Renee RyanBesprekingen

This was a fascinating book that sucked me in from the first page and kept me hooked to the end. World War Two is a rare setting for a category romance, making this book doubly appealing. Here, we have an American man and a Russian woman teaming up to acquire vital intelligence for the British.

Katia is the daughter of a murdered Russian prince. She and her mother fled to Germany years ago, and Katia grew up to become a celebrated actress. She puts those skills to work as a spy for the British to defeat the Nazis and protect her mother. Their secret Jewish heritage would mean their deaths if it were discovered. The story opens as she is about to meet her latest contact. Jack is deep undercover as an SS officer working directly for Himmler. The things he has done because of it have taken a toll on him, and he is deeply cynical about human nature.

The initial meeting between Katia and Jack is difficult. Neither trusts the other, yet they must work together to secure the information they seek. Matters become complicated when Katia's mother shows up with her Nazi naval officer fiancé, and Jack's suspicions are further aroused. However, time is short, and Jack and Katia must find a way to work together to accomplish their mission. It isn't easy. Katia is confident in her abilities and adamant in her need to be hands-on during their mission. Jack is accustomed to working primarily alone. Their power struggle was intriguing, and I enjoyed watching them work out the details.

Of course, things rarely go to plan during something like this. The twists and turns of this story kept me glued to the pages as Jack and Katia dealt with one issue after another. The complications felt realistic, and I enjoyed seeing them work through them. As the deadline drew nearer, the escalating tension kept me reading long past my bedtime as I had to know how it turned out. The conclusion was a nail-biter that had me truly worried for Katia's safety.

I enjoyed watching the development of Jack and Katia's relationship. Though initially distrustful and antagonistic, there were also sparks of attraction and fascination. As much as they irritated each other, there was also a great deal of respect for each other's abilities. That respect quickly turned to caring despite obstacles to doing anything about it. The manner of the resolution was unexpected but made sense under the circumstances. I liked the author's note at the end, which replaced an epilogue.

As this was a Love Inspired novel, Katia and Jack's faith was also a large part of the story. Each of them believed that they had been abandoned by their god. Katia blamed him for her father's death. Jack believed that the terrible things he'd done put him beyond redemption. Opening their hearts to each other also opened their hearts to a renewal of faith.

When Nazi's occupy France, Camille, Rachel, and Vivian must decide where their loyalties lie and how far they are willing to go to survive. Each woman is connected to the Ritz Hotel in Paris. Rachel is a Jewish house maid, who suffers ridicule and exclusion from her co-workers. Camille, a pretty French girl, is caught up in the resistance by passing notes. Vivian, an American ex-pat, decides to fraternize with the enemy in order to continue forging documents and helping Jews escape.

I'm not entirely sure how to rate this book. The three points of view worked well for the storyline. However, the book itself was extremely repetitive. Each time the pov switched, the author rehashed the characters motivations, doubts, and struggles. This grew extremely tedious. Additionally, the book itself lacked storytelling. The author told us what happened rather than describing what happened. Because off these criticism, 3 out of 5 stars.

Renee Ryan writes lovely historical fiction that has beautiful cadence, memorable characters, and powerful impact. The Paris Housekeeper does have a smooth flow and interesting characters but felt a little too long and drawn out. This tale of war, greed, grief, loss, betrayal and sacrifice told from three women's perspectives was indeed powerful, even with the few places that were harder to read due to the awful gut-wrenching things that happened in Paris under The Occupation. I had loved The Secret Society of Salzburg and was hoping to love this book as much but I did not fully connect with any of the characters and felt the pace of the story was a bit slow. Still I learned much about Paris during the years of 1940-1942 and appreciated the arduous journey that Rachel, Camille, and Vivian undertook for survival and human decency.

If you enjoy WWII historical fiction, you will thoroughly enjoy this book filled with historical tidbits and thought-provoking questions. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Love Inspired via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

I read a lot of WWII fiction, and find this novel by Renee Ryan to be truly inspired and original. It is a story of the intertwined lives of three women living in Paris from 1940 to 1942. One is a beautiful, wealthy American widow, another a young French chambermaid working at the Hotel Ritz, and the last a young Jewish woman also employed at the Ritz. The French chambermaid, Camille Lacroix, orchestrates events, however unintentionally, which tie these three lives together. While historic events such as the June, 1942 Vel d'Hiv roundup are mentioned, with the author relying on the reader's historical knowledge, the story remains focused on these women, their relationships, the choices they make, and the impact they have on one another.

This novel is very well-written. Readers can not help but become emotionally involved with the three leading characters. This investment may cost the reader heartache and tears along the way. The ending will not be happy for all of the characters, but good can come out of even the saddest of events.

I highly recommend The Paris Housekeeper, and am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Harlequin via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Vivian, an American living at the Ritz hotel in Paris and chambermaids French Camille and Jewish Rachel are caught up in the occupation during WWII.
Ms. Ryan has used her research of real events to highlight yet another story of perseverance, daring and resilience under oppression from the Germans. She has brought to life characters who risked much to save Jews from unjust persecution and shown the exceptional fortitude it took to fraternize with the enemy for the sake of helping Jewish people escape to safety.
I could feel the tension as Rachel and her family waited to be targeted for deportation. And I was on pins and needles when Camille and Vivian went to live in the prominent officer’s house.
I recommend this book for fans of WWII and the brave action of ordinary people during daunting circumstances.
*I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

Every French citizen declared: Paris won't be invaded.

But...Paris was invaded, and the Germans took over the city and the Hotel Ritz.

The escape from the city began, but some people couldn't escape.

We meet three women who couldn't escape because of their situations and are connected to the Hotel Ritz.

Rachel is a Jewish housekeeper, Camille works at the hotel because she has to take care of her family and specifically her sister, and Vivian is an American living in the hotel.

Rachel gets treated even worse as the days rage on and more restrictions are placed on Jewish citizens, Camille feels more guilt about leaving her family, and Vivian starts an affair with a German officer, but has a secret.

What will happen to all of them?

Will they help each other or turn on each other?

Ms. Ryan added a layer of mystery along with the tension involved with keeping safe in Nazi Germany.

The last 25% will have you biting your fingernails.

THE PARIS HOUSEKEEPER is another Renee Ryan gem that will be devoured by historical fiction fans and loved by those who enjoy female characters as the main focus.

Amazing research by Ms. Ryan. 5/5

Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.

Absolutely heartbreaking and gut wrenching to read about the horrific atrocities of the holocaust but also it is mesmerizing to read about the bravery and strength it took to survive. This book is one you must read and absolutely will be glued to the pages. There are three woman who have ties from the Hotel Ritz in Paris when German tanks infiltrate the city. Choices must be made and sometimes they aren’t the best but are made with good intentions. Choices can dictate our destiny and I found that applies to the outcome of the story. It’s hard to give a review without spoilers as I don’t want to give anything away. I connected with all three women and their story and it is so wonderfully written that it pulls you right in. I was on the edge of my seat wanting to help it was so vivid and real. If I had to say anything that I wanted more of it would be the Faith element as it seemed lost in the overall storyline. By the end I had tears pouring some were sad and some were emotional happy tears. Just know I loved it and recommend ordering and reading as soon as possible. Mine is going on my keeper shelf.
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

Life changes almost in a minute when the evil that has been invading Europe turns its ugly eyes on France. Neighbor turning on neighbor, and soon bread lines, and certain people must stand at the end, and usually don't get anything.

The author gives us faces to those that are just trying to survive, one a young girl, a member of the now hated class, another an American heiress that tries to help the less fortunate, and the third, actually the Paris housekeeper, is a beautiful young woman, she seems to have the world on her shoulders, but goes about her life doing all she can for the lest fortunate.

This is story of intrigue, danger, fear, and yet, with all that is going on, you will chuckle as at one of the solutions the young housekeeper comes up with. Yes, this is a page turner, I needed answers, and loved that there is an epilogue at the end, and be sure to read the author's notes!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.

Renee Ryan’s The Widows of Champagne is a beautifully written novel of strength, sacrifice and survival . If you are a fan of WW2 fiction with strong female protagonists I definitely recommend this book.

Three generations of widowed Leblanc women Josephine, Helene and Gabrielle operating their family owned vineyard struggle to survive during the Nazi occupation of France and subsequently their home in Reims. They shoulder their individual responsibilities to their family each bearing the weight of their own secrets and struggles. The sacrifices they make and the most difficult decisions they have to take while withstanding the pressures of an increasingly oppressive regime reflect their strength and indomitable spirit. The author has penned each of these women in a way that commands admiration and respect.

With the looming threats of discovery , betrayal and much worse how their choices and actions eventually carve their individual and collective destinies makes this a poignant and emotional story that will stay with me for a long time.

I received a print copy of this book in a giveaway hosted by the author with no obligation. This review reflects my unbiased thoughts and opinions.

A compelling novel set in WW2 France.
History comes alive through the storyline of three women from distinct backgrounds whose lives intersect in Paris during the German Occupation.

The tension builds as the danger grows and the characters make difficult choices. It reminded me of a spy movie, especially in Vivian's case with the intrigue and sacrifices she made to help others. The exciting ending was worth the wait and was quite moving. It is a tribute to the courage and fortitude of many unsung heroes as it is partly based on real people.

There is a mature adult situation, but not detailed. Mentions of the Jewish Holocaust and the prejudice of the time are gently handled and are important aspects of the story.

Recommend to mature readers who enjoy wartime tales. 4 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Comment:
Readers who are sensitive to sexual situations may want to skip this one. Not too detailed, but the suggestion may be a trigger for someone. It is more like a clean general fiction book with maybe a few mentions of God, but otherwise not really a Christian fiction book. There is some violence, but not prolonged, and is an important scene to the plot. The women are brave and inspiration comes from how they face their difficult situations.

This story of Paris occupied by the Nazis is told by three women in very different circumstances.

-Vivian is a glamorous American widow who lives at the Hotel Ritz. She continues her lavish lifestyle and doesn't seem to be affected by the German invasion until she is moved from her luxurious suite to a smaller room so that a German officer can live in her suite. She begins an affair with the German officer and to the outside world, it appears that she is a German sympathizer. She is hiding the fact that she's using her money to work with forgers to get fake identification papers to help Jewish people escape from France.
-Camille is a chambermaid at the Ritz. She needs to keep her job to send money home to help her emotionally disturbed sister because she knows what the Germans do with people with mental issues. Vivian has taken a liking to her and helps her make extra money by requesting her for help with her hair and wardrobe. Camille is suspicious of Vivian but turns to her for help in trying to get a Jewish chambermaid out of France.
-Rachel is Jewish and is treated poorly at her job because everyone knows. She is aware that she needs to get her family out of Paris and when her father and brother are taken in a round-up, she knows that she must act soon to save her mother and herself. Her friend Camille enlists help from Vivian but getting papers has become more difficult now that the Germans are being more ruthless.

Camille sets up a daring escape plan to help her friend by hiding her in the home of the German officer who is having the affair with Vivian who has been trying to help - but has she really? The last part of the book is very suspenseful and scary as the reader is unsure who will live and who will die and if the escape plan will work,

This is a well written and well researched novel about the lives of three very different women in Paris during the war. It's a story of bravery and friendship and freedom and I highly recommend it.

This book will awaken in you need for America to wake up. I read all Corrie Ten Boone's books on this time and saw the movies. Elsa was an Australian opera singer who became friends with Hattie a British typist. Hattie later turned to the art she wanted to do. It takes place in Europe during time of Hitler's reign. Good and bad happen during dark times. A husband may totally change and another couple work together to help the Jews escape Germany and draw closer. The pictures Hattie paints I spired by what she feels from opra music. The description are so good it is like you see the pictures in your mind. I have never been to an opera but through this book. I could picture the scenes. Excellent read for the time we live in

*VERY SOFT SPOILERS INCLUDED*

THE GOOD:
A pleasant tale with a feel good ending. A story of being moved to do what is right. And of being knocked down but not broken.

Elsa and Hattie's friendship is moving and inspiring. The have such "brotherly" love for each other. It's so nice to see a strong, healthy friendship portrayed, these days, without the author feeling the need to make it a romantic attraction as well.

A great cast of supporting, and interesting, characters as well. From Hattie's sister to Elsa's opera cast mates, to romantic interests for our two leading ladies; even a cranky coworker or two.

Even though the book takes on gritty topics, the reader isn't really shoved into the devastation. Caution that there is a rape scene, but is extremely well handled in "fade to black" method.

Thankfully free of the "diversity checklist" of modern stories.

THE BAD:
The book's title does not appear in the story, which is always a faux pas, in my opinion.

Also, the characters narrating frequently use more modern day language, such as "your truth" or "hate" (in reference to prejudice); I found this distracting.

I was a bit confused at the beginning, as well, because the tale starts in 1943 and then flashes back to 1934. The years looked similar to me, and the story didn't make it clear that we were switching time frames. But, thankfully that quickly cleared up. The main thrust of the story is the 1934 and onward timeline, with the 1943-1945 timeline there as a sort of foreshadowing.

CONCLUSION:
Well worth a read.

The opera makes a significant part of the story's backbone and that was a unique and layered angle.

A little more emotional impact, or a tighter tethering to the true facts that inspired the tale, would have pushed this over to a 5-star read for me.

But, overall, a really good novel, with a different perspective, that makes it stand-out in the overcrowded WWII fiction genre. Well done!

This book covers the tragic years between 1933 and 1945, when the world was torn apart by one man's desire to destroy anyone who was Jewish. Author Renee Ryan transports us to England, Austria, and Germany, in a captivating tale that's based on true life events. She explains in her author's note that she patterned Elsa Mayer-Braun and Hattie Featherstone after the real-life Cook sisters who orchestrated the rescue of twenty-nine Jews from Nazi Germany in the 1930s. As we're drawn into Elsa and Hattie's strong beliefs and witness their daring efforts to save others, we are reminded of the courage, love, and determination that were so prevalent during this time of persecution, betrayal, and death.

The Secret Society of Salzburg is truly a story of the heart, but its focus isn't romantic love. It is, instead, a moving portrayal of a bond of friendship and trust that couldn't be broken! I've always been fascinated by the events that surrounded World War II and I highly recommend this inspiring book to all who enjoy historical fiction!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

When Austrian opera singer Elsa meets English fan Hattie they forge an instant connection. As the Nazi menace grows stronger, the two team up to rescue as many Jewish artists and musicians as they can. A painter, Hattie schedules shows in cities where Elsa is playing and together they do everything they can to make a difference. Once war breaks out, Elsa is no longer safe and quickly comes under suspicion.

Although the story itself was a bit predictable, the characters were well developed and three dimensional. I really felt like I knew Elsa and Hattie. Both were interesting and dynamic characters. Overall 4 out of 5 stars.

The Secret Society of Salzburg instantly immersed me into its world. It skips back and forth, between past and “present”, seamlessly, creating a full, clear picture of the story that transpires between Elsa and Hattie, two kindred spirits with beautiful souls connected by music.

The friendships between the women in this novel is truly poetic and I loved Hattie and Elsa’s shared passions for wanting to help those in need despite them both coming from such different backgrounds. The Second World War is an event that should’ve never came to pass, and I appreciate all stories that depict those brave souls who did what they could to fight one of the most evil regimes in history.

I appreciated the depth of the characters, understanding each ones plights and motivations before getting to the meat of the story. Though I am not personally an opera fan myself, I am a true fan of music and the arts and have such an appreciation for those that are able to sing at such a caliber. It truly is a gift from God that few possess that I truly am in awe of.

One thing that I really appreciated in this historical fiction was the touch of mystery surrounding the “betrayer”. Even though once the truth was revealed, and it was someone at the top of my suspect list, how that plot line played out touched me deeply, so I wasn’t the least bit upset that it was so predictable. The story has the perfect ebb and flow, the characters developed, their plights clear, and their motivations without question. It is a very character-driven novel, but that doesn’t take away from the tension and or rollercoaster of emotions that you feel when you’re reading.

I read The Secret Society of Salzburg in one sitting, staying up until the wee hours to see this truly touching story come to fruition, and I savored every moment.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

“It’s a question I ask myself every day. If not us, who then will stand?”

An absolute gem of a read! This book gripped my heart and mind from the first page and didn’t let go until the very last. It was my introduction to the author’s writing - I’ll be sure to read her backlist and be on the lookout for future novels.

I am not an opera fan but loved being transported to that world on the cusp of WWII. The author made that environment come alive and the passion in opera came across beautifully. I loved both Elsa and Hattie - two strong heroines who risk all to rescue those in need. There are plenty of surprises in the plot which kept it moving at a good pace. Heartache, betrayal, loyalty, true friendship, and desperation to help those in need fill the pages of this book and it’ll surely become one of your favorites as well.

I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

In The Secret Society of Salzburg, Renee Ryan gives readers a taste of some of the art and operas during World War II while crafting a tale of the friendship and courage of two women connected by those creative endeavors.

Ryan captures the uncertainty and the unknown that most people must have experienced during World War II, as well as the danger and bravery. The author writes the emotional concern for others and mistrust of those in power without getting too graphic with the atrocities of that era.

With its unique twist on the genre, plenty of tense moments, and a sprinkling of romance, The Secret Society of Salzburg gives readers another perspective about the trials, tragedies, and fear so many people experienced during this time.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.

FANTASTIC READ!!

Why are there Nazis at our wedding?

Why would her husband invite them during this perilous time?

Elsa and Wilhelm were connected by the opera...she is a famous singer and he is a famous, powerful orchestra director.

He made her famous, married her, and somehow started to scare her.

We then meet Hattie and Vera who were secretaries at the Board of Education in England, but Hattie was also an artist and Vera an author.

Elsa met Hattie and Vera when they were on their way to one of her operas, and all three women with their talents became entangled in what was going on in Germany.

Art and opera were highly regarded, got the women safely together, and made a perfect cover for their friendship and what they were doing.

Elsa became fast and devoted friends with both Hattie and Vera once Elsa saw Hattie’s emotional drawings of herself and after the sisters met Elsa's Aunt Malvina.

A problem...Malvina was Jewish and in danger - could Elsa be in danger too since they shared the same blood?

You will find the answer to everything when you read this gripping, heartbreaking tale of women trying to save as many Jewish citizens as possible while endangering themselves and their dream careers.

Another marvelous, marvelous, unable-to-put-down read by Renee Ryan based on the lives of Ida and Louise Cook...do not miss this book. 5/5

This book was given to me by the author for an honest review.

Elsa is a renowned Austrian opera singer. Hattie is an up and coming artist. These two become great friends because Hattie admires Elsa so very much and Elsa is a kind person who sort of takes Hattie under her wing. But, these two have a big secret. They are doing everything they can to smuggle Jews out of Nazi occupied territories.

Elsa is one of the strongest characters I have ever had the pleasure of knowing! And there are quite a few places where this shows up front and center. Then there is Hattie. She can be a bit “holier than thou” in places but she truly ignores the danger to save as many as she can.

Y’all! This book is AMAZING! I know this sounds cliché…but I was hooked from start to finish! And to be honest, I was on the edge of my seat for most of it! This is tagged by Harlequin as “Love Inspired”. But this is more of a love of all people not romance.

Need a novel which will have you reading faster and faster…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

This story moves back and forth along the timeline of 1934 to 1945. At first I found that confusing, but after further reading I was enthralled with how the author, Renee Ryan, used that to build tension and suspense as the reader develops a relationship with the two main characters and longs to discover the betrayer of one of them. The story honors the bravery of the men and women who took great risks to save the lives of many Jews leading up to and during World War II. It also showcases the importance of creative expression through the arts in our human experience. Most importantly, the story demonstrates the importance of faith in God during the toughest of times.

The Secret Society of Salzburg is very well written and researched. It is believable with dialogue that rings true and content that creates vivid mental images and evokes strong emotions. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Love Inspired via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

I think that this was one of my favorite WWll novels. I loved Elsa and Hattie. I loved learning a little bit about some of the operas. I laughed and cried throughout this story. I love that there were such brave women and men that wanted to see a difference made. I did not want to put this book down. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Another amazing WWII read about two women who did everything they could to save others lives, while putting their own at risk every day. This novel follows two sisters and an opera singer who is a bit oblivious about the war. Elsa, the well known opera singer has no need for want, and travels where she wants while supporting her mother and when war breaks out Elsa does not realize the seriousness of what is really happening until it hits home with other family and friends of hers suffering. Hattie and Vera are two sisters who could not be more close. They have relied on each other their whole lives and are concerned about the impending war. Both having a love of music and the arts, the two find ways to still enjoy life a little with the operas and their own hobbies. Hattie finally figures out her inspiration after hearing Elsa preform and she knows she must meet her. With an unexpected turn of events Elsa takes a liking to Hattie very quickly and soon they are thrust into the inter world of the opera, performance and art and as their friendship grows so does an added hobby they've come to both strive for- saving others while working along side the enemy every day. This was such a great read! I loved the characters and the storyline and it just amazes me the lengths that people went to, to save others during this horrific time. Thank you to the author for the free book, and to JustReads for the tour invite! I loved this one of hers.

Hattie and Vera are sisters who live in a small flat in London and have jobs as civil servants. For her entire life, Hattie dreamed of becoming an artist but her goals were crushed by harsh criticism from a school professor. A German lecturer came to give a talk on music and as part of her lecture she played on opera for the group. Hattie and Vera had never heard opera before and the music they heard that day touched their souls. It gave Hattie the mental push she needed to create beautiful and emotional paintings. She gave one of her drawings to a world famous opera singer - Elsa and they become friends. When Hattie and Vera decide to save their money to attend the Salzburg music festival to hear Elsa, the friendship between the three grows. They work together to get Elsa's aunt out of Germany before she is arrested for being Jewish. Hattie and Vera were appalled at the treatment of two Jewish people on the train an vowed to do what they could to help people. After their continued success helping people escape, the two best friends continued meeting in different spots in Europe to help get many Jewish people out of Nazi territory. They used Elsa's music tours and Hattie's love for opera to plan their meetings. Vera realized the danger of what they were doing and decided to no longer be a part of the clandestine secret society. Even though Elsa has become Hitler's favorite opera singer, she is in constant danger of being discovered. As their lives hang in the balance, both women decide to continue their escape work. Will they be able to continue to help other people or are people suspicious and willing to betray them to the Nazis?

It's apparent that the author did extensive research and it shows in every page. The story is loosely based on the Cook sisters, two English sisters who rescued 29 Jews from Germany during the 1930s. Be sure to read the Author's Notes to get more information on the real people that this story is based on. Overall, this is a story about bravery and resilience during a dark time in history. Despite the turmoil in this world, these three friends kept creating beautiful art that continued to shine in the midst of the horrors of the war.

This story highlights two British sisters, Hattie and Vera, who give their gifts to help others. This is a WWII story, fictional, but if you read the author's notes, based on fact!

These sisters, innocently at first, begin with a love of opera! Then their gifts begin to open door, that in turn open doors for others. This is a story that needs to be told, and we should never forget, a hate of a group of people, and those who give the ultimate.

Will those you soon care about survive?

This is a read that is going to stay with you, have you holding your breath, and quickly page turning for answers.

I received this book through the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.