Can Irene and Rand stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom?
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 black out 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.
New York Times best-selling author Liz Tolsma is the author of Daisies are Forever, Snow on the Tulips, and the contributing author of A Log Cabin Christmas. When not busy putting words to paper, Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and children, all adopted internationally.
My Impressions:
Liz Tolsma has taken a subject not well known in the United States and brought it to life in her historical fiction novel, Remember The Lilies. Set in the Santo Tomas internment camp in Manila, The Philippines during WWII, it is rich in historic detail, life and death drama and a message of hope in the midst of the darkest storm. A great novel for those who love historical fiction with a dash of romance set amid the struggle of WWII.
The two main characters of Irene and Rand could not be more opposite. Yet their shared experiences of survival in an internment camp under the tyranny of the Japanese binds them together. Both characters grow during the course of the novel. Their struggles with faith in times of trial and forgiving those who hurt them ring true. I was amazed at what the mostly American
Santo Tomas Internment Camp
civilians endured under the Japanese and also by the indomitable spirit of those who attempted to bring a bit of normality to the situation. Remember The Lilies did what all good history does — it made me want to know more.
The spiritual themes found in Remember The Lilies are those faced by Christians the world over. How can I forgive and pray for my enemies? How do I keep my trust in God when the world seems turned upside down? I found the reactions and actions of the characters very true to life. Their flaws made the story even more real.
A great book for discussion, Remember The Lilies would make a good choice for your book club. Another winner by Liz Tolsma!
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
Great for book clubs.
(Thanks to Thomas Nelson and LitFuse for my review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
To purchase this book, click HERE.
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