Cirrus@Austlit

'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.

'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.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'Heléna arrives in Sydney after a long sea voyage, and is sent first to a migrant camp at Bathurst, where she is told there is little chance of pursuing her music career in her new country. She begins work in a factory in Brisbane, but eventually moves to Sydney, where new friends help her to find her feet and pursue her dreams. In the years that follow, Heléna experiences great joy but also deep trials, yet manages to hold onto her faith in God, encouraging others in the process to come to terms with their own past and move on.

'Inspired by the life of a post-war Czech immigrant to Australia, this story seeks to give hope and courage to all who read it to continue trusting God throughout their own life journeys.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'Doctor Susan Curtis finds herself facing the birth of her first child alone, bitter at the rejection she has suffered from her fiancé and family.

'Eventually she begins her own journey towards God, but it is not until she accepts help from Heléna Hajek that she finds the strength to forgive. Heléna soon becomes an integral part of Susan's life and longs to bring God's healing to other family members as well. Is there a way she can help Susan's son Peter - or perhaps even Susan's mother?

'Yet Heléna knows she is nearing the end of her life. What legacy can she leave that will bring most blessing to those she loves?'

Source: Publisher's blurb.