The Medallion

GIVEAWAY

GOHLKE, CATHY
THE MEDALLION

An illuminating tale of courage, sacrifice, and survival.
Two couples' lives are ravaged by Hitler's mad war but forever linked through the fate of one little girl.

Warsaw, 1939
The German blitzkrieg has shattered the city. As Sophie Kumieg awaits news of her husband, deployed with the Polish Air Force, she is determined to keep her unborn baby safe. She didn't count on being drawn into the dangerous and all-consuming plight of her neighbors.

Rosa and Itzhak Dunovich never imagined welcoming their longed-for child in the Jewish ghetto, or letting anything tear their family apart. But Rosa soon faces a terrifying reality: to save their daughter's life, she must send her into hiding. Her only hope of finding her after the war -- if any of them survive -- is the half medallion she places around her daughter's neck.

Inspired by true events of Poland's darkest days and brightest heroes, The Medallion paints a stunning portrait of war and its aftermath, daring us to believe that when all seems lost, God can make a way forward.

My Review:

"The Red Sea...how Adonai will make a way where there is no way." (p 8)

I read that line early on in this novel and haven't been able to shake the imagery since. It's at the heart of this story -- how God prepares a way even if it's not the way we'd choose.

The Medallion is a tough read. Have tissues and comfort chocolate on hand and be prepared for an emotional roller coaster ride ending in an ugly cry. Cathy Gohlke writes with such passion and reverence...and hope! As hard as this read is, it inspires me to live my faith more fully to treat my neighbours with more compassion and to speak up and take action whenever I am witness to injustice.

This is one of those impossible to review kind of novels. Mainly, because I don't want to give anything away. But there are so many talking points in this book that it would make a fabulous book club selection.

Impeccable historical research laid the foundation for a compelling tale about everyday people doing extraordinary things. It is both a celebration of life and a cautionary tale.

Indescribably good. If you only read one book this year (is that even possible?) you should make The Medallion that book.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Medallion leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday December 14 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!