Alan Hlad

“Fleeing France” takes us on a journey during the turbulence of WWII following three character viewpoints/ perspectives. First, Ruth, an American born singer who lives in France pursuing her dream of singing on the big stage, but has a change of heart and decides to join the war effort as a volunteer following a familial tragedy. Second, British fighter pilot Jimmie, who thinks of his family often especially his polio-affected younger sister Nora, while fighting with the Allied forces through the air. Finally, Winston Churchill, Britain’s newly appointed Prime Minister as he prepares “to lead the British people to victory in its war against tyranny “. This novel was able to really speak to not only the atrocities that France endured during this war but also the bravery and courage that it would have taken so many men, women, and children to persevere through events such as these. I found the characters to be exceptional and I fell in love with each of their stories. I appreciated that author, Alan Hlad, did loads of research to add factual details to the story that I knew little about prior to reading this book. This was not only touching but also heartbreaking, I would recommend this to others.… (more)

An amazing amount of research of historical events went into this WWII historical fiction work and it's reflected in the authenticity of the story throughout the plot and characters. It's sad but hopeful, with gut-wrenching but heartfelt moments filling most if not all chapters. This author has long been on my TBR list, but this is the first opportunity I've had to move a book to the read pile and Fleeing France didn't disappoint. I loved the story and look forward to getting to read more from the writer. Some of the best WWII fiction I've read in a while. For historical fiction fans. Recommended.

GoodReads FirstReads Giveaway… (more)

Ruth Lacroix is an American singer living in Paris. When the war breaks out, she wants to do her part to help France. She becomes an ambulance driver and ends up meeting a downed RAF pilot, Jimmie, in Dunkirk. As Dunkirk falls and over two hazardous weeks, Ruth and Jimmie will journey hundreds of miles together, helping other refugees as they rush to reach the sea before they are overtaken by the Germany army.

This is a well researched tale. It is full of history and great characters. I enjoyed Ruth. She has a big heart and lots of courage.

The only reason for the 4 star rating is the love story was a bit overly dramatic. Their conversations just didn’t feel real. Minor issue!

The narrator, Moniqua Plante, is excellent. She did a wonderful job with all the different voices, accents and emotions…and believe me, this story is emotional!

Need a well researched historical fiction…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.… (more)