The Baker's Secret

by Lelita Baldock

In Nazi-occupied Latvia, two sisters are forced to make an impossible choice. To save a child, one sister must flee, while the other must stay behind. The secret of what happens next will endure for generations. But the truth won’t stay hidden forever…

Riga, 1943. Cycling the streets to deliver fresh loaves, Zenta passes empty houses, curtains open, doors unlocked, their occupants forced out by Russian or German hands. Above the newly built town hall, a Nazi flag waves in the breeze. Since her brother became a soldier and her sister joined the resistance, Zenta is all her parents have left.

Then one morning her sister returns. Tired, worn, with a newly rounded belly, Estere is as determined as ever to fight for their freedom. She convinces Zenta to join the Latvian resistance efforts and use her bread deliveries as a cover for smuggling letters, newspapers and supplies.

When the bell over the bakery door chimes and German officers cross the threshold, Estere pleads with her sister to run – and to take her new-born daughter with her. An agreement between sisters made in the desperation of war sends Zenta to a new life across the world, a baby at her side, with a secret she’ll never tell. Until, decades later, now a grandmother, the smells and warmth of the bakery still in her heart, Zenta is finally ready to set the truth free…

An emotional and heartbreaking tale of sacrifice, courage and love that spotlights the resilience of women in the Second World War. Perfect for readers of Kristin Hannah, Fiona Valpy and Kelly Rimmer.

Genres: Historical Fiction, World War II, War, Historical, Fiction, Womens, Holocaust

370 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 25, 2024

About the author

Lelita Baldock is an author of historical and literary fiction.

Lelita's novels focus on lesser-known aspects of history and the incredible everyday people who endure and overcome.

You can follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lelit...

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zenta and Estere, sisters, and daughters of Darta and Nikolai, along with their brother Tomass, lived a peaceful life in Riga, Latvia, working in the family bakery, producing bread daily for their friends and the locals who shopped there. But when the Russians took over Latvia, their lives changed. Cruelty emerged, families were divided and when the Germans pushed the Russians out, the Latvians thought they were saved. But worse was to come, much worse. Zenta cycled daily, delivering bread to their older customers. Estere was absent a lot, while Tomass had been forced to join the German army.

When disaster struck, Zenta fled with baby Aina tucked tightly in her arms. First one place then another until eventually Zenta and Aina arrived in Australia, ending in Adelaide, in South Australia. The secret she held would stay deep inside until Zenta was old, with grandchildren on her knee. But could she release the darkness that she had held inside for so long? She was tired...

The Baker's Secret is a phenomenal read by Aussie author Lelita Baldock, and I loved every minute of it. Heartbreaking, traumatic - I had no idea that the Russians held Latvia in its grasp for more than 45 years! The second occupation was from 1944-1991. Under Soviet occupation thousands of Latvians were deported to Siberian camps, executed or forced into exile. What a horrible life for the people who lived there. Zenta is a wonderful character, and her heartbreak was palpable. I highly recommend The Baker's Secret for fans of historical fiction.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by Aussie author Lelita Baldock but it won’t be my last, this story is heart-wrenching, it is also beautifully written with empathy and emotion, set during the occupation of Latvia during World War 2 first by the Russians and then The Nazis and South Australia 2018 as we meet sisters Estere and Zenta and their family.

Estere and Zenta work in the family bakery with their mother Darta and father Nikolai, their brother Tomass works on the dockyards, life has been good but with the war coming closer things are changing in their quiet town of Riga Latvia, when first the Russians take over there is much cruelty, then the Germans arrive and oust the Russians and things get even worse, Tomass is forced to join the army, rations are cut, the Jews are being rounded up and Estere leaves for a while, Zenta stops going to school and is working harder in the bakery, life in changing and getting more dangerous.

When Estere arrives back home pregnant she is determined still to fight for Latvia’s freedom with the Latvian Resistance as her father had done many years ago and soon convinces Zenta to help while delivering her bread to customers, she also delivers letters and supplies. But with Nazis appearing to lose ground the tensions are rising, Estere has her baby a little girl Aina and danger arrives on their doorstep, Zenta must run with baby Aina to save her life, leaving her family behind and life again changes so much for Zenta, not knowing what happened to her family she moves on to the other side of the world with a baby and starts a new life in Australia and holds a secret that will tear lives apart.

Decades later Zenta knows she must tell her secret before it is too late, the tears I shed the heartbreak I felt but I also saw the courage, strength and determination that kept Zenta going all of those years and Estere what she went through searching for her daughter, the things they both lived through was shocking. I loved Zenta so much, this is a story that I highly recommend to anyone reader who loves an excellent historical fiction story, this is one not to be missed.

My thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.

[linda hole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Omg what a heartwrenching book. I learnt so much by reading it. The author does not shy away from graphic scenes. She writes beautiful characters, you Will love them. And love their spirit. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a heart crushing novel of unspeakable horrors. It left me speechless due to the intensity of suffering the Latvian people experienced during WW2. And the heartbreak thereafter—the death of loved ones, the loss of many unable to locate or reconnect with family members who were scattered or fled to other countries to save their lives. These victims of war had no choices at all. Latvians were caught in the middle between two fierce enemies: the Soviets and the Nazis. Latvian men wore forced to fight for both sides. So yes, against their will. The Baker’s Secret shows clearly the unfair demands on the Latvian people. (And those who resisted paid a great price.) The sacrifices they made at being forced to fight alongside their enemy were soul shattering. To be a soldier of such an army was a tough pill to swallow. It wreaked havoc: divided and separated families and friends. Many were on the run. Death and destruction followed their every step. And as for the Latvian Jews, countless were killed during Nazis occupation. It was a horrific period of history and Lelita Baldock gives us a clear bold view of this time through extensive research. But some of that includes her grandfather’s input who had a personal connection to the events. This valuable reservoir of experience gives this story a more realistic and poignant punch. The facts come alive on the page.

This heart piercing story contains two timelines (1943 and 2018) and focuses on two Latvian sisters Zenta and Estere. They live in Riga. Their father is a baker. When the Nazis invade their home, most of their family are taken hostage. Estere begs her sister to take baby Aina and flee to safety. While her heart is bursting with sadness, Zenta decides she must leave to give her niece a chance of survival. She promises her sister she will care for and protect her daughter with hopes one day they will be reunited. But things go very wrong on the escape route. First Zenta becomes very ill and then Aina. Zenta must make a difficult choice that will change the course of their lives and the closeness she once shared with her sister.

Eventually Zenta is sent to Australia. And this part of the story is painful in parts as she not only tries to adjust to a foreign culture and landscape but becomes connected to a Latvian man who has a lot of psychological issues. She begins living and enduring another kind of war that puts her in harms way. And once again she is faced with impossible decisions.

In the second timeline of 2018, a person shows up in Australia from Zenta's past. Zenta decides she has carried her secrets long enough. These painful revelations will hurt some family members but Zenta wants to be free of the burden she has hidden.

This story is laced with opposing elements: fear and love, bondage and freedom, betrayal and loyalty. The strength of the human spirit to endure and survive the worst of events is evident but also it shows the other end of the spectrum, too. When one becomes so weary and worn down from the severe battles of trying to survive, they become drained of will and wisdom.

I was deeply moved by this story that is incredibly well-crafted. It took me to the locations and allowed me to follow every step and feel every emotion. The main ingredients of The Baker’s Secret are love and care. Thanks to Lelita for sharing her heart and family’s insight on the struggles of Latvia through this unforgettable novel. No question, it deserves 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Make no mistake. This heartbreaking story was so difficult to read that I often had to put the book down and take an emotional break. Latvia's history from 1940 until the fall of the Soviet Union is the stuff of nightmares. First occupied by the Soviets, then the Nazis, then the Soviets once again. The story is told through the voices of two sisters, Zenta and Estere, whose family runs a small bakery in Riga. We watch as the war tears their family and country apart. The despair and sorrow drip from the pages as each sister loses what matters the most to them.

I marveled at the strength of Zenta who was only a teenager during the war, the youngest member of her family. She made such huge personal sacrifices that I don't know how she didn't lose her sanity. This story begins and ends in Australia, giving the reader a glimpse into the displacement camps in Europe and the difficulties of resettlement. So many women throughout this story offered care and shelter to others, instinctively offering whatever comfort they could. Although this is fiction, I know that If not for the resilience of women during and after World War II, many of us wouldn't be alive today. This is a profoundly moving book that opened my eyes to the struggles of Latvia and I highly recommend it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are my own.

[Jenny Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read about a country Latvia that I knew little about. Interesting to read of the impact of WW2 on the residents of Latvia swinging between being occupied by the Nazis or the Soviets. Tough decisions made in the attempts for survival.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a well written book. Although it was difficult to read at some points due to the content, I also couldn't put it down. The characters were so well written, I really enjoyed the change in views for some chapters and the jump in timelines from 2018 to the various earlier years.

The ending though a bit predictable to some degree was still so good.

Huge thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Siobhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishers for an advance copy of this fantastic book.
I was so excited to get to this story and it didn't disappoint! I have never read a world war 2 story set in Latvia so it was very interesting to see the impact of the war there.
I found Zenta to be such a great character and was gripped to this story throughout. A very well written debut in historical fiction. I will be looking out for more historical novels from this author. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Heidi Ragauša · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a historical fiction that realistically depicts the time period, I highly suggest this book. This story definitely seems to be historically accurate based on the stories I have grown up hearing about my own family's escape from occupied Latvia.

[Kira O’Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will always love a good historical fiction😋😋

[Robin Rashcovsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story.
Riga, Latvia

[Stormi Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bakers Secret
By: Lelita Baldock

4 Stars

War. Family. Survival. That is what you find in these pages.
With war pushing on all fronts, Zenta is made to leave her home of Latvia. After watching her whole family either slaughtered or captured, she is left alone with her niece. Save her. That is her only job. Zenta faces a life of war, loss, and secrets. Secrets that helped her survive.

Wow. This story was very well written and was a shock to boot. I have read many stories about the war, but never one quite like this, with such a well planned storyline. It was full of pain and loss, and I found myself on an emotional roller-coaster. Tears at times while happy at others. It was a very descriptive look into a nasty war. The total feelings of loss and the hard fight for survival are palpable in these pages. I was indeed touched by this story. It was one that will stay with me for a long time.

This was a very well written story with such great visuals and feelings that I can't wait to get my hands on more from this author.


*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*


Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews

[Kara Galvan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars but I can’t round up to 4.

GOD I thought this book was going to be a winner right from the beginning and I simply feel like I didn’t read the same book as everyone else that enjoyed it.

I genuinely enjoyed Baldock immersing you in the many many occupations of Latvia. I have never read any book that so heavily revolved around Latvia, this was 100% the reason I picked it up and this part alone left me the most satisfied. (Same goes for the chapters set in Australia, I have genuinely never thought about Australia and WWII together).

Essentially everything else felt lost on me and I can’t tell if this is a me problem or if I just judge books harsher than others. HOWEVER, I must acknowledge all of the blatant pain the characters face, particularly Zenta. Oh Zenta, how I hurt for you. This book would have been a straight 3/5 had it not been for what Zenta does with the letters at the end of the novel. I’ll save that for you, reader.

Despite my experience and how I generally felt let down by this book, I recommend it. I think learning more about the world from historical fiction is invaluable.

[Sally Mander · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars, Some Secrets Are Good

THE BAKER'S SECRET
by Lelita Baldock

This is a different kind of WWII story, it's told with dual timelines set in Australia in 2018 and in Riga, Latvia in 1940 and beyond. The story is of a Latvian family on the outside looking inward toward the persecution of the Jewish families in their beloved town.

Zenta Venga is a Latvian who escaped the terrors of communist occupation, to Australia.

Zenta had lived in Riga, Latvia with her loving parents, older brother Tomass, and older sister Estere. They lived over the family bakery in a modest home. Her parents were the main bakers, but as the children grew older, they helped out, too. Zenta loved her family and her life there. She loved the Rye Pudding that her mother made, sometimes just to cheer someone up. She liked seeing the patrons of the bakery coming to get their daily bread and visiting with each of them.

First, the Russians occupied Riga, then the Germans moved in and occupied the once lovely town. Riga, nor the people who lived there would ever be the same again.

Estere hands Zenta her newborn baby and tells her she must run to get away from the Germans who are holding the family captive. Zenta doesn't want to leave them, but she also wants the baby to live.

I received a complimentary copy of #TheBakersSecret from #StormPublishing and #NetGalley I was not obligated to post a review.

#HistoricalFiction #WWII #RigaLatvia #Australia #Love #Motherhood #Loss #Death #TriggerWarning #communism #CulturalHeritage #Diverse #genealogy #Secrets #Jews #LelitaBaldock

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely give 5 stars, but this one absolutely deserves it! Beautifully written story that pulls you right into the world of Latvia during occupations from the Russians and Germans. I have read many stories about WW2 and had low expectations, but this one is unique. I never knew the history of Latvia and what that country has endured as a people. There was just the right amount of romance, family tension, and amazing plot twist (never saw that coming). I would highly recommend this book to anyone. I plan to read this authors other books now! She is truly a gifted author!

[Cindy Pollock · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. It’s been so long since I’ve loved every character in a story. I had so much love for everyone and wanted the best for all. I never would have guessed the ending of this one. These sisters had to do the unimaginable time and time again. I’ll be following this author after this one!

This beautifully tragic novel absolutely broke my heart (and made me want to bake bread). It is a must read for 2024.

Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the early access in exchange for a honest review.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a heartwrenching novel!! I enjoyed it very much. I found very interesting to read about Latvia during WWII as I didn't know so much about it. Both storyline and plot were compelling, and even though I guessed some facts early on, I couldn't put the book down! Many difficult decisions had to be taken, giving the novel a thought provoking tone. Well written, and loosely based on the author's family experiences, this story felt very real.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and Storm Publishing, and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.

[Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story of life in Latvia in the Second World War. From a small family bakery the story of how families had to suffer to try to survive. You will smile with them and cry with them as they meet the horrors of the Russian army and the German army as they are caught between them. After the war they end up in Australia and fiend a new life but hold to each other to survive again. You must read this book!

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

War forces people to make choices that deeply impact their lives and the loves of those around them. WWII in Latvia is something I have never read about. The assault that took place their on multiple fronts was heinous. Again the resiliency of the people shines through as they seem to do their best amidst challenging circumstances.

Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own

[Emma Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hooked from the very first chapter of this book. I couldn't put it down. It's set in the 1940's and was a very interesting read. It had a great story and a brilliant cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I can't wait to read more by the author.
💖 Thank you to Storm publishing, netgalley and the author for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[John Kiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚✨ Bookish Banter: "The Baker's Secret" by Lelita Baldock 🍰🌟

So, lo and behold, I've just embarked on an emotional rollercoaster through the pages of "The Baker's Secret" by the fabulous Lelita Baldock. Hold on tight, folks, because this review is about to become more exciting than a bakery on National Doughnut Day! 🍩🎢

Picture this: Nazi-occupied Latvia, where two sisters, Zenta and Estere, are stuck in a jam (and not the delicious kind). The plot thickens faster than grandma's soup as they face choices tougher than deciding between tea or coffee in the morning. ☕🤔

In the bustling town of Riga, 1943, Zenta, our bread-delivering dynamo, cycles through empty streets, Nazi flags fluttering in the breeze like an unwanted party decoration. Sister drama alert! Estere, back from who knows where, is determined to fight for freedom. Cue the epic sibling discussions and a plan involving bread deliveries-turned-secret missions. 🥖🕵️‍♀️

Fast forward to the ding-dong of the bakery door, and in walks the German officers. Estere, being the wise war strategist she is, urges Zenta to run, baby in tow. We're talking more drama than a soap opera, people! 🏃‍♀️👶💨

Cut to Zenta's daring escape to a new life across the globe, baby in arms, with a secret so juicy, it could rival grandma's famous jam recipe. 🌍🍇

Now, in 2018, Zenta, who's aged like a fine wine, decides it's finally time to spill the tea (or in this case, the secret). Get ready for a timeline twirl that'll leave you spinning faster than a DDR dance-off. 💃🕰️

This emotional rollercoaster had me feeling more things than a teenager at a Taylor Swift concert. 🎢💔

Shoutout to Zenta, the real MVP. This gal made sacrifices bigger than my appetite for book sales. How she didn't lose her sanity, I'll never know. Can we get this girl a medal or at least a lifetime supply of freshly baked bread? 🏅🍞

And let's talk about Latvia! Move over, Paris and Berlin; Latvia's wartime struggles are the new blockbuster on the historical scene. 🇱🇻🍿

The bakery motif was on point – serving up warmth, sustenance, and more drama than a reality TV show. It's like the Great British Bake Off, but with a side of espionage and secret missions. 🕵️‍♂️🍰

In conclusion, "The Baker's Secret" is not just a historical fiction novel; it's a ticket to a feels-packed adventure. Lelita Baldock, you've baked up a storm of emotions, and I'm here for it! ⚡🌈

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5/5 stars)

(Note: I snagged an advance copy from the publisher for an honest review, but the wit and emoji party are all me!) 🎉📖

[Cal · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Baker’s Secret by Lelita Baldock is a beautifully written, highly emotional and intriguing historical novel that tells the story of sisters Zenta and Estere Kalnina who, before the outbreak of World War 2, live in Riga working in the family bakery. Told in multiple time lines the story begins in 2018, Southern Australia, as Zenta finds herself confronted by the secrets of her past – secrets she has tried to keep hidden for most of her life.

The story then moves back in time to 1940 Latvia, as Russia begins to take control of the country. Based around Lelita Baldock’s own heartrending family history, this is a powerfully raw and painful story that spans almost eighty years. When Germany eventually overturns Russia’s rule, the people of Riga are hopeful that they have been spared, but it soon becomes apparent that this is far from the truth – and before they know what’s hit them, they find themselves in fear for their lives. Wanting to do everything in her power to protect her family, Estere leaves to fight with the resistance whilst her sister Zenta stays at home to try and keep everyone else safe.

But then, one morning, Estere returns. Tired, worn out and expecting a baby, Estere is still as determined as ever to fight for their freedom She convinces her sister to join the Latvian resistance by using her bread deliveries as a cover. But disaster strikes and Estere pleads with Zenta to run – and to take Estere’s newborn baby daughter with her. Finally settling in Adelaide, Australia, Zenta holds her secrets close until one day she is confronted by Heather, an American woman who is in search of answers of her own.

Meticulously researched, The Baker’s Secret is a stunning story that had me completely enthralled from beginning to end. Superbly written, it is a powerful story that really does pack a punch, especially as so much of the history surrounding it is based on real life events. The horrific treatment of the people of Latvia is devastating and Lelita Baldock’s powerful words give a raw and brutally honest insight into the horrors the Latvian people have had to endure. As profoundly traumatic and upsetting as it is to read at times, The Baker’s Secret is also a story of love and courage, proving once again just how resilient the human spirit can be.

I was drawn to The Baker’s Secret from the moment I read the blurb and knew it was a book I simply had to read. Full of intrigue and suspense, this historical novel is beautifully descriptive and brings a period of history I knew very little about vividly to life. I love a historical novel told via multiple timelines and this one did not disappoint. Lelita Baldock has written a moving, thought provoking and suspense filled historical novel that I know will stay with me for a long time to come.

Highly recommended..

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riga is the capital, primate, and the largest city of Latvia. After centuries of Teutonic, Swedish, Polish-Lithuanian, and Russian rule, which was mainly implemented through the local Baltic German aristocracy, the independent Republic of Latvia was established on 18 November 1918 after breaking away from the German Empire in the aftermath of WWI.The country became increasingly autocratic after the coup in 1934 established the dictatorship of Kārlis Ulmanis.The country's independence was interrupted by WWII.On 17 June 1940, the Soviet forces invaded Latvia occupying bridges, post/telephone, telegraph, and broadcasting offices.Kārlis Ulmanis was forced to approve a pro-Soviet government that had taken office. On 14–15 July, rigged elections were held in Latvia and the other Baltic states.The Soviet authorities, having regained control over Riga and Latvia imposed a regime of terror, opening the headquarters of the KGB, massive deportations started.The most notorious deportation, the June deportation took place on 13-14 June 1941.During the Nazi occupation from July 10th 1941, the Jewish community was forced into the Riga Ghetto and a Nazi concentration camp was constructed in Kaiserwald. On 25 October 1941, the Nazis relocated all Jews from Riga and the vicinity to the ghetto. Most of Latvia's Jews were killed on 30 November and 8 December 1941 in the Rumbula massacre.The Latvian Legion was a formation of the Nazi German Waffen-SS,created in 1943.The initial core of the force was populated by Latvian Police Battalions, which were formed starting in 1941 for security duties and already serving on the Eastern Front under Wehrmacht command. The other choices was being sent to a slave labour camp in Germany.Some chose to desert rather than serve.
The Latvian resistance movement was divided between the pro-independence units under the Latvian Central Council and the pro-Soviet units under the Central Staff of the Partisan Movement in Moscow.The Soviet Red Army reconquered Riga on 13 October 1944. Latvia officially gained full independence from the Soviet Union on 21 August 1991 due to the Baltic Singing Revolution from 14 June 1987-6 September 1991.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose this book to read for a very personal reason. My mother and grandparents, along with my 2-month-old sister, escaped from Latvia in 1944. I was not yet born, but I am aware of the horrors of the times which were relayed to me through my parents. Also, I was drawn to the book because the main character's name is Zenta, the same as my mother. And, another major character is Valdis, the same as my father.

The Germans (Nazis) wanted control over Latvia. The Russians (Communists) wanted control over Latvia. Latvia wanted to retain independence. Not a good scenario.

There are many people in this world who cannot pinpoint Latvia on a map. And, there are even more that have no concept of what the citizens of this country suffered during repression and occupation which started in the 1940s. The author has done her best to paint the picture for those who might be interested but do not know.

The description of events is not overly graphic, but it paints pictures that are horrifying and realistic. Sometimes words present a better picture than videos or news clips. As I am reading, the words sink in, I pause and the whole event carves out a spot in my mind. Whereas, a news clip comes and goes, replaced by another.

The author does not just state facts. There is a family at the centre of everything, which puts everything in to a more identifiable perspective. As you get to know the characters, you can empathize with them. The members of the family are well portrayed.

There are many, many books set in the time of WW2. This is the first one I have read that is set in Latvia. I found it very compelling and interesting. Perhaps, because of my personal connection, it also kept me awake for a few nights.

At first, I found the writing style a little too simple, a little too basic. But as I became involved in the story, I realized that the simple style is as it should be. The story is intense on its own without adding complicated language and sentence structure.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an Advance Readers Copy.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: The Baker's Secret by Lelita Baldockt

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stars

I recently had the pleasure of delving into the poignant world painted by Lelita Baldockt in "The Baker's Secret." Set in Nazi-occupied Latvia, the novel follows the gripping story of two sisters faced with an unthinkable decision that echoes through generations.

The narrative centers on Zenta, a young baker cycling through the war-torn streets of Riga, delivering bread while navigating the harsh realities of occupation. When her sister, Estere, returns exhausted and pregnant, a chain of events is set into motion that will test the sisters' loyalty and resilience in the face of adversity.

Baldockt masterfully weaves a tale of sacrifice, courage, and secrets that spans continents and decades. The author's vivid descriptions transport the reader to a time and place fraught with danger and uncertainty, where every decision carries weighty consequences.

What struck me most about this book was its ability to draw me in despite my usual aversion to war-themed literature. The character of Zenta, a baker thrust into the turmoil of war, provided a unique perspective that kept me engrossed from start to finish.

The pacing of the story was expertly crafted, ensuring that each chapter left me eager to uncover the next twist in the tale. The emotional depth of the plot tugged at my heartstrings, leaving a lasting impact that lingered long after I turned the final page.

"The Baker's Secret" stands out as one of my favorite reads this year, thanks to its exceptional writing, immersive setting, and compelling characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating story of love, sacrifice, and the enduring power of family bonds. Step out of your comfort zone and embark on this unforgettable journey with Zenta as she navigates the complexities of war and uncovers the truth that has been hidden for far too long.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Baker’s Secret by Lelita Baldock is a powerful dual timeline novel that I read in just one sitting.
The action takes place in Riga, Latvia during World War II and also in 2018 in Australia as we follow two sisters and their wartime experiences. The chapters alternate between the pair.
Latvia was a turbulent and dangerous place to be during World War II. Having gained independence after World War; during World War II, first the Soviets marched in, and then the Nazis, and then the Soviets returned to oppress the people until 1990. Latvians were trapped within their own country, always being persecuted by whoever had control.
June 14th 1941 is called The Night Of The Disappeared as 15,000 Latvians were torn from their homes – men, women and children – never to be seen again.
We witness the bravery of the people. One sister is active within the resistance, the other reluctantly helps. Both are proud Latvians.
Love is a powerful bond. We see much sacrificial love in action. It is a love that lets go in order to protect.
War alters people. “As her body recovered in a survivor’s hospital, her mind stayed trapped in torment.” Today we would diagnose PTSD but it was unheard of then. Many minds remained trapped in the war years as it was such an awful and traumatic time.
Secrets have been kept. When they are finally revealed, lives are turned upside down again. Love is questioned. A character lives a nomadic life, fearing staying anywhere in case bonds formed are torn away again.
The novel has the theme of coming home. Sometimes home is not a place but a person. For others, home is the soil of Latvia which calls to them.
All the characters were well drawn, likable and realistic. They were admirable too. So much bravery at a time of much evil.
The Baker’s Secret will educate you as you read. I have read extensively about World War II but knew nothing of the experiences of the Latvian people. Now I do.
The Baker’s Secret was a powerful novel that consumed me from the start.

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a small country in Eastern Europe, a lesser-known theatre of World War II, the Russians have invaded Latvia, and young Zenta's simple, secure life is about to change drastically. Her budding relationship with classmate Aleks, her plans to someday take over her parents' beloved bakery, and everything else she holds dear is threatened by the brutality of the Russian occupation.

Sadly, this changes only when the Nazis invade in 1941, and then it's a case of going from the frying pan to the fire. Zenta's brother Tomass becomes a soldier with dreadful consequences to follow, her sister Estere follows her lover to join the resistance - and subsequently falls pregnant - and her family is fractured by the internal divisions that follow these choices.

Estere's role in the Resistance continues, and the novel follows Zenta's subsequent escape, when she must leave her sister behind, so that Estere's baby Aina can be taken to safety.

This is a tragic story in many ways, and it is sometimes hard to learn more about it. To give the writer credit, Lelita Baldock does not shy away from the painful parts of this history, and you can feel Zenta's and the others characters' pain, loss and confusion throughout the book.

The second timeline is set in 2018, when Zenta is an old woman clinging fiercely to her hard-won independence. All the loose ends are brought together to be tied up for the conclusion, and long-held secrets are released. But be warned, this is a book that will linger in the mind well after you have finished reading. Well worth a read for WW II fiction enthusiasts, I give it 3.5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Markie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Australia, 89-year-old Zenta has finally found a semblance of settlement after a tumultuous life spent fleeing invading foreign powers and confronting threats much closer to home. A call from someone linked to her distant past prompts Zenta to reveal the truth about her life and that of her family. This revelation, laden with the weight of differing religious and political ideologies during the Soviet and Second World War, will once again put to the test the family bonds they believed were secure.

The narrative unfolds as a poignant tale, simultaneously heartwarming and heartbreaking, exploring relationships shaped and shattered by the complex dynamics of the historical backdrop. Set against the canvas of the Soviet era and World War II, the story delves into the personal costs borne by those entangled in the throes of conflicting ideologies. Zenta's brother Tomass joins the Latvian Army during the Nazi occupation, while her sister Estere becomes deeply involved in resistance work. Zenta, the linchpin holding her parents and their bakery together, navigates the ebb and flow of familial relationships.

Forced to flee the Nazis to save her sister's child, Zenta embarks on a poignant journey across the world, a journey that exacts a dear cost from her. Despite the weighty subject matter, the narrative proves to be one of the most enjoyable reads, provoking thought and prompting introspection about the choices one might make in Zenta's shoes and whether the courage to follow in her footsteps would be found.

I extend my gratitude to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished an ARC of the The Baker’s Secret by Lelita Baldock. To say that I enjoyed the book is difficult as the book is heartbreaking and very moving. But as a persistent reader of WWll historical fiction I found this book to be very enlightening and educational about the plight of Latvia and its citizenry during the era of World War ll. In 1940 after recently winning independence from the Soviet Union following World War l, Latvia finds itself being occupied by the Soviet Army under the guise of protecting the country from the advance of the Germans. There is much sacrifice, rationing and subjugation by the Soviets until Latvia is being marched upon by the Germans and Soviets flee. Occupied by yet another army, Zenta and her Latvian family are submitted to much hardship and personal sacrifice. The story of the family members is heartbreaking as each member makes enormous sacrifices for their home and country —the brutality of the occupiers and the bravery of the Latvian people is remarkably presented. The story continues with some family members escaping to Germany to be liberated by the Allies and then placed in DP camps as they try to rebuild their deeply scarred lives and learn the stories of their own family members—did they survive and if so, where are they? The emotional trauma that follows the survivors is evident in every aspect of their daily lives.
This is a fascinating story about Latvia’s role during the Second War and a family faced with the hardship of a war and the destruction of their world. I appreciate the opportunity to have the chance to read Ms. Baldock’s new book. Thanks to Net Galley

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing book that I simply could not put down. A beautiful and harrowing tale of survival and loss, amidst the war torn streets of Latvia during the Second World War.
The story follows Zenta, who was such a strong woman despite everything she faced. I liked following her story and discovering what happened to not only her but her family also and my heart absolutely broke for her. I really liked her as a character and admired everything that she did, despite everything that continued to be thrown at her.
I was not expecting the twists in regards to both Aina & Estere and was shocked when these occurred. These instances only reinforced Zenta's nature and showed that during those times, people did what they could to survive and made many sacrifices along the way.
I liked the dual timeline of the book, as you are aware that Zenta survives, which makes you eager to read more and find out how she survived and what happened along the way. I liked seeing how she was as a person in the present and I admired her values and the way in which she passed on things to her family which came from her past, such as her baking.
The writing of the book was so detailed, it really felt like I was there and I was able to picture everything that was happening. The emotions were really portrayed well and you can tell that Lelita had really done her research into this area, with all important topics written with well and respectfully.
I absolutely loved this book and would highly recommend it to anyone.