A half century after the Holocaust, Daria Abramson, suffering nightmares of the Lodz ghetto and her time with its infamous ruler, Chaim Rumkowski, turns for help to a sensitive but dogged therapist.
During their intense sessions, she lays bare buried memories and faces deep feelings of guilt about the war and the death of her husband. Secrets long held by Daria spill out in fierce succession, revelations disclosed to those she loves most – her daughter, granddaughter, and Ruth, a lifelong friend and fellow survivor. In turn, they expose their own shocking surprises.
In Daria’s Secrets, by Jeff Ingber, we travel together with a courageous woman as she attempts to overcome the anguish of the heart’s remembrance, in order to finally live.
Jeff Ingber is a former financial industry executive and current consultant. His writings include novels, screenplays, short stories, and articles. Jeff's first screenplay was the basis for the 2019 film "Crypto" starring Kurt Russell and Alexis Bledel. A previous novel, "Shattered Lives," was made into a documentary film by Mactavish Pictures. A graduate of Queens College and NYU Law School, Jeff lives in New Jersey with his wife.
Daria’s Secrets is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel that explores the long-lasting psychological impact of trauma and the complex journey toward healing. Set decades after the Holocaust, the story offers a powerful look into how memories of the past continue to shape the present, making it both historically significant and deeply personal.
One of the most compelling elements of the book is its focus on Daria’s inner world. Through her therapy sessions, readers are taken on an intense and revealing journey as buried memories and long-held secrets come to the surface. The emotional honesty in these moments adds depth and authenticity, allowing readers to connect with her struggles and resilience.
The relationships within the story further enrich the narrative. As Daria opens up to her daughter, granddaughter, and close friend, the unfolding revelations create layers of tension and emotional complexity. These interactions highlight themes of guilt, survival, and the enduring bonds between generations shaped by shared history.
Overall, Daria’s Secrets is a poignant and meaningful novel that handles its subject matter with sensitivity and depth. It’s a powerful exploration of memory, truth, and the courage it takes to confront the past, making it a book that lingers long after it’s finished.