Just Once: A Novel By Karen Kingsbury
The story unfolds against the backdrop of World War II, introducing Irvel Holland, a young woman entangled in a complex love triangle. As the war rages overseas, Irvel is torn between her boyfriend Sam and his younger brother Hank, her best friend and secret love. However, when Pearl Harbor is attacked in 1941, their lives are irrevocably altered.
Sam is drafted, leaving Hank and Irvel to navigate the challenges of the home front. Amid the chaos, an undeniable chemistry grows between Irvel and Hank, but the boundaries of loyalty and familial bonds keep them from acting on their feelings. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Irvel is approached by military leaders with a proposition to join a new spy network. The catch: she must keep it a secret from everyone.
Caught between two brothers, thousands of miles apart, Irvel grapples with love, duty, and the impending heartbreak of war. The novel explores the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges and poses questions about the enduring power of love amidst the backdrop of history's greatest conflict.
With its rich historical setting and intricate character dynamics, the story promises a captivating journey through a turbulent period, blending romance, espionage, and the complexities of human emotion. 📚❤️