Book Review and Giveaway - The Melody of the Soul by Liz Tolsma

Book Synopsis
Travel back in time to 1943 and meet Anna Zadok, a Jewish Christian and concert violinist whose career is ended because of Nazi occupation in Prague. Don't miss the new historical novel, The Melody of the Soul, by Liz Tolsma. Though musical instruments have been declared illegal, Anna defiantly continues to play the violin. But Officer Horst Engel, quartered in Anna's flat and dissatisfied with German ideology, enjoys her soothing music. When Anna and her grandmother face deportation, Horst risks everything to protect them.

My Review
The Melody of the Soul tells the story of Anna Zadok.  She is a Jewish Christian living in Prague in 1943.  After her parents and siblings are deported to a concentration camp, Anna lives with her grandmother.  Her one comfort is playing the violin.  Her beautiful playing catches the notice of a young officer, Horst, who lives in their building.  When Anna and her grandmother are threatened with deportation, Horst decides to do everything in his power to save them.

This is such a moving book.  Anna's story was heartbreaking, and the random horrors of the Nazi regime were so sad and frightening.  Anna is seen as a sensitive and talented person and she is a very sympathetic protagonist.

Horst is an interesting character.  He has been pushed into working with the Nazis, but he finds a strong moral conflict because of his faith and wants to work against the party to save Anna and other Jews at risk.

The Melody of the Soul is a well researched book with vivid historical details.  Some of the descriptions, especially of life in a concentration camp, are difficult to read.  However, I continued because I found inspiration in the strength of Anna and Horst's faith and I really wanted to see what would happen with their story.

This is the first in a new series called the Melody of Hope.  I recommend The Melody of the Soul for readers of historical fiction, and especially to anyone interested in World War II history.

Giveaway
Join Liz Tolsma and other bookworms for a Facebook Live event on February 6, plus enter to win Liz's prize pack giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• One copy of The Melody of the Soul
• A garnet bracelet
• A box of Czech Republic chocolate

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 6. The winner will be announced at Liz's Facebook Live Party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Liz and other readers, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

RSVP today and spread the word-tell your friends about the giveaway and Facebook Live party via social media and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse.