Until Leaves Fall in Paris by Sarah Sundin

This novel takes place in Paris in 1940, during World War II.  Lucie Girard is a ballerina but decides to leave the ballet to run her friend’s bookstore so they can flee the country.  Unbeknownst to Lucie, the resistance is using her bookstore and books to pass messages but when she figures out what they are doing, she decides to join their efforts.  One day, an adorable little girl and her widowed father come to browse in her store.  Lucie is immediately taken with Paul Aubrey, until she learns he is a collaborator with the Germans.  But her heart tells her there is more to Paul than what the gossipers are saying.  

I enjoyed the setting and plot of this story, there is intrigue and danger throughout.  Following the Nazi invasion of Paris, the characters must decide what their response to the Germans will be and whether they will cooperate with them.  And by describing the times and situations the characters faced, the author was able to bring the time-period to life for the reader as well as the difficulties these characters endured.  And I adored the way the author used symbolism, especially with Paul’s daughter, Josie and her imaginary character, Feenee.  Although Lucie has little formal schooling, she has an innate ability to read situations and interact with Josie.  Lucie is also kind, brave and sticks to her ideals regardless of the consequences, which I liked about her character.  And I liked her relationship and eventual romance with Paul.  Although the opposites in many ways they complimented each other.  As for Paul, he was complex in that he had deep feelings, and he also displayed much wisdom, especially while navigating the German influence on his factory.  The spiritual aspect of the story was understated but still a major component of the main characters perspectives. I would highly recommend reading this novel, especially if you enjoy historical fiction. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

The Prince and the Prodigal by Jill Eileen Smith

This book centers on the story of Joseph and Judah, two of the sons of Jacob (Israel). After the initial introduction and first few chapters of the book, the story alternates between Joseph and Judah lives until the end when they are reunited.  I thought the book was well written and the author included many culturally important details to the retelling of a well-known Bible story.  She combined accurate Biblical elements with historical data and fiction to create a compelling family drama. She addresses the topics of guilt, regret, rejection, loneliness, and forgiveness, along with the complexity of these family relationships.   The characters were interesting and well depicted in the story, giving the reader a greater sense of depth and dimension into their personalities. I especially found the situation with Judah and Tamar enlightening.  And the narrative moved along at a good pace, keeping the reader’s attention and interest.  In general, I thought this enhanced my understanding of the Biblical text and made me appreciate aspects I had overlooked.  I would highly recommend reading this novel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for an honest review.