I’ve never seen the White Cliffs of Dover, but have been intrigued by the thought. The 1941 song entitled The White Cliffs of Dover is a beautiful song that speaks to the beautiful cliffs that are ancient chalk formations and to the looming political issues that circle through this story. Learn more about the geological wonder — The White Cliffs of Dover
Murray Pura had us join up with the Danforth family in 1924 while the specter of evil coming in a few short years sometimes seems a sensible wraith in political point of view.
Remember that Catherine Danforth Moore was widowed during political violence in Ireland as the former novel, Ashton Park closes. We’ve been introduced to the Danforth family and their household staff. Major new characters are from Germany which arouses some drama because of World War I. Murray Pura’s characters are dramatically flawed for extra color.
I enjoyed the descriptions of places. Dover Sky is indeed a delightful home. The castles of Europe are splendid. The lifestyle is appropriately opulent for the era…amazing how people can easily live such grand lives. The political details around the world make a superb background for the characters’ performance.
I find Edward Danforth’s politics and philosophy represent that of many real people during that time of the world. Of course, I know the end of the story and how the fascists will turn out, but Pura makes Edward genuinely unlikeable! Catherine, as a young widow finds herself with duplicate suitors — either would be nice. In the end, I think Catherine made the best choice for her personality and dreams. As the world moves toward the unbelievable — another world war, not all is sunshine in the later 1920s, nor with the Danforths. but I must not spoil the story for you.
The Danforth family expresses their faith much more in this book than in Ashton Park, the first book in the series. The interaction with the staff at Dover Sky is less formal than we see in earlier stories of the era.
Beneath the Dover Sky is a good book in many ways. It is well written and presented. This second book is better than the first, but you must read them in order! The characters are generally believable and pleasant. Even in times of trouble and grief, the story lifts and inspires the reader. I received a print copy from Harvest House publishers, but I am not required to give a review. I recommend Beneath the Dover Sky and Ashton Park and anticipate future books about the Danforth family.