Book excerpt: The story of one young woman's exceptional courage in the darkest of times, set in the stunningly atmospheric mountains of Czechoslovakia during the Second World War. 1938: Magda has led a sheltered life in her small village until the day she is forced from her home by the invading Nazi army. Torn away from her family and the only place she has ever known, she is offered refuge in an alpine villa owned by brilliant Dr Tauber and his talented, beautiful wife. But despite having friends in high places, the Jewish Taubers are living on borrowed time. When the Gestapo come to arrest them, Magda is asked to protect something more precious than the silver and jewels they leave behind. Their newborn son Samuel. Magda turns to the local Resistance, who hide Samuel nearby. Determined to help them and save her country, Magda remains in the house to serve the Nazi commander, passing messages and supplies to the secret network. But when she is caught, Magda is forced to flee into the high mountains with a price on her head. With the Nazis in pursuit, and nothing left to lose, Magda takes up arms with a band of partisan fighters in the hope of rescuing the Taubers and reuniting them with Samuel. Even if it might mean laying down her life to win the freedom of those she loves... This heartbreaking wartime epic of love, bravery and survival will stay with you long after you have turned the final page. Perfect for fans of My Name is Eva, The Alice Network and The German Midwife. Previously published as Magda's Mark, this edition has substantial editorial changes. Praise for The Girl from the Mountains "A gripping read from the start... Magda is a compelling heroine living through the most devastating time in human history... The authenticity of time and place was captured so well." Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Action, adventures, family, war and so many different emotions... Grab a few tissues... Such a powerful story you must read." Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A wonderful intense read... So vivid you will feel you are there. I could not put this story down. I loved the book." Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Readers will be captivated by Magda's character... I could barely put down the book. I smiled, cried... I recommend it to all history lovers!" Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Riveting, intense... From the very beginning you feel like you're amidst the chaos, the heartbreak, the despair but also the incredible bravery and spirit of the people in WWII... A great reminder of what people are capable of." Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This extraordinary war story transports the reader into Czechoslovakia in the first years of German occupation... Conflict and tension await the reader on every page... This is an exceptional read." Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐