Child of the Ruins: a gripping, heart-breaking and unforgettable World War Two historical thriller

In the aftermath of World War II, two families are divided by war and an entire city is on the edge of disaster. Anna and Ingrid are both searching for answers and revenge in the messy aftermath of the war. They understand that survival comes only by knowing what to trade: food, medicine, heirlooms, and secrets. But they cannot give up in the search for a lost child. "The Berlin Girl" is a harrowing and compelling portrait of Berlin in the aftermath of World War Two, told through the interconnecting stories of two courageous women struggling to survive in the rubble of their war-torn city. The plot is exciting and fast-paced, thought-provoking and multi-layered, and thoroughly entertaining. The novel draws you in with its incredibly well-researched historical fiction and tenacious female leads, and it leaves you feeling like you are living in post-war Berlin.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

A poignant love story unfolds amidst the backdrop of a divided world, torn apart by war. Two families, separated by conflict, find themselves trapped in the heart of a city on the brink of disaster. The gripping narrative, filled with heart-pounding moments, had me captivated from the very beginning. What truly amazed me was the sheer eloquence of the writing, which transported me to a world of emotions and deepened my connection to the characters.

This is a story of the indomitable human spirit and the unwavering power of love. It depicts the resilience of those who face impossible odds, refusing to be defeated by the trials and tribulations they encounter. I found myself deeply moved by the characters' journeys, their struggles, and their unwavering determination to survive. I know that I will be recommending this novel to everyone, as it is a testament to the strength of the human soul and the enduring power of love.

Set in 1948, Berlin, the city is in the aftermath of World War II. The war has ended, but Russian troops have closed all access to the city, trapping two million people. Roads, railway lines, and waterways are blocked, leaving the inhabitants reliant on airlifts of food, water, and medicine to survive. The Russian state police, with their sharp eyes, watch everything, making trust a scarce commodity.

Anna and Ingrid, two women searching for answers and revenge in the messy aftermath of war, understand that survival comes at a price. They must learn to trade their most valuable possessions—food, medicine, heirlooms, and secrets—to ensure their survival. Both women live in the shadows of a city where the line between right and wrong has become dangerously blurred. However, their quest for a lost child drives them forward, giving them a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.

"The Berlin Aftermath" is an absolute triumph. Dinah Jefferies weaves a vivid, brave, and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers hooked from the first killer sentence. Rachel Hore praises the novel for its vivid portrayal of Berlin in the aftermath of World War Two, telling the story through the interconnected lives of two courageous women. Fiona Valpy describes the novel as a "perfect read," praising its exciting and fast-paced plot, thought-provoking and multi-layered themes, and thoroughly entertaining nature.

The author, Furnivall, masterfully captures the history of a divided Berlin in the aftermath of World War II. The novel seamlessly weaves together the stories of Anna and Ingrid, providing a deep and nuanced understanding of the city's struggles and the human cost of war. The characters are well-developed, with their flaws, strengths, and motivations making them relatable and compelling. The writing is elegant and evocative, drawing the reader into the world of the novel and immersing them in the characters' experiences.

In conclusion, "The Berlin Aftermath" is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, compelling storytelling, and the resilience of the human spirit. The novel's powerful writing, vivid portrayal of a divided city, and well-developed characters make it a testament to the strength of love and the indomitable human spirit. I highly recommend this novel to anyone seeking an engaging and thought-provoking read.

Dimension: 240 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399713580