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Sepia: If Only He Hadn't. If Only She Had
If Only He Hadn't. If Only She Had
'This is a good story that needs to be told.' EMERITUS PROFESSOR GARY CREW
Can you achieve redemption when political extremist indoctrination leads to the death of your only friend? Spanning continents and decades the fates of Sigrid, her brother Heinz, and his friend Werner, are interwoven by a sepia photograph. Will the lifelong puzzle surrounding this image be revealed to Sigrid?-If only she had. In an era of historic turmoil Heinz's worldly-wise attitude contrasts Werner's compliance which serves as a timeless account of being swept along with the current-If only he hadn't.
Historical fiction blended with contemporary from World War II to the present day. This depicts the young men forced into a war they did not understand or want to be a part of.
The notion of overcoming past torments with an iconic 'fair-go' attitude shows that with reflection and remorse, redemption may be possible.'It's a well-thought-out story with everything coming full circle with a surprise ending.' DONNA MUNRO'The novel is also a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome trauma of the past, hence moving on to a positive future.'EMERITUS PROFESSOR GARY CREW'Shifting perspective between the past and present, the author creates a world filled with surprise, humour, heartache and ultimately redemption. A thoroughly enjoyable story.'DR KATALIN GAAL'This book lifts the spirit and touches the heart. Keep the tissues handy.'LINDA STEWART
'This is a good story that needs to be told.' EMERITUS PROFESSOR GARY CREW
Can you achieve redemption when political extremist indoctrination leads to the death of your only friend? Spanning continents and decades the fates of Sigrid, her brother Heinz, and his friend Werner, are interwoven by a sepia photograph. Will the lifelong puzzle surrounding this image be revealed to Sigrid?-If only she had. In an era of historic turmoil Heinz's worldly-wise attitude contrasts Werner's compliance which serves as a timeless account of being swept along with the current-If only he hadn't.
Historical fiction blended with contemporary from World War II to the present day. This depicts the young men forced into a war they did not understand or want to be a part of.
The notion of overcoming past torments with an iconic 'fair-go' attitude shows that with reflection and remorse, redemption may be possible.'It's a well-thought-out story with everything coming full circle with a surprise ending.' DONNA MUNRO'The novel is also a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome trauma of the past, hence moving on to a positive future.'EMERITUS PROFESSOR GARY CREW'Shifting perspective between the past and present, the author creates a world filled with surprise, humour, heartache and ultimately redemption. A thoroughly enjoyable story.'DR KATALIN GAAL'This book lifts the spirit and touches the heart. Keep the tissues handy.'LINDA STEWART
232 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
September 8, 2023
Herlinde Cayzer’s book Sepia is a story about the siding door moments that govern our lives. “If only” moments. The chapters slide effortless backwards and forwards in time; slowly stitching together the fabric of individual stories between contemporary Australia and WW2 Germany.
It is a story locked in an old sepia photograph which ties events across generations, continents, cultures and decades.
But this is not heartbreak without redemption or forgiveness. This is a celebration of life and joy. Of music, wine, art, new beginnings, family and love.
Herlinde’s writing is vibrant and alive; whether in the grotto at Lake Schwerin, the migrant camp at Wacol, the labour camp at the Snowy Mountain Hydroelectric Scheme or the gathering of friends over wine. Her characters show that it’s never too late to release the past and embrace life.
It is a story locked in an old sepia photograph which ties events across generations, continents, cultures and decades.
But this is not heartbreak without redemption or forgiveness. This is a celebration of life and joy. Of music, wine, art, new beginnings, family and love.
Herlinde’s writing is vibrant and alive; whether in the grotto at Lake Schwerin, the migrant camp at Wacol, the labour camp at the Snowy Mountain Hydroelectric Scheme or the gathering of friends over wine. Her characters show that it’s never too late to release the past and embrace life.
June 1, 2025
A beautiful and engaging novel. And unique, in a good way. Herlinde Cayzer has woven multiple narrative threads together in a masterful way, each thread adding to the story until if feels complete. All loose ends were tied up for a very satisfactory ending.
The links between the characters and the history of Germany and Australia from World War II to the present day, added to this novel's appeal. If felt like the author was writing from experience, making this story all the more authentic.
And the characters were likeable. I wanted to know what would happen to them next. Overall, this book is quite the page-turner! Poignant, warm-hearted, and with a few surprises.
A wonderful read. Highly recommended.
The links between the characters and the history of Germany and Australia from World War II to the present day, added to this novel's appeal. If felt like the author was writing from experience, making this story all the more authentic.
And the characters were likeable. I wanted to know what would happen to them next. Overall, this book is quite the page-turner! Poignant, warm-hearted, and with a few surprises.
A wonderful read. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews