This was my first time reading anything by Liz Tolsma and I could tell from the start I was in for a great historical read. With a beautiful cover and title to accompany it, this book weaves a tale that felt real beyond fiction. I learned some interesting things I’d never known about this particular era and appreciated its theme of forgiveness.
A lot happens in this book. Some interesting plot twists and surprises too. Some scenes, conversations, and emotions felt a bit choppy and abrupt to me at times, but that could just be the author’s unique style. I liked the characters, but I would have preferred to see their growth and attachment to each other occur a bit sooner than it did. That part of the story seemed stretched a little too long.
Even so, Remember the Lilies remained a unique and interesting read, one I know others will also appreciate for its realistic, down-to-earth perspective. It felt honest and hopeful. Even despite its dark setting, the truth is still there to brighten the page. And I was grateful for that.
I closed this book with great admiration for the author’s hard work and dedication to write such a story. I look forward to seeing what comes next!
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishers and the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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ABOUT THE BOOK:
Interred by the Japanese, missionary Irene Reynolds comes across a mysterious note while working at the censor’s office. She memorizes the parts she must black out and delivers it to wealthy nightclub owner Rand Sterling. Before she knows what’s happening, she’s drawn into a web of secrets and danger.
Rand Sterling wants nothing more than to reopen his nightclubs once the war ends. But slimy Frank Covey wants his hand in the till—and has news that could threaten Rand’s reputation if it became public. More importantly, beautiful and intriguing Irene Reynolds cannot discover this information if he expects to persuade her to become his wife.
When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, they must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Liz Tolsma has lived in Wisconsin most of her life, and she now resides next to a farm field with her husband and their two daughters. Her son proudly serves as a U.S. Marine. All of their children have been adopted internationally and one has special needs. Her novella, Under His Wings, appeared in the New York Times bestselling collection, A Log Cabin Christmas. Her debut novel, Snow on the Tulips, released in August of 2013 and was a 2014 Selah Award finalist and a 2014 Carol Award finalist. Daisies Are Forever released in May 2014. When not busy putting words to paper, she enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping with her family.
Please visit her blog at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook and Twitter. She is also a regular contributor to the Barn Door blog.
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I have enjoyed all of Liz’s books and this one was no exception. She does a wonderful job of writing about WWII history.
Thanks for stopping by, Ann. I definitely look forward to reading more of Liz’s books. Historical fiction is my favorite! 🙂