From Sand and Ash by Amy Harmon

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Italy, 1943—Germany occupies much of the country, placing the Jewish population in grave danger during World War II.

As children, Eva Rosselli and Angelo Bianco were raised like family but divided by circumstance and religion. As the years go by, the two find themselves falling in love. But the church calls to Angelo and, despite his deep feelings for Eva, he chooses the priesthood.
Now, more than a decade later, Angelo is a Catholic priest and Eva is a woman with nowhere to turn. With the Gestapo closing in, Angelo hides Eva within the walls of a convent, where Eva discovers she is just one of many Jews being sheltered by the Catholic Church.
But Eva can’t quietly hide, waiting for deliverance, while Angelo risks everything to keep her safe. With the world at war and so many in need, Angelo and Eva face trial after trial, choice after agonizing choice, until fate and fortune finally collide, leaving them with the most difficult decision of all.

Review By "K"

Another beautifully written story by the amazing Amy Harmon. If you read and loved The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah then you will definitely want to add this one to the reading pile.
This historical romance set in World War II during the German occupation of Italy is a story of fear, betrayal and loss during a time when evil reared it's ugly head and left the entire world untouched by it's reach. But, it's also a story of heroes, bravery, sacrifice and miracles.
Eva, a Jewish girl, has always loved Angelo since the first day they met. Angelo, a boy with one leg, was brought to them from America after the death of his mother. A boy who eventually longed to fulfill a dream of immortality and conquering dragons as he attempts to follow in the footsteps of the saints. As they grow, Angelo is determined to serve the God he has grown to love by becoming a priest. Eva, heartbroken by his choice, is in constant turmoil when the war forces them together. Angelo and Eva are both victims of impossible circumstances. They have a love for each other that is not only forbidden but also dangerous. But, eventually they both find that love is indeed more powerful than evil.
Stories that take place during this time in our history are always very conflicting for me. It is a time in our history that I find difficult to comprehend. With stories such as this one, where the author successfully merges fact with fiction, it is an opportunity to remember and honor those who were taken in such horrific circumstances. It is important to remember, so we never forget!
I love the title of this book. From Sand and Ash is very symbolic to the nature of the story. Eva's father was a glass maker. Through sand and ash we can achieve something beautiful. And, by the end of this book, through all of the destruction, horror and sadness... something very beautiful emerges. The beauty that emerged from this ugly time in our history came in the form of heroes. Those who worked quietly in the shadows to save as many as they could.
I cannot think of a better book to have read going into the Christmas season. It is a story that resonates beautifully the miracle of faith, hope and re-birth. A story that teaches us that through sacrifice, miracles truly are possible.
I am continuously amazed with each and every Amy Harmon book that I read. Everything she writes is beautiful, inspiring and memorable. You can tell that she puts her whole heart into her books. A gifted writer who always manages to leave me breathless with the stroke of her pen. (or keyboard) :)

Many thanks to Lake Union Publishing for the Advanced Review Copy.

5 Golden, Beautiful stars!!  :)