About the Book

Book: Springtime in Surrey

Authors: Faith Blum, Andrea Renee Cox, Bailey Gaines, Katja H. Labonté, Grace A. Johnson, Rachel Leitch, Erika Mathews, and Kellyn Roth

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction, Historical and Contemporary

Release Date: July 25, 2023

Springtime in Surrey, the first collection releasing with Wild Blue Wonder Press, is a Christian anthology featuring eight lovely stories. With a mix of historical and contemporary, romance and women’s fiction, a dash of mystery here and there, real-life themes presented in a loving way, and a vintage feel, this story is sure to charm lovers of Christian women’s fiction.

Jesus, I Am Resting by Faith Blum

Elinor Chapman, an orphaned laundry woman, must fight to survive after WWI breaks out. She prays her beau doesn’t die on a foreign battlefield like her father did 14 years ago. She is forced to take on nursing, but her passion for helping other orphans distracts her from this job, leaving her little time for rest. Will she run herself into the ground … or will she learn to rest in Jesus?

The Cottage on the Hill by Andrea Renee Cox

During every teatime at her cottage hideaway, Moira struggles to discover hope amongst her lost ballerina dreams. Unsettled by elusive goals of his own, sheep farmer Adrian observes his uncle’s neighbor crying into her tea and wonders why… and what he can do to cheer her up. While facing their regrets, can Moira and Adrian trust that God has a good plan despite crushed dreams and far-off hopes?

If I Knew You Were Coming by Bailey Gaines

With her husband off to war and two evacuee children staying in her home, Joan feels duty-bound to contribute to the war effort via her participation in the Women’s Land Army. She is thrilled to learn that her husband has leave. But when the London Blitz ruins her plans to see him, Joan must decide what is most important in her life: her contribution to the war effort or her calling as a mother?

Her Heart’s Home by Grace A. Johnson

Forced from her childhood home after her father was killed in action, Meredith Tate is forced to seek employment at the Deepdene Hotel until she discovers the next step. Which most certainly does not include the brooding Captain Trevor Seaton, a guest who always manages to catch her at her worst. Despite his gentle magnetism, Meredith is determined not to fall for a military man—but God may have other plans.

The Tussie-Mussie by Katja H. Labonté

Caitrìona is determined to rescue her family from poverty by making a brilliant match. She is on the verge of success when her brother is arrested for a sensational crime. Banished to the country, she meets Ewart, a fearful recluse with a younger sister in need of aid. Ewart and Caitrìona grow together through shared goals—but as mysteries are uncovered and characters tested, what truth will be revealed?

The Odd Duck Society by Rachel Leitch

Jessamy Aubertine is too much for her university classmates, too little for her overstressed mum, and nothing in between. Then a mysterious letter signed by Jane Austen brings her back to her family’s fading tea shop and a pair of unlikely comrades. Will they find the letter writer—and perhaps discover themselves along the way? Or will their friendship fade with The Muses?

Fear Not Tomorrows by Erika Mathews

Hardworking Margaret Enfield is thrilled with her engagement to her lifelong best friend Lester. When his brother’s sudden illness forces Lester’s prolonged and indefinite absence, every tomorrow feels bleak to Margaret as lonely drudgery overtakes the once-rosy springtime. As she throws herself into her tasks, can she learn to trust her tomorrows with Jesus—one day at a time?

Courage to Stay by Kellyn Roth

Rosalind finds herself engaged to Matthias after her former fiancé, his brother, perishes in battle. Determined to forge a connection, she embarks on a risky mission. When Matthias retreats into his own turmoil on a hunting trip, Rosalind disguises herself as a man and follows him to the forest, vowing to fight for their love. Will Matthias summon the courage to stay, or will his fractured mind drive them apart forever?

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My Thoughts:

This is a delightful collection of eight novellas from different authors that take place at different times in history, but all in the same place, Surrey, England. Not only do we get to plant ourselves there for a little bit, but we also get a sampling of each of these authors writing. I had only read one author's work before.

I found all of these stories very interesting. The way they came about in a much shorter way than a longer novel. They were filled with inspiration, some of second chances, others of dreaming new dreams when yours have been broken beyond repair.

One of my favorites was about a ballerina who lost her dream. And due to tragic events, she cannot continue on as she had. Her depression was real and when a visiting sheep farmer tries to cheer her up, she nor he can imagine the new future that awaits them.

I am also partial to the mother who is helping out with the war efforts and has taken in two evacuee children along with her own daughter. She waits patiently for her soldier husband's return. What happens when he does, and all is not what it seems?

Finding peace and tranquility when everything else is turned upside down was some of the major themes running through this collection. I enjoyed my visit to Surrey.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Wild Blue Wonder Press was established in January 2016 by Kellyn Roth for the purpose of independently publishing her historical women’s fiction series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy. Based on a special location on her family’s property and a childhood stumbling over phrases, Kellyn chose the name to evoke feelings of wonder in a world full of dark valleys. After all, where there is snow and ice, there will be chickadees, and in the midst of the darkest woods, you can often find a cozy cabin. Wild Blue Wonder Press is now working with other creatives to expand its outreach and help other independent writers achieve their dreams in a professional manner.

More from Kellyn

Hey everyone! I’m Kellyn Roth, owner of Wild Blue Wonder Press and one of the authors on the Springtime in Surrey collection. I just wanted to come on here today and talk briefly about Surrey—and specifically answer the question I’m sure many of you had in your minds when you learned that the novella collection was set in this English county: “Why Surrey?!”

As authors, we often find inspiration in the places we call home … but sometimes it’s more fun to find inspiration far afield!

The landscapes, the people, and the unique atmosphere of a location can and should shape the stories we tell. Though none of our authors are actually natives of Surrey, our stories are set there! So why?

Well, I’ll tell you.

Reason #1: There’s a Lot of History in Surrey

Surrey is a place steeped in history, with tales that date back centuries. It has links to the Magna Carta and played a heavy role in the English Civil War. A lot of historical figures came from Surrey or spent significant amounts of time there.

Quite a few of our stories are set in history, and the ones that aren’t bear some vintage link that ties them back to the “olden days.” There’s such beauty in history, and as a historical author, I love featuring stories that delve back into the past!

Reason #2: It’s Gorgeous There!

Surrey’s landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for storytelling—our Pinterest board will tell you that much! From the rolling hills of the North Downs to the tranquil beauty of the “Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” (what a mouthful!), this county offers an abundance of scenic vistas that captivate both locals and visitors alike.

We hoped to transport our readers to a place of natural wonder and evoke a sense of serenity through the quaint settings. Some of our stories take place in the countryside—and some in villages or towns. But all of them are so atmospheric and fun!

Reason #3: All the Quaint Villages and Towns

One of the defining characteristics of Surrey is its charming villages and towns, each with its own distinct character and charm. From the cobblestone streets of Guildford to the historic market town of Farnham, these locales are brimming with personality and provide a sense of community that is often lost in larger cities.

By setting some of our stories in these close-knit communities, we hope to capture the essence of Surrey’s rural charm and the warmth of its residents. I mean, who doesn’t love a village? (I’m a fan!)

Reason #4: It’s Close to London

While Surrey is known for its rural beauty, its proximity to London makes everything a little easier for us authors. The county acts as a gateway to the capital, allowing for the infusion of city life and providing opportunities for our characters to embark on exciting adventures beyond the county’s borders … or to have them be “running away” from something, as is the case in some stories.

Though alliteration did play a role, as you may have guessed, Surrey’s draws spoke for themselves—and I’m so glad we chose this dynamic county!

Join us as we embark on this literary exploration of Surrey, England!