A Unique 1920s Read
Every Given Day
World War I Historical Fiction, Christian Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction
Tyndale Fiction
September 8, 2026
Ebook, Paperback, Audiobook, Hardcover
368
Inspired by true events, Christy Hall of Fame author Cathy Gohlke delivers a powerful new historical novel weaving together the discovery of insulin―a breakthrough that revolutionized modern medicine―and one woman’s brave fight to cling to her family and hope against unspeakable odds.
New York City, 1918. When schoolteacher Gwendolyn Armstrong learns of her sister’s worsening illness, she travels to Marion’s stately home to tutor her young niece and nephew, kept from school by the Spanish flu outbreak. Though the family lives in luxury, Gwen is wary of Marion’s sophisticated, often-absent husband, Russell, who once cast Gwen aside for her sister, leaving wounds that never fully healed.
As Marion’s health declines, a sense of foreboding settles over the family. Gwen observes strangers coming and going from Russell’s study at all hours, and her lingering distrust turns to suspicion that he is hiding something that could threaten the family’s safety and security. But when the deadly flu claims victims among the family and mansion staff, Gwen and her nephew, Alistair, are forced to accept terrible losses caused by the epidemic followed soon after by his own fatal diagnosis of juvenile diabetes.
When a compassionate doctor becomes both an advocate and friend, chasing down every promising medical development in the race for a cure, Gwen clings to each shred of hope. But as Russell’s clandestine dealings erupt into a shattering revelation, she must summon every ounce of courage she possesses. With Alistair’s life hanging in the balance, Gwen pleads for a faith she doesn’t yet possess, realizing she must surrender him to God and the possibility of a miracle that could save him and reshape her future in ways she never imagined.
Historical Fiction about the Spanish Flu and Discovery of Insulin
Every Given Day by Cathy Gohlke is a Christian historical fiction novel that starts at the 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic. The main character, Gwen, is a schoolteacher who travels to New York City when her sister asks her to tutor her children during one of the most devastating public health crises of the time.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this novel was reading about the Spanish flu outbreak through the lens of the recent pandemic. The similarities were obvious: schools shutting down, people wearing masks, decreased staff, households relying on home deliveries instead of traditional shopping, etc. It drew me into the story quickly, and I was invested in what would happen to Gwen and her family.
This story focuses on character development. I especially enjoyed Gwen’s growing bond with her nephew, Alistair. It became one of the emotional highlights of the story for me. I also loved Gwen’s friendship with Mrs. Barrie, the family’s housekeeper.
Because Every Given Day is primarily a character-driven plot, the pacing was slower than I expected. After the first several chapters about the flu outbreak, the story slows down significantly. I wished for more engaging content. I admit, however, that books set in the 1920s that focus on medical discoveries are not ones that I come across frequently. That did make for a unique read.
This is a story about family (both biological and found), faith, and hope. While this novel is written for a Christian fiction audience, readers who enjoy early 20th-century historical fiction, especially stories exploring medicine and social change in history will find something to appreciate in its pages.

Celeste is a woman who is unwavering about certain things in life; three of those being books, cats, and cold brew coffee. If she can enjoy all three at the same time, it’s going to be a good day. Her favorite genres are fantasy or sci-fi romance, historical romance, and historical fiction but every few books she likes to mix it up with contemporary fiction, a good psychological thriller, or an inspiring memoir. She has a busy schedule working full-time for an online university but she makes sure to unwind each day with stories, either by reading to her elementary school-aged daughter or tucking herself in bed with her Kindle or the latest book she picked up at a local book store.
