Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma

Description:

In a time of unprecedented darkness and fear, Cornelia must decide if saving a stranger’s life is worth risking her own.

In the twilight of the Nazi occupation of The Netherlands, the Germans have taken everything Cornelia had to give, even what was most precious to her. Now Gerrit Laninga—a man who puts God and country above all else—arrives at her house, needing help. She is terrified for herself and terrified for her family, but most of all, terrified of the pain she might feel again if she allows herself to love Gerrit. Her hope is to be free from her paralyzing fear.

Gerrit is a known and hunted Dutch Resistance member. When he comes to Cornelia’s home for shelter, he’s drawn to her strength and kindness. When he asks her to contact the local Resistance on his behalf, she refuses. Gerrit is determined to find a way to continue his underground work without putting Cornelia or her family in harm’s way.

When things start to unravel and Gerrit’s life depends on her actions, she must summon her courage and learn to depend on the perfect love that drives out all fear. But will her new love be snatched away before it has a chance to bloom?

My Opinion:

This book moved me to tears more than once, but it wasn't all depressing. There was quite a bit of humor to balance out the sadness from it being set during the Holocaust. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, and I smiled in triumph. So many things happened that brought on a whirlwind of emotions. 

I liked the plot of this story, and thought it was used to it's full potential. I liked the way that Cornelia's and Gerrit's relationship grew as well as the faith behind it. I was glad for the obstacles put in their way that not only tested their growing relationship, but also their faith. I also liked the secondary characters in the book, they all played important roles other than staying in the background. I liked how I saw through multiple perspectives. Normally that is something that I despise in a book, but I thought it was a great idea for a book with this setting. I saw how the Holocaust effected many people rather than just one.

Something that I LOVED was that this story is partially true, based on the life of one of Liz Tolsma's relatives. But you will have to read the book and the side note at the end to know whats true and whats not for yourself!

Their were a few grammar/punctuation errors that I spotted in the book. As well as some points where I felt like things in the book were repeated to much, such as thoughts the characters had. Overall however, it was a fascinating read that I would recommend to anyone who gets into historical events as well as romance.

Rating: 4 Stars