In times of great National Security, sometimes everyday individuals are called upon to put their relationships and lives on the line.  In Times Like These by Emily Loring, Page and Vance as so asked as this novel takes place post WWII, during the space race and cold war in America.  Page Wilburn, after suffering the loss of both parents, her father’s reputation, all the wealth her parents had accumulated and her fiancé because of the loss of wealth, has retreated from living and hides behind shapeless mourning clothes and dark glasses.

When Page is approached by her boss to pose as the fiancée of Vance Cooper, one of the heads of the company and the man in charge of a project of great National Security, Page decides to accept this chance to get out and live a little, never realizing that her life and heart would end up on the line.

Vance has his doubts that the mousy woman presented to him by his boss can be convincing as his fiancée and succeed in fooling the woman he suspects is a traitor that they are really in love.  When Page accidentally receives a mysterious jade pendant as a gift after being followed, both her and Vance must pull together to save their country and their very lives.

I grew up reading Emilie Loring and love her books! In Times Like These is my favorite, Page’s attitude of forgiveness and willingness to take a chance at living after suffering all the loss is inspiring.  Vance is your typical good looking corporate head with a soft spot for his family, what is not to love about that?! As their sham engagement becomes more real and Page ends up in great danger, they have to pull together to protect each other and the country.  Everytime I read an Emilie Loring I am reminded of the great patriotism that existed and continue to exists in the hearts of Americans.  She had a way of inspiring me to want to be a better person, a happier person after reading her books. If you are in need of a little lift, pick up one of her books and enjoy!

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Title: In Times Like These

Author: Emilie Loring

Format: Hardbound

Page Nos.: 248

ISBN: 0884113566

Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

Release Date: June 1976

Available for purchase: Amazon.com

Reviewer: Jessica