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Code Name Sapphire
A woman must rescue her cousin's family from a train bound for Auschwitz in this riveting tale of bravery and resistance, from the bestselling author of The Lost Girls of Paris
1942. Hannah Martel has narrowly escaped Nazi Germany after her fiancé was killed in a pogrom. When her ship bound for America is turned away at port, she has nowhere to go but to her cousin Lily, who lives with her family in Brussels. Fearful for her life, Hannah is desperate to get out of occupied Europe. But with no safe way to leave, she must return to the dangerous underground work she thought she had left behind.
Seeking help, Hannah joins the Sapphire Line, a secret resistance network led by a mysterious woman named Micheline and her enigmatic brother Mateo. But when a grave mistake causes Lily’s family to be arrested and slated for deportation to Auschwitz, Hannah finds herself torn between her loyalties. How much is Hannah willing to sacrifice to save the people she loves?
Inspired by incredible true stories of courage and sacrifice, Code Name Sapphire is a powerful novel about love, family and the unshakable resilience of women in even the hardest of times.
368 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2023
1,319 people are currently reading
32.9k people want to read
About the author
Pam Jenoff
28 books6,272 followersPam is the author of several novels, including her most recent The Woman With The Blue Star, as well as The Lost Girls of Paris and The Orphan's Tale, both instant New York Times bestsellers. Pam was born in Maryland and raised outside Philadelphia. She attended George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and Cambridge University in England. Upon receiving her master’s in history from Cambridge, she accepted an appointment as Special Assistant to the Secretary of the Army. The position provided a unique opportunity to witness and participate in operations at the most senior levels of government, including helping the families of the Pan Am Flight 103 victims secure their memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, observing recovery efforts at the site of the Oklahoma City bombing and attending ceremonies to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of World War II at sites such as Bastogne and Corregidor.
Following her work at the Pentagon, Jenoff moved to the State Department. In 1996 she was assigned to the U.S. Consulate in Krakow, Poland. It was during this period that Pam developed her expertise in Polish-Jewish relations and the Holocaust. Working on matters such as preservation of Auschwitz and the restitution of Jewish property in Poland, Jenoff developed close relations with the surviving Jewish community.
Having left the Foreign Service in 1998 to attend law school at the University of Pennsylvania, Jenoff practiced law at a large firm and in-house for several years. She now teaches law school at Rutgers.
Following her work at the Pentagon, Jenoff moved to the State Department. In 1996 she was assigned to the U.S. Consulate in Krakow, Poland. It was during this period that Pam developed her expertise in Polish-Jewish relations and the Holocaust. Working on matters such as preservation of Auschwitz and the restitution of Jewish property in Poland, Jenoff developed close relations with the surviving Jewish community.
Having left the Foreign Service in 1998 to attend law school at the University of Pennsylvania, Jenoff practiced law at a large firm and in-house for several years. She now teaches law school at Rutgers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,649 reviews
March 1, 2023
Honestly, come on. The author has manipulated events to move the story along to the point where the whole thing becomes totally unbelievable.
None of the characters were the least bit likable. Every one did something stupid. And then there is the love triangle that was so unrealistic it was laughable.
Read two previous books by this author - one got 1-star & one got 5-stars – this is another 1-star.
None of the characters were the least bit likable. Every one did something stupid. And then there is the love triangle that was so unrealistic it was laughable.
Read two previous books by this author - one got 1-star & one got 5-stars – this is another 1-star.
February 2, 2023
Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff was a moving historical fiction novel set in both Nazi occupied Berlin, Germany and Brussels, Belgium during World War II. I have read almost all of Pam Jenoff’s books so I was so excited when I saw that she had written a new book. I couldn’t wait to read it. It never ceases to amaze me how new information about World War II is constantly being discovered and written about in such detail. Code Name Sapphire was based on true events that I had had no knowledge of before reading this book. In my opinion, the criteria for a good historical fiction novel is when the novel lends itself to introducing new and unknown historical facts to the reader. Code Name Sapphire managed to do that for me. I enjoyed the character development in this book, especially the three female protagonists. Code Name Sapphire was fast paced, well plotted and impeccably researched. It was extremely hard to pull myself away from it.
Hannah Martel lived in Berlin, Germany. She and her fiancé Isaac had been part of the resistance in Berlin. Isaac had owned a kosher butcher shop. Hannah was an artist. She drew anti-Fascist cartoons for an underground newspaper but she never signed her cartoons with her real name. Maxim was the pseudonym Hannah had used. Her fiancé was in charge of printing the newspaper and handing them out. The printing press that was used to print the newspaper was located in the back of the butcher shop that Hannah’s fiancé owned. One night, Nazis soldiers forced their way into to the butcher shop. There was a yellow star painted on the door that identified the shop as being owned by Jews. Both Hannah and Isaac had hidden as soon as they heard the disturbance. Isaac tried to distract the Nazis from discovering Hannah and the printing press but to no avail. The Nazis brutally murdered Isaac and destroyed the printing press. They now knew Hannah’s real identity. That night, Hannah lost everything that was important to her in her life. She lost Isaac, the man she loved with her whole heart and her unborn child. Hannah had no time to grieve, though. She had to get out of Germany before the Nazis found her. Hannah sought help from friends and boarded a ship that was going to Havana, Cuba. However, once the ship arrived, the passengers were denied entry into not only Havana but the United States as well. The passengers, most of them Jewish, were about to face their worst fears. They were being sent back to occupied Europe. Hannah had a cousin in Belgium. She had not spoken to her in years but when they were young they were as close as sisters. Hannah sent a telegram to her cousin Lily Abels and hoped she would vouch for her and allow her to stay with her until Hannah could get to America.
When Hannah arrived in Antwerp, her cousin Lily was waiting for her. Lily was now married to a surgeon and also had a son. She welcomed Hannah warmly and brought her to her home in Brussels. Lily led a very comfortable and almost privileged life in Brussels. Even though the Nazis occupied Brussels, they had not disrupted the lives of the people living there yet. Hannah tried all the legal and safe ways to get to America but nothing looked even remotely possible. While living at Lily’s home, Hannah got in the habit of waking up early and going for a walk or run. On one such morning, Hannah observed a man in a park leaving a note under a rock. Hannah wondered if he was part of a resistance group. A few days later, Hannah observed the same man in a park near Lily’s home. She decided to approach the man to find out if her suspicions were correct. Perhaps a resistance network could get her safely to America. It was worth a try. That was how Hannah met Matteo and his sister Micheline and how she became involved in the Sapphire Line. Micheline was a twenty three year old woman. She was the mastermind of the Sapphire Line that helped downed and injured pilots get out of occupied Europe so they could fly and fight again. Micheline promised Hannah she would try to get her out of occupied Europe if she helped their cause.
Hannah was becoming more and more involved with the operations of the Sapphire Line. Desperate to complete an assignment, Hannah decided to do something that ended up putting her cousin Lily and her family in danger. Lily was arrested and was ultimately sent to Breendonk, a transit camp. She was assigned to work in the laundry. Then one morning, a group of new arrivals arrived at Breendonk. Among the new arrivals were Lily’s husband and son. Lily was so happy to see them yet so sad that they had ended up at Breendonk at the same time. Her husband told Lily that the police had come to their home, had arrested them and had brought them to Breendonk. A few weeks later, Lily, her husband and son had been selected for deportation. Lily learned that they were being sent to Auschwitz. She knew that they would not survive. Lily was able to get word out of the camp to tell Hannah about the fate they were facing. With intricate planning, Hannah and Matteo were able to stop the train on the tracks, open the doors and free a good many prisoners. Lily and her family were not in the car they were supposed to be in, though. Would Hannah and Matteo be able to find them in time to free them? What would Lily and her family’s fate be?
Code Name Sapphire was inspired by the true event of how a train bounded for Auschwitz was liberated. These brave people who attempted and succeeded in doing this should be honored as heroes and never forgotten. Their bravery, courage and determination were undeniably one of the most, if not the most inspiring and heroic acts that occurred during the Holocaust, in my opinion. I had never heard about this until Pam Jenoff wrote about this in her book. The resistant groups who cared enough to risk their own lives to save downed pilots were also so brave and selfless. The ship Hannah took to Havana and was ultimately returned to occupied Europe was inspired by the events that actually happened to the ship called the St. Louis. Code Name Sapphire was about family, antisemitism, sacrifices, secrets, friendships, courage, bravery, leadership, taking risks, love, hope, choices and actions. There were twists in the plot that kept me guessing and an unexpected twist at the end that I did not see coming. If you enjoy historical fiction, I recommend reading Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff very highly. Publication is set for February 7, 2023.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing/ Park Row Publishers for allowing my to read Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff through Netgalley in exchange for my voluntary and honest review.
Hannah Martel lived in Berlin, Germany. She and her fiancé Isaac had been part of the resistance in Berlin. Isaac had owned a kosher butcher shop. Hannah was an artist. She drew anti-Fascist cartoons for an underground newspaper but she never signed her cartoons with her real name. Maxim was the pseudonym Hannah had used. Her fiancé was in charge of printing the newspaper and handing them out. The printing press that was used to print the newspaper was located in the back of the butcher shop that Hannah’s fiancé owned. One night, Nazis soldiers forced their way into to the butcher shop. There was a yellow star painted on the door that identified the shop as being owned by Jews. Both Hannah and Isaac had hidden as soon as they heard the disturbance. Isaac tried to distract the Nazis from discovering Hannah and the printing press but to no avail. The Nazis brutally murdered Isaac and destroyed the printing press. They now knew Hannah’s real identity. That night, Hannah lost everything that was important to her in her life. She lost Isaac, the man she loved with her whole heart and her unborn child. Hannah had no time to grieve, though. She had to get out of Germany before the Nazis found her. Hannah sought help from friends and boarded a ship that was going to Havana, Cuba. However, once the ship arrived, the passengers were denied entry into not only Havana but the United States as well. The passengers, most of them Jewish, were about to face their worst fears. They were being sent back to occupied Europe. Hannah had a cousin in Belgium. She had not spoken to her in years but when they were young they were as close as sisters. Hannah sent a telegram to her cousin Lily Abels and hoped she would vouch for her and allow her to stay with her until Hannah could get to America.
When Hannah arrived in Antwerp, her cousin Lily was waiting for her. Lily was now married to a surgeon and also had a son. She welcomed Hannah warmly and brought her to her home in Brussels. Lily led a very comfortable and almost privileged life in Brussels. Even though the Nazis occupied Brussels, they had not disrupted the lives of the people living there yet. Hannah tried all the legal and safe ways to get to America but nothing looked even remotely possible. While living at Lily’s home, Hannah got in the habit of waking up early and going for a walk or run. On one such morning, Hannah observed a man in a park leaving a note under a rock. Hannah wondered if he was part of a resistance group. A few days later, Hannah observed the same man in a park near Lily’s home. She decided to approach the man to find out if her suspicions were correct. Perhaps a resistance network could get her safely to America. It was worth a try. That was how Hannah met Matteo and his sister Micheline and how she became involved in the Sapphire Line. Micheline was a twenty three year old woman. She was the mastermind of the Sapphire Line that helped downed and injured pilots get out of occupied Europe so they could fly and fight again. Micheline promised Hannah she would try to get her out of occupied Europe if she helped their cause.
Hannah was becoming more and more involved with the operations of the Sapphire Line. Desperate to complete an assignment, Hannah decided to do something that ended up putting her cousin Lily and her family in danger. Lily was arrested and was ultimately sent to Breendonk, a transit camp. She was assigned to work in the laundry. Then one morning, a group of new arrivals arrived at Breendonk. Among the new arrivals were Lily’s husband and son. Lily was so happy to see them yet so sad that they had ended up at Breendonk at the same time. Her husband told Lily that the police had come to their home, had arrested them and had brought them to Breendonk. A few weeks later, Lily, her husband and son had been selected for deportation. Lily learned that they were being sent to Auschwitz. She knew that they would not survive. Lily was able to get word out of the camp to tell Hannah about the fate they were facing. With intricate planning, Hannah and Matteo were able to stop the train on the tracks, open the doors and free a good many prisoners. Lily and her family were not in the car they were supposed to be in, though. Would Hannah and Matteo be able to find them in time to free them? What would Lily and her family’s fate be?
Code Name Sapphire was inspired by the true event of how a train bounded for Auschwitz was liberated. These brave people who attempted and succeeded in doing this should be honored as heroes and never forgotten. Their bravery, courage and determination were undeniably one of the most, if not the most inspiring and heroic acts that occurred during the Holocaust, in my opinion. I had never heard about this until Pam Jenoff wrote about this in her book. The resistant groups who cared enough to risk their own lives to save downed pilots were also so brave and selfless. The ship Hannah took to Havana and was ultimately returned to occupied Europe was inspired by the events that actually happened to the ship called the St. Louis. Code Name Sapphire was about family, antisemitism, sacrifices, secrets, friendships, courage, bravery, leadership, taking risks, love, hope, choices and actions. There were twists in the plot that kept me guessing and an unexpected twist at the end that I did not see coming. If you enjoy historical fiction, I recommend reading Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff very highly. Publication is set for February 7, 2023.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing/ Park Row Publishers for allowing my to read Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff through Netgalley in exchange for my voluntary and honest review.
May 30, 2023
Just Read this Book 💖💖💖 I loved It. Pam Jenoff personally wished my 89 year old father Happy Birthday 🎈 so how could I not want the book. That is my Dad’s favorite author. She lives in the same city as my sister. I know places she is referring to. How nice to reply on FB in 2 minutes. I figure naturally that is just a publicity following, but she talks like she knows you. I have heard from some people who have worked with her, she is the best to work with and nice as well. So, Thank You Pam Jenoff 💕
The book I really found interesting since it dealt with WWII in Belgium. The bravery some characters show is incredible since every choice you make doesn’t just effect you, but your family can be arrested or killed. Jewish Belgium Citizens think most likely they are somewhat safe, but it becomes more and more restrictive and dangerous. I loved the characters as each had his or her complexities. There were many twists and turns I did not see coming. It makes you doubt if you can trust anyone and imagine that is exactly how real individuals felt. There is a scene about a train going to Auschwitz and that is not going to end well. Still, I thought perhaps this is getting too far fetched, trying to stop a Concentration Camp Train and Free some People. Yet, really like that Pam Jenoff explains what elements are fact and what is fiction. This actually happened with the train. You become so engrossed with all the characters and never know from moment to moment how things will end up.
Excellent Book! Recommend if you enjoy WWII Historical Fiction. Love reading her stories + always learning more history.
The book I really found interesting since it dealt with WWII in Belgium. The bravery some characters show is incredible since every choice you make doesn’t just effect you, but your family can be arrested or killed. Jewish Belgium Citizens think most likely they are somewhat safe, but it becomes more and more restrictive and dangerous. I loved the characters as each had his or her complexities. There were many twists and turns I did not see coming. It makes you doubt if you can trust anyone and imagine that is exactly how real individuals felt. There is a scene about a train going to Auschwitz and that is not going to end well. Still, I thought perhaps this is getting too far fetched, trying to stop a Concentration Camp Train and Free some People. Yet, really like that Pam Jenoff explains what elements are fact and what is fiction. This actually happened with the train. You become so engrossed with all the characters and never know from moment to moment how things will end up.
Excellent Book! Recommend if you enjoy WWII Historical Fiction. Love reading her stories + always learning more history.
June 25, 2023
3.5 stars ( kept at 3 stars on Goodreads)
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
What It Is About: One of my highly anticipated historical fiction reads of the year, Code Name Sapphire follows the lives of three women in Belgium during the German Occupation. First, there is Hannah Martel, a German Jewish woman who flees her country of origin after the death of her husband and child. Hannah is unable to immigrate to America and pleads for her beloved cousin, Lily to welcome her to Belgium. Lily is relieved to see her cousin Hannah again and welcomes her into her Brussels home that she shares with her doctor husband, Nil, and their young son, Grigori. As welcoming as she is, Lily does not want to hear too much about Hannah's experiences in Germany and insists that life in Belgium carries along as usual. Hannah fears what shall happen if the Nazis discover that she is a political cartoonist that escaped Germany. Hannah desperately seeks to find a way out and meets our third character, Micheline. Micheline is the head of a resistance organization known as Sapphire that smuggles British airmen through Spain so that may return to the skies. But the organization is dangerous and a man that Hannah meets might be dangerous for both her and Lily.
WHAT I THOUGHT: I think it is fair to say that when a reviewer such as myself states that I am eagerly anticipating a book, that I am also a fan of the author. This is true. Pam Jenoff writes great WWII fiction that once I begin, I find it hard to tear myself away. Code Name Sapphire was no exception to this. Unlike many WWII novels that seem to be set in Poland or France, I appreciated the shift of focus to Belgium. However, I must point out that aside from place names Jenoff doesn't provide any vivid descriptions that made me really understand what Belgium or Brussels was like during this period of history. It is, what it is!
Jenoff certainly gives readers three very complex characters in her chosen protagonists. Micheline was the definition of a strong female protagonist, a fictional composite of the many members of the Resistance that put their own lives at risk to help others. I actually wish there had been more Micheline chapters. Suffice it to say, she was a great character. Hannah already had a very tragic story and I felt that I was along for the ride. Admittedly, she wasn't the cleverest member of the Resistance but I like that she was playing a role. Lily, too, was this really sheltered woman who believed like a lot of people did that German occupation would not touch her family. She loved her husband and her son and didn't understand why Hannah would want to put herself in danger. So, I didn't really care for Hannah and Lily as their storylines which had great potential switched to a focus on a love triangle. < insert SCREAM>
I mean, come on! The ending of the novel itself( which I won't give away) proves that using a man as a wedge between the two cousins wasn't really that necessary. Because all of these women are going to have so much happen in their lives that they are obviously going to be changed, as people.
There are two really great historical points here in the book- the Resistance movement, specifically the Sapphire line( inspired by the real-life Comet line), and how a plan for a train car headed to Auschwitz was attempted to be liberated. In her author's note, Jenoff mentions further reading recommendations and where she had to adjust history to fit her novel's timeline. That was okay with me.
Overall, I did read this book in one sitting and appreciated the history highlighted but it was overshadowed by romantic melodrama that makes me bestow this novel with a 3.5star.
Expected Publication Date 07/02/23
Goodreads Review Date 04/01/23
#CodeNameSapphire #NetGalley.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
What It Is About: One of my highly anticipated historical fiction reads of the year, Code Name Sapphire follows the lives of three women in Belgium during the German Occupation. First, there is Hannah Martel, a German Jewish woman who flees her country of origin after the death of her husband and child. Hannah is unable to immigrate to America and pleads for her beloved cousin, Lily to welcome her to Belgium. Lily is relieved to see her cousin Hannah again and welcomes her into her Brussels home that she shares with her doctor husband, Nil, and their young son, Grigori. As welcoming as she is, Lily does not want to hear too much about Hannah's experiences in Germany and insists that life in Belgium carries along as usual. Hannah fears what shall happen if the Nazis discover that she is a political cartoonist that escaped Germany. Hannah desperately seeks to find a way out and meets our third character, Micheline. Micheline is the head of a resistance organization known as Sapphire that smuggles British airmen through Spain so that may return to the skies. But the organization is dangerous and a man that Hannah meets might be dangerous for both her and Lily.
WHAT I THOUGHT: I think it is fair to say that when a reviewer such as myself states that I am eagerly anticipating a book, that I am also a fan of the author. This is true. Pam Jenoff writes great WWII fiction that once I begin, I find it hard to tear myself away. Code Name Sapphire was no exception to this. Unlike many WWII novels that seem to be set in Poland or France, I appreciated the shift of focus to Belgium. However, I must point out that aside from place names Jenoff doesn't provide any vivid descriptions that made me really understand what Belgium or Brussels was like during this period of history. It is, what it is!
Jenoff certainly gives readers three very complex characters in her chosen protagonists. Micheline was the definition of a strong female protagonist, a fictional composite of the many members of the Resistance that put their own lives at risk to help others. I actually wish there had been more Micheline chapters. Suffice it to say, she was a great character. Hannah already had a very tragic story and I felt that I was along for the ride. Admittedly, she wasn't the cleverest member of the Resistance but I like that she was playing a role. Lily, too, was this really sheltered woman who believed like a lot of people did that German occupation would not touch her family. She loved her husband and her son and didn't understand why Hannah would want to put herself in danger. So, I didn't really care for Hannah and Lily as their storylines which had great potential switched to a focus on a love triangle. < insert SCREAM>
I mean, come on! The ending of the novel itself( which I won't give away) proves that using a man as a wedge between the two cousins wasn't really that necessary. Because all of these women are going to have so much happen in their lives that they are obviously going to be changed, as people.
There are two really great historical points here in the book- the Resistance movement, specifically the Sapphire line( inspired by the real-life Comet line), and how a plan for a train car headed to Auschwitz was attempted to be liberated. In her author's note, Jenoff mentions further reading recommendations and where she had to adjust history to fit her novel's timeline. That was okay with me.
Overall, I did read this book in one sitting and appreciated the history highlighted but it was overshadowed by romantic melodrama that makes me bestow this novel with a 3.5star.
Expected Publication Date 07/02/23
Goodreads Review Date 04/01/23
#CodeNameSapphire #NetGalley.
Read
March 25, 2023DNF @ 33%. Too cutesy and convenient. Too focused on romance. Not enough grit for my liking with HF.
February 21, 2023
It's always hard to read about the trials and death faced by the Jews during World War 2. Pam Jenoff has once again managed to convey the horrible circumstances, and the sad stories behind her characters actions, betrayals, and heroic actions.
This novel gave us many characters to admire, as well as those who collaborated with the Nazis. Hannah Mantel living in Berlin with her fiance, Issac, are part of the resistance. When one night, Issac's butcher shop was raided, Issac was killed, and Hannah managed to barely escape knowing her former job of printing anti Nazi information put her in great danger. She knew she needed to get out of Germany, and that goal seemed to be able to be achieved until the ship she was on, was turned back and sent to Europe. Being Jews and refused entry by Cuba and the United States, Hannah goes to her cousin, Lilli's house in Brussels. There through Hannah's morning walks she encounters a scene which made her realize that what she saw a few times was part of the resistance. Finding her courage, Hannah approaches the man, placing a note under a rock, seeing if he can offer her a way out of Brussels.Through this encounter, Hannah meets, Mateo his sister, Micheline, and with that becomes a somewhat reluctant member of the organization, know as Sapphire.
Many threatening situations happen including one where her cousin and her family were being sent to Auschwitz because of a mistake made by Hannah. Attempting a daring escape from the train headed for Auschwitz, made for both an exciting story as well as one that was based on somewhat on fact.
The story once again brings home the many facts that this time in history was both heinous and when death seemed to be the only destiny for so many.
Recommended for those who love learning about history and hoping that these acts of barbarism will never be forgotten....never again!
This novel gave us many characters to admire, as well as those who collaborated with the Nazis. Hannah Mantel living in Berlin with her fiance, Issac, are part of the resistance. When one night, Issac's butcher shop was raided, Issac was killed, and Hannah managed to barely escape knowing her former job of printing anti Nazi information put her in great danger. She knew she needed to get out of Germany, and that goal seemed to be able to be achieved until the ship she was on, was turned back and sent to Europe. Being Jews and refused entry by Cuba and the United States, Hannah goes to her cousin, Lilli's house in Brussels. There through Hannah's morning walks she encounters a scene which made her realize that what she saw a few times was part of the resistance. Finding her courage, Hannah approaches the man, placing a note under a rock, seeing if he can offer her a way out of Brussels.Through this encounter, Hannah meets, Mateo his sister, Micheline, and with that becomes a somewhat reluctant member of the organization, know as Sapphire.
Many threatening situations happen including one where her cousin and her family were being sent to Auschwitz because of a mistake made by Hannah. Attempting a daring escape from the train headed for Auschwitz, made for both an exciting story as well as one that was based on somewhat on fact.
The story once again brings home the many facts that this time in history was both heinous and when death seemed to be the only destiny for so many.
Recommended for those who love learning about history and hoping that these acts of barbarism will never be forgotten....never again!
January 9, 2023
About the book: “A woman must rescue her cousin's family from a train bound for Auschwitz in this riveting tale of bravery and resistance, from the bestselling author of The Lost Girls of Paris”
Hannah manages to escape Nazi Germany once, only to be on a ship turned away at port. When she returns she lives with her cousin, Lily, and her family in Brussels. She joins the Sapphire Line, an underground network of resistance. Lily’s family is arrested, and Hannah feels called to action to keep her cousin from Auschwitz and certain death.
Highlighting the sacrifices, bravery, and resilience of resistance workers, women in particular, Code Name Sapphire is Jenoff’s most heartrending and inspiring story yet. While technically not a thriller, the fraught tension never lets go, and I could not put it down.
Well-told by three female narrators, where I loved all three distinct voices and characters, Code Name Sapphire should be on every hist fic reader’s TBR this year.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Hannah manages to escape Nazi Germany once, only to be on a ship turned away at port. When she returns she lives with her cousin, Lily, and her family in Brussels. She joins the Sapphire Line, an underground network of resistance. Lily’s family is arrested, and Hannah feels called to action to keep her cousin from Auschwitz and certain death.
Highlighting the sacrifices, bravery, and resilience of resistance workers, women in particular, Code Name Sapphire is Jenoff’s most heartrending and inspiring story yet. While technically not a thriller, the fraught tension never lets go, and I could not put it down.
Well-told by three female narrators, where I loved all three distinct voices and characters, Code Name Sapphire should be on every hist fic reader’s TBR this year.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
February 25, 2023
Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff is my latest audio read. Pam Jenoff is one of my favorite authors. I am not disappointed in this well written book. To me it is just another WW2 book like most of the others I have read. Nothing stood out or apart from anything else. For me that was disappointing. Take my review with a grain of burn out salt.
July 9, 2022
I was lucky enough to snag an ARC - wow. Incredibly moving, well-paced story.
February 7, 2023
Hannah escaped once, but was returned to Europe because no one would take Europeans fleeing the continent.
She called on her cousin Lily to help her because no one was allowed back into Europe without someone to vouch for them.
Hannah and Lily were close as children, and it was easy to stay with her until Hannah again became desperate to get out of Europe.
Trying to get herself out of Europe for the second time, Hannah joined an underground network called The Sapphire Line that said they would help her.
A mistake on her part caused her cousin and her family to be arrested, sent to a work camp, and then on a train to Auschwitz.
It was all Hannah's fault and she HAD to save her cousin, but how.
Ms. Jenoff has given us another marvelous, heartbreaking, well-researched read based on a true event (the train rescue) that keeps the tension high as we follow Hannah, Lily, and Micheline as they navigate the way of life taking risks in similar but different ways and through the horrors they had to endure.
Ms. Jenoff keeps you close to and empathizing with the characters through everything and suffering along with them.
Another Pam Jenoff masterpiece.
Don't miss this one!! 5/5
This book was given to me by the author for an honest review.
She called on her cousin Lily to help her because no one was allowed back into Europe without someone to vouch for them.
Hannah and Lily were close as children, and it was easy to stay with her until Hannah again became desperate to get out of Europe.
Trying to get herself out of Europe for the second time, Hannah joined an underground network called The Sapphire Line that said they would help her.
A mistake on her part caused her cousin and her family to be arrested, sent to a work camp, and then on a train to Auschwitz.
It was all Hannah's fault and she HAD to save her cousin, but how.
Ms. Jenoff has given us another marvelous, heartbreaking, well-researched read based on a true event (the train rescue) that keeps the tension high as we follow Hannah, Lily, and Micheline as they navigate the way of life taking risks in similar but different ways and through the horrors they had to endure.
Ms. Jenoff keeps you close to and empathizing with the characters through everything and suffering along with them.
Another Pam Jenoff masterpiece.
Don't miss this one!! 5/5
This book was given to me by the author for an honest review.
February 9, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: http://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
CODE NAME SAPPHIRE by Pam Jenoff is a historical fiction story of two cousins set in Brussels during WWII. It is based on the true story of Belgium resistance fighters stopping a train bound for Auschwitz and assisting in the escape of Jewish people from the cattle cars. It also begins with the fictionalized, but true story of a ship of Jewish refugees refused landing in Cuba and returned to Europe.
Hannah Martel has lost everything. Her fiancée is killed by the Nazis, she has miscarried their baby, and she is wanted for her drawings of seditious cartoons. When the ship to Cuba she is on is refused landing, her hoped for salvation disappears. Her last hope is her cousin, Lily who lives with her surgeon husband and young son in Brussels. While she is happy to be reunited with her cousin, the Germans have recently invaded Belgium and Hannah is afraid for her life and wants to leave Europe.
Hannah is able to make contact with a resistance network called the Sapphire Line, run by Micheline and her brother Matteo. She joins the group with the promise from Micheline to get her out of the country for her help. When Lily and her family are arrested and slated for deportation to Auschwitz because of a mistake on Hannah’s part, Hannah must decide how much she is willing to risk and sacrifice to save those she loves.
This is a story with so many plot twists and harrowing circumstances that I just kept turning the pages. The historical facts that this novel is based on were well researched. Hannah and Lily at first represented the two differing lines of thought for Jewish people during the German occupation, those who wanted to or tried to leave and those who thought they could ride out the occupation in their homes, but none were safe. While I liked Hannah and Lily, I was really drawn to Micheline. I usually love a romantic element in a story, but the triangle in this story I could have done without. This is still a book I read from start to surprising conclusion.
I recommend this gripping historical fiction tale.
CODE NAME SAPPHIRE by Pam Jenoff is a historical fiction story of two cousins set in Brussels during WWII. It is based on the true story of Belgium resistance fighters stopping a train bound for Auschwitz and assisting in the escape of Jewish people from the cattle cars. It also begins with the fictionalized, but true story of a ship of Jewish refugees refused landing in Cuba and returned to Europe.
Hannah Martel has lost everything. Her fiancée is killed by the Nazis, she has miscarried their baby, and she is wanted for her drawings of seditious cartoons. When the ship to Cuba she is on is refused landing, her hoped for salvation disappears. Her last hope is her cousin, Lily who lives with her surgeon husband and young son in Brussels. While she is happy to be reunited with her cousin, the Germans have recently invaded Belgium and Hannah is afraid for her life and wants to leave Europe.
Hannah is able to make contact with a resistance network called the Sapphire Line, run by Micheline and her brother Matteo. She joins the group with the promise from Micheline to get her out of the country for her help. When Lily and her family are arrested and slated for deportation to Auschwitz because of a mistake on Hannah’s part, Hannah must decide how much she is willing to risk and sacrifice to save those she loves.
This is a story with so many plot twists and harrowing circumstances that I just kept turning the pages. The historical facts that this novel is based on were well researched. Hannah and Lily at first represented the two differing lines of thought for Jewish people during the German occupation, those who wanted to or tried to leave and those who thought they could ride out the occupation in their homes, but none were safe. While I liked Hannah and Lily, I was really drawn to Micheline. I usually love a romantic element in a story, but the triangle in this story I could have done without. This is still a book I read from start to surprising conclusion.
I recommend this gripping historical fiction tale.
March 29, 2023
This was so bad, that I could not finish. So bad, that I’ve taken Jenoff’s other books off my TBR list. It was so bad, it left me in turns, crying, laughing (with incredulity) and shaking my head despondently. This was LAZY writing. The story is so disjointed, and the situations so incredibly unbelievable, that it just is impossible for me to go on. You need an example? Where should I start? A character who steals her cousin’s ID, and loses it. That cousin is then arrested, and by Devine perception knows who stole her ID. The cousin is placed at a transit camp, and lo and behold, her husband and son join her, and they’re able to live as a family within the camp. The cousin is then, miraculously able to get a message out to her thieving relative, who comes to visit her at the camp… not through the “visitor’s center” as those did not exist, but apparently walked up to the fence to chat and pass food over. Like really?? No. I can’t. I’m sorry I wasted my money on this drivel.
#rantover
#rantover
January 13, 2023
Inspired by true stories of courage and sacrifice, Pam Jenoff’s book, ‘Code Name Sapphire’ explores the challenges three ordinary women faced when trapped in a Nazi-occupied country. This tale focuses on Hannah Martel who gets caught up in a resistance network in her attempt to escape from Europe after her fiance is killed. Centered around resilience and sacrifice, this book honours those who sacrificed much to save those they loved.
I came away from this book with a renewed sense of awe for all those who were courageous enough to undertake unthinkable and dangerous attempts to free others. Jenoff capably immersed me in this tale and I learned about the many escape lines throughout Belgium, Holland and France and the heroes/heroines who aided Allied airmen and got them safely out of Europe. I wondered if I’d have the same depth of conviction to voluntarily step up in such a situation.
I appreciated the unique viewpoint of Belgium, the plight of the Roma community, and a behind-the-scenes exploration into the operation of a passeur.
Although I didn’t enjoy the love triangle nor identified with the characters involved, I really liked Micheline’s character. I do wish more had been written about her experiences as she was such an interesting operative. Jenoff tapped into my emotions and I felt the anger, distrust, and betrayal as well as the sliver of hope that shone through the story.
The liberation and the planning of it kept me spellbound and I was glad Jenoff gave me directions for further exploration of this event.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade publishing, Park Row and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I came away from this book with a renewed sense of awe for all those who were courageous enough to undertake unthinkable and dangerous attempts to free others. Jenoff capably immersed me in this tale and I learned about the many escape lines throughout Belgium, Holland and France and the heroes/heroines who aided Allied airmen and got them safely out of Europe. I wondered if I’d have the same depth of conviction to voluntarily step up in such a situation.
I appreciated the unique viewpoint of Belgium, the plight of the Roma community, and a behind-the-scenes exploration into the operation of a passeur.
Although I didn’t enjoy the love triangle nor identified with the characters involved, I really liked Micheline’s character. I do wish more had been written about her experiences as she was such an interesting operative. Jenoff tapped into my emotions and I felt the anger, distrust, and betrayal as well as the sliver of hope that shone through the story.
The liberation and the planning of it kept me spellbound and I was glad Jenoff gave me directions for further exploration of this event.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade publishing, Park Row and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 30, 2025
Based on the stunning true story of a mission to liberate Jewish walking dead from a train headed for Auschwitz!
Pam Jenoff’s first novel THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS was based on the British government’s conception of the idea of a corps of female spies and operatives who, in contrast to the men, could blend in and operate undercover much more easily. Based on true events, THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS was a gripping fictionalization of the stories of twelve of these women, their recruitment (and the predictable misogynistic opposition to the idea), their training, their friendships, their missions, their valor, their betrayal and ultimately, their failure to return home to their families and loved ones. I was thrilled to offer that novel a rating of 5 stars when I read it earlier this year and rank it as one of my top ten favourites for 2023.
So I doubt it would shock anyone to hear that my expectations for CODE NAME SAPPHIRE were high, perhaps unfairly so … but it was what it was!
Set in Berlin and Nazi-occupied Belgium during World War II, CODE NAME SAPPHIRE is an account (once again fictionalized, of course) of three courageous women and one man involved with the operation of an expansive resistance cell in Belgium and the “underground railroad” charged with the smuggling of downed British airmen through enemy occupied territory to the coast of the English Channel and home to England to fly and fight again!
Hannah Martel, a Jewish political caricaturist and cartoonist in Berlin operating under the pseudonym Maxim was forced to flee Germany when the Nazis discovered her real name. Her entry as a refugee to the USA, having been refused,
“The price of saving a ship full of Jews was too much for even the president of the United States to bear.”
Hannah, was forced to return to Belgium and seek dangerous asylum with her cousin Lily Abels and her husband, respected as a local medical man and surgeon. On an early morning walk (under the dubious safety of early morning pre-dawn darkness, of course) Hannah met Matteo, a local man who, with his sister Micheline, was involved with the resistance cell (code name, - you guessed it, of course – Sapphire!)
And, at that point, Jenoff floors it, the pedal goes to the metal, and CODE NAME SAPPHIRE becomes a full bore high speed genre combination of historical fiction, romance, and espionage thriller. Readers who enjoyed THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS will find plenty to ponder and enjoy – anti-Semitism, Holocaust history, courage, bravery, heroism, friendship, family loyalty, and much, much more.
But, for my money, the breathtaking reality of the historical fiction elements of this story lost out to literary license’s overuse of coincidence, convoluted romance, and decisions being made that probably would not have been made in a war-time environment governed by the simple necessity to fight and to survive.
CODE NAME SAPPHIRE was readable and enjoyable to be sure but it just didn’t have the stunning impact that washed over me when I read THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS.
Paul Weiss
Pam Jenoff’s first novel THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS was based on the British government’s conception of the idea of a corps of female spies and operatives who, in contrast to the men, could blend in and operate undercover much more easily. Based on true events, THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS was a gripping fictionalization of the stories of twelve of these women, their recruitment (and the predictable misogynistic opposition to the idea), their training, their friendships, their missions, their valor, their betrayal and ultimately, their failure to return home to their families and loved ones. I was thrilled to offer that novel a rating of 5 stars when I read it earlier this year and rank it as one of my top ten favourites for 2023.
So I doubt it would shock anyone to hear that my expectations for CODE NAME SAPPHIRE were high, perhaps unfairly so … but it was what it was!
Set in Berlin and Nazi-occupied Belgium during World War II, CODE NAME SAPPHIRE is an account (once again fictionalized, of course) of three courageous women and one man involved with the operation of an expansive resistance cell in Belgium and the “underground railroad” charged with the smuggling of downed British airmen through enemy occupied territory to the coast of the English Channel and home to England to fly and fight again!
Hannah Martel, a Jewish political caricaturist and cartoonist in Berlin operating under the pseudonym Maxim was forced to flee Germany when the Nazis discovered her real name. Her entry as a refugee to the USA, having been refused,
“The price of saving a ship full of Jews was too much for even the president of the United States to bear.”
Hannah, was forced to return to Belgium and seek dangerous asylum with her cousin Lily Abels and her husband, respected as a local medical man and surgeon. On an early morning walk (under the dubious safety of early morning pre-dawn darkness, of course) Hannah met Matteo, a local man who, with his sister Micheline, was involved with the resistance cell (code name, - you guessed it, of course – Sapphire!)
And, at that point, Jenoff floors it, the pedal goes to the metal, and CODE NAME SAPPHIRE becomes a full bore high speed genre combination of historical fiction, romance, and espionage thriller. Readers who enjoyed THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS will find plenty to ponder and enjoy – anti-Semitism, Holocaust history, courage, bravery, heroism, friendship, family loyalty, and much, much more.
But, for my money, the breathtaking reality of the historical fiction elements of this story lost out to literary license’s overuse of coincidence, convoluted romance, and decisions being made that probably would not have been made in a war-time environment governed by the simple necessity to fight and to survive.
CODE NAME SAPPHIRE was readable and enjoyable to be sure but it just didn’t have the stunning impact that washed over me when I read THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS.
Paul Weiss
March 17, 2023
Figuring out how to fairly rate this book was really hard for me bc I liked the general plot, learning another wwii story that I didn’t know (the train break), and the engaging pace. Some of it was so eye-rolling unbelievable, though, and I found myself yelling WHAT way too many times. For example, if you’re breaking curfew while hiding from guards and trying to figure out how to escape a prison camp to save your life, and the lives of your family, are you really going to waste time chitchatting about a man you had an affair with who’s now involved with your cousin/best friend? Nope. The editing was pretty sloppy, too. Tons of typos, and moments where the author seems to lose track of her own details. I’ve loved most of Jenoff’s other books but this was a disappointment, and it had so much potential.
February 19, 2023
I always struggle with giving a lower rating to books involving the holocaust because the subject matter is so intense and the stories all so desperately need to be told. The subject matter of this was beautifully conveyed, worthy and inspirational. My issue is with the character development. I feel like all the characters are very black and white and not necessarily authentic. I feel like I would like this better if some this characters cursed once in awhile and exhibited some negative thoughts. I’ve had the same issue with other works of historical fiction. With that said, this story is definitely one that was waiting to be told and so important in understanding historical heroes.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Park Row and Pam Jenoff for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Park Row and Pam Jenoff for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2022
Pam Jenoff has penned a tale derived from a true event in WWII of the brave attempt of a train liberation of people headed to the horrific death camp Auschwitz.
Written like a runaway train, plowing through emotions such as fear and hope, love and loss, betrayal and redemption, joy and pain, as well as truth and story, this is one not to be missed for any historical fiction fan.
The characters created are whole and well developed, investing you as the reader in every daring mission whether a success or failure. The relationships built are as complex as any relationship you have ever known.
This story brings the danger and heroic actions of resistance workers during Nazi controlled Europe the recognition they so rightly deserve. You’ll encounter lines of resistance workers desperate to save downed airmen, brave citizens that help disseminate information of where airmen are being hidden and passing messages throughout the resistance line right under German soldiers noses, citizens that open their hearts and homes to help feed and clothe those on the run, and of course the bravery of the resistance in liberating a train bound for death.
I cannot recommend this novel high enough for anyone that’s interested in historical fiction, Nazi Germany, or just loves to read a tale that will sweep you up and whisk you away down secret lines of brave people trying to help those in distress.
A huge thank you to #NetGalley, the publishers and amazing author for extending me an ARC in exchange for my honest opinions. Don’t miss this on publication day in Feb. 2023.
Happy reading my friends! 😊
Written like a runaway train, plowing through emotions such as fear and hope, love and loss, betrayal and redemption, joy and pain, as well as truth and story, this is one not to be missed for any historical fiction fan.
The characters created are whole and well developed, investing you as the reader in every daring mission whether a success or failure. The relationships built are as complex as any relationship you have ever known.
This story brings the danger and heroic actions of resistance workers during Nazi controlled Europe the recognition they so rightly deserve. You’ll encounter lines of resistance workers desperate to save downed airmen, brave citizens that help disseminate information of where airmen are being hidden and passing messages throughout the resistance line right under German soldiers noses, citizens that open their hearts and homes to help feed and clothe those on the run, and of course the bravery of the resistance in liberating a train bound for death.
I cannot recommend this novel high enough for anyone that’s interested in historical fiction, Nazi Germany, or just loves to read a tale that will sweep you up and whisk you away down secret lines of brave people trying to help those in distress.
A huge thank you to #NetGalley, the publishers and amazing author for extending me an ARC in exchange for my honest opinions. Don’t miss this on publication day in Feb. 2023.
Happy reading my friends! 😊
April 25, 2023
CODE NAME SAPPHIRE
PAM Jenoff
I LOVE historical fiction, however, I have to say that this one struck me as only mediocre. I was so disappointed. The story development struck me as amateurish and quite simple. The female characters were barely likable. Just one big disappointment.
2 stars
Happy Reading!
PAM Jenoff
I LOVE historical fiction, however, I have to say that this one struck me as only mediocre. I was so disappointed. The story development struck me as amateurish and quite simple. The female characters were barely likable. Just one big disappointment.
2 stars
Happy Reading!
August 25, 2022
Thank you Net Galley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an ARC of Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff. Another amazing story by Jenoff! This story is based on the true story of a liberated train on its way to Auschwitz but the author created amazing characters to give it a back story. It is set in Belgium and tells about the brave people that ran resistance lines to get English airmen that were shot down back to England to fly again. I am constantly amazed how authors find new and unique ways to craft stories about the bravery and sacrifice of WW2. I loved the relationships that were created between the main characters of Micheline, Matteo (brother and sister), Hannah, and Lily (estranged cousins). I felt the characters drove this story and there were many twists that I did not see coming. If you are a fan of Pam Jenoff, historical fiction and special stories of WW2, this is the book for you and comes out 2/7/23.
January 17, 2023
Jenoff always delivers a beautiful story! This novel is about Hannah Martel and her cousin Hannah. They grew up together but as life happens end up in different places.
1942-Hannah is bound for America on a ship after her fiancé is killed in Germany. Unfortunately America and other countries are turning away ships and she has to find a place to go. Her cousin Lily lives in Brussels and she ends up living with Lily, her husband and small son. Lily is used to the privileged live of a doctor’s wife, but her husband loses his job at the university. With food rations, roundups and the occupation, things change drastically.
Hannah joins a resistance network called the Sapphire Line, after she meets Mateo. Mateo and his sister Micheline run this network. Hannah does something for the resistance that gets her cousin and family arrested and they are held in a camp and eventually Auschwitz. Can Hannah get her cousin to safety before it’s too late?
I could not put this book down. I was engaged in this story from the beginning until the end. Another heartwarming novel by Jenoff.
1942-Hannah is bound for America on a ship after her fiancé is killed in Germany. Unfortunately America and other countries are turning away ships and she has to find a place to go. Her cousin Lily lives in Brussels and she ends up living with Lily, her husband and small son. Lily is used to the privileged live of a doctor’s wife, but her husband loses his job at the university. With food rations, roundups and the occupation, things change drastically.
Hannah joins a resistance network called the Sapphire Line, after she meets Mateo. Mateo and his sister Micheline run this network. Hannah does something for the resistance that gets her cousin and family arrested and they are held in a camp and eventually Auschwitz. Can Hannah get her cousin to safety before it’s too late?
I could not put this book down. I was engaged in this story from the beginning until the end. Another heartwarming novel by Jenoff.
February 16, 2023
Not as good as I hoped it would be
I’m not sure what bothered me the most. The storyline seems rather improbable with too many connections between the characters that stretch the imagination. The setting for a novel of WWII is unique but the writing was just mediocre. And the historical facts of the novel have been altered enough that it bothered me. The author explains her reasoning in the afterword however.
I’m not sure what bothered me the most. The storyline seems rather improbable with too many connections between the characters that stretch the imagination. The setting for a novel of WWII is unique but the writing was just mediocre. And the historical facts of the novel have been altered enough that it bothered me. The author explains her reasoning in the afterword however.
March 14, 2023
The war was on, 1942 and Hannah Martel was trying to leave Nazi Germany, she only has on option; to go to her cousin lily's in Brussels.
Hannah had worked in a resistance group before and now she wanted to help. She joins the Sapphire line, a group that helped downed airman out of enemy lines.
Some plans went wrong. Her cousin Lily and family was summoned for deportation.
A last minute decision saves Lily and her son.
Hannah had worked in a resistance group before and now she wanted to help. She joins the Sapphire line, a group that helped downed airman out of enemy lines.
Some plans went wrong. Her cousin Lily and family was summoned for deportation.
A last minute decision saves Lily and her son.
February 8, 2023
Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff was one of my top books that I wanted to read this year and I wasnt disappointed
Code Name Sapphire was based on true events that I had had no knowledge of before reading this book. I love learning about events through a well written story and then researching afterwards and Pam Jenoff, yet again has done this.
I felt like I travelled back in time with this story and the characters but I didn't think the love triangle was needed. It sort of took me away from the story.
So many emotions I felt. Heartbreak, rage, but most of all I loved the courage and bravery of these strong women.
If you love Historical Fiction and a different type of WWII story than this one is for you.
Now I need to read about the liberated trains that were on its way to Auschwitz
Code Name Sapphire was based on true events that I had had no knowledge of before reading this book. I love learning about events through a well written story and then researching afterwards and Pam Jenoff, yet again has done this.
I felt like I travelled back in time with this story and the characters but I didn't think the love triangle was needed. It sort of took me away from the story.
So many emotions I felt. Heartbreak, rage, but most of all I loved the courage and bravery of these strong women.
If you love Historical Fiction and a different type of WWII story than this one is for you.
Now I need to read about the liberated trains that were on its way to Auschwitz
August 25, 2022
Pam Jenoff is a favorite author of mine and she has done an extraordinary book that details the power of women during the desperate times of WWII. This is a remarkable story about an underground network to aid downed British airmen through France into a safer territory. She captures your heart and doesn’t let go as her characters evolve. A few love stories are entwined in this tale as the people fight for survival. There are a few surprises as she weaves this tale that will keep you engaged! A great history teacher as well as an author! #CodeNameSapphire #PamJenoff #NetGalley
February 27, 2023
I hated this
April 30, 2023
This book is trite and tedious. It was predictable and relied heavily on cliches.
Worse, it suffers from terrible editing. Phrases are redundant and constantly cliched, loose ends abound, lengthy conversations take place when "they could be discovered at any moment," and the story is full of simple mistakes in narrative such as one character putting her arm around another when they are supposed to be separated by the fence of a Nazi prison camp.
The reader is innundated with irrelevant details while significant plot points (travel from the German border back to Brussels by a Jew with no identification papers) are neatly resolved with a simple sentence or two and no problems.
I only finished this book out of a perverse fascination with how terrible the editing really was. If you want a great WWII read, I suggest "All the Light One Cannot See" or "The Nightingale." Give this one a pass.
Worse, it suffers from terrible editing. Phrases are redundant and constantly cliched, loose ends abound, lengthy conversations take place when "they could be discovered at any moment," and the story is full of simple mistakes in narrative such as one character putting her arm around another when they are supposed to be separated by the fence of a Nazi prison camp.
The reader is innundated with irrelevant details while significant plot points (travel from the German border back to Brussels by a Jew with no identification papers) are neatly resolved with a simple sentence or two and no problems.
I only finished this book out of a perverse fascination with how terrible the editing really was. If you want a great WWII read, I suggest "All the Light One Cannot See" or "The Nightingale." Give this one a pass.
March 22, 2023
I “read” this book on audio. I have mixed feelings. While the plot was interesting; I found the characters of Hannah and Lily annoying and unlikeable. So much self flagellation! Georgi, an 8 year old child, is not a well developed character and the audio of his voice grating. Also, author is extreme in her details… I think a heavier hand in editing would be beneficial.
I finished it because I was interested in the storyline but not sure I would recommend.
I finished it because I was interested in the storyline but not sure I would recommend.
March 25, 2023
Incredible story and such strong women. This is a great read!
February 1, 2023
Finished reading: January 31st 2023
"We're at war. We are all involved, whether we like it or not."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Park Row in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
May 9, 2023
My heart hurts. Again.
Historical fiction will do that to you. One minute, you’re rooting for the heroes and the next you’re mourning their demises. It should just be a thing that good people don’t die. Ever.
Pam Jenoff never disappoints with her novels; they’re incredibly entertaining and I enjoy them immensely. I was really hoping the ending would be better but like reality, it’s not always the case. Matteo and Hannah deserved their chance at love and my girl Micheline…. UGH.
Hannah, I know why you did what you did but I’m still mad at you. RIP Nik… That one hurt. I hope Lily and Georgi got their happy ending…..
Historical fiction will do that to you. One minute, you’re rooting for the heroes and the next you’re mourning their demises. It should just be a thing that good people don’t die. Ever.
Pam Jenoff never disappoints with her novels; they’re incredibly entertaining and I enjoy them immensely. I was really hoping the ending would be better but like reality, it’s not always the case. Matteo and Hannah deserved their chance at love and my girl Micheline…. UGH.
Hannah, I know why you did what you did but I’m still mad at you. RIP Nik… That one hurt. I hope Lily and Georgi got their happy ending…..
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