The Girl Who Saved Them by S.E. Rutledge is a deeply touching novel of the Paris resistance during WWII. Although I have read many similar novels, they each stand out in their own way. Louise and the other characters were fully drawn easily taken to heart, their successes and failures shake you to your core. The horrors of WWII aren't shied away from, but used to emphasize the trauma of Louise's position. A heartfelt novel. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

I received The Girl Who Saved Them through NetGalley, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to discover new authors and share my thoughts.

This book was a gripping and emotional read with an engaging storyline that kept me invested throughout. The characters were well-developed, and the suspenseful elements added depth to the narrative. I appreciated the way the author wove together mystery, tension, and heartfelt moments, making for a compelling reading experience.

Thank you again to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I look forward to exploring more from this author!

I quite enjoyed this. There aren't too, too many WWII books concentrating on pilots and the route through France to Spain. As a result, this felt a little fresh to me. I also found the romance elements to be different than what we usually see, largely because of the introduction of other characters who complicate and enrich that dynamic. This is a great weekend read, perfect for someone who wants to immerse themself in a bit of historical fiction.

Well this book made me feel every emotion possible. I cried and I'm not a crier. I loved the non sugar coated delivery of things. It was a stunning piece of work and I'd recommend it to anyone who's ready for the heartbreak.

"By fighting for their lives, she risked her own..."

It is September 1941 and France has declared war on Germany. Widowers both, Fernand and his father, decide that they must take up arms, despite the fact that the French government, rather than stand and fight their aggressors, have chosen to flee, leaving the country and its people at the mercy of the invading forces of evil. Fernand leaves behind Andre, his son who is seven and his two sisters Louise a newly qualified teacher and Marie, who are young ladies of twenty and fifteen respectively. Since the death of their mother five years ago, relations between the two sisters have gone from bad to worse, with Marie bitterly resenting the fact that Louise has tried to fill the void their mother had left, so with no men around the house to mediate, tensions reach new heightened levels.

The deprivations of war in a country under occupation, only serve to drive a bigger wedge between Marie and Louise, especially when Louise makes the brave decision to help the allied war effort in the only way she knows how and Marie accuses her of putting all three of them in danger, continually citing Louise's promise to Fernand to keep Andre safe. Marie eventually decides to provide Louise and the rest of the Comet Line resistance with limited help, however when it becomes apparent that there is more than one traitor and collaborator in their midst and people can no longer tell friend from foe, she comes to the conclusion that enough is enough and makes plans to distance herself from both the movement and her family, convincing herself that she is doing the noble thing by voluntarily taking up employment with the Germans so that she can send money home to help Louise and Andre survive the war. It is all too late when Marie finally realises how bad her judgement had been and the gates of the concentration camp beckon her enter. She is also unaware that a similar fate has befallen Louise, who has been captured by the German occupiers, although in so doing she assures that both Andre and his American protectors have managed to make good their escape.

The resulting situation for both girls, their young charge and the small group of American airmen who had placed their lives and trust into Louise's hands, is destined to change them all forever, but it will never break their spirit or their will to survive and be reunited.

…

Tissues at the ready...Tears of anger and frustration; tears of sadness and sorrow; tears of happiness and joy; reading this amazing story, it's just tears all the way!

I kept my 'potted' storyline deliberately short, so as not to give away too many details. However, believe me when I say that this is a multi-layered work of WWII fiction, which is replete with plenty of descriptive detail, some of which is difficult to assimilate, but which I have no hesitation in agreeing, needed to be included, distressing as it is.

Albeit with my own limited knowledge about the terrible atrocities of WWII history, I believe this to be an amazingly well researched set of facts, wonderfully woven into a brilliant work of fiction, which forms an emotionally draining, important glimpse of social history, from what was a shameful time in all our pasts. A tale of endurance and bravery; the courage and the will to survive; finding love amongst grief and death; redefining the future; family love; and the steadfast and unbreakable bonds of friendship, all cohesively dovetail together into a real tour de force, which left me broken-hearted, yet hopeful for the future of those characters who survived.

Well time-lined and structured chapters are narrated by both Louise and Marie as they each tell their story of those few short years, which for them must have seemed like a lifetime, peeling back the many layers of their shattered lives, as they come to terms with the horror of man's inhumanity to man, which had undoubtedly changed them forever.

The characters are so well defined that they are easy to become invested in and build a great empathy with, even though relating to the individual and collective terrors and horrors they each had to endure was almost unimaginable. Louise and Marie are surprisingly united in their shame and abhorrence of their fellow Parisians who turn collaborators and court favour amongst the German invaders. It isn't until both their lives are on the line, that they individually have cause to look back upon their bitter disagreements and reflect that each might have still been mourning the loss of their mother, with neither having fully appreciated the impact this might have had on the other, as they are equally stubborn and intransigent. They are forced, with a new sense of maturity, to face their vulnerabilities and quickly learn how to turn them into strengths and the will to survive against all the odds. Finding love in the strangest of circumstances also offers the sisters cause to reflect and determine that any future happiness would be better shared with one another and hopefully to be reunited with their brother, nephew and father, should they all by some miracle, survive. Radomir and Bronislawa, also feature large in the lives of Louise and Marie and are wonderfully developed into strong and dependable characters, although only one of them is destined to see the dawn of a new tomorrow at the cessation of atrocities.

Locations are described in more than enough detail to make them impactful and unforgettable, as the story covers three countries, France, Germany and USA and two continents. The hurt and pain, relief and ecstasy, are all encompassing and highly visual, without me needing, nor wanting to leave my chair.

I know it is still early on in my current reading year, however I am certain this book will feature right near the top of my most impactful reads. Definitely 5*+

S.E. Rutledge’s The Girl Who Saved Them is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that explores themes of resilience, redemption, and the power of one person’s courage in the face of adversity. With a compelling protagonist and a storyline that keeps readers on edge, Rutledge masterfully blends suspense with deep character development, making this book impossible to put down.

The novel follows a young woman who, despite her own past struggles, finds herself in a position to help those who need her the most. As she navigates a world filled with danger and uncertainty, she discovers strength she never knew she had. Rutledge’s writing is both haunting and hopeful, pulling readers into a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is heart-wrenching.

With rich, atmospheric storytelling and an unflinching look at the complexities of survival and sacrifice, The Girl Who Saved Them is an unforgettable journey of heroism and heart. Fans of gripping psychological fiction and powerful emotional storytelling will find themselves deeply moved by Rutledge’s latest novel.

4.5 stars rounded up

This book is going to stay with me for a long time. I loved the writing style and was swept away and taken on a heartbreaking journey. This book highlights POW experiences and the struggles of civilians trying to stay alive and keep others alive. Such a heartbreaking story of family, strength, bravery, resilience, friendship and companionship. I can't wait to read more by this author and I recommend this book to lovers of WWII historical fiction.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for an ARC for review. My review is voluntary and unbiased.

The Girl Who Saved Them is an amazing story of a family ripped apart by World War II with each finding out how love can get you through almost anything. Louise and her sister Marie are left in France in care of their nephew while their father and brother have gone to war. Louise and Marie don't agree on much and the strain of the war isn't helping. Louise has agreed to be a part of the resistance helping soldiers find a way to safety. There's a network in France with guides, but if you're found to be helping the soldiers, you will be tortured and/or killed. Marie is very upset to find out that Louise has signed up to help. She thinks that Louise has put her and Andre', their nephew, in danger. Louise tells Marie that she has to help these men because she hopes people are helping her brother and father the same way. Marie is angry, but decides to help as much as possible. She goes and trades for food and helps that way.

When Louise agrees to take a new group of American soldiers it is supposed to be for a few days. After that time, they are supposed to meet up with a guide who will take them to Spain. They will be free there. However, the network is under major scrutiny, and the Germans are trying to find out who is helping the men to get out. There are rumors and spies have been following people they think are involved. When key people helping are found out, they are killed. It's too dangerous to move the men now and they end up with Louise for over 3 months! The food rations are low and Marie has left to take a job that will give her money to send home. However, the job is not real and she ends up in a work camp where people are tortured and treated horribly. She works hours on end and can barely move at night. She is one of only a few women who volunteered to do this. She meets a Russian man there who watches out for her and protects her when necessary. She regrets leaving Louise and hopes that she and Andre' are making out okay.

As things continue to get worse for Louise and she is almost caught by one of the spies, she knows she has to take Andre', the men in her basement, and get out of town. As they prepare to leave with new ID's, a map to get to the various safe houses, clothes, and food they are in for a long journey to get to Spain. Louise hates leaving her family home and worries that Marie will come back and feel like Louise left her. Louise decides to leave a note with one of the trusted men in the network in case Marie returns home. Louise and William, one of the American soldiers, have grown very close. William has helped to keep Louise sane during the stressful times at home. He and Andre' have gowned very close and he's teaching Andre' English and telling him stories he enjoys. The bond between them is obvious and Andre' looks forward to his lessons each day. As they try to get to Spain, will they make it safely? Will Marie be able to survive the work camp she's in? When the last safe house is found out and the Germans come, will they get away?

This is an absolutely incredible story of survival against all odds. Having the love of family and friends can help to pull you through the worst of times, even if it's in your memories and hopes for the future. This book is inspiring, heartbreaking, and emotional. I had a hard time putting the book down and when I had to, I was left thinking about it. S.E. Rutledge makes you feel everything the characters in the book are feeling. You feel like you're right there with them. Louise and Marie are very memorable characters that you won't forget anytime soon. I rate The Girl Who Saved Them 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. If you love historical fiction, don't miss out on this book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of The Girl Who Saved Them in exchange for a fair review. #TheGirlWhoSavedThem

A tale of bravery, heroism, love, and sisterly bonds. Two sisters, Marie and Louise grew up constantly at each other’s throats. When the war finds them separated in labor camps and concentration camps, they’re put to the test in the most unimaginable ways. They pull from each other’s strengths during the darkest of times.

Watching the character development of Louise and Marie made this book truly unputdownable. The plot is told from the perspectives of both sisters and although they end up in different countries and locations and fight to survive, they never give up and stay true to themselves and each other.

Thank you go NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of this book. It was excellent and I could not put it down. A family separated by war and the hardships they endured. Sounds like the same ol’ war story but it’s much deeper. Sisters realize how much they love and miss each other, both fall in love, but not under similar circumstances.

Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley and author S.E. Rutledge

At first I had real trouble getting into this story as I kept feeling like I've read this book before. There are quite a few similarities in the first ca. quarter of the book to other WWII historical fictions such as The Nightingale and The Book of Names.
However after the initial set up, The Girl Who Saved Them absolutely becomes it's own story. I read it in one sitting and could not put it down.
I love the characters, both Louise and Marie while seemingly so different both had such strength and endurance in their own way and grew so, so much and I wanted them to end up happy and back together so badly.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys WWII historical fiction and strong characters.

The Girl Who Saved Them by SE Rutledge broke me into smithereens in its raw truth of the tragic experiences of families in France in WWII. I had previusly read "A Promise to My Sister and was epxecting a similarly exceptional book. I was not disappointed!

When Marie and Louise Beufoy's father and brother go to fight on the front lines they remain behind and care for their nephew.

As the war rages, a resistance forms in France and Louise being the more dynamic sister, decides to join and help by hiding allied servicemen until they could be extracted to safety, a risk that would cost them all of their lives if caught. Will Marie's sensibility prevail and stop Louise in her efforts or will there be a drastic error of judgement that will put them all in danger?

This book absorbed my sould, chewed it up and spat it out. The authors knowledge is evident and empathy for their characters even more so . I was absolutely rooting for Louise and her dedication to the cause, while at the same time, understanding why Marie was so fearful (although admittedly, at times the character frustrated me, showing just how well her personality was written)

A stunning read and one that I would absolutely return to in order to read over and over again

Thank you to Bookouture and SE Rutledge for this incredible ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

Another great book from this author set during wartime. It tells the story of two sisters that put their own lives at risk by helping airmen that had found themselves stranded in their country and are at risk of being caught by the Germans.
A very moving and well told story.

Louise and Marie are living in Paris in 1939 when the war starts. their dad and brother join the fight. as Paris is taken over by Nazi's Louise joins the resistance and is eventually joined by Marie.

An interesting read if you. want to learn about life for non-combatants in World War 2, and what it might have been like to live, and resist, in France under Nazi occupation.
Compelling narrative and engaging characters. An absorbing tale.

Thanks netgalley and S.E.Rutledge for this amazing book about bring brave and determined not to let the Nazis win the war and destroy them in the process.
Louise and Marie living In Paris in Sep 1939 when war started and their father and brother joined the army.
Their brirher left behind Andre their nephew and they promised Ferdinand their brother that they would look after him until he came home from the war.
With Paris being taken over by the Nazis, Louise joins the resistance against Marie’s wishes to help the allied soldiers and eventually Marie also joined her sister.
They were put in terrible danger not knowing what terrible things will eventually come to,them, but love and friendship and a determination to,survive helped them get through the war.

Oh wow, what an amazing story that’ll break but also mend and warm your heart! At the start of the war, Louise and her sister Marie make a promise to their older brother to keep his motherless young son safe. But one day when asked to join in the resistance to help shelter Allied soldiers as part of the resistance’s Comet Line, Louise agree, risking not only her own life but that of her family. In 1944 Louise and her family have to hide three American airmen in their cellar, but as days turn to weeks and word from their fellow Comet Line members grows scarce, Louise and her family get closer to being caught, knowing it’s only a matter of time before the Gestapo discovers what they are doing.

Wow, wow, wow is the only thing I can think after finishing this book. I have previously read a book by the author called A Promise to my Sister and it was so emotional I actually cried. Well Rutledge has done it again, made me cry with how heartbreaking and yet beautifully hopeful this story is. As Louise and her sister Marie begin sheltering soldiers, Marie isn’t happy. The two sisters are very different and have not been close since their mother died. You can feel the tension between them but also the care that both have in their different ways as they look after the airmen and deal with the Nazi occupation in Paris.

The chapters alternate between Louise and Marie as they move through 1944 with a lot happening to both sisters in those months. When they have to shelter the American airmen for longer than they want, Louise begins growing close to one of them in particular, a man named William. I like what happens in this story, it shows the amazing bravery that normal people went through, being part of the French resistance. At the same time it also shows some of the dire things that happened during the war, especially when you see what happens later with Marie as she tries to do something and get a new job to help provide for her family better than she could with her old job.

I don’t want to give away what happens in either alternating story, but the book does soon show some of the horrors of the war, not only in a city like Paris and what conditions were like for regular people as well as the resistance , but also in certain camps and the horrifying conditions that some ended up living there. I’ve read a lot about the horrors of concentration camps, but I hadn’t heard about the working camp that is mentioned. I had no idea conditions were so bad, especially as it’s not a prison camp.

While Louise’s story becomes more dire, having to look after the airmen and keep her nephew safe, Marie’s situation becomes ever worse as she ends up in Germany. Despite what happens to both sisters, the relationships and bonds they create with others is wonderful to read. I love how Louise’s relationship with William deepens, while Marie’s relationship with Radomir is an interesting one, which I couldn’t help but love reading. I also love what we see when Marie meets Bronisława, and the connection that character has with Marie and another later in the story.

The brutal effects of the war are explained in some detail, the book does have some horrible descriptions of deaths, blood and violence, it doesn’t shy away from showing what happened to people at the mercy of the Nazis, and it also has occasional uses of the s and f swear words as well as other insults that the Nazis shout at some characters. But despite the brutality of what happens in the story, and some of the heart-breaking moments you read, the book is ultimately a tale of resilience and a hopeful one that will make you cry tears of joy at the end of it.

As the story heads towards the end of the war, more and more things happen with both characters. I love the way both Louise and Marie grow as people, and how more alike they are to each other than they realise. The wonderful link between the two though one characters was so lovely to read, and despite all the horrible things that happen, that hopefulness and determination the characters have, makes the story so amazing and I couldn’t stop reading this book, devouring it all in just two days (it would have been one day if real life didn’t get in the way!)

The ending is one that will make your heart sing. After all the heartache the story brings, it will make you cry, thankfully happy tears. I thought the ending of that last chapter was enough to make me smile and cry happy tears, but then there’s an epilogue that just brings everything together so perfectly that this is now my favourite WWII novel! There are some author notes at the end explaining which parts of the story have some truth and which are fictional, and it’s interesting to hear what happened to some of the real life characters mentioned in the story.

Overall I have really loved reading this book. There is mention of a particular concentration camp in the story and perhaps I felt closer to this story than some readers might due to the fact that a member of my family was in the same one during the war (thankfully surviving it). There’s something about Rutledge’s writing that really gets to me. I’ve never teared up so much at reading a book before, and now I’ve teared up twice, first from reading A Promise to My Sister and now from reading The Girl Who Saved Them. I would recommend this book to everyone who loves a WWII story with hope at its heart. While some of the events in the tale are very dark and heart-breaking, the book is ultimately a hopeful read, a tale of hope and survival even under the most brutal of conditions, and I can’t recommend it enough along with A Promise to My Sister too. 🙂

*Courtesy of NetGalley, I was able to read the ARC of this book.*

Wow, this is hands down my favorite WWII novel! I've read many historical fiction novels based around Ravensbruck and/or various Resistance networks, which I all thoroughly enjoyed, but this one stands out. Without giving away too much of the novel, I must share some of my favorite aspects:

1) The importance of family and friendships. Relationships played a key role for our lovely sister protagonists, Marie and Louise.

2) Love can find us in unexpected ways and places. It also carried Marie and Louise through so many challenging years and experiences. I loved getting to know Louise and William, and Marie and Radomir.

3) German labor camps had been mentioned before in other WWII books that I read, but this book definitely highlights it and brings the experience alive. Marie and Radomir went through so much there, but made it through, despite all odds.

4) It truly is the little things that can have an impact. The parachute and bead bracelet... the sharing of bread rations... saying hello to a stranger having a lasting impact.

There's so much more, but you'll have to read for yourself to find out.

WW2 novel worth reading

The Girl Who Saved Them is a very readable WW2 novel about people who rescued and transported downed airmen. The novel is mainly written from the point of view of two sisters who did their best to ensure that the airmen were saved while putting themselves at risk. While parts are heartbreaking, I found the rest of the book encouraging as to how 'normal' people were able to fight against a fascist regime. Somewhat topical for today?

Thank you to the publisher who lent me a time-constrained e-arc via netgalley. This review is optional and my own opinion.

Wow. I thought Savannah Rutledge’s debut novel was incredible, but The Girl Who Saved Them was somehow even better.

Through the journeys of 2 very different sisters in WWII, we get to witness love, terror, bravery, and above all the family bonds that csn give us the strength to survive anything. Louise and Marie are so different in so many ways, but they learn that they are more alike than they think. The whole book was so emotional and beautifully written, and final paragraphs had me reaching for the tissues.

I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!

5 stars out of 5 ⭐️