A Name Unknown explores identity, which can be found in many aspects such as a person's name, heritage, or occupation. Ultimately, Roseanna M. White's overarching theme is that if we are in Christ our identity is found in Him. Ms. White showcases her ideas in this stirring novel.
Her heroine, Rosemary Gresham, is an exceptional thief able to blend in with the upper-class and embezzle high-value items for profit. Orphaned at eight, stealing has helped her survive the dangerous streets of London. She would even fall in with a band of thieving urchins who become her family. Rosie's line of work leads her to the mysterious "Mr. V", who commissions her for a job that stretches Rosemary to the limits. Posing as a librarian, she is sent to find evidence of a wealthy gentlemen to determine if he is loyal to England or Germany.
Her hero, Peter Holstein, an English citizen of German descent, fears he will lose everything, all the while political tensions in England are boiling over with the threats of WWI. In an effort to prove his loyalty he hires Rosemary to help him find documentation confirming his allegiance to England.
Through personal letters Rosemary and Peter form what could be characterized as more than a serious friendship. Over time this causes her to feel guilty of being there under false pretenses and second guess her efforts to find Peter, "the wealthy gentleman", disloyal to England.
Congratulations Ms. White on keeping your readers wanting to turn the pages into increasing tensions, romance, and danger.
~~ A Name Unknown was provided to me by Bethany House in return for my honest opinion. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and author herself, for which I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone ~~