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Snow on the Tulips
Snow on the Tulips
Snow on the Tulips
Audiobook11 hours

Snow on the Tulips

Written by Liz Tolsma

Narrated by Susan Denaker

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

()

About this audiobook

 

A stranger’s life hangs in the balance. But to save him is to risk everything.

The war is drawing to a close, but the Nazis still occupy part of the Netherlands. After the losses she’s endured, war widow Cornelia is only a shadow of the woman she once was. She fights now to protect her younger brother, Johan, who lives in hiding.

When Johan brings Gerrit Laninga, a wounded Dutch Resistance member, to Cornelia’s doorstep, their  ives are forever altered. Although scared of the consequences of harboring a wanted man, Cornelia’s faith won’t let her turn him out. 

As she nurses Gerrit back to health, she is drawn to his fierce passion and ideals, and notices a shift within herself. Gerrit’s intensity challenges her, making her want to live fully, despite the fear that constrains her. When the opportunity to join him in the Resistance presents itself, Cornelia must summon every ounce of courage imaginable.

She is as terrified of loving Gerrit as she is of losing him. But as the winter landscape thaws, so too does her heart. Will she get a second chance at true love? She fears their story will end before it even begins.

 

LanguageEnglish
PublisherThomas Nelson
Release dateAug 12, 2014
ISBN9780718032814
Author

Liz Tolsma

Liz Tolsma has lived in Wisconsin most of her life. She and her husband have a son and two daughters, all adopted internationally. When not busy putting words to paper, Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping with her family. Visit her at www.liztolsma.com Twitter: @LizTolsma Facebook: liztolsma

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Reviews for Snow on the Tulips

Rating: 4.242424163636363 out of 5 stars
4/5

33 ratings8 reviews

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  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Based on true events, Liz Tolsma's Snow on the Tulips is a fascinating novel that takes place in a Nazi occupied town in the Netherlands. Set in the months leading up to the liberation by Canadian soldiers, it is a suspense-laden story that will keep you on the edge of your seat as Cornelia de Vries risks her life as she hides her brother Johan and Dutch Resistance fighter Gerrit Laninga from the Gestapo.

    Cornelia lost her husband on the first day the Nazis invaded the Netherlands and she is determined not to lose her brother Johan too. Hiding with relatives in the country for much of the war, once Johan's safety was compromised, he was forced to return to the family home in town. Cornelia has diligently worked to keep her brother's presence a secret and she is horrified when he brings Gerrit, the lone survivor of an execution that took the lives of several Dutch Resistance workers, into their home. She reluctantly agrees to allow him to stay them while he recovers. Gerrit needs more help than Cornelia can provide and she is enlists the aid of their sister, Anki, who is also a nurse. Cornelia is soon struggling to keep both Gerrit and Johan out of the hands of the Nazis and Anki finds herself at odds with her husband Piet as she continues to provide medical aid to those in need.

    In the beginning, Gerrit and Cornelia's perspectives on the war could not be more different. Cornelia just wants to survive until the Allies free them from the German occupation and she goes quietly about her business. She is also still deeply mourning the loss of her husband and cannot imagine giving her heart to another man, let alone one whose decisions put him in harm's way.

    Gerrit fervently fights for what he believes in with no regard for his personal safety. Although he narrowly escaped death, he is eager to resume his work for the Dutch underground. Betrayed be someone he once cared deeply for, Gerrit, too, protects his heart.

    The secondary cast of characters is superbly developed and each of them brings a unique perspective to the novel. Johan is young and idealistic and his eagerness to be part of the action leads to careless and sometimes costly mistakes. Anki finds herself struggling to be a submissive wife while still staying true to her own beliefs and ideals. Piet's faith leads him to mindlessly follow orders regardless of the consequences. Cornelia's elderly boss, Frou de Bruin is quite feisty and her role takes an unexpected turn late in the story.

    The romance between Cornelia and Gerrit is beautifully depicted and their love brings unanticipated changes for the couple. Cornelia is devastated when Gerrit resumes his resistance efforts and she continues to protect herself from further heartbreak. Both of their viewpoints are challenged by unfolding events and when Gerrit's participation in the Dutch underground becomes more dangerous, Cornelia is faced with a life-altering decision. Just as the Allies are about to defeat the Nazis, Gerrit's life hangs in the balance and assistance comes from an unlikely collaborator.

    All of the characters are deeply spiritual and for me, one of the most interesting facets of Snow on the Tulips is how their different beliefs shaped their reactions to the war. Various Bible passages impacted the roles they decided to take and often dictated their actions. Scripture and prayer are essential to the storyline and their inclusion complements the overall plot.

    With Snow on the Tulips, Liz Tolsma shines a much needed light on a part of history that is often overlooked. She brings the novel vibrantly to life with a sympathetic and likable cast of characters and a tension-filled storyline. A history lesson that I will not soon forget, I highly recommend this incredible story to fans of historical fiction set during WWII.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Based on true events, "Snow on the Tulips" was a moving read about Cornelia and her siblings during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Filled with relatable characters, the author showed many aspects of war from the Resistance fighters to the women who stayed at home and tried to keep their families fed and safe. Yet each one did their part, often behind the scenes without anyone knowing the risks they were taking.Having lost her husband on her wedding night, at the start of the war, four years on and Cornelia's life is one of fear and dread. However, despite this, she risks her life to hide her young brother and together they nurse Gerrit, a man with strong convictions fighting to stop the Germans, back to health. The romance that developed between Cornelia and Gerrit was touching, although I think too much emphasis was placed upon it.Despite this, there was still plenty of tension, danger, drama and action as people put their lines on the line to save others. In fact, I think the most powerful line in the book was when Gerrit said to Cornelia, "Courage is not a feeling. Courage is an action."From the start I was drawn to the lives of Gerrit, Cornelia and her family as they tried to survive these dark times, and I often found myself hoping they would all make it to the end of the war safely. I also enjoyed how both Gerit and Cornelia grew and brought out the best in each other."Snow on the Tulips" was an engaging read about courage, hope and love, and I will be looking for more novels by this author.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Snow on the Tulips is a story of loss, survival, fear, and uncertainty. It also has a strong thread of faith throughout with strong religious overtones. February 1945 – WWII in Occupied Netherlands – The storyline starts out strong as the Nazis are planning to execute several Dutch Resistance workers. Gerrit Lanings is one of those men, but the Gestapo blotched his execution and he survives. Since her parents had died and her sister had married, the job of caring for her younger brother, Johan, fell on Cornelia. Cornelia was still trying to get over the loss of Hans, her husband. She became a bride and a widow on the same night when Hans chose his country over Cornelia. Hans was in the army and he had an obligation to fight the Germans. She begged him not to go – they would’ve exempted him as a newlywed – but he was determined. 20-year-old Johan went into hiding at the farm. He would work there to earn his keep, but he was always in danger of getting picked up by the Gestapo. He was tired of sitting prisoner in the house, waiting to be either arrested or liberated. He became bored and wanted to join the Resistance. Cornelia risks her safety and well being when she reluctantly takes in Gerrit and nurses him back to health. Cornelia was no longer the innocent young woman she was when she married Hans. She had been caught in a war zone without a husband, but she survived. Life had become uncertain and fragile for Cornelia. A love eventually begins and blossoms between Cornelia and Gerrit --- and the story unfolds with much suspense and drama. I truly enjoyed this book, a rich treat for historical fiction fans. It is a book to be savored, obviously well researched, as it brings to life such a sad time in our history. Parts of the book did drag somewhat and the romance faltered, being rather lukewarm – it just didn’t feel natural to me. But – that being said – the storyline had a well-constructed plot, compelling characters, and a satisfying conclusion. A richly written novel and a great read! 4/5 stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions shared are solely my responsibility.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma was an amazing book. This book takes place during WWII which just happens to be one of the time periods in history that I love learning and reading about. I also loved this book because my grandma's family is from the Netherlands and she is working on her family history right now so I feel like I know the people. I loved this book but it was a hard read for me because I knew that this book is fiction but things like this had to have actually happened to people there. This is a book that I know I will hold on to because the author does an amazing job of telling the story and of making you feel like you are there going through everything with the characters. I loved the love story as well in this book and I was sad when it finally did come to an end because I love the characters and in the end I felt like I knew them. If you love WWII and love stories than I know you will love this book!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    In the Province of Friesland, Netherlands, war widow, Cornelia de Vries, spent her days simply trying to survive the ravages of the war going on around her. The Germans had taken over her city but with the Allies coming the war would soon be over. When her brother, Johan, brings home and injured man Cornelia is torn. Should she send him on his way knowing he will die or should she risk everything, even the safety of her brother, and let him stay? Once she decides to let Gerrit stay she find she is not only risking their safety but her heart as well. After the death of her husband due to the war Cornelia is afraid she won't survive another loss so she guards her heart like the Germans guard the city. But a lone Resistance worker soon finds his way into her badly bruised heart. Now if they can only survive so they can build a life together.Gerrit Laninga knew he was going to die. After surviving his own execution he was sure he was going to bleed to death unless the beautiful woman before him agrees to take him in and tend to his wound. Fighting against her fear, Cornelia de Vries follows her heart and relies on her faith and takes Gerrit into her home. Gerrit is a Resistance worker aiding the people of the city. He never thought about the danger until he lost his heart to Cornelia but he knows he must continue the fight and trust God to keep him safe. The biggest fight of all will be tearing down the wall around Cornelia's heart. Can he help her get past the fears that are stopping her from living a happy life with him?I can very easily say that Snow on the Tulips is the BEST book I have read this entire year! It brought out such raw emotions in me that I can't even begin to describe them. (A few Kleenex? Try a whole BOX!) This book was so descriptive I felt as if I were IN the story fighting along side Cornelia and Gerrit. I'm sure you have heard the phrase "I wish I were a fly on the wall" well I actually felt like I was. It could have been anymore real had I been in Friesland in 1945. When I was young I saw a movie that touched me so much I fell in love with it then and there and watched it every chance I got. I still haven't forgotten the way I felt watching it for the first time. That movie was The Diary of Anne Frank. I love the similarities between the movie and Snow on the Tulips, such as Dr. Boukma hiding five Juden and being discovered by the Germans. In The Diary of Anne Frank Victor Kugler hid several Juden, including Anne's family, and was later discovered as well. The Germans ravaged the countryside and the reality of just how devastating it was is brought to life on every page. I also loved the trust they had in God. They trusted Him to keep them safe no matter what situation they were in and that is a beautiful thing indeed. This is the first book I have read from Liz Tolsma and I have found a new author to love. If you love books that drag your emotions right out of you or if you're a fan of The Diary of Anne Frank you will love this book. Just make sure you have the Kleenex handy because you will need them! I most definitely recommend it!Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review. The opinions stated are mine and mine alone and I received no monetary compensation.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Inspired by real events, Snow on The Tulips by Liz Tolsma illustrates the fear, sacrifice and heroism surrounding the German occupation of The Netherlands during WWII. Beautifully written, the novel features very believable characters struggling with living under the oppressive regime of an occupying force. The deprivation and desperation of the times is brightened by the shining faith of God’s people. Looking for a good book? Then Snow on The Tulips is definitely for you.Corrie is a young woman struggling to keep her remaining family safe in the last days of WWII. When an injured resistance fighter is brought home by her brother, Corrie must make a decision that could spell disaster for her family and community.I loved how Tolsma portrayed the struggle between personal survival and doing right. Many chose to submit to the authorities believing that is what God was calling them to do. Others made decisions based solely on keeping themselves secure. And others, convicted that evil must be confronted and fought, risked everything in the face of terror and death. Realistic and complex, the characters touched my heart. Snow on The Tulips is also a richly detailed and researched novel. Life under occupation came to life for this reader.If you are a fan of historical novels, especially those set during WWII, then this book is for you. But for me, Snow on The Tulips transcends the genre and will appeal to all who love a great story.Highly Recommended.Great For Book Clubs.(Thanks to LitFuse for a copy of Snow on The Tulips. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Snow on the Tulips is a beautiful story, but it is very emotionally in depth. This book is definitely not for the light of heart, but when finishing it a reader can look back and be in awe of the people who inspired the actual characters written!From the beginning I really felt I could relate to Cornelia with her wanting to stay safely tucked in her home and not acknowledging the fear that secretly gripped her heart. As she grew, healed, and let go throughout her journey she slowly became the woman God created her to be all along: Brave and courageous.My favorite quote from this novel that really defines the overall growth of the characters (and the story as a whole) is "Courage is not a feeling. Courage is an action." Spoken from one of the main characters, it really shapes the whole story for Cornelia and the sweet victory she receives. To get there though, there is a lot of suspense and of course romance endeavors as well as some hard-headness that the reader has to go through first!Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and was truly inspired. After closing the book I reflected on my own life and how fear is holding me back from living for God. I recommend Snow on the Tulips to anyone who is looking for a great historical novel that inspires the reader personally as well as entertain!*I received this book for free from Litfuse in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts are my own.*
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This book was for me an in depth look at the 1945 world war, told from the Dutch people's standpoint. This novel is superbly written and I was as if I saw the devastation, felt the fear, and yes the courage of the people. There are so many aspects to war...Those that go and actively fight the enemy are no more brave than those who stay at home and work in their quiet way, often behind the scenes where no one knows their involvement. But then, as is mentioned in the novel what is courage? Is it an active verb just like love is? I really enjoyed the novel, seeing the spirit of the Dutch Resistance, reading about their bravery, how slowly, one by one they did their part. It is well written, and I learned history without knowing it.Although I am not living on the war front as these people were, am I standing for what I know is right? It is so easy to let those who feel they have power and might over someone get away with bullying, to just be quiet and mind my own business. Am I brave enough to do my part to end it? To help the one at the bottom? These are questions I had to ask myself as I read. I received this book free from Amy at Litfuse Communications Group and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.