“Excellent read – highly recommended. I initially thought this would not be my cup of tea as my history stops before the Tudors! However, once I’d got used to the short chapters, sorted out the story strands of the various characters and got into the rhythm of the book I really enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down. The story starts with a epilogue but you don’t work out who it is about until the very end of the story. It covers the years from 1920 to 1945 with the rise of Hitler and the Nazis. The persecution of the Jews was heartbreaking. Reading how the Breitner family and friends got through this and how all the strands were woven into the story made it a page turner. I would certainly recommend this book. (***** Amazon review – Ms R. L. Norton – UK)
“Totally gripping.” Vernon is a master of of his craft. His descriptive style is second to none. The depth of his knowledge and research of the era shows on every page. I felt totally present in the story, I could not put the book down. (***** Amazon review – A Biniou – UK)
“A great read that you won’t want to put down” This is a very well- written novel, set in Germany and Austria in WWII. GL Vernon tells the story of various individuals’ trials and tribulations, using highly believable characters, fabulous dialogues and narrative and with sensitivity, warmth and at times, humour. It reaches all the senses and emotions and you’ll still be thinking about the story, that is based in so much truth, long after you’ve finished it.
I would highly recommend this novel and author. (***** Amazon review – Elizabeth Aylott – UK)
“Couldn’t wait to carry on reading to find out what happens.” I really enjoyed the two stories of the main characters that ran throughout the book but told the view of the war from Austrian and German civilians I believed in the characters enough to love some and loathe others and looked forward to finding out what happened to them. Throughly enjoyed it.(***** Amazon review – Sharon GS – UK)
“Well written and enjoyable read. Another enjoyable book that had me hooked from beginning to end. You felt you were there with the characters” . (***** Amazon review – J Till – UK)
“An educational and interesting read A interesting account of life in rural Austria with great characters you become involved with. The story also follows Trudy and her life growing up in Hamburg. The rise of the Nazis and the onset of WW2 is sometimes a hard read because you are faced with the views expressed and the horrors of war but this is an historical novel and a reminder of what it was like to experience it. I enjoyed reading the prequel Fallen Hero and think the author has developed his writing skills in this novel. ” (**** Amazon review – RFid99 – UK)
“Another excellent read. I loved the book as much as “Fallen Hero”, if not more. Believable characters, gripping story line and it made me think again about the horrors of war, from the perspective of the “enemy”, who are no different to ourselves. Looking forward to the next book!” . (***** Amazon review – R. Roberts – UK)
“Totally gripping. From the first page, I was engrossed in this wonderful story, which activated all my emotions. Loved the ending too.” (***** Amazon review – Lynda Armsby – UK)
“Highly Recommended. This is a truly excellent sequel to “Fallen Hero” providing a vivid description of life in rural Austria coupled with the experiences of the rise of Nazi Germany within the lives of the young. A most enjoyable read. Highly recommended.” (***** Amazon review – Ken Wilson – UK)