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Heroines of WWII #5
A Rose for the Resistance
A French Woman and German Soldier Create a Truce
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
With her father in a German POW camp and her home in Ste Mere Eglise, France, under Nazi occupation, Rosalie Barrieau will do anything to keep her younger brother safe. . .even from his desire to join the French resistance. Until she falls into the debt of a German solder—one who delivers a wounded British pilot to her door. Though not sure what to make of her German ally, Rosalie is thrust deep into the heart of the local underground. As tensions build toward the allied invasion of Normandy, she must decide how much she is willing to risk for freedom.
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
With her father in a German POW camp and her home in Ste Mere Eglise, France, under Nazi occupation, Rosalie Barrieau will do anything to keep her younger brother safe. . .even from his desire to join the French resistance. Until she falls into the debt of a German solder—one who delivers a wounded British pilot to her door. Though not sure what to make of her German ally, Rosalie is thrust deep into the heart of the local underground. As tensions build toward the allied invasion of Normandy, she must decide how much she is willing to risk for freedom.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2022
20 people are currently reading
2507 people want to read
About the author
Angela K. Couch
22 books426 followersFascinated by history and in love with creating fiction, Angela K Couch has been lost in writing novels most of her life. As a passionate believer in Christ, she can't help her faith from permeating the stories she tells. Often her martial arts training, love of horses, and appreciation for good romance sneaks in there as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
June 22, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. The heartache that Rosalie went through, the strength she had to develop to keep her family safe but also to help in the Resistance, and to love.
Rosalie and her brother, Marcel, are part of the Resistance in their town. A German soldier, Franz, who is learning that the war is not what he thought, helps them when a British pilot, Robert, is shot down. After helping get Robert to freedom, Rosalie, Marcel, and Franz start accepting their roles in helping to bring this war to an end. But at what cost to each of them?
The story of Rosalie is one I am sure happened quite often at the time. The want for freedom, the fascination with the attention of a soldier fighting for their freedom, and in the opposite side the attention of a German soldier. But who can be trusted, if anyone. The love Rosalie had was true, for her country, for the Resistance, and also for the men in her life.
I thank Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Rosalie and her brother, Marcel, are part of the Resistance in their town. A German soldier, Franz, who is learning that the war is not what he thought, helps them when a British pilot, Robert, is shot down. After helping get Robert to freedom, Rosalie, Marcel, and Franz start accepting their roles in helping to bring this war to an end. But at what cost to each of them?
The story of Rosalie is one I am sure happened quite often at the time. The want for freedom, the fascination with the attention of a soldier fighting for their freedom, and in the opposite side the attention of a German soldier. But who can be trusted, if anyone. The love Rosalie had was true, for her country, for the Resistance, and also for the men in her life.
I thank Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
April 6, 2022
A lovely romance and a touching story of a wounded family. Set amid the bleakness of Nazi-occupied Normandy, A Rose for the Resistance raises thoughtful questions about loyalty and courage and trust. Rosalie and Franz both find strength in dire circumstances, and their love grows from impossible to inevitable. You will lose yourself in Angela K. Couch’s beautiful and suspenseful story!
March 1, 2022
Genre: historical fiction, WW2
Tropes: war, enemies to lovers, love triangle, opposites in war, rebellion
Series: Heroines of WW2 #5
Cliffhanger: No
Rating: 4 ⭐
"It doesn't matter what you do, how docile and weak you pretend to be, it won't save you. If they don't kill you, they will work or starve you to death."
I have received an ARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily. Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy.
This book was really nice and easy to read, with enough sweetness, sorrow and humor to make you go through the full emotional range. It was fast-paced, but with good plot and well sketched characters that had a way of making you feel connected with them.
"No one solider will win this war. But each is needed for victory."
The plot follows Rosalie, a French woman whose brother has joined the resistance and Franz Kafka, a German solider sent to Normandy during the occupation. I liked how the war was presented through their different perspectives, oppressed struggling with everyday life and oppressor suffering of a guilty conscience. It was beautifully portrayed how they've managed to find faith, hope, love and trust to work together towards a better world.
The attempt of creating a love triangle between Rosalie, Franz and Robert, the British pilot the two of them have saved, was interesting and unexpected, but I was pleased that it wasn't turned into a melodrama and things went on pretty smoothly.
Something I really appreciated was how faith was presented here, as a source of strength, courage and hope for better times. The relationship with religion and God was portrayed as a mean of salvation and I think it was realistic, as, even though love and war always go hand in hand, religion and faith play a big part too.
"No, but everything has two sides to it, opposites, good and bad. Even people are like that."
Something I wasn't really fond of was Franz Kafka and I don't mean the character; no, no, that was good. My problem was with the name itself, as there was a real life Franz Kafka (really known for his works) and he had no liason with WW2. Not to mention that he was also Jewish, so having a German lieutenant with this name was kind of buggy. Apart from that, maybe I would have enjoyed a little more depth, but for a novella that wasn't exactly long, the action and the characters had enough emotion to share with the reader.
It was a good read, I was unable to put it down and I've read it in less than a day. It's definitely worth picking up and giving it a try. It has that allure of a painfully beautiful story about war, love, courage, patriotic beliefs and the hidden ways of human nature.
Tropes: war, enemies to lovers, love triangle, opposites in war, rebellion
Series: Heroines of WW2 #5
Cliffhanger: No
Rating: 4 ⭐
"It doesn't matter what you do, how docile and weak you pretend to be, it won't save you. If they don't kill you, they will work or starve you to death."
I have received an ARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily. Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy.
This book was really nice and easy to read, with enough sweetness, sorrow and humor to make you go through the full emotional range. It was fast-paced, but with good plot and well sketched characters that had a way of making you feel connected with them.
"No one solider will win this war. But each is needed for victory."
The plot follows Rosalie, a French woman whose brother has joined the resistance and Franz Kafka, a German solider sent to Normandy during the occupation. I liked how the war was presented through their different perspectives, oppressed struggling with everyday life and oppressor suffering of a guilty conscience. It was beautifully portrayed how they've managed to find faith, hope, love and trust to work together towards a better world.
The attempt of creating a love triangle between Rosalie, Franz and Robert, the British pilot the two of them have saved, was interesting and unexpected, but I was pleased that it wasn't turned into a melodrama and things went on pretty smoothly.
Something I really appreciated was how faith was presented here, as a source of strength, courage and hope for better times. The relationship with religion and God was portrayed as a mean of salvation and I think it was realistic, as, even though love and war always go hand in hand, religion and faith play a big part too.
"No, but everything has two sides to it, opposites, good and bad. Even people are like that."
Something I wasn't really fond of was Franz Kafka and I don't mean the character; no, no, that was good. My problem was with the name itself, as there was a real life Franz Kafka (really known for his works) and he had no liason with WW2. Not to mention that he was also Jewish, so having a German lieutenant with this name was kind of buggy. Apart from that, maybe I would have enjoyed a little more depth, but for a novella that wasn't exactly long, the action and the characters had enough emotion to share with the reader.
It was a good read, I was unable to put it down and I've read it in less than a day. It's definitely worth picking up and giving it a try. It has that allure of a painfully beautiful story about war, love, courage, patriotic beliefs and the hidden ways of human nature.
April 4, 2022
4.75 ⭐️
Centered in Ste Mere Eglise, France, Rosalie Barrie navigates life with her father in a German POW camp, her brother involving himself in the French resistance, and the war her heart wages against her when the German ally she makes turns from an enemy she distrusts into a man she, well—you’ll have to read to find out!
There were several things I loved about this book.
First was the author’s writing style. It was super engaging and made it want to be the book I picked up to read, not the one I put down in exchange for another more engaging read.
Second was the storyline. Historical fiction is my absolute favorite genre, but it’s gotten harder for me to find books that I love. A lot of historical fiction books are okay. Sometimes the storylines are too simplistic or the writing falls flat, but this book was one I would absolutely say I highly enjoyed. The historical detail, the relationships between the characters, and the pacing of the story was perfect—not too slow, not too fast, just perfect for me!
Third was the amount of faith represented in the book. It was a perfect balance of faith meeting reality. The character’s weren’t perfect; they made their fair share of mistakes and wrestled through fear and doubt. They were real, relatable characters who had their flaws but tried their best to trust in God through hard and scary things they endured. A lot of books I’ve read don’t balance sinful humanity and faith well, but this one did.
One minor thing that kept me from giving this book a full five star rating was some of the romance. I felt like there was a lot of back-and-forth between Rosalie and Franz when it came to their relationship. One minute, they’re telling themselves a relationship is impossible and to ignore the feelings they have for each other, and the next, they’re willing to take the risk even if their relationship doesn’t have a happy ending due to the war. Of course, I understand that there’s a lot of second guessing and reconsidering when it comes to relationships, especially during a war, and there’s a lot of factors that keep you from being grounded one way or the other, but I felt the author could have cut back on the inner dialogue a little bit when the characters interacted. I think this would have made the romance a bit more balanced, but this is totally my personal opinion. It didn’t take away from the story at all!
I would definitely recommend this book to historical fiction lovers. It’s a clean read with a great storyline and engaging writing. History, war, romance and faith —what more could you ask for?
(Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are expressly my own.)
Centered in Ste Mere Eglise, France, Rosalie Barrie navigates life with her father in a German POW camp, her brother involving himself in the French resistance, and the war her heart wages against her when the German ally she makes turns from an enemy she distrusts into a man she, well—you’ll have to read to find out!
There were several things I loved about this book.
First was the author’s writing style. It was super engaging and made it want to be the book I picked up to read, not the one I put down in exchange for another more engaging read.
Second was the storyline. Historical fiction is my absolute favorite genre, but it’s gotten harder for me to find books that I love. A lot of historical fiction books are okay. Sometimes the storylines are too simplistic or the writing falls flat, but this book was one I would absolutely say I highly enjoyed. The historical detail, the relationships between the characters, and the pacing of the story was perfect—not too slow, not too fast, just perfect for me!
Third was the amount of faith represented in the book. It was a perfect balance of faith meeting reality. The character’s weren’t perfect; they made their fair share of mistakes and wrestled through fear and doubt. They were real, relatable characters who had their flaws but tried their best to trust in God through hard and scary things they endured. A lot of books I’ve read don’t balance sinful humanity and faith well, but this one did.
One minor thing that kept me from giving this book a full five star rating was some of the romance. I felt like there was a lot of back-and-forth between Rosalie and Franz when it came to their relationship. One minute, they’re telling themselves a relationship is impossible and to ignore the feelings they have for each other, and the next, they’re willing to take the risk even if their relationship doesn’t have a happy ending due to the war. Of course, I understand that there’s a lot of second guessing and reconsidering when it comes to relationships, especially during a war, and there’s a lot of factors that keep you from being grounded one way or the other, but I felt the author could have cut back on the inner dialogue a little bit when the characters interacted. I think this would have made the romance a bit more balanced, but this is totally my personal opinion. It didn’t take away from the story at all!
I would definitely recommend this book to historical fiction lovers. It’s a clean read with a great storyline and engaging writing. History, war, romance and faith —what more could you ask for?
(Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are expressly my own.)
April 23, 2022
This was an intriguing story that was heavy on the heart yet kept me wanting to keep reading. It was sobering with the devastation and near starvation of millions of citizens with rations being so slim. the bravery of those who dared to resist thankfully; the courage to fight back. So, so many had to endure such times of suffering during the war...all because of an evil madman and his cronies who wanted to control more and more of Europe. One of the main characters Franz, spoke about how some Germans ,like him, didn't want a war...."the Poles, Dutch, French people didn't do anything to us...they just wanted to be free to live their own lives etc" (best I can remember right now) The verse about Greater love hath no man than he lay down his life for another was included and so rightly true. The soldiers +++ plus untold numbers of resisters who helped the innocent and each other with brave acts to help fight for their freedom, to lose their lives as a sacrifice.....A thank you always seems so woefully inadequate whenever I would have the honor of meeting veterans..... I will read more by this author.
April 27, 2022
Normandy, France 1940-1946
Good! Nice introduction to a new to me author.
The fifth of the Heroines of WWII Series provides a view of living in Normandy prior to and during D Day. It's tough to imagine what life would be like to live in constant fear and have diminished food supplies.
Rosalie Barrieau strives to take care of her mother and younger brother while her father is serving to protect France. As her brother becomes an older teenager, he yearns to be a part of the Resistance.
Lots of tension in the pages as Rosalie navigates life the best she can. Engaging storyline and well crafted characters. The flashbacks to conversations with her father were a great way to give readers a better glimpse of Rosalie and her father as well.
Lovely cover.
My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Good! Nice introduction to a new to me author.
The fifth of the Heroines of WWII Series provides a view of living in Normandy prior to and during D Day. It's tough to imagine what life would be like to live in constant fear and have diminished food supplies.
Rosalie Barrieau strives to take care of her mother and younger brother while her father is serving to protect France. As her brother becomes an older teenager, he yearns to be a part of the Resistance.
Lots of tension in the pages as Rosalie navigates life the best she can. Engaging storyline and well crafted characters. The flashbacks to conversations with her father were a great way to give readers a better glimpse of Rosalie and her father as well.
Lovely cover.
My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
May 1, 2022
This was an enjoyable but of course sobering story about the sorrows and devastating experiences so many endured through the war.......kept me intrigued and wanting to continue reading each time. Christian elements throughout as it was inspiring. This was a great length as not too long nor tedious at all. I don't the same patience and am reluctant to start if it long or seems too detailed( to me 400 pages is plenty!) as there are galores of fascinating books to be enjoyed. I was pleased with this author and certainly won't mind reading more by her!
December 31, 2021
I'm honored to have written an endorsement for this heart-tugging novel that delves deep into the lives of a young French woman grieving for the losses brought about the by war and a young German soldier battling his own personal demons. Circumstances lead both to overcome their fears and grow their faith. Angela Couch's novel skillfully weaves an engaging story that takes place over several years. Highly recommend!
April 30, 2022
This is my first Heroines of WWII book... but it won't be my last. Now. I wasn't confident going into this book. I knew I'd love parts of it, but I've never read anything by Angela K. Couch, and I didn't know what to expect.
Well, I know now that I expect I'll be reading more by her. Whoa.
A short read, this book tells the powerful story of Normandy and the D-Day invasion from several perspectives--those who survived WWI in France, several Germans, other Frenchmen, a British airman, and a few others. In the end, you're left rejoicing in who you can trust and wanting to protect everyone from those you cannot.
Some WWII books show that the people everyone thought were loyal to the death were actually the enemy within. And those are important and riveting books. Others show everyone for who they are and let you see how it plays out because there is no unreliable narrator. Equally fascinating if and when done well. Both styles have strengths, and I think Angela chose her method of storytelling well for this story. You'll have to read it to find out.
If you love a gentle, deep, meaningful faith element, you will not be disappointed. If you like characters that you want to shake, root for, and love to hate... you'll get those, too. But best of all, if you like a book that you can read in one sitting... A Rose for the Resistance is it.. And be glad. Because let me tell you, you won't want to put it down.
If I put on my critical hat, I'd probably pull a star off for various reasons, but I simply cannot do it. I loved the book. It was an inspiring, deeply moving story, and I refuse to pick it apart for the sake of "saving stars" for reasons that never make sense to me.
Recommended for lovers of WWII fiction, lovers of varying viewpoints, and for people who recognize the importance of keeping freedom close to our hearts lest we hand it over in the name of fear or security.
Well done, Angela K. Couch. Very well done.
Well, I know now that I expect I'll be reading more by her. Whoa.
A short read, this book tells the powerful story of Normandy and the D-Day invasion from several perspectives--those who survived WWI in France, several Germans, other Frenchmen, a British airman, and a few others. In the end, you're left rejoicing in who you can trust and wanting to protect everyone from those you cannot.
Some WWII books show that the people everyone thought were loyal to the death were actually the enemy within. And those are important and riveting books. Others show everyone for who they are and let you see how it plays out because there is no unreliable narrator. Equally fascinating if and when done well. Both styles have strengths, and I think Angela chose her method of storytelling well for this story. You'll have to read it to find out.
If you love a gentle, deep, meaningful faith element, you will not be disappointed. If you like characters that you want to shake, root for, and love to hate... you'll get those, too. But best of all, if you like a book that you can read in one sitting... A Rose for the Resistance is it.. And be glad. Because let me tell you, you won't want to put it down.
If I put on my critical hat, I'd probably pull a star off for various reasons, but I simply cannot do it. I loved the book. It was an inspiring, deeply moving story, and I refuse to pick it apart for the sake of "saving stars" for reasons that never make sense to me.
Recommended for lovers of WWII fiction, lovers of varying viewpoints, and for people who recognize the importance of keeping freedom close to our hearts lest we hand it over in the name of fear or security.
Well done, Angela K. Couch. Very well done.
March 10, 2022
The Singed Bible
A fast paced , action packed, novel of the French Resistance during WWII. Two young siblings that worked for the resistance, a downed American pilot and a German Officer. Filled with courage, love of country, faith and a bit of romance.
Rosalie's father is in a POW camp somewhere in Germany, her mother is in a depressed mood over the loss of her father and it is up to Rosalie to look after her preteen brother Marcel that is determined to get himself in trouble with the Germans while working with the French Resistance.
Slowly Rosalie is drawn into helping the resistance. Franz is a German soldier that is disillusioned with the Nazi army. He helps Rosalie and Marcel and brings them a downed pilot he found wounded for them to hide named Robert.
Rosalie has a bible that she found in a pile of burned books that was singed on the edges, when Marcel ran from the soldiers and hid in a barn with Rosalie. She feels this bible helped them hide from the Nazi officer that opened the door and then shut it pretending he didn't see them. Now she carries the bible on all her resistance jobs. She reads her bible and prays for all in this awful war.
So many things happen in the time the war is going on and always she has faith. It is a story of what it was like for the people in France when it was occupied by the German soldiers. The cruel treatment by the Nazi's , the rationing and scarcity of food, the danger in their fight for their country against unsurpassed odds.
This was a good book about the French resistance and I did enjoy reading about these brave young characters. I would recommend this book.
Thanks to Angela K. Couch for writing a great story, to Barbour Publishing for publishing the book and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
A fast paced , action packed, novel of the French Resistance during WWII. Two young siblings that worked for the resistance, a downed American pilot and a German Officer. Filled with courage, love of country, faith and a bit of romance.
Rosalie's father is in a POW camp somewhere in Germany, her mother is in a depressed mood over the loss of her father and it is up to Rosalie to look after her preteen brother Marcel that is determined to get himself in trouble with the Germans while working with the French Resistance.
Slowly Rosalie is drawn into helping the resistance. Franz is a German soldier that is disillusioned with the Nazi army. He helps Rosalie and Marcel and brings them a downed pilot he found wounded for them to hide named Robert.
Rosalie has a bible that she found in a pile of burned books that was singed on the edges, when Marcel ran from the soldiers and hid in a barn with Rosalie. She feels this bible helped them hide from the Nazi officer that opened the door and then shut it pretending he didn't see them. Now she carries the bible on all her resistance jobs. She reads her bible and prays for all in this awful war.
So many things happen in the time the war is going on and always she has faith. It is a story of what it was like for the people in France when it was occupied by the German soldiers. The cruel treatment by the Nazi's , the rationing and scarcity of food, the danger in their fight for their country against unsurpassed odds.
This was a good book about the French resistance and I did enjoy reading about these brave young characters. I would recommend this book.
Thanks to Angela K. Couch for writing a great story, to Barbour Publishing for publishing the book and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
April 25, 2022
Set in Normandy France in June 1940 before the German's invaded France, Rosalie Barrieu feels she and her mother and brother just need to wait things out and they won't be affected by the war. But when the first troops enter France, Rosalie realizes her brother who has joined the Resistance effort has been correct, and she soon finds herself involved as well. Franz Kaufka has been a German soldier since the beginning of the war, but the brutality and cruelty of the Nazi philosophy has turned him against what Germany stands for. Can a French resistor and a disillusioned German soldier make a difference in how this war will end?
Well written, enjoyable World War 2 read that shows that not all German military personnel supported what the Nazis believed.
Well written, enjoyable World War 2 read that shows that not all German military personnel supported what the Nazis believed.
February 8, 2022
As Rosalie hid in the shed with her injured brother, a German officer opened the door and discovered their hiding place. Unsure what was about to happen, they looked at the officer, who looked at them then looked at the burned Bible laying beside them. He looks at them, then turns and closes the door, letting them live.
And that was the beginning of a wonderful relationship between would be enemies.
Three years later, they meet again, when the same German officer brings an injured British pilot to their home, and helps tend the injured man. As time goes on, Rosalie is confused about the German man, Franz, because he doesn't seem very loyal to serving the German army. Why is he helping his enemies? Can they trust him? A wonderful World War II story that is clean and very captivating! Loved it!
And that was the beginning of a wonderful relationship between would be enemies.
Three years later, they meet again, when the same German officer brings an injured British pilot to their home, and helps tend the injured man. As time goes on, Rosalie is confused about the German man, Franz, because he doesn't seem very loyal to serving the German army. Why is he helping his enemies? Can they trust him? A wonderful World War II story that is clean and very captivating! Loved it!
April 4, 2022
I have read everything by Angela Couch. This novel touched a real-life cord applicable to today. We don’t have to be in WWII Normandy to face life’s difficult decisions. As much as one might try to stay out of life’s frays, most likely there will come a point when a side must be chosen. It might be late in the dilemma (war), but in the end any commitment given to the right cause should count. Right?
The author makes one think about the individual in any situation. The individual is the only person who knows the answer to why he/she chooses a certain path. As the outsider, forgiveness and acceptance go a long way in healing and gaining renewed purpose. Could you forgive a Nazi, a past sin, unkind words, stealing, choosing the wrong cause?
Bravo, Angela, for taking me on this difficult journey.
The author makes one think about the individual in any situation. The individual is the only person who knows the answer to why he/she chooses a certain path. As the outsider, forgiveness and acceptance go a long way in healing and gaining renewed purpose. Could you forgive a Nazi, a past sin, unkind words, stealing, choosing the wrong cause?
Bravo, Angela, for taking me on this difficult journey.
April 30, 2025
It didn't really grab my attention very well, but I did like the main characters and their relationship. The Christian elements were stronger than they usually are in this kind of book, but I also wish they had had a clearer resolution? There was a resolution, but, like, it just kinda seemed like Rosalie didn't really trust God one minute and then did the next for no apparent reason? Oh well. Still an interesting plot and good characters.
May 15, 2022
This story opens in 1940 in Normandy, France. Rosalie Barrieau wants to ignore the war surrounding her, though she realizes its importance- especially when the Prime Minister of France agrees to armistice with Germany. Within the first chapter, her boyfriend, Lucas Fournier, is killed by Nazis for his role in Resistance efforts. Rosalie then has no choice but to face the state of her country, narrowly avoiding capture with her younger brother when they are spared by a Nazi solider who hands them a Bible when he discovers their hiding place.
Three years later, Franz Kafka (an interesting choice of character name) is on leave from his duties after being injured while fighting on the Soviet Front. While he is relieved to be home in Berlin, he is quickly assigned to Normandy to deal with the growing French Resistance, a position he has earned through his mother's connection and engagement to a high ranking Nazi Party official. When he arrives in Normandy, he quickly encounters Rosalie once more; he feels bad for her situation and the way she is treated at a routine stop by German soldiers. It's clear he's not on board with Nazi ideology, but serves to protect himself and his mother, Rosalie is understandably suspicious of him and his intentions, but she soon sees his heart and questions her perception of him based on his uniform.
This was a bit romance heavy for my taste, but I found that the relationship between Rosalie and Franz felt realistic. The events surrounding World War II were presented in an easily digestible way, yet did not shy away from the harsh realities of the period. This series does an excellent job at showcasing lesser known events during the era, highlight women who helped with the war effort. While this was not based on a true story, as others in the series are, it felt very possible and I so admired the courage and faith of both Franz and Rosalie. It was a delight to see her come into her own faith and to watch how God protected and provided for the characters each step of the way.
Three years later, Franz Kafka (an interesting choice of character name) is on leave from his duties after being injured while fighting on the Soviet Front. While he is relieved to be home in Berlin, he is quickly assigned to Normandy to deal with the growing French Resistance, a position he has earned through his mother's connection and engagement to a high ranking Nazi Party official. When he arrives in Normandy, he quickly encounters Rosalie once more; he feels bad for her situation and the way she is treated at a routine stop by German soldiers. It's clear he's not on board with Nazi ideology, but serves to protect himself and his mother, Rosalie is understandably suspicious of him and his intentions, but she soon sees his heart and questions her perception of him based on his uniform.
This was a bit romance heavy for my taste, but I found that the relationship between Rosalie and Franz felt realistic. The events surrounding World War II were presented in an easily digestible way, yet did not shy away from the harsh realities of the period. This series does an excellent job at showcasing lesser known events during the era, highlight women who helped with the war effort. While this was not based on a true story, as others in the series are, it felt very possible and I so admired the courage and faith of both Franz and Rosalie. It was a delight to see her come into her own faith and to watch how God protected and provided for the characters each step of the way.
May 14, 2022
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I have enjoyed each book in the Heroines of WWII Series so far, and A Rose for the Resistance was another awesome read in this series from Barbour Books. Rosalie lives in France until the Nazis arrived, changing their life forever.
Angela K. Couch does such a nice job with this book. The writing is phenomenal, and I loved getting to know the characters and watch them grow as the story unfolds. I really enjoyed getting to know both Rosalie and Franz. I love Franz’s kind and caring personality, and the way he looked after and took care of Rosalie’s family. And though this book is fiction, I am sure she has captured many of the things ladies had to deal with during the war with Nazi’s and occupied France. Sometimes it is easy to forget the women and children and what they endure during wars, and the many that loose their lives as well. I appreciate the way Couch gives us vivid historical details of this War. If you enjoy WWII stories, you will really like this one!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I have enjoyed each book in the Heroines of WWII Series so far, and A Rose for the Resistance was another awesome read in this series from Barbour Books. Rosalie lives in France until the Nazis arrived, changing their life forever.
Angela K. Couch does such a nice job with this book. The writing is phenomenal, and I loved getting to know the characters and watch them grow as the story unfolds. I really enjoyed getting to know both Rosalie and Franz. I love Franz’s kind and caring personality, and the way he looked after and took care of Rosalie’s family. And though this book is fiction, I am sure she has captured many of the things ladies had to deal with during the war with Nazi’s and occupied France. Sometimes it is easy to forget the women and children and what they endure during wars, and the many that loose their lives as well. I appreciate the way Couch gives us vivid historical details of this War. If you enjoy WWII stories, you will really like this one!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
February 15, 2022
A Rose for the Resistance
Heroines of WWII #5
by Angela K Couch
Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction
Rated: 4
Back of the Book: “A French Woman and German Soldier Create a Truce
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
With her father in a German POW camp and her home in Ste Mere Eglise, France, under Nazi occupation, Rosalie Barrieau will do anything to keep her younger brother safe. . .even from his desire to join the French resistance. Until she falls into the debt of a German solder—one who delivers a wounded British pilot to her door. Though not sure what to make of her German ally, Rosalie is thrust deep into the heart of the local underground. As tensions build toward the allied invasion of Normandy, she must decide how much she is willing to risk for freedom.”
Impressions: This was an exciting addition to the Heroines of WW2 series. I enjoyed the suspense and romance in this story. I easily slipped into Rosa’s insecurities and the tug of war going in her heart while trying to balance the angst and tension of Marcel's character as I read. I was reminded that life is not as black and white as we might think. All in all, it was a clean romance with some reference to faith and impactful messages of hope and love.
Quotes: …" was it possible God truly did exist, and that He might take an interest in someone as simple and unimportant as her?” - Although I have no doubt in God, I often have self-doubt which makes me question why God would care for insignificant me. I imagine that we must all wonder that at times.
“’ Don’t you get it, Rosa? It doesn’t matter what you do, how docile and weak you pretend to be, it won’t save you. If they don’t kill you, they will work or starve you to death.’” - This reminded me to be bold in my faith. People will accept God or deny Him but being silent does not help anyone.
“Germany will not stop draining the life from France and her people until either they are pushed out or there is nothing left of us.” - So much of this war talk reminds me of the spiritual battle going on around us. Satan too will not stop perusing us until there is no life in us. There is hope because God will not stop pursuing us either.
“Maybe one person alone can do nothing. That is why we must come together, organize and plan.”
“The only thing I really know about you is that uniform.” -What we support, what we wear, who we speak up for creates a picture that people use to identify us. This was a reminder for me to be mindful of who or what I am representing.
“I wasn’t always one of them. But I’m not sure how to go back. I can’t change the past four years, though I might wish for it.” -Back to the spiritual battle- sin can creep into our lives so guilefully that we don’t realize what's happened until we feel hopeless to turn back. Jesus gives us hope that no matter how far we might be we can still be His.
“No one soldier will win this war. But each is needed for victory.” -From the first quote in questioning one's importance, we can see through this quote how we are a body, working together to achieve a goal. Not an individual having to do it all, but one individual being called to work their part. That is how God calls us as well.
I received this ARC via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review shared here.
For more book reviews visit: https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com
Heroines of WWII #5
by Angela K Couch
Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction
Rated: 4
Back of the Book: “A French Woman and German Soldier Create a Truce
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
With her father in a German POW camp and her home in Ste Mere Eglise, France, under Nazi occupation, Rosalie Barrieau will do anything to keep her younger brother safe. . .even from his desire to join the French resistance. Until she falls into the debt of a German solder—one who delivers a wounded British pilot to her door. Though not sure what to make of her German ally, Rosalie is thrust deep into the heart of the local underground. As tensions build toward the allied invasion of Normandy, she must decide how much she is willing to risk for freedom.”
Impressions: This was an exciting addition to the Heroines of WW2 series. I enjoyed the suspense and romance in this story. I easily slipped into Rosa’s insecurities and the tug of war going in her heart while trying to balance the angst and tension of Marcel's character as I read. I was reminded that life is not as black and white as we might think. All in all, it was a clean romance with some reference to faith and impactful messages of hope and love.
Quotes: …" was it possible God truly did exist, and that He might take an interest in someone as simple and unimportant as her?” - Although I have no doubt in God, I often have self-doubt which makes me question why God would care for insignificant me. I imagine that we must all wonder that at times.
“’ Don’t you get it, Rosa? It doesn’t matter what you do, how docile and weak you pretend to be, it won’t save you. If they don’t kill you, they will work or starve you to death.’” - This reminded me to be bold in my faith. People will accept God or deny Him but being silent does not help anyone.
“Germany will not stop draining the life from France and her people until either they are pushed out or there is nothing left of us.” - So much of this war talk reminds me of the spiritual battle going on around us. Satan too will not stop perusing us until there is no life in us. There is hope because God will not stop pursuing us either.
“Maybe one person alone can do nothing. That is why we must come together, organize and plan.”
“The only thing I really know about you is that uniform.” -What we support, what we wear, who we speak up for creates a picture that people use to identify us. This was a reminder for me to be mindful of who or what I am representing.
“I wasn’t always one of them. But I’m not sure how to go back. I can’t change the past four years, though I might wish for it.” -Back to the spiritual battle- sin can creep into our lives so guilefully that we don’t realize what's happened until we feel hopeless to turn back. Jesus gives us hope that no matter how far we might be we can still be His.
“No one soldier will win this war. But each is needed for victory.” -From the first quote in questioning one's importance, we can see through this quote how we are a body, working together to achieve a goal. Not an individual having to do it all, but one individual being called to work their part. That is how God calls us as well.
I received this ARC via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review shared here.
For more book reviews visit: https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com
July 24, 2022
A really good book
June 19, 2022
At first, I had mixed feelings about this book. At the beginning I couldn't get into to the story and I didn't really care about Rosalie and Franz. I blame the slow flow of the story. Fortunately, towards the 40% mark things got intense and I became truly invested in the story. Especially, I became fascinated with inner spiritual struggles of main male character. This German soldier got under my skin and surprisingly, I found myself rooting for Franz big time. I did not expect that at all. And I love it when book can surprise me.
I really enjoyed all spiritual discussions. It fitted story perfectly and made both main characters came alive for me. This historical romance novel surpassed my expectations and I am really glad that I picked it up.
Recommended to all who are in mood for really thoughtful and emotional Christian historical read!
*ARC provided by publisher sa ani exchange for honest review*
"Loss, not death, frightens me."
I really enjoyed all spiritual discussions. It fitted story perfectly and made both main characters came alive for me. This historical romance novel surpassed my expectations and I am really glad that I picked it up.
Recommended to all who are in mood for really thoughtful and emotional Christian historical read!
*ARC provided by publisher sa ani exchange for honest review*
January 15, 2024
This book is part of the Heroines of WWII series published by Barbour. Each is a complete stand alone novel. This story takes place in Normandy, France from June 1940 to 1944, with the last chapter set in 1946. When the Nazis march through France and the occupation begins, Rosalie tries to keep her head down, to stay unnoticed and safe. Yet when her teenage brother Marcel begins to work with the French Resistance, Rosalie is soon drawn in. Franz Kafka is a German soldier who follows orders that he doesn’t agree with to keep his mother safe back in Germany. After sustaining an injury on the frontlines, he’s reassigned to Normandy. There he can’t ignore the plight of the French, especially Rosalie and her brother. I enjoyed everything about this story. The characters were wonderful, and the action, suspense and romance were all nicely developed.
May 2, 2022
I really enjoyed reading “A Rose for the Resistance” by Angela K. Couch. It is the 5th book in the series but can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. This is a story about the French people and how they lived and feared during World War2. I had to keep reading because I had to know how it ended. This is a story that proves just because things seems one way doesn’t necessarily mean that is true. I recommend this book to all readers who loves historical fiction and a clean love story. This book had a few twists that I didn’t see coming.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
August 25, 2022
1940-1946 Normandy region, France
What a wonderful book of the people of France resisting the Nazis. Oh, many were caught, many killed, but many survived until their liberation.
One German officer (Frantz) realized the inhumanity of what the Nazis were doing to the French people, who were either scared of them or hated them. He chose to do the right things despite his orders.
Twenty four-year-old Rosalie just wanted to keep her family (her brother and mother) together. But her 14-year-old brother insisted on helping the resistance. So to keep him safe she did many of his deliveries that he might have gotten killed over, putting her life at risk.
The rest is just too good to give away. Suffice it to say this was a very good book with intrigue, suspense, neighborly love, and even a little romance and a lot of faith. A book I can highly recommend.
8/25/2022
Listened to the audio version. Although the narrator was pretty good I actually enjoyed the written book more.
What a wonderful book of the people of France resisting the Nazis. Oh, many were caught, many killed, but many survived until their liberation.
One German officer (Frantz) realized the inhumanity of what the Nazis were doing to the French people, who were either scared of them or hated them. He chose to do the right things despite his orders.
Twenty four-year-old Rosalie just wanted to keep her family (her brother and mother) together. But her 14-year-old brother insisted on helping the resistance. So to keep him safe she did many of his deliveries that he might have gotten killed over, putting her life at risk.
The rest is just too good to give away. Suffice it to say this was a very good book with intrigue, suspense, neighborly love, and even a little romance and a lot of faith. A book I can highly recommend.
8/25/2022
Listened to the audio version. Although the narrator was pretty good I actually enjoyed the written book more.
April 1, 2022
I did enjoy reading this book, but I felt it tried to tackle too many characters and potential storylines--making it gloss over many characters and storylines. Some examples-- the story is set in Normandy before and during the Allied invasion, the story laid tidbits up to the invasion and then it was over in one paragraph. A downed British pilot escaping and miraculously making it back to France after the end of the war with really no back story.
The main characters, Rose and Franz, were the most developed characters, but their stories are so intertwined with all the other subplots, it seems to get lost.
The book was a quick read, but not a memorable read. I wanted to like the book more than I did
I received a complimentary of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
The main characters, Rose and Franz, were the most developed characters, but their stories are so intertwined with all the other subplots, it seems to get lost.
The book was a quick read, but not a memorable read. I wanted to like the book more than I did
I received a complimentary of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
May 9, 2022
A Rose For The Resistance is written by Angela K Couch. This is part of the Heroines of World War II series. While they all have the central theme of strong women during WWII, they all can be read as stand alone books.
Rosalie is in St. Mère Église, France. Her family has a beautiful garden of roses. She’s happy with her life until Nazis invade. Her father goes to fight for France, her boyfriend killed, her brother almost killed and her whole life changed in an instant. By a German soldier that shows mercy. The book then fasts forward a few years. Times are tough. German soldiers are taking part of Rosalie’s families crops. Instead of roses her greenhouse grows veggies. No one has heard from her father.
Rosalie watched helplessly as her younger brother, Marcel starts to work for the Resistance. She’s worried that he will be shot on site. When suddenly the German soldier that saved her brother reappears.
Franz is different then the others. He has kindness and compassion in his eyes. He remembers Rosalie and Marcel and wants to help. He even shows up on their doorstep with a wounded British pilot. He tries to shelter her family as much as possible.
Seeing the war through Nazi occupied France is a different setting for me. I’ve read a few books the past year with the is viewpoint. The author has created such a wonderful story you will not want it to end. I’ve read several books by this author and have always really liked them.
Well written characters. Descriptive scenery. History lessons woven through out. I do not want this series to end.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.
Rosalie is in St. Mère Église, France. Her family has a beautiful garden of roses. She’s happy with her life until Nazis invade. Her father goes to fight for France, her boyfriend killed, her brother almost killed and her whole life changed in an instant. By a German soldier that shows mercy. The book then fasts forward a few years. Times are tough. German soldiers are taking part of Rosalie’s families crops. Instead of roses her greenhouse grows veggies. No one has heard from her father.
Rosalie watched helplessly as her younger brother, Marcel starts to work for the Resistance. She’s worried that he will be shot on site. When suddenly the German soldier that saved her brother reappears.
Franz is different then the others. He has kindness and compassion in his eyes. He remembers Rosalie and Marcel and wants to help. He even shows up on their doorstep with a wounded British pilot. He tries to shelter her family as much as possible.
Seeing the war through Nazi occupied France is a different setting for me. I’ve read a few books the past year with the is viewpoint. The author has created such a wonderful story you will not want it to end. I’ve read several books by this author and have always really liked them.
Well written characters. Descriptive scenery. History lessons woven through out. I do not want this series to end.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.
February 14, 2022
I really enjoyed A Rose for the Resistance by author Angela K Couch. Full of intrigue, risks, and fear has Rosalie Barrieau trying to keep her mother and brother together and safe in occupied France while they await news of her father in a prisoner of war camp. Working their gardens and trading for other foods, they try to stay alive with ever decreasing rations and a strong Nazi presence in their town.
A German officer is uncharacteristically helpful to them after finally having a wake-up moment where he knows he can't undo all the wrongs he's committed in this war, but this turning point has him wanting to make the right choices going forward before he meets his maker.
Angela K Couch paints a vivid picture of the dangerous, stressful, and fightening life under German occupation, the authentic characters, and the beautiful French countryside. Her skilled pen makes you feel like you are right there!
Timely message that freedom has to be fought for. " All the propoganda and lies they've rammed into that head of yours. You're smarter than that, think for yourself for one minute. These people, The French, the Poles, the Dutch, have done nothing against us. They just want their freedom. Safety for their families. We've taken that from them. And for what? Because a few power hungry men in Berlin decided they should rule all of Europe?"
I highly recommend this story for fans of WWII historical fiction! (And a sweet romance!)
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowine me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
A German officer is uncharacteristically helpful to them after finally having a wake-up moment where he knows he can't undo all the wrongs he's committed in this war, but this turning point has him wanting to make the right choices going forward before he meets his maker.
Angela K Couch paints a vivid picture of the dangerous, stressful, and fightening life under German occupation, the authentic characters, and the beautiful French countryside. Her skilled pen makes you feel like you are right there!
Timely message that freedom has to be fought for. " All the propoganda and lies they've rammed into that head of yours. You're smarter than that, think for yourself for one minute. These people, The French, the Poles, the Dutch, have done nothing against us. They just want their freedom. Safety for their families. We've taken that from them. And for what? Because a few power hungry men in Berlin decided they should rule all of Europe?"
I highly recommend this story for fans of WWII historical fiction! (And a sweet romance!)
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowine me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2022
A Rose for the Resistance is Angela K. Couch’s contribution and the fifth installment from the Heroines of WWII series. I have enjoyed books by this author in the past and this one is no different. I was transported back in time to the Second World War era France. I liked the pace of the story that kept me intrigued, the struggles of the characters and how they were able to overcome, and the suspense that made me want to keep going. I loved it!
A Rose for the Resistance will be getting five stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction. I look forward to continuing to the sixth book from the Heroines of WWII series, Naomi Dawn Musch’s Season of My Enemy.
I received a digital copy of A Rose for the Resistance from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
A Rose for the Resistance will be getting five stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction. I look forward to continuing to the sixth book from the Heroines of WWII series, Naomi Dawn Musch’s Season of My Enemy.
I received a digital copy of A Rose for the Resistance from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
February 23, 2022
I love books set during WWII, so I was really excited to get the chance from NetGalley to read this one.
This book is so touching and really highlights the various struggles those during the war faced. I also loved that this book gave a different perspective than most other books about WWII. Franz is a German soldier, who hates the war, but feels he has not other choice but to do "his duty". Until he meets Rosalie and her courage to fight for freedom and what's right encourages him to take a stand.
There were a few moments I questioned how the book was going to end. But, I will say that the ending was very satisfying.
I definitely recommend this to those who love historical fiction with faith weaved throughout the story.
This book is so touching and really highlights the various struggles those during the war faced. I also loved that this book gave a different perspective than most other books about WWII. Franz is a German soldier, who hates the war, but feels he has not other choice but to do "his duty". Until he meets Rosalie and her courage to fight for freedom and what's right encourages him to take a stand.
There were a few moments I questioned how the book was going to end. But, I will say that the ending was very satisfying.
I definitely recommend this to those who love historical fiction with faith weaved throughout the story.
December 8, 2022
While I love to read books set around WWII, I've not read many books that are set in a country occupied by the Nazi's. I loved the civilian perspective of what it must have been like to live in France under German occupation... Almost like you're a stranger in your own country. Rosalie's entrance into the Resistance felt very natural, and I liked Franz and his inner conflict about his role in the war. I loved the historical details, the tension and intrigue of the Resistance... the romance... I'm so impressed with how much Couch was able to fit into a book under 300 pages. It didn't feel rushed or "smooshed" at all. I really look forward to reading more from this series and from this author!
January 2, 2023
(listened to audiobook)
Another novel about the French Resistance that provides a glance at those who struggled with knowing what to do during such a difficult and horrible war. This was well written, suspenseful, and thought-provoking. I especially enjoyed seeing the relationship between Rosalie and her brother through the book.
Another novel about the French Resistance that provides a glance at those who struggled with knowing what to do during such a difficult and horrible war. This was well written, suspenseful, and thought-provoking. I especially enjoyed seeing the relationship between Rosalie and her brother through the book.
February 21, 2022
This is a fantastic read! Set in a small village in France, the Nazis occupy the area. Against her will, Rosalie is thrown into the French underground thanks to her brother’s involvement.
Hiding a downed British pilot and carrying forbidden contraband to Resistance fighters keeps Rosalie busy when she is not working in the green house desperately trying to raise extra food for the table.
There are a lot of twists and turns throughout the story. Can Franz, a German soldier, be trusted? As the Germans tighten their reign of terror and hunt down members of the French Resistance, the French are desperately waiting for the Americans to come rescue them.
I enjoyed the ending of the book.
Hiding a downed British pilot and carrying forbidden contraband to Resistance fighters keeps Rosalie busy when she is not working in the green house desperately trying to raise extra food for the table.
There are a lot of twists and turns throughout the story. Can Franz, a German soldier, be trusted? As the Germans tighten their reign of terror and hunt down members of the French Resistance, the French are desperately waiting for the Americans to come rescue them.
I enjoyed the ending of the book.
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