"Until Leaves Fall in Paris" by Sarah Sundin

American Lucie Girard has lived in Paris since she was a little girl. She danced at the Paris Opera Ballet until taking over her beloved bookstore from her Jewish friends so they could flee the incoming Nazis. Now she finds herself playing a role in the French resistance and trying not to fall for German collaborator Paul Aubrey, a handsome widower who brings his daughter to the bookstore.

After his wife's unexpected death, Paul almost packed up his small daughter and went back to the United States. But the American military approached him and asked him to keep his automobile factory open even though it means serving the Germans—in order to pass on any information he learns from the other side. Although it stings to be ostracized as a collaborator, Paul is willing to do his part for his country.

This might be my new favorite Sarah Sundin novel. While I've loved her previous books, there was something so relatable about Lucie and Paul. They're not in the military or the medical field, they're just two people trying to make the world a better place. Lucie struggles with self-doubt, while Paul deals with loneliness. They willingly choose to resist evil in the ways that are available to them, which is very risky but also low-profile, everyday work. They're the kind of heroes we need in the world today.

The story has several heart-rending turns, and I cried more than once at the sacrifices required as the plot progressed. What does love and bravery look like in the middle of a war?

Josie, Paul's little girl, really shines. With a gift for storytelling, she inspires hope for those around her and brings light to dark days. The puppets Monsieur Meow and Feenee also earned a place in my heart.

This is a story that will stick with me for a long time. I recommend it for all fans of historical fiction.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.