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War Torn
War Torn: A Riveting Tale of Love, Sacrifice, and Survival in the Heart of WWII
Amid the horrors of war, can love cross enemy lines and survive the battle within?
October 1942. Frances Meyer, a gifted violinist, faces an unthinkable choice: stay in Nazi-occupied France under the menacing gaze of an SS officer obsessed with her or risk everything for freedom. With her ailing Jewish husband, she boards a fragile boat to escape, but fate has other plans. Shipwrecked in the unforgiving Atlantic, her fight for survival lands her in the last place she expected—a German U-boat. Commanded by the enigmatic Kapitan Kristian Mueller.
Frances soon finds out that the submarine is a perilous refuge. Trapped in a metal coffin with fifty restless young men oozing testosterone, she struggles to remain unseen and untouched. Yet, amid the suffocating tension, an unexpected connection with the Kapitan forces her to confront the unthinkable—her feelings for the enemy.
As the U-boat becomes a hunted target of Allied forces, Frances is torn between loyalty, survival, and a love she cannot deny. With danger closing in from all sides, every decision could mean life or death.
War Torn is a masterful blend of meticulous historical research and breathtaking storytelling. Perfect for fans of All the Light We Cannot See, The Nightingale, and Beneath a Scarlet Sky, this emotionally charged novel explores the boundaries of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the moral complexities of war.
Discover a story of impossible choices and unyielding hope that will stay with you long after the final page. Book 1 marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey through the heart of World War II.
Amid the horrors of war, can love cross enemy lines and survive the battle within?
October 1942. Frances Meyer, a gifted violinist, faces an unthinkable choice: stay in Nazi-occupied France under the menacing gaze of an SS officer obsessed with her or risk everything for freedom. With her ailing Jewish husband, she boards a fragile boat to escape, but fate has other plans. Shipwrecked in the unforgiving Atlantic, her fight for survival lands her in the last place she expected—a German U-boat. Commanded by the enigmatic Kapitan Kristian Mueller.
Frances soon finds out that the submarine is a perilous refuge. Trapped in a metal coffin with fifty restless young men oozing testosterone, she struggles to remain unseen and untouched. Yet, amid the suffocating tension, an unexpected connection with the Kapitan forces her to confront the unthinkable—her feelings for the enemy.
As the U-boat becomes a hunted target of Allied forces, Frances is torn between loyalty, survival, and a love she cannot deny. With danger closing in from all sides, every decision could mean life or death.
War Torn is a masterful blend of meticulous historical research and breathtaking storytelling. Perfect for fans of All the Light We Cannot See, The Nightingale, and Beneath a Scarlet Sky, this emotionally charged novel explores the boundaries of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the moral complexities of war.
Discover a story of impossible choices and unyielding hope that will stay with you long after the final page. Book 1 marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey through the heart of World War II.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2023
54 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 22, 2023
A very enjoyable story. It is filled with of twists and turns that the reader does not expect. In fact, I have never read a book that had a relationship between an SS Officer and an Allied aligned character. It was so full of amazing possibilities.
Strongly crafted characters who I found myself rooting for. That was a very strong piece of writing.
The book was a very fast read that I could not put down.
I highly recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Strongly crafted characters who I found myself rooting for. That was a very strong piece of writing.
The book was a very fast read that I could not put down.
I highly recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2024
The book is very good and well-written, with one serious exception.
Frances is a highly trained violinist who performs under her maiden name, Lamont, but she marries an older, very kind Jewish man whose name is Meyer. There is great action and Frances is ultimately rescued by a German submarine. Their return to Germany is upset by the arrest of Frances as a Jew and her lengthy internment in several German camps for Jews.
My problem with this book is the lack of a clear ending. The author provided a copy for me to read and review with the understanding it is a “cliffhanger”. It has always seemed to me to be the responsibility of all authors to provide an ending. An unfinished story requires that readers purchase a second book and that often a long wait to hopefully find out what happens next - a crummy way to sell books.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review - love the story so far, but frown on the lack of an ending.
Frances is a highly trained violinist who performs under her maiden name, Lamont, but she marries an older, very kind Jewish man whose name is Meyer. There is great action and Frances is ultimately rescued by a German submarine. Their return to Germany is upset by the arrest of Frances as a Jew and her lengthy internment in several German camps for Jews.
My problem with this book is the lack of a clear ending. The author provided a copy for me to read and review with the understanding it is a “cliffhanger”. It has always seemed to me to be the responsibility of all authors to provide an ending. An unfinished story requires that readers purchase a second book and that often a long wait to hopefully find out what happens next - a crummy way to sell books.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review - love the story so far, but frown on the lack of an ending.
July 13, 2023
‘Warn Torn’ is a historical fiction taking you to World War II and begins with Frances Meyer, a violinist and her battle trying to flee France in 1942 with her husband. The scene after scene of her struggles facing so many obstacles, such as a shipwreck, you get to understand the realities of what this female character is capable of. This is book one of the series, so it bases a good foundation for the reader to understand the world setting and the characters. The author has paid attention to providing detail and descriptive elements that easily allows you to envision the story in your mind.
The pace of the story is steady and keeps you intrigued. The historical references and understanding stood out for me. The author skillfully navigates such information with admirable penmanship.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction and love stories.
The pace of the story is steady and keeps you intrigued. The historical references and understanding stood out for me. The author skillfully navigates such information with admirable penmanship.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction and love stories.
April 19, 2023
This was a beautiful story! The author had me so deeply invested in the characters’ stories that I kept having to remind myself that this was fiction. I loved Frances as a heroine, her growth throughout the story was incredibly inspirational and her strength is something I aspire towards. Set during WWII, this novel really highlights the bravery of so many during that time, and explores all the complexity of what it means to be human. I highly recommend this wonderful story to everyone.
March 31, 2023
This is an excellent book, which throws one curve ball after another; I had no idea that it was going to go in the direction it did, and I defy you to predict it, too, even beyond halfway. If I have one gripe it is that perhaps the ending is a little abrupt and something of shorn wick, but in other ways this perhaps suits the story arc, which is actually a little unsatisfying, but in a good way, because it is a true-to-life, realistic narrative.
Jan knows her subject matter very well, and truly grasps and portrays the unimaginable horrors of the holocaust and ethnic cleansing in Nazi-controlled Europe during World War Two, uncompromising in the despicable cruelty of it; be warned, this book does not hold back, and the characters live through the worst abuses among those recorded. I read many books on the Holocaust, and this is as good as any out there; the author is very knowledgeable. Furthermore, she is very good indeed, presenting humanity and inhumanity, callousness and humility with insight and objectivity; the characters – including the principal – are multi-layered and ambiguous in their “goodness” or “badness”; good people do questionable things, and supposedly “bad” people can be heroes. That character development is what makes War Torn the quality book it is.
The story Jan has crafted takes us on almost an odyssey of a journey with its main character, a renowned French concert violinist forced to flee Nazi occupation with her Jewish husband, only to be picked up in the English Channel by a German U-boat. It is heartbreaking at times, but the emotional puzzle and subsequent self-analysis Frances goes through is intriguing to witness. She never acts incredibly, and we come to learn a good deal about her character, both in terms of its strengths and flaws. I suspect the author had a lot of fun crafting Frances, and you tend to find that tenacious characters such as these are based heavily on influences in the life of the author; it would be fascinating to know the real-life person on whom Frances is based, if this is indeed the case.
I enjoyed this book very much. It told me a great deal about Jan Lloyd and her talent. This book, clearly a labour of love and importance to her, has done her justice – that she can be sure of. I am in no doubt that whatever Jan puts out next will be equally good, and hope to read it very soon.
Jan knows her subject matter very well, and truly grasps and portrays the unimaginable horrors of the holocaust and ethnic cleansing in Nazi-controlled Europe during World War Two, uncompromising in the despicable cruelty of it; be warned, this book does not hold back, and the characters live through the worst abuses among those recorded. I read many books on the Holocaust, and this is as good as any out there; the author is very knowledgeable. Furthermore, she is very good indeed, presenting humanity and inhumanity, callousness and humility with insight and objectivity; the characters – including the principal – are multi-layered and ambiguous in their “goodness” or “badness”; good people do questionable things, and supposedly “bad” people can be heroes. That character development is what makes War Torn the quality book it is.
The story Jan has crafted takes us on almost an odyssey of a journey with its main character, a renowned French concert violinist forced to flee Nazi occupation with her Jewish husband, only to be picked up in the English Channel by a German U-boat. It is heartbreaking at times, but the emotional puzzle and subsequent self-analysis Frances goes through is intriguing to witness. She never acts incredibly, and we come to learn a good deal about her character, both in terms of its strengths and flaws. I suspect the author had a lot of fun crafting Frances, and you tend to find that tenacious characters such as these are based heavily on influences in the life of the author; it would be fascinating to know the real-life person on whom Frances is based, if this is indeed the case.
I enjoyed this book very much. It told me a great deal about Jan Lloyd and her talent. This book, clearly a labour of love and importance to her, has done her justice – that she can be sure of. I am in no doubt that whatever Jan puts out next will be equally good, and hope to read it very soon.
April 15, 2023
War Torn by Jan Lloyd
Published: March 2023
Publisher: Independently Published
Genre: Historical Fiction, WWII/ Romance
Pages: 402
Available: Paperback, ebook
❤ Great Love Story
Trigger Warning: violence, rape
Thank you to author Jan Lloyd for giving me a copy of her book, War Torn, to read and review.
The short story: Straight up, loved it.
The Full Review:
Frances Meyer is a violin virtuoso who is on the cusp of super stardom when the clouds of war thicken over Paris. Married to an older man, she’s spoiled and childish, refusing to see what the German war machine is doing to her husband’s fellow Jews. When Steven, her husband becomes seriously ill and an old classmate, now an officer in the S.S. puts pressure on Frances to become his mistress, the Meyers attempt to flee France for England. Their ship is attacked and Frances, the sole survivor, is picked up by a German U-boat, captained by the handsome Kristian Mueller, and forced to live with the crew for weeks. Frances and Kristian fight the growing attraction between them. Once back on dry land, the pair are torn apart and Frances is deported and fighting for survival. Her playing skills are her greatest asset.
War Torn is an amazing story of resilience and survival. Frances’ time aboard the submarine is one of reflection and Kristian forces her to face the ugliness of war and the part they all play in it. Frances comes to realize her inactions led to the death of her husband. She finds in Kristian, her enemy, a man of conviction, with a good heart and no illusions about the country he fights for. Both are flawed, but retain their basic humanity. This is a dark story, painful to read, but well worth it.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction.
Published: March 2023
Publisher: Independently Published
Genre: Historical Fiction, WWII/ Romance
Pages: 402
Available: Paperback, ebook
❤ Great Love Story
Trigger Warning: violence, rape
Thank you to author Jan Lloyd for giving me a copy of her book, War Torn, to read and review.
The short story: Straight up, loved it.
The Full Review:
Frances Meyer is a violin virtuoso who is on the cusp of super stardom when the clouds of war thicken over Paris. Married to an older man, she’s spoiled and childish, refusing to see what the German war machine is doing to her husband’s fellow Jews. When Steven, her husband becomes seriously ill and an old classmate, now an officer in the S.S. puts pressure on Frances to become his mistress, the Meyers attempt to flee France for England. Their ship is attacked and Frances, the sole survivor, is picked up by a German U-boat, captained by the handsome Kristian Mueller, and forced to live with the crew for weeks. Frances and Kristian fight the growing attraction between them. Once back on dry land, the pair are torn apart and Frances is deported and fighting for survival. Her playing skills are her greatest asset.
War Torn is an amazing story of resilience and survival. Frances’ time aboard the submarine is one of reflection and Kristian forces her to face the ugliness of war and the part they all play in it. Frances comes to realize her inactions led to the death of her husband. She finds in Kristian, her enemy, a man of conviction, with a good heart and no illusions about the country he fights for. Both are flawed, but retain their basic humanity. This is a dark story, painful to read, but well worth it.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction.
March 26, 2025
War Torn is an exquisite and emotionally charged historical novel that masterfully blends romance, suspense, and the raw human experience against the backdrop of World War II. Set in October 1942, the story follows Frances Meyer, a gifted violinist whose life is torn apart by the ravages of war. What follows is a tale of survival, impossible choices, and an unexpected love that emerges in the most unlikely of circumstances.
The author deftly conveys the human spirit's tenacity in the face of unimaginable horrors through the gripping account of gifted violinist Frances Meyer. The evocative descriptions take readers to the perilous Atlantic and the cramped quarters of a German U-boat, where a forbidden romance occurs. As Frances encounters the atrocities of imprisonment in Auschwitz and Drancy holding camp, the heart-breaking journey continues.
This setting is where the heart of the story unfolds, as Frances, alongside fifty young men, finds herself in a suffocating metal coffin under the command of the enigmatic Kapitan Kristian Mueller. The romance between them feels forbidden and complex, not only because of the enemy lines but because of the moral dilemmas each character faces in the face of survival and loyalty.
The author’s meticulous research into the historical context of World War II adds depth to the narrative, making the stakes feel incredibly real. What stands out about War Torn is how it doesn’t just explore love and the many layers of sacrifice, survival, and the fight for what’s right. The psychological complexity of the characters is well drawn, and Frances’s internal conflict, torn between her loyalty to her Jewish husband, her desire for freedom, and her growing feelings for the enemy commander, is one of the novel’s most compelling features.
The author deftly conveys the human spirit's tenacity in the face of unimaginable horrors through the gripping account of gifted violinist Frances Meyer. The evocative descriptions take readers to the perilous Atlantic and the cramped quarters of a German U-boat, where a forbidden romance occurs. As Frances encounters the atrocities of imprisonment in Auschwitz and Drancy holding camp, the heart-breaking journey continues.
This setting is where the heart of the story unfolds, as Frances, alongside fifty young men, finds herself in a suffocating metal coffin under the command of the enigmatic Kapitan Kristian Mueller. The romance between them feels forbidden and complex, not only because of the enemy lines but because of the moral dilemmas each character faces in the face of survival and loyalty.
The author’s meticulous research into the historical context of World War II adds depth to the narrative, making the stakes feel incredibly real. What stands out about War Torn is how it doesn’t just explore love and the many layers of sacrifice, survival, and the fight for what’s right. The psychological complexity of the characters is well drawn, and Frances’s internal conflict, torn between her loyalty to her Jewish husband, her desire for freedom, and her growing feelings for the enemy commander, is one of the novel’s most compelling features.
May 22, 2023
A deeply moving and meticulously researched historical novel that immerses readers in the harrowing realities of World War II. Through the compelling story of Frances Meyer, a talented violinist, the author skillfully captures the resilience of the human spirit amidst unspeakable atrocities. The vivid descriptions transport readers to the treacherous waters of the Atlantic and the confining spaces of a German U-boat, where a forbidden love affair unfolds. The heart-wrenching journey continues as Frances faces the horrors of internment in Drancy holding camp and Auschwitz. The author's attention to historical detail is remarkable, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. This book is a testament to the unbreakable strength of love and the power of the human spirit, leaving readers with a profound sense of awe and admiration.
May 23, 2023
In the midst of war's chaos, love becomes their beacon of hope.
A heart-wrenching tale that transports readers to a war-torn world, where love and the unyielding spirit of the human soul prevail. Through the story of Frances Meyer, a talented violinist caught in the midst of World War II, this novel explores themes of forbidden love, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit. The meticulously researched historical detail adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the era. From the shipwrecked Atlantic waters to the confined spaces of a German U-boat, readers are immersed in Frances's journey, feeling the weight of her losses and the strength of her determination. This book serves as a poignant reminder that even in the darkest of times, love can shine as a beacon of hope, illuminating the indomitable spirit that resides within us all.
A heart-wrenching tale that transports readers to a war-torn world, where love and the unyielding spirit of the human soul prevail. Through the story of Frances Meyer, a talented violinist caught in the midst of World War II, this novel explores themes of forbidden love, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit. The meticulously researched historical detail adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the era. From the shipwrecked Atlantic waters to the confined spaces of a German U-boat, readers are immersed in Frances's journey, feeling the weight of her losses and the strength of her determination. This book serves as a poignant reminder that even in the darkest of times, love can shine as a beacon of hope, illuminating the indomitable spirit that resides within us all.
February 7, 2026
War Torn is an intense, emotionally gripping WWII novel that blends romance, moral conflict, and survival with impressive depth. Frances Meyer is a compelling heroine talented, vulnerable, and resilient thrust into an almost unimaginable situation. The U-boat setting is claustrophobic and tense, making every interaction feel charged with danger. Jan Lloyd’s historical detail is strong without overwhelming the story, and the ethical complexity of loving “the enemy” is handled thoughtfully rather than romantically glossed over. The slow-burn connection between Frances and Kapitan Mueller adds emotional weight while never letting the reader forget the brutal realities of war. A powerful start to the series that lingers long after the final page.
March 20, 2024
As an avid reader of good historical fiction, I was delighted to be allowed to read and review "War Torn". A wonderful, fast-paced story that held you right to the end with characters that draw you in and keep you engaged. Full of twists in the plot that keep you guessing right to the end, and a depth of characters that become very real, the author has produced a wonderful book that stands out in a genre that already offers so much. I am now looking forward to continue on to the next in this series.
Thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review this book voluntarily.
Thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review this book voluntarily.
April 10, 2023
A gripping roller-coaster ride of a love story set amidst the outbreak of WWII - Wonderful character development & a suspenseful storyline that keeps you guessing from start to finish. From Nazi occupied Paris to the confines of a German U-boat & on to the unfathomable horrors of Auschwitz, it’s a journey that no matter how nightmarish it became, I found myself unable to stop reading. Bring on book 2!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2023
This book was accurate with WW2 history with the added bonus of a love story of Frances and German "Grey Wolf" Kristian! Frances goes from a spoiled brat to learning how to survive even in the worst situations without giving up! This story includes struggle, heartbreak, family, torture, death, along with the love of music in this story! It ended on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
April 5, 2023
I give this book five stars. In the beginning, I hated the main character but as you read the story you develop a soft spot for her. This book is well-written and puts you through all the feelings of the character. You want to fight, cry, and laugh with her. This takes you on a roller coaster ride. I highly recommend it. It is historical fiction.
April 24, 2023
This is a must read book! I usually take months to read a book. This was by far the fastest I’ve completed one. The story pulls you in, it’s realistic, you are there. It is unpredictable, uncomfortably realistic and is strangely uplifting given the subject and timing of the story. I can’t give away any more suffice to say that it is definitely an amazing story. I look forward to part two later.
March 6, 2024
War Torn, Book one is a page turner! The author paints each scene so you can almost smell and feel your surroundings. Full of twists and heart wrenching experiences, you'll be following Frances through the most tragic and yet inspiring years of her life. This was a very good read.
May 31, 2025
Wow this book is outstanding! I was hooked from the very beginning and devoured every page. Incredibly, this is the author's debut novel. Well done Jan - you're a natural talent.
And so the story continues, off to book 2!!
And so the story continues, off to book 2!!
January 26, 2024
Hindsight is 20/20
Of course, nobody could believe the atrocities occurring to their fellow countrymen. After truths were revealed, it is still difficult to believe another human being could be so cruel.
Naïve Frances felt and believed the same as most people living on the outskirts of horror. “I am not a Jew, so I am safe.” Yet, even as you are taken through the concertina wire fences, denial is still your best friend. I can only imagine how different Frances’ life would have been had she made different decisions; had she trusted her loved one’s opinions.
It was heartbreaking to watch as a free-spirited young woman was turned into a hardened prisoner. However, I was happy when she made friends who helped in her resolve to survive. And boy does she!!
I enjoyed reading this well-written story about the life of a normal girl trying to navigate the world as war breaks out around her. Frances only wanted what most people wanted – to live peacefully doing what she loves most in life.
Of course, nobody could believe the atrocities occurring to their fellow countrymen. After truths were revealed, it is still difficult to believe another human being could be so cruel.
Naïve Frances felt and believed the same as most people living on the outskirts of horror. “I am not a Jew, so I am safe.” Yet, even as you are taken through the concertina wire fences, denial is still your best friend. I can only imagine how different Frances’ life would have been had she made different decisions; had she trusted her loved one’s opinions.
It was heartbreaking to watch as a free-spirited young woman was turned into a hardened prisoner. However, I was happy when she made friends who helped in her resolve to survive. And boy does she!!
I enjoyed reading this well-written story about the life of a normal girl trying to navigate the world as war breaks out around her. Frances only wanted what most people wanted – to live peacefully doing what she loves most in life.
April 23, 2025
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review War Torn in exchange for an honest review
THIS BOOK! When I tell you that this is a great book then I mean it. This is one of those books that once you get into it, it is hard to put it down. Because of the fact that you just want to know what happens next.
I will say that the short chapters that this book has definitely helped in the fact that I was falling in love with the characters and the journey that they were on. Because of the fact that you just wanted to read one more chapter. I will say that the writing was one of my favorite things of this book and it was part of the reason why I fell in love with the story and where it was going overall.
One of my favorite things about this book is not that it is told in parts or the fact that there are short chapters. But because of the fact that some of the chapters have a date (IE: December 19th, 1942). I will say that it does help make sure that as the reader you can tell when the date changes. I do think that it does help make sure that it helps the story flow.
I will say that if you are looking for a good WW2 era, historical fiction romance then this is the book for you.
THIS BOOK! When I tell you that this is a great book then I mean it. This is one of those books that once you get into it, it is hard to put it down. Because of the fact that you just want to know what happens next.
I will say that the short chapters that this book has definitely helped in the fact that I was falling in love with the characters and the journey that they were on. Because of the fact that you just wanted to read one more chapter. I will say that the writing was one of my favorite things of this book and it was part of the reason why I fell in love with the story and where it was going overall.
One of my favorite things about this book is not that it is told in parts or the fact that there are short chapters. But because of the fact that some of the chapters have a date (IE: December 19th, 1942). I will say that it does help make sure that as the reader you can tell when the date changes. I do think that it does help make sure that it helps the story flow.
I will say that if you are looking for a good WW2 era, historical fiction romance then this is the book for you.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews