Official Description: Edward & Bella are lifelong friends. At 18, just as their true feelings for each other are coming to fruition, tragedy strikes and the US is thrust into World War II. Will Edward and Bella’s love be enough to see them through a world war? Rated M, OOC.
Don’t miss the outtakes, Finding Liberty.
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“Finding Home” by Jennde is a beautifully written story about life-long friends turned lovers who must deal with the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, and the fact that their lives are no longer how they had envisioned them after the country is violently pushed into World War II.
The attack gives Edward the final push he needed to enlist in the Navy, following both his and Bella’s father’s footsteps. Right before he leaves for training, Edward proposes to Bella. It might sound odd, but her acceptance of this proposal puts Bella on a path to becoming a strong, self-assured woman.
Upon marrying Edward, Bella is forced to adjust to a life in a new state without friends, and Edward is thrust into a career that takes him away from her for days at a time. Their lives are so intense, and the solace they once had in talking about their problems is cut off because of Edward’s job.
While Bella tries to be supportive of Edward, he feels like he is failing her at every turn. They struggle to find a balance in their lives, but things are bumpy.
I knew he meant well, but he needed to sleep more than I needed a dinner out. Plus, I had lost my appetite.
“No, that’s all right. I’m not really hungry any more.”
“Because of me,” he said, so softly I was sure I wasn’t meant to hear it.
Then when they do start to create a stable existence, Edward is deployed. His abrupt departure leaves a crushed Bella who must find her own way.
After nearly a year of absence, Edward’s reemergence into Bella’s life is bittersweet. He distances himself from her, and avoids talking about the war-time activities that caused his injuries and hospitalization.
“You need to tell me what happened to make you this way and why you’re treating me like this.” I paused and waited for him to say something, but I was met with silence. “I need you to talk to me, please.”
“I can’t,” he said, his jaw clenched.
“I won’t accept that anymore. You have to do better than that.”
When he does reveal the truth, we see just how much Bella has changed. The girl that Edward married wouldn’t have been able to carry his burdens like the woman he came home to.
Jennde captures the time period with the elegance I’ve always associated with this era. This story illustrates the growth of Bella from newlywed teenager to strong wife, and it shows that even the toughest men need help, and at times, can be utterly defeated.
The story is nearly complete, but there is still so much left to be explored. There are no easy fixes or immediate happily-ever-afters, and that’s what makes “Finding Home” worth reading.
It’s all about the journey they take, and Jennde brings to life the essence of a generation who fought bravely and selflessly only to come home and continue fighting for the life they left behind.
I really love this story. I love everything about it–the way Jennde effortlessly weaves the history that we need to understand what’s going on, the characters, the dialogue, the love, everything. This girl is one of the best authors I’ve ever ever read. She’s amazing.
While reading this, I found myself constantly on the edge of my seat. It’s so sweet and romantic.
I walked into the living room and stood right in front of him. I should have felt self-conscious, standing there in nothing but a short, white cotton nightgown, but I didn’t. He looked up at me, surprise etched in his features. Before I could say or do anything, he put his drink on the table, his arms went around my waist and he buried his head in my stomach.
“Bella. Oh my God, Bella, you’re here.” I put my hands in his hair, and stroked lightly. This was so inappropriate, but I was beyond caring. He was upset and obviously needed comfort.
Somehow, I had the strength and presence of mind to form a coherent thought with Edward’s arms around me.” Edward, are you okay? Please tell me what’s been bothering you.”
He sighed and looked up at me. “You, Bella. That’s what’s been bothering me. You.”
I could feel tears of anger starting to build. What could I have done to him? Before I could articulate anything I was feeling, he pulled me smoothly to my knees so we were at eye level. I was too surprised to react beyond a whispered “Oh.”
He gave me one long, determined look, put both of his hands on either side of my face, and held me face close to his, his lips slightly parted. I felt his breath on my face, and my stomach clenched, as anxiety warred with excitement.
Oh, please. Kiss me.
The anticipation became almost too much as I let a small whimper escape my lips. This seemed to be all the permission he needed as his lips softly touched mine.
I am telling you right now, do not for one single second think that because this fic is set during World War II that it’s not hot. Because, trust me, for the love of Rob it is. Not that that’s all I care about. It’s awesome, with a great plot and it’s hot. So win/win. It also features a surprisingly strong Bella and for that, I commend Jennde.
On February 1, 1943, I deposited my first paycheck into my own bank account. The sense of pride and accomplishment I felt on that day would be almost unmatched through the rest of my life.
Regardless of if you think period pieces might not be your thing, I definitely think you should check out Finding Home. It’s romantic and uplifting and beautiful. You’re missing out on something great if you don’t.
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