The Last Green Valley
The Last Green Valley is an extraordinary story based on the harrowing life of the Martel family as they attempted to flee both the Germans and Soviets during and after WWII. This is a story about how faith, love and family can help lift the human spirit and allow life to go on even when it doesn’t seem possible.
“This is an American Story, an immigrant story, a spiritual and universal story. May we all dare to chase such dreams, experience such grace, and lead such miraculous lives.” - Mark T. Sullivan
In late March 1944, as Stalin’s forces push into Ukraine, young Emil and Adeline Martel must make a terrible decision: Do they wait for the Soviet bear’s intrusion and risk being sent to Siberia? Or do they reluctantly follow the wolves—murderous Nazi officers who have pledged to protect “pure-blood” Germans?
The Martels are one of many families of German heritage whose ancestors have farmed in Ukraine for more than a century. But after already living under Stalin’s horrifying regime, Emil and Adeline decide they must run in retreat from their land with the wolves they despise to escape the Soviets and go in search of freedom.
Since the Martel’s have lived under Russian rule before, they decide to leave, they have two young sons Walt and Will, and they pack their wagon with, food, water, clothing, bedding and tools. They begin the journey into the unknown, with horses Thor & Oden pulling their wagon, the roads are busy, full of other refugees and retreating German soldiers. Adeline’s mother Lydia and her sister Malia, have a wagon and leave with the Martel’s. On the road, they catch up with Emil’s parents Johann, Karoline and his sister Rese.
Their trek is nothing short of heroic. From the beginning they dodge exploding bombs, both the Russian and German Airforce, and go through endless German check points and hold ups. As their journey keeps lengthening, the strength and courage that Emil and Adeline show is remarkable, and their determination is truly inspiring. However, the situation becomes worse, eventually the couple are separated, and both still continue to fight to survive, hope they will be together again and one day live in peace.
The Last Green Valley is a well paced story with history, action, drama, hope and triumph. As always, Sullivan dedicates himself to detailed research while compiling an unforgettable story. I felt so connected to each member of the family and friends he introduced throughout the storyline. I stayed up very late many nights simply because I couldn't go to sleep not knowing what would happen next. I was constantly tabbing paragraphs that were full of wisdom and insight (there were many). To be honest, I will never be the same after reading this story based on the Martel family.
I was truly amazed at the shocking moments throughout the story that the Martels were forced to endure, but there were also so many uplifting moments to cherish as the Martels continued to never give up their hopes of moving west to freedom. Both Emil and Adeline were able to stay hopeful and keep their faith even through the most despairing situations, they were able to love where other only found hate, and their spirits radiated till the very last page. And, you too will have tears streaming down your face at the end. I'm thankful that Mark Sullivan searched out and wrote the Martel’s story for the world, it is a gift indeed.
Overall, this is an outstanding and masterful story. Mark Sullivan has told another important, eye opening, and never-to-be forgotten story. The Last Green Valley turns a spotlight on the lesser known events of World War II (mainly post WWII), giving them a well documented place in our current culture. This is a book that would make for an excellent book club read, and is one I truly urge everyone to read. History should never be forgotten, and I consider myself blessed to have read this story.
Thank you Amazon and Lake Union Publishing for the gifted copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
