Beautifully written story from a new perspective. Liz Tolsma creates scenes that take you there. Worth the read. #NetGalley #LizTolsma #APictureofHope

Jesus teaches about the least among us, and A PICTURE OF HOPE tells the story of two strangers who take on the task of caring for the least, one an American photo-journalist who has made an unauthorized move behind German lines and a French patriot who finds her. Together the two stumble on a village completely wiped out by the enemy and hidden among the bushes a silent down syndrome toddler. Obviously her parents sent her away to hide, knowing what the Nazis would do to her. Despite danger to themselves, Nellie and Jean Paul shelter the little girl and make the decision to travel to a convent Jean Paul had heard was hiding other down syndrome children. Liz Tolsma has written several books about WWII but I believe this is my favorite. It makes clear just what danger anyone who tried to help others put themselves in. It also makes clear how easy those decisions become when one has a strong faith. I highly recommend this book.

What a phenomenal WWII story based on great research by Ms. Tolsma! When news reporter, Nellie Wilkerson, heads to the front for a story, she discovers more than she ever imagined. When she meets Resistance Fighter Jean-Paul and they discover a convent of disabled children, can they find a solution to keep the children from being murdered?

I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves historical fiction based on thorough research.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for giving me a free eARC of this book to read in exchange for my review!

More and more, I’m disappointed by Liz Tolsma books. I used to love virtually every one I read, but now the author notes are revealing that history is being altered to fit the story plots rather than the story being adjusted to fit real historical timelines. This book is another one in which history was changed. A woman’s death was altered to suit the story, and this directly opposed the author’s claim at the beginning of the book about wanting “to inform in a historically accurate way.” She might have informed us readers on the term Mongoloid for Down Syndrome (historically accurate), but changing a women’s date of death, which is easily confirmed in a very quick online search, reveals that historical accuracy isn’t really a top priority. A second historical point was also altered, but I’ve already forgotten what it was, as the death-date one stood out more to me.

The reason this book didn’t get one or two stars only for that hit to real history is because the story itself (not including the scene of inaccuracy) held an intriguing plot about a photojournalist who sneaked onto a hospital boat to join the fight and a French Resistance member determined to make a significant difference to save his country from Hitler’s destruction. The children with Down Syndrome were adorable and well written. They were pure delights every time they showed up. I loved the compassion Nellie and Jean-Paul showed toward these children and that they wanted to help them when others did not.

Something very unexpected was the backstory of the Klan and a lynching. I would expect those more from a 1960s story rather than a 1940s WWII tale. This was unsettling to me, not for the racism factor as that was well tied into the aspect of Hitler’s prejudice against the Mongoloid children, but because it felt out of place in the grand scheme of the story, which was supposed to be focused on Down Syndrome kids in the middle of World War II. Every time the memories and backstory came up, I felt pulled out of the story about Nellie and Jean-Paul and the children.

Content: alcohol, tobacco, Catholicism, child rape mentioned, replacement profanity, promiscuity and unwed pregnancies mentioned

A press-woman for the Chicago Times who knows there is more she can do with the fighting in France. A man with the resistance who knows there are more to save. The four nuns and three children that come into their lives and give them that picture of hope.

Nellie Wilkerson is with the rest of the press staying in London as the news of D-Day comes across the radio. Knowing there is more she can do, with her trusty camera, she stows away on a hospital ship bound for Normandy Beach. Once there she hides once the ship sets sail back to England. But once there, she is still in territory held by German forces. But as they retreat she moves farther East with the action. There she meets Jean-Paul who is with the French Resistance. While hiding from the Germans they find a young child, the church is burning with people inside, and then they realize she is "Mongoloid". Trying to get Claire to safety, brings even more challenges. They find a convent hiding more children, and Nellie and Jean-Paul set out to get these hunted children to safety. But not without obstacles even they did not see. With Nellie's sweet Southern charm, and Jean-Paul's instinct and the faith of Sister Maria-Theresa, they get the children to safety.

I enjoyed this story very much. It grabbed my interest from the very beginning. It is a subject I have heard about, but not really one you see much.

Thank you to Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for an advanced copy.

I have really enjoyed the books in the Heroines of WWII series. However, this one did not appeal to me. From the beginning, Nellie, the main character, got on my nerves. She did not understand the concept that she was on foreign soil and in the middle of a war. She was too bull headed and not willing to learn from those who could provide wise guidance. The storyline was not engaging and fell short as a WWII historical fiction book. I was so disappointed that this book did not keep up with the standard the other books in this series established.

Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

I am enjoying this WW2 series by Barbour Books. Each book can be read as a standalone, with each book highlighting some aspect of WW2.

Early in the story, Nellie saw the devastating effects of the war on a medical ship she boarded, and in a conversation, this line was spoken "I can't believe men can do this to each other" and for me that described the war so well.

"No matter what comes into our lives, God uses it in the best way for us. His ways and His plan are perfect. You will learn that in the coming days, though the lesson will be difficult."

Even at a time where allies started to invade and concur, the Nazi's continued their destructiveness.

"Evil is strong. It has no boundaries." Only by God's goodness and grace is it contained. But someday, it will be eliminated. Wiped away forever."

This story was captivating, heartbreaking, suspenseful and sweet. The sweet down syndrome children with their innocence and not always aware of the danger they are in, added to the thrilling suspense.

I enjoyed the fact that Jean-Paul was French German who had to take a side early in the war. Nellie as a journalist represented the danger of trying to reveal the truth of what was really going on.

There was quite a few breath holding scenes and a few twists and turns.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

This was a really good read, with several twists and turns that keep me wanting more and I was totally wanting to know what happened next!!! This book really tugs on your heartstrings. Loved it! The characters are well developed and believable. I'm looking forward to more books by this author. I want to thank the author, Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

There was not a chapter in this book that I was not completely entranced and in love. Nellie was one of the best female characters I have come across in awhile. Her guts, passion and persistence were second to none. When I read WW2 era books, I often try to think what I would have done. These women are stronger than I ever dream to be!

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley.

This is by far one of my favorites that Liz Tolsma has written. I genuinely enjoyed every aspect of the story--even right down to the romance (shocker, right?).

I loved Nellie. She is headstrong and independent and once she gets her mind on something, she won't let anything stop her. But there is a softer side to her. We see this as she interacts with the children with Down Syndrome she comes across during her journey.

I also loved Jean-Paul. He is sweet and kind, but also protective and is also willing to do anything for Nellie and the children.

I also loved the incorporation of the children with special needs. These characters effectively show the cruelty of the Nazis. It was something we all knew, but to see such precious and beautiful children and knowing what the Nazis would do to them if they got their hands on them intensifies that evil and cruelty.

I also liked the romance in this novel, as mentioned before. I liked it because it didn't take over the whole story. It was subtle but it was there. And it wasn't forced, either. It felt natural.

So, overall, I would highly recommend this novel. It has wonderful characters, a plotline that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and historical knowledge that will teach you even more about WWII.

I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.

This is an amazing historical fiction story. Full of action an intrigue. You will definitely be turning the pages. The awesome characters are strong and resilient. The book deals with parent/child relationships, societies atrocities during WWII, and KKK atrocities. Highly recommend this book to those who like historical fiction.

A Picture of Hope by Liz Tolsma is part of Barbour Book’s Heroines of WWII series.

I love reading about female journalists during the political upheaval and wars of the first half of the 1900s. In A Picture of Hope, Nellie was an intrepid reporter determined to share what was happening in France after Normandy with the mothers and sweethearts back home. Of course, she finds herself in the middle of the danger, and occasionally rashly puts herself there unnecessarily.

But what she finds is not just the expected danger and that set this story apart from others. She is given the opportunity to save a child with Downs Syndrome, a child who would have been killed by the Nazis. Paired with a French Resistance fighter and a wonderful cast of side characters, saving one child turns into a major escape mission, and maybe a romance.

One note is that the author does show some of the horrendous atrocities that happened in occupied France. The characters react strongly and readers may, too. One image in particular was hard to read, but according to the author note, actually happened.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

This was a book that stayed with me long after closing the last page. I usually don’t like reading books about WWII, especially with the way the world is today, but this one grabbed my attention from the back cover copy and held my attention throughout. I love stories with children in them, 1944 is the year my parents were born, and my dad has French ancestry in his blood. All things that captured my attention and made me want to read more about this time in history. I love how the title accurately portrays the book – it was full of hope despite the “yuck” surrounding them. A book I will be recommending to others. A great way to read about history and hopefully not let it repeat.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.

This is book two of the Heroines of WWII Series, Historical reads that take place during the WWII and deals with the Heroes of the wars. Nellie is a photographer that uses her career to let the public be aware of what is going on during the war era. When she finds herself in the middle of the world looking at children with downs syndrome and trying to save them from the Nazi's. Can she overcome her fears and put the children before her career? Will she save the kids and herself from the Nazi's?

If you want a heartfelt and dramatic read then this book is for your to read. It is very touching and is in great detail during this difficult times in the world. It digs in deep with special needs children and how faith will bring you through anything. Great read for anyone that likes history, faith and love books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

A Picture of Hope was a great novel set in World War 2 exploring not only the kinds of women who were heroines in their own right. But it also deals with some of the glossed over gruesome facts of the Nazi regime, in this case, how cruel the Nazis were to anyone who had a disability or special needs. It is tragic what happened! However, this novel provides the story of a girl with Downs Syndrome, who through the kindness of strangers, survives and escapes to safety.

I was gripped from the very beginning of the novel and found myself getting anxious every time it seemed like something awful was going to happen, especially to young Claire who already had experienced so much tragedy in her life. I loved getting to know more about what life was like in Nazi-occupied France at the time. Although, I feel like love is the wrong word to use because of how terrible life was, especially those who refused to give their allegiance to Hitler.

I also liked getting to know the characters, I've already mentioned Claire, who I'd love to read about again to find out how she fares after World War 2. I also enjoyed getting to know Nellie, however, she did annoy me with some of her rash decisions that almost put others in danger. There were times it felt like she cared more about her career than helping others. However, I also liked Jean-Paul and how we see just how far he is willing to go to help those in need. I also appreciate how we see both characters struggle with the past, particularly with the men their fathers turned out to be, as well as why God allows so much suffering.

One of my favorite characters though has to be Sister Maria-Theresa and her wisdom and care, not only for the children she takes care and her fellow nuns, but also for both Nellie and Jean-Paul, who are both struggling with a lot of things.

There was a quote that stuck out to me while reading the book about suffering that is poignant and I wanted to share it in this review. It is something that Sister Raphael says to Nellie when she is questioning why God allows so much sin. She replies with the following:

"'This suffering is meant to make our souls long for heaven. This world wearies us and weighs us down. Oh, but there is another world where we will never weary and where we will never long for anything better.'" (p.133)

Overall, I really enjoyed A Picture of Hope and getting to know more about the overlooked people of World War 2. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is a fan of historical fiction, particularly that set during World War 2. 4/5 Stars

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

Liz Tolsma has written another great book about the Second World War called A Picture of Hope. This book follows journalist Nellie Wilkerson who takes pictures, but is now completely done with it and wants to discover for herself what it is like in occupied Europe. Women also want a female perspective on the war being fought there. That is why Nellie hides on a ship to Normandy to get to the European mainland. There she meets Jean-Paul and together they discover a girl with special needs in the bushes. They take her to the nearest convent where they meet three nuns who help children with special needs. When the Germans find out, they have to flee to Switzerland. Can they get there safely?

The story was very compelling and you really wanted to know how it would end. The characters were very well written.

If you like historical romance, or are a fan of the books by Sarah Sundin, Melanie Dobson or the WW2 books by Tricia goyer, then this is definitely a must-read.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Nellie wants to give Allies a clear picture of the horrors of war so they will see the need to do everything they can to stop Nazi Germany from destroying more lives. Unfortunately, because she is a female photographer for the Tribune, she is refused passage to the front lines. Nellie is not one to take no as an answer, so she manages to sneak her way onto Normandy Beach, posing as a nurse, getting a closeup view of the devastation war leaves behind. Wanting to get the perfect picture to alert the world, she manages to place herself and others in the dangerous position of protecting an innocent orphaned child with Downs Syndrome.

This historical fiction book brings to light some of the atrocities committed against innocent people by evil men. It also highlights the dangerous road to freedom, and the dependence on God placing some good people in the path.

This was an enjoyable book about a young female photo journalist from Mississippi that ended up in France during WWII. Definitely will recommend to all my friends. Thank to the author, publisher and NetGalley.

A Picture of Hope is a gripping novel sure to reach the hearts of those who read it. The setting is Nazis occupied France. It is about children labeled as undesirable by the Nazis and the heroes who emerged, willing to risk their own lives to keep them safe. The store is full of historical details. It is inspiring and yet just heartbreaking at times.
This is the first book I have read from Liz Tolsma. She was able to capture the atmosphere during WWII in a very powerful way. This was not an easy read. A note of warning to readers to be sure to have Kleenex handy. But what made this book so great was the way the author transported us back to a very difficult time in history and really communicated in a way that made the characters come alive. It was a story that reflected hope and faith in the midst of the storm. It was a very touching novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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