This is historical fiction at its best! I love learning about things in history that I didn't previously know, and learning more about what I did already know! It's nice, too, that the author actually knows French, and is not just guessing or making things up... I really enjoyed this story.
Thank you to the publisher, and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book! The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

This novel is stuffed full of incredibly detailed history, heart-tugging emotions, and threads of hope and bravery amongst a dark time of war in human history. I was immediately swept into the story when I met Isabelle, whose compassionate and brave soul was truly admirable; she may be a fictional character, but I have no doubt that real people like her truly made their marks on history with their bravery. I was blown away by the amazing history and the well written way it was integrated into the story. I found myself looking up several landmarks mentioned in the story and was excited to read about a few cities I have visited myself! I loved the few French phrases in the story as well. World War II had many tragedies, which were accurately portrayed, but I loved the themes of faith and hope that shone in the novel. I cried several times and felt so connected to the trials of the characters. Elizabeth Musser is one of my favorite authors because she writes stories that leap off the pages and stay with me for a long time. This novel is everything wonderful and amazing and I highly, highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Readers who like historical fiction will love this WWII story based in France. Very realistic and emotionally charged. Based on true events, this novel will keep readers engaged to the end. The resistance groups against the Germans and hiding Jewish children drove the story. Realistic and interesting characters. Loved Peter. Highly recommended.

From the Valley We Rise is everything you could want in historical fiction! It is rich in historical details of WWII, has a moving plot, a sweet romance, and an immersive setting in France!!! There are multiple point of views from ordinary citizens who lived out extraordinary courage in the face of danger and tragedy. You get a glimpse of The French Resistance that worked tirelessly to fight against the enemy and save the vulnerable. Elizabeth Musser did a beautiful job showing the complexity of war and living out faith in the midst of it. The fear one character felt was tangible and as she grew in courage, I was inspired by the lessons from her father.

I love stories of resilience, and goodness not backing down when evil looms larger. With so many WW2 novels out there, it’s hard to find a unique storyline, but I appreciate that this one felt different.

The theme of the book centered around the French resistance. It highlighted some of the behind the scenes heroes helping to save Jewish children.

Isabelle takes on the cause after her father is murdered for working with the French resistance. Her courage to be involved after seeing first hand what happens to those who are caught is such a beautiful show of courage.

Army Chaplain Peter goes into war while battling his past and his insecurities. Bolstered by his family, who have always been helpers, Peter sets out to do some good.

Rene is too young to be taken seriously, but it is this which works in his favor. As he works to help with the effort to save Jews, he looses those closest to him. I loved his bravery and ability to keep moving forward.

There’s a common saying after a tragedy which encourages finding hope by looking for the helpers. I loved that this book highlighted the good, brave and ordinary people who risked their life and used their unique skills to aid in the effort to protect Jewish children. I loved how their faith bolstered them and gave them the resilience they needed to keep moving forward. It was such an enlightening uplifting historical fiction.

The thing that I liked most about this WW2 story was that Musser displayed beautiful moments right next to the agony of war. Her characters displayed perseverance as they wrestled honestly with situations which they would never be able to make sense of or to understand. Forgiveness did not come easy, but for some it was hard won. Doubting God, having regrets and being afraid was normal for those fighting for what was right. Yet, hope remained and rebuilding possible. For me, both the characters and storyline were realistic which made it very easy to apply to life today. Reading this wonderful heart wrenching story was time well spent. In fact, I might even read it again! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions were my own.

“Have mercy, Lord. Hold us fast.”

Elizabeth Musser is an exquisite storyteller, blending impeccable research with deep emotion, poignant faith, and characters who burst to life on the page. Her most recent novel, From the Valley We Rise, is proof positive that my praise is well-deserved. As we tagged along with the French Resistance, hiding Jewish children and fighting against the Germans, I even found myself praying that these dear résistants I’d come to love would all make it out safely on the other side of Operation Dragoon. Something that I sensed wasn’t necessarily guaranteed. War is brutal – we all know this – but the evil at the heart of this war, the hatred that drove so many, the desperation that drove so many more … it pierces the soul and knocked the wind out of me on more than one occasion as I read this gorgeously-written novel. It certainly kept me on the edge of my seat, too, as Isabelle, René, and the others of the Silo Resistance battled for their own lives, yes, but also for the lives of others. In fact, if you could see my nails right now, you’d see a couple of them are bitten down a bit shorter than I usually keep them.

I loved the author’s choice to present three different points of view in From the Valley We Rise – Isabelle (a young woman involved in rescuing and hiding Jewish children), her cousin René (a teenage boy who becomes part of the Maquis guerilla fighters), and Peter (an American chaplain haunted by painful memories). Musser smoothly switches back and forth between them, making it easy for readers to do the same, and this technique plus dividing the story into four parts (six if you count the prologue and epilogue) amplified the tension and emotion that builds across the entirety of the story. Isabelle has a sassy side (which you know I loved) though the last few years have beaten that down until it only shows up briefly here and there, and understandably so. I really loved her character, from her personality to her ‘realness’ and the relatability of her struggles. René has the impetuousness of youth combined with the sobriety of a man who watched his mother die in a massacre by the Germans, and I so admired his courage and character growth. And Peter who may just be the best war chaplain I’ve ever met on the pages of a novel – his heart for the men in his care, his brokenness over parts of his own story, his love for soccer and sketching, and his heartfelt prayers … all made him such a well-rounded character.

Bottom Line: From the Valley We Rise by Elizabeth Musser spotlights a little-talked-about event during Operation Dragoon in World War 2, one that stunned me, to be honest. As we build toward that life-altering moment and carry on beyond it, the author masterfully weaves together compelling characters, an intricately-layered plot, and grace-filled faith notes which all broke my heart and then knit it back together. I’m specifically not saying a lot about the story itself because I want you to be able to immerse yourself just as fully as I did, but oh my goodness this is a beautiful and intense and emotional ride. And Delphine… how I adored this young Jewish girl who listens to God and still wholly trusts Him, in spite of all she’s been through. I learned some things from her, and I daresay you will too. Musser’s tender explorations of hope (and hopelessness), grief, love, anger, trauma, and even joy in their rawest forms – as well as the miracles of God’s grace and His divine intervention – also engaged all of my emotions and left me grateful for the illustration of His promise to hold us fast no matter what we are walking through.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

“Remember that courage is not a lack of fear. Courage is fear that has entrusted the outcome to God. We pray and we do what God Almighty asks of us.”

It seems that some of my favorite historical fiction authors (Kristy Cambron, Roseanna M White and now Elizabeth Musser) have immersed themselves in French Resistance of WWII for their newest novels and I’m thrilled to learn more about something I know very little about.
The backdrop of the story in 1944 southern France was beautiful, even in the midst of war. The plight of the Resistance forces was heart-breaking and realistic while their determination was awe-inspiring. Three third person voices - Isabelle’s voice as one hiding the children to Rene’s voice as one fighting in the Resistance to Peter’s voice as the chaplain in US Army - gave the story a rich and deep plot that encompassed the many facets of the war they fought in France after its occupation.
Peter and Isabelle were relatable characters, filled with flaws, fears, hopes, dreams, and courage. Rene provided the perspective of a Resistance fighter, fueled by anger and vengeance for his losses. All needed the grace, mercy, and forgiveness of our Savior. Their faith journey was riddled with grief and pain but it was so worthwhile to walk it with them. I loved how the story concluded with Delphine’s first person voice.

If you enjoy WWII historical fiction, you’ll love this book. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

From the Valley We Rise by Elizabeth Musser
4 Stars

My first Elizabeth Musser book was By Way of the Moonlight in 2022. I loved that book so much, so her newest release, From the Valley We Rise was one of my most anticipated releases of 2025. Set in 1944 following the D-day invasion of Normandy, leading up to the second D-day invasion, she once again wrote a deeply moving and unforgettable story of courage, sacrifice, and hope. This book weaves together the lives of three characters, Isabelle, Peter, and René. They each navigate betrayal, loss, and the high cost of freedom during WWII.

Isabelle’s commitment to rescuing Jewish children, even among the chaos was inspiring. Peter is an American chaplain grappling with past wounds and brings a powerful perspective of faith and healing. René’s journey from devastation to resilience was emotional. We really see a glimpse into France during WWII.

With characters like this, it's hard to pick a true favorite, they all went together so well. Anyone who loves a good Historical Fiction would enjoy this. Now, I need to go back and read ALL of Elizabeth's books!

Thank you to Bethany House for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Content warnings: war violence mentioned, sexual abuse of a child briefly mentioned but not detailed.

From the Valley We Rise by Elizabeth Musser

From the Valley We Rise is a mesmerizing story of the French Resistance during WWII and the impact they made in aiding the Allies.
The book is set in 1944 following the D-day invasion of Normandy and leading up to the D-day invasion at Provence called Operation Dragoon. Told from the three perspectives, the story of courage, faith, forgiveness, and love unfolds amidst the harsh realities of war. Isabelle is a French woman working for the Resistance to help hide Jewish children. Her story and the story of the other two main characters, Peter an American Chaplain in the armed forces, and René , Isabelle’s cousin and fellow member of the Resistance, weave together beautifully to show that every hero has a different role to play.

The setting is so vividly described and the characters are filled with heart and hurt. I did find some parts to be repetitive because the story is told from three POVs and many details are described again. Overall, I enjoyed this story about a time and events in history that are not often talked about with such detail. There are historical moments the author recounts that I had never heard of and was intrigued as I read more in her authors note. If you enjoy WWII fiction, this book is excellent because it touches on a storyline that is unique to the setting.

Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for an advance reader e-copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own. Release date is June 3, 2025

It was totally appropriate that I chose to read this novel during the Memorial Day weekend. It is focused on the bravery and resilience of the members of the French Resistance in 1944 and the liberation by American forces and their sacrifices in pushing back the retreating German army.
Ms. Musser did a fantastic job of putting me right into the action, whether with Isabelle and Delphine rescuing Jewish children or with Peter and Rene during courageous battle scenes. The characters had such real struggles with their faith and their place in the scheme of things. And how the connections came together was shown not as coincidence but by the hand of God.
I had not heard of this part of WWII in Southern France and was glad that I discovered another eye-opening story of history. A bit of nostalgia came when I read of the Elgin watch that Rene wore. I grew up in Elgin and remember when the Watchtower Building was demolished.
As Isabelle and others grappled with the horror of war and the resulting feelings of fear and hatred, Ms. Musser provided the voice of reason and faith in the characters of Peter and his father.
Another wonderful story of perseverance from a very talented author.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

This was an incredible historical fiction. I know I don’t have the words to do it justice. Growing up, my sister was born on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor and 9/11 occurred just hours after my youngest sister was born. I always joked that something would happen in the future on my birthday. August 15. Now I have an entire book dedicated to tragedy that happen in France on August 15, 1944.

We mainly get three POVs in this book. Isabelle is a fighter with the French Resistance who works with the Martin Network to hide Jewish Children. Rene is her teenage cousin who joins the Maquis fighters. Peter is a Chaplain with the US Army forces who arrive with Operation Dragoon. As this story unfolds, their lives are entwined and an entire world of war, tragedy, family, and more is laid out before us. I walked in the night with our characters. I ate the blackberries. I cowered from the bombs and flinched at the sound of aircraft. This was a superbly crafted wartime story that had many roots in history. I will never forget the experience this book has lent me and I will never stop recommending this read. The Christian themes were well woven into the story and elevated this book even more. There are small tinges and hints of distant romance throughout this book. Those faint aspects are just kisses in nature. There is no swearing or vulgarity of war depicted on the pages.

I have enjoyed all of Elizabeth’s novels and each time I read the newest, I declare it my favorite - that is true of this, her newest! It is a fictional story set in southern France during World War 2, but Elizabeth’s personal experience living in this area, her thorough research and masterful characterizations allow you to feel what it was like to be part of the French Resistance and Operation Dragoon. War is not pretty and always complex, and Musser’s characters wrestle with hard things that tug at your heart (Kleenex recommended!). But through friendship, faith, doubts, perseverance, hope and compassion for their fellow humans, personal victories (and the War!) are won. And we, the readers, are encouraged to fight our good fights together, knowing each of us with our unique skills, talents, passions and perspectives are needed to bring hope and healing to this broken world. Two of my favorite inspirational quotes from the book are: “Remember that courage is not the lack of fear, but fear that entrusts the outcome to God. We pray and do what the Almighty asks.” And
“Hope has 2 beautiful daughters. Their names are anger and courage; anger at the way things are, and courage to see they do not remain as they are.”

I thank the author and Net Galley for allowing me to read an advance copy of the book. All opinions are mine.

When I first read the description of this story, I knew I wanted to read it. My grandmother grew up in a small village during WW2, but I never got to ask her about that part of her life…so naturally I was eager to delve into what it may have been like for her.

From the Valley We Rise is a story about courage, sacrifice, and genuine love amidst dangerous circumstances. It’s the story or good versus evil, and it’s a story of God’s workings through people to fight back against wickedness and cruelty.

In this story, we hear from various POVs: Peter, Delphine, Isabelle, and Reneé. Each of this main characters was inspiring in their own right. Peter’s story was one of my favorite parts. His pastoral heart for his men and previous church was so touching. I also loved that he sketched comics and used that talent as a ministry. Isabelle’s backstory was heartbreaking. I enjoyed watching her grow during the story, though her faith journey was a bit vague…or at least off the page. Delphine! She was probably my second favorite🥰 How can you not be inspired by faith-filled young person in the midst of such tragedy and loss. She and Reneé both had so much to overcome individually. I cannot imagine what it would be like to go through all they did so young… yet there were thousands of young people who grew up under such tragedy and loss. I loved how Reneé grew into a man during the book.

This book is an emotional read. It’s thought provoking and rich with interesting history and characters. I’d love to visit Sisteron someday and also see the Penetants (rock formations with a very unusual legend behind them!) .

🇫🇷 Book Review 🇫🇷

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this #gifted book!*

Title: From the Valley We Rise
Author: Elizabeth Musser
Genre: Historical Fiction
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Synopsis: “It’s the in-between that is killing me, that’s killing us all. What does it matter if we win the war if we are too broken to ever heal?” Isabelle Seauve is deeply involved in the French Resistance in WW2. Her newest task—saving Jewish children and hiding them at the camp she grew up attending. But camp brings back memories of the boy she wrote, the one who broke heart. Peter, has now grown up and become a chaplain in the military. The weight of his role threatens to overwhelm him as he also tries to forgive himself for his past. Soon he finds himself witness to letters again that are so similar to those he grew up decoding at his father’s camp. When Isabelle’s cousin René seeks help for his Jewish friend Delphine, these four find themselves thrown together deep into the trials of war. An Allied operation gone wrong brings heartbreak like the four have never known before alongside questions of betrayal as the resistance is compromised. Can the four find a way to rebuild what’s been lost? Is it really possible to rise again after all hope seems lost?

Analysis: From the Valley We Rise is filled with rich historical detail, intriguing storylines, and hope-filled redemption. As the four main characters dive into deep questions of God’s goodness and forgiveness in a broken world, your heart will ache and yearn for answers right alongside them. I loved the depth of the characters thoughts and their search for healing when all hope seems lost. This book holds a lot of grief but doesn’t leave you hopeless as the characters learn to find the only source of true hope—the gospel. Some parts of the plot did feel a little slow to me, but I loved reading about the little-known history of a tragic failed Allies operation. The historical details are well-researched and well-written. While this book is a heavy read, you’ll still find hope, healing and redemption as it explores the effects of war on soldiers and innocents alike.

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

From the Valley We Rise is the newest release from Elizabeth Musser. The opening chapter is in the present day without a name or gender for the one that is talking. But it sets the stage for the rest of the book.

The POV changes between the characters: Isabelle, Peter and Rene.

Isabelle experiencing German occupation of her town and working to smuggle Jewish children out of the town.

Peter is a chaplain in the American forces getting ready to land in Operation Dragoon in southern France.

Rene is a 13 year-old boy (and Isabelle's cousin) who saves the Jewish girl living with his family after they are attacked and moves her to a designated safehouse location. And he joins the resistance forces to prepare the way for the Allied advance.

All their lives are intertwined in ways they don't realize until the book continues.

This is an on the ground view of what it was like in the days AFTER D-Day in Normandy for the southern cities of France. The fear they lived in daily. The resistance fighters trying to help prepare the way. Battling with the bitterness of death of all they hold dear and hating God for not stopping it.

but it's a message of hope too. Of rebuilding what was broken. Not allowing the past to keep you from a good future.

4 Stars

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.

From the Valley We Rise is the first novel I've read by Elizabeth Musser, but I can't wait to read her backlist now! In fact, I've already picked up By Way of the Moonlight, and I'm captivated with it, too.

This World War II historical fiction title was eminently readable, and I found the host of characters compelling. I particularly loved insights into Peter's role as a chaplain with the U.S. Army and Isabelle's involvement with The Martin Network which served to hide Jewish children in France.

The multiple points of view provide a layered narrative and the love story between two of the main characters touched the romantic in me.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction will especially appreciate the robust research and obvious familiarity with French geography.

I will definitely be recommending this one to fellow readers.

From the Valley we Rise, by Elizabeth Musser is an intense story of France and the French Resistance during WWII. This is a well written story that is very descriptive with lots of detail. The story gives a look into what it might have been like during that time for the people of Sisteron village. The characters are such strong, caring and helpful people. It shows the great length they will go to save the children. I espeially enjoyed the story parts of figuring out the codes in the letters sent. I enjoyed the parts with the Christiansen family, their various ministries and the deep respect others have for them. This is a great story of second chances in devistating situations. I appreicate the research the author has done to write such a moving story.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

Inspiring story about resistance workers in WWII France and an American Chaplain who try to save Jewish Children. I learned about the "other" D-Day, which I didn't know about it so it was informative as well.

From the Valley We Rise by Elizabeth Musser is a masterpiece of WWII fiction that immerses readers in the French Resistance near the village of Sisteron, France. Through the eyes of several characters, readers will experience the dangers and heartaches of war.

Each character has an important part to play, and throughout the entire novel, it is clear how God has played a part in their lives. Isabelle is determined to save as many Jewish children as she can. Rene wants revenge for the murder of his family by Nazis. Peter is a Chaplain who is dedicated to the men in his charge. And Delphine’s childlike faith in God brings hope to all around her.

Musser has written an emotionally charged, fully immersive novel with wonderfully detailed observations. Readers will gain a new respect for those who fought against tyranny at substantial cost to their lives. This is not a book you can put down, for it will stay with you for days.

It is a timely book that will make you think, given the authoritarian regime currently in power in the United States. Will the American people start their own resistance? These brave men and women in From the Valley We Rise, while fictional, serve as a reminder to all that never again can we let dictators rise to destroy the innocent in a quest for power.

This is a moving book full of hope and courage. I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley for my honest review.