I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. All profits from my books go to help get dogs like Biscuit, Rosie, Wilbur, Hoggy, Jack, Rickenbacker, Takoda, pregnant Lucy, Gretchen, Boomer, Snow, Tawny, Logan, bonded siblings cookie & honey, Jody, Stella, Gunther, Lola, Jasper, Clancy, Lindsey, Brownie, Gabby, Joceyln, Harry, Eddie, Skippy, Sandy, Sinclair, Teddy Bear, Phoebe, Mickey, Titus, Lonnie, Sofie, Stoic, Bryce, Charlie, Gidget, Kensey, Henry, Sadie, Andorra, Trevor, Praline, Drake, Einstein, Ruger, Lovey & Alfie (see photos below) out of kill shelters. So far in 2019 155 dogs have been rescued. In 2018 670 dogs have been rescued. In 2017 we’ve helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
AND please for everyone who’s purchased a book could I humbly ask you to write a review when you’ve completed the read. Amazon promotes and ranks books according to number of reviews in addition to sales. Every voice helps spread the word and that is an energy that can help a dog.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
My books have been ranked in the top 100 best sellers on Amazon U.S. in their categories (historical fiction, teen and young adult, and literary fiction). What an honor to be ranked #87 LITERARY FICTION BEST SELLER next to Paulo Coelho; incredible author of The Alchemist and The Pilgrimage.
Amazon Australia ranked my book NUMBER ONE in all it’s categories: Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction & Teen and Young Adult and is #3 best seller in the entire kindle bookstore.
And in Amazon U.K. it just made it to#1 Best Seller List in Teen & Young Adult Category and #3 in Historical Fiction Category and #24 best seller in the kindle books store.
NEW RELEASE AMAZON RANKING #3 FOR A DIFFERENT KIND OF ANGEL
Well written, Paulette Mahurin pens a terrific historical fiction about a Woman’s heroic journey to America. A Different Kind of Angel: A Novel, sure opened my eyes to a not so ancient past., and sometimes I can’t believe the world in which we live. 5 stars!
A Different Kind of Angel by Paulette Mahurin is the incredible story of Klara Gelfman, a Russian Jew fleeing to America after her family life is destroyed in 1881 by soldiers massacring Jews. Klara flees to America with her father for safety. Her father dies on the way over. Alone and speaking no English, she gets mugged and everything she had was stolen. From here, her story takes a drastic turn for the worse. Well written and well researched, at times this story is very hard to read. It speaks to the courage and spirit of an individual to survive horrific conditions.
I have always loved Mahurin’s books and this one did not disappoint. While based on a true story, it is heartbreakingly told. Klara confined to a mental institute on an island in New York simply for not speaking English. The story splits between Klara’s early life and into the future towards her final escape. I loved the way it was told and found it to be beautifully written. A chilling story of prejudice and the lengths some people will go to to get what they want. An amazing book and one I highly recommend!
Excellent book! It’s amazing the experiences written about.
I couldn’t imagine being sentenced to an insane asylum as they existed at the time. I’m glad that system was eliminated.
I saw this on one of my reading friends book lists and I thought I would give it a try, it was a good little novel about a life filled with personal trauma, and soul-crushing debasement and tortures, but Klara Gelfman survives she meets others who help her and as she says in the book; “Beneath the differences you meet another’s heart, that’s where the light of love never dims the light where the power of healing and forgiveness lives. They were all unique. All different kinds of angels.” This is a good book club recommendation or a good book for anyone wanting to know about what strength it takes to survive during bad times.
I bought this book a few weeks ago. I picked it up yesterday to read on work break and I couldn’t put it down. I read the book last night. It is a hard story to get through but so real. The Germans did terrible things and the fact that it happened within the last 100 years, is frightening. There are many books written about the Holocaust—but this is one of the best ones I have ever read. Most touch on the horror but Helen’s story delves deep into the evil that people do out of hatred and fear. It was hard reading the rape scenes—but things like that happened all too frequently.
It’s a compelling book and I finished it in two days. Some of the non-historic scenes are usually not included in books on this subject. Each person has to decide if they should be there. I didn’t need them. Otherwise, the characters are very real and the story flows beautifully. I’m so glad I read it.
I’ve read a lot of concentration camp survival books and this is a very good one. A tale of endurance, love and the complete will to survive. I can thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who’s interested in that blackest of historic period, the Holocaust.
Although its a fiction book based on fact
I couldnt stop reading this sad and endearing book..What 1 piece of material can hold such memories and the horror they lived through.
And to come out of the horror and to be able to live freely again. Its must read.
A story about finding joy amongst the ashes of one’s life, this tale asks the reader to envision what they would do if they had just a few weeks left. Poignant and heartfelt, this book leaves the reader with all the right questions and a new perspective about love, loss and hope.
Sara and Ben’s story is a dramatic love story!!
The dynamic, power and dramatic impact in Mahurins tale, is based on the fact that both of them have no time left to lose!!
They are caught within a very narrow and limited time frame..Ben is a young lawyer having only months lo live due to a terminal cancer raging havoc in his body, and Sara is a survivor from breast cancer still struggling with it..”Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage”
Lao_TzuPaulette Mahurin has delivered a powerful story and captured the eternal spirit of an all-surpassing love!!
Even death is no match, and must surrender like an helpless hostage to the the eternal and regenerating power of love..At the end of the day I can say that reading Sara and Bens story has uplifted and inspired me!!!Although you will be confronted with sufferings and pain, let me say it clearly that this is not the main message carried out in this bitter- sweet love story!!Mahurins novel, gives and delivers powerful to the reader the preciousness of life itself..
And in spite of sufferings, pain and even death, the prevailing force behind the universum is love inhibited in eternal souls..
DOGS RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTERS
Biscuit’s been rescued
Biscuit’s freedom photo
Rosie has been rescued
Rosie rescued with bonded sibling Lily
Wilbur has been rescued
Wilbur’s freedom photo
Hoggy’s been rescued
Hoggy’s freedom photo
Jack’s has been rescued. This is is kennel photo.
Jack’s kennel information
Jack’s freedom photo
Rickenbacker has been rescued
Rickenbacker’s shelter info
Rickenbacker’s freedom photo
Takoda (named by rescue) has been rescued
Takoda’s freedom ride
Takoda’s freedom photo
Lucy, pregnant, has been rescued
Lucy’s freedom photo
Lucy comfy and waiting to give birth
Gretchen has been rescued
Gretchen’s freedom photo
Boomer’s been rescued
Boomer’s freedom photo
Snow has been rescued
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Tawny has been rescued
Tawny’s freedom
Logan has been rescued
Logan’s freedom photo
Cookie has been rescued with bonded sibling Honey
Cookie’s freedom photo
Honey has been rescued with bonded sibling Cookie
Honey’s freedom photo
Jody has been rescued
Jody’s freedom photo with new sibling
Stella has been rescued
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Gunther has been rescued
Gunther’s freedom photo
Lola has been rescued
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Jasper has been rescued
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Clancy has been rescued
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Lindsey has been rescued
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Brownie has been rescued
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Gabby’s been rescued
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Jocelyn has been rescued
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Harry has been rescued
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Eddie has been rescued
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Skippy has been rescued
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Sandy has been rescued
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Sinclair has been rescued
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Teddy Bear has been rescued
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Phoebe (named by rescue) has been rescued
Phoebe’s freedom photo.
Mickey has been rescued
Mickey’s freedom ride
Mickey’s freedom photo.
Titus has been rescued
Titus’ freedom photo
Lonnie’s been rescued
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Sofie has been rescued
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Stoic has been rescued
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Bryce’s been rescued
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Charlie has been rescued
Charlie’s freedom photo
Gidget (named by rescue) has been rescued
Gidget’s freedom photo
Kensey has been rescued
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Henry has been rescued
Henry’s freedom photo
Sadie has been rescued
Sadie’s shelter information
Sadie’s freedom video. Apologies as I’m unable to download the vid. Right after this shot, she was giving a nice big hamburger patty. She’s on her way to the vet.
Delighted to share the news of the latest book by Paulette Mahurin set in WW2 and The Netherlands – The Girl From Huizen About the book The German occupation of the Netherlands brings with it food shortages, harsh treatment for resistants and deportation of Jews. The changes dramatically affect Rosamond Jansen’s life on her family’s […]
I’m very grateful for everyone of you who has purchased my new book and taken the time to write a review. Reviews are the lifeblood for us authors and I read each and every one, relishing the feedback. I’m keeping the cost of this book at 99cents so it’s affordable to anyone interested in reading it. So please feel free to grab a copy and I’d love it if when you’re done you’d kindly post a review to Amazon.
‘The very last thing discussed before Karl left was what to do with my father’s body.’ With that short, terse sentence Paulette Mahurin brings home the chilling reality of life under the Nazi jackboot. It is May 1942, two years after the German invasion of Holland, and the grieving wife and daughter of Adrian Jansen, shot while trying to smuggle a Jewish child to safety, are not even allowed the dignity of a funeral for their loved one. Like other resistance members, Adrian deliberately carried no identification papers; although fellow resistants were able to recover his body, they were forced to cremate it in secret – the body of ‘a nameless Dutchman’. This is not Mahurin’s first book about the evils of fascism, nor indeed about the struggle that went on in Holland between the occupying army and resistance fighters. But what is striking about this novel is the skilful way she uses a coming-of-age story to give us a different perspective on this dark period in history, a beautifully done, convincing portrait of a young woman’s transition from naivety to maturity in extraordinary circumstances. We first meet Roz (who will later become a friend and co-conspirator with real-life resistance fighter Marion ‘Madelief’ Pritchard), as an 18-year-old: ‘young and naïve…a virgin in mind and body.’ The only child of a farming couple eking out an existence growing potatoes and onions, she perceives the invaders mainly in terms of how they impact the daily life of the villagers, forced to suffer hunger, hardship and the humiliation of having to bow their heads to the cruel oppressors. Her father’s murder is the catalyst that pushes Roz to join the Resistance. Initially motivated by a desire for revenge, she gradually realises the full extent of what is involved in such a decision– the unremitting dangers and difficulties, the fears of reprisal, the moral and existential dilemmas. But her conviction that she is doing the right thing is strengthened as she finds out more about what is happening in the wider world, and the bigger issues involved – the persecution and extermination of hundreds of thousands of Jews, gypsies, undesirables, homosexuals, the rumours of death camps, and, the final hammer blow, the heart-breaking realisation that many in her own country are complicit in helping with such atrocities. And in the middle of it all, she falls in love, only to see her lover forced to flee for his life. One of the things I liked most was the way in which Mahurin shows Roz being guided by the spirit of her father. Adrian’s vision of the world lives on in his daughter’s memory – one of celebration and affirmation. His love of nature, of the growing things on what he called ‘our beautiful miracle-producing planet’ inspires his daughter to overcome her fears, and to reject the Nazi embrace of a necrophiliac vision of the world where death and destruction are justified in the quest to establish a master race. But will Roz and Madelief make it? Will Roz ever see her lover again? The author, having thoroughly engaged the reader’s empathy in the story of this courageous young woman, keeps us on the edge of our seats until the end… Highly recommended.
Very happy to have my books featured at Sally’s great blog site. Have a stop by to check out wonderful authors and many other terrific entertaining posts. And meet the wonderful and funny and generous Sally Cronin. ❤️ Paulette
Welcome to the last in the 2023 series of meet the authors. This series offered me the opportunity to not just share my personal recommendation for the author, but to also check for new books I might have missed, changes to biographies and profile photos and check links.
I also I hope will introduce you to previously unknown authors to you and their books. As the curator of a towering TBR like most of you, I hope it will also encourage you to move books waiting in line up the queue.
The first author today is Linda Bradley whose books about Maggie Mcintyre and those set in Montana I have been enjoying.
Meet Linda Bradley
Linda’s inspiration comes from her favorite authors and life itself. Her women’s fiction highlights characters that peel away outer layers of life to discover the heart of their dreams with some unexpected twists and turns…
I’m happy to announce my new book is out. I hope you all stop by and grab a copy.
The German occupation of the Netherlands brings with it food shortages, harsh treatment for resistants and deportation of Jews. The changes dramatically affect Rosamond Jansen’s life on her family’s farm on the outskirts of Huizen. When she finds herself under constant surveillance and oppressive treatment in her government typist job and the Nazis deport her best friend, her resentment turns to fear and a deepening hatred. Verbal cruelty, belittlement and emotional turmoil take their toll on her until a man arrives at the farm who, along with her uncle from Amsterdam, enlist her father into resistance work. When her father does not return home, Rosamond, too, is drawn into resistance activity. As more people disappear from her life, her involvement goes deeper, bringing her to a villa in Huizen where a woman named Madelief has a secret. As Rosamond becomes close to Madelief and the secret is revealed, her life starts to unravel.
Based on actual events at the villa, The Girl from Huizen tells the story of how Rosamond, working with Madelief, dared to defy the SS and their collaborators. But this is no ordinary Resistance versus Nazi story, rather it is a story of a shocking and unexpected unfolding where flames of tension ignite the page, as loss and grief consume and drive the girl from Huizen. It is a powerful story about the trusting friendship between two women. Ultimately The Girl from Huizen is a homage to the brave resistance members who risked everything to fight against Nazi oppression. Their efforts saved thousands upon thousands of lives.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like bonded seniors Lucky & Duke, Katrina, Rudy, Caramel, Angelica, Sir, Buddy, Holly, Mercy, Fran, Soldier, Juliet, Einstein, Carino, pregnant Maya & senior Sierra, (see photos below) out of kill shelters. In 2023 17 dogs have been rescued. In 2022 126 dogs were rescued. In 2021, 72 dogs were rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
The Peaceful Village is an expertly penned story. Paulette Mahurin has a talent for establishing empathy with the characters. She lets the reader into the lives of the villagers and illustrates thier humanity. You feel fearful for them with the knowledge of whats on the way to terrorize and threaten their way of life. When the inevitable occurs, you feel it as if it’s happening to your neighbors or family members. Another must read story about this troubled period in history.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Marco, Moby, Johnny, Sonja, Dolce, Lucky, Justin, Maggie, Bo, Beauregard, Snickers, Herod, Link, Levant, Jack, Mia, Maison, Viktor, Kyle, Sam, Bruce, Happy, Amelia, Koda, Jules, Canelo, EJ, Jax, Carlisle, Twilight & 3 puppies, Brixton, Mocha & 9 puppies, Martha & Chance (see photos below) out of kill shelters. In 2022 126 dogs have been rescued. In 2021, 72 dogs were rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
Marco’s been rescuedMarco’s freedom photoMoby has been rescued Moby’s freedom photoJohnny has been rescued
Johnny freedom photo
Sonja has been rescuedSonjas’ freedom photoDolce’s been rescuedDolce’s freedom photoLucky has been rescuedLucky’s freedom photoLucky with new siblingJustin has been rescuedJustin’s freedom photoMaggie’s been rescuedMaggie’s freedom photoBo’s been rescued
Bo’s freedom photo
Beauregard’s been rescuedBeauregard’s freedom photoSnicker’s has been rescuedSnickers’ freedom photoHerod has been rescuedJack’s freedom photoMia’s been rescuedMia’s freedom photoMaison’s been rescued Maison’s freedom photoViktor’s been rescuedViktor’s freedom photoKyle’s been rescued Kyle’s freedom photoSam’s been rescuedSam’s freedom photoBruce has been rescued Bruce’s freedom photo
Happy has been rescued
Happy’s kennel data
Happy’s freedom photo
Amelia has been rescued
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Koda has been rescued
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Jules has been rescued
Jules freedom photo
Canelo has been rescued
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EJ has been rescued
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Jax has been rescued
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Carlisle has been rescued
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Twilight & puppies have been rescued
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Brixton has been rescued
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Mocha & 9 puppies rescued
Mocha & 9 puppies freedom photo
Martha has been rescued
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Chance has been rescued
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RECENT REVIEWS FOR THE PEACEFUL VALLEY
AMAZON U.S.
Robbie Cheadle’s review Sep 10, 2022 it was amazing*****
I enjoy reading books about World War II and I’ve read and enjoyed another book by this author, so when I saw The Peaceful Village, I knew I had to read it. I knew it would be a tough read before I started but I must admit that this particular event shocked me to my core. It seems beyond comprehension that any normal human being with a soul can behave in such a callous and brutal way towards civilians.
This book is historical fiction and based on a real event so I knew the ending before I began. Reading a couple of paragraphs about a tragedy of this nature is, however, quite a different experience to reading a fictionalized account of it. The author’s great strength with this book is the detailed manner in which she depicted the main characters and the specifics of their lives and how she made the reader care about them. Even the supporting characters feel like neighbours and friends.
Francoise is one of the main characters. The wife of a French carrot farmer, she is worn down from years of working the land and her spirit is ailing due to the German occupation. Francoise is given an opportunity of a job at the local church in the village of Oradour-sur-Glane, which leads to her becoming involved in a small way with the French resistance and their efforts to hide Jewish families. Francoise blossoms in her new role and becomes the reader’s measure of normality and representation of the comfortable and peaceful lifestyles of the villagers.
The story moves between life in the village, largely told through the eyes of Francoise, and the activities of the French resistance who are using terrorist tactics to fight the occupying German forces. This tactic works well as the reader knows more about what is happening with the French resistance and the Nazi occupiers than the villagers of Oradour. It creates a lot of tension as the reader can see how the events are likely to unfold as the villagers go about their daily lives.
This is a beautifully written and heart rending book which has been well researched and presented. Anyone who is interested in WW2 and the effect of the Nazi regime on the local population in France will appreciate this book.
Once I got into the middle of the story, I was riveted until the end. Oradour-Sur-Glane was once a peaceful village until it was mistakenly pinpointed as the seat of French fighters against the Nazi regime, when one of its Generals was killed and another tortured. The revenge was horrifying when houses were burnt and innocent men a women were killed disproportionately. I love how the author writes. I recommend reading it.
GOODREADS
The Peaceful Village – Tony’s review
Sep 14, 2022 it was amazing*****
In the first half of this book, Paulette Mahurin paints a wonderfully evocative picture of Oradour-sur-Glane, an idyllic rural village in the centre of France whose citizens are very aware of but largely untouched by the Nazi occupation of their country. The people of the village and surrounding farms go about their business quietly, with a true sense of community and real compassion for their neighbours. Not far away, in the town of Limoges, the Nazi occupiers are becoming increasing infuriated by attacks on their soldiers by the armed French resistance. After a high-ranking, highly-decorated Nazi officer is kidnapped and executed by the resistance, the occupiers are determined to exact a terrible revenge on, and make an horrific example of, an unfortunate community. On the flimsiest of evidence, they pinpoint Oradour-sur-Glane as a shelter for the resistance fighters.
The second half of the book is a harrowing account of the events which resulted in the name of Oradour-sur-Glane becoming synonymous with the evil depravity of the Nazi regime. In heartbreaking detail, Paulette Mahurin describes the murderous brutality with which a Waffen SS detachment metes out a barbaric punishment for the military actions of the resistance to the innocent men, women and children of the village. But even amongst this scarcely imaginable terror, there are stories of love, sacrifice, bravery and survival against all the odds.
This is a powerful, heartbreaking telling of the true story of Oradour-sur-Glane. It is an important book which deserves to be read as widely as possible as a constant reminder of why the world must not allow the likes of the Nazis to darken the planet ever again.
William’s review
Nov 27, 2022
it was amazing*****
Excellent Read! This book widely opened the door of my mind and educated me about the trials people went through while the Jews were suffering tribulation. Paulette did a great job of revealing what was happening on a smaller scale than what many of us think may have happened during that time. If you love history and is a student of passed events, I highly recommend you read this book. It’s very enlightning. Thank’s Paulette. Great Job!
NETGALLEY
Marianne B, Reviewer ****
Wow. I read this leisurely paced book about a French village. I got to know the villagers and envy their life during the war but not part of the war. I never saw the end coming. I then entered the Google rabbit hole to find out more about the story. I recommend this book.
Christine R, Reviewer ****
Really good book. The plot was well-written and engrossing. I look forward to reading more from this author.
What Amazon says During the German occupation of France, nestled in the lush, verdant countryside in the Haute-Vienne department of central France was the peaceful village of Oradour-sur-Glane. It was a community where villagers woke to the medley of nature’s songs, roosters crowing, birds chirping, cats purring, and cows plodding on their way out to […]
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Trouble, Lola, Reyna & her 7 puppies, Coco, Cecil, Kiko, Viago, Aoife, Vito, Fancy, Forrest, Mookie, Lancelot, Orris, Percival, Delilah, Sasha, Creed, Nathan,Barney & Cane (see photos below) out of kill shelters. In 2022 80 dogs have been rescued. In 2021, 72 dogs were rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
Lola has been rescued Lola’s freedom photoPregnant Reyna rescuedReyna’s freedom photoIn her new home, Reyna gave birth to 7 puppiesCoco has been rescuedCoco’s freedom photoCecil has been rescued Cecil’s freedom photoKiko has been rescued kiko’s freedom photoViago’s beeen rescuedViago’s freedom photoAoife’s been rescued Aoife’s freedom photoVito has been rescuedVito’s freedom photoFancy’s been rescued Fancy’s freedom photoForrrest has been rescued Forrest’s freedom photoMookie (named by rescue) has been rescuedMookie’s shelter informationMookie’s freedom photoLancelot has been rescuedLancelot’s freedom photoOrris has been rescuedOrris’ freedom photoPercival has been rescuedPercival’s freedom photo Delilah’s been rescued Delilah’s freedom photoSasha’s been rescued Sasha’s freedom photoCreed’s been rescued Creed’s freedom photoNathan’s been rescued Nathan’s freedom photoBarney has been rescuedBarney’s freedom photoCane has been rescuedCane’s freedom photo
An engaging historical fiction set in France during WWII. I enjoyed the plot and the story was well paced. The characters are likable and interesting. Highly recommended. Thank you to Paulette Mahurin, NetGalley and for the arc of this book
Paulette Mahurin has succeeded in bringing to life a set of characters as they may have lived in Oradour-sur-Glane in 1944. They are wonderfully fleshed out. Françoise, a middle-aged central character, is so typical of a French farmer of that era that I felt I knew her. She finds her calling and we see her change. Another great character portrayal is Father Delage, a tower of strength, yet with weaknesses and doubts making him so very human. It takes a masterful writer to fictionalized with great sensitivity one of the most awful atrocities of WWII and still respect history.
I rarely choose to review independently published fiction as I find the quality of such to be hit and miss. But when I saw the subject matter of The Peaceful Village on NetGalley, I knew I had to take the chance. I can’t remember how or when I came across the story of Oradour-sur-Glane – possibly on a news website – but I’d heard enough to recognize the location’s name. Oradour-sur-Glane in France, much like Lidici in the modern-day Czech Republic, is a permanent memorial to the murder of inhabitants by the Nazis.
This book focuses on a woman named Marguerite and the work she does at a local church in the community. It’s no spoiler to say she is one of the few survivors. She would later testify on the events of 10th June 1944. The first half of the novel looks at the six months leading up to that day. These chapters convey the sense of normalcy, as much as there can be, in the so-called “Free France” aka Vichy France. Because of its location, the village was essentially ignored by the Nazis. Many villagers were convinced that “It won’t happen here,” whenever they heard of bad events happening elsewhere. Perhaps it was naivete, or maybe they hoped if they said it enough it would stay true. Readers not only read the thoughts of Marguerite; we also meet the mayor, the doctor, and the clergy among others including refugees. We also get scenes with various Nazis, including Klaus Barbie himself.
The second half contains the events of the afternoon of June 10th. It begins with the order for retaliation for the kidnap of two Nazi officers and the subsequent murder of one. The other escapes and, according to the text, names Oradour-sur-Glane as the location of his abduction. What follows is the rounding up of the villagers, ostensibly for an identification check, and then Marguerite’s perspective of the massacre. Is it easy reading? Not exactly. But I don’t think it should be. What I later discovered is that some of the words author Paulette Mahurin has the characters speak ARE actual quotes from survivors. I was surprised at how much did appear to have been taken from factual reports.
If there’s a downside to the book it’s that I would’ve loved to have seen a bibliography or a list of sources. Oradour-sur-Glane should NOT be forgotten, and I think such a list would help readers learn more.
Disclaimer: Although I received an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley, the opinions above are my own.
This is based on true events and centers around a village called Oradour in France, where all the villagers feel somewhat safe despite the war carrying on around them.
Marguerite Rouffanche is forty-seven years old and a wife and mother. Her husband, Simon, is a carrot farmer. Marguerite feels listless about her life and helping her husband. She wishes to do something more and makes a plan to get a job.
Stopping at the church to give a confession, she is approached by Father Chapelle who offers her a job at the church. It is here that her snooping she encounters an article hidden inside a book. From her confessions, Father Chapelle takes her into confidence to ask for her help. He is one of a few that make up the Resistance and take in Jewish families to hide and find them safe passage out.
Marguerite believed the stories as hogwash, after all; Oradour is an idyllic place and far removed from the occupation carried out.
A mistake made will bring Nazis to Oradour.
It took me a little while to get into this book but it didn’t take me long to start turning the pages. I grew up in a small town, so I did get caught up in the village atmosphere of camaraderie. Parts were very disturbing to read but the ending was one of hope.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via BooksGoSocial and I voluntarily reviewed this book.
The Peaceful Village takes one of the most notorious murderous acts of the Nazi occupation of France and weaves a story around the horror of the bare facts that means that, by the time the so-called reprisal action against Oradour sur Glane takes place, the reader feels that s/he has lived alongside the villagers in the weeks before the murders took place. Readers may have mixed views about a novel being written about such a tragedy. However, the novel’s technique to introduce the reader to both victims and survivors and to render each group as real three-dimensional people means that what can often be rendered as simply yet another war crime – if appalling in its scale and inhumanity – is made real. In this way, perhaps, the need for us all t9 learn from history is reinforced. This is a story that cries out not to be forgotten. Ms Mahurin does the world a service in this retelling. Strongly recommended.
A compelling read about a small village and its experience during World War II. The author’s description of the beautiful surroundings allowed me to picture the setting clearly. The characters are well drawn. I would recommend
NETGALLEY
Donna R, Reviewer *****
A very good, perfect length, historical fiction. Having read so many books lately of around 400 pages it is refreshing to read a book with less pages but just as much content, excitement and depth as a long read.
A story based on actual events this is a very interesting read, it is so emotional and real yet so sad, so painful. To think what a quiet rural village went through, what families went through at the hands of such cruel and brutal people is something I can't comprehend.
This is a gripping tale, flows in a sense that you can understand what was going on at the time and although it is a hard subject the author makes it so that you can read it easily. It is a story that should be read by all as it is so poignant.
I highly recommend this book and will be checking out more books by this author soon.
I write this review as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team and thank her, NetGalley, and the author for this opportunity. I have been following the author over the years, have checked her blog on occasions, and have read many positive reviews of her novels. I am sure that several of her novels are on my e-reader already, and after reading this one, I will make sure I locate them and put them on my “sooner-rather-than-later” to-be-read list. This is a novelised account of a real event that took place during WWII, one that I didn’t know anything about before I read the novel, but I will never forget now. I don’t hesitate to recommend this book to all readers, those who love fiction and those who prefer non-fiction, as it should be read. Due to the events that take place, this is not an easy read (it is hard, harrowing, and emotional), so I would recommend caution to readers who are not in the right place or frame of mind to read about such subjects. It is impossible not to think about the war and its victims these days, and that makes this narration more poignant and urgent than ever. We should never forget what happened because we all know what happens to those who forget. I will not spend too much time on the plot, as the book description provides plenty of information, and anybody interested can research what is known of what happened on that day, the 10th of June of 1944 in Oradour-sur-Glane. The author includes a disclaimer, where she explains that the book is a work of fiction, and other than the historical characters included, the rest is her attempt at fitting what is known to have happened into a narrative. Her research shines through, and, to clarify matters even more, together with her disclaimer, the author includes a Glossary of Terms and Historical Figures, a list of the German military ranks used in the novel, of the organizations and political groupings, and of the locations, and also the translation of a few German terms used in the book (when the translation is not included in the text itself) right at the beginning of the book. There is also a postnote that explains what happened afterwards, to the village and at the trial of a few of those involved in the onslaught. Mahurin manages to recreate Oradour for us. Through the locations, the characters, and the events that take place there, we get a good sense of what a lovely place it was, a peaceful village in the German-controlled part of France, where life goes on almost undisturbed, although there are also things happening that remind the inhabitants of the war, and there is a sense of dread hanging over the proceedings. The beauty is in the detail: we see characters going about their jobs and their lives (the doctor, who is also the mayor, looks after his patients, and so does one of his sons, also a doctor; the priest is involved in welfare and also tries to help families in need [Jewish families escaping the Nazi regime among others]; we have mechanics; we have farmers; we have teachers; we have children; we have hard-working mothers…) and we have people who know each other and who do what they can to help others, their family, their neighbours, their friends, and also the newcomers who need help. This is an ensemble novel, and although we perhaps learn more about some characters than others (like Marguerite, who is exhausted by farm work —among other things— and manages to find her perfect role in helping the priest with his church work and his other tasks, or the mayor, the priest, and even others who don’t live in the village, like the head of the Maquis du Limousin…), this is a novel about a community, where everybody has a part to play, as must have been the case at the real Oradour. The shock of that normality, where nothing out of the ordinary had happened, being interrupted by the senseless massacre, has a devastating effect upon us, and it is not surprising to read how the people in the village were totally stunned and unable to believe what was going on. The author writes beautifully about the place, the people, their lives, and their customs, and despite the horrific tragedy that eventually unfolds, there are incredibly beautiful passages as well. Plenty of happy and inspiring moments fill up the pages of this novel, and, the choice of a third-person omniscient point of view works very well for the story, as it allows us to see and understand how the different characters feel and what their lives are like, and it also shows us some of the events that preceded the massacre (although the reasons, as the author explains, have never been fully explained, and there are only a variety of conjectures historians have proposed over the years). We do see and follow what the Germans do as well, and the third-person narrative plays a pretty neutral observer’s role, not overdramatising events because it is totally unnecessary. It leaves it up to the readers to make their own minds up, experience the events, and feel the emotions. And that makes it even more moving and poignant. This is not a mystery novel, and we know what is going to happen (what really happened, not the details, but the bare facts), so the ending of the story is not, in itself, surprising, but I felt it was perfect. There was a hopeful note, but a somewhat bittersweet one, as the postnote reminds us of how many crimes of war are never solved, properly investigated, or even truly acknowledged. I have already recommended the novel to all readers (with a note of warning), in particular to those interested in stories set in WWII in France, both fictional and non-fictional; to those who enjoy reading beautifully written books with a historical theme, and to anybody who likes to learn about real events, especially those that affect us all and should never be forgotten. I was inspired to read more about the village of Oradour-sur-Glane, and discovered that 19 of the victims were Spaniards (11 of them children), refugees who had escaped from Spain during the Civil War to avoid the fascist reprisals by Franco’s regime. After that, it felt even more personal, if that were possible. What else can I tell you? Read it, if at all you can. I have learned something I won’t forget and discovered a writer I will carry on reading for a long time to come.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Porpentina, Snow, Mirage, Claret, senior Captain, Olivia, Coco, Norman, bonded siblings Vulcan & Magneto, Mimosa & Jewel (see photos below) out of kill shelters. In 2022 52 dogs have been rescued. In 2021, 72 dogs were rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
Like all of Paulette Mahurin’s books, The Peaceful Village draws readers into a time in history that should never be forgotten. The amount of research that must have been required for this book is amazing, but it’s the human relationships that really stood out for me. Experiencing the haunting events that took place in Oradour-sur-glane through the eyes of its residents – in particular Marguerite and Father Chapelle – really brought the story to life for me. Highly recommended- this is a book you won’t soon forget.
The Peaceful Village is a powerful story of tragedy and love that no atrocities can destroy. Opening the story with a poetical air, the author doesn’t let the reader to enjoy the seemingly calm course of life in a beautiful village in France for very long. The narrative transfers the reader into the world of ruthless war between two opposing camps—the lovable villagers of Oradour and Maquisards, the partisans against the sinister occupants. Masterfully crafted scenes of peaceful family life, love, and camaraderie tugged at this reader’s heart; the acts of the unparalleled brutality made it stop at times. The imagery was so vivid, I couldn’t stop admiring the author’s ability to feel the characters and the place where the events unfold as though she lived there and met those people. I’m not going to give away any details here. Read this book, a work of historical fiction at its best. I was enthralled by this tale from the beginning to the end. Intense and unforgettable. And it’s amazing how timely this novel, based on the actual events, which happened 78 years ago, sounds nowadays. A strong reminder of the heinous crimes that mustn’t be forgotten or forgiven. Highly recommended.
The Peaceful Village touched my heart very deeply. While the outcome of Hitler’s war machine and the evil henchmen he employed was heartbreaking, I truly admired the ability of the people who lived in The Peaceful Village to transcend the evils of war, to carry on and perserve their idyllic lifestyle, helping when possible, but not giving in to hatred or violence or betrayal of their faith or their core beliefs. I loved each of the characters and their commitment to each other, the community, and the village church. It really tugged at my heartstrings – especially to know that the story is based on a true story of what happened in a real village in France. My prayer is that by making the past known, nothing like this will ever happen again. Kudos to Paulette Mahurin for bringing it to light – another excellent book. Highly recommended.
I just had the distinct pleasure to read Paulette Mahurin’s The Peaceful Village. I say privilege in the way that I view being allowed to usher a loved family member from this life. I say privilege because no one writes an otherwise difficult story about true, tragic, historical events with more compassion, more insight, and more love than Paulette Mahurin. The massacre of the village of Oradour-sur-Glane documented by Mahurin isn’t just another in a long list of atrocities that occurred during the occupation of Vichy France. It is a portrait of an idyllic life, the very individual, eccentric, and completely innocent, lovable people who occupied the town before vengeance and ego took a wrong turn and wound up at their door, and the very few, tormented souls who made it through. Definitely a five star historical read.
I love books about WWII Europe. Paulette Mahurin has written several, each of which is powerful and poignant. The Peaceful Village takes place in an area of France about which I knew nothing. The story, the people, the place all touched me so deeply. I finished the book but can’t help but continue to think about what happened. I appreciate Mahurin’s detailed research as she continues to give us historical novels based on real events and real places. A beautiful, painful story, and a must read for WWII buffs
The Peaceful Village was a riveting page-turner for me. This fictionalized account really set the scene for a senseless massacre brought on by pride, deceit and indifferent cruelty. The author brings to life the brave and doomed villagers and their idyllic life in a peaceful community destined for annihilation. It’s an excellent illustration of how war draws the innocent along with the combatants into its horrors.
I was unaware of this side of the German occupation of Vichy France during World War II and I am grateful to author Paulette Mahurin and her translator for telling the story of Oradour-sur-Glane and its wanton destruction in such a readible and relatable manner.
Thanks to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
The Peaceful Village is chilling, somber, and well executed. Paulette Mahurin has done an excellent job at allowing the reader into a time we would like to ingore and should not ever forget. Well done.
I am a great fan of this author and have enjoyed all of her books set during World War II. This time the read was not as comfortable as now there is currently a war in Europe, it is much closer to home. The story of the massacre of a whole village matches the images we see on our television screens every night, which brings it right into the present, instead of reading about a historical event. This is a well-written heart-breaking account of an incident that highlights man’s inhumanity to man. A book I will remember for years to come.
This book isn’t the sort I usually read, but when it came up in my book club I decided to step out of my comfort zone. And I’m really glad I did. It’s an enjoyable read. Disturbing, but enjoyable. Though a work of fiction, it is based on true events and it could all too easily be what really happened.
To begin with, I didn’t like the protagonist, but she quickly grew on me. As the story progresses, you find yourself wanting to read more to find out that happens, but at the same time dreading it. I challenge you to get to the end without crying.
Marguerite lives on her carrot farm with her husband and other family in the beautiful, peaceful village of Oradour, France. During WWII, this quiet and peaceful village had not yet been threatened or occupied as much as other parts of France and Europe by the nazis, despite the Vichy accepting German rule, until a German capture that had gone wrong had brought forth the brutal nazi regime (no, I will NEVER capitalize the word ‘nazi’) to this peaceful ‘untouched’ by war, town, just before the allies landed in Normandy.
As Marguerite was approaching menopause, the gruel of farming without enough hands was getting to her physically and mentally. She went to church one Sunday and discovered the clergy could use some well needed office help and approached her understanding husband asking for time away from working the farm and by taking up the offer to work for the church office. When she discovered a horrifying piece of paper in a book, as she was tidying the rectory, she approached Father Chapelle, asking if anyone else shared the office, ultimately, showing him what she’d found in a book as she was organizing a bookshelf. Their eye contact established a mutual understanding that they were both on the side against the nazis, when the Father let her know that he was part of the resistance helping place Jewish families where he could. Marguerite’s sympathetic and good nature led her to helping out the church by delivering secret messages, food and clothing where she could.
All was calm, but Marguerite had a foreboding feeling in her stomach, and it wasn’t long before the SS butchers rounded up the whole village in retaliation for the resistance killing one of their higher up murderous high rank nazi leaders. It was first the resistance who made a fatal mistake by letting another of their captured nazis escape, who made it back to headquarters and lied about what happened to him in this innocent village.
Mahurin tells a gripping story in such detail, it’s as though we are there witnessing the action. She paints a picture of this blissful town full of compassionate, loving, neighborly people going on with their business as though the rest of France had nothing to do with them in their sacred untouched perimeters, and just as the serenity turns to hell on earth, she equally writes of the pain, brutality, butchering of innocent mankind because of one SS trying to cover his ass by lying about his attack saying it had taken place in Oradour – when it did not! This lie became the war that wiped out an entire peaceful village in one day.
Based on true events as told by survivors, one of biggest WWII massacres that ever took place on French soil. The expensive price of human life paid for letting one of those heinous, murderous nazis escape capture. The author never disappoints in her gripping true tales of some of the true horrors that innocent people endured under the brutal tyranny of Hitler and his nazi evil regime.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A powerful story, simply written but mesmerizing in its character development and location descriptions. The massacre of the people and the destruction of the village of Oradour-Sur-Glan came about as a lack of communication between the Nazis and their headquarters. Chilling and real, this is recommended reading for its insight into the brutal history of the Nazi regime.
The village is far away from the concentrations of Nazi’s in the metropolitan areas of France. The village of Oradour enjoys the ambiance of pre-war France. There is no occupation force and the area is a haven for Jews being sheltered by the local populace. The primarily Catholic area spreads the families out through the countryside and all is well.
Someone within the area has been tortured and reveals the large number of Jewish refugees hidden within the surrounding homes. Retaliation is carried out by a small group of the Resistance who decided to eliminate two offending German officers. This triggered swift German retaliation as the entire village down to the dogs is wiped out in a slaughter.
Why did these people have to die that close to the end of the war?
I was gripped by the narrative and the efforts the local people took to remain neutral during WW II. Living a quiet life while the war raged all around them was the best of circumstances. I thought the Resistance leaders did not adequately think through the consequences of executing two German officers with the resultant carnage. Why was it necessary to kill them?
The author presented a very good description of a quiet area in war-torn France. The actions of a few resulted in the death of many. Rated at 4.5 sad stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
I finished the book about 2 AM and couldn’t sleep the rest of the night. The next day I felt compelled to research and learn more about the horrific tragedy described in this book. What I found was how accurately Paulette Mahurin brought the tragedy to life. Ordinary people, living and loving, until the indescribable happens. Written with such attention to detail, I felt like I made new friends in the characters of the book, and then lost them. Nobody can remain untouched by this fictional story steeped in historical accuracy.
NETGALLEY
Michele F, Reviewer *****
One of the most heart wrenching true stories of WW2 I have read in a long time. A story that truly needs to be read by everyone. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes this genre. Thank you to netgalley for letting me give an honest review of this book.
Tony M. Reviewer *****
In the first half of this book, Paulette Mahurin paints a wonderfully evocative picture of Oradour-sur-Glane, an idyllic rural village in the centre of France whose citizens are very aware of but largely untouched by the Nazi occupation of their country. The people of the village and surrounding farms go about their business quietly, with a true sense of community and real compassion for their neighbours. Not far away, in the town of Limoges, the Nazi occupiers are becoming increasing infuriated by attacks on their soldiers by the armed French resistance. After a high-ranking, highly-decorated Nazi officer is kidnapped and executed by the resistance, the occupiers are determined to exact a terrible revenge on, and make an horrific example of, an unfortunate community. On the flimsiest of evidence, they pinpoint Oradour-sur-Glane as a shelter for the resistance fighters.
The second half of the book is a harrowing account of the events which resulted in the name of Oradour-sur-Glane becoming synonymous with the evil depravity of the Nazi regime. In heartbreaking detail, Paulette Mahurin describes the murderous brutality with which a Waffen SS detachment metes out a barbaric punishment for the military actions of the resistance to the innocent men, women and children of the village. But even amongst this scarcely imaginable terror, there are stories of love, bravery and survival against all the odds.
This is a powerful, heartbreaking telling of the true story of Oradour-sur-Glane. It is an important book which deserves to be read as widely as possible as a constant reminder of why the world must not allow the likes of the Nazis to darken the planet ever again.
Smitha A, Reviewer*****
'm a great fan of historical World War novels. I truly enjoyed this book, Stories of various villagers in Oradour were told in an authentic manner by Paulette Mahurin. This was France in 1940's, a civilized nation. What the French police did - Thousands of Jews, men and women, were rounded up put in trucks, and sent to camps. Parents shoved into trucks when children were left in the streets with outstretched arms.
I loved the story about the Oradour sur Glane village, a wonderful peace-loving place for all who call it home at the time of WW2. Oradour was a place of safety where the Germans rarely entered for bloodletting. Sixty six year old Jean Desourteaux was Oradour's mayor as well as doctor of this peaceful Village. The war was happening far from Oradour.
While Oradour-sur-Glane enjoyed calmness and the lack of German presence, twenty-two kilometers to the northwest in Limoges, the Germans were reacting with increasing cruelty to organized attacks on their soldiers by the armed resistance organization Francs-Tireurs et Partisans (FTP).
The villagers least expected the SS would enter thier vibrant pastoral homes but they were not immune from ravages of war. On hitting the 2nd Waffen-SS Panzer Division, two men from the German Lines were hurt, Kampfe's death, who was not just a highly decorated Sturmbannfuhrer, who had been awarded the knight's cross of the Iron Cross, the highest award in the German military, he was Diekmann's personal friend. Karl Gerlach, Orderly officer and Commander's Kidnapping, having blame pointing the Village and wanting revenge by Diekmann, the very reason the SS stormed down the streets of Oradour - sur - Glane. Guingouin was one target for the Nazis, a man the SS sought as priority capture and kill.
Loved the Character Father Chapelle and Marquerite who were closely associated as Oradour's citizens. Well researched events of the Great war in Europe. I would rate it 5 star!
I just reviewed the book, The Peaceful Village by Paulette Mahurin. Thanks to the author and publisher, Paulette Mahurin and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book for my honest review.
DOGS RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTERS
Porpentina has been rescuedPorpentina’s freedom photo
Snow has been rescuedSnow’s freedom photoMirage has been rescued
Mirage’s freedom photo
Claret’s been rescuedClaret’s freedom photo, in her new home with new siblingSenior Captain (named by rescue) has been rescuedSenior Captain’s freedom photoOlivia’s been rescuedOlivia’s freedom photoCoco has been rescuedCoco’s freedom photoNorman has been rescuedNorman’s freedom photoVulcan has been rescued with her sibling MagnetoVulcan’s freedom photo on the right. Her bonded sibling Magneto on the left.Magneto has been rescued with his sibling VulcanMagneto’s freedom photo. In kennel on left. His bonded sibling Vulcan on the right.
Mimosa has been rescued
Mimosa’s freedom photoJewel has been rescuedJewel’s freedom photo
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Eeva, Stitch, Bella, Baby, Jax, Monsiuer, elderly chi, Landon, Mia, Van Cleef, Roger, Koda, siblings Fruit Loop & Corn Pop, Stella, Chance, Hunter, Wolfie, Pepe & Sadie (see photos below) out of kill shelters. In 2022 40 dogs have been rescued. In 2021, 72 dogs were rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
Starting with the cover’s photo that was taken of Oradour-sur-Glane, a once peaceful village, and onto the unfolding story I’m engaged in this powerfully written story about one of the worst tragedies in French history. The Peaceful Village of Oradour-sur-Glane mistakenly got targeted by the Nazis in retribution to one of their Generals being assassinated and another kidnapped. The disproportionate revenge was chilling. The author really brings war home in this riveting saga based on a real event. The characters are authentic and real, multifaceted. There is much to love about this novel and much to sit down and think about. I fell in love with Marguerite and Father Chapelle, their relationship was uplifting. Then there’s Guingouin’s passion and devotion to the cause, albeit at times perhaps too driven but then he’s a patriot and what he’s fighting for is real – the lives of his countrymen and his country, France, his beloved home. The evildoers are so extreme that even a Nazi higher up running the mission is startled by what he hears is happening. A masterfully written narrative that isn’t just about Nazi hateful acts but also really highlights the love of family, friendship, and country. I absolutely loved this book.
The Peaceful Village is a remarkable story, sadly true, about a village that went virtually untouched by German/Nazi presence until a terrible mishap. An SS officer is captured and escapes from the French Resistance to debrief about how he was entrapped. When demanded he reveal where this happened, he targeted a village he knew nothing about but to have seen its sign posted on a country road, the road his captors drove him on. His lie about the village, a town with virtually no German presence since the occupation, sets in motion a cascade of events that ends up in what is considered the worst tragedy historically on French soil during WW2 to a civilian population. I was drawn to the characters, their camaraderie, neighborly affections, and the village setting itself: the magnificent church with stained glass windows, the cobblestone sidewalks, and the stone buildings. The images of the lush countryside, resplendent with rivers and lakes, are refreshing in the mids of the SS marching down the streets of nearby cities. I learned a lot about the French Resistance, a brilliant network of men and women, the combination of many ordinary people-collectively making an extremely effective and powerful whole. One that helped get data to the allies and assist in the Normandy landings which turned the tide of the German occupation in France. A marvelous book; albeit poignant, it is an important and powerful read. One I will pick up again and again.
This is such a heart-wrenching story, one of way too many horrific tragedies of WWII. Along with Marguerite, I felt the tension building as the story progressed, wondering what was going to happen to the peaceful village. My heart ached as the massacre unfolded. I felt as if I, too, had lost friends. The author’s words and the story she told captivated me from start to finish. So much suffering, but on top of it hope is built.
Preceded by the pogrom of 1881 in Kiev, A Different Kind of Angel starts in 1882 in NY city, in the Women’s Lunatic Asylum on Blackwell’s Island which is the epitome of the filthy conditions and malnutrition, inhuman treatment of patients bordering on the physical and emotional torture, indifference to the inmates’ suffering, and the criminal way of confining the ones who were unfavorable for those in power and other many innocents. This is the place where a young woman, Klara Gelfman, a recent refugee finds herself—as if the horrors of her life in Russia were not enough to test the limits of her endurance. This is her story, as well as of other unfortunates whose fate brought them to that hell on earth. The author’s undeniable expert ability to bring the reader face-to-face with her characters and their emotions makes the feel of the devastating reality even more horrifying. However, even in the place with an inexcusable carelessness, friendship and caring for others grows among the inmates. In the center of the story, there is a burning intrigue ready to explode. It held this reader glued to the chair till it was revealed in the last part of the tale—one of the author’s talents that makes the story enticing, poignant, and important. The end of Klara’s story made me spellbound. One of my favorite historical fiction authors, Paulette Mahurin gifted this reader with hours of touching and breathtaking read. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
This is one of those reads that sticks with you because it’s hard to overlook the fact that it’s based on true events. In this story, we are introduced to three Dutch citizens, members of the Dutch resistance, who put their entire lives on the line in order to save hundreds of Jewish children from facing cruel fates at the hands of the Nazis.
The three main characters were written in a way that made me want to root for them. Their situation was harrowing, and their cause was good, but the battles they were up against seemed so impossible that I couldn’t put the book down until I found out their fate. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions: victory and betrayal, hope and despair, happiness and sorrow, good and evil.
An intensely tragic tale from Nazi occupied Netherlands. Its a story of the discrimination that the Jewish people faced and the brave work of the resistance workers to make a difference to the kids that would otherwise be sent to death camps. Over the hedge is based on true facts. The characters are well knit and the story at times becomes too tragic. I am in awe of the author who has such a keen Knowledge of history and the way she weaves it into the plot is simply amazing. As the larger picture unfolds in history books and in movies, this is a small story that needs to be told. The end is not exactly unexpected but makes you stop and think.
Thank you NetGalley and Paulette Manhurin for allowing me to read this riveting story, Set in Amsterdam during WWII the year was 1943 and the Germans were rounding about all the Jews. Hilter was keeping track of how many were sent to the staging post and he was not happy with the numbers. At the staging post was Walter who was Jewish but was allowed to help the Germans with keeping track of and sending the Jews to work camps. Walter was part of a group that was saving the children from being deported. Walter would get permission from the parents of the children and then would take the children across the street to the nursery that was run by a Jewish nurse. Behind the nursery was a “hedge” that the children would then be sent over to the college next door. At the college the children would be sedated and put in anything that could be found to be transported out and sent to Dutch families that agreed to help the Jewish children. I was hooked on the story and did not want to put the book down. I am appalled with what happened at that time and can only compare it to what is happening now with Russia invading. I recommend this book as it was an eye opener to happenings during WWII.
I actually read this twice in one day. The first time, I read it for the plot, racing through to see which of the resistance members might survive. Then, I read it again to see how this amazing author was able to make me feel such a powerful range of emotions in a relatively short book. I think it is because both her resistance heroes and victims of the Nazis were just regular folks. That is exactly what most of us are so I quickly related to all of them, feeling what they felt. I knew nothing about the resistance activities in the Netherlands but I plan to find out, thanks to reading this remarkable book.
“Over the Hedge” is based on actual events and takes place at the height of the German occupation of the Netherlands in 1943 and recounts some of the atrocities that occurred in Amsterdam at the time. The focus of the story is on the heroics of a few brave souls who did what they could to save who they could. Overall, this story was horrifying, hopeful, and important. The author does an amazing job of twisting the most terrible of horrors with the optimism of chance and hope to relay a rainbow of emotion. It’s not a fun read! But it is thought-provoking, reflective, and inciteful. It’s the kind of book that people should read to forever prevent the same kinds of horrors from ever happening again. The full blog post can be found at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
DOGS RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTERS
Eeva has been rescued
Eeva’s freedom photoe
Stitch has been rescuedStitch’s freedom photoBella has been rescued
Bella’s freedom photo
Baby has been rescuedBaby’s freedom photoJax has been rescuedJax’s freedom photoMonsiuer has been rescuedMonsiuer’s freedom photoElderly chi rescuedElderly chi’s freedom photoLandon’s been rescuedLandon’s freedom photoMia’s been rescued
Bella’s freedom photo
Van Cleef’s been rescuedVan Cleef’s freedom photoRoger’s been rescued Roger’s freedom photoKoda’s been rescued Koda’s freedom photoFruit Loop has been rescuedFruit Loop’s freedom photoCorn Pop’s been rescued Corn Pop’s freedom photoStella has been rescued Stella’s freedom photoChance has been rescuedChance’s freedom photoHunter’s been rescuedHunter’s freedom photoWolfie has been rescuedWolfie’s freedom photoPepe has been rescued Pepe’s freedom photoSadie’s been rescuedSadie’s freedom photo
I am thrilled to introduce my new book, The Peaceful Village.
SYNOPSIS
During the German occupation of France, nestled in the lush, verdant countryside in the Haute-Vienne department of central France was the peaceful village of Oradour-sur-Glane. It was a community where villagers woke to the medley of nature’s songs: roosters crowing, birds chirping, cats purring, and cows shuffling out to pasture. The people who lived there loved the tranquil nature of their beautiful home, a tranquility that existed year-round. Even with the German occupation and Oradour-sur-Glane being incorporated as part of Vichy France, Oradour – the village with cafés, shops, and a commuter tram to Limoges – remained relatively untouched by the stress of the occupation.
While Oradour enjoyed the lack of German presence, twenty-two kilometers to the northwest in Limoges, the Germans were reacting with increasing cruelty to organized attacks on their soldiers by the armed resistance organization Francs-Tireurs et Partisans (FTP). Headed by Georges Guingouin, the Limoges FTP was considered the most effective of the French Resistance groups. Guingouin’s missions fueled the German military to kill and incarcerate in concentration camps anyone perceived as supporters or sympathizers of the Resistance.
Up until the middle of 1944, the German anti-partisan actions in France never rose to the level of brutality or number of civilian casualties that had occurred in eastern Europe. A little before the Allies landed in Normandy, that changed, when German officers stationed on the Eastern Front were transferred to France. It was then that FTP’s increasing efforts to disrupt German communications and supply lines was met with disproportionate counter attacks, involving civilians. Guingouin’s response was to target German officers. When Guingouin set his sights on two particular German officers, all hell broke loose.
Based on actual events as told by survivors, The Peaceful Village is the story of the unfolding of the events that led up to one of the biggest World War II massacres on French soil. But it is not simply a story of Nazi brutality and the futility of war, it is a story of love. The love of family. The love of neighbor. The love of country. Compassion and courage burn from the pages as the villagers’ stories come alive. Written by the international bestselling author of The Seven Year Dress, Paulette Mahurin, this book is an homage to the villagers who lived and loved in Oradour-sur-Glane.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Sargeant, Blondie, Jade, elderly Tanner, Chuey, Seance, Mike, Kenny, Lobita, Pettigrew, Baloo, Greta, bonded siblings Dolly & Diva, Brooke, Bella, Joy, Bronson, bonded senior siblings Charlie & Lexie(see photos below) out of kill shelters. In 2022 20 dogs have been rescued. In 2021, 72 dogs were rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
And please for everyone who’s purchased a book could I humbly ask you to write a review when you’ve completed the read. Amazon promotes and ranks books according to number of reviews in addition to sales. Every voice helps spread the word and that is an energy that can help a dog.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
Jade has been rescuedJade’s freedom photoElderly Tanner has been rescuedTanner’s freedom photoChuey (named by rescue) has been rescuedChuey’s freedom photoSeance has been rescuedSeance’s freedom photoMike’s been rescued
Mike’s freedom photo
Kenny has been rescued
Kenny’s freedom photo
Lobita has been rescued
Lobita’s freedom photo
Pettigrew has been rescuedPettigrew’s freedom photo
Baloo has been rescued
Baloo’s freedom photo
Greta has been rescuedGreta’s freedom photoBonded siblings Dolly & Diva have been rescued
Bonded siblings Dolly & Diva’s freedom photo
Brooke has been rescued
Brooke’s freedom photo
Bella has been rescuedBella’s freedom photoJoy has been rescuedJoy’s freedom photo
Jan 01, 2022Taryn rated it really liked it ****This book is a historical fiction but its based on the true story of Helen stein. What a powerful story it is. Same as any other story from this horrible time in history!! This is a survivors story, filled with pain, abuse and so much more. To the readers surprise you learn so much about Helen and her life. While there was happy moments they are clouded by the outbreak of war and anti semitism.
RECENTREVIEWS FOR OVER THE HEDGE
AMAZON U.S.
Kris Rubi5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book ! *****Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2022 Over the Hedge by Paulette Mahurin This is a WWII novel. It tells the story of a group of people who helped to save hundreds of Jewish babies that were surely going to die after their families were rounded up by the Nazis. Mothers were quietly asked if they wished to save their small child by allowing Walter to take them to the daycare. Walter doctored the books so no child appeared missing. Once at the daycare, Henriette and her crew made sure they were taken care of and made ready to smuggle to a non-Jewish family who was willing to take the child and raise it as their own. Henriette would quietly pass a child over the hedge of the daycare in the dead of night to Johan who somehow managed to get hundreds of children past the Nazis and to safety. Hundreds of children escaped certain death by the courageous acts of their parents and these heroes. These heroes risked their own lives so that others might live. This is their story. One of courage, faith and resilience. It is a touching story that will make you cry and have a renewed faith in humanity. God bless these people and the children who escaped to live a life.
Sherrie HansenVINE VOICE5.0 out of 5 stars *****Never Forget! Important Lessons from Days Gone By Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2022 The characters of OVER THE HEDGE endeared themselves to me so quickly and completely that once I started reading, I couldn’t put Mahurin’s latest book down. Tears were shed, and joy was felt when victories were won and efforts to save Jewish children were successful. One by one until hundreds had been helped, this book was a good reminder that we are called to stand up for what’s right, help those in need, and ensure that this kind of predujice and persecution is never permitted or tolerated again. I applaud Mahurin for continuing to give us eye-opening looks at the past even in a day and age when history is too often forgetten. Touching, beautiful written, I highly recommend OVER THE HEDGE.
NETGALLEY
Reviewer 98309 ****+
I thought Over the Hedge by Paulette Mahurin was an interesting read. I am giving it four and a half stars.
In this first feature for the Smorgasbord Bookshelf I am sharing authors whose books I have read and can personally recommend along with one of my reviews for their books.
The first author today, Noelle Granger, captivated my imagination and blew me away with the amount of historical detail in her novel The Last Pilgrim and I can highly recommend the book to those who can trace their ancestry back to those early settlers.
Meet Noelle Granger
Noelle A. Granger grew up in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in a rambling, 125-year-old house with a view of the sea. Summers were spent sailing and swimming. She was also one of the first tour guides at Plimoth Plantation. Granger graduated from Mount Holyoke College with a bachelor’s degree in Zoology and from Case Western Reserve University with a Ph.D. in anatomy. Following a career of research in developmental biology and teaching human anatomy…
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Hanna, Rebel, Alice, Dylan, Lana, Stella, Daisy, 2 bonded puppies, Rogue & Joker, (see photos below) out of kill shelters. So far in 2021, 72 dogs have been rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
And please for everyone who’s purchased a book could I humbly ask you to write a review when you’ve completed the read. Amazon promotes and ranks books according to number of reviews in addition to sales. Every voice helps spread the word and that is an energy that can help a dog.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
Hanna has been rescued Hanna’s freedom photoRebel has been rescuedRebel’s freedom photoAlice has been rescuedAlice’s shelter info
Alice’s freedom photo
Dylan has been rescued
Dylan’s freedom photoLana has been rescued Lana’s freedom photoStella (named by rescue) has been rescuedStella’s freedom photo
Daisy (named by rescue) has been rescued
Daisy’s freedom photo
2 bonded puppies rescued together2 bonded puppies freedom photoRogue has been rescuedRogue’s freedom photoJoker has been rescued Joker’s freedom photo
RECENT REVIEWS FOR OVER THE HEDGE
AMAZON U.S.
Lauren5.0 out of 5 stars ***** Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2021 A gripping story that is based on historical events. We follow three people doing everything they can to save Jewish children during WWII and the obstacles they faced while doing this. I would recommend even if you have read many books on the subject that this one is thought provoking and well written.
AMAZON AUSTRALIA
Carmel McMurdo Audsley4.0 out of 5 stars ****Prepare to be horrified and uplifted Reviewed in Australia on 28 December 2021Verified Purchase Some people are uncomfortable reading about the dark truth of the atrocities that were perpetrated under Nazi occupation of The Netherlands in 1940, or any part of the inhumane treatment of people during WWII. We need constant reminders of the suffering of so many, but also of the heroes who stepped up when they were needed and found a way to help. This is the story of three brave people who saved Jewish children from inevitable death in concentration camps. It doesn’t really fit into the novel category, but rather is a well-researched re-telling of events featuring real people and places. Prepare to be horrified and uplifted as the stories unfold.
GOODREADS
Over the Hedge by Paulette Mahurin (Goodreads Author) Emmeline Everdeen ‘s review Nov 20, 2021 it was amazing ***** With tears still in my eyes, I write this review. The book was an eye opening experience for me. While many learn about the Holocaust, the actual experiences of those in occupied countries are rarely discussed. This book gave me the feeling of being a fly on the wall watching the horrific events unfold. The harshness and hate of the Nazis, the kindness and bravery of the Resistance. The fear, the confusion, the dread. You feel it all as you read. This book should be required reading. Thank God there were Brave souls willing to risk it all just to give one more child a chance at life.
This is a poignant and powerful tale of compassion and humanity in defiance of evil. Set in The Netherlands during WWII, this book reflects the different ways in which Dutch people responded to Nazi presence and control in their country. The story held significant personal appeal for me as my own grandfather was part of the Dutch Resistance, and as I read, I found that the characters resonated strongly with the memories he shared with me. This is evidence of the quality of Mahurin’s research and the depth of her empathy when telling other people’s stories. The book is very well written and profoundly moving. The cast of characters is colourful and realistic, exhibiting the best and the worst of human nature and behaviour.
What a magnificent story in Over the Hedge by Paulette Mahurin. I am a big fan of this author! Whatever this author writes, I read. This title was more than a plot and characters, it was a life, and dedication to those who fought to save lives. Over the Hedge is one book that I believe everyone should read. The story is based on actual events. It’s based on how Nazi’s were so brutal and practically sociopaths, with no allegiance to thing, including morals and pride, just destruction. Destruction of humanity. When the Jews were killed in those “camps,” a few heroes made it their mission to save the Jewish children. I read it from cover to cover, and it’s hard to believe that anyone can be so evil, but yet there are those that just want to do what they can to help others, and they did. Act of bravery and courage, show that evil can be defeated. I love it when a Legacy author sends me more of their work! This story captures the reader’s attention at chapter 1. The author’s technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It’s a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. Masterfully written! Over the Hedge is a definite recommendation by Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more titles by this author. Everyone needs to read this story!!!
Always so kind of the talented Sally Cronin to highlight my book at her site. If you haven’t visited her yet, stop by. She is a lovely, welcoming blogger friend.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review one of my books. Profits from my books go to help get dogs like Nemo, senior Kona, Daisy, Martiro, senior Ophelia, Jackson & Helena (see photos below) out of kill shelters. So far in 2021, 61 dogs have been rescued. In 2020, 157 dogs were rescued. In 2019, 409 dogs were rescued. In 2018, 670 dogs were rescued. In 2017, we helped free 904 dogs. In 2016, 250 dogs were freed. In 2015, 149 dogs were freed.
And please for everyone who’s purchased a book could I humbly ask you to write a review when you’ve completed the read. Amazon promotes and ranks books according to number of reviews in addition to sales. Every voice helps spread the word and that is an energy that can help a dog.
LINK TO PURCHASE ALL MY BOOKS and to see all reviews for all my books click on the books cover:
My books have been ranked in the best seller lists on Amazon U.S., U.K., & Australia in their categories (historical fiction, teen and young adult, and literary fiction). What an honor to be ranked #87 MOST POPULAR BOOK IN LITERARY FICTION next to Paulo Coelho; incredible author of The Alchemist and The Pilgrimage.
AMAZON MOST POPULAR BOOKS IN HISTORICAL FICTION: THE SEVEN YEAR DRESS & TO LIVE OUT LOUD
AMAZON U.S. U.K. & AUSTRALIA RANKING FOR THE SEVEN YEAR DRESS
Michele F, Reviewer *****
Reviewer 98309 ****+
