Where Trees Touch the Sky Book Review & a Giveaway

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Where Trees Touch the Sky by Karen Barnett hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I just adore Karen’s books, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read her newest novel!!! In case you’re wondering, I loved it. 🙂

** Affiliate links used **

About the Book

Where Trees Touch the Sky
Author Karen Barnett
Published by Kregel Publications
on August 13, 2024
Genres: Fiction / Christian / Historical, Fiction / Christian / Romance / Historical
Pages: 366

Some secrets have shadows as long as the redwoods are tall.

In the early 1920s, the accelerating destruction of the California redwoods is more than nature-loving Marion Baker can bear. Throwing herself headlong into the work of the Save the Redwoods League, she is shocked to learn that Frank Duncan, a man she's grown to love, is the son of one of the area's worst timber barons. Though devastated by the betrayal, she realizes this could also be an opportunity--if only she can convince him to help preserve her favorite grove from his father's greedy grasp. Is her love strong enough to persuade him to save these precious trees? Or will Marion choose to sacrifice her beliefs to keep Frank by her side?

Nearly fifty years later, in 1972, polio survivor June Turner is deeply proud of the legacy her great aunt Marion has left as a redwood warrior. And despite her disability, June is determined to prove herself capable as a ranger at the recently established Redwood National Park, even if it means taking to the trails with her crutch in hand. What better way to carry on the family tradition of preserving God’s magnificent creation?

When aspiring film student Adam Garner approaches June to help make a documentary about Marion's life, she swiftly grabs the opportunity to spread her aunt's worthy reputation. That is, until they unearth a secret that might shatter the family legacy. In the scramble for answers, June may lose not only her family pride but also her own dreams.

Karen Barnett's beautifully crafted split-time novel, set against the majestic backdrop of a beloved national park, immerses the reader in history that feels as fresh as if it happened yesterday.

Amazon | Goodreads

My Perspective

Oh how I loved this story. June was my favorite character by far. Every time her name was on the page, I was excited. She is such a strong character. She didn’t let her disability stop her from proving she belonged in that park. She was determined, resilient, and so much more.

Barnett did such a great job of connecting the two time periods. Yes the characters were related, but it wasn’t just that. It was the park. The trees. So much more! I enjoyed my time in both places, and I really enjoyed seeing Marion’s story play out. Especially with all the mystery behind it! Sorry….not sharing any spoilers. I will say this – Barnett drops a curveball I thought I saw coming, but wasn’t sure how it would play out, but it was amazing! And the ending! Oh gosh…. I can’t say too much about that either lol, but I read it twice. I was just so mesmerized the first time I read it that I needed to read it again.

Guys, this dual timeline novel is one you need to read. Once again Barnett makes her love for the outdoors, and the national parks, come to life in a beautiful way. But more than that, she brings emotion and growth to these characters in such an inspirational way. I highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of eight novels including When Stone Wings Fly and The Vintage National Parks Novels. A former national park ranger, she’s also a hobby photographer and enjoys teaching writing workshops with both Cascade Christian Writers and West Coast Christian Writers. She and her family live in Albany, Oregon.

Connect with Karen by visiting karenbarnettbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Where Trees Touch the Sky and book related goodies!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 14, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 21, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

What interests you about this story?