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Angels of the Resistance
From the bestselling author of The Flight Girls comes another World War II story inspired by true events, about courageous women who risked everything for country, for family, and for each other.
Netherlands, 1940
As bombs fall across Europe, fourteen-year-old Lien Vinke fears that the reality of war is inescapable. Though she lives a quiet life with her mother and older sister, Elif, in their small town of Haarlem, they are no strangers to heartache, having recently suffered an immeasurable loss. And when the Nazis invade the Netherlands, joining the Dutch resistance with Elif offers just the atonement Lien craves.
Trained to shoot by their late father, the sisters are deadly wolves in sheep’s clothing. They soon find themselves entrenched in the underground movement, forging friendships with the other young recruits, and Lien even discovers a kindred spirit in a boy named Charlie. But in wartime, emotional attachments are a liability she can’t afford, especially when a deeply personal mission jeopardizes everything she holds dear—her friendships, her family, and her one shot at redemption.
Netherlands, 1940
As bombs fall across Europe, fourteen-year-old Lien Vinke fears that the reality of war is inescapable. Though she lives a quiet life with her mother and older sister, Elif, in their small town of Haarlem, they are no strangers to heartache, having recently suffered an immeasurable loss. And when the Nazis invade the Netherlands, joining the Dutch resistance with Elif offers just the atonement Lien craves.
Trained to shoot by their late father, the sisters are deadly wolves in sheep’s clothing. They soon find themselves entrenched in the underground movement, forging friendships with the other young recruits, and Lien even discovers a kindred spirit in a boy named Charlie. But in wartime, emotional attachments are a liability she can’t afford, especially when a deeply personal mission jeopardizes everything she holds dear—her friendships, her family, and her one shot at redemption.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2022
422 people are currently reading
20780 people want to read
About the author
Noelle Salazar
8 books1,311 followersNoelle Salazar is the USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction novels The Flight Girls, Angels of the Resistance, The Roaring Days of Zora Lily, and The Lies We Leave Behind. Her debut romcom, The Meet-Poop, about a famous fashion model and the messy meet-cute she has with a well-known author, is available now.
Noelle resides in the PNW with her two children, a teetering TBR stack, and one semi-feral cat.
Noelle resides in the PNW with her two children, a teetering TBR stack, and one semi-feral cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 642 reviews
December 2, 2022
I have mixed feelings about this book. There was things about it that I liked and things that I didn’t care for. I have always enjoyed WWII fiction . I thought the story content was very good . I especially liked that the author mentioned the TenBoom Clock repair shop in this book. As some will remember the book that Corrie Ten Boom wrote called The Hiding Place which was a true story about the part that her family played out during Nazi occupation when they hide Jewish people in a secret room in their home. I thought this book was very well researched which helped to make the story seem real. I’ve never felt comfortable reading books that had intimacy and sex added into the story. There also was mild cuss words occasionally. When the Angels of Resistance went on assignment to kill someone the book gave a graphic account of how it was done. Especially the times when daggers were used and descriptions of how the victims looked when they died . I know this is very much a part of the story and how it might have happened in the actual resistance forces. I’m just not comfortable reading these things I mentioned here and probably would not read a book written by this Author in the future.
Readers of WWII novels or fans of the author might enjoy this book. It can be read as a stand alone.
This book is scheduled to be released on 11/29/22.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions mentioned here are my own .
#AngelsoftheResistance#NetGalley
Readers of WWII novels or fans of the author might enjoy this book. It can be read as a stand alone.
This book is scheduled to be released on 11/29/22.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions mentioned here are my own .
#AngelsoftheResistance#NetGalley
November 22, 2022
Two teenage girls are trained for resistance work in this new release from Noelle Salazar. Lien and Elief have connections to the work being done to resist the Nazis and both decide to participate. Their late father had encouraged them to pursue many different interests including sharp-shooting and Lien is particularly good at taking out targets. Their beloved father once called his girls "angels" and the people who benefit from the risks they take definitely feel blessed by them. The book follows the war in its entirety in the Netherlands with an epilogue giving closure. The narrative is written from Lien's POV, almost as if we are reading her diaries. It is an intimate look behind the curtain and you will be riveted. The bonds of sisterhood are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The two girls live in Haarlem and work with the Ten Booms from The Hiding Place: The Triumphant True Story of Corrie Ten Boom. Salazar was inspired to write this book after reading about Truus and Freddie Oversteegen. If you want to read more about these two brave young women, I recommend Three Ordinary Girls: The Remarkable Story of Three Dutch Teenagers Who Became Spies, Saboteurs, Nazi Assassins–and WWII Heroes by Tim Brady.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2022
Angels of the Resistance was the first book that I have had the pleasure of reading by Noelle Salazar. The idea for writing Angels of the Resistance came from a newspaper article a friend sent to her. The article in the newspaper was about two young and courageous women that joined the Dutch Resistance when they were just fourteen and sixteen years old. The names of the actual girls were Truus and Freddie Oversteegen. Angels of the Resistance was inspired by their courageous acts, bravery and determination. Noelle Salazar’s research for Angels of the Resistance was impeccable. Although this was a historical fiction novel, some of the people, places and occurrences mentioned in the book were real. Most of the characters were fictional but a few of the characters were real. Angels of the Resistance was a very moving historical fiction novel that explored the roles of the Dutch Resistance and the people that lived in Haarlem and nearby Amsterdam.
Lien Vinke grew up in Haarlem, Netherlands with her parents and two sisters. In the summer of 1940, Lien had already experienced her share of loss. Her father had died and her younger sister Madi had also recently died. Lien blamed herself for Madi’s death. She had been charged to take Madi to school on that fateful day. Her little sister was always high spirited and somewhat of a daredevil. Young Madi ventured onto the ledge by the sea. She did this quite frequently. Lien warned her to get off the ledge but it was just like young Madi to ignore her warnings. A bike passed dangerously close to Madi and caused her to loose her balance and fall down into the sea. Lien jumped in after her but it was of no use. Madi had hit her head on the rocks on her way down to the water. She was dead by the time she was found. Although it was an accident and no one saw it as Lien’s fault, Lien was extremely hard on herself and blamed herself for Madi’s death. That day would haunt Lien day and night for years to come.
When Lien was sixteen years old and her older sister, Elif, was eighteen years old they both began a regiment of training exercises to become members of the Dutch Resistance. When war broke out across Europe, the Netherlands had hoped to stay neutral as they had during World War I. That was not to be their fate during World War II. The Nazis invaded the Netherlands and made their presence known in Haarlem where Lien and Elif resided with their mother. Their mother owned and ran a sewing shop. That would end up be being a great asset for her daughters as she was able to sew hidden pockets into their skirts and jackets to conceal their weapons they had to often carry with them. Both Lien and Elif had very youthful appearances, especially when the plaited their blonde hair. That would prove to be to their advantage. No one would suspect two young girls of carrying and concealing weapons. As members of the Dutch Resistance both girls were instructed and trained in moving people from one safe house to another, how to deliver pertinent information regarding sensitive information that could influence the war, how to seduce and kill Nazis and Dutch collaborators and how to bomb and set fire to Nazi trains that transported weapons or to buildings that were crucial to the war for the Nazis. Lien and Elif grew closer than they had ever been during those years. They often worked together as a team. Lien often expressed that her reason for joining the Dutch Resistance was because of Madi’s death. She wanted to help those that she could and make a difference. Lien still blamed herself for not responding quicker to Madi. Now she spent all her energy on trying to make amends for Madi’s death by helping others. Her reasons and focus would change as the years progressed. During this time, Lien and Elif, forged friendships with the people they worked side by side with in the resistance. Lien developed strong feelings for Charlie who had joined the Dutch Resistance because a heart condition kept him from joining the Royal Army. Their initial attraction to each other and then the love they developed for each other was so beautiful and strong.
Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar touched upon the treatment of the Jewish people In Haarlem, Netherlands. The Ten Boom family was mentioned in relation to the part they played in helping forge new identities for the Jewish people that they helped to hide in one of the sister’s apartment and how their watch store served as a front for delivering important messages for the resistance. The themes of sisterhood, family, love, loss, tragedy, romance and heroism were well documented. The members of the Dutch Resistance portrayed determination, bravery, courage and a sense of loyalty to their country. I really enjoyed reading Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar and highly recommend it. Publication is set for November 29, 2022.
Thank you to Mira Publishers for allowing me to read Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lien Vinke grew up in Haarlem, Netherlands with her parents and two sisters. In the summer of 1940, Lien had already experienced her share of loss. Her father had died and her younger sister Madi had also recently died. Lien blamed herself for Madi’s death. She had been charged to take Madi to school on that fateful day. Her little sister was always high spirited and somewhat of a daredevil. Young Madi ventured onto the ledge by the sea. She did this quite frequently. Lien warned her to get off the ledge but it was just like young Madi to ignore her warnings. A bike passed dangerously close to Madi and caused her to loose her balance and fall down into the sea. Lien jumped in after her but it was of no use. Madi had hit her head on the rocks on her way down to the water. She was dead by the time she was found. Although it was an accident and no one saw it as Lien’s fault, Lien was extremely hard on herself and blamed herself for Madi’s death. That day would haunt Lien day and night for years to come.
When Lien was sixteen years old and her older sister, Elif, was eighteen years old they both began a regiment of training exercises to become members of the Dutch Resistance. When war broke out across Europe, the Netherlands had hoped to stay neutral as they had during World War I. That was not to be their fate during World War II. The Nazis invaded the Netherlands and made their presence known in Haarlem where Lien and Elif resided with their mother. Their mother owned and ran a sewing shop. That would end up be being a great asset for her daughters as she was able to sew hidden pockets into their skirts and jackets to conceal their weapons they had to often carry with them. Both Lien and Elif had very youthful appearances, especially when the plaited their blonde hair. That would prove to be to their advantage. No one would suspect two young girls of carrying and concealing weapons. As members of the Dutch Resistance both girls were instructed and trained in moving people from one safe house to another, how to deliver pertinent information regarding sensitive information that could influence the war, how to seduce and kill Nazis and Dutch collaborators and how to bomb and set fire to Nazi trains that transported weapons or to buildings that were crucial to the war for the Nazis. Lien and Elif grew closer than they had ever been during those years. They often worked together as a team. Lien often expressed that her reason for joining the Dutch Resistance was because of Madi’s death. She wanted to help those that she could and make a difference. Lien still blamed herself for not responding quicker to Madi. Now she spent all her energy on trying to make amends for Madi’s death by helping others. Her reasons and focus would change as the years progressed. During this time, Lien and Elif, forged friendships with the people they worked side by side with in the resistance. Lien developed strong feelings for Charlie who had joined the Dutch Resistance because a heart condition kept him from joining the Royal Army. Their initial attraction to each other and then the love they developed for each other was so beautiful and strong.
Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar touched upon the treatment of the Jewish people In Haarlem, Netherlands. The Ten Boom family was mentioned in relation to the part they played in helping forge new identities for the Jewish people that they helped to hide in one of the sister’s apartment and how their watch store served as a front for delivering important messages for the resistance. The themes of sisterhood, family, love, loss, tragedy, romance and heroism were well documented. The members of the Dutch Resistance portrayed determination, bravery, courage and a sense of loyalty to their country. I really enjoyed reading Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar and highly recommend it. Publication is set for November 29, 2022.
Thank you to Mira Publishers for allowing me to read Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2022
Angels of the Resistance is riveting historical fiction at its finest. Teen sisters risk all to join the Dutch Resistance, which Noelle Salazar writes in vivid detail as she highlights not only incredible historical details, but also the very real dangers faced by these brave women.
April 19, 2023
Wow!! Is all I could say when I finished this book this afternoon!! As I read this book the quote by Edmund Burke kept coming to mind:" The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." How true.
This story takes place during WW2 in Haarlem, Netherlands. It's based on the true story of two Dutch teenage sisters Lien and Elif ages 14 &16. Their real names are Truus and Freddie Oversteegen who join the Dutch Resistance. They were trained to shoot guns by their father at a young age. Lien's nickname given to her by her Father is sure shot... she never misses! They undergo training and when ready, they are assigned missions to go on. Some of these missions involve blowing up train tracks, delivering messages that are hidden in the plaits of their hair,in watches, and in hidden pockets sewn into their skirts by their Mother who is a seamstress. They also relocated Jewish families from one hiding place to another. They face the Nazis head on. The Ten Boom family is mentioned in this book which warmed my heart as Corrie Ten Boom is one of my all time favorite heroes of WW2!!
They are encouraged to write down their feelings and experiences in journals to help them cope with everything they do,face,see and hear. Lien wrote this "I have learned," I wrote," evil cannot be bargained with, and to destroy it, one must almost become it itself. I tell myself it is temporary, but I worry it bleeds through. Who will I be when this is over? Will I recognize myself at all?" This story takes you through their adult years as well and it doesn't disappoint!! It also brings up what happens to the students who are attending school during the war. Something I never really thought of.
It's fast paced, action packed, emotionally moving and so beautifully written that you feel as if you are right there in every page. I really had a hard time putting it down because I wanted to know what happened next!! I have read a lot of Historical Fiction books and have a lot more to read, but this book stands out! It must be experienced. The last chapter had me in tears with how the beauty stands out stronger than the evil. It's up there among my favorite books along with The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom! It should be on every Historical Fiction fans reading list!! I very highly recommend this fantastic book.. it'll take you on a journey that you won't forget.
This story takes place during WW2 in Haarlem, Netherlands. It's based on the true story of two Dutch teenage sisters Lien and Elif ages 14 &16. Their real names are Truus and Freddie Oversteegen who join the Dutch Resistance. They were trained to shoot guns by their father at a young age. Lien's nickname given to her by her Father is sure shot... she never misses! They undergo training and when ready, they are assigned missions to go on. Some of these missions involve blowing up train tracks, delivering messages that are hidden in the plaits of their hair,in watches, and in hidden pockets sewn into their skirts by their Mother who is a seamstress. They also relocated Jewish families from one hiding place to another. They face the Nazis head on. The Ten Boom family is mentioned in this book which warmed my heart as Corrie Ten Boom is one of my all time favorite heroes of WW2!!
They are encouraged to write down their feelings and experiences in journals to help them cope with everything they do,face,see and hear. Lien wrote this "I have learned," I wrote," evil cannot be bargained with, and to destroy it, one must almost become it itself. I tell myself it is temporary, but I worry it bleeds through. Who will I be when this is over? Will I recognize myself at all?" This story takes you through their adult years as well and it doesn't disappoint!! It also brings up what happens to the students who are attending school during the war. Something I never really thought of.
It's fast paced, action packed, emotionally moving and so beautifully written that you feel as if you are right there in every page. I really had a hard time putting it down because I wanted to know what happened next!! I have read a lot of Historical Fiction books and have a lot more to read, but this book stands out! It must be experienced. The last chapter had me in tears with how the beauty stands out stronger than the evil. It's up there among my favorite books along with The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom! It should be on every Historical Fiction fans reading list!! I very highly recommend this fantastic book.. it'll take you on a journey that you won't forget.
May 27, 2022
I loved this book!! Noelle Salazar delivers another knock-out WWII novel with Angels of the Resistance. Her writing shines in this intimate and beautiful look at one family of Dutch women, and the lengths they will go to protect their own. Haunting, moving and unputdownable!
November 16, 2022
Loved!!!! I would give this more than five stars if I could! If you’re a fan of Kate Quinn, Kristen Harmel or Kelly Rimmer, do not skip out on this!
Synopsis: Angels of the Resistance takes place in the Netherlands during WWII. It follows Lien, a 14 year old, who joins the Dutch Resistance with her sister Elif. While at first their involvement includes smaller tasks, like forging identity cards and passing along messages, as the years go by, they are tasked with more daunting jobs like blowing up railroads, helping Jewish families escape and killing Nazi soldiers. Based loosely on two Dutch sisters, Freddie and Truus Oversteegen, this story perfectly highlights the courageous women who played a vital role in the resistance.
Thoughts: I was absorbed by Salazar’s writing from the start and felt as though I was right alongside Lien and the rest of her tight-knit crew who fought against Nazi Germany. While a work of fiction, everything felt too real, and I love that I’m walking away learning more about the Dutch Resistance than I did prior to reading, which was basically nothing. This story is enthralling, suspenseful and action packed. The emotional highs and lows of the book are perfectly surmised by an ending that feels earned.
Thank you so much Mira and HTP for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!! Pub date: 11/29
Synopsis: Angels of the Resistance takes place in the Netherlands during WWII. It follows Lien, a 14 year old, who joins the Dutch Resistance with her sister Elif. While at first their involvement includes smaller tasks, like forging identity cards and passing along messages, as the years go by, they are tasked with more daunting jobs like blowing up railroads, helping Jewish families escape and killing Nazi soldiers. Based loosely on two Dutch sisters, Freddie and Truus Oversteegen, this story perfectly highlights the courageous women who played a vital role in the resistance.
Thoughts: I was absorbed by Salazar’s writing from the start and felt as though I was right alongside Lien and the rest of her tight-knit crew who fought against Nazi Germany. While a work of fiction, everything felt too real, and I love that I’m walking away learning more about the Dutch Resistance than I did prior to reading, which was basically nothing. This story is enthralling, suspenseful and action packed. The emotional highs and lows of the book are perfectly surmised by an ending that feels earned.
Thank you so much Mira and HTP for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!! Pub date: 11/29
December 1, 2022
Angels of the Resistance
By: Noelle Salazar
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When I read this authors debut novel The Flight Girls, I knew I wanted to read her next one.
1940’s-Based on true events. Two young sisters in their teens live their mother in the Netherlands. Lien and Zelig watch bombs fall around their community and the Nazis invade. They start to help with the resistance. Who would suspect two young teenage girls?
Their father had taught them how to shoot which becomes invaluable as they fight to survive. Lien meets Charlie during the resistance and emotions run high.
I was invested in these young sisters and rooted for them as they faced dangerous situations with the Nazis and learned whom to trust.
I preordered this book, but it had not arrived as of today so I listened to this on audible. The narrator was engaging and told the story beautifully.
#angelsoftheresistance, #noellesalazar, #audible, #audiobook, #bookstagram, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50, #mira
By: Noelle Salazar
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When I read this authors debut novel The Flight Girls, I knew I wanted to read her next one.
1940’s-Based on true events. Two young sisters in their teens live their mother in the Netherlands. Lien and Zelig watch bombs fall around their community and the Nazis invade. They start to help with the resistance. Who would suspect two young teenage girls?
Their father had taught them how to shoot which becomes invaluable as they fight to survive. Lien meets Charlie during the resistance and emotions run high.
I was invested in these young sisters and rooted for them as they faced dangerous situations with the Nazis and learned whom to trust.
I preordered this book, but it had not arrived as of today so I listened to this on audible. The narrator was engaging and told the story beautifully.
#angelsoftheresistance, #noellesalazar, #audible, #audiobook, #bookstagram, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50, #mira
August 3, 2023
Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar os about 2 Dutch sisters who at the ages of 14 and 16 joined the resistance to kill Nazis and collaborators. This book tells of their bravery and heroic efforts to do their part for WW2 and defeating the nazi scum.
April 28, 2022
I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to read this early and it's another beautifully written, emotional ride from Noelle Salazar - although this one hits home harder in places than her (wonderful) debut. It is incredibly tense at times, revealing a fictional narrative of the true story it was based on, all about life and resistance under occupation. And I have to admit it was made all the more powerful given what's happening in the world at the moment.
Yet as dark as some of the moments are, this is ultimately a story that's full of strength and hope and doing the right thing. It left me wanting to be a better, more courageous person, as well as learn more about the brave sisters that inspired the story in the first place.
Highly recommended, especially if you're feeling helpless about the world and want to be shown how small acts of resistance can make a big difference.
Yet as dark as some of the moments are, this is ultimately a story that's full of strength and hope and doing the right thing. It left me wanting to be a better, more courageous person, as well as learn more about the brave sisters that inspired the story in the first place.
Highly recommended, especially if you're feeling helpless about the world and want to be shown how small acts of resistance can make a big difference.
April 8, 2023
Finished reading: November 23rd 2022
"There was only a single decisive thought: I was meant for this."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and MIRA in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
March 1, 2022
I love this beautiful, heart-wrenching, feminist story of bravery, loss, love, and hope so very much. Noelle has done a brilliant job capturing what it was like to be young at this tumultuous time in history, while also showing the ways war makes people grow up way too fast. A dazzling read and perfect follow up to Noelle's first book, The Flight Girls. Highly recommended!
October 5, 2022
Dutch teenagers, Lien and Elif Vinke, are based on two real-life sisters who fought the Dutch Resistance in World War Two. These unsuspecting sisters, ‘ordinary heroes’, seduced and killed Nazis who occupied their homeland and threatened their way of life and the people they loved.
It was interesting to read about their experiences as they evolved from high school students to assassins. Salazar doesn’t hold back! Their rocky path of survival will have you gasping and their love and loyalty for each other, their family, and their country will astound you as will their determination, defiance and confidence.
What stood out to me was the girls’ obvious anxiety at accomplishing what needed to be done for the sake of survival and their loss of innocence in the midst of chaos.
Like her debut, these girls upgrade their ‘wings’, too, and head off to do important work for the war effort.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
It was interesting to read about their experiences as they evolved from high school students to assassins. Salazar doesn’t hold back! Their rocky path of survival will have you gasping and their love and loyalty for each other, their family, and their country will astound you as will their determination, defiance and confidence.
What stood out to me was the girls’ obvious anxiety at accomplishing what needed to be done for the sake of survival and their loss of innocence in the midst of chaos.
Like her debut, these girls upgrade their ‘wings’, too, and head off to do important work for the war effort.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 6, 2023
It is 1940 in The Netherlands; the Germans have occupied the country. Two teenage girls, Lien Vinke, fourteen and her sixteen year old sister, Elif, decides to join the Resistance.
The Germans are not a benevolent occupier. No sooner than the Germans invaded, the transport of Jews began. Both girls had been trained by their late father to shoot. Although the girls are not Jewish, they witness firsthand the cruel treatment of the Germans.
Both girls were trained by The Resistance to tempt young, German soldiers from a nightclub to a nearby park where the girls eventually kill these unsuspecting young soldiers. Their bodies are then buried in the park by other men of The Resistance. One of these men is Charlie. Eventually Lien and Charlie begin a relationship.
The story evolves over the next four years until the liberation of The Netherlands by The Canadian Army.
Ms. Salazar is a talented writer with a thorough knowledge of The Dutch Resistance.
The Germans are not a benevolent occupier. No sooner than the Germans invaded, the transport of Jews began. Both girls had been trained by their late father to shoot. Although the girls are not Jewish, they witness firsthand the cruel treatment of the Germans.
Both girls were trained by The Resistance to tempt young, German soldiers from a nightclub to a nearby park where the girls eventually kill these unsuspecting young soldiers. Their bodies are then buried in the park by other men of The Resistance. One of these men is Charlie. Eventually Lien and Charlie begin a relationship.
The story evolves over the next four years until the liberation of The Netherlands by The Canadian Army.
Ms. Salazar is a talented writer with a thorough knowledge of The Dutch Resistance.
May 4, 2023
This book got off to a very slow start for me but a friend encouraged me to keep reading. It helped me get going again when I listened to a few chapters of the audiobook (and learned how to pronounce some of the Dutch names). Outside of Anne Frank’s story, I knew very little about WWII in the Netherlands. I marvel at the bravery of women fighting in the Resistance.
November 5, 2024
3.5 stars. I’ve been wanting to read Noelle Salazar’s historical fictions and this was my first read from her!
This story follows two teenage sisters that joined
the Dutch Revolution during WWII (the story is inspired/based on real life young women, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen who were 14 and 16 years old).
I liked this one, but other times it felt so much longer than it was and took me a while to get into the characters and story. I definitely want to try more from this author for sure!
This story follows two teenage sisters that joined
the Dutch Revolution during WWII (the story is inspired/based on real life young women, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen who were 14 and 16 years old).
I liked this one, but other times it felt so much longer than it was and took me a while to get into the characters and story. I definitely want to try more from this author for sure!
January 6, 2023
Noelle you don't disappoint! The pain and guilt of losing a family member created the courage and strength needed to save lives when their country was attacked. I felt I was right in the shadows and ditches with Elif and Lein for their next mission. I am looking forward to your next book!
December 3, 2022
RUN, do not walk, to grab your copy of this incredible book! I picked it up and could not set it down. The story is based on real life events but the message is as important today as it was when it occurred. I found myself having to stop and absorb the message multiple times- wow! And the bond of love between sisters is depicted so perfectly I felt that to my core. I am will say this is the best, most moving and impactful historical fiction book I have read in years, maybe ever!
October 3, 2022
This is the first book in a long time that has convinced me to stay up all night reading.
If you like historical fiction and strong female leads, this is the book for you. I loved how the fictional aspects were intertwined so accurately with actual resistance members and resistance activities. I highly recommend this book.
If you like historical fiction and strong female leads, this is the book for you. I loved how the fictional aspects were intertwined so accurately with actual resistance members and resistance activities. I highly recommend this book.
July 4, 2023
Hearthreaking emotional story. Ordinary people doing extraordinarily brave things in the face of brutality. I loved reading this beautiful story and learning about the two brave sisters who played a great role during WW2 in the Netherlands.
December 29, 2022
Seemed like a young adult WWII story of two sisters. Nothing unique in this story
December 26, 2022
A really amazing book
February 17, 2025
This book was so great. It puts you in the story, in the streets of Harlem with these young girls. As I was listening to this book, my brain could not even fathom that this was real life, that these things really happened to people during that time period.
December 23, 2023
Ok, I’m obsessed with WW2 stories. I’ve read about the French Resistance, the Warsaw ghetto, the English female coders and Air Force pilots as well as the Danish resistance. (Just to mention a few) Angels of the Resistance is an extremely moving story about 2 Dutch sisters who do their part in the fight against Nazi Germany. It’s based loosely on real life Dutch sisters who risked their lives throughout the occupation of Holland to help save Jewish families by becoming assassins and making bombs to sabotage German plans. It’s a well written, moving story that kept me riveted throughout the read. Definitely a 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟for me👍📕🤓
October 25, 2022
I could not put this book down. As someone who devours WWII historical fiction, this book was no different. A tale of two sisters, having their adolescence stolen due to the war, join the resistance at a young age. From executing targets, moving families from safe house to safe house, and blowing up railways, there was nothing these two could not do.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the early read in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the early read in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 5, 2023
Amazing
This book is outstanding in every way. The characters are very real and made my hearts flutter when good things happened and ache when negative actions happen.
The strong female roles made the story for me.
My highest recommendation!
This book is outstanding in every way. The characters are very real and made my hearts flutter when good things happened and ache when negative actions happen.
The strong female roles made the story for me.
My highest recommendation!
April 26, 2022
I received an e-ARC version of this book from NetGalley and the publisher.
“Angels of the Resistance” by Noelle Salazar is a historical fiction WWII book. It is based loosely on two Dutch sisters, Freddie and Truus Oversteegen, who, while teenagers, joined the Dutch Resistance movement. In this book, two sisters Elif and Lien, join the Dutch Resistance. Lien is more keen to join, but at the age of 14 her mother, who also works for the Resistance, is reluctant to give her approval. The girls start helping the movement with small duties such as being couriers and eventually becoming full members of the movement, such as blowing up railroads and killing German soldiers. There are some rather frightening moments, some happy moments, and some moments that will affect them for the rest of their lives.
While the overall story was a good one, the story was extremely slow for the first quarter of the book. Things were hinted at (a person’s death) but not explained, and when the big reveal came later in the book, for me it rather lay there. While I realize that the first quarter of the book was set up for the rest of the book, I wish that it had been a bit more interestingly written. There were a few other moments that, thanks to foreshadowing in the beginning, also didn’t quite work for me, but it was more of a lack of emotional pull although the writing was suggesting otherwise. At times this book really worked and at others, sadly, it lay there. I do think for those who don’t know the story about the Oversteegens or their friend, Hannie Schaft (upon whom a character in this book is fictionally based upon), this book is a great tribute telling their story. However, I think because the first quarter was slow for me that as a whole it didn’t always work for me. A 3.5 star rating, rounded up to 4.
“Angels of the Resistance” by Noelle Salazar is a historical fiction WWII book. It is based loosely on two Dutch sisters, Freddie and Truus Oversteegen, who, while teenagers, joined the Dutch Resistance movement. In this book, two sisters Elif and Lien, join the Dutch Resistance. Lien is more keen to join, but at the age of 14 her mother, who also works for the Resistance, is reluctant to give her approval. The girls start helping the movement with small duties such as being couriers and eventually becoming full members of the movement, such as blowing up railroads and killing German soldiers. There are some rather frightening moments, some happy moments, and some moments that will affect them for the rest of their lives.
While the overall story was a good one, the story was extremely slow for the first quarter of the book. Things were hinted at (a person’s death) but not explained, and when the big reveal came later in the book, for me it rather lay there. While I realize that the first quarter of the book was set up for the rest of the book, I wish that it had been a bit more interestingly written. There were a few other moments that, thanks to foreshadowing in the beginning, also didn’t quite work for me, but it was more of a lack of emotional pull although the writing was suggesting otherwise. At times this book really worked and at others, sadly, it lay there. I do think for those who don’t know the story about the Oversteegens or their friend, Hannie Schaft (upon whom a character in this book is fictionally based upon), this book is a great tribute telling their story. However, I think because the first quarter was slow for me that as a whole it didn’t always work for me. A 3.5 star rating, rounded up to 4.
December 6, 2022
After the Nazis invaded Netherlands during World War II, teen sisters Lien and Elif join the Dutch Resistance. But at what cost?
Since I've read a large number of books about WWII, it's always exciting when new information is shared. Before reading Angels, I was unaware that German soldiers invaded the Netherlands taking control of their cities and evacuating Jews much like they did in Paris, France. Since Elif is the older sister, she joins the Resistance first and Lien is determined to join as well. This story was inspired by the experiences of real life sisters, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen.
If you enjoyed learning about Lien's sharp shooter skills, then I would highly recommend my favorite book of 2022, The Diamond Eye (5 stars) by Kate Quinn!
Location: Haarlem, Netherlands
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Since I've read a large number of books about WWII, it's always exciting when new information is shared. Before reading Angels, I was unaware that German soldiers invaded the Netherlands taking control of their cities and evacuating Jews much like they did in Paris, France. Since Elif is the older sister, she joins the Resistance first and Lien is determined to join as well. This story was inspired by the experiences of real life sisters, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen.
If you enjoyed learning about Lien's sharp shooter skills, then I would highly recommend my favorite book of 2022, The Diamond Eye (5 stars) by Kate Quinn!
Location: Haarlem, Netherlands
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 31, 2023
GREAT AUDIOBOOK.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Another solid read from Noelle Salazar!!
This was a book I easily flew through and loved the Dutch setting. It was another facet of WWII history that I knew little about and I liked understanding more of that glimpse through these pages.
I LOVE strong sibling relationships and Lien and Elif were that personified. They were able to lean on, look out for, and take care of each other amidst the worsening conditions. I liked following the rebel group and seeing the character development across the board. There were many times I audibly gasped wondering where the book was going to go next.
The writing style keeps you engaged and the characters will bring out the emotions. I look forward to whatever Salazar writes next!
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Fiction
- Language: very little
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: WWII, loss of loved ones, murder, sexual assault and attempted rape
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Another solid read from Noelle Salazar!!
This was a book I easily flew through and loved the Dutch setting. It was another facet of WWII history that I knew little about and I liked understanding more of that glimpse through these pages.
I LOVE strong sibling relationships and Lien and Elif were that personified. They were able to lean on, look out for, and take care of each other amidst the worsening conditions. I liked following the rebel group and seeing the character development across the board. There were many times I audibly gasped wondering where the book was going to go next.
The writing style keeps you engaged and the characters will bring out the emotions. I look forward to whatever Salazar writes next!
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Fiction
- Language: very little
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: WWII, loss of loved ones, murder, sexual assault and attempted rape
May 1, 2022
Wow, you know those books that when you finish reading you just stare of into space taking it all in because it was that good? Yup, that’s this book. It had everything….history, suspense, love, family and most importantly, it was unputdownable.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early read.
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