Kimberley Woodhouse has authored and co-authored many books, but A Song in the Dark is her most powerful and poignant story yet. Let’s start with the negative…yep, right up front it should be known that the story does have a natural ending, but there are clearly more stories to be told. Hopefully, there will be more stories involving the characters in this book. It would be a shame to only have one well-crafted tale taking place during the World War II era.

The characters in this book each have their own unique challenges and their own path to follow. The author does a great job of describing characters and settings through the senses of Chaisley Frappier, a blind pianist. This artful use of imagery alone brings much depth to the novel.  These descriptions really enhance the plot and develop the other characters as well. One of the greatest friendships is that of Chaisley and Melanie. The way the two of them understand one another and truly care for and respect one another is beautiful.

The story is not easy to read. As one would expect from a World War II novel, the real life brutality and barbarism practiced by the Nazis is a tough read. However, tales of this nature must be told and retold so those of later eras never forget. The author does a fine job of artfully mixing difficult realities with the hope brought into the lives of those who follow God. It might be said this book exchanges beauty for ashes when it comes to emotions.

Review of an Advance Reading Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None

Violence/Gore:  Car is bombed and there are fatalities and injuries; several scenes where soldiers kick and abuse individuals as they are taken away; multiple reports and references to people being surgically sterilized without consent; many reports of soldiers killing Jews and disabled people including concentration camps; several instances of male grabbing female character and striking her, female character strikes out in self-defense; characters are beaten and killed by others and blood is mentioned.

Sex/Nudity: Non-married characters kiss and embrace; character is threatened that she will be stripped naked and paraded through the streets.

Mature Subject Matter:

Permanent disability, holocaust, death of parents.

Alcohol/Drug Use:

Mention of characters consuming alcohol.