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Echoes of the Past #1
What I Would Tell You
1941—The pounding of Nazi boots on the streets of Salonika, Greece, reverberates in Mathilda Nissim’s ears, shaking her large community of Sephardic Jews to its core and altering her life forever. If only her people would rise up and resist their captors. At great risk to herself and those around her, she uses the small newspaper she publishes to call them to action, all to no avail. Her husband encourages her to trust God to watch over them, but God has once again deserted His people. Amid the chaos, Mathilda discovers she’s expecting a longed-for child. Still, nothing stops the occupiers’ noose from tightening around their necks, and she may have to resort to desperate measures to ensure her daughter’s survival.
2019—College student Tessa Payton and her cousin take a popular DNA heritage test only to discover they don’t share any common ancestors. In fact, the test reveals Tessa is a Greek Sephardic Jew. This revelation threatens her tenuous faith. Always the overlooked child in her family, she empties her savings account and jets off on a journey to Greece to discover where she belongs and which God demands her allegiance. The enchanting curator at the Jewish museum guides her as she navigates life in Thessaloniki, helps with her genealogical research, and loans her a fascinating journal written by a Jewish woman during WWII. Tessa’s search, however, may open old wounds and uncover long-hidden secrets that could fracture her family forever and leave her with more questions than when she started.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
38 people are currently reading
2227 people want to read
About the author
Liz Tolsma
41 books1,779 followersLiz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a U.S. Marine, and her oldest daughter is a recent college graduate. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
January 23, 2023
Oh my heart....this was powerful++. Once again, the anguish that so many innocent Jewish families went through because of Hitler and his evil henchmen's consuming hatred as they nearly wiped out another segment, this time from Greece, was keenly felt. My heart hurt while reading how trainloads were led directly to the gas chambers, many beaten senselessly for not a bit of justification :( I hadn't known about the Sephardic Jewish population from Greece and their near extinction sure....
Liz's spiritual elements with the gospel message woven throughout was done remarkably well indeed, such also touched my heart as the mother also gave her life so that her baby night have a chance to live, as did her husband sacrificed his life to spare hers.... There was some heartwarming family reconciliations within in the modern day settings, the theme of forgiveness etc.
It's so hard to imagine the sheer inhumanity of some humans to fellow human beings ,no matter how many of these wrenching stories based upon facts. True enough , history always repeats itself with the distressing evil ,unfounded hatred, and cruelty towards groups deemed inferior to those that are aggressors or bullies :( ....It all starts small but a desire for control, arrogance, and greed from some over others. With restrictions and censorship rearing its ugly head ever more again, ghettos to "smart cities"...depopulation efforts with the dying suddenly of 1,000s, infertility (to name just a few) through experimental technology being forced/coerced and or through deception everywhere...eerie parallels.
This is my first but not last by this marvelous author! Definitely recommend to anyone really....
Liz's spiritual elements with the gospel message woven throughout was done remarkably well indeed, such also touched my heart as the mother also gave her life so that her baby night have a chance to live, as did her husband sacrificed his life to spare hers.... There was some heartwarming family reconciliations within in the modern day settings, the theme of forgiveness etc.
It's so hard to imagine the sheer inhumanity of some humans to fellow human beings ,no matter how many of these wrenching stories based upon facts. True enough , history always repeats itself with the distressing evil ,unfounded hatred, and cruelty towards groups deemed inferior to those that are aggressors or bullies :( ....It all starts small but a desire for control, arrogance, and greed from some over others. With restrictions and censorship rearing its ugly head ever more again, ghettos to "smart cities"...depopulation efforts with the dying suddenly of 1,000s, infertility (to name just a few) through experimental technology being forced/coerced and or through deception everywhere...eerie parallels.
This is my first but not last by this marvelous author! Definitely recommend to anyone really....
November 1, 2022
What I Would Tell you is a story that dives deep into one of the darkest times in history—the persecution and annihilation of so many Jews during WW2. This story isn’t a bow-tied ribbon; it’s an honest look at what it would be like for a Jew defying Nazi’s through the power of words and what that act of bravery costs. With deep themes of sacrifice, mending family relationships, and bravery, this book is a compelling read.
The only reason I’ve knocked off a star in this review is just because some chapters I felt were a bit too slow paced or scenes had the potential to emotionally connect me with the characters more but fell flat. As I said, just personal preferences 😉
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of What I Would Tell You. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
The only reason I’ve knocked off a star in this review is just because some chapters I felt were a bit too slow paced or scenes had the potential to emotionally connect me with the characters more but fell flat. As I said, just personal preferences 😉
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of What I Would Tell You. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
January 12, 2023
My first thought when I learned about this book and its plot is exactly my first thought as I closed the cover.
It's about time.
It's about time that the world learned more of Greek history. It didn't end in the BC era with Sophocles and Demosthenes and other Stoics. It didn't end after Jesus' death or the rise of Christianity through the known world. In many ways, Greek history mirrors Jewish history in how they had their times of strength and prosperity and their times of being conquered and overrun by those who saw the Greeks as beneath them. When Paul said "neither Jew nor Greek," I feel like there's a parallel there that "What I Would Tell You" illustrates perfectly.
This split-time novel focuses not just on history and uncovering one's past to understand the present. It also focuses on perception, a mother's love, standing up for what is right, and against what is wrong. In the end, however, it focuses on our identity being in Christ--that any other isn't worthy of what He sacrificed for us.
Tolsma walks us through the streets of Thessaloniki--Salonica--and I felt as if I were there. That isn't usually a compliment from me, but when an author does it as well as she did, it's just right. In this book her description is more like bathing in a warm sea as opposed to drowning in it. Well done.
There were a few places that, in typical Tolsma style, the effusiveness of love and affection became a bit much for me, but that's probably my problem rather than hers. :)
If you love to be immersed into a story full of rich culture, a frank and yet sensitive look into history's darker hours, and relationships you want to root for, what I would tell you is to grab a copy of this book... now.
It's about time.
It's about time that the world learned more of Greek history. It didn't end in the BC era with Sophocles and Demosthenes and other Stoics. It didn't end after Jesus' death or the rise of Christianity through the known world. In many ways, Greek history mirrors Jewish history in how they had their times of strength and prosperity and their times of being conquered and overrun by those who saw the Greeks as beneath them. When Paul said "neither Jew nor Greek," I feel like there's a parallel there that "What I Would Tell You" illustrates perfectly.
This split-time novel focuses not just on history and uncovering one's past to understand the present. It also focuses on perception, a mother's love, standing up for what is right, and against what is wrong. In the end, however, it focuses on our identity being in Christ--that any other isn't worthy of what He sacrificed for us.
Tolsma walks us through the streets of Thessaloniki--Salonica--and I felt as if I were there. That isn't usually a compliment from me, but when an author does it as well as she did, it's just right. In this book her description is more like bathing in a warm sea as opposed to drowning in it. Well done.
There were a few places that, in typical Tolsma style, the effusiveness of love and affection became a bit much for me, but that's probably my problem rather than hers. :)
If you love to be immersed into a story full of rich culture, a frank and yet sensitive look into history's darker hours, and relationships you want to root for, what I would tell you is to grab a copy of this book... now.
December 30, 2022
“We can’t be frightened to live our lives. If we are, that’s not really living.”
Liz Tolsma delivered a beautiful, heart moving WW2 story. From the first sentence which was a part of a journal entry: This is the day I dreaded, the day I feared might come, the day I prayed never would., my attention and heart was pulled it and didn't let go.
Mathilda's story was so good. I loved each second I was pulled into her heartbreaking journey through WW2 and if you are a reader needed tissues with emotional stories, you need a box next to you. The way the author started each chapter with a journal entry POV played a huge part in my connection with Mathilda's story.
We have to decide if we will take what we have been taught and make it our own, if the faith of our fathers will be our faith also.
Though the modern day story about Tessa and her search of where she came from was just as interesting, I did not find it as strong as Mathilda's. Though a lot of the truths I will take away from this story I discovered in the modern day story.
Giannis told me that we find our identity not in the blood that flows through our veins but in Christ.
If you enjoy WW2 stories, do not pass on this one.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Liz Tolsma delivered a beautiful, heart moving WW2 story. From the first sentence which was a part of a journal entry: This is the day I dreaded, the day I feared might come, the day I prayed never would., my attention and heart was pulled it and didn't let go.
Mathilda's story was so good. I loved each second I was pulled into her heartbreaking journey through WW2 and if you are a reader needed tissues with emotional stories, you need a box next to you. The way the author started each chapter with a journal entry POV played a huge part in my connection with Mathilda's story.
We have to decide if we will take what we have been taught and make it our own, if the faith of our fathers will be our faith also.
Though the modern day story about Tessa and her search of where she came from was just as interesting, I did not find it as strong as Mathilda's. Though a lot of the truths I will take away from this story I discovered in the modern day story.
Giannis told me that we find our identity not in the blood that flows through our veins but in Christ.
If you enjoy WW2 stories, do not pass on this one.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
January 25, 2023
“Fear is more than an emotion. It is the captivity of your soul to the unknown.” Mathilda Nissim
What I Would Tell You is a story of discovery encompassing two time periods. In 2019, Tessa seeks to find her Jewish roots as she travels by herself to Thessaloniki, Greece, to uncover secrets no one has told her. Mathilda, in 1941, discovers how she can overcome the harsh occupation by the Germans by not giving up. She pens a diary to record her thoughts as she struggles daily and set down all the things she wants to tell her infant daughter. This diary is what Tessa reads in her quest for answers to her ancestry.
Tessa and Mathilda both hold on to the grace of God in their stressful circumstances. “We do not find our identity in the blood that flows through our veins but in Christ.” Both learn what it means for a mother to sacrifice for her daughter.
This is a moving story of faith and hope. Lately there have been several stories dealing with the treatment of Jews during WWII. I commend these authors for keeping this part of history from being forgotten or covered up.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Review Crew. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
What I Would Tell You is a story of discovery encompassing two time periods. In 2019, Tessa seeks to find her Jewish roots as she travels by herself to Thessaloniki, Greece, to uncover secrets no one has told her. Mathilda, in 1941, discovers how she can overcome the harsh occupation by the Germans by not giving up. She pens a diary to record her thoughts as she struggles daily and set down all the things she wants to tell her infant daughter. This diary is what Tessa reads in her quest for answers to her ancestry.
Tessa and Mathilda both hold on to the grace of God in their stressful circumstances. “We do not find our identity in the blood that flows through our veins but in Christ.” Both learn what it means for a mother to sacrifice for her daughter.
This is a moving story of faith and hope. Lately there have been several stories dealing with the treatment of Jews during WWII. I commend these authors for keeping this part of history from being forgotten or covered up.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Review Crew. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
November 29, 2022
A poignant dual timeline story full of human drama, WW2 history, and family connections, especially mother-daughter relationships. A search for identity leads a young woman to dig up a hidden family secret.
"I need surety and certainty in an unsure and uncertain world."
The author shines a light on a lesser known group who suffered during the Holocaust--the Sephardic Jews in Greece--and brings their tragic history to life through well-developed characters. I learned a lot through the reading and appreciate her careful research; the notes at the end add interesting facts to the fiction of the tale.
The present day story connects perfectly with the past, making for a satisfying read overall. I liked the use of diaries to add an extra personal layer to what the characters were experiencing. Their spiritual journey was brought to light this way, as well as in conversations and prayers. There is a clear and concise gospel message.
Recommend to readers who like WW2 era stories based on real history. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
"I need surety and certainty in an unsure and uncertain world."
The author shines a light on a lesser known group who suffered during the Holocaust--the Sephardic Jews in Greece--and brings their tragic history to life through well-developed characters. I learned a lot through the reading and appreciate her careful research; the notes at the end add interesting facts to the fiction of the tale.
The present day story connects perfectly with the past, making for a satisfying read overall. I liked the use of diaries to add an extra personal layer to what the characters were experiencing. Their spiritual journey was brought to light this way, as well as in conversations and prayers. There is a clear and concise gospel message.
Recommend to readers who like WW2 era stories based on real history. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
December 9, 2022
1941 & 2019 Salonika, Greece
Lovely time slip novel! At the core, it's about bravery and love. In both timelines, motherhood is an integral theme.
Pages were turning in both threads. Beginning each chapter with a journal entry was an engaging way to introduce what was ahead. Journal entries were written by the novel's two young heroines: Tessa in the current day thread and Mathilda in 1941. After Tessa's DNA results reveal she has Jewish heritage, she is eager to learn more about her ancestors in Greece.
Well written novel and full of historical details about Jews in WWII Greece as well as details about the city of Salonika.
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.
Lovely time slip novel! At the core, it's about bravery and love. In both timelines, motherhood is an integral theme.
Pages were turning in both threads. Beginning each chapter with a journal entry was an engaging way to introduce what was ahead. Journal entries were written by the novel's two young heroines: Tessa in the current day thread and Mathilda in 1941. After Tessa's DNA results reveal she has Jewish heritage, she is eager to learn more about her ancestors in Greece.
Well written novel and full of historical details about Jews in WWII Greece as well as details about the city of Salonika.
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.
February 2, 2023
In all the years I've been reading and reviewing books I've never read a WWII novel set in Greece. Have you? If not, I encourage you to pick up and read What I Would Tell You by Liz Tolsma. It's a moving split-time novel that's brimming with history.
January 6, 2023
There is not a lot of times that I’m rendered speechless. However this is how I found myself after reading “What I Would Tell You” that is written by Liz Tolsma. I’ve read so many books the past year that were based off of true events surrounding World War II, however this one broke my heart. (In a good way). World War II was an absolute devastating event - what Hitler and the Nazi’s did is inexcusable.
This story is the Sephardic Jews story. A community that was almost entirely wiped out. @authorliztolsma has written a story that will take you on an emotional story. The author weaves together both 1941 events and present day to bring a horrific part of history to life.
This is the story of Mathilda. She wasn’t afraid to push back when she saw her beloved homeland being destroyed. She continues to publish her newspaper and urges others in her Salonika community to do the same. She’s had a lot of pain in her life and now she’s watching those who have helped raise her have their lives snuffed away.
Tessa finds out through a popular DNA testing site that she has Jewish ancestry. She’s very puzzled by this and her mother won’t explain. So she hops on a plane and seeks out answers. What she doesn’t count on is meeting museum guide, Giannis. Tessa soon finds out that what she’s known to be her history is not the complete truth.
The author writes in real historical events. She notes at the end of the book what is fact and what is fiction. I love reading books where I’m able to learn from them. I didn’t know this part of history existed. The author has done careful research to bring this area of history to life.
Thank you so much to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
This story is the Sephardic Jews story. A community that was almost entirely wiped out. @authorliztolsma has written a story that will take you on an emotional story. The author weaves together both 1941 events and present day to bring a horrific part of history to life.
This is the story of Mathilda. She wasn’t afraid to push back when she saw her beloved homeland being destroyed. She continues to publish her newspaper and urges others in her Salonika community to do the same. She’s had a lot of pain in her life and now she’s watching those who have helped raise her have their lives snuffed away.
Tessa finds out through a popular DNA testing site that she has Jewish ancestry. She’s very puzzled by this and her mother won’t explain. So she hops on a plane and seeks out answers. What she doesn’t count on is meeting museum guide, Giannis. Tessa soon finds out that what she’s known to be her history is not the complete truth.
The author writes in real historical events. She notes at the end of the book what is fact and what is fiction. I love reading books where I’m able to learn from them. I didn’t know this part of history existed. The author has done careful research to bring this area of history to life.
Thank you so much to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
March 3, 2023
Heartbreaking and inspiring—two words I would use to describe this wonderful dual-timeline saga. I have read several fictional stories chronicling the treatment of the Jewish people during the Holocaust, but none set in Greece. The events that prompted the story are horrendous, and Ms. Tolsma portrays them honestly but with thoughtful insight into the feelings of the victims. The dual-timeline featuring action in World War II Greece and modern day Pittsburg is executed with perfection weaving fact and fiction together harmoniously from beginning to end. The beautifully sketched historical setting provides an amazing backdrop to this compelling story and shows evidence of extensive research. The fascinating characters are well-crafted and credible. The faith thread is encouraging and thought- provoking. This book was one of my best reads ever, and I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 31, 2023
I was excited to delve into What I Would Tell You because: 1. it’s written by Liz Tolsma, 2. I love dual-timelines, 3. I’m drawn to WWII stories, and 4. I don’t remember reading a story with a Greek setting.
I’ve read several books by this author and have never been even slightly disappointed. It’s evident how much research goes into her stories, rich in history and intensity.
The dual-timeline aspect of this story gives it so much more depth than if only one view is provided. I loved both the contemporary and historical timelines, but Mathilda’s POV was most impactful, revealing a glimpse of of Jewish life during this dark period.
With strong elements of courage and sacrifice, what I loved most was how seamlessly the Gospel was shared. The threads of faith, family, and forgiveness make this such a moving and meaningful story.
First Line: The words from the polished brown radio set in front of Mathilda echoed in her ears, but she couldn’t believe them.
Series: Echoes of the Past series book
Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Dual Timeline
Author: Liz Tolsma
Page Count: 320
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
I’ve read several books by this author and have never been even slightly disappointed. It’s evident how much research goes into her stories, rich in history and intensity.
The dual-timeline aspect of this story gives it so much more depth than if only one view is provided. I loved both the contemporary and historical timelines, but Mathilda’s POV was most impactful, revealing a glimpse of of Jewish life during this dark period.
With strong elements of courage and sacrifice, what I loved most was how seamlessly the Gospel was shared. The threads of faith, family, and forgiveness make this such a moving and meaningful story.
First Line: The words from the polished brown radio set in front of Mathilda echoed in her ears, but she couldn’t believe them.
Series: Echoes of the Past series book
Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Dual Timeline
Author: Liz Tolsma
Page Count: 320
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
February 2, 2023
This is a hard story for me to describe without giving too much away. It's a moving tale of a little-known (at least to me) sect of Jews, and the tragedy they faced during the Holocaust, all set in Greece-a place I'd never really thought of as having experienced the horrors of the Holocaust. It is also the story of a young woman in college learning who she is by learning who her family was when a DNA test revealed their story was not what she thought it was. Though not a romance story, there was a sweet relationship between Mathilda and her husband Asher. I like to consider myself a pretty savvy reader but there were one or two unexpected twists at the end that I appreciated.
I would definitely recommend it for fans of genealogy, powerful Holocaust stories, and mother-and-daughter relationship stories.
I would definitely recommend it for fans of genealogy, powerful Holocaust stories, and mother-and-daughter relationship stories.
February 17, 2023
Similar to other readers, I picked up this split-timeline ChristFic novel because I hadn't read fiction about Sephardic Jews in Greece during WWII before. I became so engrossed in the historical side of the story that I would've read the book in one sitting if my schedule would have allowed it.
Now, a number of details, phrases, and characters' thoughts in this book are redundant, and some portions of the story felt overdone or overmilked to me. I personally like a defter touch, when the characters and the narrative effectively leave certain things unrepeated or unsaid.
Also, unless there's no direct English translation for particular words, it isn't my preference when foreign language expressions are mixed into the dialogue of characters who are supposed to be speaking only one language, or when they say something in their own language and then repeat the words in English for the reader's sake. To me, that draws unneeded attention to the fact that the characters are indeed technically speaking English throughout the book, which pulls me out of the setting somewhat. Even so, I did appreciate the Author's Note with a bit of information about the Ladino language.
Aside from minor stylistic points, a couple of issues didn't sit right with me. The first is in regard to one of Mathilda's papers, where she seeks to move her people to action by reminding them of their ancestors: "We once were a proud nation, marching through Canaan, destroying the evil people" who lived in that land. Yet, the very Nazi regime that Mathilda is writing against—they see themselves that way, as a proud nation marching through and destroying the people who live in the land, people the Nazis see as evil. In one scene, Tessa reads the names of people who died in the Holocaust, "name after name, each one of them a flesh-and-blood person," but did Mathilda not think of those "destroyed" Canaanites that way, as flesh-and-blood people who each had a name? To me, the example Mathilda uses isn't the best match for a call to self-defense.
The other issue that left me unsettled is the evangelistic push in the story. I think I understand when I sometimes see Jewish readers express offense or hurt when in fiction about the Holocaust—featuring Jewish main characters—that massive Jewish tragedy and the people who died in it are used as a platform for a Christian evangelism message. I know it's a complex issue, I in no way mean to discount Christians who are Jewish by heritage, and I can't speak for Jewish people as they speak for themselves. But I don't believe all Christian Fiction about the Holocaust takes the evangelistic route that this story does.
As for the novel's contemporary side, I felt like some details were added in too late, in the final scenes. I would have needed a little more character development earlier in Tessa's family situation to make their ending more convincing. But on Mathilda's side of the story, I was stirred by the resolution of her impossibly hard battle with selfishness.
And I'd be remiss not to mention how much I like this novel's book cover, with its somber but lovely monotone approach. I don't read many split-timeline novels, but the cover of this one really called to me as a historical fiction devotee.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Now, a number of details, phrases, and characters' thoughts in this book are redundant, and some portions of the story felt overdone or overmilked to me. I personally like a defter touch, when the characters and the narrative effectively leave certain things unrepeated or unsaid.
Also, unless there's no direct English translation for particular words, it isn't my preference when foreign language expressions are mixed into the dialogue of characters who are supposed to be speaking only one language, or when they say something in their own language and then repeat the words in English for the reader's sake. To me, that draws unneeded attention to the fact that the characters are indeed technically speaking English throughout the book, which pulls me out of the setting somewhat. Even so, I did appreciate the Author's Note with a bit of information about the Ladino language.
Aside from minor stylistic points, a couple of issues didn't sit right with me. The first is in regard to one of Mathilda's papers, where she seeks to move her people to action by reminding them of their ancestors: "We once were a proud nation, marching through Canaan, destroying the evil people" who lived in that land. Yet, the very Nazi regime that Mathilda is writing against—they see themselves that way, as a proud nation marching through and destroying the people who live in the land, people the Nazis see as evil. In one scene, Tessa reads the names of people who died in the Holocaust, "name after name, each one of them a flesh-and-blood person," but did Mathilda not think of those "destroyed" Canaanites that way, as flesh-and-blood people who each had a name? To me, the example Mathilda uses isn't the best match for a call to self-defense.
The other issue that left me unsettled is the evangelistic push in the story. I think I understand when I sometimes see Jewish readers express offense or hurt when in fiction about the Holocaust—featuring Jewish main characters—that massive Jewish tragedy and the people who died in it are used as a platform for a Christian evangelism message. I know it's a complex issue, I in no way mean to discount Christians who are Jewish by heritage, and I can't speak for Jewish people as they speak for themselves. But I don't believe all Christian Fiction about the Holocaust takes the evangelistic route that this story does.
As for the novel's contemporary side, I felt like some details were added in too late, in the final scenes. I would have needed a little more character development earlier in Tessa's family situation to make their ending more convincing. But on Mathilda's side of the story, I was stirred by the resolution of her impossibly hard battle with selfishness.
And I'd be remiss not to mention how much I like this novel's book cover, with its somber but lovely monotone approach. I don't read many split-timeline novels, but the cover of this one really called to me as a historical fiction devotee.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
November 22, 2022
I was incredibly intrigued by the idea of this story. I think most of us only think of countries that touch Germany in regards to WWII. With it being set in Greece and learning about Sephardic Jews blew my mind! I didn't realize, until this story, that Greece had been so affected by the war. I also learned about Sephardic Jews.
We get to know Tessa, in our current time who, through a DNA test, learns her genealogy isn't what her family thought it was. I liked her because she has tenacity to learn about her past and do something about it! Her familial relationships left a lot to be desired. I think I was as happy as she was for her to go to Greece.
We also meet Mathilda. She is smack dab in the occupation of her city, Salonika. She and her husband are trying to stay out of the way of the Germans while still trying to get their fellow Jews to fight back. You can feel, through their storyline, the push and pull of wanting to fight back while wanting to live. Their lives had me on an emotional roller coaster ride.
Watching the connection between their timelines begin to come together was incredibly powerful. I felt like I was as invested in finding the answers as Tessa was. I wish the world knew more about Sephardic Jews. I'm glad a story like this exists now!
I'm a huge fan of time split stories and I enjoyed both timelines equally. I need more like this!
*I received the ebook ARC for review. This is my personal opinion.
We get to know Tessa, in our current time who, through a DNA test, learns her genealogy isn't what her family thought it was. I liked her because she has tenacity to learn about her past and do something about it! Her familial relationships left a lot to be desired. I think I was as happy as she was for her to go to Greece.
We also meet Mathilda. She is smack dab in the occupation of her city, Salonika. She and her husband are trying to stay out of the way of the Germans while still trying to get their fellow Jews to fight back. You can feel, through their storyline, the push and pull of wanting to fight back while wanting to live. Their lives had me on an emotional roller coaster ride.
Watching the connection between their timelines begin to come together was incredibly powerful. I felt like I was as invested in finding the answers as Tessa was. I wish the world knew more about Sephardic Jews. I'm glad a story like this exists now!
I'm a huge fan of time split stories and I enjoyed both timelines equally. I need more like this!
*I received the ebook ARC for review. This is my personal opinion.
November 15, 2022
“Do we no longer depend on Dio to be our ever-present help? Is that the reason we refuse to fight those who would dispose of us?”
Liz Tolsma is to be commended for highlighting a little-known part of history - the persecution of the Greek Jews - and exploring a setting, Thessalonica, not often used in historical fiction.
This compelling read enlightened readers on the difference between Sephardic and Ashkenazi Hews and what they faced during the 1940s in Greece. Tolsma’s main character in the 1940s timeline harnesses her bravery and uses her typewriter to openly defy Nazis.
In the complementary timeline, 2019 Pittsburg, a DNA test prompts a woman to journey to Greece in search of answers.
Both timelines come together nicely, highlighting family bonds, the search for truth and the beauty of new beginnings yet don’t overshadow the magnitude of the Holocaust. The characters are well-crafted, allowing readers to become more engaged in the story and the spiritual thread woven throughout was thoughtfully written. You’ll notice that Tolsma has a taut grip on her plot and her characters, in facing life and death situations, question their faith resulting in it growing deeper; it’s a wonderfully paced narrative.
I was generously gifted this by Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Liz Tolsma is to be commended for highlighting a little-known part of history - the persecution of the Greek Jews - and exploring a setting, Thessalonica, not often used in historical fiction.
This compelling read enlightened readers on the difference between Sephardic and Ashkenazi Hews and what they faced during the 1940s in Greece. Tolsma’s main character in the 1940s timeline harnesses her bravery and uses her typewriter to openly defy Nazis.
In the complementary timeline, 2019 Pittsburg, a DNA test prompts a woman to journey to Greece in search of answers.
Both timelines come together nicely, highlighting family bonds, the search for truth and the beauty of new beginnings yet don’t overshadow the magnitude of the Holocaust. The characters are well-crafted, allowing readers to become more engaged in the story and the spiritual thread woven throughout was thoughtfully written. You’ll notice that Tolsma has a taut grip on her plot and her characters, in facing life and death situations, question their faith resulting in it growing deeper; it’s a wonderfully paced narrative.
I was generously gifted this by Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 6, 2023
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.
I enjoyed both premises of this book: a writer defying an evil dictator and a young woman searching for her identity in the country of her ancestors. While I sometimes get weary of the time-slip genre, this one was well written in that aspect. My favorite part was the atmosphere in Greece, which came alive on the pages. I’m sure this was due in part to the author’s having traveled there (as mentioned in the author’s note).
It was disappointing that two historical facts were altered significantly to push a feministic agenda as well as to suit the story’s timeline. I prefer historical fiction to stick to historical facts and adjust the story’s timeline to fit the actual historical timeline. To me, that is how we learn from history even within a fictional story while also honoring those people who lived out the tragedies and successes of the era in which the fiction is set. Instead, what this book offered was a version of “cancel culture” that pushed a man out of his role in history so that a woman could take his place, and significantly changed the course of a pivotal event for the sake of “dramatic effect.” The real-life version of the event was actually more dramatic and would have significantly ramped up the tension and stakes within the fictional story, as I’m sure it did for the people who truly lived it out in the 1940s.
Another difference in this book than in the author’s previous works is that some pretty large questions the author created in my mind were never answered. I noticed this about halfway through (which was where the “dramatic effects” were happening), and that’s when I began losing interest in the story. It’s not normal for me to close a Tolsma book with more pending questions than when I started reading it.
There were some other issues I noted, but the most important of those was that one soul-saving scene likely wouldn’t have happened because of what the Bible says about people who have died coming back to warn their loved ones about what comes after death. Luke 16:22-31 (NKJ) says, “So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’”
The memory of reading that Bible story many times as a young child pulled me right out of the story, and the context of the parable made the finale of the novel unrealistic to me.
I really wanted to love this book. The back-cover copy was right up my alley. The cover was deliciously moody and hinted that I was in for a good Gothic tale. It was a lot less Gothic-y than I was hoping for, so it didn’t live up to the cover in that way.
Content: skimpy clothing, derogatory term, alcohol, tobacco, breastfeeding
I enjoyed both premises of this book: a writer defying an evil dictator and a young woman searching for her identity in the country of her ancestors. While I sometimes get weary of the time-slip genre, this one was well written in that aspect. My favorite part was the atmosphere in Greece, which came alive on the pages. I’m sure this was due in part to the author’s having traveled there (as mentioned in the author’s note).
It was disappointing that two historical facts were altered significantly to push a feministic agenda as well as to suit the story’s timeline. I prefer historical fiction to stick to historical facts and adjust the story’s timeline to fit the actual historical timeline. To me, that is how we learn from history even within a fictional story while also honoring those people who lived out the tragedies and successes of the era in which the fiction is set. Instead, what this book offered was a version of “cancel culture” that pushed a man out of his role in history so that a woman could take his place, and significantly changed the course of a pivotal event for the sake of “dramatic effect.” The real-life version of the event was actually more dramatic and would have significantly ramped up the tension and stakes within the fictional story, as I’m sure it did for the people who truly lived it out in the 1940s.
Another difference in this book than in the author’s previous works is that some pretty large questions the author created in my mind were never answered. I noticed this about halfway through (which was where the “dramatic effects” were happening), and that’s when I began losing interest in the story. It’s not normal for me to close a Tolsma book with more pending questions than when I started reading it.
There were some other issues I noted, but the most important of those was that one soul-saving scene likely wouldn’t have happened because of what the Bible says about people who have died coming back to warn their loved ones about what comes after death. Luke 16:22-31 (NKJ) says, “So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’”
The memory of reading that Bible story many times as a young child pulled me right out of the story, and the context of the parable made the finale of the novel unrealistic to me.
I really wanted to love this book. The back-cover copy was right up my alley. The cover was deliciously moody and hinted that I was in for a good Gothic tale. It was a lot less Gothic-y than I was hoping for, so it didn’t live up to the cover in that way.
Content: skimpy clothing, derogatory term, alcohol, tobacco, breastfeeding
February 6, 2023
It took me several days to digest this book before writing my review and now trying to accomplish that without any spoilers will be difficult. Ms Tolsma is one of my favorite Historical authors and this one seals the deal for me. She captivates my attention from the beginning set in 1941 Salonika, Greece. Learning about the 40,000 Salonikan Jews who perished in the Holocaust was enlightening as I had never heard of this sect and how they were almost eradicated. The bravery that Mathilda showed in the face of evil was a great example for us to exemplify. I love the split time genre and this author flows between the eras flawlessly. I was fascinated when Tessa took a DNA test that led her on a journey to find her heritage in Greece. I felt like I was walking those steps with her. My favorite part was the journal as Tessa read Mathilda’s story. Although this story is dark at times it is facts we all need to be aware of and the author always shows the message of hope in Christ. If you want to discover how far will a mother go to protect a child then pick this up as it will leave you with tears and a feeling of satisfaction by the end. Well researched, well written, lovable characters that you feel like you know when you finish as they continue to resonate in your life. I highly recommend but have tissues handy. This goes on my keeper shelf.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
October 24, 2022
What I Would Tell You is an incredibly heart-gripping novel set in Occupied Greece during WWII. Set in two time periods, then and now, it tells the story of Mathilda Nissim, a Jewish-Greek women living in Greece during WWII and Tessa Payton, a young adult woman living in the United States in present time. Tessa's world is flipped upside down when she receives shocking DNA results that make her question her entire life. She sets out on a journey of self discovery and finds herself in Greece. While in Greece, Tessa learns the story of Mathilda. Mathilda is a fiery, passionate, strong woman that is doing what she can to survive each day of the Nazi Occupation.
Throughout the book, the author, Liz Tolsma, really showcases the depth of a mothers love in various aspects. You get to see motherhood from a variety of stances in this book and each stance is unique and powerful in it's own way. Every decision that is made, every conversation that is had and every emotional moment experienced in this novel is written with such a profound skill. The author makes the reader really feel the emotion that each character is experiencing. A mother will move mountains and do whatever it takes to protect her babies and there are so many examples of this in this book.
Throughout the book, the author, Liz Tolsma, really showcases the depth of a mothers love in various aspects. You get to see motherhood from a variety of stances in this book and each stance is unique and powerful in it's own way. Every decision that is made, every conversation that is had and every emotional moment experienced in this novel is written with such a profound skill. The author makes the reader really feel the emotion that each character is experiencing. A mother will move mountains and do whatever it takes to protect her babies and there are so many examples of this in this book.
January 17, 2023
After I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. It struck a lot of chords in my life because I am a genealogist and have found long missing family through DNA and years of research. As well as traveling to those places as did Tessa Payton in this split time period book. I totally related to Mathilda, as my mother experienced many similar WWII experiences in Germany but as a Christian. So I have to say, I was totally captivated from page 1 to the very end. The story totally took me to Greece and I felt and understood exactly the fear, the emotion and the heartache as Mathilda experienced them. It was an amazing book and I love the beautiful friendship between Mathilda and Ioanna.
The split story time is from 2019 and WWII and about secrets never shared. It's a beautifully written book. I can highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. All thoughts are my own.
The split story time is from 2019 and WWII and about secrets never shared. It's a beautifully written book. I can highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. All thoughts are my own.
January 30, 2023
A dual-timeline novel about two woman struggling to live their identity in their times. Mathilda Nissim is a Sephardic Jew living in Greece, she uses her pen to bring hope and encouragement to others as the Germans close in. In the present day, Riley goes on a quest to find out more about her ancestors after a DNA test renders unexpected results, finding herself on the adventure of a lifetime.
A well researched book that does an excellent job of bringing to life the terrors that the Jewish people faced in Greece during the war. This was an intriguing read, as I had not heard about the Sephardic Jews before reading this novel, nor is Greece often the setting for a WWII novel.
This was a well written book, I liked the friendship between Mathilda and Joanna as well as how Joanna selflessly takes risks and does everything that she can for Mathilda. I also appreciated how it also emphasized the gospel, and the hope we have in Christ.
Overall, this was a great unique angle on the war an things that many faced at the hands of the Nazis. Great for fans of historical fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A well researched book that does an excellent job of bringing to life the terrors that the Jewish people faced in Greece during the war. This was an intriguing read, as I had not heard about the Sephardic Jews before reading this novel, nor is Greece often the setting for a WWII novel.
This was a well written book, I liked the friendship between Mathilda and Joanna as well as how Joanna selflessly takes risks and does everything that she can for Mathilda. I also appreciated how it also emphasized the gospel, and the hope we have in Christ.
Overall, this was a great unique angle on the war an things that many faced at the hands of the Nazis. Great for fans of historical fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 2, 2025
Really enjoyed it but didn't LOVE it. As is typical (with me) with a duel timeline I preferred one timeline over the other but it wasn't bad just... I think sticking to one would have been fine 🤷🏻♀️
One reason I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is because (this will be difficult to articulate without spoilers) one time in particular I felt like I got emotional whiplash going from one timeline to another. She could have tried to ease us into it but instead did a 180° in emotions and I did NOT appreciate it.
I also disagree with one main characters desire to know who her ancestors were to "know who she was". You know yourself and how you were raised! Wanting to know history is fine but it doesn't change YOU.
One reason I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is because (this will be difficult to articulate without spoilers) one time in particular I felt like I got emotional whiplash going from one timeline to another. She could have tried to ease us into it but instead did a 180° in emotions and I did NOT appreciate it.
I also disagree with one main characters desire to know who her ancestors were to "know who she was". You know yourself and how you were raised! Wanting to know history is fine but it doesn't change YOU.
January 25, 2023
Many times you pick up a book with history in it, and the history is kind of the side note to the romantic story. This book is more focused on the journey from the characters. There is heartache, joy, and bravery. The relationship with the modern character, her step father/sister was unique as well. I really liked how the author dug into the history and creatively wove a hard story into a happier one.
December 13, 2022
Another gift from Author Liz Tolsma, a story that tugs at your heartstrings. Mothers from each generation that try to protect their innocent children.
The story starts with the present day with a DNA results, definitely not what Tessa Payton was expecting, but because of it her life is changed, and a whole new world opens up.
This story is a dual time read, and does deal with a period of time when evil spread across Europe! This story deals with the people living in Greece at this time, and although we now know what happened to most of these people, we put faces on these poor folks, who want to trust the enemy, but what choice did they have?
In the end we are offered some sweet romance, along with a family mystery solved, and found family, along with a lot of forgiveness!
Keep reading, I loved the author's note, learned some history I was unfamiliar with!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.
April 27, 2023
“You must be ready. The story of the Jews in Thessaloniki, or Salonika as they called it at the time, is not happy. It is sometimes hard to hear. Sometimes it rips your heart right from your chest. You saw the names on the wall. They each represent a person. They are not just letters written on a piece of stone.”
I must begin my review with this quote, because it sets the tone of much of the book. Yes, there is hope infused by the faith that Liz Tolsma includes, but it must shine out of a very dark time.
“This is the day I dreaded, the day I feared might come, the day I prayed never would. Greece will never be the same.” So writes Mathilda Nissim in her diary in 1941 Salonika, Greece, in Liz Tolsma’s What I Would Tell You. Wow!! My question would be, can I or you, read this book, and be the same? I cried. I think I may cry some for days to come. The historical part of this powerful dual timeline focuses on a young Jewish woman and how her life changes as the German occupation begins and bears down on her people.
Mathilda and her friends are so real with their fears and their love for each other, the way they bolster each other up as needed. I can taste their fears and feel their hunger. My feet freeze and I worry how to keep a young child quiet. Who to trust? And the biggest question, why is God turning His back on His people?
In the present-day timeline, I enjoyed the modern sites and tastes of Thessaloniki with Tessa. Tolsma has sold me on the idea of a trip to Greece. But what a discovery Tessa starts in motion when she visits the Jewish museum in Thessaloniki!! Will discovering the roots of her past lead her to a new and improved future?
A must-read from Barbour Books!
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“I am more afraid of what will happen if we do nothing than of what will happen if we do something.”
“We can’t live in a land where we made different choices. That’s a place where only crazy people live. What we have to do now is face what is to come with our heads held high. We can’t allow them to rob us of our dignity.”
I must begin my review with this quote, because it sets the tone of much of the book. Yes, there is hope infused by the faith that Liz Tolsma includes, but it must shine out of a very dark time.
“This is the day I dreaded, the day I feared might come, the day I prayed never would. Greece will never be the same.” So writes Mathilda Nissim in her diary in 1941 Salonika, Greece, in Liz Tolsma’s What I Would Tell You. Wow!! My question would be, can I or you, read this book, and be the same? I cried. I think I may cry some for days to come. The historical part of this powerful dual timeline focuses on a young Jewish woman and how her life changes as the German occupation begins and bears down on her people.
Mathilda and her friends are so real with their fears and their love for each other, the way they bolster each other up as needed. I can taste their fears and feel their hunger. My feet freeze and I worry how to keep a young child quiet. Who to trust? And the biggest question, why is God turning His back on His people?
In the present-day timeline, I enjoyed the modern sites and tastes of Thessaloniki with Tessa. Tolsma has sold me on the idea of a trip to Greece. But what a discovery Tessa starts in motion when she visits the Jewish museum in Thessaloniki!! Will discovering the roots of her past lead her to a new and improved future?
A must-read from Barbour Books!
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“I am more afraid of what will happen if we do nothing than of what will happen if we do something.”
“We can’t live in a land where we made different choices. That’s a place where only crazy people live. What we have to do now is face what is to come with our heads held high. We can’t allow them to rob us of our dignity.”
March 31, 2023
Mom read this book recently, and her review made me want to read it. When I found the book as an audiobook, I decided to take the time to listen.
The history side of this book was intriguing. I never stopped to wonder what it was like for Jews outside of the normal European countries you hear about during the Second World War—Austria, Germany, France, the Netherlands, and occasionally Denmark. But apparently, according to this story and to history, the holocaust spread to Greece, too. And unfortunately, the Jews didn’t fare as well in Greece as they did in places like Denmark. That’s what the second main character of this story, Tessa Payton, finds out when she discovers that she’s part Jewish, and sets off on a trip to Greece to uncover who her real ancestors actually were. As she uncovers the story of a young Jewish woman, Mathilda Nissim, she also uncovers the truth about her roots.
There was so much to love about this book. The history was fascinating, Mathilda’s story was both heartbreaking, all too realistic, and inspiring, and Tessa’s journey as she learned to know herself and her family more as the story went on brought some hope and, sometimes, playfulness to an otherwise heavy story.
I did come away a little disappointed in the book, though. Several times, characters did or experienced things that stretched my suspension of belief a little too far. If they had made choices or done things just a little earlier, I would have been fine with it; as it was, in real life, things wouldn’t have turned out the way they did in the book, and it didn’t sit well with me. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but due to two instances, especially, it did leave me a little sad that things weren’t dealt with differently.
Overall, this was an excellent, gripping story, and I’m thankful Liz Tolsma decided to shed light on this little-known portion of history! If it were not for her writing about it, I may never have known about the Sephardic Jews and what happened to them. This was a good read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical or split-time fiction.
The history side of this book was intriguing. I never stopped to wonder what it was like for Jews outside of the normal European countries you hear about during the Second World War—Austria, Germany, France, the Netherlands, and occasionally Denmark. But apparently, according to this story and to history, the holocaust spread to Greece, too. And unfortunately, the Jews didn’t fare as well in Greece as they did in places like Denmark. That’s what the second main character of this story, Tessa Payton, finds out when she discovers that she’s part Jewish, and sets off on a trip to Greece to uncover who her real ancestors actually were. As she uncovers the story of a young Jewish woman, Mathilda Nissim, she also uncovers the truth about her roots.
There was so much to love about this book. The history was fascinating, Mathilda’s story was both heartbreaking, all too realistic, and inspiring, and Tessa’s journey as she learned to know herself and her family more as the story went on brought some hope and, sometimes, playfulness to an otherwise heavy story.
I did come away a little disappointed in the book, though. Several times, characters did or experienced things that stretched my suspension of belief a little too far. If they had made choices or done things just a little earlier, I would have been fine with it; as it was, in real life, things wouldn’t have turned out the way they did in the book, and it didn’t sit well with me. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but due to two instances, especially, it did leave me a little sad that things weren’t dealt with differently.
Overall, this was an excellent, gripping story, and I’m thankful Liz Tolsma decided to shed light on this little-known portion of history! If it were not for her writing about it, I may never have known about the Sephardic Jews and what happened to them. This was a good read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical or split-time fiction.
March 15, 2023
What I Would Tell You by Liz Tolsma is a compelling dual timeline novel set primarily in Greece, a neglected country in my reading repertoire. Both plots are united through a journal and the theme of maternal love's immense power to make sacrifices to benefit children.
Set in 1941, the historical story follows Mathilda and her husband, both Sephardic Jews, as the Nazi presence in Greece incrementally destroyed the lives of Jewish citizens. As Mathilda's husband was sent to a labor camp and she found herself unexpectedly pregnant, she recorded her fears and hopes in her journal - her most cherished possession. When Mathilda was forced to board an overcrowded train bound for a concentration camp, she made an impossible decision that impacted future generations of her family.
The contemporary storyline set in 2019 features 19-year-old Tess whose shocking DNA test results revealed that she's likely Jewish although raised Christian. Despite her mother's concerns, Tess traveled to Greece to learn about the local Jewish history and her family's genealogy. A handsome museum curator aided in her research and connected her to Mathilda's journal. When Tess confronted her mother with her findings, the truth provided Tess with illuminating clarity of recent and past events.
I've read several novels by Liz Tolsma and this is by far the best to date. Both plots were very engaging, and the dialog, especially in the contemporary story, flowed so naturally. (This may be due in part that this is the author's first novel I've read via audiobook.) Both heroines were well developed characters and were decisive in their actions. I appreciated the information I learned about Sephardic Jews through reading this book. I highly recommend What I Would Tell You as a novel that expertly pairs a current topic (genealogical DNA testing) with lesser known WWII history.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Set in 1941, the historical story follows Mathilda and her husband, both Sephardic Jews, as the Nazi presence in Greece incrementally destroyed the lives of Jewish citizens. As Mathilda's husband was sent to a labor camp and she found herself unexpectedly pregnant, she recorded her fears and hopes in her journal - her most cherished possession. When Mathilda was forced to board an overcrowded train bound for a concentration camp, she made an impossible decision that impacted future generations of her family.
The contemporary storyline set in 2019 features 19-year-old Tess whose shocking DNA test results revealed that she's likely Jewish although raised Christian. Despite her mother's concerns, Tess traveled to Greece to learn about the local Jewish history and her family's genealogy. A handsome museum curator aided in her research and connected her to Mathilda's journal. When Tess confronted her mother with her findings, the truth provided Tess with illuminating clarity of recent and past events.
I've read several novels by Liz Tolsma and this is by far the best to date. Both plots were very engaging, and the dialog, especially in the contemporary story, flowed so naturally. (This may be due in part that this is the author's first novel I've read via audiobook.) Both heroines were well developed characters and were decisive in their actions. I appreciated the information I learned about Sephardic Jews through reading this book. I highly recommend What I Would Tell You as a novel that expertly pairs a current topic (genealogical DNA testing) with lesser known WWII history.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
February 25, 2023
If you have followed my book reviews for any amount of time, then you know that I love Time Slip novels. Since I am currently researching my own family history and have submitted my own DNA to find out more about where I come from, I have been reading a lot of genealogy mysteries and fiction. Liz Tolsma’s latest release marries Time Slip and genealogy together. Ms. Tolsma’s What I Would Tell You transports you between the 1940s and 2019, telling the story of Tessa, a young college student in 2019 who submits her DNA to find out more about her family history, and when she gets it back it’s nothing like she expected. Due to the unexpected find in her DNA, Tessa takes an impromptu trip to Greece to learn more about her heritage and Greek Sephardic Jews. While in Greece she learns about a woman named Mathilda Nissim, a Greek Sephardic Jew, on a mission to save her People from Nazi Occupation. Through the journals Mathilda left behind, Tessa gains a new appreciation for her family and the sacrifices that were made–past and present.
I love that Liz Tolsma brings a part of history to the reader that they may have not known existed. In Ms. Tolsma’s writing, her writing paints Greece so vividly to the reader that regardless of whether you are reading the parts about the 1940s or 2019, you feel as though you are transported to Greece in both time and place. I love the strength and gumption that both Mathilda and Tessa possess. I love how Mathilda stood up for what she believed was right regardless of the cost or danger. I love how fiercely protective Mathilda is of her Jewish community and then, when she finds out that she is expecting, she is fiercely protective of her child too. Tessa also stood up for what was right in her own way, which is nice to see. My heart broke for Mathilda and everything she went through, but I was thankful that she had a friend like Ioanna that stood with her through thick and thin. I love that all the women in the book had their own kind of strength. I also love the relationship of Mathilda and Asher and Tessa and Giannis. I love how each relationship had respect for each other and were supportive of one another. If you are looking for a book that will touch your heart and take you on a journey of parts of history that need to be known, I highly recommend that you read What I Would Tell You by Liz Tolsma!
I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My review is also on Goodreads and my blog, Leslie's Library Escape.
I love that Liz Tolsma brings a part of history to the reader that they may have not known existed. In Ms. Tolsma’s writing, her writing paints Greece so vividly to the reader that regardless of whether you are reading the parts about the 1940s or 2019, you feel as though you are transported to Greece in both time and place. I love the strength and gumption that both Mathilda and Tessa possess. I love how Mathilda stood up for what she believed was right regardless of the cost or danger. I love how fiercely protective Mathilda is of her Jewish community and then, when she finds out that she is expecting, she is fiercely protective of her child too. Tessa also stood up for what was right in her own way, which is nice to see. My heart broke for Mathilda and everything she went through, but I was thankful that she had a friend like Ioanna that stood with her through thick and thin. I love that all the women in the book had their own kind of strength. I also love the relationship of Mathilda and Asher and Tessa and Giannis. I love how each relationship had respect for each other and were supportive of one another. If you are looking for a book that will touch your heart and take you on a journey of parts of history that need to be known, I highly recommend that you read What I Would Tell You by Liz Tolsma!
I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My review is also on Goodreads and my blog, Leslie's Library Escape.
November 11, 2022
What I Would Tell You
By: Liz Tolsma
Publisher: Barbour Fiction
Series: None
Rated: 3-4
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “DNA Test Unlocks a Family Mystery
Sephardic Jew Mathilda Nissim watches in horror as the Germans invade her beloved city of Salonika, Greece. What angers her most is the lack of resistance her people put up to their captors. In secret and at great risk to her life, she continues to publish her newspaper, calling her people to action. She doesn’t trust God to help them. When she and her husband find out they are expecting a child, Mathilda may have to resort to desperate measures to ensure her daughter’s survival.
Three generations later, college student Riley Payson and her cousin take a popular DNA test only to discover they don’t share any common ancestors. In fact, the test shows Riley is a Sephardic Jew from Greece. This revelation shakes Riley’s tenuous faith and sends her on a journey to discover what happened to her great-grandmother and how all this relates to her faith and her life today.”
Impressions: Hmmm… This was interesting but also frustrating read. I can’t imagine a college student having the amount of cash to travel abroad for an unknown time nor go to a country without knowing any part of the language or culture. I also think that the contemporary story was too perfectly packaged in how everything worked out. Mathilda’s story, however, was more interesting and engaging. She certainly chose to go against the ebb of safety in her choices. Her conviction and boldness were inspirational but at times felt a bit reckless. When we follow God’s calling in our gifts however life can feel a bit reckless. When things like taking a stand for our beliefs frightens us, we can also have peace knowing that Jesus himself went before us and is leading us in his care. This book was well balanced with the two timelines, and I enjoyed stories despite questioning the validity of Riley’s choices.
Quotes: “As Israel of old had stood firm against the Philistines, David defeating the giant, so they would stand against this giant who once more taunted the people of God.” -What boldness Mathilda had in her faith! I pray for boldness like this in my faith.
“Do we no longer depend of Dio to be our ever present help? Is that the reason we refuse to fight those who would dispose of us?” –I love the bold and courageous faith in this question.
“‘God’s timing is perfect. There is a reason He has chosen to give you a child right now.’” – You can fill in the second sentence with what ever you have going on in your life. The first sentence speaks truth over the rest.
“‘We pick each other up. That’s what true friendship is.’”
I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here. For more book reviews go to: https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com
By: Liz Tolsma
Publisher: Barbour Fiction
Series: None
Rated: 3-4
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “DNA Test Unlocks a Family Mystery
Sephardic Jew Mathilda Nissim watches in horror as the Germans invade her beloved city of Salonika, Greece. What angers her most is the lack of resistance her people put up to their captors. In secret and at great risk to her life, she continues to publish her newspaper, calling her people to action. She doesn’t trust God to help them. When she and her husband find out they are expecting a child, Mathilda may have to resort to desperate measures to ensure her daughter’s survival.
Three generations later, college student Riley Payson and her cousin take a popular DNA test only to discover they don’t share any common ancestors. In fact, the test shows Riley is a Sephardic Jew from Greece. This revelation shakes Riley’s tenuous faith and sends her on a journey to discover what happened to her great-grandmother and how all this relates to her faith and her life today.”
Impressions: Hmmm… This was interesting but also frustrating read. I can’t imagine a college student having the amount of cash to travel abroad for an unknown time nor go to a country without knowing any part of the language or culture. I also think that the contemporary story was too perfectly packaged in how everything worked out. Mathilda’s story, however, was more interesting and engaging. She certainly chose to go against the ebb of safety in her choices. Her conviction and boldness were inspirational but at times felt a bit reckless. When we follow God’s calling in our gifts however life can feel a bit reckless. When things like taking a stand for our beliefs frightens us, we can also have peace knowing that Jesus himself went before us and is leading us in his care. This book was well balanced with the two timelines, and I enjoyed stories despite questioning the validity of Riley’s choices.
Quotes: “As Israel of old had stood firm against the Philistines, David defeating the giant, so they would stand against this giant who once more taunted the people of God.” -What boldness Mathilda had in her faith! I pray for boldness like this in my faith.
“Do we no longer depend of Dio to be our ever present help? Is that the reason we refuse to fight those who would dispose of us?” –I love the bold and courageous faith in this question.
“‘God’s timing is perfect. There is a reason He has chosen to give you a child right now.’” – You can fill in the second sentence with what ever you have going on in your life. The first sentence speaks truth over the rest.
“‘We pick each other up. That’s what true friendship is.’”
I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here. For more book reviews go to: https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com
October 26, 2022
This is an emotionally gripping WWII read set in what was known as Thessalonica in Bible times. An old city with deep history throughout the centuries.
This read is set in a duel timeframe.
As much WWII history as I’ve read, it wasn’t until Covid 19 that I experienced the reality of how so many people blindly followed Hitler’s agenda until it was too late to fight back. While I don’t want this review to be political in nature, how Covid was handled did have myself and others struggling with how to respond on many levels. What was I supposed to do as a freedom loving American verses a Christian following Christ. I very much related to Mathilda’s struggles and the reality she saw of what was happening.
The Jews have suffered much throughout their history. The author does an amazing job explaining theology. It saddens me so many Jews don’t believe Jesus is the Messiah and it is through His work on the cross that brings salvation, not in keeping the Jewish law. It is shocking less than 4 percent of Jews survived the Holocaust in Thessaloniki. The amount of work put into tracking down all those who perished for remembrance is astounding.
This read is set in a duel timeframe.
As much WWII history as I’ve read, it wasn’t until Covid 19 that I experienced the reality of how so many people blindly followed Hitler’s agenda until it was too late to fight back. While I don’t want this review to be political in nature, how Covid was handled did have myself and others struggling with how to respond on many levels. What was I supposed to do as a freedom loving American verses a Christian following Christ. I very much related to Mathilda’s struggles and the reality she saw of what was happening.
The Jews have suffered much throughout their history. The author does an amazing job explaining theology. It saddens me so many Jews don’t believe Jesus is the Messiah and it is through His work on the cross that brings salvation, not in keeping the Jewish law. It is shocking less than 4 percent of Jews survived the Holocaust in Thessaloniki. The amount of work put into tracking down all those who perished for remembrance is astounding.
December 8, 2023
Omg this book destroyed me. It is such a tearjerker. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
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