The Melody of the Soul by Liz Tolsma

The Melody of the Soul (Music of Hope, #1)

by Liz Tolsma

It's 1943 and Anna Zadok, a Jewish Christian living in Prague, has lost nearly everything. Most of her family was deported, and the Nazi occupation ended her career as a concert violinist. Left to care for her grandmother, she'll do anything to keep her safe -- a job that gets much harder when Nazi officer Horst Engel is quartered in the flat below them.

Reviewed by Molly J(Cover To Cover Cafe) on

4 of 5 stars

Share
I'm a big fan of historical novels, particularly those centered around WWII. So, when I came across this one for reviewing, I jumped at the chance. I've not read any Liz Tolsma books before, so it was a double bonus for me. I sat down, opened the book, and wow. What feelings I got with this novel! Sadness, happiness, love.....all of it. It was so many feels!

Liz Tolsma's characters, Anna and Horst, truly came alive for me. Their interactions, their passion for their beliefs and their love for Anna's music....they truly captured my soul. These beautiful souls had a passion for God and I could feel that as I turned each page.

I can't imagine what it was like for the Nazis and the Jews back then, but through richly detailed accounts and beautifully chiseled characters, Ms. Tolsma made me feel a part of that time period. My heart burst for their love of God, but my soul was twisted up and crying when I felt myself enduring all that Anna had to endure. It was a bittersweet experience for sure!

This is definitely a 4 star novel that I will recommend to all who want a soul capturing novel. Ms. Tolsma knows just what to create for her readers that will keep them hooked and turning the pages long into the wee hours of the morning. Each page turn brings you closer to the characters' souls, and when the book ends, you're left reflecting on the melodies created within your own heart. This book is definitely a keeper! Well done, Ms. Tolsma!

*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

Last modified on

Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 9 January, 2018: Finished reading
  • 9 January, 2018: Reviewed