2 inspirational novels for spring 2025

Ace, Marvel, Spy

Jenni L. Walsh deftly fictionalizes the intriguing rise of real-life trailblazing tennis champion Alice Marble and her extraordinary life following the start of World War II in Ace, Marvel, Spy.

After her brother encourages Alice to trade baseball for tennis, which he regards as more ladylike, Alice picks up a racket for the first time and falls in love with the sport. But the chances of a career in tennis are slim for a teen whose family in Beckwourth, California, is struggling financially, especially after the death of her father. Through grit and diligence, Alice defies all odds, rising to unprecedented prominence in tennis. Her life is disrupted when war breaks out, and she suffers heartbreaking losses. Not one to give up, Alice joins the fight against the Nazis by becoming a spy.

Through a carefully crafted dual timeline, Walsh follows Alice’s story, including her early start in tennis playing in junior tournaments and her struggle to prove herself. Her journey to becoming an 18 Grand Slam tennis champion and the Associated Press Athlete of the Year in 1939 and 1940 is exhilarating. The story includes the wonderful relationship between Alice and her long-term coach and mentor, Eleanor “Teach” Tennant, who supports Alice through the tragedies she experiences.

After the war, Alice’s later accomplishments include becoming an associate editor with All-American Comics of their Wonder Women of History series, covering the stories of notable women in history. She also plays a role in the desegregation of tennis, writing an editorial piece in support of Black player Althea Gibson, who goes on to become the first African American player to play in the National Championships (and the first to win them).

With expertise and finesse, Walsh provides a complete picture of Alice’s life that celebrates her unrelenting determination to succeed and courage in the face of hardship.

Midnight on the Scottish Shore

Sarah Sundin is the bestselling author of Christian historical novels including Until Leaves Fall in Paris, which received a 2022 Christy Award, and the Sunrise at Normandy series. In Midnight on the Scottish Shore, she weaves a stunning story of a brave woman determined to escape Nazi control and find freedom in England.

Intent on establishing a new life and leaving the Netherlands following the German invasion, Cilla van der Zee develops a plan: She will become a Nazi spy, then desert the Germans after arriving safely in England, and begin a new life. Her plan is halted when Scottish lieutenant Lachlan Mackenzie finds and arrests her. To avoid execution, Cilla is forced to work as a double agent and partner with Lachlan in relaying false messages to the Nazis.

Blending a woman’s exciting journey across Europe and the unlikely, endearing romance between the novel’s main characters, Sundin underscores Cilla’s bravery and Lachlan’s devotion to the Allied cause. Cilla’s vivacity and humor enliven the story, and her compassion and willingness to put her life at risk for others’ sake are inspiring. Sundin also explores Lachlan’s background and chronicles his growth. Through his and Cilla’s experiences, themes of faith, forgiveness and strength in unity are examined.

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