The German Wife
The German Wife is a moving, poignant, thought provoking, at times suspenseful, and often heart-wrenching historical fiction novel. I read this with Jenna and Sarah, and the story kept us turning the pages as fast as we could, and I’m pretty sure Jenna finished in less than 24 hours!
Berlin, Germany, 1930—When the Nazis rise to power, Sofie von Meyer Rhodes and her academic husband benefit from the military ambitions of Germany’s newly elected chancellor when Jürgen is offered a high-level position in their burgeoning rocket program. Although they fiercely oppose Hitler’s radical views, and joining his ranks is unthinkable, it soon becomes clear that if Jürgen does not accept the job, their income will be taken away. Then their children. And then their lives.
Huntsville, Alabama, 1950—Twenty years later, Jürgen is one of many German scientists pardoned and granted a position in America’s space program. For Sofie, this is a chance to leave the horrors of her past behind. But when rumors about the Rhodes family’s affiliation with the Nazi party spread among her new American neighbors, idle gossip turns to bitter rage, and the act of violence that results tears apart a family and leaves the community wondering—is it an act of vengeance or justice?
What appealed to you the most in this story?
When historical fiction is done right, you should feel like you are transported back to that era - and I did. I truly felt like I was on a journey with these characters, a marker of excellent historical fiction. But what really made this book one I will never forget was the emotional connection I felt with the characters and story itself. Kelly Rimmer really is a master, and she held my emotions in the palm of her hand right up till the very last page…And yes, tears were shed.
How was the research?
Rimmer is a phenomenal author who meticulously researches her books, and it is evident on every page of this emotional and complex story. So many historical facts were woven into this story. I read about misinformation, fake news, secret CIA operations (Operation Paperclip), and so much more. Facts combined with complex characters and a part of history we cannot forget are brought together brilliantly and will leave you questioning what you would do during this time period.
How was the pace?
Fast! For a 400+ page story I flew through the pages!
Do you recommend this book?
I cannot recommend this book enough! This truly is an exquisite story with complex characters and a lot of emotion. It is filled to the brim with everything from the brutality of war to friendships, to tragedy, to heartbreak and finally hope - this is such a compelling read that it will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.
