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The Christmas Courier

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In World War II France, the future Madeleine Perrin and Daniel Raymond hope for is in grave peril when the Nazis imprison Daniel, a courier for the Resistance network. But a centuries-old law soon paves the way for a Christmas Eve wedding that becomes both a celebration and a daring rescue in this historical romance.

1943. Lyon, France. After bidding her students farewell for the holidays, Madeleine Perrin is looking forward to a quiet, simple Christmas at home with her mother. With the war raging on and rations tight, she knows it will be up to her to make the day festive and find special ways to remember the papa she lost and honor his love for Christmas. But first, Madeleine must smuggle secret messages hidden in her students’ essays to the Resistance network. She never expects the person waiting to receive them is her childhood best friend, the man who broke her heart.

Daniel Raymond has thrown himself into his work as courier for the Resistance, carefully concealing his Jewish ancestry that, if discovered by the Nazis, could put his life at risk. Haunted by regret about the day Madeleine professed her love and he turned her away, Daniel longs to make things right. When he sees her again, he dares to hope for reconciliation―and realizes the love he once denied has only grown deeper.

As Christmas nears and Daniel recovers from a wound sustained in a courier run, forgiveness and romance soon blossom between Daniel and Madeleine and the two begin planning a future together. But when a mission goes wrong and Daniel is captured by the Gestapo, Madeleine must turn to her Resistance allies―and a centuries-old law―to attempt a dangerous rescue before it’s too late.

A standalone WWII historical Christmas novella inspired by true eventsA low-spice second-chance holiday romance with a friends-to-lovers tropeCompelling Christian fiction about brave spies and daring escapes for fans of Sarah Sundin, Kristen Harmel, Lynn Austin, and Sara Ackerman

192 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2026

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About the author

Roseanna M. White

73 books4,108 followers
Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, award winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. Having successfully launched two homeschool grads into the unsuspecting world, she now spends her time writing fiction, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
see also Roseanna White

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Gloria.
1,259 reviews155 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
October 8, 2026
The Christmas Courier is another story of how the people of France worked with the Resistance while the Nazis occupied their beloved country. The Perrin and Raymond families lived across the hall from each other in Lyon for years until the Raymond family went to America since the mother is of Jewish heritage and all Jews were ordered to leave. Daniel, a son, stayed and moved across town but is working with the Resistance with the Perrin family. This is also a love story between Daniel and Madeleine but one that is tragically uprooted because of the Gestapo arrests with a miraculous ending. It is a lovely story of the nativity and Christ's light in a dark world as well as one of newfound faith. This is a wonderful addition to the series of stories set during WWII in occupied France with more endearing characters as the others.
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,902 reviews204 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 25, 2026
Inspired by the real-life story of Lyonnaise Resistance fighters, Lucie and Raymond Aubrac, author Roseanna M. White explores why this particular city became such a stronghold of resistance.

White reminds us that the best things in life are always worth fighting for. She examines joyful anticipation and the importance of having prepared hearts with room for Jesus. She’ll also point out why Christmas 1943 wasn’t very festive for the Lyonnaise and what solutions were available to help keep the hope that Christmas offered, and about how traboules helped both the silk industry and those hoping to lose the Gestapo while being tracked.

I enjoyed the reminder that Jesus came into the world to shine into the darkness. He didn't cower from the darkness. White parallels this purpose with that of those called to the resistance movement. Brave people were needed to fight the darkness.

If wartime romance, historical romance, and a clean read interest you, consider this novella - it’s only 190 pages.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for Sheila.
3,751 reviews154 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 24, 2026
I received a free copy of, The Christmas Courier, by Roseanna M, White, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is based on the true story of Lucie and Raymond Aubrac, who met during the war in 1943 in France. This was a really powerful and interesting read.
Profile Image for Karen R.
789 reviews99 followers
August 29, 2026
A terrific story set in WWII based on real history. Not a fluffy, light Christmas read, but one that will leave an impression long after the last page turns.

Courage, faith and family themes bring a lot of depth to this well-written tale set in the days leading up to Christmas in 1943 Lyon, France. The actual city plays an important part in the story with its fascinating secret passageways and history of silk merchants. The real history is highlighted at the end making this even more meaningful and inspirational.

The main characters bravely carry out tasks for the French Resistance, putting their lives--and love--on the line. It made me think about the sacrifices people made to help fight for freedom and to help others. The author adds many poignant moments of faith throughout using the Christmas story as a reference. There is a powerful example of forgiveness at the end following a betrayal, which was quite moving.

Highly recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction based on real people, with faith and a clean romance. 5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Profile Image for Katja Labonté.
Author 34 books392 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
October 11, 2026
5 stars. I wasn't sure how exactly this would go, because as a novella things have to move faster than when you have a full novel. But I enjoyed that what I thought would happen didn't, or happened so fast I had to come up with a new theory as to what would come next. I really liked the cast, and the awesome setting; the romance was cute, and I liked that Madeleine's plus size was honestly discussed. I also enjoyed the suspenseful climax—that was SO well thought out and I loved it so much! As always, I was delighted by how French it was (there are almost no books with only one French error when they're written by an English author!). The story also pushed me to look up the real characters mentioned in the story or that inspired the story, which I appreciated. Overall, this just felt like a fresh new WWII story while still having all the RMW trademarks! :)

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Profile Image for Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi.
532 reviews28 followers
September 22, 2026
“Don’t Mado me.” She lifted a finger and poked it into his shoulder. “You coward. You’d rather face off against the Nazis than look me in the eye, as if my loving you was some disease you didn’t want to catch.”

This WWII Christmas novella has an amazing friends to more romance, resistance work, and beautiful faith. I loved that the story is based on true history! While it isn’t a light Christmas story, it is beautiful and uplifting. I loved the reminders of waiting with joyful anticipation and preparing our hearts.

Madeleine is bold, courageous, and devoted. I loved Mado’s part in the resistance. I loved her family and their love and devotion to each other. I loved that she knew her heart and wasn’t afraid to tell Daniel how she felt. I loved how she proved her love over and over. Daniel is brave, intelligent, and determined. I loved his work in the resistance. I loved his friendship with Mado and her siblings. I loved his tender heart for Jesus, his determination to honor God, and joyful wait. I loved when he spoken openly and honestly with Mado sharing his heart. Daniel and Mado faced trials and darkness but their faith and love shine through. And oh, the epilogue was so sweet!

A few more quotes:
“Your pulse is elevated.” She reached for her bag. He breathed a laugh. “That’s just your sister’s fault.” Madeleine’s lips parted, outrage sparking in her eyes. “Mine! What did I do?” “Came in. Looked at me.”

“And I will marry you,” she said, leaning in even closer, “because even a day by your side is worth any risk. Because we will be stronger together than apart. And because so help me, if anyone—including you—tries to take you away from me after I spent so long waiting for you, I will tear them apart.”

This complimentary copy was provided by the author and publisher @tyndalehouse. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
12 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 21, 2026
As per usual when it comes to her historical novels, White has crafted a compelling story with relatable but also inspiring characters. Without giving away any details of the story, let's just say that all of the characters, whether the main protagonists or the lesser characters, are flawed human beings. Yet White does not leave them as we find them, so to speak; however, nor does she trivialize or sugarcoat their development. Forgiveness, for example, is not treated as something easy to do or to accept but its importance is clear. I will definitely buy this book once it's released. In the meantime, I'm grateful to Tyndale publishers for the ARC version via NetGalley.
Profile Image for Erin Laramore.
900 reviews84 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 27, 2026
This was an excellent historical Christmas Novella. Based in WWII and loosely based on real people, this story follows Madeleine and Daniel who have been friends since childhood. Living in Lyon, both have become part of the resistance when Lyon no longer became free. I enjoyed learning about the traboules in Lyon that allowed the Resistance to be strong in that city - this is one of the best things about historical fiction - learning about actual history within the confines of an entertaining story! the friends-to-more romance in the story was very sweet and I loved how the author tied in some real life events to their story. At around 190 pages, this is a quicker read that would be great for the holidays (I read it for Christmas in July!), but even though it's a shorter tale, it still has the depth and complex storyline I've come to expect from Ms. White. The faith thread is solid in this story as well and I enjoyed how the season of Advent was showcased in the waiting the characters had to do in their everyday lives. And how Christ was the center of it all. If you're looking for a WWII historical to read during the holidays, look no further than this one! Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
Profile Image for  katescleanreads.
270 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 22, 2026
Only Roseanna White can take the dark times of WWII and bring out the beauty of the Light of the world coming to us at Christmas. This packed novella fells like a full length novel with realistic settings, deeply developed characters, and poignant reminders of Jesus and what He did, and continues to do, for us. A sweet love story and surprise ending based on true events is perfect not just for the holidays, but every time of year.
I loved this book! Roseanna White just keeps giving us the best that historical Christian fiction can offer and I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
1,094 reviews114 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 30, 2026
Excellent Christmas Novella! Loved it. The Christmas Courier celebrates the true meaning of Christmas wrapped in a story set in France in WWII. I highly recommend it. I could not put it down! And to find it was inspired by true events was a bonus. An inspirational Christmas story for sure.

Thank you to the author, and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Cecilia Romano.
20 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 17, 2026
There’s something about reading a Christmas story set in the middle of a dark chapter of history that makes the meaning of hope feel a little different. ❤️

The Christmas Courier was such a beautiful little read. Set in WWII-era France, it follows Madeleine and Daniel, childhood friends brought back into each other’s lives while both are involved with the French Resistance.

I loved the combination of historical fiction, second-chance romance, suspense, and faith. There’s danger throughout the story, but what stayed with me most was the emphasis on forgiveness, courage, and choosing hope even when circumstances are anything but hopeful.

I also really loved the Christmas and Advent themes woven through the story. It felt especially fitting to read a story about light in the middle of darkness during the Christmas season.

And knowing that the story was inspired by true events made it even more meaningful to me.

A quick, heartfelt Christmas read for anyone who loves Christian historical fiction, WWII stories, and a little romance mixed in. 📖🎄

Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale for the ARC!
Profile Image for Rochelle.
948 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 23, 2026
A wonderful story of survival and love! During the terrible years of WWII, the Germans had taken over Lyon, France. Resistance groups were dedicated to doing whatever they could, often at great sacrifice. Madeleine and Daniel are both doing their part to resist the German occupation. Their tender love story is all the more powerful due to the time of turmoil they are living in. Well researched history — the story based on real events — makes for a fascinating and compelling story. Faith and family are poignant themes.

I received a complimentary copy of this story. A positive review was not required. This is my opinion.
Profile Image for Rachelle Cobb.
Author 9 books319 followers
July 26, 2026
Such a suspenseful and sweet Christmas-y story! I thoroughly enjoyed it -- and the history behind it!
Profile Image for LA.
492 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 7, 2026
BOOK REVIEW: The Christmas Courier
BOOK BY: Roseanna M. White

Another great Christmas novella from Roseanna M. White!

Readers are taken to Lyon, France during WW2 when Nazis occupied the city. It’s illegal for Jews to remain in the city yet some still hide their identity in order to fight the regime.

There’s a sweet friends-to-more romance that develop between childhood friends, Daniel and Madeleine. Both are working for the resistance and have to avoid nosey neighbours and dangerous agents patrolling the streets. There are plenty of suspenseful scenes in this short novel, giving readers a feel for what it must have been like living in occupied-France.

It was wonderful to see solid relationships between Madeleine and the rest of her family. They’re all grieving the loss of a loved one, but instead of falling apart, they draw closer together. They live their Catholic faith and show forgiveness even when it’s difficult.

There are a couple of kind Germans – which is refreshing for this kind of story – despite the atrocities that happened during this time period.

It’s a wonderful slow-burn romance inspired by a true event (make sure to read the author’s note at the end).

I received a copy of the ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
1,131 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 13, 2026
The Christmas Courier is a compelling WWII historical novella by Roseanna M. White. Having based her story on real people and events, she has written a heart-warming and at times heart stopping fictional tale. Be sure to read her note at the end of the book. While her characters are fictional, it is an inspiring tribute to those who stood against the Nazi regime. Taking place in Lyon, France, Madeleine Perrin and Daniel Raymond are common people who risk their lives for freedom. Being a faith-based novella, I so appreciated the way that the characters lived their beliefs, encouraging others to share that faith. It is an unforgettable story.
Profile Image for Lori Parrish.
202 reviews37 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 10, 2026
I enjoyed this one very much! I love Roseanna White.
She's good in anything she writes. I love being taken back in time! Its too bad it was too short. I was wanting more! I felt like I was left hanging!
I loved each and every one of these delightful characters. I spent the whole afternoon reading this wonderful story. It was just too good to put down!
Please read the authors notes at the end. I found them very interesting.
Lots of everything in this sweet novella.
Faith, love, hope friends to lovers and family. I loved everything about it
I was thrilled to receive it from Tyndale. Thank you so much!
I'm giving this delightful story 5 stars! I highly recommend this novella. Its a story that will leave you thinking about these wonderful characters long after it's over.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
158 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 26, 2026
“The Christmas Courier” by Roseanna M. White is an action-packed, history-rich, WWII Christmas novella that will keep readers fully invested in the characters and plot. Daniel and Madeleine’s dreams for the future are thwarted by the presence of the Germans in their beloved home of Lyon, France. Both of them work in the Resistance efforts, and their work places them in peril. Madeleine is a history teacher, and her knowledge of and discovery of an old French laws allows them an opportunity to gain an upper hand. The characters immediately endear themselves to the reader. The plot never drags and carries plenty of suspense along the way. The conflict is just right. The resolution is satisfying and complete. For being a novella, this story hits like a full-fledged novel.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down! Roseanna M. White writes wonderful historical fiction, and this book is no exception. Her research and attention to detail bring this story to life. Readers should read the wrap up material at the end of the book, where the author shares that the basis of this story lies in true history and is based on a true historic person. Being a Christmas novella, the reader can expect some wonderful Christmas parallels and some beautiful storyline to come from the lessons of Jesus’ birth. I will point out, that part of the premise of this book is highlighting the role of Catholic priests and nuns in the French Resistance efforts, so the overall faith element in this book is more from a Catholic point of view. However, it just made the story more impactful for me when I got to the end and read the author’s historical notes. I will be looking for more books just like this from Roseanna M. White in the future. Check it out. Grab a cozy seat, and get lost in this book.
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,811 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 17, 2026
This novella, set in World War II France, follows a group of Resistance workers in Lyon. Members of two families who grew up together now work together to deliver important intelligence to the local Resistance leader. Life on the edge in a time of war can lead to love, or to a Gestapo raid. Keep your tissues handy, and find out how the Babe of Bethlehem worked in such circumstances for the glory of God. I highly recommend this book that kept me on the edge of my seat.

“I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." #TheChristmasCourier #NetGalley
1,371 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 11, 2026
What a fantastic Christmas novella! Set in France during World War II, it is the story of Madeleine who has been in love for years with the boy next door, Daniel. Both do their part for the Resistance by passing along papers with crucial intelligence. Daniel’s circumstances are even more dangerous since he is in hiding due to his mother being Jewish.

This is a fantastic blend of historical fiction and romantic suspense as Daniel begins to see Madeleine through new eyes while the Nazis are closing in. It’s a story about love, sacrifice, family, faith, and Christmas.

This is unapologetically Christian fiction so expect prayers and discussions of salvation through faith is Jesus.

I loved this book and would wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.

Family friendly though with some violence and topics that may not be appropriate for some readers.

Thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 6, 2026
The Christmas Courier is the latest historical novella by Roseanna White. The setting of the novella is France during World War II. Roseanna’s inspiration is based on real life heroes of the French Resistance. The Christmas season is an important element in the story. The Christmas setting adds hope during a time in history when darkness enveloped the world. White emphasizes in the story the importance of taking time to make room for Jesus and trust in Him even when the world seems to be crumbling around you.
I was fascinated to learn about the system of traboules that wound through Lyon and how historically they were built for the silk industry, but became useful to the Resistance as a means to get around the city to make deliveries of important information.
This novella is a quick read and perfect for those who enjoy a historical setting, a World War II romance, and a Christmas season of hope.
Thank you NetGalley and Tyndale House for an advance e-copy of this book for my honest review.
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
2,005 reviews112 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 25, 2026
Roseanna M. White never fails to deliver historical romance stories that are well-researched, taking you right to that time and place... and this one was no exception. I love both holiday reads and WWII fiction, and this one combined both very beautifully in a story that had both the traditions of Christmas with the hardships of war. The romance between Daniel and Madeleine kept me intrigued, as these two worked together in the Nazi resistance. I can't say too much without giving things away, but this ending was definitely intriguing. I loved that this was based on true events, and enjoyed learning in the author's notes which parts of the story were based on true events and which were fiction... it only made me appreciate it that much more. This is a quick read, but one packed full of great moments that fans of WW fiction are sure to want to add to their holiday TBR.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Caren | Hopefulwords.
98 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
October 5, 2026
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.

One of the sweetest and most inspiring friends-to-more stories I’ve read! A highlight for me was when and how Daniel prayed for Madeleine in chapter nine. Those words captured true love in their selflessness. It’s a moment that leaves a lasting impression.

And don’t forget about Madeleine (make sure to read the author’s note at the end)! She’s bold yet self-conscious at times, stubborn and also very patient. She’s the kind of character that you want to give a hug, but you also want her in your corner when things get difficult.

Our faith gives us hope even when we can’t see a reason to hope, and this is what this story exudes—hope against hope (see Romans 4:18). I loved reading about these characters finding their way to each other while relying on God every step of the way.

As for the cover, I love the attention to detail! It adds something special when a cover fits a story so well.

If you love heartwarming Christian Historical Romance with an inspiring message of hope, and a thought-provoking message about grace and forgiveness, I think you’ll enjoy this one as much as I did. The way these characters are there for each other really stays with you.

Content:
Christian Historical Romance
Intimacy level: Kisses Only
Language: No Profanity
Violence
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,513 reviews176 followers
October 16, 2026
"This. This is the way. This is your star of Bethlehem, if you are brave enough to follow it."

Madeleine Perrin's happily ever after with her childhood friend Daniel Raymond got off to a rocky start, in fact, it didn't get off to a start at all. Despite the awkward dynamics, there was a war going on, and they were both involved at different levels in the French Reisistance, which was dangerous at best and deadly at worst. When Daniel shows up wounded, now realizing how much he has missed his "Mado", has his second chance been awarded to him after all? Will the miracle of the babe in the manger still ring true for Daniel and Madeleine?

Based on a true story, while utilizing a setting filled with amazing avenues of secret passage, the author expertly twines the spirit of Christmas; light entering the darkness with anticipation and hope, into an outstanding love story! It would be hard to find one better than this!
Profile Image for Katie.
278 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 1, 2026
The Christmas Courier was another excellent novella by White. It had a little bit of a cozy Christmas feel thrown in with ww2 suspense.
The beginning of the story felt a smidge rushed as it set the stage but the last 75% was great.
Friends to more, ww2, resistance efforts. So much wrapped into 1.
260 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 24, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. Very good Christmas story set in France during WW2 involving the French resistance. A sweet romance and a fast paced story. Based partially on real events.
Profile Image for Danielle Turko.
425 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 11, 2026
Madeline has been in love with Daniel for as long as she can remember, but he has only seen her as a friend. One day that changes, but when her father is killed Daniel disappears from her life, certain she will blame him for the murder. 6 months go by before she sees him again, and it's only because he shows up with an injury he needs her sister to look at. He can't go to the hospital because he was given it by the Gestapo during a checkstop one night while carrying out his work for the resistance, and his heritage of being half Jewish would give him automatic deportation papers to a camp, or worse. Back in his old apartment, Daniel finds himself hiding from his former friends, unsure who he can trust in these times. Madeline and her family are some of the only people he trusts completely, and when he finds himself in need of help he prays they can get to him in time.
I only discovered this author about a year ago but so far she hasn't disappointed me. I love the historical fiction genre, and she has a way of inserting the facts without slowing the story. I will definitely continue to read more of her stories.
Profile Image for Brandi.
1,495 reviews38 followers
August 1, 2026
The Christmas Courier by Roseanna M. White is a delightful holiday story set in WWII France. While the reality of war is real and ever present as a central part of this story, the hope of love and the tender romance is a beautiful balance. I adored Madeleine immensely and her no-nonsense, what you see is what you get approach to life. She has, unashamedly, been in love with Daniel her whole life and the power of that love is written so well in this story. Daniel has a profound conversion that makes the reverence of Christmas even more significant at the same time helping him welcome and embrace the love once offered so freely to him. I enjoyed the historical aspect of the Resistance and the tunnel system of Lyon as they created an intriguing backdrop and premise for this story. Roseanna writes with compelling faith in every aspect of her stories, never shying away from flawed characters and the redemptive power of love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness. I highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, romance, WWII, and holiday stories that are grounded in faith.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,424 reviews81 followers
August 20, 2026
"Perhaps evil can only exist when there isn't good there to combat it."

Roseanna M White is one of my go-to historical fiction authors. I loved learning about the French Resistance work in Lyon, France. Even though the backdrop of occupied France in 1943 was dismal and heart-breaking, there was still a ray of hope that everyone clung to. Witnessing Christmas in France with their lovely traditions even in the midst of loss, grief, and lack of essentials was extra special. I loved Daniel and his steadfast commitment to Resistance work. Madeleine's courage, spunk and creativity were perfectly balanced by her tender heart, faithful love for Daniel, and compassion. Her brother Augustin and sister Agnes were truly delightful secondary characters. It was amazing to read from the author's note at the end of the book that this story was inspired by real events and people.

If you love historical Christmas novellas, you don't want to miss this one. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,344 reviews500 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 4, 2026

First I loved that this book is based on a true story!
The time is when the evil has taken over Europe, and we are in occupied France, Lyon, and the heart of these people, along with the sacrifices! Some of these people give the ultimate, and others work with the enemy, but I loved the forgiveness, so hard to do!
We are give a beautifully written Christian historical read, some sweet romance, danger, and family.
This is a fast read novella, that lingers a long time after the last page is turned.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale House, and was not required to give a positive review.
Profile Image for Parkland Mom.
878 reviews21 followers
October 17, 2026
Completed: October 2026
Format: e-ARC from Net Galley

Book #94 of 2026: This is a nice WW2 Christmas story largely based on actual events. Daniel and Madeleine (a teacher) are good family friends. They are the main characters and involved with the Resistance in Lyon, France. Mado (her nickname) has been head over heels for Daniel for years. When he finally responds with a kiss, it doesn’t turn out so well!

Six months later, the two see one another again. And argue. However, during that time, a tragedy occurred on the heels of Daniel making a faith commitment. Both events involved Mado’s father. They reunite as friends.

After an unexpected proposal from another man, things change. Daniel’s feelings had grown immensely during the months they did not see each other. Before they can claim happily ever after as a possibility, the Gestapo wreaks havoc. The two are separated and his life is on the line. Madeleine is determined to have their happy ending and is blessed with an idea on how to make it all happen. Her plan involves a wedding of all things.

My favorite part was the full circle return to a particular sound and a particular Christmas item mentioned earlier in the book.

I was not familiar with the true story this story arose from so I appreciated the information the author leaves after the ending.

The dichotomy of the Nazi horrors and the courage, perseverance, and unity of the Resistance is deeply felt. The power of His faithful love shines through a terrible time in history.

* My thanks to Tyndale Fiction and Net Galley for an advanced e-copy. My rating and review are both voluntary and the review is fully in my own words.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews