When Twilight Breaks - by Sarah Sundin (Paperback)

WOW! I just turned the last page from this book and I am in awe and breathless! I literally couldn’t put it down! I was completely transported to 1938 Hitler’s Germany, particularly in Münich, in such a vivid and historically detailed way that I felt I was there myself. Even felt some of the angst along with Peter and Evelyn, during the deadly dangerous moments they experience in this Epic Journey! This is one of the most realistic, heart gripping stories I’ve read! I felt as if I was there, on the brink of WWII, in a world of spies, deception, betrayal, injustice and terror. Yet there was always hope and the strong desire to do something good for humanity was so inspiring. I know the main characters are fictional, but the historical events were real, and that made my heart ache so much thinking of how many innocent people suffered. The author’s writing is excellent, fast paced, never dragging, dynamic, yet full of historical details. The phrases and words in German makes it all the more realistic. The plot has action, twists and turns, you’ll be at the edge of your seat or wondering if you’re being watched all the time along with Peter and Evelyn. But there are also humorous and sweet moments that make the tension dissipate. But best of all, is the characters and the inspiring message behind the story. The characters were made of one piece: both courageous, honest, loyal, compassionate. Evelyn was too independent and had some trouble accepting help from others, especially men, but she’ll do some growing in this journey, learning how needing and leaning on someone else is not a weakness, but a complement, a plus. All the more, if that help comes from God. And to learn to turn to God in every moment, not only when you’re in a dire need. I loved her determination, and her spunk too! Peter was… What can I say? Adorable! I fell completely in love with him, even his geeky side tore at my heart. He was humble enough to accept his erred vision of things, to learn that order without freedom brings chaos and brutality. He was loyal to the bone, especially once he clarifies his stance of what is right, and loyal to Evelyn too: he was so patient with her need of independence, and how he respected her in every way, that it melted my heart. So ridiculously orderly, and rule follower, but flexible enough to put higher values above that atrocious “legal” order. He was funny and I loved how they were able to banter in the midst of such difficult circumstances. Their romance, even if slow at first because of Evelyn walls, was the most tender and sweet, and I totally swooned, especially at the last part! I can’t recommend this story enough! It’s one of the best I’ve read in the WWII genre!

"Yet true beauty comes from that one minor chord, the note that's sharp or flat. My father says those are the elements he has his orchestra stress - a little drawn out, a little more volume. Those are the elements that sink in your heart and pull on your emotions." I have loved every Sarah Sundin book I have read, but this newest novel totally knocks it out of the park. The captivating plot that flows beautifully, the meticulous research needed to build such a life-like 1938 Germany, and the deeply layered and complex characters are the author's trademarks. In this book, she goes above and beyond to infuse a heart-pounding suspense/intrigue and a delicious dose of humor. This book is a must-read for all historical fiction fans! Evelyn is an American journalist, banished to Munich for her unconventional ways and desperately trying to make it in a man's world. Peter is a visiting American grad student, developing his thesis and diction techniques at University of Munich in teaching German to Americans. Evelyn is dubbed "firebrand" for her prickly nature, fiercely independent streak, and propensity to work outside of the rules. Peter is a somewhat unlikely hero during this tumultuous time, as his professorial, black-and-white, neatly organized and orderly ways are completely opposite of Evelyn's. Their banter is witty and clever and extremely enjoyable. Peter's work in linguistics is fascinating and I loved his sweet tenderness, tireless pursuit of Evelyn, humility, and sense of justice and mercy. The unique perspective of a journalist on the ground and a teaching assistant in the ivory tower in Germany during the year leading up to the eruption of the war was enlightening. And the adrenaline rush with the suspense component of the story was totally unexpected but so fitting and well done. This is an unforgettable journey of two souls longing to have influence and to leave their mark in the world yet drawn to what truly matters. I received the book from the Revell/Baker Publishing Group via Interviews & Reviews and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.

This is the second novel I have read by Sarah Sundin and both have been based during World War II as are all her books based on the books listed on her website. “When Twilight Breaks” is a stand-alone novel so you do not have to have read one of her other books first. Like a lot of World War II and historical fiction books for me, this one is not as fast of a read. Part of the reason this is a slower read for me is that the author uses some German in the book which slows me down. With that being said, I am not saying that I did not like the book because I definitely enjoyed reading this novel. The author did a great job with such heavy topics as the treatment of Jews during this time. She does not downplay the horrible parts of this time in Germany at all. I found myself frustrated along with the main female character, Evelyn Brand, because she was trying to show the truth in her articles but her boss kept changing them on her before they were printed in the newspaper. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.