The Berlin Letters

I have truly enjoyed reading Reay’s previous publications, and A Shadow in Moscow found its way onto my lifetime favorite shelf last year. The Berlin Letters is another rich story full of heart, suspense and emotion that tells an unforgettable espionage story from the Cold War of a family torn apart because of the Iron Curtain.

What appealed to you the most in this story?

I loved the dual timelines in this story. Usually in a historical fiction book I tend to find myself engrossed in the one particular timeline and always wanting to get back to it. That was not the case in this book at all. I could not get enough of the tension, suspense, character growth, and of course the risks related to being a spy in Germany from post WWII to the late 1980s.

I also liked how the Reay took a unique look and build up to the Cold War and the erection of the Berlin Wall as the story was told through the alternating points of view from both father and daughter, as one struggles to live with the consequences of his allegiances while under a controlling and oppressive regime.

Read if you like:

• Multiple POV

• Dual Timelines

• Espionage

• Family Secrets

• Cryptography

• Historical fiction

How was the pace?

For me this was a fast-paced story that I was completely drawn into from the very beginning. There was so much atmosphere to go along with the tension as I moved from the beginning of the division of Germany in the 60s and the KGB’s authority and paranoia. There were so many times I found myself holding my breath as each new secret was revealed. This is the kind of historical fiction I love and learn so much from.

Do you recommend this book?

Yes! This story has everything - spies, family drama, secrets, hope, resilience and more!!

Thank you, TLC and Harper Muse, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.