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The Paris Resistance
Paris, 1942.
In a country at war, one woman must risk everything for love, freedom — and the truth.
When Miriam Renaud watches the police drag her mother and sisters away in a brutal roundup of Jews, she is left alone in a city that has become deadly overnight. Hidden by courageous neighbours and forced to live under a false identity, she survives by staying invisible.
But Miriam refuses to remain silent.
Recruited into the French Resistance, she becomes a courier slipping through occupied Paris with secret messages hidden in clothing. Each mission is a gamble. And if she’s caught, the penalty is death.
Then she meets Pierre, a fearless member of the Resistance with his own reasons for fighting the Nazis. Together they wage a silent war in the shadows of occupied France.
But in a city filled with spies and informers, trust is the most dangerous risk of all. And, as danger closes in, Miriam must decide how far she is willing to go for the Resistance — and whether love can survive in a world at war.
A gripping and emotional wartime romance of courage, sacrifice and forbidden love in occupied France — perfect for fans of Kate Quinn, Soraya M. Lane, Victoria Cornwall, Kristin Hannah and Heather Morris.
In a country at war, one woman must risk everything for love, freedom — and the truth.
When Miriam Renaud watches the police drag her mother and sisters away in a brutal roundup of Jews, she is left alone in a city that has become deadly overnight. Hidden by courageous neighbours and forced to live under a false identity, she survives by staying invisible.
But Miriam refuses to remain silent.
Recruited into the French Resistance, she becomes a courier slipping through occupied Paris with secret messages hidden in clothing. Each mission is a gamble. And if she’s caught, the penalty is death.
Then she meets Pierre, a fearless member of the Resistance with his own reasons for fighting the Nazis. Together they wage a silent war in the shadows of occupied France.
But in a city filled with spies and informers, trust is the most dangerous risk of all. And, as danger closes in, Miriam must decide how far she is willing to go for the Resistance — and whether love can survive in a world at war.
A gripping and emotional wartime romance of courage, sacrifice and forbidden love in occupied France — perfect for fans of Kate Quinn, Soraya M. Lane, Victoria Cornwall, Kristin Hannah and Heather Morris.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
317 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2026
66 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 29, 2026
WW2 Historical Fiction is one of my favorite genres and I really enjoyed this book. It gave a lot of insight into the French Resistance and reading about Lisette and Pierre was interesting.
April 20, 2026
Review of advance copy from the publisher.
Paris in 1942, and Miriam Renaud witnesses her mother and siblings being rounded up and taken away, because they are Jews. Miriam has to stay hidden and is recruited by the French Resistance.
Pierre is a young country lad, who witnesses atrocities by the Nazis, and also joins the Resistance.
As the war comes to an end, we follow them both as they struggle to get back to some kind of normality. Their love and courage shines through, as well as having to deal with their anger, hurt and loss.
A story that comes to life thanks to the research. It is a tale of love, courage, fear and passion, passion for the country that they love.
Paris in 1942, and Miriam Renaud witnesses her mother and siblings being rounded up and taken away, because they are Jews. Miriam has to stay hidden and is recruited by the French Resistance.
Pierre is a young country lad, who witnesses atrocities by the Nazis, and also joins the Resistance.
As the war comes to an end, we follow them both as they struggle to get back to some kind of normality. Their love and courage shines through, as well as having to deal with their anger, hurt and loss.
A story that comes to life thanks to the research. It is a tale of love, courage, fear and passion, passion for the country that they love.
Review of advance copy
I just finished The Paris Resistance by Sarah Bourne, and it completely pulled me in—I was totally engaged and read it in a single day. From the very first pages, the story moves at a pace that keeps you hooked without ever feeling rushed, blending tension, emotion, and moments of quiet reflection really effectively.
What stood out most to me was how vividly the novel captures the sheer horror of war. It doesn’t shy away from the constant fear people lived under—especially the terrifying reality that your jewish heritage alone could put your life at risk. That sense of danger feels ever-present, shaping every decision the characters make. It adds a powerful emotional weight to the story and makes their courage feel even more remarkable.
The historical details are woven naturally into the narrative, adding depth without overwhelming the story. You get a strong sense of time and place, and it makes the characters’ struggles and choices feel even more real and meaningful.
The characters themselves are compelling and believable. Their motivations, fears, and resilience come through clearly, making it easy to become invested in their journeys.
Overall, I found The Paris Resistance to be an absorbing, well-crafted novel that combines strong storytelling with thoughtful research. It’s the kind of book that’s hard to put down and leaves you thinking about it even after you’ve finished. It’s not just an engaging read, but also a sobering reminder of how devastating and indiscriminate war can be.
What stood out most to me was how vividly the novel captures the sheer horror of war. It doesn’t shy away from the constant fear people lived under—especially the terrifying reality that your jewish heritage alone could put your life at risk. That sense of danger feels ever-present, shaping every decision the characters make. It adds a powerful emotional weight to the story and makes their courage feel even more remarkable.
The historical details are woven naturally into the narrative, adding depth without overwhelming the story. You get a strong sense of time and place, and it makes the characters’ struggles and choices feel even more real and meaningful.
The characters themselves are compelling and believable. Their motivations, fears, and resilience come through clearly, making it easy to become invested in their journeys.
Overall, I found The Paris Resistance to be an absorbing, well-crafted novel that combines strong storytelling with thoughtful research. It’s the kind of book that’s hard to put down and leaves you thinking about it even after you’ve finished. It’s not just an engaging read, but also a sobering reminder of how devastating and indiscriminate war can be.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I haven’t read much fiction set in WW2 and this book was an excellent introduction to the period as well as a reminder of the deprivation and cruelty suffered by the French . The book has a story line for two main characters, country boy Pierre and Jewish city dweller Miriam. Near the start of the book Miriam’s family are been arrested and taken to the camps while Pierre sees his brother killed by a Nazi guard. To cope with their suffering each of them commits to the resistance movement and as the war and the Nazi occupation play out, Miriam and Pierre meet only briefly, but Miriam finds love elsewhere only to have it ripped away in the cruellest fashion.
However, despite title of the novel, much of the story takes place after the war, and although I was initially surprised, I think this is its strength, showing how everyday life in Paris remained grim even after the departure of the invaders and how everything and everyone remained tainted with the suspicion of having been a collaborator or with anger that need to be avenged. This atmosphere makes it even harder for love to grow and as Miriam and Pierre meet again and discover a shared history, Sarah Bourne delivers a convincing ending which avoids the cliché of ‘happy ever after’.
This fascinating story is full of twists and turns as the characters struggle to make sense of old allegiances and past suffering. A rewarding read.
Thanks to the author for an ARC copy.
However, despite title of the novel, much of the story takes place after the war, and although I was initially surprised, I think this is its strength, showing how everyday life in Paris remained grim even after the departure of the invaders and how everything and everyone remained tainted with the suspicion of having been a collaborator or with anger that need to be avenged. This atmosphere makes it even harder for love to grow and as Miriam and Pierre meet again and discover a shared history, Sarah Bourne delivers a convincing ending which avoids the cliché of ‘happy ever after’.
This fascinating story is full of twists and turns as the characters struggle to make sense of old allegiances and past suffering. A rewarding read.
Thanks to the author for an ARC copy.
April 21, 2026
One woman’s tale of heroism as a freedom fighter in wartorn France.
The young Jewish girl, Miriam watches horrified from a neighbours window as her family
is dragged away by nazi thugs. She wants to help them and even shouts out but her
friends mother stifles her and drags her from the window. Her protector realises that if
Miriam is discovered she will be arrested, interned and most likely murdered in a death
camp! Miriam is determined to search and rescue her mother and sisters but soon
realises the hopelessness and her anger turns to revenge. Her father who was away at
the abduction is secretly a member of the resistance and Miriam pleads with him to join
the network. At first she is given simple tasks, verbal messages and letter drops all the
time in a wig and glasses to disguise her dark Jewish complexion.
As the war rages through Europe the work of the Maqui becomes vital to the allies and
Miriam ,code named Melanamedis trusted with bigger tasks until she is a fully fledged
member of the Resistance or Maquisard named after Maqui the rough scrub woodlands
of France where the hideouts and arms caches are still being discovered today.
There follows a story of the long struggle to rid France of the tyranny . The heroism and
selfless sacrifice of the young men and women of the resistance, the betrayal and
revenge. This is a real page turner seeded with romance, sorrow and joy
The young Jewish girl, Miriam watches horrified from a neighbours window as her family
is dragged away by nazi thugs. She wants to help them and even shouts out but her
friends mother stifles her and drags her from the window. Her protector realises that if
Miriam is discovered she will be arrested, interned and most likely murdered in a death
camp! Miriam is determined to search and rescue her mother and sisters but soon
realises the hopelessness and her anger turns to revenge. Her father who was away at
the abduction is secretly a member of the resistance and Miriam pleads with him to join
the network. At first she is given simple tasks, verbal messages and letter drops all the
time in a wig and glasses to disguise her dark Jewish complexion.
As the war rages through Europe the work of the Maqui becomes vital to the allies and
Miriam ,code named Melanamedis trusted with bigger tasks until she is a fully fledged
member of the Resistance or Maquisard named after Maqui the rough scrub woodlands
of France where the hideouts and arms caches are still being discovered today.
There follows a story of the long struggle to rid France of the tyranny . The heroism and
selfless sacrifice of the young men and women of the resistance, the betrayal and
revenge. This is a real page turner seeded with romance, sorrow and joy
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Paris Resistance follows the lives of two main characters, Miriam and Pierre, as they live through the occupation of France during the Second World War, and the years following. Each has their own POV and begin the story in different parts of the country – Miriam in Paris and Pierre in rural France. Both bear the loss of people close to them and join the Resistance.
In the first half of the book, we follow their (mostly) separate exploits as they foil Hitler’s plan to permanently occupy the country. They experience intrigue, violence, loyalty and betrayal. Neither is ever safe and their courage is astounding in the face of a brutal regime. As the allies push the Germans back through France, Miriam and Pierre’s paths cross in Paris, Miriam’s hometown.
These events anchor the second half of the book, which explores the aftermath of victory, giving this book a second, engrossing storyline. We witness the struggle that both Miriam and Pierre suffer as they return to a ‘normal’ life. What have the war years done to them both? Can they put the past behind them when they and every French citizen was so severely tested? These chapters are equally tense and full of complexity as Miriam, Pierre and a whole nation reckons with the past. Riveting and thought-provoking. Highly recommended.
In the first half of the book, we follow their (mostly) separate exploits as they foil Hitler’s plan to permanently occupy the country. They experience intrigue, violence, loyalty and betrayal. Neither is ever safe and their courage is astounding in the face of a brutal regime. As the allies push the Germans back through France, Miriam and Pierre’s paths cross in Paris, Miriam’s hometown.
These events anchor the second half of the book, which explores the aftermath of victory, giving this book a second, engrossing storyline. We witness the struggle that both Miriam and Pierre suffer as they return to a ‘normal’ life. What have the war years done to them both? Can they put the past behind them when they and every French citizen was so severely tested? These chapters are equally tense and full of complexity as Miriam, Pierre and a whole nation reckons with the past. Riveting and thought-provoking. Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am a huge fan of historical fiction especially if it covers WWII. The Paris Resistance definitely had a high bar to meet simply given the subject matter. Sarah Bourne exceeded all of my expectations. Getting to meet and to know Miriam, Pierre, and all of the well-developed side-characters created a world in which I was reluctant to leave. If you’re a Madeline Martin fan (Last Bookshop In London, Booklovers Library) you will truly enjoy this story. Now, “enjoy” is a hard word given the subject matter, but I have already recommended this novel in person to no less than 10 people and will continue to do so- it was that moving. It is quite true to what I understand historically and I appreciate that we get a full breadth of Miriam’s experience from the beginning of the resistance all the way through post-war efforts and beyond. We don’t often focus on the efforts of those outside of Germany during this time and it was eye-opening to get several perspectives from the side of the French during their resistance.
The characters are well developed as are their relationships. You get several perspectives throughout the time period covered. It is realistic and believable. I could go on and on. This is would be an awesome recommendation for a book club as well. Five well-earned stars.
The characters are well developed as are their relationships. You get several perspectives throughout the time period covered. It is realistic and believable. I could go on and on. This is would be an awesome recommendation for a book club as well. Five well-earned stars.
April 21, 2026
The Paris Resistance by Sarah Bourne is, without a doubt, one of the best books I have ever read. From the very first pages, it grips you with harrowing, emotional scenes that never let go.
The story follows Miriam, who narrowly escapes capture when her mother and sisters are taken by the police. Forced into hiding under a false identity, she is consumed by guilt and uncertainty about her family’s fate. As she becomes involved in the resistance, her journey is filled with danger, courage, and heartbreaking loss. Alongside her, we meet Pierre, whose own path through grief and revenge mirrors Miriam’s in a powerful and haunting way.
The novel weaves together their stories of survival, love, and sacrifice during one of history’s darkest times. The emotional depth is breathtaking—every moment feels raw, intense, and deeply human. From the brutality of war to the quiet resilience of those who fight back, the writing brings each experience vividly to life.
This is not an easy read—it is gut-wrenching, devastating, and at times almost unbearable—but that is what makes it so impactful. The characters’ pain, strength, and determination stay with you long after you turn the final page.
A truly unforgettable story, The Paris Resistance is a book that will linger in my thoughts for a long time.
The story follows Miriam, who narrowly escapes capture when her mother and sisters are taken by the police. Forced into hiding under a false identity, she is consumed by guilt and uncertainty about her family’s fate. As she becomes involved in the resistance, her journey is filled with danger, courage, and heartbreaking loss. Alongside her, we meet Pierre, whose own path through grief and revenge mirrors Miriam’s in a powerful and haunting way.
The novel weaves together their stories of survival, love, and sacrifice during one of history’s darkest times. The emotional depth is breathtaking—every moment feels raw, intense, and deeply human. From the brutality of war to the quiet resilience of those who fight back, the writing brings each experience vividly to life.
This is not an easy read—it is gut-wrenching, devastating, and at times almost unbearable—but that is what makes it so impactful. The characters’ pain, strength, and determination stay with you long after you turn the final page.
A truly unforgettable story, The Paris Resistance is a book that will linger in my thoughts for a long time.
April 16, 2026
I just love Sarah Bourne's books and this one is no exception.
An intensely moving and poignant tale, experienced through the eyes of the two main characters, Miriam and Pierre, this book is the story of ordinary people in extraordinary times. Set during the German occupation of France and the immediate aftermath it gives an insight into how the lives of ordinary citizens, not only those on the front lines, were so devastatingly impacted by the war.
The story is engaging and the characters leap from the page. Sometimes, it's hard to read becasue of the subject matter, but now more than ever books like this are important.
Sarah Bourne has a skilful way with words and brings to life the horror of the occupation in Paris and the French countryside. She captures the dangers faced by the resistance along with the passionate fervour with which they set about defending their country and their way of life. I was especially moved by the end section in which the characters have to reckon with what has happened to them and their loved ones, with what they personally have done, and how their struggle to return to a 'normal' life after the war.
Highly recommended!
An intensely moving and poignant tale, experienced through the eyes of the two main characters, Miriam and Pierre, this book is the story of ordinary people in extraordinary times. Set during the German occupation of France and the immediate aftermath it gives an insight into how the lives of ordinary citizens, not only those on the front lines, were so devastatingly impacted by the war.
The story is engaging and the characters leap from the page. Sometimes, it's hard to read becasue of the subject matter, but now more than ever books like this are important.
Sarah Bourne has a skilful way with words and brings to life the horror of the occupation in Paris and the French countryside. She captures the dangers faced by the resistance along with the passionate fervour with which they set about defending their country and their way of life. I was especially moved by the end section in which the characters have to reckon with what has happened to them and their loved ones, with what they personally have done, and how their struggle to return to a 'normal' life after the war.
Highly recommended!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This mesmerizing story is a historical fiction set in France during WW2. It follows two very likeable characters that are both working for the French resistance.
Personally I found it a bit confusing that the war and with that the official resistance ended when there were still many more pages to be read. So it not only tells the story of the resistance during wartime, but also what the war can do to people and how it can trigger their need for revenge. It gives you an idea how the ghosts of people lost follows them whever they go and how guilty people can feel for having survived, while others didn‘t.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author, but sure won’t be the last. Can’t wait to see what other stories she has in store. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone interested in history. We need to tell these stories and I beg people to listen to them and read them. We can never forget these dark times to prevent them from happening again.
Thank you to Joffe Books, Sarah Bourne and NetGalley for this ARC!
Personally I found it a bit confusing that the war and with that the official resistance ended when there were still many more pages to be read. So it not only tells the story of the resistance during wartime, but also what the war can do to people and how it can trigger their need for revenge. It gives you an idea how the ghosts of people lost follows them whever they go and how guilty people can feel for having survived, while others didn‘t.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author, but sure won’t be the last. Can’t wait to see what other stories she has in store. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone interested in history. We need to tell these stories and I beg people to listen to them and read them. We can never forget these dark times to prevent them from happening again.
Thank you to Joffe Books, Sarah Bourne and NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Some books are hard to read—not because of the writing, but because of the truth they carry. Stories set during World War II often fall into that space, and The Paris Resistance by Sarah Bourne is one of them.
This book took me through a journey of emotions—hope, fear, grief, anger, and ultimately, a quiet sense of peace. Miriam’s courage and Pierre’s resilience stay with you long after you turn the last page. Their individual paths, shaped by loss and war, eventually coming together in resistance felt both heartbreaking and inspiring.
What truly stayed with me was the epilogue—seeing Pierre live a simple, peaceful life with his grandchildren. After everything he endured, that moment felt earned. It reminded me that even after the darkest times, life finds a way to heal, even if the scars remain.
This book also reminded me why stories of survival—whether real or fictional—must continue to be read, shared, and remembered.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
This book took me through a journey of emotions—hope, fear, grief, anger, and ultimately, a quiet sense of peace. Miriam’s courage and Pierre’s resilience stay with you long after you turn the last page. Their individual paths, shaped by loss and war, eventually coming together in resistance felt both heartbreaking and inspiring.
What truly stayed with me was the epilogue—seeing Pierre live a simple, peaceful life with his grandchildren. After everything he endured, that moment felt earned. It reminded me that even after the darkest times, life finds a way to heal, even if the scars remain.
This book also reminded me why stories of survival—whether real or fictional—must continue to be read, shared, and remembered.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is set during World War 2, and follows two characters. Miriam, who is a French Jew and taken in by a family and hidden as her family are dragged away by Germans. Then Pierre, a country farm boy.
It follows their journey surviving the war, the resistance movements set up, and the impact of the war for years after. Not something I was expecting but was just as gripping to read.
The author kept throwing unexpected surprises in, and you could never really get comfortable in any situation before all of a sudden everything had changed and you had no idea where it would go next.
There were so many great characters, some that were just awful straight off and some that were the worst by being a nice person to the world.
This was one of those books I barely put down and read in not much more than a day.
It was fascinating to read about the war from the point of view of the French, not something you hear much about.
Overall, I loved this. I hope Sarah explores this era more.
It follows their journey surviving the war, the resistance movements set up, and the impact of the war for years after. Not something I was expecting but was just as gripping to read.
The author kept throwing unexpected surprises in, and you could never really get comfortable in any situation before all of a sudden everything had changed and you had no idea where it would go next.
There were so many great characters, some that were just awful straight off and some that were the worst by being a nice person to the world.
This was one of those books I barely put down and read in not much more than a day.
It was fascinating to read about the war from the point of view of the French, not something you hear much about.
Overall, I loved this. I hope Sarah explores this era more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Paris Resistance is a historical fiction about the lives of Pierre and Miriam and their experiences while in the French Resistance during WWII. I appreciated Miriam and Pierre's experiences and this book gave great insight into the horrors of the Nazi occupation in France. It also highlights the atrocities of war and how shocking it was that so many French citizens betrayed each other. From a historical fiction standpoint, I enjoyed this book but I feel like it could have been two separate books as Pierre and Miriam do not event meet(with any substance) until late in the book. I also felt like certain plot lines were abandoned and ended very prematurely or were unclear.
If you are interested in the different roles for males and females in the French Resistance during WWII, then I would recommend this book. Thank you Joffe Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
If you are interested in the different roles for males and females in the French Resistance during WWII, then I would recommend this book. Thank you Joffe Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Sarah Bourne’s historical novel, The Paris Resistance, set in World War II, is a captivating, beautifully written saga. The story follows Miriam Renaud, who, after her family is taken in a brutal roundup, survives by hiding with neighbours and adopting a false identity in Nazi-occupied Paris. She joins the French Resistance as a courier, risking everything with each secret mission. Alongside Pierre, a fellow Resistance fighter, Miriam must navigate a city rife with spies and betrayal. Their courage and love, tested by war and loss, is deeply moving. The novel’s fast-paced plot, full of twists and heartbreak, kept me hooked throughout. The Paris Resistance is a gripping and powerful wartime romance of courage, hope and survival.
Thank you to the publisher for my ARC. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to the publisher for my ARC. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 26, 2026
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This book follows the journey of two people, Miriam and Pierre, whose world changed forever during WWII.
It's been a while since I read a book set in this sort of time period, so I enjoyed it. It tugged at my heartstrings from the beginning. While this was a romantic and heartfelt story, it didn't feel overly sentimental or sugar-coated, and I felt it was about the journey, not just the romance. I appreciated the representations of friendship in the story, for example, with Miriam and Lisette.
At times, I found that parts of the story surprised me; the journey it took me on with its characters was not the one I expected, and that made it all the more rewarding to read. Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and review this.
This book follows the journey of two people, Miriam and Pierre, whose world changed forever during WWII.
It's been a while since I read a book set in this sort of time period, so I enjoyed it. It tugged at my heartstrings from the beginning. While this was a romantic and heartfelt story, it didn't feel overly sentimental or sugar-coated, and I felt it was about the journey, not just the romance. I appreciated the representations of friendship in the story, for example, with Miriam and Lisette.
At times, I found that parts of the story surprised me; the journey it took me on with its characters was not the one I expected, and that made it all the more rewarding to read. Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and review this.
April 28, 2026
This is the first book I have read of Sarah's and I plan on reading them all now!!
This book was amazing.
It stars in Paris in 1942, and Miriam Renaud, a Jewish girl, witnesses her mother and siblings being rounded up and taken away, She decides she has to do something to find her family and help her country so she joins the resistance.
I have read a lot of WWII historical fiction novels, but this one had me on the edge of my seat as Miriam goes through all of the trials of being in the resistance to after the war is over and trying to reconcile what has happened to her and France. Does she want revenge or does she want to move on?
The story is also told about a young man named Pierre, who also is a part of the resistance but these two do not meet each other until after the war.
Her research was impeccable and I loved every word of it.
This book was amazing.
It stars in Paris in 1942, and Miriam Renaud, a Jewish girl, witnesses her mother and siblings being rounded up and taken away, She decides she has to do something to find her family and help her country so she joins the resistance.
I have read a lot of WWII historical fiction novels, but this one had me on the edge of my seat as Miriam goes through all of the trials of being in the resistance to after the war is over and trying to reconcile what has happened to her and France. Does she want revenge or does she want to move on?
The story is also told about a young man named Pierre, who also is a part of the resistance but these two do not meet each other until after the war.
Her research was impeccable and I loved every word of it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Paris Resistance is a deeply moving and meticulously researched piece of historical fiction. Sarah Bourne transports you to the rain-slicked streets of occupied France, where the tension and paranoia of the resistance are palpable. The characters are flawed and brave, making their sacrifices feel incredibly personal.
The only reason for 4 stars is the pacing. There’s a stretch in the middle where the plot slows significantly to focus on internal reflection, which drained some of the "edge-of-your-seat" momentum. However, the final act is absolutely gripping and delivers a powerful emotional punch.
If you love WWII history that prioritizes emotional depth and atmosphere, this is a beautiful read.
The only reason for 4 stars is the pacing. There’s a stretch in the middle where the plot slows significantly to focus on internal reflection, which drained some of the "edge-of-your-seat" momentum. However, the final act is absolutely gripping and delivers a powerful emotional punch.
If you love WWII history that prioritizes emotional depth and atmosphere, this is a beautiful read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this book, it was fast paced, full of twists, turns and surprises and so heartbreaking at times. What I particularly liked was that the story continued after the war so we could get an idea of how people got their lives back together in a very broken country. This is my first book by Sarah and it most definitely won’t be the last, I enjoyed the writing style and her ability to tell the story with sensitivity. Highly recommend this book, totally deserves 5 stars. Perfect for the WW2 fiction lovers.
Publication date 21 April 2026. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in return for my honest review.
Publication date 21 April 2026. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in return for my honest review.
April 21, 2026
Gripping
After her mother and sisters were taken by the German police, Miriam Renaud joined the French resistance. Over the next few years she puts her life at risk on many occasions, even after being tortured she never gave in. After the war Miriam meets Pierre who had also been a mbeen a member of the resistance but who is struggling and wants to still get revenge on the Germans. She takes him to meet Alain Baudais a friend from the resistance, but Pierre recognised him as a collaborator and it almost breaks her heart. I was gripped by this book from the beginning and couldn't put it down.
After her mother and sisters were taken by the German police, Miriam Renaud joined the French resistance. Over the next few years she puts her life at risk on many occasions, even after being tortured she never gave in. After the war Miriam meets Pierre who had also been a mbeen a member of the resistance but who is struggling and wants to still get revenge on the Germans. She takes him to meet Alain Baudais a friend from the resistance, but Pierre recognised him as a collaborator and it almost breaks her heart. I was gripped by this book from the beginning and couldn't put it down.
April 24, 2026
Liked but didn’t love this, it felt a bit superficial and unmemorable at times - case in point I didn’t read any for all of two days and when I got back to it I’d completely forgotten what had happened thus far. I didn’t feel like we got to know either main character too well, we just saw their stories unfold. (Boy Pierre was brash and hot-headed though! His escape plan for his brother wasn’t at all thought through; doomed from the start)
I actually enjoyed the second half, post-war, more than the first which is quite unlike me! Interesting to see revenge being meted out and what the effects of that were on both Miriam and Pierre.
I actually enjoyed the second half, post-war, more than the first which is quite unlike me! Interesting to see revenge being meted out and what the effects of that were on both Miriam and Pierre.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paris Resistance moves between occupied France and the post war years as Miriam and Pierre fight for their country’s freedom on separate paths. Courage, betrayal, love and loss shape their lives and to rebuild a “normal” life after their struggles. Although I found a few moments repetitive and pacing slow at times, the ending was touching and left me satisfied that I continued through to the final pages. 3 stars
I would like to thank the author, Joffe Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
I would like to thank the author, Joffe Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
April 21, 2026
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 was a heartfelt and devastatingly empowering tale. Following two different POV's, Miriam's and Pierre's. Each have reasons to give up, each suffered so much as their loved ones were taken by Nazis, but they never gave up. Their strength and courage inspires me. They join the resistance and help so many others.
I appreciated this beautiful journey so much. Sarah's writing style completely swept me off my feet and I highly recommend checking out this WWII historical fiction novel to everyone. ♡
I appreciated this beautiful journey so much. Sarah's writing style completely swept me off my feet and I highly recommend checking out this WWII historical fiction novel to everyone. ♡
April 22, 2026
Set in Paris 1942 ,the story centres around two people . Miriam who having lost her family joins the French Resistance carrying secret messages within the city and Pierre , a country lad who is out to seek revenge for the murder of his brother . Both are willing to take great risks to save their country and endure emotional and physical violence as they strive for freedom and justice . When their paths cross , they have one goal but will life be the same again, This was a beautifully written book that covered all the emotions and reminds us to forgive but not to forget the past
April 25, 2026
I love historical fiction and this book didn't disappoint. From the first pages I was hooked on this story of two young Resistance fighters facing the brutal Nazi occupation of France. Each with their own personal motivation to drive out the Germans they face unimaginable loss, terror, narrow escapes and betrayal. But the story continues to engage even once the war is over and here I appreciated the author's thorough research exploring the post-war reality of living among collaborators. A great read with an excellent reveal at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2026
Review of Advance Review Copy
Sara Bourne's latest novel The Paris Resistance will delight followers of this author, known for her spirited stories of adventure and romance, and strong female protagonists in edgy settings. Meticulously researched, the novel grips the reader with a vigorous plot, desperate cliff-hangers, skin-of-the-teeth escapades and profound moral dilemmas as everyday French men and woman dedicate themselves to defeating the Nazis.
Sara Bourne's latest novel The Paris Resistance will delight followers of this author, known for her spirited stories of adventure and romance, and strong female protagonists in edgy settings. Meticulously researched, the novel grips the reader with a vigorous plot, desperate cliff-hangers, skin-of-the-teeth escapades and profound moral dilemmas as everyday French men and woman dedicate themselves to defeating the Nazis.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Oh my goodness,
This book had me completely hooked.
I cried throughout the book.
The author had me completely hooked from start to finish.
I absolutely love how the author wrote the French and the German occupation.
But for me it was a little bit more of the French side of things, rather than the German side. Maybe more in the next book?
The story between lovers has been exceptionally written.
I'm looking forward to the next installment.
This book had me completely hooked.
I cried throughout the book.
The author had me completely hooked from start to finish.
I absolutely love how the author wrote the French and the German occupation.
But for me it was a little bit more of the French side of things, rather than the German side. Maybe more in the next book?
The story between lovers has been exceptionally written.
I'm looking forward to the next installment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderfully researched and at times harrowing wartime story of the bravery of those in the resistance movement, but also a fascinating exploration of what came next, and how the resistants who survived coped with the aftermath of WW2, their desire for retribution, and adjusting to the new demands of peacetime.
Beautifully written and deserving of five stars.
Thanks to Joffe for providing an ARC.
Beautifully written and deserving of five stars.
Thanks to Joffe for providing an ARC.
April 23, 2026
I love a WWII story that is well researched and makes me feel as if I am there. I want the author to write characters that make me feel like I am one of them. This story did all that. Sometimes I feel guilty in loving a war story. But there is so much more to the story than that. They are emotional, struggles, friendship and pulling together. A well researched story can also teach us history. Loved this story!
May 2, 2026
This novel begins in France in 1942 and primarily involves Miriam, a Parisian Jewess who has lost her family to the Nazis, and Pierre, from the south of France, who also lost his. They spend the war years with the Resistance, and after the war both struggle. They resolve to hunt down those they felt responsible but that does not bring them satisfaction. I read a lot in this genre but this after story to the war was very interesting reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved the whole story of Miriam and her courage, her heartbreaks and her survival. Every character and their unique experiences are perfectly portrayed and utterly credible. I couldn’t put the book down and read the first 18 chapters in one sitting.
Congratulations also to the artist who created the cover that is so suggestive of an absorbing story. It really delivered on its promise.
Congratulations also to the artist who created the cover that is so suggestive of an absorbing story. It really delivered on its promise.
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