| Title | : | Yours is the Night |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0764232681 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780764232688 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 362 |
| Publication | : | First published August 3, 2021 |
| Awards | : | Christy Award Historical (2022) |
Raised wild in the depths of the Forest of Argonne, France, Mireilles finds her world rocked when war comes crashing into the idyllic home she has always known, taking much from her. When Matthew discovers Mireilles, three things are clear: She is alone in the world, she cannot stay, and he and his two unlikely companions might be the only ones who can get her to safety.
Yours is the Night Reviews
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5+ stars (8/10 hearts). I don’t know how to write this review, which is why I’ve avoided it for so long. I don’t know how to give this book the praise it deserves, how to express what it did to me.
To begin, the writing style is phenomenal. I rarely—very rarely—say that for a modern writer. But Amanda Dykes’ writing here was breathtaking. It was so sweet, so deep, so vivid—it said so much with so little, hinted so gently at many wonderful things. Matthew’s voice, and Mira’s, were both so different and—yes, gorgeous. Yet even Hank’s, George’s, and Truett’s were beautiful. And the aesthetic—fire & fireflies, churches & meadows, rivers & abandoned mansions, forest cottages & French villages, sunsets and rainfalls… a beautiful mixture of Nature’s and man’s masterpieces; while the WWI France setting brought in the poignant horror of humanity’s curse. (And the beautiful, delicate French language scattered throughout only heightened the charm and the authenticity of the setting. I was delighted to find only two mistakes and I am so grateful to the author for seeking help in translation instead of only winging it as so many do.)
I wasn’t sure, at first, what I thought of the characters. I loved Jasper Truett from the first—broken, loving man, drowning in guilt and fighting to make amends. He was a hero from start to finish. And then Matthew—tender, patient, understanding Matthew, always ready for every sacrifice to protect others. Mira, brave, strong, loving Mira, determined to remain sweet and beautiful in spite of the tragedy that surrounded her. George took some getting used to, but I ended up loving the malapropos, flippant young man who struck out from the shallows into the deep. Hank was a dear, good, sturdy boy to lean on, and Celia was his female counterpart, only more lively.
The plot was astonishing—utterly different from any WWI novel I have ever read, delightfully so! I enjoyed seeing the boys escort Mira to safety and struggle with the decisions of what was the safest place. I loved the gradual way everything was explained, while the characters continued to face up to their strengths + weaknesses, made mistakes and rose again. Their journeys were so beautifully woven together. It wasn’t an adventure or an action novel—it was a story of discovery of self and of God, and I loved the slow, gentle pace with its sudden thrills of danger as the war pressed close upon them. And it was a lovely tribute to the men and women that passed through the Great War. With a deep understanding, sympathy, and love that I have seldom seen, Amanda Dykes showed the agony and fearfulness of war, but she also reminded us how beauty is still there. This novel was an exquisite, heartwrenching portrayal of the humanity of history.
It was the message that spoke most to me. You might know I love the symbolism of light vs. darkness, and this book was full of the many variations of that message. But the overarching message was this: The darkness shows God’s Light, and He watches over the night—you can rest. You need not fear the night. It was soft, threaded through the novel and gently repeated at the needed times, so much deeper than I expected. I can’t even say how deeply engrained it was in the plot—it continually shone through in many different ways. I feel that I need to reread this book many more times to extract all that can be taken from it. And I know I did not do it justice. But I am so glad I read it, and I look forwards to revisiting it again and again.
Content: a main characters & their sibling are illegitimate and their parents’ backstory is briefly explained; another main character is r*ped and falls pregnant—nothing onscreen, everything barely hinted at. The author added because it’s a part of war and she does a splendid job showing how the child + mother are both blameless and God can take the most horrible experiences & use them for good.
A Favourite Quote: “Listen,” I said. “Everything you men have done up till now is impossible. Not one of you could have imagined the front a year ago. But here you are. You’re doing it. And you’ll do this, too. Yes, it might be impossible. But one second at a time will get you there. One second at a time is not impossible.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Ah, Paris,” Grand-père used to say. “La Ville Lumière . . .” His voice held a fondness as he spoke of its streets, of the strength of such a city, of the River Seine flowing through it like a messenger of life. “The stones, they tell stories.”
“Happy stories, Grand-père?”
He grew somber. “Every kind of story, Mira.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “You know about the Fontinelles?” he said, turning suddenly as if he had come to life, wet rag that he was. Why, there appeared to be a beating heart within that book-brain, after all.
“Fontinelles,” said I. “A family of cheeses known for their dull taste. Relatives of yours, are they?”
“The Fontinelles are not cheeses,” said the wet rag, with the most disdain I’d heard from him yet. “They’re people. Or were, rather. Until they disappeared.” ...
“I don’t like all this talk of wealthy people disappearing,” I said. “First this cheese family—”
“They’re not cheeses,” Jones said.
“—then the children of the tsar of Russia—who is next? A fellow doesn’t like to wonder these things, but for all that is good, is it going to be me? Money makes one a target, you know.” Sound pious. “Money is the root of all evil,” I whispered, infusing great gravity into the phrase. The two gawked at me. This was probably one of those moments Mother was always speaking of, urging me to rein in my tongue. Well, Mother, if you think it, say it. That’s what I always say.
“You’re hardly one of the Romanovs,” Jones said. -
Okay, it took me forever to write this review...mostly because I was intimidated to write it...mostly because I knew no matter what I said, it wouldn't be enough to capture how much I loved this story. Probably the best thing I can say is that the second I finished reading Yours is the Night, I said out loud: "Oh my word, I think this might be the best book I've ever read." SERIOUSLY.
This story is both heart-wrenching and soul-stirring. In true Amanda Dykes fashion, the writing is gorgeous...the characters are the kind that climb right into your heart and refuse to leave (and really, why would you even want them to?) and the plot gently and perfectly paced. The closer I got to The End, the faster I was turning pages as events escalated...gah, it's just SO good.
Really, nothing I say is going to do this story justice, so I'm just going to say please, please read it. Amanda Dykes' debut novel, Whose Waves These Are, was the Christy Award Book of the Year in 2020. I was and am obsessed with that book and this one is every bit as engrossing and poignant. And if you're anything like me, you might want to have a tissue on hand...and a reader friend or two around who's willing to listen to you relentlessly gush. :) -
Whenever I read a novel by Amanda Dykes, I’m transported by her lyrical writing into an almost otherworldly world – ours but not quite – a world where story lives on a higher plane, where characters like Matthew and Mira wrench your heart even as George makes you laugh. Best of all, Amanda’s writing sings like her fictional Angel of the Argonne, beckoning with hope and spreading light in a dark world. Yours Is the Night is not to be missed.
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I know this is a bold thing to say, but I think this is the most beautiful book of them all. Yes, more beautiful than any of the other books I love. I'm at a loss for words . . . This book made me cry not once, not twice, not thrice, but FOUR different times. It wasn't just a lump in my throat - it was actual tears running down my face. And while reading chapter forty-seven I started literally SOBBING. Like, full-blown ugly sobbing. Choking, tears streaming, runny nose, ALL OF IT. I'm not a crier at all when it comes to books; there are only a few that have made the tears actually flow, and only one other (The Messiah by Marjorie Holmes) that made me ugly sob. But this book made me cry FOUR TIMES and it made me totally BAWL at the end. Y'all, that is saying a lot. It was amazing. Amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing. I can't say amazing enough times when it comes to Yours is the Night. And while I know no review of mine will ever be able to give such a life-changing book the laud it deserves, I want to try to explain how much it touched my heart. I don't want to just say "amazing" and call it a day. So let's go ahead and try.
The characters were incredible. I loved each one, and it's so hard to choose a favorite (what's wrong with me? It's never hard for me to choose a favorite), but if I had to, I think mine would be George, the unconventional chaplain.
George: I loved everything about him, including his EPIC name (how can you not love a man literally named George Piccadilly the Third?). His humor had me DYING and I looked forward to his POV chapters so, so much. He was so endearing and adorable, with his clumsiness and cluelessness and unrelenting jolliness, and most of all with his kindness and his heart the size of a billion United Kingdoms. To add to his awesomeness, he was a Brit and always thinking about food (the best combination). Plus, I really loved seeing a chaplain represented in a war novel. I really feel they're not represented enough, since most war novels focus on soldiers, but chaplains were just as important and heroic and I wish more war novels would include chaplain characters. George's serious moments of change and growth in his faith were also extremely well-done, inspiring, and still more golden than his (many) to-die-for humorous moments. My favorite part was in chapter thirty-nine when he prayed on and on: "O God of Might, we turn to thy most loving heart as our last hope . . . give me strength to die a true and valiant soldier." That was one of the most beautiful chapters in the whole book.
Henry Mueller (Hank Jones): When we first met Henry through his Dear America letters, I didn't know how I would feel about him. I soon found out: I fell head-over-heels in love with him! His shy nature, his book-brain-ness, his compassion and integrity and his deeply caring heart.
Captain Jasper Truett: Oh, my. Amanda NAILED Truett's character. Whenever he was on-page, I could have sworn I was in the presence of a real-life, grim, war-hardened captain. His story was heartbreaking . . . and oh my goodness, I want to cry again just thinking about it. He was so broken, and I just . . . y'all, I just can't. I am going to cry again because I love this man with my whole heart and I want to hold him and never let him go. He went through so much pain, far too much pain for any one man. I still don't know how Amanda wrote so vividly about such terrible mental anguish while still making everything so hope-filled, light-filled, and healing. So very healing. Just . . . someone please hold me. *sobs all over again*
Mira: I can't even think of what to say here, guys. I loved Mira with everything in me. She was so strong and brave and beautiful, so loving and compassionate and gentle and kind, so full of deep, abiding light despite the darkness and horror she went through. I deeply admire her and I want so much to be a Mira. This world would be a much more beautiful place if we had more Miras. What she went through was so horrible and painful and tragic, and yet she poured herself out for others and sacrificed for others and gave to others and loved others even though she had every reason not to. I am not doing her justice with what I am writing about her. I don't know how to describe how much I loved her, how desperately I want to be like her. Her faith was so beautiful and pure and amazing, and I want to be close to Jesus the way she was.
I was so deeply moved by how intensely she loved her child despite the horrible way it was conceived. Rather than blaming the child for the crime it did not commit, rather than responding to violence with violence, she chose life, just as it's stated in the book. I loved how tenderly and compassionately Amanda wrote both hers and the baby's stories, showing that both mother and child are blameless and pure, and that all life is beautiful, that all children are deserving of life, and that no one is deserving of death because of the way he/she is conceived. (This was also beautifully shown through Matthew's and Celia's stories.) In the times we're living in now, when people think it's okay to murder and slay babies, to call them unworthy of life because of how they're conceived/because they're unplanned, messages like this in books are so important. Thank you, Amanda, for writing this pro-life message into your story. I can't thank you enough.
Matthew Petticrew: Oh, dear, sweet, loving, gentle, kind Matthew. My precious boy. I loved him so, so, so, so, so much. *sobs* I adored how he treasured Mira, how he truly loved and cherished her as Christ loves the church. His bravery, his self-sacrificial love for others, his beautiful heart . . . I just can't say how wonderful he was. I could write a whole essay about it.
(Since I mentioned it . . . Y'ALL, THE ROMANCE IN THIS BOOK WAS ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL. *sobs, sobs, and sobs again* THIS IS HOW YOU WRITE CHRISTIAN ROMANCE, Y'ALL. Beautiful, sweet, lovely, pure, godly romance that is the absolutely, absolutely beautiful earthly picture of Christ's love for the church, just as God intended it to be. Amanda's romances are always like this and I appreciate that so very, very, very, very much. THANK YOU, AMANDA. WE NEED MORE ADORABLE, GODLY ROMANCE IN BOOKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Chester Hasenpfeffer: I can't go without mentioning this dear, precious boy. I adored Chester with all my heart, even though he wasn't in the story much (I wish there were more of him!). He made me smile so much and I just wanted to give him a big hug. He also broke my heart - I was as horrified as Matthew when I learned he was but fifteen years old. I teared up reading about him because fifteen-year-old boys should not be seeing and experiencing such a horrific, ugly thing as war - they should be playing basketball and laughing with friends and chewing gum and going to school and doing other normal fifteen-year-old boy things. War is already horrifying, but it's still more horrifying when it involves children. (Which, tragically, all wars do in some way.)
Now that I've talked about the characters, I want to talk about the themes, messages and the faith content. First I want to touch on the sensitive topics addressed in this book.
Rape: I already touched on this one when I talked about Mira's story, but I just want to mention again how deeply I appreciated Amanda's compassionate handling of the topic and her inclusion of pro-life themes. I truly, truly can't thank her enough for that. And I want to share one of the book's many beautiful quotes, this one from Mira: "There are none who can undo the past. But there is one who will carry the pain of it. He knows too well the sting of injustice. No, more than that. The blood of it. But with it, He bears the scars of His own injustice with the same hands that carry me now. And the same hands that have made this little one."
PTSD ("shell shock" in the book, because the term PTSD was not coined until 1980): I deeply, deeply appreciated Amanda's honest, accurate, and compassionate portrayal of PTSD. It was so painful and yet so beautiful, so terrible and yet so healing. Thank you, Amanda. Thank you.
War: Unlike so many others, Amanda's books never romanticize or glorify war and its effects. The way she writes about it is so raw and honest and painful, yet so full of hope and of light overcoming the darkness. We need more authors who write about war like this. Again, thank you, Amanda. I don't have the words to say how very deeply I appreciate what you do.
There were so many beautiful themes and messages in this book (it's so wonderfully complex) that I can't mention them all, but they included healing, unconditional love, self-sacrifice, and courage. Each one was so beautifully and flawlessly woven throughout the story. This book is so, so deep. One of the deepest novels I've ever encountered. The biggest theme was how Jesus is Lord over the night as well as over the day - He created them both, He reigns over them both, and He makes the night beautiful and fills it with light. He will carry us through the night, and because He is Lord over the night, because He loves us so much He died for us, because He heals our pain and comforts us in our pain, we do not need to be afraid of the night. I can't even describe how deeply this message moved and touched my heart. I needed this message so badly right now, since I'm going through a . . . dark time in my life and I have been desperately in need of the reminder that Jesus is Lord over the night and that He loves me and will carry me through and comfort me in my pain, so I don't need to be afraid. This book brought me healing. This book brought me closer to Jesus. And so I will treasure this book forever. The faith content was so authentic, so raw, so beautiful, so lovely, so amazing, so indescribable in how moving it was. The way the verse Psalm 74:16 - "Yours is the day, Yours also the night" - was used in the story was so incredibly touching. I have no words, and I know this is a rambling review and I've repeated myself a dozen different times, but it was just so beautiful. I love this book with all my heart, with everything in me, and Amanda, I want to thank you so much for writing the story God laid on your heart. It changed my life, and I pray I will, like you, be the kind of writer who seeks the Lord's guidance with each word I write; and that my stories might touch someone's heart the way yours have touched mine.
This is one of my all-time favorite books (perhaps even very, very close to being THE favorite). This is my favorite Amanda Dykes book so far (I know I'll love All the Lost Places since I love everything of Amanda's, but I don't think it'll be able to beat this one! ;) ). And now it's official: Amanda Dykes is my favorite author. Yes, my favorite author of all time, my favorite author of them all.
Conclusion: Yours is the Night is a beautiful, beautiful, heartrending book that everyone must read. 5 gazillion stars.
"There was life, there in the dark." -
If you're anything like me, you read Amanda Dykes for the way she takes truth and chips away all the darkness we've buried it under so that it shines clearly in its true radiance. You probably like her characters and you think her stories are splendid, but it's the way she writes them that makes them special.
And if you're anything like me, you pre-ordered Yours is the Night because Set the Stars Alight is a masterpiece in its genre, and you need more of that and wonder how Yours is the Night will compare. I'm sorry if you haven't read Stars, because it was impossible for me to read or review Night without thinking of her sister.
This review is for those who are anything like me.
The Prose - Amanda Dykes delivers truth as beautifully in this one, although maaaaybe not to the same extent. You know how you were highlighting and underlining every other page in Stars? This had maybe fewer quotable quotes, but did have great ones worth remembering.
The Truth - "The night— it had become our homeland, his and mine. The place where all the rest of the world slept and our hearts found each other in the dark. To sit, to talk, to be heard— and to see that the darkness was created and held by the same God who had spun the sun and all its golden light."
Honestly, the verse this story centered on, the message ("the God who created the light also created the night. There is nothing to fear here.") - this is good stuff. This is important stuff. I loved it, but I doubly recommend this book to anyone for whom the dark and the night is difficult, lonely, painful. This book is for you.
The Characters - This book is told in the POVs of five main characters, very different from each other, but sharing a time and place. I like this style of storytelling, and I liked these characters and their arcs. I enjoyed spending time with them.
The Plot - the story was fine. I liked it. It wasn't the most captivating one I've ever read, but I don't have any issues with it. This is a war book, so the story centered around France right in the middle of WWI, so be aware, there's not much romantic about that.
The Emotional Toll - this is important to me. Christian fiction authors walk a fine line between being realistic in their portrayal of difficult topics and pain, (often facing criticism for not being "raw" enough) and offering enough hope along the way that the reader isn't devastated in the reading. As a reader, I lean towards preferring the latter. I don't mind a good cry in a book, but I need to want to pick the book back up and not feel tense and stressed all day between times. This book was perfect for me. The author shows pain but doesn't drown you in it. She refers to devastating things that happened without you having to see and feel every detail. This is a good thing to me. This is a five star talent to me. I support authors who don't devastate their readers. Furthermore, I would say that of Amanda Dykes' three full length novels, this one had the happiest ending.
Now. With all that said, I only felt like this was a 4.5⭐ book. I had an ongoing problem with little plot holes on the scene level. I try to picture what is happening in the scene and follow the author as the characters talk, but it jars me out of the scene when I'm told the characters are kneeling and then on the next page they're standing, and I never knew when they stood up. And then I'm flipping back and forth wondering if I missed something. And I find it didn't, and I've been completely taken out of the story. At one point, a MC is holding a woman, on the next page he's wishing desperately that he could hold her, while I thought he still was.
Dear reader, I counted at least six instances of these little things that made me wonder if the editor didn't read the book all the way through again after the author's final edits were in. It struck me as what happens when I edit something on one page and then don't reread the scene to realize my changes left something hanging. I'm looking forward to others reading this book so I can talk to them about my little list and find out if it's me or the book. I wish it wasn't like this, because it diminished what I would have thought was a very good book into something with a lot of question marks for me.
Anyway, don't miss this one. It's good, respectful, gentle, beautiful, but I do think Stars is still my favorite.
I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review, but I received my pre-ordered copy when I was halfway through the book. All opinions are my own. -
This book was so beautiful 😭😭😭😭 and I have a new favourite author!
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3.5 stars!
Characters: Yours is the Night follows five characters: Matthew, Mira, Jasper, George, and Henry. All were well-developed and had interesting backstories. George added a touch of humor.
Language: Clean.
Moral: The main morals in Yours is the Night were hope and light vs. darkness.
Plot: This novel had drama, romance, a bit of action, and plenty of character relationships.
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses.
Writing: Amanda Dykes is a talented writer and has mastered the poetic style she uses. Personally, I prefer to read a more straightforward style, so I struggled a bit. Also, her writing style is heavy on character reflections instead of on dialogue. Again, this is just a personal preference, but I enjoy more dialogue in my reading.
Overall: Yours is the Night was an entertaining read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction, war stories, and historical romance. -
1900-1919 France
Beautifully written story told from five different points of view. Each had their own unique voice and captured my interest. I loved George's humor and the irony of how things turn out for him. This was a tale of perseverance, sacrifice and hope among other things.
This is my favorite of the novels I've read by the author. -
Amanda just has a way with words. I am pretty sure I have said this about every book she has written. There is a reason she wins so many awards. She is a master storyteller, her writing is beautiful. Her characters are deep, her research is extensive, her faith elements are subtle but though-provoking. She deals with hard topics with dignity and respect....yup definitely one of my favourite authors!
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Yours is the Night is one of those novels that words don’t quite do justice – at least not my small words. It’s tragic yet beautiful; it’s hard yet hopeful. Despite those opposing ideas, the author manages to find that sweet spot, tied in a poignant bow of a poetic writing style that I’ve come to expect from her. The way that she describes the battles in the trenches of World War I…it’s haunting yet not graphic. It’s very much an in-their-shoes feeling when experiencing it along with the character. It’s more than a simple description; it’s a depth of feeling that commemorates what they had to go through during the war, and the things that lingered in their hearts and minds long after.
The first-person narration is so impressive. There are multiple points of view, which usually is not something I enjoy as much as a single point of view. In this story, however, they are all important and all fully developed as individuals. I cared about all five of these people and was never disappointed when the point of view changed. I had my favorites, but the nuanced way that the story is told through each of their eyes is just so good. I won’t say much about the plot, other than it involves a journey, and it’s fraught with danger. Though this is a character-driven story, there are several scenes that are filled with tension and depictions of war. I adored the connection to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and found it to be a fitting, respectful tribute.
Every now and then I read a book that speaks to an emotions or thoughts that I'm working through, and then the story brings it into full light. I could say that it’s because I’m a new mom, because I’m not defined by working for the first time in many years. I could say it’s because since 2019 life has been a hard and weird but also good and beautiful. Some of the hard things were bad, but some of them have been the best of good things. To be alive is to hurt and to love and lose and to find myself in the dark sometimes, but I’ve never been alone. This novel reminded me of that. Sometimes I wish I was different, but when one of the characters asks “What if we believe our shortcomings, our oddities, are actually purposeful quirks that suit us for the moments we were made for?” that hit home. I don’t know all of the moments I was made for, or moments that have already passed that were my tiny version for “such a time as this,” but I can trust I was made for it, and that light will always overcome any darkness that comes in those moments.
If I had been reading a print copy, I would have hugged the book. Hugging my kindle didn’t have quite the same feel, but I did it anyway. I think it goes without saying, but I absolutely recommend this book. I loved it as much as I did her debut, though I do find this one weightier simply because of the setting and war-based plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher; a positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions. -
Oh, my heart. I finished Yours is the Night in the wee hours of the morning, precious time carved out of my day to give this story the respect it deserves. Right now, with tears streaming down my face, that is the word that keeps coming to me as I think about what the author has done here - Respect. She has shown respect. Honor. Dignity. Patriotism. Grace. To the immense sacrifices made during wartime, to the bravery of our American heroes, to the strength of love, and to the fierce severity with which survivors fight to live in the light after battling the dark.
It is hard to live as an empath, to constantly see symbolism that others miss, to feel emotions more deeply, to see loss and hope and pain and beauty all mixed in together on a daily basis. Are you an empath? Have you felt this? Reading Amanda's words was like turning the faucet of emotions I normally keep tamped down on full blast. Every sentence so poetic, each character triumphant, every story a gift. I trusted her to tell a grand story, and tell it she did. But Amanda not only tells a great story - she deliberately, carefully, and artistically weaves truth in every bit of it. My heart was broken at times, but my courage was bolstered and my hope renewed.
Please read this book. And then go be brave. Despite the fact that it's discouraging to see how history repeats itself, which is clearly obvious with even the most cursory glance at world history, I *know* that each generation produces men and women of courage and valor who are willing to stand up for freedom and independence in the face of tyranny. May we honor them today, by being brave. Wherever we are, whatever we do...just be a little bit more brave.
Congratulations, Amanda! Thank you for letting us read this beautiful story. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐+❤ -
Amazing. Amanda Dykes has the ability to immerse the reader in the worlds she has created. I was mesmerized by this book. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own. -
Review to come... But let me just say, I think I found a new favorite author.
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Amanda Dykes has an elegant way with words that resonates to your very soul. She is a storyteller of the highest caliber. Her words are sure and true and beautiful, bringing light from the darkness that was war.
The author continues to amaze me with her eloquent words to describe a story none of us should forget. A story of faith, selflessness and courage in a battle for freedom. The scene of using fireflies in lanterns so the enemy would not discover the soldiers may seem slight, but the author uses it to show us how God is light and He dispels the darkness.
It is told from five unique voices but that just adds perspective and shows how each character grew and was sustained in a devastating period of history. Mira is dubbed The Angel of the Argonne by the soldiers who hear her singing in the night: “It was the only thing I had to give. To bring a small bit of life to a lifeless place.”
It is a rich story of God prevailing, of honor for the fallen and of hope in the future. I am awestruck by the words in this book. It is a fitting tribute to those who fought in the Great War. Beyond 5 stars for me.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* -
I...
No words.
How do you explain a book that slowly, slowly chisels away at your heart, until there is barely anything left, and then somehow miraculously pieces it together?
How do you put into words how you feel about a beautiful, 355-page tribute to the Unknown Soldier?
I'll maybe wite a review soon. If I can find the words. Until then, I'll stare at this cover, and all the elements that combine to describe the very heart of the story: poppies, fireflies, and a compass. -
This has officially joined the list of my favorite books EVER. Augh, my poor heart. The themes are so powerful. The characters are each so lovable and distinct. The prose is poetic and gorgeous, has such a unique flair. Why didn't I listen to my sister when she first read it months ago and kindly ordered me to read it too? I glanced at it and never made the decision to actually read it till now! Well, I suppose that brings me to my one slight complaint: it took a wee bit to get into the book, but once I picked up the book with the intention to actually read it and not just glance through it to decide if I should read it...oh, my. I fell in love.
Matthew Petticrew. How can I express my LOVE for this guy?!!! He's so brave. His personality, his quietness and the way he deliberates on things, describes things...all of it. I adore him. He was probably my favorite character. And his darling sister Celia...ahh! I love her! Can I just say I'm utterly thrilled about who she ends up with?!!! Which brings me to Henry Mueller. THIS BOY. "Wet Rag," who is anything but. This darling journalist who has a powerful way with words, who's bashful yet has such heart. Wow. He's the most endearing and wonderful side character ever to have existed. *yes this is a dramatic statement but I mean it, in the moment, anyway* (Maybe I just love cute shy guy characters. Is that a thing?)
And George Piccadilly...let me tell you, this book NEEDED him. Needed him, and I mean that. He had me laughing so often with his quirks, his oddities, his lovable weirdness. He's such a dear fellow. And his spiritual arc was perfect!!! Those three guys clicked so PERFECTLY together, their quirks and all. So unlikely, yet perfect.
Jasper Truett. What can I say? His spiritual arc had me in tears. I loved the poor guy. So. Much. His sacrifice...I really don't have the words right now to explain how much I loved all of it and how much his arc affected me. The last person, FAR from least, is dear, sweet Mira. (I'm kind of saving the best for last.) *bundles her in a hugs that might be too tight but I think she appreciates it* She's one of the strongest, bravest heroines I've ever read about. The way she saw such light and life and beauty in the brokenness, how she clung to hope when she could have given up in despair at what had been done to her...that's not common. And it's so inspiring.
I just LOVED LOVED LOVED Matthew and Mira's romance!! I loved their dynamic, Matthew's quiet understanding and protectiveness, the unexpected proposal, the way they helped heal each other from the traumatic emotional wounds they both suffered from.
The messages are unapologetically Christian. As you might imagine from the title, the biggest overarching theme is that even the night is the Lord's. That He is the light in our darkness. The motif (if that's the right phrase) with the fireflies really stuck with me, and same with the matchbox. Several of the scenes illustrating this message hit me really hard, such as when Mira was comforting Matthew from his nightmare. So, so good.
Overall, this tore me up and put me back together, better than I was before I read it. The style of this book may not be for everyone - beautiful, poetic prose full of metaphors gets me every time, but that's not the case for all readers, and same with the richly character-driven, slower pace (although WOW, there are some killer action scenes, don't get me wrong!)...but I think everyone would benefit from reading this and soaking in its message. I can't wait to read more books by Amanda Dykes!
Favorite quotes:
A flash of light skitters loose, circling the lantern once...twice...vanishing away into the night. A solitary firefly, leaving the safety of this place.
This is what it was born for. To rend the darkness.
"He begs the question of me, and perhaps of each of us—what if what we believe to be our shortcomings, our oddities, are actually purposeful quirks that suit us for the moments we were made for?"
*note: can I just point out that both these quotes are by Henry? SEE? HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE HIM??? -
Wow. This was my third Amanda Dykes book and I was not disappointed. It took me a little while to get through mostly because I’m a slow reader these days, but also because I can’t really plow through historical fiction stories like I can other genres. It takes time to savor and really process what’s going on, and seeing as this was a WWI novel, the realities of the war were sobering and heavy.
But like all Amanda’s books, she shines light into those dark and heavy places, illuminating the spaces with hope.
Ahh, this book was infused with so much hope—a message I’ve been clinging to lately. Her interweaving of faith elements were so perfectly spread throughout, and even in the “irreverence” of George Piccadilly, the Chaplain, there was a raw and honest searching and beauty in how he approached the Lord.
From all Amanda’s characters, I seem to have learned lessons. From Henry—to grow confident in the voice God gave me to speak; from George—to keep pursuing Christ because He’ll never stop pursuing us; from Captain Jasper Truett—what it means to sacrifice so much on behalf of others; from Matthew—to not be afraid of vulnerability, because in there, it allows healing; and Mira—her resilience and grace during hardship.
Thank you, Amanda, for another wonderful story I’ll be remembering for years to come. -
My heart is full. The author has raised the bar of excellence in this masterfully crafted tale. While I love historical fiction and read a lot of WWI and WWII era stories, this one stands out for its beautiful prose, heartwarming cast of characters, and unique viewpoint. I absolutely loved that the author chose to tell this story through five different characters, knitting together what at first appears to be totally different viewpoints into one united story of courage. Their individual journeys of faith tugged at my heart, as each character reached out into a greater story of sacrifice and love. This is a book for the keeper shelf, to be returned to again and again. Bravo!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. -
Yet another lyrical, hope-infused story from Amanda Dykes. I will say that Whose Waves These Are and Set the Stars Alight are still my favorites; I think it has to do with the difference between third person and first person. At the same time, I was absolutely blown away by Amanda’s ability to keep five first-person voices distinct from each other. I could tell who was narrating even if I missed the tag at the beginning of the chapter. That takes skill.
The characters were wonderful. George made me laugh so many times. I loved his narrative voice, and he was by far one of my favorites. In fact, all the characters had something that made me root for them and enjoy being in their point of view. The history was fascinating to me as well. It was hard reading sometimes but never became overwhelming. And Mira’s story was the best example I have ever seen of handling a terrible wartime abuse with grace and honor—both on Mira’s part and the author’s.
Normally I love a natural, expertly woven faith element, but based on the few hints we’re given, I suspect Mira’s ancestral faith would not align with biblical Christianity. I generally don’t care what a character believes as long as it’s described honestly, and while I don’t want to go into depth, I felt that that honesty was sacrificed here. On the same note, I wish some of the pivotal moments in George’s life had been explored a little more deeply, as Christ himself did not figure into those moments much. There was also a moment in the story when I felt a bit of author manipulation, but in so many other ways, this story held beautiful pictures of love, honor, and sacrifice that both inspired and challenged me. It is a truly nasty trick to tell your readers in the prologue that somebody is going to die. And yet I knew that somehow I would be okay with it, because Amanda’s books are that way. Of course, by the time it happened, I forgot I was going to be okay with it. But when all was said and done, I was still okay with it. It’s that hope-amid-sorrow, light-amid-darkness talent that Amanda has.
I loved finding the tiny connections to the author’s other books scattered throughout this one. It’s a beautiful, light-filled story. I wouldn’t trust just anyone to write a book set in the Great War, but Amanda Dykes has given us yet another tale of wonder, honor, and heroism in the darkest of moments. -
Such a sweet story 🥺 I totally could have cried, the ending was so emotional. I loved each of the different characters and hearing their perspectives. (The audiobook had a different voice for each character).
Matthew is just the sweetest. George had me cracking up. Truett had my heart breaking.
Content: mention of pregnancy as a result of rape but dealt with very delicately. -
"On the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier comes an emotive tale inspired by the courageous soldiers of World War I."
Yours is the Night is an incredible book that the author poured her heart and soul into.
I have read many,many WWI and WWII books there are those that fly from the mind soon after being read and those that stay with us in the heart. This is one that the heart keeps.
The story is unique in the sense that we receive it through the eyes,thoughts and actions of five individual characters. This puts a unique perspective on the story.
Emotional, this is one not to miss!
Pub Date 03 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own. -
I was putting off reading Amanda Dykes new release Yours is the Night and finally got to it today and I am so glad I finally read this great book. The story of Mathew a soldier in World War l. After a battle he hears a angel voice singing and when he goes to investigate he finds Mira left alone after her father goes to war and her Grandfather dies. So George a pastor trying to escape the war, Henry a journalist, and then Matthew who is falling in love with Mari are there to bring her to Paris. So the journey begins. Unwanted truths, war, and love follow them in this journey and will wanting so much for these wonderful characters. I loved this book. Amanda Dykes only writes characters that you fall in love with and you want so much from them. You don't know what will happen until the end and let me tell you It was a nail biter. I so highly recommend this book. I haven't read much from the World War l era and this book was pack through of history. I don't like historical fiction that much and I just loved it. A wonderful read from a wonderful author!!
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Absolute poetry by the best current writer in the Christian market ( heck in any market)
a billion thumbs up!
Will be hosting Amanda for a Q and A sometime later this spring -
So, so, so well done.
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*literally sobs* Once again, Amanda has created a masterpiece!
Being a lover of WW1 fiction, I was so happy to find a book with that setting/time period. I was engaged immediately from the beginning. I mean, that prologue?!?!?!?!
Despite having 5 first-person POVs, it totally worked. Each voice was unique enough to be original and yet similar enough to be cohesive. Mira the sweet innocent with a tragic backstory. Matthew the protector and total sweetheart. Captain Truett the father figure and strong man of character, compassion, and integrity. Hank the quiet one finding his own voice. George the parson who’s the comic relief.
I loved all these characters so much and was so sad to leave them behind. Also, the ending…! *cue more tears* But as always the stunning themes Amanda paints are refreshing and real.
Everything was just beautiful beyond words, and this story snagged a piece of my heart! -
This is one of the best books I've read in a long time ♥
From the opening line, Yours Is The Night captivated me with its beautiful prose and remarkable ability to turn even the most ordinary of things into something magical through a masterful grasp of language and description. The author wove her words into a literary masterpiece that had me in complete and utter awe. As a writer myself, my appreciation for a well-written book runs deep, and I can't sing enough praises for this one!
Here's a rundown of my thoughts...
The Plot
It wasn't so much the plot as the individual events that captured my interest. I loved the character development, especially; everything that happened on the journey to Paris allowed the characters to grow and change, both as individuals and as a group. And I LOVED the setting, especially because the author described it so beautifully! Her prose spoke beauty into even the simplest things...but at the same time, her words captured the raw, heart-wrenching realities of the war. Overall, it was a very moving read, with a perfect balance of sorrow, hardship, love, and hope.
The Characters
It's not often that I love the entire cast of characters, but I adored EVERYONE in this book!!
Matthew - Ahhh, Matthew. Sweet Brooderly Broodman. I love a good brooding hero, but Matthew was especially marvelous because he falls on the good side of brooding - a little too serious, but with a heart of gold. His slightly gruff but affectionate attitude towards Chester made my heart happy ♥ And the way he treated Mireilles, always the perfect gentleman...ahhhhhh ♥ ♥ ♥
But I could not fathom not being Mira's. Her not being mine. We'd crossed a world and found one another in the middle of the forest, all of our pieces and stories looking into each other, bringing us together. ♥ ♥ ♥
Mireilles - First of all, I love her name! Second, she's an absolute ch& despite living a relatively sheltered life, she was courageous in the face of adversity and overcame her struggles with a quiet strength that I truly admire. And she seemed so mature, yet innocent at the same time...honestly, she was a nice change from all the hardcore, fiery heroines that frequent novels these days. She's proof that you don't have to be brash to be brave.
Henry - Henry is my kindred spirit, with his cynical bookishness and aversion to people, publicity, and all the things that make us introverts want to crawl into a hole somewhere and read the day away (perhaps with a nice cup of tea). I was immensely proud of him when he kicked his Hank Jones persona to the curb and embraced his true, marvelous self!
Captain Truett - I confess, I might have shed a tear or two when reading the chapters written from his perspective...but you can't expect me to stifle my tears when reading about a man whose gruff, hard exterior is nothing more than a facade to hide his broken heart. Captain Truett was a truly inspirational, admirable character.
And now for the one you've all been waiting for...because I saved the best for last, of course...
George Piccadilly, ladies and gentlemen - aka, the greatest character to ever cross the pages of a book!
What can I possibly say to encompass the ridiculous amazing-ness that is George?? I lost count of the times I burst out laughing over his hilarious antics. My friends talk about suave, snazzy British guys, but I personally believe that George is far superior. George is...well, I can't say it much better than Henry:
A wise grandfather who couldn't get his boots on the right feet most of the time but had somehow managed to broker a peace treaty between two warring nations.
So there you have it. Sometimes, you wonder how he's managed to survive life this long...and sometimes, you marvel at his (rare) moments of profound wisdom. He wasn't a hero in the same sense as Matthew was (because of course, he didn't possess the superhuman power of brooding), but he was heroic in his own special way, and I personally think his character development was the best, because it can be summed up by this amazing line: He had stumbled into faith in the most unlikeliest of ways and told us it all had to do with a sheep he'd had a conversation with.
Yep; I love George. And I looooooooooove this book, and recommend it to anyone who has a hankering for meaningful content, beautifully written prose, insanely lovable characters, and a brilliant dose of humor :) -
“Sometimes there’s a dark so thick you just know that the God who made light with His own two hands— with just His words— is going to plunge right into that dark to find you. You remember that, Mr. Matthew."
This book. This is a book I've wanted since I first heard about it because Amanda Dykes has earned her place as an auto-buy author for me. If you're looking forward to this one, and maybe, just maybe, wondering if the story can possibly live up to the hype in your mind, let me relieve you by saying Yours is the Night is, at the same time, all that we've anticipated and far more.
That heart-tugging prologue lets us know that there's an emotional ending coming. But the journey--the JOURNEY is worth the tears. And isn't that just like life.
In that poetic way of hers, Amanda Dykes introduces you to the Seventeenth Band. Matthew, Jasper, Henry, George (hilarious George)...and Mira too, because she certainly earns her place in their band. As you walk with them in France, you find yourself in those WWI trenches. In a mysterious forest haunted by song. In the midst of hope and light to combat the night. To live with you in the night.
I was, of course, shedding tears by the end, but those tears were born from acknowledgement of the sacrifice others made long ago--and still make today. This isn't a story to be missed or skimmed. This is one to savor, line by line.
And the little nuggets sprinkled in from her other two novels are so fun!
(Side note: I'd love to be a fly on the wall while Amanda Dykes writes because, man, does she have a talent that must be intuitive and God-given as much as attained through practice and study. I'm in awe.)
*For transparency's sake, I'll tell you I received a copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. But all this gushing is absolutely my own opinion!) -
2022 Reread
I am staring at my screen wondering how to ever do this story justice. I'm still speechless, y'all. To see a beautiful review that says everything I feel and believe towards this book, check out my friend Bonnie's
review here.
Yours is the Night is a tribute to all the lost soldiers who never came home and to all those who did come home but left a part of themselves on the battlefield and were forever changed. Amanda has shown true and real respect to all these men, no matter what war they've fought.
This book inspires valour, to raise generations of men and women who will value and cherish the freedoms won and go on instilling those values in generations to come. This book inspires courage and bravery. It reminds us of what and who we are fighting for. Of what is most important.
And most of all, this book reminds us thatThere [is] life, there in the dark.
2021 First Read
I do not have words to describe how this book impacted me, how emotional I was reading it, nor how deceivingly simple yet oh so profound it is. I wish I could write a beautiful, gushing review like other readers have been able to, but I can't. I just don't have the words. If you need any convincing, that's it right there - me, ME - speechless! Amanda Dykes has quickly become my favourite author, period. I'll be back to finish this review once I find the words. -
"Sometimes there's a dark so thick you just know that God who made the light with his own two hands - with just His words - is going to plunge right into that dark to find you."
"There are none who can undo the past. But there is one who will carry the pain of it. He knows too well the sting of injustice. No, more than that. The blood of it. But with it, He bears the scars of his own injustice with the same hands that carry me now."
"The God who does not slumber - the same God I questioned, and railed against, and sobbed to, and ran from, after He seemed not to see me or care - He brought me you. . . . . . He crossed you over oceans and years . . . . If He has done that, then I believe He can do anything."
It was ever so tempting to let the words of this story speak for themselves; after all, when you are privy to a majestic symphony of words, why interrupt the music with unnecessary chatter? For entering into this author's sanctuary of sound is never simply a reading experience, it is an invitation to enter a scene where every nook and cranny is filled with everlasting hope, even in the midst of seemingly impenetrable darkness. . . . . .
. . . . . for Platoon Sergeant Matthew Petticrew met "The Angel of Argonne" under the blanket of night, in a place where grief and survival trumped fear long enough to form a tenuous partnership. Mireille's entire life had been spent in that enchanted French forest, but as the world screamed of war and Mira's very existence was put at risk, her instincts insisted that she follow the odd threesome out of the only world she had ever known, leaving her heart and the memory of a promise, far behind.
Although Matthew's battle-worn mind was plagued with unforgiving nightmares, his kind and compassionate nature compelled him to use every skill necessary to ensure Mira's delivery to a safe haven, especially if his companion was correct about her true identity. But nothing fully prepared them for the journey to come, nor the one that would follow, for Mira's forest would once again became a sanctuary, for "the tree was like a house, . . . . I called it 'le coeur' for the way the inside was like a heart. A safe place. . . .a perfect hideaway . . . . of all the trees in all the woods". . .
"The day is Yours, the night also is Yours . . . " (Psalm 74:16)
Two formerly bleeding, broken hearts braved leaving the shadows behind, confidently basking in the light that was to rise, knowing that "the night is not to be feared", ever again.
