Readers will devour each moment leading up to the satisfying ending. – Publishers Weekly
As shells explode over Nazi-occupied France, American music student Claire Baudin is trapped behind enemy lines, struggling to protect her identity. Singing as a barmaid while she plans her escape, a handsome Third Reich captain threatens everything she knows to be true about the enemy.Nazi Captain Michael … the enemy.
Nazi Captain Michael Reiner isn’t who he claims to be. A British language expert turned spy, he discovers the truth about Claire, but he knows the importance of a secret. Struggling to resist his
attraction to the songbird, he’s determined to complete his assignment, no matter the cost. His cover is threatened when a ruthless female Gestapo officer arrives, hunting Resistance fighters. The raid forces Michael’s hand: complete the mission or save Claire.
As the war threatens to tear them apart, they must rely on each other for survival. Is there hope—and a future—for an American songbird and a British spy?
Written for the General Market (G) (I): Contains little or no; sexual dialogue or situations, violence, or strong language. May also contain content of an inspirational nature.more
OH. MY. WORD. Is this book AMAZING!!! The Songbird and the Spy is the first novel I’ve read by J’nell Ciesielski, but it most definitely will not be my last. Ciesielski is a seriously talented author. The Songbird and the Spy is a captivating, suspenseful novel that had me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire read. This is a story I did not want to put down.
Michael and Claire are superb characters put into almost impossible situations. They handle things with grace, courage, and dignity, but also in very realistic ways. Both experience fears and doubts, but are able to overcome these feelings because they know God will see them through. Of the many amazing moments in this novel, one of my favorites is when Claire confronts herself. To not spoil anything, I won’t share what happens to bring Claire to this moment. What I do want to say is how impressed I am by her self-reflection. In this particular moment, Claire is super frustrated. Her life seems to be spiraling out of control. She is scared, angry, and frustrated. She feels powerless and trapped. Claire’s immediate reaction is to blame others, the Nazis, the world, etc. But she stops herself. She goes to her room for privacy, takes a breath, and then really considers her circumstance. Claire concludes that none of her situation is anyone’s fault but her own. Yes, she is in a scary place. Yes, she wants to rage in frustration and anger. And, yes, she would love to blame it all on someone else. But Claire realizes she can’t. She has freely made all of the choices that led her to this moment. She is the cause of her current problems and blaming someone else will not bring her to a solution. What a fantastic and refreshing character attribute! I very much appreciate seeing a character take responsibility for her words, thoughts, and actions. In this day and age where it is typical for people to play the victim and blame others for their choices, Claire’s strength in character really stands out. When my daughter is of the appropriate age, I will definitely share this novel with her. Claire is a wonderful example of a strong woman — the kind of woman I pray my daughter will become one day.
I have to say that Michael is one of the best heroes I’ve read in a long time. He’s highly intelligent, commanding, and fierce. He’s intimidating in the right kind of way. And, he’s incredibly handsome, can put up a good fight, and has a heart the size of Texas. I’m not going to lie — I have a major crush! What impressed me the most about Michael is his bravery. I cannot imagine purposely infiltrating one of the most vile and evil groups that’s ever been on this earth in order to take them down from the inside. What would scare me the most is knowing that if I was ever found out the enemy would torture and kill me. BUT Jesus says in Matthew 10:28 (ESV), “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear Him who can destroy both the soul and body in hell.” And so, Michael does what he knows he needs to do to protect thousands and thousands of lives with very little thought to himself. He lives out exactly what Jesus discusses in Matthew 10:28. It was terrifying and wonderful to experience Michael’s dangerous journey in this novel, but it was encouraging and inspirational as well.
The Songbird and the Spy is an excellent story. It hooked me from page one, and I never wanted to put the book down. I’m very sad my time with this book is over, but I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read and review this amazing novel. If you are longing for a well written, beautifully crafted story filled with tremendous suspense and sweet romance then I highly, highly recommend The Songbird and the Spy.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
*4.5 Stars
With great skill, thorough research, and thoughtful insight, J’nell Ciesielski incorporates elements of history, suspense, danger, faith, and romance into a truly satisfying novel that is entertaining and intriguing. Primarily set in France during WWII, The Songbird and the Spy is a remarkable story of love, courage, and survival. With memorable characters, enduring themes, and an unforgettable plot, this historical fiction novel is as moving as it is compelling.
Against a backdrop of struggle and uncertainty, the fascinating characters abound with authenticity and credibility. Their hopes, their insecurities, their fears, and their needs are believable, heart-wrenching, and inspiring. The opportunities, the choices, and the trials that the characters endure are intricately developed, and from them there unfurls a story that is entirely unique and riveting. The themes of loss, redemption, love, and perseverance imbue this novel with hope, relevance, and meaning.
With its captivating characters, war-time setting, timeless themes, and gripping plot, The Songbird and the Spy is a very tender, emotional-stirring, and thought-provoking novel. It is certainly a book I can recommend to all readers who enjoy inspirational, historical fiction.
*I was given a copy of this novel from Celebrate Lit. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
3.5 stars
“Do not jeopardize mission for one woman.”
Captain Michael Reiner of the His Majesty’s Royal Air Force is deeply entrenched, posing as a Nazi officer and communications specialist in German occupied France. Imagine his surprise when he realizes that the lovely songbird entertaining his soldiers every night in the local tavern is not who she claims to be either. Ironically, she is much more dangerous that anyone realizes, for whether she remembers it or not, she saw Michael before he donned his German uniform.
American music student Claire Baudin has become trapped in France after watching her relatives get whisked away by German soldiers. Desperate to find members of the French Resistance who could transport her over the country’s heavily guarded enemy lines, she ends up in a small village trying to escape notice. When her musical abilities allow her to earn a small wage, it becomes more and more difficult to camouflage her true intentions, especially when a handsome German captain by the name of Michael Reichner shows her unsolicited attention.
A nicely written story, bringing to mind the intense courage that so many exhibited during one of the darkest hours in world history. Author J’nell Ciesielski is certainly exhibiting her love of history by bringing it back to life on the written page.
I was captivated by this World War II romance set in France. This book really brought the time and place to life.
In “The Songbird and the Spy,” J’nell Ciesielski gives us a fresh and beautiful take on the French Resistance in WWII
I loved this story of Claire and Michael! Claire is a student in France, who is going to see her family. She gets trapped behind enemy lines. Her family disappears and she has to survive. Thankfully she is taken in by pub owners in a quaint little town. This little town has Nazis in it though! They come to the pub to drink and discover Claire can sing. So they expect it. Michael is a Spy! He’s working undercover for the Brits! He realizes something isn’t right with Claire. Oh what an intriguing story this is! One filled with danger and courage. I had no idea the bravery of the men and women working behind the lines risking their lives during WWII. The author wrote a beautiful story about them. I think it’s very honoring to them. I won’t give it away, so please read! The Nazis get involved there’s danger! My heart may have raced a little! That’s the sign of a great book If I get that involved. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.
I’m glad that I took the time to read this book! Ciesielski’s historical fiction is filled with realistic characters facing dire circumstances. The characters courageously endured and fought back against evil and that is inspiring. While the wartime scenes are authentic, they are not overwhelming because of the bright spots added along the way. In a time when it is hard to know who to trust, I discovered characters willing to sacrifice for the people they love. The engrossing suspenseful storyline is enhanced with a romance that touches the heart. I can’t wait to see what Ciesielski writes next. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
J’nell Ciesielski delivers yet another intriguing WWII read with “The Songbird and the Spy.” I didn’t think I could love the characters, Michael (a double agent) and Claire (an American violinist) more than the characters from her last novel, “Among The Poppies,” but…I think I do!
The action is intense, the romance slow building, and the supporting characters continue to develop the attributes of the main characters. Michael is posing as a soldier in the German army in the communications department, both intercepting and transmitting radio messages. Claire is in France, staying with family after attending a conservatory in France to develop her violin skills. WWII interrupts her path, though, and after escaping the Nazis that took her extended family, Claire finds her way to a tavern in the country. Giles and Pauline are kind enough to take her in and offer her work. She eventually also becomes the pianist and singer at the tavern, entertaining the enemy every night.
Michael walks the line between life and death each day, both doing his job as a Captain well, while inwardly hating the Nazis. He sees Claire at the bar and realizes she is not whom she appears, and longs to learn more about the blonde beauty at the tavern. The characters bring to life the often awful realities of war: loss, injustice, espionage, abuse, watching those they love be carted off to the concentration camps, lack of food, and the condition of the human heart when faced with such evil.
J’nell does a wonderful job with her research and I am always thankful for her expert investigations into little known aspects of WWII. I always learn something new about a time in the world’s history that is shocking at best, heart wrenching at worst. I am impressed by her consistency and attention to detail, and I feel honored to have had the opportunity to read early thanks to LPC. J’nell should have a long career ahead of her with consistently great work like this, and for that I am hopeful! Do not miss out on her books–you’ll learn a lot about history and yourself, as well.
The Songbird and the Spy is another amazing novel by J’nell Ciesielski. I read and enjoyed her debut novel Among the Poppies, so I was eager to dig into this book. I was completely captivated by this riveting story set in France during WWII. With well-developed and endearing main characters, great secondary characters, attention to historical detail, and a gripping, complex plot, this tale kept me turning the pages. The depiction of life during this horrific time in history was eye-opening, and learning about the things people did to try to hasten end to the war was heart-stopping.
Michael and Claire were courageous and vividly drawn, and I was drawn to their courage and bravery. With plenty of suspense, intrigue, and romance, this novel has something for everyone. I loved the tender threads of hope and faith that weave through the story. I would recommend it to those who enjoy excellent historical fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
A number of months ago, my son and I were perusing Netflix when we came across Churchill’s Secret Agents, a reality tv show where competitors underwent the same rigorous training program as Britain’s top-secret WWII spies. I had the historical aspects of that program in mind while I read about Captain Reiner’s daring exploits in The Songbird and the Spy. If you enjoy a good nail biter, you’ll relish the way Ciesielski uses Reiner’s double life to create tension. Often times it was simply a matter of manipulating how other character viewed him—either as commanding officer, Nazi occupier, ally, traitor, or friend. Over time, Claire’s perceptions of Reiner change and her affections for him deepen in a way that makes this story both historically intriguing and emotionally satisfying.
Christian Shelf-Esteem received a book to facilitate this review. The views and opinions expressed are 100% honest and my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255 Guidelines, concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising.
This was an amazing story that grabbed me from the beginning and wouldn’t let go. The characters were well developed and were easy to relate to. I loved Claire’s determination to do what was best and help out where she could. Michael had a very difficult job of being a spy in the midst of the enemy. I loved how he stuck with it and continued to march on doing what was expected of him. Throughout the book I was on the edge of my seat and holding my breath too many times to count as they muddled their way through the war. I loved how the two worked to overcome the odds that were against them. I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves suspense, clean romance and overcoming the odds. I received a copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
From the first chapter to the last, I was transported back in time. I more than read this story, I experienced it! With vivid details and lyrical prose that both envelope and welcome the reader to be a part of the unfolding drama. I didn’t want to look away for a moment!
Claire has a gift for music, she traveled to France to attend music school and ends up trapped in Nazi-occupied France. She must keep her true identity a secret while trying to find a way out of France. However, keeping secrets and trying to escape is increasingly more difficult than she first thought.
Captain Michael Reiner has his own secrets that he keeps. He has more to lose than just his position with the Nazi army. But when his cover is threatened and he’s backed into an impossible decision, what will he choose?
This story has something for everyone! A tender romance, a suspenseful, page-turning adventure, drama, witty dialogue, and dynamic characters that will charm you from the beginning!
I give this story 5-enthusiastic stars. Be sure to snag a copy of this newest story from J’nell Ciesielki!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
The songbird and the spy
I have found another author that I will be reading more of her books. I do love historical books. This one is set during the war in France in 1940-1941.
I love the way Claire and Michael meet. She is traveling to France on a train. He is also. Actually they meet then but not officially.
Claire is a musician, plays the violin and piano. She ends up entertaining, singing while playing the piano. I could see her singing and the men enjoying it.
The book was fast reading, very exciting. Kept me interested from start to finish. I will definitely be reading more of the author books.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
As I started reading the first few pages, I was hooked on the story. We meet Claire as she is traveling to France to visit relatives. There are rumors of Germany becoming more powerful and the threat of being taken by soldiers whispers in her relatives ears. I wanted to tell Claire to run as fast as she could and get back to America before it is to late. The day comes when she finds herself alone as she witnesses her relatives being taken away. I could sense the distress in Claire as she watched with painful eyes when her only hope of getting home slips away.
Michael is a very smart man and knows several languages which make him perfect for his assignment. Being a spy is a dangerous position to be put in, but Michael is well qualified and is determined to do what is right to stop the Germans. I wonder if his heart beast a little faster at times when he encounters those who could become suspicious of him? The author is so well versed in historical details, that I felt like I was right there in the midst of the story.
Her writing is exquisite as the story takes on a journey for both Claire and Michael. I loved how Claire was able to use her gift of music to secure a place to stay. I’m not sure she is completely safe where she is especially when German soldiers are customers at the place she has found work. I loved how the author brings Michael to where Claire is and remembers her from the train accident she was in. Will she give him away or will she keep quiet so he can complete his mission?
I was fascinated by the German soldiers and how arrogant they were. Their trips to the bar where Claire works at was scary at times because I thought at any moment a fight would break out. Michael is having to be extra careful these days when a group comes to his camp to look things over. What must it be like to have to pretend you are someone and know that you are in danger everyday?
The story is riveting and takes us deep into the enemy camp where missions are planned and Michael has to keep up his disguise in order to keep his country safe. I loved the intrigue and how Claire was willing to risk anything to get back home. She and Michael seem to start to trust each other but will it last? It is a captivating story with danger around every corner. You don’t want to miss this story that captures the danger that two people face and the trials they go through to fight for freedom.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I love novels about WWll and this was a wonderful one. I love the twist at the end. The characters were great It would have been such a scary time to live. This book shows how scary it was for people during a war. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
War is terrible; very few would dispute that. Families are torn apart, loved ones suffer, lives everywhere are in upheaval. And yet hope exists. This sophomore novel from J’nell Ciesielski explores living in occupied France during WWII, how strangers become family, and how love can be found at the most unexpected of times.
I absolutely loved the characters in this book. Both Claire and Michael are realistic and well-rounded with flaws and strengths that help them to take on flesh and bone within the pages of the novel. They made me smile and they made me groan in frustration. Secondary characters help round out the story, and they each have motivations and enough dimension to prevent them from becoming caricatures.
One of the things that stood out for me was how the main characters thought about those around them, Michael especially. He is a spy, working side by side with his enemy at the same time he works against them. Yet he is able to recognize their humanity, that they are doing their jobs, and that, were they on the same side, he’d be proud to serve with them.
Action packs this novel from the first pages. Train wrecks, escaping Nazis, living in occupied France, and a forbidden romance to raise the stakes of all of it. The tension becomes almost unbearable at times; just when I thought things would ease up and we were well on our way to resolution, the author would throw another wrench into the works that had me begging for mercy on behalf of the main characters.
This outstanding book gripped me from the early pages and would not let go. I highly recommend it for fans of WWII fiction, spy novels, or those who enjoy romance with their action and adventure. I appreciated the realism without overly graphic descriptions or spelled-out cursing. I will be going back to read her first novel, and eagerly awaiting her upcoming ones!
I received a review copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
This book reads like I was watching a movie, there is so much action and fear, and rightly so, we are in WWII and mainly located in occupied France.
There is a daily fight for survival, whether from hunger or the danger that seems to be lurking behind each corner. The author presents us with two strong main characters, and they just happen to be in the place of danger, but will they survive?
We meet people who are willing to give everything for freedom, and some ultimately do, people from all walks of life are presented and selflessly give what they have.
Can you imagine acting to its finest, able to fool those who are working to decimate the world, wow, I won’t give away what happens here, but a book you don’t want to miss, a real page turner!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
J’nell Ciesielski’s second novel, The Songbird and the Spy is a masterpiece of espionage, secrets, divided loyalties, and suspense. While not usually a WWII novel fan, I am a new devoted fan. Ciesielski’s characters covertly work their way off the page into your heart. Poor Claire only wants to return to her music studies in unoccupied France. But finding a safe route back is impossible and Claire must pose as a bar singer, attracting both the French nationals and the German soldiers.
One of those soldiers is Captain Michael Reichner, whose true identity is a carefully guarded secret.
This a very heart- wrenching story, lightened by a love that cannot be denied, yet must stay under wraps. I liked Michael’s strong sense of confidence. This can be very appealing in a man.
The tension is drawn even tighter when a female Gestapo agent, eager to earn her way to Berlin, begins to haunt Michael and his men and the very bar where Claire earns her keep.
I found it very interesting that the butcher’s son was named “Savon,” which means “soap” or “soap maker.” The Germans are determined to cleanse the land of undesirables, the French are desperate to wash the German army out of their land. Definitely a story worth reading and sharing.
One note: I was thrilled to see a map at the beginning of the book. The author’s short note was also appreciated.
Some great quotes:
“Trust is rather unreliable in your line of work.”
“If you give him a name, he becomes a person, a man. He is anything but!”
“…the situation was so tangled that she could no longer determine if lies or truth were the better option.”
“She was the most important mission he’d ever undertaken.”
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.
What a fascinating story!
Full of intrigue, The Songbird and the Spy follows Claire into occupied France as her family is torn from her and she finds herself alone, trying to escape so she can return to America.
I really liked the character of Michael. He was full of integrity, and yet everything about him was a lie. How’s that for a contradiction! Full of poise, his quick thinking got him out of more than one dangerous situation.
The French resistance and the Frenchmen simply trying to survive were an integral part of this story. Little pieces of the hardships they endured at the hands of the Germans were shown – the many ways they had to do without. I never really thought about the callousness of the German soldiers in frequenting the taverns run by the very people they were oppressing. Hmm.
The story was full of twists and turns and intrigue. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, something else did!
I was unaware of Churchill’s SOE (Special Operations Executive) forces until now. The sacrifices these men made in their attempt to thwart the advances of the Germans is so admirable! I’m so glad the author shared their story here.
While a story of war and oppression, it is full of hope. There is very little violence – that which is here is not described in detail. My one cautionary note is to not use the translate feature on your Kindle for every foreign phrase used. One phrase I translated contained a word considered inappropriate in polite company. . .
Aside from the above caution, I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading WWII fiction with a hint of inspirational romance added.
Read with a Preview at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Claire Baudin, an American citizen, traveled to France to visit her Aunt and Uncle. Her excitement turns to horror when her family is imprisoned by the Nazis. Can she escape from enemy occupied France safely? Claire is an innocent trapped in an unfamiliar land where the Nazis rule with an iron fist. I was amazed at her bravery. I couldn’t imagine living under those conditions. When she’s been rescued by Giles and Pauline, she helps them by entertaining their patrons with her musical talents. Unfortunately she catches the attention of the enemy – Captain Michael Reichner. He has a special reason for his interest. She can reveal his secret. He’s a spy for the British. However, love grows between them putting them in more danger. Can these two survive? This story of espionage and intrigue during World War II kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are well written. It was easy to be pulled into their story. I wanted a happy ending for Claire and Michael but I wasn’t sure it was possible. J’nell Ciesielski did a wonderful job. She is a new to me author, but I plan to change that. She has an easy to read style which I enjoyed.