1944.

He was a soldier. It’s been a long time since he was home. His name is the same. Paul Brandt. But in the period he was away, he’s changed. He doesn’t look the same, nor does he feel the same—one of the things that happens in a time of war.

He’ll stay home on the farm with his father and sister. Home was in a village in Poland. Now it is part of Nazi Germany—the future unknown. The war continues. A morning walk gives him a plan. This time he could help her. She may not recognize him, but he’s never forgotten her. Five years ago, Vienna was a different place, a different time. He had two names then. So did she.

WWII historical fiction unlike any other I’ve read, principally from the perspective of a soldier, a soldier in the Wehrmacht. A man riddled with guilt. A man that can’t change the past, but perhaps there is yet time to atone. The atmospheric writing is gripping in intensity. The imagery is haunting, chilling. The reader is grasped by the extent of depravity while others in their midst risk everything to turn the tide even for a moment, even if only possible for a few.

War. Orders. Resistance. Guilt. Redemption. The book is well-written, profound, complex, powerful, exemplary, and essential to the whole of literary WWII historical fiction. Highly recommended.

The Author’s Note at the novel’s end provides inspiration for the fictional version of the storyline based on SS officer Karl Höcker, actual locations, and events. The note includes a bibliography of work read during the author’s meticulous research.

Thank you to William Ryan, Skyhorse Publishing (Arcade), and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book.

Reviewer's Note: Release Date for this edition by Skyhorse Publishing (Arcade) is November 7, 2023. ( )

This was a simple, elegantly written book that had me totally immersed from the start. Basically, it was the story of one man trying to do good in a world gone mad. I liked how the main protagonist, Paul Brandt, a severely injured German soldier, found himself working for the SS, providing a place where Nazi officers could go and relax from the nearby concentration camp, Auschwitz. Despite the SS officers' brutality and sadistic acts, the reader also witnesses moments of guilt and fear as the all conquering Red Army moved closer and closer determined to destroy them.

From the start, Brandt struggled with his new position as he tried to make amends for the past. Despite the evil and horror surrounding him, Brandt showed compassion, humanity and heart. He wasn't without fault, but I was moved by his determination to protect the women prisoners, even to the extend of risking his own life for them.

Harrowing, powerful and haunting The Constant Soldier is a book about war, redemption and love, and one that will stay with me for a long time to come. ( )