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The Ring
An ill-fated affair between Kassandra von Gotthard, a married German socialite, and her lover, a Jewish writer, at the beginning of Hitler's ethnic cleansing campaign results in tragedy for Kassandra's children, especially her beautiful daughter Ariana. When her father and brother disappear, Ariana is arrested by the Reich. Facing imprisonment and repeated rape at the hands of unscrupulous soldiers who desire to humble the lovely blond, Ariana jumps at the opportunity to become a cook for a kind Nazi officer. Gradually, the two are able to put the specter of war behind them and fall in love. But calamity strikes again, leaving Ariana alone once more and running for her life. Desperately sick and pregnant, Ariana lands in New York, part of the wave of refugees brought there by relief organizations. Sponsored, then befriended, then betrayed, by the Liebman family, Ariana slowly recovers in time for the Christmas birth of her son. And Noel, a kind man who loves Ariana, gives her the strength to make a life for herself and for him, which she does, finally finding true happiness. Danielle Steel creates a tale of the phases of life and love that we all experience against a brutal background that hopefully will not be experienced ever again. --Alison Trinkle
352 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 1980
About the author
Danielle Steel
996 books17.3k followersDanielle Steel has been hailed as one of the world's bestselling authors, with almost a billion copies of her novels sold. Her many international bestsellers include All That Glitters, Royal, Daddy's Girls, The Wedding Dress, The Numbers Game, Moral Compass, Spy, and other highly acclaimed novels. She is also the author of His Bright Light, the story of her son Nick Traina's life and death; A Gift of Hope, a memoir of her work with the homeless; Expect a Miracle, a book of her favorite quotations for inspiration and comfort; Pure Joy, about the dogs she and her family have loved; and the children's books Pretty Minnie in Paris and Pretty Minnie in Hollywood.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 387 reviews
July 2, 2017
Wonderful read! interesting and engaging storyline.. (paperback!)
May 16, 2011
This was the last bookm I read. It was historical, sad, interesting and touching. The things Ariana went through, she is tough. U learn a lot by the way. I love World War II stories especially from German. It tells the tells of what people went through to be great today. From Kassandra and Walmar, to Ariana, Manfred, Ariana reaching the states, meeting the Leibmans, being mistreated and surviving, her Noel and Tamara. U just put yourself in her shoes and u see that for to fit, u need to be strong. One learns a lot
January 4, 2009
This was recommended by a work colleague back in 1982 and turned me off to Danielle Steele novels ever since.
September 8, 2016
I had read this off my grandmother's shelf when I was in high school, and I fell in love with the story. WWII, romance, generational saga - what was not to love? I had forgotten the details a bit, and when searching for some choices for a staff picks display, I ordered it to re-read.
I'm so happy I did. I definitely look at the book a little bit differently now, almost 20 years later. I've read A LOT more WWII fiction, but this is probably one of the books that made me fall in love with the historical genre to begin with. It's gooier than I remember, but many parts of the war, the suffering, and the huge losses the characters endured made me cry as a grown woman with a family of my own.
The books is relatively short, especially considering it spans over 40 years, but with each character and each generation I feel like they are fully fleshed out and we knew each one personally. It shows the hardships that non-Jewish Germans went through that didn't agree with the regime, and how Nazi Germany followed them as a stigma well into the 70's.
There are a lot of coincidences that lead to the end, but with so many refugees coming to America, all through NYC at the time, maybe it's not quite so coincidental. Either way, this is a story I loved, and still love, as a great piece of romantic historical fiction.
I'm so happy I did. I definitely look at the book a little bit differently now, almost 20 years later. I've read A LOT more WWII fiction, but this is probably one of the books that made me fall in love with the historical genre to begin with. It's gooier than I remember, but many parts of the war, the suffering, and the huge losses the characters endured made me cry as a grown woman with a family of my own.
The books is relatively short, especially considering it spans over 40 years, but with each character and each generation I feel like they are fully fleshed out and we knew each one personally. It shows the hardships that non-Jewish Germans went through that didn't agree with the regime, and how Nazi Germany followed them as a stigma well into the 70's.
There are a lot of coincidences that lead to the end, but with so many refugees coming to America, all through NYC at the time, maybe it's not quite so coincidental. Either way, this is a story I loved, and still love, as a great piece of romantic historical fiction.
February 13, 2011
First Danielle Steele book I read. The appearance of the book is so creepy because of small characters and its thickness but the author made the plot good enough to indulge myself into the story.
It has the same story with all the WWII-inspired plots that revolved around loss and hope but Steele created an in-depth plot her work that made my imagination vivid. Her difference however, is the story's numerous twists and turns and sub-stories that revolved around 3 generations of the Van Gotthards covering the pre-war, the war itself and the post-war era but despite the immense narration of it's books, Steele was able to keep its continuity.
What's also great about it that it was easy to understand and I didn't get lost in the middle. Its definitely a good read to a woman because it not only has the usual romance but it also entails fashion and elegance.
In short, a good read. It made me hunger what's going to happen next so I kept on flipping the page until wee hours in the midnight.
It has the same story with all the WWII-inspired plots that revolved around loss and hope but Steele created an in-depth plot her work that made my imagination vivid. Her difference however, is the story's numerous twists and turns and sub-stories that revolved around 3 generations of the Van Gotthards covering the pre-war, the war itself and the post-war era but despite the immense narration of it's books, Steele was able to keep its continuity.
What's also great about it that it was easy to understand and I didn't get lost in the middle. Its definitely a good read to a woman because it not only has the usual romance but it also entails fashion and elegance.
In short, a good read. It made me hunger what's going to happen next so I kept on flipping the page until wee hours in the midnight.
July 24, 2019
Daniel Steele I know 🙄 BUT this is an incredible story which is partly why it’s in my favourites folder the real reason it’s here is because it is the “first” novel I ever read! This book provided me with my first chaotic reading experience you know the can’t put you down, this is the last page else tomorrow is going to be terrible kind of reads ...... I was at boarding school sitting in the middle of the night in a bathroom because it was the only place there was light 🤣 I was hooked from this book onwards and that’s what makes it very special!
January 12, 2024
Read this in high school and wanted to revisit the story to see why I enjoyed it so much. I see why I did! I think this book helped me know/taught me about WWII, the Nazis, and the Holocaust. Danielle Steel was writing historical fiction before it became a thing. Great story.
Read
December 14, 2016I didn't think I would enjoy this book as I am not so keen on books set in the 2nd world war. I was incredibly pleasantly surprised. Very enjoyable.
February 18, 2022
Really good book! Didn’t think I would be into this genre, but the book was surprisingly hard to put down. Made me super emotional, almost started crying in peet’s coffee when I finished it.
January 8, 2025
** 3.5 **
was gonna be 3 but the ending was so 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹
was gonna be 3 but the ending was so 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹
May 25, 2019
Uno dei migliori romanzi di Danielle Steel, ottima la ricostruzione storica
January 29, 2025
4 stars!
This is a blast from the past, and it actually held up well. Danielle Steele writes some amazing generational family sagas, and this is one of those.
Set in WW2 Germany and finding it's way to the United States, this is a story of the von Gottard family.
What stands out most to me after I turned the last page is the astronomical impacts of war: death, loss, refugees, crimes against humanity, and just pure evil. Arianna von Gottard is the character that we follow from her childhood through her teen years, and finally her mid-life as the impacts of WW2 follow her all of her days.
I have read a lot of WW2 historical fiction and I really did enjoy this one. It ages well, and I loved following this courageous woman through her war experience. Recommended!
This is a blast from the past, and it actually held up well. Danielle Steele writes some amazing generational family sagas, and this is one of those.
Set in WW2 Germany and finding it's way to the United States, this is a story of the von Gottard family.
What stands out most to me after I turned the last page is the astronomical impacts of war: death, loss, refugees, crimes against humanity, and just pure evil. Arianna von Gottard is the character that we follow from her childhood through her teen years, and finally her mid-life as the impacts of WW2 follow her all of her days.
I have read a lot of WW2 historical fiction and I really did enjoy this one. It ages well, and I loved following this courageous woman through her war experience. Recommended!
August 15, 2023
Oh, "The Ring" by Danielle Steel, how I love you!
"The Ring" by Danielle Steel is indeed a captivating novel that delves into the tumultuous period of World War II. Steel's storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves a tale of love, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.
Set in the 1930s and continuing through the war and its aftermath, the story follows the lives of Kassandra Von Gotthard and her daughter, Ariana. Kassandra, a young woman in love with a Jewish man, faces the harsh realities of a society torn apart by prejudice and hatred. As the war escalates, Ariana's journey begins, marked by tragedy and separation from her family.
What sets "The Ring" apart from other World War II stories is its unique perspective. Steel focuses on the experiences of a German girl from a well-to-do background, offering readers a different lens through which to view the war. Through Ariana's eyes, we witness the horrors of the Nazi regime and the devastating impact it has on her life.
Ariana's resilience and courage are truly inspiring. Despite the unimaginable hardships she faces, she remains determined to survive and find her family. Steel masterfully portrays the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, reminding us of the indomitable nature of the human soul.
The symbol of the signet diamond ring adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Passed down from Kassandra to Ariana, it becomes a tangible connection between generations, representing both the opulence and the hardships they endure. Steel skillfully uses this symbol to explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of family bonds.
"The Ring" is not just a story of war; it is a story of love and sorrow, innocence and loss. Steel's vivid descriptions transport readers to the war-torn streets of Berlin, allowing us to experience the fear and desperation firsthand. Through her meticulous research and attention to detail, she brings history to life, shedding light on the pain and suffering endured by countless individuals during this dark period.
While "The Ring" is a work of fiction, it serves as a poignant reminder of the real-life struggles faced by those affected by World War II. It offers a glimpse into the human experience, showcasing the strength and resilience of individuals in the face of unimaginable circumstances.
In conclusion, "The Ring" is a compelling historical fiction novel that captivates readers with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters. Danielle Steel's ability to transport us to a different time and place, while exploring universal themes of love, loss, and resilience, makes this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
"The Ring" by Danielle Steel is indeed a captivating novel that delves into the tumultuous period of World War II. Steel's storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves a tale of love, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.
Set in the 1930s and continuing through the war and its aftermath, the story follows the lives of Kassandra Von Gotthard and her daughter, Ariana. Kassandra, a young woman in love with a Jewish man, faces the harsh realities of a society torn apart by prejudice and hatred. As the war escalates, Ariana's journey begins, marked by tragedy and separation from her family.
What sets "The Ring" apart from other World War II stories is its unique perspective. Steel focuses on the experiences of a German girl from a well-to-do background, offering readers a different lens through which to view the war. Through Ariana's eyes, we witness the horrors of the Nazi regime and the devastating impact it has on her life.
Ariana's resilience and courage are truly inspiring. Despite the unimaginable hardships she faces, she remains determined to survive and find her family. Steel masterfully portrays the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, reminding us of the indomitable nature of the human soul.
The symbol of the signet diamond ring adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Passed down from Kassandra to Ariana, it becomes a tangible connection between generations, representing both the opulence and the hardships they endure. Steel skillfully uses this symbol to explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of family bonds.
"The Ring" is not just a story of war; it is a story of love and sorrow, innocence and loss. Steel's vivid descriptions transport readers to the war-torn streets of Berlin, allowing us to experience the fear and desperation firsthand. Through her meticulous research and attention to detail, she brings history to life, shedding light on the pain and suffering endured by countless individuals during this dark period.
While "The Ring" is a work of fiction, it serves as a poignant reminder of the real-life struggles faced by those affected by World War II. It offers a glimpse into the human experience, showcasing the strength and resilience of individuals in the face of unimaginable circumstances.
In conclusion, "The Ring" is a compelling historical fiction novel that captivates readers with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters. Danielle Steel's ability to transport us to a different time and place, while exploring universal themes of love, loss, and resilience, makes this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
February 11, 2015
1 STARS
"An ill-fated affair between Kassandra von Gotthard, a married German socialite, and her lover, a Jewish writer, at the beginning of Hitler's ethnic cleansing campaign results in tragedy for Kassandra's children, especially her beautiful daughter Ariana. When her father and brother disappear, Ariana is arrested by the Reich. Facing imprisonment and repeated rape at the hands of unscrupulous soldiers who desire to humble the lovely blond, Ariana jumps at the opportunity to become a cook for a kind Nazi officer. Gradually, the two are able to put the specter of war behind them and fall in love. But calamity strikes again, leaving Ariana alone once more and running for her life. Desperately sick and pregnant, Ariana lands in New York, part of the wave of refugees brought there by relief organizations. Sponsored, then befriended, then betrayed, by the Liebman family, Ariana slowly recovers in time for the Christmas birth of her son. And Noel, a kind man who loves Ariana, gives her the strength to make a life for herself and for him, which she does, finally finding true happiness." (From Amazon)
Originally when I read Danielle Steel novels I would have rated them 3-4 STARS, but now I would classify them as 1-2 STARS. These are great for those who like mild sex, unrealistic dramatic romances and grand plots.
"An ill-fated affair between Kassandra von Gotthard, a married German socialite, and her lover, a Jewish writer, at the beginning of Hitler's ethnic cleansing campaign results in tragedy for Kassandra's children, especially her beautiful daughter Ariana. When her father and brother disappear, Ariana is arrested by the Reich. Facing imprisonment and repeated rape at the hands of unscrupulous soldiers who desire to humble the lovely blond, Ariana jumps at the opportunity to become a cook for a kind Nazi officer. Gradually, the two are able to put the specter of war behind them and fall in love. But calamity strikes again, leaving Ariana alone once more and running for her life. Desperately sick and pregnant, Ariana lands in New York, part of the wave of refugees brought there by relief organizations. Sponsored, then befriended, then betrayed, by the Liebman family, Ariana slowly recovers in time for the Christmas birth of her son. And Noel, a kind man who loves Ariana, gives her the strength to make a life for herself and for him, which she does, finally finding true happiness." (From Amazon)
Originally when I read Danielle Steel novels I would have rated them 3-4 STARS, but now I would classify them as 1-2 STARS. These are great for those who like mild sex, unrealistic dramatic romances and grand plots.
October 9, 2021
This is the very first time i read a book from Danielle Steel and i absolutely loved “The Ring” !. I’ve always found history so interesting and captivating. We all have learn in school or read about world wars ,they were difficult,destructive,misarable,painful and scary,we all know that ,but with this book I can feel this,like if I lived in that cruel ,dark time of history. U can understand through the characters and the history of this book how much pain, damages and scars a war can bring ...
Moreover, the passionate love stories on this book are so thrilling and made my heart flatter and sometimes even cry. Danielle writes so beautifully and emotionally about love and shows us that true love can come at every moment,unexpectedly and that love is a powerful feeling that gives u hope,makes life be seen differently and more cheerful.
And Ariana ,this strong brave teen,lady,women,old women…she’s the definition of courage,even though life threw her down several times,she never gave up and found real happiness. This is a classic but this book reminds me of the quote ”… After a storm there is always a bright upcoming day… “ .
I would totally recommend this book to everyone who likes history,passionate love stories,tragedies,and real life touchable events. One of the best book i’ve read!
Moreover, the passionate love stories on this book are so thrilling and made my heart flatter and sometimes even cry. Danielle writes so beautifully and emotionally about love and shows us that true love can come at every moment,unexpectedly and that love is a powerful feeling that gives u hope,makes life be seen differently and more cheerful.
And Ariana ,this strong brave teen,lady,women,old women…she’s the definition of courage,even though life threw her down several times,she never gave up and found real happiness. This is a classic but this book reminds me of the quote ”… After a storm there is always a bright upcoming day… “ .
I would totally recommend this book to everyone who likes history,passionate love stories,tragedies,and real life touchable events. One of the best book i’ve read!
January 29, 2021
Имаше едни години, когато щандовете преливаха от всякакви шарени корици и името Даниел Стийл. България беше открила този мастодонт на романтиката, този конвейр за дамски четива с всевъзможни сюжети, някои значително по-глупави от други.
Смях не смях, и баба Даниел си е имала по-добрите писателски моменти в тази специфична пазарна ниша, особено в по-старите и книжки (после го удря съвсем мързеливо през просото).
Германия, навечерието на втората световна война, заварва семейството на общо взето почтен немски бизнесмен все още летящо върху розовите облаци от миналото благоденствие. Дъщерята с поетичнито име Ариана ще се сблъска с нацизма, поражението на Германия, търсенето на ново начало отвъд океана, преследвана от стигмата да е германка.
Имаше даже и сериал, не беше лош. Нито една нервна клетка не ми умря по време на прочита преди доста години, та съм запазила приятен спомен от баба Даниел в случая.
Смях не смях, и баба Даниел си е имала по-добрите писателски моменти в тази специфична пазарна ниша, особено в по-старите и книжки (после го удря съвсем мързеливо през просото).
Германия, навечерието на втората световна война, заварва семейството на общо взето почтен немски бизнесмен все още летящо върху розовите облаци от миналото благоденствие. Дъщерята с поетичнито име Ариана ще се сблъска с нацизма, поражението на Германия, търсенето на ново начало отвъд океана, преследвана от стигмата да е германка.
Имаше даже и сериал, не беше лош. Нито една нервна клетка не ми умря по време на прочита преди доста години, та съм запазила приятен спомен от баба Даниел в случая.
March 7, 2020
If you’re dragging logic, high expectations or a social conscience to Danielle Steel’s sweeping soap opera, then you’re in the wrong pew.
With the exception of one month in a Nazi prison cell, heroine Ariana rides out WWII Germany comfortably swathed in gowns, jewels (including, of course, the titular ring) and furs. After a while though, Berlin falls and Ariana has to travel a long way to America. Everyone she meets is struck by her stunning beauty and aristocratic airs, including the wealthy Jewish family who takes her into their home (and hearts) after mistaking her for a concentration camp survivor.
A handful of wild coincidences bring romance, reconciliations and (what else?) the Courage To Love Again. ‘The Ring’ is the paperback equivalent of Kraft Mac & Cheese. Shamelessly enjoyable.
With the exception of one month in a Nazi prison cell, heroine Ariana rides out WWII Germany comfortably swathed in gowns, jewels (including, of course, the titular ring) and furs. After a while though, Berlin falls and Ariana has to travel a long way to America. Everyone she meets is struck by her stunning beauty and aristocratic airs, including the wealthy Jewish family who takes her into their home (and hearts) after mistaking her for a concentration camp survivor.
A handful of wild coincidences bring romance, reconciliations and (what else?) the Courage To Love Again. ‘The Ring’ is the paperback equivalent of Kraft Mac & Cheese. Shamelessly enjoyable.
March 23, 2014
I used to read this author's books many years ago. last year I was given 3 boxes full of her books which I have been slowly working my way through! I find its very easy to recognise a Danielle steel book and I have to say she always delivers. I thought I had read this book years ago but once I started the book I obviously had forgotten the storyline as it was all new to me. I enjoyed the storyline and it was very easy it to read. the only thing I find is that you tend to know. the outcome way before the end of the Book.
recommended!
recommended!
January 15, 2013
Read it years ago, and i remember weeping my heart out ! Steel does that to you.. her universality lies in writing about issues which are humanistic and real.
June 29, 2023
I remember reading this book many years ago. I still remember the plot, so it says something about the book. I thought the book had a message. I think it’s one of her better books.
March 31, 2024
Fantastic!
February 15, 2025
As a long-time fan of Danielle Steel's novels, this one did not disappoint. True to her style, she makes the reader feel happy, then sad, then happy again. You get all the feels. I appreciate how you get to stay with a character throughout her whole life.
There are a lot of WWII historical books out there, but this one is more of a historal fiction romance. She doesn't go into gory details about the atrocities that occurred during WWII. Instead, she tells the story with the war in the background. At times, it is still heartbreaking and heartwarming because it is impossible to ignore the war and the impact it had on Europe. Although it is a long book, it is easy to follow and read.
I did appreciate that this story was told from the perspective of a German woman who survived the war. It offers a unique perspective by highlighting the notion that not all German soldiers believed in the Nazi propaganda.
If you enjoy Danielle Steel, then you will enjoy this story. It's one of her older books that follows her successful best-selling formula. If you have not read any of her books, I highly recommend you check her out. You will be absorbed and whisked away to another world, usually a world of excessive luxury and wealth.
There are a lot of WWII historical books out there, but this one is more of a historal fiction romance. She doesn't go into gory details about the atrocities that occurred during WWII. Instead, she tells the story with the war in the background. At times, it is still heartbreaking and heartwarming because it is impossible to ignore the war and the impact it had on Europe. Although it is a long book, it is easy to follow and read.
I did appreciate that this story was told from the perspective of a German woman who survived the war. It offers a unique perspective by highlighting the notion that not all German soldiers believed in the Nazi propaganda.
If you enjoy Danielle Steel, then you will enjoy this story. It's one of her older books that follows her successful best-selling formula. If you have not read any of her books, I highly recommend you check her out. You will be absorbed and whisked away to another world, usually a world of excessive luxury and wealth.
November 23, 2017
Una historia conmovedora, o es mejor decir dos historias conmovedoras, la de Kasandra y la de Ariana, una trama que atrapa, que emociona y que lo lleva al suspenso. Me encantó, tanto, que empiezo a extrañarlo.
August 6, 2019
Ideal stuff from her loved it and enjoy all her books easy reading and after a hard read my guilt pleasure
December 26, 2017
libro tan fascinante como dramático. me ha gustado porque tiene un trasfondo histórico muy interesante, se ambienta durante la época en la que inicia la segunda guerra mundial en Alemania, dividida en dos arcos interesantes: por un lado tenemos en la primera parte la historia de cassandra, su matrimonio con Walmar y... su doble vida. de 1934 a 1938 si no me equivoco. a partir de ahí continuamos en el segundo libro con Arianna Berlin, la hija de ellos. el libro termina hasta la décadad de entre los 80 y 90. Ariana tiene que sufrir los estragos de este terrible momento mientras buscan una manera de escapar y sobrevivir. pero las cosas no salen bien, y ella sola necesita enfrentarse a pérdidas, llantos, obstáculos inimaginables que la harán cada vez más fuerte. es completamente recomendable, nunca antes había visto una novela contemporánea romántica como sólo danielle Steel sabe hacerlo.
January 24, 2022
Multiple points of view all tied into one story. Nazi germany and everything happening around it. We read through the point of view of an entire family and it just blows my mind. Great writing.
Read
November 6, 2010This was the first Danielle Steel book I ever read and changed my reading habits forever. This book is very moving and heart-breaking whilst also showing you that being strong isn't always easy. Could not put this book down
Read
January 7, 2015this novel very good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2016
read years ago...still check it out of the library from time to time....one of my favorite books
November 22, 2019
Bu kadının en sevdiğim kitabıdır. Evet, ben de bir zamanlar aşk romanları okuyordum. Steel de benim en sevdiğim yazardı. Yüzük çok duygusal bir kitaptır, dikkat. Ağlatabilir.
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