For Such a Time

GIVEAWAY

BRESLIN, KATE
FOR SUCH A TIME 

Powerful Retelling of the Story of Esther

In 1944, blonde and blue-eyed Jewess Hadassah Benjamin feels abandoned by God when she is saved from a firing squad only to be handed over to a new enemy. Pressed into service by SS-Kommandant Colonel Aric von Schmidt at the transit camp of Theresienstadt in Czechoslovakia, she is able to hide behind the false identity of Stella Muller. However, in order to survive and maintain her cover as Aric's secretary, she is forced to stand by as her own people are sent to Auschwitz.

Suspecting her employer is a man of hidden depths and sympathies, Stella cautiously appeals to him on behalf of those in the camp. Aric's compassion gives her hope, and she finds herself battling a growing attraction for this man she knows she should despise as an enemy.

Stella pours herself into her efforts to keep even some of the camp's prisoners safe, but she risks the revelation of her true identity with every attempt. When her bravery brings her to the point of the ultimate sacrifice, she has only her faith to lean upon. Perhaps God has placed her there for such a time as this, but how can she save her people when she is unable to save herself?

My Review:

Wow -- I'm nearly speechless over this one. The romance has an ethereal, fairy tale quality that carries it far away from the gruesome reality of a World War II concentration camp. That stark contrast makes the entire story all the more magical.

But Breslin doesn't flinch in conveying the conditions the Jews have to deal with -- though her readers might. Heart-breaking stuff laced with the strength and determination of an unconquerable people. There were many goosebump moments for me as I read this epic novel. Many tears shed too. I loved the way she paralleled the Book of Esther with the events in For Such a Time. Honestly, a stunning celebration of life and the grace of God in the midst of impossible affliction. This is one incredible read you don't want to miss.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of For Such a Time as This please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . to protect yourself from spammers. If you email me, please be sure to put the title in the subject line so it is easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday April 20  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".