I recently started reading "A Song in the Dark" and expected it to be like Kimberley's other novels. I planned on picking it up and reading it in one weekend... I did not. The emotional storytelling in this book combined with the sensitive nature of the pre-war/WW2 setting made me have to put it down more than once. I had tears in my eyes. I found myself praying about the world around me. I finally finished the book this past weekend and wanted to scream to the world about how timely the message seemed to be, at least to me.
After all that occurs in the story, don't worry no spoilers here, one of the main characters prays. She asks God to strengthen them, guide them, and help them not to fear. She prays that God would show her what to "do to stop the evil and hatred that keep growing." There is the reminder that it only takes a few to be kind. It only takes a few to stand up. It only takes a few...
I'm not typically a fan of war time novels, but this one will forever be on my shelf and I am sure that I will re-read it regularly.
I'm very thankful to have been given the chance to read this book prior to its release and I am more than happy to share my honest review of it.

So poignant and emotional!

Amid the rising tensions of pre-WWII Europe, blind piano prodigy Chaisley Frappier embarks on a concert tour that becomes a covert mission to help disabled victims of Hitler’s regime find safety. As her fame grows, so does the danger, especially when Hitler himself takes a troubling interest in her.

Assigned as Chaisley's driver, British intelligence officer Rick Zimmerman uses the tour as cover for his own missions, but quickly realizes Chaisley is hiding secrets of her own. Together, they must summon enough courage and faith to defy evil and fight for those who can’t fight for themselves.

What you'll love:
WWII setting
multiple pov
slow burn romance
protective hero
plot twists
suspense and intrigue
inspirational themes
historical details
loyal friendships

Wow, this book gave me ALL THE FEELS!!

Set in Europe during the tense years leading up to WWII, this story shines a light on the brave souls who risked everything to help the vulnerable. Though fictional, it had so much emotional weight and historical truth that it felt both real and incredibly powerful.

Chaisley, a blind but world-renowned pianist, could have chosen safety. Instead, she used her musical gift and her unique position to be a lifeline to those who were targeted by Hitler's regime. Her compassion, her strength, and her quiet heroism endeared me to her from the first page.

And oh, swoony Rick. This protective intelligence officer may have his secrets but he also has a heart of gold! As he and Chaisley moved from friends to allies to something more, I was completely hooked. Their slow born romance was everything tender and sweet!

I also loved the entire supporting cast, especially Melanie, who like Chaisley and Rick, faced darkness and evil with prayerful faith and fierce loyalty. From the tender moments of connection to the intense scenes full of intrigue and suspense, this story is a symphony of courage, love, and sacrifice. I cried more than once, and I know this one will stay with me.

If you enjoy rich historical settings, slow burn tension, and unforgettable characters, then this beautiful and inspiring story is one you don't want to miss!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

What a phenomenal book! A long-time fan of Kimberley Woodhouse’s writing, I knew I was in for a treat with her newest novel, A Song in the Dark, and I was not disappointed. In fact, I had no idea that such a moving and thought-provoking story awaited me.

The book primarily follows Chaisley Frappier, a blind pianist and musical prodigy, as she sets out on concert tour through Europe on the eve of what would later become known as World War II. Spurred on by stories of horrors committed by the Nazi party against those they deemed unfit for life, she—with the help of her family and new driver, Rick Zimmerman—determines to do whatever she can to help them escape Hitler’s cruel and ever-expanding reach.

Several of the novel’s major themes include: the power of hope, purpose (specifically using one’s God-given gifts to bless and serve others), and boldly standing firm (in faith and for those who cannot stand for themselves). Anyone who reads this book will truly be blessed and inspired by this timely tale of courage and calling!

And while there are so many memorable passages, here are a few of my favorite quotes:

“Fear will want to be our constant companion in the coming days, but we have the Lord. Remind yourself that fear is not from Him. Trust in that and in God.”

“Father God…I don’t know what You’re doing, but I’m listening.”

“Together we can be a song in the dark. Together we can fight agains the evil in this world. Together we can shine the light of truth.”

A Song in the Dark is a weighty, yet uplifting historical romance, full of courage and faith and sacrificial love in action. May each reader take up Woodhouse’s call to action to be a part of the few—those unafraid to do what is right regardless of the cost—as our families, communities, and world will be the better for it!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.

Wow! There are not enough adjectives to describe the magnificent and heartfelt story found in A Song of the Dark. I could sense Kimberley Woodhouse heart as she penned this story that showed the darkness and evil of the Nazi party prior to WWII breaking out. The characters were dimensional from the heroine to the hero along with Chaisley’s companion Melanie, Dr. Grafton and faithful believing grandma Frappier. They trusted God to see them through as they assisted others with disabilities especially blindness like Chaisley while touring Europe as the prodigy pianist, with Hitler and his party set on destroying the less fortunate, My emotions were on high alert with tears flowing along with applauding the main characters for their trust, hope and bravery they displayed to bring others to safety. This story will stay with me for a long time and is my favorite Christian Historical read thus far this year.

I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own sincere thoughts.

Europe 1938

Let's start with the cover and title...the cover is lovely and a good representation of what's between the covers. The title is perfect for this story.

Pianist Chaisley Frappier is a prodigy. She's also blind. Playing in Germany during Hitler's reign is a risky proposition. Chaisley has a heart for the blind and otherwise disabled and works to help as many as she can. This ramps up the risk factor in Germany.

It's a beautiful story about family, love and faith during a horrific time and place in history. Chaisley's story is a testament to the power and difference one person can make.

A Song in the Dark by Kimberley Woodhouse is a World War II novel from the perspective of a blind pianoist. From her perspective, readers will see the horror of Nazism through the sounds and smells as she interacts with fellow Nazi's soldiers. I love the concept of characters being brave and willing to stand up against the horrors that Hilter pushed onto the German culture. When the story started, I settled in for a good story that would take me away. While I did enjoy how the main character in the opening chapter allowed music to guide her entire life, it is important to her, and I even enjoyed how her emotions came through her own musical compositions. The setting was realistic and took me away to a long time ago, almost 87 years ago. I think the bravery of this generation is why I enjoy loosing myself in a good World War II novel. Brave gentleman and woman. Today, I don't think many people who put their own lives at risk. Overall, A Song in the Dark by Kimberley Woodhouse was a delightful story that will keep readers turning the pages. I am definitely glad that I will be owning a physical copy of this story.

I received a complimentary copy of A Song in the Dark by Kimberley Woodhouse from Bethany House Publishers through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Absolutely Captivating. This book is unlike any other book I’ve ever read. It broke me and opened my eyes to the things that were not right at the time of the Nazi and their evil leader. I loved the story of unfailing hope and determination from Chaiey, Melanie, Rick, Dr G, and at least but not least at all, Granmda Frappier. I will be sitting with this book a while in my thoughts and heart. My heart hurt for those who couldn’t defend theirselves against the evil and those died because of filter, the Nazi dictator. I loved this book so much even though it wrecked me.

What a beautifully written story. When Chaisley learns of the atrocities taking place, she decides to use her influence as she travels throughout Europe to rescue as many people as possible from the tyranny of the Nazis. With the help of her best friend Melanie, and her driver, Rick (who she discovers is a spy), Chaisley embarks on a mission which exposes the truth she has hidden for years and even puts herself and her friends in danger. As Chaisley relies on Rick’s help, a sweet romance develops which I love. There are also some plot twists which added so much to the depth of the story.

WW2 stories can be difficult reads because of the tragic events that we know transpired. Yet, somehow, Kimberley Woodhouse crafted such a powerful, yet inspirational story that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I continue to ask myself the same question the author posed – will I be one of the few?

I received an early copy for review. My feedback expresses my own honest opinions.

A Song in the Dark is the kind of book that touches your heart, seeps into your soul, and lingers in your mind long after the reading is finished. The intricately woven plot drew me in quickly, kept me completely immersed, and ran the gamut of my emotions. Throughout the story, I could feel the author's passion to be one of "the few" igniting a bit of soul-searching on my part. The story is populated by beautifully crafted, memorable characters who I grew to love. I admire the selfless determination, compassion, and sacrifice, exhibited by Chaisley, Rick, Melanie, and Celestia, as they endeavor to rescue and bring hope to those endangered by the Nazi regime and shine the light of truth into a dark world. I love the way Chaisley and Rick's romantic relationship develops amid danger and uncertainly. I greatly appreciate the strong, inspiring faith thread focusing on finding strength and purpose through faith in God. Rich, well-researched history and the seamless integration of real historical figures add depth and authenticity to the story. This is Inspirational Historical Romance at its best, and it is now on my Best Reads Ever list. I highly recommend this read.
I read an early copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Song in the Dark has just become a favorite of mine! I literally finished the last page with a happy sigh. I love WWII stories because the Greatest Generation stood against the vile evil of Hitler. This book beautifully shows that same strong courage through characters who, like Queen Esther in the Bible, were determined to do what was right—even if it cost them their lives.

The main female character, Chaisley, is a blind piano prodigy. Along with her best friend Melanie and Rick, a British spy, she helps guide children, Jews, and their parents to safety. The story is filled with suspense and a twist that had me biting my nails, as well as a touch of light romance that made me so happy.

What I loved most was the Christian faith shared by the main characters, and how it kept them grounded, strong, and determined to protect those whom Hitler deemed unworthy. I highly recommend this book to all historical fiction readers.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

Kimberley Woodhouse always has the best books. This heartwarming World War II story will surely be a good addition!

Deeply moving, unforgettable work of art. This story is a beautiful example of good works in spite of pure evil. Definitely worth the read. This book was provided through NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts.

I was pulled into this story and almost couldn't put it down. The story came alive through the details. Writing about the Nazis and what life was like could not have been easy, but Woodhouse crafted a story based on extensive research and brought the story to life through her heroine, Chaisley.

If I would give this 100 stars I could!!
I knew that I was going to love this book, but I had no idea how much!!! Kimberley Woodhouse is a longtime favorite authoress of mine and this book did not disappoint - it is quite possibly my favorite read of 2025! This book left me reeling with emotions from start to finish. I was hooked from the very beginning to the very end! I could barely put this book down, I needed to know what was going to happen next with Chaisley, Melanie, and Rick (Seriously, what a dream team!) Following along with Chaisley's tour throughout pre-WW2 Europe was quite the adventure. What started out as an 18 month piano concert tour, turned into SO much more! Secret codes, espionage, and daring rescues kept me on my toes - sometimes I found myself holding my breath, not knowing if someone was about to be caught by the Nazis!! Seriously, I never knew what was going to happen next! I devoured this story in a few short days, so I would encourage you to clear your schedule if you're planning on reading this thriller. The worst part about this book is that it ended! I really would love a sequel about what happens in the next chapter of Chaisley's life!!! (Hint, hint to Kimberley if you're reading this ;)

I absolutely loved this book and I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who enjoys:

*Historical Fiction
*WW2 Stories
*Espionage
*Beauty From Ashes
*Friends to Lovers
*Bravery In Adversity
*Heartfelt Faith Messages
*Doing Right
*Inseparable Friends

(A special thank you to Austen Prose, NetGalley, Bethany House Publishers, and Kimberley Woodhouse for a complimentary eARC of this lovely book. This review was not required and is completely my own thoughts and opinions.)

Wow! More than 5 stars for this book. It touched my heart in so many ways. It's about perseverance, overcoming adversity, and being a light to those in darkness.

The characters are written brilliantly! Chaisley is an amazing young woman! Not only is she a gifted pianist but her heart is compassionate to those with "ailments" like hers. She's put through the fire more than once but in those times she learns to trust God again. Rick is dedicated, compassionate, and a protector. He's passionate about stopping the Nazis and Hitler. Melanie is the best friend that everyone wishes they had. She's loyal, patient, kind, and willing to go the extra mile. Celestia is my favorite! Her compassionate heart provides safe places for those in harm's way. She's faithful to God's call on her life.

Every time I read a book that's set during WWII, my first question is always why. My second question is, would I step up and help save those being persecuted? I'd like to think that I would. In my heart I say, "I long to be one of the few."

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Song in the Dark by Kimberley Woodhouse is an exceptional WWII Fiction novel that will keep you engrossed from the first page.

Chaisley Frappier is our main character. She is a child prodigy on the piano. Unfortunately, she was blinded at the age of 10 in an automobile accident. But music fills her heart and head, and she continues to amaze people who hear her play.

As her fame grows, and her concerts are well attended, no one knows she is blind. She embarks on a European tour that takes her into the heart of evil. A madman has risen to power, and his mission to rid the world of Jews and people who are disabled forces Chaisley to come clean and announce to the world that she is blind. She is hoping that Hitler will not have her exterminated because the entire world is watching.

Her protector on the tour is also an undercover agent for England. While he is to protect Chaisley and her companion, Melanie, he also must carry out covert missions without getting caught. All while falling more and more in love with the blind pianist.

I loved this story. However, it made me sad and angry. I see Hitler in Donald Trump and his regime, so this hit close to home. I understood how completely helpless the Jews and the disabled felt as they were being hunted down. Much like any immigrant in the States right now. Being disabled myself, really had me emotional while I was reading this.

If you enjoy WWII fiction with danger and romance that is well-researched, you will love A Song in the Dark.

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

Lots of secrets in this book that will keep you spellbound and on the edge of your seat!
In my opinion, this is Kimberley Woodhouse's best yet! I couldn't put it down.
Chaisley is an amazing woman. I truly enjoyed in getting to know her, Melody and Rick.
I liked Chaisley because she knew what needed to be done and did it.
This book is the epitome of faith, love and hope.
Most of all, courage. Chaisley had plenty of that.
Music in my opinion sooths the soul. Often it lifts up others in the darkness.
There were some places in this book that made me angry. There were some parts in there that made me smile.
The way the author describes Chaisley playing the piano I felt like I could hear her. I loved the awesome melodies that came from these pages.
I just loved every minute of this book.
5 stars from me for a job well done!
I received this book from Interviews and Reviews via Netgalley from Bethany House publishing
I highly recommend this story.