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What Is Left of the Night: A World War II Novel
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
6 days and 13:02:57
20 copies available
U.S. only
Based on a true story
The Nazi regime's bloody wake in Europe persists as they brutally send "undesirables" to their deaths in concentration camps. As a young Jew, Hannah leaves behind her mother and sister as she flees certain death, arriving in Le Chambon in search of refuge.
Driven by their deeply rooted faith in God, Protestant pastor André Trocmé and his formidable wife, Magda, have turned the unassuming community in the foothills of the French Alps into a quiet resistance—a haven where they shelter escapees from Hitler's ever-tightening fist. It’s here that an author pens his Nobel Prize-winning novel and finds answers to his questions about God; and just outside the village borders, a one-legged female American spy sets up an operation to organize the French Resistance.
But a sadistic crew is on the rise. Under the supervision of the Butcher of Lyon, Gestapo officer Herr Lauer pursues the Jewish girl. Hannah was in his sights, but when she evaded him, his explosive rage and thirst for revenge set him on a spiraling mission to track her down—leading him straight to Le Chambon.
With lyrical prose and historical accuracy, Mark Buchanan weaves together a thrilling narrative from the real-life stories of a pastor, refugee, spy, and author, tangled together in a plot against the Reich.
The Nazi regime's bloody wake in Europe persists as they brutally send "undesirables" to their deaths in concentration camps. As a young Jew, Hannah leaves behind her mother and sister as she flees certain death, arriving in Le Chambon in search of refuge.
Driven by their deeply rooted faith in God, Protestant pastor André Trocmé and his formidable wife, Magda, have turned the unassuming community in the foothills of the French Alps into a quiet resistance—a haven where they shelter escapees from Hitler's ever-tightening fist. It’s here that an author pens his Nobel Prize-winning novel and finds answers to his questions about God; and just outside the village borders, a one-legged female American spy sets up an operation to organize the French Resistance.
But a sadistic crew is on the rise. Under the supervision of the Butcher of Lyon, Gestapo officer Herr Lauer pursues the Jewish girl. Hannah was in his sights, but when she evaded him, his explosive rage and thirst for revenge set him on a spiraling mission to track her down—leading him straight to Le Chambon.
With lyrical prose and historical accuracy, Mark Buchanan weaves together a thrilling narrative from the real-life stories of a pastor, refugee, spy, and author, tangled together in a plot against the Reich.
376 pages, Paperback
Published March 17, 2026
7 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Mark Buchanan
31 books209 followersMark Buchanan lives in Enderby, British Columbia, with his wife, Cheryl. They have three adult children, Adam, Sarah, and Nicola. He was a longtime pastor, an author of many books, and now serves as a professor at Ambrose University College in Calgary.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What is Left of the Night is a powerful historical fiction novel set against the backdrop of World War II. I was surprised that with this being also a Christian Fiction novel that they weren't afraid to cover the dark details of what is going on and I will say that I greatly admire them for that. This story has a wonderful cast of characters and the story will continously have you asking yourself "what happens next".
We are introduced to Hannah a young Jewish girl who trying to excape the Nazi's gives up everything fleeing to Le Chambon. Along the way of the story we become aquainted with Pastor André Trocmé and his wife Magda. In these time of troubles they offer their home open as a refuge to those trying to escape from the dangers of the new regime.
However, despite these caring people danger lurks everywhere and there are those who cannot be trusted. Who knows how long this War could last and what the outcome could be.
We are introduced to Hannah a young Jewish girl who trying to excape the Nazi's gives up everything fleeing to Le Chambon. Along the way of the story we become aquainted with Pastor André Trocmé and his wife Magda. In these time of troubles they offer their home open as a refuge to those trying to escape from the dangers of the new regime.
However, despite these caring people danger lurks everywhere and there are those who cannot be trusted. Who knows how long this War could last and what the outcome could be.
March 18, 2026
Based on real events, What Is Left of the Night by Mark Buchanan offers a powerful and thought-provoking look at faith, courage, and moral conviction during one of history’s darkest times.
Set in the quiet village of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon during Nazi occupation, the story follows several intertwined real life characters -including a young Jewish refugee, a pastor and his wife, a not yet famous philosopher, an american spy, and others whose lives become part of a quiet but courageous resistance. The setting is described with vivid realism, making it easy to feel immersed in the small rural community where ordinary people risk everything to shelter those fleeing persecution.
Not your typical WWII Novel, this book’s writing style is reflective and almost lyrical at times. It invites the reader not only to follow the story but to pause and think about deeper questions of faith, courage, and what true religion looks like when confronted with evil.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the faith discussion woven throughout the narrative. The dialogues between André Trocmé -the pastor- and Albert Camus were especially striking—complex, philosophical, and deeply soul-stirring. Same with the philosopher and the spy. They raise profound questions about suffering, trust, and how faith can endure when everything seems to stand against it.
The characters are wonderfully drawn. Hannah, the young Jewish girl separated from the family she loves, is both innocent and thoughtful. Her resilience and quiet courage make her journey especially moving. Sister Laura -loved her straightforwardness and humor- and Sister Anna were also characters I admired -brave, daring, risking their life without hesitation to help others.
The pastor himself feels very human and relatable. He is not portrayed as a flawless hero but as a man of deep faith and humanity who struggles, reflects, and ultimately chooses courage. His wife Magda is equally remarkable—a loving and steadfast partner who supports and strengthens him while showing great courage herself. Pastor Trocmé’s humility at seeing himself as a sinner and never a hero, is admirable.
Virginia Hall, the American spy, shines for her boldness, selflessness and willingness to constantly risk her life for her Country and innocent people. I loved her wit. It’s also amazing how many ordinary unknown people -not only spies and military- risked their life by taking in Jewish refugees.
Despite the heartbreaking reality of the historical context, this story is filled with hope. It reminds us that even in the midst of hatred and darkness, faith and love—love for God and for others—can inspire extraordinary acts of courage. And the fact that God never forsakes us, even at times when it’s difficult to see his work. There are many quotes that stayed with me, which I’m not addressing to make this any longer. But I do have my book with a lot of marks to return to.
I especially appreciated seeing the story unfold through the perspectives of multiple characters, which adds depth and richness to the narrative. And the Afterword on Historical Figures helped a lot to distinguish the fictional from the historical characters and events.
This has proven to be a deeply moving, impactful and thought-provoking highly recommended read!
I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishers and wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Set in the quiet village of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon during Nazi occupation, the story follows several intertwined real life characters -including a young Jewish refugee, a pastor and his wife, a not yet famous philosopher, an american spy, and others whose lives become part of a quiet but courageous resistance. The setting is described with vivid realism, making it easy to feel immersed in the small rural community where ordinary people risk everything to shelter those fleeing persecution.
Not your typical WWII Novel, this book’s writing style is reflective and almost lyrical at times. It invites the reader not only to follow the story but to pause and think about deeper questions of faith, courage, and what true religion looks like when confronted with evil.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the faith discussion woven throughout the narrative. The dialogues between André Trocmé -the pastor- and Albert Camus were especially striking—complex, philosophical, and deeply soul-stirring. Same with the philosopher and the spy. They raise profound questions about suffering, trust, and how faith can endure when everything seems to stand against it.
The characters are wonderfully drawn. Hannah, the young Jewish girl separated from the family she loves, is both innocent and thoughtful. Her resilience and quiet courage make her journey especially moving. Sister Laura -loved her straightforwardness and humor- and Sister Anna were also characters I admired -brave, daring, risking their life without hesitation to help others.
The pastor himself feels very human and relatable. He is not portrayed as a flawless hero but as a man of deep faith and humanity who struggles, reflects, and ultimately chooses courage. His wife Magda is equally remarkable—a loving and steadfast partner who supports and strengthens him while showing great courage herself. Pastor Trocmé’s humility at seeing himself as a sinner and never a hero, is admirable.
Virginia Hall, the American spy, shines for her boldness, selflessness and willingness to constantly risk her life for her Country and innocent people. I loved her wit. It’s also amazing how many ordinary unknown people -not only spies and military- risked their life by taking in Jewish refugees.
Despite the heartbreaking reality of the historical context, this story is filled with hope. It reminds us that even in the midst of hatred and darkness, faith and love—love for God and for others—can inspire extraordinary acts of courage. And the fact that God never forsakes us, even at times when it’s difficult to see his work. There are many quotes that stayed with me, which I’m not addressing to make this any longer. But I do have my book with a lot of marks to return to.
I especially appreciated seeing the story unfold through the perspectives of multiple characters, which adds depth and richness to the narrative. And the Afterword on Historical Figures helped a lot to distinguish the fictional from the historical characters and events.
This has proven to be a deeply moving, impactful and thought-provoking highly recommended read!
I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishers and wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This historical novel weaves together complex webs of characters—with most based on real people—while imparting the ultimate clash in opposing theological and philosophical paradigms. Set during the Second World War, What Is Left of the Night honours the French resistance workers who risked their lives and families in order to protect God's people and to fight against tyranny through collective efforts. Pastor André Trocmé is at the heart of the story, inspiring others through how he lives out his pacifism, but he is by no means the only hero of the story. From the nuns to the farmers to the business owners, the underground network of people resisting the German forces is extensive, requiring everyone to be steps ahead of who they're eluding. In exploring many points of view, readers can directly experience the high-stakes operation of who can outlast who as oppression and torture escalates between 1942-1944.
This book also succeeds in acting as a parable while recounting true events. Pastor Trocmé is continually presented with scenarios that test his faith and beliefs down to the finest points of execution. Will he be a man of his word and the Word by fully living to the ends of what he preaches? Or are there exceptions based on the extenuating circumstances he finds himself in? The author writes in such a way that readers need to carefully think through their theology without passively bypassing the spiritual dilemmas presented. If readers are interested in confronting the isms head-on from a Christian worldview, Mark Buchanan's historical novel is not to miss as it equally devotes attention to action and reflection, all within the same page.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to Kregel Publications for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This book also succeeds in acting as a parable while recounting true events. Pastor Trocmé is continually presented with scenarios that test his faith and beliefs down to the finest points of execution. Will he be a man of his word and the Word by fully living to the ends of what he preaches? Or are there exceptions based on the extenuating circumstances he finds himself in? The author writes in such a way that readers need to carefully think through their theology without passively bypassing the spiritual dilemmas presented. If readers are interested in confronting the isms head-on from a Christian worldview, Mark Buchanan's historical novel is not to miss as it equally devotes attention to action and reflection, all within the same page.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to Kregel Publications for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
March 22, 2026
Hannah has just hardly escaped death but feels she can trust a church to help her seek shelter, food and safety. Living mostly a normal life, Hannah easily assimilates within the Pastor's family as one of their own in Le Chambon. Pastor Trocmé and his wife Magda know they must do more and they cannot keep all of the refuges like they did with Hannah. Quietly they put together a resistance group amongst many churches throughout the area. During this time, it doesn't matter your religious beliefs or who your God is, all that matters is everyone works together to save those who are facing persecution. As the Nazi push further and further, Hannah knows she is no longer safe here. She evaded them once and Herr Lauer has long held made it his mission to one day find her and make her pay for her escape, his drive is revenge. Once again the line works together to get Hannah to safety even though many are put at risk, their lives on the line knowing the Nazi's won't stop until they get or find what they want. This novel is told through so many perspectives and the character often struggle with good and evil, taking a life to save a life and the struggle of a higher being allowing such hatred and death. I really enjoyed the deep philosophical topics brought up as well as how all the other characters flowed together. Many based on true people, events and places, this novel really gives a different look at the war and resistance groups. Thank you to the publisher and author for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh my goodness this story. It is one that (for me) needs read slowly so as not to miss the pieces of wisdom thrown in. I loved reading from the standpoint of a pacifist but also just the view of a pastor. There are multiple perspectives that go back and forth throughout the novel and Hannah and the pastor's storylines are my favorite. This book will really make you think and it is different from other WWII books that I have read. There is some humor sprinkled in and also details of a terrible war. This book has a lot of grit and some of it portrays the darkness. It isn't gory and explicit but still tough to read at times. There is family and fear and joy and life and death. The marriage between André and Magda is so well written. The people in this story are not written to be perfect and that made me love it all the more. This is based on a true story and I really appreciated the author explaining details based on what is fact and fiction. This is a fiction read but incredibly based on a true story. I had no idea Le Chambon existed or that this village saved thousands of Jewish refugees! It is a fascinating read and I highly recommend it!
Five Stars.
"I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
Five Stars.
"I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This review was first published in the Jan. 2026 issue of Library Journal.
Early 20th-century rural France has clean air and plentiful farms, but when pacifist pastor Andre Trocme moves there, he misses the intellectural stimulation of Paris. Soon he is too busy to be bored as he feeds, clothes, and hides the people hunted by the Nazis in what will become on the greatest rescue operations of World War II.
Meanwhile, Hannah's escape from a concentration camp transport train has enraged a Nazi colonel who will not rest until she is dead. The entire town of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, including not-yet-famous author Albert Camus and American spy Virginia Hall, must decide how far they will go to show love to their neighbor.
VERDICT: Buchanan ("The David trilogy") delivers a thought-provoking examination of the role of Christians in war and what true religion really means. Using larger than life characters from history, he weaves a philosophical tale of danger, intrigue, and sacrifice. Those who wish to read beyond the usual World War II narrative will enjoy Buchanan's latest, along with Amy Lynn Green's The Lines between Us and Elizabeth Musser's From the Valley We Rise.
Early 20th-century rural France has clean air and plentiful farms, but when pacifist pastor Andre Trocme moves there, he misses the intellectural stimulation of Paris. Soon he is too busy to be bored as he feeds, clothes, and hides the people hunted by the Nazis in what will become on the greatest rescue operations of World War II.
Meanwhile, Hannah's escape from a concentration camp transport train has enraged a Nazi colonel who will not rest until she is dead. The entire town of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, including not-yet-famous author Albert Camus and American spy Virginia Hall, must decide how far they will go to show love to their neighbor.
VERDICT: Buchanan ("The David trilogy") delivers a thought-provoking examination of the role of Christians in war and what true religion really means. Using larger than life characters from history, he weaves a philosophical tale of danger, intrigue, and sacrifice. Those who wish to read beyond the usual World War II narrative will enjoy Buchanan's latest, along with Amy Lynn Green's The Lines between Us and Elizabeth Musser's From the Valley We Rise.
February 28, 2026
About this book
This gripping World War II novel offers multiple POVs drawn from real people and history, including pastor André Trocmé, author Albert Camus, spy Virginia Hall, and a woman named Hannah on the run. Set in rural France, the story follows pacifist pastor André Trocmé as he leads one of the most heroic refuges and rescue missions for Jews in his village. Meanwhile, Hannah races to escape the relentless Nazi colonel obsessed with capturing her after she escapes the train to a concentration camp. The cast faces profound moral dilemmas as Christians caught in a war of ideologies, raising powerful questions about love, sacrifice, and humanity amidst chaos.
Content for Consideration:
This is a raw and gritty read featuring
war violence, references to prostitution, allusions to lost innocence, and some mild profanities. I would not recommend this book for teens or sensitive readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
In the little town of Le Chambon, a pastor, a spy, a philosopher, and a refugee live under the Nazi threat. Shuttling Jews to safety, these heroes deal with loss, tragedy, triumph, and the experience of not knowing what’s next. They do know God will be with them no matter what. Pastor André Trocmé, the books main character, models the radical hospitality, sacrifice, and faith that defied the Nazis and still invites people to experience and encounter the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This review was first published in the Jan. 2026 issue of Library Journal.
Early 20th-century rural France has clean air and plentiful farms, but when pacifist pastor Andre Trocme moves there, he misses the intellectural stimulation of Paris. Soon he is too busy to be bored as he feeds, clothes, and hides the people hunted by the Nazis in what will become on the greatest rescue operations of World War II.
Meanwhile, Hannah's escape from a concentration camp transport train has enraged a Nazi colonel who will not rest until she is dead. The entire town of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, including not-yet-famous author Albert Camus and American spy Virginia Hall, must decide how far they will go to show love to their neighbor.
VERDICT: Buchanan ("The David trilogy") delivers a thought-provoking examination of the role of Christians in war and what true religion really means. Using larger than life characters from history, he weaves a philosophical tale of danger, intrigue, and sacrifice. Those who wish to read beyond the usual World War II narrative will enjoy Buchanan's latest, along with Amy Lynn Green's The Lines between Us and Elizabeth Musser's From the Valley We Rise.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews