Remember the Lilies

Women of Courage #3

by Liz Tolsma

Irene and Rand come from very different walks of life. Will they find common ground in their fight to survive?

Irene has grown up in the jungle as a missionary with her Aunt Anita, but now she and countless others are imprisoned by Japanese soldiers at the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in the Philippines. Irene and her aunt are safe there, and she keeps busy with her duty of delivering censored messages to the camp’s prisoners, but like everyone else, she prays for the war to end and for her freedom. Rand is a wealthy, womanizing American, whose attempted escape from the internment camp has put himself and others in danger. When Rand and Irene’s Aunt Anita meet one another in the hospital, Irene learns more of his story and her heart is determined to save his family. But the danger outside the walls of the hospital worsens every day, and life in this exotic place is anything but luxurious. Can Irene find Rand’s family before they disappear forever? And can a humble missionary woman and an arrogant man find common ground in the face of their biggest fears?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical, Fiction, Christian, World War II

384 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2015

About the author

Liz 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.

Reviews

[Andrea Cox · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was a complete miss for me for a variety of reasons. There are really too many things to make note of, but the most important were:

* 5 replacement profanities
* 1 profanity
* 7 replacement expletives
* crediting God with being one's strength, then retracting that and claiming that "only angels could have protected her and given her strength"
* Christian characters lying to simply manufacture drama for the story's sake rather than having real motivation for it or feeling convicted of it
* prayers for a nightclub business without ever feeling convicted for praying for a sinful venture
* pre-marital sex being downplayed as a "small mistake" rather than being recognized as a sin or feeling convicted over it
* inconsistent faith thread, as if the spiritual journey for each character was decided on by the moment rather than being planned out

What I liked:
* featuring a POW camp for Americans
* set in the Philippines
* Aunt Anita

I really wanted to love this book, as I had adored the first two in the series, giving them both four stars when I wrote my reviews for them. Instead, it was tough to get through it, and if I weren't reading it for several challenges, I would have given up on it well before the halfway mark.

I was not compensated for my honest review.

[Sarah Sundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma illuminates the difficulty of life in the civilian prison camps in WWII. Rand and Irene’s romance is surprisingly realistic, given their extreme differences, and Rand’s transformation is believable and touching. Although the story isn’t an easy read, it is a very good one. I highly recommend this novel

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been enjoying the host of Christian fiction World War II novels released recently and Remember the Lilies is another one going straight onto my keeper shelf. It's an absorbing look into a very different aspect of the war and I really appreciated the fresh perspective.

Tolsma has done her research and brings the past to life in all it's brutal desperation. This is a gripping read I found hard to put down...in places. Mind you, at other times I couldn't close the book quickly enough to shut out the atrocities that burned heartbreaking images into my mind. This novel showcases both the very best and the very worst of humanity. A stunning tribute to the courage and tenacity of internment camp survivors.

Rand and Irene's love story takes on a surreal quality set as it is against the stark background of a World War II internment camp. They come from extremely different pre-war worlds -- his steeped in wealth and privilege -- hers in a life of faith and service. They approach survival in the Santos Tomas camp in very different ways but as time passes, emotions and values shift and they find themselves gravitating towards one another. The incongruity of romance in the midst of such depravity sharpens the emotional impact of their story.

A beautiful celebration of courage and honour and commitment to a God who has plans beyond our own understanding.

My thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and Thomas Nelson for my review copy of this book.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book. I wasn't as familiar with the Pacific area during WWII, so I found this very informative. Irene and Rand were both great main characters and I liked seeing them grow as the story unfolded. The treatment of the internees at Santo Tomas was heartbreaking to read, but it was good to read as it makes you realize what others went through at that time. Definitely a book I'd recommend to fans of WWII fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.

[Amy Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the unusual setting (the Philippines under Japanese control) and was rooting for the characters the whole way! Plenty of intrigue and romance to pull in different readers, and I love the change in Rand from the beginning to the end of the story.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Snow on the Tulips by the same author and had it read over a weekend, but this book took me a week to plough through. I found it lacked the history and depth that the other book had. I was also frustrated that I couldn't create a clear picture in my mind of the Santo Thomas Internment Camp in Manila during the Japanese occupation simply because it lacked descriptive detail.

I liked Irene, although I was annoyed at her on more than one occasion, and I loved her Aunt Anita, I soon found Rand's childish rhymes extremely irritating as was Tessa's 'bangers and mash' phrase which was used constantly. The dialogue was often stilted and I didn't really feel the chemistry between Rand and Irene. I was never emotionally invested in their lives or their survival which is always a bad sign. Overall, an okay read but certainly not one of the best WWII novels I've ever read.

[Abigail Harris]

I don't know if I liked it or if it was just useful for what I was looking for while I'm writing my current project.

[Maggie Boyd · Rating 1 out of 5]

The story line to this book is basically simple - Irene and Rand meet while at a Japanese Interment camp in the Philippines. However, I have a laundry list of problems with this novel:

- Bigotry: I totally get that it would be almost impossible to love your enemy. Yet in a Christian book to find the nastiness Irene et al felt toward the Japanese was appalling, especially from a missionary. The author had a chance to redeem this with the character of Mr. Tanaka but choose not to. She might do well to revisit Mathew 5:44 But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you. (I am aware of the scene towards the end bu I didn't feel it came from the person it needed to.)

- Silliness: A night club owner can not be ruined for having an illegitimate child. He can't be blackmailed over one. Not even in the 30s, for sure not in the 40s. Unless he's running a club for missionaries (he isn't) this would not shock the people frequenting his locale.

- God as the Tooth Fairy: Miracles happen but anyone who has been put in an interment camp should know that the Lord doesn't always perform on command. Convenient things happened for Irene that were attributed to the Lord which were actually sloppy writing on the part of the author.

- Days after being attacked and while she is still suffering from nightmares from the event Irene trips out into waterlogged sections of the internment after kissing her aunt and saying "What can possibly happen to me?" Seriously???? This is another moment where the author clearly wants to set up a scene for the hero to rescue the heroine but the setup is so ludicrous I could only hope she was killed and someone more intelligent became her replacement. No such luck.

- Not bowing to the Japanese soldiers. This showed a huge lack of understanding and tolerance for a different culture. Bowing to someone in Japan is the same sign of respect shown when someone stands when the President enters the room, or when a lady enters the room or when they play the National Anthem. If you won't bow to anyone but God, make sure not to stand the next time the anthem is played.

Those are just a few of the things wrong with this book. The story hearkens back to the era of Grace Livingston Hill where Christianity was equated with your ability not to indulge in reckless kisses or drinking. I didn't see any spiritual depth to the characters, a lot of bible quoting and talk of helping others but none of that introspection and change which really mark a mature believer.

This is one of my favorite eras and I love how the inspirational market has delivered some fabulous books set in this time but this one lacked depth. How unfortunate.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so blessed to receive a copy of Remember The Lilies by Liz Tolsma. It is set in the Philippines' during World War II. The novel opens in Manila in 1941 as night club owner rand is driving through the streets with his latest girl, and nearly runs over a beautiful blonde haired young woman.
The novel jumps forward two years to the internment camp in Manila, where all the foreigner's live. Rand is still a brash young man, ready to take on the Japanese and escape. However after an escape attempt and a spell in one of the Japanese prisons, and all that that involves, Rand is released and returned to the camp. He needs hospital treatment, and shares a ride with blind missionary Anita.
Anita and her niece Irene have been inseparable since Irene's father walked out, when she was just eleven years old. Anita and Irene are both Godly women who have been helping the local people, especially orphans, for many years. Irene continues their work inside the camp. She has a heart for children, reminding the reader of the Biblical phrases, 'take care of the widows and orphans,' and also 'what you do for the least of these, you do for me.' Irene and Anita show that even when the world presents the blackest of situations, Christians can still shine the light and become beacons of hope.
As the weeks, months and years pass, so the confident, worldly Rand and the quiet, caring Irene interact during daily life in the camp. Irene reveals God to all she meets, via her living out her Christian walk inspite of tremendous hardship.
Remember The Lilies is set in the camp from 1943 - 1945, and doesn't always make for pleasant reading. However throughout, there is the theme of hope and faith in God.
Forgiveness is another theme within the novel. And naturally within a novel set in a Japanese internment camp, there are many opportunities for characters to choose to forgive, or not.
Although the novel deals with a difficult subject, it does not make for a depressing read. I think this is due to the great faith that is embedded into the characters of Anita and Irene. For it is in the camp where one must put one's hope and trust in God, especially in situations where man is powerless.
Remember The Lilies is a wonderful study in differing relationships and human behaviours during a time of war. What would you do to ensure your child eats? Do you bow down to man? Or suffer the consequences? As a historian, I was aware of the camps and what went on in them. As a Christian, the novel left me with a feeling of hope, and the certain knowledge that God is always good, even though man may not be.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Remember the Lilies is another beautiful addition to Liz Tolsma’s series of books which are set during World War II. This is definitely a stand alone story, however, and can be read independently of the others in the series. Once again, I was very impressed with the author’s ability to make me truly feel that I was back in time and going through the struggles along with the characters.

The setting is very interesting and one that I was not terribly familiar with. Everything takes place in the Philippines, mostly in the Santo Tomas Internment Camp. I thought that there was an excellent balance in the story of the struggles that the prisoners were facing, as well as everyday moments, and also hope for the future. Granted, there are some disturbing and painful incidents in the story, which serves to make it very realistic. And, as time goes by, the hope of ever being released began to fade for some.

Rand was a character that I did not like at first. He was definitely a womanizer, who valued money and prestige above all things. But, he soon became a man that I admired, as he changed and began to question his beliefs and views of the world. Much of his change of heart had to do with meeting Irene. I liked Irene, even when she sometimes seemed to contradict herself with her thoughts and actions. She was an interesting character and had an amazingly loving heart. She simply struggled with a large stubborn streak that did get her into trouble.

Remember the Lilies provides a peek back in time, to a part of World War II that is oftentimes overlooked. I definitely recommend this interesting novel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through Litfuse Publicity, in exchange for an honest review.

You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Belinda Vlasbaard · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 stars - English Ebook

How will two very different people find love—and survive the impossible circumstances of war?

In 1941 Rand Sterling was a wealthy, womanizing club owner and an American of note among ex-pats and locals alike. Now two years later, Rand is just another civilian prisoner of war—one whose planned escape from the Santo Tomas Internment Camp could put him and others in grave danger.

Irene Reynolds grew up as a missionary kid in the Philippine jungle. Now she works for the paranoid Japanese authorities, delivering censored messages to the other American prisoners in Santo Tomas.
When Irene’s negligence leads to Rand’s failed escape attempt, Rand is sent to the torture chambers of Fort Santiago—and Irene suffers under the weight of her guilt. Yet when she crosses paths with Rand again after his unexpected return to the camp, something more than mere survival draws the unlikely pair together.

As life in Manila becomes more and more desperate, and another threatening letter finds its way from Irene’s hands to Rand’s, the reluctant couple struggles to find a way to stay alive . . . and to keep their growing feelings for each other from compromising the safety of everyone around them.

I have read and enjoyed each book that this author has written and this one is no exception.

It tells the compelling story of those placed in the interment camps in the Philippines by the Nazis during WWII and the horrors they faced. I was caught up in the lives of Rand, a once successful night club owner, and Irene and her aunt Anita, who had been a missionary, from the first pages and was kept reading to see what could possibly happen next.

This is another wonderful combination of history and romance and a beautiful picture of learning to trust in God in the worst of times and learning how to forgive those who cause so much hurt and pain. I do to and God saved me so many times!

I definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys good WWII historical fiction.

[ANNETTE · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written story that is set in Philippines during WWII
A good suspense and mystery all in one.
Irene and Rand are completely different and find themselves drawn to each other.
Rand is a wealthy club owner and Irene a missionary with her aunt Anita.
I enjoyed this book . I couldn't put it down .

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liz Tolsma is still a new voice in Christian fiction, but she has worked her way into the World War II historical romance fiction genre pretty well. Remember the Lilies is Tolsma’s third book with Daisies are Forever and Snow on the Tulips being her first two novels. While the first two books take place in Nazi occupied lands of World War II, Remember the Lilies actually takes part in Philipines in Manila, which is where two of my grandfathers fought. The covers for these three books and the genre Tolsma writes in is what drew me to her writing.

The writing was right on the money. I could see the hurting of the characters and understand from their perspective what it was like to actually starve. Starve enough that their knees and joints were aching from all the malnutrition. I felt really bad for the characters of Irene, Mercedes, Tessa, and Rand. Tolsma does a good job at staying in the one character’s head without head hopping. Nothing ruins a good story like jumping around from one point of view to the next without alerting your reader that you are.

As for the historical romantic tension in the story, Tolsma grabs her readers by the first chapter and doesn’t let go. Tolsma places her characters in the middle of a Japanese shanty and allows them to roam around, wanting to leave while they obey the Japanese soldiers in order to not die or worse, be tortured for hours or days on end. Tolsma’s research into the horrors of the Japanese prisons during World War II was evident in how realistic the story felt. As for the romantic tension between Irene and Rand, it was unique. They both come from different backgrounds and wanted different things after the war ended. But as the story progressed, Rand started to see the love of God from Irene and decided to follow him. Rand pursued Irene, even after he learned the secret Irene had kept from him.

The beginning scene where Rand gets tortured and has his fingers broken could be kind of hard for younger audiences to take, but it was a quick part of the book that the mature audiences could read it and not feel grimace in pain. I think the chapter adds to the horror of the Japanese and should stay in the book.

Liz Tolsma creates a realistic portrayal of the Japanese shanties during World War II with realistic dilemmas, a harrowing hero, a meek heroine, and a shade of romance to lighten the harden subject.

I received a ebook copy of Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma from Thomas Nelson Publishers in the way of Netgalley and all the above opinions are my own.

[Robin Willson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written. Maybe too well written. Although very well told, it's a story that I cannot like. It takes place on Manila, Philippines starting in 1941 with Pearl Harbor, just before and then during the Japanese invasion. In the Internment Camp people were treated so horribly, and the author captures that. The characters are very real and you can feel their struggle. There are people of strong faith that influence and ultimately extend their faith to our main characters.

For Rand, it's a riches to rags tale. He's the charismatic owner of two popular casinos, raised in wealth. Not without some values, he yet walks the line. He has ideas for expansion into Singapore, Hong Kong and Saigon with visions of fame, proud that he would earn it on his own after his father's initial investment. You can feel his deflation as he loses it all. His father's older servant Armando is left behind but is ailing, his son reaching out to Rand for help in letters. Rand's only option is to escape, but it was tried before and failed with fatal results.

Irene works in the censor's office and is the one to remove some key words from the letter sent to Rand about escape. She did her job and retyped the letter with the words left out, but later she feels compelled to tell him the rest of the words, as he may be trying to escape. Thus begins their relationship as she finds him, but it's too late.

This is an excellent book for faith and testimony!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Thomas Nelson - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”. http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa...

[Reet Champion · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rand Sterling is living the life and loving it. While operating his two very popular nightclubs he is staying busy and making money with ever present thoughts of expanding his influence. But when World War II comes to Manila his world is thrown into a disarray. After a failed escape attempt from a Japanese internment camp Rand comes very near death for his troubles. While convalescing in a hospital he meets Irene Reynolds. Together they forge a friendship that is threatened by their intricate pasts. Overcoming both and the many present dangers is going to be a long and hard road.

My interest in the Pacific theater of World War II stems from more than just being a history nerd, but it is something that I will not go into right now. So suffice to say when Remember the Lilies came up for review AND I seen that the author was Liz Tolsma I was thrilled to bits. While I don’t think that last two books that I have read in this series are up to par with the first it’s still well worth a read. Not many books in this genre touch on the Japanese occupation of the Philippines and how it affected not only the American civilians but also Filipinos. And it was not a pleasant experience for both of the latter parties. The story is more character driven than anything else. There is scattered action and a lot of blackmailing but mostly the characters are forced to confront their pasts as they choose to make both honest and foolish decisions.

DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Remember the Lilies” provided by the publishers, Thomas Nelson, through Netgalley.com in exchange for our honest review.

reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember the Lilies is a war story about survival, hope, and love. Set in the Philippines during WWII, this is the story of two people who lived very different lives, but endured many trials and suffering during a horrific time that eventually brings them together. A young missionary woman and a man whose life revolved around money and clubs wouldn’t have very much in common and perhaps never would have even met had it not been for their captivity. Their friendship starts slowly and as time goes on both begin to fall for one another.

I fell in love with this book. I tried to read similar books before and they failed to really capture me. Remember the Lilies is one of those haunting, tragically beautiful books about not just the facts of war, but the heart and the courage of people. No matter how weak human bodies become, the spirit stays strong. It’s ultimately what keeps hope and the desire for freedom alive no matter how far away it may be.

I adored both Irene and her aunt Anita. There were some moments between them that had me very close to tears. Irene and Rand’s relationship, as I said before, started off slowly. They became friends and then the feelings of love began to grow as they learned and discovered secrets they both were keeping. And the more it seemed unlikely of survival, the more they relied on each other and kept going despite the hunger, illness, and mistreatment everyone had to deal with at the hands of the enemy soldiers.

I’m happy with the ending of this book. I can only wonder what happened afterwards with Irene and Rand, and with the friends they both had made during their years of captivity in the Santo Tomas Internment Camp.

[writer... · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tropical paradise of freedom turns to the harrowing story of WW2 life in a tropical internment camp.

The horrors of a botched escape attempt had me squirming. Multi-layered, full storied, atmospheric, and emotionally involved reading, Ms Tolsma's descriptive writing took me there. I cringed at the inhumane actions of the Japanese army against the captive internees of the Santo Tomas camp in Manila, Philippines. I felt the sweltering heat and the drenching typhoons.

Children played an active role in this WW2 novel and their interactions with MC Rand were particularly relevant. I was disappointed at MC Irene's aunt Anita's negativity toward Rand rather than seeing God already at work in Rand as he defended the children. I expected more spiritual insight and a lived example from a seasoned faith. Though the theology presented may not be the reader's own, it represents an aspect of the thinking of the day.

Rand and Irene's relationship is a lovely development in the midst of surrounding degradation. When initial good looks and attraction give way to the effects of disease and malnutrition heart truths will surely surface in actions.

Ms Tolsma adds an unusual contribution to the historical wealth of WW2 novels.

My review of book 2, Daisies Are Forever found HERE

[Hallie (Hallie Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is also posted on Book by Book.

Last year, while reading Daisies Are Forever and Snow on the Tulips, I discovered Liz Tolsma’s gift for capturing various aspects of harrowing days during World War II in fascinating and unique stories. So, I was immensely pleased to find yet another well-told, interesting story of World War II when I picked up Remember the Lilies. Within this book’s pages, Tolsma explores the difficulties of living in the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in Manila. The brutality and cruelty of her characters’ circumstances is astounding and devastating, yet her two main characters, Irene and Rand, remain admirable in their determination to survive. Though they have very different backgrounds, the stark depravity of their situation bring them together as unlikely friends and their romance sweetly stands out within the plot. All in all, Remember the Lilies is a great historical read and I would recommend it for fans of the genre.

Thanks to LitFuse Publicity Group, I received a copy of Remember the Lilies and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Annie Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell in love with Liz Tolsma’s first book, Snow on the Tulips, and have also reviewed Daisies are Forever. Remember the Lilies is her third book and again her characters are memorable and realistic, her plot is exciting, and her settings are difficult to forget. However, what I value most are the simple but profound Christian themes that run through the books authentically rather than as cliches.

For example, “Ever since her father had deserted her, she had been looking for someone to be there for her. To watch over her. To provide for her. She looked to everyone but God….All the while, when she had been longing for a Father the most, she already had one….How foolish for her to have spent her life thinking otherwise.”

You can read my complete review of this fast-paced, moving book on Tea Time with Annie Kate: http://anniekateshomeschoolreviews.co...

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember the Lilies, By: Liz Tolsma
If you like suspense, mystery and historical fiction then you are going to love the book Remember the Lilies! This is a book that is so well written that is going to keep you on the edge of your seat! Be prepared to be captured and drawn into this wonderful story right up until the very end! What an amazing historical fiction book. It is utterly amazing at how detailed this story is, I love it. Looking forward to reading more books by Liz Tolsma. Be sure to follow Liz Tolsma on facebook and on her website. Links are below.

Be sure to order your copy today!

5 stars!

[Kellyn Roth]

Will return to. For whatever reason, the setting just didn't interest me.

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading Liz Tolsma's Daisies are Forever, I had very high expectations for this book. The author really isn't afraid to delve into the horrors of war and the devastation it brings. I was excited to read what life was like in the Philippines at the time after having read so many WWII novels set in the European theater.

In regards to this story, I had a hard time connecting with the characters. At first I thought Irene was brave for bringing Rand the censored part of his message in order to save his life as a fellow internee, but as the story moved on, I felt some of her actions came across as immature, including her gullibility, lack of compassion for Mercedes and stubbornness regarding Rand's commitment to her at the end. Rand's character undergoes a huge transformation and it was a good one at that. He was perhaps my favorite character. I didn't care for the blackmailing that came from Mr. Covey, at times it didn't seem believable that a wealthy, independent man like Rand would allow himself to be backed into a corner time and time again. Nor why Irene would allow the man to blackmail her either. My last disconnection was how long Rand and Irene would go without seeing other, knowing full well in a gated community only so big, that they had plenty of opportunity to see each other or connect. I finished the book feeling just a little let down. I'm not saying this story wasn't good in it's own right, it was, but I just felt it could have been better.

Overall, depictions of life in the camp were real and believable, and harsh. My heart broke for those who truly went through those years in Santo Tomas. I found myself Googling photos of the camp and the internees who lived there. Throughout, there's enough change to keep pulling you into the story and wanting to see how it turns out. Overall, I give the story three stars and recommend it for historical purposes and education, if nothing else.

[Rebecca Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liz Tolzma’s book, Remember the Lilies, follows suit with her other novels: colorful characters, good research, vivid imagination surrounded by believable circumstances for historical fiction. Tolzma shed light on a little known internment camp in the Philippines and captured my emotions with her tale of romance, suspense, and important themes of love, forgiveness, and redemption.

The story of the inhumane Japanese internment camp takes priority, as the characters struggle simply to stay alive. But underneath lies the unlikely, budding romance between a missionary’s daughter, Irene Reynolds, who works for the Japanese authorities, and a worldly, wealthy womanizer, Rand Sterling, who ends up in the torture chambers of Santo Thomas Internment Camp.

I am a fan of World War II fiction if it seems to accurately portray what happened with strong details and everyday characters caught in the throes of conflict. Liz portrayed that well in this book as she did in her other novels.

Liz successfully weaves in teachable moments that everyone can relate to: spiritual truth in the midst of personal dilemma and conflict—like the words from her Aunt Anita’s mouth when she identified the unspoken struggle going on in Irene’s heart: “A good heart does not a believer make.”

Congratulations to Liz on another well-written World War II novel. I look forward to her next one.

I received this complimentary book from the publishers and was glad to write a review.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1941, Rand Sterling was a wealthy, womanizing club owner, and an American of note among ex-pats and locals alike. Now, two years later, Rand is just another civilian prisoner of war—one whose planned escape from the Santo Tomas Internment Camp could put himself and others in grave danger.
Irene Reynolds grew up as a missionary kid in the Philippine jungle. Now she works for the paranoid Japanese authorities, delivering censored messages to the other American prisoners in Santo Tomas.

When Irene’s negligence leads to Rand’s failed escape attempt, Rand is sent to the torture chambers of Fort Santiago—and Irene suffers under the weight of her guilt. Yet when she crosses paths with Rand again after his unexpected return to the camp, something more than mere survival draws the unlikely pair together.

As life in Manila becomes more and more desperate, and another threatening letter finds its way from Irene’s hands to Rand’s, the reluctant couple struggles to find a way to stay alive…and to keep their growing feelings for each other from compromising the safety of everyone around them.

I enjoy all kinds of historical fiction, but stories set during World War II are among my favorites and Liz Tolsma’s books have sounded unique within that genre. The cover on Remember the Lilies is captivating; maybe it is the couple dancing, or the distressed, sepia look, but from the first pages, I pictured a Humphrey Bogart type character (I know, wrong continent) and the danger and intrigue of a good film noir flick. I was in no way disappointed by this compelling and powerful novel—in fact, I am kicking myself for waiting so long to read one of her books!

I would have thought a story that literally spans years would drag in some places, but not this one. The characters and the war itself propel the story along and the author does a great job of keeping us interested in what is going on. Life for the internees in Santo Thomas was so different from our own, and even from the privations of wartime that many others experienced during this time period. Little details such as a complete lack of toilet paper, not the generous four squares internees were normally allotted per week, really drive home the harsh conditions these people were experiencing.
Disease runs rampant, and there is a very real danger of starvation, especially when the guards steal or purposefully waste some of the provisions sent by the Red Cross. And the prose and dialogue are natural and appropriate to the time period, keeping the reader immersed in the action as well as in the details. This is one of those books that, when you have to stop reading for some reason, it takes a few difficult moments to readjust to reality.

This is a classic romance where two worlds collide: a missionary in the jungle and the playboy club owner. Just as every other westerner who remained in Manila when the Japanese took over, they were both rounded up and placed in an internment camp to wait for freedom in the form of liberation—or death. Every social class was thrown together and despite the divisions that remained, many barriers were broken down by the living conditions that all shared, especially as the war dragged on. The main characters are brought together through realistic situations that would test any romantic relationship forged in wartime and either strongly bond or destroy it.

Characterization is outstanding with this novel. At first, I was a bit turned off by Irene’s aunt, Anita. A blind missionary, Anita has raised her niece and ministered to jungle inhabitants with nary a complaint. This tendency grates on Irene as well, who asks at one point, “Don’t you ever get discouraged or angry? You are allowed to complain.” While I was tempted to see Anita as a cardboard character at first, I think she actually is a realistic portrait of someone who really does lean on God more than an average person. And while I would struggle to name someone of my own acquaintance who has a similar disposition, that doesn’t mean they aren’t out there.

Anita also serves to highlight Irene’s very human battle to come to terms with where God is when humans inflict such suffering on one another. A missionary kid, Irene is not immune to doubt and her faith is often strongest when she recalls things Anita taught her; in those moments it simply flows from her heart and she can finally claim as her own the faith she has relied on second hand.

There are breathtaking moments of beauty in this novel that surprised me. Lilies provided bright spots of life outside of the shanties the internees lived in, and even a famous Jane Austen quote makes a cameo appearance, lightening up the fear and oppression that hovers over the camp. I would caution, however, that while this is a compelling and important book, it is not for young teens or those easily disturbed by descriptions of torture. These descriptions are by no means graphic, but the mind has an uncanny ability to fill in the blanks that some readers might find disturbing. There is also a near rape of one of the internees, so take that into consideration as well.

This book is a reminder that life is precious, even when it is not perfect, and that God is in control at all times, although it may appear evil is prevailing. It has been a while since a book has made me cry, but this one engaged me on an emotional level without resorting to heavy-handed tactics to do it. I genuinely loved these characters and felt their grief and hardships along with them. I would highly recommend it readers of historical fiction, especially those interested in a unique perspective on WWII’s Pacific Theater.

This review originally appeared at The Christian Manifesto (http://thechristianmanifesto.com/fict...).

[Dorothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very good in that there were so many twists and turns throughout the entire book. The story is about Irene who at the age of 13 was left with her aunt to raise. Her aunt was a missionary in the Philippians. The Japanese have invaded and they are at an internment camp with very little comforts and mainly the food they brought with them. Also in the camp is Rand who was a club owner and wealthy. Irene is able to work for the Japanese while there delivering messages to the people in the camp. She fails to deliver one and because of her failure Rand must spend some time in Fort Santiago torture chamber. When he is finally brought back survival of the pair is just one thing that brings them closer.

[Sherri · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just couldn't get behind this one as much as I wanted to. I finished it to finish and for a challenge.

However it did make me historically curious to the Eastern theatre of WWII and the real Santo Tomas Internment Camp. I think we concentrate on the European front with Germany and Russia and forget there were other campaigns like the Eastern and African theatres.

The characters I couldn't seem to believe until I looked at real pictures to get an idea of the author's novel. Even then the story was only o.k. for me. I just couldn't get into liking the main characters.

Plus I'm not sure what to think about the Christian tone this is supposed to have. Seems to be some iffy lines and ideas.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've gotten this one autographed and I'm still donating it, that's how much I didn't like it. It was VERY religious, which all of Liz's books are. However, it was A LOT more about trusting God instead of trusting the Allies. There just wasn't a lot of history in it. It would have been a lot better if Rand had a secret radio and was learning about where MacArthur was. Instead it was just a lot about people starving, a romance that moved at a snails space, a small mystery which anyone with a brain would know that Covey was Irene's father, and a lot of bible passages.

Her other 2 books, although religious, have a lot more historical information in them which make them more interesting.

[Janet Merrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed several things about this book but felt it was not quite as good as Tulips. I enjoyed the setting and learning about Manila and the Santo Tomas camp. The characters were nicely developed and interesting. I just felt there was not the same suspense and tension for the internees that I had felt while reading Tulips. It was still well researched and I will continue to the read the author when I have the opportunity.

[Karen Mcnicol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this story, Irene, her Aunt Anita, Rand they are all such good people to get to know. Who knew that Rand would meet up with the girl he almost ran over minutes before the Japanese would take over Manila? WW11 affected more countries then we realize, the Philippines is taken over by the Japanese and Americans are kept in an Internment camp with little food and must live out the war in this prison. This is the hopeful story of how these characters survived.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

received this book from Litfuse Publicity for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.


Book Description:


Irene and Rand come from very different walks of life. Will they find common ground in their fight to survive?

Irene has grown up in the jungle as a missionary with her Aunt Anita, but now she and countless others are imprisoned by Japanese soldiers at the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in the Philippines. Irene and her aunt are safe there, and she keeps busy with her duty of delivering censored messages to the camp’s prisoners, but like everyone else, she prays for the war to end and for her freedom. Rand is a wealthy, womanizing American, whose attempted escape from the internment camp has put himself and others in danger. When Rand and Irene’s Aunt Anita meet one another in the hospital, Irene learns more of his story and her heart is determined to save his family. But the danger outside the walls of the hospital worsens every day, and life in this exotic place is anything but luxurious. Can Irene find Rand’s family before they disappear forever? And can a humble missionary woman and an arrogant man find common ground in the face of their biggest fears?


My Thoughts:


Remember The Lilies is the third book in Liz Tolsma's series Women of Courage and it is a great read. This book tells the story of World War II in The Philippines in Santo Tomas Internment Camp. As a HUGE Historical Fiction fan I am always interested in learning more, on top of that I have had the pleasure of reading the two previous books that Liz Tolsma wrote in this series, so I was doubly intrigued. Irene has been raised by her Aunt Anita since she was eight years old in the jungle as missionaries. They and many others are now in Santo Tomas Interment Camp in The Philippines waiting for the U.S. Troops to come and liberate the camp. Irene works as part of the message center that sensors and delivers correspondence into and out of the camp, in doing so she keeps her and her Aunt safe. Rand is a wealthy man who is also in Santo Tomas. Irene intercepts correspondence for Rand and realizes the importance of it and sneaks it out to give to him, but she is too late, he is already in the middle of an escape attempt. Unfortunately it failed, Rand was caught, and tortured. Aunt Anita falls very ill and she ends up in transport with a beaten, broken Rand to the hospital outside of the camp walls. Irene works very hard to get a pass to be with her Aunt and as her Aunt Anita recuperates Irene learns more about Rand and his escape attempt. Irene is taken with this handsome man but they are so different that Irene tries to keep her distance. After hearing his story, Irene tries to get medicine and food the Rand's family to help save them. Irene tries to help Rand where ever she can even though the risk to her is great.


Remember The Lilies is the a wonderful book. It is the third book in Liz Tolsma's series, Women of Courage. As a HUGE Christian Historical Fiction fan this book and this series were high on my must read list. I have had the privilege to read and review all three of them thus far. All of these books are about World War II and how it looked in different parts of the world. I have learned so much about this war and the effects it had on our entire world. I had not heard of Santo Tomas Internment Camp or really anything about the effects World War II had in The Philippines. This interment camp held over 4,000 men, women, and children who were mostly Americans. Liz Tolsma writes with authority on World War II, the military strategies of the different countries involved at that time, medicine, living conditions in Santo Tomas, and The Philippines during wartime. Remember The Lilies is a work of fiction but it has a perfect blend of fact and fiction that really gets the readers interest piqued. Since I wasn't aware of this part of World War II, I found myself looking things up online and reading things to expand on the wealth of knowledge Liz Tolsma gives her readers. As I read this book I felt like I was there as the events unfolded, found myself get angry at the treatment of these prisoners, sad at the senseless violence, and smile at the way they all helped one another, shared their faith to those who had lost theirs, and despite it all enjoyed things where they could. I enjoyed the characters in this book but my favorite would have to be Aunt Anita. A strong woman who lived her life serving God and being faithful to her beliefs. Anita became blind later in life but she still continued being a missionary and when Irene's Dad disappeared she raised her as her own, doing and sacrificing as a mother would. I had a hard time putting this book down from the start. This book is a fast paced, action filled and keeps you guessing until the end. Many surprise throughout this book. Even though this is the third book in this series, Remember the Lilies and the others are stand alone books, they do not need to be read in order, it is not that kind of series. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction, especially during World War II, I promise you will learn a lot and will enjoy it. I look forward to reading more from Liz Tolsma! I give this book 5 STARS