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When We Disappeared: A WWII Story of Two Women of Different Faiths who Risk Their Lives to Save Family and Friends
The intense, gripping conclusion of the Resilient Women of WWII Trilogy, sweeps across Nazi Germany, Bratislava, and the Tatra Mountains, as two young women face high stakes to find their way home.
1943 When a safe house in Nazi-occupied the Netherlands becomes too dangerous for Edith, she flees. Injured, she meets Erich who promises to take her to his family’s home for medical attention. En route she awakens to discover that they’ve entered Nazi Germany—the last place she wants to be as a Jew.
In need of concealing her faith, and with limited choices, Edith becomes the private teacher to Erich’s young brothers. Her roommate is a Roma with a tragic past and also hides from the Nazis in plain sight. When the new friends learn that Erich’s father is a senior member of the Nazi party, they know it is time to escape. Yet, Nazi patrols complicate their travels. Then, the last person imagined supplies a means to not only leave the house but from the Reich, altogether, though their safety is at risk as they cross several national borders.
Following We Shall Not Shatter and Our Daughters’ Last Hope , the new friends, brought together by a common enemy, must courageously look into the eyes of evil and begin a gutsy journey to search for their families they’ve left behind during the war, and to help others through these dark times of prejudice and hatred.
1943 When a safe house in Nazi-occupied the Netherlands becomes too dangerous for Edith, she flees. Injured, she meets Erich who promises to take her to his family’s home for medical attention. En route she awakens to discover that they’ve entered Nazi Germany—the last place she wants to be as a Jew.
In need of concealing her faith, and with limited choices, Edith becomes the private teacher to Erich’s young brothers. Her roommate is a Roma with a tragic past and also hides from the Nazis in plain sight. When the new friends learn that Erich’s father is a senior member of the Nazi party, they know it is time to escape. Yet, Nazi patrols complicate their travels. Then, the last person imagined supplies a means to not only leave the house but from the Reich, altogether, though their safety is at risk as they cross several national borders.
Following We Shall Not Shatter and Our Daughters’ Last Hope , the new friends, brought together by a common enemy, must courageously look into the eyes of evil and begin a gutsy journey to search for their families they’ve left behind during the war, and to help others through these dark times of prejudice and hatred.
306 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2023
14 people are currently reading
900 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Stock
11 books422 followersElaine Stock writes historical fiction and domestic suspense novels. While her novels continue to appear on several Amazon Bestseller Lists, what pleases her the most is hearing from readers around the world who say these stories inspire them to face their own tomorrows. Elaine and her husband are owned by two cats, who sometimes allow them to go on long walks down country roads and explore New England towns.
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Visit with Elaine at: https://www.elainestock.com
Sign up for Elaine’s monthly Newsletter with guest authors: https://elainestock.substack.com
Links to find Elaine:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elaineloves...
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/elainestock....
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorElaine...
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Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/1JYAwNy
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 8, 2023
Elaine Stock concludes her Resilient Women of WWII series with a compelling story of two women who flee from their Nazi pursuers hoping to avoid persecution because of their beliefs. They get help from an unlikely source as they journey across boarders and through enemy territories in order to avoid being sent to a concentration camp . Not knowing the fate of their families they left behind they can only hope they will one day be reunited after the war ends. They can only hope for a brighter tomorrow.
One of my favorite genres is WWII Fiction. This well written story felt very realistic and it seemed as though I was right there with the characters as they came to life in the pages of this book. The Author has well researched the Second World War and I thought she gave an accurate account of events, dates and locations that had suffered damage from bombings. The characters were strong and added to my imagination as I read the book. When We Disappeared was entertaining, unpredictable, and a page turner. For a while I went back in time and it has made me better understand how our ancestors suffered and what they gave up so we could have a better life today.
I highly recommend this book to readers of WWII Fiction and Historical Romance . When We Disappeared is book 3 of The Resilient Woman of WWII series. Though this book can be read as a stand alone I recommend that readers read the series in order because characters cross over from book to book.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
One of my favorite genres is WWII Fiction. This well written story felt very realistic and it seemed as though I was right there with the characters as they came to life in the pages of this book. The Author has well researched the Second World War and I thought she gave an accurate account of events, dates and locations that had suffered damage from bombings. The characters were strong and added to my imagination as I read the book. When We Disappeared was entertaining, unpredictable, and a page turner. For a while I went back in time and it has made me better understand how our ancestors suffered and what they gave up so we could have a better life today.
I highly recommend this book to readers of WWII Fiction and Historical Romance . When We Disappeared is book 3 of The Resilient Woman of WWII series. Though this book can be read as a stand alone I recommend that readers read the series in order because characters cross over from book to book.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
March 26, 2023
Elaine Stock has completed her Resilient Women of WWII with another strong book about two women who become friends and work together to fight against the Nazi hatred that had taken over Germany.
Edith lives with her sister and her mother in Amsterdam. Their father has been arrested and they are in fear of being arrested even though they have forged papers and live their lives as Christians. Their mother, Herta, decides to send both girls into hiding for their safety knowing that she may never see them again. Edith changes her name to Elsa and goes into hiding at a farm where several young people are staying. The farmer is only keeping them for the money that he gets from the resistance and he has raped Edith and several of the other girls living there. When she escapes, she flees to the nearest big city. She falls and hurts her ankle and is not able to continue her escape. She's befriended by Erich, a young man she knows nothing about and he takes her to his palatial home in Germany to recover. Once there, she feels that she has jumped from the frying pan into the fire. Erich's parents are staunch Nazis and she has no idea if Erich is a Nazi and if her life is in danger. After her recovery from her broken ankle, she's asked to be the teacher for two younger twins and is sent to room with Adela in a basement room. There the two women from totally different backgrounds become friends.
Vonni lived with her family in Czechoslovakia and left the family compound to try to find her father. As a member of the Roma group, she knows that her life is in danger because the Nazis are always on the lookout for the people they refer to as gypsies to send them to the camps. Her search for her father takes her to Vienna. When she gets sick, she is befriended by a young Jewish couple with two small children and takes the name Adela. When the Nazis start rounding up Jewish people in Vienna, the young couple disappear and Vonni is left alone. She's befriended by a young German man who takes her to his family home to recover and they hire her as a maid.
So now we have Elsa and Adela living in a palatial estate in the heart of Germany, both in fear of being found out that they are not the people they profess to be. What's worse is that the owner of the estate and his wife are strong and loyal members of the Nazi party. Are the two sons also Nazis who will turn in the two young girls or are they part of the resistance who will help them escape? When they flee to Vienna, they are scared that they will be discovered by the Nazis at the check points along the trip. Their trip to Vienna is a real nail biter and kept me turning the pages in hopes that they would remain safe.
This third book in the trilogy features two women who become friends and become stronger and more resilient as they work together to find a safe place. The author has done extensive research and its apparent on every page. This book could be read as a standalone with minimal confusion but there is a relationship between one of the women and her parents from book 2 that may caused some questions. My recommendation is to read all three of the books in the series in order for maximum enjoyment.
I read a lot of World War II fiction and this is one of the best series that I've read. All three books feature strong women from very different backgrounds who became friends and work to help each other stay safe as they try to escape from the evil around them.
Edith lives with her sister and her mother in Amsterdam. Their father has been arrested and they are in fear of being arrested even though they have forged papers and live their lives as Christians. Their mother, Herta, decides to send both girls into hiding for their safety knowing that she may never see them again. Edith changes her name to Elsa and goes into hiding at a farm where several young people are staying. The farmer is only keeping them for the money that he gets from the resistance and he has raped Edith and several of the other girls living there. When she escapes, she flees to the nearest big city. She falls and hurts her ankle and is not able to continue her escape. She's befriended by Erich, a young man she knows nothing about and he takes her to his palatial home in Germany to recover. Once there, she feels that she has jumped from the frying pan into the fire. Erich's parents are staunch Nazis and she has no idea if Erich is a Nazi and if her life is in danger. After her recovery from her broken ankle, she's asked to be the teacher for two younger twins and is sent to room with Adela in a basement room. There the two women from totally different backgrounds become friends.
Vonni lived with her family in Czechoslovakia and left the family compound to try to find her father. As a member of the Roma group, she knows that her life is in danger because the Nazis are always on the lookout for the people they refer to as gypsies to send them to the camps. Her search for her father takes her to Vienna. When she gets sick, she is befriended by a young Jewish couple with two small children and takes the name Adela. When the Nazis start rounding up Jewish people in Vienna, the young couple disappear and Vonni is left alone. She's befriended by a young German man who takes her to his family home to recover and they hire her as a maid.
So now we have Elsa and Adela living in a palatial estate in the heart of Germany, both in fear of being found out that they are not the people they profess to be. What's worse is that the owner of the estate and his wife are strong and loyal members of the Nazi party. Are the two sons also Nazis who will turn in the two young girls or are they part of the resistance who will help them escape? When they flee to Vienna, they are scared that they will be discovered by the Nazis at the check points along the trip. Their trip to Vienna is a real nail biter and kept me turning the pages in hopes that they would remain safe.
This third book in the trilogy features two women who become friends and become stronger and more resilient as they work together to find a safe place. The author has done extensive research and its apparent on every page. This book could be read as a standalone with minimal confusion but there is a relationship between one of the women and her parents from book 2 that may caused some questions. My recommendation is to read all three of the books in the series in order for maximum enjoyment.
I read a lot of World War II fiction and this is one of the best series that I've read. All three books feature strong women from very different backgrounds who became friends and work to help each other stay safe as they try to escape from the evil around them.
May 5, 2023
I have read all three books in this trilogy by Elaine Stock, and I must say, if I shed one more tear, I'll just dry up and blow away.
As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, I took particular heart in this story (and the first two) because I have such an abundance of love for the Jewish people. The WWII period of time was horrendous for them. And, these two women forged an unforgettable path together.
I cannot say enough in praise of this work. Elaine always seems to outdo herself in both research and developing that knowledge into a unforgettable story.
As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, I took particular heart in this story (and the first two) because I have such an abundance of love for the Jewish people. The WWII period of time was horrendous for them. And, these two women forged an unforgettable path together.
I cannot say enough in praise of this work. Elaine always seems to outdo herself in both research and developing that knowledge into a unforgettable story.
May 30, 2023
When we Disappeared is a riveting novel set during the horrors of World War II. The author immediately draws the reader into a world torn apart by hatred and fear. Despite the adversities the main characters face, they manage to cling to little kernels of hope throughout the novel. It is this hope that propels them forward, that keeps them fighting, and ultimately that keeps them alive.
The novel opens with the tragic decision a Jewish mother must make. She has to send her daughters away into hiding. First, Krista leaves the family home and then Elsa. Elsa has a difficult time with this decision. She feels deeply abandoned and betrayed by her mother. Elsa has to learn many life lessons the hard way and throughout the novel, readers see her maturing throughout her journey. Not only is she able to come to terms with the terrible decision her mother made but she is able to appreciate that she did it to save her daughter, Elsa’s, life.
Resilience is a theme which is constant throughout the novel. Those who managed to survive the horrors that befell them tapped into an immense amount of strength and resilience. This is beautifully conveyed through Elsa’s reflections on her own fortitude, “Strength? Since her childhood days in Berlin when antisemitism escalated to the horror of Kristallnacht and forced her family to flee the country, she’d believed each daily action she’d undertaken, whether making a small decision or carrying out a larger task, was out of a primeval need to survive. Might her strength be summoned from a deeper, more human level of wanting to live a more fulfilling life rather than mere existence? She didn’t know whether this desire was ignited by selfishness or a fiery resiliency to make the most of life.” The instinct to live and persevere amidst turmoil is something all of the characters face.
The Nazi regime not only persecuted the Jews, but also the Roma, homosexuals, deaf, blind and mentally ill. We see many characters facing different aspects of this persecution. Adela, who became separated from her family on a mission to find her missing father, finds herself in a Nazi pledged household. Once her Roma identity is revealed, she finds she must leave that dangerous place. Adela spends much time thinking about the persecution of her people and the unfairness brought down upon them. Her dreams are to return to her vista and to be left alone to live in peace as is evidenced by her thoughts on the matter, “Soon enough they’d arrive home, back to their own vista. Her people had beautiful dark eyes, gleaming hearts, and a love of family so large and fierce that others should weep with jealousy. That was, if these outsiders would take the time to get to know the Roma rather than paint pictures of hackneyed and false people.”
In an interesting turn of events, as Elsa is escaping a safe house which turns out to be not so safe, she is rescued by Erich. Erich is a member of an elite Nazi family. Fear grips her heart once she makes this connection. However, she has little choice but to remain in his household since when she was running from the safe house, she fell and badly injured her ankle. She finds herself stuck in a household surrounded by people who have sworn allegiance to Hitler and would like nothing more than to see her demise if they knew her true identity.
However, there is more to Erich and his family than meets the eye. Despite being high ranking Nazi’s, Erich and his brother seem to be involved in some form of resistance movement. Elsa finds herself increasingly drawn to Erich who watches over her convalescence with the care and kindness Elsa would not have expected from a Nazi.
Knowing one’s identity seems to be something which all of the main characters struggle with on some level. While Erich is a German, son of a high-ranking Nazi and has been schooled and educated based on Hitler’s brainwashing schemes, he finds he rejects this part of his identity. Despite rejecting this part of himself, he is unable to reject his family. His parents will always be who they are and will also be a part of him.
The search for inner knowing and identity is also evident when Adela talks about how she feels her identity was snatched from her when she went out to look for her missing father, “But, right up to the time my father and sister disappeared, I knew who I was, what people I belonged to, where I lived. I knew what tomorrow would bring. And most of all, I had what I needed in life—people that loved me.” War, persecution, separation from faith, family and community all contrive to make the characters uncertain of who they are or where they belong in the world. This is also tragically evident as Elsa crafts a letter to her mother in her head and is confused on how to sign it at the end, “But how should she sign the letter? Sincerely? Yours? Love? Did she feel any of those? And with what name? Edith? Elsa? Like many things she’d lost during this war, she no longer knew her identity.” This disconnection from oneself is a tragic psychological and emotional burden which the characters must carry and work through. The very title of the novel, When we Disappeared, seems to reflect this notion. Not only did Elsa, Adela and other Jews and Roma physically disappear, go into hiding, change their names, but in addition to all these losses, a large part of their soul must also have felt as if it completely vanished.
Overall, this is a heart-breaking novel written in a poised, eloquent and gripping way. I appreciate how the author portrayed the cruel horrors of war but also offered reprieve for readers in the form of hope and love. This is mirrored in Elsa’s words to Erich, “Anger in the form of retaliation or revenge makes matters worse, not better. Hatred only and always begets more hatred. What this world needs is love and kindness. And that’s what we need to spread between us—this love.” Additionally, I found the love story between Erich and Elsa to be extremely touching. It shows that even individuals from the most diverse backgrounds and in the most terrible circumstances, can see past their differences, find meaningful connection, and fall in love.
*****
“When We Disappeared” by Elaine Stock receives 4.5 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
The novel opens with the tragic decision a Jewish mother must make. She has to send her daughters away into hiding. First, Krista leaves the family home and then Elsa. Elsa has a difficult time with this decision. She feels deeply abandoned and betrayed by her mother. Elsa has to learn many life lessons the hard way and throughout the novel, readers see her maturing throughout her journey. Not only is she able to come to terms with the terrible decision her mother made but she is able to appreciate that she did it to save her daughter, Elsa’s, life.
Resilience is a theme which is constant throughout the novel. Those who managed to survive the horrors that befell them tapped into an immense amount of strength and resilience. This is beautifully conveyed through Elsa’s reflections on her own fortitude, “Strength? Since her childhood days in Berlin when antisemitism escalated to the horror of Kristallnacht and forced her family to flee the country, she’d believed each daily action she’d undertaken, whether making a small decision or carrying out a larger task, was out of a primeval need to survive. Might her strength be summoned from a deeper, more human level of wanting to live a more fulfilling life rather than mere existence? She didn’t know whether this desire was ignited by selfishness or a fiery resiliency to make the most of life.” The instinct to live and persevere amidst turmoil is something all of the characters face.
The Nazi regime not only persecuted the Jews, but also the Roma, homosexuals, deaf, blind and mentally ill. We see many characters facing different aspects of this persecution. Adela, who became separated from her family on a mission to find her missing father, finds herself in a Nazi pledged household. Once her Roma identity is revealed, she finds she must leave that dangerous place. Adela spends much time thinking about the persecution of her people and the unfairness brought down upon them. Her dreams are to return to her vista and to be left alone to live in peace as is evidenced by her thoughts on the matter, “Soon enough they’d arrive home, back to their own vista. Her people had beautiful dark eyes, gleaming hearts, and a love of family so large and fierce that others should weep with jealousy. That was, if these outsiders would take the time to get to know the Roma rather than paint pictures of hackneyed and false people.”
In an interesting turn of events, as Elsa is escaping a safe house which turns out to be not so safe, she is rescued by Erich. Erich is a member of an elite Nazi family. Fear grips her heart once she makes this connection. However, she has little choice but to remain in his household since when she was running from the safe house, she fell and badly injured her ankle. She finds herself stuck in a household surrounded by people who have sworn allegiance to Hitler and would like nothing more than to see her demise if they knew her true identity.
However, there is more to Erich and his family than meets the eye. Despite being high ranking Nazi’s, Erich and his brother seem to be involved in some form of resistance movement. Elsa finds herself increasingly drawn to Erich who watches over her convalescence with the care and kindness Elsa would not have expected from a Nazi.
Knowing one’s identity seems to be something which all of the main characters struggle with on some level. While Erich is a German, son of a high-ranking Nazi and has been schooled and educated based on Hitler’s brainwashing schemes, he finds he rejects this part of his identity. Despite rejecting this part of himself, he is unable to reject his family. His parents will always be who they are and will also be a part of him.
The search for inner knowing and identity is also evident when Adela talks about how she feels her identity was snatched from her when she went out to look for her missing father, “But, right up to the time my father and sister disappeared, I knew who I was, what people I belonged to, where I lived. I knew what tomorrow would bring. And most of all, I had what I needed in life—people that loved me.” War, persecution, separation from faith, family and community all contrive to make the characters uncertain of who they are or where they belong in the world. This is also tragically evident as Elsa crafts a letter to her mother in her head and is confused on how to sign it at the end, “But how should she sign the letter? Sincerely? Yours? Love? Did she feel any of those? And with what name? Edith? Elsa? Like many things she’d lost during this war, she no longer knew her identity.” This disconnection from oneself is a tragic psychological and emotional burden which the characters must carry and work through. The very title of the novel, When we Disappeared, seems to reflect this notion. Not only did Elsa, Adela and other Jews and Roma physically disappear, go into hiding, change their names, but in addition to all these losses, a large part of their soul must also have felt as if it completely vanished.
Overall, this is a heart-breaking novel written in a poised, eloquent and gripping way. I appreciate how the author portrayed the cruel horrors of war but also offered reprieve for readers in the form of hope and love. This is mirrored in Elsa’s words to Erich, “Anger in the form of retaliation or revenge makes matters worse, not better. Hatred only and always begets more hatred. What this world needs is love and kindness. And that’s what we need to spread between us—this love.” Additionally, I found the love story between Erich and Elsa to be extremely touching. It shows that even individuals from the most diverse backgrounds and in the most terrible circumstances, can see past their differences, find meaningful connection, and fall in love.
*****
“When We Disappeared” by Elaine Stock receives 4.5 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
April 10, 2023
Chilling. Terrifying. Hopeful. Elaine Stock takes readers on a journey that reveals how far parents will go to protect their family. When We Disappeared is a story of survival and risk for the Jews and Gypsies hiding in plain sight and for the allies providing shelter in Nazi occupied territory. It’s a death sentence for both if discovered. Danger lurks and the threat of betrayal is real at every point of the final book of the Resilient Women of WWII Trilogy.
Eileen Harrison Sanchez, Author, Freedom Lessons - A Novel
Eileen Harrison Sanchez, Author, Freedom Lessons - A Novel
May 13, 2023
Loss and love, tragedy and triumph in the face of unspeakable evil
This great conclusion to the Resilient Women of WWII Trilogy is full of mystery and intrigue as two young women seek to save themselves and their loved ones from the Nazis, never knowing whom they can trust. The surprising turn of events throughout the story kept me turning the pages.
This great conclusion to the Resilient Women of WWII Trilogy is full of mystery and intrigue as two young women seek to save themselves and their loved ones from the Nazis, never knowing whom they can trust. The surprising turn of events throughout the story kept me turning the pages.
May 12, 2023
Edith and Vonnie, strong female characters, during WWII, captured my heart and attention in this ebook from Goodreads.
March 30, 2023
Another 5 star read from Elaine Stock. The third and final book in the Resilient Women of WWII Trilogy, When We Disappeared, didn’t disappoint, and certainly lived up to the first two books in this historical fiction trilogy.
I was drawn into this story by the compelling narrative of two very different naive young women who, through adversity, grow in understanding, trust and maturity as the story unfolds. The characters are so vividly written, I felt I knew them, travelled on their journeys with them, urging them to be careful, wanting to hold their hands and encourage them. The story is heartbreaking at times, and at times hopeful, and though I shed more than a few tears I also smiled at times.
This final book in the trilogy helps to tie the threads of the the three books together.
Elaine is a wonderful writer and these stories, this trilogy, would have to be the best, in a sad and enlightening way, WWII historical fiction that I have read. These books will stay with me for a very long time.
I was drawn into this story by the compelling narrative of two very different naive young women who, through adversity, grow in understanding, trust and maturity as the story unfolds. The characters are so vividly written, I felt I knew them, travelled on their journeys with them, urging them to be careful, wanting to hold their hands and encourage them. The story is heartbreaking at times, and at times hopeful, and though I shed more than a few tears I also smiled at times.
This final book in the trilogy helps to tie the threads of the the three books together.
Elaine is a wonderful writer and these stories, this trilogy, would have to be the best, in a sad and enlightening way, WWII historical fiction that I have read. These books will stay with me for a very long time.
September 2, 2023
Elaine Stock has knocked It out of the park once again with her third and final novel in the RESILENT WOMEN OF WWII series. If I thought book one, WE SHALL NOT SHATTER, and book two, OUR DAUGHETR’S LAST HOPE were page turners; book three, WHEN WE DISAPPEARED comes along and keeps the reader at the edge of their seat. The author does an amazing job of pulling the reader right in to every situation with an ending well worth the wait. The characters from the previous novels are gathered to finalize the series, giving the reader a glimpse at a hopeful and happy future for each one . . . their horrible journey of a war, filled with prejudice and terror, behind them.
May 26, 2023
This is the remarkable story of two women, escaping Nazi Germany and their families, friends and foes. Both just girls at the start, the growth and strength that transpires in this book is heartening and heart breaking at the same time. The research and historical fact included in this work was so accurate, on point, and gave such credence to the story. This is the first work of this Author that I've read. It won't be the last. Highly Recommended.
May 22, 2023
Historical Fiction novel about the suffering of both Jews and Gypsies. Interesting story how several very different people come together and come to understand, see each other more clearly. All while the Nazi evil plans are being pushed upon many countries and peoples. I recommend this book. I won this ebook from Goodreads and the author, Elaine Stock. Thank you!
July 1, 2023
Inspirational Story
Hands down, this is one of my favorite books to have read this year! As this author is new to me, I didn't realize that there were two other books in this inspirational series. I enjoyed reading about the many characters in this story and how their lives changed while helping loved ones through a very difficult and painful time. In the near future, I look forward to reading more books by Elaine Stock!
Hands down, this is one of my favorite books to have read this year! As this author is new to me, I didn't realize that there were two other books in this inspirational series. I enjoyed reading about the many characters in this story and how their lives changed while helping loved ones through a very difficult and painful time. In the near future, I look forward to reading more books by Elaine Stock!
June 17, 2023
Elaine Stock has a way of writing like none other. Her characters move readers throughout the pages of the novel. Not only do you have compassion and empathy for them, but you have respect, admiration, and awe. Edith is no exception to the rule. She shows bravery in a new light. She shows hope that can apply to us even today. No, we do not live anywhere near the tragedy that she did in this story, yet we have difficulties in our own lives, and Edith reminds us that we can and will get through it.
We also read about Vonni, who's story is just as impactful as Edith's. I can't imagine the depth of hurt and sorrow Vonni went through in this story (I don't want to include any spoilers, so you'll have to read it for yourself). But she shows great strength and courage, reminding readers that even when things are grim, even when it seems like you are alone, the truth is that you are not alone and you can keep going.
Both of these women provide valuable lessons to the reader, but what really makes this story a hit is Stock's words. Her ability to pull you into the time period, feeling a sense of belonging as you're reading, and hitting you with every single emotion the characters feel is uncanny. I thoroughly enjoy reading her stories for this very reason. Historical fiction fans who enjoy jumping into that time machine will love reading When We Disappeared. And if you haven't started the series yet, I encourage you to read the entire series. Each and every story will be sure to touch your heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
We also read about Vonni, who's story is just as impactful as Edith's. I can't imagine the depth of hurt and sorrow Vonni went through in this story (I don't want to include any spoilers, so you'll have to read it for yourself). But she shows great strength and courage, reminding readers that even when things are grim, even when it seems like you are alone, the truth is that you are not alone and you can keep going.
Both of these women provide valuable lessons to the reader, but what really makes this story a hit is Stock's words. Her ability to pull you into the time period, feeling a sense of belonging as you're reading, and hitting you with every single emotion the characters feel is uncanny. I thoroughly enjoy reading her stories for this very reason. Historical fiction fans who enjoy jumping into that time machine will love reading When We Disappeared. And if you haven't started the series yet, I encourage you to read the entire series. Each and every story will be sure to touch your heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 28, 2023
The Resilient Women of WWII Trilogy concludes with a powerful and captivating finale in When We Disappeared. In this final installment, Elaine Stock takes readers on a harrowing journey as two brave young women, Edith and her Vonni, are forced to confront the darkest aspects of humanity to survive.
Stock's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions draw readers into the heart of Nazi-occupied Europe, where danger lurks around every corner and hope is a rare commodity. Edith's journey intensifies as she leaves a safe house in the Netherlands and, hiding her Jewish identity, becomes a private teacher.
The addition of her brave Roma roommate Vonni adds a layer of complexity and depth to the narrative, and as the two women join forces to search for their families and help others, they find the value of the all-important bonds of friendship during dark times. Readers will be swept up in the women’s strength throughout their intense journey. Impossible to put down, When We Disappeared's conclusion is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
This trilogy is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, particularly stories of bravery and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. This final installment is a testament to the human spirit and a fitting end to a truly remarkable series.
Stock's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions draw readers into the heart of Nazi-occupied Europe, where danger lurks around every corner and hope is a rare commodity. Edith's journey intensifies as she leaves a safe house in the Netherlands and, hiding her Jewish identity, becomes a private teacher.
The addition of her brave Roma roommate Vonni adds a layer of complexity and depth to the narrative, and as the two women join forces to search for their families and help others, they find the value of the all-important bonds of friendship during dark times. Readers will be swept up in the women’s strength throughout their intense journey. Impossible to put down, When We Disappeared's conclusion is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
This trilogy is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, particularly stories of bravery and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. This final installment is a testament to the human spirit and a fitting end to a truly remarkable series.
June 20, 2023
If you liked the unforgettable story of Aanya and Zofia in Elaine Stock’s first book, you’ll love reading the tale of Edith and Vonni in her latest. If you admired the strength of character shown by Herta and Julia in Stock’s second novel, you’ll savor the resolve and resilience displayed by the two heroines in her newest work.
“When We Disappeared,” the third volume in a trilogy of books on Resilient Women in World War 2, is rich with descriptions of time and place. It reflects the careful research Stock has done on the settings of her novels. And it keeps the reader engaged as Edith and Vonni effect their escape from the lion’s den in Nazi Germany and seek to find the families from which they’ve been separated.
For those who may not have read Stock’s earlier two books, you’ll find “When We Disappeared” an excellent stand alone read. You may also, like me, find yourself anxious to dig into her backlist!
“When We Disappeared,” the third volume in a trilogy of books on Resilient Women in World War 2, is rich with descriptions of time and place. It reflects the careful research Stock has done on the settings of her novels. And it keeps the reader engaged as Edith and Vonni effect their escape from the lion’s den in Nazi Germany and seek to find the families from which they’ve been separated.
For those who may not have read Stock’s earlier two books, you’ll find “When We Disappeared” an excellent stand alone read. You may also, like me, find yourself anxious to dig into her backlist!
June 2, 2023
This is a good WWII story. It does have some heart-breaking scenes, but it ends on a positive note. The contrasts and the similarities between characters certainly give the reader much to ponder. I think it is best, for the most complete understanding of this novel, to read the first two books of the trilogy, which are both not only well-written, but outstanding books.
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