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Until Leaves Fall in Paris
When the Nazis march toward Paris, American ballerina Lucie Girard buys her favorite English-language bookstore to allow the Jewish owners to escape. The Germans make it difficult for her to keep Green Leaf Books afloat. And she must keep the store open if she is to continue aiding the resistance by passing secret messages between the pages of her books.
Widower Paul Aubrey wants nothing more than to return to the States with his little girl, but the US Army convinces him to keep his factory running and obtain military information from his German customers. As the war rages on, Paul offers his own resistance by sabotaging his product and hiding British airmen in his factory. But in order to carry out his mission, he must appear to support the occupation—which does not win him any sympathy when he meets Lucie in the bookstore.
In a world turned upside down, will love or duty prevail?
Widower Paul Aubrey wants nothing more than to return to the States with his little girl, but the US Army convinces him to keep his factory running and obtain military information from his German customers. As the war rages on, Paul offers his own resistance by sabotaging his product and hiding British airmen in his factory. But in order to carry out his mission, he must appear to support the occupation—which does not win him any sympathy when he meets Lucie in the bookstore.
In a world turned upside down, will love or duty prevail?
403 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2022
About the author
Sarah Sundin
20 books3,203 followersSarah Sundin enjoys writing about the drama and romance of the World War II era. She is the bestselling author of Embers in the London Sky (February 2024). Her novels have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Booklist. The Sound of Light is a 2024 Carol Award finalist, Until Leaves Fall in Paris received the 2022 Christy Award, The Sound of Light, When Twilight Breaks, and The Land Beneath Us were Christy Award finalists, and The Sky Above Us won the 2020 Carol Award.
A mother of three, Sundin lives in Southern California and teaches Sunday school and women's Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as program director for the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.
A mother of three, Sundin lives in Southern California and teaches Sunday school and women's Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as program director for the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 951 reviews
February 14, 2022
What a delightful, high-suspense story! I read it all in one sitting, into the wee hours of the morning on a work night—tomorrow will be fun on 3.5 hours of sleep! Simply couldn’t put it down and couldn’t quit flipping pages. I’m pretty sure I’ll reread the whole thing again when I get a paper copy.
Lucie has had a dream of being a top ballerina in the top Paris ballet for a long time until war closes in and she finds herself stepping up to take over the English bookshop for her Jewish friends as they evacuate Paris ahead of the Germans. When she meets the young car-factory owner, Paul Aubrey, sparks fly instantly when she sets out to capture his daughter’s imagination and snags his broken heart in the process—but instantly, vey real issues force them apart. Both hold dangerous secrets and won’t risk others in their lives as they do what they can against the German advances. And just when they begin to truly grow closer, America and Germany declare war and Paris erupts into a pit of danger.
Lucie and Paul truly have perfect chemistry and four-year-old Josie continually steals the show. Characterization is done so well that they spring off the page and seem to take on a life of their own.
I’m glad to count this action-packed WW2 romantic thriller as a new favorite for this year. Now I’m off to pout because I have to wait a whole year for the next Sundin book. (And maybe to sleep a little.)
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy. A favorable review was not required.
Lucie has had a dream of being a top ballerina in the top Paris ballet for a long time until war closes in and she finds herself stepping up to take over the English bookshop for her Jewish friends as they evacuate Paris ahead of the Germans. When she meets the young car-factory owner, Paul Aubrey, sparks fly instantly when she sets out to capture his daughter’s imagination and snags his broken heart in the process—but instantly, vey real issues force them apart. Both hold dangerous secrets and won’t risk others in their lives as they do what they can against the German advances. And just when they begin to truly grow closer, America and Germany declare war and Paris erupts into a pit of danger.
Lucie and Paul truly have perfect chemistry and four-year-old Josie continually steals the show. Characterization is done so well that they spring off the page and seem to take on a life of their own.
I’m glad to count this action-packed WW2 romantic thriller as a new favorite for this year. Now I’m off to pout because I have to wait a whole year for the next Sundin book. (And maybe to sleep a little.)
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy. A favorable review was not required.
August 10, 2022
Until Leaves Fall in Paris by Sarah Sundin. Wonderful book about WW2. Starts in 1940 with the resistance, and collaborators in Nazi Germany. Who to trust. That fear everyone felt at that time. 3 Americans fleeing to leave, one of which is a young child trying to out run the Nazis and get back to America proves to be more difficult after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor.
March 14, 2022
With so many historical fiction ww11 books out there knowing which books to give your time to can be a daunting task. Not a problem with Sarah Sundin's books though with each one meticulously researched they are automatic reads for me.
I was intrigued with this one starting with the gorgeous cover.
I am a big fan of books that grab my attention by being unique and this one definitely is.
American ballerina Lucie Girard is a ballet dancer in Paris but knows she must leave the ballet to protect the Jewish owners so they can escape the Natzi's advance towards Paris in 1940 so she buys their bookstore, Green Leaf Books .
We meet Paul a widower and his precious young daughter who is so smart.
His daughter convinces him to go to Lucie's bookshop which is where they meet. Paul is an American as well living in Paris who just wants to return home but has been convinced to keep his factory running and while doing so obtains military information from his German customers.
Sparks fly but Lucie is convinced Paul is siding with the German's to whom he sells his vehicles to.
I loved everything about this book as it really drew me in.
The plot is incredible and we find as we read we become wrapped up in the resistance,sabotage,hiding RAF pilots,hidden messages in books, an incredible escape that you could just feel the tension from.
The author is a master at taking you along with her on her writing journey because you are going to experience what she is writing about as though you are there.
Highly recommended!
Pub Date 01 Feb 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I was intrigued with this one starting with the gorgeous cover.
I am a big fan of books that grab my attention by being unique and this one definitely is.
American ballerina Lucie Girard is a ballet dancer in Paris but knows she must leave the ballet to protect the Jewish owners so they can escape the Natzi's advance towards Paris in 1940 so she buys their bookstore, Green Leaf Books .
We meet Paul a widower and his precious young daughter who is so smart.
His daughter convinces him to go to Lucie's bookshop which is where they meet. Paul is an American as well living in Paris who just wants to return home but has been convinced to keep his factory running and while doing so obtains military information from his German customers.
Sparks fly but Lucie is convinced Paul is siding with the German's to whom he sells his vehicles to.
I loved everything about this book as it really drew me in.
The plot is incredible and we find as we read we become wrapped up in the resistance,sabotage,hiding RAF pilots,hidden messages in books, an incredible escape that you could just feel the tension from.
The author is a master at taking you along with her on her writing journey because you are going to experience what she is writing about as though you are there.
Highly recommended!
Pub Date 01 Feb 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 2, 2022
3.5 stars
At first glance, this looks like just the book for me. WWII, written by Sarah Sundin, and starring a ballerina? It sounds like it couldn't get better! Sadly, this book wasn't a home run for me.
Characters: First off, I really enjoyed Lucie's character. She was the best developed of the two MCs, and her personality was amazing. Her mixture of playfulness and joy really created an intriguing character who didn't come off as a hairbrain. (Which she totally could've in a lesser author's hands.) Of course, I loved the part about her being a ballerina, though I could've done with way more of that storyline. As for Paul, though ... I just wasn't sold on him. He seemed a little bland in comparison to Lucie (maybe just because she was so outstanding), but I just couldn't understand him. Sometimes he seemed like the gruff factory owner, but then he had these moments of weird lightheartedness. (Which was actually really cute.) However, I would've just liked to see his character more fleshed out so I knew more of who he actually was. As for Josie ... she was such a cutie! I loved the part about her Feenee stories. As a fellow writer, that plotline was golden. I also thought Josie's interactions with Lucie and Paul were both quite well-done. The side characters were okay - I liked Moreau, but Lucie's friends seemed so shallow. I think I was expecting the usual friends that Sarah Sundin puts in her books, and I wish something could've resolved with those girls.
Writing Style/Setting/Plot: The writing was okay; nothing spectacular, but it was clean and easy to read. The setting was interesting, though, because I haven't read that much about Paris at the beginning of WWII. It was intriguing to see how Parisians were affected and reacted to the war. Also, on an entirely random note, I appreciated all the names of the streets even though I couldn't pronounce them to save my life. Good research on the author's part. But as for the plot ... this is where it really dragged. I enjoyed the first hundred pages or so (really loved those), but as the book continued on, I felt like I was just laboring to get to the end. This could totally just be a thing specific to me, though, so take this with a grain of salt. I just felt as if the plot began wandering a bit without much of a clear end, and it took things longer to resolve than they should've.
Moral/Theme: One big theme that came through was the importance of both beauty and functionality. As a ballerina, Lucie found great important in beauty, and as a car designer/manufacture, Paul focused more on functionality. However, they both came to see that the world is better with both beauty (art) and functional stuff (cars, business, etc.) This tied into Josie's Feenee stories, because Paul eventually saw that there was value even in his little girl's slightly confusing stories. As an author, I loved that!
Overall, Until Leaves Fall in Paris was an okay book. The pacing, for me, was the main problem, but if you enjoy WWII fiction, definitely give this book a try.
At first glance, this looks like just the book for me. WWII, written by Sarah Sundin, and starring a ballerina? It sounds like it couldn't get better! Sadly, this book wasn't a home run for me.
Characters: First off, I really enjoyed Lucie's character. She was the best developed of the two MCs, and her personality was amazing. Her mixture of playfulness and joy really created an intriguing character who didn't come off as a hairbrain. (Which she totally could've in a lesser author's hands.) Of course, I loved the part about her being a ballerina, though I could've done with way more of that storyline. As for Paul, though ... I just wasn't sold on him. He seemed a little bland in comparison to Lucie (maybe just because she was so outstanding), but I just couldn't understand him. Sometimes he seemed like the gruff factory owner, but then he had these moments of weird lightheartedness. (Which was actually really cute.) However, I would've just liked to see his character more fleshed out so I knew more of who he actually was. As for Josie ... she was such a cutie! I loved the part about her Feenee stories. As a fellow writer, that plotline was golden. I also thought Josie's interactions with Lucie and Paul were both quite well-done. The side characters were okay - I liked Moreau, but Lucie's friends seemed so shallow. I think I was expecting the usual friends that Sarah Sundin puts in her books, and I wish something could've resolved with those girls.
Writing Style/Setting/Plot: The writing was okay; nothing spectacular, but it was clean and easy to read. The setting was interesting, though, because I haven't read that much about Paris at the beginning of WWII. It was intriguing to see how Parisians were affected and reacted to the war. Also, on an entirely random note, I appreciated all the names of the streets even though I couldn't pronounce them to save my life. Good research on the author's part. But as for the plot ... this is where it really dragged. I enjoyed the first hundred pages or so (really loved those), but as the book continued on, I felt like I was just laboring to get to the end. This could totally just be a thing specific to me, though, so take this with a grain of salt. I just felt as if the plot began wandering a bit without much of a clear end, and it took things longer to resolve than they should've.
Moral/Theme: One big theme that came through was the importance of both beauty and functionality. As a ballerina, Lucie found great important in beauty, and as a car designer/manufacture, Paul focused more on functionality. However, they both came to see that the world is better with both beauty (art) and functional stuff (cars, business, etc.) This tied into Josie's Feenee stories, because Paul eventually saw that there was value even in his little girl's slightly confusing stories. As an author, I loved that!
Overall, Until Leaves Fall in Paris was an okay book. The pacing, for me, was the main problem, but if you enjoy WWII fiction, definitely give this book a try.
March 22, 2022
Early Exclamations:
ALFKADFAJDGKJADKFAJDFKAJDFKAJSDFKLA
JOSIE
JUST JOSIE
Also, Lucie is the cutest.
aND I ADORE PAUL TOO.
And the Aubrey Automobile with their Au is hilarious but fun.
I am so bourgeois, y'all. So, so bourgeois. And I'm saying this to a bunch of creative reviews, readers, and authors, so consider me brave - but I do not get you. I want to. But I am so on Paul's side here. xD France is amusing, though.
That's all I have to say on the subject. Except spoilers.
Actual Analysis
I still have a book hangover from this one.
As I mentioned in my original squeals, I was delighted. Utterly delighted. I don't think I liked it as much as When Twilight Breaks, but it was a near second. I started it a bit skeptical but Lucie seems like just the type of chick I wouldn't like, but I often say that about Sundin's heroines and then end up utterly wooed.
Just ... oh, the beauty. The beauty through the pain. I am delighted - that's the only way I can properly express my love of this book!
All the characters were so real. All the situations so sweet. And the whole forbidden romance story ... Apparently that's my thing. Like, I had no idea, but apparently it is. Call it the rebel in me or the fact that I just can't bear to see two people with a genuine connection be denied access to each other.
Maybe I am a hopeless romantic after all ...
I want to be professional, but instead I'll leave you with those thoughts. READ THIS! Know that it's great. If you don't understand why after you read it, I'm happy to try to explain better.
Any Acknowledgements:
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange from my honest review, which I have given. No positive review was required.
TTFN!
~Kellyn Roth~
ALFKADFAJDGKJADKFAJDFKAJDFKAJSDFKLA
JOSIE
JUST JOSIE
Also, Lucie is the cutest.
aND I ADORE PAUL TOO.
And the Aubrey Automobile with their Au is hilarious but fun.
I am so bourgeois, y'all. So, so bourgeois. And I'm saying this to a bunch of creative reviews, readers, and authors, so consider me brave - but I do not get you. I want to. But I am so on Paul's side here. xD France is amusing, though.
That's all I have to say on the subject. Except spoilers.
Actual Analysis
I still have a book hangover from this one.
As I mentioned in my original squeals, I was delighted. Utterly delighted. I don't think I liked it as much as When Twilight Breaks, but it was a near second. I started it a bit skeptical but Lucie seems like just the type of chick I wouldn't like, but I often say that about Sundin's heroines and then end up utterly wooed.
Just ... oh, the beauty. The beauty through the pain. I am delighted - that's the only way I can properly express my love of this book!
All the characters were so real. All the situations so sweet. And the whole forbidden romance story ... Apparently that's my thing. Like, I had no idea, but apparently it is. Call it the rebel in me or the fact that I just can't bear to see two people with a genuine connection be denied access to each other.
Maybe I am a hopeless romantic after all ...
I want to be professional, but instead I'll leave you with those thoughts. READ THIS! Know that it's great. If you don't understand why after you read it, I'm happy to try to explain better.
Any Acknowledgements:
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange from my honest review, which I have given. No positive review was required.
TTFN!
~Kellyn Roth~
Read
November 26, 2021Artful and bookish with prose as intricately meted as a pas de deux, Until Leaves Fall in Paris is Sarah Sundin's treatise on conscience and prejudice in a France where spreading ideologies are as dangerous as weapons. Paul and Lucie, each bound to a city of liberty under the slow and certain theft of freedom, fill in the lines between black and white through the tenuous world of espionage and resistance. And while the best laid secrets can muddle the path to romance, Sundin's eloquent writing and brilliantly realized locales keep the pages turning and the reader's heart invested in two lost souls bravely redefining the steps toward love. In a sea of Parisienne-flavoured WWII fiction, Sundin's intimate and focused look at displaced Americans is a welcome and unique canvas upholstered by her second-to-none research. Until Leaves Fall in Paris is destined to delight her long-established readers and leave those previously uninitiated immediately reaching for her backlist and clamouring for more.
May 3, 2022
Melt my heart, Sarah!
Y’all, this book totally tied the Normandy trilogy as my favorites of Mrs. Sarah Sundin’s books. So good!
Such rich detail! Every aspect of this story came fully alive to me, and that was, in large part, thanks to the exquisite attention to detail the author put into the writing as well as the research. I especially loved that the story was historically accurate, as proven in the author’s note where it was mentioned that certain terms were not used because they came about months or years after the story’s dates. This made for such an enjoyable story!
Lucie leaped off the page, and I think this was because the author let her own experience with ballet filter from her mind into her imagination and onto the pages. Each new detail added such depth to Lucie’s character, which, in turn, added more life to her journey.
The research on car manufacturing businesses of the era attributed to the genuine atmosphere, as well as heightened the tension, in certain key scenes. I’m not a mechanic, but these details felt completely realistic and era-appropriate.
The intricate application of the author’s imagination and large doses of whimsy infused light and color and playfulness into little Josie’s thread, particularly her “Feenee” stories. This little girl was definitely the bright spot among highlights in this novel.
Who am I kidding? I loved all of it!
As soon as I finished reading it, I let out a very happy sigh and said aloud, “Man, I wish I had time to read it again!” Yep, it was that good.
Paris truly popped off the pages. The details! Oh, I wish I knew how to properly pronounce all the street names! I love that they were included. I don’t know much about the layout of Paris, other than the Left Bank/Right Bank thing, but the beautiful inclusion of such details made it easier to imagine a nearly complete map. I love it when authors put out so much work to make a city or town, real or fictional, come alive like that.
This story was especially beautiful for how the French Resistance worked against tyranny during World War II. It was neat to see the passion of everyday people standing up for their personal freedoms and rights and beliefs.
Perception and assumption played pretty large roles in this novel, and they were worked to perfection. It was heart-wrenching to see certain characters assume particular wrong things about other characters’ behaviors, but this also made for the good kind of drama that I love reading.
I adored the sweet terms of endearment. They were literally sweet, which was cool. Such a quirky addition to the tale! I loved it.
I think writing up this review is convincing me to reread this gorgeous, lovely, amazing book in the next few weeks. Spending more time with Paul, Lucie, and Josie might be just what I need to kick off my summer reading.
Content: tobacco, alcohol, one replacement expletive, marital affairs mentioned
Y’all, this book totally tied the Normandy trilogy as my favorites of Mrs. Sarah Sundin’s books. So good!
Such rich detail! Every aspect of this story came fully alive to me, and that was, in large part, thanks to the exquisite attention to detail the author put into the writing as well as the research. I especially loved that the story was historically accurate, as proven in the author’s note where it was mentioned that certain terms were not used because they came about months or years after the story’s dates. This made for such an enjoyable story!
Lucie leaped off the page, and I think this was because the author let her own experience with ballet filter from her mind into her imagination and onto the pages. Each new detail added such depth to Lucie’s character, which, in turn, added more life to her journey.
The research on car manufacturing businesses of the era attributed to the genuine atmosphere, as well as heightened the tension, in certain key scenes. I’m not a mechanic, but these details felt completely realistic and era-appropriate.
The intricate application of the author’s imagination and large doses of whimsy infused light and color and playfulness into little Josie’s thread, particularly her “Feenee” stories. This little girl was definitely the bright spot among highlights in this novel.
Who am I kidding? I loved all of it!
As soon as I finished reading it, I let out a very happy sigh and said aloud, “Man, I wish I had time to read it again!” Yep, it was that good.
Paris truly popped off the pages. The details! Oh, I wish I knew how to properly pronounce all the street names! I love that they were included. I don’t know much about the layout of Paris, other than the Left Bank/Right Bank thing, but the beautiful inclusion of such details made it easier to imagine a nearly complete map. I love it when authors put out so much work to make a city or town, real or fictional, come alive like that.
This story was especially beautiful for how the French Resistance worked against tyranny during World War II. It was neat to see the passion of everyday people standing up for their personal freedoms and rights and beliefs.
Perception and assumption played pretty large roles in this novel, and they were worked to perfection. It was heart-wrenching to see certain characters assume particular wrong things about other characters’ behaviors, but this also made for the good kind of drama that I love reading.
I adored the sweet terms of endearment. They were literally sweet, which was cool. Such a quirky addition to the tale! I loved it.
I think writing up this review is convincing me to reread this gorgeous, lovely, amazing book in the next few weeks. Spending more time with Paul, Lucie, and Josie might be just what I need to kick off my summer reading.
Content: tobacco, alcohol, one replacement expletive, marital affairs mentioned
March 8, 2022
This might actually end up being my favorite book of 2022. I loved it so much!
It’s really hard for me to put into words why I loved it so much…
I love Sarah’s writing, first of all. I have loved all of her books that I’ve read, and at this point I feel like she can do no wrong. Her characters are always amazing. I loved the setting. I loved the story.
I really don’t know what else to say. I’ve been sitting here, typing things out but nothing sounds articulate enough to put in a review 😅 nor does any of it do this book justice. I absolutely adored this book; I guess I’m just going to leave it at that… I highly, HIGHLY recommend this book!
It’s really hard for me to put into words why I loved it so much…
I love Sarah’s writing, first of all. I have loved all of her books that I’ve read, and at this point I feel like she can do no wrong. Her characters are always amazing. I loved the setting. I loved the story.
I really don’t know what else to say. I’ve been sitting here, typing things out but nothing sounds articulate enough to put in a review 😅 nor does any of it do this book justice. I absolutely adored this book; I guess I’m just going to leave it at that… I highly, HIGHLY recommend this book!
May 14, 2022
Sarah Sundin's novels are always winners, and Until Leaves Fall in Paris was one of my favorites. A compelling story that quickly pulled me into its pages with great characterization and a setting I could love. Paris. WWII. Books. Ballet. A star-crossed romance. A child who needs protecting. Wonderful writing.
May 17, 2022
This is a book filled with emotion. A book about books is sure to get me enthralled at the very start, and I loved the passion through the characters and the way Sundin writes about the bookshop made my heart melt.
The characters Lucie and Paul are amazing and I loved reading about their relationship as it developed.
I hoped a little more 'wow' factor though. This is a highly saturated genre and I feel there needs to be memorable stories as well as the characters to truly make an impact in the WW2 genre.
The characters Lucie and Paul are amazing and I loved reading about their relationship as it developed.
I hoped a little more 'wow' factor though. This is a highly saturated genre and I feel there needs to be memorable stories as well as the characters to truly make an impact in the WW2 genre.
February 13, 2022
1941-1942 Paris (briefly Portugal & Massachusetts)
Lovely! Until Leaves Fall is about two Americans (Paul Aubrey & Lucie Girard) living in Paris during German occupation. Their lives are vastly different with Paul the owner of a manufacturing business and Lucie a ballerina that purchased a book store to help her Jewish friends that left the country. The story line is engaging and at times suspenseful.
Paul's four year old daughter Josephine adds a great deal to the novel.
Well done. A new favorite Sundin novel!
Lovely! Until Leaves Fall is about two Americans (Paul Aubrey & Lucie Girard) living in Paris during German occupation. Their lives are vastly different with Paul the owner of a manufacturing business and Lucie a ballerina that purchased a book store to help her Jewish friends that left the country. The story line is engaging and at times suspenseful.
Paul's four year old daughter Josephine adds a great deal to the novel.
Well done. A new favorite Sundin novel!
January 3, 2022
I am frankly amazed at Sundin's talent to come up with unique and creative stories, all set within a fairly specific genre (WWII fiction). It seems (said the non-author :D) like a topic could be exhausted at a certain point--but _Until Leaves Fall in Paris_ happily proves me wrong.
I continue to learn things about WWII in this read that I didn't know before. I continue to be happily surprised at Sundin's skills as a writer and storyteller. And, I continue to get sad when the story ends, because I'm simply not ready to say goodbye!
This read is particularly poignant, making me noticeably, viscerally react at points (maybe I shouldn't read before bed or at certain times of the month? Oh, who am I kidding ... lol!). I really had to sit with it for a while after finishing!
While a standalone novel (best I can tell :D #storyofmylife), readers will see some familiar names from When Twilight Breaks - and apparently that will also continue in an upcoming book, per the author's note at the end! Yay! #squee I loved catching a glimpse of what those characters were up to after that book's end.
Fans of The Last Bookshop in London: A Novel of World War II will particularly enjoy this read.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I continue to learn things about WWII in this read that I didn't know before. I continue to be happily surprised at Sundin's skills as a writer and storyteller. And, I continue to get sad when the story ends, because I'm simply not ready to say goodbye!
This read is particularly poignant, making me noticeably, viscerally react at points (maybe I shouldn't read before bed or at certain times of the month? Oh, who am I kidding ... lol!). I really had to sit with it for a while after finishing!
While a standalone novel (best I can tell :D #storyofmylife), readers will see some familiar names from When Twilight Breaks - and apparently that will also continue in an upcoming book, per the author's note at the end! Yay! #squee I loved catching a glimpse of what those characters were up to after that book's end.
Fans of The Last Bookshop in London: A Novel of World War II will particularly enjoy this read.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
January 21, 2023
What can I say that I already haven’t said about a Sarah Sundin book? At this point I feel like I’m so redundant in my reviews for her work because I love them all!
This story, like When Twilight Breaks, felt so real to me! The attention to historical detail is something Sundin does best, and it’s one of my favorite things about her books. But what she also does is help readers experience these events with the characters, combining depth and emotion with fact. Getting to see the French Resistance through the eyes of Paul and Lucie, who were both involved the resistance in different ways, was so interesting. They each brought different perspectives as they grappled with their participation in something so much larger than themselves.
I feel like I can’t fully articulate how much I love this book. Every time I try to type it out, it just looks like a garbled mess with no real direction. So I’m just going to do a bullet point list and maybe someday I can write out nice like this book deserves. :)
1. The nods to ballet. I danced classical ballet for 13 years, and it still holds such a special place in my life! I love how this drove a conversation on the purpose of beauty, and how God creates both beautiful and functional things.
2. Paul and Lucie. I liked them both right off the bat. They’re strong characters who can hold their own, and each showcased qualities of courage and integrity. They were passionate in their beliefs, and once they overcame the hurdles in their relationship, their romance was the sweetest.
3. Josie. Completely adorable.
4. The suspense. The build of tension in Paris was so well done. Not too much, but enough to keep me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next!
I smiled, I cried, I was on the edge of my seat. I cannot recommend this enough!
This story, like When Twilight Breaks, felt so real to me! The attention to historical detail is something Sundin does best, and it’s one of my favorite things about her books. But what she also does is help readers experience these events with the characters, combining depth and emotion with fact. Getting to see the French Resistance through the eyes of Paul and Lucie, who were both involved the resistance in different ways, was so interesting. They each brought different perspectives as they grappled with their participation in something so much larger than themselves.
I feel like I can’t fully articulate how much I love this book. Every time I try to type it out, it just looks like a garbled mess with no real direction. So I’m just going to do a bullet point list and maybe someday I can write out nice like this book deserves. :)
1. The nods to ballet. I danced classical ballet for 13 years, and it still holds such a special place in my life! I love how this drove a conversation on the purpose of beauty, and how God creates both beautiful and functional things.
2. Paul and Lucie. I liked them both right off the bat. They’re strong characters who can hold their own, and each showcased qualities of courage and integrity. They were passionate in their beliefs, and once they overcame the hurdles in their relationship, their romance was the sweetest.
3. Josie. Completely adorable.
4. The suspense. The build of tension in Paris was so well done. Not too much, but enough to keep me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next!
I smiled, I cried, I was on the edge of my seat. I cannot recommend this enough!
April 15, 2022
There was absolutely so much depth and richness to love about this book. Maybe it's because it was set in Paris or maybe it was because the main character is a ballerina or maybe it was because both hero and heroine worked for the Resistance. Regardless, this novel is rich and filled with sensory details that make the words sing with description, intrigue and romance.
Paul, Lucie and Josie make this story what it is with their struggles and joys that they face and persevere through in WWII Paris. The novel brims with intrigue and espionage keeping pages flying fast. I quite loved this book from beginning to end.
Paul, Lucie and Josie make this story what it is with their struggles and joys that they face and persevere through in WWII Paris. The novel brims with intrigue and espionage keeping pages flying fast. I quite loved this book from beginning to end.
February 28, 2022
Another wonderful book by Sarah Sundin!
Full review coming soon
Full review coming soon
October 16, 2022
I've been hoarding this book for months, just waiting for fall to arrive so I could read it while leaves fall in Paris (I assume. They're falling here in the desert!). Was it worth the wait?
Oh, yeah!
Almost like magnets, this "opposites attract and repel" novel dives deep into perception, resistance, and acceptance. Rather than showing one perspective as superior or even both as "equally superior," Sundin crafts a story where her characters are two halves of a whole--both with strengths and weaknesses until they understand why not only should they accept the other's differences but incorporate some of them as well. Too often authors focus so much on that acceptance that the character growth following is slighted. Not this time.
With careful and faithful attention to historical accuracy rather than reader assumptions (read the author's notes in the back!), Sundin weaves a tale of the early days of the French Resistance, what collaboration may have looked like, and why things aren't always as they seem.
But I think the best part of this story really is the characterization. Paul seems practical and reserved, but is he really? After all, he calls his daughter creative nicknames and for a reason rather than out of rote habit learned from someone else. Lucie seems a bit ditsy and impractical, but what about her bravery and creativity even in dangerous situations?
Every element of this story was so skillfully woven together to show depth of character and faith that it becomes difficult to remember that it is a work of fiction.
And if all that wasn't enough, Peter Lang from When Twilight Breaks appeared on the scene to add an extra measure of delight.
Oh, yeah!
Almost like magnets, this "opposites attract and repel" novel dives deep into perception, resistance, and acceptance. Rather than showing one perspective as superior or even both as "equally superior," Sundin crafts a story where her characters are two halves of a whole--both with strengths and weaknesses until they understand why not only should they accept the other's differences but incorporate some of them as well. Too often authors focus so much on that acceptance that the character growth following is slighted. Not this time.
With careful and faithful attention to historical accuracy rather than reader assumptions (read the author's notes in the back!), Sundin weaves a tale of the early days of the French Resistance, what collaboration may have looked like, and why things aren't always as they seem.
But I think the best part of this story really is the characterization. Paul seems practical and reserved, but is he really? After all, he calls his daughter creative nicknames and for a reason rather than out of rote habit learned from someone else. Lucie seems a bit ditsy and impractical, but what about her bravery and creativity even in dangerous situations?
Every element of this story was so skillfully woven together to show depth of character and faith that it becomes difficult to remember that it is a work of fiction.
And if all that wasn't enough, Peter Lang from When Twilight Breaks appeared on the scene to add an extra measure of delight.
June 20, 2023
4.5 stars! I’ve always just looooved Sarah Sundin. Just like her previous books, in Until Leaves Fall in Paris she has included such lovely characters and a storyline that enthralls and keeps me on my toes to quickly see what’s next. :) It wasn't too heavy or as emotionally charging, but there's that depth and that romantic (& Nazi...) tension that really satisfied and brought everything to life (as always from her!). I'm constantly amazed at Sundin’s writings, her research, and how she makes the story feel so real through lovable characters! :”) I’ll say, though, that it feels like there’s a little less depth to her characters (like in this series) compared to her previous books and they don’t stick out to me as uniquely as her previous’ novels have. Either that…or it’s just me extremely loving her older series and finding them incomparable. XD Nevertheless, her books are as lovely as ever and carry really good and deep meaning to them (like this one!). I love em.
October 12, 2022
First off, this book is majorly set in a bookstore. Green Leaf Books is just so, ahhh, it's a bookstore! A BOOKSTORE, (need I say more?!) how awesome is that?! I mean, it's beautiful! Sarah Sundin has long been a favorite author of mine, but this one tops the cake!
Until Leaves Fall in Paris isn't quite like the rest of Mrs. Sundin's works ... I mean that due to the fact that there is a little kid as a huge part of the novel, which I loved, by the way, and I was impressed by Mrs. Sundin's ability to handle a character as a child in the same skilled way she does any other character.
Speaking of characters, man, oh man! Lucie, I wasn't sure I'd like or connect with her at the start, but she quickly won me over even if the misunderstandings and harshness toward another character that she made assumptions about was saddening and I got annoyed Lucie was still just the perfect heroine for this story and by the end I loved her character. Paul, oh, Paul! He's just the sweetest and I loved seeing him with his darling little girl, all in all the characters were shown in such a perfect way that even if the story hadn't been so wonderful, I'd have read it for them.
Now for the setting, I loved that Mrs. Sundin took a different setting than most places where World War II is set, too many are on the front lines, to me at least, there's so much not written about at home or in the occupied cities and countries. And not only was it set in Paris, but it was also set in places that were hit a bit differently by the war, it showed just how hard it could be on the normal people, the Jewish who lived and worked in a normal place, the children who were wrongly drawn into choosing sides by their parents' views, and just ... How World War II affected everyone: no matter age, race, employment, home, everything. It was truly heartbreaking to read at times even with the hope that Mrs. Sundin wove throughout the whole of the novel.
With thrilling twist and turns that had me on the edge of my seat, especially the last few chapters, and a faith filled story all wrapped up in the most beautiful covers this is a must read from Sarah Sundin!
Well done on another beloved book, Mrs. Sundin!
My verse for Until Leaves Fall In Paris is Matthew 5:44 (King James Version)
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e-book or physical copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher or blog tour coordinator All views expressed are only my honest opinion and are in no way influenced by others' views or wishes.
Until Leaves Fall in Paris isn't quite like the rest of Mrs. Sundin's works ... I mean that due to the fact that there is a little kid as a huge part of the novel, which I loved, by the way, and I was impressed by Mrs. Sundin's ability to handle a character as a child in the same skilled way she does any other character.
Speaking of characters, man, oh man! Lucie, I wasn't sure I'd like or connect with her at the start, but she quickly won me over even if the misunderstandings and harshness toward another character that she made assumptions about was saddening and I got annoyed Lucie was still just the perfect heroine for this story and by the end I loved her character. Paul, oh, Paul! He's just the sweetest and I loved seeing him with his darling little girl, all in all the characters were shown in such a perfect way that even if the story hadn't been so wonderful, I'd have read it for them.
Now for the setting, I loved that Mrs. Sundin took a different setting than most places where World War II is set, too many are on the front lines, to me at least, there's so much not written about at home or in the occupied cities and countries. And not only was it set in Paris, but it was also set in places that were hit a bit differently by the war, it showed just how hard it could be on the normal people, the Jewish who lived and worked in a normal place, the children who were wrongly drawn into choosing sides by their parents' views, and just ... How World War II affected everyone: no matter age, race, employment, home, everything. It was truly heartbreaking to read at times even with the hope that Mrs. Sundin wove throughout the whole of the novel.
With thrilling twist and turns that had me on the edge of my seat, especially the last few chapters, and a faith filled story all wrapped up in the most beautiful covers this is a must read from Sarah Sundin!
Well done on another beloved book, Mrs. Sundin!
My verse for Until Leaves Fall In Paris is Matthew 5:44 (King James Version)
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e-book or physical copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher or blog tour coordinator All views expressed are only my honest opinion and are in no way influenced by others' views or wishes.
September 22, 2022
3.5 /5
This is not your typical WWII story although it takes place in Paris during the German occupation.
American Lucie Girard elects to stay in Paris to run the bookstore where she worked when the Jewish owners had to flee. American Paul Aubrey owner of an auto manufacturing factory also elects to stay in Paris even as he is forced to make vehicles for the Germans.
Lucie and Paul meet when he visits the bookstore with his daughter (his wife has recently died). Initially Lucie considers Paul a collaborator, but she has formed a bond with his daughter Josie.
As it turns out they both have found ways to help the Resistance in their own way, and of course, they fall in love.
This is a love story with a heavy Christian slant that just happens to take place in Occupied France.
I was going for 2-stars until the last couple of chapters when Lucie and Paul realize they must leave Paris or face being interred.
Their race to get out of France is fraught with danger (naturally) and the writing made up for the previous unexciting chapters.
Furthermore, the author mentions Varian Fry, and I will always add a star for seeing his name in print – be it fiction or non-fiction.
Having not read this author before I was not aware that she is known to be a Christian/romance writer.
This is not your typical WWII story although it takes place in Paris during the German occupation.
American Lucie Girard elects to stay in Paris to run the bookstore where she worked when the Jewish owners had to flee. American Paul Aubrey owner of an auto manufacturing factory also elects to stay in Paris even as he is forced to make vehicles for the Germans.
Lucie and Paul meet when he visits the bookstore with his daughter (his wife has recently died). Initially Lucie considers Paul a collaborator, but she has formed a bond with his daughter Josie.
As it turns out they both have found ways to help the Resistance in their own way, and of course, they fall in love.
This is a love story with a heavy Christian slant that just happens to take place in Occupied France.
I was going for 2-stars until the last couple of chapters when Lucie and Paul realize they must leave Paris or face being interred.
Their race to get out of France is fraught with danger (naturally) and the writing made up for the previous unexciting chapters.
Furthermore, the author mentions Varian Fry, and I will always add a star for seeing his name in print – be it fiction or non-fiction.
Having not read this author before I was not aware that she is known to be a Christian/romance writer.
February 17, 2022
Lucille Girard is a ballerina; but when her Jewish friends, Hal and Erma Greenblatt, needed to flee to America when France was taken over during World War II, she agreed to take care of their shop, Green Leaf Books. Little does she know that she will become involved in the war when the bookstore becomes a drop for messages from the Resistance.
This was a lovely World War II story, that focuses on the lives of Lilian Girard and Paul Aubrey both Americans that have involved themselves with the French Resistance using their places of business.
Sundin's research once again led to a well written and historically accurate telling of a part of the action of the resistance against the Nazis in Paris. They both had a chance to go along with the Germans and make their lives easy; but, instead, they chose the more difficult route and did all they could to help the Resistance at a cost to themselves. The suspense thread that wound its way throughout the story along with a romance that whispered in the background produced a wonderful plot that kept me reading until the very end.
Once again, Sundin has penned a captivating World War II historical fiction novel.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
This was a lovely World War II story, that focuses on the lives of Lilian Girard and Paul Aubrey both Americans that have involved themselves with the French Resistance using their places of business.
Sundin's research once again led to a well written and historically accurate telling of a part of the action of the resistance against the Nazis in Paris. They both had a chance to go along with the Germans and make their lives easy; but, instead, they chose the more difficult route and did all they could to help the Resistance at a cost to themselves. The suspense thread that wound its way throughout the story along with a romance that whispered in the background produced a wonderful plot that kept me reading until the very end.
Once again, Sundin has penned a captivating World War II historical fiction novel.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
March 25, 2022
A gripping story of sacrifice, faith and love in the face of the German occupation of Paris.
Sarah Sundin doesn't disappoint in this compelling story that follows two Americans living in Paris during the early days of the German occupation of France. Lucie Girard is a ballerina who buys a bookshop to help her friends escape Paris, fighting to keep her doors open. Meanwhile Paul Aubrey is seen as a collaborator for profiting off of the war with his luxury cars, but what he shows the outside isn't the whole truth.
An engaging story that brings to life the contrast of what Paris was and what it lost when the Germans came. It was fascinating to read a story of the perspectives of Americans living in Paris, and how that put both Paul and Lucie in unique positions. Josephine was so adorable, she is a darling and perceptive child and I liked how Lucie draws her out with the puppets. Lucie is so graceful and has a natural way with children. I admired Paul for standing strong in the face of being openly spurned, he was a very brave and principled man.
Overall, a well written story of courage, faith, and love in the face of an unknown future. I loved how this book showed a different side of the the occupation and resistance, and showed the ways that everyday people fought back in big and small ways.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Sarah Sundin doesn't disappoint in this compelling story that follows two Americans living in Paris during the early days of the German occupation of France. Lucie Girard is a ballerina who buys a bookshop to help her friends escape Paris, fighting to keep her doors open. Meanwhile Paul Aubrey is seen as a collaborator for profiting off of the war with his luxury cars, but what he shows the outside isn't the whole truth.
An engaging story that brings to life the contrast of what Paris was and what it lost when the Germans came. It was fascinating to read a story of the perspectives of Americans living in Paris, and how that put both Paul and Lucie in unique positions. Josephine was so adorable, she is a darling and perceptive child and I liked how Lucie draws her out with the puppets. Lucie is so graceful and has a natural way with children. I admired Paul for standing strong in the face of being openly spurned, he was a very brave and principled man.
Overall, a well written story of courage, faith, and love in the face of an unknown future. I loved how this book showed a different side of the the occupation and resistance, and showed the ways that everyday people fought back in big and small ways.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 27, 2023
"Stories, dancing, music--they nourish. They make us think and feel. They distract us from the harness of life. That's a gift from God. And math and science and business--they make things run. They're necessary. Weighty. Gifts from God."
This story was everything I love from Sarah Sundin. Our heroine, Lucie was delightful and the hero, Paul a man of principle even in the face of unearned disdain from his peers. Paul's little girl absolutely stole the show. Her and Lucie's mutual understanding of one another was precious. Paul's journey to really, truly seeing his little girl in all her uniqueness couldn't have been more satisfying. I loved my time with these characters and the journey they went on. Excellent story!
This story was everything I love from Sarah Sundin. Our heroine, Lucie was delightful and the hero, Paul a man of principle even in the face of unearned disdain from his peers. Paul's little girl absolutely stole the show. Her and Lucie's mutual understanding of one another was precious. Paul's journey to really, truly seeing his little girl in all her uniqueness couldn't have been more satisfying. I loved my time with these characters and the journey they went on. Excellent story!
March 1, 2022
Why is it that I always forget how well a Sarah Sundin novel can pull me into the action until I'm turning pages faster than I ever thought possible?
I absolutely adored Paul and Lucie's story (though it broke my heart that Paul had lost his beloved Simone, who I really enjoyed 'meeting' in 'When Twilight Breaks'). Lucie was an artiste at heart, choosing to see most of life in a whimsical, cheerful way. She was the perfect counterpart for the more serious, laid-back Paul.
I loved how Paul, at great emotional expense, chose to stay in Paris and help the Allied campaign against Germany, even though the United States was neutral at the time. I also loved his interactions with those he worked with, especially as their acts of resistance escalated.
I especially loved sweet little Josie, who just wanted to be understood, and have friends. And I loved the theme of bravery even in the face of extraordinarily fearful situations. Lucie, Paul, and Josie each had moments that required more than they thought they could give . . . but ultimately, they placed their trust in God (even if Josie was too small to really understand what that could mean) and kept on 'keeping on'.
4.75 stars
I absolutely adored Paul and Lucie's story (though it broke my heart that Paul had lost his beloved Simone, who I really enjoyed 'meeting' in 'When Twilight Breaks'). Lucie was an artiste at heart, choosing to see most of life in a whimsical, cheerful way. She was the perfect counterpart for the more serious, laid-back Paul.
I loved how Paul, at great emotional expense, chose to stay in Paris and help the Allied campaign against Germany, even though the United States was neutral at the time. I also loved his interactions with those he worked with, especially as their acts of resistance escalated.
I especially loved sweet little Josie, who just wanted to be understood, and have friends. And I loved the theme of bravery even in the face of extraordinarily fearful situations. Lucie, Paul, and Josie each had moments that required more than they thought they could give . . . but ultimately, they placed their trust in God (even if Josie was too small to really understand what that could mean) and kept on 'keeping on'.
4.75 stars
April 15, 2022
Absolutely wonderful story of love, war, friendship, family and faith! This story is a Christian Historical Romantic Fiction and I loved it so much. It's set in 1940 France where the threat of Nazi Occupied Germany looms over the characters in the story. This story is about two Americans, Lucie and Paul. Lucie is an American ballerina who has purchased a bookstore called Green Leaf Books to help her Jewish friends flee the country for safety. Paul is an owner of an automobile manufacturing business called Aubrey's Automobiles. He is a widower with a wonderful and imaginative young daughter named Josie. They are working to aid the resistance in France against Germany and I was so in love with their journey in this story. So much happened, it was suspenseful, the last 40% kept you on the edge of your seat!
I loved the relationship between Paul, Lucie and Josie. Josie made this novel so much more powerful. I can't wait to talk more about this on my channel :)
Sarah Sundin is a new favorite author of mine and I can't wait to read more of her books! I love a good WWII story. This has some good Christian faith content as well.
I loved the relationship between Paul, Lucie and Josie. Josie made this novel so much more powerful. I can't wait to talk more about this on my channel :)
Sarah Sundin is a new favorite author of mine and I can't wait to read more of her books! I love a good WWII story. This has some good Christian faith content as well.
June 4, 2022
Ugh! This was an impulse audiobook because I was out of podcasts. I am waiting for 8 audiobooks to become available on Libby, so I just clicked on “available now” to get something in the meantime. Although I’m a bit burned out on WW2 novels, this one goes with my 2022 theme of books about books and libraries, so I downloaded it. The story is very interesting— two people in the Paris resistance fall in love, but can’t let each other know about their resistance work because it is too dangerous. However, as I was listening I realized with a groan that it was “Christian fiction.”
I am a Christian…and married to a pastor, in fact. However, I generally detest anything labeled as Christian fiction because it is trite, contrived, and full of cliches and tropes. Yep! Yep! And yep! What could have been a fascinating novel was full of awkward dialogue, a too tidy ending, and “hey, I need to add something about God here” random prayers. One of the big problems with Christian fiction is that it breaks the “show, don’t tell” rule of good writing. There were already strong elements of self-sacrifice and caring for marginalized people at great danger to o self without having to spell it out.
I am a Christian…and married to a pastor, in fact. However, I generally detest anything labeled as Christian fiction because it is trite, contrived, and full of cliches and tropes. Yep! Yep! And yep! What could have been a fascinating novel was full of awkward dialogue, a too tidy ending, and “hey, I need to add something about God here” random prayers. One of the big problems with Christian fiction is that it breaks the “show, don’t tell” rule of good writing. There were already strong elements of self-sacrifice and caring for marginalized people at great danger to o self without having to spell it out.
April 7, 2024
I would give this book six stars if I could. It is so well written, it pulled me in from the first page. That being said by a reader who doesn't generally prefer historical fiction. The story follows a young woman named Lucie, who was raised in Paris and lives there during the time the Germans took over France. During the time most Americans leave to go back to the states because France is becoming too dangerous, Lucie decides to stay and run a bookstore, that becomes the cover for the resistance. She ends up meeting Paul, who is a serious businessman who makes automobiles. He is also an American but stays in France to continue running his factory for several reasons, despite the Germans forcing him to run it for their own gain. He has a little girl named Josie who is 4, and I really loved her part in the story.
Full of suspense, danger, and heartache, this page turner kept me awake until 2 am because I absolutely could not put it down until I finished it. Sarah Sundin is such a fantastic writer. The characters were well developed, the story line was masterfully written, and the scenes were so descriptive, I felt like I was there experiencing this story along side the characters. This is one of the most well written books I've read this year. I will absolutely read more from this author.
Full of suspense, danger, and heartache, this page turner kept me awake until 2 am because I absolutely could not put it down until I finished it. Sarah Sundin is such a fantastic writer. The characters were well developed, the story line was masterfully written, and the scenes were so descriptive, I felt like I was there experiencing this story along side the characters. This is one of the most well written books I've read this year. I will absolutely read more from this author.
March 1, 2022
This novel was one I could not put down. An American ballerina, Lucie Girard finds herself in Paris as the Nazis advance in 1940. A couple that she stays with own a bookstore, Green Leaf Books, but the couple has to flee Paris as they are Jewish. Lucie offers to take over the bookstore, leaving her career as a ballerina behind until the couple can return.
Paul Aubrey, a recent widower runs a company in Paris, even though he promised his late wife he would take their young daughter back to America if war erupts. The US Army convinces him to keep the factory and keep his ears open. He does not like being in this position and does stuff to help with the resistance.
One day Paul takes his young daughter into the bookstore. A friendship and attraction begins. Lucie finds out Paul is not who he seems. With time she realizes he is part of the resistance, which she is part of as well.
As they try to flee Paris and go to America they get separated and Lucie must help keep his daughter safe with the hopes they will meet up again in America. Will they meet up again? Will their love survive? What will happen to the little girl? So many hopes and dreams in this page turner. Grab your favorite drink and be whisked away in this beautiful story. I will definitely get more of this authors novels. I loved her style! #untilleavesfallinparis, #sarahsundin, #bakerpublishing, #netgalley, #bookreview, #bookstagram, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50
Paul Aubrey, a recent widower runs a company in Paris, even though he promised his late wife he would take their young daughter back to America if war erupts. The US Army convinces him to keep the factory and keep his ears open. He does not like being in this position and does stuff to help with the resistance.
One day Paul takes his young daughter into the bookstore. A friendship and attraction begins. Lucie finds out Paul is not who he seems. With time she realizes he is part of the resistance, which she is part of as well.
As they try to flee Paris and go to America they get separated and Lucie must help keep his daughter safe with the hopes they will meet up again in America. Will they meet up again? Will their love survive? What will happen to the little girl? So many hopes and dreams in this page turner. Grab your favorite drink and be whisked away in this beautiful story. I will definitely get more of this authors novels. I loved her style! #untilleavesfallinparis, #sarahsundin, #bakerpublishing, #netgalley, #bookreview, #bookstagram, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50
January 23, 2022
Green Leaves Bookstore
Exciting, Romantic and page turning can describe this book. It kept me reading way into the night as I just wanted to read one more chapter. A young ballerina, a bookstore, and an automaker and his daughter all play a part in this story.
Lucie, a ballerina, has danced with the Paris Ballet for ten years, she has lived in Paris since she was nine years old. She lived with the owners of Green Leaf Bookstore so she could study Ballet in Paris. Her parents live in New York. She is American, but she feels that Paris is her home. When the Nazi's close in on Paris she quits the ballet and buys the bookstore so the owners can escape to America. She becomes involved with the resistance movement as a place they can safely leave messages for each other.
Paul makes trucks, he is an automaker. He runs a factory in Paris. His wife died in a car crash a year ago and left him with a young daughter. He wants to take his daughter back to America but the U.S. Army wants him to stay in Paris and provide them information on the Nazi's.
Lucie and Paul meet at the bookstore and Lucie is attracted to him until she finds out that he is a collaborator and works with the German's selling them trucks from his factory. He cannot tell her the truth or it will endanger his mission and possible both their lives.
This book will keep you entertained as you follow the story of Lucie and Paul and their lives under the cruel laws of the Germans. I loved the little girl and her stories about the Rock Monsters and also the unselfish decision that Lucie made that almost cost her life. What a courageous character.
I enjoyed reading this book, and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Sarah Sundin for writing a great book, to Revell Press for Publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
Exciting, Romantic and page turning can describe this book. It kept me reading way into the night as I just wanted to read one more chapter. A young ballerina, a bookstore, and an automaker and his daughter all play a part in this story.
Lucie, a ballerina, has danced with the Paris Ballet for ten years, she has lived in Paris since she was nine years old. She lived with the owners of Green Leaf Bookstore so she could study Ballet in Paris. Her parents live in New York. She is American, but she feels that Paris is her home. When the Nazi's close in on Paris she quits the ballet and buys the bookstore so the owners can escape to America. She becomes involved with the resistance movement as a place they can safely leave messages for each other.
Paul makes trucks, he is an automaker. He runs a factory in Paris. His wife died in a car crash a year ago and left him with a young daughter. He wants to take his daughter back to America but the U.S. Army wants him to stay in Paris and provide them information on the Nazi's.
Lucie and Paul meet at the bookstore and Lucie is attracted to him until she finds out that he is a collaborator and works with the German's selling them trucks from his factory. He cannot tell her the truth or it will endanger his mission and possible both their lives.
This book will keep you entertained as you follow the story of Lucie and Paul and their lives under the cruel laws of the Germans. I loved the little girl and her stories about the Rock Monsters and also the unselfish decision that Lucie made that almost cost her life. What a courageous character.
I enjoyed reading this book, and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Sarah Sundin for writing a great book, to Revell Press for Publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
Read
December 21, 2021This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in the Dec. 2021 issue of Library Journal.
The Nazis have invaded the City of Light and Americans in Paris are responding in a variety of ways. Widower Paul Aubrey is proud of his successful auto factory and wealthy lifestyle. When his business is commandeered by the Germans, he is branded a collaborator, even as he leads secret acts of sabotage. Lucille Girard is an accomplished ballerina and is immersed in the bohemian art community. On impulse, she buys Green Leaf Books to fund her Jewish friend's passage out of France and becomes embroiled in passing secret messages for the fledging resistance movement. When Girard begins to lose business in the war time economy, she asks Aubrey for help and realizes that business and art aren't mutually exclusive. As evil overtakes Paris, a few lights fighting for good still shine brightly.
VERDICT Sundin ("When Twilight Breaks") is a master at her craft, and avid readers will devour this in one sitting. With meticulous historical research and an eye for both mystery and romance, Sundin rises to the top of World War II fiction in this latest novel with crossover appeal.
The Nazis have invaded the City of Light and Americans in Paris are responding in a variety of ways. Widower Paul Aubrey is proud of his successful auto factory and wealthy lifestyle. When his business is commandeered by the Germans, he is branded a collaborator, even as he leads secret acts of sabotage. Lucille Girard is an accomplished ballerina and is immersed in the bohemian art community. On impulse, she buys Green Leaf Books to fund her Jewish friend's passage out of France and becomes embroiled in passing secret messages for the fledging resistance movement. When Girard begins to lose business in the war time economy, she asks Aubrey for help and realizes that business and art aren't mutually exclusive. As evil overtakes Paris, a few lights fighting for good still shine brightly.
VERDICT Sundin ("When Twilight Breaks") is a master at her craft, and avid readers will devour this in one sitting. With meticulous historical research and an eye for both mystery and romance, Sundin rises to the top of World War II fiction in this latest novel with crossover appeal.
March 24, 2022
Truly amazing! The kind of story that pulls at all a reader's emotions and makes her squirm a bit besides. Had me considering so many questions. Put in the same situations these characters were in, would I stand firm in my faith? Stick to my morals? Would I be willing to risk everything to help a noble cause? Or would I look away, try to rationalize dire circumstances into something more palatable? Or worse, ignore my conscience altogether and look for ways to profit from others misfortunes? These questions seem all the more pertinent these days as we watch a very similar situation play out in Ukraine.
I learned so much history from this book! And you'd think by now, after all the WWII novels I've read, I would know it all! :-) But no, clearly, I need more educating. For instance, I had no idea there were so many English speaking foreigners in Paris at the time of the German occupation. While British citizens had been rounded up and sent to internment camps, the Americans were allowed to conduct their business as usual.
For Lucie Girard that means running the English Language bookstore for her dear friends, Jewish owners who must flee the country before the German occupation takes a more deadly turn. She has sacrificed a career in the ballet in order to do that, but it isn't long before she's faced with decisions to sacrifice even more!
And Paul Aubrey lives under the scrutiny and scorn of his former American friends as he keeps his car manufacturing company running to supply the Germans with trucks and vans. He's considered a greedy opportunist and a Nazi collaborator though he's really spying for the US Army (and doing a bit of sabotage on the side!) It's bad enough that society is shunning him, but he wasn't prepared for that to carry over into his young daughter's life.
And then Paul and little Josie walk into a certain English language bookstore and...
Oy, the angst of the love story because vibrant, opinionated, impetuous Lucie discovers that Paul is a collaborator -- only she can't reconcile the kind, thoughtful, doting father with the cold mercenary of a businessman. (And for good reason, as we readers know!) So we have a doomed romance as the war amps up, with both the hero and heroine aiding the resistance in different ways, with neither knowing what the other is doing! My heart about stopped a hundred times during this read!
Sarah Sundin brings her unique flare and an interesting approach to another riveting World War II novel and I hung on every word.
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
I learned so much history from this book! And you'd think by now, after all the WWII novels I've read, I would know it all! :-) But no, clearly, I need more educating. For instance, I had no idea there were so many English speaking foreigners in Paris at the time of the German occupation. While British citizens had been rounded up and sent to internment camps, the Americans were allowed to conduct their business as usual.
For Lucie Girard that means running the English Language bookstore for her dear friends, Jewish owners who must flee the country before the German occupation takes a more deadly turn. She has sacrificed a career in the ballet in order to do that, but it isn't long before she's faced with decisions to sacrifice even more!
And Paul Aubrey lives under the scrutiny and scorn of his former American friends as he keeps his car manufacturing company running to supply the Germans with trucks and vans. He's considered a greedy opportunist and a Nazi collaborator though he's really spying for the US Army (and doing a bit of sabotage on the side!) It's bad enough that society is shunning him, but he wasn't prepared for that to carry over into his young daughter's life.
And then Paul and little Josie walk into a certain English language bookstore and...
Oy, the angst of the love story because vibrant, opinionated, impetuous Lucie discovers that Paul is a collaborator -- only she can't reconcile the kind, thoughtful, doting father with the cold mercenary of a businessman. (And for good reason, as we readers know!) So we have a doomed romance as the war amps up, with both the hero and heroine aiding the resistance in different ways, with neither knowing what the other is doing! My heart about stopped a hundred times during this read!
Sarah Sundin brings her unique flare and an interesting approach to another riveting World War II novel and I hung on every word.
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
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