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Hitler's Angel
Otto and Leni have escaped to England from Nazi Germany. They thought they were safe, but now the British want them to go back. Dropped behind enemy lines, they embark on a secret operation codenamed Wolfsangel. Their mission is to find and kidnap a girl who could bring down Hitler And so begins their bravest journey yet.
318 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2012
119 people are currently reading
1029 people want to read
About the author
William Osborne
16 books28 followersAfter graduating from Cambridge University, William Osborne became a lawyer, but his career took a sharp turn when he switched to screenwriting in Hollywood. He has worked on over 60 movies including Twins, Goldeneye and The Mummy. He lives in Norfolk, England with his wife and four children.
Librarians note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarians note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
October 7, 2012
More of a 3.5. :)
"An incredible adventure and great page turner!" - Bear Grylls.
Bear Grylls.
He knows how to survive in a desert using only a camel!
One day I hope Bear Grylls blurbs one of my books.
Bear Grylls.
"An incredible adventure and great page turner!" - Bear Grylls.
Bear Grylls.
He knows how to survive in a desert using only a camel!
One day I hope Bear Grylls blurbs one of my books.
Bear Grylls.
November 27, 2018
This book is an easier read for those who stay away from more advanced books. This story is about 2 teenagers who chosen by the English government to act as spies and capture a mystery girl in Nazi controlled territory. Their journey gets them in all sorts of trouble and leaves them with more questions answers. Could this mystery girl really be who they think?
July 19, 2015
The problem with this book, I think, is that it's aimed at a younger audience (and an audience without an English degree - the writing made me cringe) and that's fine, but for me it was very clunky and clichéd to read and just didn't flow. I hate that word but it really didn't. I'm pretty sure I would've disliked it when I was ten as well. The entire plot was unrealistic and rushed and large parts of it felt like a list of names and places, as if Osborne was focusing more on the facts of WWII than making an intriguing plot, because a story about two teenage agents kidnapping a child from Nazi Germany should be interesting. Sigh. What a disappointment.
February 4, 2018
I LOVE this book. I read it over and over and over again. It has very likable characters, whom you know only by one of their names, as do they. Leni, Otto, and Angelika are a great team, and I wish the book were longer. It is a dangerous, edge-of-your-seat book that leads you through every step of their mission.
October 18, 2016
it was okay but the ending wasn't that good.
January 13, 2026
A mostly mediocre WWII story....
✏️ Review ✏️
Far and few between were the scenes in Hitler's Secret that commanded by interest and attention in this story. I really tried to enjoy reading this story, but almost at every turn it seemed that elements in the story were prohibiting me from doing so.
The characters feature little emotional depth and receive minimal development; as a result the characters are mostly flat throughout the storyline. Moving on....
For the most part, the plot is predictable and somewhat lackluster. I'll admit a very few scenes grabbed my attention, but more often than not my attention drifted to other books waiting to be read. A few of the plot's events are conveniently yet inconsistently construed just for the sake of making the story longer. And the entire romance subplot? Ugh! It's sooo forced!! I wanted to shout "stop it!!!" but it was eleven o'clock at night so the best I could do was cringe my way through those parts.... While there are ways to say this more eloquently, it isn't worth the effort for this story: the ending is downright lame. It essentially makes the entire buildup of the story pointless and, quite frankly, is a sorry "reward" for traversing the entire plot of mostly predictable escapades.
I've definitely read much better World War Two historical fiction than Hitler's Secret for sure....
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• A very few of the story's scenes — they were exciting enough to grab my full attention.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• Most of the plot — it's lackluster and at times quite predictable.
• The romantic subplot — it's completely forced and lacks any authentic realism altogether.
• The lack of development and emotional depth in the MCs.
• The ending — it's lame and leaves some of the story's threads hanging.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Maybe*, but only very rarely.
— To whom? To those who enjoy WWII historical fiction about spy missions behind enemy lines. And if you are aware that this story contains such elements like a forced and fluffy romantic subplot, a lackluster and at times predictable plot, flat characters, and a rather ridiculous ending.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 2/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 2/5
— 📝 Writing: 2.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 2/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 1/5
• Four vain uses of God's name (and one vain use in German), two uses of "bloody," two uses of "a**," and five uses of "hell."
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• A potentially disturbing scene involving a point-blank shooting; includes minimal yet mildly vivid details (mentions blood).
• One brief nondescript scene involving child death.
• A two-page scene featuring mildly graphic brutality; briefly describes injuries (mentions blood).
• A brief scene involving a stabbing that includes mild details (mentions blood).
• Several scenes featuring mild war violence, including brief mentions of shootings, injuries, and death.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 1/5
• There is one brief instance where the MMC and the FMC unintentionally hold each other close while they're both dressed in just underwear. In that moment the MMC is mentioned as thinking about "wanting to kiss [the FMC], really kiss her."
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• A note about my recommendation: Throughout the story both the MMC and the FMC are mentioned as thinking or verbally expressing romantic attraction for each other on many sporadic occasions. This predominant romantic element should be considered when deciding what age and maturity level Hitler's Secret is best suited for.
• Content note: There a few scenes depicting and explaining occultish and mystical practices utilized by the SS's Institute for Occultish Warfare. While the character whose POV is used in these scenes expresses feeling skeptical about such practices, the story displays such occultish practices to be a plausible and workable aspect of reality. One aspect that the story explicitly posits as reality is an individual's possession and use of psychic powers.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (None)
✏️ Review ✏️
Far and few between were the scenes in Hitler's Secret that commanded by interest and attention in this story. I really tried to enjoy reading this story, but almost at every turn it seemed that elements in the story were prohibiting me from doing so.
The characters feature little emotional depth and receive minimal development; as a result the characters are mostly flat throughout the storyline. Moving on....
For the most part, the plot is predictable and somewhat lackluster. I'll admit a very few scenes grabbed my attention, but more often than not my attention drifted to other books waiting to be read. A few of the plot's events are conveniently yet inconsistently construed just for the sake of making the story longer. And the entire romance subplot? Ugh! It's sooo forced!! I wanted to shout "stop it!!!" but it was eleven o'clock at night so the best I could do was cringe my way through those parts.... While there are ways to say this more eloquently, it isn't worth the effort for this story: the ending is downright lame. It essentially makes the entire buildup of the story pointless and, quite frankly, is a sorry "reward" for traversing the entire plot of mostly predictable escapades.
I've definitely read much better World War Two historical fiction than Hitler's Secret for sure....
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• A very few of the story's scenes — they were exciting enough to grab my full attention.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• Most of the plot — it's lackluster and at times quite predictable.
• The romantic subplot — it's completely forced and lacks any authentic realism altogether.
• The lack of development and emotional depth in the MCs.
• The ending — it's lame and leaves some of the story's threads hanging.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Maybe*, but only very rarely.
— To whom? To those who enjoy WWII historical fiction about spy missions behind enemy lines. And if you are aware that this story contains such elements like a forced and fluffy romantic subplot, a lackluster and at times predictable plot, flat characters, and a rather ridiculous ending.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 2/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 2/5
— 📝 Writing: 2.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 2/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 1/5
• Four vain uses of God's name (and one vain use in German), two uses of "bloody," two uses of "a**," and five uses of "hell."
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• A potentially disturbing scene involving a point-blank shooting; includes minimal yet mildly vivid details (mentions blood).
• One brief nondescript scene involving child death.
• A two-page scene featuring mildly graphic brutality; briefly describes injuries (mentions blood).
• A brief scene involving a stabbing that includes mild details (mentions blood).
• Several scenes featuring mild war violence, including brief mentions of shootings, injuries, and death.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 1/5
• There is one brief instance where the MMC and the FMC unintentionally hold each other close while they're both dressed in just underwear. In that moment the MMC is mentioned as thinking about "wanting to kiss [the FMC], really kiss her."
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• A note about my recommendation: Throughout the story both the MMC and the FMC are mentioned as thinking or verbally expressing romantic attraction for each other on many sporadic occasions. This predominant romantic element should be considered when deciding what age and maturity level Hitler's Secret is best suited for.
• Content note: There a few scenes depicting and explaining occultish and mystical practices utilized by the SS's Institute for Occultish Warfare. While the character whose POV is used in these scenes expresses feeling skeptical about such practices, the story displays such occultish practices to be a plausible and workable aspect of reality. One aspect that the story explicitly posits as reality is an individual's possession and use of psychic powers.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (None)
May 17, 2025
Great plot. Definitely a page turner. However, the point of views were slightly scattered.
September 5, 2012
Hitler's Angel is the story of two refugees who have managed to get to England and safety. The girl, about 14, had come with her family, Jews from Vienna, able to escape Hitler's clutches when the Nazis entered Austria in 1938. The boy, 15, escaped by getting a ride on one of the small ships carrying out the rescue mission at Dunkirk in 1940
Now it is 1941 and they have been asked by Admiral MacPherson of the *London Controlling Section, with Prime Minister Churchill's approval, if they would be willing to go back to Germany and rescue a young girl who has the ability to bring down Hitler. This mission has come about after Rudolf Hess, the second most powerful man in Nazi Germany, had parachuted into Scotland and was immediately arrested by the British. The implication is that Hess gave information about this young girl.
The boy and girl, code named Otto and Leni, accept the mission and after two weeks of intense training, they parachute into Germany and begin their quest to find this mysterious child. The girl is being help in a convent on an island in the Chiemsee in Bavaria.
Otto and Leni's trip from their landing to the island is not uneventful, but they nevertheless make it and find the girl, a nine year old named Angelika. They even manage to escape almost undetected, because although they have followed what they were trained to do, they still left a trail of clues that become clear after the girl disappearance has been discovered.
Now, Hitler sets Reinhard Heydrich on their trail. Heydrich was one of the cruelest, most ruthless men in the Third Reich, a Lieutenant General in the SS. Heydrich pursues Otto, Leni and Angelika with a vengeance, eliminating anyone who gets in his way, with the help of Ludwig Straniak, a mystic and map dowsing specialist, sent personally by Hitler.
The pursuit of the three youngsters across Bavaria is an exciting, if sometime violent, adventure. But who is Angelika and why is keeping her a secret so important to the Nazis? And will Otto and Leni get Angelika into Britain and safety? Is any place safe for this girl?
I came across Hitler's Angel in a review over at We Sat Down and was so intrigued by it, I immediately got a copy. This debut novel by former Hollywood screenwriter William Osborne is action packed with thrilling nail-biting drama. Sound like a movie - it perhaps could be one day.
Which doesn't mean this isn't a read-worthy novel. Osborne has taken actual people and events and woven a sometimes feasible, sometimes not sp feasible story around them. The story chapters alternate between Leni and Otto, Hitler, MacPherson and Heydrich, so the reader is privileged to all perspectives and there is never a dull moment.
I thought the characterization of Otto and Leni was excellent, that as inexperienced agents they would naturally makes mistakes, and they did. And they are still idealistic, despite everything. Both decide that it is wrong to let Angelika become a bargaining chip of war by the British, and agree to throw away the cyanide capsule MacPherson give them to give to Angelika to insure that she didn't end up back with the Nazis. I did find that the implication of why Angelika was powerful enough to bring down Hitler was a bit slippery. I would think of it and lose it immediately. Perhaps because it was only speculative.
There is quite a bit of violence, some only to demonstrate the level of cruelty Heydrich is capable of, some as a result of being at war. Hitler's Angel has been compared to Robert Muchamore's Henderson's Boys series, which also has some rather violent parts to them, but my feeling is there is a level of depth lacking by comparison, perhaps making it feel too screenplayish. But still definitely worth reading for those who like action and thrills.
Oh, yes, and there is bit of a romantic hint between Leni and Otto, which was rather nice.
Included at the end is a Historical Note detailing who was a fictional character and who came from real life. And what is map dowsing, you might ask? Simple if you have the gift all you do is how a pendulum over a map to locate what you are looking for. And yes, the Nazis really did believe in things mystical and set up the Institute for Occult Warfare, headed by Straniak.
This book is recommended for readers age 13+
This book was purchased for my personal library.
*I have never heard of the London Controlling Section before, but it was a secret department created in 1941 to coordinate military deception. See a fuller description of the London Controlling Section on Wikipedia
Now it is 1941 and they have been asked by Admiral MacPherson of the *London Controlling Section, with Prime Minister Churchill's approval, if they would be willing to go back to Germany and rescue a young girl who has the ability to bring down Hitler. This mission has come about after Rudolf Hess, the second most powerful man in Nazi Germany, had parachuted into Scotland and was immediately arrested by the British. The implication is that Hess gave information about this young girl.
The boy and girl, code named Otto and Leni, accept the mission and after two weeks of intense training, they parachute into Germany and begin their quest to find this mysterious child. The girl is being help in a convent on an island in the Chiemsee in Bavaria.
Otto and Leni's trip from their landing to the island is not uneventful, but they nevertheless make it and find the girl, a nine year old named Angelika. They even manage to escape almost undetected, because although they have followed what they were trained to do, they still left a trail of clues that become clear after the girl disappearance has been discovered.
Now, Hitler sets Reinhard Heydrich on their trail. Heydrich was one of the cruelest, most ruthless men in the Third Reich, a Lieutenant General in the SS. Heydrich pursues Otto, Leni and Angelika with a vengeance, eliminating anyone who gets in his way, with the help of Ludwig Straniak, a mystic and map dowsing specialist, sent personally by Hitler.
The pursuit of the three youngsters across Bavaria is an exciting, if sometime violent, adventure. But who is Angelika and why is keeping her a secret so important to the Nazis? And will Otto and Leni get Angelika into Britain and safety? Is any place safe for this girl?
I came across Hitler's Angel in a review over at We Sat Down and was so intrigued by it, I immediately got a copy. This debut novel by former Hollywood screenwriter William Osborne is action packed with thrilling nail-biting drama. Sound like a movie - it perhaps could be one day.
Which doesn't mean this isn't a read-worthy novel. Osborne has taken actual people and events and woven a sometimes feasible, sometimes not sp feasible story around them. The story chapters alternate between Leni and Otto, Hitler, MacPherson and Heydrich, so the reader is privileged to all perspectives and there is never a dull moment.
I thought the characterization of Otto and Leni was excellent, that as inexperienced agents they would naturally makes mistakes, and they did. And they are still idealistic, despite everything. Both decide that it is wrong to let Angelika become a bargaining chip of war by the British, and agree to throw away the cyanide capsule MacPherson give them to give to Angelika to insure that she didn't end up back with the Nazis. I did find that the implication of why Angelika was powerful enough to bring down Hitler was a bit slippery. I would think of it and lose it immediately. Perhaps because it was only speculative.
There is quite a bit of violence, some only to demonstrate the level of cruelty Heydrich is capable of, some as a result of being at war. Hitler's Angel has been compared to Robert Muchamore's Henderson's Boys series, which also has some rather violent parts to them, but my feeling is there is a level of depth lacking by comparison, perhaps making it feel too screenplayish. But still definitely worth reading for those who like action and thrills.
Oh, yes, and there is bit of a romantic hint between Leni and Otto, which was rather nice.
Included at the end is a Historical Note detailing who was a fictional character and who came from real life. And what is map dowsing, you might ask? Simple if you have the gift all you do is how a pendulum over a map to locate what you are looking for. And yes, the Nazis really did believe in things mystical and set up the Institute for Occult Warfare, headed by Straniak.
This book is recommended for readers age 13+
This book was purchased for my personal library.
*I have never heard of the London Controlling Section before, but it was a secret department created in 1941 to coordinate military deception. See a fuller description of the London Controlling Section on Wikipedia
November 1, 2020
Thrilling, exciting, and beautifully written. A wonderful page-turner. Full of action and adventure, I would recommend this book to all ages. As I am currently reading the world war 2 genre, this fit in perfectly and leads on to my next book, The Book Thief. An easy, fun read!
November 2, 2013
I try to read as many books as I can that is set during the 1940's. It is one of my favorite time periods. When I saw Hitler's Secret on netgalley, I knew I had to read it. It is definitely a read that many middle graders would enjoy!
Both Otto and Leni escaped a Nazi Germany. While in Great Britain, they are both asked to go back so they can be spies. Their job is to find the one thing that can help the Allies win the war. I wasn't a fan of Otto. I never felt a connection to him, and I didn't like his personality. Leni was a cool girl though. She was strong, and I admired her.
While I didn't enjoy the story as much as I was hoping I would, I think young children and teenagers will find Hitler's Secret an action packed story, especially for the ones who love history. But I think even if you hate learning or reading about history, you can enjoy this one!
Both Otto and Leni escaped a Nazi Germany. While in Great Britain, they are both asked to go back so they can be spies. Their job is to find the one thing that can help the Allies win the war. I wasn't a fan of Otto. I never felt a connection to him, and I didn't like his personality. Leni was a cool girl though. She was strong, and I admired her.
While I didn't enjoy the story as much as I was hoping I would, I think young children and teenagers will find Hitler's Secret an action packed story, especially for the ones who love history. But I think even if you hate learning or reading about history, you can enjoy this one!
October 20, 2014
William OsborneHitler's Secret
Hitler's Secret is a really good book because of its adventure and suspense. This book is about a boy and girl named Otto and Leni who are refugees which are traveling as spies for Britain to Germany to get a 9/10 year old girl who is thought by the British to be the end of the war. The book has a lot of adventure so on a scale of 1 to 5, I would give this book a 5.
Hitler's Secret is a really good book because of its adventure and suspense. This book is about a boy and girl named Otto and Leni who are refugees which are traveling as spies for Britain to Germany to get a 9/10 year old girl who is thought by the British to be the end of the war. The book has a lot of adventure so on a scale of 1 to 5, I would give this book a 5.
December 3, 2019
it was a very interesting book, I'm not much of a fan for books like this but this one hooked me right away:) so I do recommend this book to any readers interested in history books with a twist of sweet action and non action for sure:!
November 2, 2017
The adventure and history filled book Hitler's Secret by William Osborne takes place in Europe during WWII. The young adults Otto and Leni thought they were safe. They barely escaped from war-torn Europe and are living as refugees in England. Then the King had recruited them. Great Britain wants them to go back, as spies. They then embark on a top-secret operation. Code name: Wolfs angel. Their mission was to capture the one person who can defeat the ultimate evil of Nazism. Der Fuhrer has destroyed Otto's and Leni's families, but what if the tables were turned? What if Hitler's ultimate legacy was in their hands? Hitler's Secret is a cinematic tale of revenge with an unexpected twist. A note by the author explains the truth behind the fiction and lets readers know what really became of history's greatest villains.
William Osborne used imagery a lot throughout the book to help the reader's understanding of how the characters are feeling. The author uses imagery when talking bout the missions on which the characters go on. During a mission William wrote " Through the thick foliage ash could make out the civilian truck trundling towards her." (page 187) This quote helps the reader's understanding of the setting. The use of descriptive language allows the reader to feel as though they are with the characters. This is because the author describes what the scene is like, allowing the reader to understand what the characters are experiencing. Next, the author also helps aid the readers understanding of the plot when he wrote, " Moments later, first one, then two, then three gray canisters, the size of tins of beans, thudded into the snow around them. Red smoke started to billow out." This quote also aids the readers understanding of the plot. This is because the description of the size and color transports the readers mind, allowing them to clearly visualize what is happening. Thus, The author, William< uses imagery throughout the book.
William Osborne also inserted how the characters were feeling adding to the readers understanding of how the characters are feeling. This is shown in the quote, " Sorry, I know we're not supposed to tell, " Leni said, and walked on. ' you're right," came Otto's voice behind her. 'I used to live not far from here, to the North." he sounded so sad. " This quote subtly reveals that Otto cares deeply about his home, and is sad to have left it. This is shown through the way he had said that he didn't live far from where they were. The author had described his tone as sad. Showing that he cared and missed his home. Also, earlier in the book the author talks about how he was smiling when he had arrived at the location in which they were in(Germany). Thus, aiding the reader's understanding of Otto's emotions.
Overall this book was a good read. I would how ever recommend this book to teens rather than adults. All in all, Hitler's Secret is a fast-paced read that is aimed at young children, but is most definitely appropriate for an older demographic, as it deals with historical figures, events and concepts. I think this book is a quick read and is thoroughly enjoyable. I don't think there could have been any improvements made in the book. well written with very real characters and a plot that is never dull or slow. Although Otto and Leni are fictional characters, the author has chosen to incorporate into the story actual individuals who were very prominent during WWII such as Winston Churchill, prime minister of Great Britain; Rudolf Hess, Hitler’s deputy in the Nazi Party; Reinhardt Heinrich, Lieutenant General of the SS and regarded as one of the cruelest men of the Nazi regime.
William Osborne used imagery a lot throughout the book to help the reader's understanding of how the characters are feeling. The author uses imagery when talking bout the missions on which the characters go on. During a mission William wrote " Through the thick foliage ash could make out the civilian truck trundling towards her." (page 187) This quote helps the reader's understanding of the setting. The use of descriptive language allows the reader to feel as though they are with the characters. This is because the author describes what the scene is like, allowing the reader to understand what the characters are experiencing. Next, the author also helps aid the readers understanding of the plot when he wrote, " Moments later, first one, then two, then three gray canisters, the size of tins of beans, thudded into the snow around them. Red smoke started to billow out." This quote also aids the readers understanding of the plot. This is because the description of the size and color transports the readers mind, allowing them to clearly visualize what is happening. Thus, The author, William< uses imagery throughout the book.
William Osborne also inserted how the characters were feeling adding to the readers understanding of how the characters are feeling. This is shown in the quote, " Sorry, I know we're not supposed to tell, " Leni said, and walked on. ' you're right," came Otto's voice behind her. 'I used to live not far from here, to the North." he sounded so sad. " This quote subtly reveals that Otto cares deeply about his home, and is sad to have left it. This is shown through the way he had said that he didn't live far from where they were. The author had described his tone as sad. Showing that he cared and missed his home. Also, earlier in the book the author talks about how he was smiling when he had arrived at the location in which they were in(Germany). Thus, aiding the reader's understanding of Otto's emotions.
Overall this book was a good read. I would how ever recommend this book to teens rather than adults. All in all, Hitler's Secret is a fast-paced read that is aimed at young children, but is most definitely appropriate for an older demographic, as it deals with historical figures, events and concepts. I think this book is a quick read and is thoroughly enjoyable. I don't think there could have been any improvements made in the book. well written with very real characters and a plot that is never dull or slow. Although Otto and Leni are fictional characters, the author has chosen to incorporate into the story actual individuals who were very prominent during WWII such as Winston Churchill, prime minister of Great Britain; Rudolf Hess, Hitler’s deputy in the Nazi Party; Reinhardt Heinrich, Lieutenant General of the SS and regarded as one of the cruelest men of the Nazi regime.
August 19, 2024
Huh. Not my most favorite but an interesting and engaging plot.
RTC
RTC
August 21, 2022
My daughter found this at a used book store, and she loved it! She really wanted me to read it, and I thought it was a really good story, especially for a middle grade book.
August 28, 2021
This book was great. I loved how they adjusted history to make a book that will make you submerged in the storyline.
June 18, 2016
While the reasoning behind Bear Grylls' endorsement on the cover still plagues my mind, Hitler's Angel actually proved itself to be quite an enjoyable book.
Anyone who plans to read this novel should be forewarned: its target audience is children.
I didn't pay too much attention to this fact and tried to take the story as it was: a fast-paced adventure based loosely off of World War Two.
The subject matter itself has caused, I would assume, a great deal of contention amongst historians and people who do not agree with the use of such historical atrocities for "entertainment". I do agree in some respect that the reader and author alike should not take the story as actual fact. However, I personally do not detest novels themselves that revolve around such atrocities.
Literature is supposed to be a means of connecting different contexts and people intrinsically. War-time and historically-based narratives provide this kind of connection and deeper level of empathy (though, the deepest level of empathy will never be reached by those who were not present during the events mentioned).
The narrative itself was enjoyably quick and clear. Hitler's Angel follows two teenagers: Otto and Leni, as their undercover identities dictate. The British government has chosen these two to go undercover in Nazi Germany to retrieve a small child who is said to be the key to defeating Hitler.
Anyone who has ventured into my GoodReads book shelves will know that I've found a new interest in war-time, espionage young adult fiction. This book fit the bill to a tee, only squandered by the target audience.
Despite the childish aura this book emanated occasionally, I really liked reading about Otto and Leni training and spying (and not the 007 kind of espionage) in Germany. It's just something about kids my age doing things that are so much bigger than what I've ever read or experienced that makes me want to keep reading.
The entire book is narrated in third person, from various perspectives. It felt more like screenwriting, as the alternating perspectives were employed to move the story along and to build suspense later on. Generally, I would consider alternating points of views to be either a cop-out or a style more suited to television or film.
The ending could've been much more satisfying or at least, emotionally exciting. In that respect, Hitler's Angel fell short, even if its target audience is taken into account. The ending lacked closure and the emotional tug that I always hope for on the final page. I felt like perhaps a sequel would be a promising prospect.
All in all, Hitler's Angel is a fast-paced read that is aimed at young children, but is most definitely appropriate for an older demographic, as it deals with historical figures, events and concepts. I think this book is a quick read (I took two weeks to read it because of my busy schedule, but it shouldn't take more than a couple of days ordinarily) and is thoroughly enjoyable. Three stars.
Anyone who plans to read this novel should be forewarned: its target audience is children.
I didn't pay too much attention to this fact and tried to take the story as it was: a fast-paced adventure based loosely off of World War Two.
The subject matter itself has caused, I would assume, a great deal of contention amongst historians and people who do not agree with the use of such historical atrocities for "entertainment". I do agree in some respect that the reader and author alike should not take the story as actual fact. However, I personally do not detest novels themselves that revolve around such atrocities.
Literature is supposed to be a means of connecting different contexts and people intrinsically. War-time and historically-based narratives provide this kind of connection and deeper level of empathy (though, the deepest level of empathy will never be reached by those who were not present during the events mentioned).
The narrative itself was enjoyably quick and clear. Hitler's Angel follows two teenagers: Otto and Leni, as their undercover identities dictate. The British government has chosen these two to go undercover in Nazi Germany to retrieve a small child who is said to be the key to defeating Hitler.
Anyone who has ventured into my GoodReads book shelves will know that I've found a new interest in war-time, espionage young adult fiction. This book fit the bill to a tee, only squandered by the target audience.
Despite the childish aura this book emanated occasionally, I really liked reading about Otto and Leni training and spying (and not the 007 kind of espionage) in Germany. It's just something about kids my age doing things that are so much bigger than what I've ever read or experienced that makes me want to keep reading.
The entire book is narrated in third person, from various perspectives. It felt more like screenwriting, as the alternating perspectives were employed to move the story along and to build suspense later on. Generally, I would consider alternating points of views to be either a cop-out or a style more suited to television or film.
The ending could've been much more satisfying or at least, emotionally exciting. In that respect, Hitler's Angel fell short, even if its target audience is taken into account. The ending lacked closure and the emotional tug that I always hope for on the final page. I felt like perhaps a sequel would be a promising prospect.
All in all, Hitler's Angel is a fast-paced read that is aimed at young children, but is most definitely appropriate for an older demographic, as it deals with historical figures, events and concepts. I think this book is a quick read (I took two weeks to read it because of my busy schedule, but it shouldn't take more than a couple of days ordinarily) and is thoroughly enjoyable. Three stars.
April 30, 2014
This was an excellent book. Typically I am not a fan of WWII fiction, but “Hitler’s Secret” is well written with very real characters and a plot that is never dull or slow. Although Otto and Leni are fictional characters, the author has chosen to incorporate into the story actual individuals who were very prominent during WWII such as Winston Churchhill, prime minister of Great Britain; Rudolf Hess, Hitler’s deputy in the Nazi Party; Reinhard Heydrich, Lieutenant General of the SS and regarded as one of the cruelest men of the Nazi regime.
The author’s inclusion of these individuals as characters within the book only enhanced the historical aspect. While the author himself states in the book of this book that he “does not claim to be historically accurate or portray factual events or relationships,” There was not one thing in this book that I could not see actually happening during this time in history.
This book has a target audience of 12 years old and up (7th grade and up). There are a few violent and graphic scenes within the book and therefore may not be entirely appropriate for the younger end of the target audience. There is a murder-suicide that caught me by surprise and also a torture scene that includes Otto and Heydrich that was a somewhat intense. But at the same time, these scenes give credibility to the historical time-frame. As a parent, if you are considering this book for your younger child, just be aware.
Overall, I really enjoyed “Hitler’s Secret.” If the author chose to develop this into a series, I would welcome the opportunity to read any future stories about Otto and Leni! (rev. P.Howard)
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Hitler's Secret was provided by Scholastic Books in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.
The author’s inclusion of these individuals as characters within the book only enhanced the historical aspect. While the author himself states in the book of this book that he “does not claim to be historically accurate or portray factual events or relationships,” There was not one thing in this book that I could not see actually happening during this time in history.
This book has a target audience of 12 years old and up (7th grade and up). There are a few violent and graphic scenes within the book and therefore may not be entirely appropriate for the younger end of the target audience. There is a murder-suicide that caught me by surprise and also a torture scene that includes Otto and Heydrich that was a somewhat intense. But at the same time, these scenes give credibility to the historical time-frame. As a parent, if you are considering this book for your younger child, just be aware.
Overall, I really enjoyed “Hitler’s Secret.” If the author chose to develop this into a series, I would welcome the opportunity to read any future stories about Otto and Leni! (rev. P.Howard)
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Hitler's Secret was provided by Scholastic Books in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.
July 16, 2015
Hitler's Secret (also known as Hitler's Angel) was a pretty exciting book. It was very easy read.
Admiral MacPherson of the Royal Navy recruits Otto and Leni from their new homes in England. Leni is from Austria and Otto is from Germany. They are trained for only a little bit of time before being dropped off in Bavaria, Germany to set out on a top-secret mission, code named: Wolfsangel. Their mission is to capture the one person who can defeat Germany and stop this war. But can they do it with barely any training and experience? Will the outcome of World War 2 lie in their hands?
This book was quite an interesting read. I have mixed feelings about it. I didn't get overly excited about it. Their mission felt a bit too easy and simple. I mean, there were times when the characters were in a bit of a sticky situation, but they usually got out of it very quickly and easily. Also, there were some parts that felt a bit choppy and didn't flow well. Overall, Hitler's Secret was an exiting and adventurous read (especially the second half). There was a tiny bit of language I didn't like and two "scenes" that I felt were a bit weird and awkward reading but wasn't anything major or such. And the ending kind of surprised me, though I was expecting it.
Still being an exciting and enjoyable book, I'd recommend this to anyone who wants a fast page-turner and likes historical fiction. I liked it.
Admiral MacPherson of the Royal Navy recruits Otto and Leni from their new homes in England. Leni is from Austria and Otto is from Germany. They are trained for only a little bit of time before being dropped off in Bavaria, Germany to set out on a top-secret mission, code named: Wolfsangel. Their mission is to capture the one person who can defeat Germany and stop this war. But can they do it with barely any training and experience? Will the outcome of World War 2 lie in their hands?
This book was quite an interesting read. I have mixed feelings about it. I didn't get overly excited about it. Their mission felt a bit too easy and simple. I mean, there were times when the characters were in a bit of a sticky situation, but they usually got out of it very quickly and easily. Also, there were some parts that felt a bit choppy and didn't flow well. Overall, Hitler's Secret was an exiting and adventurous read (especially the second half). There was a tiny bit of language I didn't like and two "scenes" that I felt were a bit weird and awkward reading but wasn't anything major or such. And the ending kind of surprised me, though I was expecting it.
Still being an exciting and enjoyable book, I'd recommend this to anyone who wants a fast page-turner and likes historical fiction. I liked it.
April 23, 2014
Hitler's Secret (American name for a British book) was a fun read. The kids were likeable and the action kept it going. I didn't think it was badly written as some reviewers have suggested. I could imagine it as an action movie and not as a literary masterpiece or an adult historical novel. I think it would appeal to a boy or a girl because of the fast paced action.
Things didn't always make sense but so what? The excitement and adventure of it all kept me reading. The worse part was the ending--Angelika never seemed like a real person, more like a package they were delivering. It wasn't even left open ended for a sequel. For historical reason I can see why that is but for a 'just suppose' story the author could have been more imaginative. It might be a good tween book group read with a chance to discuss how the ending could have been different.
There isn't enough historical fiction out there for this age group--I thought it was a perfect summer read for a middle grader. Of course, it probably isn't a replacement for a true to history book but might get kids more interested in this time period and the brave people that tried to undermine the Nazis plans.
Things didn't always make sense but so what? The excitement and adventure of it all kept me reading. The worse part was the ending--Angelika never seemed like a real person, more like a package they were delivering. It wasn't even left open ended for a sequel. For historical reason I can see why that is but for a 'just suppose' story the author could have been more imaginative. It might be a good tween book group read with a chance to discuss how the ending could have been different.
There isn't enough historical fiction out there for this age group--I thought it was a perfect summer read for a middle grader. Of course, it probably isn't a replacement for a true to history book but might get kids more interested in this time period and the brave people that tried to undermine the Nazis plans.
March 24, 2014
I had to read this for a school book project. I had around a month or so to read it, but I only read one book at a time and I was already in the middle of a series. In the end I knew I could just read a few pages in the middle, beginning, and end and write a report; but I genuinely wanted to read the book. I read it one weekend literally non-stop reading and I loved it. I loved every part of it. It went too fast because it had to. I will never be able to reread this book without knowing the ending. My only regret is that I had to read this for school and therefore couldn't get too into it as school was consistently in the back of my mind. But, if it wasn't for school then I probably would've never picked up a book of this genre. I'm definitely recommending this to my sister, she loves books like this.
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April 28, 2014The novel "Hitler's Secret" by William Osborne is about to young spies named Leni and Otto who are on a mission to return a girl named Angelika to England. Once Leni and Otto are dropped behind enemy lines, they have to pretend they are siblings and stay out of sights from enemy soldiers. They face many challenges including sailing, fights, and stealing to accomplish the mission. But will mission Wolfsangel even help war afforts from England.
I enjoyed this book because it was action packed and took me on a wild adventure through Europe during World War 2. The book described the setting of Europe in an interesting way. The book also keeps you guessing and wondering what happens next. The book is filled with twists and turns that are not expected and a strange ending.
I enjoyed this book because it was action packed and took me on a wild adventure through Europe during World War 2. The book described the setting of Europe in an interesting way. The book also keeps you guessing and wondering what happens next. The book is filled with twists and turns that are not expected and a strange ending.
February 10, 2016
I liked this book because it gave information on World War II in an interesting way. Instead of just listing some facts, this book gave it a story plot. It was about two British spies who were sent undercover in Germany to retrieve a little girl and bring her back to the British Government to help the war effort for the British. The story tells about their mission, adventure and the many challenges they faced, but I learned some things about the war throughout the course of the story. Some things I learned more about are Gestapo officers and the amount of support given to Adolf Hitler in Germany. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read an adventure/suspenseful book, but also learn about World War II in Germany.
November 30, 2016
Ik vond dit een onrealistisch verhaal met weinig diepgang. Helaas. Geen aanrader dus.
Twee tienerkinderen die in 2 weken tijd getraind kunnen worden om zichzelf te handhaven ten opzichte van tientallen nazi's, weten te ontspannen uit een nazi gebouw en alle vaardigheden in huis hebben om te handelen zoals soldaten dat doen na jarenlange intensieve training.
Daarbij is de kern van het verhaal, wie was Angelika precies en wat was de bedoeling met haar van zowel de Britten als de nazi's aan het einde van het boek nog steeds niet helder.
Ook vind ik dat het hele tweede wereldoorlog verhaal geschiedkundig niet goed is neergezet waarbij kinderen die dit boek lezen geen goed beeld krijgen van deze oorlog.
Twee tienerkinderen die in 2 weken tijd getraind kunnen worden om zichzelf te handhaven ten opzichte van tientallen nazi's, weten te ontspannen uit een nazi gebouw en alle vaardigheden in huis hebben om te handelen zoals soldaten dat doen na jarenlange intensieve training.
Daarbij is de kern van het verhaal, wie was Angelika precies en wat was de bedoeling met haar van zowel de Britten als de nazi's aan het einde van het boek nog steeds niet helder.
Ook vind ik dat het hele tweede wereldoorlog verhaal geschiedkundig niet goed is neergezet waarbij kinderen die dit boek lezen geen goed beeld krijgen van deze oorlog.
October 3, 2014
This book was ok. It wasn't what I expected it to be. Two spies trying to hunt down Hitler. The most I got from this book. It was good in terms of explaining every detail these two spies went through. The suspense was great. Left me waiting to read the next chapter. But the overall rating i'd give this book is 3 stars. I really liked it. But it could improve in some areas. I knew this was based on Germany. So i'm going to say to add how to say some of the German words in the back of the book next to the definitions. The words made turn to the back to find out what they mean. The story was really nice and well planned. I enjoyed every bit of it.
September 19, 2016
Have you ever been on a really big journey with your best friend and then all of a sudden when you're on that journey something really exciting happens? In the book 'Hitlers Secret' two teens named Lenni and Otto are sent on a really big journey to try and figure out Hitlers secret. I think the book "Hitlers Secret' was amazing, it was one of my most favorite books to read! It was one of my favorite books to read because it has just the right amount of action, romance, mystery,and it keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time. I recommend that this book is for a person that is kind of a strong reader.
September 17, 2014
Hitler’s secret written by William Osborne is about a boy named Otto and a girl named Leni who have escaped from Europe and they barely made it out alive. Now Great Britain wants them to go back. As spies! They will be dropped behind the enemy lines after lots of training. Will the make it out alive? I recommend this book I think its a great book and if you like books with a lot of action you might too.
January 14, 2016
Has some spoilers!!! I give it five stars.What an amazing book!I think it's good that the author added some history to the story.Love how the book is about two teenagers become spies and try to get a child named Angelika.They think the child is Hitler's daughter and try to get past the border to Switzerland and try to escape from the Nazis.It is super sad at the end,though,but I'll save that for you to read. I recommend this book to anyone who likes history.
February 20, 2016
Hitler ... the ultimate beast.... Did he have a human side? You might find the answer to this question in this novel.
Two German teens escape the Nazis and wind up in England. Then they are procured by Winston Churchill himself (through a proxy, of course) to return to the out of control country to find something. This visit brings a surprise after almost getting killed numerous times -- Hitler's Secret.
Two German teens escape the Nazis and wind up in England. Then they are procured by Winston Churchill himself (through a proxy, of course) to return to the out of control country to find something. This visit brings a surprise after almost getting killed numerous times -- Hitler's Secret.
November 8, 2013
Wait.
I'm confused.
What's the difference between this and Hitler's Angel ?
But I got an advance copy of this from my library and simply ADORED it! It's a great read!
I'm confused.
What's the difference between this and Hitler's Angel ?
But I got an advance copy of this from my library and simply ADORED it! It's a great read!
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