A Song of Silence

World War II Historical Fiction #2

by Steve N. Lee

War thrust them together. Love will tear them apart.

Inspired by a true story...

When the Nazis invade a sleepy Polish town in 1939, Mirek Kozlowski swears to keep everyone in his orphanage safe at all costs. However, despite his struggles and sacrifices, the war drags him and his children deeper and deeper into its violent nightmare.

With 89 children looking to him for hope, Mirek must do whatever it takes to protect them — no matter how criminal, distasteful, or perilous it may be.

And just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, the arrival of a sadistic SS captain brings unspeakable atrocities to his town — and surprisingly, a glimmer of hope for Mirek to save all those he cares about if only he has the courage to grasp it…

A story of love, bravery, and compassion, A Song of Silence explores history’s darkest hour and how, even in the face of overwhelming evil, one man can become a dazzling beacon of light.

Discover what it means to be human. Discover A Song of Silence.




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Genres: Historical Fiction, World War II

592 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 14, 2024

About the author

Steve has three passions: anti-heroes, animals, and travel. To date, he's visited 60 countries and has adopted five homeless cats, but he's yet to prowl the streets in the dead of night to beat up bad guys (though he still daydreams about doing so, but who doesn't?).

In pursuit of adventure, he's cage-dived with great white sharks, sparred with a monk at a Shaolin temple, and explored exotic locales such as Machu Picchu, Pompeii, and the Great Wall of China.

Fortunately, his passions fuel his fiction. He loves to pepper his action-packed thrillers with the exotic places he's explored and the unusual encounters he's experienced, while his dog stories glow with the love and companionship that will warm the heart of any animal lover.

More recently, while on his travels, Steve came across two true stories from the Holocaust which moved him so deeply, he has based two novels on them.

He lives in the North of England with his partner, Ania, the great-great-great niece of the 1924 winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, and two stray black cats who visited their garden one day and liked it so much, they moved into the house. Luckily, they graciously allowed Steve and Ania to carry on living there, even allowing Steve to continue paying the mortgage to give him a sense of purpose.

If you love stories of four-legged heroes, tales from histories darkest hour, or books with pulse-pounding action, you'll love Steve's three series. He wrote them for book lovers just like you!
Visit Steve's website: http://stevenleebooks.com/
Follow Steve on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/steve...

Reviews

[Sujoya - theoverbookedbibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐

“The German people might want war. But this? This wasn’t war. This was something else. Something the civilized world had never seen.”

A Song of Silence by Steve N. Lee opens in a small town in Poland in the Fall of 1939 and revolves around Mirek Kozlowski, a Polish writer who also runs an orphanage with over ninety children under his care, a number that continues to increase as WWII rages on. Mirek’s prime concerns were providing for those in his care and keeping his children safe – a task that becomes increasingly difficult when the Nazis invade their small town, wreaking havoc in the lives of the residents. As the narrative progresses, we follow Mirek as he bears witness to atrocities committed by the SS. As the situation gradually worsens, Mirek struggles to a find way to protect his family while navigating the restrictions imposed upon the residents, censorship, food shortages and the surveillance of the SS headed by Hauptsturmführer Kruger who appears to have taken a keen interest in Mirek and his orphanage.

Having enjoyed the author’s previous work of WWII fiction To Dream Of Shadows, I was more than eager to read the author’s latest offering and I was not disappointed. This is a heart—wrenching read but so beautifully written that I could not put it down. With elegant prose, well-thought-out characters and a keen sense of time and place, Steve N. Lee weaves a powerful story of bravery, sacrifice and humanity in the face of pure evil. The author does not hold back from describing the episodes of mass violence, persecution and other war crimes committed by the SS and the plight of civilians struggling to survive in Nazi-occupied Poland. Needless to say, some scenes might be difficult to read. But amid the darkness, some moments will make you smile. Mirek’s devotion to his orphanage and his children and their love for their ”Papa Mirek” will melt your heart. Baba Hanka is an endearing character and I particularly enjoyed how the author chose to portray the growing bond between Ania and Merik through the course of the narrative. This is the kind of story that stays with you long after you have turned the last page.

As with any work of historical fiction, I place a lot of importance on a well-penned historical note as these segments elevate the overall reading experience. In this context, I must commend the author for the informative Behind the Scenes segment on the true events and the real people who inspired this novel. In addition to this segment, the author has also provided the link to A Song of Silence: The Story Behind the Story, where not only does he share further details on his research, the historical context of the novel and the creative liberties have has taken while crafting this story, but he also offers bonus chapters wherein we get to know the fates of several of the other (fictional) characters we met in the story.

Overall, I found this to be an absorbing read that I would not hesitate to recommend to fans of WWII fiction inspired by true events.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital review copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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[Pretty Peony Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story follows a Polish man running an orphanage during WWII, caught in the middle of the Nazi occupation. He’s stuck between keeping the orphans safe and keeping his composure in the face of a ruthless SS captain. As the situation gets worse, Mirek is faced with a difficult decision.

It’s a heart-wrenching story about courage, love, and suffering. The writing skillfully captures a time when escape was nearly impossible and information from outside was scarce. Mirek is forced to rely on his limited understating as he grapples with each choice, only to find himself at a dead end.

This powerful story is based on the real-life experience of an orphanage owner in Poland during the war. I found his bravery truly commendable. I’m also grateful for the authors work in researching this man’s story. His extensive research shines through in this beautiful portrayal of a time when freedom was taken away and replaced with fear and torment.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an incredible story but please bring the tissues. The way this author tells his historical fiction stories based on true events gets me every single time. I feel like I'm in the circumstances with the characters. Mirek Kasinski is in charge of a Poland orphanage in a small town. No one believes they will be touched by the Nazi's because they are so insignificant. They miscalculated because they Nazi's do come to their town, and they are just as destroyed as all the other towns during the war. This story is devastating, yet an important read. I find it so important to keep reading these stories, so we do not forget what happened to the Jews and others during the war under Nazi rule. I gave this book 5 stars for the writing style, the way it made me feel and because these authors characters feel like friends.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book this author has written about the holocaust and WWII. As with the first book, it is engaging and shines a light on what it was like for those living in towns overtaken by the Nazis. I love that it is inspired by a true story. Considering how the book ends, it isn't too surprising that there is some truth to the story.

Mirek is an amazing character. He takes everyone else's needs into consideration above his own. This is evident by the 90+ children he has in his care. Then, he takes in displaced Jewish families as well. This is an overflowing home, but it is filled with love and laughter despite the circumstances.

This book does not sugarcoat the hardships of the people in this town in Poland, their interactions with the Germans, and the atrocities that they endured. The needless deaths and the cruelty towards everyone could be hard to read, but it is not overly graphic. It is honest about how people were treated during the war just for their religious beliefs.

Despite the ugliness of the war, there is hope. Mirek struggles to find a way out of all of his charges. There is also a love interest for him. Just when you think that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, another tragedy occurs. But happiness is found, just not the way that we might have preferred.

There is one of the children that causes problems, Jacek. Not because he is unruly or disobeys but because he is very attached to Mirek and tends to follow him into town and other potentially dangerous situations. It is hard to keep him safe when he freezes up in situations or wanders into a place that is not safe.

While this book depicts a sad time in history, it is filled with hope and love. We give it 5 paws up.

[Rebecca Paul-Fields · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a spell binding story. It was difficult to put down. Every time I read a story about the Holocaust and the atrocities of the Nazis on the Jews I get angry and sick. The ending was so sad as were many other events, but the way the story was presented through Mirek and the children and people he cared for and loved made it seem as though I was watching it happen.

It was such a good book! I’d have given it more stars if I could.

[Mandy Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book

Good historical book about a man trying to do good during WWII. The evil that was done to young and old alike.

[Kathryn Spurgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hearbreaking

As a reader of holocaust books, this one pulled me into the drama through the caring, brave, real to life characters.

[Hilary Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that touches the soul...such sadness, pain and through it all love..Great read.

[Durrtla · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! Hung on every word!

[David Donnelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

And absolute privilege to read this. 11/10

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Song of Silence: A Gripping Holocaust Novel, by Steven Lee

I admit I am a major fan of Steven Lee after reading his other Holocaust novels. His careful research into important but obscure elements of the war yields phenomenal literary results.
A Song of Silence is set in a small village in 1939 Poland where we meet Mirek Kozlowski, an orphanage director/ teacher. Lee immediately gives us a sense of Mirek’s personality and attitude toward children. “The red-haired boy’s bottom lip quivered and tears welled in big brown eyes…the boy gazed up at Mirek like a puppy who’d been caught stealing food from the table and was expecting to be kicked…. Mirek wrote Papa Mirek on the blackboard in white chalk – new arrivals had become such a regular occurrence, he and his children had established quite the welcome routine. (Pg.5) This orphanage is for children rescued by the local Polish Resistance. Funds for food and other necessities come from the resistance, community coffers and benefactors. Mirek, a children’s book author, gives his meager book royalties to help make ends meet.
When the Nazis suddenly storm into the village they immediately murder anyone in sight. “A hail of bullets sliced through them. They crumpled like rag dolls discarded by a bored child. (Pg. 15) In short order, they burn ancient relics and books from the synagogue, then bomb the Great Synagogue itself. Mirek is terrified as to how to protect his 89 children.
Mirek immediately must “Germanize” the orphanage by removing Polish flags and books that Germans would find offensive. “Because the Germans believe books can incite people to think for themselves, or to question authority, or even rise up. Throughout history, all dictators have one thing in common – they all fear a scholar more than they fear a soldier because you can kill a man, but you can’t kill an idea.”(Pg.33) Mirek laments about his large book collection, “And the heartbreaking thing is that now, I have to get rid of 80% of them.”(Pg.33)
Lee continuously gives us tremendous sensory imagery such as “Sunlight streamed through the windows, particles of dust dancing in its embrace to the song of a blackbird drifting in from the courtyard’s apple tree. (Pg.5) “The apple tree’s branches drooped under inches of snow, and a deep carpet of glistening white hid the ground. Within seconds, hurtling snowballs, gleeful shrieks and the wondrous sound of children’s laughter filled the air.” (Pg.86) “The sky a sullen slab of bulging gray, the world yet seemed brighter than any day Mirek could ever remember.” (Pg.197) I cannot say enough positives about Lee’s writing style and story structure; the book is nearly impossible to put down. Chapters consistently begin with a focus on Mirek and end with a sense of the unknown. There are continual twists and turns. Nothing is predictable.
With masterful characterization, we fall in love with Mirek. His heart and soul are utterly palpable. He is a real person. We hear and see a compassionate man with a massive responsibility on his shoulders. Lee shares the most intimate of Mirek’s thoughts and fears. “Mirek gasped a giant breath. His legs wobbled so much, if it wasn’t for all the children packed around him, he’d have crumpled. He gripped the hands of those holding his, both trying to reassure them and to regain some sort of composure.” (Pg.102) “Micek’s nerves gnawed at him like maggots at a carcass.” (Pg.251) “His heart clawed at him to confess his feelings.” (Pg.211) Mirek gawked at the bodies and the blood streaming into the gutter. The impossible thing to believe was that while these women were someone’s daughters, cherished and missed, those monstrous Nazis were someone’s sons, equally loved. How was it possible for one person to treat another like this? (Pg.160)
I appreciate the way Lee blends important philosophical thoughts into the narrative. “My friends, we live in a world where if good people do nothing, the things the bad people do will only get worse and worse and worse. ‘(Pg.247) “Remember, children, manners cost nothing, but sometimes, they can get you more than money ever could.” (Pg.8)

I urge readers to read this outstanding historical book. Rating 5

[Kristine L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

“My friend, we live in a world where if good people do nothing, the things bad people do will only get worse and worse.”

That’s a central theme in Steve N. Lee’s latest historical fiction release, A Song of Silence: A Gripping Holocaust Novel inspired by a Heartbreaking True Story. It’s 100% riveting! Here's why:

Poland, Fall 1939. Mirek “Papa” Kozlowski, a widower, is the director of an orphanage of nearly 100 children in a “sleepy little backwater” village in Poland. Mirek funds the orphanage with royalties from the sale of his children’s books (my kinda guy).

Mirek houses nearly 100 children and two staff members, elderly cook and housekeeper Hanka and young Ania-Maria Kisiell “with two lls.” The kindness, loyalty, courage and compassion of Hanka and Ania stand in stark contact to the cruelty and rank barbarism of the Nazis. So this book isn’t for the faint-hearted. Just sayin’.

Well. All is well with Mirek and his “family.” Until the Germans invade Poland. And everything is turned upside down. To put it mildly. You can almost hear the gun shots. The screaming, “so much screaming” as the invaders orchestrate a cacophony of death. Indescribable brutality and savagery rain down upon the innocent civilian population of this un-named Polish town.

Struggling to survive under the “crushing darkness” and “obscene brutality” of Nazi occupation, Mirek wonders “what carnage would they (the Germans) wreak next time? And how could he ensure his children didn’t get caught up in it?” Meanwhile, the whole town and its citizenry become “Germanized” and face “cultural extermination.”

In the midst of the chaos and brutality, Mirek wonders, “How could he protect his children from that?” After all, he has “89 children to look after, a three-story house to maintain, an occupying army to placate. Like this was a time for romance, even if he wanted it.” Sparks soon fly between Mirek and Ania.

But other “sparks” fly, too. Darkness drenches every street. Every building. Every house and every face. It’s epitomized by SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer Hans Josef Kruger, a “psychotic German with an itchy trigger finger.” Meanwhile, what are the Germans building in the forest at the edge of town? (And yes, I did know about the vans prior to reading this book.)

Mirek is soon faced with the ultimate question upon which not only his future but the futures of all those he cares about hinges: What can he do to resist Nazi terror? Mirek’s not a military man. He’s no secret agent. But he is a writer. Yes, … a writer….

As dangers mount and German atrocities increase, Mirek realizes that his only chance at saving his children is… Oh, wait. You’ll have to read the book yourself to find that out.

Think Father Hugh O’Flaherty in The Scarlet and the Black (Gregory Peck, Christopher Plummer, 1983). Or Gladys Aylward in The Inn of the Sixth Happiness (Ingrid Bergman, 1958). Or Corrie ten Boom in The Hiding Place (Jeannette Clift, Julie Harris, Arthur O’Donnell, 1977). If you haven’t seen these movies, now would be good.

Tightly written and expertly paced, Song is startling in its emotional depth and stunning in its epic sweep. Intense, absorbing and highly readable, most chapters end with a cliff-hanger that compels readers to turn the page. And the next. And the next. Indeed, readers are soon swept into this searing saga of desperation, betrayal, loyalty and love laced with heart-pounding action, robust characters and a deeply evocative storyline.

I missed Second Breakfast, Luncheon, Afternoon Tea, Dinner and Supper to finish this book. Cuz I couldn’t put it down! So consider Song a must-read, especially in light of recent world events.

Now to scare up some chow…. And I don’t mean stinging nettles goulash… You’ll get that if you read the book. Now would be good.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Song Of Silence by Steve N Lee is the most powerful and heartbreaking historical novel that totally consumed me. It is set in Poland beginning in 1939 as war breaks out. The roots of the story are grounded in fact, being based on the very brave Janusz Korczak who ran an orphanage. I knew about this real life incredibly brave man, so I had an idea where the book was going.
The reader witnesses the Nazis walking into a village where the lead character Mirek Kozlowski has his orphanage. It was a time of great horror. Families were desperate to escape but “there was nowhere to run.” The author has conveyed the fear and the horror. It is a horror that gets deeper and darker as the grip of the Nazis intensifies.
Mirek Kozlowski is a well-rounded, fully believable character. His heart is huge. He turns no one away from his orphanage and is well loved by all.
Mirek Kozlowski practices sacrificial love. Every action he undertakes is for the good of the children in his care. He doesn’t want to lose even one life – but the Nazi war machine breaks his heart.
As a lead character, Mirek Kozlowski faces many choices. His choices are always for the good of the children.
The closing scenes of the novel were superbly constructed by the author. I could ‘see’ the horrors, whilst simultaneously ‘feeling’ the love that Mirek Kozlowski had for the children, and they had for him. The children trusted him completely and he never let them down. In the midst of total depravity, Mirek Kozlowski kept his humanity. He, like Jesus, calmed the storm that could have raged, as he gave the children something better to focus on, rather than the horrors that surrounded them.
There is an underlying love story. The reader ‘feels’ the emotions, long before the characters acknowledge them. We desire a happy ending – and I must say, the final scene is very beautiful. It warmed my heart.
A Song Of Silence shows the very best of humanity and the very worst. There is so much love that oozes from the pages and envelops the reader.
This is a book that will have you reaching for the tissues. I absolutely loved the heart of Mirek Kozlowski. His love is infectious at a time of great evil. Despite the horrific time under Nazi occupation, it is the love that remains long after the final page is read.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Mary E Trimble · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You can kill a man, but you can’t kill an idea”
― Sophocles

A Song of Silence: A Gripping Holocaust Novel Inspired by a Heartbreaking True Story, Book 2 of the “World War II Historical Fiction” series by Steve N. Lee is a highly suspenseful novel that takes place in Poland during the World War II Nazi invasion.

Mirek Kozlowski, a well-known children’s author, runs an orphanage of 89 children in a small Polish town that is suddenly overrun by Nazis. Almost overnight their happy existence changes. Townspeople suffer losses of property and livelihood. Serious food shortages affect the health and well-being of the town’s citizens. Mirek strives to keep his orphanage running, but the daily onslaught of atrocities are a constant challenge.

When SS Captain Kruger learns that Mirek Kozlowski is also an author, he is intrigued. Kruger has dreams of becoming a writer and has, in fact, written a manuscript. Maybe Mirek could help polish the book into publication. But in the meantime, Kruger is driven to do his job to meet Nazi goals: destroy Polish culture, segregate the Jews, expand German territory, elevate the Fatherland, and create new world order with ethnic Germans at its center.

Anna-Maria Kisiell quietly brings joy to Mirek’s life. She helps where she can, assists in the kitchen, works with the children. The two find solace in each other, but with all the struggles to merely survive, how can a relationship ever develop?

As the Polish people suffer depravation of jobs and food, all while witnessing senseless killings, some resistance is organized, but any knowledge of this by the authorities leads to harsh punishments. Even expressing an opinion can result in a whipping or even death.

But Mirek strongly believes that if good people do nothing, bad people will be empowered to do evil. Based on this belief, he ventures into a scheme to save his children.

A Song of Silence is a stark reminder of what the world was like in the 1940s and the unspeakable suffering at the hands of men who perceived themselves as the “racial elite” of a Nazi future. Steve N. Lee has captured the horror and raw fear instilled in a townspeople who simply wanted to live their lives under their own rule. The novel contains vivid descriptions of evil acts, but told without wallowing in sentimentality. It is history brought to life, a history we must not forget.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This World War II story was based on a real person so all of the horrific pain that was part of the book really happened. It's still difficult to believe that a group of people could be so cruel and heartless to people that they believed were 'less than'. Not just Jewish people but their cruelty also extended to sick people, homosexuals and any people who didn't fit into their narrow description of what a perfect Aryan person was.
One person was a beacon of hope and it's his sacrifices that leave the reader with feelings of love and compassion.

In 1939, when the Nazis invaded his small Polish town, Mirek Kozlowski was running an orphanage. He was also a popular writer of children's books. The orphanage took care of almost 100 children of all ages. It was apparent early on that Mirek would do whatever he could to keep 'his' children safe. But no matter how hard he tries, the cruelty of the Nazi officials in his town kept dragging him and the children closer to danger. The SS captain who is in charge of the town is beyond cruel but at first it looks as if he may like Mirek as a person and Mirek even goes so far as to read and critique the novel that he has written. But as time goes on, he turns on Mirek and on the children. He removes the Jewish children and then he removes many of the young girls to work in a brothel for the soldiers. Finally it appears that the Resistance may have found a way to save Mirek and the children and he puts his life on the line to try to save 'his' children. Will their plan succeed?

Mirek is a compassionate and loving person who wants to protect other people even if he is harmed in the process. His love brought a beacon of hope for the future. I read a lot of WWII fiction but this one really touched me. I think it was because there was so much senseless cruelty toward children and it hurt to see them facing so much evil. This novel brought tears to my eyes several times with a major tears at the end. This is a book that I won't forget because of the love and compassion of one man who tried to save those he loved.

[Mél · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Song of Silence by Steve N. Lee - 4.5/5 Stars!
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If you are looking for a story about World War 2 I couldn't recommend Steve's books enough. I am such a big fan of the way he writes his stories, the choice of words, the describing of the horrific and awful times and experiences, we can only imagine people went through during that time, is on point! While reading Steve's books you are shocked from the start until the end. But I must say, it's not an easy read. But important that we tell the stories forever!
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The story is about Mirek Kozlowski, a man who own an orphanage with 89 children. You grow to absolutely adore Mirek throughout the whole book. His heart is so big and pure you just constantly wanted to hug him! As a social worker - The way he was determined to protect his kids and do EVERYTHING for them, even risk his own life is very inspiring to me. "I will always be here for you." / "I'm not abandoning anyone if there's still a chance."
As a reader you have this constant feeling of wanting to protect him as well! Mirek, who's very loved by his children faces a lot of trouble and horror fighting against this Nazi regime while still trying to give the children a "normal life" free of worries (as long as he could). Only like this could he protect every single life and try not to lose one! "Thank you, Papa Mirek. I'll never forget you."
Not only did he love his children but also falls in love with this beautiful Lady. A love story that also broke my heart while reading. Will his plan succeed and will he be able to save all of his children including himself? Will he be able to live happily ever after in love with the woman he met? You'll have to read A Song of Silence to find out.
"Love isn't clinging onto someone at the expense of all else, it's letting them go to be all they can be."

[Novels Alive · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even in the midst of tragedy, there are moments of great resilience. Inspired by a true story, A Song of Silence takes readers back to 1939 into a Polish orphanage.

There, author Steve N. Lee introduces Mirek Kozlowski, who oversees 98 children, along with Hanka, the cook, and Ania, the new housekeeping assistant.

As the Germans come to town, bringing death and savage destruction, Mirek catches the eye of a sadistic SS officer intent on playing a psychological game. Just as Mirek thinks he and his children are safe, the soldiers seize some of them.

With dwindling resources, Mirek must decide whether to embrace the German cause or follow the Resistance. Both options have risks and uncertain rewards.

Meanwhile, in the midst of all the horror, a budding relationship grows between Mirek and Ania. Regardless of what happens outside the house, keeping the children’s spirits high through hunger and fear creates beautiful moments.

The Nazis offer a way out for Mirek, but he refuses to abandon the children. There’s an interesting twist involving Ania and four of the children that delivers a spark of light in an otherwise dark ending. The inevitable conclusion reflects the real-life events involving Janusz Korczak and the children in his care.

This is a story that will haunt readers long after the final page, particularly because those targeted by the Nazis were Polish citizens. Even though the Nazis were determined to eradicate Jews, they applied brutal tactics regardless of the audience.

While heartbreaking, A Song of Silence serves as a beacon of inspiration. ~ Amy for Novels Alive

[loopyloulaura · Rating 5 out of 5]

TRIGGER WARNING: Nazi ideology and brutality
1940, Poland. Mirek runs an orphanage but the Nazi occupation means it is a daily struggle to feed the 100 children in is care. Can Mirek escape Poland and save as many children as possible...?
A Song of Silence is an historical book set in Poland during the Second World War. It is based loosely on real people which gives the plot and characters extra poignancy.
Mirek is devoted to his charges. He welcomes Jewish and non Jewish children into his orphanage but fears for their safety as the reality of life under Nazi occupation becomes brutally obvious. The whole community are threatened and there are some chillingly awful incidents to strike fear into even the bravest of hearts.
This isn't a happy story. There are moments of hope and love which sparkle through the darkness. However, these do not diminish the intensity of the cruelty imposed by the Nazis. It is beautifully written, vividly portraying Polish life and death at Nazi hands. The use of natural-feeling dialogue meant I felt totally immersed in the lives of Mirek and his orphans.
During the final chapters, I had such a dark feeling of dread. I wanted to stop reading and allow Mirek's story to last longer but I couldn't resist reading on to the conclusion. Afterwards, I wanted to cry but also smile at the triumph of love. Even hours after finishing it, I wasn't ready to move onto another book as I was still processing my emotions at the devastation wreaked upon innocents.
A Song Of Silence is a genuinely inspiring book despite the horror and tragedy.

[Julie Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a review copy of this book and I found it to be disturbing, heartbreaking and incredibly brilliant. Disturbing because it details a small Polish town that is invaded by the Germans who commit horrific crimes - sometimes just for fun. Heartbreaking because innocents were slaughtered for no reason other than a difference in religion (in the main). Incredibly brilliant because it highlighted how ignorance, arrogance and hate can destroy the world.

The book is based on a true story - though, I imagine there are many that could be and have been told of those terrible times. Mirek runs an orphanage, he's a successful Polish writer of children's books and loves what he calls, 'his children' - nearly 100 of them.

As soon as the Germans arrive, they begin to kill. They empty the hospital, turn people out of their homes - many of whom are eventually 'taken away'. There is a camp, there is forced labour, young women and children are taken to a place to be made into whores for the pleasure of the soldiers. There is cruelty and torture for the sake of it and so much more.

Mirek attempts to save his children from starvation and worse by placating the sadistic SS captain, whose arrogance and vanity lead them to a horrific dance.

There is a love interest, some great characters and an inspired plot, but I will say that I could only read this story a little at a time because it was so horrifying. I hadn't realised that millions of Polish people were murdered, regardless of their religion, only because the Germans and their Nazi leaders thought them subhuman as they did the Jews, the disabled, gypsies, black people, homosexuals and anyone who didn't fit in with their warped ideals. Unfortunately, it seems that this kind of thinking is still amongst supposed humans.

Well-written and thought-provoking and certainly an important read; and one that should never be forgotten. Nothing of that time should be wiped away but faced in the hope that it won't happen again, and yet...

Highly recommended but be warned, it's not a 'light' read.

[Sams_Fireside · Rating 5 out of 5]

'For those they took, whose names we'll never know because no one was left to remember them'.

Once again, Steve N. Lee has bowled me over with this WWII historical fiction novel. It is set in Poland at the beginning of the war, in an orphanage run by Mirek, a published author, and Baba Hanka, a grandmotherly figure who I adored. He was a miracle worker in the kitchen. She made edible meals out of plants and herbs that had been foraged in the forest.

Mirek was an incredible strength to the kids he was looking after, and even when things were looking bad, he pulled on his positive mask and attempted to turn things into a game, so the kids wouldn't be scared.

This is a book, based on true events, about WWII so of course it's heartbreaking, hearing about yet more unspeakable events which took place and how horrific people were treated. But everyone should be aware of just how bad things were for hundreds of thousands of people and how heartless the people who carried out these monstrous acts.

'It isn't only the love we've lost that makes it hurt so much, it's the love we'll never get to give'.

Thank you to Steve N. Lee for the opportunity to read and review A Song of Silence.

[Charlotte Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book…I do not think I will ever forget this book. I lived with Mirek and his orphans, I felt their fear for what the future held and was in awe of all that Mirek did to make sure his orphans felt as little fear as possible. He is a man that was made to run an orphanage. He knew what to share, how much to share, and how to let the children be children.

A Song of Silence is not a book to go into lightly. I have read a lot of WWII books and this book may have been the most difficult for me to read since the entire story is about children and war. It was not graphic, but it did not cover up the ugliness of what was done to anyone who did not fall into line with Hitler and his army.

Yet, I saw so much hope, love, and compassion while reading. Mirek was willing to do anything to save “his children”, even give his own life. The mild romance in the story showed that love could grow, even in horrible times.

Steven N Lee wrote a book that I could not put down. The story is so real, so full of life during WWII, and a book that I will never forget.

Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Katheryn Worrall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping read ...

Well what can I say, I have cried , laughed , I have been educated, thrilled , sat on the edge of my seat and gained a few shadows under my eyes all , because this book was not one to put down once picked up.
Believe me when I say this book was very well researched .
Following the main character (Merik) was a journey into a truly mind blowing , heartbreaking world , he faced difficult almost impossible decisions, he fell in love , he faced his fears and also his dreams , he is definitely in my opinion unforgettable.
All the characters jumped out of the book to greet you , some will make you want to put them right back into the pages , in this age there were some whos hearts were stone , whos thought process is disgusting and despicable.
I am now waiting for the next book , it sounds just as intriguing and wonderful.
Thank you for all your hard work Mr Lee , I truly appreciate it.

[Myrna Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very achingly moving story written by a sensitive soul who sees beneath religious differences. This generation knows about the Holocaust from reading history books. They cannot understand the human feelings of those who lived through that terrible time. Very few are left who were there. I lost my maternal family, only my mother and a few cousins survived. This book is very accurate, painfully so, with so much heart I am choked up. Anyone reading it will feel as if they are there, living, suffering along with these poor frightened people. There is so much I would like to say in praise of this amazing book, but I can't because of spoilers. Suffice it to say, please read it because what happened should never be forgotten. Also in its own right, Mr Lee has written a very awesome novel that deserves praise for its ability to bring out such strong emotions in the reader.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A terrifying time, and a man just doing his best to keep his young charges safe, is brought to life in this poignant, dark, and at times heartwarming and heartbreaking story. Lee truly makes you travel back in time, and pulls no punches as to the realities of being in Poland during WWII when the Germans arrived. At times, it was difficult to read, simply because it made my heart ache so much. I highly recommend reading this with some tissues and your favorite comfort drink nearby. Mirek is a beautiful soul, who desperately wants to save all those in his care, and you can feel his desperation to do so, and the pain when he can’t, flowing off the page. While this is by no means a light read, if you’re looking for a book that is dark but unforgettable, with a small glimmer of hope within, then you’ll want to grab this.

[Emily Malek · Rating 4 out of 5]

ull disclosure: I was given a free advance reader copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Content warning: this review discusses rape, murder, and suicide.

I’ve read and watched plenty of Holocaust stories, both fiction and nonfiction. After a while, I noticed patterns among them. They involve protagonists witnessing or experiencing atrocities committed by the Nazis, a love story, and interactions with a sadistic Nazi official. Today’s subject: "A Song of Silence" by Steve N. Lee doesn’t reinvent the wheel when it comes to this type of tale, yet it remains a powerful story about a man running an orphanage during a horrific episode in world history.

To read more of this review, click on this link: https://chick-who-reads-everything.co...

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an emotional and not an easy read because of the horrible things that happen to this town. It would not be an easy time to live with the horrors going on and I think it’s important to tell these stories so we don’t forget.

Mirek runs an orphanage with close to 100 children when the Germans invade their town. Mirek is determined to keep the children safe. We are along side Mirek as he comes up with creative ways to feed the children and keep them from being scared. This is a great read for an adult reader who wants to learn more about what life was like at that time. The story is also one of hope as citizens find ways to help each other. If you enjoy WWII stories, add this to your TBR.

[Olivia Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that I could not put down. A Song of Silence is a reminder to all of us that war can turn normal people into barbarians. Nothing stops the Nazi's from doing their "duty" to Hitler and the 'Arian" nation he envisions. But in the midst of all this insanity, there are still people who love, care and insist on showing that this doesn't have to be the end result.
Mirek and Ania's love story will stay with you for a long time as their lives unravel during the uprisings in Poland during this horrific time!
I'm sure you will read this book and then immediately want to re-read it again.
Steve N. Lee you deserve the 5 stars for a great book that everyone should read.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so interesting and so well written. It is another story of Hitler and his rise to power.This takes place in Poland where Mirek runs an orphanage and the anquish he goes through to protect his children from the atrocites of the invasion of Poland. This was both heartwarming and brutal and I couldn't stop reading. Now I have to take a break after reading To Dream Of Shadows and A Song of Silence -both written by Steve N. Lee. I will most definitly read more of this authors books.

[Martin Pingree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mirik is a polish writer who also runs an orphanage in 1939 Poland. When the Nazis take over the town, he and his staff and children must bear the brunt. With atrocities and shortages Mirik must work with both the underground and with the Nazis to a certain extent. This is a story of survival, love and tenacity. With an amazing cast of characters and an exceptionally well written storyline this is worth the read.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t say enough about this author and his work! Papa Mirek and his story was captivating, exciting and oh so heartbreaking. I felt the story was familiar as I’m aware of an orphanage in Warsaw during the war and the selfless man who ran it. Mr. Lee mentioned the same story in his after notes.
This author is amazing!!