The Christmas Courier: A WWII Historical Novella

by Roseanna M. White, Aimee Lilly (Narrator)

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.

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 World War II historical Christmas novella inspired by true events

A low-spice second-chance holiday romance with a friends-to-lovers trope

Compelling Christian fiction about brave spies and daring escapes for fans of Sarah Sundin, Kristen Harmel, Lynn Austin, and Sara Ackerman

Genres: Christmas, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, World War II, France, Friendship

Audible Audio

First published October 1, 2026

About the author

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

Reviews

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.)

[Katja Labonté · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.*

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

“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.

[Bethany Marsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Erin Laramore · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[katescleanreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Cecilia Romano · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a suspenseful and sweet Christmas-y story! I thoroughly enjoyed it -- and the history behind it!

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Christmas Courier by Rosanna M. White is a wonderful novella. Set during the German occupation of France during WWII the Resistance was very real. Fighting secretly and passing information to other resistance members carried a death sentence if caught. Being Jewish or of Jewish heritage also carried a death sentence. Being both a Resistance member and of Jewish heritage, Daniel Raymond had double the motivation to avoid capture. Madeleine (Mado) Perrin, a childhood friend who had loved Daniel all her life assisted in passing information to Daniel for the Resistance. Would they avoid capture? Would they survive the German invasion?

The only negative I have regarding White's novella is that it is too short. I wanted more.

Released Oct. 13, 2026. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Abbey LaDawn · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

One of my favorite Christmas books I’ve read! While listening to the story, I kept thinking it was a lovely story of faith and love in wartime, but quite fare fetched and impossible. Imagine my surprise when thanks to the author’s note, I discovered that this story is based on the real events of a remarkable woman who miraculously rescued her husband not once, but twice, after he was captured by Nazis for his resistance work. Such a beautiful story of hope, faith, and miracles with strong Christian themes that I will recommend to anyone. It was short, but impactful!

Kisses only and no profanity.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

"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!

[LA · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Lori Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

“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.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[PhyllisRBooks · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Beautifully Written-

I love to read Christmas novellas. It is a busy time of year, so shorter reading times are satisfied with shorter books. I also love to read all kinds of Christmas stories. I am reading them sooner this year for no other reason than the October release of a new Roseanna M White story.

Joyeux Noël from the Resistance in Lyon, France, during the Nazi occupation, 1943. These courageous characters had me spellbound as this story unfolds. What started as a 4* historical romance became a 5* read because Roseanna M White is such an amazing wordsmith. She weaves such wisdom and faith through the pages of her stories, leaving this reader in awe of her gifts and abilities. In particular, in this novella, her words that parallel light, darkness and the birth of Jesus-

“…what is the purpose of Advent, if not to remind us that the Light has come? The darkness cannot comprehend him—nor can it blot him out.”

I listened to the audiobook narrated by Aimee Lilly. An enjoyable narration.

This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.

[Caren | Hopefulwords · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Faith · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Madeleine Perin and her siblings are doing what they can to fight back against the Nazi occupation of France, working with the resistance along with their former neighbor Daniel Raymond.

A stirring friends-to-lovers romance based loosely on a true story of hope and resilience in wartime. An engaging read, with likable protagonists who have known each other since childhood. I loved the closeness and support between the Perin siblings and their mother, pulling together and leaning on their faith in difficult times. I liked the chemistry and playfulness between Madeleine and Daniel, as well as their new closeness at a shared faith.

Hopeful and faith filled Christmas novella, heartwarming and compelling plot, with high stakes in Lyon, France. Madeleine is quick thinking and charismatic, devoted to her family, her faith and the children at the school. I liked that Daniel was a close family friend, and how he took care with how he came forward after what happened in his own personal life, as well as his care for others.

Overall, a satisfying Christmas novella full of faith, hope, love and family!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[LAMONT D · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I am reading historical fiction sometimes, I wonder if this is truly based upon a historical event and/or people. Once again, I was pleasantly surprised when I finished this novella and read her note from our author in the back of the book. Yes, indeed the story was inspired by real-life heroes during WW II. It was also fun to learn about the system of traboules in Lyon, France that is crucial to the storyline. And as always one of my favorite authors includes a prominent Christian theme throughout ("Sometimes it was in the hardest times that they could see the Lord most clearly too"). The Christmas season works though with the novella you get to the end and then skip one year between the last chapter and the epilogue. Not a big deal but yet felt somewhat abrupt.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.