Heléna Book Review – ‘Christian Woman’ magazine May/June 2007 Vol 54 No 3

First time novelist Jo-Anne Berthelsen captivates audiences with this historical romance novel.

A story of courage, hope and never-failing faith, this story is sure to uplift and inspire.

Twenty-year-old Czech music student, Heléna, 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 Heléna’s father.  In the ensuing years, Heléna’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.

The fact that this book is based upon a true story only gives the reader a greater appreciation that no matter what life throws at you, with faith we can stand strong.

Renee Satchell

‘All the Days of My Life’ takes up Heléna’s story just prior to her arrival in her new country. After working in a Brisbane factory, she eventually settles in Sydney, where friends help her try to resume her music career.

In the ensuing years, she experiences great joy but also deep trials, as she embraces all life holds for her in Australia.

Inspired by the real experiences of a Czech migrant, this story is both moving and challenging. As Heléna struggles to stand firm in the belief that God’s goodness and love will follow her all the days of her life, as Psalm 23 says, so the reader is encouraged to continue trusting God, whatever happens.

Music lovers in particular would enjoy this Sydney writer's novels.'

Excerpt from Baptist Union of NSW magazine 'Together In Ministry', Issue #30 Winter 2008.

This fictional story from Jo-Anne Berthelsen is so realistic that throughout my read I kept checking the back of the book to ensure that it didn't indicate it was actually a true story!

Sydney-based Berthelsen, a teacher and editor with both teaching and theological studies under her belt, writes as if recounting the true life of a young girl called Laura who shockingly loses her sight at the age of three but refuses to let blindness prevent her from living the life God intended for her.

Check out the long list of acknowledgements in the front of the book and it's obvious this author has done the research: she has had advice from students, teachers, professional organisations, government departments, medical specialists and more.

As the mother of a daughter the same age as Laura was when she had to have her eyes

removed due to the appearance of life threatening tumours, I must admit that I found the early chapters very hard going.

Berthelsen has tapped into the absolute despair of Laura's mum, her dad's fears for his little girl's future and little Laura's terror at not being able to open her eyes to see, with heart wrenching honesty.

But then, after the scene is set, this book goes from being a tragedy to a heart warming, thought provoking and inspiring story about a girl who refuses to let blindness - or the painful but seeming inevitable rejection she comes up against at almost every turn - to stop her realise her dreams.

And of course, because this is a Christian book, there is the additional depth brought by the story of her spiritual journey which begins in childhood when the family gets some new neighbours who plant the seed by introducing Laura to God but doesn't take root for many years.

It is interesting to see how God places many opportunities to learn about Him into an adult Laura's path - just as He does with most of us - and how many she either doesn't see or chooses not to.

We all know how difficult it can be at times of trial to have faith in a God who seems to let us down.

Laura, who may be a fictional character but is an excellent example of any one of us, has to come to terms with being blind - and how God could let that happen to her. As the story draws to a close, a lot becomes clear to both Laura and the reader.

Please also click on the following link to read a review by Barbara Wilson of 'Laura' from New Life magazine, 29 October 2009.

Here's what some readers have commented (contact Jo-Anne by clicking here to give your feedback!):

'Congratulations on a great and inspiring job. I often found it difficult to read much at a time without getting a bit emotional.' Eric, Brisbane 

‘What a wonderful surprise to receive your note and Jo-Anne’s book which I have thoroughly enjoyed – so much so that I finished it at 2.10 am today.  It is a gentle, inspiring and absorbing read.  I was pleased to see that next year I’ll be able to read more of Helena’s story.’ Lurline Campbell, Gold Coast 

‘Such a moving story, and more so as it is based on reality.  …I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to placing an order for the sequel.  I think the book would make a great film and the style would surely translate easily to a film script.’   Margaret Saylor, Townsville 

‘I just wanted to let Jo know that my washing is everywhere, and my house is in need of some good cleaning because I have not been able to put her book down.  I really enjoyed every part of it, and will be telling everyone how good it is.  The only problem is I don't think I can wait until next year to find out what happens to Helena.’  Margaret McKay, Sydney

Here's what some readers have commented (contact Jo-Anne by clicking here to give your feedback!):

Here's what some readers have commented (contact Jo-Anne by clicking here to give your feedback!):