A Portrait of Loyalty

Written by Roseanna M. White

Narrated by Susan Lyons

He sees patterns in what she deems chaos. She sees beauty in a world he thought destroyed.

Zivon Marin was one of Russia’s top cryptographers until the October Revolution tore apart his world. Forced
to flee to England after speaking out against Lenin, Zivon is driven by a growing anger and determined to offer
his services to the Brits. But never far from his mind is his brother, whom Zivon fears died in the train crash that
separated them.

Lily Blackwell sees the world best through the lens of a camera and possesses unsurpassed skill when it comes
to retouching and re-creating photographs. With her father’s connections in propaganda, she’s recruited to the
intelligence division, even though her mother would disapprove if she ever found out.

After Captain Blackwell invites Zivon to dinner one evening, a friendship blooms between him and Lily that
soon takes over their hearts. But both have secrets they’re unwilling to share, and neither is entirely sure they can
trust the other. When Zivon’s loyalties are called into question, proving him honest is about more than one couple’s
future dreams—it becomes a matter of ending the war.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 8, 2020
• ISBN: 9781705003435

Roseanna M. White

Roseanna M. White (RoseannaMWhite.com) is a bestselling, Christy Award-winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books . . . . to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary.

Reviews for A Portrait of Loyalty

[Berly · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I usually enjoy Regency romance more than Historical romances. I have never loved history in general. The Codebreakers series is the first by Roseanna M. White that I have listened to. I am determined to go back and listen to the others as well. (I will need to take a break from the genre and cleanse my ears with a regency or romcom first!) But I will be back to the author.

I learned much about history around WWI from this series, and in particular, this book. It is almost 14 hours of audio to complete the book and halfway through I am thinking I want to get to the end but I also don't want it to be over.

This book has ups and downs and twists and turns but always keeps your attention, despite my wishing for it to speed up. It doesn't drag, but I am always more for the romance than the history. Ms. White brings both in this story in several different ways.

Once again the narrator that has read all of The Codebreaker books is top notch!

[sbmc-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book was the 2021 Christy Award winner for Historical Romance and it so deserves the accolades. The author masterfully combines espionage of WWI, the revolution in Russia, artistry and beauty of photography, astounding faith, and sweet romance to create one unforgettable novel. I loved learning about British intelligence and how codes and photos were used during the Great War. Zivon was a fantastic hero - so noble and dedicated and intelligent. His journey to forgiveness through grief and anger was heart-breaking but full of truth and encouragement. Lily's compassion and tenderness were the perfect antidote to Zivon's shadowed past. The plot was intricately detailed and there were quite a few gasp-worthy twists.If you enjoy historical romance, this is a must read! I received the book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Ann Bush · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved that the hero in the story remained loyal despite many people questing that. In these times, reading about the Spanish flu was especially interesting and I loved Barkley being part of this story too.

[debs4jc · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Set during World War I this tale involved a female photographer - Lily - whose talent for photography has become more than just a hobby. Her father's influence gained her entrance into the British secret intelligence world, where she manipulates photographs for the war effort. Lily keeps her work a secret from her mother, who objects to the altering of photographic images as a form of lying that is morally reprehensible. The other main character in the book is Zivion, a young man who fled the revolutionary forces in Russia with his brother. A train accident separated him from his brother, but he felt that he must accept the offer to work for the British so that he could help them win the war, and perhaps restore Russia to it's Czarist government. Zivion has a lot of adapting to do as he learns to live in a new country, but his new friend Lily and her family prove to be very helpful. Little does he know that there are people out there from his home country that will put him - and Lily - in danger.I found this historical romance fascinating. The discussions on the use of altered photographs for the war effort - or for propaganda - made the think about how images are still used for such purposes today - and is that right or is that wrong? Zivion's story was also interesting because I know so little about the events of the "October Revolution" and what the aftermath meant for thousands of Russians who fled the country, or whose families were divided along party lines. Yes, at the end there is a happy, romantic ending - but there is so much more to this book and I would heartily recommend it to fans of thoughtful historical fiction.

[herenya_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

London, 1918. Zivon Marin is a cryptographer who has fled Russia and now hopes to persuade England to act upon his information. Lily Blackwell, under the guise of visiting her father at his work, is working for British Intelligence as a photographer.I was surprised by how long it took before I really cared about them and their relationships -- White’s other books hooked me because I became quickly invested. Here, it takes a while for Lily and Zivon to get to know each other and at first, although they have their own worries, they have little reason to worry about each other.Eventually the story finds more dramatic sources of tension, not limited to the Spanish flu pandemic. It may have been a stronger story if it had introduced some of those tensions earlier and therefore had room to explore them in more depth.But I was invested enough, I wanted a happy ending for these characters. And it was interesting to consider the way dark-room photography could be used -- and manipulated -- in aid of the war effort.

[estherfilbrun · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved this story—partly for its wonderful characters, but also partly because of the history woven seamlessly into its pages! I feel like I learned a lot more from this book than from some of the others, history-wise; I knew the Bolshevik Revolution happened right around the time of World War I, but it’s one thing to know and another thing to see it through the eyes of a character you’re empathetic with. That part was very well done—that, and seeing the effect of the Spanish Flu. How horrible! Makes the pandemic we’re living through seem relatively light in comparison.The characters? They were spot-on, as I’ve learned to expect from White. She knows her characters and somehow manages to think with their mindsets, and the results are astounding. I’d love to take some character creation classes from her! Whether they are musically, mathematically, or artistically inclined, she does a great job bringing that out in everyday circumstances that just go to prove how much they are geared for those things—it’s a beautiful experience as you read.Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It wasn’t my favorite of the whole series (I’m a loyal Margot fan), but I felt like it did an excellent job wrapping up the series, and was the perfect addition to them overall. As a historical fiction addict, this one tickled my fancy in that way, but also provided some sweet but not over-the-top romance, which was lovely. If you enjoy that combination within the realms of a well-told story, I’d recommend you check these books out.I was given a complementary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

[beautyinthebinding · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Portrait of Loyalty by Roseanna M. White is a long, deep book that I read while bedridden with Covid. It was a bit of a slow start for me because I did not connect right away with Lily or Zivon. However, plenty of intrigue kept me interested in the story and I later found the lead characters more relatable. Eventually, Zivon became my favorite character as he was a true hero, a man of devotion and excellent character.One thing that I appreciated in A Portrait of Loyalty (and all the other books in this series) was how the characters wrestled intensely with their spiritual issues. Lily and Zivon do not settle for blind, easy answers. The author dives deep with characters that doubt and struggle in a way that feels very authentic and true to real life. As the characters grapple with circumstances and issues, the truths that they discover are powerful and relevant for the reader. A Portrait of Loyalty stands as the third book in The Codebreakers series by Roseanna M. White, but it can be read on its own. I recommend reading all the series, in order if possible, as each one is excellent in its own way. Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Codebreakers is an outstanding series and this book is the perfect way to wrap it up! A Portrait of Loyalty has everything that I love in a book: a fictional story based on historical facts, two incredible characters who get their own chance to shine, lots of intrigue and suspense, and an extremely strong faith element. Lily BLackwell is a photographer and Zivon Marin is a cryptographer who begin as friends but working together in the war effort shows them that they share so much more and even when rumors about the Russian Zivon's character run rampant, Lily remains steadfast and faithful. Who wouldn't wish that they could find happiness...together?This story is set in London in 1918, during the time of World War I and the Spanish Flu, and author Roseanna M. White has given me a new appreciation of these historical occurrences. I've gained a whole new knowledge of the spies and the cryptographers who influenced the outcome of World War 1 and I've been reminded just how similar the Spanish Flu and the current Corona Virus pandemic really are!A Portrait of Loyalty is a remarkable story of trust, loyalty, and forgiveness during the worst of times and I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance. I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. A favorable review was not required and no monetary compensation was given. These are my own thoughts.

[mandat_2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Like Roseanna's other books in this series, A Portrait of Loyalty also has a great story. The story took me back to a tumultuous time in history and gave me a glimpse of what life was like during the first world war. The codebreakers are facinating to me. It's amazing the way they can solve puzzles with code and language so quickly. This series also mentions the Bolshevik Revolution which I thought was a great addition to the historical scene. The Russians were having their own battles that they were facing during this time too. And can you honestly have a spy book without having a Russian make an appearance? Of course not! This story will pull at your heartstrings so be prepared for that. Not everything is all roses especially with the sudden appearance of the Spanish Flu. A timely story for this point in our own history. Of course, our illness in 2020 is not to the vast effect that the Spanish Flu had on the world.I would definitely recommend this series. It was a great one to read, so make sure to check out the books in her Codebreaker series.***I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[kimpotter-309059 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Portrait of Loyalty by Roseanna M. White is the third book in her Codebreakers series. Lillian Blackwell uses her camera and her knowledge to help the Admiralty during WW1. Zivon Marin, one of Russia’s top cryptographers, flees Russia with information he hopes the British will use to help end the war. Meeting Lily was not part of his plan. When her life and his loyalties are threatened, will they be able to overcome or will they be the next casualties of the war? The suspense was very intense in this book, but the romance helped balance it out very well. I loved Lily’s spirited nature and her willingness to help others. The echo that Zivon kept hearing, “Be Still, and know that I am God,” is something we all should listen to. I think this was a great ending to the series!I received this book from the author for my honest review.

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A Portrait of Loyalty Roseanna M. White is the 3rd novel in The Codebreakers. It can be read as a standalone, but I believe you will have a better reading experience if the series is read in order. I thought A Portrait of Loyalty was well-written with developed characters. Ms. White takes readers back to 1918 in London where they are diligently fighting the Germans. The point-of-view switches between several characters including Zivon and Lily. It was fascinating learning about the work Lily did for the war effort. The author really brought Lily’s characters and the work she did to life. The way they would take photos and alter them was intriguing. Lily also took plenty of photos with the camera she carried everywhere with her. I could tell the author did her research for this story. The information about the Bolsheviks, espionage, breaking codes, and the Spanish flu are all included. There was just the right amount of detail. The author managed to walk that fine line between not enough and too much. The pace of the story picked up near the end as well as the tension. I was eager to see how the story would finish. The romance was sweet and will make you smile. A Portrait of Loyalty is an emotional story (joy, hope, grief, sadness, and despair). I liked how Lily helped Zivon regain his trust in God. He wondered how God can let so much violence. Zivon needed help in renewing his faith. I was happy to catch up with the characters from On Wings of Devotion and The Number of Love. A Portrait of Loyalty is a charming historical novel that provided a good ending to The Codebreakers.

[anne_rightler-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Portrait of Loyalty, the third and final book in the Codebreakers series by Roseanna M. White, is a wonderful historical fiction book. Having read several of this author’s books, I was excited to read this one and was not disappointed in the least. It is a beautiful story of love, loss, families, and faith. With an expert pen and graceful characterization, the author ushers readers into London of WWI and the lives of Lily and Zivon. I loved the characters in the book--vibrant, compassionate, able to weather the storms they encountered. Lily, the expert photographer who retouches and recreates photos for British Intelligence. Zivon, a top cryptographer who has left Russia to escape the political upheaval brewing there. Watching their romance begin and deepen during the backdrop of WWI, the Spanish Flu, and the Bolshevik Revolution was captivating. This multifaceted story kept me turning the pages--wondering if Zivon's past was going to ruin his present and his future; wondering if Lily and her mother would find their way back to the friendship they once knew; wondering if Lily and Zivon's romance has any chance at all of surviving the various interruptions and interferences. Being a collector of Matryoshka dolls, I enjoyed the references throughout the book to those enchanting nesting dolls. A Portrait of Loyalty is a book that fans of historical fiction will not want to miss. Some of the characters and circumstances are loosely based on real individuals and situations. There is an Author Note section at the end of the book that speaks to the author's research and her fictionalization of real scenarios and people. I found that to be very interesting. This book is not only a story of family relationships and love in wartime but a story where individuals learn that their faith in God is valid and that He can be trusted--that He wants to be trusted...Be still and know that I am God...to work out circumstances in His time.I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[lifeofliterature · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I have really enjoyed this series! This third book once again has great characters that draw you into their story with ease. I liked Zivon and Lily and enjoyed their intelligent conversations and their keen observations of each other and their environment around them. I loved the descriptions of Lily’s photography as well! The secondary characters are equally engaging and I enjoyed reading their convictions and story. I loved the author’s attention to detail, especially the history woven throughout the novel. I really learned a lot about the time period and different parts of the war! I also found myself relating to the spiritual truths and struggles in the book. This novel can be read as a standalone but the entire series is definitely worth a read! I’m a little sad to see it end. I have really enjoyed getting to know more about a unique set of individuals from World War I. I definitely recommend this book!I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I so enjoyed this series and this latest addition was no exception, and so very timely considering what is happening in the world.You will also have a greater understanding of the White and Red Russian, and make sure you read the author's notes at the end!Who do you trust, and things get twisted so once you make up your mind, many will change theirs.There is a bit of sweet romance, some very sad happenings, and a finding of the faith that you thought you lost.We walk with these folks that you will soon care about, as they are fighting the evil of WWI, and learning more about those who help win the victory.Yes, this book can stand alone, but you once you've read this one, you will be grabbing the others.I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.