What do you think?
Rate this book
Echoes of the Past #3
What I Left for You
A Family’s Ties Were Broken in Poland of 1939
1939
Helena Kostyszak is an oddity—an educated female ethnic minority lecturing at a university in Krakow at the outbreak of WWII. When the Germans close the university and force Jews into the ghetto, she spirits out a friend’s infant daughter and flees to her small village in the southern hills. Helena does everything in her power to protect her family, but it may not be enough. It will take all of her strength and God’s intervention for both of them to survive the war and the ethnic cleansing to come.
2023
Recently unengaged social worker McKenna Muir is dealt an awful blow when a two-year-old she’s been working with is murdered. It’s all too much to take, so her friend suggests she dive into her family’s past like she’s always wanted. Putting distance between herself and her problems might help her heal, so she and her friend head on Sabbatical to Poland. But what McKenna discovers about her family shocks everyone, including one long-lost family member.
Also in the Echoes of the Past
What I Would Tell You
What I Promise You
1939
Helena Kostyszak is an oddity—an educated female ethnic minority lecturing at a university in Krakow at the outbreak of WWII. When the Germans close the university and force Jews into the ghetto, she spirits out a friend’s infant daughter and flees to her small village in the southern hills. Helena does everything in her power to protect her family, but it may not be enough. It will take all of her strength and God’s intervention for both of them to survive the war and the ethnic cleansing to come.
2023
Recently unengaged social worker McKenna Muir is dealt an awful blow when a two-year-old she’s been working with is murdered. It’s all too much to take, so her friend suggests she dive into her family’s past like she’s always wanted. Putting distance between herself and her problems might help her heal, so she and her friend head on Sabbatical to Poland. But what McKenna discovers about her family shocks everyone, including one long-lost family member.
Also in the Echoes of the Past
What I Would Tell You
What I Promise You
320 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2024
11 people are currently reading
1237 people want to read
About the author
Liz Tolsma
41 books1,779 followersLiz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a U.S. Marine, and her oldest daughter is a recent college graduate. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
October 23, 2024
*•.¸♡ “No matter what, God.” ♡¸.•*
Within the first few pages I was hooked!
Author Liz Tolsma’s note at the start of the novel had me convinced I was in for a binge-read and I prepared myself. I was so excited to learn about an ethnic group I knew nothing about!
Tolsma has crafted a captivating dual timeline to explore the complicated history of Lemkovyna and the Lemko Rusyn people. In the 2023 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania timeline, she introduces us to a social worker, McKenna Muir, and in her 1942 timeline set in Krakow, Poland, she introduces us to Helena Kostyszak. Uniting both women is the theme of broken family ties and the desire to link the past with the future in an effort to move forward. I was equally engaged with each story as Tolsma gave valuable insights and guidance (transcending time) for navigating life’s toughest challenges and showed how hope can guide us through the darkest times. I appreciated the focus on resilience and determination in both timelines.
𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞: (1) the anchor of family and (2) that during life’s challenges, sometimes we need to put our own needs aside and give our best to the greatest good. It’s a message our self-centered world needs to hear right now.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨:
Visit my friends in Krakow, try Obwarzanek (Polish-style bagel), and learn more about the Lemko Rusyn people.
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝?
Like Helena, I hope I remember to choose to see my trials/challenges as a means of building faith so that I can be strengthened through adversity.
Echoes of The Past is a powerful series and I hope you choose to read it.
I was gifted this copy by Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Within the first few pages I was hooked!
Author Liz Tolsma’s note at the start of the novel had me convinced I was in for a binge-read and I prepared myself. I was so excited to learn about an ethnic group I knew nothing about!
Tolsma has crafted a captivating dual timeline to explore the complicated history of Lemkovyna and the Lemko Rusyn people. In the 2023 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania timeline, she introduces us to a social worker, McKenna Muir, and in her 1942 timeline set in Krakow, Poland, she introduces us to Helena Kostyszak. Uniting both women is the theme of broken family ties and the desire to link the past with the future in an effort to move forward. I was equally engaged with each story as Tolsma gave valuable insights and guidance (transcending time) for navigating life’s toughest challenges and showed how hope can guide us through the darkest times. I appreciated the focus on resilience and determination in both timelines.
𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞: (1) the anchor of family and (2) that during life’s challenges, sometimes we need to put our own needs aside and give our best to the greatest good. It’s a message our self-centered world needs to hear right now.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨:
Visit my friends in Krakow, try Obwarzanek (Polish-style bagel), and learn more about the Lemko Rusyn people.
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝?
Like Helena, I hope I remember to choose to see my trials/challenges as a means of building faith so that I can be strengthened through adversity.
Echoes of The Past is a powerful series and I hope you choose to read it.
I was gifted this copy by Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 8, 2024
How do I even start? I don't know what to say. Any words I have seem stark and in no way able to express how this book made me feel. I wanted to write a review as soon as I finished it, so I didn't miss a thing, and yet, I feel as if I must wait to process it all--to try to be able to do this book some small measure of justice. What I Left for You is heartbreaking. It is tragic. It is full of loss and sorrow and tears. It is full of unjust cruelties and reveals the brutality mankind is capable of. And yet, the underlying stream is full of hope and peace, carrying along steadily the refrain, "No matter what, God." This book is also hauntingly beautiful, and healing, and amazingly written. It isn't a romanticized World War Two novel. It tells the true story in all of its ugliness and horror, and yet, I believe, is all the better for it. Because it tells the truth. And it tells of the God that is there through it all, despite mankind's evil choices. Thus, I so highly recommend you read this book. Read it, and dwell on it. Don't forget the atrocities committed, but also, don't forget the Lord over all, and the beauty he can bring from the ashes. The lesson taught throughout the dual timeline is a lesson for us all surely.
December 23, 2024
Where do I start?! Oh my heart this book ripped it out and tore it in pieces 😭😭 so so sad what humanity do to each other. I never remember learning this in school. Schools have a obligation to dig deeper in history and show this.
This book featured the Lemkos that lived in Poland, a very small section of people that had their own religion, language and customs. A mixture of Poland, Russian and Ukrainian. Outcasts because of "interracial" and then taken by the Nazis during the war. Only to be returned home to Poland and the Polish people "resettle" them and make them abandon their customs, language and religion (Greek Orthodox) because they were racially "impure" 😭😭 what they went through and the families that were destroyed. The children that got separated from their parents💔💔
We as a nation could learn so much from history if only we would learn and listen.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
This book featured the Lemkos that lived in Poland, a very small section of people that had their own religion, language and customs. A mixture of Poland, Russian and Ukrainian. Outcasts because of "interracial" and then taken by the Nazis during the war. Only to be returned home to Poland and the Polish people "resettle" them and make them abandon their customs, language and religion (Greek Orthodox) because they were racially "impure" 😭😭 what they went through and the families that were destroyed. The children that got separated from their parents💔💔
We as a nation could learn so much from history if only we would learn and listen.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
November 27, 2024
1938-1949 Poland & 2023 Pennsylvania & Poland
This third in a series shines a light on a Polish subset I had never heard of...Lemkos. Lemkos were largely poor and lacking advanced education. Helena Kostyszak was an exception having gone on to college and worked as a college lecturer.
In the current day thread, McKenna Muir goes through a devastating loss in her work as social worker and questions her profession and her fit for it. Taking a sabbatical to research her family history works out to be a blessing in addition to a break.
While most of the novel is heavy, there are glimpses of light throughout. I love the way the author unfolds the story through the neatly woven timelines that complement each other so well.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
This third in a series shines a light on a Polish subset I had never heard of...Lemkos. Lemkos were largely poor and lacking advanced education. Helena Kostyszak was an exception having gone on to college and worked as a college lecturer.
In the current day thread, McKenna Muir goes through a devastating loss in her work as social worker and questions her profession and her fit for it. Taking a sabbatical to research her family history works out to be a blessing in addition to a break.
While most of the novel is heavy, there are glimpses of light throughout. I love the way the author unfolds the story through the neatly woven timelines that complement each other so well.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
January 2, 2025
I have read several books by Liz Tolsma but none affected me more than What I Left for You (Echoes of the Past, #3). It centered around the atrocities that were inflicted upon the Lemko Rusyn people during and after World War II. The people who called themselves Lemko Rusyn had a distinct identity of their own. They lived in Northern Poland not far from the Ukrainian and Russian borders but spoke their own language, practiced their own religion and had their own customs and traditions. I had not known about their existence until I read What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma. The author acknowledged her own ancestral ties to the Lemkos in her notes. This personal connection only enhanced the story for me. What I Left for You was beautifully written, captivating and heartbreaking. It was written in a dual time line that alternated between two strong female protagonists. One of the two women lived in Poland during World War II and the other lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 2023. The one that lived in Poland during World War II was the great grandmother of the granddaughter that grew up and lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Helena Kostyszak grew up in Lemkovyna, a town that was comprised of people of the Lemko-Rusyn culture. Most of its people were poor and not well educated. They lived on farms and raised their own animals. There was one church where all Lemkos worshiped. Generations of families lived there for centuries. Helena had a happy childhood there but she wanted more. One of her relatives gifted her the money to pursue her education. Helena traveled to Krakow, Poland to study. Leaving her mother and Lemkovyna behind was a hard adjustment for Helena. She had never lived in a city before she moved to Krakow. Helena excelled at her studies and was soon employed by the university as a female lecturer. Women during that time were not allowed to become professors so they settled for being lecturers. Helena soon assimilated into her new life and made several good friends. Then the Nazis invaded Poland and Helena’s and her friends’ lives changed drastically.
McKenna Muir grew up with a loving family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her great grandmother had grown up in Poland but rarely if ever spoke about her life before she immigrated to America. She had recently died. Even her beloved Bubba (grandmother) knew very little about her mother’s life prior to her arrival in America. McKenna had gone to college for social work and she was now employed by an agency that specialized in social services. She excelled at her position she held at the agency and gave a hundred percent of herself to her clients. McKenna’s role at the agency was becoming increasingly more and more stressful and difficult lately. McKenna was recently engaged when she learned that her fiancé had cheated on her and wanted to terminate the engagement. Then to add to her misery, a not quite three year old little girl, the daughter of one of the mothers whose case she had been assigned to, had been killed by the mother’s boyfriend. That news almost destroyed McKenna! She felt as if she had failed both the little girl and her mother. Of course there had been nothing that McKenna could have done to prevent it from happening but she was so saddened by the news. Her best friend convinced McKenna to take a Sabbatical from her job after her engagement was broken and she had learned about the child’s murder. McKenna’s best friend suggested that they travel to Poland together to research McKenna’s family history. This was something that McKenna had wanted to do for a long while. With everything that was going on in her life, McKenna decided that the time was right. She needed to get away from all that she was dealing with. What would McKenna discover about her family? What secrets would she uncover?
What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma was moving, heartbreaking, hopeful and tragic. It portrayed the many atrocities the Nazis imposed upon not only the Jewish people of Poland but on a group of innocent civilians known as the Lemkos. The Nazis preyed on the Lemkos because they were different and for no other reason. If that was not bad enough, the Poles and Russians did the same thing to the Lemkos after the war ended. History was repeating itself. Nothing had been learned from the past atrocities carried out by the Nazis. Families were displaced. They were ordered to leave their homes and were relocated. Often families were split up. Sometimes children were even separated from their parents. It was a cruel and heartless thing to do to people just because they were different. What I Left for You opened my eyes to a new aspect about World War II that I had never heard of or knew about before I read this book. I applaud Liz Tolsma for her impeccable research and pursuit of the truth that she was able to gather in order to write this book. What I Left for You was about family, tolerance, compassion, love, friendship, loss, tragedy, cruelty, the atrocities that occurred, secrets, evil and hope. I really enjoyed this dual timeline historical fiction book and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Barbour Fiction Publishers for allowing me to read What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Helena Kostyszak grew up in Lemkovyna, a town that was comprised of people of the Lemko-Rusyn culture. Most of its people were poor and not well educated. They lived on farms and raised their own animals. There was one church where all Lemkos worshiped. Generations of families lived there for centuries. Helena had a happy childhood there but she wanted more. One of her relatives gifted her the money to pursue her education. Helena traveled to Krakow, Poland to study. Leaving her mother and Lemkovyna behind was a hard adjustment for Helena. She had never lived in a city before she moved to Krakow. Helena excelled at her studies and was soon employed by the university as a female lecturer. Women during that time were not allowed to become professors so they settled for being lecturers. Helena soon assimilated into her new life and made several good friends. Then the Nazis invaded Poland and Helena’s and her friends’ lives changed drastically.
McKenna Muir grew up with a loving family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her great grandmother had grown up in Poland but rarely if ever spoke about her life before she immigrated to America. She had recently died. Even her beloved Bubba (grandmother) knew very little about her mother’s life prior to her arrival in America. McKenna had gone to college for social work and she was now employed by an agency that specialized in social services. She excelled at her position she held at the agency and gave a hundred percent of herself to her clients. McKenna’s role at the agency was becoming increasingly more and more stressful and difficult lately. McKenna was recently engaged when she learned that her fiancé had cheated on her and wanted to terminate the engagement. Then to add to her misery, a not quite three year old little girl, the daughter of one of the mothers whose case she had been assigned to, had been killed by the mother’s boyfriend. That news almost destroyed McKenna! She felt as if she had failed both the little girl and her mother. Of course there had been nothing that McKenna could have done to prevent it from happening but she was so saddened by the news. Her best friend convinced McKenna to take a Sabbatical from her job after her engagement was broken and she had learned about the child’s murder. McKenna’s best friend suggested that they travel to Poland together to research McKenna’s family history. This was something that McKenna had wanted to do for a long while. With everything that was going on in her life, McKenna decided that the time was right. She needed to get away from all that she was dealing with. What would McKenna discover about her family? What secrets would she uncover?
What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma was moving, heartbreaking, hopeful and tragic. It portrayed the many atrocities the Nazis imposed upon not only the Jewish people of Poland but on a group of innocent civilians known as the Lemkos. The Nazis preyed on the Lemkos because they were different and for no other reason. If that was not bad enough, the Poles and Russians did the same thing to the Lemkos after the war ended. History was repeating itself. Nothing had been learned from the past atrocities carried out by the Nazis. Families were displaced. They were ordered to leave their homes and were relocated. Often families were split up. Sometimes children were even separated from their parents. It was a cruel and heartless thing to do to people just because they were different. What I Left for You opened my eyes to a new aspect about World War II that I had never heard of or knew about before I read this book. I applaud Liz Tolsma for her impeccable research and pursuit of the truth that she was able to gather in order to write this book. What I Left for You was about family, tolerance, compassion, love, friendship, loss, tragedy, cruelty, the atrocities that occurred, secrets, evil and hope. I really enjoyed this dual timeline historical fiction book and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Barbour Fiction Publishers for allowing me to read What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 8, 2024
What a difficult story to read! My heart was continually breaking for Helene and the trials she faced in her life. Helene constantly makes choices to help others to her own detriment but continues to trust in God. As other reviewers have mentioned, her statement “No matter what, God” is a running theme throughout the book. The author weaves Helene’s story into the story of her own great-granddaughter, McKenna, who is facing troubles of her own. There is so much heartache and loss in this story, but an underlying theme of redemption and hope.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 1, 2024
What an incredible read. What I Would Tell You is a dual timeliness novel set in Poland in WWII and in America and Poland in the present day. It tells the story of the Lemko Rusyn people, an ethnic group who I had not heard of and details their plight in the second world war.
The book is beautifully written but is a hard read for the pure fact that it covers such difficult topics of love, loss, heartbreak and many of the atrocities of WWII. Yet it is a captivating read and has such threads of hope amidst such difficult trials.
The phrase 'No matter what, God" truly summarises the hope that runs through the book.
There is no doubt that this story will stay with me for a long time.
Thanks to Barbour Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
The book is beautifully written but is a hard read for the pure fact that it covers such difficult topics of love, loss, heartbreak and many of the atrocities of WWII. Yet it is a captivating read and has such threads of hope amidst such difficult trials.
The phrase 'No matter what, God" truly summarises the hope that runs through the book.
There is no doubt that this story will stay with me for a long time.
Thanks to Barbour Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
September 29, 2024
This is such an amazing book! I cannot give it enough stars! It shares such amazing history of the Lemko people and the Polish people that I did not know. It is a story that skips back and forth to weave a beautiful connection and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It also has such an intriguing way of bringing God into the story and how important He is even in the hardships of war and life. Highly recommend this one! You won’t be disappointed!
January 8, 2025
Where to begin? I took a week to digest this thinking I could better put my feelings into words but it still escapes me. This is one of the most poignant, powerful dual timelines I have read that weaves the past and present seamlessly together and depicts the atrocities of ethnic cleansing and the hope that God gives in the midst of the storm. This is a realistic view of WWII and has so much information on a people in the mountains of Poland called the Lemkos that I had never heard of. This author does impeccable research and brings history to life so realistically that I find it hard to put down but need a box of tissues while reading. The characters are so real that I won’t forget them as they are indelibly imprinted on my mind. I highly recommend reading and never forgetting so this never happens again to a race of people that were created by the hand of God. Top of my favorites list.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
November 11, 2024
This dual time story was a page turner for me. Helena went through so much living in Poland during World War II. Her life was in upheaval and the loss of those she loved was always heavy on her heart. In the current time, Helena's great-granddaughter McKenna searches for answers about her family's history while battling her own turmoil. A trip to Poland for McKenna will result in some uncovered secrets, some surprising discoveries and quest to grant her grandmother's wish.
Admittedly, some of the parts of cruel treatment were unsettling, but the strength it took to overcome the evil around her was Helena's greatest attribute. These same portions of the story were what made it a powerful and memorable novel that gives much historic information and firsthand experience of those affected by the oppression of war.
This is definitely worth reading. You may even stay up too late to reach that final page!
Admittedly, some of the parts of cruel treatment were unsettling, but the strength it took to overcome the evil around her was Helena's greatest attribute. These same portions of the story were what made it a powerful and memorable novel that gives much historic information and firsthand experience of those affected by the oppression of war.
This is definitely worth reading. You may even stay up too late to reach that final page!
October 27, 2024
A moving dual timeline story based on real history.
A young woman takes a much needed sabbatical from a stressful job to chase down her family's history in Poland. Tragic events shape the lives of her family in 1940's Eastern Europe, as the German Occupation in WWII scatters them. As she searches for the truth, she begins her own personal healing, and uncovers a picture of faith and hope in the ashes of her great grandmother's life.
This dual timeline story moved me to tears at times. It is well-written and researched, with a meaningful connection to the author's own family history. I love how she wove in the parts of her own genealogical research trips to Poland to find out the truth, and visited the actual places where they lived. The Lemko culture was something I had never heard of and their history was fascinating, though terribly tragic.
Helena's story was sad to read in parts, but it helped to see how her faith grew in her suffering, and carried her through. Her legacy of faith leaves the story on an uplifting note and made me think of my own family's thread of faith through many generations.
Recommend to readers who like inspirational stories based on real people and events, with faith. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
A young woman takes a much needed sabbatical from a stressful job to chase down her family's history in Poland. Tragic events shape the lives of her family in 1940's Eastern Europe, as the German Occupation in WWII scatters them. As she searches for the truth, she begins her own personal healing, and uncovers a picture of faith and hope in the ashes of her great grandmother's life.
This dual timeline story moved me to tears at times. It is well-written and researched, with a meaningful connection to the author's own family history. I love how she wove in the parts of her own genealogical research trips to Poland to find out the truth, and visited the actual places where they lived. The Lemko culture was something I had never heard of and their history was fascinating, though terribly tragic.
Helena's story was sad to read in parts, but it helped to see how her faith grew in her suffering, and carried her through. Her legacy of faith leaves the story on an uplifting note and made me think of my own family's thread of faith through many generations.
Recommend to readers who like inspirational stories based on real people and events, with faith. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
September 30, 2024
What an intriguing story full of heartbreak and hope, I could not put it down. Fascinating! Thread by thread Author Liz Tolsma weaves a hard but beautiful tale. I highly recommend it!
"Tolsma uses split-time storytelling and DNA testing to uncover a family's courageous story that was lost to the horrors of WWII." "A Family’s Ties Were Broken in Poland of 1939."
What I Left for You takes the reader on an unforgettable journey of love and loss, amidst extremely difficult situations during WWII in Poland, and the story of a descendant in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the present.
In 1939 Poland, Helena Kostyszak is an educated woman from a minority ethnic group in Southern Poland (a rarity for her people) who became a lecturer at the famous Jagiellonian University in Krakow (where the Germans deceitfully, and forcefully took away 183 professors and imprisoned them). The only other woman lecturer is a dear Jewish friend. Helena and her good friend Jerzy Bielski, sneak into the ghetto to find her dying friend Risa Birkha. Helena vows to do everything she can to find her friend's baby Teena and ensure that she survives this madness. Here begins the harrowing journey of heartbreak and hope.
"Little by little, the Nazi's sucked the life out of everyone around us." "Freedom was fleeting, something to be cherished for however long it lasted. Because freedom could be taken away without notice." "I am so frightened. I told the others to be strong and to rely on their faith, but mine is as small as a mustard seed." "Everything I held dear, the Germans ripped from me." "From the looks of it, Poland had traded one tyrannical regime for another."
Favorite saying: : "No matter what, God!" A quote that was passed down from Great Grandma Helena, a reminder that "no matter what happens in our lives, whether good or bad, God is there."
In the present day, social worker McKenna Muir recently became unengaged and suffers a devastating loss in her job. She takes time off from work and agrees to start a genealogy project she's always wanted to do. She and her best friend Taylor head to Poland for answers. She hires Filip Jankowski, a Polish genealogical researcher to help with her quest.
I was recently in Poland for the first time so it was fun to me to recognize many of the places mentioned in the story; Jagiellonian University (famous students Copernicus and Pope John Paul II), Old Town, Vistula River, Krakow Ghetto, Krakow orphanage site in the Krakow ghetto, the Wawel Castle, Plaszow, the Barbican, St. Florian's arch, train station in Krakow, the Wielicska Salt Mine in Krakow with it's beautiful chapel, St Mary's Basilica Krakow and Warsaw.
It was so interesting to learn about the Lemko Rusyn people, a "Slavic ethnic group whose historic home is in southern Poland". I never knew about this hard working, salt of the earth, group of people and what happened to them.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"Tolsma uses split-time storytelling and DNA testing to uncover a family's courageous story that was lost to the horrors of WWII." "A Family’s Ties Were Broken in Poland of 1939."
What I Left for You takes the reader on an unforgettable journey of love and loss, amidst extremely difficult situations during WWII in Poland, and the story of a descendant in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the present.
In 1939 Poland, Helena Kostyszak is an educated woman from a minority ethnic group in Southern Poland (a rarity for her people) who became a lecturer at the famous Jagiellonian University in Krakow (where the Germans deceitfully, and forcefully took away 183 professors and imprisoned them). The only other woman lecturer is a dear Jewish friend. Helena and her good friend Jerzy Bielski, sneak into the ghetto to find her dying friend Risa Birkha. Helena vows to do everything she can to find her friend's baby Teena and ensure that she survives this madness. Here begins the harrowing journey of heartbreak and hope.
"Little by little, the Nazi's sucked the life out of everyone around us." "Freedom was fleeting, something to be cherished for however long it lasted. Because freedom could be taken away without notice." "I am so frightened. I told the others to be strong and to rely on their faith, but mine is as small as a mustard seed." "Everything I held dear, the Germans ripped from me." "From the looks of it, Poland had traded one tyrannical regime for another."
Favorite saying: : "No matter what, God!" A quote that was passed down from Great Grandma Helena, a reminder that "no matter what happens in our lives, whether good or bad, God is there."
In the present day, social worker McKenna Muir recently became unengaged and suffers a devastating loss in her job. She takes time off from work and agrees to start a genealogy project she's always wanted to do. She and her best friend Taylor head to Poland for answers. She hires Filip Jankowski, a Polish genealogical researcher to help with her quest.
I was recently in Poland for the first time so it was fun to me to recognize many of the places mentioned in the story; Jagiellonian University (famous students Copernicus and Pope John Paul II), Old Town, Vistula River, Krakow Ghetto, Krakow orphanage site in the Krakow ghetto, the Wawel Castle, Plaszow, the Barbican, St. Florian's arch, train station in Krakow, the Wielicska Salt Mine in Krakow with it's beautiful chapel, St Mary's Basilica Krakow and Warsaw.
It was so interesting to learn about the Lemko Rusyn people, a "Slavic ethnic group whose historic home is in southern Poland". I never knew about this hard working, salt of the earth, group of people and what happened to them.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2024
What I Left for You #3 Echoes of the Past by Liz Tolsma
This is a duel-time novel:
1939 in Poland during WWII.
Helena Kostyszak and Jerzy Bielski face many difficult and heartrending challenges and circumstances as the war escalates within their community and homeland. The devastating horrors of war and death, work camps and forced relocation, and families torn apart--some never to be seen again. In the midst of war; there is an amazing reminder that God is in control and will not leave them. One reminder that Helena and Jerzy cling to is: "No matter what, God." What a great reminder for the characters - and for us as well.
The descriptions of Poland and the ghetto where Jews were relocated gives the reader a glimpse- only a glimpse- of what they suffered. I can’t begin to imagine the deplorable, horrific conditions they lived in or the fear and grief they faced. I was often in tears as I read their story. But, there are times when joy and happier days are intermixed within the heartache, and love and faith.
2023 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Social worker, McKenna Muir is devastated when tragedy occurs with a family member of one of here cases. In addition to that tragedy, unexpected changes in her personal life causes more heartbreak. Her friend, Taylor, suggests a Sabbatical to Poland to work on her family’s genealogy; something McKenna has wanted to do for a long time. What McKenna uncovers is nothing like she imagined and shocking. It appears there is a heroine in her family tree, which sparks even more interest in finding her family’s background and her long-lost family member- Teena. I have done a bit of genealogy into my own family and found the steps McKenna took to learn of her family’s background very interesting. I was in tears reading what McKenna learns regarding her family during WWII; and happy tears when long-lost family members are finally reunited.
Liz Tolsma has written about a difficult time in history with sensitivity and compassion; weaving historical events within the fictional storyline and characters’ lives. The author’s notes at the end of the book include information explaining which part of this fictional story are true historical events. She also includes a note about the Lemkos people; which are part of her own family’s history. There is a glossary of Lemko Rusyn words found in the story. I learned a lot about Poland and how WWII impacted the people and the community there. Before reading this story; I had not realized (or forgotten) Poland was invaded during WWII. Added to my favorite books.
~I purchased a copy of the book and I received a PDF ARC copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain was exchanged), this is my honest review~
This is a duel-time novel:
1939 in Poland during WWII.
Helena Kostyszak and Jerzy Bielski face many difficult and heartrending challenges and circumstances as the war escalates within their community and homeland. The devastating horrors of war and death, work camps and forced relocation, and families torn apart--some never to be seen again. In the midst of war; there is an amazing reminder that God is in control and will not leave them. One reminder that Helena and Jerzy cling to is: "No matter what, God." What a great reminder for the characters - and for us as well.
The descriptions of Poland and the ghetto where Jews were relocated gives the reader a glimpse- only a glimpse- of what they suffered. I can’t begin to imagine the deplorable, horrific conditions they lived in or the fear and grief they faced. I was often in tears as I read their story. But, there are times when joy and happier days are intermixed within the heartache, and love and faith.
2023 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Social worker, McKenna Muir is devastated when tragedy occurs with a family member of one of here cases. In addition to that tragedy, unexpected changes in her personal life causes more heartbreak. Her friend, Taylor, suggests a Sabbatical to Poland to work on her family’s genealogy; something McKenna has wanted to do for a long time. What McKenna uncovers is nothing like she imagined and shocking. It appears there is a heroine in her family tree, which sparks even more interest in finding her family’s background and her long-lost family member- Teena. I have done a bit of genealogy into my own family and found the steps McKenna took to learn of her family’s background very interesting. I was in tears reading what McKenna learns regarding her family during WWII; and happy tears when long-lost family members are finally reunited.
Liz Tolsma has written about a difficult time in history with sensitivity and compassion; weaving historical events within the fictional storyline and characters’ lives. The author’s notes at the end of the book include information explaining which part of this fictional story are true historical events. She also includes a note about the Lemkos people; which are part of her own family’s history. There is a glossary of Lemko Rusyn words found in the story. I learned a lot about Poland and how WWII impacted the people and the community there. Before reading this story; I had not realized (or forgotten) Poland was invaded during WWII. Added to my favorite books.
~I purchased a copy of the book and I received a PDF ARC copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain was exchanged), this is my honest review~
October 14, 2024
What I Left for You is another compelling, brilliantly executed dual-time line story in the Echoes of the Past series by this gifted storyteller. Both storylines are expertly crafted and intriguing and merge together beautifully. Amazing history and heart-tugging drama kept me glued to the pages. Real-life people, places, and events are integrated seamlessly into the fictional story with attention to historical detail that educates as well as entertains. Learning about the Lemko-Rusyn people group and their devastating experiences during and after World War II was heart-touching and soul-stirring. I love the wonderful, inspiring characters in both storylines with whom you can develop deep emotional connections as they navigate their difficult and uncertain circumstances. I greatly appreciate the strong faith theme of “No matter what, God” speaking of God’s sovereignty, steadfastness, and control over all situations. Of special interest is that McKenna’s genealogical quest in the modern-day story is based on the author’s own “journey of discovery about her family’s Lemko-Rusyn background.” The author’s notes at the end of the story and the glossary of Lemko-Rusyn words are a pleasing bonus. I love this story of heartache, hope, resilience, and courage and highly recommend it as a must read for historical romance fans.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Net Galley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Net Galley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 27, 2024
“ No matter what, God.” “My peace comes from the assurance that God overseas all things.”
In this dual time book, we see McKenna search for her roots and the missing parts of her ancestral story. It is steeped in the chaos of World War II in Poland, and a little known people group known as the Lemkos who got lumped in with another group and targeted for annihilation. What was fascinating was that the author drew on her own background and researched her own family origins. This was yet another story in the complex and gut-wrenching history of World War II. This tale showcased not only hardship, but also resiliency, remarkable courage and resolve in seemingly desperate situations. The writing style was eloquent, persuasive, and powerful depicting people of great faith.
What I Left For You brought the story of Helena to a new generation, when McKenna found the links to her great grandmother.
Ms. Tolsma is a distinctive voice in World War II fiction. I am always glad to read her perspective.
* A complementary copy of this book was provided by Barbour Publishing on behalf of the author and through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
In this dual time book, we see McKenna search for her roots and the missing parts of her ancestral story. It is steeped in the chaos of World War II in Poland, and a little known people group known as the Lemkos who got lumped in with another group and targeted for annihilation. What was fascinating was that the author drew on her own background and researched her own family origins. This was yet another story in the complex and gut-wrenching history of World War II. This tale showcased not only hardship, but also resiliency, remarkable courage and resolve in seemingly desperate situations. The writing style was eloquent, persuasive, and powerful depicting people of great faith.
What I Left For You brought the story of Helena to a new generation, when McKenna found the links to her great grandmother.
Ms. Tolsma is a distinctive voice in World War II fiction. I am always glad to read her perspective.
* A complementary copy of this book was provided by Barbour Publishing on behalf of the author and through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
December 22, 2025
4 stars. I have always been a bit obsessed with Poland, and I really enjoyed getting to visit it both in the present (2023) and the past (1940s). I haven't often read time-split novels, but I liked it here! I was equally interested in Helena's difficult WWII experiences and McKenna's difficult social worker experiences, and I enjoyed watching McKenna and her bestie trying to uncover Helena's life. As someone who's similarly fascinated with my ancestors, it was so cool to see the full story smiling out alongside with the stilted, faded bits that the descendants could find out.
The characters were all interesting. Although I never really identified with Helena, I admired her character and I couldn't understand how badly she beat herself up towards the end—besides being a bit confused by her spiritual condition...? But Jerzy was lovely, and Pawel too; and Filip! I liked McKenna as a FMC too, and envied her friendship with Taylor. 😉
My favourite part, though, was definitely the spotlight on the Lemkos. I've never heard of these people, and it was terrible to read of all their sufferings at the hands of the Germans and then the Soviets. I really appreciated getting to know about them and their history. I'd love to read the rest of the books in this series!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
The characters were all interesting. Although I never really identified with Helena, I admired her character and I couldn't understand how badly she beat herself up towards the end—besides being a bit confused by her spiritual condition...? But Jerzy was lovely, and Pawel too; and Filip! I liked McKenna as a FMC too, and envied her friendship with Taylor. 😉
My favourite part, though, was definitely the spotlight on the Lemkos. I've never heard of these people, and it was terrible to read of all their sufferings at the hands of the Germans and then the Soviets. I really appreciated getting to know about them and their history. I'd love to read the rest of the books in this series!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
October 1, 2024
This is a WW2 book---but it's from a Polish point of view and where the university professors were taken just like the Jews. Even when not Jewish. It is based on some true aspects of this Polish region in the Carpathian mountains and I loved diving into the culture.
There are TWO points of view--one of Helena living the WW2 horrors and trying to protect her baby daughter Teena at all costs. And Mckenna--a social worker in 2023 who has hit the point of burnout and encouraged by a friend, explores her genealogy to learn more about her grandmother's family and their Polish connection. Encouraged by her grandmother Baba--who makes an unusual request for her to find her sister. A person no one has ever even heard of.
Everything peels back like an onion as the layers of their lives begin to intertwine. And the age old question "How can God allow such horrors and evil to happen to the innocent children" gets explored.
There are some great faith busters explored and you get to think on them yourself.
*I was given a complimentary copy of the ARC by the publishers and NetGalley for review. All opinions are 100% my own.
There are TWO points of view--one of Helena living the WW2 horrors and trying to protect her baby daughter Teena at all costs. And Mckenna--a social worker in 2023 who has hit the point of burnout and encouraged by a friend, explores her genealogy to learn more about her grandmother's family and their Polish connection. Encouraged by her grandmother Baba--who makes an unusual request for her to find her sister. A person no one has ever even heard of.
Everything peels back like an onion as the layers of their lives begin to intertwine. And the age old question "How can God allow such horrors and evil to happen to the innocent children" gets explored.
There are some great faith busters explored and you get to think on them yourself.
*I was given a complimentary copy of the ARC by the publishers and NetGalley for review. All opinions are 100% my own.
September 17, 2024
Wow. More than 5 stars for this book! It touched my heart in so many ways. I was intrigued to read the book because I have Polish and Ukrainian grandparents. I'm sure that many of my family members endured similar devastating experiences.
The main characters are amazing! Helena reminds me so much of my grandmother. Her courage to face every day is commendable. She suffers so many losses and almost loses herself. Her faith in God is tested many times. McKenna reminds me of me! Her longing to figure out her past and to try and restore relationships is remarkable.
The imagery brings the countryside of Lemkovyna to life. I could see the hills dotted with sheep and hear the joyful laughter of the families living there.
There are so many difficult circumstances in the book. The devastating horrors of war, death, work camps, forced relocation, and families torn apart. There's also the amazing reminder that God is in control. "No matter what, God." Words to live by, words that bring peace.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The main characters are amazing! Helena reminds me so much of my grandmother. Her courage to face every day is commendable. She suffers so many losses and almost loses herself. Her faith in God is tested many times. McKenna reminds me of me! Her longing to figure out her past and to try and restore relationships is remarkable.
The imagery brings the countryside of Lemkovyna to life. I could see the hills dotted with sheep and hear the joyful laughter of the families living there.
There are so many difficult circumstances in the book. The devastating horrors of war, death, work camps, forced relocation, and families torn apart. There's also the amazing reminder that God is in control. "No matter what, God." Words to live by, words that bring peace.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 3, 2024
The author does a fantastic job of intertwining the past and the present to make sure that the reader isn't overwhelmed by the story. I love that McKenna in the present day has such a desire to learn more about her genealogy. Her friend Taylor is such a gift to her. In the past we find Helena who is a heroine like no other as she combats the heinous acts committed during WWII. Jeezy, Pawel and Teena were also wonderful characters.
One of my favorite quotes was, "no matter what, God!". I love it and it reminded the characters in the book that no matter what God is with us.
Thanks to netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the arc. The review will be posted on my blog and netgalley 30 days prior to publication
One of my favorite quotes was, "no matter what, God!". I love it and it reminded the characters in the book that no matter what God is with us.
Thanks to netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the arc. The review will be posted on my blog and netgalley 30 days prior to publication
May 25, 2024
Review to come closer to release ❤️
December 9, 2024
What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma brings light to a small culture that has been erased by the Nazi's during World War II. She does a wonderful job at creating a story to show the lengths a mother would go to find her child again. Even put her own health at risk. Tolsma shows the horrors of a concentration camp with truth and grit. She does not shy away from the horrors inflicted on the bodies of these innocent people. The plot is not that much different than a lot of the World War II novels that I have read. Yes, Tolsma based it on true stories, and there are tons of them, but it is hard to be different when the plight was felt by so many of these people. The setting was definitely different with the small, uneducated people being forced to move and forget their heritage. Overall, What I left for You by Liz Tolsma was a World War II novel that tugged at the heart, but ends in a happily-ever-after meeting.
I received a complimentary copy of What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma from Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stared are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma from Barbour Publishing, but the opinions stared are all my own.
November 30, 2024
Liz's books are always so well-researched, bringing a little-known aspect and/or culture to life for the reader. In this story, we travel to Poland and learn about the Lemkovyna population, a group nearly completed erased by the war. A Jewish mother, a Roman Orthodox mother, the partisan rebels, and the dangers of educated women are all addressed in this WW2 story of persecution, loss, grief, and the neverending search for those missing parts of one's heart. There are many parallels to the modern-day storyline, and both are told simultaneously. It's a story of heartbreak, but with a beautiful, make-you-cry ending! Honestly, I had never heard of the Lemko people until I read this book, and it makes me wonder how many other cultures were lost throughout history to various wars,,,
January 15, 2025
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
What I Left For You
I literally just finished the book at 1:29 am. I can't sleep. I lay here thinking of how heart wrenching that this really happened.
I know first hand the havoc that occurred during WWII. My mother was a young child in England but she remembers the sacrifices that were made during this time. She remembers family members who didn't come home the same. She remembers the joy she felt when she had a bit of a egg. She remembers the sirens signaling the need to go into the shelters.
I can not even fathom how many survived and died during this war. Terrible things happened and we ask why? We don't have the answers. I'm sure many questioned their faith. Many others depended on their beliefs and prayed for the end of this terrible catastrophe.
Helena suffered greatly. Emotionally and physically. She held on to her faith that GOD will bring an end to this.
A powerful book. A book I won't forget.
What I Left For You
I literally just finished the book at 1:29 am. I can't sleep. I lay here thinking of how heart wrenching that this really happened.
I know first hand the havoc that occurred during WWII. My mother was a young child in England but she remembers the sacrifices that were made during this time. She remembers family members who didn't come home the same. She remembers the joy she felt when she had a bit of a egg. She remembers the sirens signaling the need to go into the shelters.
I can not even fathom how many survived and died during this war. Terrible things happened and we ask why? We don't have the answers. I'm sure many questioned their faith. Many others depended on their beliefs and prayed for the end of this terrible catastrophe.
Helena suffered greatly. Emotionally and physically. She held on to her faith that GOD will bring an end to this.
A powerful book. A book I won't forget.
November 13, 2024
This dual-timeline story is heartbreaking. Full of the sorrows and brutality of man in both timelines; but also full of hope and peace. It reveals the ugliness of WWII and the suffering of the Lemko people. Helena and McKenna are both fantastic characters.
I loved that even after all the evil Helena saw and endured she could still say, “No matter what, God.” Such a beautiful reminder to us all.
This ARC was provided through NetGalley by the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
I loved that even after all the evil Helena saw and endured she could still say, “No matter what, God.” Such a beautiful reminder to us all.
This ARC was provided through NetGalley by the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
December 8, 2024
I'm honored to have written an endorsement for this story ~ With her exquisite writing style and expressive voice, Liz Tolsma has once again crafted a memorable World War II story that will burrow into your heart. This dual timeline story features two compelling protagonists bound together by their shared lineage to a people group whose heritage was almost destroyed. Liz’s personal connection as a Lemko-Rusyn descendent adds poignant depth to her captivating novel.
January 9, 2025
Read my full review with content notes and enter a giveaway: https://penspagesandpulses.wordpress....
In her novel, What I Left For You, Liz Tolsma perfectly combined my love of family history with some of my favorite topics from World War II, resulting in a beautiful novel about trusting in His plan, even when hope seems lost.
This split-time novel was simply incredible. Liz painted such a beautiful picture in how she wove Helena's and McKenna's stories together into one inspiring masterpiece.
We meet Helena in Krakow, Poland in 1942. She is a bright woman who is willing to do what she must to stand up for what she believes in. Her story was far from easy, but I admired her strength and how she kept herself going through all the obstacles life threw at her, while still managing to say, "No matter what, God."
McKenna is a social worker living in the United States in 2023. Her experiences as a social worker reminded me of some heartbreaking things I've seen in my own job working at a local hospital. I enjoyed seeing how her friend helped her handle the hard times and encouraged her to still keep going. I can totally relate to McKenna's passion for genealogy. Before I wrote this post, I had just been volunteering at a local FamilySearch center! I also could relate to how McKenna drew strength from the stories of her ancestors to help her battle the demons she faced in her own life. It was such a beautiful theme, and I truly loved it.
I thought it was so beautiful how Liz handled the heavier topics in the book. She gave the perfect amount of information to help the reader know what was going on, but never enough that I felt uncomfortable reading the book.
Overall, I thought this book was a beautiful testament to the power of family and the importance of relying on the Lord. This book is perfect for anyone who loves World War II, genealogy, and Christian fiction!
I received an advance copy of this novel. My opinions are my own. A positive review was not required and was voluntarily given.
In her novel, What I Left For You, Liz Tolsma perfectly combined my love of family history with some of my favorite topics from World War II, resulting in a beautiful novel about trusting in His plan, even when hope seems lost.
This split-time novel was simply incredible. Liz painted such a beautiful picture in how she wove Helena's and McKenna's stories together into one inspiring masterpiece.
We meet Helena in Krakow, Poland in 1942. She is a bright woman who is willing to do what she must to stand up for what she believes in. Her story was far from easy, but I admired her strength and how she kept herself going through all the obstacles life threw at her, while still managing to say, "No matter what, God."
McKenna is a social worker living in the United States in 2023. Her experiences as a social worker reminded me of some heartbreaking things I've seen in my own job working at a local hospital. I enjoyed seeing how her friend helped her handle the hard times and encouraged her to still keep going. I can totally relate to McKenna's passion for genealogy. Before I wrote this post, I had just been volunteering at a local FamilySearch center! I also could relate to how McKenna drew strength from the stories of her ancestors to help her battle the demons she faced in her own life. It was such a beautiful theme, and I truly loved it.
I thought it was so beautiful how Liz handled the heavier topics in the book. She gave the perfect amount of information to help the reader know what was going on, but never enough that I felt uncomfortable reading the book.
Overall, I thought this book was a beautiful testament to the power of family and the importance of relying on the Lord. This book is perfect for anyone who loves World War II, genealogy, and Christian fiction!
I received an advance copy of this novel. My opinions are my own. A positive review was not required and was voluntarily given.
December 1, 2024
Ever since reading Liz Tolsma’s previous two books in the Echoes of the Past Series, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the next installment! Let me tell you, when I finally was able to read it, the book was worth it’s wait to me! What I Left For You: Echoes of the Past Book 3 is a beautifully written novel set in eras of World War II and present day. Alternating between the two time periods, readers meet Helena, a woman starting out a career in 1930s Poland as a university professor, and McKenna, a woman in modern day working as a social worker. As World War II unfolds in Poland, Helena makes a promise to her best friend to take care of infant daughter, Teena. who is Jewish. Helena risks her life to take care of Teena–marrying dear friend, Jerzy and moving back home to Dubne. Helena, Jerzy, and Teena quickly become a happy family in Dubne, helping rescue people from Nazi occupation. On one such rescuing mission, Helena is separated from all that she holds dear and Helena makes it her life’s mission to get back to Teena because a true mother’s heart knows no bounds, including an adoptive mother’s heart. In 2023, McKenna’s life is coming apart at the seams when she calls off her engagement after her fiancé cheated on her and a child she’s been helping gets murdered. Deciding to take a sabbatical, McKenna heads to Poland to research her Family’s history firsthand–especially when McKenna’s Baba (Grandmother) tells McKenna she has a sister she has never met in Poland. In Poland, God miraculously puts pieces together in both Helena’s and McKenna’s lives, showing them, “No matter what, God.”
Liz Tolsma is a masterful storyteller that puts all her all into a story, and this is true of What I Left For You. Ms. Tolsma has a gift of telling a story introducing readers to parts of history and Peoples that many may not know about, without shying away from the harsh realities of history. I love how Ms. Tolsma painted the story of What I Left For You and meeting it’s characters. I was amazed at the places where Ms. Tolsma took the plot and was thankful that the story went where it did–both good and bad. I love how Ms. Tolsma was able to craft two different storylines and have them intertwine into one beautiful story. Helena’s character shows that a true Mother does not have to be blood related and can still show a selfless love. I admire Helena and those of her time–their resilience and boldness to stand up for what is right no matter the cost. I love learning about the Lemko people! My heart continues to break over injustices that human beings do to fellow human beings, especially since we all have the same Creator. I sympathized with McKenna and what she went through with, especially McKenna’s job. I understood on some level how Helena and McKenna felt, struggling to look on the bright side and barely being able to hold onto Hope, because I have had my own version of that myself. I love the Christian Message and theme of the book that was woven through out the story. (Especially the Message of “No matter what, God.” Trust me, read this book.) I love how people in both time periods pointed Helena and McKenna to Christ and encouraged them to keep going. If you are looking for an uplifting escape, that reminds you that God is seeing you through, then I highly recommend What I Left For You by Liz Tolsma!
Have you read What I Left For You? What did you think of the book?
Thank you to Liz Tolsma for giving me a copy of What I Left For You (as well as NetGalley and The Publisher) to review and for letting me be on the Launch Team. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on my blog Leslie's Library Escape and Amazon.
Liz Tolsma is a masterful storyteller that puts all her all into a story, and this is true of What I Left For You. Ms. Tolsma has a gift of telling a story introducing readers to parts of history and Peoples that many may not know about, without shying away from the harsh realities of history. I love how Ms. Tolsma painted the story of What I Left For You and meeting it’s characters. I was amazed at the places where Ms. Tolsma took the plot and was thankful that the story went where it did–both good and bad. I love how Ms. Tolsma was able to craft two different storylines and have them intertwine into one beautiful story. Helena’s character shows that a true Mother does not have to be blood related and can still show a selfless love. I admire Helena and those of her time–their resilience and boldness to stand up for what is right no matter the cost. I love learning about the Lemko people! My heart continues to break over injustices that human beings do to fellow human beings, especially since we all have the same Creator. I sympathized with McKenna and what she went through with, especially McKenna’s job. I understood on some level how Helena and McKenna felt, struggling to look on the bright side and barely being able to hold onto Hope, because I have had my own version of that myself. I love the Christian Message and theme of the book that was woven through out the story. (Especially the Message of “No matter what, God.” Trust me, read this book.) I love how people in both time periods pointed Helena and McKenna to Christ and encouraged them to keep going. If you are looking for an uplifting escape, that reminds you that God is seeing you through, then I highly recommend What I Left For You by Liz Tolsma!
Have you read What I Left For You? What did you think of the book?
Thank you to Liz Tolsma for giving me a copy of What I Left For You (as well as NetGalley and The Publisher) to review and for letting me be on the Launch Team. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on my blog Leslie's Library Escape and Amazon.
December 4, 2024
“No matter what, God.”
If you have read other reviews of What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma, you probably have already seen this quote, most likely headlining the review. I wanted to pick another quote, and there are several that I will mention later, but in order to face the darkness that is presented in this book, you need hope to hang on to. The darkness isn’t graphic, but we are dealing with persecuted Jews and other unwanted minorities, work camps, and unspeakable evil that we can only pray to learn from to avoid a repeat.
Tolsma starts her puzzle (for indeed, that is what a dual timeline is) with a young Polish Lemko woman, Helena, who is a guardian of a small child in Nazi-occupied Poland. The other woman is a recently unattached, present-day social worker, McKenna. A Pennsylvania native, McKenna has also been responsible for a young child’s safety.
I love how an author (Tolsma is so good at this) starts at the end of a combined story, but takes us back to the beginning of each separate thread and very slowly weaves the strands together. Each chapter starts with a line from the tragic “Song of Lemkoveyna.”
A glossary, pronunciation guide, and explanation of who the Lemkos are, is in the front of the book and most helpful. I still wished for a map, due to my own unfamiliarity with Eastern Europe.
Tolsma draws the reader into her novel with her first ominous paragraph, expertly setting the tone of dark expectation and dread. Indeed, as we read, and even the characters question God’s presence, slowly, the seeds of faith are being tended in hearts. Slowly, some look upwards in this harrowing tale, realizing that ultimately, “evil will never win. God’s good always triumphs.”
Also, a word of advice given is “ Remember the good.” That is exactly what first Jerzy, then later Helena do in order to survive the deplorable conditions they find themselves in. Even
McKenna, as she searches her ancestral homeland for clues to a long-lost relative, begins to view her difficult life differently. We can’t change what happens, but we can certainly change our perception of those events.
This is such a compelling book! You won’t be able to put it down. Grab some tissues, your fave comfort animal and drink, and settle in to learn about a minority persecuted in WWII that you probably had never heard of before. Discover the strength of the mother-child bond, and the immense love for one’s homeland. As we consider the lengths that Jerzy, Helena, and others go for love, ask yourself, how far would I go for another? Would I try to make it on my own power, or would I needs look upwards?
I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Happiness flies away on butterfly wings. Contentment is enduring. Lasting.”
“Everything about me was icy. My fingers. My cheeks. My toes. My heart. My soul.”- Helena
“You don’t have a crystal ball or a direct line to God.” “Ah.” Taylor sat back, broke the chocolate bar in half, and took a bite. “That’s where you’re wrong. I do have a direct line to God. It’s called prayer.” “But you can’t see into the future.” “I do know who controls what’s going to happen.”
“Every life is precious, created by God for a special purpose, so we aren’t going to leave you.”
“for tonight, and only for tonight, I would trust the Lord to watch over us. Tomorrow I would have to make the choice whether or not to put my faith in Him once again.”- Helena
“In times of war, we put our own needs aside and give our best to the greatest good.”
“From here the Lord will lead us in the way we should go. If we can’t trust Him, there is no one to trust.”- Jerzy
If you have read other reviews of What I Left for You by Liz Tolsma, you probably have already seen this quote, most likely headlining the review. I wanted to pick another quote, and there are several that I will mention later, but in order to face the darkness that is presented in this book, you need hope to hang on to. The darkness isn’t graphic, but we are dealing with persecuted Jews and other unwanted minorities, work camps, and unspeakable evil that we can only pray to learn from to avoid a repeat.
Tolsma starts her puzzle (for indeed, that is what a dual timeline is) with a young Polish Lemko woman, Helena, who is a guardian of a small child in Nazi-occupied Poland. The other woman is a recently unattached, present-day social worker, McKenna. A Pennsylvania native, McKenna has also been responsible for a young child’s safety.
I love how an author (Tolsma is so good at this) starts at the end of a combined story, but takes us back to the beginning of each separate thread and very slowly weaves the strands together. Each chapter starts with a line from the tragic “Song of Lemkoveyna.”
A glossary, pronunciation guide, and explanation of who the Lemkos are, is in the front of the book and most helpful. I still wished for a map, due to my own unfamiliarity with Eastern Europe.
Tolsma draws the reader into her novel with her first ominous paragraph, expertly setting the tone of dark expectation and dread. Indeed, as we read, and even the characters question God’s presence, slowly, the seeds of faith are being tended in hearts. Slowly, some look upwards in this harrowing tale, realizing that ultimately, “evil will never win. God’s good always triumphs.”
Also, a word of advice given is “ Remember the good.” That is exactly what first Jerzy, then later Helena do in order to survive the deplorable conditions they find themselves in. Even
McKenna, as she searches her ancestral homeland for clues to a long-lost relative, begins to view her difficult life differently. We can’t change what happens, but we can certainly change our perception of those events.
This is such a compelling book! You won’t be able to put it down. Grab some tissues, your fave comfort animal and drink, and settle in to learn about a minority persecuted in WWII that you probably had never heard of before. Discover the strength of the mother-child bond, and the immense love for one’s homeland. As we consider the lengths that Jerzy, Helena, and others go for love, ask yourself, how far would I go for another? Would I try to make it on my own power, or would I needs look upwards?
I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Happiness flies away on butterfly wings. Contentment is enduring. Lasting.”
“Everything about me was icy. My fingers. My cheeks. My toes. My heart. My soul.”- Helena
“You don’t have a crystal ball or a direct line to God.” “Ah.” Taylor sat back, broke the chocolate bar in half, and took a bite. “That’s where you’re wrong. I do have a direct line to God. It’s called prayer.” “But you can’t see into the future.” “I do know who controls what’s going to happen.”
“Every life is precious, created by God for a special purpose, so we aren’t going to leave you.”
“for tonight, and only for tonight, I would trust the Lord to watch over us. Tomorrow I would have to make the choice whether or not to put my faith in Him once again.”- Helena
“In times of war, we put our own needs aside and give our best to the greatest good.”
“From here the Lord will lead us in the way we should go. If we can’t trust Him, there is no one to trust.”- Jerzy
December 23, 2024
What a heart-tugging, touching and inspiring story set during WWII.
This story is actually a family generational saga. It’s a split time novel between 1942 in Poland, with Helena Kostyzak, a young, strong and cultured woman that comes from the Lemko community, and her great-granddaughter McKenna, in the current era in Pennsylvania, who has experienced two heartbreaking events and takes the suggestion of her best friend to take some time off work and travel to Poland to research about her ancestors. Her grandmother wants her to look for a missing family member since WWII, and McKenna is determined to return with news for her grandmother. A difficult task, but with God’s help, technology and kind people, what she will discover will be totally unexpected for everyone, but it may be the path to healing.
This story is a rollercoaster of emotions: it made me cry with the injustice and cruelty of men and the inescapable tragedies, sigh at some sweet moments, hold my breath while characters were dealt with hard blows, but mostly it warmed my heart seeing the kindness, courage, sacrifice and solidarity of people experiencing the worst of life: war and loss. The story is quite unique, and I was amazed to know at the end of how it is based in the author’s ancestry: the Lemkos in Poland. It’s so interesting to learn the way of living of different people and how their land, traditions, language and history can bond them stronger than anything. The pace of the story flows easily: there’s action, drama, great dialogues, I really had a hard time putting down the book because I needed to know what happened next. The flip from one period of time to another was seamlessly done. I never got confused, which sometimes happens to me in this genre. The best thing about this story was the characters: they are very relatable, like McKenna and her struggles to understand and trust, and very inspiring like Helena, who risked her life for those she loved, and even those she didn’t know but were worth saving. So many things to learn from their journeys. The secondary characters were also easy to befriend and love: Taylor, Jerzy, Helena’s mother, etc. Also, the inspiring message behind the lives of the different characters. How Helena and McKenna grow in their relationship with God, and in trusting Him and His ways, that are not always what we desire or expect, but what brings out the best in us. And the certainty that God is always with us, and even carries us through the most difficult of circumstances. It’s amazing to see insights of God’s providence and nearness even when we can’t feel or see Him. The historical part is so accurate, I can’t imagine all the research she must have done to get a story this realistic and detailed. The fact that it is personal makes it more valuable and special.
I highly recommend this story. You may shed tears, but there’s always the hope in God that uplifts the story and lessens the darkness with His light. A beautifully written story of love and loss, redemption and unwavering hope. A must read if you like historical stories based on true events! Made my heart sing at the end, and it’s a story I won’t easily forget.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This story is actually a family generational saga. It’s a split time novel between 1942 in Poland, with Helena Kostyzak, a young, strong and cultured woman that comes from the Lemko community, and her great-granddaughter McKenna, in the current era in Pennsylvania, who has experienced two heartbreaking events and takes the suggestion of her best friend to take some time off work and travel to Poland to research about her ancestors. Her grandmother wants her to look for a missing family member since WWII, and McKenna is determined to return with news for her grandmother. A difficult task, but with God’s help, technology and kind people, what she will discover will be totally unexpected for everyone, but it may be the path to healing.
This story is a rollercoaster of emotions: it made me cry with the injustice and cruelty of men and the inescapable tragedies, sigh at some sweet moments, hold my breath while characters were dealt with hard blows, but mostly it warmed my heart seeing the kindness, courage, sacrifice and solidarity of people experiencing the worst of life: war and loss. The story is quite unique, and I was amazed to know at the end of how it is based in the author’s ancestry: the Lemkos in Poland. It’s so interesting to learn the way of living of different people and how their land, traditions, language and history can bond them stronger than anything. The pace of the story flows easily: there’s action, drama, great dialogues, I really had a hard time putting down the book because I needed to know what happened next. The flip from one period of time to another was seamlessly done. I never got confused, which sometimes happens to me in this genre. The best thing about this story was the characters: they are very relatable, like McKenna and her struggles to understand and trust, and very inspiring like Helena, who risked her life for those she loved, and even those she didn’t know but were worth saving. So many things to learn from their journeys. The secondary characters were also easy to befriend and love: Taylor, Jerzy, Helena’s mother, etc. Also, the inspiring message behind the lives of the different characters. How Helena and McKenna grow in their relationship with God, and in trusting Him and His ways, that are not always what we desire or expect, but what brings out the best in us. And the certainty that God is always with us, and even carries us through the most difficult of circumstances. It’s amazing to see insights of God’s providence and nearness even when we can’t feel or see Him. The historical part is so accurate, I can’t imagine all the research she must have done to get a story this realistic and detailed. The fact that it is personal makes it more valuable and special.
I highly recommend this story. You may shed tears, but there’s always the hope in God that uplifts the story and lessens the darkness with His light. A beautifully written story of love and loss, redemption and unwavering hope. A must read if you like historical stories based on true events! Made my heart sing at the end, and it’s a story I won’t easily forget.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 9, 2025
This book begins in 1942, in Poland. Helena, a Christian Jew who works at the university with her friends, Jerzy and Risa. Risa, a Jew has been imprisoned in the ghetto and is about to have a baby. Helena and Jerzy risk arrest to visit her. They get there just before she dies but not until she asks Helena to take her baby. Removing the baby is a risky adventure but she is successful and raises Teena as her own.
The story bounces back and forth between WW2 and current day where we meet McKenna. Her grandmother asks her to find information about a sister she never knew she had. The relationships get a little confusing at times since there are so many unknowns. McKenna travels to Poland to investigate her ancestry and in the process learns more details about the occupation and “rehoming” of the Lemko people. McKenna enlists the help of Filip to track down information.
This book is a history lesson with love, faith, and adventure all thrown together. At times its joyful and uplifting and at other times heart wrenching, sad and tragic.
The stories of both women are very intriguing and I found it hard to put down. There are a lot of questions that come up. Who are McKenna’s ancestors? Did her grandmother really have a sister? What happened to Helena and Teena?
There is a glossary in the beginning that helps with the ethnic vocabulary and the author includes the historical basis for her story.
This is from the publisher’s website:
“A Family’s Ties Were Broken in Poland of 1939
1939
Helena Kostyszak is an oddity—an educated female ethnic minority lecturing at a university in Krakow at the outbreak of WWII. When the Germans close the university and force Jews into the ghetto, she spirits out a friend’s infant daughter and flees to her small village in the southern hills. Helena does everything in her power to protect her family, but it may not be enough. It will take all of her strength and God’s intervention for both of them to survive the war and the ethnic cleansing to come.
2023
Recently unengaged social worker McKenna Muir is dealt an awful blow when a two-year-old she’s been working with is murdered. It’s all too much to take, so her friend suggests she dive into her family’s past like she’s always wanted. Putting distance between herself and her problems might help her heal, so she and her friend head on Sabbatical to Poland. But what McKenna discovers about her family shocks everyone, including one long-lost family member.”
I highly recommend this book, especially if you like faith filled, history based romance.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher, Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
The story bounces back and forth between WW2 and current day where we meet McKenna. Her grandmother asks her to find information about a sister she never knew she had. The relationships get a little confusing at times since there are so many unknowns. McKenna travels to Poland to investigate her ancestry and in the process learns more details about the occupation and “rehoming” of the Lemko people. McKenna enlists the help of Filip to track down information.
This book is a history lesson with love, faith, and adventure all thrown together. At times its joyful and uplifting and at other times heart wrenching, sad and tragic.
The stories of both women are very intriguing and I found it hard to put down. There are a lot of questions that come up. Who are McKenna’s ancestors? Did her grandmother really have a sister? What happened to Helena and Teena?
There is a glossary in the beginning that helps with the ethnic vocabulary and the author includes the historical basis for her story.
This is from the publisher’s website:
“A Family’s Ties Were Broken in Poland of 1939
1939
Helena Kostyszak is an oddity—an educated female ethnic minority lecturing at a university in Krakow at the outbreak of WWII. When the Germans close the university and force Jews into the ghetto, she spirits out a friend’s infant daughter and flees to her small village in the southern hills. Helena does everything in her power to protect her family, but it may not be enough. It will take all of her strength and God’s intervention for both of them to survive the war and the ethnic cleansing to come.
2023
Recently unengaged social worker McKenna Muir is dealt an awful blow when a two-year-old she’s been working with is murdered. It’s all too much to take, so her friend suggests she dive into her family’s past like she’s always wanted. Putting distance between herself and her problems might help her heal, so she and her friend head on Sabbatical to Poland. But what McKenna discovers about her family shocks everyone, including one long-lost family member.”
I highly recommend this book, especially if you like faith filled, history based romance.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher, Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews