Caleb Roberts doesn’t really enjoy the hard work on his father’s ranch but he knows the work must get done. Besides, if he hadn’t been out working that one day he might not have met Jamie Lynn Conner and fallen head over heels in love with her. In his heart, he knows she is the one woman that he desires but no one told him that often with love, not only does incredible bliss follow but many heartaches as well. Jamie just happens to be out horse riding when she meets Caleb. He was mending fences at the time and was pounding a nail when some curse words fell off his lips after hammering his finger, when she politely insisted he didn’t have to do such to make a point. After looking into her beautiful eyes, Caleb was in love. As Jamie and Caleb begin to spend time together Caleb is completely smitten with her, but Jamie has dark things in her past that she cannot confide to him. She is surprised at his kindness and soft touch. Whether they are meant to be an item remains to be seen as they begin to spend more time seeing each other. While their hearts seem to be pulling them closer together in love they soon marry but after Caleb enters the Air Force, it is not long before war abounds. With a new wife and later an infant son, the war breaks out leaving Caleb about to be separated from his loved ones. Only time will tell if the loving family will be able to stand the test of time and love during the perils of war that knows nothing of true romance.

Until My Last Breath is a dramatic story of love, war and courage with many heartfelt moments throughout the book. Jamie and Caleb are incredible characters as they find love then learn what follows after marriage especially during wartime. Their strengths display wonderfully throughout the book as well as all their emotions especially with Jamie and her dark secret then with Caleb when he learns the truth and seeks to protect her. Mr. Deffes creates a well-written tale that allows a time of war and struggle to sprinkle through the pages in this superb read. He depicts a story that practically jumps from the pages as a family is caught in the middle of events that reach out and touch the reader. The secondary characters blend in well with all the elements to keep the story flowing smoothly. This extraordinary read should not be missed! Even though Mr. Deffes had me in tears, this is one recommended read that excels.

Reviewed by: Linda L