebuild airplanes, to test fly them and make sure they are fly worthy for the men to fly, but still not recognized as soldiers - thus they were civilian workers.

I enjoyed this book very much. I think I have read one other book about the WASPs, so it is not a subject written about much. I would recommend this book to my friends and family.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War. She is a widow and mom of two daughters who chooses to do her part in the war effort. I think she is a strong character as were her two fellow WASPS. She has ambition and sees the worth of a soul! And that was something I loved about her. Their patriotism was amazing and speaks highly of the women who were actively involved in the war efforts despite their male counterparts that saw them through a different viewpoint and were not supportive of their efforts.
There was romance between Peggy and the major that grew over time. There was adventure and action the story continues. It was a story that kept you reading and I enjoyed it very much.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Sydney Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite things about WWII fiction is learning about the many roles women fulfilled in the absence of or to free up men to fight. When I was first introduced to the WASP’s, I immediately wanted to learn more about these brave women who often went above and beyond but received no acknowledgement from the military though they worked right along side of them and performed the same duties with much lower pay and none of the benefits received by a member of the armed services. So…all I had to do was see the mere mention of WASP in the description of this book and I knew I had to request to read it. So thank you very much to NetGalley, Barbour Publishing and Mary Davis for granting my request and giving me access to this gem of a book.

Peggy Witherspoon always wanted to be a pilot. She bought and fixed up her first plane at a young age and together with her husband, had a small air ferrying business. Things were great, a successful business, two daughters and a marriage that supported and nurtured all of their dreams…both individually and combined. Enter WWII. Peggy had given up flying to be a mother but when her husband became one of the casualties of war, she returned to flying and joined the Womens Airforce Service Pilot program. A respected WASP, her role became challenged when Major Howie Berg was stationed at her airfield after experiencing an injury that took away his own wings. With a bit of a rocky start, these two formed a bond that not only caused them to develop both mutual respect and admiration for each other but also something more, something deeper. When Peggy accidentally overhears that three soldiers are being held captive in Cuba and that the US military has no intention of a rescue mission, Peggy takes matters into her own hands and comes up with a plan to rescue the men herself. Is she successful….you have to get a hold of this book and find out!

After reading the authors notes…despite this being a work of fiction, Ms Davis did extensive research in to the WASP organization, hurricanes and so much more to bring this story to life. She shed light on the unspoken and often forgotten heroines of WWII. Thank you!

[Naomi Musch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest installment in the Heroines of WWII series was another winner. It’s been so fun to discover how different each author’s voice and style is in these stories!

In Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War (such an interesting title!) war-widowed mother of two, Peggy Witherspoon, hasn’t let go of the ambition she’s held onto since she was a little girl--to fly planes. Not only does she get to fulfil her dream, but she does it on a grand scale when she joins the first Women’s Airforce Service (WASPs).

I love reading a good stateside story of WWII, because I want to understand what times were like here on the home front for the generation that preceded mine. Without being set on the front line, this story showed the wartime effort everyone was involved in back in the U.S., some, like Mrs. Witherspoon, more than others. I felt like the author did her legwork when it came to researching this story too, from the technicalities of repairing and operating a plane, to what was going on with the WASPs at that time.

Okay, now onto the romance. The hero, Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg, was a good egg. Coming to terms with being grounded after his own war wounds, his position in supervising the WASPs under his command made for a good setup in how he and Peggy meet and eventually fall in love. Their romance was a slow build, careful and tender—realistic considering she’s a widow and a mother, and she’s not as young as most romance heroines in fiction. I liked that. The gently developed realism in their relationship worked for me.

Then there was the dangerous rescue attempt. Okay—no spoilers—but this is when the story really had me turning pages. If you’ve been enjoying the Heroines of WWII series, don’t miss Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War.

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This WW2 series by Barbour Books is very captivating. Not only do I learn new things, with this book all about the WASPs, through the detail historical research the authors performs, but we also get an entertaining fictional story as well.

I really enjoyed Peggy and Howie as characters and their sweet romance. But I loved Nightingale and Brownie - I just enjoyed their personalities. One small thing for me was that I didn't really liked Peggy's call sign even though it fit her. The author did a great job of showing the reader, through these characters, just how many challenges women pilots faced.

There was one thing which felt a bit unrealistic which the three ladies performed for that time period and their training, but overall I enjoyed the story and I adored the part of the dolphins!

Recommended to fans of Historical Fiction.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

1944 Washington DC

Widow Peggy Witherspoon is an experienced pilot and proud to serve her country as a WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots). I loved all the details about what it was like for women to serve as civilians in this role. These ladies definitely had a passion for their jobs given the resistance they received from some in the military. My respect for WASPs grew as I learned more about the many tasks they handled.

The main mission in the novel may not have been completely realistic, but I found myself so engaged in it that I pushed aside my questions and enjoyed the adventure.

A wonderful addition to this series. My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was God using this man’s simple considerate actions to aid in welding her heart back together?

Imagine wanting to fly so badly that you use all your money to buy a plane that doesn’t work with the intention of bringing it back into usable form. This is the beginning of the story of WASP Margaret (Peggy) Deny. Not only did she earn her wings and fly that plane, she became a leading member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots that were stationed just outside of DC. These incredible ladies were able to do almost everything it took to keep the lousy planes they were given in the air.

Major Howie Berg, injured in Europe, is now responsible for the base where the WASPs are stationed. Finding it difficult to accept the capabilities of these highly skilled women, they found it prudent to make plans without his knowledge. Could they possibly manage to safely follow through on those plans without help?

Another wonderful book in the Heroines of WWII, this ARC was received through Barbour Publishing, NetGalley and CelebrateLit. The comments and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was familiar with the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) who were active during World War II but this book has given me a new perspective of this group of brave, competent, and often under-estimated women. Being a WASP made women feel like they were contributing to the war effort, and there was no one more determined than the heroine of this book. Peggy Witherspoon's husband had died while fighting in this war, so how better to honor his memory?

Author Mary Davis shares a story that is both heartwarming and heart-stopping, and I was completely caught up following Peggy and the other WASPs during a five-month period in 1944. They are involved in a lot of different efforts, but their story takes a serious turn when Mama Bird (Peggy), Brownie, and Nightingale undertake a dangerous mission to free three soldiers who are being held captive in Cuba. What an adventure!

Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War is filled with excitement, danger, and suspense, but we're also given a glimpse of the many emotions that Peggy experiences during this eventful time. Davis offers a poignant portrayal of Peggy's grief, frustration, and loss of faith, but the promise of romance offers her new hope. Will Peggy discover a new purpose and restored faith in the waning days of World War II?

It's evident that the author spent a lot of time researching this book and I recommend it to all who enjoy historical fiction. Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War is a great addition to the Heroines of WWII series from Barbour Publishing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War is one of the most exciting and fascinating historical reads of the year. I simply couldn't put it down.

I was mesmerized by Peggy Witherspoon and the close band of WASPs that joined together. They are strong, determined, selfless and more courageous than most enlisted soldiers.

The storyline was fast-paced, full of adventure, family relationships, and unknown challenges. As I read through the pages, it kept getting even better. It ran the gamut of my emotions.

If you read one historical novel this year, I suggest it be this one. I just can't say enough about how it touched my heart. You will remember and feel a connection to the story long after you turn the last page. If I could rate it higher than 5 stars, I would. Can't wait to read more of her work.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fabulous novel set during WWII is fast-paced and includes realistic faith struggles and day-to-day work experiences of women contributing to the cause. The WASP – Women Airforce Service Pilots – program was not new to me, but I learned more about what women did to free men to fight overseas. WASP was made up of civilian women willing to do what they could for the country they loved. At times it is a pulse-pounding thriller, at times a front-row seat to a woman’s struggle while feeling the Lord turned away from her, and at times a tender family drama with a chance for romance that did not overtake the story.

Major Howie Berg was sent stateside after being seriously injured when being shot down over Germany. He was unhappy with his new assignment. One of the areas he was to oversee at Bolling Field in Washington DC was the work of the WASPs assigned there. Most men did not think women should be involved with the military or fly, even though most of their flying was ferrying planes for overseas use.

Peggy had lost her father and brother in The Great War. She always wanted to fly. George and Peggy had officially met and got to know each other over the plane she bought to repair and fly when she was seventeen. Once married, they had a business delivering people and parcels until the war began. George did not object when she became a WASP. Her mother lived with them and cared for their young daughters while Peggy was at work. Fifteen months ago, Peggy lost her husband over Germany.

Peggy, call name Mama Bird, and two other women did not adhere to the myth that they could not do what men did in the military. Her two closest work friends were Brownie and Nightingale. They flew a variety of planes, repaired them, trained new men to fly, and even flew planes towing material to be used by new recruits as target practice for the “big guns”.

The women heard about three American soldiers who disappeared and were thought to be held captive in Cuba, despite Cuba being an ally. They learned that the military would not go on a rescue mission for them, and why, and were furious. Howie did not like it, either. When his plane went down, had anyone tried to find him before a farmer helped him? Mama Bird and her friends were determined to do something, especially after she met the wife of one of the men. I was beyond impressed with how the author designed what the women knew, learned, and did!

I loved the premise, the characters, and the incredible risk the women took. I had much empathy for Peggy and her faith struggles and how well the author portrayed them. Her daughters and mom had the most to lose when she chose to go on a mission not sanctioned by the military, but the women believed they would be safe. I appreciated the tremendous, detailed research the author did, and the background shared in the author’s notes. This novel was not based on an actual documented event, yet it could have happened. I highly recommend this to women of all ages who like Christian novels about women enduring in a very tumultuous time, faith challenges, and a stateside view of WWII military airfields.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from Celebrate Lit, the publisher, and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engaging historical read that gives the readers a glimpse into the life of a WASP during WWII.

I liked that Peggy is a mother, and experienced pilot. She is a good friend, and knows what she is talking about. I loved how well researched the book was and how it showed the work and dedication that the women put into their jobs serving their country. Peggy is a courageous heroine and I liked that she didn't back down from a challenge when lives were on the line.

Howie isn't pleased to be stationed stateside because of an injury. But Howie is a gentleman, he sees that the women want to work and prove themselves, and he is ready to learn from his mistakes. I love how he quickly befriends Peggy's daughters, and how he stands up for the women under his command.

Overall, this is a well written read with great characters, faith, friendship and love. I loved how it showed the pride that the women took in their work as well as their bravery serving their country. Engaging read filled with faith, love and daring. Definitely recommend.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War

Heroines of WW2 series

by Mary Davis

Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction

Rated: 3-4

Back of the Book: “A WASP Goes Above the Call of Duty to Free Captive American Soldiers
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
Peggy Witherspoon, a widow, mother, and pilot flying for the Women’s Airforce Service in 1944 clashes with her new reporting officer. Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg was injured in combat and is now stationed at Bolling Field in Washington D.C. Most of Peggy’s jobs are safe, predictable, and she can be home each night with her three daughters—until a cargo run to Cuba alerts her to American soldiers being held captive there, despite Cuba being an “ally.” Will Peggy go against orders to help the men—even risk her own life?”

Impressions: As exciting and adventurous as this book was the viability of Peggy’s character and situations seemed farfetched. I wholeheartedly believe that the WASPs did some amazing things in service for our country. I believe trying to make one character exhibit all the traits and talents was what made the story less enjoyable. It was exciting and easy to read, it just didn’t have its full effect of reverence because of the difficulty to believe character and storyline.

Quotes: “’ I have a difficult decision to make, and I don’t know how to make it.’ ‘Prayer is always the best place to start.’”

“’ How do you always think of everything?’ ‘It’s part of being a mother. I always have to stay one step ahead.’” -Truth! I didn’t realize this until I became a mother.

“Everyone needed a second chance. And God was the champion of second chances.” - And third, fourth, and fifth...

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review shared here.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful installment in the Heroines of WWII series. I love how each author brings their own unique flavor and Mary Davis does an impressive job. I found the research to be thorough and I especially enjoyed reading the author notes at the end. The Women Airforce Service Pilots are brought to life in this 1944 novel and I found it fascinating all the things they accomplished. Peggy Witherspoon is an inspiring character who juggles being a pilot, mechanic, single mom, and an encourager to her co workers and friends. Her strength when faced with difficult circumstances makes her a wonderful role model to others. Add a new reporting officer for the WASP by the name of Major Howie Berg and sparks begin to ignite. You will be quickly immersed.I enjoyed the historical facts woven into the fictional characters that made for a well rounded and engrossing story. I did not want to put it down. I highly recommend for my Historical Fiction friends.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed the look at the women who fought on the home front however they could through Barbour’s Heroines of World War II series. The latest installment is Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War by Mary Davis and gives readers a look of the highs and lows of the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs).

Peg is a mother of two and an intelligent woman and we get to see her in all her roles—as a mother, a soldier, a mechanic, a hostess, and a friend. She is such a well-rounded character you’ll wish you had a friend like her. Through Peg we see the camaraderie of the women pilots, their heroism, and the discrimination the men have toward them.

The romance in the book is well-paced as neither Peg nor Howie are ready to risk their positions. The courage of these women is well-lauded in this book and the ending hit just the right chord.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am SO happy I won this book from a blog contest!! 5 stars ALL DAY!
The blurb on the back cover intrigued me, even though I don't always choose this genre. I find some historical fiction a bit tedious, but I truly enjoyed learning about pilots and the WASPs. I don't know that I would spot errors but I do know that some of the story is truly fictional. It was a page-turner for me because I found it so interesting, and the characters and plot were engaging. Finished it in 2 days!!!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read a couple of the books in this series, and I have thoroughly enjoyed them, but this one just kept me on the edge of my seat.

Peggy Witherspoon was also called Mama Bird, the WASP pilot and mother to two little girls. She was also the widow of a pilot who was shot down in Germany. While at the time, the WASPs were not part of the military, but were adjunct to the Army. They were not allowed to fly any missions, but were used for training other troops or for ferrying cargo. While these were important functions, the ladies in the WASPs felt they could do more. As it was, the WASPs were required to do the maintenance, repairs, and all inspections on the planes they flew, something Peggy was quite adept at doing. She had bought a plane before she married and with a manual, took it apart, repaired it and put it back together.

When ferrying a plane from Connecticut back to Bolling Field in Washington, DC, Peggy notices smoke coming from the instrument panel of the plane. Major Howie Berg, the one in charge, orders her to ditch the plane and bail out, but Peggy will not do that because there is no safe place to let the plane crash without causing collateral damage in the way of civilian casualties. With the help of another WASP pilot, she lands the plane safely, only to find out that the mechanics in Connecticut had allowed a frayed wire to pass inspection. The Major was not pleased at her disobeying his order, but in contemplating her reasoning, he would have commended a male pilot for the same actions. He just can't wrap his mind around allowing a woman to be the person she is called to be and at the same time protecting her as he'd been taught to protect women his whole life.

On a supply run to Cuba, Peggy finds out that there are three American soldiers who have been taken prisoner and are being held on the northwest end of the island. She is not one who can let the situation lie, even though no one in any position of power will do anything about it. She goes to the airplane graveyard at Bolling Field to find a worthy candidate for rebuilding. Nightingale and Brownie join with her in the endeavor. Somehow Maj. Berg finds out what they are doing and while he cannot give his approval for the mission, he aids them as much as he is able without jeopardizing his career.

Mary Davis has given Peggy a full gamut of emotions and has made her a well-rounded character that is not only strong, but also likable and relatable. Peggy has lost touch with God, but finds her way back to Him and finds the fullness of life He intends for her to enjoy. Howie is a wounded pilot who will probably never fly a military mission again, but works hard to overcome his handicaps. He knows firsthand some of the things Peggy is going through and that makes him a sympathetic character. Nightingale/Jolene is a "takes no prisoners" type of character who is Peggy's equal in the air and on the ground. Brownie is an extraordinary navigator who can memorize maps at the drop of a hat. Her abilities complement the other two. Peggy's mother and daughters add just the right amount of mischief to the plot and make it all the more enjoyable.

Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, with a fantastic dolphin rescue at sea.

Barbour Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a story! I love the main character. I had no idea what to expect from the book but found it so very interesting. I knew a little about the WASPS who were an integral part of the protection and service to out country during World War II. I had no clue just how much these brave women were counted on to to. I also didn't realize the battle they had with men.
From start to finish this is such a good story. WASP Witherspoon is a stubborn and very brave mother of two children who is serving her coughing try. Major Berg is the Army officer who works with the WASPS on base. He has a lot to learn about the program and the particular ladies under command.
This story is fascinating and well researched. I enjoyed learning about the various things the WASPS had to do. The blatant disrespect and disregard for the safety of the women is just unreal. I am pleased with the show of faith, acknowledgement of prayer in this story.
I want to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for my copy of the book. It is an excellent read.

[S. Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margaret Deny (aka Mama Bear) is a widow attempting to raise her two girls during wartime. She has a compulsion to fix things: broken aircraft, broken relationships and broken hearts. Flying as a WASP during WWII, she finds it difficult to fix the prejudism of the men she works around because of their view of women pilots. That prejudicial treatment in the book was shocking! Can Peggie earn the men's respect, find love after tragedy and put her trust once again in a God she feels has failed her..? Read the book and find out for yourself!

An amazing and timely story of female bravery in the face of insurmountable odds. These women characters who represent those who served as WASPS during the war deserve our respect for their independent thinking, courage and willingness to do whatever it took to "leave no serviceman behind". I couldn't put the book down and read it through in a few short days! I rarely give 5 stars, but in this case this book earned it!

*I received a complimentary copy through Barbour books; the views expressed here are my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War is an another excellent addition to Barbour’s Heroines of WWII series. It drew me in immediately and kept me riveted to the end. Set in 1944, this well-written story aptly portrays the courage, confidence, and selflessness of the Women Airforce Service Pilots during the war. Historical figures and events are seamlessly woven into the fictional story. Detailed descriptions of the art of flying show evidence of extensive research and add authenticity and interest to the narrative. I loved the excitement and suspense of the “mission that wasn’t a mission”. I appreciated the strong spiritual element especially Peggy’s faith journey back to God. Wonderful characters, a fast-paced plot, sweet romance, and inspiring spiritual truths combine to make a captivating, entertaining read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Claudia · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you enjoy those rescue movies that are so exciting but a bit unrealistic, you will likely enjoy Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War. In her Author's Note Davis discusses the many details she researched, from the expectations of the Women's Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) down to fifth grade spelling words of the day, so that she would get the details right. One of the main things that makes the plot seem a bit unrealistic is the interactions between the WASPs and the Army officers regarding their rogue rescue mission. However, as I mentioned before, it is an exciting tale.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Barbour Publishing's Review Crew for sending me this FREE ARC COPY to review for them earlier this year!!

This was my first time reading a book by Mary Davis so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i enjoyed it so much that it was hard to put down.

The Characters were so interesting and enjoyable to read about. Margaret "Peggy" was my favorite cause i loved her determination to fly a plane that was not normally flowen by a woman back then.

The Setting was so beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Europe 1944 especially when the scenery was described.

Overall a Good Book 4 in this series about Heroines during WW2!! Can't wait to read more by Mary in the future!!

[Edward Arrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably like many others, I know very little about the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) and their service to our nation during World War II. I had heard of them, but had not read any stories, fiction or non-fiction, about them. What a great introduction to the WASPs as Mary Davis tells an intriguing story about three WASPs who are ready to go against their own better judgment and the orders of their superior officer to pull off a daring rescue. Peggy Witherspoon and her daughters have already lost her husband and their father in Europe when his plane was shot down. She feels an inner prompting that she and her two comrades need to pull off this mission, but she cannot forget how difficult it was to lose her husband. Now she is considering something that will place her daughters in jeopardy of losing their mother as well. I especially enjoyed the prologue that tells about Peggy buying an old junk airplane at the age of seventeen. She apparently had airplane fuel flowing through her veins at a young age. In the first chapter, the timeline has moved forward about seventeen years. She is a WASP and is ferrying an aircraft from Connecticut to her base in Washington, DC, when she smells smoke. The excitement ramps up from there. Grab the book and take a flight with Mama Bear. She had gotten that call sign because she was not only the mother of two daughters, but she was like a mother to some of the younger WASPs.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War by author Mary Davis. It was fun to get lost in the many wonderful contibutions that the WASPS (Women Airforce Service Pilots) made during WWII. This is what I love about historical fiction, it had me googling and finding a YouTube video called "WASPs Women Air Service Pilots in World War Two".

In this story, Peggy Witherspoon is no stranger to loss. She lost her father and brother in WWI, and her husband 15 months ago during WWII, which causes her to have a bit of a crisis of faith. She is one capable and strong woman pilot. Her call sign is Mamma Bird, she and her fellow WASPS Brownie and Nightingale take you on a wild ride. She butts heads with her new boss, Major Berg, and sparks fly. And she has two little girls Wendy and Junie who are cared for by her live-in mother when Peggy is working. This is a beautiful journey of hard work, patriotism, and faith.

I found the story so enjoyable, the characters engaging, and the author does a beautiful job painting a picture of what it might have been like at that time in history, and places you directly there.

I loved the dolphin scene, but won't say any more.

I recommend Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War to historical fiction fans and to read more about the WASPS. Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

[Challice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really been enjoying this series. Each one tells of a different office that women held during WW2. In Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War, we have a widowed Peggy Witherspoon as a WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots).

Peggy has a chip on her shoulder with the Lord for allowing her husband to die and leave her a widow with two children. She has a domineering attitude (domineering: asserting one’s will over another in an arrogant way.) She knows she is an amazing pilot and often goes as far as she can to prove it and then pulls back so as not to get too far into trouble. It felt like her role in the book was to show that women are more capable then men: “As women, we have to be twice as good at everything just so we are allowed to do our jobs. We are as capable as any man” (p. 30).

Permanently injured war Major, Howie struggles with feelings for Mrs. Witherspoon. First his desire to protect her as a woman, then as someone in authority over her, and finally as someone who is falling in love with Peggy.

This book is about a rescue mission that took the WASP over to Cuba to bring some military soldiers back home. It will tug your heartstrings as the battle for survival and for all to return home becomes the paramount climax of the story.

4 stars!

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for more of the lesser told stories from World War II, then this series - Heroines of WWII - from Barbour is a must read.  I have learned so much so far, and I still have several more books to go!

My latest read was Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War.  From the start, I'll say that I was disappointed to discover that Peggy Witherspoon was not a real individual, but her WASP status and training described many ladies during the war.  This story seemed to focus more on the interactions between her and two other WASPs and their efforts to make women more recognized as a helpful part of the military (they were not officially known as soldiers; more like civilian volunteers).  There was a bit of a romance between Peggy and her commanding officer, but I wish it had flowed more effortlessly throughout the story rather than an afterthought.  In spite of not caring for the romantic aspect, the end of the story included a wonderful climax that had me on the edge of my seat!  

While I didn't enjoy this book as much as some of the others in this series, Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War still gave a wonderful representation of these brave ladies as they worked alongside their male pilot counterparts during the war.