Escape from Amsterdam is an historical WWII Christian novel by author Lauralee Bliss. Books on war are not my favorites. World War II books are especially hard for me to read because of the cruelty of that war. This was a poignant, lovely, inspirational story that I would highly recommend.
It is the story of Helen Smit, a university student, and Erik Minger, who is a grocery store worker and in love with Helen. They undertake the challenge of a lifetime as they discover what it means to follow what God asks in caring for others. Their new friend, Mr. Visser, tells them: “We must care for each other as God would have it. There is no greater calling on earth.” Very true! Along with assistance from others and God, Helen and Erik help to smuggle children out of Amsterdam. I wondered if angels were some of the others that helped. I was on the edge of my seat as I read this. It was hard to put this book down.
The author has written a well researched, well organized, and very well written story. It pulled on my heartstrings and touched my emotions as I read about the good things that a group was trying to do while being stalked and under attack by evil ones. This novel brought the place and wartime to life. I appreciated that it wasn’t as violent as most books on that subject, but it did have me in tears in many parts.
I loved the Christian message woven throughout this entire book. It emphasized we need to help each other and trust God. What a timeless message and relevant today.
This book will linger with you long after you finish it. My mind still thinks about the selfless people that helped many children escape horrific danger and death. This would make an excellent book club choice. There is plenty to discuss.
I highly recommend it. It receives a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.


About the Book
Book: Escape from Amsterdam
Author: Lauralee Bliss
Genre: Christian Fiction/ Historical / Romance / Intrigue
Release date: September 1, 2022

A University Student Smuggles Children Out of Amsterdam
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
Helen Smit believed she was called by God to become a teacher. Little does she know that her care for kids will take a drastic turn for survival when the Germans occupy Amsterdam and Jewish children and parents begin to be deported. Now all she can think of is helping all the kids escape before it’s too late.
Erik Misman’s newfound love for Helen is tested when he joins a plot to help move Jewish children to a safe place in the countryside. If danger can foster a closer bond with Helen and save the lives of the little ones, he will do it all. But a German patrol that stumbles upon the farm where they are hiding with three children and a soldier who takes an unexpected interest in Helen, could well destroy their plans for safety and love.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author

Lauralee Bliss is a published author of many romance novels and novellas, both historical and contemporary. Lauralee’s prayer is that readers will come away with both an entertaining story and a lesson that speaks to the heart and soul. When not writing, Lauralee can often be found on the trails where the author has logged over 10,000 miles of hiking. She makes her home in the Blue Ridge mountains with her family. Visit Lauraleebliss.com for more information about the author and her adventures.
More from Lauralee Bliss
Oh, the simple beauty of the Netherlands. Windmills. Tulips. Dutch wooden clogs. Beautiful Delftware and delicious speculaas cookies. Quaint villages nestled beside the waters. And here I am, an American that was able to visit this beautiful country on the heels of my husband winning a contest through his work. We had planned to immerse ourselves in Dutch culture, see the sites, and yes, visit places like the Secret Annex of Anne Frank and the town where Corrie ten Boom and The Hiding Place existed. Little did I realize though that this unique trip would become a journey into the heart of a hurting country in World War II. During our time there, we visited the Jewish Quarter in the center of Amsterdam and learned the details of Nazi occupation for many years that eventually caused two-thirds of the Dutch Jewish population to be exterminated. Walking in the place where a theater once stood and Jewish people gathered there to be deported was indescribable. Seeing the Jewish stars embedded in the pavement and noting the name of a man or woman killed at Auschwitz, was heart-wrenching. But through these horrendous details came the strength of courage and heroism. Across the street from the theater, Jewish children were rescued because of the efforts of those who gave everything to see them go into hiding. Thus the book, “Escape from Amsterdam” was born. It honors those that aided and hid Jewish children from the Nazis to avoid deportation. I am grateful for the opportunity to write this story of two common Dutch people, a college student and a grocery store clerk, called to a dangerous mission to save the innocent when the odds were the greatest. It is a timely book that magnifies the strength of courage in adversity and allows us to become better people because of it. I hope you enjoy this journey and as you do, remember those who came before us and allow their acts of courage to encourage you to persevere, no matter what.
Blog Stops
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 29
The Write Escape, September 29
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 30
Inklings and notions, September 30
deb’s Book Review, October 1
Holly’s Book Corner, October 1
Texas Book-aholic, October 2
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 3
Mary Hake, October 3
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 4
Through the Fire Blogs, October 4
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 5
Cover Lover Book Review, October 5
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 6
Labor Not in Vain, October 6
Connie’s History Classroom, October 7
Betti Mace, October 7
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 8
Remembrancy, October 8
For Him and My Family, October 9
A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 9
lakesidelivingsite, October 10
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10
Splashes of Joy, October 11
Lights in a Dark World, October 11
Blossoms and Blessings, October 12
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Lauralee is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a copy of the book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/2224b/escape-from-amsterdam-celebration-tour-giveaway
Thank you for sharing your wonderful review of Escape from Amsterdam, this sounds like a great story and I am looking forward to reading it myself
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I really like historical fiction and this sounds like a really great read.
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This is a book I know I will enjoy.
Thanks for the contest.
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This sounds like a book I would really like!
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