The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt ~ a book review

This is a well written, well researched fictionalized account of the occupation of Poland during World War 2, and how it affected two sisters and their relationship.

The chapters are written from each sister’s point of view.  The first half of the book deals with the German takeover and occupation.  The depiction of the holocaust is at times, graphic. It is heavy , sad, heart wrenching but historically accurate.  The second part of the book portrays the resistance of the Polish people. It is a thought provoking story of courageous faith.

Helena and Antonina are twin sisters with a very close relationship. However, the stresses of the horrors that they see threatens to tear them apart. Helena joins the resistance, and willingly puts herself in danger.  Antonina helps smuggle Jewish children and fall sin love with a Jewish man. She finds herself alone, pregnant and unmarried and loses touch with her sister.

This is not what you would call the typical historical Christian romance. The romance takes a back seat to the main thrust of the story.

This is from the publisher’s website:

“A richly rendered portrait of courage, sacrifice, and resilience
On a golden August morning in 1939, sisters Antonina and Helena Dąbrowska send their father off to defend Poland against the looming threat of German invasion. The next day, the first bombs fall on Warsaw, decimating their beloved city and shattering the world of their youth.

When Antonina's beloved Marek is forced behind ghetto walls, along with the rest of Warsaw's Jewish population, Antonina knows she cannot stand by and soon becomes a key figure in a daring network of women risking their lives to shelter Jewish children. Meanwhile, Helena finds herself drawn into the ranks of Poland's secret army, joining the fight to free her homeland from occupation.

But the secrets both are forced to keep threaten to tear them apart--and the cost of resistance may prove greater than either ever imagined.”

The author portrays the horrors of the holocaust in detail, without being as graphic as history has revealed. This is not a lighthearted, “fun” story, however, time after time, you will see God’s hand of protection on each of the sisters.  

Go HERE to read an excerpt.

Go HERE to learn more about Amanda Barratt 

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed  are my own.