Dana's Updates

"4.75 stars

Not wanting to bore you with a summary or synopsis of what this book is about, I will instead relate to you the key takeaways I got after reading it and how I felt about it. ☺️

Being an avid book-lover, I was rooting for the characters to keep the “forbidden” books safe and out of reach from the Nazis. It amazes me how scared they were of words printed on paper! It’s only natural, of course. Hitler won over most of the German people with his fiery words, gripping their offended and defeated hearts which led them to believe anything he said.

Words are the foundation of who we are and what we believe, the evidence of what knowledge we have obtained and hold fast to, and the catalyst of what we will fight tooth and nail for and defend to the death. Once stone-cold hearts can be softened. Minds can be enlightened and opened with the key offered by wisdom and understanding. Souls can flower and blossom, rising from the ashes of contempt and indifference, due to a single word of love or encouragement.

Words are life; it’s how the world came to be. But if it is used to create division, kick good people down and elevate bad people on the wings of glory, or stir up bitterness and light the fuse of hatred, the consequences are dire. Words, written or spoken, can change the world. It’s a gift that should not be taken for granted or abused.

Now, here’s what I thought about the book:

The plot was kind of underwhelming. I thought it was going to be much different than it actually was. I was a bit disappointed, but it was still a good story, nonetheless. ☺️
When it came to the romance, it was sweet and pleasantly predictable. Corinne was funny, witty, and caring. Christian was kind, intelligent, and, just plain (as Corinne called him) “good.” They have their quirks; they wouldn’t feel like realistic characters if they didn’t, but their flaws weren’t annoying or ridiculous. The characters were tolerable and enjoyable. 👍

What I especially liked were the discussions about abusing power to control ideas to control a people and how books play a crucial role in keeping a society free from tyranny and manipulation. It was very interesting for my nerdy self. 😂🤓

The faith elements were great reminders for me to trust in God and that He is always available, so prayer would be a comfort throughout the day to cast my cares on Him, whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light. He’s got everything under control even if the world around us is in chaos. Simply trust in Him and He’ll do the rest. 🕊️🙏🏼

Overall, I enjoyed this book! Having read Roseanna M. White’s work before, I was very excited to read one in the setting of World War II. 😁

I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and statements are my own."