What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hidden Book
From the bestselling author of The Jade Lily comes a compelling novel based on a true story of a WWII European heirloom that brought down war criminals and travelled through history ... to be found in an Australian country shed in 2019.Europe, 1940 Imprisoned in the Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria, Spanish fighter and photographer Mateo Baca is ordered to process images of the camp and inmates for a handful of photo books being made for presentation to top Nazi figures. Just five books in total, or so the officials think ... Mateo manages to make a secret sixth book and, with the help of a local woman, Lena Lang, it remains hidden until the end of the war. Australia, present When thirteen-year-old Hannah Campbell's Yugoslavian grandfather, Nico Antonov, arrives in Australia to visit his family, one of the gifts he brings with him is an intriguing-looking parcel wrapped in calico cloth which Roza, Hannah's mother, quickly hides. Later, Hannah sneaks off in search for the mysterious package. She is horrified to find in it a photo book full of ghastly historical photographs of a terrible place full of people suffering. At first Hannah has little context for what she sees, but over the years as she experiences love, grief and trauma, she understands what these photos came to mean, for herself, her freedom and for those who risked their lives to 'bear witness' to history.A startling story of clandestine courage and treachery in World War Two, and how we must meet and overcome our pasts to move into our futures.
Paperback
First published August 13, 2024
147 people are currently reading
18970 people want to read
About the author
Kirsty Manning
10 books698 followersKirsty Manning grew up in northern New South Wales. She has degrees in literature and communications and worked as an editor and publishing manager in book publishing for over a decade. A country girl with wanderlust, her travels and studies have taken her through most of Europe, the east and west coasts of the United States and pockets of Asia. Kirsty’s journalism specialising in lifestyle and travel regularly appear in magazines, newspapers and online.
With husband Alex Wilcox, Kirsty is a partner in the award-winning Melbourne wine bar Bellota, and the Prince Wine Store in Sydney and Melbourne.
With husband Alex Wilcox, Kirsty is a partner in the award-winning Melbourne wine bar Bellota, and the Prince Wine Store in Sydney and Melbourne.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
August 22, 2023
Lena Lang lived close to the horrifying Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria, where she could see the prisoners shuffling past, accompanied by brutal SS who didn't hesitate to use their guns. Lena lived with her parents and younger sister Greta, who suffered seizures after an accident which caused brain damage. They had to keep Greta inside, away from prying Nazi eyes, or she would end up in Mauthausen along with her family who'd been sheltering her. Lena learned of Nico, one of the prisoners, and his connection to the camp photographer, Mateo Baca, and soon she was hiding photos and negatives, knowing if she was caught, they'd all die.
In Australia, thirteen year old Hannah Campbell adored her Deda - her Yugoslavian grandfather - and on that visit he gave his daughter, Roza, Hannah's mother, a package, which she hurriedly hid away. That package would play an important part in Hannah's life as she grew up, with its traumatic history taking her back to when her grandfather was young...
The Hidden Book is another exceptional historical read by Aussie author Kirsty Manning which is based on truth, of the hidden book which made its way out of Mauthausen concentration camp, and was instrumental in convicting some of the most notorious Nazis at the Nuremburg trials after the war. Well written and beautifully constructed, this fictional story set around that time in WWII is impressive. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
In Australia, thirteen year old Hannah Campbell adored her Deda - her Yugoslavian grandfather - and on that visit he gave his daughter, Roza, Hannah's mother, a package, which she hurriedly hid away. That package would play an important part in Hannah's life as she grew up, with its traumatic history taking her back to when her grandfather was young...
The Hidden Book is another exceptional historical read by Aussie author Kirsty Manning which is based on truth, of the hidden book which made its way out of Mauthausen concentration camp, and was instrumental in convicting some of the most notorious Nazis at the Nuremburg trials after the war. Well written and beautifully constructed, this fictional story set around that time in WWII is impressive. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2023
This is a story filled with heartbreak, courage and hope, set over a few time lines we are transported back to a concentration camp in Austria, Mauthausen and the horrors that that the prisoners were subjected to but one prisoner, Spanish fighter Mateo Baca is made to take photos of prisoners and events that happen, he is told to make five photo albums but Mateo makes six and with the help if Yugoslav, Nico and young Spanish boy Santiago they hide an extra photo album and with the help of local woman Lena Lang, this book will travel to Australia many years later.
Many years later Nico arrives in Australia to visit his daughter Roza and granddaughter Hannah and he brings the photo album, Hannah is only thirteen but behind her mother’s back she gets to look at some of the dreadful photos in this album and they never leave her, and when she leaves school she decides to study history at university and get to the bottom of her beloved grandfather’s story.
Roza will not handover the book to help her, but Hannah never gives up searching for answers.
Kirsty Manning again has created a fabulous story from fact, her characters are wonderful I could feel the emotions that went through Nico, Mateo, Santiago and Lena as the struggle through terrible times to leave evidence for the future and Hannah I loved her determination and courage to never give up until she uncovered as much as she could about her grandfather, not matter what she was going through personally.
This is a story that I would highly recommend, anyone who loves history will thoroughly enjoy this one. My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
Many years later Nico arrives in Australia to visit his daughter Roza and granddaughter Hannah and he brings the photo album, Hannah is only thirteen but behind her mother’s back she gets to look at some of the dreadful photos in this album and they never leave her, and when she leaves school she decides to study history at university and get to the bottom of her beloved grandfather’s story.
Roza will not handover the book to help her, but Hannah never gives up searching for answers.
Kirsty Manning again has created a fabulous story from fact, her characters are wonderful I could feel the emotions that went through Nico, Mateo, Santiago and Lena as the struggle through terrible times to leave evidence for the future and Hannah I loved her determination and courage to never give up until she uncovered as much as she could about her grandfather, not matter what she was going through personally.
This is a story that I would highly recommend, anyone who loves history will thoroughly enjoy this one. My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
August 2, 2023
Mateo Baca is a Spanish prisoner at Mauthausen concentration camp, the Commandant Weber is in charge and he gives him the job of taking the prisoners identity photographs and it means he doesn’t have to work in the mine. He’s ordered to create five photo books to be given to high ranking German officials, he creates a sixth book, when it gets too dangerous to keep hidden in the camp he gives it to a local woman who lives in the nearby Mauthausen village.
The people living in the town are aware of what's happening in the camp, if anyone complains, they face being imprisoned themselves and are scared of Germans. Lena Lang works a secretary at a tool manufacturing factory, every morning she sees the prisoners march past, she feels sorry for them and the guards are brutal.
The story has a dual timeline, it’s told from multiple points of view and including, prisoners Mateo, Nico, Jakub and young Santiago's, and two women, Lena and Hannah's and it's set over seventy five years and from 1944 to 2019.
Hannah Campbell is thirteen and she lives with her mum on a farm in New South Wales, Australia and she's very excited when her Yugoslavian grandfather visits. He brings with him a parcel wrapped in calico,and Hannah's mother Roza quickly hides it. Like most teenagers Hannah is curious and when he mum isn’t looking, Hannah finds the book and it’s full of terrible images of starving people. Hannah grows up and she studies history, she realises what the photo’s represent and it becomes her quest to discover why her grandfather had the book of photos and was he a prisoner at Mauthausen?
I received a digital copy of The Hidden Book from Allen & Unwin and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Kirsty Manning uses the true information of how war criminals were found guilty due to photographic evidence and a book of photos from the time was found in a shed in Australia in 2019, how it made it's way to Australia is a mystery and it's since been donated to the Sydney Jewish museum.
Mauthausen was a concentration camp in Austria, held here by the Germans were political and Soviet prisoners of war and Jewish men. The conditions in the camp were terrible, everyone was starving, and they had to work in the mine, climb up steep stone steps and wearing wooden clogs. Reading about the conditions in the camp is harrowing, the commandant in charge was a monster and so were the guards.
Lean's character in the novel gives you an idea of what it was like for Austria's citizens living near the camp, Roza's character was a child of a survivor and she didn't want to think about the past. Her daughter Hannah's character was my favourite and knew it was important to look back at her family's history, to honor those who endured the unthinkable conditions in Mauthausen and pay a tribute to them with her historical studies. Once again Ms. Manning has written a well researched and compelling narrative, about war, humanity at it's worst, courage, over coming adversity and loss and five stars from me.
The people living in the town are aware of what's happening in the camp, if anyone complains, they face being imprisoned themselves and are scared of Germans. Lena Lang works a secretary at a tool manufacturing factory, every morning she sees the prisoners march past, she feels sorry for them and the guards are brutal.
The story has a dual timeline, it’s told from multiple points of view and including, prisoners Mateo, Nico, Jakub and young Santiago's, and two women, Lena and Hannah's and it's set over seventy five years and from 1944 to 2019.
Hannah Campbell is thirteen and she lives with her mum on a farm in New South Wales, Australia and she's very excited when her Yugoslavian grandfather visits. He brings with him a parcel wrapped in calico,and Hannah's mother Roza quickly hides it. Like most teenagers Hannah is curious and when he mum isn’t looking, Hannah finds the book and it’s full of terrible images of starving people. Hannah grows up and she studies history, she realises what the photo’s represent and it becomes her quest to discover why her grandfather had the book of photos and was he a prisoner at Mauthausen?
I received a digital copy of The Hidden Book from Allen & Unwin and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Kirsty Manning uses the true information of how war criminals were found guilty due to photographic evidence and a book of photos from the time was found in a shed in Australia in 2019, how it made it's way to Australia is a mystery and it's since been donated to the Sydney Jewish museum.
Mauthausen was a concentration camp in Austria, held here by the Germans were political and Soviet prisoners of war and Jewish men. The conditions in the camp were terrible, everyone was starving, and they had to work in the mine, climb up steep stone steps and wearing wooden clogs. Reading about the conditions in the camp is harrowing, the commandant in charge was a monster and so were the guards.
Lean's character in the novel gives you an idea of what it was like for Austria's citizens living near the camp, Roza's character was a child of a survivor and she didn't want to think about the past. Her daughter Hannah's character was my favourite and knew it was important to look back at her family's history, to honor those who endured the unthinkable conditions in Mauthausen and pay a tribute to them with her historical studies. Once again Ms. Manning has written a well researched and compelling narrative, about war, humanity at it's worst, courage, over coming adversity and loss and five stars from me.
August 15, 2024
Why did her grandfather bring a parcel all the way from Yugoslavia to Australia?
And why was her mother horrified by it and told Hannah that she could not look at it?
Being a teenager and curious, Hannah found it and did look inside. What she found were pictures taken at a concentration camp, Mauthausen, where her grandfather was held prisoner during WWII.
Hannah knew nothing about the holocaust, but she was determined to find out and determined to find out how her grandfather had this book of photos.
We find out about his life during that time and move to present day as it is revealed that this was a concentration camp that was in operation and one where two prisoners were ordered to take photos of the prison and the prisoners.
The pictures in the book were used to prosecute during the Nuremberg trials.
Your heart again will go out to the Europeans and especially those in concentration camps who put up with the cruelty of the Nazis.
THE HIDDEN BOOK is another marvelous, heart-wrenching, well-researched book based on truth.
This is a gem you won’t want to miss if you enjoy historical fiction and wonderful characters.
You will love all the characters for their strength both past and present. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
And why was her mother horrified by it and told Hannah that she could not look at it?
Being a teenager and curious, Hannah found it and did look inside. What she found were pictures taken at a concentration camp, Mauthausen, where her grandfather was held prisoner during WWII.
Hannah knew nothing about the holocaust, but she was determined to find out and determined to find out how her grandfather had this book of photos.
We find out about his life during that time and move to present day as it is revealed that this was a concentration camp that was in operation and one where two prisoners were ordered to take photos of the prison and the prisoners.
The pictures in the book were used to prosecute during the Nuremberg trials.
Your heart again will go out to the Europeans and especially those in concentration camps who put up with the cruelty of the Nazis.
THE HIDDEN BOOK is another marvelous, heart-wrenching, well-researched book based on truth.
This is a gem you won’t want to miss if you enjoy historical fiction and wonderful characters.
You will love all the characters for their strength both past and present. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
April 27, 2024
The Hidden Book is a story about the WW2 concentration camps. I’ve read quite a few about this subject but this one comes from a perspective that is new to me.
It begins in the 1940’s Mauthausen concentration camp. A young boy sneaks passed SS guards to hide a book containing photos of prisoners in the camp. A Spanish POW, Mateo Baca, a photographer, has been forced to take the photos and make 5 books for Nazi leaders. He secretly makes a 6th copy hoping to give it to the Allied soldiers who are rumored to be arriving any day.
It alternates with the story of Hannah Campbell, who in 1980, at 12 years old, comes across the secret album. Her grandfather, Nico, who survived Mauthausen, brought it to Australia when he comes to visit his daughter, Roza, and her family. Roza is angry that Nico brought the book and forbids Hannah from looking at it. This begins Hannah’s lifelong journey to find out why she can’t see the photos and why her grandfather is in one of them.
I didn’t realize that the 3rd generation holocaust children were as affected by what happened to their family. To Hannah it is a double tragedy because she is not allowed to learn about her heritage or the holocaust. It causes a lot of contention between her and her mother.
When she is older and finally visits the sights she is dismayed to see tourists rushing to have their photos taken in the gas chambers, and the infirmary where the doctors did horrible experiments on prisoners. She was hoping to see more respect shown in memory of the people who suffered and lost their lives there. Most of all she wanted to find out how and why her grandfather had the book.
I don’t want to give any spoilers so I will just say the book has an interesting ending that I didn’t expect. The book helped me to learn about the people who helped, some who gave their lives, to bring charges against the Nazi criminals.
Thank you, William Morrow, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley!
It begins in the 1940’s Mauthausen concentration camp. A young boy sneaks passed SS guards to hide a book containing photos of prisoners in the camp. A Spanish POW, Mateo Baca, a photographer, has been forced to take the photos and make 5 books for Nazi leaders. He secretly makes a 6th copy hoping to give it to the Allied soldiers who are rumored to be arriving any day.
It alternates with the story of Hannah Campbell, who in 1980, at 12 years old, comes across the secret album. Her grandfather, Nico, who survived Mauthausen, brought it to Australia when he comes to visit his daughter, Roza, and her family. Roza is angry that Nico brought the book and forbids Hannah from looking at it. This begins Hannah’s lifelong journey to find out why she can’t see the photos and why her grandfather is in one of them.
I didn’t realize that the 3rd generation holocaust children were as affected by what happened to their family. To Hannah it is a double tragedy because she is not allowed to learn about her heritage or the holocaust. It causes a lot of contention between her and her mother.
When she is older and finally visits the sights she is dismayed to see tourists rushing to have their photos taken in the gas chambers, and the infirmary where the doctors did horrible experiments on prisoners. She was hoping to see more respect shown in memory of the people who suffered and lost their lives there. Most of all she wanted to find out how and why her grandfather had the book.
I don’t want to give any spoilers so I will just say the book has an interesting ending that I didn’t expect. The book helped me to learn about the people who helped, some who gave their lives, to bring charges against the Nazi criminals.
Thank you, William Morrow, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley!
December 20, 2023
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
📸To me, Kirsty Manning is simply the best. This Melbourne based writer has managed to capture my heart five times in the past and now I’m adding to six times to this list thanks to her gold seal novel The Hidden Book. An inspiring story based on true events, The Hidden Book fuses together themes of family, inheritance, love, courage, adversity, risk, chance, faith, war, duty, truth, responsibility, punishment, reconciliation and trauma. The Hidden Book is an ethereal read that I give the highest recommendation to.
📸What happens when a keen-eyed historian looks beneath the surface of a book of photographs, held in the possession of her mother? The Hidden Book sees an Australian woman named Hannah Campbell on a mission to uncover the true meaning and place of this famous photograph book to the memories of those who lived through Mauthausen concentration camp in the Second World War. Crossing multiple perspectives and jumping across various timelines ranging from 1944 to 2019, The Hidden Book is a high reaching read. Initially, I was a little bit unsure as to how this slender book would be able to combine so much detail, research and story, but in true Kirsty Manning style she aced it.
📸The Hidden Book is a statuesque read, there is no doubt about it. The writing is exquisite, perfectly formed and filled with history within a light veneer. The timeline leaps are well coordinated within the overall narrative. The cast is carved to absolute perfection, and the setting is illuminated with graceful detail. From the moment I opened The Hidden Book I felt like I was an integral part of the journey, both with the main character in the present storyline and with Lena and Nico in the past thread. As a keen-eyed reader of historical fiction and World War Two novels, I was elated to discover yet another capsule of this continually fascinating story that I was not previously aware of. My sincere written appreciation goes to Kirsty Manning for drawing our focus via her detailed research to this amazing triangle of real-life history.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars.
🙏Thank you to @allenandunwin for the copy.
📸To me, Kirsty Manning is simply the best. This Melbourne based writer has managed to capture my heart five times in the past and now I’m adding to six times to this list thanks to her gold seal novel The Hidden Book. An inspiring story based on true events, The Hidden Book fuses together themes of family, inheritance, love, courage, adversity, risk, chance, faith, war, duty, truth, responsibility, punishment, reconciliation and trauma. The Hidden Book is an ethereal read that I give the highest recommendation to.
📸What happens when a keen-eyed historian looks beneath the surface of a book of photographs, held in the possession of her mother? The Hidden Book sees an Australian woman named Hannah Campbell on a mission to uncover the true meaning and place of this famous photograph book to the memories of those who lived through Mauthausen concentration camp in the Second World War. Crossing multiple perspectives and jumping across various timelines ranging from 1944 to 2019, The Hidden Book is a high reaching read. Initially, I was a little bit unsure as to how this slender book would be able to combine so much detail, research and story, but in true Kirsty Manning style she aced it.
📸The Hidden Book is a statuesque read, there is no doubt about it. The writing is exquisite, perfectly formed and filled with history within a light veneer. The timeline leaps are well coordinated within the overall narrative. The cast is carved to absolute perfection, and the setting is illuminated with graceful detail. From the moment I opened The Hidden Book I felt like I was an integral part of the journey, both with the main character in the present storyline and with Lena and Nico in the past thread. As a keen-eyed reader of historical fiction and World War Two novels, I was elated to discover yet another capsule of this continually fascinating story that I was not previously aware of. My sincere written appreciation goes to Kirsty Manning for drawing our focus via her detailed research to this amazing triangle of real-life history.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars.
🙏Thank you to @allenandunwin for the copy.
November 26, 2024
Featuring a dual timeline, this heartfelt novel follows the creation, journey and impact of a secret photo album made in the Mauthausen concentration camp in WWII, which finds its way to Australia. The storyline is inspired by true events and is very moving. In the historical timeline we learn about the camp, it's prisoners, and a local young woman who ends up connected to some of the prisoners. It is incredibly sad to read knowing that these horrific acts were enacted on real people. The modern timeline focuses on the impact of the photo album for Hannah who glances at it as a young child and then spends the rest of her life determined to learn more about it and share the stories within. The book is extremely well-written and flows beautifully; any reader who appreciates historical fiction around WWII should not go past this one.
August 31, 2023
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
The Hidden Book by Kirsty Manning is an exceptional historical fiction novel, based on the true story of a WWII European heirloom that would end up in an Australian country shed in 2019! It has dual timelines and is an absolutely compelling page turner that is beautifully written. I loved this read and highly recommend!
Present day - Thirteen-year-old Hannah Campbell’s Yugoslavian grandfather Nico has arrived in Australia to visit his family with a gift hidden in a flour sack which Roza, Hannah’s mother quickly hides away. Hannah is intrigued and knows she is going to seek it later and sneak a look!
Past- Europe 1940’s - Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria where Mateo Baca is ordered to process photographs of camp inmates for a photo book that is being put together for the top Nazi figures.
This was a very different type of WWII concentration camp story and I found it fascinating.
This story is so beautifully constructed and explores the trauma of war over generations. It’s very moving and the characters are wonderfully thought out.
Publication Date 29 August 2023
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Allen And Unwin for an early copy of the book to read.
The Hidden Book by Kirsty Manning is an exceptional historical fiction novel, based on the true story of a WWII European heirloom that would end up in an Australian country shed in 2019! It has dual timelines and is an absolutely compelling page turner that is beautifully written. I loved this read and highly recommend!
Present day - Thirteen-year-old Hannah Campbell’s Yugoslavian grandfather Nico has arrived in Australia to visit his family with a gift hidden in a flour sack which Roza, Hannah’s mother quickly hides away. Hannah is intrigued and knows she is going to seek it later and sneak a look!
Past- Europe 1940’s - Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria where Mateo Baca is ordered to process photographs of camp inmates for a photo book that is being put together for the top Nazi figures.
This was a very different type of WWII concentration camp story and I found it fascinating.
This story is so beautifully constructed and explores the trauma of war over generations. It’s very moving and the characters are wonderfully thought out.
Publication Date 29 August 2023
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Allen And Unwin for an early copy of the book to read.
October 5, 2024
In 1945, the Mauthausen Concentration Camp in Austria was the scene of horrific atrocities. Mateo Baca, a young Spanish prisoner, is told to photograph images of the prison and create five albums to be presented to high-ranking Nazi generals. But Mateo creates a sixth book to smuggle out of the camp exposing what had taken place. Nico Antonov manages to hide the book of photographs in the home of Lena Lang, a courageous young woman who understands the dangers she and her family face by assisting prisoners. When the story shifts to 1987, Nico travels to Australia to visit his widowed daughter Roza and his 13-year-old granddaughter Hannah. He brings with him the book of photos from Mauthausen that he has kept hidden for decades. Before her mother hides the album, Hannah glimpses at the photos and is shocked by the haunting images. As Hannah gets older, she becomes determined to learn more about her grandfather Nico's connection to the concentration camp, which she had no knowledge of. Her mother does not want her daughter delving into the painful past.
Kirsty Manning's The Hidden Book was inspired by the true story of prisoners who risked their lives to preserve evidence of the atrocities committed at Mauthausen. I've enjoyed Manning's other books and appreciate her style of storytelling. The dual timeline was very effective in telling this poignant story of courage and resiliency, dealing with the trauma of war as well as the generational trauma it creates.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Kirsty Manning's The Hidden Book was inspired by the true story of prisoners who risked their lives to preserve evidence of the atrocities committed at Mauthausen. I've enjoyed Manning's other books and appreciate her style of storytelling. The dual timeline was very effective in telling this poignant story of courage and resiliency, dealing with the trauma of war as well as the generational trauma it creates.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
August 28, 2023
3.5*
Australian author Kirsty Manning is a firm favourite with readers and this time offers a fictional story wrapped around historical facts. Kristy sets out to honour the people involved with saving clandestine photos from Mauthausen Concentration Camp that were used to convict Nazi war criminals. History buffs are sure to appreciate her research efforts in creating compassion and awareness from this sad time.
‘There are so many stories, big and small. We need to tell them all.’
The Hidden Book is a dual time narrative based on true events surrounding a book of photos that was smuggled and then hidden from Mauthausen during WWII. The first timeline is from 1944 with several narrators at the time the book was being made. The second timeline is the present day when Hannah (grandchild) embarks on a journey to discover the history behind this mysterious book.
‘… if she destroyed the images the prisoners had entrusted to Lena, how would anyone eventually know what went on inside those dark walls?’
Whilst I honour and respect the topic, I just found this book lacked depth in the contemporary timeline. I found the inclusion of Hannah’s story troubling at times with huge time jumps and began questioning the reasoning behind it being there at all. The links - not to her grandfather's story but that of her own storyline - were too tenuous especially concerning her romantic relationships - that I began to question why they were even alluded to. I found her personal life story irrelevant and detracted from the book as a whole.
The Hidden Book at its heart is a story about WWII and the brave actions of those to ensure the truth of the trauma be revealed. Readers who enjoy historical fiction that is based on real events are sure to find value in this tale.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Australian author Kirsty Manning is a firm favourite with readers and this time offers a fictional story wrapped around historical facts. Kristy sets out to honour the people involved with saving clandestine photos from Mauthausen Concentration Camp that were used to convict Nazi war criminals. History buffs are sure to appreciate her research efforts in creating compassion and awareness from this sad time.
‘There are so many stories, big and small. We need to tell them all.’
The Hidden Book is a dual time narrative based on true events surrounding a book of photos that was smuggled and then hidden from Mauthausen during WWII. The first timeline is from 1944 with several narrators at the time the book was being made. The second timeline is the present day when Hannah (grandchild) embarks on a journey to discover the history behind this mysterious book.
‘… if she destroyed the images the prisoners had entrusted to Lena, how would anyone eventually know what went on inside those dark walls?’
Whilst I honour and respect the topic, I just found this book lacked depth in the contemporary timeline. I found the inclusion of Hannah’s story troubling at times with huge time jumps and began questioning the reasoning behind it being there at all. The links - not to her grandfather's story but that of her own storyline - were too tenuous especially concerning her romantic relationships - that I began to question why they were even alluded to. I found her personal life story irrelevant and detracted from the book as a whole.
The Hidden Book at its heart is a story about WWII and the brave actions of those to ensure the truth of the trauma be revealed. Readers who enjoy historical fiction that is based on real events are sure to find value in this tale.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
August 29, 2023
Thank You Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
A hidden book from the past takes centre stage for the happenings in the present.
Historical fiction at its finest from a marvellous storyteller.
Australia, the present, for thirteen year old Hannah, her grandfather Nico arrives from overseas with a mysterious package.
But Roza, Hannah’s mother hides the package saying it’s not for children’s eyes.
Later sneaking a look, Hannah is horrified to find it’s an album of horrific pictures from the war.
As the years pass Hannah becomes obsessed with finding the truth and what is behind the sadness of those pictures.
1940’s Europe, Mateo is assigned to take photos instructed by Nazi authorities while imprisoned in a Austrian concentration camp.
While printing these he is told to print five copies but Mateo makes six, one for a secret book that will remain hidden.
With the help of a local, Lena, they hide the ghastly book.
An unforgettable, momentous and essential tale.
Aussie author Kirsty Manning has once again written an epic saga based on real history and woven together with fiction.
It’s courageous and fearless, it’s smart and brave.
Kirsty has dug deep into history and found an interesting event that happened and brought it to the attention for readers and created a wonderful story based around it.
I completely indulged in this read in one sitting as I couldn’t tear myself away from the pages.
With a grand scale plot, detailed research, characters with guts and determination and a meticulous dual timeline set during the horror of war this book, you will be fully transported with.
A thrilling, daring and compelling piece of work.
A hidden book from the past takes centre stage for the happenings in the present.
Historical fiction at its finest from a marvellous storyteller.
Australia, the present, for thirteen year old Hannah, her grandfather Nico arrives from overseas with a mysterious package.
But Roza, Hannah’s mother hides the package saying it’s not for children’s eyes.
Later sneaking a look, Hannah is horrified to find it’s an album of horrific pictures from the war.
As the years pass Hannah becomes obsessed with finding the truth and what is behind the sadness of those pictures.
1940’s Europe, Mateo is assigned to take photos instructed by Nazi authorities while imprisoned in a Austrian concentration camp.
While printing these he is told to print five copies but Mateo makes six, one for a secret book that will remain hidden.
With the help of a local, Lena, they hide the ghastly book.
An unforgettable, momentous and essential tale.
Aussie author Kirsty Manning has once again written an epic saga based on real history and woven together with fiction.
It’s courageous and fearless, it’s smart and brave.
Kirsty has dug deep into history and found an interesting event that happened and brought it to the attention for readers and created a wonderful story based around it.
I completely indulged in this read in one sitting as I couldn’t tear myself away from the pages.
With a grand scale plot, detailed research, characters with guts and determination and a meticulous dual timeline set during the horror of war this book, you will be fully transported with.
A thrilling, daring and compelling piece of work.
October 8, 2024
The premise of this book with an actual photo book being made of prisoners at the Mauthausen concentration camp without the knowledge of the Nazis had me wanting to eagerly read it. I liked the historical timeline about the mc Lena helping the prisoners with hiding the negatives for later exposure in war crimes. However, the present day character Hannah's story not much at all.
It was an eye rolling moment when 13 year old girls were discussing how another was excitedly sharing about her "getting fingered" by another young guy. Ugh.... An experienced girl demonstrating and practicing kissing with the another 13 year old etc....the conversation included being "effable" for the boys; three times on one page...... For glory's sake, with that, using the name of Jesus, various two year relationships....didn't seem necessary to me as it was a turn off.
It was my first time for this author but I won't be bothering with any more by her.
It was an eye rolling moment when 13 year old girls were discussing how another was excitedly sharing about her "getting fingered" by another young guy. Ugh.... An experienced girl demonstrating and practicing kissing with the another 13 year old etc....the conversation included being "effable" for the boys; three times on one page...... For glory's sake, with that, using the name of Jesus, various two year relationships....didn't seem necessary to me as it was a turn off.
It was my first time for this author but I won't be bothering with any more by her.
March 27, 2025
A hidden, haunting photo album from the holocaust is the catalyst for one woman’s quest to find answers pertaining to her family’s secretive past. What she finds is absolutely shocking. The author seamlessly toggles between settings and time periods. She captures the raw emotions of those held prisoner in Nazi camps, yet also reveals that love and humanity still exist even in the midst of such evil. Manning’s writing is exquisite and the story both captivating and heartfelt. This is a perfect blend of history, mystery and romance. Ideal for fans of Kristin Hannah and Laura Morelli.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, William Morrow Paperbacks and Kirsty Manning for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, William Morrow Paperbacks and Kirsty Manning for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2024
I was immediately drawn in to this WWII story. I loved Nico, “Deda’s”, character.
The different time lines and multiple POVs was intriguing and kept my attention.
I preferred Santiago and Lena’s stories much more than Hannah’s. I was on the edge of my seat every time Greta was involved. Sweet Santiago, so tragic.
The romances were out of place and seemed forced. I can’t get on board that a homosexual relationship would be looked at as sweet and tender in the 1940s.
This was a good story, telling a tale that is important to our history about the holocaust, Maulhausten, and the Stairs of Death. But, the added “today’s culture” relationships took away from the story for me.
The different time lines and multiple POVs was intriguing and kept my attention.
I preferred Santiago and Lena’s stories much more than Hannah’s. I was on the edge of my seat every time Greta was involved. Sweet Santiago, so tragic.
The romances were out of place and seemed forced. I can’t get on board that a homosexual relationship would be looked at as sweet and tender in the 1940s.
This was a good story, telling a tale that is important to our history about the holocaust, Maulhausten, and the Stairs of Death. But, the added “today’s culture” relationships took away from the story for me.
August 31, 2023
A dual timeline story set in Austria during WW2 and Australia from the 80s on. The first timeline is centred on the Mauthausen concentration camp where Nico from Yugoslavia is a prisoner. He is the grandfather of teenage Hannah in Australia in the second timeline. On one of his last visits he brings a photo album with pictures from the camp. The rest of the story is how this book was produced and its meaning as a document of the crimes at the camp and Hannah coming to terms with the family trauma of her mother. An emotional and poignant story sensitively told.
September 24, 2024
2.5 stars
This was an interesting book.
The details about the photographs taken at the concentration camp were heart-breaking. No matter how many WW2 novels I read, Nazi atrocities always amaze, and sicken me.
It wasn’t one of the best WW2 novels that I’ve read. Possibly the digital format, which makes it difficult to flip back and forth, made keeping the characters and timelines straight a struggle. Plus, some of the story seemed to be rushed; a woman went from engagement, to marriage and two kids in only a few pages!
This was an interesting book.
The details about the photographs taken at the concentration camp were heart-breaking. No matter how many WW2 novels I read, Nazi atrocities always amaze, and sicken me.
It wasn’t one of the best WW2 novels that I’ve read. Possibly the digital format, which makes it difficult to flip back and forth, made keeping the characters and timelines straight a struggle. Plus, some of the story seemed to be rushed; a woman went from engagement, to marriage and two kids in only a few pages!
November 2, 2024
*I received this ARC from William Morrow Paperbacks through NetGalley in return for my honest review. I appreciate the opportunity to provide my feedback.*
This hit middle of the road for me. Definitely not the best historical fiction I’ve ever read but also definitely not the worst. This was a dual timeline, multiple viewpoints story told all in third person. I am typically not a fan of third person for these types of stories because I feel it strips away that level of intimacy that is needed to make that strong emotional character connection for an emotional story. I always love learning new things about WWII and unraveling secrets from one of the most horrific time periods in history. I was not aware of the photo books chronicling the inhumane treatment of war prisoners in the Mauthausen concentration camp and I was not aware of the role that it played in convicting many Nazi’s during the Nuremberg trials.
Overall, I felt the book was well-written and it seemed to be well researched, though I am not familiar with this particular concentration camp so I can’t really say for sure. It does cover a vast number of years in relatively few pages so at times, I felt the story was rushed. Both the plot and the characters needed more depth. Although all the characters were perfectly “okay”, I wasn't particularly drawn or connected to any of them. I also struggled a bit with Hannah’s character and her story. I felt like her sexual exploration really didn’t contribute to the underlying story in a positive way. I struggled with including the sexual orientation and homosexual encounters of some of the characters into the narrative. It just didn’t fit with the overall storyline other than for the author to push a particular agenda. I just didn’t get the point of adding that to this story and was frankly, a turn off for me.
This hit middle of the road for me. Definitely not the best historical fiction I’ve ever read but also definitely not the worst. This was a dual timeline, multiple viewpoints story told all in third person. I am typically not a fan of third person for these types of stories because I feel it strips away that level of intimacy that is needed to make that strong emotional character connection for an emotional story. I always love learning new things about WWII and unraveling secrets from one of the most horrific time periods in history. I was not aware of the photo books chronicling the inhumane treatment of war prisoners in the Mauthausen concentration camp and I was not aware of the role that it played in convicting many Nazi’s during the Nuremberg trials.
Overall, I felt the book was well-written and it seemed to be well researched, though I am not familiar with this particular concentration camp so I can’t really say for sure. It does cover a vast number of years in relatively few pages so at times, I felt the story was rushed. Both the plot and the characters needed more depth. Although all the characters were perfectly “okay”, I wasn't particularly drawn or connected to any of them. I also struggled a bit with Hannah’s character and her story. I felt like her sexual exploration really didn’t contribute to the underlying story in a positive way. I struggled with including the sexual orientation and homosexual encounters of some of the characters into the narrative. It just didn’t fit with the overall storyline other than for the author to push a particular agenda. I just didn’t get the point of adding that to this story and was frankly, a turn off for me.
June 21, 2024
2.5 stars
I am going against the majority here when I say I did not enjoy this novel. I found the historical timeline fascinating and was horrified at the conditions the prisoners had to endure in the Austrian concentration camp, Mauthausen. The commandant was a sadistic monster and the guards were no better. It was impossible not to admire the courage and resilience of the inmates. How they kept the book with all its incriminating photographs hidden until the end of the war was incredible.
It was the more modern story of Hannah, that ruined The Hidden Book for me. Hannah was an obnoxious young lady who was self-absorbed and disrespectful to her mother. She did grow in maturity throughout the novel but not enough to win me over. As for her romantic relationships, why were they even included? They did nothing to enhance the p[lot and they detracted from the rest of the novel. Overall, a disappointing read.
I am going against the majority here when I say I did not enjoy this novel. I found the historical timeline fascinating and was horrified at the conditions the prisoners had to endure in the Austrian concentration camp, Mauthausen. The commandant was a sadistic monster and the guards were no better. It was impossible not to admire the courage and resilience of the inmates. How they kept the book with all its incriminating photographs hidden until the end of the war was incredible.
It was the more modern story of Hannah, that ruined The Hidden Book for me. Hannah was an obnoxious young lady who was self-absorbed and disrespectful to her mother. She did grow in maturity throughout the novel but not enough to win me over. As for her romantic relationships, why were they even included? They did nothing to enhance the p[lot and they detracted from the rest of the novel. Overall, a disappointing read.
Read
November 24, 2023This felt like a young adult romance novel written by a food blogger. The Mauthausen connection seems entirely incidental to the story, described in overly simplistic terms and sandwiched between bland tales of unsuccessful hookups for the limp and one dimensional main character. Cultural references and diversity were crowbarred in as if the author was simply ticking boxes to ensure they were covered. Also, a question I asked myself repeatedly throughout the book - why on earth wasn't the family in Mostar ever contacted as part of the research into the grandfather's past??
August 22, 2024
The ww2 story was great, but I just couldn't stand Hannah. Manning could have skipped all of her story, and then I could have gone 4 stars.
September 30, 2023
The Hidden Book by Kirsty Manning is a powerful and unique World War II story that carves out of history an unforgettably painful series of events. A time when its victims never took for granted the most simplistic things of life. It is without question an admirable tribute to the people who saved clandestine photos of Mauthausen Concentration Camp, Austria. This is a story of sacrifice, resilience and perseverance—and one that honours the sanctity of human life.
The magnitude of suffering expressed in this novel is authentic. But even so, we can never truly know what these people endured. For even in imagining our worst nightmare, it will never come close to the reality they faced. Even still, we get a big enough glimpse to make us appreciate our freedom and to never take the simple things of life for granted (a message that resounds throughout this story). I truly admired the ingenuity of those who suffered under the Nazis regime. They pushed through normal limits, found ways to survive and reached deeply inside to grasp hidden threads of hope. Painted across these pages is an astounding level of endurance and courage.
The power of fiction, through using the right words, means an author can help us imagine experiences we may never have had. Kirsty has skilfully put us in the victims’ shoes and done an admirable job of helping us grasp a fragment of the pain these people underwent. We walk slowly through their sorrows but also dance in their victories. My favourite part of this novel (understandably) is when these people are rescued. The atmosphere changes: hearts become lighter when the allies march in and the enemies slink out. Kirsty has done a wonderful job demonstrating the joy and relief that sweeps through the village during and after the rescue. They celebrate their freedom but, of course, there is grieving, too, for many were lost in the fight.
Yet, beyond the rubble and remorse, the broken wills and fearful remainder, we can rejoice in a small measure of retribution. The fact these horrendous photos were saved and used as evidence to convict Nazis war criminals becomes a cherished victory.
The novel opens with a Prologue set in 1945 at Mauthausen Concentration Camp, Austria. Then moves in a current 1987 timeframe with Hannah, a thirteen year old girl living on a farm with her mother in New South Wales. She is excited about her Yugoslavian grandfather coming to visit. I loved the warmth that shone between these characters: family members that come together from across the world. This rosy glow is also reflected in the gorgeous landscape descriptions. But then the mood shifts when curious Hannah touches a special parcel wrapped in flour cloth brought by her grandfather in his suitcase. His demeanour quickly changes. Hannah has never heard her deda raise his voice before. Then shock hits Roza’s face as he spits out a word. And we know from the Prologue, that when Mauthausen is mentioned in the text, the painful memories of this family begin.
Roza hides the parcel but Hannah is curious. When her mum is busy, she finds the book and peeks inside. She discovers images of starving people and things young eyes should never see. Her mother is furious and forbids her to look at it again. But the mystery that surrounds this hidden book plays on her mind. As the years go by, she continues to seek answers and studies history in hope of understanding what she saw. She even decides to write her thesis on it. Because her mother never wants to talk about the past, Hannah must learn for herself. This quest to uncover the truth leads her on a trip to Mauthausen. She needs to know why her grandfather had this book in his possession and if he was a prisoner at Mauthausen?
The story is told from various perspectives: Hannah (in the most current), with Santiago and Lena providing the events of the past. It seamlessly moves between timelines and I found each thread equally riveting. Although the hidden book in the novel is an imagined album, a real one is present in the Sydney Jewish museum. The author’s acknowledgements provide a fascinating backstory of the novel’s inspiration. And even though many of the characters are fictional, they allow us to imagine what might have been.
Kirsty has succeeded in her wish to ‘bring to life the horror, injustice and intolerance of the Nazis regime onto the page.’ This is a well delivered story— tender, truthful, respectful and moving. It not only provides a series of profound snapshots of the terrifying world these people lived in, but it also speaks volumes of their courage and resilience. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Allen & Unwin for my review copy.
The magnitude of suffering expressed in this novel is authentic. But even so, we can never truly know what these people endured. For even in imagining our worst nightmare, it will never come close to the reality they faced. Even still, we get a big enough glimpse to make us appreciate our freedom and to never take the simple things of life for granted (a message that resounds throughout this story). I truly admired the ingenuity of those who suffered under the Nazis regime. They pushed through normal limits, found ways to survive and reached deeply inside to grasp hidden threads of hope. Painted across these pages is an astounding level of endurance and courage.
The power of fiction, through using the right words, means an author can help us imagine experiences we may never have had. Kirsty has skilfully put us in the victims’ shoes and done an admirable job of helping us grasp a fragment of the pain these people underwent. We walk slowly through their sorrows but also dance in their victories. My favourite part of this novel (understandably) is when these people are rescued. The atmosphere changes: hearts become lighter when the allies march in and the enemies slink out. Kirsty has done a wonderful job demonstrating the joy and relief that sweeps through the village during and after the rescue. They celebrate their freedom but, of course, there is grieving, too, for many were lost in the fight.
Yet, beyond the rubble and remorse, the broken wills and fearful remainder, we can rejoice in a small measure of retribution. The fact these horrendous photos were saved and used as evidence to convict Nazis war criminals becomes a cherished victory.
The novel opens with a Prologue set in 1945 at Mauthausen Concentration Camp, Austria. Then moves in a current 1987 timeframe with Hannah, a thirteen year old girl living on a farm with her mother in New South Wales. She is excited about her Yugoslavian grandfather coming to visit. I loved the warmth that shone between these characters: family members that come together from across the world. This rosy glow is also reflected in the gorgeous landscape descriptions. But then the mood shifts when curious Hannah touches a special parcel wrapped in flour cloth brought by her grandfather in his suitcase. His demeanour quickly changes. Hannah has never heard her deda raise his voice before. Then shock hits Roza’s face as he spits out a word. And we know from the Prologue, that when Mauthausen is mentioned in the text, the painful memories of this family begin.
Roza hides the parcel but Hannah is curious. When her mum is busy, she finds the book and peeks inside. She discovers images of starving people and things young eyes should never see. Her mother is furious and forbids her to look at it again. But the mystery that surrounds this hidden book plays on her mind. As the years go by, she continues to seek answers and studies history in hope of understanding what she saw. She even decides to write her thesis on it. Because her mother never wants to talk about the past, Hannah must learn for herself. This quest to uncover the truth leads her on a trip to Mauthausen. She needs to know why her grandfather had this book in his possession and if he was a prisoner at Mauthausen?
The story is told from various perspectives: Hannah (in the most current), with Santiago and Lena providing the events of the past. It seamlessly moves between timelines and I found each thread equally riveting. Although the hidden book in the novel is an imagined album, a real one is present in the Sydney Jewish museum. The author’s acknowledgements provide a fascinating backstory of the novel’s inspiration. And even though many of the characters are fictional, they allow us to imagine what might have been.
Kirsty has succeeded in her wish to ‘bring to life the horror, injustice and intolerance of the Nazis regime onto the page.’ This is a well delivered story— tender, truthful, respectful and moving. It not only provides a series of profound snapshots of the terrifying world these people lived in, but it also speaks volumes of their courage and resilience. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Allen & Unwin for my review copy.
July 31, 2024
The Hidden Book by Kirsty Manning shares depicts dual timelines linking a grandfather’s story as a prison in Mauthausen concentration camp with that of his granddaughter as she tries to uncover his experience. Hannah’s mother’s silence and secrets make the journey a difficult one.
I am fascinated by the daily courage of many heroes during WWII. I knew nothing about this camp in Austria and very little about the Nuremberg Trials.
Nico, Hannah’s grandfather was definitely my favorite character. I deeply wish that I had been provided more of his story after the war. Roza, Hannah’s mother, was my least favorite character. Her bitterness was strong.
I was disgusted with the tremendous amount of sexual encounters in Hannah’s story. They simply were not necessary, in extreme detail, to shape her from girlhood to becoming a mother herself in order to discover who she was. She would have been just as capable of discovering and sharing her grandfather's past without those detailed scenes.
While the story of The Hidden Book is based on a true story, the fictional account was choppy and disappointing.
NetGalley and William Morrow Publisher shared an Advanced Readers Copy with me. This review is my opinion alone.
I am fascinated by the daily courage of many heroes during WWII. I knew nothing about this camp in Austria and very little about the Nuremberg Trials.
Nico, Hannah’s grandfather was definitely my favorite character. I deeply wish that I had been provided more of his story after the war. Roza, Hannah’s mother, was my least favorite character. Her bitterness was strong.
I was disgusted with the tremendous amount of sexual encounters in Hannah’s story. They simply were not necessary, in extreme detail, to shape her from girlhood to becoming a mother herself in order to discover who she was. She would have been just as capable of discovering and sharing her grandfather's past without those detailed scenes.
While the story of The Hidden Book is based on a true story, the fictional account was choppy and disappointing.
NetGalley and William Morrow Publisher shared an Advanced Readers Copy with me. This review is my opinion alone.
September 10, 2023
The Hidden Book 📖 written by Kirsty Madden is a nice, simple story based on a true events which took place somewhere horrific such as Mauthausen, Austria during World War Two.
It's where treachery took place. Even though it's in the past we must all take note 📝 of our history as it makes and forms us into who we are today even though we must meet and overcome our past to move into the future.
The Hidden Book 📖 is written in two time zones; Europe 1940's to Australia present day.
I found the Hidden Book 📖 quite educational with the past being informative and the present day representing how things are pretty much today.
I enjoyed reading about Sydney and the changes of the seasons, Springtime and ferry rides on the Sydney Harbour.
Most of all, I enjoyed the tantalising new foodie tastes Kirsty has once again been able to incorporate into this story as seen in previous books.
Hearing about Linzer torte, cherries 🍒 fresh garden tomatoes 🍅 just to name a few.
I feel as if Kirsty highlighted the main areas of the War and treachery that took place and the present day side story detracted from the horrors of the war in the best way it possibly could making it a fairly light, easy to read book 📖.
I was able to read this book, The Hidden Book 📖 easily within two days.
An enjoyable Sunday or weekend read. 📚
It's where treachery took place. Even though it's in the past we must all take note 📝 of our history as it makes and forms us into who we are today even though we must meet and overcome our past to move into the future.
The Hidden Book 📖 is written in two time zones; Europe 1940's to Australia present day.
I found the Hidden Book 📖 quite educational with the past being informative and the present day representing how things are pretty much today.
I enjoyed reading about Sydney and the changes of the seasons, Springtime and ferry rides on the Sydney Harbour.
Most of all, I enjoyed the tantalising new foodie tastes Kirsty has once again been able to incorporate into this story as seen in previous books.
Hearing about Linzer torte, cherries 🍒 fresh garden tomatoes 🍅 just to name a few.
I feel as if Kirsty highlighted the main areas of the War and treachery that took place and the present day side story detracted from the horrors of the war in the best way it possibly could making it a fairly light, easy to read book 📖.
I was able to read this book, The Hidden Book 📖 easily within two days.
An enjoyable Sunday or weekend read. 📚
March 13, 2024
I really enjoyed the storytelling and learning more of the atrocities of war, hoping that we never have times like WW2 again. The novel regularly alternated between WW2 and the Mauthausen concentration camp, and the 1990s through to 2018 in the Epilogue.
I only scored it a 3 as I was frustrated with some of the minor details woven into the book. For example in 1944 in a war torn Austria, Lena was asked to run into the house and came out with a Biro and sharp knife to help the prisoner (create an airway). The issue for me (whilst a minor detail) was that Biros were not common place or readily available till the 50s & 60s. Plus there were a couple little things that irked me, distracting me from the story (whilst I researched their accuracy), like the drinking of Sauv Blanc, the wearing of ear pods, and the talking about what’s popular on Netflix.
I only scored it a 3 as I was frustrated with some of the minor details woven into the book. For example in 1944 in a war torn Austria, Lena was asked to run into the house and came out with a Biro and sharp knife to help the prisoner (create an airway). The issue for me (whilst a minor detail) was that Biros were not common place or readily available till the 50s & 60s. Plus there were a couple little things that irked me, distracting me from the story (whilst I researched their accuracy), like the drinking of Sauv Blanc, the wearing of ear pods, and the talking about what’s popular on Netflix.
May 27, 2025
I liked the WWII timeline much, much more than the modern timeline. Timing was super rushed in places, but overall, I enjoyed this read.
February 15, 2024
I have mixed feelings about Kirsty Manning's The Hidden Book. In some ways, this was a powerful book about the Holocaust, trauma, generational trauma, and the tough choices humans make to survive. Nico and Lena were powerful characters, and their stories demonstrated heart, courage, and growth. I was not as familiar with Mauthausen Concentration Camp as I am with other concentration camps, and parts of this story were absolutely heartbreaking.
However, I had issues with Hannah's story in the present day. To me, she seemed childish and lacking in many ways. She did not seem to grow as a person, and was negative, selfish, and temperamental. It was not that she was unlikable - I just felt like she wasn't as developed as she could be (but maybe this was the generational trauma??). I also wondered what role her romantic relationship drama was supposed to play in the story. There were aspects of this story that were so good but parts of Hannah's perspective made the book not as good as it could have been, in my opinion. One fun aspect of Hannah's story was reading about Australian life - I kept putting my Kindle down so I could google one Australian term or another. I love learning about another culture like that!
This book was still very readable and engaging, and I'm glad I took the time to read it. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions are my own.
However, I had issues with Hannah's story in the present day. To me, she seemed childish and lacking in many ways. She did not seem to grow as a person, and was negative, selfish, and temperamental. It was not that she was unlikable - I just felt like she wasn't as developed as she could be (but maybe this was the generational trauma??). I also wondered what role her romantic relationship drama was supposed to play in the story. There were aspects of this story that were so good but parts of Hannah's perspective made the book not as good as it could have been, in my opinion. One fun aspect of Hannah's story was reading about Australian life - I kept putting my Kindle down so I could google one Australian term or another. I love learning about another culture like that!
This book was still very readable and engaging, and I'm glad I took the time to read it. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions are my own.
December 15, 2023
The book I’m reading today is called “The Hidden Book” by Kristy Manning. The characters is a work fictional but Roza’s character was a child of a survivor and she didn’t want to think about the past. What a keen eye for a brilliant story. It’s a powerful, factual story made all the more stirring by the riveting imagining, Kristy Manning has gifted us with. She sure knows how to breathe life and heart into historical events. Here, she takes a real-life historical story. This fascinating book was inspired by the true story of Francesc Boix Campo, he was a Spanish republican who joined the Foreign Legion. In 1940s, unfortunately he was captured by the Nazis and sent to Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria. He and Antonio Garcia Alonso, they were both a photographers lab who was given the task of photographing the victims of SS horrors. They were ordered to create five photo albums book to be given to high ranking German officials. Francesc creates a sixth photo album book, which he manages to hide over 3,000 negatives that were smuggled by a communist network under Spaniard under the false bottom of a food hamper, and kept safe by a local villager. These evidences later were used for the Nuremberg trials for the war crimes in 1946, by Francesc Boix Campo. The album was brought to Australia in the 1970s and today is kept at the Sydney Jewish Museum.
September 12, 2023
My feelings about this book are not at all related to the subject matter, only to the character of Hannah, whom I found to be callous towards her mother and completely self absorbed. While she was shown to grow in maturity, I found her unlikable and happy only when life was unfolding in her favour.
I can’t imagine how inmates at Mauthausen held onto their spirit, let alone demonstrated such bravery in documenting the horrors they experienced so that the truth would be told. Their story left an indelible impact.
I can’t imagine how inmates at Mauthausen held onto their spirit, let alone demonstrated such bravery in documenting the horrors they experienced so that the truth would be told. Their story left an indelible impact.
July 14, 2024
Historical Fiction isn’t something I read quite often. That being said, I was shocked at how much I enjoyed this book. The Hidden Book is a historical fiction novel set during the events of world war 2 and the holocaust. With different POV’s, set between past and present timelines, it details the struggles of the victims and how that generational trauma can affect future generations.
I enjoyed the authors style of writing. She does a very good job about telling a horrific story without glorifying any of its horrid details. Through her descriptions of the victims suffering and the different POV’s you get a sense of the characters struggles. In the book Lena’s character struggles with prioritizing the safety of her family vs whether or not she should help the prisoners. The author also does a good job of painting a visual of the many different ways that people cope through trauma. I sympathized with Hannah’s character as a person wanting to know more firsthand family history, but not always being in the position to do so.
The Hidden Book reminds us that the retelling of such stories is not for the sake of pity or disturbing the audience, but so that those voices finally get heard. That we never forget and repeat those acts. This book was a quick 4 star read for me, I enjoyed it so much that I breezed through it.
I enjoyed the authors style of writing. She does a very good job about telling a horrific story without glorifying any of its horrid details. Through her descriptions of the victims suffering and the different POV’s you get a sense of the characters struggles. In the book Lena’s character struggles with prioritizing the safety of her family vs whether or not she should help the prisoners. The author also does a good job of painting a visual of the many different ways that people cope through trauma. I sympathized with Hannah’s character as a person wanting to know more firsthand family history, but not always being in the position to do so.
The Hidden Book reminds us that the retelling of such stories is not for the sake of pity or disturbing the audience, but so that those voices finally get heard. That we never forget and repeat those acts. This book was a quick 4 star read for me, I enjoyed it so much that I breezed through it.
August 13, 2024
I’ve read quite a few WWII historical fiction books and The Hidden Book brings a fresh perspective on the devastating events that took place during WWII. Told from three POVs across two timelines (1944-1945 and the 1980s-current day), the author tells the unique stories of Hannah, Santiago and Lena.
Imprisoned in the Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria, Spanish photographer Mateo Baca is ordered to process images of the camp and inmates for a handful of photo books being made for presentation to top Nazi figures. Just five books in total, or so the officials think... Mateo manages to make a secret sixth book and, with the help of a local woman, Lena Lang, it remains hidden until the end of the war.
Hannah, granddaughter of Nico Antonov, wants desperately to know more about her family heritage and her grandfather’s past. Even more so when her mother won’t let her see what’s inside a secret package that her grandfather gives them and tells her that it will be something for her to piece together when she’s older. Hannah falls in love with history and the idea of family legacy, and strives to uncover the truth about her grandfather’s past, with or without her mother’s help.
I really enjoyed this story about family legacy and the generational aftermath of the trauma associated with WWII in Europe. WWII historical fiction readers will enjoy this perspective centered around the later years of the war and what happens after the war ends.
Thank you to the publisher, William Morrow, for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Imprisoned in the Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria, Spanish photographer Mateo Baca is ordered to process images of the camp and inmates for a handful of photo books being made for presentation to top Nazi figures. Just five books in total, or so the officials think... Mateo manages to make a secret sixth book and, with the help of a local woman, Lena Lang, it remains hidden until the end of the war.
Hannah, granddaughter of Nico Antonov, wants desperately to know more about her family heritage and her grandfather’s past. Even more so when her mother won’t let her see what’s inside a secret package that her grandfather gives them and tells her that it will be something for her to piece together when she’s older. Hannah falls in love with history and the idea of family legacy, and strives to uncover the truth about her grandfather’s past, with or without her mother’s help.
I really enjoyed this story about family legacy and the generational aftermath of the trauma associated with WWII in Europe. WWII historical fiction readers will enjoy this perspective centered around the later years of the war and what happens after the war ends.
Thank you to the publisher, William Morrow, for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews