Beneath a Scarlet Sky is one of the best historical fictions I’ve ever read, so I couldn’t wait to see what Mark Sullivan would produce next. The Last Green Valley is also based on real people, again the history of a family now living in Montana.
This time, the story starts in Ukraine. The Martels are Volksdeutsche, sixth generation Germans brought to the Ukraine by Catherine the Great to share their agricultural skills. Of course, under Stalin, they became personae non gratae and Adeline’s father was sent to Siberia. During the war, the land was taken over by the Germans. Now, in 1945, the Germans are in retreat from the Russian Army and the Martels must make a choice whether to follow the Germans or stay behind to be destroyed by the Russians.
The story is told from Emil’s and Adeline’s perspectives - both in the “present day” of 1944 forward and the past, starting in 1922. Time and again, we see the contrast of doing what’s needed to survive and doing what’s right. One of the main themes of the book is faith- keeping it and losing it. The book also provides constant reminders about finding small joys in each day. One of my favorite characters was Corporal Gheorghe and I was thrilled to discover in the Author’s Notes that he was based on a real person.
This book isn’t as engaging as Under a Scarlet Sky. It was interesting, but not engrossing. But I felt I learned much more about the last days of WWII. It’s thoroughly researched and Sullivan does a great job of fleshing out the facts with fiction. It was a total revelation to learn about The Great Trek by the ethnic Germans. This book is also a reminder of the importance of immigrants to the US experience.
My thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advance copy of this book.

This is a book I won't soon forget. The main characters are ethnic Germans whose families have lived in Ukraine for several generations. As WWII comes to a close, they flee the Stalinist regime for Germany - forced to choose between the Communists and the Nazis. After an action packed journey to Germany, the couple becomes separated. The book becomes rather dark after this point. The husband is sent to a Soviet labor camp and finally comes to terms with horrors he witnessed under the Nazis. The wife is threatened with rape and other severe difficulties at the hand of the emerging East German regime in Berlin.

I couldn't put this book down. Based on a true story, this book tells a story most of us haven't heard yet - the plight of ethnic Germans caught in Soviet territory during and after WWII. Though not explicit during the beginning of the book, the horrors of the Holocaust emerge as the story progresses. This book was far darker than I expected. However, it's a wonderful story of how ordinary human beings can endure and survive the worst terrors other humans can dish out.

One interesting aspect of this book was its embrace of Law of Attraction theory and the power of positive thinking and visualization. I had not come across these themes in recent fiction, and I found these philosophies particularly interested used in historical fiction.

In The Last Green Valley, Mark Sullivan brings us the story of the Martel family and their long, arduous escape from the evils of the end of World War II. The ethnic German family, including parents Emil and Adeline and their two young sons, Walt and Will, make the decision to leave behind the life they’ve built for themselves in Ukraine to escape the inevitability of once again living under Stalin’s barbaric control.

Their journey towards freedom in Adeline’s dream of a lush green valley where their family can settle once and for all is a constant life or death struggle. We follow the Martel’s and their extended family’s travels through several European countries in a search for a better life. This extraordinary tale is told from multiple points of view and through alternating timelines. Sullivan’s descriptions of the people, places, and events really brought the story to life for this reader, and I found myself skimming ahead at certain points, feeling dread over what was potentially to come and needing to brace myself for the possibilities.

While the book is historical fiction, it is based on the stories shared with the author by the Martel sons, Will and Walt, and other friends and family members of the family. There are several historically accurate accounts of atrocities and hardships faced by many ethnic Germans, Jews, Russians, and others living under the brutality of Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler’s regimes. I was riveted and stopped here and there throughout the book to read the true accounts of some of the people and places detailed therein. In a sea of recent World War II era tales, Mark Sullivan’s work stands out for me as one of the best in the genre.

A powerful, often disturbing story of survival during the years surrounding World War II -- based on a true story.

While not quite as varied a story, in my opinion, as Beneath a Scarlet Sky (also by Mark T. Sullivan) The Last Green Valley remains a compelling story of one family's struggle against extremely difficult circumstances.

Emil Martel and his wife Adeline are ethnic Germans who were relocated to the Ukraine as part of Hitler's plan to expand German influence. As World War II starts to turn against Germany, Nazi officers begin escorting German residents from the Ukraine to Poland, which still remains under German control. Then, of course, that too becomes unsafe.

As the Martels, their children, and their extended families move from place to place -- facing difficult travel, inadequate food and lodging, and human brutality -- the book completely engulfed me. To the point that I had to take breaks from reading, because of the relentless horror of their lives.

Nevertheless, goodbyes, separations, and deprivation do not shake the dedication of these family members to each other -- making the story as inspirational as it is horrific. And recognizing how the Martels represent millions of other refugees during the same period put me in awe of what humans can survive.

Fortunately, the ending is a happy one. So you can finish the final chapters with a sense of satisfaction. I recommend the book particularly to those who are interested in an aspect of World War II (i.e. German refugees) than is usually told.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. I am rating this book, The Last Green Valley by Mark Sullivan, 4 stars.

This historical fiction book is an incredible and (somewhat) true tale of bravery and faith. Adeline and Emil Martel, along with their families make the arduous journey from Ukraine headed west under protection of the German army from Stalin and his troops. Throughout their difficult journey, you truly see what a brave, determined, and faithful person Adeline is and how much her and Emil are true partners.

Reading through the difficulties that these characters experienced while being intentionally starved, forced to work in prison camps, forced to kill Jewish people, all while trying to keep their families alive, was so hard to read.

I did enjoy this book as a work of historical fiction and appreciated the Martel family’s work ethic and commitment to stay together after they settled in Montana.

I have heard great things about Mark Sullivan’s previous novel Beneath a scarlet sky so, I couldn’t wait to delve into his latest offering The Last Green Valley.
The last green Valley is based on the actual story of the Martel family, Emil, and Adeline and their two sons Will and Walter. Who are Ukrainian but have some German heritage. They are stuck the regimes of the Soviets and Stalin. So, they will not be put into camps like others where they live. they do not want to be deported to Siberia to cut timber, so the family decide to leave what they know and escape to the west.
But the journeys not an easy one and they experience several hardships on their journey and make several sacrifices along the way. Even separated for years not knowing of either of them is alive or dead. But Emil and Adeline seem to gather strength from each other’s hopes and dreams and prayers that somehow, they get through them and eventually meet up again.
I thank Lake union for a copy of The last green Valley. I have read several books in this genre, but I thought this was a unique and spiritual account of a family escaping the Soviet and Stalin regime. It was also very emotional. I did feel that though sometimes the author was repeating areas of the story. But saying that I really enjoyed this and now can’t wait to read his previous novel, Beneath the scarlet sky. 4 stars from me.

Thank you #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and offer my review of #TheLastGreenValley.

Nearly four years ago, Beneath a Scarlet Sky came out. Up until that time I had never read anything by Mark Sullivan and, in fact, had never heard of him. I can't remember what made me pick it up, but I imagine because he co-writes The Private Series with James Patterson. I've been a big fan of Patterson's, although that has waxed and waned a bit over time. It's likely, though, that I found Sullivan because of Patterson. To say I like some of Patterson's work is true, but to say the same of Mark Sullivan doesn't begin to accurately describe my esteem for him as an author.

I was so impressed with Beneath a Scarlet Sky I RAVED about it to every reader I knew and some I didn't. I spoke of it relentlessly, until my brother pick it up, read and enjoyed it too. Mind you that is a compliment of the highest order since historical fiction is usually outside his wheelhouse.

Moving forward four years, the release of The Last Green Valley scheduled for May, I found Mr. Sullivan's work in an uncorrected proof and made an immediate request. I would gladly have paid whatever the purchase price, but was so glad that I didn't have to wait an additional four months for it's release. This book, like Scarlet Sky, has to be on its way to one of the best of the year. It will certainly make my list of favorites of 2021! Beyond that it is expert crafting of a true story, superior research and just the right touch of poetic license to pull it all together. I can't remember when I have been so supremely impressed with a work of this sort, unless it was four years ago. However, in my opinion Green Valley surpassed Scarlet Sky.

The Martels, Emil and Adeline, were the backbone of a family that had tragedy befall them at nearly every turn. Unimaginable circumstances to most of us, but through it all their love, faith and belief that to find happiness you must move through tragedy kept them from the brink. Their encounters with Corporal Gheorghe taught important spiritual lessons that carried him and the Martels through the remainder of their lives. Whatever label you might place on it, the belief in someone or something greater than ourselves and its ultimate power cannot be dismissed or overlooked. It is a real as the Corporal himself.

The Last Green Valley is an outstanding and distinctive piece of work. Mark Sullivan has told another important and never-to-be forgotten story. If you read one book this year, let it be this one!

A wonderful title from an amazing author.
I loved Beneath the Scarlet Sky, which made me wish to read more by Mark Sullivan. WWII stories are hard, but u need an excellent hand to write then beautifully.

Although this book is based during WWII, most of the events take place at the end of the war and the immediate years following. This definitely sets this book apart from the many WWII historical fictions that are out there (and there are a lot!). Adeline and Emil's families are fleeing the the oppressive hand of Stalin, only to be hit with hardship after hardship. Even at the war's end, their lives continue to be controlled by others. Through all of their heartbreak, Adeline and Emil continue to rely on their faith and love for each other to continue their search for freedom.
Sullivan's characters are well developed and I found myself feeling the heartbreaks, hope, and joy right along with each of them. I appreciated the author's note that gave additional information about this amazing family. I would definitely recommend this book!

If you enjoyed this author's 'Beneath a Scarlet Sky' you will enjoy this one, too. The Martel family was Ukrainian. And during Hitler's WWII, they were seen as 'Aryan' and not in danger of being sent to death camps. But what happens when Stalin's regime starts taking over? What happens to non-jews after the war, even though they weren't involved in the massacre? This story follows this family from the Ukraine throughout their harrowing journey to their quest for ultimate freedom. It's based on a true story, and I couldn't put it down.

This is the story of the German family of Emil & Adeline Martel and their two young sons as they deal with the impacts of WW2 on their life in Ukraine. They load their wagon and leave their home behind, trusting the Germans to lead them to safety and a better life - that beautiful green valley. The story evolves as they face certain trials associated with the ongoing war, and face constant fear regarding their safety, health, and survival.

This book was fairly long and a slower read. It faces and describes many tough topics such as the labor camps. However, it is a story that will stick with me and a slightly new perspective on WW2 experiences.

I was delighted to get my hands one as I really enjoyed Beneath a Scarlet Sky.

This is the story of the journey of escape to freedom of Ukrainians Adeline and Emil Martel and their two young sons who are a family of German heritage living on the border in the aftermath of WW2. The Martels along with others in the area are caught between the warring Stalin and his Soviet regime and also the fast approaching Nazis. The Martels have, along with their extended families, farmed on the border for years but they do not want to risk being deported to Soviet settlements in Siberia and decided they would head west to start a new life.

I have to say I found this quite heart-breaking to read at times as it is based on real events. The author’s writing is excellent and really draws you in and transports you to that time and place. He also does an excellent job of telling the story of the family’s struggles and their strength in their will to survive.

This book is quite slow at the beginning, but I urge you to keep going, it is worth it!

Thanks to Lake Union Publishing, NetGalley and the author for the ARC.

I was really excited to get my hands on this book since I read Beneath a Scarlett Sky a few years ago and loved it. I could not stop recommending it to friends and family. I would like to thank NetGalley and publisher for providing me with a copy of this new book in exchange for an honest review.
I'll start off with stating that this book was worth a read. It highlighted parts of history that I had no idea about or limited information. I learned quite a bit and was intrigued that it followed a real life family's story.
That being said, I should state a few problems I had with it. One being that it was too repetitive and made it a bit of a struggle to read a good portion if it before needing a break. My second problem was that some of the things that occur were too much of a coincidence. On the other hand, it was about having faith so if you look at it that way, then they were little miracles.
All in all, I would recommend this book and am glad I had the opportunity to read it.

The Last Green Valley lived up to my hopes which were built from Beneath A Scarlett Sky; a book I read several years ago and still heartily recommend.

Focusing on the life arc of Adeline and Emil, along with their sons Walt and Will, we join them on the treacherous and harrowing long journey from Ukraine to Germany in the closing stages of WWII. Flanked by their Nazi ‘companions’ and avoiding Stalin’s troops, they make their way slowly west with their extended family. Over the following years they endure numerous setbacks and hardships in a tale that is grounded in truth and utterly mesmerising as they try to make their way ‘west’.

The first third of the book is a little slow and my enjoyment increased as some of the minor characters took paths away from our main protagonists. Overall this is a fantastic read and the second half is particularly difficult to put down.

With thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for an ARC in consideration of an honest review.

Mark Sullivan does it again! I couldn't stop reading this incredible story about the Martel family and their long trek fleeing the Soviet regime during the aftermath of WWII.

There were moments I found myself on the edge of my seat gripping my Kindle to see what the next pages would bring! The Last Green Valley is full of action, well-developed characters, and history. As always, Sullivan does immaculate research when compiling an unforgettable story. I felt so connected to each member of this family he introduced us to. I stayed up very late many nights simply because I couldn't go to sleep not knowing what would happen next. I highlighted paragraphs that were full of wisdom and insight. I will never be the same after reading this story based on the real Martel family. I'm thankful that Mark Sullivan wrote this story for the world, it is a gift indeed.

This book gets every star, and I will be recommending it to everyone.

Thankyou to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author, Mark Sullivan, for the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of The Last Green Valley in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I thought this book provided a good read with endearing characters. I wished I had been better versed in history and geography to follow the story line better. I had to remind myself that while it is based on historical events, some of the story was created for the final copy. The author has weaved a beautiful tale of love, resilience and courage based on memories of the Martel family during WW2. Well worth my time.

The author of Beneath a Scarlet Sky returns with The Last Green Valley. I am absolutely blown away by the story that unfolded in these chapters and am so excited for everyone to read this book so I can discuss it all. The research and character development that goes into Sullivan’s books is obvious once again and proves to make Emil and Adeline Martel unforgettable. I feel connected to these real life stories through more than what I read on paper the past few days. The Martel family barely lived through the Holodorror and now find themselves refugees trapped between Stalin’s and Hitler’s Armies as once again they are forced through starvation, disease and separations that most will not live through. Choosing the Long Trek under the protection of the German Army, they attempt to head towards freedom. It is their visions of hope and the promise of the future together that they live for as they travel West. I highly recommend this book. I received an ARC, all opinions are my own.

Sometimes you come across a book that sucks you right in and you feel the characters' emotions.

I love WW2 fiction and was happy to get this arc, and just wow. Reading about the struggles and survival of the Martel family was amazing. I cannot think how horrible it be to live through both Stalin's Russia and Nazi Europe. The struggle to survive is constant.
As ethnic Black Sea Germans, Emil and his wife, Adeline, are considered at the top of the list as pure Arrayans. Yet it is something that proves to haunt them on both sides. First through the purges and hunger of Stalin's 1920 and 30's Ukaraine. Then it means Emil is pressured to be like any other German man and destroy the Jews and Slavs to gain Hitlers protection. The book goes from both Emil to Adeline's point of views and from their early years to after the war. It makes me think that not every German was bad or a supporter of Hitler, and not everyone in Old Russia liked Stalin. Both powers caused terrible loss of life and pain. This book will be a great seller no doubt and it's story will stay with us for a long time.

Thankyou to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author, Mark Sullivan, for the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of The Last Green Valley in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I thought this book provided a good read with endearing characters. The author has weaved a beautiful tale of love, resilience and courage based on memories of the Martel family during WW2.
Well worth a read.

I loved this book. The characters were wonderfully portrayed. Just enough sadness sprinkled with just the right amount of love and joy. A few too many coincidences at times, but if you can ignore that and just enjoy the story, it is a worthwhile read. Just the right amount of closure too! Thank you for allowing me to read this so soon!