Book Review Of the Historical Novel 'Helena' and the Sequel 'All the Days of My Life'

Twenty-year-old Czech music student, Helena, meets and marries Stefan only months before the outbreak of World War Two, while preparing for a career as a concert pianist. Stefan is heavily involved in the underground movement in their homeland, as is Helena's father. In the ensuing years, Helena's faith and courage are challenged to the utmost, as she faces great personal tragedy and danger, and suffers loss of family, friends, wealth and career. Eventually she flees her homeland, hoping to begin a new life in Australia.This book is based on the true story of a remarkable woman whose inner strength and courage impacted many. It has been written in the hope that others might be similarly inspired to continue to 'keep the faith', whatever the difficulties encountered as they journey through life.'All the Days of My Life': Helena finally arrives in Sydney after a long sea voyage, and is sent first to a migrant camp at Bathurst, where she discovers that there is little chance of pursuing a music career in her new country. Instead she is sent to work in a factory in Brisbane. She tries hard to improve her English, and moves to Melbourne and then Sydney, where she is finally able to take up music again, with the help of good friends, and begin teaching. She still longs for a child, and eventually has a son, but in the years that follow, faces many deep trials that test her faith to the limit. With great courage and renewed hope, however, she continues to overcome in God's strength, caring for others with sincere compassion born of her own suffering.The sequel to 'Helena', 'All the Days of My Life', can also be read as a stand-alone novel. dr seuss cat in hat history