A Habit of Resistance

by Fernando A. Torres

"I've begun to wonder...perhaps; it is not that God is cruel, but that we are indifferent?""Indifference is a well that never runs dry," agreed Sister Beatrice, "and as good a word for evil as was ever composed.""We're experts at sacrament—not sabotage!""Monsieur Claude...resistance is what we live for."Step into the captivating world of "A Habit of Resistance," where laughter and courage collide against the backdrop of wartime turmoil. In this heartwarming and audacious tale, a band of unlikely heroines - a spirited group of nuns - embark on a journey from unexpected beginnings to the heights of valor amidst the chaos of WWII.Journey alongside Renée, a restless soul who flees to the grandeur of Paris, only to find its beauty marred by the relentless grip of Nazi occupation. Fate leads him back to the quaint embrace of Brassac, his hometown, now teetering on the edge of darkness. Here, he confronts a past left behind, including the woman he abandoned at the altar - the resolute and enigmatic Noële, now a nun within the local convent.As the winds of change sweep through Brassac, Renée unexpectedly ascends to the role of town mayor, shouldering the weight of a community's hopes. Amidst the swirling tides of uncertainty, Noële grapples with her own convictions, torn between her sacred vows and the allure of a love she once believed lost.In the midst of upheaval, a ragtag sisterhood takes shape, weaving a tapestry of resistance that defies the norms and expectations of their sacred calling. With wit as their armor and compassion as their compass, these unconventional nuns navigate the treacherous paths of collaboration and defiance, stretching the boundaries of their vows to safeguard their beloved town and their very souls."A Habit of Resistance" is a riveting dance of personal transformation and redemption, painted against the canvas of war-ravaged France. Join these indomitable souls as they march to the rhythm of their own convictions, proving that in the face of adversity, laughter and camaraderie can be as potent as any weapon of war. This tale of self-discovery, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit is a testament to the strength that emerges when unlikely heroes rise above the shadows.Prepare to be captivated by a tale that redefines courage, love, and the power of the human spirit. "A Habit of Resistance" beckons you to immerse yourself in a world where ordinary lives are transformed into extraordinary legacies. Turn the pages and experience a narrative that lingers, a story of resilience that invites you to embrace the unexpected with open arms.Join the resistance by clicking "Buy Now" and delve into a world where every fast-paced page overflows with humor, sacrifice, and redemption.Read it today!

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, France, World War II

271 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 29, 2015

About the author

Fernando Torres is the author of "A Habit of Resistance," "The Shadow That Endures," and the recently released sci-fi novel "More Than Alive: Death of an Idol." Fast-paced, humorous stories that poke fun at genre tropes and explore moral dilemmas are what define this author's mission. Early in his media career, Fernando A. Torres created the definitive definition of media interactivity. At ABC/Disney, Inc., he worked behind the scenes on such shows as Boy Meets World, Family Matters, Grace Under Fire, Home Improvement, My Wife and Kids, and the Power Rangers. Influenced by many of his generation's most talented writers and producers, Fernando Torres' style developed a light, humorous edge that continues to influence his writing to this day. During his time at ABC/Disney, Inc., he contributed to the Writer's Development program, which inspired additional contributions in education. Many of his stories are inspired by his travels, though he has more permanent roots in the United States and Japan. An instrument-rated pilot, he also enjoys writing music and photography.

"I write because the written word is a powerful ally in conveying truth." - Fernando Torres

Reviews

[booklady · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fast-paced and humorous, if somewhat violent story, which would translate well into a movie. The book suffers from awkward and abrupt writing, which would disappear if put into a screen play. In fact, sometimes it felt like that is what I was reading, the text of a screen play.

The plot concerns a group of nuns and their parish priest who are recruited into the French resistance during World War II and prove to be very able fighters. There are some gentle and under lying tender romantic attractions which add grace to story.

Sweet and enjoyable.

[Fernando Torres]

I humbly request the support of all my friends within the goodreads community. Without your help, important stories like these would never see the light of day. While occupied France is the setting, this book is actually an examination of what "resistance" means on a personal level.

[msleighm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
 
This book will take you on a romp through a terrible part of history, bringing you the delicate balance of humor within the framework of the horror of war.
 
I was enchanted by the third page. The writing is clear, crisp, and concise.
 
One particular note I made is that the characterizations are fabulously well developed. I really felt like I got to know them and that they were real people.
 
 

[ROSEMARY L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who thought a book about the Resistance could be humorous?

Reading was a pleasure -something to look forward to. Informative yet funny. Recommend it very very highly. That is all.

[Sharon Messer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Most Excellent Read

I absolutely loved this book! The author has a way with words and humor that is uncanny. The characters were likable. The plot kept me on the edge of my seat. I could hardly put this book down. During the past year I have read two dozen books revolving around the Holocaust and World War 2. This was one of the best! Through the author's description I felt I was right there with these nuns. What was awesome is the fact that there were nuns and priests who saved many, many lives. Well worth the time!

[Elsa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great, but unfortunately the kindle edition teems with grammatical and other errors.

[MsAprilVincent · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story is good but the writing is not.

[Ellen Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed the entire book. More than I thought I would. A book of fiction loosely based on activities of religious members during WWII and German occupied France. Characters were well written. Story was at times entertaining, fearful, sad, and kept my nerves on edge. I am Catholic so I understood the unique situation of nuns and priest participating in the French Resistance.

[Shari Weber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read

This story you want to believe is true because you know it could\should be. It keeps your attention and interest from first to last page. A book I would highly recommend

[Karha Us · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read!

This book was a surprise & a treasure to read. Character development was really great. Instead of the two dimensional actors, were fleshed out individuals. Each a hero in their own unique style.
This book is for readers of all ages.

[Helen Waggoner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the quirky characters: the honest thief, the happenstance mayor, the sweetheart clergy, and of course the rifle toatting nuns. All fighting against the evils of WWII in their unique ways. Similar to "The Secret of Santa Vittoria," by Robert Crichton.

[Kathie Pongrace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was sooooo good! I couldn’t put it down.

[Alma Deal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of laughs and also a good story

[Andrew Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this.

Quirky, humorous and engaging. A beautiful story about nuns involved in the resistance with more than a passing interest in the theme of redemption.

[Carl Gillespie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Habits of war

I liked this odd war story. A bit tongue in cheek for a war tale but grim enough here and there.

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny and easy to read

It was totally unexpected. I've read many books concerning WWII but this very different. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story toggles back and forth between the horrors and triumphs of the French Resisitance and Hogan's Heros. Great read. I am always amazed when I read typos tho...hmmmmm?!?!?

[Thomas Coyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always interested in stories about nuns, and this one, didn’t disappoint me from start to finish.

[Pamela Copp · Rating 5 out of 5]

incredible

Loved everything about this book. Full of villains and great heroes. Takes you back in time. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an unexpectedly humorous little French Resistance story. I reminds me of 1970s British comedy TV show set in Wartime France. The rich details are actually well-researched. The characters are comic, yet believable. However, I was disturbed by the almost casual treatment of killing.
What earned the 4th star was the absolutely extraordinary word craft! It’s a thoroughly enjoyable read from that aspect!

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story about priests and nuns in the Resistance. What evil the Nazi officers displayed in Brassac, France. Very believable!

[Briar's Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Habit of Resistance was a great war read revolving around a group of large personality nuns!

When reading A Habit of Resistance I was not entirely sure what the plot was. By the end of the book I was rather confused as to what the big plot idea was. Was it to stop some of the Germans in the war? Was it to stay loyal to God (since they are religious Nuns)? I honestly had no idea what the major plot was.

The story as a whole was very well written. I enjoyed the action and drama this novel brought. But, and there is a but, I found that the story didn't have a straight plot line to follow and seemed to just randomly move forward. Perhaps there was a main plot line but I just didn't see it. There were many small plots, but none of them seemed to span the length of the entire novel. I felt like this was much more like a television show than a book.

Overall, I did enjoy the book! It was a fantastic war read! Usually I do not enjoy war books, and this one made me change my perspective on it.

3 out of 5 stars.

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.