It's 1940's in Boston at the beginning of World War II. Most eligible men are serving their country so when Lillian Avery applies for a position as a pharmacist, she is accepted though not whole heartedly. Mr. Dixon, owner of Dixon Drugs makes no bones telling her he would prefer a man. When he sees she is an amputee from a childhood accident and has a prosthetic left leg he is incensed and threatens to try and find someone else. In the meantime, Lillian works hard to gain his trust and prove herself worthy of the job. Lillian notices an extremely large supply of phenobarbital, a sedative. Did he make an error in ordering so much of this drug?

When she asks him about the order, he ignores her and tells her not to ask any more questions about it. Lillian watches closely how the drug is being prescribed. She soon knows something is shady and decides to investigate. It becomes obvious that a drug ring is operating from Dixon Drugs. Who is the leader and how can she stop it?

Archer Vandenberg is her brother Jim's best friend. They serve in the Navy together, on the same ship anchored in Boston. When she is introduced to him, she thinks he is a snob and ignores him but Arch finds her very attractive. When he stares at her injured leg, Lillian erupts in anger. Not a very smooth beginning but things improve in time. Arch has PTSD from an incident which occurred during his previous duty aboard ship when he was injured. Now he has shaking hands and hides them from everyone. If his tremors are observed, he could be discharged from the Navy. Stationed aboard the USS ETTINGER, he becomes aware that many of his crew are showing suspicious signs, almost as though they are drunk. They are not following his orders and seem tired. Watching them closely he sees pills being passed between sailors. He alerts Lillian and they decide to work together to find out who is giving sedatives to his crew? Is there a connection with Dixon Drugs?

This is the second book in the series WAVES OF FREEDOM, written by Sarah Sundin. ANCHOR IN THE STORM is a sweet romance/mystery that will make your heart smile. The faith theme is interwoven throughout the book, which, to me, added to my enjoyment, especially the symbol of the anchor. I loved our gutsy heroine, Lillian, and hunky, rich boy Arch is a yummy double delight, rich and handsome. Their relationship is rocky, unsteady but a delight to watch grow. When Arch teaches Lillian to skate, I re-read that chapter twice. It was adorable and filled with devotion. Arch is looking for someone who will love him for who he is inside. He is tired of the gold diggers who chase him for his vast fortune. He dreams of a commission and a permanent career in the Navy.

What a delicious story ANCHOR IN THE STORM is with an ending that is sure to please. Great job, Ms. Sundin. I will be awaiting your next. .

Book Summary

One Plucky Female Pharmacist + One High-Society Naval Officer = Romance--and Danger

For plucky Lillian Avery, America's entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg's attentions only annoy--even if he is her brother's best friend.

During the darkest days of the war, Arch's destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves--and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian's trust and affection?

Sarah Sundin brings World War II to life, offering readers an intense experience they won't soon forget.