The Land Beneath Us

Written by Sarah Sundin

Narrated by Sarah Zimmerman

In 1943, Private Clay Paxton trains hard with the US Army Rangers at Camp Forrest, Tennessee, determined to do his best in the upcoming Allied invasion of France. With his future stolen by his brothers' betrayal, Clay has only one thing to live for-fulfilling the recurring dream of his death.

Leah Jones works as a librarian at Camp Forrest, longing to rise above her orphanage upbringing and belong to the community, even as she uses her spare time to search for her real family-the baby sisters she was separated from so long ago.

After Clay saves Leah's life from a brutal attack, he saves her virtue with a marriage of convenience. When he ships out to train in England for D-day, their letters bind them together over the distance. But can a love strong enough to overcome death grow between them before Clay's recurring dream comes true?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Feb 4, 2020
• ISBN: 9781977383594

Sarah Sundin

Sarah Sundin is the author of A Distant Melody, A Memory Between Us, and Blue Skies Tomorrow. In 2011, A Memory Between Us was a finalist in the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Awards and Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. A graduate of UC San Francisco School of Pharmacy, she works on-call as a hospital pharmacist. During WWII, her grandfather served as a pharmacist’s mate (medic) in the Navy and her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children.

Reviews for The Land Beneath Us

[April Kidwell · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A wonderful story of forgiveness and love. Sundin develops a delightful story of finding where you belong, choosing to find the beauty in the life you live, and accepting that it’s not always pretty.

[sdbookhound · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

In this inspirational historical fiction novel, the main characters Private Clay Paxton and Leah Jones navigate a dangerous time of war. Clay is convinced he is not to be much longer on this earth and chooses to help Leah by way of a marriage of convenience. This is a beautiful and unique story. The details of the time period are spot on. I loved the correspondence between Clay and Leah and how they grew to know and love each other for real. Both were strong characters and I loved reading about their hardships and joys. I recommend this book and am going to look into the earlier books in the series.

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

The Land Beneath Us by Sarah Sundin is the final installment in Sunrise at Normandy series. It can be read on its own, but, if you want to get the full experience of the brothers’ saga, I recommend reading them in order. I thought The Land Beneath Us was well-written with developed characters. I enjoy Sarah Sundin’s word imagery which brings the scenes alive. The author creates such strong characters. Leah Jones has had a rough life. Her parents died when she was a small child. At the orphanage, Leah was separated from her baby sisters. She then endured horrible adoptive parents who felt Leah’s Greek heritage was disdainful. They took away her heritage and her real name. Just when things are turning around for Leah, she is violently assaulted. It takes a strong woman to overcome so much tragedy. Leah has such a tender and caring heart. I love how she enjoyed books. Leah is an avid reader like me. I admit that I wanted to shake Clay at times. His dream confounded me, but Clay is a man of strong convictions. I enjoyed reading this engaging story as well as the whole series. The author did her research for this trilogy. She captured the U.S. Army Ranger training as well as D-Day. Sarah Sundin portrayed the time period beautifully. My favorite line from The Land Beneath Us is, “Since the Lord knows everything, I reckon that makes Him the ultimate library.” The epilogue was a delight and wrapped up the series perfectly. The Land Beneath Us is a captivating historical tale with a death dream, a terrible tragedy, battling brothers, a library lover, and a raging war.

[godsgirl_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book was so good I read it so fast that I forgot to even review it! Without spoiling anything, it's a WWII book but with a lot more depth and a deeper story to tell. I have already passed it on to a friend. Highly recommend and I will definitely be reading more of her books!!!

[marypo-3 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It's not often a book exceeds my expectations, especially one that has a trope that can tend to have objectionable content, but this book did exactly that. The character development is a defining element here. Clay was harshly treated because of his ethnicity and betrayed and robbed by his brothers, who were supposed to back him up and support him, but he never became angry at the world or turned his back on God. I was bracing myself for the impact that never came, because pleasantly Clay turned out to be strong and steady, instead of angry and reckless. Both main characters were realistic through their struggles and responses. Leah couldn't have gone through being treated like a shabby, worthless orphan most of her life without feeling the pain of rejection and inadequacy, or this deeply affecting her, intensified by the fact that she had no support system, no one to back her against those who mistreated her. That's why when I was introduced to this sweet, selfless, and hopeful orphan, I couldn't help wanting to give her a hug. Both Clay and Leah grow in character, overcome obstacles, and support each other. Their relationship was based on a selfless, sacrificial decision, and I love how they offered encouragement to each other in whatever ways they could. Since this is a marriage of convenience story, I was concerned that it might have steamy scenes, but the author kept the relationship on a platonic level for most of the book because she is skilled at subtly growing a relationship through correspondence. And because of that, I've found a new favorite. Also, I highly recommend reading this with a two-pound bag of Brookside chocolate, like I did. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[vintagebeckie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Land Beneath Us is the concluding novel in Sarah Sundin’s Sunrise at Normandy series. The books feature the three Paxton brothers — men impacted by the actions of a single night back at their home in Texas. Lots of mistakes, poor decisions, and, yes, sins took place on that tragic day, and all three men have to deal with the repercussions. In The Land Beneath Us, youngest brother Clay takes center stage. He trains to be a Ranger to fulfill what he believes to be his destiny. On his way he meets a remarkable young woman whose own life has been marked by tragedy and violence. Her example of forgiveness impacts Clay, changing how he sees his life, his brothers, and God. An excellent finale to this series, this book gets a highly recommended rating from me.There are so many things to love about The Land Beneath Us. I love how Sundin brings the day-to-day activities of WWII-era America to life. Small details such as fashion, baby care, scrap drives show just how life has changed in the modern world. Yet there is much to be learned — unity of purpose and watching out for our neighbors. There were definitely some dark aspects — prejudices of many kinds — that shine a light on the shortcomings of modern day America as well. Sundin’s research is remarkable. I really felt I was in those Ranger training sessions and on the streets of small town Tennessee. And Clay’s experiences on D Day spotlight the courage and determination of our Greatest Generation. Spiritual themes abound and are naturally woven into the narrative. Forgiveness, feelings of unworthiness, and clinging to what others have done to us are just a few. The two main characters’ developing relationship was special as well. Through letters they go from a marriage of convenience to a deep love. The book includes an epilogue wrapping up all of the books — I loved that too!For fans of historical fiction set during WWII, this series cannot be beat! If you haven’t read any of the books in this series, you need to. Start at book 1 and get ready for a great reading experience.Highly Recommended.Audience: adults.(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book emphasizes the sacrifices of all who were involved in World War II, both male and female, and it also justifies why these brave people were called The Greatest Generation. Sarah Sundlin completely captures the fears, determination, and deep patriotism and vividly describes the horrors of war. Clay Paxton is the focus of this third book of the Sunrise at Normandy series and he is the man that most parents would choose for their daughter. He proves this by marrying a young woman, in an effort to save her virtue, after she has been brutally attacked. Leah Jones is the young woman that he marries and I was especially drawn to this young woman who longs to be a librarian and yearns to find her twin sisters; the young orphan who has never eaten in a restaurant until her marriage. Being separated by war soon becomes a reality and it is through their letters to each other that Clay and Leah get to know each other and realize that perhaps their marriage could be so much more than just a marriage of convenience---if Clay can survive the war.Sundlin has written a beautiful story of faith, family, and forgiveness, and she reminds us of the amazing power of love. I highly recommend The Land Beneath Us to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[stardust_fiddle · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Historical fiction is my favorite genre, and over the years I’ve read many books set during WWII. As with any subject, having a familiarity with this period leads to recognizing plots and events and being able to predict what will follow. Generally speaking, stories don’t catch me off guard. However, with “The Land Beneath Us,” Sarah Sundin manages to do just that, so that I felt as if I were reading a suspenseful thriller and could not turn the pages quickly enough. I have not read the previous books in this series, but that did not at all impede my enjoyment of this one.With “The Land Beneath Us”, Sarah Sundin delivers a breathtaking novel that is both beautiful and tragic. She deals with disquieting issues not often found in Christian historical fiction, yet she does so with grace. While the events themselves are disturbing, they are not described in detail and do not leave readers feeling sullied. Instead, through the faith of her characters and the ways in which the Lord works in their lives, these ordeals become inspiring testimonies. Leah Jones, in particular, spoke to my heart and is now among my list of favorite heroines. Her love of books and libraries resonated with me, and I felt a kinship with her because I am petite also. Despite her small stature, she manages to make a powerful impact; as Clay Paxton remarks, “For such a young and tiny thing, she had strength at her core.” Despite growing up as an orphan and dealing with abandonment her entire life, her heart has not become hardened and she has an effusive zest for life and remarkable resilience. Her own statement reveals her disposition: “There are even more blessings I can’t yet see. But I will. I only have to watch.” She is not, however, perfect, and I am thankful that Sundin shows how Leah does make mistakes like the rest of us but comes through them because she has the Holy Spirit within her to guide her. Faith, hope, and love do indeed shine through in this novel. There are allusions to the Biblical stories of Leah and the prodigal son, and forgiveness is one of the main themes. Sundin expresses so well the corroding effect that unforgiveness has on our lives, and she also addresses the issue of trust. Her characters are wonderful witnesses and complements to one another, teaching by example in a beautiful demonstration of the body of Christ. The promise of Jesus echoes throughout “The Land Beneath Us”, assuring us that “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18).I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[mizroady · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is my first book to read of this talented writer. The story is set in 1943 during World War 2. This is a beautiful story of forgiveness, strong faith in God and courage. During times of war, we always think of the bravery of the soldiers, and rightfully so. Those left at home when their loved one goes to fight for freedom are also courageous. They fight different battles. Ms. Sundin skillfully and intimately captures both.Clay Paxton is a part of the U.S. Army Rangers preparing for D-day. He was raised by loving and caring parents. His home life was ripped apart by his two older brothers who deeply hurt him. While he struggles with forgiveness it has not changed his sweet, caring spirit. Leah Jones on the other hand lost her parents when she was 4 years old. Separated from her infant twin sisters she was raised in an orphanage. She longs to find them and information about her parents. She comes to Camp Forrest where Clay is training to be an assistant librarian. Her beauty and innocence catch his attention, but only as a friend as she is only 18 years of age.One night at the library as she is closing, she is attacked and sexually assaulted. The author was very discreet and tasteful in describing her occurrence. Clay saves her from her assailant and gets her to the hospital just in time. He visits her as she heals and they develop a deeper friendship. Hurting for all she is facing from being violated, he asks her to marry him before he is shipped out, a marriage in name only. This way she would be cared for by is military benefits. With nowhere to go she accepts. Ms. Sudin’s detail in what each is facing while apart gives a complete picture of their lives as with many couples separated during this era. Their experiences were worlds apart. It helped me understand how difficult for families when they are reunited after a war. Both characters strong relationship with God no matter what their circumstances was not only inspiring but a testimony of what peace it can bring. Those that showed compassion and helped Leah through hard times reminded me that no matter how bad things might be, God will send others to aid us. I must admit the story had me on pins and needles at different points, wondering what would happen next. A sweet romance with strong lessons and an ending that will make you sigh. I liked this book!I received this book from Revell Publishers in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoy historical fiction as I can learn from the story and occasionally research more from what is mentioned. I loved the story of Clay and Leah as they got to know each other after an unexpected marriage to each other. It made me think of all the letters that must have gone back and forth during all the wars. I also enjoyed Leah's story of trying to find the rest of the her family and how it wasn't very easy to do. I received a copy of the book to read, the review is mine.

[simmmba · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"The Land Beneath Us" by Sarah Sundin is the third book in a trilogy. However, it is the first one I've read, and I thought it stood alone nicely. Of course, now I'm interested enough to go back and read the others, but there was nothing in this one to indicate it was Book 3 (except the statement on the cover).Told in two parallel points of view (main characters Leah and Clay), this historical novel is set around D-Day, both overseas as part of the invasion, and stateside, near a military training center. The author skillfully weaves in a lot of information about historical events, daily life, and the mindset of various parts of society. I enjoyed the new things I learned, and the book never felt like a history text. All of the information shared was a natural and easy-to-read part of the story.The romance between Leah and Clay was handled beautifully. They got to know each other primarily through a series of exchanged letters, which gave the reader plenty of opportunity to truly understand how the two were beginning to care about each other. Normally, when two characters love each other, but each believes the feelings aren't reciprocated and pulls away, I just want to shake both of them. In this situation, because of character background I won't share to avoid spoilers, that trope works well. I honestly believed what each person was feeling, and could understand their logic. The author wrote a potentially awkward arrangement with empathy and beauty, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.Both characters are Christians at the beginning, and it was nice to observe how their faith guided their thoughts and actions. Clay was able to grow a good bit spiritually through the events of the story, and Leah's beautiful, almost child-like faith was an inspiration.I was lucky enough to read this book as part of a group read-and-discuss program, and enjoyed it even more due to having others with whom to compare ideas and impressions. If you read it on your own, the author has thoughtfully included some quality questions at the end for you.In conclusion, there was nothing I didn't enjoy about this book.Five out of five perfect, soft wedges of Brie!

[grammy57 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I was so excited to be chosen to read and review this book through Revell Reads. I have read other books by Sarah Sundin and I have never been disappointed. This book was no exception.This is the third book in the series Sunrise At Normandy. Each book tells one brother's views and experiences after a tragic accident. This book is about Clay Paxton, the youngest son. It shows how Clay felt about the treatment he received and how he dealt with those feelings. It also tells his part in the war and how his past shaped the way he acted and thought. This is a Christian book without being preachy. It shows how the main characters use their faith in their daily lives. It shows how depending on God is the best. It is also a war story and a love story all combined.Sarah Sundin did a wonderful job of weaving these stories together and bringing her characters to life. She made you feel you were not just reading a book but that you were actually getting to know these people.I give this book a 5 out o 5-star rating. I would recommend this book to my friends. I was given this book by Revell but a positive review was not required. This is my own view of the book and my own words.

[medwards429 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Thank you in advance to Revell Books for providing a complimentary review copy through Interviews and Reviews. A positive review was not required. All words and thoughts are my own.

This is the third and final book in the “Sunrise at Normandy” series. I was not able to read the previous two, but this could be a solid stand-alone read. Though I would HIGHLY encourage reading the previous two to get the full impact of this emotional saga.

This, much-anticipated release; is also one of the first to be featured on Revell’s Facebook page – “Beyond the Book” for the first “read-a-long”. It took me about 12 hours over three (3) days to finish.

As someone who isn’t into historical fiction, let alone “war stories”, I was drawn to this novel. The striking and stunning cover balances the love stories of the time with the brutality of World War II. Not only was the war itself brutal, but a brutal attack on Leah is also present. In fact, it sets the stage for what happens.

I was also drawn to it because of the fact that my grandfather served in the Navy during World War II. He was on an escort carrier that had been hit by a Kamikaze. The ship miraculously stayed afloat, and there was no loss of life.

Sadly, he would pass in 1980 before I would get to hear his stories. While he told my mom some, there were others he never told.

Right off this story is going to have a sad undertone due to the setting. This was a time that changed everything for the United States. Yet, despite knowing what was going to happen (at least on the war front), this was a novel I couldn’t put down. Nor, did I want to. I could barely take notes for the read-along and my review. This story had messages of hope and inspiration throughout it despite the overwhelming sadness and despair.

The author’s writing was so vivid that I felt pulled back into the time. So much so that I could almost hear the “big band music” while reading it. For those who don’t quite know what that is, think The Andrews Sisters “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree”, or Glen Miller.

I immediately fell in love with Leah and Clay. As in chapter two (2) “immediately”. Clay came off as such a sweetheart, and I found myself praying for him and hoping his “dream” wouldn’t come true. I kept praying he’d take the route he was being offered during his training.

Leah’s background tore at my heart. She was such a pure and innocent soul. I passionately despised a certain couple from her past. And, like her, I have found myself wondering why things happened to me.

As I didn’t read Sundin’s prior two books; which I will definitely purchase (as soon as I can afford them); I don’t know if the other two novels contained this intense story-telling, but this was intense. Sundin doesn’t back down from sensitive issues either.

There was one character I had a bad feeling about right off.

At times it is heart-breaking, hopeless, and sad. Yet, there was overwhelming redemption, hope, and charity throughout.

Other themes were those of one’s past being held against them, false accusations, and prejudices. Sundin also delves into the different societal roles, particularly with orphan children and people’s perception of them.

The marriage of convenience is more in line with “biblical, charitable” love. Both Leah and Clay begin to care for each other throughout the novel.

There are a lot of Christian references. They are not overwhelming, nor preachy in tone. But, context due to the time the story takes place in, it is completely understandable.

What really grabbed me was how one character came to their epiphany. And, in reading it, I was moved to tears. It is an emotionally moving end to the saga.

It is no wonder that the men and women of that time are called “the greatest generation”.

There was a recurring theme of sexual assault and murder of young women though.

This is absolute perfection! 5/5 stars. It will be high on the re-read list.

[fernemysteryreader · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I was lucky enough to receive a pre-publication copy of this title as an “Early Reviewer” from Library Thing.I was first drawn to request this novel because as a retired librarian and WWII veteran’s daughter I was very interested to learn Leah’s story. I read many stories highlighting librarians but mostly in the genre of cozy mysteries. I sensed that this story would have more depth and I was hopeful to receive a pre-publication copy but knew that even if I wasn’t selected I would order the novel to read.From reading the opening page and meeting Private Clay Paxton at Camp Forrest, Tullahoma, Tennessee, Friday, June 11, 1943, I knew I was about to immerse myself in an extraordinary story. As I turned the pages to meet Leah Jones through the beginning lines of her poem I could not wait to read more.Watching the film “Saving Private Ryan” is my first memory of learning details of the Allied assault on the beaches of Normandy, France, to begin the liberation of Europe and the turning of the Nazi tide in World War II. Now the visuals were brought to the forefront of my mind as I began reading of Clay’s training for the Rangers at Camp Forrest, the overseas voyage in a cramped ship, continued training before D-Day and ultimately the mission itself. In meeting Leah at Camp Forrest the author seamlessly transitions the reader between Clay and Leah’s experiences. As I absorbed their stories I was captivated by Sarah Sundin’s writing of this fictional story told against the backdrop of unforgettable world history.The story is beautifully written and shares the Christian faith in a meaningful way by introducing us to the character of Leah living a daily life that “walks the talk.” It is not that Leah is a flawless character or a character that has had a perfect childhood or has a perfect life but through her faith we can remember many teachings from our own Christian backgrounds that we may have forgotten about loving others as ourselves, humility, and especially forgiveness.Reading a variety of novels I have felt deeply and with heartfelt emotion for many characters over the years but rarely do I cry or laugh out loud as I do when watching movies. As I read “The Land Beneath Us” there were several pages where I had to dry my eyes before I could continue reading. Leah’s poetry showed not only her talent but the love of her younger sisters. With Leah’s deep and abiding faith she was able to find strength not only for herself in tough situations but to share it through her actions and words to everyone that she met on her life journey. In turn, as Clay questioned whether forgiveness was possible to give brothers Wyatt and Adler, Clay never wavers in friendship to his buddies nor to whatever training exercise or mission assigned.I cannot comment on this novel as described as the third novel in the Sunrise at Normandy series. However, I am always delighted when opportunity presents itself to not necessarily read a series in order nor to have needed to read earlier novels to understand the current story. It is also pleasing that the current story doesn't pause in limbo as the author presents a segment of earlier character description of the Paxton brothers. That said, I have already ordered copies of the first two (2) books in the series – “The Sea Before Us” (primarily Wyatt’s story) and “The Sky Above Us” (primarily Adler’s story) and eagerly await arrival of the titles. Although I rarely read novels again as there are so many novels that I wish to read and await my attention in the tbr corner of our home I know without doubt that after reading the first two (2) novels in this series, I’ll re-read “The Land Beneath Us.”

[coverloverbookreview · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I knew I’d enjoy this story because I’ve never been disappointed by anything Sarah Sundin has written. This is her best yet!If you enjoy WWII stories, stories of faith, family, and forgiveness, then this is the author for you. Ms. Sundin is a gifted, poignant writer who creates memorable characters and delivers wonderful historical tales of love.Leah’s past is heartbreaking, Clay’s is tragic in a different way, and their friendship might be what heals them both. I loved their relationship and how they were brought together under less than perfect circumstances. I connected with them, sympathized with them, cheered for them, and was touched by their transformations.It is evident Ms. Sundin has done extensive research to make her characters feel genuine and stories believable. I love her writing style, and most of all her biblical ties, themes, and principles. #TheLandBeneathUs #SunriseatNormandy #RevellReadsI received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

[cherylk_44 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

It has been a while since I have read a book from this author. Every book that I have read has been a four or five star read. Fans of historical fiction stories who have never tried a book from this author, need to pick up a book. You are in for a real treat. Clay and Leah may have come from different walks of life but they had on thing in common. They were both broken. With each other's support and God's strength, Leah and Clay were able to gain mended hearts filled with love.Both of their stories were great. The heart does grow fonder with distance. You could feel the love that Clay had for Leah with his letters. As I was reading this book, I was transported back in time. I could see everything that Clay and Leah experienced as if I was there with them. I have discovered a renewed love again for author, Sarah Sundin with this book.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved this book, and the only thing I didn’t like was that it ended! The whole series was wonderful, and loved how it all tied in together, and each son did his own part on D-Day.This is the third son of the Paxton family’s story, Clay, we have previously met Wyatt and Adler, and if you haven’t read them, their books are just as good!We also met a girl who has grown up in an orphanage, and is searching for her identity, she wants to know who she is, and the world has tried its hardest to put her down. As you can see from the description Clay comes to her rescue, and how he helps her is endearing, but what of the future?The author made this book more special for me personally as she had Clay taken to the USS Texas, my Dad’s ship during the war.Don’t miss the ending, or the author’s notes!I received this book through Library Thing and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

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

Out of unimaginable tragedy, hope and new life blossom in Sarah Sundin's new book, The Land Beneath Us. This book is the conclusion to her Sunrise at Normandy series. When Clay Paxton's brother steals his medical school money, Clay decides to join the Army Rangers. During his time on the army base, he meets and rescues librarian Leah Jones from a horrible attack that almost led to her death. When Leah finds herself in a shameful situation, Clay comes to her rescue yet again. Clay is soon deployed but believes he is going to die on this mission. He feels that he made the right decision by giving Leah his name and his army pension before he passes. Leah is an orphan searching for her lost identity. As soon as she turns eighteen, she leaves the orphanage and becomes a librarian on the army base. After a masked man attacks her, she accepts Clay's offer of protection and marries him. But what if Clay doesn't die as he believes? What if they fall in love as time goes on? What if they don't and are trapped in a loveless marriage? These questions are answered in the new book, The Land Beneath Us.I have read all three books in the series and enjoyed them very much. Each book is tied together by the three main characters being brothers. Clay, the youngest, finally got his own story. I would recommend reading the first two books. Some things won't make sense if the reader begins in book three. Sundin, is a very talented writer. Clay and Leah are likable characters and the plot is excellent. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, and read The Land Beneath Us.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: The Land Beneath Us (Sunrise at Normandy #3)Author: Sarah SundinPages: 384Year: 2020Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 starsSarah Sundin has succeeded once again in telling a story that captivates the imagination during the WWII era. The series has two previous novels in it that might help readers fully appreciate the concluding story in The Land Beneath Us; they are The Sea Before Us & The Sky Above Us. The series begins by introducing us to three brothers who enjoy a close relationship with each other and a tightly knit family. Those threads are about to come loose when tragedy strikes in the first book, sending the brothers in three different directions. Wyatt, Adler and Clay are unceremoniously caught up in WWII, serving in different branches of the armed services as well as a war within the family.In the final installment, we enjoy Clay’s story. Sarah Sundin crafts a heart-gripping tale that helps reveal more of who Clay is, what he likes, his dreams and his attempt at outrunning God. While in Ranger school at base in the states, he meets a woman of small stature who has a big heart and faith. When Clay least expects it, he is drawn to Leah. In a twist of plot, he ends up saving her life, then she may just be saving his too!The plot thickens when the brothers might just end up running into each other on D-Day. The bigger plot is can they overcome mistakes made, find forgiveness with God and then forgive each other? Leah is a woman many have looked down on as she became an orphan and had many experiences where people thought less of her because of her past. However, those very experiences cause Leah to become a woman who sees the best in people, lifts others up and dares to hope for a better future.The ending to this story as well as the series is a work of a master storyteller. I can tell Sarah Sundin did more than just read about the war; she really did her homework! The details of scenes are impacting. I hope you read all three books and enjoy the tales that are filled with hope and faith.Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.

[pat_bunk_malecki · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

The Land Beneath Us" concludes Sarah Sundin's "Sunrise at Normandy" WWII trilogy, which follows the three Paxton brothers, this is about Clay and Leah, an orphan who finds herself working on a base as a librarian. Leah meets Clay who she marries him on an impulse. Regardless, the bond of friendship is there, and together they build a bond. This story is one of forgiveness, redemption, and hope. The characters are well-developed, and the story keeps you reading. It is the third part of a trilogy, however, but still works as a stand-alone. Even though the timeframe is during World War II, and revolves around the relationship of Clay and Leah, it still reminds us of the that time when people needed to make decisions that were necessary; decisions that were not always the correct ones; people who needed to be strong and learn to put others before you. This was a good read for those who like WWII reads or have family of WWII relatives. I am sure they may relate.

[chrirob · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Leah is on her own for the first time in her life. Leaving the orphanage that has been her home, she volunteers to help run the Camp Forrest Army library. Surrounded by her beloved books, she meets Private Clay Paxton and is impressed by his kindness. Leah is also intrigued by Clay’s interest in medicine, when he states he just wants to be an Army Ranger, not a medic because his destiny is to die in battle. When Leah’s life is threatened, Clay steps forward to help her...but might she be the one to save him?An excellent book and a great ending to the Sunrise at Normandy series. Thank you LibraryThing for the advanced reader copies of all 3 books in this series! It has been a great journey with the characters, all through LT.

[tealadytoo · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"The Land Beneath Us" concludes Sarah Sundin's "Sunrise at Normandy" WWII trilogy, which follows the three Paxton brothers, torn apart by a tragic accident and its aftermath. The first two books dealt with Wyatt and Adler, both who had some degree of culpability for what occurred and who had to deal with guilt and redemption. This is Clay's story, and he is the wronged party. But through his war experiences as an Army Ranger and his impulsive marriage to Leah, a victimized orphan in need of protection,he begins to realize that he is playing out the role of the bitter good son in a Prodigal son story, and needs to find forgiveness in his own heart to heal his family. All this is set against his growing love for Leah and the impending D-day invasion, making for a riveting story. It's a n excellent conclusion to an excellent series.I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[susan0316 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

When Clay and Leah first meet at Camp Forrest, Tennessee, they are both lost and confused in their lives. Clay is estranged from his brothers and wants to go to war to fulfill his dream and Leah is a librarian who has had a tough life. She was adopted as a young girl when her parents were killed in an accident. After a few years, her new parents got tired of her and dropped her off at another orphanage. When she has free time, she does research to try to find out more about her earlier life and to try to find her younger sisters who were also adopted but she had no idea where they were. When Clay saves Leah from a brutal attack their friendship grows and they decide on a marriage of convenience so that Leah has money to live on from his allotment. As they write letters, their feelings for each other begin to change but will they ever see each other again or will Clay become a causality of the war?This is a story about love and friendship, family and forgiveness. Both characters are looking for their path in life and they can only find it by looking forward instead of back to their pasts. This is more than just a romance - it's the story of two people who have to accept who they are to be able to move forward and find love.Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.

[maydacat_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A tragic accident forever changed Leah’s life when she was just a toddler. Her parents were killed and she and her younger twin sisters were thrown into an orphanage. Her adoption doesn’t work out well, and she again is dumped at an orphanage for the rest of her growing up years, having no idea what became of her sisters. Now, she is hoping to find them, and is working at a library, researching when she has time. Again, tragedy stuck when she is brutally attacked after hours in the library, saved only when a soldier hears her screams and intervenes. Clay also had his share of troubles, ones that left him estranged from his brothers and resentful of what they had done to him. Perhaps it is this shared unhappiness that drew them together, or maybe they felt they could help each other. Regardless, the bond of friendship is there, and together they become stronger. This lovely tale is one of forgiveness, redemption, and hope. The characters are well written and the story is compelling. Though it is the third part of a trilogy, it works well as a stand-alone. Although it does take place during World War II, and is a romance, it is so much more than just a romantic tale of two people thrown together during a time of strife. These two main characters show growth and strength, make decisions that are right but not necessarily what they wanted, and learn to put others and their welfare before their own needs and wants. This is an intriguing tale that will please readers of historical fiction as well those who enjoy inspirational stories.