The Collector of Burned Books
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In this gripping World War II historical about the power of words, two people form an unlikely friendship amid the Nazi occupation in Paris and fight to preserve the truth that enemies of freedom long to destroy.
Paris, 1940. Ever since the Nazi Party began burning books, German writers exiled for their opinions or heritage have been taking up residence in Paris. There they opened a library meant to celebrate the freedom of ideas and gathered every book on the banned list . . . and even incognito versions of the forbidden books that were smuggled back into Germany.
For the last six years, Corinne Bastien has been reading those books and making that library a second home. But when the German army takes possession of Paris, she loses access to the library and all the secrets she’d hidden there. Secrets the Allies will need if they have any hope of liberating the city she calls home.
Christian Bauer may be German, but he never wanted anything to do with the Nazi Party—he is a professor, one who’s done his best to protect his family as well as the books that were a threat to Nazi ideals. But when Goebbels sends him to Paris to handle the “relocation” of France’s libraries, he’s forced into an army uniform and given a rank he doesn’t want. In Paris, he tries to protect whoever and whatever he can from the madness of the Party and preserve the ideas that Germans will need again when that madness is over, and maybe find a lost piece of his heart.
But he hadn’t bargained on meeting a beautiful Parisian scholar who is clearly keeping as many secrets as he is. As Christian and Corinne try to discern each other’s true loyalties, forces beyond their control are making plans that could destroy everything they hold dear.
Additional information
| Weight | .9 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9 × 6 × 1 in |
17 reviews for The Collector of Burned Books
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Shelley B. –
I am a huge fan of WWII fiction and was thrilled to find that one of my favorite authors, Roseanna M. White, had set her newest release in that timeframe. The story takes place in occupied France, where tensions are high. When the Germany army takes over Paris, they are intent on closing libraries and removing books they have banned, as well as locating exiled writers. For Corrine, this means losing access to The Library of Burned Books and fearing for her friends. Her character is amazing, so strong and brave, as well as filled with kindness and compassion. Corrine meets Christian, a professor assigned by the German army to do the work of closing the libraries, work that he secretly disagrees with. The two form an unlikely friendship and build a trust that comes from deeper feelings. Christian also has more secrets to protect than his relationship with Corrine and will do anything to keep those secrets safe.
I love this book for all its elements of faith, hope, love, tension, fear, and triumph. From the first page, I was drawn in and could not stop reading. The resiliency of the characters, their personal strength, and their relationship together was inspiring. The book was so moving and well written that the reader literally feels every emotion and all the angst and glory while reading. Kudos to Roseanne M. White for another brilliant novel! A definite must-read!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Tyndale House Publishers and was under not obligated to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Connie Porter Saunders –
I don’t know what I loved most about The Collector of Burned Books! Was it the author’s amazing storytelling, or the history that inspired her story? The eye-catching cover, or the riveting plot that’s filled with faith, intrigue, and a captivating relationship between Professor Corinne Bastien and German officer Christian Bauer? As a lover of the written word, Corinne was dedicated to preserving endangered books, and it appeared that this German officer had an opposite goal. Was this truly the case? Was Christian just as determined to save precious reading material?
I loved the characters, the WWII Paris setting, and the thought-provoking historical details. There was romance, but it wasn’t all sweetness and light, and the mystery and suspense kept me completely absorbed! What else will I remember about The Collector of Burned Books? The strong faith message is neatly woven into an engaging story that is especially relevant today! We must be vigilant to protect our freedoms! We can’t allow others to control our ideas or target our emotions so that our behavior is altered. The written word must be preserved!
Roseanna M. White’s name on the cover of a book is always an invitation to compelling reading! I recommend The Collector of Burned Books to fans of historical Christian fiction, and I have added it to my bookcase ‘keeper’ shelf.
I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale Publishers. There was no obligation for a review.
Faith O. –
On opposite sides two souls bond over the power of words.
Set in Paris during the Nazi occupation. Corrine has been carefully preserving a collection of banned books, passing covert messages among her students. Christian is a professor chosen by the Nazi’s to identify and collect the banned titles from the libraries of Paris. On opposing sides, will their secrets bring them together?
Gripping WWIII fiction that explores the world of banned books and the power of ideas and words against tyranny. Ms. White’s calculating prose packs a punch, exercising and displaying that power in the very fabric of this book. A compelling read that brings to life the frightening uncertainty of the German occupation, while showing the hope and resilience of the French people.
Christian and Corrine are both faced with the choice of standing by or doing something, and I admired their courage in the face of danger. I liked the themes of integrity and the sanctity of human life, as well as endurance and hope.
Overall, a compelling read, with strong characters that are likable and admirable, along with a message that packs a punch. It was very fascinating to learn about the banned book libraries and the early years of the war. A riveting read that brings a turning point in history to life!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Meagan Myhren-Bennett –
The Collector of Burned Books
By Roseanna M. White
This book is, for the most part, set in 1940/1941 Paris. But we are given a glimpse of 1933, as a group of students gathers to burn books that don’t fit their ideas. Christian Bauer is a professor of literature who hopes that someday Germany will again listen and allow ideas to flourish. Fast forward to 1940, as German troops move into and occupy Paris. First on Christian Bauer’s to-do list: visit the various libraries throughout the city, examine all the books to determine which should be banned or sent to Germany.
Corinne Bastien has a claim on the books in The Library of the Burned Books; she tended them, and now they guard a secret. A secret that could doom her or be an instrument to resist the Germans. When Corinne first meets the man who is given charge of her library, she can’t see past the uniform. But when her eyes are finally opened, the two find they have more in common than being professors of literature.
I found this to be a most intriguing book, the need to control ideas, either by destroying the books or shutting down the libraries. Reading this reminded me of the Zion Covenant books written by Brock and Bodie Thoene. I liked the main characters who were, for all intents and purposes, trapped in a world not of their making, trying to survive without betraying their souls to the devil. How does one protect those most dear without losing one’s soul in the effort? This is what Corinne and Christian need to discover.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations, but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Heather –
Roseanna M. White is one of my favorite authors. Just like every book of hers that I’ve read, The Collector of Burned Books was a phenomenal book that I can’t get out of my head days after reading it! One of the many things I love about this author’s books is how much of a lasting impression they leave on me. Roseanna does such a wonderful job of bringing the setting and characters to life. So much so that you’ll cry when they cry, laugh when they laugh, and feel such a sense of loss when the book is over.
WWII is my favorite time in history to read books set during, and Roseanna did such a wonderful job capturing the war with intrigue and romance mixed together. I have so many thoughts about this one that this might not be a review but a jumble of thoughts that may or may not make sense. There were so many things to love in this story. Whether it was the characters, suspense, or the romance, you will fall in love with this one. The amount of research the author did was evident on every page. The setting and events were so detailed that I felt as if I stood in the story myself along with Corinne and Christian.
The romance broke my heart and healed it at the same time. I knew their relationship wasn’t going to be without a little heartbreak. Don’t worry, everything wraps up beautifully with a touching ending. There’s just something about war romances that steals my heart every time I read them. This one was no different. Even though they were supposed to be enemies, I loved how Corinne and Christian forged a friendship before becoming more in a time when they weren’t allowed to be together.
I won’t go into too many details because I don’t want to spoil anything, but please get yourself a copy of this one. You will fall in love with the story from page one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Hailey Ciric –
📚📚📚📚/5
I love how I can go into a story and I might not fall in love with it during the first chapter, but by the end I am drowning in hope, inspiration, and joy with how much the story meant to me.
It took me a few chapters to really dive into this story. I felt like it was just a bit slow to start but the groundwork was being laid and the characters were evolving. The environment of the story was written beautifully and RW’s detail to WWII in Paris was thoroughly researched and described throughout the story. It really made me feel the urgency, fear, anxiety, and anticipation of that time in history.
The characters and chaos of the time were written so well. And the representation of physical and mental disabilities and deformities was written with care, understanding and grace.
I loved that the main theme of this story was surrounded around books. The idea that they might have the power to cause manipulation and tyranny within a society, therefore Hitler was banning certain books as a way to control society into agreeing with his own beliefs and ideals. The discussions between Christian and Corinne were interesting regarding this context and perfect for my lil book loving heart.
The romance may have been predictable but it was still enjoyable to watch and it was inspiring considering all these characters had gone through to get where they ended up, especially with the context of how life was in Paris in the 1940s.
I highly recommend this book if you like stories with a deeper meaning, stories that showcase many emotions throughout, stories that might be slower to read but not any less enjoyable, and stories that take place during WWII that might not be what you normally read about!
Thank you @roseannamwhite and @tyndalehouse for the arc copy 🧡
Tina Chen –
I really enjoyed this story! The plot, characters, and setting all hit the right notes for me. I enjoyed the glimpses into what life was like in Paris at this time in history as well as the quick glimpses into the male main character’s time spent in Germany in the early days of Hitler’s power. I really enjoyed that the plot was not predictable. I never felt like I knew what was coming, but not in a stressful or super-suspenseful way – just more of a real-life, getting to know new people and their story kind of way. I loved how so many secondary characters were richly developed – they are what really made this story for me! Cameos of characters from previous series from this author were an unexpected treat! I appreciated how the author explored the faith journeys of both main characters. Both are Catholic, and while I am not Catholic and in fact strongly disagreed with several things they did and said, I felt it was a historically accurate picture of how Catholic French and German people thought and behaved during WWII, and I’d rather read that than something I agree more with that is less historically accurate.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as part of her launch team. Opinions expressed are my own.
Melissa D. –
I absolutely adored The Collector of Burned Books! It’s one of those epic reads that’ll stay with me long after reading. It’s not only thought provoking & suspenseful, but a beautiful love story dedicated to the power of books, & freedom. It’s also a poignant enemies to more, forbidden romance that completely captured my heart. This must read story is definitely a new favorite from Roseanna M. White.
In 1940 Paris, books have suddenly become dangerous when Germany invades France. Professor Corinne Bastien is intelligent, fearless, witty, & a force to be reckoned with especially when her beloved Library of Burned Books is threatened & the books she’s hidden secrets in could be exposed. When a German professor’s sent to “relocate” the French library, she’s determined to save as many books deemed dangerous as she can. But there’s more to the professor than appears, & she suddenly finds herself having deep, meaningful discussions with him. But, can she trust him?
Though he protested the burning of books in Germany, Professor Christian Bauer’s been forced into uniform & sent to Paris by Goebbels to take care of the subversive books that have become a threat to the fatherland. Forced to walk a careful tightrope to protect those he loves, he does just enough to avoid suspicion while trying to preserve the very books he’s come to destroy. The beautiful woman who questions him at every turn sparks in him an attraction he thought long extinguished. But, can he trust her with his deepest secrets or will his convictions be turned against him?
I loved Corinne & Christian! Their love story was filled with twists & turns. The suspense is constant as they try to hide their growing feelings & activities involving the books from the Germans. Christian is such a kind, thoughtful man. I loved his willingness to do everything he can to protect friends, family, & Corinne.
This book definitely had me on pins & needles with every interaction between Christian & his superiors. He’s constantly under surveillance & must be so careful with every move he makes. I loved the message not only of the importance of the written word, but in listening & trying to understand the opinions of those we might disagree with. There were so many fantastic quotes that I found myself constantly underlining. I also appreciated discussions of imperfections & how unrealistic & inhumane views of perfection leads to death & tyranny.
It’s a brilliantly written story that I highly recommend. I also loved the tie in to the author’s Shadows Over England & Codebreakers series through the amazing character of Georges Piers. I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
Erin L. –
Another stunning novel by Roseanna M. White! Taking place in occupied Paris during the early days of WWII, this story follows Christian Bauer, a German literature professor who is tasked by the Nazis of removing the banned books from Paris; and Corinne Bastien, a Parisian literature professor whose home is near the “library of burned books”. Corinne is a feisty heroine who is ready to do battle over the books that the German “professor” has come to remove. Though not thrilled to be wearing the Nazi uniform, Christian is thrilled to be surrounded by books and able to engage in literary discussions with Corinne. The story within these pages is about the power of the written word and the importance of learning other viewpoints. A poignant story for our divided times where many seek out writings, news media and advertising that agrees with their viewpoints, this story reminds us that narrowing our focus can only lead to trouble.
In addition to a poignant message, this book had an intriguing story line. I’m always fascinated that no matter how many books I read about WWII, I’ve never read the same story twice. I also marvel at how many people rebelled against the Germans behind the scenes. Several characters in this story did just that – doing what they could for the Allied cause. I thoroughly enjoyed the character development in this story. Christian and Corinne were both likable, relatable characters, and there were a whole host of side characters who added depth to the story as well. Though I had heard some about the books that were banned in Germany, this story went into much greater depth. And in the same vein as the need to see other viewpoints, most of the Nazis that we get to see in this book are more morally gray characters, which is likely an accurate depiction. There is one who is particularly despicable, who represents what we think of the Nazi party in modern days, but I enjoyed that bit of perspective shift as well. The faith thread in this one was solid, but definitely had a strong Catholic leaning in it. Though I’m aware that the author is Catholic, her prior novels have been more “generically” Christian. In this story, the main characters all share the Catholic faith and follow the sacraments of it. Since Paris is (or at least was in 1940) a predominantly Catholic city, it lends itself well to the story itself, but it had a different feel than other books in the Christian fiction genre to me. This story had several twists and turns as well, and still came to a satisfactory end. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable story and one that is particularly poignant for our current times. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
Cheryl Hart –
The Collector of Burned Books is a stunning, beautiful read! As a fan of WWII fiction, I was deeply moved by the realistic and impactful characters.
Corrine’s caring and courageous nature makes her easy to connect with. Her initial feelings toward Christian are relatable, and their journey through history is both engaging and heartwarming. I was especially touched by Christian’s backstory.
This story is rich with depth and meaning, filled with moments that make you pause and reflect. The themes of hope, romance, healing, and faith are beautifully woven together, creating such a powerful narrative.
If you appreciate historical fiction that combines real history with depth, meaning, and emotion, this book is a must-read.
First Line: It was a parade for no one.
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Roseanna M. White
Page Count: 368
#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
❤❤❤❤❤
Winnie Thomas –
“. . . the only way to ever truly defeat your enemies . . .was to make them your friends.”
Talented author Roseanna M. White has once again taken a little-known piece of history and built an intriguing and fascinating story around it. The Collector of Burned Books is the tale of exiled writers from Germany who founded a library in Paris of books that had been banned in Germany. When the Germans took over Paris, they also took over The Library of the Burned Books.
Professor Corinne Bastien had made use of the library for years but lost access of it and some secret books she had hidden there. German professor and booklover Christian Bauer was forced by German army officers to relocate France’s libraries, including The Library of the Burned Books. I liked Corinne’s courage, compassion, and willingness to stand for freedom to express ideas. Christian was also courageous and helped others the best he could under trying circumstances. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and change as they got to know each other.
“Was it better to speak up and be permanently silenced or to work silently, doing what good he could?”
Filled with intrigue, suspense, history, and a touch of romance, this book also had inspiration to give it depth and added meaning. I recommend this book to those who enjoy well-researched and well-written historical fiction. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House. All opinions are my own.
Kathryn Pfeifer –
After reading The Collector of Burned Books, it was affirmed that Roseanna White can write in any time period. Normally known for WWI novels, White absolutely shines in the WWII era. Centering on Paris during the midst of Nazi occupation, The Collector of Burned Books features the fight for freedom as ideology and the very personhood of mankind is at stake. This book ran the gamut of emotions – tears, laughter, and romantic sighs. I could not get enough of it!
This novel was thought provoking, heart rendering, and deeply inspiring. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Paula Shreckhise –
An exceptional book that asks us to absorb the truth of censorship and its results through fictional characters as they navigate the occupation of Paris in the years of World War II. Based on a real library that was instituted by exiled German scholars, this story incorporated many interesting details that wove facts and fiction into high drama.
The characters were relatable, showing their love of God and country, often using subtle methods instead of outright confrontation.
I love that the story is about books and libraries. This book caused me to ponder why certain books were chosen to be banned. “Books did not burn. Books ignited. They lit the burning in others. Not with paper and match. With ideas.”
This book pulled at my emotions, not only for the plight of the oppressed and the injustice of the oppressors but for the romance that grew in spite of the secrecy that called for restraint. Felix, a child who was less than perfect according to some, became a bright light to those who could see beyond the outward appearance.
Important themes were hope in the face of impossible odds and that Jesus extends mercy to all who receive Him.
A thoroughly thought provoking book.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Anna D. –
4.5 Stars – The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White is a love letter to freedom of ideas, thoughts, and written words, and of course lovers of those things. As usual, Mrs. White wrote an excellent story, with endearing characters, moments that made me chuckle, and a bit of suspense. Though the beginning was a little slow for me, the story eventually picked up, and I found it difficult to put down. I enjoyed the main characters, Corinne and Christian, and watching their walls slowly come down, as well as their romance. I felt their faith to be realistic, especially Christian’s. I was thrilled for their happy ending. I especially admired Christian, and the risks and stands he took throughout the story (if I say more I’ll be giving too much away!). This novel felt heavier than most of Mrs White’s other works, but not unnecessarily so- it was fitting for the time period. I enjoyed this intellectual lens into Paris during the Nazi occupation; it’s not one I’ve personally read about in historical fiction before. TCOBB is a story for all lovers of books, of ideas, and discussions. It’s a story to remind us of the freedoms we have here (in the US) today, and to remind us we should take care to protect them. Thank you to the author and publisher for my review copy. All thoughts above are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.
Rachael Merritt –
Fascinating history in a well written story. I put myself in the minds of the main characters wondering what I would have done in the difficult circumstances in which they find themselves. The characters are incredibly well written. By the time I finished the story, I felt as if I knew them.
I enjoyed the setting, love having children in stories, and there are interesting twists and turns in this book. One must be true to oneself, but telling the truth to anyone else could cost your life. This book so much brought out the difficulties in letting anyone know the truth in a place where anyone might turn you into authorities to stay on their good side or for fear of what might happen to them.
I think my favorite part of this book was the dialogue and how much it made the reader think about his life and his perspective on the dangers of having the government control the information which he could access. Michael Phillips is one of my favorite authors for the way his dialogue makes me think. Whether I agree or not isn’t the issue, it’s the idea of thinking for oneself and having the information available to come to a proper conclusion. If the government controls all narrative, what might be the result? This book is entertaining as well as a thought provoking read.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
booklovebykristi –
“This is the day that you kiss me and tell me you love me.” “I can’t. I can’t love you when you can’t love me back, Corinne—and you can’t love me back, not yet. Not now. Not as I am. Not in this uniform.”
This one pulled at my heartstrings! It’s full of bravery in the face of danger, courage to do what you know is right, intense faith, and an amazing love that grows against the odds. Set in the early days of Paris’ occupation by the Nazis it is well researched and beautifully written. I loved seeing the lengths that people went through to save the “verboten” books.
Corinne is intelligent, strong, and brave. I loved how she stood strong and spoke truth. I enjoyed the classroom discussions she lead and the discussion she had with Christian. I loved her sweet relationship with Felix and her Oncle Georges (if you’ve read other books by Roseanna you may recognize him!!) Christian is courageous, determined, and protective. I loved the steps he took to preserve the books and to help his acquaintances as much as he could and the gentle, truthful way he spoke to Kraus. I adored his relationship with Felix. Corinne and Christian had the best romance. I loved how they pushed each other, learned to trust, and shared their secrets!
A few more quotes:
“Don’t look so woebegone. I didn’t say I was your best friend. You’re free to keep hating me if you like, but I feel no such obligation.”
“Trouble and I are old friends. When she doesn’t come to call often enough, I go out and seek her. Such an interesting companion, after all.”
This ARC was provided by the author and publisher (also received an e-copy from NetGalley). I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
Alyssa –
What a treat for all types of readers this book is. The historical romance reader like myself? Oh my, yes. The lover of suspense? Yes! Also that reader looking for DEPTH- a story that causes you to think and ponder questions about philosophy, literature, mercy, injustice, depravity, the power of words… you get the picture. But what White does so well is that she doesn’t alienate any of those readers with the other aspects of the story. The blend she balances intertwines them so well that I found myself sighing over the romance in one breath and joining her on a deep thought the next, all while wondering how our characters will deal with the next twist!
Corinne and Christian are memorable and nuanced. Felix is an absolute delight. It took me a minute (well into the second half where it was super obvious, I’m embarrassed to say) before the lightbulb lit and I placed who Corinne’s uncle is in White’s universe, but once I did I squealed with delight. I think I just wasn’t expecting him, which made it all the sweeter.
I love historical fiction where I learn something. Check. I love stories that keep me on the edge of my seat. Check. I don’t always love to think deeply while reading for pleasure, but this story gently draws you into it, and I truly appreciated all the depth, insight, dialogue, and questions it made me ponder, as it would for any lover of words and books. And the romance was just icing on the cake, subtle enough for the non-romance reader but oh so sweet for those of us that cherish it.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.