Two Lights of Hope

A Cold War Trilogy #2

by Taryn R. Hutchison

Life in Communist Romania in 1988 becomes increasingly dangerous for sixteen-year-old Adriana Nicu as she and her friend Gabi seek answers to a forty-year-old mystery. Their find an old wardrobe intended to be a Jewish family’s way of escape from the Nazis, and maybe—just maybe—find out what happened to the family after they disappeared.

In her quest for the truth, Adriana must learn who to trust as she navigates her ever-changing world—where ordinary citizens become spies and informants, either for the all-powerful Securitate or for the growing Resistance. Confronted with evil she can hardly imagine, Adriana loses hope—until an old Jewish man and her banned books offer her a path through the dark.

Even the smallest glimmer of hope can break through the darkest night.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romania

318 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2023

About the author

Taryn R. Hutchison has published five books in a variety of genres. One Degree of Freedom, Two Lights of Hope, and Three Colors of Courage are historical YA fiction set in Cold War Romania, and part of A Cold War Trilogy. Sentenced to Life is a true story of a prisoner whose sentence far outweighed his crime. We Wait You is a memoir of her years in Eastern Europe.

Taryn hails from a town on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with a booming population of 75 people, three million chickens, several dogs, and her two imaginary friends. She loves people, art, storytelling, and travel. She’s visited all 50 states, lots of countries, and every continent except Antarctica. She and her husband live in a sleepy town in western North Carolina where she earned a master's degree in writing. Taryn is a member of Redbud Writers Guild and SCBWI.

Reviews

[Marian Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved meeting up with the young heroine, Adriana, again in this second novel, Two Lights of Hope. As she grows, so do her adventures in travel, school, love, and life. Her curiosity and bravery can inspire readers of every age .
Marian Sims

[Michelle VanLoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good historical fiction is like time travel for readers. A compelling, believable story can make the past seem as real as the present. Taryn Hutchison's excellent Two Lights of Hope is very good historical fiction, written about an era that has become for many of us in the West little more than some data points that happened in eastern Europe more than thirty years ago. Hutchison's writing brings readers into the brutal authoritarian reign of Nicolae Ceaușescu and the looming end of The Cold War in this page-turner, the second book of a planned trilogy. Vivid descriptions of the privations of life in late 1980's Romania and characters who struggle to make sense of the past while navigating relatable teen relationship challenges of the present make Two Lights of Hope an engaging read.

[Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What twists and turns as the plot in this second book continues to reveal itself. There is nothing like the innocence of a first love. So much is seen with rosy glasses but as time matures the heart, the glasses are lifted and there is true revelation. During times of war this can prove either life or death. Adriana faces a world of discernment in her decisions. Again, I had a difficult time putting this book down. Taryn writes with such description and poignancy when she wants to capture your attention. AND she does!!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taryn Hutchison’s Two Lights of Hope offers readers a riveting page-turner. Her depiction of life in communist Romanian brings chills as we witness the citizens’ subjection to surveillance by the government. Even teenagers Adriana and Gabi face danger from the all-powerful leadership when they become amateur sleuths in search of a wardrobe that holds the key to missing family friends. Through stunning research, well-developed characters, and exquisitely rendered setting, the author conveys in the strongest terms the difficulty of living under Ceausescu’s oppressive regime. A powerful, important book everyone should read.

[Rebecca Detrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Continuing to follow the story of Adriana and her friends from One Degree of Freedom into Two Lights of Hope is like walking alongside friends who you are sometimes cheering on and sometimes trying to steer away from trouble. Hutchison masterfully mixes the sad histories of Romania and its surround countries into a story of human relationships to time, place, and one another. I highly recommend this sequel and will be passing it along to students and friends alike.

[Steve Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was drawn in right at the start with the close friendship between Adriana and Gabby and their quest to find answers to a 40 year old mystery regarding a Jewish families plight from World War II times and the attempt to eradicate Jewish families in Communist or Eastern Block countries. It was an intriguing read from the time the girls discovered a secret entrance to Adriana getting caught and their adventures after that. It was compelling and a real page turner that I didn't want to end!

[Stephanie Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my. This book was so good. I was on the edge of my seat, so to speak. The characters, settings, dialogue, and history is all so authentic. I was alive during that time, safe and sound in America. I can’t imagine the terror. But this story gives me just a glimpse into the terror. Well done, Taryn Hutchison. This second book in the series is even better than the first.

[Aidan DiMartino · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a thrilling, masterful, and page-turning book to read. This book really transported me back to communist Romania. I think you will enjoy this interesting book as much as I did! I couldn’t put it down in till it was over, and even then I wanted to read more.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

After enjoying reading the talented Taryn Hutchinson’s One Degree of Freedom, I was delighted to read her second book in the trilogy, Two Lights of Hope, which continues the story of the brave & resourceful “Scumpita” -Adriana Nicu , her grandmother Bunica, and her extended family & friends living under the brutal Iron Guard , in the book -banning, curfew enforcing Communist Romania during the years of the murderous Cold War. Even though the novel is categorized as YA, all ages will be immediately drawn into reading this expertly researched historical fiction filled with fascinating friendships, faith, intrigue, missing family members, betrayal, mysterious strangers, hope, & love. From the hooting of an owl in the darkness in the opening chapter, to the discovery of a lost carved owl & its meaning filled with much light in the final chapters, Two Lights of Hope will fill your heart with love & light, and its memorable & courageous characters will stay with you long after this well written novel ends.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I stated in my review of the first book, this one, as well, is very educational, but I will strongly recommend that the 3rd is the most educational (no spoilers though). THIS book captures the sister-friend relationship of Gabi and Adriana while they attempt to solve a seemingly unsolvable case of missing persons. My favorite is an unlikely friendship that turns into some impressive character development (not book character development but actual personal character development) in a very formidable time in these youngsters' lives.

[Kristy Hetzel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A continued fascinating look into communist Romania. My only real disappointment is there is so little hope of the gospel shown and yet the author seems to indicate her belief in Christ in the follow-up notes.

[A Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It will transport you to a time in history which was incredibly difficult for Eastern Europeans and will bring you hope through learning about their resilience and faith.

[Lisa Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! A little bit mystery novel, a little drama, a little historical fiction, it has it all. And it easy I’ll appeals to a wide variety of audiences. I’m excited for the final book in the trilogy to be written!

[Serena Yount · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this one even more so than the first. I love seeing a character grow up and that’s what we got to do with Adriana and her friends.

[Andrea N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of visiting Romania twice in the early 2000s, so I was thrilled to find a series set in this fascinating, historically rich country. Book one, One Degree of Freedom, transported me across the ocean and across time into the story of Adriana Nicu. Through tears, I devoured the book in just a few short days and waited eagerly to hear more of this young woman's story. Book two exceeded my expectations! Two Lights of Hope continues Adriana's beautifully tragic journey of friendship, reconciliation and the undying hope that comes in unexpected places. Hutchinson is a master of words, pulling her reader so deep into the story that you will be surprised to look up from the pages and find yourself in your own bed and not on the streets of Bucharest. If you love brilliantly written Historical Fiction, look no further!

[Jessica Coelho · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big fan of this series, can’t wait for the 3rd book to come out! The plot is exciting, great character development, and historically informative. Read this book in 2 days, couldn’t put it down

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to author Taryn Hutchison for a digital advance reader's copy. All comments and opinions are my own.

As the second novel in this young adult series, it can easily be read as a standalone. But after you finish this you’ll want to read “One Degree of Freedom” to catch up with the earlier adventures of then fifteen-year-old Adriana Nicu and her friend Gabi.

This historical fiction is set in 1988 Communist Romania, where two teenage girls search for answers to a mystery from World War II – what became of a Jewish family whose safety was threatened by the Romanian government. The secrecy, spies, informants, and resistance fighters from forty years ago persist in Adriana’s world. Even though her family tries to shield her from the current government threats, Adriana and Gabi find themselves in the midst of an atmosphere of dangerous oppression.

The warm and endearing story of Adriana and her family is told as a counter to Hutchison’s skillful description of the pervasive tone of Communist government and the determination of those who refuse to be intimidated.

Young readers and adults alike will easily become involved in the story as they learn of a dark historical period where people are not always who they seem, but where trust and hope defeat the evils of darkness.

[Wendy Kohman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tensions and intrigues are escalating in Romania in 1989. In Two Lights of Hope, we get to watch Adriana and her friends grow and mature in a world that is about to "boil over". New relationships teach them about trust and loyalty and that understanding the past can give them important context for navigating the present.

While it didn't take too long to figure out the plot twists, they were fun and satisfying. Romania's Holocaust history, beautifully woven into the story, is an unexpected and welcomed addition to the narrative.

I thoroughly enjoyed Two Lights of Hope, maybe even more than the first book in the series, One Degree of Freedom. While the books can each "stand alone", I can't wait to re-read them back-to-back! Then, bring on book 3!

BONUS: Readers of all ages, but especially YA Readers will, like Adriana and her friends, be better equipped to navigate today's cultural challenges, by understanding the past. This book series is a great way to give them some of that "historical context".

[Dana Dove · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a teenager under the communism like Adriana Nicu was! All the experiences she is going through, I could identify pretty easy! Taryn uses sweet Romanian words, like “mulțumesc” “dragă” and “scumpica” that bring so much color, authenticity and the soul sweetness of my Romanian people, makes me smile, laugh and sometimes cry!

Taryn’s book brings back some hard memories that right now the Romanian teenagers have no idea someone would live them!

Taryn’s beautiful description of the characters makes you want to know them, identify with at least one of them, and makes you want to protect, hold your breath or let them know about the danger! Easy to read, short chapters keep you engaged to the very end!

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved continuing Adriana's story in Two Lights of Hope. The emotions of a young girl trying to figure out family, friendship, and romance are conveyed so authentically that any young(or old!) person can relate. Ms. Hutchison deftly combines these very human interactions with an artful setting of intrigue and mystery in Communist Romania. Few books tell this tale in fiction for young readers. It is gripping, chilling, and compelling. At the same time, characters are portrayed with so much warmth and humanity that they become friends. The mark of a good book: you don't want to say goodbye when it ends! I love forward to volume 3 of the trilogy! I recommend this book for readers of all ages!

[Sharla Fritz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful and stirring, Taryn Hutchinson once again drew me into the story Adriana in Communist Romania--this time with the added drama of Adriana's quest to find out what happened to her grandmother's Jewish friend during WWII. Although both timelines tell dark stories, there is indeed hope.

This book gives an awesome example of what historical fiction can do--take you back to a time and place to help you understand and, at the same time, introduce you to characters that you care about. Two Lights of Hope gave me a window into what it was like living in Communist Romania, while keeping me on the edge of my seat to discover what would happen next to Adriana Nicu.

[SJ Robertson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking forward to this book, as Book #1 was excellent. I'm sorry to say that I'm disappointed. I didn't care for dual storyline of Adriana's life in Romania during the Cold War and the WWII connections to her grandmother. I felt it detracted from Adriana's story. There are countless novels about WWII, and not enough set in Eastern European countries during the Communist era. Why combine the two? I also felt that the protagonist's maturity had regressed (over a boy) from the depiction of her in the first novel. I will probably read the third book when it comes out, but I'm disappointed that this novel diverged so much away from the original plot.

[W Heustess · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the sequel to “One Degree of Freedom ,“ I wasn’t surprised this book drew me in just as book one did. The characters are so personable, the settings so beautifully descriptive in a way that transports the reader to each scene location. The story contains love, suspense, pain, joy, harsh realities, but always hope. I read the book in just a couple of sittings as it is hard to put down. I would recommend teen readers, as well as adult readers, to meet these characters and follow their journeys. Great historical fiction which I love! Can’t wait for Book 3 in the series to be released.

[Kurt Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taryn Hutchison has written another gripping novel, the second installment of her Cold War Trilogy. Two Lights of Hope takes off where One Degree of Freedom ended, with multiple storylines set during an important but often overlooked period of recent history.
Two Lights of Hope captures the trials and tribulations of life in Eastern bloc Romania just prior to the fall of Communism. The author transports the reader back to a time and way of life one has to experience to understand. Excellent storytelling, weaving in timeless themes of freedom, bravery, betrayal and survival.

[John Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was hard for me to put this book down. A very difficult and sad era in history was dealt with tastefully yet without sacrificing the integrity of the events focused on in this story. I am a huge fan of historical fiction, and this novel quickly drew me in. I found the plot intriguing, and the characters came to life in a way that made you feel as if you actually knew them. Can't wait to see if there is a 3rd installment to this series!

[Tom Virtue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Returning to Adriana's world in Bucharest has been a warm, hopeful journey even though it is immersed in the uncertainties and tensions of her time. The sense of family and connection that formed an anchor for Adriana are what make it a great story. That's what this is – a great story that educates and stimulates new questions and thoughts. My granddaughters loved the first book in this trilogy, now I get to give them the second!

[Cheryl Bostrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping . Relevant. Expertly crafted. Two Lights of Hope captured me, held me, and has refused to let go. Author Taryn Hutchison’s deft portrayal of resilience and hope in the darkest days of Ceaucescu's Romania compelled me to explore my own devotion to freedom—and what I’d risk and sacrifice to keep it. An exceptional, beautifully written sequel to One Degree of Freedom sure to land in hearts of all ages.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Two in the Cold War trilogy continues the journey of "One Degree of Freedom." Taryn Hutchison creates twists and turns in every chapter, keeping me turning the pages. The new characters in "Two Lights of Hope" add to the depth of story and introduce new roles for main characters. With storylines still hanging unanswered, I anxiously await Book Three!

[Sandy Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading One Degree of Freedom, I was excited to read Two Lights of Hope and continue with Adriana's story. I am so connected with Adriana and her family/friends, I can't wait for book #3 ! This book is one of my favorites and I highly recommend it to everyone.

[Meg Given · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated from start to finish. I loved bringing in the California connection to the story. Looking forward to "the rest of the story."