The Secret Society of Salzburg

The Secret Society of Salzburg is an incredible, moving, gripping and heartfelt historical fiction novel set in WWII and is based on the real-life sisters who worked to help save Jewish refugees all while set in the

Synopsis: London, 1933
 
At first glance, Austrian opera singer Elsa Mayer-Braun has little in common with the young English typist she encounters on tour. Yet she and Hattie Featherstone forge an instant connection—and strike a dangerous alliance. Using their friendship as a cover, they form a secret society with a daring goal: to rescue as many Jews as possible from Nazi persecution.
 
Though the war’s outbreak threatens Elsa and Hattie’s network, their efforts attract the covert attention of the British government, offering more opportunities to thwart the Germans. But Elsa’s growing fame as Hitler’s favorite opera singer, coupled with her secret Jewish ancestry, make her both a weapon and a target—until her future, too, hangs in the balance.
 
From the glamorous stages of Covent Garden and Salzburg to the horrors of Bergen-Belsen,  two ordinary women swept up by the tide of war discover an extraordinary friendship—and the courage to save countless lives.

What appealed to you the most in this story?

I always love how Ryan is able to immerse her readers in each book she writes. As I read, I really felt like I was right there with Elsa and Hattie in the dramatic and exhilarating world of opera in Vienna and London. I could feel everything they were going through as I found myself in their lives filled with political tension along with life and death struggles as these women risked their lives to help rescue Jews from the Nazi’s and their death camps.

How were the dual points of view?

I found myself completely consumed as the chapters cycled through both Elsa and Hattie’s points of view. Their dangerous and harrowing acts of self-sacrifice were truly brave and noble. Ryan masterfully wove together both points of view with her deeply layered characters.

How was the pace?

The story rotates between a fast and steady pace.

Do you recommend this book?

If you are looking for a compelling, nongraphic and powerful story of bravery that takes you through all the emotions, then this book is for you.

Thank you, Harlequin Publishing, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.