Although Kristin Harmel’s The Forest of Vanishing Stars is fiction, the bestselling author’s research contributes richness and authenticity to this captivating tale ... In addition to showcasing her exceptional historical research, Harmel’s novel explores the frailty of human connection.
Yona and her quest to understand her origins is compelling, but the real star is Harmel’s richly detailed rendering of the sheltering and sustaining forest. Recommended for fans of historical novels with a strong sense of place, such as Delia Owens’ Where the Crawdads Sing and Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone
A powerful account of a young woman’s efforts during WWII to teach Jews how to survive in the forests of Eastern Europe ... The narrative culminates in a terrifying climax. Along the way, the author impresses with descriptions of how Yona and the refugees survive. Harmel’s stirring adventure will captivate readers.