Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma is a 369 page novel in the Christian historical fiction genre. It was published by Thomas Nelson on February 3, 2015. To purchase your copy from Amazon, click here or from Barnes and Noble, click here.
Overview
Interred by the Japanese, missionary Irene Reynolds comes across a mysterious note while working at the censor’s office. She memorizes the parts she must blackout and delivers it to wealthy nightclub owner Rand Sterling. Before she knows what’s happening, she’s drawn into a web of secrets and danger.
Rand Sterling wants nothing more than to reopen his nightclubs once the war ends. But slimy Frank Covey wants his hand in the till—and has news that could threaten Rand’s reputation if it became public. More importantly, beautiful and intriguing Irene Reynolds cannot discover this information if he expects to persuade her to become his wife.
When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, they must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.
My Two Cents
Remember the Lilies took me back in time to World War II and dealt with issues experienced by civilians. I had never heard of internment camps in the Philippines and the story makes you appreciate what you have today. Remember the Lilies also teaches about forgiveness for others and for yourself.
I loved the character of Anita. She is the person I would aspire to be if I was in a difficult situation. She was an encouragement to others around her and invested in her niece as well as those around her. Her life touched many and I was inspired to be more like her.
It is very important when writing that the author not have inconsistencies in their writing for the story to make sense to the reader. Unfortunately, there were a few inconsistencies in Remember the Lilies that made some aspects hard to believe. Also, the personality shifts with Rand and Irene were a little hard to swallow. For example, some of the behavior from Irene did not seem to jive with the mature christian she seemed to portray at the beginning. Even with these few negative aspects, I am glad I read this book and would recommend to anyone who like historical fiction.
I would give this book 3 out of 5 stars.
About the Author
Liz Tolsma has lived in Wisconsin most of her life, and she now resides next to a farm field with her husband, their son, and their two daughters. Add a dog and a cat to that mix and there’s always something going on at their house. She’s spent time teaching second grade, writing advertising for a real estate company, and working as a church secretary, but she always dreamed of becoming an author. When not busy putting words to paper, she enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping with her family. She’d love to have you visit her at www.liztolsma.com or at www.liztolsma.blogspot.com.
A huge thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson publishers for the free copy of Remember the Lilies in exchange for my honest review.