Erica Marie Hogan

The title of this book grabbed my attention, and when I began reading the story kept my attention. Set during World War II primarily in Germany and Poland, this book explores the life of a German young woman who teaches art and attempts to keep a Jewish friend safe.

Margot, a twin, demonstrates the strength of character throughout this book. The author masterfully weaves together the storylines of the Jewish characters with those of an American unit of soldiers. This book contains scenes dealing with concentration camps and the experiences of individuals living under those conditions. The author skillfully addresses these circumstances while showing how faith and hope arise even under the darkest of circumstances.

So if you want to read historical fiction set during the time of World War II, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (más)

I found myself quickly put in Margot’s shoes, you grew up in Germany, you love your country, but now the government has gone mad, and you have no control over it! What can you do? Well, you will get to read about the part she plays, and it takes a lot of courage.
We also meet Bernie, an American soldier, who also hates senseless killing, yet, he is a sniper.
How do these two so different people, and yet of the same heart, have so much in common? The dangerous correspondence, I didn’t even think was possible, but it happened.
Will these two ever meet? Especially when Margot falls under the scrutiny of the infamous Josef Mengele, even his name gives me the creeps!
This story is a good reminder of what we should not forget!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.… (más)

The opening page of this book describes in detail the horrors of war. Although hard to read, it is a realistic look at what men and women faced during this time period. I appreciate an author who doesn’t sugar coat the war, but portrays it as a tragic time that no one will ever forget. I knew I needed to prepare myself for an emotional journey that will forever have a profound impact on my life.

The story is deep rooted in the war that found the Jewish community in harms way. It is so hard for me to understand how one man could have such hatred for others that destroyed the lives of innocent men, women and children. The ones who survived were left with emotional scars so deep that they had nightmares at times.

As we travel to the camp where prisoners are we are faced with stench, rats, sickly people and hopelessness. Margot must fight everyday to stay alive. It was emotional to read how Margot and Bernie began to write to each other. An American soldier and a German woman who should be enemies found comfort in each other’s words. I wanted to scream as the scenes came up on the battlefield. All around was death as Bernie fought to stay alive. The author writes with vividness in a way that I felt as if I was planted on the battle field.

The story was so intense at times I wasn’t sure if I could finish it. Yet I had to know if Margot survived. Did she and Bernie finally meet? The details of the war, camp and despair was heartbreaking. I have fallen in love with this author’s words and look forward to more from her. Throughout the story we see hope, forgiveness , survival, trust and God’s protection. This is one story that stirs within you the strong desire to live and make a difference. Margot never gave up even when she stared death in the eyes.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (más)

I hope you feel as keenly as I do, the miracle of our words spanning these many miles to find each other.

What starts out as a note to inform her of the death of her twin brother becomes a lifeline for two on opposite sides of the strife...or are they? As an art teacher, Margot works with students of different abilities. Depending on the child, this can lead to danger in Berlin in 1944. Too many who disappear are never heard from again - words sent to her brother who is fighting in France. Is it possible to make a difference and survive to tell the story?

Bernie Russel, an American, has seen a number of different fronts in this war that doesn’t seem to end. Letters and pictures from the sister of the young German who was killed are the only bright spots in this desolate world. Can he survive and even find this lovely girl?

The horror continues and Margot is no longer safe. Encouraged by those finding themselves in the same dire situation, the motto becomes — We will survive. We must. God was there with them, even when they felt so alone!

An ARC of this ebook was received through Elk Lake Publishing and CelebrateLit. THe impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.… (más)