I enjoy Eliza Graham's novels and always look forward to her new releases. This one did not disappoint! Set in Norway, this location offered a different perspective to other WWII books I've read and was a nice change. An emotional story of courage and resilience with a great lineup of characters, twists that I didn't see coming, and historical tidbits throughout... all in all, a very enjoyable read that I looked forward to reading each night.

Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Eliza Graham for an advance copy for review. All opinions are my own.

A beautiful story, set in Norway during WW2. I’ve not read much about Norway during these times, so this book gave me a different perspective. It follows Asta and her father, living in a remote cabin while her brother is away fighting in Scotland. A German is billeted with them and the story portrays how life was for women in Norway who got romantically involved with a German.

It was a slightly slow start, but picked up pace quite nicely and there was enough going on to keep me interested. I really warmed to the characters and hoped that things would work out well for them.

I wasn’t sure where the story would go, and there were a few twists that I didn’t foresee. The actual war and the fighting wasn’t a huge part of the story, instead it focussed on how life was affected for those just trying to live their lives with the backdrop of war as best they could.

It was tragic, hopeful, moving, heartwarming and sad. It’s an easy 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.

One of the best books I've read this year! Incredibly written, different from many of the WWII novels I have read, and just a beautiful, heart wrenching read.

Thank you for allowing me to review this beautiful story set in Norway during the German occupation of the 2nd World War. I am a fan of Eliza Graham's books and this is as well written as the others have been. The characters feel genuine, their fears and anxieties are appropriate for the difficult times. Relationships are challenged. The story moves through to the aftermath of the war and the consequences of the times. The story is written compassionately and with a feel for the concerns of all sides involved. It is an emotional read. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction and romance.

|:: The Girl from the Fjords
By Eliza Graham
Chapter Four Page 52
Part One. Norway, 1942
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

{* Max took the kettle off the range. She hadn't noticed it boiling, distracted by the prospect of so many responsibilities.
“We should let this brew for three or four minutes, that's what my mother does at home”
He found an enamel mug hanging over the sink. She nodded. Max grinned.
“What?”
“I’m suggesting something and you're agreeing without argument.”
“And that surprises you?”
“Sorry, you're understandably worried about your father. I would be the same. Would it reassure you to know the men in the barracks are recovering well?”
She was about to snap back at him, saying they would be younger and have better food, before she reminded herself that she and Papa hadn't been eating too badly at all in the last months, thanks to Max’s supplies.
“It will be alright, Asta.”
“His heart.” she blurted out the words.
“The strain of the infection, it might..”
Better not say the words.*}

​Two people. One magical place. A hundred different reasons for them to stay away from each other, but the heart doesn't care about your situation, where you're from, or what side of history you belong on. It only knows what feels right.

​Even when everything else is wrong.

​Asta Nilsen's life was blown apart by death. Her mother was taken from her far too young, her brother was sent off to war, and her father was very good at hiding the weakness his body had been warning him of. With the holiday home that was usually for the four of them, just two felt wrong.

​It felt as wrong as the war and the situation they found themselves in when Germany arrived and claimed their town one day without warning. The Germans claimed they were there to help fortify the place against the Allies, but rumours circulated of all the travesties they were committing behind enemy lines, in the shadows where no one wanted to look.

​So when word arrived by letter, ordering them to welcome a guest into their home—a visitor who could be there for months, maybe even years—Asta and her father, Petter, had no choice. Their sacred home became an awkward stalemate as Max, a lieutenant of the German army, was thrust into their lives.
​However, not all was as it seemed to be with the young German. Despite her misgivings and obvious disgust at her home being invaded by a "grey worm," a secret tryst and shock pregnancy welcomed baby Kari into their world.

As her once-friendly neighbours and silent friends looked on, Asta was branded a traitor to her kind and was unfairly run out of the home her family shared and the loved ones she had to rip herself away from to protect. ​In Asta's absence, a cruel and daring fate saw a beautiful three-year-old Kari left at a boarding house for children in Stockholm. Will she ever remember who she lost and what was taken from her?

​Growing up and learning about World War II, I think I was insulated by the fact that what happened in my town and the country my whole family is from is safe and well-loved. I was born over 40 years after the war, so what I have learned has been from books, documentaries, films, and research. Even now, I can't really understand the horror that was done and the injustice people suffered.

​I don't think I fully appreciated how not just one man but a whole country of people were able to do that to another human being. That scares me because a lot of those officers and civilians got away with the awful tragedies that affected almost everyone.

​But I had never really thought about this side before: what was it like for Germans who loved their country and felt they needed to be of service to it, but didn't like, want, or agree with what their countrymen were doing?

​Or for countries like Norway, which were invaded and forced to make conversation and work for the Germans while their men were off fighting for their country and dying—while Germans warmed their feet under the family table. This story really struck a chord with me.

​I thought I had read everything I could about World War II. I had seen every story, from the worst to the best, but this one literally had my heart. There were times when I sat up and really didn't want to read on. I was even going to flip to the end at one point because I didn't think this book would end happily. I'm glad I didn't because following Max and Asta's journey from strangers to soulmates was something I will not forget for a long time.

​I'll admit I wanted to chuck my phone at one point. I didn't think I wanted to read anymore—the part about Kari being so young and poor Asta being treated the way she was. I could not, and still do not, want to forgive Arne! Max took a bit of warming up, but I did love Marte, even though I felt like crying when she stayed silent.

​This will be a story that stays with me for a while. It takes someone truly special to write a story like this and make it feel so real and frightening, but also to find joy in one of the blackest moments in mankind. I am in awe and complete amazement at anyone with the talent to write a World War II story. Because it changes you—authors who make you feel something with stories, by evoking emotions with a pen and creative flair are rare and so so special.

Title: The Girl from the Fjords
Author: Eliza Graham
Publish Date: 24/7/25
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Review Score 5/5

A huge thank you to Eliza Graham, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|

A very suspenseful book taking us to the Fjords in Norway. It takes place during WWII, the occupation, the resistance as the war is ongoing.
The Storytelling is very good, with interesting characters, plenty of drama and terror caused by the occupation, some people trying to do what they can to help those in trouble. The SS not far away and even those in Norway that are the extended hand of the German soldiers. Asta is in the mountains with her ailing father Petter and is taking care of him. Arne, Asta's brother is off to Scotland, wanting to fight with the allies. Astas's mother recently had passed away from illness. There is also the postmistress Marte, who works at the postoffice and is Asta's closest friend. Asta and her father will have to accept a German soldier Max Brandt coming to live with them. The life in the mountains isn't easy, the fjords and the beautiful description of the scenery is lovely. The reader can definitely picture the Norwegian fjords and surroundings.
The story did have several twist and turns making it very suspenseful, making it not predictable and the pace was good. Many of the happenings were not what they seemed to be, and the fact that several of the characters were from the resistance. All in all a well put together story that doesn't leave the reader without thoughts of what happens next.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this book.
Charlotte N

The Girl from the Fjords focuses on Asta, a young lady living on a farm in Norway during the Nazi occupation. During that time, they are forced to house a young German officer/engineer named Max. Through their constant interactions she learns to love the man--not his nationality or uniform. The rest of the book looks at their life together, their challenges that break them apart, and what finally pulls them back together after the war is over.

*Warning: some sexual content, but not open door. Some language.

I just felt like this book jumped all over the place. I didn't mind it when it was in Asta's POV. But then it jumped to Marte for a random chapter or two, and then Mangus, and Max, Kari....well it was too much.

I was able to set this book down a lot to take a break. It was interesting, but not grab me until it's done interesting.

3 Stars
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC. All opinions are 100% my own.

Do you love historical fiction? If so, this is the book for you! This book opened by eyes to the realities of another side of life during WW2 set in the beautiful Fjords.

A beautiful well told story of a young woman called Asta who lives withr father who is a farmer in occupied Norway during wartimes. When they are forced to take in a german soldier she makes it known to him that he isn't welcome. She soon finds herself drawn to this handsome kind man who goesout of his way to help her father run the farm. Eventually they fall in love and she later finds that she carrying his child.
A great book that you won't want to put down.

The unique Norwegian setting of The Girl From the Fjords immediately caught my attention. Its themes of resilience, sacrifice, and love kept me engaged throughout. However, it wasn’t one of my favourites by Eliza Graham, as I found it a bit repetitive and slow at times. Still, it’s an intriguing story set during one of the darkest periods in history. 3 ½ stars
I would like to thank the author, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.
#TheGirlFromTheFjords #NetGalley.

In the serene beauty of the Norwegian fjords, Asta Nilsen's world is suddenly shattered when German forces invade her homeland. Caring for her ailing father in their remote red cabin while her brother flees to Scotland to join the Allied forces, Asta struggles to survive under the harsh realities of occupation.

When Asta finds herself with child after a brief affair that will forever mark her as a traitor in her neighbours' eyes, she makes the heart-wrenching decision to leave Norway to protect her daughter. But fate has more challenges in store when young Kari is stolen from her and prepared for adoption in Australia.

Another World War Two novel, but with a different setting than most. I really enjoyed this compelling and beautifully written story! I loved Asta and her journey. Stunning cover! 4.5⭐

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.

An absolutely beautiful and magical story about the power of love and reconciliation. It especially hit close to home whilst my baby son slept on my chest whilst I read most of this book. An absolutely gorgeous story. A little lost on what to pick next to read, as I feel like most things won’t be as good.

An interesting story about the occupation of Norway. For me, this one got more exciting and emotionally engaging when the war ended and each of the characters was left to deal with the aftermath in the best way they could.

This was an interesting story. Asta hadn't planned to fall in love butbit happened anyway, now she was pregnant from the enemy and people are standing up against her. After the was she decides to leave for a while but then her little girl is missing and she doesn't know where her husband is. Can they ever find each other and become the family they wanted.
I really enjoyed this story.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.

The Book:

Asta's life is turned upside down following the death of her mother, the invasion of Norway by Germans during the war, and her beloved brother joining allied forces, leaving her and her father to hold down the home front.
A secret affair leaves Asta pregnant and while she is happy with her child, her neighbours view her a traitor, forcing Asta to flee Norway for her safety. Asta's father will care for the child, however, with his own health challenges, the child ends up being brought out of Norway and adopted by a couple planning on taking her to Australia. Asta must race to find her child and bring her home.

My Thoughts:
I was really interested to read a WWII story set in Norway, as I don't think I've read one - I actually don't think I've read any book set in Norway and I was excited to be immersed there, especially in the fjords. The premise also sounded interesting and it was.
I found the first part of the book a little slow, but it was interesting with Asta and her father having to host a German soldier. For me, things picked up a bit in the second part.
I found at times, things jumped too abruptly in time and it took me a moment to adjust, but the story takes place over a long period of time, so these jumps need to happen.
Overall, I enjoyed this. I found it interesting and a fresh take on a WWII story and the writing was beautiful.
As a personal taste thing, I prefer more tension in historical fiction and there was some really great tension in this book, however, some of it resolved much easier than I would expect.

The Norway scene on the cover is stunning! It grabs your attention and pulls on your emotional core. And the story is equally so. The Girl from the Fjords by Eliza Graham is an incredibly powerful and moving WW2 novel of courage, sacrifice and enduring love. I appreciate the fact that this masterful fiction comes at the enemy occupation scenario from a different angle than most novels of its kind. What if the host falls in love with the German officer she has been forced to billet? What are the consequences? What challenges will this create? Will this woman be seen as a traitor to her own people?

One truth that stands out for me is the fact we cannot judge a whole race of people in one ruthless sweep. (Hitler did that!) But others did the same in their responses. The Nazis regime was horrible but there were Germans who did not approve of what their country was doing. Max was one of them. And when he comes to live with Asta and her father, she is angry at first that their occupier has forced them to take on one of their people. This young officer, Max Brandt, though is quite different from what she expected. After he is billeted to stay in their home, she gradually gets to know him and realises he is one of the good ones. They fall in love, she gets pregnant and then her world begins to change rapidly. The effects of their union puts them in a difficult position. When Max is sent on a work mission and must leave his young daughter and wife for a long period, terrible things happen. During their separation Asta is attacked. She must deal with a jealous family friend and the neighbourhood’s negative response to Asta and Max’s relationship and marriage. This leads her, through her father’s advice, to move far away, but without her daughter. A difficult decision of sacrifice that delivers unexpected consequences. I won’t give away what happens next but it is tragic. I could easily put myself in Asta’s shoes and feel her pain. For she must also experience betrayal of the worst kind: from those closest to her.

There are some interesting characters in this story. A close friend who waivers, a brother who makes some bad decisions and a father whose constant love gives Asta courage to move forward. There is so much to love about this novel and make you weep. Author Eliza taps into our hearts and makes us feel the pain and suffering of these characters. But sometimes their courage, resilience and desire to achieve is misguided or led astray by prejudice— an awful ruler that injures many in its path. Thankfully, forgiveness and love filters through and re-unites broken relationships.

The story moved along at an appropriate pace and the build-up to the ending was extremely tense. But the conclusion was jubilant and freeing. I highly recommend this WW2 novel that will take you to new places in your heart, lift you on a turbulent wave but make you clap for joy at its resolutions. It is beautifully delivered with a riveting plot and endearing characters. I was particularly moved by Max, Asta’s and Kari’s story. War can harden a heart as it did for Arne. Friendship can soften a hurt as it did for Asta. Yet best friends can reunite after bad decisions. And families can heal after betrayal. The Girl from the Fjords delivers all this and more. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.

Eliza Graham’s The Girl from the Fjords is a stunningly evocative novel that immerses readers in the breathtaking yet brutal world of war-torn Norway. From the opening pages, Graham captures the quiet beauty of the fjords, only to wrench it apart with the harsh realities of occupation, betrayal, and heartbreaking sacrifice.

With vivid historical detail, lyrical prose, and rich emotional depth, The Girl from the Fjords is both intimate and sweeping. Fans of Kristin Hannah, Kate Quinn, and Martha Hall Kelly will find much to love here. This story reminds us that even in history’s darkest hours, the bonds of family and the courage to keep going can light the way forward.

The Girl From the Fjords offers a unique and emotional perspective on historical fiction, set against the backdrop of WW2.
This was a compelling read with a relatable and likable protagonist who faced some incredible challenges.
The story sheds light on a lesser known aspect of the war, making it all the more impactful. With engaging storytelling and an easy to follow narrative, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a powerful and thought provoking read that I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this Advanced Release Copy.

Set in the Norwegian fjords during ww2 this book follows the life of Asta and her father during the war who have to house a German. I liked the style of writing but I was a bit disappointed in the story as it seemed unrealistic and too happy an ending for a historical fiction book. I would call this more if a historical romance than historical fiction, there was barely anything about the Norwegian resistance. What this story need was a bad guy, such as an evil ss officer, the only German in the story was a good one who didn’t share hitler’s extreme views, therefore I felt that this story portrayed thst not all Germans were bad.
Overall this was an ok read but could have been so much better
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book, all opinions expressed are my own.

This was an excellent read shedding light on wartime Norway. It tells the story of a girl who is passionately patriotic and entirely opposed to the Nazi invasion, but her world is turned upside down when she falls in love with. a German engineer billeted in her home. Knowing that it would lead her to being ostracised from her community she marries the invader and has to live with the consequence. The book focuses on the relationships in this small community and has only passing reference to events in the war but explores well the choices people make that make them either a hero or a traitor. While I thought the ending to this book was full of co-incidence such phenomena are not unknown and made a neat ending to a story that gripped your imagination.