Extraordinary Acts Of Bravery
Until Leaves Fall In Paris by Sarah Sundin is a powerful Christian historical novel that I loved.
The action is set in Nazi occupied Paris as we follow two Americans who are both working against the Nazis in their own individual ways. Both guard their lives as they work in secret.
Factory owner, Paul, appears to be a Nazi collaborator but he holds a secret. His outward appearance earns him hostilities from his Parisienne neighbours. In contrast, God sees his heart and knows that he is working for the greater good. We need to be ware of making judgments on what we can see because it could be far from the truth.
Ballerina, Lucie, fights a very different war. She surrounds herself with books. Her bookshop is the perfect cover for her resistance work.
People have prejudices against others, even within church but “the church needed all the different gifts working together.” If we have not walked a mile in their shoes, we should not criticise the lives of others. We have no idea of the inner battles that are raging.
Four-year-old Josie is shunned as she is judged by her father. This is wicked as she is an innocent in all this. “The poor little thing shouldn’t suffer because her father was a heel.”
We see that there is power in stories. They unite young and old; friend and enemy.
War effects the innocent. Josie is the sweet child who bridges the gap between characters who care for her welfare.
Faith is important. A relationship with the Lord is vital at all times but even more so in war when life is uncertain. A character realises that all he has, comes from God. “My factory. My company…He didn’t own it. He was a steward, placed in charge by the true owner” [God].
Pray at all times – when life is good and when life is bad – pray without ceasing. “Pray, and God will guide you.”
We meet characters who are drowning in grief. “Grief didn’t end on an ordained schedule.” Grief is a unique journey that varies for each individual.
Ordinary people commit extraordinary acts of bravery – first in situ in Paris and then as they flee for their lives. Hearts and minds stay focused on God as they face the storms of life.
I thoroughly enjoyed Until Leaves Fall In Paris. It was a powerful tale that entertained me from the start.
I will leave you with my favourite quote:
“Sometimes we have to lose what we most love before we can find what we most need.”
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON
