The Lines Between Us

The Lines Between Us By Amy Green Gordon Hooper thought Dorie Armitage was the one for him. But then the attack on Pearl Harbor happened and Gordon's pacifist leans came out. For Gordon it wasn't a spur of the moment decision to avoid the war but rather a personal decision that he had determined for his life years ago. Unfortunately, for him Dorie disagreed with his reasoning and his influence over her brother Jack, who also became a conscientious objector. Objecting to serving wasn't their goal as they became smokejumpers for the US Army under the oversight of the National Forestry Service. For years, Dorie refused to acknowledge her brother's existence and became a willing and able member of the Women's Army Corps. But when she receives word that Jack was injured in a fire and his recovery is in doubt she does the only thing she can - she investigates Jack's accident. Dorie is convinced she can get to the truth behind Jack's accident and bring the guilty party to justice. She just has to get Gordon the go along with her plan and not reveal her true identity or her purpose for being at the camp. Between the Lines is an examination of following one's conscience and living with the fallout even when one's views aren't popular and come at great cost personally and professionally. While some consider Gordon, Jack, and those of like-mindedness to be cowards, were they instead an act of heroism. This book is set in the 1940s and the various prejudices that were in effect at that time are briefly touched upon. This is a look at the point-of-view of two very different people and how these viewpoints brought them to serve their country in how they could serve and live with their own convictions. At this time if you didn't fit the mold of expectations there was a cost. I enjoyed this book with its honest portrayal of the time - it fits with what my grandmother spoke of and even articles and books one can easily come across with a little research. I read this book while listening to the audio version of it. Both are excellent and well worth the time spent. If you enjoy audiobooks for your commute, the narration was well presented. The book's pacing was perfect for engaging one's attention throughout. I highly recommend this book - perfect if you need a book club selection or are just a fan of historical fiction, especially with a WWII era setting. I was provided a complimentary copy of the print version of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.