MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW
"The Austrian Bride" by Helen Parusel takes readers on an emotional journey through the tumultuous period of Austria in 1938, weaving a powerful and unforgettable tale of resilience, courage, and the strength of women.
Set against the backdrop of Hitler's march into Linz, the story follows Ella, a young woman full of hope for a brighter future. Initially swept up in the euphoria of her boyfriend Max and the promises of change, Ella soon witnesses the harsh realities of the Nazi regime. As a woman with a conscience, she can't ignore the brutality unfolding around her, from street shootings to the closure of a childhood friend's Jewish department store.
Realizing that she must take action, Ella faces a dangerous decision. Despite her fascist boyfriend's proposal, she chooses to infiltrate the Nazi circle by enlisting in a Reich Bride School. This bold move propels her into the heart of the social elite, offering her a unique vantage point from which to gather vital information.
The novel masterfully captures the tension of the time, as Europe teeters on the brink of World War II. Ella grapples with conflicting loyalties – torn between her duty to her family, friends, and country, and the dangerous path she treads as a resistor within the Nazi hierarchy. The stakes are high, and every move she makes could lead to her demise.
Parusel skillfully paints a vivid picture of Ella's journey, highlighting the sacrifices and risks she takes to save the people she loves. The narrative is rich in historical detail, immersing readers in the complexities of a dark period in European history. The author portrays Ella's character with depth and authenticity, making her struggles relatable and her courage inspiring.
Fans of historical fiction, especially those who enjoy the works of Suzanne Goldring, Mandy Robotham, and Debbie Rix, will find "The Austrian Bride" to be a compelling and heartbreaking read. Parusel's storytelling prowess shines through, delivering a gripping narrative that explores the strength of women and the unwavering courage of those who dare to resist in the face of oppression. This novel is a poignant addition to the World War II fiction genre, offering a fresh perspective on the indomitable human spirit during one of the darkest periods in history.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books Publishers for an advance copy for my honest review.
BOOK DESCRIPTION
A powerful and unforgettable story of the strength of women and the unwavering courage of those who seek a better world.
Austria, 1938
After years of hardship, Ella is full of hope for a better future for Austrians, and when Hitler marches into Linz, she can’t help but become swept up in the euphoria of her boyfriend, Max.
But she soon realises her mistake. When she witnesses a woman being shot in the street and a childhood friend’s Jewish department store is closed down, she knows she must do something.
It’s a dangerous time to be a resistor, especially when her fascist boyfriend proposes to her. Knowing the secrets she can uncover, Ella enlists in a Reich Bride School, finding herself propelled into the social elite of the Nazi circle.
Ella knows she has a duty – to her family, her friends, and her country – so while Europe teeters on the brink of WW2, a desperate race begins to save the people she loves. But betraying the Nazis could be her death sentence…
Fans of Suzanne Goldring, Mandy Robotham and Debbie Rix will devour this heartbreaking tale.
'Pacy, twisty and emotional... a beautiful page-turner ... I highly recommended it.' Amanda Geard, author of The Midnight House
‘This novel is a true page turner, as well as being a heart-wrenching, emotional story of one of the darkest chapters of history ...first class research and captivating story-telling!' Louise Fein, author of People Like Us
- Publisher : Boldwood Books (15 Jan. 2024)
- Language : English
- File size : 3830 KB
- Pages:392
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