The Secrets We Left Behind

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

The Secrets We Left Behind follows Cate, a British Nurse, along Addy and Elise, a pair of sisters, as they all navigate 1940 LebParadis, France. Cate is present at the evacuation of Dunkirk, going on the run to safety with a patient of hers named Jack. Meanwhile, Addy and Elise witness a brutal execution just outside their home, a German commander commanding the deaths of 99 British soldiers. Somehow, miraculously two survive, Harry and Peter. Through a dire situation the six are brought together and must learn to survive in the German occupied town. This book was quick paced and my heart was in my throat for the majority of the book. Soraya is a masterful writer, and making you feel like you’re right in the thick of the action. Highly recommend this book!

This is a well written, rapid paced, frightening story of a time in our history that so many wish to never, ever repeat.
It is told through three strong female characters. Cate is a nurse. Her job is to care for the soldiers in a France makeshift hospital during during World War II.
The day comes when she needs to suddenly leave! Where is she going to run too? What will happen to those left behind? What is the right thing to do?
Adelaide and Elise are sisters living in a small house in Le Paradis, France. They have been witness to a heinous crime by the German troops.
They now have some decisions to make. Can they help any survivors and keep them all safe?

This is definitely a story of friendship, trust, love, fear, and horror that had me thrust in the pages of this novel!
A fast read for sure!

The Secrets We Left Behind by Soraya Lane is an excellent WWII-era historical fiction that really kept me on the edge of my seat...and was well worth it!

I have been a huge fan of Ms. Lane for quite some time and have read ALL of her books. So, of course I had to read her newest addition. I loved this!

The wonderful cast of well-developed, complex characters that are brought together through different, but yet similar, circumstances and how this group is thrown into the middle of such dire circumstances...wow.

This takes place around occupied France during WWII, and also involves Dunkirk. It was fascinating to read the stories of Cate and sisters Adelaide and Elise. Adding a strong peripheral cast of characters, these three women exhibit what it means to be brave, strong, intelligent, and selfless in a time of such fear, strife, and unrest. My emotions went through the full gambit: happiness, cheering, suspense, stress, heartbreak, and through it all I just had to go on to the next page to see just how it would end up.

A wonderful ending that I truly enjoyed, and just solidifies my admiration for one of my favorite authors. Excellent!

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Lake Union Publishing for this awesome arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR, Instagram, and Bookbub accounts immediately (as of 4/3/21 no BB listing has been created) and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.

Wow! What a wonderfully written, suspenseful ride as a nurse and wounded Britain soldier, escape Dunkirk going deeper into Nazi-controlled France. Two sisters, very different in temperament, take in two wounded British soldiers who miraculously survived a massacre killing. You will be on edge, turning the pages to see who escapes and outlives the horrors of Nazi control.
This is a sobering tale, but history is there for us to learn from and try not to repeat.
The author does a great job with her writing and lures the reader in, not only to the story but also to help you identify with the characters and leaves you either cheering or booing for them.
I highly recommend this WWII read.

Loved this book and it had me drawn in from the start, heart was in my mouth quite a few times throughout, wonderful story of how a British nurse and one of her patients got left behind in the evacuation to Dunkirk beach and how they survive the journey into occupied France to.seek refuge which comes in the form of 2 French sisters and another British soldier who has miraculously survived the massacre of his troops
A story of friendships, horror, love, and survival
A brilliant read

It’s May 1940 and you are working as a nurse for the Royal Army Medical Corps. The army has set up a clearance hospital in a chateau in Dunkirk. You are aware that the Germans are closing in. but rest in the fact that there’s a huge red silk cross on the front lawn. It’s not until the Captain pulls the staff together to relay the frightful news that you finally realize the situation really is dire. You are being asked to draw straws, yes you read that properly, because somebody has to stay behind to look after the huge influx of soldier patients who can’t be evacuated. You watch your colleagues pull straws and gasp as you know that the two who draw short straws will most likely be taken prisoners of war by the Nazis and destined to live behind wire until they are liberated. It’s your turn…you pull….it’s a short straw. You are being left behind. Deserted. With men who can’t walk. Can’t help. True story.

Author Soraya Lane instantly pulls you into “The Secrets We Left Behind” and you feel like you are part of the action. My heart was pumping and I had no idea which direction the story was going to go. What I love about her writing is that she appeals to all the senses; it enables readers to place themselves in the plot. Quite often with multiple viewpoint stories, there’s one that stands out above the rest. Not so with this one! Cate, Elise, and Adelaide have equally compelling stories. Each girl is hiding a secret and they are relying on each other to keep a shared secret. War has forced them into a different life than they’d imagined. There’s sadness, grief, death, blood and hunger at every corner, yet they each find themselves helping others even when it means risking their life for another. The events in this book are all based on true events. In fact, even Oscar is real! Check out the author’s Facebook page and you will see that her dog has made it into the pages of her latest historical fiction. The pace is even and quick, the characters are believable, and the plot and twists will keep you on the edge of your seat. I’m off to source out Lane’s backlist as she has an impressive list of historical fiction!

Soraya Lane, Amazon Publishing UK, and NetGalley gifted me this advance digital copy and I was under no obligation to provide a review.

Publishes May 20,2021

My thanks to NetGalley for this advance copy.

The characters are charming and reflect the mood of the German occupation of France during WW2. I soon became immersed into this beautifully told story of the British and French striving against all odds to survive after the mass evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk and their resourcefulness and nerve. It is written in such a personal manner that you are drawn in and become part of this factual based story of survival. The author, through extensive research, has cleverly captured the reality of war and the fear, trust and love that bound the characters together.

An easy read, with twists of fate and suspense; a most enjoyable novel.

With thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest opinion
I would like thank publishers and soraya lane for a beautifully poignant read as always excellent characters who play there parts so well, I can highly recommend this book.

Romantic and heartbreaking, joyful and suspenseful. 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 rounded up.

Occupied France, 1940. The British are being evacuated from Dunkirk as the Germans continue to advance. Nurse Cate, who works at the nearby field hospital, draws the short straw and is left behind. But when the Nazis arrive, Cate decides to flee rather than become a POW…taking with her one of her patients, a charming soldier named Jack.

At the same time, in Le Paradis, France, sisters Elise and Adelaide watch as nearly 100 British soldiers surrender to the Germans only to be shot and killed on the spot. Two soldiers, Harry and Peter, survive beneath the bodies of their friends and find safety with the sisters, who risk everything to take them in.

The story follows as Cate and Jack’s journey brings them right to Elise and Adelaide’s door. The sisters are already in over their heads caring for the injured soldiers. Meanwhile, Adelaide has caught the affections of a handsome and high-ranking German soldier. Can the sisters keep their visitors, and themselves, safe while all eyes are on them?

The book is narrated by Cate, Elise, and Adelaide, three strong women who all make their own sacrifices. Each story is compelling and made me want to keep reading to see what happens next. The stories are romantic and heartbreaking, joyful and suspenseful all at the same time. Overall I really enjoyed The Secrets We Left Behind! I also liked how parts of it are based on truth. I’ll definitely be looking into more books by this author!

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

I received a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review
Soraya M. Lane has done it again! "The Secrets We Left Behind" was a truly magnificent novel. She always seems to capture this intimacy with every character to make you feel like you can relate with everyone involved even the negative people.

4.5 stars! The Secrets We Left Behind is another great WWII historical fiction novel from Soraya M Lane. Filled with suspense, friendship, love, and loss - you’ll become invested in the characters as you follow them through the story.

Set in occupied France in 1940, Nurse Cate flees Dunkirk with one of her patients when her field hospital is about to be captured by the Nazis. At the same time in a nearby town, sisters Elise and Adelaide witness German troops slaughter 100 British soldiers who were attempting to surrender. Two British soldiers survive and show up at Elise and Addy’s doorstep fighting for their lives. When Addy catches the eye of a high-ranking German official and Cate and Jack also end up at their home in need of hiding, how far will they all go to survive and stay safe from the Nazis?

Thank you #NetGalley, Soraya Lane, and Amazon Publishing UK for the advanced copy of #TheSecretsWeLeftBehind in exchange for an honest review.

Wow! This was an action-packed novel full of romance and danger! The Secrets We Left Behind brings a British nurse, 2 soldiers, and 2 French sisters together in quite an adventure in German-occupied France. I could not put this book down, and ended up finishing it in one day!!! This is my favorite Soraya Lane book yet!

t's 1940 and Cate, an English nurse, is working at the clearance hospital in Dunkirk. She loves her work and taking care of injured soldiers despite the fact that her fiancé has been declared 'missing, presumed dead'. As the bombing by the German army gets closer, there is a decision to evacuate the troops to England. But some people need to remain at the hospital to help the wounded, so the staff draws straws. Cate gets the short straw and watches her friends and co-workers and many of the injured leave for Dunkirk beach and hopeful evacuation. One of the few patients left is Jack and Cate has been having romantic feeling about him since he arrived. When the Germans arrive to take prisoners, Cate and Jack escape. Their walk to hopefully get to a safe place is filled with fear of capture and I was rapidly turning pages during this part of the book. They finally find a house with two young women living in it and ask for help. Sisters Elise and Adelaide are reluctant at first. Their town has been taken over by the Germans and they are already hiding a wounded English soldier. They all know that if they are discovered, they will all be executed. As each day passes, they lives become more perilous especially when a high level Nazi becomes interested in Adelaide. There are decisions to be made that will possibly put them in more danger.

The author had me rapidly turning pages throughout this book. I needed to find out if they were able to escape or be executed. My favorite characters were Cate and Elsie. Both were stronger and more resilient than they knew and it was their bravery that helped the other people in the house.

This is a fantastic WWII story about strong women who did their best in extreme situations to help the Allies win the war. It's apparent on every page that the author has done extensive research. Many of the characters and plots were based on real people. This is a book full of suspense, history, love and an overwhelming need to help others.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Two sisters are risking everything to keep a British nurse and two wounded soldiers safe from the Nazis.
Everything is on the line when they decide to leave and catch a boat back to France. Terror reins as they make their escape.
A great story of Dunkirk. The women involved are courageous and strong.
Great read!

Cate is a nurse with the British Army, during WWII who after drawing straws, is forced to stay behind and help care for the wounded while her unit evacuates. Accepting her fate until she realizes the Germans are much closer than she believed, she and a patient named Jack make a run for it... hoping to find safety from the impending attack.

Elise and her sister Adelaide secretly watch a group of British Army men surrender from their home. Believing it will be a quick capture and go the girls are shocked to witness the surrendering troops shot down and slaughtered. They have no reason to believe there are survivors...

Over the course of the story the lives of these three women converge, providing you with a story of ultimate love and survival.

This was a refreshing change from the usual WWII historical fiction I most often read. I really enjoyed how the characters lives and choices came together. I found the characters to be relatable and likeable as well. I also really enjoyed the summary at the back where the author dives into more detail about this time in history. I give this read a solid 4 🌟

THE SECRETS WE LEFT BEHIND by Soraya M. Lane is a beautifully written and compelling work of historical fiction that was both heart-wrenching and uplifting. Set in Nazi-occupied France in 1940, it tells the story of three brave women whose paths cross unexpectedly. Cate is a nurse with the Royal Army Medical Corps that has been deployed to France to a chateau turned hospital near Dunkirk. German soldiers surround the area. When the decision is made to evacuate all British troops from France, personnel who draw a short straw must remain behind to care for soldiers who are too injured to make it to the evacuation point. Imagine how devastating it was to know you were being left behind to face the enemy, being made a prisoner of war or worse. In an act of unimaginable courage, Cate flees on foot with Jack, a critically-ill soldier in her care. Can they make it to safety before being caught? After a grueling journey on foot, they find their way to the home of French sisters, Adelaide and Elise, who have just witnessed Nazi soldiers commit a heinous crime against a group of surrendering British troops. The story is told from the points of view of the three women who all have secrets to hide. Can they trust one another to do what is right for all of them? Action-packed and full of suspense, I was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. There are moments of sadness and joy, heartbreak and hope. I loved this story of friendship, love and honor and I know it will remain on my mind for some time to come. Highly recommended! Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read an early copy.

Love WW2 books! And this one was a great one!
Love the writing style Lane has here! Beautifully written!
The characters were real fee!ing and felt every emotion that was in this novel!
A wonderful job done here!

The Secrets We Left Behind is a riveting historical fiction by Soraya M Lane.

The writing flows well and is easy to fall into. The descriptions of the war time terror, the fear, and setting are all well established.

Written in third person, the author does a great job following Cate, Elise, and Adelaide along this harrowing wartime journey. There are three main females, all of whom have an intriguing backstory.

This tale is gripping and will have you reading as quickly as possible. With dire situations, guns being fired everywhere, this story is not easy to forget. Everything flows well and is easy to read.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a must read for anyone in the mood for a wartime historical fiction read.

This book was captivating from the start. The Secrets We Left Behind is a story about the women of WWII. I always find it interesting how authors decide what to write about. Soraya M. Lane started with a question. What about the women? Three string women, Elise and Adelaide are sisters living in soon to be Nazi occupied France. Cate a nurse stationed in Dunkirk who chose to stay behind as the evacuations began when the Germans were closing in. Soraya told a story of how they all became connected in seemingly impossible ways. I loved the character and story development. Fans of The Nightingale will love this book. What lengths would you go to in order to ensure your family's safety? What sacrifices would you make in the face of so much sadness and horror? There's something about historical fiction especially WWII that always draws me in. Well researched as two characters and the events at Le Paradis and Dunkirk actually happened. The Nazi commander's name was changed in the story. At times both heartbreaking and beautiful, written with such description, this story will leave readers with a sense of hope, even in the darkest of times. The Secrets We Left Behind releases in May.

Soraya M. Lane is an amazing writer of historical fiction and this book does not disappoint. The Secrets We Left Behind tells the story of two French sisters, Adelaide and Elise, and a British nurse, Cate, in WWII Nazi-occupied France. Adelaide and Elise live in the village of La Paradis, where they secretly witness the slaughter of a platoon of British soldiers by the Nazis and risk their lives to take in two of the survivors. Cate is left behind with one of her patients when the hospital is evacuated and they, too, end up at the door of Adelaide and Elise. It is a story of love, loss, betrayal, friendship, and trust, all told by three very strong women. I couldn't put it down. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. (less)

What a wonderful book, from the onset it draws you into the story of incredible bravery, unimaginable cruelty, love, loss and hope The story is set in France just before the Dunkirk evacuation, in the hospitals they were awaiting transport to take them to the beaches and be repatriated to England. There would never be time to take all the staff and injured soldiers as they waited for the onslaught from the advancing German Army. These stories never fail to impress on me how they lived from day to day never knowing what the next few hours would bring and if they would survive.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a WWll novel set in France during 1940. Two French sisters, Elise and Adelaide, sacrifice their own safety to help two injured British soldiers and a nurse from a nearby hospital when the Nazis take control of the area. This is an emotional read about family and friendship that will pull you in from the start and hold your interest to the last page. If you are a historical fiction fan, I highly recommend this book. Thanks to the author Soraya M. Lane, publisher Amazon Publishing UK, and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book for review.

The Secrets We Left Behind by Soraya Lane is an excellent WWII-era historical fiction. This is my favorite genre to read and this one kept me on the edge of my seat. This is my first exposure to this author. I will definitely be getting more of her work to read. This book is the story of two French sisters, Adelaide and Elise, and a British nurse, Cate, in WWII Nazi-occupied France. I found it both heartbreaking and romantic.

Lane is truly my favourite Historical Fiction author. She did not disappoint with this one, from the very first chapter I was hooked and already invested in the characters and plot. Her ability to weave stories and lives together is one of my favourite things about her novels. I cared so deeply for these characters in the couple hundred pages that I knew them and by the end they felt real and tangible. As with almost every one of her books, I was tearing up by the end of it, wishing it wasn’t coming to an end so soon. Another wonderful book that I had a great time reading.

The Secrets We Left Behind is an inspired story based on facts that happened in Dunkirk during World War II. Though the main characters are fictionalized I wouldn't be shocked if there were such brave and strong women during those times. The women in this story are strong, brave, compassionate and you are pulled into their story. This novel is emotional and if you love historical fiction is a must read. Cate, Elise and Adelaide will stay with you even after you put the book.

The book is set in 1940 German occupied France in WW2 and was written so beautifully. I was instantly immersed into the world and viscerally felt the fear and uncertainty of war. It follows three women, British nurse Cate and French sisters Elise and Adelaide point of views but also with the side characters of soldier turned patient Jack and survivors of a massacre Harry and Peter. I really liked seeing their point of views and to see their stories converge together.

The story explored the complexities of war was full of strong female friendships, love, suspense, trust and survival and it had that 'on the edge of your seat' feel and had me reading quickly so I could see what happened next. I felt attached to the characters and was so invested in their stories, that the end really hit me in the emotional feels.

I highly recommend this book and I want to check out the authors other historical books because I really enjoyed reading this.

You guys, I'm speechless...
If someone told me last week that i would be reading a WWII fiction and end up liking it, i wouldn't have believed it.
That book was so easy to love, the author had this elegant way in describing her character and what they've faced during the war and how that changed them; i mean, let's be real, it's not everyday that you find war fiction that is simple without extravagant prose and heavy metaphors, but this one was a good exception.
I loved all the characters, they were all so well written, their pain was so raw that you can't help but sympathize and love them.
The ending was spectacular, it was the perfectly needed closure for the reader.
An amazing read.
*Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review*

France, 1940.
Planes are flying overhead, they can hear gun fire and the sound of running men and they know Germans are getting closer. The British army are retreating, the French army are trying to hold the Germans off as long as possible and they desperately need to get to Dunkirk. The British medial staff at the field hospital in a French chateau draw straws to decide who stays behind with the patients and who goes with the walking wounded to the beach. Nurse Cate Alexander draws a short straw, she stays behind, and when the Germans arrive Cate climbs out of a window with recovering surgical patient Jack.

Le Paradis is fifty miles away from the chateau, a hundred soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment are cut off and stranded in a barn. They decide they have no option but to surrender and following the orders of Commander Wolfgang Schmidt and the British soldiers are gunned down.
Lying beneath the pile of their fallen comrades are Peter and Harry they’re still alive, wounded they crawl to a nearby farmhouse, sisters Elsie and Adelaide DuPont rescue them. Jack decided he and Cate should try to walk to Le Paradis and by chance they also end up staying at the farm with the sisters. With three injured British soldiers and a nurse staying with them the DuPont sisters are in danger and it gets worse when Commander Schmidt becomes interested in Adelaide and what will they do?

Three incredibly brave and strong women all took huge risks, they had to trust in each other, and they became friends and one of them made the ultimate sacrifice. The Secrets We Left Behind is based on true facts about the Royal Norfolk Regiment, the British armies retreat from the beaches of Dunkirk and it’s a cracking story.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, Soraya M. Lane never disappoints, brilliant book and five stars from me.

World War II France: Cate is a British nurse working in France when the Germans bear down and start taking over the country mile by mile. She is engaged but her eyes keep drifting to Jack, an injured British soldier who she is helping take care of. When word comes that most of the staff will be evacuated, Cate is left behind. In a flash of gunfire, she tells Jack that they need to escape regardless of his injuries. After trapping across the countryside, slowed by the depth of Jack’s wounds, Cate comes across sisters Addy and Elise.

Adelaide and Elise have lost their family. Their parents have died and their brother was killed soon after he left to fight the war. One day, they witness what will be known as Le Paradis massacre and find two survivors on their doorstep. With Nazis encamped nearby, they take a chance to hide them in their house. When Cate arrives in their doorstep, they take her in as their “cousin.” With France about to fall into Hitler’s hands, how will the refugees ever get out and back to England?

This book is an escape back to a time that history will never forget. I actually completed this book in a day. It was easy to read and you fall in love with the characters. I highly recommend it if you are a fan of historical fiction. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#netgalley #thesecretsweleftbehind

#TheSecretsWeLeftBehind opens with the evacuation of Dunkirk and is told by three different women that were left behind to survive. Cate is a British nurse, Elise and Addy are French sisters. Each woman has her own story as they survive the German occupation. I found myself shocked at how fast I devoured this book. It just seemed that I was there with them, part of their story and the pace just continued until I had no more to read. Thank you #NetGalley for allowing me to give my voluntary and honest opinion.

The Secrets We Left Behind is based on facts that happened in Dunkirk during World War II. Soraya Lane writes an engrossing story about those events and three brave women.

By the picture on the front of the book you would not think this would be the story.

Based in Occupied France, 1940. , Nurse Cate is left behind following an evacuation of a field hospital in France.. When the Nazis arrive to take all the remaining patients to prisoners of war, she takes her chance and flees into the night, taking one patient with her.
Fifty miles away, the surrendering soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment are shot dead by the Germans. Two men survive, and take refuge in a nearby farmhouse, where sisters Elise and Adelaide live. Cate, arrives at their door with her injured soldier, and the 2 sisters take them in.

I loved this book and couldn’t put it down, I kept hoping the outcome would be different, I finished it in 2 days
Highly recommend

HUMBLED is the word that comes to mind when I finished The Secrets We Left Behind by Soraya M Lane. I’m humbled when I stop to think of all the people in the world who gave up their lives and all the families that lost loved ones to fight in WWII. We had a lot of folks who gave all and not just in the United States.

This is the second book I’ve read written by Soraya M Lane. I read her book The Last Correspondent and loved that one as well. She puts so much research into her stories. It is unbelievable. I feel like I’m right there in the midst of the war and what the women are fighting for. These two books are from a woman’s perspective. It doesn’t make war any easier to read about but, it does give you a look at how long we have had to fight for our rights and how strong we are as women.

I loved this book. I loved the love stories. I loved the fight for survival. I loved the characters. Did it all bring me to tears. YES!

If you haven’t read anything like this, I strongly urge you to try a book by Soraya M Lane. She is awesome. The Secrets We Left Behind releases May 20th. Pre-order yours now. I promise you, you will be glad you did!

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and #Netgalley for a fair and honest review. Thank you!

I read this in two days, that's how good it was. I have read many of Soraya Lane's previous works and this may be one of her best.

Set in 1940's France, we follow the fate of a british nurse and her wounded soldier who following a failed evacuation attempt at Dunkirk, end up seeking safety at the home of two sisters. These same two sisters incidentally have already taken in another british soldier. The women must protect and find a way to safely evacuate their respective soldiers without drawing the attention of the local Nazi commander stationed in their village. This proves all the more difficult when said commander takes a liking to youngest sister Adelaide.

Lane cleverly sets these women up as the main characters and saviors. She is able to show the power women could have exercised during this time while also sprinkling in a little romance without it turning into a romantic novel. I really enjoy her work and thank NetGalley for providing an ARC for review!

Sacrifice for freedom

A breathtaking story of people brought together in the midst of the enemy during WWII. The characters were so true to life and the story kept you in suspense.

LIlly and Cate the British nurse's stationed at Dunkirk. Lilly evacuated and Cate stayed behind with the patients. Jack Cate's patient at the hospital who fled with her after the evacuation. Harry and Peter the British soldiers that cheated death at the hands of the Nazi commander the only two to survive the "Le Paradis Massacre". Adelaide and Elise the farm girls that took in the fleeing British soldiers Peter and Harry as well as Jack and Cate.

The story is of these characters in a farmhouse in the middle of Nazi troops. The different opinions, the romances, the disagreements and the plans to escape which went horribly wrong. The ones that escaped, the ones that stayed behind and one that did not survive.

Their story of the life in the farmhouse and the escape will keep you in suspense and keep you reading. The courage these young people showed in the face of the enemy is awesome. It is a story that proves the quest for life and freedom is strong enough to sustain and that love and memories live on. So many lost so much in the war and some were true heroes.

This was a very good story and based on events at the time. The ending was perfect. I was sad for those lost but very happy for those that survived. I would recommend this book.

Thanks to Soraya M. Lane, Amazon Publishing U.K. and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this book.

WWII historical fiction has become my specialty. I did not intend for it to be, but after reading my first novel about the most horrifying period in our history I was hooked and have read and reviewed every possible book I could get my hands on. I love all the different perspectives this war is written from. It seems to me there is always a story to be told and always a different point of view to be shared. To me reading about the heroes of WWII is never dull, boring or repetitive, and this story is no exception.
Cate is a British nurse, left behind at a clearance hospital in France, when the British soldiers begin evacuating from Dunkirk, France, with the Germans closing in on them. Cate, seeing that if they remain in the hospital capture is inevitable, she rouses Jack a patient whom she has grown fond of, but who is not ready to leave the hospital telling him they must go. With Jack leading the way they venture in the opposite direction than that of the soldiers, hoping the Germans have already been through and left. This is not the case.
When Cate leaves a stricken Jack to go find help she encounters German soldiers and faking living in a nearby house lucks out when the young woman who answers the door goes along with her story, claiming Cate as her cousin.
In Le Paradis France, Elise and her sister Adelaide witness the massacre of nearly 100 hundred British soldiers from behind the living room curtains. So when there is a knock on the door Elise is reluctant to answer and even more reluctant to offer help, wanting to protect the only family she has left, her younger sister. Realizing she must help she allows them in, along with two British soldiers that survived the massacre.
This book brings the characters to life as we read of Elise's reluctance, and then her and Addy's heroic sacrifices to help others. We read of the lengths people go to to survive, and the bonds that are formed in the facing the common enemy together. The ties that are formed when one person risks everything to help another simply because it is the right thing to do.
This story is partly based on truth, the evacuation of British troops at Dunkirk did occur, and the Le Paradis Massacre is a true event, making this story all the more real and heart-wrenching.
This is a must read for all historical fiction fans, along the lines of Pam Jenoff, Karen Robards, and Ellen Marie Wiseman.
I give 5 stars, and say thank you to the publishers at Amazon publishing and Net Galley for the free ARC copy of the e-book version of this novel, I am leaving my honest review in return.
#NetGalley
#TheSecretsWeLeftBehind

I so wanted to love this book. I'm a huge fan of WW2 historical fiction, particularly when we see the secret lives of the women involved.
This book just missed the mark for me, by a very wide margin. I hate to leave a negative review, but I just didn't get on with this book at all.
We start in 1939 in Dunkirk, and swiftly move to the 1940 at the very well known evacuation of British troops. We meet Cate, a nurse who is developing feelings for a soldier under her care. We get a bit of backstory about her fiance who is missing presumed dead. At the invasion by the Germans, they escape from the hospital and walk to Le Paradis - where we meet Addy and Elise, French sisters who have witnessed the terrible massacre at Le Paradis. What happens next is basically what feels like a paint-by-numbers WW2 novel with love interests, the Resistance, and of course eventual escape. 
It just felt like this could be any romance novel set at any time. The language felt anachronistic to the time, the characters were not well fleshed out at all, and the romance parts just all of a sudden happened, between two characters who up until someone says 'I thought you liked one another' had been arguing. Maybe I'm being unfair - I'm no linguistic expert after all - but some of it just jarred. 
The author fails at show don't tell, and ultimately that is what I didn't enjoy about this book. I got no sense at all about anything that wasn't explicitly told to me. I felt no suspense at all, it was blatantly obvious at every turn what was going to happen.
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read, but this one was a dud. I'm giving 2 stars because it was readable in that spelling and grammar was fine, and although it was a frustrating read for me, it was the type of book I'd call a 'beach read' - something you'll read because there's not much else available but you wouldn't ever be bothered reading again.

A riveting story of WWII: the evacuation of Dunkirk, the massacre at Le Paradis and the strength and courage of those fighting against the German occupation of France.

French sisters (Elise and Adelaide) are hiding a British nurse (Cate) and two injured British soldiers (Harry and Jack) in their house in the small Village of Le Paradis.

The story is an emotional read about family, friendship, trust and love. It is hard not to become invested in the lives of all living together under incredibly difficult circumstances.

The story is told through the three women and their strength and commitment to each other and to the men they are treating leaps from the pages.

I could not put down this book until I knew what happened to each of the characters.

Special thanks to NetGalley for providing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review

I don't know if I can find the words to say how much I truly loved this, but I'm going to try. This had a bit of an ensemble cast, but each character was vital to the way the story ended. While I found Addy to be way too naive and Elise to be too wishy washy in the way she dealt with Addy's naive feelings and actions, I loved them just as much as I loved Cate, Jack, and Harry.

I found myself really surprised by Harry's (and Peter, though he only makes a small appearance) introduction to the story. I had never heard of the Le Paradis massacre before, so I though it was just a really believable piece of fiction for how awful the Nazis truly were. And then I thought Lily's story with her encounter with an SS officer was too grand to be true, but that was also a false assumption. The author's note was really informative, and I really appreciate the research that went into this story. I love historical fiction, but I love it even more when it caters to actual true events (not just WWII in general, but specific events such as the massacre and Lily's story). I love a historical fiction novel that can teach me something new about the history I love and give me new things to research and further learn about.

This review is posted on Goodreads.

Very well told story. I was so saddened to hear that some of the events were actually historical. It's amazing what people will do to/ for others. The author managed to get every emotion from me whilst I was reading! #terrifying, #romantic, #family, #friendship,#deception, #tragic, #heroic, #descriptive, #nostalgic, #amazing.

We all what happened at the battle of Dunkirk through books, films etc. But there is not a lot is written about those that were left behind. The Secrets we left behind by Soraya M Lane talks about just that. The base of this story is fact but the characters etc are fiction.
Cate is a British nurse in German occupied France, on the beaches of Dunkirk when she is given the short straw (literally) to stay behind and look after the wounded soldiers left behind. With one of the patients (Jack) she runs to safety.
Adelaide and her sister Elise live on their own in a village of La Paradis. There parents died and so did their brother Louis fight in the war. The two-sister witness 100 British soldiers being executed on the spot after trying to surrender. But luckily two soldiers Harry and Peter survive, but severely injured. Peter is so much in pain the end he asks Adelaide to take him to surrender. When the two sisters meet Cate and Jack. This starts a course of determination and bravery to help them escape and return to England.
Ms Lane has done it again with this beautifully written story of sacrifes and bravery in the aftermath of Dunkirk. It is also a very thought-provoking book. It also made me want to find out more to what happened to the soldiers etc that were left behind. This had a great character and a little bit of romance thrown in. If you love Historical fiction, you will love this too. I highly recommend.

I enjoyed this book as I didn't know anything about the people left behind at Dunkirk. It was sad, but good to read and I enjoyed the epilogue.

‘The Secrets We Left Behind’ tells of five young people whose lives suddenly collide in a French farmhouse at the height of WWII. The house belongs to sisters Elise and Adelaide, the only members left of their family. As the Germans advance towards their area, they unwittingly witness the Le Paradis massacre, a historical event I was unaware of until reading this novel. They make the dangerous choice to shelter the only two British soldiers to survive this horror.

Simultaneously, British nurse Cate is caught up in the fracas surrounding Dunkirk’s evacuation, but she and a wounded patient, Jack, uncertain what’s happening on the beaches of Dunkirk, make the decision to flee further into France instead. They too find their way to the home of the sisters, where the remaining five play a dangerous game of subterfuge and hiding as the Germans overrun the village. To complicate matters even further, Adelaide has caught the attention of a high-ranking Nazi officer, putting everyone in danger and causing conflict between the sisters as Adelaide struggles to reconcile her attraction for Wolfgang with the reports of his cruelty. Because clearly they can’t hide for an indeterminate amount of time in this farmhouse, the five come up with a plan (thanks to the burgeoning French resistance) to help the British stowaways be smuggled back to England.

I really wanted to love this book, but while it was an enjoyable, fast read, I didn’t love it. Without giving too much away, at times it felt like a rather cliche romance within a romance within a romance, and each of the romantic entanglements lacked the depth or plausibility I needed to connect with their characters — not to mention my frustration at foolish reactions or choices. The ending section felt oddly rushed, which unfortunately contributed to me feeling as if I didn’t really know any of the characters very well. So sadly, for me this was good but not great. However, I very much appreciate the publishers and NetGalley giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for my unbiased review.

There was so much sadness in this book. I really love historical fiction and especially WW2 era. Her writing was beautiful and it made me feel like I was there holding her hand in the terror. Real tears flowed and this one will be one to remember for a while.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a highly compelling story, one that I could simply not put down once I started reading! I was instantly invested in the characters of this story, brave women and men living in a constant state of fear and uncertainty as the Nazis take control of France in the spring of 1940. Cate is a British nurse who is left behind at an evacuation hospital as the British are being rescued from Dunkirk, escaping the Nazis with a critically wounded soldier. Elise and Adelaide are French sisters who suddenly find themselves providing refuge to wounded British soldiers of their own, even as the Nazis are taking over their town, placing themselves in grave danger. It was fascinating to read the story of Dunkirk, not from the point of view of those who were rescued, but by those who were left behind, at the mercy of the Nazis. The author sometimes paints a very graphic picture of the horrors that are encountered at this time, but that is alleviated by the humanity shown by the sisters, by the courage of Cate, and the determination of them all to survive.

Thank you Netgalley for an ARC of The Secrets We Left Behind in exchange for my honest opinion.

My first Soraya M. Lane book. Definitely not my last. This book took me on an emotional journey. I could not put it down. Following the lives of 5 people brought together by tragedy, during one of the worst times in the history of the world. Germany has invaded France. 2 sisters living alone in a house just trying to get by happen to open the doors to strangers in need of help.

The story started out great and I was really enjoying it. Then slowly if just fell flat. Poor character development (really never felt attached to any of them), forced relationships that developed ridiculously quickly and seemed so out of character. Just wasn't satisfied with the ending either. Too many details left (exactly what was Jack's injury?) and just unrealistic attachments (every WWII novel I read placed in France seems to use General Schmitt as a characters there are other avenues to explore)

Overall, good story idea just needed better character development.

Visceral. When you start off at one of WWII's most infamous defeats (of the Allies) at Dunkirk and go right into one of its lesser known war crimes (the slaughter of nearly 100 British soldiers at Le Paradis), you know this is going to be one *intense* book. And it is. Here, Lane uses a British nurse and two French sisters to tell a tale of survival during the war's early years, when Germany seemingly could not be defeated. The way she tells it reads as some of the most gripping suspense (arguably even horror, without the supernatural elements often part of that genre) I've yet come across in tales of this era - and indeed, even in most other tales, period. From the opening chapters where the Germans attack through the closing chapters (other than the extended epilogue), Lane never really gives these characters - and thus, the reader - any real sense of calm or safety. The Germans are always *right there*, in mind if not in body, and the threat of capture and execution - or worse - is never far from anyones' thoughts. Releasing just one week before the 81st anniversary of the events it fictionalizes, this is easily one of the best books of Summer 2021, particularly for those looking for dark/ suspense tales. Very much recommended.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
The story is set in occupied France with varied point of views. It started with alternating views of a nurse in a hospital with the wounded soldiers and 2 sisters living in a farmhouse who witness an horrific incident. The story is fast paced and the stories do intertwine. Loved the story it told and will definitely recommend!!!

The moment I picked up this book I was hooked.
1939 Dunkirk France.
Cate and Lilly what lies ahead for these two nurses, best friends and nearly sister's in law's Cate misses Charlie her fiancé but both girls are kept so busy tending the soldiers, as the Germans fly overhead and WW2 is declared they only are meant to spend a few months in Dunkirk then be shipped back home to England.
Elise and Adelaide French sister's witness so much heartache as they fight to survive. You really must read on, oh gosh harrowing accounts all the way through this book, a unique story that secrets were definitely left behind.
I loved it

This is a breathtaking and heartbreaking story set during the second world war. The British troops in France are being evacuated because the Germans are overwhelming. Two French sisters are living alone after tragic losses. Three injured British soldiers and a British nurse show up at their house looking for a safe place to hide. The German military is all around them and the sisters have to decide if they are willing to help the soldiers and nurse. If they help, they risk their own lives. If they turn them away, they could be sending the visitors to their deaths. This is a powerful story of desperation, love, loss, hope, family and the sacrifices they were willing to make. This is a mesmerizing story that is based on some historical facts. The characters will capture your heart and break it a few times along the way. I highly recommend this book.

Imagine having your future determined by a lucky––or unlucky––draw of a straw. Cate, a British nurse, finds herself in the unlucky camp and makes a daring decision trading one desperate situation for another––a patient, in tow. So begins THE SECRETS WE LEFT BEHIND, which kept me turning the pages until the satisfying conclusion.

The era of WW11 is rife with fodder for talented storytellers, and it’s refreshing to read such a gripping tale told from three courageous women’s perspective. A story of trust, friendship and love tested under the most frightening of circumstances––a page-turner, start to finish!

BTW: The plot of this story is based on actual, historical events, which makes it all the more enjoyable!

A powerful, and very emotional story of survival during World War II
This is my first book by this author and I was blown away by her writing! She wrote this novel during Covid19 lockdown in New Zealand. Wow, something wonderful that has come out of lockdown!

This is basically the story of three very strong women. One is a British nurse who together with a wounded soldier are left behind in Dunkirk and must find their way to freedom. The other is a French woman who lives with her younger sister in a small village in France. They witness a massacre of British soldiers right in front of their house. They risk their lives helping two surviving British soldiers. The stories of these three women come together.

I could not stop turning the pages fast enough. I was that captivated with the story. This is hands down my favourite (so far) Historical Fiction book that I've read this year. A moving and compelling story that made me cry.

I'd like to kindly thank NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK, and Lake Union Publishing for kindly granting me access to this Advance Reader Copy.

Oh my heart, I LOVED this historical fiction novel so much! The characters are so deeply developed and will make you fall in love with every single one of them. My first book by Soraya M. Lane, but will definitely not be my last. LOVED and highly recommend!

Thank you to netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

I love this genre. And this is a compelling, beautifully written novel. it's both inspiring and heartbreaking, as is common with books in this genre. I like that the story is told from multiple points of view. The characters were easy to connect to. There was a lot of action, as well as suspense, to keep me engaged.

This is based on factual events in Dunkirk in World War II. The women are strong and compassionate, and the story quickly pulls the reader in. It's an emotional read overall. If you're a fan of historical fiction, this is one to check out.

If you love historical fiction, especially dealing with WWII, then Soraya M. Lane's, The Secrets We Left Behind, will not disappoint. .This was an enjoyable read and now I am off to see what else Soraya M. Lane has written.

This is a fast-paced read that had me hooked from the very first pages. It is 1940 France and Lilly and Cate are nurses taking care of wounded soldiers. With the German troops coming, Dunkirk is being evacuated and straws are drawn to see who goes and who stays. Lilly gets to go and Cate has to stay. At the last minute, Cate decides to make a run for it and takes Jack, one of her wounded patients, with her. After traveling at night and hiding during the day, Cate comes to a home occupied by sisters Elise and Adelaide DuPont who agree to let her and Jack stay there. Two other wounded soldiers have already crawled to the sisters' home as well. This story is told from the viewpoints of the three women, Cate, Elise and Adelaide. This is a very well written and historically accurate story and is full of a lot of emotions including fear, love, friendship and trust. I love WWII Historical Fiction and this book did not disappoint.

Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union publishing for the ACR of this fantastic book that I highly recommend to anyone who loves Historical Fiction.

Cate is a nurse tending to the injuries at Dunkirk when she is notified that the British army is retreating but leaving the injured as a result doctors and nurse are also being left behind. On the day of the abandonment of the injured soldiers Cate escapes the approaching Nazis along with Jack her current crush and recovering solider. While hiding from the Nazis’ Cate stumbles upon two sisters sheltering their own British soldier and thus they are thrown together in order to hide and survive the war.
It’s pretty good! Cate and Jack are super precious and their story was very cute I was surprised by the twist towards they end but was very happy when Cate realized that there are more important things than lies of omission, like Jack’s life. That twist was necessary to find out the fiancés fate but I feel like it could have been handled better but I was happy with the ending for both Cate and Jack. Next we have Harry, Elise, Adelaide and the puppy 🐶 Oscar. Their story was more complicated due to Adelaide trying to humanize the Nazis despite witnessing a war crime. While I understand people are complicate I don’t understand how Adelaide was able to look past the actions of their nazis actions, while her heart is in the right place the road to hell is paved with good intentions so while she is kind of stuck and doesn’t deserve that it was kind of a fitting. I do adore the dynamic between the sisters and Harry though they are very aware of the dangers and still do the morally correct thing twice so they get bonus points. I would be Elise in this situation wanting kick everyone out of my home to protect myself and family, I don’t know if I would be as brave as her. She is very aware of their situation and even though she’s hesitant at first she proves to be more competent at hiding and helping everyone than her sister and I loved the ending for her she deserves that ending she does a lot for everyone and her and Harry end up super clutch for the group as did Adelaide. Overall it was an interesting story set and I would recommend it just get the tissues ready.

A captivating and beautifully written historical fiction book!
The main characters in this book are 3 women whose lives start off separately and then come together. Cate is a British nurse who risks her life to help save a wounded soldier when they are left behind in Dunkirk and the story follows their journey to freedom. Adelaide and Elise are 2 french sisters who live on their own in a farmhouse and witness the massacre of soldiers outside of their home.and they put their own safety at risk to help save the lives of 2 British soldiers..
I found the characters to be well developed which meant you felt their emotions as you read..
A story of friendship, trust, and horror that is a real page-turner.

I have a great love for hidden gems and Soraya M Lane and her novels are true treasures. However, after reading The Secrets We Left Behind I know that soon she and her novels will be anything, but a secret. With The Secrets We Left Behind, there is an evident shift in the author's writing. She has moved from being in her head, to allowing the story to flow through her. I absolutely loved The Last Correspondent, but this novel is on a whole new level.
Also Ms. Lane has somehow made her characters and plot, even more engaging and believable than her previous work. I genuinely couldn't pick between the three female protagonists. Each character possesses something truly special and beautiful, yet are flawed and very human. Cate is absolutely lovely. I loved how she remains true to herself and never wavers from her nursing instincts. Similarly, I simply loved the sisters, Elise and Adelaide. One sister is initially fearful and hesitant, while the other has a willingness to believe in the good in others. Both sisters are written brilliantly. Elise shows so much grace and fortitude in the face of suddenly becoming head of the family and caregiver to her younger sister. Adelaide is a very trusting soul with a good heart, but unwise. Elise's response to her sister's choices says a lot about her and this is where the author shows how skillful she is with showing, instead of telling us who the characters are.
Similarly, the author has created an incredible plot with a sense of urgency and there were so many moments when my heart was in my throat, all of which made the novel engaging and gave it great pacing. I didn't want to put it down, because I was so engrossed and I needed to know what was going to happen next as the author has created a high pressure environment where at any minute anything could happen. My mind was blown imagining being surrounded by Nazis and living in a house with British allies knowing that any moment the enemy could come in the door. All of the various dangers and conflicts creates wonderful pacing and an irresistible need to turn the pages. I didn't want the book to end, but every page turned is rewarded with perfection and is worth the wait.

A British nurse gets stranded at the evacuation from Dunkirk and two French girls witness the Massacre at Le Paradis. Will they be able to survive? Will their male friends?

It is pleasantly written novel. The trouble is I was aware of the real historical facts around Le Paradis and that threw me off the storyline. That also brings me to the only flaw I saw in this story: The Germans are pictured as all beast. While the massacre was seen even by fellow SS officers and regular army (remember it is at the beginning of the war so souls are not iced over yet) as a terrible crime and the perpetrator is challenged to duels and threatened to a court marshal. To stick to the historical facts would have made the story more layered.

I enjoy nothing more than a historical fiction book based on real facts that makes you feel as though you are a character in the room where the action is taking place and this novel does just that.
Soraya M. Lane takes it even further and has you feeling the pain, both emotional and physical, that Cate, Adelaide, Elise, Peter and Harry are experiencing.
I didn"t want it to end!!

Thanks to NG for allowing me to review this ARC!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are completely my own.
This is a wonderful story about what women, doctors, nurses, orderlies and homeowners did during the war. It was kind of like behind the scenes during the war. It is about two sisters helping total strangers during this horrible scary time. I like the characters and the story line.

A heartbreakingly beautiful story about surviving World World II in German occupied France. The writing draws you in from the very first page. I couldn't stop reading, I just had to know what was going to happen to these characters. Lane does a beautiful job at making you feel these character's emotions so strongly.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the way the author used true events to guide her story. Such an awful time in history with such amazing people risking their lives for their country and protecting others at their own peril. I enjoyed the characters and how they changed over time and through the experiences they encountered. I would definitely recommend this book.

This is truly a beautiful story. I loved the premise and the feelings and emotion depicted. However, I think the execution here was sorely lacking. The writing and editing were just not up to par. There was one time that I truly think the physical characteristics of a main character were switched mid-novel. I also think the book wrapped up far too nicely. The timing also seemed to be off. The build up was not steady or thorough and the ending felt rushed and odd. Like I said, I loved the story, but the book was meh for me. Honestly, 2.5 rounded up.

This is a very emotional, very gripping story about survival during WWIi. The story takes place in France during the evacuation of the British at Dunkirk. Cate is one of the nurses left behind. When the German’s come, she flees with one of her patients Jack, whom she has become attached to. They wind up at Elise and Addy’s farmhouse. At the same house they find 2 Royal Norfolk Regiment survivors of the massacre that took place at Le Paradis. Unfortunately one of the survivors decides to surrender so Elise and Addy concentrate on getting the other 3 home. The strong bond that develops between the 5 of them shows us what we will do to help others when it is presented to us, and how much we are willing to risk for our fellow human.

Thank you Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to pre-read this amazing book.

I have read a lot of books about WWII and I'm still surprised when I find a story told that is unique and from others that I have read. The Secrets We Left Behind is about 3 extraordinary women, Cate, Elise and Adelaide who are forced to make difficult choices to save the lives of 2 soldiers. Cate is a British nurse working at a field hospital in France when they receive news that the France is on the brink of falling to German forces. As the hospital and its patients are evacuated, some must stay behind and Cate is unfortunately one of them. In a daring escape, Cate takes one of her patients with her who helps guide her to a small village. Somehow Cate ends up on Elise and Adelaide's doorstep and is graciously taken in, along with her patient. Elise and Adelaide are sisters who witness the brutal massacre of surrendering British forces. They find 2 survivors and take them in. With 4 British refugees hidden in their home, the sisters risk their lives to help them recover and plan an escape, but not all of them will make it out alive.

I devoured this novel in 2 days. The inner conflicts that the characters struggled with in the face of danger were heartbreaking to read. Despite these conflicts, these strangers bonded and risked everything for each other. The brutality of the German forces and the bravery of ordinary people are things that I can't imagine experiencing.

Thank you @netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book in return for an honest review. You can also find this review on Instagram @maria.needs.to.read

Fantastic read! From the very first chapter I was hooked and couldn’t put it down until I was finished. It’s a book that remains on your mind long after you finish reading. The story of a WWII nurse and a patient she is hell bent on saving have you feeling all the feels, you’ll be on the edge of your seat for sure! The author does an amazing job connecting the reader to the characters. The descriptions of the characters are lifelike and the details are vivid. Meanwhile 2 young sisters witness an unspeakable crime. Your heart breaks for them and you can only imagine the horrors that occurred in real life. As a granddaughter of a WWII veteran who never spoke of the war, this book helps me understand why. I recommend this book to those who enjoyed All the Light We Cannot See and The Nightingale. I highly recommend this book!! Thank you #NetGalley and #amazonpublishinguk for gifting me the eARC for #TheSecretsWeLeftBehind in exchange for an honest review.

Wow. This was an incredible story.

Adelaide and Elise are sisters living alone in their family home in France during WWII. The Germans are invading and clearly winning the war in France. One day, just outside their home, the sisters do not believe their eyes when they witness nearly 100 British soldiers come out from hiding to surrender only to be massacred by the Germans. However, two survivors find their way to the sisters’ doorstep.

Cate, a British nurse, is left behind and forced to flee in order to survive along with Jack, a soldier and a patient when the Germans invade the French Coastal town she was stationed in.

This is a story that I won’t soon forget. The bravery, the strength, the kindness and compassion of these women is truly inspiring.

If you enjoy historical fiction, if you loved Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale, then you do not want to miss this one!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars!

Thank you NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and Soraya M. Lane for this eARC!

This was an engrossing book about survival during WWII.

At the heart of this book are two French sisters, Adelaide and Elise who risk their own lives to help save the lives of two British soldiers and a British nurse, Cate, who were evacuated from Dunkirk as the German’s started closing in. Their interaction starts when Cate is caught by German’a and she lies saying she lives nearby, and the two sisters go along with her story.

This is a tale of survival, strength, friendship, and the strong bonds that are formed when fighting a common enemy. I liked the inclusion of Adelaide and Elise’s reluctance to help initially, who wouldn’t be scared and second guessing themselves in this situation?

This was a fantastic book that also appears to be well researched and I definitely recommend it if you like historical fiction!

I love Soraya Lanes WW2 books they have great stories and characters that blend so well together and they bring the story to life.This book tells us the story of Cate and sisters Elise and Adelaide in occupied france living tough lives and having to be carefull.5*

I received this book from the publisher through Netgalley for review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Set in wartime Dunkirk, this tale is fictionalized history of the stragglers abandoned to their fate as the Germans occupy the land. Field hospitals are overrun and nurses and doctors alike are either abandoning their posts and patients or staying to do what they can to survive and ensure the survival of their fellows. Romance and intrigue combine to make this a well written and insightful book worthy of serious consideration. It would make for excellent book club discussions. Highly recommend this author and her contribution to the genre.

I've been conflicted on this book. While I found it difficult to put down, there was an element I strongly disliked and places where I wanted more.

For the most part, this World War II story follows three women - Cate, Elise and Adelaide (Addy) - in France after the evacuation at Dunkirk. There are also two men who figure in it, Jack and Harry, though the story isn't told from their POVs.

Cate was, for me, the strongest character. A British nurse, she is left behind when the British evacuate Dunkirk. I thought she was really well written. I could feel her internal struggle, her conflicted emotions about her fiance, her role as a nurse, the struggle to find some place safe, trying to stay strong during extraordinary times. Everything about Cate worked for me and I was cheering for her the entire time.

Elise is a young French woman, one of two sisters who live in a small village outside of Dunkirk. They witness Nazi atrocities and then find themselves acting as a safe haven for others hiding from the Nazis. As the oldest of the two, her emotions are understandable. They've lost their parents and brother, Elise feels responsible for her sister and every reaction begins and ends with this concern and fear. However, i would have liked to see Elise open up just a little to "I wish I could just be young, too!" and not always with such a heavy mantle of responsibility weighing on her. Her strength carries through the last 1/3 of the book, and heartbreaking times.

Addy is the second sister. She is portrayed as always seeing the best, the positive, blindly optimistic in times of war even after she's seen horrifying acts. This character was gratingly unsuccessful for me. I probably could have believed in her more if she was younger (she's 20 here) and if so much bad had not actually happened around them. Rumors could have given her plausible deniability, instead of head in the sand behavior over things actually witnessed and experienced. I can chalk that up to my own cynicism, I supposed, and others may not find her sunshine personality so jarring. It didn't work for me, though it ends up being a major plot point ultimately.

Jack and Harry are both British soldiers, wounded and desperate for escape back to England. Their characterizations felt authentic to me. There are a couple of other small side characters who similarly feel authentic, helping successfully bring this world to life.

Another prominent character is a Nazi officer. He is fully evil and the author is not trying to set him up as anything but evil. Addy, however, cannot see that, and I spent a lot of time cringing about the storyline involving the two of them, afraid that the author was in fact trying to make him a hero. Lane is not. He is pure evil, and readers can be assured of that.

Outside of the Addy character, I enjoyed this book a lot, and knowing how the Addy storyline resolved, I might not find her as grating on a reread. Like I said at the beginning, I did have a hard time putting this down, and that says a lot.

Yes, this is another WWII historical, but there are hundreds of stories involving this war and I think Lane does a good job bringing us yet another perspective with things to think about and heroes to remember. There are always intriguing stories in the author notes and more I want to learn about. Ultimately this was a 4 stars book for me on my first read, and I expect I will reread it after publication.

This book took me a bit of time to get into but otherwise was a great read. Love what the author says at the end where she looks at a time in history and asks what the women were doing then.

Its 1940 France and the Germans are advancing hard and fast through France, Elise and Addy French sisters watch the massacre of British soldiers and then rescue two of them, hiding them in their home. When Cate, a British nurse who has fled Dunkirk with a patient asks for help, they take them in as well. Told from each woman's perspective, it's a tense read that makes you think about heroism and the choices we make. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Perfect for fans of the WWII novel.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a gripping story that tells the horrors endured and faced by three strong women who heartachingly persevered during World War II. It's one of those compelling war stories that's hard to put down as the author brilliantly captures readers with suspense through beautifully written prose. A must read for historical lovers out there!

This amazing story is of WWII in France. As the Germans come closer everyone is evacuated but one nurse, Car, refuses to leave her patient, Jack. Together they manage to escape and are taken in by two sisters in France.

I loved the heroism in this book. I am amazed by every WWII story and what people went through. At the end of the book we find that part of the story is true, and that makes it all that more amazing.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a WWII story about survival, finding love, and persistence.

A well written WWII historical fiction centered around Dunkirk and the massacre at La Paradis. Follows Cate, a British nurse, and 2 sisters and the will to survive. Emotional, intense. Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.

A magnificent novel of the Second World War! The power of strangers and the unique bonds that can exist during the brutality of war. At the heart of this story, are three women whose lives converge under the most extreme circumstances. Their perilous journey is one of unimaginable choices, the courage to survive and resilience to believe in a better future.

I loved this brave novel, these incredible women and the constant building tension kept me turning pages till the very end.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a very well written WWII historical. A great plot and character dynamics. I highly recommend this book.

Another great historical novel from Soraya Lane and extremely well researched. Two British nurses go off to France, to work in field hospitals, caring for British forces. They’re excited and anxious to do their part for the war.
Little do they know that they’re entering a nightmare, that they weren’t emotionally prepared for, as they experience the horrors of war.
As the Nazi’s keep pushing British troops back, they start evacuating troops. Captured troops are just slaughtered, ignoring the rules of war. Cate is left behind with the men that were unable to tolerate the move. She escapes with an injured soldier and finds their way to a small village, surround by Nazi troops. And so begins their struggle to survive.
This is a real thriller, with suspense and drama that holds your attention. Wonderful, believable characters that personify the heroism of brave troops and the medical people that labored to keep them alive. I don’t believe I ever thought about the suffering of those abandoned and exposed to the brutality of a corrupt regime.
I loved everything about this book and thank NetGalley, Soraya Lane for the ARC. I hope I gave it the review it deserves.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a gripping WW2 historical fiction that brings to life the horrors endured in France during the war while also highlighting the sacrifices and love of strong women. Soraya M. Lane’s beautifully told tale of perseverance will grip your heart in this tale from a 3 young women.

I was fascinated by The Secrets We Left Behind! There are so many stories based on WWII, but this tale excelled at capturing your hope for the women and men that find themselves hiding in Le Paradis, France, not far from Dunkirk.
Soraya M. Lane craftily reveals some of the most brave women during the war. They are based on real characters and real events that occurred. The characters came alive as I read, and I couldn't put the book down because I had to know what would happen next! The British Nurses, Cate and Lilly, exhibit courage under fear I could not imagine. French sisters Elise and Addy are headstrong in their own right, but their love for one another allows them to make decisions that go beyond just saving themselves. The bonds of friendship and trust are tested many times, and it is a beautiful story that is revealed when the outcomes are made clear.
Though this was a pretty quick read, I highly recommend it. Add to your TBR pile right away!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opinions expressed are completely my own.

Very well written and poignant WWII story, starting with the evacuation at Dunkirk and then transitioning to Le Paradis, France. British nurse Cate and French sisters Elise and Adelaide work together to keep their soldiers and themselves safe and hidden as France falls to Germany.
Parts of this story were brutal and gruesome realities of war. I hoped for the best for all the characters, as they were all likeable, but that wouldn't have been realistic. It was a good book, and I loved the historical aspects explained in the author's note at the end. This is a great book if you are interested in a more truthful but still fictional historical WWII story.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a powerful story of love and loss, hope and sacrifice, courage and survival in France, 1940.

The author has undertaken thorough research on the historical facts of the Le Paradis massacre and the Dunkirk evacuations, then successfully penned a novel that I would highly recommend without any hesitation. It is the first time I have read any of Soraya Lane’s work and I would happily read other novels of hers.

All of the characters are wonderfully depicted, the pace is good and the story flows really well between the different viewpoints. The novel has a wonderful ending which gives the reader a sense of closure on each of the main characters.

There are lots of great historical fiction novels published now, but I have never before read about the Le Paradis massacre. Not only does The Secrets We Left Behind bring this horrific event to light, but the author successfully portrays three brave women who fought to save their own lives, and the lives of others.

I am grateful to Amazon Publishing UK and Lake Union Publishing, via NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I have read all books by this author and this one was an amazing story! So loved these strong women characters! Highly recommend...

Well written WWll Historical Fiction, kept me interested throughout the story. Characters were well written and likable.
4 stars

Thank You to NetGalley and the Author and publisher for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.

Soraya M. Lane, the author of “The Secrets We Left Behind” has written a captivating, intriguing, and intense novel. The genre for this novel is historical fiction. The author has based many true facts in this amazing novel. The timeline for this story is 1940- 1946 and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The location for this story is set in France. The setting is during World War Two in France, as the Germans are advancing, and the British are retreating. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex and complicated. Some are good and some are evil. Some are brave and courageous. This is a memorable and thought-provoking novel of the tragedies of war, that I would highly recommend to other readers.

As the Germans approach the hospital in France, where the British doctors and nurses draw straws to see who will be able to leave and who will be left behind to take care of the wounded and sick soldiers. One nurse stays behind and manages to get a wounded soldier out of the hospital, and hide. Another nurse “borrows” an ambulance to try to help remove the wounded patients.

Not far away, many British soldiers that are in a barn lift a white flag to surrender, and as they are leaving the barn in an orderly manner, they are shot to death by the Germans. In a house nearby, two sisters looking out the window look in horror as this happens. The sisters answer the knocks to their door, to find two injured British soldiers, and they take them in. Not long after, the nurse and patient find themselves at the same house.

The head Gestapo Commander has an attraction for one of the sisters, and there is constant danger and tension for the hidden English soldiers and nurse.

The author discusses the importance of friendship, loyalty, communication, peace, and hope.

I have been a fan of Soraya Lane for over 10 years and each book gets better, this being her best absolutely! I love historical fiction and this is one of the best I’ve read recently.
I love multiple pov books and this one is told through the eyes of Cate, Elise, and Adelaide. Strong women who have heartbreaking, romantic and suspenseful stories to tell.
I’d recommend picking this one up if you enjoy WWII fiction, it’s out now!

Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my advanced ebook copy.

The writing in this story is so exquisite! Through Lanes writing, I am drawn in to witness the awful events and feel the raw emotions. There is sorrow and much love. I love a historical fiction that opens a true story and places you in it with real and authentic emotions to perhaps have a glimmer of what the people suffered and the fear of what they lived through. Soraya Lane has done a superb job of just that!

The author has written about a bunch of 📚 books.
⚘This is my 2nd interface with the author's work.
As with all her books, much of this story is based on fact.

⚘315 pages, 26 Chapters.

Do you feel, empathy & the desire to help others selflessly, has gone for a toss in today's world?
Do you like covers with real life models?

⚘Lake Union Publishing, Soraya M Lane.

⚘Release Date: 20th May 2021, Happy Pub Day!🎉

⚘Historical/ Contemporary Fiction

⚘How far will they go for family, friendship, and love?
___________
Occupied France, 1940. When the staff at a field hospital draw straws to find out who will join the evacuation from Dunkirk, Nurse Cate is left behind. But when the Nazis arrive to claim prisoners of war, she takes her chance and flees into the night, taking one patient with her.

Fifty miles away, the surrendering soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment are shot dead by the advancing Germans. Beneath the pile of bodies two men survive, crawling to the safety of a nearby farmhouse, where sisters Elise and Adelaide risk their lives to take them in. When Cate, too, arrives at their door with her injured soldier, the pressure mounts.

🔥The sisters are risking everything to keep their visitors safe.

But with the Nazis coming ever closer and relationships in the farmhouse intensifying, they must all question the sacrifices they are willing to make for the lives of others.

How far will they go for family, friendship, and love?
____________
⚘Taking few facts from history & imagining the state, feelings & emotions of the people, way back..almost more than half a century & building a picturesque, believable fictional world..is so commendable.
Beautiful articulation of words with a powerful narrative, in tandem to ensure a lasting impact.
You'll finish the read with a heavy but satiated heart, one which is calm & at peace.

#noorthebookwormreviews
#thesecretsweleftbehind
#netgalley

Synopsis -

In 1940, during the time of Dunkirk evacuation, a British Nurse, Cate is left behind in a hospital, when the Nazis take control of France. She manages to flee with an injured soldier Jack and by luck runs into the home of the two sisters – Elise and Adelaide in Le Paradis, who have just witnessed the massacre of the surrendered soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment right in front of their home.

Forced to take in a couple of surviving soldiers, along with Cate and Jack, the sisters find themselves in an impossible situation of needing to protect themselves and their visitors. It all comes down to how much would be at stake to do so.

Review -

This book drew me in surprisingly quickly. The endurance and presence of mind of Nurse Cate was really impressive and her character moved me deeply. The fierce love between the sisters and the kind of sacrifices they were willing to make for each other, reminded me of “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah.

Brought together unexpectedly, all of them begin to draw comfort from each other, going on to form life-long bonds and friendships. The author did a fine job of portraying the emotions and their states of mind, by giving us a peek into their past which made me connect better with them. It was heart-wrenchingly painful to know how much each of them had lost to the war and the sheer will it took to just survive.

The book attempts to shed light on the state of women during this time – the nurses, doctors and orderlies who were unfortunately left behind . The author’s imagination takes us through their journeys of finding unexpected love and friendships, dealing with the deep visceral pain of loss, yet managing to display heroic patriotism to save others.

I loved the setting of this book around the real events of Le Paradis massacre and Dunkirk. This was not an easy read, but definitely worth it, especially if you are a fan of historical fiction around WWII.

Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon UK publishing for providing me with the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. Memorable characters, exciting action and a satisfying ending.
Occupied France, 1940. When the staff at a field hospital draw straws to find out who will join the evacuation from Dunkirk, Nurse Cate is left behind. But when the Nazis arrive to claim prisoners of war, she takes her chance and flees into the night, taking one patient with her.
Fifty miles away, the surrendering soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment are shot dead by the advancing Germans. Beneath the pile of bodies two men survive, crawling to the safety of a nearby farmhouse, where sisters Elise and Adelaide risk their lives to take them in. When Cate, too, arrives at their door with her injured soldier, the pressure mounts.
Historical fiction readers especially those that enjoy WII genre books will enjoy this one.

I really enjoyed this book! I have always been draw to books centered around world war 2. I really loved how the book was separated into character chapters. I love to see the whole story from the point of view of each character.

The characters had good development and were very likeable. The ending was very great as well. Such a beautiful story about the power of love and sacrifice.

After having read numerous historical fiction novels about World War II, I didn't think it was possible to find another that captured my interest as much as The Secrets We Left Behind did. I learned about the evacuation of Dunkirk, an aspect that I wasn't very familiar with. It was easy to connect to the various characters, and I was quickly turning the pages to see what would happen next. My emotions ran the gambit from sorrow to joy by the end of the book. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishers for the advance copy to read and review. I will definitely be adding the rest of Soraya Lane's historical novels to my TBR list.

I found this to be an exciting story set in Dunkirk, France and the weeks following the devastation there. Young men and women helping each other to survive in an impossible situation. Some realistic and likeable characters. Good story.

What a fantastic story of love, determination, and family. A book that jumps right into action as soon as you open it and you can’t stop turning the pages. You immediately get attached to the characters and get anxious as they try to navigate occupied France knowing each day is a life or death situation. What a phenomenal book! Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the advanced copy

Quick paced and once invested you are flying through the pages. Very interesting to read about Dunkirk and the flight of the British/French forces as well as additional atrocities done by the Germans. The Secrets We Left Behind is a highly compelling story, one that I could simply not put down once I started reading! I was instantly invested in the characters of this story, brave women and men living in a constant state of fear and uncertainty as the Nazis take control of France in the spring of 1940. Cate is a British nurse who is left behind at an evacuation hospital as the British are being rescued from Dunkirk, escaping the Nazis with a critically wounded soldier. Elise and Adelaide are French sisters who suddenly find themselves providing refuge to wounded British soldiers of their own, even as the Nazis are taking over their town, placing themselves in grave danger. Soraya M. Lane, the author of “The Secrets We Left Behind” has written a captivating, intriguing, and intense novel. The genre for this novel is historical fiction. The author has based many true facts in this amazing novel. The timeline for this story is 1940- 1946 and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The location for this story is set in France. The setting is during World War Two in France, as the Germans are advancing, and the British are retreating. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex and complicated. Some are good and some are evil. Some are brave and courageous. This is a memorable and thought-provoking novel of the tragedies of war, that I would highly recommend to other readers. Definitely would recommend this book.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for the ARC for an honest review.

Just fabulous for lovers of historical fiction, especially set in France.

A true page turner that pulls you in and makes you fall in love with the characters.

Title: The Secrets We Left Behind
Author: Soraya M. Lane
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 4 out of 5

Occupied France, 1940. When the staff at a field hospital draw straws to find out who will join the evacuation from Dunkirk, Nurse Cate is left behind. But when the Nazis arrive to claim prisoners of war, she takes her chance and flees into the night, taking one patient with her.

Fifty miles away, the surrendering soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment are shot dead by the advancing Germans. Beneath the pile of bodies two men survive, crawling to the safety of a nearby farmhouse, where sisters Elise and Adelaide risk their lives to take them in. When Cate, too, arrives at their door with her injured soldier, the pressure mounts.

The sisters are risking everything to keep their visitors safe. But with the Nazis coming ever closer and relationships in the farmhouse intensifying, they must all question the sacrifices they are willing to make for the lives of others. How far will they go for family, friendship, and love?

I enjoyed this read! I liked the characters a lot, and they were realistic and people to root for. Except maybe Adelaide, who I kind of wanted to smack in the back of the head. I was never sure how this was going to turn out, so it wasn’t predictable to me, and the writing was excellent, with a setting that I enjoyed reading more about.

Soraya M. Lane lives in New Zealand. The Secrets We Left Behind is her newest novel.

(Galley courtesy of Lake Union Publishing in exchange for an honest review.)

(Blog link live 5/26.)

I flew through this novel by Soraya M. Lane. THE SECRETS WE LEFT BEHIND kept me engrossed and turning the pages. Focusing on three women in 1940 France, alternating the narrative from each viewpoint, the story kept me on the edge of my seat.
Cate was my favorite character, and, I feel, the most well-developed. She was strong and determined, as she worked as a nurse left behind when the English evacuated Dunkirk, fleeing with Jack, a patient, as the German’s came to the hospital. Instead of heading for the beach, they head to a town Jack felt was safe. Unfortunately, they literally walked into trouble, but lucky for them, Elise and Addy had already witnessed a tragedy at the hands of the Germans and had their own secret, grudgingly helping Cate and Jack. They live with a delicate balance, each with their own secrets, as they work to find a way to get their hidden English citizens out of the country. There were parts that made me smile and others that ripped my heart out. Addy frustrated me with her blind faith, especially when it came to the German officer, refusing to believe what her eyes had seen. Elise was frustrating as well, but her actions were more understandable given the situation and all that she had lost already.
Lane does a wonderful job bring another perspective of the happenings of WWII into focus. Grab a cup of tea and settle into this one.
#TheSecretsWeLeftBehind #SorayaMLee #LakeUnionPublishing

The Secrets We Left Behind creates an instantly intimate glance inside the lives of 4 distinctly different people trying to survive during the war. All of the characters have survival as their motivation (both their own survival and the others) but go about it in very different ways. Realistic brutality and casualties are woven into the story of these people as they try their best to protect their country, each other, and themselves. I couldn't wait to finish it and then was sorry it was over!

In a farmhouse in Nazi occupied France during WWII we find a group of characters put together by fate.. The characters are wonderful and you can feel their fear, compassion and hope for a future. The author truly writes great historical fiction. I highly recommend.

Really interesting book, I didn’t know what to expect but loved the story and the history that was woven into it.

I continue to be blown away by Ms. Lane's books and her ability to tell a story. The Secrets We Left Behind is yet another example of how she is able to draw her readers into the story and make them feel as if they are there experiencing everything that her characters are.

The three women profiled in the book, Cate, Elise, and Adelaide, are relateable and honestly, could be any one of us. They are strong, determined, and ready for whatever life throws at them...and there is plenty getting tossed to/at them.

I love a good historical story, especially when it's set during World War II. The Secrets We Left Behind has every aspect of historical fiction that I love - wonderful, well-developed characters, a main plotline with little side plots, action, love, and more. The second I started reading, I couldn't put it down. It was such a moving story about friendship, loss, and the power of love.

Highly recommend!
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours, Soraya Lane and Lake Union Publishing for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.

4.5 stars

I was immediately drawn in to the story of British nurse Cate and French sisters Adelaide and Elise, in the countryside of occupied France. I enjoyed their different points of view and a window into their different motivations, worries and ways of coping with the Nazi occupation. I have a greater appreciation for this part of World War II and the perspectives and people portrayed.

I enjoyed the topic of this book, and how it was quite different than many books of this genre. The author does a good job of hooking you in, while keeping some secrets that leave you guessing. The ending, while a tad bit predictable, was worth it. The characters are loveable, even while trying to get the reader to like the German commander.

The Secrets We Left Behind is the first book I have read by Soraya M. Lane. It is set in France in 1940. Cate, a British nurse, is working at a hospital just when the Dunkirk evacuation begins. The doctors and nurses need to draw straws to see who is left behind. When the Nazis show up Cate leaves with her patient Jack with her. Even though Jack is badly injured they somehow make it to a nearby village of Le Paradis. They take refuge with two sisters - Elise and Adelaide - who witnessed a horrific massacre of surrendering soldiers right in front of their house. The author does a great job showing the developing relationships of Cate, the two sisters and the two soldiers they are protecting. The novel shows the amazing courage of these women and how they will risk everything to stay alive! A must read for anyone that loves historical fiction!

About the Book

Cate is a British nurse caring for patients in Dunkirk, France. When she draws the short straw and has to remain behind as others evacuate for the beach for pickup, she and one of her patients, Jack, have to go on the run from German soldiers if they want to avoid becoming a prisoner of war of worse.

Elise and Addy live not far from Dunkirk. They witness a horrible massacre right outside their window and take in and hide two survivors.

When Cate and Jack also show up at their house, what will be the price for harboring these British citizens from a ruthless Nazi force?

My Thoughts
I have a weakness for Soraya’s historical fiction books and I admire the way she writes of strong women characters set during turbulent times.

This read is no exception. The three main female characters, Cate, Elise, and Addy are wonderfully written with the combination of being capable, determined, and gentle.

This book also gave me a historical suspense feeling as I was always on edge wondering what the fate of these five people would be.

The author’s note in the back has some wonderful background information. It sheds light on the people and events in the book that were part of the real history.

Very interesting book about two different sisters in World War II. The characters were believable and focused on their beliefs. Learned much about the war that I did not know. Nice read.

The Secrets We Left Behind is an emotional read that captured my heart right away. Based on factual events that occurred near Dunkirk during the German invasion, the characters leapt off the page and into my heart. When two sisters witness a massacre of British soldiers trying to surrender the stage is set for two soldiers who miraculously survived the massacre to seek their help. Added to the story are a British nurse and her patient who escaped certain capture and a chilling Nazi officer who portrays pure evil. It is a tale of courage, determination, love, heartbreak and sorrow. Soraya’s gifted writing style quickly brought me into the story and I felt as though I was right in the room with them observing their interactions and conversations. I came to care very deeply for all but the Nazi officer. My favorite genre is historical fiction and I will long remember this story and the soldiers who gave their lives during Dunkirk and the massacre. I truly admire those rare authors who make history come alive. You have a new fan Soraya and I am eager to read your other books. Many many thanks to Soraya Lane, and NetGalley for affording me the pleasure of reading an arc of this very recently published book.

4.5 / 5 stars.

The Secrets We Left Behind takes the readers on an emotional, beautiful journey amidst the horrors of World War II.

We meet the main characters in occupied France, where the war is raging. As the Allied forces are retreating, Cate is left behind to care for the wounded. As the hospital is captures, she flees with a patient into the countryside. On the journey for a safe haven, she meets sisters Elise and Adelaide, sisters who have witnessed the horrors of war in their backyard and have taken in two wounded soldiers. As these two groups meet and converge at the sisters’ farmhouse, their stories intertwine as they all try to survive.

I connected immediately to the characters in this book, especially Cate and Elise. All three of the women are strong, capable, and show bravery and compassion in the face of dangerous circumstances. They risk everything for the soldiers that they’ve taken in, and their journeys are emotional ones that have stuck with me since I finished the book.

This compelling story is a perfect read for any fans of historical fiction with hints of romance and suspense.

Warning: This book discusses some sensitive topics that may be triggering for some readers including war/war violence and traumatic injuries.

Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a wonderful story, based on factual events. As British troops are evacuated from Dunkirk, others are left behind, including doctors and nurses, as well as those injured too badly to make it to the beach.

Cate is one of those left behind. Unable to save everyone, she is forced to leave her patients behind to escape the advancing German troops. But she cannot leave Jack behind. Badly injured, he can barely walk, but he has captured her heart. Kind strangers in a small French village, Le Paradis take her and Jack in. Elise and Addy have lost family members, and witnessed a horrific massacre of British troops. Only two survive. One surrenders, one is taken in by the two sisters.

Within a short space of time, these ordinary people in an extraordinary situation become closely bonded.

Addy is in a perilous situation. She has fallen for a German commander and this puts herself and everyone at risk. When a secret evacuation is arranged, will the innocents escape, or will they be caught?

I connected with each and every character in this wonderful book. Courageous, kind, strong, they all faced sacrifice which could have broken them. But they chose to live, to love, to thrive.

Another fantastic read by Soraya M. Lane! A fresh take on the traditional WWII novel, this one is full of strong and resilient women doing their part during the war. Often heart-wrenching, this book is a wonderful read.

A compelling story of heartbreak, loss, and hope.

I was mesmerized and sucked right into Secrets We Left Behind. I thought I wouldn’t enjoy reading historical fiction and something during that period but this left me feeling so many emotions.

The characters were well written and developed, easily likable and people you would root for. The story is one I will never forget.

There is so much to unpack from this book. The author did such an amazing job telling this true story of the massacre at Le Paradis. You can find a lot of parts that were true events and people used in the story in her authors note.

This such a masterpiece and I loved every second. The love that endured in the most difficult and surprising of times.

This book is great for fans of Our Darkest Night.

I was so excited to read a copy Soraya M. Lane's new novel, THE SECRETS WE LEFT BEHIND (LakeUnion). Much like her previous novel, THE LAST CORRESPONDENT the cover is absolutely breathtaking and the story is based on real events that happened during WWII. It's France 1940, the evacuation at Dunkirk where thousands of British troops are being rescued from the beach by different countries, as the Nazis push forward, but many more will be left behind. Doctors, orderlies, nurses are still working at a hospital while more injured soldiers were being brought in. They knew that they will become prisoners of war or be killed by the Nazis.

THE SECRET WE LEFT BEHIND is a multi point of view fictional account of a nurse and injured soldier who escapes during the evacuation, two British soldiers who survive the massacre of the Royal Norfolk Regiment at Le Paradis and two French women who hide them in their home, risking their own lives. Her main women characters are always strong and committed to the cause.

Soraya paints a very vivid picture of war and the hardships faced by the hospital staff and soldiers. Bombs are falling and exploding while they bravely work on the injured knowing what the inevitable arrival of the Nazis will mean. THE SECRETS WE LEFT BEHIND is full of humanity shown by the French sisters, nurse Cate and highlights the powerful internal hunger of humans to survive. She weaves a story of friendship, bravery, fear, sorrow and love that is palpable.

The Secrets We Left Behind is a World War II historical fiction set in France at the British evacuation of Dunkirk in 1940.

Cate is a nurse and as the British troops as leaving to evacuate, she drew the short straw to stay behind with the patients who are unable to be moved. As the Nazis arrive she flees with a patient who agrees become friends with. They find themselves at a farmhouse where two sisters had just witnessed a British regiment being shot but were able to help two survivors but this start to get risky with 4 British hiding. As one of the sisters becomes friendly with the Nazi Officer they need to plan the escape. What will they sacrifice?

I've really loved the other books Soraya Lane has written and this was no exception! My favorite still is Spitfire Girls but I do love the WWIi female pilots! This book had great characters. I loved Cate. You know I love a good author note and liked that she got the inspiration for this after watching the movie Dunkirk. A few of the characters and things that happened in the book are based on real events.

WHAT SACRIFICE IS TOO GREAT FOR FAMILY, FRIENDSHIP OR LOVE?

Soraya Lane has written an epic WWII story that will have you on the edge of your seats from the first page to the last sentence! Her characters are filled with emotion, determination, they are over-comers, they are risk takers, they come from 3 very different backgrounds but consider the best course of action for all them, they learn to appreciate each other and to celebrate their differences, they discover things about themselves they never knew they could do and they each discover their deep capacity for love.

Occupied France, 1940. A field hospital is on high alert and sending all patients and personnel to join the evacuation from Dunkirk. Unfortunately, the staff must draw straws to decide who will have to stay behind to care for those who are too critical to move. Nurse Cate ends up being the lone nurse left with the shoestring staff. The war comes to the field hospital much quicker than anticipated. At the last second, Cate seizes the opportunity to escape and takes one patient with her. The walking wounded man’s name is Jack.

Fifty miles away, the Royal Norwalk Regiment are surrendering to the advancing German soldiers by showing the universal sign of waving a White Flag. The waving of the White Flag did not cause a moment of hesitation as the entire Regiment was gunned down! Two soldiers managed to survive and crawled to the safety of a farmhouse where two sisters Elise and Adelaide took them in and tended to them. Before long, Cate and Jack found their way to the same farmhouse and were taken in and rescued, as well. These two sisters are taking a major risk hiding these people with the German soldiers all around. As the war intensifies, each of them must make decisions as to what they are willing to sacrifice. What sacrifice is too great for family, friendship or love?

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.

World War II is such a fascinating time period. I have read many books set in this era, but this one stood out as different, perhaps because of the nursing focus?

This book follows 5 key characters, although it is primarily told from the perspective of two of them. The setting is occupied France. What I think that this book does really well is capture the individual human characters and their wants and desire, while still giving a picture of the overall historical setting.

Thank you netgalley and publishers for the free e-arc.

Really well written. After reading her previous book, I wanted to pick this one as soon as possible. The characters and their journey through the book is really interesting. I wish to read more from this author.

This book was fantastic! I have been waiting for a truly outstanding WWII novel ever since "The Nightingale" and this one is it. Love, suspense, history, drama, well-researched setting, the author does a wonderful job at making you feel the danger the sisters face as they take in their "boarders" and how that duty soon turns into friendship and love. It was truly wonderful and I spent a VERY happy day reading it. I didn't want it to end!

Soraya M. Lane is my 'go to' for enjoyable, escapist dependable historical fiction and 'The Secrets We Left Behind' is written with all the usual hallmarks of her quality writing. This story focuses on British nurse, Cate, who after drawing straws in an evacuation lottery is left behind in Nazi occupied Dunkirk to care for the injured soldiers, amongst whose number is dashing, charming lieutenant, Jack. As they search for a safe haven from the occupying and advancing German army, their fates are thrown together with French sisters, Elise, and Adelaide, This is an engaging story encompassing themes of love, loss friendship, resilience and the triumph of the human spirit against adversity. Thank you so much to Netgalley for sending me an advance review copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

Two books about WWII in a row! Although they are very different. The Secrets We Left Behind takes place in France, just after the evacuation of Dunkirk. There’s three points of view, one British nurse who is left behind to care for wounded soldiers, and two French sisters who live nearby and try to help in anyway they can.

Cate the British nurse, flees in the night after her hospital is raided, bringing along her favorite patient, Jack. Elise and Adelaide are sisters who only have each other after their mother and brother both had died. Two British soldiers are the only survivors after their regiment is shot by Nazis; they barely make it to the sisters’ house and beg to be let inside. Eventually Cate and Jack do the same thing and now the sisters are housing and hiding three British guests with many injuries and not a lot of food for everyone.

Adelaide also meets the commander of the local Nazi group and he takes a liking to her. He starts to court her and she claims it’s all to get information about the war. Elise knows her sister too well and she is now afraid her sister is in love with a Nazi and brutal murderer.

This book was so much more than I expected! There was romance and war and justice! This was one that I couldn’t put down and loved the bond between the sisters. Even if Adelaide drove me crazy!

This was a book that l could not put down. It was well written and I could relate to the characters. It was exciting,descriptive and as it was about the war sometimes sad. Characters were intriguing strong and memorable. Thank you for being allowed to read this book.

❤️Summer Reading 🇬🇧

The Secrets We Left Behind
By: @sorayalaneauthor

This is the second WWII Historical Fiction I have read by this author and she always opens my eyes to a part of WWII I knew little to nothing about. She highlights women’s roles in WWII that are often over looked. The story always takes me back in time and I feel like I’m right there with the women behind enemy lines!

Synopsis: Cate is a British nurse who is left behind when the British evacuate at Dunkirk. Instead of being taking prisoner by the invading Nazis Cate runs with one of her patients at the Red Cross hospital.
Elise and her sister are French women who are trying to lay low and survive on their family farm alone when they encounter the Nazis committing a mass murder on the farm next door.

In ways you won’t see coming these people’s lives intersect and they must figure out how to survive during Nazi occupation.

My book square is the Red Cross symbol. The women who sacrificed so much in the care of others are true heroines!

Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours for having me on tour and to @sorayalaneauthor for my copy of your ebook!

A beautifully written story about love and friendship and the strength and courage shown when it is needed in hard times, it is WW11 in France, Dunkirk and Nurse Cate is left behind when the evacuation happens, there is no way she is going to be taken by the Nazis and she runs with a patient, Jack.

Le Paradis is fifty miles away and a regiment of British soldiers are doing their best to hold of the Nazis, all but two lose their lives and crawl to a farmhouse and seek help from sisters Elise and Adelaide. Harry and Peter are both injured and the woman do what they can to help when Cate arrives on their doorstep and her soldier, together the three woman risk their lives to save the men against odds with the Germans taking over France.

The struggle is hard especially when Adelaide helps Peter and now has the interest of the local German commander Wolfgang Schmidt, tensions are mounting with danger so close will Elise be able to get Harry, Jack and Cate back to England, how much are they prepared to sacrifice for the lives of people who have come to mean so much to them?

I loved this story Soraya Lane has never disappointed me and this one is a fabulous story filled with heart-break, love, resilience, strength and courage, it is an emotional journey and there were tears, lots of them but there was cheering as well, but the ending is just so beautiful and yes more tears but tears of joy. This is a story that I do highly recommend Cate, Elise Adelaide are amazing woman and Harry and Jack amazing men and very worth getting to Know.

My thanks to the author and Netgalley for my copy to read and review

This book is an outstanding piece of historical fiction. Someone of the characters are based on real people, and the author was inspired to write it after watching the movie “Dunkirk”. Cate, a British nurse, is left behind in the Dunkirk evacuation. She and one of her patients escape and hide in a house with two sisters and a soldier who survived the massacre of his unit.

This is a powerful book with a strong plot and characters. I highly recommend it, 5 stars.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What a wonderful read! Soraya Lane always writes such wonderful stories. Fans of Lane's other books will like this one. I particularly liked the character development in this novel. An all around good book that I would recommend to all fans of the genre. Thank you NetGalley and Soraya Lane for this copy.

NetGalley was kind enough to offer me an ARC of The Secrets We Left Behind by Soraya M. Lane in return for my honest review.

I do love a good World War II novel. This was a compelling story and I can’t deny I enjoyed reading it, even if it was clichéd and predictable in areas.

British nurse, Cate, stays behind with patients during the evacuation to Dunkirk. She and patient Jack make a run for it, but she’s falling for him and feeling guilty because her fiancé is missing, presumed dead. In nearby town Le Paradis, sisters Elise and Addy witness and massacre of surrendered British troops by the incoming Nazis. They take in the two surviving soldiers, against Elise’s “better judgment” and Addy catches the eye of the local Nazi commander. Obviously all of their paths will cross and all of their fates are intertwined. Secrets will be revealed. Choices will be made. Not everyone will make it out alive.

My biggest complaint is actually the title. There are obviously secrets kept within the story but I actually felt like they were mostly revealed and resolved and not actually left behind. I felt like I spent the whole novel waiting for the title to be significant and it just wasn’t. I would probably just have called the book “Le Paradis”.

It wasn’t a bad read but it also wasn’t amazing.

This book definitely belongs in the hands of every historical fiction fan! It was that good! The characters are phenomenal, the writing superb, and it draws you into the story. Almost as if you were living it along with them. Definitely a hit and a recommended book for me!

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

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and Soraya M. Lane for the chance to read this book in return for a personal review.

This is the second book I have read by this author - and to be honest it was very similar to the first.

I love historical fiction - especially those set in either World War - so this one appealed to me from the blurb.

Part way through I decided to see if any of the events actually happened and of course found that The Le Paradis Massacre had actually occurred. I, however, was so disappointed that the main Nazi character and the 2 survivors had had their names changed and that some of the events had been changed. In my opinion if parts of a book are based on fact then important facets of that historical occasion should be kept true to life. It was easy to find out the details of Le Paradis through an online search so I don't feel I have given any spoilers.

I suppose there were secrets but the reader was party to them all and really none were left behind. Some were brought out into the open, some were predictable and some far-fetched.

But this might be giving a bad side to a book that was well written and kept me wanting to read to the end to find out what happened. The ending was a bit rushed but I very often feel disappointed with the last say, 50, pages of a book where the story is wrapped up so quickly - that its easy to feel slightly cheated.

Would I recommend this book? - yes if you enjoy this authors work - if you like factual WW2 historical fiction then be aware that facts have been altered to fit the author's needs.
But its a good read - if harrowing at times - but times just after Dunkirk in France were harrowing

Thank you again to everyone concerned with me being able to read this book

This is a harrowing story of those left behind after the evacuation and finding themselves stuck in occupied France. It brings out the fear and dread faced by people in occupied France as well as the courage of people willing to help others at the cost of their own lives. With the research and the amazing writing it is difficult to put this book down...you are captive from the first page to the last. While this is a fictional account, be assured there is much to learn. My thanks to Net Galley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.

Loved it...heartbreaking WW2 book, set in France around the time of the Dunkirk evacuation. Great book with strong female characters.

It was hard to put this book down, as the main characters were hiding from the Nazis, and their fate was up in the air. Cate and Lilly were British nurses, assigned to France when the Germans invaded. Lilly was able to escape, but Cate drew the short straw to stay behind. As the Nazis approached, she and a patient, Jack, escaped and were on the run. At the same time, Elise and her sister Adelaide, French women in a small village, knew they were being surrounded by the Nazis and experienced a massacre of soldiers surrendering. The book was based on historical fact, and the author did not sugar coat the events. I highly recommend this book and thank the author for keeping the lessons of history alive, and creating characters that made us care deeply. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

I don’t know where to start! I love historical fiction and I like to think I’ve read quite an assortment but this was unlike anything else I’ve read. This was a powerful tale of survival, bravery, and unexpected romance.

When British medical staff are left behind with Germans not far behind, a young nurse overcomes all obstacles to save an injured soldier. After venturing far to find safety, they end up up putting others at risk.

Three brave women found trust in each other despite all odds and one made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the others safety.

Mixing fact and fiction Soraya M. Lane wrote a heart wrenching tale of both love and loss.

A sensitive and well written novel starting at the evacuation of Allied forces at Dunkirk and the story of a nurse left behind to care for a wounded soldier, their encounter with 2 French sisters and the many choices they are to make in the brutal time of war.

I loved this book! Once again, Soraya Lane hit a homerun with good characters. Her books are always rich in plot and this one was no different. I loved every bit of this story. It was incredible.

Thank you to @netgalley and @amazonpublishing for access to this ARC!

I am a complete sucker for WW2 historical fiction, but my TBR has been so overwhelming that it took me way too long to pick this book up. Now that I finally have, I’m happy to report that it was great!

It had a lot of similar themes (occupied France, sisters, feminism) as The Nightingale which is an absolute compliment (and one of my favorite books). The sisters in the book, Elise and Adelaide, were amazing. I loved the way the author wrote their characters. The poor girls went through SO much. Be prepared for some tears toward the end of this one 😭

I also absolutely adored Cate, the British nurse that found her way to the sisters. Actually I loved all of the characters, well minus the Nazi commander, Wolfgang, but I even loved to hate him haha.

The story was super well-written. Also, the author’s note at the end describes how a lot of it was based off of true events which is something I always love with historical fiction.

I’d absolutely recommend this book to historical fiction lovers. It’s emotional, powerful, and definitely worth the read.

Thank you net galley for the advance reader copy of this novel. This was a historical fiction about WWII and French sisters who hide enemies of the Germans. The plot is a bit transparent and somewhat predictable while heart wrenching. I love how ordinary citizens stepped up to be heros! Cate, Addy, Elise, Jack, Harry and even Peter are wonderful characters. A great read!

I’m not sure where to start other than this book was so good and well worth the read. This was my first read by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. This story was compelling, captivating and basically everything you want in a good historical-fiction novel.

Thank you to NetGalley + Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.

Soroya Lane writes wonderful books, and she has yet to write one that I didn't love. This one of those! Set in France in 1940, friends that are nurses get separated when the Nazis storm into the area. Two sisters are left behind the enemy line, they are just trying to survive without being noticed. Will they all survive that terrible time? Hop in and enjoy the ride!

This novel is so powerful and the story will stay with me for a long time. I loved the writing style and appreciate the research that was done to bring this book to fruition. Many emotions were rendered while turning these pages and I highly recommend.
Many thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was a DNF for me, I didn’t love the story and couldn’t get past page like 30. Which was a bummer maybe I’ll try again in the future.

Another wonderful historical fiction novel by Soraya M. Lane, after loving The Last Correspondent I was excited to pick this up.

A story of sisterhood in occupied France that is well written, based enough on true fact and including the perfect amount of romance that you’d expect from a historical fiction novel like this. I liked the characters and as you can guess from the title, a plot filled with secrets.

Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A heart-breakingly beautiful tale of bravery and friendship. Of facing the trauma of war and choosing to do the right thing, even when it could cost you everything. The cast of strong women quickly makes their way into your heart, and as their story unfolds, it will have you holding your breath. Soraya M. Lane has crafted a luminous work that will stay in readers’ minds and hearts long after the last page.

I enjoyed The Secrets We Left Behind by Soraya M. Lane. I would love to read more by this author in the future. Four and a half stars.

Another lovely book about strong wartime women from this author. A great story of the lengths people would go to to do the right thing while putting their own lives in danger. A real page turner with plenty of secrets and romance

This book was a masterpiece. A beautiful reminder that even in the midst of war, there is happiness. Characters, plot, setting--everything was so evocative and compelling. I was drawn in from the first page to the very end.

Author Soraya M Lane always nails historical fiction!
France, 1940 and enemy planes are flying over. The French army is trying to get to Dunkirk.
Ladies like Nurse Cate Alexander are trying to help the wounded. The British medical staff are making decisions on whom should stay at a makeshift field hospital (located in a French chateau) and whom can evacuate. As the Germans arrive at the hospital Nurse Cate escapes with a Jack, a patient.
Several soldiers of the Royal Norfolk Regiment are stranded in a barn. As the German's close in they fell they must surrender, however many are murdered, and a few survive after the mass murder. A couple patients are saved by sisters Elsie and Adelaide DuPont at a nearby farmhouse. Jack and Cate also end up at the farmhouse.
Things become increasingly dangerous as a Commander makes advances towards Adelaide.
The choices made and bravery that these women made and their sacrifices are explored. Loved this book!

A different perspective of WWII. The characters were well developed and there was a bittersweet ending. The plot took place during the events of Dunkirk and the atrocities experienced by the British troops and the French inhabitants.

The story became intimate with the introduction of Wolfgang Schmidt. With a mixture of betrayal, love, innocence and hatred, this book is worth reading.

Thank you #NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this.

I loved the characters and the plot in this one!! It is so hard to maintain a semblance of happiness during hard times, but this one nails it!!

As I type my review, I know that this will be a book that I will not soon forget. After taking a long break from historical fiction, I randomly chose this from my NetGalley shelf on a whim to read. I have to say that this will be one of my favorite books, if not my favorite, that I have read this year. This was my second novel by Soraya Lane. She has such a endearing and beautiful prose to her writing that I immediately became attached to all the characters in this story. There are two groups of characters that we are introduced to, and soon their stories and lives merge in a way that I could have not imagined. We follow friends and new nurses, Cate and Lilly, as well as Jack, who have been staying at a make shift hospital near Dunkirk. We also follow sisters, Adelaide and Elise, who live in a home in Le Paradis, France. One evening Adelaide and Elise are witness to a cruel war crime in the barn across from their home, not knowing that two British soldiers/survivors will knock on their door, and change their lives as well as Cate and Lilly's lives forever. I enjoyed the action in this story as well as the romance. I really didn't want this to end, and when it did, it did so very beautifully. Five solid stars!

It was a little hard to get into this novel, it may be that I just wasn't in the right mindset to read this or that I have read too much with a similar plot.

I've read several books from this author and could not wait for this release. So much so that when an opportunity arose to get an ARC, I jumped on it. I love historical romance and never tire of the WWII stories and this author never disappoints. If you haven't read her other work, I would highly recommend: "The Last Correspondent" and "Hearts of Resistance". Two stories that I'll carry in my memory for a long time to come just as this story will.

From the very beginning, each page-turn takes you back to 1940 when the Germans were occupying France. The British got involved and were driven back by the Germans leaving nurses and doctors drawing straws to see who would stay behind to care for the non-walking patients while everyone else evacuated. That in itself, I found heart-wrenching but the story was only getting started.

I never give spoilers so I won't go into any details, just know that each character will win a place in your heart and maybe one....not so much. Anytime I was reading about Wolfgang, I pictured the blonde in "Sound of Music" that met the 16 year old in the gazebo. This author gives you an up-close and personal view of what a war-torn French town was like during its occupation. I can't count how many times my heart was thumping against my chest. The horror of having so little food, so little hope, and trying to survive one day at a time.

I think my daughter described it best when she was lucky enough to read this book first. Just as she finished it, she came out in the living room and flopped down on the loveseat. Her eyes were glassed over from hours of reading and she says, "You know it's a really good book when you look up and have to blink yourself back to reality." I think that describes it better than I could. Buy the book, you won't be disappointed.

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. A dramatic women's fiction novel. Highly recommend

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read … especially when it is focused on WWII. This book provided a different aspect of that time period that I have not read about in the past. I continue to be amazed at what individuals were willing to do to thwart Hitler’s evil plot. The characters were well developed and the sheer courage demonstrated will bring you to tears. This is a definite read for people who enjoy this type of book.

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

For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!