Review: Songbird Under a German Moon by Tricia Goyer

Betty Lake travels to post World War II Germany to sing for the occupying US troops. She has very little experience, but is well regarded as a singer and very excited about the opportunity. Upon arriving in Germany, she's even more thrilled by the lovely opera house where she sings, by her new friends, and by a handsome photographer she makes good friends with.

Trouble's brewing, though, and soon a friend of hers turns up dead. Meanwhile, Frank, the photographer has been receiving threats. Is it safe for them to stay there?

I really enjoyed the unique setting of this book. I haven't read any other WWII fiction in occupied Germany or any books about entertainers for the army, so I was interested by that part. Unfortunately, the times weren't deeply explored. This is what I call historical fiction-light...it's present, but it doesn't feel like I'm actually there. The story was still enjoyable, though, a nice entertaining read.

This is Christian fiction-classic where there are scenes in which the characters discover something's wrong in their spiritual lives and make steps to remedy it.

The most interesting part to me was when Frank considered the suffering of others, especially the Germans. He was made to feel uncomfortable by it, but he always justified it, talking his feelings away by saying they sort of brought in on themselves. I desperately wish this could have been explored more and would love to see a Christian fiction book that DOES tackle this issue.

The mystery was fairly predictable for me, so I wouldn't read this for the suspense aspect, truly the most interesting part of the book is its unique setting.

Rating: 3.75/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Christian fiction
Source of Book: Provided by publisher for review
Publisher: Summerside Press