THE LYON FIVE
Gary Swartzentruber
History has always been more than a subject to Gary Swartzentruber. It is a window into real lives, difficult choices, and extraordinary moments that continue to shape our world. A physician by profession and an author by passion, Gary combines extensive research with compelling storytelling to create historical fiction that is authentic, emotionally rich, and deeply human.
His fascination with World War II has grown through years of studying military archives, personal letters, genealogy, and firsthand accounts. Rather than focusing solely on battles and dates, Gary explores the courage and sacrifices of ordinary people whose decisions had extraordinary consequences. His travels to historic streets, battlefields, and preserved landmarks further enrich his writing, allowing him to bring historical settings vividly to life.
Through carefully researched stories and unforgettable characters, Gary strives to honour the past while celebrating resilience, friendship, hope, and the choices that continue to define us long after history has been written.
the forger's son
The Lyon Five
About the Book
THE LYON FIVE
Book One: The Cellar Beneath the Bookshop
Set in occupied France during World War II, The Lyon Five follows five young boys who find refuge beneath an unassuming bookshop in Lyon, only to discover that safety comes with its own dangers. Their journey begins in The Cellar Beneath the Bookshop, where trust, friendship, and courage are put to the test. In The Forger’s Son, the boys become involved in a dangerous mission when a young forger’s son is left with his father’s tools and an unfinished assignment, giving a frightened family a chance to escape.
Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, The Lyon Five is a story of friendship, resilience, sacrifice, and quiet courage during extraordinary times.
Invite Gary to Speak
Every great story begins with a question, and every meaningful conversation begins with curiosity. Gary Swartzentruber shares the fascinating journey behind his historical fiction, from uncovering forgotten records and military archives to transforming real history into compelling stories that resonate with readers of all ages.
Whether speaking at book clubs, libraries, schools, churches, historical organizations, or community events, Gary offers engaging presentations that inspire audiences to see history not simply as a timeline of events, but as the stories of ordinary people whose choices continue to matter today.
The Lyon Five Collection
Begin the Journey. Follow the Courage
$14.99/Ebook
The Cellar Beneath the Bookstore
$24.99/Paperback
The Forger's Son
What Readers Are Saying
“A Series That Stays With You.”
“The Lyon Five is far more than another World War II story. Across The Cellar Beneath the Bookstore and The Forger’s Son, courage, hope, and humanity shape a journey that feels both intimate and unforgettable.”
Emily Harrison
“Impossible to Put Down.”
“What impressed me most was not only the historical detail, but the relationships between the characters. Book Two carries their journey forward with deeper trust, greater danger, and choices that feel intensely personal.”
Rebecca Lawson
“Historical Fiction at Its Very Best.”
“Gary Swartzentruber blends authentic history with emotionally rich storytelling. The Forger’s Son continues the series with quiet tension, compelling characters, and a powerful sense of purpose.”
James Whitaker
“A Powerful Continuation.”
“Every page reflects thoughtful research and genuine respect for history. The second book builds naturally on the first while showing how ordinary young people can find courage when circumstances ask more of them.”
Daniel Brooks
“Impossible to Put Down.”
“What impressed me most wasn’t just the historical detail, but the relationships between the characters. Their choices, fears, and courage made the story feel deeply personal from beginning to end.”
Rebecca Lawson
“An Authentic and Powerful Reading Experience.”
“Every page reflects thoughtful research and genuine respect for history. Rather than simply telling a wartime story, Gary brings readers into the lives of people who remind us what resilience truly looks like.”