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Flame of Resistance
Years of Nazi occupation have stolen much from Brigitte Durand. Family. Freedom. Hope for a future, especially for a woman with a past like hers. But that changes the day American fighter pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down over occupied France. Picked up by the Resistance, Tom becomes the linchpin in their plan to infiltrate a Germans-only brothel and get critical intel out through Brigitte, a prostitute rumored to be sympathetic to the Allied cause.D-day looms and everyone knows that invasion is imminent. But so is treachery, and the life of one American pilot unexpectedly jeopardizes everything. He becomes more important than the mission to a man who cannot bear to lose another agent and to a woman who is more than just a prostitute, who finally realizes that her actions could change the course of history. NOTE- The 2013 Christy Awards , honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction, were presented at the Renaissance Grand in St. Louis, Mo. on June 24, 2013. In the category of Historical Novel, " Flame of Resistance " by Tracy Groot was awarded 1st place . Ms. Groot, now a 2-time Christy award-winning author, was also awarded the Christy for her novel "Madman" in 2007. Her next novel, "Sentinels of Andersonville" , based on the infamous Civil War prison in Georgia, is set for a late 2013/early 2014 release."
403 pages, Paperback
First published May 18, 2012
85 people are currently reading
1707 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Groot
13 books179 followersTracy Groot is the critically acclaimed and Christy Award–winning author of several works of historical fiction. Her books have received starred Booklist and Publishers Weekly reviews and have been called "beautifully written" and "page-turning" by Publishers Weekly, and "gripping" with "exquisitely drawn" characters by Library Journal.
Tracy and her husband have three grown sons and a daughter-in-law and enjoy board games, warm vacations, any kind of travel, Detroit Lions football, foodie experiences, and most anything that gives them time together.
Tracy and her husband have three grown sons and a daughter-in-law and enjoy board games, warm vacations, any kind of travel, Detroit Lions football, foodie experiences, and most anything that gives them time together.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
December 30, 2012
Ce livre était fantastique! What does that mean, exactly? The translation is, "this book was fantastic," in French. I have never read any books by Tracy Groot before, but this book has made me a fan. I loved this novel and could not stop reading it. I have a "thing" for WWII fiction and for stories where people resist their oppressors by refusing to be like them. There were a number of times while reading this novel that my eyes welled with tears. I sensed the hope, sacrifice, and redemption themes coming up in the plot, and I experienced them within the pages of this book. Sometimes the littlest things bring perspective to everything else. When Krista found the blessing in the fact that a guard had enough compassion to assist her in helping her give a person being tortured a drink of water, I was moved by that scene. In the midst of horror, one can still see the hope that lives in believers, and people are drawn to it. Krista saw that traumatic job as a ministry. I can't imagine...
C'est les horreurs de guerre. That's the horrors of war. I found many of the situations in this book quite convicting, and I am glad the author didn't water those situations down. When Tom asked Brigitte about the hardest part of the war and she said, "the hunger," it made emotion rise in my heart. She described it so well. We take so many things in life for granted. Many of us think having no extra money after we pay our bills is hardship...not! Anyway, I loved the heartfelt way the author penned this story and how she didn't soften the pain that the characters went through. I grew attached to a number of them and was sad when they were no longer part of the story. Even the hardest of hearts could be softened by the right situation.
The reason this book is making my favorite fiction list has to do with the fact that the novel made me think about my life and about what I would do in similar situations. Though the characters were brave because they fought for France, I could see the spiritual alignment to the many martyrs for the faith over the centuries. The love story was also quite beautiful. I loved how Brigitte was used to show Tom that there is still a person beneath one of the most offensive professions. I loved the change of perspective and thought about how hard times can bring out the best and worst in people. Ironically, the next book on my to-read list is a story of Rahab. Since this one was an "impressionistic retelling" I've been prepared for a wonderful experience, I'm sure. Again, loved this story! Very realistic and heart-wrenching. A must-read for 2012.
C'est les horreurs de guerre. That's the horrors of war. I found many of the situations in this book quite convicting, and I am glad the author didn't water those situations down. When Tom asked Brigitte about the hardest part of the war and she said, "the hunger," it made emotion rise in my heart. She described it so well. We take so many things in life for granted. Many of us think having no extra money after we pay our bills is hardship...not! Anyway, I loved the heartfelt way the author penned this story and how she didn't soften the pain that the characters went through. I grew attached to a number of them and was sad when they were no longer part of the story. Even the hardest of hearts could be softened by the right situation.
The reason this book is making my favorite fiction list has to do with the fact that the novel made me think about my life and about what I would do in similar situations. Though the characters were brave because they fought for France, I could see the spiritual alignment to the many martyrs for the faith over the centuries. The love story was also quite beautiful. I loved how Brigitte was used to show Tom that there is still a person beneath one of the most offensive professions. I loved the change of perspective and thought about how hard times can bring out the best and worst in people. Ironically, the next book on my to-read list is a story of Rahab. Since this one was an "impressionistic retelling" I've been prepared for a wonderful experience, I'm sure. Again, loved this story! Very realistic and heart-wrenching. A must-read for 2012.
December 4, 2021
Excellent story and excellent storytelling, marred by a very few technical nits. Maybe only 3.5 stars, but so enjoyable that I've rounded upward.
A complex tale of humanity versus the horror of war in 1944 occupied France. Many of the French characters have both names and noms de guerre which, when taken with rather too few attributions during the opening chapters, occasionally leaves the reader wondering who spoke what to whom.
Really liked how Groot lets each character reveal her- or himself- rather than telling us about her or him. That many characters seem to be working at cross-purposes increases the verisimilitude. So many persons of faith coming together by coincidence suggests that no coincidence was involved. Increasingly complex plots--and counter plots--heightens the tempo and stakes as the crisis approaches, not to mention introducing some comic relief along with the tension. The climax is a hoot.
The humor accentuates, rather than diminishes, the evil that man did to man during that shameful period. As with the Holocaust, Groot reminds us that man is capable of unimaginable evil and incredible sacrifice.
Quibbles: the fighting at Guadalcanal was in 1942-43, not 1944. While Groot's P-47 pilot consultant presumably knows the correct nomenclature for the aircraft, her idiosyncratic military terminology occasionally throws the reader out of the story.
An outstanding read.
A complex tale of humanity versus the horror of war in 1944 occupied France. Many of the French characters have both names and noms de guerre which, when taken with rather too few attributions during the opening chapters, occasionally leaves the reader wondering who spoke what to whom.
Really liked how Groot lets each character reveal her- or himself- rather than telling us about her or him. That many characters seem to be working at cross-purposes increases the verisimilitude. So many persons of faith coming together by coincidence suggests that no coincidence was involved. Increasingly complex plots--and counter plots--heightens the tempo and stakes as the crisis approaches, not to mention introducing some comic relief along with the tension. The climax is a hoot.
The humor accentuates, rather than diminishes, the evil that man did to man during that shameful period. As with the Holocaust, Groot reminds us that man is capable of unimaginable evil and incredible sacrifice.
Quibbles: the fighting at Guadalcanal was in 1942-43, not 1944. While Groot's P-47 pilot consultant presumably knows the correct nomenclature for the aircraft, her idiosyncratic military terminology occasionally throws the reader out of the story.
An outstanding read.
November 12, 2019
3.5 stars
February 27, 2014
The stars of this book for me were the characters, specifically the main stars of Brigitte, Tom, and Michel. They breathed with life in all their complexity. I felt connected with all three in a way that I don't see very often. I loved to see how Brigitte was able to find some hope in a very jaded life, how Tom approached everything with such a huge sense of honor (though not a very strong strategic mind), and how Michel was able to rise above the tragedy of a lost loved one and lost opportunities. If for no other reason, read this book for the people in it.
The actual plot of the novel, on the other hand, was engaging but boy were some of these Resistance operations not very well thought out! I'm surprised as many of the operatives survived as actually did (and everyone didn't survive). The suspense and excitement present in the novel did make up for the poor planning to a degree, but if actual Resistance cells operated like this, the Nazis would have won. Even the characters themselves admit more than once that they were operating on the fly!
Despite the heavy material of the book (i.e. WWII Resistance, torture, and war), there is a nice undercurrent of humor that I felt was special to this novel. Tom's uneasiness with Brigitte's occupation and scenes like Resistance members and German officers sharing cheese and laughter made me smile more than once. Some of the turns of phrase also were very smile inducing.
After all is said and done, this novel was an enjoyable and emotional journey to WWII France. I enjoyed the characters, the humor, and the main plot. Despite some hiccups with operations that stretched the bounds of believability, I'd definitely recommend this novel to any WWII Resistance buff or really anyone who enjoys a good historical fiction novel.
The actual plot of the novel, on the other hand, was engaging but boy were some of these Resistance operations not very well thought out! I'm surprised as many of the operatives survived as actually did (and everyone didn't survive). The suspense and excitement present in the novel did make up for the poor planning to a degree, but if actual Resistance cells operated like this, the Nazis would have won. Even the characters themselves admit more than once that they were operating on the fly!
Despite the heavy material of the book (i.e. WWII Resistance, torture, and war), there is a nice undercurrent of humor that I felt was special to this novel. Tom's uneasiness with Brigitte's occupation and scenes like Resistance members and German officers sharing cheese and laughter made me smile more than once. Some of the turns of phrase also were very smile inducing.
After all is said and done, this novel was an enjoyable and emotional journey to WWII France. I enjoyed the characters, the humor, and the main plot. Despite some hiccups with operations that stretched the bounds of believability, I'd definitely recommend this novel to any WWII Resistance buff or really anyone who enjoys a good historical fiction novel.
July 11, 2012
First let me say that I love reading World War 2 books. I was really intrigued to read this based on the description of the book. It has great promise: A prostitute helps out the French Resistance to defeat teh Nazis. Sounds great, right? It is. The story and characters just needs a little more fleshing out. I also found it hard to keep track of all the code names and real names. And a few times, I was completely lost as to what was happening.
In most WW2 novels, I find myself in a very suspenseflul state. Wondering if the Jews get out. Hoping that they fall in love and get married and be happy. That the Nazi gets justice in the end. That the Resistance's plan of blowing up a bridge, railroad or building is successful. That the characters who face depravity, inhumanity and injustice will find beauty and love in the world. But this book had me bored. Bored with the characters. Bored with the story line. Bored. Bored. Bored.
In most WW2 novels, I find myself in a very suspenseflul state. Wondering if the Jews get out. Hoping that they fall in love and get married and be happy. That the Nazi gets justice in the end. That the Resistance's plan of blowing up a bridge, railroad or building is successful. That the characters who face depravity, inhumanity and injustice will find beauty and love in the world. But this book had me bored. Bored with the characters. Bored with the story line. Bored. Bored. Bored.
November 22, 2016
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book. I loved how the author weaved so many different and diverse characters in through the story line. And oh, the twists! That one at the end shocked me to the point I literally sat still for a minute as was just like "what?!"
The only reason fro the low rating is the fact that I felt that the author was justifying the brothels because they played a large part in the French Resistance. Though some good may have come form them, I still feel that this is a very wrong, and I was just waiting for the characters to realize this . . . but it seemed that they didn't.
So while the message of hope and second chances was beautiful, this still made me uncomfortable. And It would make me hesitate to recommend it to anyone younger than 16 or so.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved how the author weaved so many different and diverse characters in through the story line. And oh, the twists! That one at the end shocked me to the point I literally sat still for a minute as was just like "what?!"
The only reason fro the low rating is the fact that I felt that the author was justifying the brothels because they played a large part in the French Resistance. Though some good may have come form them, I still feel that this is a very wrong, and I was just waiting for the characters to realize this . . . but it seemed that they didn't.
So while the message of hope and second chances was beautiful, this still made me uncomfortable. And It would make me hesitate to recommend it to anyone younger than 16 or so.
January 27, 2016
Actual Rating 4.5 Stars
This is one of those books that you have to read slowly. The plot line and characters are complex and the story takes many twists along the way. The ending blew me away. I was caught up and entranced by that point. I only wish we knew what really happened to some of the minor characters in the end. But we can guess, right?
This is one of those books that you have to read slowly. The plot line and characters are complex and the story takes many twists along the way. The ending blew me away. I was caught up and entranced by that point. I only wish we knew what really happened to some of the minor characters in the end. But we can guess, right?
Read
January 19, 2018DNF. I ran out of time on this one, had to take it back to the library. It seemed good, though. Maybe later I'll borrow it again.
June 2, 2012
Nazi occupation has stolen much from Brigitte Durand. Family. Freedom. Hope for a future. Forced to turn her home into Germans-only brothel to survive, Brigitte clings to patriotism by sneaking food to the French Resistance and the downed airmen they are hiding nearby.
When American fighter pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down and picked up by the Resistance, he becomes the linchpin in their plan to leverage Brigitte's sympathy. By posing as a German officer, Tom can smuggle out critical intel she acquires from other soldiers about the nearby bridges, whose capture and defense will be crucial to Allied forces.
D-Day looms, and everyone know invasion is imminent. But so is treachery. When loyalties are betrayed, the life of one American pilot jeopardizes everything. He becomes more important than the mission to a man who cannot bear to lose another agent...and to a woman who is more than just a prostitute, who finally realizes her courage could change history.
Flame of Resistance by Tracy Groot was an interesting novel, filled with betrayal, love, and sacrifice. The plot line was excellently written and intricately woven with mystery, suspense, and unexpected curve balls. The last few chapters were incredible. I was just blown away by the twists and turns at a point where the conclusion seemed obvious and heart wrenching. Of course, the conclusion was still heart wrenching, but it was much better than what I imagined it to be. However, there were several points in the story that seemed impossible and unrealistic. For example, the spies for the Resistance were horribly unprepared and trained for their missions. While I understand that part of the reason was because their leader was falling apart, it still seemed unbelievable considering how secretive and well organized their resistance group was. Overall though the plot was very interesting, and I read the book without stopping in one afternoon.
The characters were not as well developed as the plot. Tom was a fairly static character, which was disappointing considering his importance to the storyline. I would have preferred if he had experienced more growth during the story. Brigitte was an interesting character. While I understand that she felt a brothel was the only way she could survive, I did not like the author's inference that it was OK for the character to continue in that lifestyle later on the book once Brigitte realized she was able to accomplish so much more than that. I also wish that Tom had given Brigitte stronger message than that God accepts all even the ''worst'' sinners. While this is true, it does not mean that one is supposed to continue in that lifestyle. A person is called to leave their sinful lifestyles when they come to God. I also disliked the fact that the characters worshiped and valued their country and patriotism more than God and doing what was right. While those things are certainly worth valuing, I just wish there had been a better balance shown in the story.
Despite these issues, there were a couple characters that did develop more throughout the novel. Michel Rousseau and Hauptmann Braun were my favorite characters. Michel was a very major character despite the fact that the story centered around Tom and Brigitte. He and Braun experienced the most growth and development as characters, and I enjoyed seeing and experiencing their thoughts and changing ideas. Braun was an incredible character, and I loved seeing his changes throughout the story.
Flame of Resistance was a good story overall. The plot was fantastic, but some of the supposedly main characters experienced little to no growth which took away from the story. The themes of the novel could have been developed more, and I disagreed with the way some of the values were esteemed in the story. However, the novel was still an excellent read; I would just recommend that you be prepared for some violence and other improprieties that come along with a brothel.
I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
When American fighter pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down and picked up by the Resistance, he becomes the linchpin in their plan to leverage Brigitte's sympathy. By posing as a German officer, Tom can smuggle out critical intel she acquires from other soldiers about the nearby bridges, whose capture and defense will be crucial to Allied forces.
D-Day looms, and everyone know invasion is imminent. But so is treachery. When loyalties are betrayed, the life of one American pilot jeopardizes everything. He becomes more important than the mission to a man who cannot bear to lose another agent...and to a woman who is more than just a prostitute, who finally realizes her courage could change history.
Flame of Resistance by Tracy Groot was an interesting novel, filled with betrayal, love, and sacrifice. The plot line was excellently written and intricately woven with mystery, suspense, and unexpected curve balls. The last few chapters were incredible. I was just blown away by the twists and turns at a point where the conclusion seemed obvious and heart wrenching. Of course, the conclusion was still heart wrenching, but it was much better than what I imagined it to be. However, there were several points in the story that seemed impossible and unrealistic. For example, the spies for the Resistance were horribly unprepared and trained for their missions. While I understand that part of the reason was because their leader was falling apart, it still seemed unbelievable considering how secretive and well organized their resistance group was. Overall though the plot was very interesting, and I read the book without stopping in one afternoon.
The characters were not as well developed as the plot. Tom was a fairly static character, which was disappointing considering his importance to the storyline. I would have preferred if he had experienced more growth during the story. Brigitte was an interesting character. While I understand that she felt a brothel was the only way she could survive, I did not like the author's inference that it was OK for the character to continue in that lifestyle later on the book once Brigitte realized she was able to accomplish so much more than that. I also wish that Tom had given Brigitte stronger message than that God accepts all even the ''worst'' sinners. While this is true, it does not mean that one is supposed to continue in that lifestyle. A person is called to leave their sinful lifestyles when they come to God. I also disliked the fact that the characters worshiped and valued their country and patriotism more than God and doing what was right. While those things are certainly worth valuing, I just wish there had been a better balance shown in the story.
Despite these issues, there were a couple characters that did develop more throughout the novel. Michel Rousseau and Hauptmann Braun were my favorite characters. Michel was a very major character despite the fact that the story centered around Tom and Brigitte. He and Braun experienced the most growth and development as characters, and I enjoyed seeing and experiencing their thoughts and changing ideas. Braun was an incredible character, and I loved seeing his changes throughout the story.
Flame of Resistance was a good story overall. The plot was fantastic, but some of the supposedly main characters experienced little to no growth which took away from the story. The themes of the novel could have been developed more, and I disagreed with the way some of the values were esteemed in the story. However, the novel was still an excellent read; I would just recommend that you be prepared for some violence and other improprieties that come along with a brothel.
I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2012
Flame of Resistance is one of those books that starts out like a train ride—you know it's going to be a powerful read as it picks up speed through twists and turns to a thrilling ending. It's an intense read from beginning to end, taking place during WWII, in Normandy, France in the momentous and dangerous months just before D-Day.
France had been occupied by Nazi Germany for four long years, suffering from fear, mistreatment and food shortages that weigh on the people. Brigitte Durand turns her home into a Germans-only brothel to survive, while anonymously sneaking food to the French Resistance who hide and aid Allied pilots who have been shot down. Brigitte doesn't hesitate when asked to become a spy for the Resistance. She assists the American pilot Tom Jaeger, who poses as a German so that Brigitte can relay to him any information she acquires from the German soldiers who come to her brothel. But even close friends can betray, and Brigitte finds herself in a dangerous mission to rescue the man she loves, risking everything for her friends and country.
I've read several books taking place during WWII, but this one focuses on France and gives an inside look at what it was like to be a Resistant agent, risking your life to help others and to fight for your freedom through undercover operations. It was an exciting read, but heartbreaking and terribly sad how they were tortured when discovered. Although Brigitte was a prostitute, one cannot help but admire her inner strength to survive and to anonymously aid the French Resistance. She suffers the harsh disapproval from her own countrymen for her profession, but she dreams of a freed France and does not hesitate when asked to take part in a dangerous mission. I appreciated the author's discretion regarding the scenes that take place at the brothel.
The cast of characters in this novel are memorable, from Michel, one of the great but unassuming leaders of the Resistance sought after by the Germans to Braun, the German engineer who realizes the Nazis are destroying German lives as much as that of the so-called enemy. The author created people that I cared about, that I suffered with, that I rejoiced with. As the story moves to its climax, I was left breathless, wondering how it would all end. The strategy was brilliant and it made me think about how many people during this atrocious time in history had to device plans to escape, survive and fight for justice and freedom.
I found this book powerful, emotional and intelligent. It made me appreciate the resilience of the human spirit, the strength of friendship, and the value of loyalty. This is a gripping story, well-written with a tight plot, strong characters, and a memorable setting. Highly recommended!
Note: There are scenes of torture and description of torture in this novel.
Disclosure: Thanks to Tyndale house Publishers for sending me this complimentary book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.
France had been occupied by Nazi Germany for four long years, suffering from fear, mistreatment and food shortages that weigh on the people. Brigitte Durand turns her home into a Germans-only brothel to survive, while anonymously sneaking food to the French Resistance who hide and aid Allied pilots who have been shot down. Brigitte doesn't hesitate when asked to become a spy for the Resistance. She assists the American pilot Tom Jaeger, who poses as a German so that Brigitte can relay to him any information she acquires from the German soldiers who come to her brothel. But even close friends can betray, and Brigitte finds herself in a dangerous mission to rescue the man she loves, risking everything for her friends and country.
I've read several books taking place during WWII, but this one focuses on France and gives an inside look at what it was like to be a Resistant agent, risking your life to help others and to fight for your freedom through undercover operations. It was an exciting read, but heartbreaking and terribly sad how they were tortured when discovered. Although Brigitte was a prostitute, one cannot help but admire her inner strength to survive and to anonymously aid the French Resistance. She suffers the harsh disapproval from her own countrymen for her profession, but she dreams of a freed France and does not hesitate when asked to take part in a dangerous mission. I appreciated the author's discretion regarding the scenes that take place at the brothel.
The cast of characters in this novel are memorable, from Michel, one of the great but unassuming leaders of the Resistance sought after by the Germans to Braun, the German engineer who realizes the Nazis are destroying German lives as much as that of the so-called enemy. The author created people that I cared about, that I suffered with, that I rejoiced with. As the story moves to its climax, I was left breathless, wondering how it would all end. The strategy was brilliant and it made me think about how many people during this atrocious time in history had to device plans to escape, survive and fight for justice and freedom.
I found this book powerful, emotional and intelligent. It made me appreciate the resilience of the human spirit, the strength of friendship, and the value of loyalty. This is a gripping story, well-written with a tight plot, strong characters, and a memorable setting. Highly recommended!
Note: There are scenes of torture and description of torture in this novel.
Disclosure: Thanks to Tyndale house Publishers for sending me this complimentary book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.
August 6, 2018
The plane is flaming out as this book begins, and the young American pilot has no choice but to eject over Nazi-occupied France. He does; the resistance finds him. Things are never the same again for those who help him.
Brigitte Durand used to work for the American embassy before the grim summer of 1940—the summer France fell. The embassy closed; Brigitte returned to her ancestral home and, finding no other way to earn a living, turned the place into a brothel that catered specifically to German soldiers. Brigitte is clearly not proud of what she has done, but she is a practical young woman who understands that the alternative is genuine life-threatening hunger. Besides, is it not possible that she can learn something that will help the loosely organized resistance movement in her country? And help she does. What meager supplies she can spare, she surreptitiously provides to someone who helps rescue downed allied pilots.
It is the French resistance who has captured Tom Jaeger, the American pilot who bailed out of his flaming plane in the prologue. Tom grew up in Michigan, the son of Dutch immigrants, and he looks most decidedly German. After he heals, resistance officials want him to pose as a German officer with access to Brigitte’s brothel and to her, because the Allies need information about bridges, and Tom can get that through Brigitte.
This is Christian-based historical fiction minus the heavy-handed preaching and screeching that books in that genre can experience in lesser hands. Groot does a magnificent job here of keeping the story clean and compelling. This is solid historical fiction crafted by someone with a highly readable and enjoyable writing style. Groot takes you into the belly of the occupying beast, and she helps you feel the perpetual empty stomachs of the French who unwillingly and reluctantly serve their conquerors. She also shows you bits of the population who eagerly cooperate with the enemy.
The plot is very much about redemption and bucking the trends of the day. There are examples of tremendous courage, and Groot is especially good at pointing out those seemingly small acts that produce larger-than-life dividends.
Although Goodreads doesn’t seem to admit that the audio edition of this exists, it does, and it’s worthy of your time. Those who acquire this from the National Library Service have access to the audiobook Goodreads can’t seem to find. It is magnificently narrated. What accents there are enhance the book and give it added memorability.
Brigitte Durand used to work for the American embassy before the grim summer of 1940—the summer France fell. The embassy closed; Brigitte returned to her ancestral home and, finding no other way to earn a living, turned the place into a brothel that catered specifically to German soldiers. Brigitte is clearly not proud of what she has done, but she is a practical young woman who understands that the alternative is genuine life-threatening hunger. Besides, is it not possible that she can learn something that will help the loosely organized resistance movement in her country? And help she does. What meager supplies she can spare, she surreptitiously provides to someone who helps rescue downed allied pilots.
It is the French resistance who has captured Tom Jaeger, the American pilot who bailed out of his flaming plane in the prologue. Tom grew up in Michigan, the son of Dutch immigrants, and he looks most decidedly German. After he heals, resistance officials want him to pose as a German officer with access to Brigitte’s brothel and to her, because the Allies need information about bridges, and Tom can get that through Brigitte.
This is Christian-based historical fiction minus the heavy-handed preaching and screeching that books in that genre can experience in lesser hands. Groot does a magnificent job here of keeping the story clean and compelling. This is solid historical fiction crafted by someone with a highly readable and enjoyable writing style. Groot takes you into the belly of the occupying beast, and she helps you feel the perpetual empty stomachs of the French who unwillingly and reluctantly serve their conquerors. She also shows you bits of the population who eagerly cooperate with the enemy.
The plot is very much about redemption and bucking the trends of the day. There are examples of tremendous courage, and Groot is especially good at pointing out those seemingly small acts that produce larger-than-life dividends.
Although Goodreads doesn’t seem to admit that the audio edition of this exists, it does, and it’s worthy of your time. Those who acquire this from the National Library Service have access to the audiobook Goodreads can’t seem to find. It is magnificently narrated. What accents there are enhance the book and give it added memorability.
June 3, 2012
Desperate to survive the Nazi occupation of France, Brigitte Durand has sunk to the depths other woman have had to for millennia, selling her body in an effort to stay alive. As D-day draws near and the Germans, the French resistance, and the Allies all prepare for the invasion, Brigitte is recruited into the resistance efforts. When an American fighter pilot named Tom Jaeger is forced to evacuate his plane while flying over France, he is picked up by the Resistance. Soon, he becomes a key part of their plan to get critical intel about the bridges leading into France from the prostitute Brigitte. Soon Tom and Brigitte are embroiled in a dangerous mission that becomes ever more important as D-day approaches.
Flame of Resistance is a haunting story, one that will both inspire as it recounts the efforts of those who resisted Nazi occupation, while making your heart break for the suffering they endured. The story is fast-paced, with intrigue abounding in the midst of a people struggling to hold on to hope that a new day with dawn. Tracy Groot expertly re-creates the last days of Nazi-occupied France, and brings to life both the indomitable spirit of the French while illuminating the horror that the people experienced as they were starved and persecuted. Brigitte's story is especially heart-breaking is forced to make impossible choices, and ones that cause her fellow country-men to despise her, despite the fact that she became a prostitute solely as a means to survive. What I most found interesting is how author has drawn from the Biblical story of Rahab the prostitute, and how she set that story into the midst of World War II, creating a fascinating, multi-layered read. I have long been a fan of Tracy Groot's novels, and this one definitely lives up to the same caliber as her previous novels such as Madman.
This is a story worth reading, and I award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Tyndale, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
Flame of Resistance is a haunting story, one that will both inspire as it recounts the efforts of those who resisted Nazi occupation, while making your heart break for the suffering they endured. The story is fast-paced, with intrigue abounding in the midst of a people struggling to hold on to hope that a new day with dawn. Tracy Groot expertly re-creates the last days of Nazi-occupied France, and brings to life both the indomitable spirit of the French while illuminating the horror that the people experienced as they were starved and persecuted. Brigitte's story is especially heart-breaking is forced to make impossible choices, and ones that cause her fellow country-men to despise her, despite the fact that she became a prostitute solely as a means to survive. What I most found interesting is how author has drawn from the Biblical story of Rahab the prostitute, and how she set that story into the midst of World War II, creating a fascinating, multi-layered read. I have long been a fan of Tracy Groot's novels, and this one definitely lives up to the same caliber as her previous novels such as Madman.
This is a story worth reading, and I award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Tyndale, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
January 30, 2013
Very well done! Flame of Resistance, set in France – Normandy – in the weeks before the allied invasion, is an adventure novel with a secret. It’s a wonderful story where the heroes are everyday people and we learn from them without being preached at.
It’s not “Guns of Navarone” or “Inglorious Bastards” and the hero doesn’t run the length of the train to jump off and catch an airplane. It’s fiction and real life adventure with a downed pilot, a prostitute, and many others in the community performing heroic acts. There are collaborators, the Resistance, and prostitutes; bad guys who aren't all bad, and bad guys who are far worse than bad.
This is an amazing, uplifting, and heartfelt story.
I hate giving a good story a grade of less than 4 or 5; that said, this one should get a 6.
It’s not “Guns of Navarone” or “Inglorious Bastards” and the hero doesn’t run the length of the train to jump off and catch an airplane. It’s fiction and real life adventure with a downed pilot, a prostitute, and many others in the community performing heroic acts. There are collaborators, the Resistance, and prostitutes; bad guys who aren't all bad, and bad guys who are far worse than bad.
This is an amazing, uplifting, and heartfelt story.
I hate giving a good story a grade of less than 4 or 5; that said, this one should get a 6.
August 30, 2015
What a struggle I felt like this read was. This is the most difficult book I've ever tried to read. The writing style was quite confusing and left me literally stranded in mid sentence. Half the time I didn't know who was doing the talking and even when I did I frankly didn't understand what was going on. I had every intention of reading Maggie Bright but I'm just not sure now. I understood clearly the premise behind the book but all the wonderful details that make a story come to life were just lost. Oh, and I tried so hard; just never could like it. The story might have been interesting had it been written different.
July 4, 2012
Gritty and moving, Flame of Resistance is a beautifully written story of Nazi-occupied France that raises challenging questions about redemption, perceptions, and the cost of doing the right thing in an evil world. I highly recommend it.
January 10, 2021
I could hardly pick any sense to this book sadly...so confusing and not able to get into it at all.
March 8, 2024
I don’t even know where to begin with this book. At first I thought it was just another French-resistance WWII book (I’ve read quite a few now). I wasn't sure if it was Christian Fiction or secular fiction, I wasn't sure…well, I really wasn't sure about anything other than an author I respect loved it.
So, since I've had this in my Audible library for more than ten years now, I finally started it. To be honest, I almost resented the dinner party we had at our house last night because that meant I had to put the book down for several hours! That’s how much this book had me absorbed.
Main characters were a resistance cell called Flame…kind of gives away the title…
Let’s see..Characters:
Michel Rousseau, Resistance name: Greenland: The owner of a cement-works company basically only working with the Germans since the occupation, leader of Flame.
Tom Jaeger: A downed American pilot pulled into The Resistance with the blessing of his unit and Churchill
Brigitte Durand, Resistance name: GP Owner of a German Officers only brothel. She was rumored to be sympathetic to the Allied cause, pulled into The Resistance
André Besson, Resistance name: Rafael: Rousseau's friend and closest Resistance worker
Hauptmann Braun: German engineer with a heart
Sturmbannführer Ernst Schiffer: Evil Nazi who merciless interrogated suspectsp
Clemmie: Mother of a resistance agent, Jasmine, who was tortured to death by Schiffer
Krista: French secretary pulled into the horrifying interrogation rooms to write down all that was said
The story is about this resistance cell who found, saved and treated a downed American pilot, Tom Jaeger, and brought him into their work. Since he was a huge Viking-looking man, he could pass for a German Officer. There were some limitations which I won’t give away, but it made for some very tense moments.
The brothel was used only by German Officers. This is where the pilot met Brigitte Durand to gather intel she gathered from her "clients".
That’s all I’m going to say other than when the pilot was exposed it made for some nail-biting chapters. The ending (chapters 36-37)… Brilliant.
This is not what I would call Christian fiction. However, there were many scriptural references, a so-called conversion to something, what I’m not sure, I think it was Catholicism. Definitely Catholic references. There were some pretty steamy kisses and a great deal of the plot was centered inside a brothel, a few forms of "language" that might not have passed for Christian fiction, but not foul. Nothing in the book was particularly chaste, however, nothing unseemly was "shown" except the one intense kiss.
My ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 was based on me having to view this as a secular book with content that was hard to read such as torture and the brothel business. But the book keeping my interest all the way through? That was worth five stars.
***********************************
Hm, I have to admit to just now reading details about this book which said it was a Rahab retelling. Honestly, I never picked that up. But, I guess it could be seen that way.
So, since I've had this in my Audible library for more than ten years now, I finally started it. To be honest, I almost resented the dinner party we had at our house last night because that meant I had to put the book down for several hours! That’s how much this book had me absorbed.
Main characters were a resistance cell called Flame…kind of gives away the title…
Let’s see..Characters:
Michel Rousseau, Resistance name: Greenland: The owner of a cement-works company basically only working with the Germans since the occupation, leader of Flame.
Tom Jaeger: A downed American pilot pulled into The Resistance with the blessing of his unit and Churchill
Brigitte Durand, Resistance name: GP Owner of a German Officers only brothel. She was rumored to be sympathetic to the Allied cause, pulled into The Resistance
André Besson, Resistance name: Rafael: Rousseau's friend and closest Resistance worker
Hauptmann Braun: German engineer with a heart
Sturmbannführer Ernst Schiffer: Evil Nazi who merciless interrogated suspectsp
Clemmie: Mother of a resistance agent, Jasmine, who was tortured to death by Schiffer
Krista: French secretary pulled into the horrifying interrogation rooms to write down all that was said
The story is about this resistance cell who found, saved and treated a downed American pilot, Tom Jaeger, and brought him into their work. Since he was a huge Viking-looking man, he could pass for a German Officer. There were some limitations which I won’t give away, but it made for some very tense moments.
The brothel was used only by German Officers. This is where the pilot met Brigitte Durand to gather intel she gathered from her "clients".
That’s all I’m going to say other than when the pilot was exposed it made for some nail-biting chapters. The ending (chapters 36-37)… Brilliant.
This is not what I would call Christian fiction. However, there were many scriptural references, a so-called conversion to something, what I’m not sure, I think it was Catholicism. Definitely Catholic references. There were some pretty steamy kisses and a great deal of the plot was centered inside a brothel, a few forms of "language" that might not have passed for Christian fiction, but not foul. Nothing in the book was particularly chaste, however, nothing unseemly was "shown" except the one intense kiss.
My ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 was based on me having to view this as a secular book with content that was hard to read such as torture and the brothel business. But the book keeping my interest all the way through? That was worth five stars.
***********************************
Hm, I have to admit to just now reading details about this book which said it was a Rahab retelling. Honestly, I never picked that up. But, I guess it could be seen that way.
October 13, 2020
An American fighter pilot shot down over Nazi-occupied France. A prostitute determined to gather intelligence for the Allies. And the looming of D-Day during World War II in Flame of Resistance by author Tracy Groot.
At first it was a challenge for me to make heads or tails of this loose retelling of a well-known biblical figure's story. I wasn't yet used to the novel's rhythm, and while its unpredictability kept me on my toes at times, other parts felt a little too expected, and some of the characters seemed pretty naïve here and there.
But then, they've never been through this war before.
It wasn't too long before I got a feel for the author's skilled hand and the poignancy of the different characters' stories. By two-thirds of the way through, I was riveted, feeling on edge through the story's (sometimes merciless) turns.
I'm going to remember the characters as well as the flashes of brilliance in this grave but redemptive wartime novel.
____________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review, through a rewards program from the publisher. I received no monetary compensation.
At first it was a challenge for me to make heads or tails of this loose retelling of a well-known biblical figure's story. I wasn't yet used to the novel's rhythm, and while its unpredictability kept me on my toes at times, other parts felt a little too expected, and some of the characters seemed pretty naïve here and there.
But then, they've never been through this war before.
It wasn't too long before I got a feel for the author's skilled hand and the poignancy of the different characters' stories. By two-thirds of the way through, I was riveted, feeling on edge through the story's (sometimes merciless) turns.
I'm going to remember the characters as well as the flashes of brilliance in this grave but redemptive wartime novel.
____________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review, through a rewards program from the publisher. I received no monetary compensation.
May 23, 2017
This book takes place in Normandy, France just prior to the Allied D-Day invasion. The army air force is weakening the Nazis. One one such mission, American fighter pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down and crashes in France. He is rescued by the French Resistance and thus the story begins.
At first, I almost put the book down. I did not sense the fear of being shot down and landing in enemy territory that Jaeger should have felt. I almost put the book down. I'm glad I didn't, as the author explores the lives of those in occupied territory and their resistance against the Nazis. It could have been a thriller, but was not written with that intention. That does not prevent it from being a satisfactory read.
If you want to experience occupied France during WWII, then this book is one to include in your reading list.
At first, I almost put the book down. I did not sense the fear of being shot down and landing in enemy territory that Jaeger should have felt. I almost put the book down. I'm glad I didn't, as the author explores the lives of those in occupied territory and their resistance against the Nazis. It could have been a thriller, but was not written with that intention. That does not prevent it from being a satisfactory read.
If you want to experience occupied France during WWII, then this book is one to include in your reading list.
June 29, 2019
I loved this story set in France during WW2. I saw one description that tried to pass this off as a modern retailing of the story of Rahab. If that is true the authors aim failed because I see very few parallels between the stories. If you take the story as a novel about the French resistance you will enjoy it. This book held nothing back from the reader about the horror of living during this time. People fell in love during this time but there is nothing romantic about the atrocities that where committed by the Nazis. One thing that really stood out in this story was the balance of showing not only the bravery of the resistance but the depravity of those who collaborated with the Nazis. Well researched and balanced presentation.
April 18, 2022
What a wonderful book!
I really enjoyed this book. The author sure knows how to bring her characters alive. They are so real and their conversations are so real to life, not artificial sounding in the least. It is beautifully done and a great storyline.
I didn’t want it to end. Yet I didn’t want to stop reading. It had my attention from the start and pulled me along like a magnet. It all worked out so well in the end. I would have loved if the ending was a bit more developed and I did wonder how a couple of characters faired that weren’t mentioned at the end. But it was a great book. Another great one!!
pamarella
PRCS
I really enjoyed this book. The author sure knows how to bring her characters alive. They are so real and their conversations are so real to life, not artificial sounding in the least. It is beautifully done and a great storyline.
I didn’t want it to end. Yet I didn’t want to stop reading. It had my attention from the start and pulled me along like a magnet. It all worked out so well in the end. I would have loved if the ending was a bit more developed and I did wonder how a couple of characters faired that weren’t mentioned at the end. But it was a great book. Another great one!!
pamarella
PRCS
May 25, 2021
I had a really hard time catching all the characters’ names and identities probably because of all the code names thrown out right at the start. This is a heart-wrenching story of the French Resistance in
Nazi-occupied France during WWII. It is a well written story that explores the cruelty of war, along with the compassion, courage, and love of its heroes. I was also disappointed in the end. Everything came to a conclusion quickly at the end without much explanation. An epilogue was given, but it was 50 years later so it left a lot of questions for me.
Nazi-occupied France during WWII. It is a well written story that explores the cruelty of war, along with the compassion, courage, and love of its heroes. I was also disappointed in the end. Everything came to a conclusion quickly at the end without much explanation. An epilogue was given, but it was 50 years later so it left a lot of questions for me.
March 9, 2025
I love historical fiction, and recently have been reading a lot about the heroes of world war 2. This book was a bit hard to follow (so many characters! and each with at least 3 or 4 names, so sometimes i got lost in the weeds trying to follow who was who and on what side they were), but the ending made it all worth it. Great plot; character development left something to be desired but a very good story nonetheless.
March 28, 2018
my least favorite of Tracy Groot's novels so far. Maybe it was the subject matter, since it is WW2, Nazis, brothels and torture, but I also had a hard time keeping track of the cast of characters (the Resistnace code names added to my confusion). after studying this time in history with the kids, I'm ready to move on to happier times in my own reading as well!
October 25, 2018
"How extraordinary, this gathering: the German, the businessman, the secretary, the courier, the prostitute. A tiny snapshot of humanity." (From book) This book have me turning from page to page. The characters were great. It's just watching a movie! I wonder what happened to Michel and Braun after the war? A great read!
July 25, 2025
Motivation & Dedication
Really good book. Excitement, suspense, & some humor. Set in a small French town near Normandy just before D-Day. Members of the Flame Resistance group were quite a varied group. This motivation only showed how dedicated the French were to join together in defeating the Nazis & driving them out of France.
Really good book. Excitement, suspense, & some humor. Set in a small French town near Normandy just before D-Day. Members of the Flame Resistance group were quite a varied group. This motivation only showed how dedicated the French were to join together in defeating the Nazis & driving them out of France.
February 15, 2021
This was a great book it was a great historical book with great descriptions . I loved how there was a love story and history book about d-day . It was hard to put the book down once I started reading it .
July 13, 2021
SUMMARY: American pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down in Normandy and taken in by the Resistance. He becomes a key part in their plan to get information on the Germans and their plans for the Caen Canal Bridge. Brigitte Durand, a prostitute at a Germans-only brothel, passes on information to Tom, since she wants to help the Allies. Their window of opportunity is closing, as the invasion looms. ls the Resistance being foolhardy by placing their faith in a pilot and a prostitute? (Romantic Times)
November 10, 2024
Flame of Resistance
Absolutely engrossing novel based fictionally around true stories of members of the French Resistance and others who chose to fight for goodness and humanity during WWII in France. Highly recommend.
Absolutely engrossing novel based fictionally around true stories of members of the French Resistance and others who chose to fight for goodness and humanity during WWII in France. Highly recommend.
November 13, 2017
3.4 -- This book is not for the squeamish, since it includes description of torture. A brothel and prostitutes are prominent in the story.
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