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WW2 Resistance #2
Paris at First Light: Completely gripping and emotional World War II historical fiction
Paris, 1944 : secret agent Juliette is on her most dangerous mission of the war so far. But then her children are kidnapped, and to get them back she may have to commit the ultimate betrayal – that of France itself…
Four years ago, when France fell to the Nazis, Juliette made the ultimate sacrifice, leaving behind her two precious children to join the Resistance and defend her country. Now a spy in Paris, she must work with Captain Daniel Diaz – an American agent she’s taken an instant dislike to – on a dangerous mission to uncover a deadly Nazi plot.
As the pair play their parts, Juliette begins to see another side to Daniel, and their feelings for each other start to grow. But just as love blossoms, Juliette receives a ransom note that changes everything. Someone in Paris knows who she is. And they’ve kidnapped her little son and daughter. The message is betray your country, or you’ll never see your children alive again .
Juliette has sworn a sacred oath to save France at all costs, but she could never sacrifice her children. So, against all the odds, she decides to attempt the rescue her children and continue her dangerous work fighting the Nazi threat.
But as the mission forces Juliette and Daniel to the very brink, will they succeed on all fronts? And if not, will France pay the ultimate price, or will Juliette?
A completely gripping and heart-wrenching historical novel about hope, betrayal and one mother’s limitless courage. Perfect for readers of The Alice Network , The Nightingale and My Name is Eva , this epic story will leave you breathless.
Readers love Amanda
‘What an amazing book… One of the best historical fiction books that I have read … Love! ’ Robin Loves Reading ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was completely captivated from the first page to the last. This rapidly moving story held my attention and I couldn’t put it down . I found myself holding my breath… absolutely an amazing historical fiction… fabulous .’ Page Turners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘My new favourite … LOVED .’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Captivating… amazing… Fast paced , with plenty of suspense and action that kept me reading far past my bedtime… I highly recommend this book!’ Sharon Beyond the Books ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Wow … Fabulous … I was glued to it from the beginning.’ @karen_loves_reading ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was captivated … flying through the pages… Excellent … I was entranced .’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Heart-pounding . Everything was flawless about the book, roll on book no 2!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Right from the get-go this was an action packed, thriller of a read with a rapid pace full of twists and turns and many curveballs. It really was edge of your seat stuff… blew my mind… my heart was in my mouth.’ Shaz’s Book Blog
‘ Blown away … fantastic … One of the best and well written historical world war novels I have read in a very long time.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I read this book in one day. Omg … I seriously cried .’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Exceptional … heart stopping … a real page turner. You don’t want to miss this one!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ A real page turner … I can’t wait for the next book in the series.’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ 10 out of 10 … I read this within a day.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Four years ago, when France fell to the Nazis, Juliette made the ultimate sacrifice, leaving behind her two precious children to join the Resistance and defend her country. Now a spy in Paris, she must work with Captain Daniel Diaz – an American agent she’s taken an instant dislike to – on a dangerous mission to uncover a deadly Nazi plot.
As the pair play their parts, Juliette begins to see another side to Daniel, and their feelings for each other start to grow. But just as love blossoms, Juliette receives a ransom note that changes everything. Someone in Paris knows who she is. And they’ve kidnapped her little son and daughter. The message is betray your country, or you’ll never see your children alive again .
Juliette has sworn a sacred oath to save France at all costs, but she could never sacrifice her children. So, against all the odds, she decides to attempt the rescue her children and continue her dangerous work fighting the Nazi threat.
But as the mission forces Juliette and Daniel to the very brink, will they succeed on all fronts? And if not, will France pay the ultimate price, or will Juliette?
A completely gripping and heart-wrenching historical novel about hope, betrayal and one mother’s limitless courage. Perfect for readers of The Alice Network , The Nightingale and My Name is Eva , this epic story will leave you breathless.
Readers love Amanda
‘What an amazing book… One of the best historical fiction books that I have read … Love! ’ Robin Loves Reading ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was completely captivated from the first page to the last. This rapidly moving story held my attention and I couldn’t put it down . I found myself holding my breath… absolutely an amazing historical fiction… fabulous .’ Page Turners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘My new favourite … LOVED .’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Captivating… amazing… Fast paced , with plenty of suspense and action that kept me reading far past my bedtime… I highly recommend this book!’ Sharon Beyond the Books ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Wow … Fabulous … I was glued to it from the beginning.’ @karen_loves_reading ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was captivated … flying through the pages… Excellent … I was entranced .’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Heart-pounding . Everything was flawless about the book, roll on book no 2!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Right from the get-go this was an action packed, thriller of a read with a rapid pace full of twists and turns and many curveballs. It really was edge of your seat stuff… blew my mind… my heart was in my mouth.’ Shaz’s Book Blog
‘ Blown away … fantastic … One of the best and well written historical world war novels I have read in a very long time.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I read this book in one day. Omg … I seriously cried .’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Exceptional … heart stopping … a real page turner. You don’t want to miss this one!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ A real page turner … I can’t wait for the next book in the series.’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ 10 out of 10 … I read this within a day.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
374 pages, Paperback
Published November 18, 2022
882 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 12, 2022
It was 1944 and Juliette was back in Paris, preparing to foil a dreadful plot by Nazi followers and traitors, alongside Captain Daniel Diaz, while in London her fellow resistance members, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, prepared to foil a similar plot. It would undoubtedly be highly dangerous, but they were all prepared. It was knowing who they could trust as the high-ups had been infiltrated by the worst imaginable. Clever, talented, these men would inevitably make mistakes, and they'd be waiting.
When Juliette learned her mother and two beloved children, eight year old Nicholas and six year old Natalie, had been spirited away from their safe house in England, she just knew who was to blame, and that they'd be brought to Paris. It was designed to make her vulnerable - which of course she was - but she vowed she would rescue them as well as help stop the dreadful plot. She couldn't bear to see her beloved France back in the hands of the Nazis...
Paris at First Light is the 2nd in the WW2 Resistance series by Amanda Lees and I loved it. First in the series, The Silence Before Dawn, was exceptional and this one is no different. The grit and determination of all the resistence members, but particularly Juliette, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, gave the story its strength, and even when down, they would never give up. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When Juliette learned her mother and two beloved children, eight year old Nicholas and six year old Natalie, had been spirited away from their safe house in England, she just knew who was to blame, and that they'd be brought to Paris. It was designed to make her vulnerable - which of course she was - but she vowed she would rescue them as well as help stop the dreadful plot. She couldn't bear to see her beloved France back in the hands of the Nazis...
Paris at First Light is the 2nd in the WW2 Resistance series by Amanda Lees and I loved it. First in the series, The Silence Before Dawn, was exceptional and this one is no different. The grit and determination of all the resistence members, but particularly Juliette, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, gave the story its strength, and even when down, they would never give up. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2022
This is the second book in the WW2 Resistance series by Lees, and I enjoyed this as much as the first. Lees writes gripping plots accompanied by powerful characters that you will to succeed as soon as you meet them. Which is a must in this genre!
The plot is very powerful, and it leads readers into the 'what would you do' mindset, and you believe all of the characters' emotions and trauma as they experience it.
I found it a very gripping and 'enjoyable' (if that's the right word to use when reading about WW2) read.
The plot is very powerful, and it leads readers into the 'what would you do' mindset, and you believe all of the characters' emotions and trauma as they experience it.
I found it a very gripping and 'enjoyable' (if that's the right word to use when reading about WW2) read.
January 30, 2024
Paris at First Light is the second book in Amanda Lees WWII Resistance Series. However, it was the first book I read by Lees, and I think I’m absolutely hooked.
If you love WWII historical fiction, a slow-burn romance, and novels filled with detailed action scenes all wrapped up in a pretty bow with a happy ending, then this book is for you! The storyline and plot were well thought out and heavily researched — and it shows!
I should mention that I didn’t necessarily feel as if the characters were fully developed out. I would have loved to learn more about Dan Diaz and his inner thought processes. Maybe even Juliette’s as well. Some character development and description would have been much appreciated for these two!
Also, I did get lost a few times while reading it, but I suspect that it is because I didn’t read the first book in the series. So, if you’re reading this or want to read it, I might suggest grabbing the first book and following the storyline.
Regardless of the holes in the story that I couldn’t quite fill, the storyline was captivating, and I stayed up well into the night and took longer lunch breaks than I should have to read this novel. One of the elements of the book that captured me was the use of symbolism and imagery that was so well-researched. Such as Nazi sympathizers wearing blue cornflowers in the buttonholes of their shirts to signify that they were fighting for the Nazi party and sympathetic to Nazi ideals. Let me tell you, I went down a long Google rabbit hole researching this one element of history that Lees used to support her book.
It was also very evident that Lees personified her ex-husband Phillipe as the darkness that continuously crept throughout the book. Juliette continued to listen to the darkness by essentially gaslighting herself and telling herself she wasn’t able to love again. However, her children were the light that set her free. Once her children expressed their love and approval, Juliette collapsed by the love she felt in her heart and finally accepted the love and admiration she so deserved.
I should warn you that there are a few trigger warnings: sexual assault, cheating, divorce, war, and death. If you aren’t a fan of these tropes, then I wouldn't recommend this one to you.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced ARC copy of Paris At First Light!
Read my full review here: https://merrillsbooks.com/book-review...
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49inCHn
If you love WWII historical fiction, a slow-burn romance, and novels filled with detailed action scenes all wrapped up in a pretty bow with a happy ending, then this book is for you! The storyline and plot were well thought out and heavily researched — and it shows!
I should mention that I didn’t necessarily feel as if the characters were fully developed out. I would have loved to learn more about Dan Diaz and his inner thought processes. Maybe even Juliette’s as well. Some character development and description would have been much appreciated for these two!
Also, I did get lost a few times while reading it, but I suspect that it is because I didn’t read the first book in the series. So, if you’re reading this or want to read it, I might suggest grabbing the first book and following the storyline.
Regardless of the holes in the story that I couldn’t quite fill, the storyline was captivating, and I stayed up well into the night and took longer lunch breaks than I should have to read this novel. One of the elements of the book that captured me was the use of symbolism and imagery that was so well-researched. Such as Nazi sympathizers wearing blue cornflowers in the buttonholes of their shirts to signify that they were fighting for the Nazi party and sympathetic to Nazi ideals. Let me tell you, I went down a long Google rabbit hole researching this one element of history that Lees used to support her book.
It was also very evident that Lees personified her ex-husband Phillipe as the darkness that continuously crept throughout the book. Juliette continued to listen to the darkness by essentially gaslighting herself and telling herself she wasn’t able to love again. However, her children were the light that set her free. Once her children expressed their love and approval, Juliette collapsed by the love she felt in her heart and finally accepted the love and admiration she so deserved.
I should warn you that there are a few trigger warnings: sexual assault, cheating, divorce, war, and death. If you aren’t a fan of these tropes, then I wouldn't recommend this one to you.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced ARC copy of Paris At First Light!
Read my full review here: https://merrillsbooks.com/book-review...
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49inCHn
November 24, 2022
Paris at First Light is the second book in the WWII Resistance series by Amanda Lees.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and it definitely wowed me.
I experienced so many emotions while reading it.
I find it fascinating that the characters are based on actual people. I love reading historical books based on fact as I learn so much from them. I love a lot of detail in books with a lot of descriptions of everything. A well-researched book such as this one always has me appreciating the author's time.
I was truly lost in the story vividly imaging the goings on while reading.
Such a strong and powerful woman, she does the unthinkable, making the ultimate sacrifice leaving behind her heart, her two precious children to become a resistance fighter becoming a spy in Paris.
Working through an extremely dangerous mission with American agent Captain Daniel Diaz whom she takes an instant dislike to, they are working undercover to uncover a deadly Nazi plot.
I must admit the book is brutal in parts, but I look at it as realistic to the times and circumstances.
She has left her husband because of his brutality, putting her children and mother into hiding. Somehow disaster strikes when he finds them kidnapping his own children which he knows will hurt her more than anything.
There are high stakes as she has promised allegiance to France but will do anything to somehow get her children and still work fighting the impossible, the Nazi's.
Will Juliette and Daniel be able to work against the odds to rescue the children?
Gripping will keep you reading late into the night. Unputdownable! A mother's love is without limits, beyond compare!
The ultimate betrayal, shocking. Splendid read! Superb, I will be looking up this author for more.
Pub Date: 23 Nov 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and it definitely wowed me.
I experienced so many emotions while reading it.
I find it fascinating that the characters are based on actual people. I love reading historical books based on fact as I learn so much from them. I love a lot of detail in books with a lot of descriptions of everything. A well-researched book such as this one always has me appreciating the author's time.
I was truly lost in the story vividly imaging the goings on while reading.
Such a strong and powerful woman, she does the unthinkable, making the ultimate sacrifice leaving behind her heart, her two precious children to become a resistance fighter becoming a spy in Paris.
Working through an extremely dangerous mission with American agent Captain Daniel Diaz whom she takes an instant dislike to, they are working undercover to uncover a deadly Nazi plot.
I must admit the book is brutal in parts, but I look at it as realistic to the times and circumstances.
She has left her husband because of his brutality, putting her children and mother into hiding. Somehow disaster strikes when he finds them kidnapping his own children which he knows will hurt her more than anything.
There are high stakes as she has promised allegiance to France but will do anything to somehow get her children and still work fighting the impossible, the Nazi's.
Will Juliette and Daniel be able to work against the odds to rescue the children?
Gripping will keep you reading late into the night. Unputdownable! A mother's love is without limits, beyond compare!
The ultimate betrayal, shocking. Splendid read! Superb, I will be looking up this author for more.
Pub Date: 23 Nov 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 17, 2022
Lees has accomplished what many others have not - written a second novel in a series that stands on par with a successful first. It was with trepidation that I began this book, but Lees’ spectacular writing soon put my unfounded notion at ease.
“Louis’s hand in mine was too soft, his touch limp. But the feel of his lips on the back of my hand was like that of a slug, invasive and clinging.”
Oh, I love this vivid, descriptive writing. My lips furled in distaste, and I desperately wanted to wipe my hand when I read the above lines. Doesn’t Louis sound like a slug?! We’ve all met the type. Ugh. Eww.
Furthermore, Lees doesn’t dumb down her writing; she inspires her readers to stretch and embrace the beauty lurking in their dictionaries. She doesn’t just write to entertain; she writes to challenge us intellectually. She effortlessly shares a forgotten art - the art of big words - and makes us dig for the meaning! I.love.that. In fact, I’d read almost anything this woman writes - just for the eloquence of it all.
“He tried to glare at her down his patrician nose, but he was no match for her froideur.”
“I wanted to slap him. Hard. Instead, I went for my favorite weapon: hauteur. It was something bred into us Parisians.”
Lees is to be commended for offering something fresh and unique to readers. I hadn’t heard of Vehmic law, SIGSALY phone terminals, nor read about a mother who was willing to distance herself from her family for extended periods for the sake of service. I felt as though I was embedded in The Network and aware of the sacrifice the work entails. The fear and anxiety Juliette feels upon discovering her monster husband is watching her and that her children’s safely is in question is palpable. The love for her children is played against her love for her country, her people and her ‘job’.
One would think that living in a world reeling from anxiety and fear of a pandemic and of countries at war, that we wouldn’t be clambering for more wartime fiction. Yet, I’ve been prioritizing it every single time I’m choosing books lately. I’m absolutely fascinated by this tumultuous time in history, perhaps because I’m fully aware that it could happen again at any moment. LIke the author, the security and comfort in sneaking into a world where I know the resolution is as important to me as reassuring myself that despite our global circumstances, the human spirit is formidable and truly conquers all.
This can be read as a stand-alone, but I think readers will appreciate the backstory they’d get from reading The Silence Before Dawn. Both books focus on little known maneuvers and missions that helped win the war and highlight indefatigable heroines who embody intelligence, courage, and resilience.
I think I shrieked a little when I discovered that the author has planned a 7-book series. Keep them coming, please!
If you love reading about authentic characters who live in the moment and exhibit limitless courage, and enjoy books that feature hope and betrayal, this book is for you!
I was gifted this phenomenal book by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
“Louis’s hand in mine was too soft, his touch limp. But the feel of his lips on the back of my hand was like that of a slug, invasive and clinging.”
Oh, I love this vivid, descriptive writing. My lips furled in distaste, and I desperately wanted to wipe my hand when I read the above lines. Doesn’t Louis sound like a slug?! We’ve all met the type. Ugh. Eww.
Furthermore, Lees doesn’t dumb down her writing; she inspires her readers to stretch and embrace the beauty lurking in their dictionaries. She doesn’t just write to entertain; she writes to challenge us intellectually. She effortlessly shares a forgotten art - the art of big words - and makes us dig for the meaning! I.love.that. In fact, I’d read almost anything this woman writes - just for the eloquence of it all.
“He tried to glare at her down his patrician nose, but he was no match for her froideur.”
“I wanted to slap him. Hard. Instead, I went for my favorite weapon: hauteur. It was something bred into us Parisians.”
Lees is to be commended for offering something fresh and unique to readers. I hadn’t heard of Vehmic law, SIGSALY phone terminals, nor read about a mother who was willing to distance herself from her family for extended periods for the sake of service. I felt as though I was embedded in The Network and aware of the sacrifice the work entails. The fear and anxiety Juliette feels upon discovering her monster husband is watching her and that her children’s safely is in question is palpable. The love for her children is played against her love for her country, her people and her ‘job’.
One would think that living in a world reeling from anxiety and fear of a pandemic and of countries at war, that we wouldn’t be clambering for more wartime fiction. Yet, I’ve been prioritizing it every single time I’m choosing books lately. I’m absolutely fascinated by this tumultuous time in history, perhaps because I’m fully aware that it could happen again at any moment. LIke the author, the security and comfort in sneaking into a world where I know the resolution is as important to me as reassuring myself that despite our global circumstances, the human spirit is formidable and truly conquers all.
This can be read as a stand-alone, but I think readers will appreciate the backstory they’d get from reading The Silence Before Dawn. Both books focus on little known maneuvers and missions that helped win the war and highlight indefatigable heroines who embody intelligence, courage, and resilience.
I think I shrieked a little when I discovered that the author has planned a 7-book series. Keep them coming, please!
If you love reading about authentic characters who live in the moment and exhibit limitless courage, and enjoy books that feature hope and betrayal, this book is for you!
I was gifted this phenomenal book by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
November 24, 2022
Juliette know danger, even to the point of leaving her two children in the care of their grandmother while she continues in the critical role she has played since joining the Resistance. Advanced in her role as a spy, she has no choice but to join forces with Captain Daniel Diaz, an American agent. The two must work together in order to uncover a plot being set in place by their enemy. While at first Juliette and Daniel are like oil and water, they both begin to develop strong feelings towards each other, even to the point where love begins to solidify their relationship.
Romance is not key to Juliette, especially when she receives news of the worst kind. Her children and mother are missing, even though they were being protected. Juliette’s role has been discovered and the kidnapping of those most precious to her leaves her with an ultimatum. If she does not turn traitor, her family will be lost to her forever. Save her children or save France. Determined to do both, Juliette plots a dangerous plan.
What an amazing story by Amanda Lees! Any mother could imagine Juliette’s heart breaking in a million pieces with her worry for the safety of her children. However, it is her courage. Her strength. Even her loyalty that proves her incredible character.
This powerful story was not an easy read. This was especially so when the reason behind the kidnapping led back to the horrific experiences Juliette had to deal with during her marriage. Now experiencing the worst kind of betrayal, Juliette must really dig deep to save those she loves. Meanwhile, any possible future with Daniel just might be lost forever.
For a read that will keep you turning pages until the very end, look no further than Paris at First Light. In fact, for a read just as impactful I highly recommend the first book in this incredible series, The Silence Before Dawn. Both of these fabulous stories show strong and fearless women who survive the odds while making the most difficult choices.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/rfPx2tK1f1o
Romance is not key to Juliette, especially when she receives news of the worst kind. Her children and mother are missing, even though they were being protected. Juliette’s role has been discovered and the kidnapping of those most precious to her leaves her with an ultimatum. If she does not turn traitor, her family will be lost to her forever. Save her children or save France. Determined to do both, Juliette plots a dangerous plan.
What an amazing story by Amanda Lees! Any mother could imagine Juliette’s heart breaking in a million pieces with her worry for the safety of her children. However, it is her courage. Her strength. Even her loyalty that proves her incredible character.
This powerful story was not an easy read. This was especially so when the reason behind the kidnapping led back to the horrific experiences Juliette had to deal with during her marriage. Now experiencing the worst kind of betrayal, Juliette must really dig deep to save those she loves. Meanwhile, any possible future with Daniel just might be lost forever.
For a read that will keep you turning pages until the very end, look no further than Paris at First Light. In fact, for a read just as impactful I highly recommend the first book in this incredible series, The Silence Before Dawn. Both of these fabulous stories show strong and fearless women who survive the odds while making the most difficult choices.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/rfPx2tK1f1o
November 22, 2022
This was an interesting book about the resistance during WW2 in France. I found out a lot that I didn’t know about this side of the war. Although this was the second one in the series you can read it as a standalone book. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 23, 2022
This novel was truly beautiful, heartwarming and a joy to read. I did not realize it was a second in a series, but can be a standalone. I enjoyed her first one as well.
Juliette is a mom, wife and a secret agent.
Paris 1944-her children are kidnapped and her husband is a horrible man. She left him once as he was abusive, but during the war she meets up with him again. Juliette is part of the Resistance and works with many counterparts and enemies.
Captain Daniel Diaz is an American agent whom she finds herself working with. Working alongside of him, their feelings grow, but when her children and mother, whom she had in hiding, are kidnapped, their mission is heightened as they are trying to cover a deadly plot of the Nazis. Can they save her family and uncover the plot in time to save all their lives?
Thank you Bookouture, NetGalley and author Amanda Lees for this advanced copy. This novel is due out on November 23, 2022.
Juliette is a mom, wife and a secret agent.
Paris 1944-her children are kidnapped and her husband is a horrible man. She left him once as he was abusive, but during the war she meets up with him again. Juliette is part of the Resistance and works with many counterparts and enemies.
Captain Daniel Diaz is an American agent whom she finds herself working with. Working alongside of him, their feelings grow, but when her children and mother, whom she had in hiding, are kidnapped, their mission is heightened as they are trying to cover a deadly plot of the Nazis. Can they save her family and uncover the plot in time to save all their lives?
Thank you Bookouture, NetGalley and author Amanda Lees for this advanced copy. This novel is due out on November 23, 2022.
November 27, 2022
Paris at First Light by Amanda Lees is the second in the WW2 Resistance series. It can be read as a standalone but to truly appreciate what these incredible band of women are doing for the war effort I would suggest beginning with book one. This new book continues on the story but this time around the focus is on Juliette although Marianne, Suzanne and Christine do feature again but to a lesser extent. Events in the story are based on fact and the characters are based on people who lived, loved, fought and died for everyone’s freedom. The names of these people have been altered but their daring feats and astounding accomplishments in the face of so much danger and adversity are highlighted here so they will never be forgotten. The female characters are all very strong, determined and forceful and they share a common bond and work together as comrades in arms to help bring about an end to the terror, loss and destruction for so many people in every corner of the world.
Amanda Lees gives her characters such solid and tenacious voices. They truly are incredible for their ingenuity, their abilities and their doggedness to keep going no matter when it seems all could potentially be lost and everything they had done and been through could all have been for nothing. Insights are given into aspects of the war I had never heard of before and clearly extensive research had been undertaken by the author prior to writing this book as there is such unbelievable detail as to manoeuvres, plots and secret work carried out by so many. Admitedly, although it has only been a few short months since I read the first book, I found it took me some time to refamiliarize myself with the characters and at what point they were at now. Things had a very dramatic finish in book one and I was hoping for more of the same here and for major events to happen slightly earlier than they had before. But again I found the story got off to a slow start and there was a lot of jumping around between characters and locations before it finally settled down and found its pace and rhythm and I could anticipate slightly in which direction the plot was going to go.
The main crux of the story is that there are plans afoot to assassinate General Eisenhower in France and Churchill. The Resistance has been officially disbanded in France but still the women and their fellow members will do anything to help stop, what at times seem the unstoppable. Plans are set in motion with a new unit called the Network established. This is a new clandestine operation separate from all the others. To be honest, I found all this information (as it does go into a lot of detail) absolutely fascinating. There were so many people out fighting on the battlefields, innumerable people incarcerated in camps and at the same time so much secret and dangerous work was undertaken by both men and women who were brave, without fear, loyal and above all else dedicated. The Resistance network itself involved so much intricate detail, plotting, manoeuvring, observing and gutsy acts that reading this book made me gain an even deeper appreciation of what so many did for our freedom.
I loved how the further the book developed the more a sense of mystery unfolded and it was like Juliette had to follow the clues. She was on a mission as tasked by the Network as were her fellow members and all the ducking and diving they did and manoeuvring trying to gain information and outwit people was just brilliant. It was like one giant game of chess and one wrong move would lead to the ultimate horrible result for her. Juliette’s mission becomes very personal as, aside from halting the Nazi plot as mentioned above, her two children Nicolas and Natalie along with her mother who was caring for them go missing from their safe house in England. The real maternal side of Juliette starts to come out and she is like a tigress who would protect her cubs at any time. She realises her family situation has been brought onto a major stage and she is dogged in her stance that she will find her children and mother and get them back to safety but she has to be so careful and with American Captain Diaz by her side she must maintain her position undercover as part of a wider operation undertaken by the Network but at the same she can’t let sleeping dogs lie until her loved ones are back in her arms. Juliette, like all the women who feature in this series so far, garners so much respect through her actions and the ability she possesses to never give up even when everything seems to be spiralling out of control.
I loved how Juliette was so mature, astute, cautious and alert yet at the same time she does show a vulnerable side especially when she reveals events in her past which have moulded her into the women she is today. It all becomes clearer the further you delve into the story and you can see what drives her on and motivates her. I thought I had missed something when I read a chapter and it was as if Juliette and Dan had been together and then it jumped forward a bit and it was like this had never happened. So I did become confused for awhile but then every little bit of information I didn’t give much thought to was actually part of the bigger story. In fact Amanda Lees was very clever with her plotting and then having everything coming together with such a dramatic climax was just brilliant. It was filled with tension and edge of your seat stuff and it makes you realise that not everyone is as they seem and to watch out for every person mentioned no matter how small a role you first perceive them to play.
All Juliette wants is peace and her steely resolve sees her play a major role in a big machine that is constantly evolving and on the move. Her story is one of a mother’s love which never wavers in its intensity no matter what objects are placed in its path. Alongside the other women courage, daring and resourcefulness are all words that spring to mind when it comes to their actions. Once this story got going it did become difficult to leave it out of my hands and I found myself racing towards the finish line with my heart in my mouth hoping against hope that things would turn out all right for Juliette and that she would find some sort of happiness and a semblance of normality amidst all the madness and cruelty that surrounded her. I can’t wait to see what women the next book will follow. Suzanne is one character I would certainly like to get to know better and as the war has nowhere reached its conclusion I hope that Amanda Lees has many more stories to tell in this series.
Amanda Lees gives her characters such solid and tenacious voices. They truly are incredible for their ingenuity, their abilities and their doggedness to keep going no matter when it seems all could potentially be lost and everything they had done and been through could all have been for nothing. Insights are given into aspects of the war I had never heard of before and clearly extensive research had been undertaken by the author prior to writing this book as there is such unbelievable detail as to manoeuvres, plots and secret work carried out by so many. Admitedly, although it has only been a few short months since I read the first book, I found it took me some time to refamiliarize myself with the characters and at what point they were at now. Things had a very dramatic finish in book one and I was hoping for more of the same here and for major events to happen slightly earlier than they had before. But again I found the story got off to a slow start and there was a lot of jumping around between characters and locations before it finally settled down and found its pace and rhythm and I could anticipate slightly in which direction the plot was going to go.
The main crux of the story is that there are plans afoot to assassinate General Eisenhower in France and Churchill. The Resistance has been officially disbanded in France but still the women and their fellow members will do anything to help stop, what at times seem the unstoppable. Plans are set in motion with a new unit called the Network established. This is a new clandestine operation separate from all the others. To be honest, I found all this information (as it does go into a lot of detail) absolutely fascinating. There were so many people out fighting on the battlefields, innumerable people incarcerated in camps and at the same time so much secret and dangerous work was undertaken by both men and women who were brave, without fear, loyal and above all else dedicated. The Resistance network itself involved so much intricate detail, plotting, manoeuvring, observing and gutsy acts that reading this book made me gain an even deeper appreciation of what so many did for our freedom.
I loved how the further the book developed the more a sense of mystery unfolded and it was like Juliette had to follow the clues. She was on a mission as tasked by the Network as were her fellow members and all the ducking and diving they did and manoeuvring trying to gain information and outwit people was just brilliant. It was like one giant game of chess and one wrong move would lead to the ultimate horrible result for her. Juliette’s mission becomes very personal as, aside from halting the Nazi plot as mentioned above, her two children Nicolas and Natalie along with her mother who was caring for them go missing from their safe house in England. The real maternal side of Juliette starts to come out and she is like a tigress who would protect her cubs at any time. She realises her family situation has been brought onto a major stage and she is dogged in her stance that she will find her children and mother and get them back to safety but she has to be so careful and with American Captain Diaz by her side she must maintain her position undercover as part of a wider operation undertaken by the Network but at the same she can’t let sleeping dogs lie until her loved ones are back in her arms. Juliette, like all the women who feature in this series so far, garners so much respect through her actions and the ability she possesses to never give up even when everything seems to be spiralling out of control.
I loved how Juliette was so mature, astute, cautious and alert yet at the same time she does show a vulnerable side especially when she reveals events in her past which have moulded her into the women she is today. It all becomes clearer the further you delve into the story and you can see what drives her on and motivates her. I thought I had missed something when I read a chapter and it was as if Juliette and Dan had been together and then it jumped forward a bit and it was like this had never happened. So I did become confused for awhile but then every little bit of information I didn’t give much thought to was actually part of the bigger story. In fact Amanda Lees was very clever with her plotting and then having everything coming together with such a dramatic climax was just brilliant. It was filled with tension and edge of your seat stuff and it makes you realise that not everyone is as they seem and to watch out for every person mentioned no matter how small a role you first perceive them to play.
All Juliette wants is peace and her steely resolve sees her play a major role in a big machine that is constantly evolving and on the move. Her story is one of a mother’s love which never wavers in its intensity no matter what objects are placed in its path. Alongside the other women courage, daring and resourcefulness are all words that spring to mind when it comes to their actions. Once this story got going it did become difficult to leave it out of my hands and I found myself racing towards the finish line with my heart in my mouth hoping against hope that things would turn out all right for Juliette and that she would find some sort of happiness and a semblance of normality amidst all the madness and cruelty that surrounded her. I can’t wait to see what women the next book will follow. Suzanne is one character I would certainly like to get to know better and as the war has nowhere reached its conclusion I hope that Amanda Lees has many more stories to tell in this series.
August 30, 2023
Wow, what a book! I really enjoyed this historical fiction book, which has superb writing, wonderful characters and an engaging and compelling story. It is a really amazing book.
The story is about a woman called Juliette, who left her son Nicholas and daughter Natalie, in order to fight in the resistance in Paris in 1944. She works with Captain Daniel Diaz and ends up getting close to him. Back home, her children are taken, but she vows to protect them and still fight for freedom. This is a wonderful, but heartbreaking, emotional story, showing Juliette's strength and determination to do the right thing for her fellow humans, her family and her country.
This is the second book in a series, of which the first book was also amazing. I highly recommend these books, which are magnificent pieces of work.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
The story is about a woman called Juliette, who left her son Nicholas and daughter Natalie, in order to fight in the resistance in Paris in 1944. She works with Captain Daniel Diaz and ends up getting close to him. Back home, her children are taken, but she vows to protect them and still fight for freedom. This is a wonderful, but heartbreaking, emotional story, showing Juliette's strength and determination to do the right thing for her fellow humans, her family and her country.
This is the second book in a series, of which the first book was also amazing. I highly recommend these books, which are magnificent pieces of work.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
November 18, 2022
A gripping , heart-wrenching historical novel.
Paris at First Light is a well written story with a great plot and engaging characters.
World War II
French Resistance fighters
Secret agents
Traitors
Spies
Kidnapping
Romance
So much courage, strength and resilience!
Although you can read this as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first book in the series “The Silence Before Dawn.”
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Paris at First Light is a well written story with a great plot and engaging characters.
World War II
French Resistance fighters
Secret agents
Traitors
Spies
Kidnapping
Romance
So much courage, strength and resilience!
Although you can read this as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first book in the series “The Silence Before Dawn.”
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 16, 2022
After reading Amanda Lees' first book in her WW2 Resistance series, The Silence Before Dawn, I couldn't wait to tuck into this one. I wasn't disappointed. This book was equal to, if not better than, the first book in the series. The characters are believable, and the actual events from the war are woven into the story seamlessly. I hope there will be more in this series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2023
Good story
Love the whole set of stories. However, this may be up there with the Midwife's Child. I liked and admired Julianne for her tenacity
and her gutsy ability to be whatever the situation required. She and Dan are impressive not only as a team of warriors but also as lovers. To think her estranged husband, a perfect SOB could use the love of their children against her ...WOW. Great story.
Love the whole set of stories. However, this may be up there with the Midwife's Child. I liked and admired Julianne for her tenacity
and her gutsy ability to be whatever the situation required. She and Dan are impressive not only as a team of warriors but also as lovers. To think her estranged husband, a perfect SOB could use the love of their children against her ...WOW. Great story.
October 30, 2022
Bravery, selflessness, courage, duty and honor are just a few words that come to mind to describe Paris at First Light's main character Juliette. Despite an abusive marriage, having to be apart from her children and mother during an awful war, and being one of the best agents in the French Resistance, Juliette is a powerhouse of a character and a woman. After going through so much, Juliette has one thing that comes first: Free France.
Juliette is partnered with American Army Officer Dan Diaz to take on a secret mission in recently liberated Paris in 1944. They are on a mission to uncover and stop an extremely dangerous plot set forth by the Nazi's that are trying to take back France. While doing so, Juliette finds herself fighting off a spark between herself and Dan, who intrigues and infuriates her at the same time. In the middle of their harrowing investigation, Juliette finds out that her mother and children have been kidnapped. Who did it? Who can she trust? Is there a traitor amongst their team?
This book is filled with twists, turns, romance, good humor and a lot of suspense. Well worth the read to find out what happens!
Merged review:
Bravery, selflessness, courage, duty and honor are just a few words that come to mind to describe Paris at First Light's main character Juliette. Despite an abusive marriage, having to be apart from her children and mother during an awful war, and being one of the best agents in the French Resistance, Juliette is a powerhouse of a character and a woman. After going through so much, Juliette has one thing that comes first: Free France.
Juliette is partnered with American Army Officer Dan Diaz to take on a secret mission in recently liberated Paris in 1944. They are on a mission to uncover and stop an extremely dangerous plot set forth by the Nazi's that are trying to take back France. While doing so, Juliette finds herself fighting off a spark between herself and Dan, who intrigues and infuriates her at the same time. In the middle of their harrowing investigation, Juliette finds out that her mother and children have been kidnapped. Who did it? Who can she trust? Is there a traitor amongst their team?
This book is filled with twists, turns, romance, good humor and a lot of suspense. Well worth the read to find out what happens!
Juliette is partnered with American Army Officer Dan Diaz to take on a secret mission in recently liberated Paris in 1944. They are on a mission to uncover and stop an extremely dangerous plot set forth by the Nazi's that are trying to take back France. While doing so, Juliette finds herself fighting off a spark between herself and Dan, who intrigues and infuriates her at the same time. In the middle of their harrowing investigation, Juliette finds out that her mother and children have been kidnapped. Who did it? Who can she trust? Is there a traitor amongst their team?
This book is filled with twists, turns, romance, good humor and a lot of suspense. Well worth the read to find out what happens!
Merged review:
Bravery, selflessness, courage, duty and honor are just a few words that come to mind to describe Paris at First Light's main character Juliette. Despite an abusive marriage, having to be apart from her children and mother during an awful war, and being one of the best agents in the French Resistance, Juliette is a powerhouse of a character and a woman. After going through so much, Juliette has one thing that comes first: Free France.
Juliette is partnered with American Army Officer Dan Diaz to take on a secret mission in recently liberated Paris in 1944. They are on a mission to uncover and stop an extremely dangerous plot set forth by the Nazi's that are trying to take back France. While doing so, Juliette finds herself fighting off a spark between herself and Dan, who intrigues and infuriates her at the same time. In the middle of their harrowing investigation, Juliette finds out that her mother and children have been kidnapped. Who did it? Who can she trust? Is there a traitor amongst their team?
This book is filled with twists, turns, romance, good humor and a lot of suspense. Well worth the read to find out what happens!
November 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this World War 2 novel about a band of very brave French resistance fighters. The focus of the story was Juliette but there were other characters mentioned in the novel and it soon became apparent that they might have featured in an earlier book by this author which I had not read. However this did not matter as the story itself could easily be read as a stand-alone although by the end of the book I was quite keen to go back and read the previous novel.
Juliette, a French resistance agent and American, Captain Daniel Diaz are sent back to France by the “Network “ tasked with going under cover and finding out about a plot to assassinate some allied leaders including Churchill and Eisenhower. Paris is no longer under German control as it is December 1944 but there are still German agents left behind and Juliette and Diaz have a dangerous job ahead of them, trying to prevent the enemy from recapturing the city.
Gradually it becomes clear that they both have feelings for each other but just as they start to act on them Juliette’s young children and mother are kidnapped and she has to expound all her energy to find them.
I really liked the lead female characters including Juliette, Suzanne, Christine and Marianne. I assume more of their background was revealed in “ The Silence Before Dawn”. All are strong women who are in extremely difficult situations where they can only rely on themselves.
I found it particularly interesting that different members of the same family could have such different views on the German occupiers. However it was all too believable as I look to current situations in the world today when family members can barely speak to each other due to their views on a certain political belief.
Some of the characters selfishly thought they would do better taking the German side despite the way the Germans were treating the French under the occupation.
This was such a good read that I was able to rush through it in no time without pausing for breath. I was really hoping Juliette and Diaz would get together at the end but I had to wait till the last pages to find out their fate
Definitely a recommended read to those who like World War 2 books such as The Nightingale and particularly to people who enjoy strong female protagonists
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my advance copy.
Juliette, a French resistance agent and American, Captain Daniel Diaz are sent back to France by the “Network “ tasked with going under cover and finding out about a plot to assassinate some allied leaders including Churchill and Eisenhower. Paris is no longer under German control as it is December 1944 but there are still German agents left behind and Juliette and Diaz have a dangerous job ahead of them, trying to prevent the enemy from recapturing the city.
Gradually it becomes clear that they both have feelings for each other but just as they start to act on them Juliette’s young children and mother are kidnapped and she has to expound all her energy to find them.
I really liked the lead female characters including Juliette, Suzanne, Christine and Marianne. I assume more of their background was revealed in “ The Silence Before Dawn”. All are strong women who are in extremely difficult situations where they can only rely on themselves.
I found it particularly interesting that different members of the same family could have such different views on the German occupiers. However it was all too believable as I look to current situations in the world today when family members can barely speak to each other due to their views on a certain political belief.
Some of the characters selfishly thought they would do better taking the German side despite the way the Germans were treating the French under the occupation.
This was such a good read that I was able to rush through it in no time without pausing for breath. I was really hoping Juliette and Diaz would get together at the end but I had to wait till the last pages to find out their fate
Definitely a recommended read to those who like World War 2 books such as The Nightingale and particularly to people who enjoy strong female protagonists
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my advance copy.
October 22, 2022
This book drew me in from the first page. Spies, traitors, abusive spouse, and assignation plots make for a suspenseful read.
I find it very interesting that as WWII rages against Nazism, the communist party is so strong. Stalin killed more people than Hitler and destroyed many countries post WWII.
There is some language and a few descriptive sex scenes throughout the story.
I find it very interesting that as WWII rages against Nazism, the communist party is so strong. Stalin killed more people than Hitler and destroyed many countries post WWII.
There is some language and a few descriptive sex scenes throughout the story.
October 21, 2022
This is the first time I have heard of this author, but I could not go past this blurb!
Paris, 1944: secret agent Juliette is on her most dangerous mission of the war so far. But then her children are kidnapped, and to get them back she may have to commit the ultimate betrayal – that of France itself…
Four years ago, when France fell to the Nazis, Juliette made the ultimate sacrifice, leaving behind her two precious children to join the Resistance and defend her country. Now a spy in Paris, she must work with Captain Daniel Diaz – an American agent she’s taken an instant dislike to – on a dangerous mission to uncover a deadly Nazi plot.
As the pair play their parts, Juliette begins to see another side to Daniel, and their feelings for each other start to grow. But just as love blossoms, Juliette receives a ransom note that changes everything. Someone in Paris knows who she is. And they’ve kidnapped her little son and daughter. The message is clear: betray your country, or you’ll never see your children alive again.
Juliette has sworn a sacred oath to save France at all costs, but she could never sacrifice her children. So, against all the odds, she decides to attempt the impossible: rescue her children and continue her dangerous work fighting the Nazi threat.
But as the mission forces Juliette and Daniel to the very brink, will they succeed on all fronts? And if not, will France pay the ultimate price, or will Juliette?
While this is the second in a series, I read this without reading book one and had no issue following the plot.
This was a nice read, however the action doesn't start until halfway through, prior to this it is just a lot of build up. If you don't like slow pacing, this won't be for you. The plot and characters were good, albiet rather predictable.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
Paris, 1944: secret agent Juliette is on her most dangerous mission of the war so far. But then her children are kidnapped, and to get them back she may have to commit the ultimate betrayal – that of France itself…
Four years ago, when France fell to the Nazis, Juliette made the ultimate sacrifice, leaving behind her two precious children to join the Resistance and defend her country. Now a spy in Paris, she must work with Captain Daniel Diaz – an American agent she’s taken an instant dislike to – on a dangerous mission to uncover a deadly Nazi plot.
As the pair play their parts, Juliette begins to see another side to Daniel, and their feelings for each other start to grow. But just as love blossoms, Juliette receives a ransom note that changes everything. Someone in Paris knows who she is. And they’ve kidnapped her little son and daughter. The message is clear: betray your country, or you’ll never see your children alive again.
Juliette has sworn a sacred oath to save France at all costs, but she could never sacrifice her children. So, against all the odds, she decides to attempt the impossible: rescue her children and continue her dangerous work fighting the Nazi threat.
But as the mission forces Juliette and Daniel to the very brink, will they succeed on all fronts? And if not, will France pay the ultimate price, or will Juliette?
While this is the second in a series, I read this without reading book one and had no issue following the plot.
This was a nice read, however the action doesn't start until halfway through, prior to this it is just a lot of build up. If you don't like slow pacing, this won't be for you. The plot and characters were good, albiet rather predictable.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
November 25, 2022
Paris, 1944: Juliette is a secret agent and is assigned the most dangerous mission she has ever had. Her children have been kidnapped and she will do anything and everything to get them back…no matter what it is. She is forced to work with an American agent, Captain Daniel Diaz. They are assigned to uncover a deadly Nazi plot. Although Daniel and Juliette started off on the wrong foot, the more time they spend together, the more their feelings for each other change. When Juliette receives a ransom note, she must make a life changing decision, betray her country or save her children.
This amazing book is a phenomenal addition to the WW2 Resistance Series. This is an incredible story of a mother’s unconditional love for her children, and a love for her country at a time when the world was falling apart. I loved every minute I spent in the pages of this captivating book. I couldn’t put down this heart-pounding read. What an amazing escape to France and I literally went back in time. This was a very thought provoking book, as I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do in the same situation. It made me contemplate life well after I flipped the last page. I was so engaged in the storyline, and invested in the characters, that I didn’t want the book to end. This is book two of an incredible series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel, however, I suggest you read book one as well because it is every bit as good as this one. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Amanda Lees for a wonderful continuation to the World War 2 Resistance Series. I loved it and highly recommend it.
This amazing book is a phenomenal addition to the WW2 Resistance Series. This is an incredible story of a mother’s unconditional love for her children, and a love for her country at a time when the world was falling apart. I loved every minute I spent in the pages of this captivating book. I couldn’t put down this heart-pounding read. What an amazing escape to France and I literally went back in time. This was a very thought provoking book, as I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do in the same situation. It made me contemplate life well after I flipped the last page. I was so engaged in the storyline, and invested in the characters, that I didn’t want the book to end. This is book two of an incredible series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel, however, I suggest you read book one as well because it is every bit as good as this one. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Amanda Lees for a wonderful continuation to the World War 2 Resistance Series. I loved it and highly recommend it.
October 15, 2022
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Paris at First Light” by Amanda Lees is the second in a series. I believe that this book can be read as a stand-alone (which was how I read it), but while the stories between the books are independent, I think knowing some of the characters from the first book (and how they fit together) would’ve helped. There’s a lot of build-up in this book - meeting the characters, setting the stage, and the like. However, the big major thing that happens (not a spoiler - it’s Juliette’s kids being kidnapped) happens around the middle of the book - and then the plot gets rolling … who took the kids, where are the kids, are the kids safe, how to get the kids. For me, it was slow going and I was confused as the beginning part of the books has things happening on the same day but in two different locations. I also felt that the passionate scenes between two characters, while it cemented their relationship, was a huge pause in the plot that I started skimming those scenes. Overall, I think if I’d read the first book this book might’ve been more enjoyable. As it was, it was an okay read for me. If the first book dropped in my hands, I might read it - as when the action got going, the story was engaging and engrossing.
“Paris at First Light” by Amanda Lees is the second in a series. I believe that this book can be read as a stand-alone (which was how I read it), but while the stories between the books are independent, I think knowing some of the characters from the first book (and how they fit together) would’ve helped. There’s a lot of build-up in this book - meeting the characters, setting the stage, and the like. However, the big major thing that happens (not a spoiler - it’s Juliette’s kids being kidnapped) happens around the middle of the book - and then the plot gets rolling … who took the kids, where are the kids, are the kids safe, how to get the kids. For me, it was slow going and I was confused as the beginning part of the books has things happening on the same day but in two different locations. I also felt that the passionate scenes between two characters, while it cemented their relationship, was a huge pause in the plot that I started skimming those scenes. Overall, I think if I’d read the first book this book might’ve been more enjoyable. As it was, it was an okay read for me. If the first book dropped in my hands, I might read it - as when the action got going, the story was engaging and engrossing.
November 23, 2022
Juliette is playing her part to help her native France towards the end of WWII by having joined the Resistance working along side Captain Daniel Diaz. She has sent her children and mother to England to help keep them safe. but someone has found out about this. Her children are kidnapped, knowing she will do anything, even betray France and her colleagues, to get them back safely.
There are quite a few books out in this genre, but this is one of the better ones. The author has so obviously researched the era and immersed herself fully in it, which shows in how well this book is written. The characters are so believable, the author having taken inspiration from genuine accounts. When the story gets going it races along so that you feel then urgency in the actions of all the characters. You also realise the sacrifices and great courage that people had to make during the war, and willingly did so, even if it meant losing their lives or families.
I didn’t initially realise that this was the second part of the series. While it is a stand alone read, I think it would be better to read the first book before this. It felt a bit slow to start with, setting the scene, but as the book went on, it became a real page turner. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
There are quite a few books out in this genre, but this is one of the better ones. The author has so obviously researched the era and immersed herself fully in it, which shows in how well this book is written. The characters are so believable, the author having taken inspiration from genuine accounts. When the story gets going it races along so that you feel then urgency in the actions of all the characters. You also realise the sacrifices and great courage that people had to make during the war, and willingly did so, even if it meant losing their lives or families.
I didn’t initially realise that this was the second part of the series. While it is a stand alone read, I think it would be better to read the first book before this. It felt a bit slow to start with, setting the scene, but as the book went on, it became a real page turner. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 17, 2023
I didn't enjoy the second book in this series as much as the first book. That was mainly because I couldn't really warm to Juliette, the main focus of this book. She is undoubtedly brave, but she's in martyr mode too much of the time.
What do I mean by that? Well, she's racked with guilt for leaving her mother and two children in England while she goes on a mission, despite having spent several years with the Maquis before that. And then when things go wrong, she berates herself claiming it's all her fault when there was literally nothing she could have done about it. Then she decides that she can't be with Dan because she has to give all her love to her children and her mother. It's one or the other apparently. There can't possibly be any other solution. It just became wearing for me.
She's also reckless. She's highly trained and capable, but she ignores obvious risks to do things how she wants to do them.
For me, the ice-cold Christine is a more interesting character by far. I hope she gets a book in this series.
The plot itself is okay, involving fascists in Britain and France plotting to get the Nazis back in charge of everything even as the Third Reich is crumbling. It wasn't all that suspenseful, though, because we know what was planned didn't happen.
This was still a good read, helped along by the short chapters. Onto the third book now...
What do I mean by that? Well, she's racked with guilt for leaving her mother and two children in England while she goes on a mission, despite having spent several years with the Maquis before that. And then when things go wrong, she berates herself claiming it's all her fault when there was literally nothing she could have done about it. Then she decides that she can't be with Dan because she has to give all her love to her children and her mother. It's one or the other apparently. There can't possibly be any other solution. It just became wearing for me.
She's also reckless. She's highly trained and capable, but she ignores obvious risks to do things how she wants to do them.
For me, the ice-cold Christine is a more interesting character by far. I hope she gets a book in this series.
The plot itself is okay, involving fascists in Britain and France plotting to get the Nazis back in charge of everything even as the Third Reich is crumbling. It wasn't all that suspenseful, though, because we know what was planned didn't happen.
This was still a good read, helped along by the short chapters. Onto the third book now...
December 11, 2022
TRIGGER WARNING: rape
1944, a secret plot to kill Eisenhower and Churchill. Their only chance of survival depends on a small band of spies. But Juliette's focus may be threatened by fear when her children are kidnapped...
Paris At First Light is the second book in a WW2 series about the Resistance. There are mentions of events and outsomes from the previous book, The Silence Before Dawn, so I would advise reading the books in order to avoid spoilers.
Most of the book is written from Juliette's first person perspective so we see her passion and determination. She has fallen in love with her fellow spy but her violent ex threatens her happiness when he steals her children.
We also see the viewpoints of the other spies as they attempt to thwart the assassination plot. It really is the extraordinary strength of four women that underpins the plot and I loved their subversion and undermining of traditional social norms.
There is violence in this book and danger is never very far away. Juliette never shies away from action and is prepared to kill when required. The plot races along at quite a pace and there is plenty of action. Passion and personal power play contrast with the international politics of WW2.
Paris At First Light is a fast moving and intense historical novel.
1944, a secret plot to kill Eisenhower and Churchill. Their only chance of survival depends on a small band of spies. But Juliette's focus may be threatened by fear when her children are kidnapped...
Paris At First Light is the second book in a WW2 series about the Resistance. There are mentions of events and outsomes from the previous book, The Silence Before Dawn, so I would advise reading the books in order to avoid spoilers.
Most of the book is written from Juliette's first person perspective so we see her passion and determination. She has fallen in love with her fellow spy but her violent ex threatens her happiness when he steals her children.
We also see the viewpoints of the other spies as they attempt to thwart the assassination plot. It really is the extraordinary strength of four women that underpins the plot and I loved their subversion and undermining of traditional social norms.
There is violence in this book and danger is never very far away. Juliette never shies away from action and is prepared to kill when required. The plot races along at quite a pace and there is plenty of action. Passion and personal power play contrast with the international politics of WW2.
Paris At First Light is a fast moving and intense historical novel.
December 20, 2022
4.5/5
Paris at First Light by Amanda Lees is a well thought out well researched book. It is her second book in the WWII Resistance series. One thing I will say is it packs a lot of information and I did get lost at points. But I think that was a me issue.
Lees has a way of making you really connect with her characters. I found myself on the edge of my seat wanting to know more about everyone. My one wish for this book is we get to see more of how some of the characters are feeling.
I loved reading about Juliette’s heartbreaking journey through out the book. She is such a strong and determined character and she never gave up. I honestly would have no clue what to do if I was put in her position and I’m not sure how she stayed strong. Her relationship with her “husband” was so frustrating and I was so happy with how her children seemed to be the light that she needed during that time.
This is definitely a must read book if you love historical fiction. I found it hard to put down and it had to take a lot of self restraint not to stay up to 2:30 in the morning read it!
Thank you NetGalley for gifting me a copy of Paris at First Light in return for my honest review.
Paris at First Light by Amanda Lees is a well thought out well researched book. It is her second book in the WWII Resistance series. One thing I will say is it packs a lot of information and I did get lost at points. But I think that was a me issue.
Lees has a way of making you really connect with her characters. I found myself on the edge of my seat wanting to know more about everyone. My one wish for this book is we get to see more of how some of the characters are feeling.
I loved reading about Juliette’s heartbreaking journey through out the book. She is such a strong and determined character and she never gave up. I honestly would have no clue what to do if I was put in her position and I’m not sure how she stayed strong. Her relationship with her “husband” was so frustrating and I was so happy with how her children seemed to be the light that she needed during that time.
This is definitely a must read book if you love historical fiction. I found it hard to put down and it had to take a lot of self restraint not to stay up to 2:30 in the morning read it!
Thank you NetGalley for gifting me a copy of Paris at First Light in return for my honest review.
November 26, 2022
Paris at First Light is the second book in the WW 2 resistance series by Amanda Lees. Having read and loved the first book ‘The Silence Before Dawn’ I was very excited to read this one. As soon as I’d finished the prologue I just knew this was going to be another super read in this series and I certainly wasn’t wrong. Juliette one of the main characters works for the French Resistance and will do anything to defend her country . This is a book full of strong female characters who I completely admired and I wonder if I could’ve been as brave as they were. Once you start reading this gripping book you won’t be able to put it down. As previously mentioned this is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone but I can promise you book one is every bit as good so do read it.
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November 18, 2022Juliette is a stone cold resistance operator. Except when her children are threatened she throws all caution to the wind to do whatever is necessary to ensure their safety.
This was a different type of resistance WWII novel than what I have read. There is a steeliness and hardness that is a prevalent theme. Some of the best scenes are when Juliette is full on badass, whether in a London cemetery or visiting her aunt.
I feverishly tore through the chapters as the tension mounted and I wondered at the final outcome.
It’s a spellbinding historical novel set during one of the darkest eras of the 20th century.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early copy.
This was a different type of resistance WWII novel than what I have read. There is a steeliness and hardness that is a prevalent theme. Some of the best scenes are when Juliette is full on badass, whether in a London cemetery or visiting her aunt.
I feverishly tore through the chapters as the tension mounted and I wondered at the final outcome.
It’s a spellbinding historical novel set during one of the darkest eras of the 20th century.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early copy.
December 1, 2022
This novel is the second book about women in WWII resistance in France. I had enjoyed the first book very much, and I have loved this one as well. The only point I didn't enjoy so much is the focus on romance which tends to play a big role in this novel. However, I would definitely recommend Paris at First Life, for its plot as well as the interesting insights into the organisation of spying.
I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
January 7, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and give an honest review.
Paris at First Light combines my favorite things: history, spies, high stakes, and a splash of romance. Amanda Lees creates a high stakes game of cat and mouse. I consumed this novel like air. Juliette and Dan are an unstoppable duo. They compliment each others strengths and weaknesses well. Even though I know the conclusion of the war, Lees’ writing made me hold my breath.
Paris at First Light combines my favorite things: history, spies, high stakes, and a splash of romance. Amanda Lees creates a high stakes game of cat and mouse. I consumed this novel like air. Juliette and Dan are an unstoppable duo. They compliment each others strengths and weaknesses well. Even though I know the conclusion of the war, Lees’ writing made me hold my breath.
July 20, 2023
This was a slow read for me. It was action-packed, but lacked good character development. The main plot didn’t happen until halfway through the book, and I had a hard time rooting for any of the characters because they were so under-developed.
I realized this is the second in a series partway through the book but the way it is written, I thought it would work as a stand alone book. Maybe it would be a smoother read after reading the first book.
I realized this is the second in a series partway through the book but the way it is written, I thought it would work as a stand alone book. Maybe it would be a smoother read after reading the first book.
November 30, 2022
ABSOLUTELY CAPTIVATING!!!
I loved this this book as much or even more than book 1!! It was a page turner/suspenseful I could go on & on!! Totally enjoyed both of these books tremendously way to go Rachel Wesson!! If you love these kind of books I totally recommend you read these 2 books.
I loved this this book as much or even more than book 1!! It was a page turner/suspenseful I could go on & on!! Totally enjoyed both of these books tremendously way to go Rachel Wesson!! If you love these kind of books I totally recommend you read these 2 books.
February 20, 2023
I stopped reading when the author wrote about the Bir-Hakeim bridge in Paris. The bridge was named after the famous battle in Libya (1942) during a ceremony in 1949. It does not take much to Google names to make sure of their origins. How many other historical errors will there be in the book? I won't waste my time finding out.
Why didn't the editor at the publishing house check the facts?
Why didn't the editor at the publishing house check the facts?
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