A Picture of Hope

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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