Set during the ravages of WWII, Liz Tolsma has woven a story that tore at my heartstrings. Nellie, a photojournalist by trade, works her way to the middle of the horrifying action, first posing as a nurse on a hospital ship. With only one goal in mind, that being to record the real story for especially the women back home, she finds herself caught up in the chilling tragedy of “unwanted” children being removed by the Nazis in France. Nellie discovers a lost Mongoloid child she names Claire after witnessing the tragic church fire which killed her family. Fearing for the child’s life, she and soldier Jean-Paul try to whisk her to safety at a nearby convent, only to find danger lurks everywhere.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a positive review.

I have enjoyed every book I have read by Liz Tolsma. I think A Picture of Hope might be the fourth book of hers that I've read, and each one has been captivating. The others were historical fiction mysteries; this one is just historical fiction—but so good.
Nellie had been in London for most of World War II, photographing milk lines and other mundane things, and she desperately wanted to photograph the real action. General Eisenhower wouldn't hear of women journalists being near the front lines, though. How could she get to where the action was happening?
Once she reached France, Nellie found herself involved in more than she ever imagined possible. After being rescued by resistance worker Jean-Paul, they stumbled upon a special-needs child hiding in the bushes. Very soon, Nellie knew she had to protect the girl, no matter what happened—and the Nazis were gettting desperate, destroying everything possible before the Allies arrived. Underground tunnels, a mad dash across France; this story is full of exciting but plausible scenes as a group of people try desperately to stay one step ahead of the Nazis.
I could hardly put this exciting story down. As with most books about World War II, there are some horrific scenes in A Picture of Hope, but there is also, as the title suggests, hope, hope that love can prevail in the end. I loved seeing Down Syndrome children loved and cared for, and watching love grow between Nellie and Jean-Paul. The twisted minds of the Nazis, however, was something I am always horrified with in a story. This book is well-balanced between harsh reality and the hope that love brings. I liked that this book was set in Nazi-occupied France; there aren't very many set there. This book is good enough and clean enough that I allowed my teenage son to read it.
I received a review copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
WARNING: Chapter 2: description of dead soldiers floating in the water. Chapter 3: the stench of rotting flesh, a dead soldier in a vehicle, the word golly. Chapter 5: Nazis massacreing a village of people. Chapter 13: golly. Chapter 33: description of a kiss. Chapter 34: two more kisses. Throughout book: more references to Nazi atrocities, as well as to a horrific memory from Nellie's childhood.

This review will post on www.ignitelit.com in April or May 2022.

I loved the premise behind this story. The insight into the war and Howe photography was used during this time.

This story carried thoughts that made me reflective, thinking on the story and trying to understand the love God has for each and everyone of us even those that seem to not fit in.

Nellie was an interesting heroine, tenacious and often times made decisions that ended up causing her harm but I loved her spirit.

This is a story you'd want to read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. All opinions expressed are solely mine.

I wanted to love this one, but I'm either burnt out on WWII historical fiction or I couldn't stand the heroine I can't put my finger on it.

Nellie Wilkerson is an American reporter based in London who wants to be able to cover the 1944 D-Day landings in Normandy. When her boss refuses, saying only male reporters can go, Nellie heads to Southampton, talks her way onto a hospital ship where she helps tend the multitude of wounded. She sneaks into France with her camera to find her story, and finds herself trapped behind enemy lines. She teams up with Jean-Paul, a member of the local resistance, to try and get back to Allied territory.

Jean-Paul’s father was German, a brute of a man, so Jean-Paul chose to stay in France with his (now dead) mother when his parents divorced. But he speaks the language well enough to pose as German when necessary. That’s something that comes in handy.

The two witness the Nazis burn a church, murdering all the townsfolk inside, and find a sole survivor – a girl with Down syndrome. The story therefore becomes their story of travelling across France towards Switzerland to escape the Nazis, in a kind of Sound of Music way.

The story was fast-paced, with plenty of action. The writing was good, but I didn’t find the plot as compelling as I have with some other fiction set around this time and place. It all seemed a bit contrived.

The research was excellent, and many of the most dramatic scenes were straight out of history. But that was the problem: it felt as if the characters had been created and thrown into the plot simply to show these parts of history. I would have preferred more focus on the characters. Overall, this was a solid novel, but not one I’d reread.

This novel is part of the Heroines of World War II series, in which each book is written by a different author and with a different setting. The only common factor is World War II, which means each story can be read as a standalone novel.

Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

When journalist Nellie sneaked over to France to photograph the invasion, she never expected to find herself protecting a child who reminds her of a childhood friend she feels she's failed - or to get stuck behind the lines with Clare, two other similar children and Jean-Paul, a member of the resistance. She's taken photos that the world needs to see, so she's desperate to get back to England - but others are relying on her to help too. Can she and Jean-Paul help save the children everyone outside looks down on? And can their new friendship - or more? - survive the horrors of war?

I don't think I've ever read a historical fiction book before that has included Down Syndrome characters, but I appreciated it. I also appreciated both her decision to stick to historical accuracy in the way she refers to them (rather than rewriting history to fit modern beliefs) and her note about it at the start. It was all handled very sensitively but realistically, which was great. Nellie's naive attitude to war at the start bothered me somewhat - but I guess I've read more about war than she would have, though I've never experienced anything even vaguely like it. I was glad to see that despite being a war book, it doesn't include graphic violence. Overall, I enjoyed the story and hope to read more by the author, though I did feel that perhaps some parts could have gone a bit deeper.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

This story was a delightful addition to the other WWII fiction stories that I have by Liz Tolsma. I enjoyed the characters and how she brought the history to life.

As a long-time lover of Liz Tolsma’s WWII fiction, I was excited for the release of this story. Liz Tolsma again delivered a tender story of bravery, compassion and love that simultaneously tugged on, and warmed, my heart.

Her main characters, Jean-Paul and Nellie, are well-crafted, strong-willed and heroic. As they work together with a group of nuns to save the lives of those the German military has deemed unworthy of life, a suspenseful, heart-pounding journey to freedom unfolds.

I loved this novel for it’s historically accurate, yet heartbreaking, truths surrounding children, orphans and those with special needs. Tolsma compassionately curated a story that is rich in details, championing the love that Christ has for all people, regardless of race, color or needs.

This story moved at a great pace, keeping me fully engrossed as the suspense and high-stakes maintained throughout the novel. I adored the characters immensely and felt Tolsma brought war-torn France alive with her vivid descriptions and authenticity. The budding romance in the story was both tender and sweet. The beautiful woven threads of faith were inspiring and the compassion the characters displayed was heartwarming. Overall, a fantastic addition to the Heroines of WWII series and a story I most certainly recommend to WWII fiction lovers and both secular and Christian historical fiction readers.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.

Absolutely fabulous:
This author never fails to impress me. I just loved this book and think that it would appeal to many different readers. It was exciting and full of adventure and suspense as they tried to hide and escape from the Nazis. I liked that even though it dealt with serious subject matter it wasn't overly gloomy or depressing. Rather hope rang through and so did the message of putting one's trust in God no matter what the circumstances or outcome. It touched my heart and these sweet children and brave adults were truly inspiring. I found it really interesting how it shed light on the plight of children with disabilities during the war which is not an aspect that is usually focused on when it comes to WWII stories.
Nellie was brave and tenacious yet it was a good thing that she had Jean-Paul to rein her in and protect her at times. I enjoyed witnessing their sweet romance and was rooting for them all the way. Overall a great book that I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

A gripping, suspense-filled tale of WW2. As the title says, it's a picture of hope--even in a very dark time. I recommend for readers of WW2 fiction, and for those who just enjoy a redemptive story with a blend of light and dark.

“For too long, too many had been silent. She had a chance to give voice to those who were helpless. She couldn’t allow it to pass.”

Ever since doing a unit on Anne Frank in eighth grade, I have read about and studied the Holocaust. It’s difficult to describe why this horrific time in history speaks to me so much, except to say that the resiliency of those who endured and, in some cases, survived the horrors inflicted upon them inspires me to learn more and to make sure that their legacies are never forgotten. What seems so egregious and dangerous, sadly, is that as the remaining members of that generation pass away, the world appears ready to forego the painful lessons learned from the Nazi regime and travel down the same destructive path. This is why stories will always be important, to keep history alive alongside contemporary society, not to inhibit but to inform. “A Picture of Hope” by Liz Tolsma may be a work of fiction, but it’s based on the actions of real people and true events that occurred during the latter part of WWII.

What do you get when you take a female photojournalist, a French maquisard, and a war and mix them together? A riveting, heartbreaking, inspirational story that manages to be unique in a heavily-occupied genre. “A Picture of Hope” is truly distinctive to me for its focus on another group that Hitler was intent on eliminating: the disabled. I do not recall ever previously reading any stories or accounts that concentrated on the intellectually disabled—in this case, children with Down Syndrome. As photojournalist Nellie Wilkerson notes of Claire, “Every inch of dirt on the planet was stained with blood. With evil. Was there any good left anywhere? Perhaps only in the brown eyes of a Mongoloid girl.” (A note to sensitive readers: The author explains her careful and respectful choice to use the historically-accurate term Mongoloid in place of Down Syndrome at the very beginning of the book.) Having been friends, until he passed away, with an intellectually-disabled boy who was born one day before me, I can attest that these special individuals possess remarkable compassion and joy. Again, Nellie captures the essence of Claire: “From a disposable child to one who would inspire the entire world to care.”

Many wonderful characters inhabit these pages. Nellie is eager to do all that she can for the Allies, and her reckless impatience leads her straight into trouble on more than one occasion. It also brings her to Jean-Paul Breslau, a maquisard of one of the rural guerrilla bands of French resistance fighters battling to wrest control of the country from Germany back into French hands. Jean-Paul’s training did not include how to deal with a rebellious, independent female, but a seminal figure in this story, Sister Maria-Theresa, assures him that “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.” Likewise, Nellie slowly begins coming to terms with the darkness of her childhood in America while simultaneously dealing with the challenges of her present, coming at last to the realization that “Perhaps there were those who were good in this world. Not good in and of themselves, but good because they reflected the light of Christ in the midst of this choking darkness.” As each of the characters moves forward through obstacles both personal and shared, what emerges is not only “A Picture of Hope,” but a testament of faith and a legacy of love.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

A Picture of Hope is a book of the heart! There are heartbreaking scenes that you won't forget but there are also heartwarming moments that you'll long remember. Author Liz Tolsma has written a stunning story of hope and survival that features fictional characters and real heroes of WWII, and she's based it on the true accounts of the Allied Forces landing in France in 1944. Photographer Nellie Wilkerson wants a chance to see the war in action, but soon gets more than she bargained for. Can she and a French resistance fighter rescue a special-needs little girl before the Germans destroy everything in their path? Will they live long enough to explore the romantic feelings that they are beginning to feel toward each other?

I'm a fan of historical fiction, so I appreciate that Tolsma shares what is true, what is fiction, and the names of the people who actually lived this history. She possesses a special talent for fleshing out true facts and weaving them into a story that we all want to read, and A Picture of Hope is the perfect example. This is an exciting story with danger, suspense, and amazing characters, but the addition of hope, faith, and compassion make it an inspiring story to savor!

A Picture of Hope is a stunning addition to the Heroines of WWII series from Barbour Publishing and I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.

Liz Tolsma is a wonderful author and this is another great book by her. I actually heard and interview she did about this book and how the character of Claire is very dear to her and the reason why. It made this read even more sweet.

Although not everything is sweet. She deals in the realities of the war and the horrible things that took place to people.

At first Nellie kind of irritated me because she just went off and did things without thinking of the consequences but she definitely grew on me and I lived her more at the book went on.

Overall, a great read and I highly recommend this book if you like historicals.

Grab your copy at your local bookstore, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Christianbook.com or your favorite retailer.

A copy of this book was given to me through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

This is my first time reading a book by Liz Tolsma and I look forward to reading her other works. While A Picture of Hope is part of the Heroines of WWII series it is designed to be read alone. The books in the series can be read in any order.

A Picture of Hope is well-written, the story flows smoothly, and it is well-researched. The story gives us an accurate picture of war and the treatment of Jews, children with Downs Syndrome, and anyone else who was not deemed perfect.

I did not connect with the Heroine of this story, Nellie. She was very headstrong, impulsive, and often putting herself in danger without thinking. You would think that after the first time or two she would learn her lesson, but she doesn't. I did like how she cared for those who were different.

The male lead, Jean-Paul Breslau was okay. He was kind, caring, and protective.

This story will pull at your heartstrings. I am a sensitive reader and I had a hard time with several scenes. I did not realize this novel would portray the horrors the Nazis inflicted so thoroughly. Some scenes will be with me far longer than I want them to be. Although for me that is negative, it does the author justice as describing the scenes extremely well, you get a very vivid picture.

Thank you to Net Galley and Barbour Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is a gripping novel from the start, as readers are introduced to Jean-Paul Breslau in 1944 Normandy, France, he’s awaiting American planes to drop supplies and arms in an open area. It’s dangerous because the Germans could hear these low-flying planes. They could also easily spot the white parachutes as they floated to the ground.

Then readers meet Nellie Wilkerson, in 1944, London. She is an American photographic journalist. She wants to take pictures of the action happening across the channel. Her problem, women, were banned from reporting and taking pictures on the front line. But that would not stop Nellie. She would find a way when there seemed to be no way.

While running from the enemy, these two determined, war passionate crusaders lives intersect on the battlefield. When Jean-Paul stumbles across Nellie, he helps her and takes her of a place to seek shelter and come up with a strategy for their next move. This is when the head nun believes these two visitors might just be the answer to her prayers. The stakes are high. But pushing the boundaries were warranted. They had to protect the innocent children put in their care. These children were labeled as undesirable by the Nazis, and anyone caught hiding and/or getting these children to safety would be shot.

The author discusses these “Mongoloid” children, she says, “… While the word carries negative connotations today and is not used, it is period correct…. I did want to be true to the times…. You will see that the characters in the book have nothing but love and compassion for the children with Down syndrome… My intention is not to offend, but to inform in a historically accurate way.”

Dealing with special needs children that could not hide who they were, made caring for and smuggling them over the boarder much more challenging. This is an action packed story with heart as the author does a great job of showing all the challenges, surprises and tragedy of war.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through 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 the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

A Picture of Hope by Liz Tolsma is the first book in the Heroines of WWII series and a definite must read if you love books filled with history, intrigue, adventure, romance and inspiration.
Journalist Nellie Wilkerson jumps at the chance to to report what is happening on the front lines in France, but on the journey she and Jean-Paul Breslau of the French underground stumble upon an orphan girl who needs their help finding safety while they are being pursued by the Nazis. Can they stay out of the Nazis' clutches while trying to get the little girl some place safe?
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books in this series.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

Nellie is tired of sitting out of the action when she is trying to report on what is going on behind enemy lines for the Americans in the states. She makes a bold move and decides to find her ticket into the action. She ends up finding a lot more than what she bargained for when her guide unexpectantly dies and she is no longer in safe territory. She meets a little girl who has become orphaned and wants to help. Even more urgency is the fact the girl has special needs, which the Nazis would likely harm her if they discovered her. Nellie works together with Jean-Paul to help give others a picture of hope.

The book was quick paced, and one could not help but cheer for Nellie the entire book. Nellie is strong and confident, but these traits can sometimes find her trouble. I enjoyed the depth and variety of the different characters. There are several times the nuns made me smile.

Although this is a book in a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone. The storyline made the reader think of aspects of World War II that might not be so commonly thought of or discussed like the survival of those with special needs and those heroes that fought for them. My heart ached for these children.

I would really recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

I went into this book not knowing what to expect but Liz blew me away with this beautiful take on world war 2.
Liz has a way with words and makes you feel like you've known these characters all your life. It's amazing.
If you're into Historical fiction. Then this book should be high up on your tbr

A World War II story that touches the heart. American Nellie Wilkerson wants to photograph what is really going on in the battles in Europe. She finds much more than she bargained for when she finally finds a way to get to the front. Not only does she witness atrocities, she finds needs to help meet, such as assisting with the children hiding at a French convent. She partners with Jean-Paul Breslau, a half-German, half-French underground worker, and they work together to survive and hopefully to escape the German force. The characters truly seem alive on the page. The exciting drama seems so real and terrifying and horrific, but includes no graphic violence. The author did a good job portraying the reality of the experiences in a compelling manner, a tough task and even tougher subject matter. This could make a good book club choice. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

A Picture of Hope shows us what some heroes will do to save people from the evil that is hunting them down. Nellie Wilkerson is a photographer who is bound and determined to get into France and photograph what is happening. Since she is a woman journalist, she is not allowed to go over with the men, but she is resourceful and she finds a way. Meeting Jean-Paul is a boon as he agrees to take her closer to the war.

Jean-Paul is a Frenchman working with the French underground movement. He mistakenly trusted a wrong man and he has paid the price for that. But when the Allies have reached the shores of Normandy he is set free. However, the fleeing Nazi's go with destruction and evil intentions in their hearts.

As Jean-Paul escorts Nellie deeper into the war, they both stumble across a little Down's girl who they both know would be a target of evil as they would consider her less than. So together they seek safety all the while seeing the bigger picture and the dangers that people with disabilities and Jews are facing at the hands of the Nazi's. And all those who are helping in their escape.

This was a harrowing adventure and knowing it is based on true events makes is all the more sobering. What evil men can do!

The author has some great notes and she lists what is true and what is from her imagination. This is a good story that takes a different look at those who were being hunted.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.