Being a novice at writing a book review, I feel fortunate to review a book by an author whose works I have read and enjoy. Kristin Harmel's, The Forest of Vanishing Stars, is an historical fiction account of World War II in Poland. The story starts with a baby girl being kidnapped and taken into the forest. She grows up learning forest survival from the old woman. Left alone after the old woman dies, the girl learns why she was taken and how she can help the Jewish people escape the Nazi terrors.

The author's characters express deep emotions as they face many conflicts between good and evil, death and healing, love and hate. I was emotionally drawn into their lives. The writing is filled with creative descriptions and the story flows smoothly. A difficult period in history is covered with truth, insight and compassion. Treat yourself to a beautifully written book.