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
Snow’s freedom photo
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
Stella’s freedom photo
Gunther has been rescued
Gunther’s freedom photo
Lola has been rescued
Lola’s freedom photo
Jasper has been rescued
Jasper’s freedom photo
Clancy has been rescued
Clancy’s freedom photo
Lindsey has been rescued
Lindsey’s freedom photo
Brownie has been rescued
Brownie’s freedom photo
Gabby’s been rescued
Gabby’s freedom photo
Jocelyn has been rescued
Jocelyn’s freedom photo
Harry has been rescued
Harry’s freedom photo
Eddie has been rescued
Eddie’s freedom photo
Skippy has been rescued
Skippy’s freedom photo
Sandy has been rescued
Sandy’s freedom photo
Sinclair has been rescued
Sinclair’s freedom photo
Teddy Bear has been rescued
Teddy Bear’s freedom photo
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
Lonnie’s freedom photo
Sofie has been rescued
Sofie’s freedom photo
Stoic has been rescued
Stoic’s freedom photo
Bryce’s been rescued
Bryce’s freedom photo
Charlie has been rescued
Charlie’s freedom photo
Gidget (named by rescue) has been rescued
Gidget’s freedom photo
Kensey has been rescued
Kensey’s freedom photo
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.
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 rescuedHerod’s freedom photoLink has been rescuedLink’s freedom photoLevant has been rescuedLevant’s freedom photoJack’s 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
Amelia’s freedom photo
Koda has been rescued
Koda’s freedom photo
Jules has been rescued
Jules freedom photo
Canelo has been rescued
Canelo’s freedom photo
EJ has been rescued
EJ’s freedom photo
Jax has been rescued
Jax’s freedom photo
Carlisle has been rescued
Carlisle’s freedom photo
Twilight & puppies have been rescued
Twilight & 3 puppies freedom photo
Brixton has been rescued
Brixton’s freedom photo
Mocha & 9 puppies rescued
Mocha & 9 puppies freedom photo
Martha has been rescued
Martha’s freedom photo
Chance has been rescued
Chance’s freedom photo
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.
Welcome to the Wednesday edition of the Cafe update with reviews for authors on the shelves.
The first author today with a review is C.S. Boyack for his fantasy The Yak Guy
About the book
Imagine waking up in the desert with no idea what happened to you. You have clear memories of situations and places, but a complete loss in personal matters… like your own name. This situation is bad, and you have no idea how to get home.
When you’re rescued by a talking yak, the situation gets exponentially worse. You’ve obviously lost your mind. The immediate needs of a ride off the salt pan and searing heat, along with a drink of water, outweigh the concerns about your mental state.
This is exactly what happened to the Yak Guy. In fact he’s been placed in an alternate world and given a chance to start over in life.
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
AMAZON RANKING #3 FOR A DIFFERENT KIND OF ANGEL
AMAZON RANKING #38 FOR THE DAY I SAW THE HUMMINGBIRD
Over the Hedge is a book that explores the horror of WWII and how the Nazi occupation impacted on the population of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. It explores the psychology of various people and demonstrates how fear can tear societies apart and cause women fearing for the lives of their own children to perform the heinous act of handing Jewish relatives, including small babies, over to the Nazis, knowing they were destined for deportation to camps. I think this aspect of this book is closest to my heart as I consider the internal conflict of such women and wonder what I would do in a similar situation. I hope I would behave better than they did, but it eats at my mind.
The story centres around the true facts of a trio of members of the Dutch resistance who worked with other brave men and women to save 600 small children from the concentration camps. These three people from vastly different backgrounds were Walter Süskind, a German Jew living in the Netherlands, Henriëtte Pimentel, a Sephardic Jew, and Johan van Hulst, the principal of a Christian college.
Walter works for the Hollandsche Schouwburg deportation centre for Dutch Jews which is situated across the street from the daycare operated by Henriëtte. The Christian college is located next door to the day care. The Jewish families arriving at the deportation centre are separated from their children who are sent across the street to the day care for the night. Walter finds a way of altering the arrivals records of selected small children who are then smuggled ‘over the hedge’ to the college where they are taken, at great personal risk, by various students and other resistance members to Dutch families willing to care for these children. The author provides some details on a few of the children and the sad state they arrive in which makes the drama and emotion of the story much more intense.
One such child was Aviva, a two-and-a-half-year-old girl who is deaf and mute. This is a short extract: “”Aviva …,” Johan let out a chuckle, “laughed.” “Laughed? But she’s mute-“ “Yes. She’s quite expressive with bodily motions. Silent laughter, a new one on me. Kaat too.” “Well, that’s good, she’s adjusting, but … it seems unusual she didn’t act fearful.” “The affectionate dedication of a good mother can do wonders,” said Johan. “The mother must have been an extraordinarily loving women.”
Walter is a scared, worn-out shell of a man, whose own wife and daughter are in hiding in a Dutch resistance member household. He has to deal with the Nazis who are fearful of their own positions and lives and take their anger out on the Jews in the deportation centre, and later anywhere they find hidden Jews. Despite his own personal fear, Walter manages to bring some comfort to the Jewish mothers and fathers in the centre and ask their permission to help their babies. Walter lives for the babies he is able to help save. The strain on him in his untenable position as part of the conduit between life and death for the deportees wears him down over the course of the book, but Walter shows extraordinary determination and tenacity in helping save the children.
Henriëtte is also an extraordinary woman, who does a lot to uplift the spirits of the Jewish workers at the daycare and also Walter. She is a woman of excellent insight and is able to judge character when Walter’s abilities falter. Her kind and loving nature made her story all the more sad and poignant.
Johan was a brave man, who put himself at risk to help save others. I think this is the height of bravery; to act when you are afraid and do what you believe to be right. Without all three of these dedicated and selfless people, the 600 children who were passed ‘over the fence’ would have died.
Aside from Johan, there were many other Dutch people who contributed to the rescue operation and their actions gave me some comfort that even in the most terrible situations, the good in many people still comes to the fore and all is not lost because of it.
This is a very compelling story and is one that everyone should read to ensure that mankind remembers and takes steps to ensure this history is never repeated. Congratulations to the author on an excellent and well researched book.
I applaud sincerely the intent of bringing this kind of stories into public awareness, especially during these trying times when we are still going through a pandemic, when there are a lot of social causes we might need to do something to help others. Works like this one are a good source of inspiration on how when there is a will, there might be a way, and we can be resourceful in times of need.
Over the Hedge is the story of members of the Dutch Resistance who helped saving hundreds of Jewish children from a terrible fate. I truly enjoyed reading from their perspective, from the point of view of real characters who were helpful and in times of sacrifice, they made their contribution.
I loved how the author presented a perspective for each of the characters who at the end of the day were humans, who were facing the new reality they were dealt with, and how their personality is shown and the portrayal of each of them was nuanced, showing their humanity and the normal type of questioning, doubts they might have faced. I commend this book for telling the story of two Jews literally working for the Nazis, which could have been a sign of treachery during their time but it was powerful to see their own reckoning about having to endure so much pain and evil in order to help as much as they can. Also the story of Johan, a non-Jew coordinating the safe transport of little Jewish children smuggled to be saved from the Nazi is truly commendable. A Righteous Among The Nations, someone who risked his life saving others. Mr. van Hulst is a true inspiration for how one person can make a difference, even in the darkest of times.
Something I enjoyed too was the portrayal of some of the German military members who interacted with our main characters. I liked how Mahurin explored their backgrounds and it is interesting to think the motivations that caused a lot of people to support Hitler’s genocidal quest. The way the author present that information is in no way to justify their actions or look for sympathy; I can see the usefulness behind, to understand how economic downturn and geopolitical mishaps can be used for some people for their own agenda’s gain – and how, unfortunately, history can repeat itself if we as a society are not careful.
As a post-note, the author adds this quote by Simon Wiesenthal: “For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing.” And I insist, stories like this can be inspirational to assess our own reality and see what can we do to help others, not to fall into inaction. Totally recommend reading this inspiring story of courage under evil, of kindness under loss.
DGKaye5.0 out of 5 stars *****Gripping Heartbreak Reviewed in the United States on October 9, 2021 This is a story that will keep you gripped throughout the plight of three people who joined the Dutch Resistance and in 1943 began a rescue mission in Amsterdam to save however many Jewish children as they could from being sent to their deaths.
Walter, Henrietta and Johan’s mission at the deportation center was to move the young children who were deported from their homes to the daycare center next door, a ploy to keep the children calm while the adults were being accounted for, beaten and awaiting the trucks to take them to the trains that would ultimately land them at Auschwitz. What the SS and fellow nazis didn’t know was that the children were methodically moved from the daycare and passed ‘over the hedge’ to a college campus next door. From there, Henrietta would take care of the children and prepare them for transport by other resistance members to be taken to new homes by good Dutch people who adopted them. Humanity at its best during a dark time of history.
Walter worked in the deportation room where the rounded up Jews were first sent to ‘register’ for their ‘next journey’. Walter worked hard and secretly to remove the children’s names off the rosters, always fearing being found out. He would try and save as many children as he could by first approaching the parent(s) and offering them to save their children. Devastated parents with fear, starvation and broken hearts were elated to give Walter their children for a chance for them to live and survive, as they knew what was waiting for them ahead.
The three worked diligently, secretly and methodically to do their part in saving Jewish lives. Intrinsically timed plans were carried out to bypass guards to smuggle the children over to the daycare, and once cleaned and fed, transported by inconspicuous vans and bicycles by other helpers, often placing the children in a suitcase or the like, with a small dose of drug to make them sleep so they wouldn’t get scared and cry. The fact that these three earth angels worked tirelessly right under the noses of the German SS patrol killers and got away with saving the lives of those meant to be killed, is astounding in itself.
Sadly, this story was written on true events. Walter and his friends managed to save the lives of over 600 Dutch Jewish children at a time when helping Jews was a crime punishable by death by the nazis. And if you are wondering what happened to these three heroes after their selfless, heroic efforts, you’re going to have to read the book.
Kimbok5.0 out of 5 stars *****Get this in our schools Reviewed in the United States on November 8, 2021 The most deplorable story of all time comes to life in the pages of this book. Three selfless heroes work tirelessly to find a way to rescue over 600 Jewish children “over the hedge”. Based on a true story, this book needs to find its way into our schools. A fantastic account of how one person (or three in this instance) can make a difference in the lives of so many. Highly recommend.
AMAZON U.K.
Trypsin5.0 out of 5 stars *****Historical fiction at its best Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 September 2021Verified Purchase Another remarkable heartfelt story based on true events from this author. This one is centred in Holland during WW2 and focussed on Dutch resistance helping persecuted children escape from the clutches of terror. The ingenuity and the courage of the Dutch resistance in cleverly spiriting the children away from brutality is astonishing, and how they managed it is well illuminated in this story. The background is well researched, authentic, and puts the reader into the tension and danger experienced by the heroes who take incredible risks. It isn’t an easy read as some scenes are disturbing and harrowing even in these modern times. Historical thought-provoking fiction at its best.
This is a beautifully written story based on real people during the second world war.
Paulette Mahurin writes their story with great sensitivity.
I found myself dreading what would happen to the main characters and the children but unable to stop reading.
Thought provoking and sadly so real it makes the reader wonder about man’s inhumanity, while at the same time showing that good can come out of evil.
Amazon Customer5.0 out of 5 stars *****Excellent read Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 November 2021 A great read for anyone interested in this topic. The content was hard in part but the accuracy of the topic was in my view extremely well written
VEH Masters5.0 out of 5 stars A desperate story of brave people Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 November 2021Verified Purchase This novel tells the little known story of how Jewish children in the Netherlands were snatched from under the noses of the Nazis and spirited away – by other Jews as well as the Dutch resistance. Well researched it shows how and why neighbour turns on neighbour as the pressure grows from Hitler for his henchmen to meet their quotas. I would have liked some insight into the Dutch families who gave the children permanent homes – and how they dealt with their neighbours. Nevertheless this is an absorbing and heart stopping read which makes no bones about the fear, terror, brutality and hunger of the times.
GOODREADS
Sep 24, 2021Kathleen Johnson rated it it was amazing *****Shelves: goodreads-giveaways First, I’d like to thank Goodreads and the author, Paulette Mahurin, for the free Kindle copy of this book. It was a wonderful book! I am so happy that I read this book. In the current tumultuous times we live in, it gave me HOPE! Albeit, the hellacious crimes against humanity and the hatred of certain races and religions happened nearly 80 years ago, today it is very important and relevant for us to learn from them. I was moved by those who worked so hard to save the next generation instead of themselves. God has truly blessed them. Of that I am certain. This book is the first that I’ve heard of the ‘over the hedge’ rescue. I have to wonder if any of the children were made aware of their stories and came forward to talk about their lives? Thank you fir the opportunity to read this book!
Diana B, Reviewer Last updated on 28 Sep 2021 My Recommendation I read as many stories about the horrendous time in Germany and how badly the Jews, among others were treated. They are all heartbreaking, this is one of the better ones. Maybe if more people were to read the history of the holocaust there would be less wars today. Maybe that is wishful thinking.
Sep 28, 2021Dave rated it really liked it ****Shelves: netgalley-books, read-have, x-netgalley-2021-read The Holocaust was one of the darkest times in all of human history when a small minority dispersed throughout a continent suddenly had no protections and were rounded up and slaughtered. Out of fear, cowardice, and cruelty, few even long-time neighbors or in-laws lifted a finger to help the Jews when the Nazis invaded the Netherlands. Yet, if you ever have a chance to visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial in Israel, you will find that among all the darkness, there were some pinpoints of light, rays of hope for the future, commemorated in the Righteous Among the Nations, those who risked all, like Oskar Schindler, to do what is right. It is just these pinpoints of light in a world gone mad that offers some hope for our future. Indeed, Johan van Hulst is listed in the database of the Righteous Among the Nations.
In this fictionalized account of a true story, we learn about a few pinpoints of light in Amsterdam where a few people risked their lives on a daily basis to rescue Jewish children from being sent to the death camps. The main three people involved in the rescue were Walter Süskind, a German Jew living in the Netherlands, Henriëtte Pimentel, a Sephardic Jew, and Johan van Hulst, the principal of a Christian college, but there were others involved, both Jews and non-Jews. It is called “Over the Hedge” because the children were passed over the back hedge separating the day care center where the children were taken from the Christian College. Records were altered and the children, who no longer officially existed, were carried away often, drugged to keep them quiet and still, in small baskets on bicycles. They were then placed in the countryside with Dutch families, often never reuniting with their families, who were taken away in the cattle cars to the death camps. Many of the Christian students at the school knew what was going on and never said a word.
What works so well in this book is that the fictionalized account offers us a day by day view of the terror that these people felt and how even families were torn apart by the fear with brothers turning brothers out into the streets with no protection. It illustrates how thin the veneer of civilization is and how easily it can be ripped apart by terror.
Over the Hedge by Paulette Mahurin (Goodreads Author) Pauline‘s review Nov 04, 2021 it was amazing ***** This book read a bit like a text book but was too emotive for a text book. Outlining the bravery of Johan, Walter, Henriette, Frederik and more during the time of Nazi occupation in the Netherlands was an unforgettable story. The horrors they faced, always a potential moment from being caught, whilst trying to understand their surrounding “normality” was an emotive read. After reading this book I searched up the main characters to find out what happened to them- did they make it through the war? Stories like these should never be forgotten but serve as a reminder as to how easily people can excuse their behaviour when all rational thought seems to have left. And also a reminder that doing nothing can be just as evil.
Over the Hedge by Paulette Mahurin (Goodreads Author) Jeanette Stefanik‘s review Nov 10, 2021 it was amazing***** Read 2 times. Last read November 8, 2021. Excellent story about a dark time. Very depressing, but then it should be, shouldn’t it. Strong character development that draws you deep into the hearts of the good guys and allows you to dislike the bad guys. Author gives fair warning that this is just historical fiction. The barest facts are true but the parts that suck you into the story are fiction. May we never forget.
Nov 15, 2021Laura Lipton rated it really liked it**** I have read a good deal of both fiction and non fiction about the Holocaust, but this book helped to fill in the gaps in understanding what happened in Holland during this period of history. In the end, there are more questions than answers about why the Germans were so murderous towards the children and how many sacrificed themselves to save others. A good read from VRO; thanks to the author for this opportunity.
NETGALLEY
Louise G, Reviewer ****
Well written and powerful, this book brings to life the characters and experiences of people finding themselves challenged to weigh up personal safety against what they believe to be right. The author strikes a great balance in their prose, avoiding overly dramatic language to instead quietly and respectfully represent a harsh reality of our times.
DOGS RESCUED FROM KILL SHELTERS
Nemo has been rescuedNemo’s freedom photo
Senior Kona has been rescued
Senior Kona’s freedom photo
Daisy has been rescued
Daisy’s freedom photoMartiro has been rescuedMartiro’s freedom photo
senior Ophelia has been rescued
Ophelia’s freedom photo at the vet where she’s being taken care of
During one of the darkest times in history, at the height of the German occupation of the Netherlands in 1943, members of the Dutch resistance began a mission to rescue Jewish children from the deportation center in Amsterdam. Heading the mission were Walter Süskind, a German Jew living in the Netherlands, Henriëtte Pimentel, a Sephardic Jew, and Johan van Hulst, principal of a Christian college. As Nazis rounded up Jewish families at gunpoint, the three discreetly moved children from the deportation center to the daycare across the street and over the backyard hedge to the college next door. From the college, the children were transported to live with Dutch families. Working against irate orders from Hitler to rid the Netherlands of all Jews and increasing Nazi hostilities on the Resistance, the trio worked tirelessly to overcome barriers. Ingenious plans were implemented to remove children’s names from the…
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 Calvin, Bella, and bonded siblings Lobo & Anthrax (see photos below) out of kill shelters. So far in 2021, 54 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
AMAZON RANKING #3 FOR A DIFFERENT KIND OF ANGEL
AMAZON RANKING #38 FOR THE DAY I SAW THE HUMMINGBIRD
AMAZON RANKING #86 FOR THE OLD GILT CLOCK
AMAZON RANKING #11 FOR WHERE IRISES NEVER GROW
AMAZON RANKING FOR OVER THE HEDGE
AMAZON U.K. #1 HOT NEW RELEASE
Amazon U.K. #1 HOT NEW RELEASEAMAZON U.K.
AMAZON U.S. #1 HOT NEW RELEASE
AMAZON U.S.
RECENT REVIEWS FOR OVER THE HEDGE
AMAZON U.S.
LoveLit5.0 out of 5 stars *****A ray of hope inside a dark, human tragedy Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2021Verified Purchase Over the hedge is a heartfelt account of the members of the Dutch Resistance saved nearly a thousand Jewish children during the German Occupation. Mahurin’s brilliant storytelling and characterization brings to life Walter Suskind, Johan van Hulst, and Henriette Pimentel as they risk their own lives to smuggle Jewish children to safety even as their parents are shipped off to Auschwitz. It is not always easy to read a historical about these times; but it is necessary if we are to remember what happened and learn not only of mistakes made, but also of heroes who helped overcome the evils of war. Paulette Mahurin has a wonderful way of humanizing these historical figures and putting us in the story. This is one of her best.
Michael4.0 out of 5 stars ****An emotional read! Reviewed in the United States on September 2, 2021 It took me a little while to get into this book because early on it felt more like I was reading a text book rather than a historical fiction that was based on true events. But as I got to know the characters and feel their passion and determination to save the Jewish children, I couldn’t help but love the story. Walter, Henriette, Johan and so many others may not have fought on the front lines, but they fought a battle of their own while risking their lives to save others. I hope through Paulette Mahurin’s book that their heroic actions are never forgotten.
Definitely recommending this book!
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
reader20105.0 out of 5 stars *****Based in fact.Reviewed in the United States on September 2, 2021Verified Purchase That is the most important thing to know. In the times we are living in when hate is again rising, we need to remember that some people did all the good they knew how under threat of death. This is a story of the triumph of good over evil. It’s good to be reminded of this. Great book on a terrible time in history.
Jean M. Roberts5.0 out of 5 stars *****Powerful but Painful Story Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2021 Reviewer’s Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The Plot in Brief: This is the fictionalized story of the rescue of Jewish children from Amsterdam, saving them from deportation to the camps and almost certain death. The Characters: The three main characters in this novel are based on real people; Walter Suskind, a German Jew, Johan van Hulst, a Christian and Henriette Pimentel, a Sephardic Jew. Mahurin does a good job of fleshing out their personalities, motivations and conflicts. Suskind works in a Nazi processing center, sending his fellow Jews to their deaths. Johan, principal of a teachers college, risks his life to save the children of a different faith and Henriette, who runs a day care must choose which children will live. The History: This is a very moving story, hard to read and easy to stand in awe of the brave acts that could and did result in the deaths of some of the characters. I thought the author did a super job building the story and setting the scene for what was an amazing scheme to sneak children to safety right under the noses of the Nazis. The Writing: The book is well edited with a good flow, but I found the writing a bit lacking in descriptive details. This is a terrible story, all holocaust stories are, and they deserve to be told with respect and dignity, and let’s face it, they are painful to read. But, as a reader, I need to feel connected to the author’s story not just the characters. To me, this book came off a bit cold and dry as if the author was just telling the story without any attempt to build tension, suspense or drama. Other, readers may well appreciate the spare telling of this powerful story. Overall: I thought this was an important story, well told. I appreciated the history and felt I learned more about the Nazi occupation of Holland and the treatment of the Jews of Amsterdam. Books like these are not fun to read, they are painful, but necessary, reminders that humans are capable of the basest of cruelties, even towards innocent children.
Linda Jamsen5.0 out of 5 stars *****The enduring human spirit shines through Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2021Verified Purchase This is a heartwrenching, riveting story of three courageous members of the Resistance who risked their lives to save Jewish children during the Nazi Occupation of Holland. Although I am familiar with similar stories of Dutch citizens, most notably that of Miep Gies, who helped the Frank family in hiding, I wasn’t aware of the efforts of this heroic trio. (One of them later served as Senator from the Netherlands and was also a European Parliament member.) Without hesitation and under extreme duress, they secretly moved children at risk of deportation to Nazi concentration camps, first to a daycare center, then across a hedge to the neighboring college. From there, they were taken in by Dutch families, although tragically, never saw their parents again.
This is a difficult read due to the extreme and senseless violence and abuse inflicted on innocent Jews. It’s also painful to read how the Occupation turned family members and friends against one another in order to make 7,5 guilders, or the price on a Jewish head. The author does a good job of keeping each of the story threads open and intriguing. It’s a suspenseful read which you’ll want to continue to the end because you hope against all hope that all three—and the 600-plus children they saved—will survive. I won’t give away the ending but will admit I needed a tissue or two.
Kudos to the author for this engaging book on a tough subject. Her research was very thorough, and I wouldn’t be surprised to learn that she has a personal connection to someone in the story, perhaps one of the children who survived.
Crystal Clifton5.0 out of 5 stars *****Such an amazing book Reviewed in the United States on September 9, 2021 Over the Hedge is set in WW2 during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Its about a group of people Walter, Johan, Henriette and many others who rescue Jewish children that are destined for concentration camps. Its heart wrenching and can tear you up as you root for the heroes who save these children who are torn from their parents. They are risking their own lives helping these children. It reads like a movie and in fact would make an amazing one. Paulette gave me an arc of this book in return for an honest review. I truly would recommend this to everyone who loves historical books.
Freeza3795.0 out of 5 stars*****Another moving story from a talented writer Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2021Verified Purchase Over the hedge is the incredible story of three brave citizens; Walter, Henriette & Johan, who saved Jewish children during a dark period of history. They weren’t soldiers or diplomats, just regular people who knew right from wrong and were unwilling to put their own safety ahead of their morals. Their plan was clever and made use of the tools that they had access to as members of their community. A college campus, a daycare. Over the hedge is a brilliant piece of writing and a very human gaze at the horrors of the that time. It’s a must read for any interested in history and the human condition.*
AMAZON U.K.
Fifty Sheds of Books VINE VOICE 5.0 out of 5 stars *****Over the Hedge Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 September 2021Verified Purchase Paulette Mahurin is my favourite historical novelist. She has a good eye for history and for what makes a gripping story.
Over the Hedge is set in 1943 during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. The story features the Dutch resistance and their heroic efforts to save Jewish children.
When the going gets tough, as we can witness in our own time, some people collaborate with the forces of evil, most shrug or turn a blind eye, which is as good as collaborating, while a brave, remarkable few offer resistance. The story of resistance needs to be told and needs to echo down the centuries. In Paulette Mahurin we have an excellent chronicler of these heroic, heartbreaking events.
Remarkably, we live in an age when some people deny the Holocaust actually took place, despite the mountain of historical evidence. For the memory of those who suffered and to challenge the evil that exists today we need novelists like Paulette Mahurin to keep the flame of truth alive.
Of course, this story could have been told as fact, but in the hands of a skilful novelist a gripping story can become even more memorable and moving, and that is certainly true of Over the Hedge.
S Saywack5.0 out of 5 *****stars a hard hitting miving novel Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 21 September 2021 A hard hitting and moving novel, denoting the work of many individuals who sought to save as many children as they could from Nazi tyranny in the Netherlands. It is frightfully sad in places, especially to know that the novel is fiction based on fact. Thete are many books about the genocide and this one sits well in the canon of thise works. It is well worth a read, but it is a diffucult read at times.
AMAZON CANADA
Joy Lynn Goddard5.0 out of 5 stars *****A little gem Reviewed in Canada on September 12, 2021Verified Purchase In Over the Hedge, Paulette Mahurin takes us to Amsterdam during the Nazi occupation in 1943, where she shines a light on the heroic efforts of ordinary people who save Jewish children from the death camps. Walter, who is running a deportation centre, falsifies records and gives the children to Henriette, the Jewish woman across the street from him at the daycare. Then she hands the children over the backyard hedge to Johan, the principal of the Teacher’s College, next door. Hiding in boxes, baskets, and bins, the children make their way towards the open arms of foster families who keep them safe from Nazi terror. To say scenes in this book moved me—a baby ripped from her parent’s arms, a father shot in the head, people everywhere cowering from the Nazis’ contempt, and so much more—is a gross understatement. The author does an excellent job of portraying the indomitable spirit of these ordinary people who risked their lives to do what was right. Hundreds benefitted from their efforts. And when depicting the Nazis, Mahurin did just as good a job of showing the underbelly of humanity. The author gets inside the heads of the three protagonists very well; I felt their fear, turmoil, and heartbreak. My father was a soldier in the Canadian Army in World War 2, but he wouldn’t talk about it much. It was too painful. Most of my knowledge about World War 2 comes from reading the dusty curriculum in school. Over the Hedge offers so much more. It wasn’t hard to rate this little gem five stars.
NETGALLEY
Stephanie F, Reviewer ****
Excellent book about the brave people who risked their lives to save Jewish children during WW2. The title was very appropriately chosen; many of these little ones were rescued by being smuggled through secret passageways hidden in tall, overgrown shrubbery. The children were then concealed in packing boxes or laundry bags and taken away to foster families. Truly amazing that so many men and women were able to successfully outwit the evils of Hitler’s “Final Solution”, at least in part, by putting their own lives in great jeopardy. **Thank you, Netgalley, for a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.**
Naira A, Reviewer *****
This was an extremely powerful reach and absolutely gut wrenching. Our history is far too big for one piece of information to guide you for the rest of your life, so when you do get something even more valuable to learn, it really hits you with the sudden realisation that there is truly so much in our history you aren’t aware of. This was heart wrenching and it really hit me in ways I was unaware of at first. This was really interesting and I will 100% be checking out the authors other works and any future works from now on. 5 out of 5 stars!
Reviewer 874688*****
As it is widely known, WWII was a period of time where humanity went through darkness and evil, however, there was light to fend off the darkness at a certain extent, from the hands of those who refused to witness evil without doing something to help.
As I mentioned on another review, I applaud sincerely the intent of bringing this kind of stories into public awareness, especially during these trying times when we are still going through a pandemic, when there are a lot of social causes we might need to do something to help others. Works like this one are a good source of inspiration on how when there is a will, there might be a way, and we can be resourceful in times of need.
Over the Hedge is the story 0f members of the Dutch Resistance who helped saving hundreds of Jewish children from a terrible fate. I truly enjoyed reading from their perspective, from the point
Michele F, Reviewer *****
Reviewer 98309 ****+
Louise G, Reviewer ****
![Over the Hedge by [Paulette Mahurin]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51FCTz2XBLL.jpg)
Naira A, Reviewer *****