"The Forest of Vanishing Stars", by Kristin Harmel

Eastern Europe during WW11

All WW11 stories, true or fiction are heart breaking, Kristin Harmel spins a beautiful and enlightening tale one that represents the 1000’s of Jewish people who fled the ghetto. It also the story of Yona , a young woman who was taken from her family when she was only two to be raised in the forest by a woman who teaches her how to survive in the wilderness. Her skilled came handy when she connects with a group of refugees.

This is one stirring adventure that is captivating from start to finish. Inspired by incredible true stories of survival “The Forest of Vanishing Stars” is a powerful account of a young woman effort to teach a group of Jewish refugees she encountered in the woods how to evade the Nazis and survive the harsh winters. In turn they teach to open her heart.

Not only is it a unique story colourfully written around facts it also provides us with suspense, thrills and a bit of romance. Most captivating part is when the Nazis were tracking the group then the narrative slowly culminates till we reach the terrifying climax. So well said. Also fascinating is the depth in the personal interaction between the characters and there are a lot of people crossing Yona’s path. The story is told from her point of view.

Ms. Harmel did her extensive research to stay true to the facts but has enhanced the experience with her fertile imagination to give us a more palatable read to enjoy. In her notes at the end of the book is a detailed list of books, documents, notes. etc including an interview with a survivor.

I am a huge fan of this time in history whether the story is fiction or not so not surprising that I loved this story although I admit this one particularly will stay in my mind a little longer.....

Well done

I received a copy of this book from Simon & Schuster Canada via Netgalleys in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.