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Hidden Masterpiece #2
A Sparrow in Terezin
Bound together across time, two women will discover a powerful connection through one survivor's story of hope in the darkest days of a war-torn world.
Present Day: With the grand opening of her new art gallery and a fairy tale wedding just around the corner, Sera James feels like she's stumbled into a charmed life until a brutal legal battle against fiance William Hanover threatens to destroy their future before it even begins.
Now, after an eleventh-hour wedding ceremony and a callous arrest, William faces a decade in prison for a crime he never committed, and Sera must battle the scathing accusations that threaten her family and any hope for a future with the man she loves.
1942: Kaja Makovsky narrowly escaped Nazi-occupied Prague in 1939 and was forced to leave behind her half-Jewish family. Now a reporter for The Daily Telegraph in England, Kaja discovers the terror has followed her across the Channel in the shadowy form of the London Blitz. When she learns Jews are being exterminated by the thousands on the continent, she has no choice but to return to her mother city, risking her life to smuggle her family to freedom and peace.
Connecting across a century through one little girl, a Holocaust survivor with a foot in each world, these two women will discover a kinship that springs even in the darkest of times. In this tale of hope and survival, Sera and Kaja must cling to the faith that sustains them and fight to protect all they hold dear even if it means placing their own futures on the line.
Present Day: With the grand opening of her new art gallery and a fairy tale wedding just around the corner, Sera James feels like she's stumbled into a charmed life until a brutal legal battle against fiance William Hanover threatens to destroy their future before it even begins.
Now, after an eleventh-hour wedding ceremony and a callous arrest, William faces a decade in prison for a crime he never committed, and Sera must battle the scathing accusations that threaten her family and any hope for a future with the man she loves.
1942: Kaja Makovsky narrowly escaped Nazi-occupied Prague in 1939 and was forced to leave behind her half-Jewish family. Now a reporter for The Daily Telegraph in England, Kaja discovers the terror has followed her across the Channel in the shadowy form of the London Blitz. When she learns Jews are being exterminated by the thousands on the continent, she has no choice but to return to her mother city, risking her life to smuggle her family to freedom and peace.
Connecting across a century through one little girl, a Holocaust survivor with a foot in each world, these two women will discover a kinship that springs even in the darkest of times. In this tale of hope and survival, Sera and Kaja must cling to the faith that sustains them and fight to protect all they hold dear even if it means placing their own futures on the line.
355 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
166 people are currently reading
3508 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Cambron
20 books2,735 followersKristy Cambron is a USA TODAY bestselling author who writes from the space where beauty, art, and history intersect. She's an award-winning author of historical fiction, including her internationally bestselling novels, THE BUTTERFLY AND THE VIOLIN and THE PARIS DRESSMAKER, as well as nonfiction titles. Her work has been named to Cosmopolitan's Best Historical Fiction Novels, Library Journal’s Best Books, and has been featured at People Magazine, Once Upon a Book Club Box, Frolic, Book Club Girl, BookBub, and Country Woman magazine.
Her new novel, THE FRENCH KITCHEN, is available now -- in which an ex-pat wife haunted by her experiences as an undercover agent in the American OSS during WWII crosses paths with chef Julia Child in a post-war Paris cookery class, complicating the carefully constructed high-society world she’s built to hide her past.
Kristy holds a degree in art history/research writing and spent fifteen years in education and leadership development for a Fortune 100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, IBM/Kenexa, and Gallup before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling. She's also served as Vice President and a literary agent with Gardner Literary.
Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three basketball-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.
(Note: *Kristy does not use AI in her work. Please visit: kristycambron.com/contact for more information.)
To connect with Kristy, visit:
Kristy's Website: https://kristycambron.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristycambron/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@kristycambron
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCambronAuthor/
And sign up for her newsletter: https://kristycambron.myflodesk.com/
Her new novel, THE FRENCH KITCHEN, is available now -- in which an ex-pat wife haunted by her experiences as an undercover agent in the American OSS during WWII crosses paths with chef Julia Child in a post-war Paris cookery class, complicating the carefully constructed high-society world she’s built to hide her past.
Kristy holds a degree in art history/research writing and spent fifteen years in education and leadership development for a Fortune 100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, IBM/Kenexa, and Gallup before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling. She's also served as Vice President and a literary agent with Gardner Literary.
Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three basketball-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.
(Note: *Kristy does not use AI in her work. Please visit: kristycambron.com/contact for more information.)
To connect with Kristy, visit:
Kristy's Website: https://kristycambron.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristycambron/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@kristycambron
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCambronAuthor/
And sign up for her newsletter: https://kristycambron.myflodesk.com/
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 423 reviews
February 6, 2017
Beautiful story! Just as enjoyable as the first book, and not quite as painful to read. Kája is a vibrant character, so much so that I feel I could step back in time and recognize her in her secretarial work or her teaching.
My one gripe is that Kája's suitor curses twice. Yes, he was provoked, but I was very disappointed to see that Cambron put in the actual word. Minus one star.
My one gripe is that Kája's suitor curses twice. Yes, he was provoked, but I was very disappointed to see that Cambron put in the actual word. Minus one star.
January 8, 2021
Three and a half stars
With the opening of her new art gallery and approaching wedding to William Hanover, Sera James feels like all is going right with her world. That is until a legal charge against William threatens to destroy the life they had planned together. She is determined to stand by and help him and uncover the secrets held by the Hanover family. This is the present day story. Along with it runs a story that runs from Prague in 1939 through the war years. This story features Kaja Makovsky, who has both Jewish and Christian heritage. Her own faith and aim to do what I right leads Kaja to make decisions that put her life at risk. But will she be able to bring hope and life to others? Of course the reader knows as the narrative flips between these two stories that somehow they will ultimately connect.
I had read The Butterfly and the Violin the first book in this series back in 2016 and didn’t remember a lot of it. But this book sketches in the details for those of us who need a bit of reminding or who have not read the first book. I found that even though the past and present was clearly delineated, sometimes I felt a little resentful at being dragged away from one story to the other. It is written from a Christian perspective so there are often references to God and to prayer. It is integral to the story. The scenes at the concentration camp, which don’t appear till about half way through the book, show the horror without going into too much heartbreaking detail. Even so, at times it is a relief to go back to the present day story with Sera that is not as heavy to read.
While, as a whole, I enjoyed the story I did find the end wrapped up rather hurriedly. Although dealing with the atrocities of war, this is ultimately a novel of faith, hope and love and is worth reading. I do suggest that perhaps you would need to read the Butterfly and the Violin first to grasp more understanding of some of the characters and their story.
With the opening of her new art gallery and approaching wedding to William Hanover, Sera James feels like all is going right with her world. That is until a legal charge against William threatens to destroy the life they had planned together. She is determined to stand by and help him and uncover the secrets held by the Hanover family. This is the present day story. Along with it runs a story that runs from Prague in 1939 through the war years. This story features Kaja Makovsky, who has both Jewish and Christian heritage. Her own faith and aim to do what I right leads Kaja to make decisions that put her life at risk. But will she be able to bring hope and life to others? Of course the reader knows as the narrative flips between these two stories that somehow they will ultimately connect.
I had read The Butterfly and the Violin the first book in this series back in 2016 and didn’t remember a lot of it. But this book sketches in the details for those of us who need a bit of reminding or who have not read the first book. I found that even though the past and present was clearly delineated, sometimes I felt a little resentful at being dragged away from one story to the other. It is written from a Christian perspective so there are often references to God and to prayer. It is integral to the story. The scenes at the concentration camp, which don’t appear till about half way through the book, show the horror without going into too much heartbreaking detail. Even so, at times it is a relief to go back to the present day story with Sera that is not as heavy to read.
While, as a whole, I enjoyed the story I did find the end wrapped up rather hurriedly. Although dealing with the atrocities of war, this is ultimately a novel of faith, hope and love and is worth reading. I do suggest that perhaps you would need to read the Butterfly and the Violin first to grasp more understanding of some of the characters and their story.
April 10, 2015
A Sparrow in Terezin takes you from the terror of London during the Blitz, to the horror of the concentration camps, to modern-day London and San Francisco. Kristy Cambron paints a touching picture of a woman trying to do the right thing in a time when evil prevailed, and the ripples her actions send into the future. Beautiful writing and heartbreaking imagery make the novel sing, proving Cambron’s acclaimed debut novel, The Butterfly and the Violin, was no fluke. I highly recommend this book.
November 9, 2023
10/10 and a whole bunch more stars rating from me!!!
" Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
- Joshua 1:9
I absolutely loved it!! I've read a lot of books in my lifetime and this book along with The Butterfly and The Violin ( part 1 of a two part series) are amongst the best I have ever read. That's saying a lot! A Christian book written by a Christian author with a duel timeline of Historical Fiction... what's not to like? I finished this amazingly gorgeously written book a couple days ago and I am having a hard time finding the best words to describe it. Well, here goes!
In the present day we have Sera and William in California who are about to get married! It's a fairy tale wedding on the beach in the evening. Perfect right? Umm no, because after the " I do's, " William is handcuffed and dragged away facing 10 years in prison for a crime he never committed! Or did he? Sera is convinced that William is innocent and as she tries to get the evidence needed to clear his name, doubts appear and their marriage is in jeopardy. She travels as far as Paris to visit a mutual friend named Sophie. Sophie has all the answers and ties the present to the past flawlessly. Can their marriage survive everything going against them?
The past timeline begins in 1939, before, during and after WW2. Kaja and her sister and brother in law narrowly escaped Nazi occupied Prague. She is half Jewish and must leave her family behind. 😢. Kaja moves to London to work at a newspaper and shortly after, The Blitz takes place. Her co worker, Liam is part of the secret missions taking place at Bletchley Park! They're falling in love with each other. When Kaja descovered the Jews are being exterminated by the thousands in Czechoslovakia, she must travel home to rescue her family. Liam helps her and says to Kaja, " And if you don't meet me two weeks from now --"
" I will." She replied.
" But if you don't, he said, and learned in to stare her directly in the eyes. The lines in his face tensed on a serious whisper, " The whole of the German army won't be able to hold me back. So help me, Kaja, I'll come in after you." Can he? Will he?
Little did they know that Kaja is captured and sent to Terazin, a concentration camp! Years go by and Kaja is in charge of the children in the camp. Guess who is there...a little girl named Sophie! Dane, a German SS Officer befriends Kaja and promises to get her out as they're being loaded on a box car heading to Auzwhich!! The train is stopped and as the doors open, Dane is there! Is he a double agent? What is going on ? Dane says to Kaja as he leads them to freedom, " If we don't stand up and do something now, what's the point? The human race will never recover from what we've done to your people. I don't intend to stand before God and have to answer for a train full of children making it's destination when I could have done something to stop it. If it's selfish to have a conscience, then I guess I'm guilty of it now."
This is really based on a true story!! I thought it might be and didn't know until I read the Authors Notes. What a powerful story of love, courage, doing the right thing, sadness and happiness as well as much needed healing! I shed many a tears reading this beautifully and skillfully written book. I'll conclude this review ( apologies for being long! ) with the last paragraph. " She imagined a future so unlike the present."
" One in which Jew and Nazi were not enemies. One where the little sparrows cared for each other and where there was no room for hate, because the hearts of men were too focused on love to let it grow. And one in which people, rather than paintings, the red flowers of peace, rather than war, become the witnesses to a changed heart. "
" In your time, God...We will be made whole."
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨
" Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
- Joshua 1:9
I absolutely loved it!! I've read a lot of books in my lifetime and this book along with The Butterfly and The Violin ( part 1 of a two part series) are amongst the best I have ever read. That's saying a lot! A Christian book written by a Christian author with a duel timeline of Historical Fiction... what's not to like? I finished this amazingly gorgeously written book a couple days ago and I am having a hard time finding the best words to describe it. Well, here goes!
In the present day we have Sera and William in California who are about to get married! It's a fairy tale wedding on the beach in the evening. Perfect right? Umm no, because after the " I do's, " William is handcuffed and dragged away facing 10 years in prison for a crime he never committed! Or did he? Sera is convinced that William is innocent and as she tries to get the evidence needed to clear his name, doubts appear and their marriage is in jeopardy. She travels as far as Paris to visit a mutual friend named Sophie. Sophie has all the answers and ties the present to the past flawlessly. Can their marriage survive everything going against them?
The past timeline begins in 1939, before, during and after WW2. Kaja and her sister and brother in law narrowly escaped Nazi occupied Prague. She is half Jewish and must leave her family behind. 😢. Kaja moves to London to work at a newspaper and shortly after, The Blitz takes place. Her co worker, Liam is part of the secret missions taking place at Bletchley Park! They're falling in love with each other. When Kaja descovered the Jews are being exterminated by the thousands in Czechoslovakia, she must travel home to rescue her family. Liam helps her and says to Kaja, " And if you don't meet me two weeks from now --"
" I will." She replied.
" But if you don't, he said, and learned in to stare her directly in the eyes. The lines in his face tensed on a serious whisper, " The whole of the German army won't be able to hold me back. So help me, Kaja, I'll come in after you." Can he? Will he?
Little did they know that Kaja is captured and sent to Terazin, a concentration camp! Years go by and Kaja is in charge of the children in the camp. Guess who is there...a little girl named Sophie! Dane, a German SS Officer befriends Kaja and promises to get her out as they're being loaded on a box car heading to Auzwhich!! The train is stopped and as the doors open, Dane is there! Is he a double agent? What is going on ? Dane says to Kaja as he leads them to freedom, " If we don't stand up and do something now, what's the point? The human race will never recover from what we've done to your people. I don't intend to stand before God and have to answer for a train full of children making it's destination when I could have done something to stop it. If it's selfish to have a conscience, then I guess I'm guilty of it now."
This is really based on a true story!! I thought it might be and didn't know until I read the Authors Notes. What a powerful story of love, courage, doing the right thing, sadness and happiness as well as much needed healing! I shed many a tears reading this beautifully and skillfully written book. I'll conclude this review ( apologies for being long! ) with the last paragraph. " She imagined a future so unlike the present."
" One in which Jew and Nazi were not enemies. One where the little sparrows cared for each other and where there was no room for hate, because the hearts of men were too focused on love to let it grow. And one in which people, rather than paintings, the red flowers of peace, rather than war, become the witnesses to a changed heart. "
" In your time, God...We will be made whole."
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨
November 14, 2016
Kristy Cambron's writing is captivating and filled with emotion from page 1 of this story.
Sera and William - it was great to catch up with these two and the challenge they faced was filled with emotion and except for the struggles newly weds had to face, there was another challenge Sera and Will had to face which could make or break a marriage. Some of the decisions they made had me frowning, but everything flowed together by the end of the book.
Kaja and Liam - The WW2 story was interesting, filled with action, heartache, pain and hope. The children's story opened by eye to a different part of history I didn't know anything about. I loved the friendship between Kaia and Liam. I loved Dane's character - think back to WW2, I always think of the Germans as cold heartless men, but I know as with Dane, there was a lot of men who didn't agree with how the Jew's were treated and had compassion. Compassion and love for humanity spilled through Dane's character which was like the early sun rays on a cold morning in this story.
The story of Hope and keeping hold of God came across strongly.
There was one section which didn't seem to fit with my understanding - when Kaja's father made a reference to Christ - Jew's only believe and worship God, so the Christ reference were strange. I know Kaja's mother were Christian, so I guess, even though it was never told, that the family did believe in Christ and the salvation through him.
Sera and William - it was great to catch up with these two and the challenge they faced was filled with emotion and except for the struggles newly weds had to face, there was another challenge Sera and Will had to face which could make or break a marriage. Some of the decisions they made had me frowning, but everything flowed together by the end of the book.
Kaja and Liam - The WW2 story was interesting, filled with action, heartache, pain and hope. The children's story opened by eye to a different part of history I didn't know anything about. I loved the friendship between Kaia and Liam. I loved Dane's character - think back to WW2, I always think of the Germans as cold heartless men, but I know as with Dane, there was a lot of men who didn't agree with how the Jew's were treated and had compassion. Compassion and love for humanity spilled through Dane's character which was like the early sun rays on a cold morning in this story.
The story of Hope and keeping hold of God came across strongly.
There was one section which didn't seem to fit with my understanding - when Kaja's father made a reference to Christ - Jew's only believe and worship God, so the Christ reference were strange. I know Kaja's mother were Christian, so I guess, even though it was never told, that the family did believe in Christ and the salvation through him.
February 21, 2021
I am literally sitting here bawling my eyes out. Heart-breakingly beautiful.
Of the 15,000 children who were believed to have passed through the walls of Terezin, fewer than 100 ultimately survived the Holocaust. I pray we never forget.
Of the 15,000 children who were believed to have passed through the walls of Terezin, fewer than 100 ultimately survived the Holocaust. I pray we never forget.
October 6, 2022
This was just ok. I was disappointed because I loved the first one, The Butterfly and the Violin. I never quite got into this one. The flow felt very choppy and the conflict felt disjointed. I was never quite sure who was who and how they were connected. A bit of a bummer, but at least it's another series I can take off my list!
January 4, 2015
There were moments of lyrical genius and snatches of a poetic sensibility showing that Cambron has honed her skill in her sophomore novel. As in the first, the underlining themes of art amidst the atrocities of the Second World War and Concentration camps (here, Terezin: the ghetto and labour camp in Prague) is well-met with the characters' crises of faith and trust in their Creator. As in Butterfly and the Violin, I found that the modern frame was disjointed; but Cambron is SO adept at winding a historical plot: coloured with hope and pathos and strewn with snippets of unbelievable smart snatches of history unique to the CBA. Thus, I will always seek her out.
Kaja is well-met by a string of romance in British journalist Liam and while their attraction developed quickly---it did so strongly so I was eager to see how they played against each other in bomb-riddled London and then in the mire of central Holocaust. Cambron also surprised me with the character of Dane -- a nice companion piece to the work done by Kate Breslin in "For Such a Time" ( and I would recommend readers of one read the other for comparative experience). He was nothing if not a snatch of grace in the midst of horror.
William and Sera are tried, in modern times, with a burgeoning marriage and more problems than they can handle, and their frame ties up nicely with hope and solidity.
A great, fast-paced read that I flew through with expert historical cadence and heart-squeezing scenes :)
Kaja is well-met by a string of romance in British journalist Liam and while their attraction developed quickly---it did so strongly so I was eager to see how they played against each other in bomb-riddled London and then in the mire of central Holocaust. Cambron also surprised me with the character of Dane -- a nice companion piece to the work done by Kate Breslin in "For Such a Time" ( and I would recommend readers of one read the other for comparative experience). He was nothing if not a snatch of grace in the midst of horror.
William and Sera are tried, in modern times, with a burgeoning marriage and more problems than they can handle, and their frame ties up nicely with hope and solidity.
A great, fast-paced read that I flew through with expert historical cadence and heart-squeezing scenes :)
October 5, 2016
I want to cry because I love this book so much!
As Sera and William battle issues at the start of their marriage, Kaja flees Prague as the Nazi's take over and she meets the dashing reporter Liam Marshall. Through the darkness they endeavor to find hope-not in what they can see-but in what God can.
The writing was definitely improved from the last one and I felt that both timelines flowed better together. The emotions surrounding both stories pull at your heart and make you wish the book wouldn't end. The connections from the first book are really neat and loved that Sophie was in this one :)
The romance was just right-a few kisses not detailed-and the Christianity felt stronger and more real. I loved with Kaja spoke with Sophie about Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Amazing!
I was impressed with Liam's character (speaking of which the author depicted British speech very, very well!), but when Dane was introduced I just thought "Wow"! And I love how the children in Terezin are described as sparrows. My emotions were skyrocketing at the end and it takes a lot for a book to do that to me!
This ends happily, despite the sadness throughout the book. I highly recommend this and will no doubt grab a chance to read it many more times in the future! This is a book you won't regret reading. I bought it full price and don't mind in the least. It was worth it!
As Sera and William battle issues at the start of their marriage, Kaja flees Prague as the Nazi's take over and she meets the dashing reporter Liam Marshall. Through the darkness they endeavor to find hope-not in what they can see-but in what God can.
The writing was definitely improved from the last one and I felt that both timelines flowed better together. The emotions surrounding both stories pull at your heart and make you wish the book wouldn't end. The connections from the first book are really neat and loved that Sophie was in this one :)
The romance was just right-a few kisses not detailed-and the Christianity felt stronger and more real. I loved with Kaja spoke with Sophie about Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Amazing!
I was impressed with Liam's character (speaking of which the author depicted British speech very, very well!), but when Dane was introduced I just thought "Wow"! And I love how the children in Terezin are described as sparrows. My emotions were skyrocketing at the end and it takes a lot for a book to do that to me!
This ends happily, despite the sadness throughout the book. I highly recommend this and will no doubt grab a chance to read it many more times in the future! This is a book you won't regret reading. I bought it full price and don't mind in the least. It was worth it!
April 24, 2015
In the Sparrow of Terezin, Kristy Cambron has crafted a beautiful story of parallel journeys: a completely free-standing story set during World War II, and the other a continuation of the contemporary story in The Butterfly & the Violin. The pages move seamlessly from one story to the next, yet leaving me with a longing for more in each story. This makes the pages fly and makes it difficult to walk away from the story when real life intervenes.
The historical characters are so real, their losses unimagineable, and the hope they find in the darkest of nights tangible. The historical story slips between Prague, London, and Terezin during the war. The journey is one of discovery, family, and war. It is a story of loss and saving.
The contemporary story is one that will not cleanly stand alone. You could read it without first reading The Butterfly & the Violin but you will lose some of the deep meaning of the characters' battles. This said, it is a beautiful story that will compel you to follow Sera through the challenges and decisions she must make.
The Sparrow of Terezin is a story that will embrace readers who love a mix of modern and historic, romance with emotion, beauty with an awareness that God sees every sparrow.
The historical characters are so real, their losses unimagineable, and the hope they find in the darkest of nights tangible. The historical story slips between Prague, London, and Terezin during the war. The journey is one of discovery, family, and war. It is a story of loss and saving.
The contemporary story is one that will not cleanly stand alone. You could read it without first reading The Butterfly & the Violin but you will lose some of the deep meaning of the characters' battles. This said, it is a beautiful story that will compel you to follow Sera through the challenges and decisions she must make.
The Sparrow of Terezin is a story that will embrace readers who love a mix of modern and historic, romance with emotion, beauty with an awareness that God sees every sparrow.
February 3, 2019
Reread Jan/Feb. 2019:
*clutches heart* I love this story so much, and Liam and Kája are one of the sweetest couples in WWII fiction. Though not as good as its predecessor (in my opinion), A Sparrow in Terezin is piercingly beautiful & breathtaking in an unassuming way. It shines a light in the darkness and reminds you that beauty is found in broken things. That art is a powerful, important thing. And that His eye is on the sparrow - even in Terezin.
Do yourselves a favor and read this book.
/ / / / / /
Undeniably beautiful and horrible all at once. It's a story that needed to be told.
It's about hope. Beauty. Trust. Courage.
And about a God who's watching over us, even in the darkest places.
4 stars!
*clutches heart* I love this story so much, and Liam and Kája are one of the sweetest couples in WWII fiction. Though not as good as its predecessor (in my opinion), A Sparrow in Terezin is piercingly beautiful & breathtaking in an unassuming way. It shines a light in the darkness and reminds you that beauty is found in broken things. That art is a powerful, important thing. And that His eye is on the sparrow - even in Terezin.
Do yourselves a favor and read this book.
/ / / / / /
Undeniably beautiful and horrible all at once. It's a story that needed to be told.
It's about hope. Beauty. Trust. Courage.
And about a God who's watching over us, even in the darkest places.
4 stars!
August 20, 2015
I was very disappointed with this book. I am an avid reader of this genre and expected another spell binding experience but the more I read, the more of the plot seemed contrived and unrealistic. The modern day story had too much useless dialogue and the main character, Sera, seemed to whine most of the time. The second plot centered in 1942 when a Jewish girl who escaped the Nazis in Prague and ended up in London, decides to go back to rescue her parents from the Nazi war machine. First of all, Kaja seems totally ignorant of the enormity of the war in Europe and the ridiculousness of her expecting to cross Nazi controlled countries as a Jew to find her parents and then somehow get them out of the Nazi's hands. I have researched and read enough about what was going on during this time period to know that no one, except the Allied spies, were able to penetrate the continent, and then it was horrifically difficult to get downed fliers or agents out of Europe and back to England safely. She would have had an extremely difficult time just getting into Nazi territory from England let alone getting all the way to Prague without being caught. Next, her boyfriend just happens to meet her as she boards the train from London to the coast with papers and a uniform which recognizes her as a Red Cross worker. Together they manage to get into the Netherlands as part of the Red Cross (this was that easy??? The book seems to think so)and successfully make their way to Prague where she finds her parents still there and not already sent to a concentration camp as only a few of the Jews still left in the city. When the Nazis come early to round up her parents (she was supposed to have a day to get them to safety), she burns her Red Cross papers and uniform and goes with them to the camp, Terezin, where she experiences untold horrors and extreme cruelty. All of this was just too unrealistic for me to buy based on all of the reading and studying I have done about the conditions and difficulties in Nazi occupied Europe in 1942. I wanted to like this book.. I really tried but I kept shaking my head over and over again.
March 24, 2017
On one hand I really liked it. On the other hand I didn't. Unlike The Butterfly and the Violin, I didn't feel like the past and present storylines connected very well. I also enjoyed the historical part much more than the contemporary part- in fact, I think that the former could have been its own book (since so much happened!).
The WWII storyline: Kaja escapes her beloved Prague as the Nazis invade, moving to London (where she meets a charming reporter named Liam). When she discovers the truth of what is happening to Jews in Nazi-occupied countries, she returns back home to save her parents.
It was a moving story, and I was in awe of how all the characters, who'd been through so much terror, managed to find beauty in life in so many ways. The story flowed well and was captivating. There were a few plot points that seemed rather unrealistic, but it proved to be a story to remind us to never forget.
The present day storyline: William and Sera have just become husband and wife when William is arrested for an uncommitted crime. Sera searches for a way out by finding answers in her husband's family's secrets.
I must admit, I was barely interested in this storyline. The plot seemed a bit muddled and overdramatic. I did like all the characters though.
4 stars for the historical part and 2 stars for the contemporary part, so 3 stars overall.
The WWII storyline: Kaja escapes her beloved Prague as the Nazis invade, moving to London (where she meets a charming reporter named Liam). When she discovers the truth of what is happening to Jews in Nazi-occupied countries, she returns back home to save her parents.
It was a moving story, and I was in awe of how all the characters, who'd been through so much terror, managed to find beauty in life in so many ways. The story flowed well and was captivating. There were a few plot points that seemed rather unrealistic, but it proved to be a story to remind us to never forget.
The present day storyline: William and Sera have just become husband and wife when William is arrested for an uncommitted crime. Sera searches for a way out by finding answers in her husband's family's secrets.
I must admit, I was barely interested in this storyline. The plot seemed a bit muddled and overdramatic. I did like all the characters though.
4 stars for the historical part and 2 stars for the contemporary part, so 3 stars overall.
July 16, 2021
2.5 stars
After reading The Butterfly and the Violin , I was quite excited to the next book in the series. I happily discovered that Sera's story continued from the first book, which definitely made me want to read this one!
However, I found this book not quite as entertaining as the first one. The historical story was interesting, but I think I liked the first part of it better than the second half. Cambron skips a lot of time - which she does quite well, overall - but I feel like a lot of time was lost, and it was more episodic nearing the end. Like she had to keep to a certain word count or something. I found this especially true with the whole story with Dane. I never really knew what to make of him, and I think he could've had a lot of potential, but he fell a little flat because he wasn't in there much. Also, it didn't help that I was just hoping Liam would show up, and the whole kinda-romance with her and Dane (basically one-sided; she didn't really care for him), didn't float my boat. It just felt very glossed over and could've been quite moving with the ending.
The modern story (with Sera and William) wasn't nearly as good as I'd hoped. The first half of it was the best; I felt like there was a good amount of suspense over what was going on that made the story move, but it kind of dragged near the end. Like, William, bud, I like you, but the whole deal with you keeping everything a secret? Not much of a fan. It was good to see them get their "happily-ever-after," but it got a little bit dull.
As usual, Cambron's writing was quite nice. I also appreciate her use of the split story line - it seems incredibly difficult, but she made it work. The stories didn't connect super well, but enough that it made sense. One major qualm I did have were several instances of what appeared to be using the Lord's Name in vain (which is why I took at least a star off of the rating.) I was very disappointed to see something like this come from a Christian author. Also, the morals were not super strong - something about hope, or something? It wasn't very impactful, and there wasn't enough Jesus. Which is a problem in a lot of Christian fiction, for some reason. I mean, without Him, you're in big trouble, and you have no peace with God (1 John 2:23).
If it weren't for the instances of taking the Lord's Name in vain, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
After reading The Butterfly and the Violin , I was quite excited to the next book in the series. I happily discovered that Sera's story continued from the first book, which definitely made me want to read this one!
However, I found this book not quite as entertaining as the first one. The historical story was interesting, but I think I liked the first part of it better than the second half. Cambron skips a lot of time - which she does quite well, overall - but I feel like a lot of time was lost, and it was more episodic nearing the end. Like she had to keep to a certain word count or something. I found this especially true with the whole story with Dane. I never really knew what to make of him, and I think he could've had a lot of potential, but he fell a little flat because he wasn't in there much. Also, it didn't help that I was just hoping Liam would show up, and the whole kinda-romance with her and Dane (basically one-sided; she didn't really care for him), didn't float my boat. It just felt very glossed over and could've been quite moving with the ending.
The modern story (with Sera and William) wasn't nearly as good as I'd hoped. The first half of it was the best; I felt like there was a good amount of suspense over what was going on that made the story move, but it kind of dragged near the end. Like, William, bud, I like you, but the whole deal with you keeping everything a secret? Not much of a fan. It was good to see them get their "happily-ever-after," but it got a little bit dull.
As usual, Cambron's writing was quite nice. I also appreciate her use of the split story line - it seems incredibly difficult, but she made it work. The stories didn't connect super well, but enough that it made sense. One major qualm I did have were several instances of what appeared to be using the Lord's Name in vain (which is why I took at least a star off of the rating.) I was very disappointed to see something like this come from a Christian author. Also, the morals were not super strong - something about hope, or something? It wasn't very impactful, and there wasn't enough Jesus. Which is a problem in a lot of Christian fiction, for some reason. I mean, without Him, you're in big trouble, and you have no peace with God (1 John 2:23).
If it weren't for the instances of taking the Lord's Name in vain, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
April 27, 2015
Kristy Cambron has followed up her debut, The Butterfly and the Violin, with a beautifully written novel in A Sprarrow in Terezin.
The story of Sera and William picks up where it left off and the action on the current day story was immediate.
Kaja's story set during WWII was a bit slower to develop and I admit took me a bit to appreciate the background leading up to her time in Terezin. In hindsight, I do see the beauty of setting Kaja's back story to fully appreciate her as a character.
The last 100 pages of the novel flew by as I kept turning to see what would happen next. There were other characters than Sera, William and Kaja that I enjoyed getting to know, but don't want to write a spoiler in my review.
A Sparrow in Terezin is beautifully written. Kaja's story revealed to me the story of thousands of children impacted by Terezin.
This novel is recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction, especially WWII novels.
The story of Sera and William picks up where it left off and the action on the current day story was immediate.
Kaja's story set during WWII was a bit slower to develop and I admit took me a bit to appreciate the background leading up to her time in Terezin. In hindsight, I do see the beauty of setting Kaja's back story to fully appreciate her as a character.
The last 100 pages of the novel flew by as I kept turning to see what would happen next. There were other characters than Sera, William and Kaja that I enjoyed getting to know, but don't want to write a spoiler in my review.
A Sparrow in Terezin is beautifully written. Kaja's story revealed to me the story of thousands of children impacted by Terezin.
This novel is recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction, especially WWII novels.
July 28, 2022
This is Historical Fiction/Christian Fiction with dual time lines...one set during WWII and the other was modern day. I can see why this book has received many rave reviews here on GR...it really is a sweet story. That isn't really my favorite but I don't dispute that. However, when I add to that the womanly Christian guilt then I was definitely not a fan. "Oh you're mad? Well remember your vows!" This was too prevalent for me.
Besides that thing mentioned above, there were two main issues that I struggled with. One is that the characters were all so picture perfect....no cracks, no crevices, no inner struggles...just flat. And they were all on their best behavior....all the time. This leads to the second thing. When everyone is 'walking perfection' it makes things fairly predictable like the actions, the dialogue and the plot. Overall, the story line had merit but this didn't work for me. So 2 stars.
Besides that thing mentioned above, there were two main issues that I struggled with. One is that the characters were all so picture perfect....no cracks, no crevices, no inner struggles...just flat. And they were all on their best behavior....all the time. This leads to the second thing. When everyone is 'walking perfection' it makes things fairly predictable like the actions, the dialogue and the plot. Overall, the story line had merit but this didn't work for me. So 2 stars.
February 28, 2016
I started this book as soon as I finished the first one yesterday.
Wow.
It's been awhile since I got this caught up in a story. Kristy has a way of making you feel as though you're right there with the characters.
I enjoyed this book even more then the first one (if that's even possible). I can't remember the last time I've laughed and then cried over a book like I did with "A Sparrow in Terezin".
It has a simple, easy-to-relate-to feel, but at the same time there is the deeper meaning that the author has woven through out the story line.
Seriously, I can't come up with adequate words to describe it. Heartbreaking, beautiful, raw, gentle. Those are a few words that come to mind. ;)
It's one I'll read over and over again!
Wow.
It's been awhile since I got this caught up in a story. Kristy has a way of making you feel as though you're right there with the characters.
I enjoyed this book even more then the first one (if that's even possible). I can't remember the last time I've laughed and then cried over a book like I did with "A Sparrow in Terezin".
It has a simple, easy-to-relate-to feel, but at the same time there is the deeper meaning that the author has woven through out the story line.
Seriously, I can't come up with adequate words to describe it. Heartbreaking, beautiful, raw, gentle. Those are a few words that come to mind. ;)
It's one I'll read over and over again!
September 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this sequel. I think though for both of the books at the duology, I really enjoyed the past timeline more than the modern timeline. I love the history that Kristy weaves into the story and I love the characters.
April 12, 2015
Oh. My. Gosh. I don't even know how to put my feelings into words right now. This was quite an emotional roller coaster-- one I'll never forget and a story I've been so honoured to journey through alongside the characters. This dualogy has quickly become a favorite and has a permanent place in my bookcase.
UPDATE 04/11/2015
{About the Book}
Two women, one in the present day and one in 1942, each hope for a brighter future. But they'll both have to battle through their darkest days to reach it.
"Today. "With the grand opening of her new gallery and a fairytale wedding months away, Sera James appears to have a charmed life. But in an instant, the prospect of a devastating legal battle surrounding her fiance threatens to tear her dreams apart. Sera and William rush to marry and are thrust into a world of doubt and fear as they defend charges that could separate them for life.
"June 1942. "After surviving the Blitz bombings that left many Londoners with shattered lives, Kaja Makovsky prayed for the war to end so she could return home to Prague. But despite the horrors of war, the gifted journalist never expected to see a headline screaming the extermination of Jews in work camps. Half-Jewish with her family in danger, Kaja has no choice but to risk everything to get her family out of Prague. But with the clutches of evil all around, her escape plan crumbles into deportation, and Kaja finds herself in a new reality as the art teacher to the children of Terezin.
Bound by a story of hope and the survival of one little girl, both Sera and Kaja will fight to protect all they hold dear.
{My Review}
I was so impressed by Cambron's debut novel, The Butterfly and the Violin. I was completely absorbed in that story and after I finished I immediately wanted and needed the sequel. When it came time for the organization of the launch team for A Sparrow in Terezin I jumped at the opportunity. And when it came in the mail I may have done a happy dance and squealed. (Of course I did.) Unfortunately, I had other review books to read first but I started it as soon as I could.
I started this book around noon and I never put it down! The story begins at Sera and William's wedding which they rushed towards due to pending legal issues for William. After the ceremony the Feds show up an officially arrest William on fraud charges. And Sera promises she will never give up on proving her husband's innocence. Sera even goes to London to see her husband's father. Sera even has a exciting secret she's keeping from William.
A Sparrow in Terezin was another delightful read which also ended Sera and William's story and gave us Kaja's story. The latter was heart wrenching. If you love historical fiction and contemporary fiction this is the book for you. I'm also looking forward to Kristy's next works which are set in the Gilded Age.
UPDATE 04/11/2015
{About the Book}
Two women, one in the present day and one in 1942, each hope for a brighter future. But they'll both have to battle through their darkest days to reach it.
"Today. "With the grand opening of her new gallery and a fairytale wedding months away, Sera James appears to have a charmed life. But in an instant, the prospect of a devastating legal battle surrounding her fiance threatens to tear her dreams apart. Sera and William rush to marry and are thrust into a world of doubt and fear as they defend charges that could separate them for life.
"June 1942. "After surviving the Blitz bombings that left many Londoners with shattered lives, Kaja Makovsky prayed for the war to end so she could return home to Prague. But despite the horrors of war, the gifted journalist never expected to see a headline screaming the extermination of Jews in work camps. Half-Jewish with her family in danger, Kaja has no choice but to risk everything to get her family out of Prague. But with the clutches of evil all around, her escape plan crumbles into deportation, and Kaja finds herself in a new reality as the art teacher to the children of Terezin.
Bound by a story of hope and the survival of one little girl, both Sera and Kaja will fight to protect all they hold dear.
{My Review}
I was so impressed by Cambron's debut novel, The Butterfly and the Violin. I was completely absorbed in that story and after I finished I immediately wanted and needed the sequel. When it came time for the organization of the launch team for A Sparrow in Terezin I jumped at the opportunity. And when it came in the mail I may have done a happy dance and squealed. (Of course I did.) Unfortunately, I had other review books to read first but I started it as soon as I could.
I started this book around noon and I never put it down! The story begins at Sera and William's wedding which they rushed towards due to pending legal issues for William. After the ceremony the Feds show up an officially arrest William on fraud charges. And Sera promises she will never give up on proving her husband's innocence. Sera even goes to London to see her husband's father. Sera even has a exciting secret she's keeping from William.
A Sparrow in Terezin was another delightful read which also ended Sera and William's story and gave us Kaja's story. The latter was heart wrenching. If you love historical fiction and contemporary fiction this is the book for you. I'm also looking forward to Kristy's next works which are set in the Gilded Age.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2015
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
There's no point in denying it, I was excited about reading Kristy Cambron's A Sparrow in Terezin. I downloaded the book to my kindle the moment the publisher issued it for review and jumped in without a second of hesitation. Three pages later, I slammed on the breaks.
Had I done my homework it wouldn't have been a problem, but I'd jumped the gun and learned the hard way that Cambron's Hidden Masterpiece series aren't written as standalones. I'd barely scratched the surface, but I was brutally aware I'd missed something huge, so I did a little digging and learned A Sparrow in Terezin is in fact, a sequel. I also realized I had an advanced reader's copy of its predecessor on hand, so like any other book addict, I had a good laugh at my own expense and picked up The Butterfly and the Violin with the same blind enthusiasm I'd given its successor.
Things did not go well. Not well at all, but that's a story for another review. Suffice it to say skepticism replaced the eagerness I'd previously experienced and I was hesitant to pin my hopes on a second Cambron novel. Book in hand, I ultimately decided to proceed with caution, but I quickly discovered prudence had little effect on the end result.
I found the conclusion of book one incredibly far-fetched and I was bitterly disappointed to see Cambron refashion her improbable resolution as the foundation of book two. William and Sera continued to bore me, but I enjoyed being reunited with Penny and found something to appreciate in Liam, Kaja and Dane. I liked the historic details of the 1939 storyline, but can't say I thought much of the present day drama. I've never been of fan of instant romantic attraction so I had a lot of difficulty with Kaja's love life and while I enjoyed the scope of her experience, I found much of it predictable. The nail in the coffin, however, was the same lack of balance I noted in the original story. Again, some readers appreciate this sort of handling, but I personally prefer inspired lit that displays faith and fiction in equal measure.
When all is said and done, I like Cambron's command of language and while I think her religious messages have merit, I admit the heavy-handedness of her presentation doesn't sit well with me. To each their own, but I don't believe I'll be returning to this series or author any time soon.
There's no point in denying it, I was excited about reading Kristy Cambron's A Sparrow in Terezin. I downloaded the book to my kindle the moment the publisher issued it for review and jumped in without a second of hesitation. Three pages later, I slammed on the breaks.
Had I done my homework it wouldn't have been a problem, but I'd jumped the gun and learned the hard way that Cambron's Hidden Masterpiece series aren't written as standalones. I'd barely scratched the surface, but I was brutally aware I'd missed something huge, so I did a little digging and learned A Sparrow in Terezin is in fact, a sequel. I also realized I had an advanced reader's copy of its predecessor on hand, so like any other book addict, I had a good laugh at my own expense and picked up The Butterfly and the Violin with the same blind enthusiasm I'd given its successor.
Things did not go well. Not well at all, but that's a story for another review. Suffice it to say skepticism replaced the eagerness I'd previously experienced and I was hesitant to pin my hopes on a second Cambron novel. Book in hand, I ultimately decided to proceed with caution, but I quickly discovered prudence had little effect on the end result.
I found the conclusion of book one incredibly far-fetched and I was bitterly disappointed to see Cambron refashion her improbable resolution as the foundation of book two. William and Sera continued to bore me, but I enjoyed being reunited with Penny and found something to appreciate in Liam, Kaja and Dane. I liked the historic details of the 1939 storyline, but can't say I thought much of the present day drama. I've never been of fan of instant romantic attraction so I had a lot of difficulty with Kaja's love life and while I enjoyed the scope of her experience, I found much of it predictable. The nail in the coffin, however, was the same lack of balance I noted in the original story. Again, some readers appreciate this sort of handling, but I personally prefer inspired lit that displays faith and fiction in equal measure.
When all is said and done, I like Cambron's command of language and while I think her religious messages have merit, I admit the heavy-handedness of her presentation doesn't sit well with me. To each their own, but I don't believe I'll be returning to this series or author any time soon.
November 16, 2015
Wow, I couldn't put it down, reading late into the night.
Sera and William are celebrating their wedding day when William is arrested for fraud. Sera believes with all her heart that William is innocent. What their journey to prove that William had no role in the wrong doing is the unraveling of the story of Kaja. Kaja and her sister leave Prague before the Nazi's begin to round up the Jews. Her parents remain behind. Kaja's father is Jewish, but as a doctor hopes to use his skills to save the lives of he and his wife. Kaja ends up in London and lands a job at a newspaper. When she learns of the atrocities being committed, she knows she must try to locate and save her parents. The outcome finds her trapped in the ghetto Terezin. She is given the job of teaching the young children art and uses this to offer them hope. She calls them her little "sparrows", a euphemism for freedom from her childhood. My heart broke over Kaja's circumstances, and yet God's love is always present. What I have come to love about the Hidden Masterpiece Novels is the introduction of historical events of the Holocaust I knew nothing about.
Sera and William are celebrating their wedding day when William is arrested for fraud. Sera believes with all her heart that William is innocent. What their journey to prove that William had no role in the wrong doing is the unraveling of the story of Kaja. Kaja and her sister leave Prague before the Nazi's begin to round up the Jews. Her parents remain behind. Kaja's father is Jewish, but as a doctor hopes to use his skills to save the lives of he and his wife. Kaja ends up in London and lands a job at a newspaper. When she learns of the atrocities being committed, she knows she must try to locate and save her parents. The outcome finds her trapped in the ghetto Terezin. She is given the job of teaching the young children art and uses this to offer them hope. She calls them her little "sparrows", a euphemism for freedom from her childhood. My heart broke over Kaja's circumstances, and yet God's love is always present. What I have come to love about the Hidden Masterpiece Novels is the introduction of historical events of the Holocaust I knew nothing about.
October 24, 2020
Very rarely do I like a sequel as much as its predecessor. Not so with “A Sparrow in Terezin”; it was just as good as the first one in the series! Maybe even a bit better, in the historical parts. Historical fiction about the London Blitz is very interesting to me, and the author did a great job of making it feel “real”. As for the conclusion of the Holocaust chapters, and also the modern-day ending, I defy any reader to not get a lump in the throat!
I recommend this to all history buffs. It would be great for high-school age readers, also.
Memorable Quotes:
(Pg. 321)-“The human race will never recover from what we’ve done to your people. I don’t intend to stand before God and have to answer for a train full of children making its destination when I could have done something to stop it.”-Dane
I recommend this to all history buffs. It would be great for high-school age readers, also.
Memorable Quotes:
(Pg. 321)-“The human race will never recover from what we’ve done to your people. I don’t intend to stand before God and have to answer for a train full of children making its destination when I could have done something to stop it.”-Dane
March 15, 2015
Thanks NetGalley!
If you haven't read the first book in this series The Butterfly and the Violin you really should read it first.
I couldn't put this book down! This book has two stories-one is a modern day story and the other is a story set in WWII. Both stories will grip you from page one until you turn the last page and are sad that it had to end. I will be reading both books in this series again.
If you haven't read the first book in this series The Butterfly and the Violin you really should read it first.
I couldn't put this book down! This book has two stories-one is a modern day story and the other is a story set in WWII. Both stories will grip you from page one until you turn the last page and are sad that it had to end. I will be reading both books in this series again.
April 9, 2018
I would rate the historical part of this book (Kaja's story) 5 stars, but overall went with 4.
I've read other books that take place in the holocaust ghettos, and like those you can't walk away from this book and forget what you've seen in those streets. This story was bittersweet and powerful. And I can't leave a review without at least mentioning Dane. Uhhhgh... *cries, conflicted* Wow. Really good read.
I've read other books that take place in the holocaust ghettos, and like those you can't walk away from this book and forget what you've seen in those streets. This story was bittersweet and powerful. And I can't leave a review without at least mentioning Dane. Uhhhgh... *cries, conflicted* Wow. Really good read.
April 9, 2015
A Sparrow In Terezin by Kristy Cambron is the second book in the Hidden Masterpiece series, and I was blessed to receive a copy. There are some books that you read, and then get on with your life, without so much as a backwards glance. The Sparrow In Terezin is not one of those books. This novel pierces your heart, and will remain with you long after the last page is read.
A Sparrow In Terezin continues to follow Sera and William, who marry at the start of the novel. William is immediately accused of a crime he didn't commit. Sera is sure that William's estranged father, Thomas who lives in London will be able to help prove William's innocence. So why is William so reluctant to let Sera see Thomas? What is he hiding?
As with book one, so William and Sera's story is interspersed with that of Kaja, who lived in Prague at the outbreak of the second world war. As the Nazis march into the city, so Kaja's father arranges for her and her sister Hannah to travel with Hannah's husband to Palestine. From here, Kaja finds herself in London two years later, and works as a journalist for The Telegraph. Here she meets journalist Liam who also does undercover work. The action continues throughout world war two.
Once again Kristy Cambron has created realistic and likeable characters. Sera and Kaja are both strong, godly women with a tremendous sense of loyalty. They will drop everything to support or help their families.
The action during the war years is hard at times, especially in Czechoslovakia. Kristy Cambron shows that even in the bleakest of times, there is always hope. When all around you are doing the wrong thing, there is still the opportunity to be brave and do the right thing. The reader is reminded that Christians can be seen as beacons of hope, shining in a dark world.
Whilst I was reading, I was reminded of Jesus' words to 'take care of the widows and orphans', as Kaja has a huge heart for children. She will put herself at risk, to help them.
As Christians, we are called to make a difference in the world. We need to be world changers, by helping one person at a time. This comes through clearly in the novel.
I found that I got very involved in the story. Kristy Cambron writes so well that I found my emotions got completely caught up with the action in the novel. There were times, particularly in the war years, when tissues were definitely needed. Kristy Cambron writes with such a passion for people, particularly the plight of the innocent Jews in world war two, that one cannot fail to be moved to tears, and also anger at man's inhumanity to man.
The overwhelming theme of the novel is loyalty - loyalty to families, loyalty to God, loyalty to principles. Sera stands by William. Kaja stands by her family, not just her own flesh and blood, but others who need her help.
I found A Sparrow In Terezin an amazing novel. Kristy Cambron has a unique talent for writing parallel stories, linking people with issues that matter. As a historian I believe that no one must forget the evil done to the millions of innocent people in world war two. It is our duty to tell the next generation, and through Kristy Cambron's novels, keep alive the memory of a lost generation. I cannot get enough of Kristy Cambron, and I am hoping there will be a book number three in the series!
A Sparrow In Terezin continues to follow Sera and William, who marry at the start of the novel. William is immediately accused of a crime he didn't commit. Sera is sure that William's estranged father, Thomas who lives in London will be able to help prove William's innocence. So why is William so reluctant to let Sera see Thomas? What is he hiding?
As with book one, so William and Sera's story is interspersed with that of Kaja, who lived in Prague at the outbreak of the second world war. As the Nazis march into the city, so Kaja's father arranges for her and her sister Hannah to travel with Hannah's husband to Palestine. From here, Kaja finds herself in London two years later, and works as a journalist for The Telegraph. Here she meets journalist Liam who also does undercover work. The action continues throughout world war two.
Once again Kristy Cambron has created realistic and likeable characters. Sera and Kaja are both strong, godly women with a tremendous sense of loyalty. They will drop everything to support or help their families.
The action during the war years is hard at times, especially in Czechoslovakia. Kristy Cambron shows that even in the bleakest of times, there is always hope. When all around you are doing the wrong thing, there is still the opportunity to be brave and do the right thing. The reader is reminded that Christians can be seen as beacons of hope, shining in a dark world.
Whilst I was reading, I was reminded of Jesus' words to 'take care of the widows and orphans', as Kaja has a huge heart for children. She will put herself at risk, to help them.
As Christians, we are called to make a difference in the world. We need to be world changers, by helping one person at a time. This comes through clearly in the novel.
I found that I got very involved in the story. Kristy Cambron writes so well that I found my emotions got completely caught up with the action in the novel. There were times, particularly in the war years, when tissues were definitely needed. Kristy Cambron writes with such a passion for people, particularly the plight of the innocent Jews in world war two, that one cannot fail to be moved to tears, and also anger at man's inhumanity to man.
The overwhelming theme of the novel is loyalty - loyalty to families, loyalty to God, loyalty to principles. Sera stands by William. Kaja stands by her family, not just her own flesh and blood, but others who need her help.
I found A Sparrow In Terezin an amazing novel. Kristy Cambron has a unique talent for writing parallel stories, linking people with issues that matter. As a historian I believe that no one must forget the evil done to the millions of innocent people in world war two. It is our duty to tell the next generation, and through Kristy Cambron's novels, keep alive the memory of a lost generation. I cannot get enough of Kristy Cambron, and I am hoping there will be a book number three in the series!
February 19, 2021
Fikcyjna opowieść o sile rodziny, wierze i nadziei, którą można dostrzec w największej ciemności.
Historia II Wojny Światowej wypełniona jest przemocą, bezwzględnością, ludzkim okrucieństwem. Jednak w tych ciemnościach, pośród tak bliskiej śmierci można było również trafić na prawdziwe anioły, które słowami pocieszenia i swoimi codziennymi czynami niosły światło i nadzieję. „Wróbel w getcie” to porażająca chociaż fikcyjna opowieść o dziecku, które udało się ocalić od Holocaustu. Getto w Terezinie wraz z obozem koncentracyjnym było przejściową stacją, z której dorośli i dzieci trafiali do kolejnych obozów zagłady. Ta powieść jest hołdem i wspomnieniem o ponad tysiącu dzieci, które z getta w Terezinie trafiły w 1943 roku prosto do niemieckiego obozu koncentracyjnego Auschwitz-Birkenau, gdzie spotkała je śmierć.
„Wróbel w getcie” to pozornie lekka lektura, bo napisana przystępnym, lekkim językiem, jednak Kristy Cambron ukryła między słowami ciężar historii nie do opisania. Trzeba pielęgnować pamięć o tamtych wydarzeniach, o tamtym miejscu, trzeba też wiedzieć, do czego zdolny może być człowiek, jak bezlitosna może być maszyna zła, by historia nigdy więcej nie zatoczyła koła.
Przed czytelnikiem poruszająca opowieść o wierze, nadziei i walce, wbrew wszystkim i wszystkiemu. O sile rodziny i wspólnoty, która pozwala przetrwać.
Historia II Wojny Światowej wypełniona jest przemocą, bezwzględnością, ludzkim okrucieństwem. Jednak w tych ciemnościach, pośród tak bliskiej śmierci można było również trafić na prawdziwe anioły, które słowami pocieszenia i swoimi codziennymi czynami niosły światło i nadzieję. „Wróbel w getcie” to porażająca chociaż fikcyjna opowieść o dziecku, które udało się ocalić od Holocaustu. Getto w Terezinie wraz z obozem koncentracyjnym było przejściową stacją, z której dorośli i dzieci trafiali do kolejnych obozów zagłady. Ta powieść jest hołdem i wspomnieniem o ponad tysiącu dzieci, które z getta w Terezinie trafiły w 1943 roku prosto do niemieckiego obozu koncentracyjnego Auschwitz-Birkenau, gdzie spotkała je śmierć.
„Wróbel w getcie” to pozornie lekka lektura, bo napisana przystępnym, lekkim językiem, jednak Kristy Cambron ukryła między słowami ciężar historii nie do opisania. Trzeba pielęgnować pamięć o tamtych wydarzeniach, o tamtym miejscu, trzeba też wiedzieć, do czego zdolny może być człowiek, jak bezlitosna może być maszyna zła, by historia nigdy więcej nie zatoczyła koła.
Przed czytelnikiem poruszająca opowieść o wierze, nadziei i walce, wbrew wszystkim i wszystkiemu. O sile rodziny i wspólnoty, która pozwala przetrwać.
December 31, 2016
Absolutely beautiful
If I could rate this higher than 5, I would. It's such a beautiful fictional telling of terazin. I had tears in my eyes at the finish of the story.
If I could rate this higher than 5, I would. It's such a beautiful fictional telling of terazin. I had tears in my eyes at the finish of the story.
Read
December 26, 2023“Teach them to hope.”
Themes: Where is God? Searching for hope in a hopeless place, God’s timing. Art and beauty despite darkness.
This story shines a light on the ghetto of Terezin during WWII. This is the second book in The Hidden Masterpiece series. It continues Sera’s story, and while the historical story is different, a character from the first book is weaved in, in a beautiful way!
May we learn all we can about the horrors of the past so we never forget.
Themes: Where is God? Searching for hope in a hopeless place, God’s timing. Art and beauty despite darkness.
This story shines a light on the ghetto of Terezin during WWII. This is the second book in The Hidden Masterpiece series. It continues Sera’s story, and while the historical story is different, a character from the first book is weaved in, in a beautiful way!
May we learn all we can about the horrors of the past so we never forget.
April 9, 2015
I've been anxiously awaiting the release of this title ever since I turned the last pages of The Butterfly and the Violin - which made my personal "Best of 2014" list. All the waiting paid off when I finally held this book in my hands. Like a delectable treat, I slowly savored the beauty of this story.
[Present Day] Sera and William Hanover's "happily ever after" is inevitably linked to the past. This becomes painfully apparent when William is arrested on the night of their wedding. In an effort to clear William's name and to move forward together, Sera attempts to unravel an intricate web of Hanover family secrets. For me, It was easy to admire Sera's stand-by-your-man attitude and the lengths she was willing to go in order to clear his name. However, I found William's confidence in his lawyers to be misplaced and frustrating, as did Sera. When the truth comes out, readers will understand his reluctance to defend himself.
[Beginning in 1939] Kája's flight from Prague, her brief stay in London, and her subsequent return to Nazi occupied territory claims the lion's share of the novel - and it is fascinating! I was gently swept up in Liam and Kája's budding attraction for one another, before the war tore them apart. Kristy Cambron ardently conveyed the uncertainty, fear, grief, and despair that undoubtedly plagued all who were affected by Hitler's tyranny. Later in the narrative, I marveled at how a story set amidst the darkness of the Theresienstadt Concentration Camp could shine so much light on human compassion and God's ability to use lives which are fully surrendered to Him.
At times both Sera [James] Hanover and Kája Makovsky seemed to draw strength from a divine reservoir, conquering indomitable fears, loving beyond themselves, and clinging to the promises of God. Within these pages, Kristy Cambron has written more than and entertaining story, she has created an experience for her readers. To fully appreciate this book I encourage you to read the first book in the series and then step into this powerful historical romance.
Favorite Quotes
"My father used to say that all of time is set to a clock — God's clock. We're given so much of it from sunrise to sunset each day. And it's in God's will that time continues to move. He watches over all of us, wherever we should go."
"…they need to read. Books create the ability to escape into different worlds, and the children are desperate for it."
[Present Day] Sera and William Hanover's "happily ever after" is inevitably linked to the past. This becomes painfully apparent when William is arrested on the night of their wedding. In an effort to clear William's name and to move forward together, Sera attempts to unravel an intricate web of Hanover family secrets. For me, It was easy to admire Sera's stand-by-your-man attitude and the lengths she was willing to go in order to clear his name. However, I found William's confidence in his lawyers to be misplaced and frustrating, as did Sera. When the truth comes out, readers will understand his reluctance to defend himself.
[Beginning in 1939] Kája's flight from Prague, her brief stay in London, and her subsequent return to Nazi occupied territory claims the lion's share of the novel - and it is fascinating! I was gently swept up in Liam and Kája's budding attraction for one another, before the war tore them apart. Kristy Cambron ardently conveyed the uncertainty, fear, grief, and despair that undoubtedly plagued all who were affected by Hitler's tyranny. Later in the narrative, I marveled at how a story set amidst the darkness of the Theresienstadt Concentration Camp could shine so much light on human compassion and God's ability to use lives which are fully surrendered to Him.
At times both Sera [James] Hanover and Kája Makovsky seemed to draw strength from a divine reservoir, conquering indomitable fears, loving beyond themselves, and clinging to the promises of God. Within these pages, Kristy Cambron has written more than and entertaining story, she has created an experience for her readers. To fully appreciate this book I encourage you to read the first book in the series and then step into this powerful historical romance.
Favorite Quotes
"My father used to say that all of time is set to a clock — God's clock. We're given so much of it from sunrise to sunset each day. And it's in God's will that time continues to move. He watches over all of us, wherever we should go."
"…they need to read. Books create the ability to escape into different worlds, and the children are desperate for it."
March 27, 2015
I’ve been eagerly anticipating this novel ever since I finished the first book in the series. I could hardly imagine a story sweeping my emotions away more than The Butterfly and the Violin. Once again, I was surprised.
A Sparrow in Terezin is one of those books you read slowly, savoring every word. And let me warn you, you will lose all sense of time as you fall immersed into it.
The story picks back up with Sera and William from the first book, along with a few other familiar faces, and their side of the plot was certainly unique and unexpected. Unanswered questions will leave you intrigued to the end. But it was Kaja’s story that compelled me more than anything.
Kaja. Liam. Her parents. Dane. Sophie. The children. Oh, the sparrows. I was with each of them as I read. Some scenes were so vividly painted, I had to stop and read them over again. The missing pieces were revealed in a creative, poetic way. I couldn’t have asked for more, really. It’s a love story of faith and courage and the Lord’s faithfulness even in unimaginable places. I forgot I was reading. I was watching.
I also learned some fascinating historical details I’d never known before. It’s something I think would make a great additional reading for schooling. It paints the history in a more personal way. Such a poignant glimpse into the past. It’s raw and heartbreaking, yes, but it’s beautiful and we can learn by it.
With more than a few teardrops on the last page, I closed the book. Even now, two days later I’m still hearing the heartbeat of this story and carrying it with me. I hope I never forget it. A Sparrow in Terezin is a book for keeps – on your shelf and in your heart.
I want to write like you when I grow up, Kristy. ;)
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publisher and the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
A Sparrow in Terezin is one of those books you read slowly, savoring every word. And let me warn you, you will lose all sense of time as you fall immersed into it.
The story picks back up with Sera and William from the first book, along with a few other familiar faces, and their side of the plot was certainly unique and unexpected. Unanswered questions will leave you intrigued to the end. But it was Kaja’s story that compelled me more than anything.
Kaja. Liam. Her parents. Dane. Sophie. The children. Oh, the sparrows. I was with each of them as I read. Some scenes were so vividly painted, I had to stop and read them over again. The missing pieces were revealed in a creative, poetic way. I couldn’t have asked for more, really. It’s a love story of faith and courage and the Lord’s faithfulness even in unimaginable places. I forgot I was reading. I was watching.
I also learned some fascinating historical details I’d never known before. It’s something I think would make a great additional reading for schooling. It paints the history in a more personal way. Such a poignant glimpse into the past. It’s raw and heartbreaking, yes, but it’s beautiful and we can learn by it.
With more than a few teardrops on the last page, I closed the book. Even now, two days later I’m still hearing the heartbeat of this story and carrying it with me. I hope I never forget it. A Sparrow in Terezin is a book for keeps – on your shelf and in your heart.
I want to write like you when I grow up, Kristy. ;)
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publisher and the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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