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Margot's Secret #3
Margot's Secret
Amid the chaos of Hitler's conquest of Europe, a family teeters on the edge of utter destruction.
Trudy is still obsessed with her sister's husband, Max. But Max is torn between his loyalty to his wife, Margot, and giving in to Trudy, who might turn him in for the murder of her husband, the SS officer Rudolph.
Margot is on the run, hiding from both the Nazis and her own sister, who is threatening to expose her as a Jew. After the violent confrontation with Rudolph, she loses the child she was carrying and seeks refuge with Ben, the Jewish man she has always loved.
As the war reaches its climax, the fate of these four characters will be decided by love, betrayal, and sacrifice. Will they find happiness amid chaos, or will they pay the ultimate price for their choices?
Margot's Secret is a whirlwind of emotion and suspense, weaving the intricate tale of how far people will go for love and survival.
Trudy is still obsessed with her sister's husband, Max. But Max is torn between his loyalty to his wife, Margot, and giving in to Trudy, who might turn him in for the murder of her husband, the SS officer Rudolph.
Margot is on the run, hiding from both the Nazis and her own sister, who is threatening to expose her as a Jew. After the violent confrontation with Rudolph, she loses the child she was carrying and seeks refuge with Ben, the Jewish man she has always loved.
As the war reaches its climax, the fate of these four characters will be decided by love, betrayal, and sacrifice. Will they find happiness amid chaos, or will they pay the ultimate price for their choices?
Margot's Secret is a whirlwind of emotion and suspense, weaving the intricate tale of how far people will go for love and survival.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2024
409 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Roberta Kagan
72 books646 followersI’m an American writer of Jewish and Romany decent. I write Historical Fiction and Historical Romance, most of which is set during the holocaust. Although I never discount the horrors of the time period, the main focus of my work is on ordinary people who prove to be strong heroic characters in unfathomable circumstances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
January 9, 2024
This one in the series started a little slower for me. But I’m always left needing to know what’s going to happen next! And love how the author always circles back around to characters that you think are done with their story. I have so many conflicting feelings about different characters! There’s some you love to love and some you love to hate! Can’t wait to follow the rest of the story.
January 1, 2024
Margot’s Secret book #3
Warning:
Before you pick up this book you need to have read the previous books, “The Secret They Hid” and “An Innocent Child” first to enjoy this one at its fullest. “Margot’s Secret” continues where book #2 finishes and gives us only snippets of what happened previously letting our imagination roam in order to piece things together.
The story in a few words:
Margot, now a fugitive and grieving a lost pregnancy, is hiding both from the Nazis and her own sister who is threatening to expose her as a Jew. She seeks solace with Ben, a Jewish man she has always loved. As the war peaks, the characters face critical choices between love, loyalty and survival.....
My thoughts:
This book was engaging although I found it to be repetitive in many ways. I mostly dislike the abrupt ending that leaves us hanging...so many questions are unanswered.... The story is a real melodrama set during war time with some murders, family squabbles, sexual hanky-panky, and some atrocities. Ok soap opera it is but set this aside and let your imagination be transported into the lives of the well- drawn characters some good, bad and very evil we inevitably cross path with. They do entertain us from the opening sentence telling us from their own perspective what is going on. The pacing is steady and smoothly moves along with no dull moments to let our mind get off the track....
In all, the story appealed to me and I enjoyed the many hours I spent reading it. I almost did not accept the invitation to read this novel from Book Whisperer, the publisher, in retrospect I am happy I did. Thank you.
Warning:
Before you pick up this book you need to have read the previous books, “The Secret They Hid” and “An Innocent Child” first to enjoy this one at its fullest. “Margot’s Secret” continues where book #2 finishes and gives us only snippets of what happened previously letting our imagination roam in order to piece things together.
The story in a few words:
Margot, now a fugitive and grieving a lost pregnancy, is hiding both from the Nazis and her own sister who is threatening to expose her as a Jew. She seeks solace with Ben, a Jewish man she has always loved. As the war peaks, the characters face critical choices between love, loyalty and survival.....
My thoughts:
This book was engaging although I found it to be repetitive in many ways. I mostly dislike the abrupt ending that leaves us hanging...so many questions are unanswered.... The story is a real melodrama set during war time with some murders, family squabbles, sexual hanky-panky, and some atrocities. Ok soap opera it is but set this aside and let your imagination be transported into the lives of the well- drawn characters some good, bad and very evil we inevitably cross path with. They do entertain us from the opening sentence telling us from their own perspective what is going on. The pacing is steady and smoothly moves along with no dull moments to let our mind get off the track....
In all, the story appealed to me and I enjoyed the many hours I spent reading it. I almost did not accept the invitation to read this novel from Book Whisperer, the publisher, in retrospect I am happy I did. Thank you.
January 26, 2024
Margot’s Secret is the third book in the series by Roberta Kagen. It paints a vivid portrait of life for a family fighting to survive.
Though fictional, Robert’s Kagen succeeds in bringing World War II history alive.
Margot’s Secret is a moving testament to the ordinary families who faced extraordinary circumstances with bravery and humanity intact. For those seeking compelling historical fiction, it's a must-read. Many thanks to the author, Book Whisperer and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Though fictional, Robert’s Kagen succeeds in bringing World War II history alive.
Margot’s Secret is a moving testament to the ordinary families who faced extraordinary circumstances with bravery and humanity intact. For those seeking compelling historical fiction, it's a must-read. Many thanks to the author, Book Whisperer and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
January 2, 2024
As usual I love all of this authors works. What is not usual is that I don't like the main character Margot very much. I didn't mind her too much in the first two books but what she does in this book and her seemingly immaturity in many areas disappointed me. The characters are rich and the storyline is never dull. However, there is some repetition that can be a bit annoying - it's like we get it - next! Overall another solid delivery. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 10, 2024
Margot’s Secret by Roberta Kagan is the third episode of the saga of Adelaide and her children. As we saw at the end of the last book, Rudy has been shot and now lies dead in the living room. Max has instructed Margot to run and so she has, with blood dripping down her legs, in the midst of a miscarriage. She finds her way to Ben, only he’s gone now so she knocks on the door across the way, knowing Frau Feiner would know how to find Ben. She claimed she didn’t and Margot passed out. When she awoke, She was with Ben and he gave her the sad news about her baby. He was hiding in the attic of an elderly woman for whom he had once done a favor. She could stay there for now but then she must move on. Meanwhile, Max had convinced Trudy that he had always loved her and so they concocted a story before they called the authorities. Because of Trudy and her flirting ways, they got away with it, but the real test would come several days later when Trudy showed up at his door, asking him to prove his love for her. He couldn’t and soon she became disgusted and starting going out and drinking. Max was afraid for them.
This is a heart-breaking story of what it meant to be Jewish or in any way skeptical of the Nazis. They took no prisoners and they were heartless. They showed no hesitation. The lies of Margot’s parents had come back to haunt them all and the fact that of the three of Adelaide’s children, Trudy showed no remorse when it came to getting what she wanted. It is difficult to imagine being so frightened and alone as these people found themselves. It embeds bad feelings toward the Nazis even more profoundly than before. They were entitled and had no consciences and it is difficult not to understand how this came about. Bullies all. This is a little different type of story than one normally reads about this era in Germany and opens ones eyes to the lives of the people living there at the time.
Thank you Book Whisperer for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #Netgalley #BookWhisperer #RobertaKagan #MargotsSecret
This is a heart-breaking story of what it meant to be Jewish or in any way skeptical of the Nazis. They took no prisoners and they were heartless. They showed no hesitation. The lies of Margot’s parents had come back to haunt them all and the fact that of the three of Adelaide’s children, Trudy showed no remorse when it came to getting what she wanted. It is difficult to imagine being so frightened and alone as these people found themselves. It embeds bad feelings toward the Nazis even more profoundly than before. They were entitled and had no consciences and it is difficult not to understand how this came about. Bullies all. This is a little different type of story than one normally reads about this era in Germany and opens ones eyes to the lives of the people living there at the time.
Thank you Book Whisperer for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #Netgalley #BookWhisperer #RobertaKagan #MargotsSecret
January 1, 2024
Margot's life has been one horrid thing after another. She had to run from her husband in the last book, not because of him, but because of a horrible person. To save her life and the life of her unborn child she must run and never return.
Margot's character gives the reader an idea, a glimpse into what it must have been for so many people under Nazi rule. Like so many during the war, she has lost one child at the hands of the Nazis cleansing policy. How did they go on, knowing they were tricked into losing a child. Margot's Secret helped me gain a little understanding, but I will never really grasp the horrors, the suffering.
Margot ran to her best friend, Ben, hoping he can help her. It is not without risk. He is a Jewish doctor that she soon finds out is in hiding. Margot's choice was an opportunity for the reader to learn about the struggles of hiding in an attic. The author's descriptions had me in tears, hurting for those that had to hide. My imagination could not grasp the atrocities without the help of authors taking me back in time. To see. To sense. To remember.
There are many terrifying examples in this story of how easy it was to turn against another. Margot's sister, Trudy, was a master at it. She stopped at nothing to get what she wanted. Words can hurt. Words can kill. A few words in the right ear could destroy. Trudy is a reminder that you didn't have to wear a uniform in order to control others. Even a sister can turn against another sister in order to get what she wants.
I shed many tears reading Margot's Secret. I had to take breaks to compose myself. No matter how many WW2 historical fiction books read, I never stop learning more. I have a new understanding of the evil that populated the world. My greatest hope is that in the next book karma comes to visit.
Margot's character gives the reader an idea, a glimpse into what it must have been for so many people under Nazi rule. Like so many during the war, she has lost one child at the hands of the Nazis cleansing policy. How did they go on, knowing they were tricked into losing a child. Margot's Secret helped me gain a little understanding, but I will never really grasp the horrors, the suffering.
Margot ran to her best friend, Ben, hoping he can help her. It is not without risk. He is a Jewish doctor that she soon finds out is in hiding. Margot's choice was an opportunity for the reader to learn about the struggles of hiding in an attic. The author's descriptions had me in tears, hurting for those that had to hide. My imagination could not grasp the atrocities without the help of authors taking me back in time. To see. To sense. To remember.
There are many terrifying examples in this story of how easy it was to turn against another. Margot's sister, Trudy, was a master at it. She stopped at nothing to get what she wanted. Words can hurt. Words can kill. A few words in the right ear could destroy. Trudy is a reminder that you didn't have to wear a uniform in order to control others. Even a sister can turn against another sister in order to get what she wants.
I shed many tears reading Margot's Secret. I had to take breaks to compose myself. No matter how many WW2 historical fiction books read, I never stop learning more. I have a new understanding of the evil that populated the world. My greatest hope is that in the next book karma comes to visit.
January 3, 2024
Margot's Secret by Roberta Kagan is the third in the Margot's Secret series and is riddled with heartache, love, (dis)loyalty and passionate hatred.
World War II is raging and after discovering she is Jewish, out of necessity Margot flees her home and husband to hide herself and her unborn baby. She lives in an attic with her dearest friend, Ben, and is overcome with grief after losing her second child. Her husband, Max, has killed an SS member who was married to Margot's despicable non-Jewish half sister, Trudy. In order to protect himself and Margot, he goes to great lengths to prevent Trudy from turning him and Margot in to the Nazis. Max and Margot don't know whether the other is dead or alive. Scheming and promiscuous Trudy leaves a trail of destruction in her wake.
The plot is rich, engrossing and harrowing with intriguing dark aspects. Characters are well written, though they made deplorable choices during the horrors of war. Margot was more likable in the first two books in my view, but that did not rob me of reading enjoyment. The only aspect which didn't endear me was the unnecessary addition of steamy detail. But I loved getting lost in the story. The cover sums up the despair perfectly.
Roberta Kagan's writing is clever and thoughtful, always evoking a kaleidoscope of emotions in my heart in just the right spots. I can pick up any book she's written with the knowledge it will be special.
My sincere thank you to Book Whisperer and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this captivating novel.
World War II is raging and after discovering she is Jewish, out of necessity Margot flees her home and husband to hide herself and her unborn baby. She lives in an attic with her dearest friend, Ben, and is overcome with grief after losing her second child. Her husband, Max, has killed an SS member who was married to Margot's despicable non-Jewish half sister, Trudy. In order to protect himself and Margot, he goes to great lengths to prevent Trudy from turning him and Margot in to the Nazis. Max and Margot don't know whether the other is dead or alive. Scheming and promiscuous Trudy leaves a trail of destruction in her wake.
The plot is rich, engrossing and harrowing with intriguing dark aspects. Characters are well written, though they made deplorable choices during the horrors of war. Margot was more likable in the first two books in my view, but that did not rob me of reading enjoyment. The only aspect which didn't endear me was the unnecessary addition of steamy detail. But I loved getting lost in the story. The cover sums up the despair perfectly.
Roberta Kagan's writing is clever and thoughtful, always evoking a kaleidoscope of emotions in my heart in just the right spots. I can pick up any book she's written with the knowledge it will be special.
My sincere thank you to Book Whisperer and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this captivating novel.
November 13, 2024
Book 3 in the Margot's Secret series.
The story focuses on Max and Trudy; and Margot and Ben, in the aftermath of the events in the previous book.
Max is more or less forced into staying by Trudy's side, but he does so to protect Margot and remains unaware of her whereabouts throughout the book. His heart remains loyal to Margot but is forced to have a physical relationship to Trudy, to keep her quiet about Margot's true heritage.
Margot on the run, reunites with Ben, and thanks to a kind-hearted woman that Ben had met previously, they remain hiding in her attic.
In events that follow, we see Trudy's, I would say, very much vain side come out more, with no remorse for her actions. I found it hard to feel any sympathy for her, especially when she spends all of Max's savings to go on holiday, and meets two different men. One who abuses her, and another who eventually reveals the fact that he is married. And while she admonishes him, she does get hit back stating that she herself was hiding her own secrets. Believing that this new love will leave his wife for her, she reveals part of Margot's identity and Max's marriage to Margot, in order to have him 'disappear'.
As a result of this, Max is sent to a camp, and Margot manages to escape, hiding as a German, finds herself working at a German cafe.
I am looking forward to the next and final book in the series, and hope that karma comes to visit, and hoping for a happy ending for Max and Margot.
The story focuses on Max and Trudy; and Margot and Ben, in the aftermath of the events in the previous book.
Max is more or less forced into staying by Trudy's side, but he does so to protect Margot and remains unaware of her whereabouts throughout the book. His heart remains loyal to Margot but is forced to have a physical relationship to Trudy, to keep her quiet about Margot's true heritage.
Margot on the run, reunites with Ben, and thanks to a kind-hearted woman that Ben had met previously, they remain hiding in her attic.
In events that follow, we see Trudy's, I would say, very much vain side come out more, with no remorse for her actions. I found it hard to feel any sympathy for her, especially when she spends all of Max's savings to go on holiday, and meets two different men. One who abuses her, and another who eventually reveals the fact that he is married. And while she admonishes him, she does get hit back stating that she herself was hiding her own secrets. Believing that this new love will leave his wife for her, she reveals part of Margot's identity and Max's marriage to Margot, in order to have him 'disappear'.
As a result of this, Max is sent to a camp, and Margot manages to escape, hiding as a German, finds herself working at a German cafe.
I am looking forward to the next and final book in the series, and hope that karma comes to visit, and hoping for a happy ending for Max and Margot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2023
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Margot’s Secret” by Roberta Kagan, is the third book in the “Margot’s Secret” series. Ms. Kagan does catch the reader up on some of the previous books’ information, but I think starting with this book might be difficult for a new reader of the series if read as a stand-alone. For me, this book felt like the weakest of the series. A lot of this story, especially for the first 25%, is told in thoughts to fill the reader in on past plot lines from the previous books. While those were good refreshers, it seemed to drag on a bit - especially when another character seemed to repeat some of the information, albeit from their own perspective. While I finished this book quickly, it didn’t flow as smoothly as the previous two books in this series. And, once again, we leave a number of things at loose ends, knowing that there’s another book in this series. Out of all the books, this one felt like there wasn’t a lot of historical “stuff” thrown in and, instead, there was a lot more plot building with a tad of more soap opera. I’ll continue reading the series, but here’s to hoping the next one includes a bit more historical information.
“Margot’s Secret” by Roberta Kagan, is the third book in the “Margot’s Secret” series. Ms. Kagan does catch the reader up on some of the previous books’ information, but I think starting with this book might be difficult for a new reader of the series if read as a stand-alone. For me, this book felt like the weakest of the series. A lot of this story, especially for the first 25%, is told in thoughts to fill the reader in on past plot lines from the previous books. While those were good refreshers, it seemed to drag on a bit - especially when another character seemed to repeat some of the information, albeit from their own perspective. While I finished this book quickly, it didn’t flow as smoothly as the previous two books in this series. And, once again, we leave a number of things at loose ends, knowing that there’s another book in this series. Out of all the books, this one felt like there wasn’t a lot of historical “stuff” thrown in and, instead, there was a lot more plot building with a tad of more soap opera. I’ll continue reading the series, but here’s to hoping the next one includes a bit more historical information.
January 11, 2024
Margot's Secret by Roberta Kagan is the third installment of the Margot's Secret series. While I have not read the first two books, I found that enough of the back story was provided and I was immersed in the story immediately.
Set in Nazi Germany, Margot and her husband have suffered an unimaginable loss which has set off a series of events that causes her to run for her life. Her husband takes drastic measures to protect her and her secret, while her sister poses a very real threat to her very existence.
The author has crafted a gut-wrenching story set amid the horrors of war. The well crafted characters are three dimensional and the narrative is told in their voices. As horrid as the Nazis are, Margot's sister Trudy is just as bad and continues to shock readers throughout the story. Just when it seems she can't get any worse, she does. Will she destroy this family?
I found this book to be well written, fast moving and engrossing. So much so, that I will read the first two books. As for the conclusion-I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Book Whisperer through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Set in Nazi Germany, Margot and her husband have suffered an unimaginable loss which has set off a series of events that causes her to run for her life. Her husband takes drastic measures to protect her and her secret, while her sister poses a very real threat to her very existence.
The author has crafted a gut-wrenching story set amid the horrors of war. The well crafted characters are three dimensional and the narrative is told in their voices. As horrid as the Nazis are, Margot's sister Trudy is just as bad and continues to shock readers throughout the story. Just when it seems she can't get any worse, she does. Will she destroy this family?
I found this book to be well written, fast moving and engrossing. So much so, that I will read the first two books. As for the conclusion-I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Book Whisperer through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 23, 2024
A Sister's Betrayal
This is the third book in the Margot's secret series. After the devastating events at the ending of book two Margot is running and hiding from the Nazi's. She is lucky to still be alive and she is trying to stay alive. Trudy has unearthed the secret of Margot's birth, which even Margot was unaware of.
Margot finds a friend and hides for a while, then that hiding place is compromised and she must go it alone. She is passing as a German and hiding the fact she is half Jewish, no one must find out.
At the Cafe she is working at a German officer notices her and she is afraid to say no and needs the relationship to hide in plain sight so she starts dating the German officer.
Meanwhile Trudy has had Max sent to a work camp. He tried to find Margot until Trudy turned against him and had him sent away for being married to a Jew.
Will Max and Margot ever get back together? Can Margot keep her true identity a secret and keep her German soldier at bay? What happens next in this suspense filled series.
What a great series, I am rooting for Max and Margot. Can't wait to find out the ending.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy of the book to read and review.
This is the third book in the Margot's secret series. After the devastating events at the ending of book two Margot is running and hiding from the Nazi's. She is lucky to still be alive and she is trying to stay alive. Trudy has unearthed the secret of Margot's birth, which even Margot was unaware of.
Margot finds a friend and hides for a while, then that hiding place is compromised and she must go it alone. She is passing as a German and hiding the fact she is half Jewish, no one must find out.
At the Cafe she is working at a German officer notices her and she is afraid to say no and needs the relationship to hide in plain sight so she starts dating the German officer.
Meanwhile Trudy has had Max sent to a work camp. He tried to find Margot until Trudy turned against him and had him sent away for being married to a Jew.
Will Max and Margot ever get back together? Can Margot keep her true identity a secret and keep her German soldier at bay? What happens next in this suspense filled series.
What a great series, I am rooting for Max and Margot. Can't wait to find out the ending.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy of the book to read and review.
January 10, 2024
This is a novel that is third in a series, something I didn't realize until after I began the book. It is set in Hilter's Germany and tells of Margot and Max who get separated during the war and neither has any knowledge of whether or not the other is even still alive, much less where they may be located.
I did realize a bit too late that this book would've read different for me if I had read the first two books. There were a lot of references to events that happened in previous books and I could definitely tell it as I read, although it can also be a stand alone read.
The story line was good and the author did a good job tying in the evils and depravity of Hitler's regime. There were times when I was very uncomfortable reading the story because of the content and writing. style. The story did end in what I would consider a very awkward spot, vs a cliffhanger. Unfortunately the storyline wasn't enticing enough to convince me to pick up the fourth book. Overall, this book was just ok for me.
I did realize a bit too late that this book would've read different for me if I had read the first two books. There were a lot of references to events that happened in previous books and I could definitely tell it as I read, although it can also be a stand alone read.
The story line was good and the author did a good job tying in the evils and depravity of Hitler's regime. There were times when I was very uncomfortable reading the story because of the content and writing. style. The story did end in what I would consider a very awkward spot, vs a cliffhanger. Unfortunately the storyline wasn't enticing enough to convince me to pick up the fourth book. Overall, this book was just ok for me.
December 29, 2023
This book is immediately set after the previous one, and this one is a cliffhanger also. I really am really hoping the next is the last because I am hoping against hope for a happy ending for Margo and Max.
There are so many hateful character in this book, as can be assumed by how many are Nazi's, but Trudy is the worst.
We met Trudy and Margo in book one when they were happily raised as sisters. However, Trudy was always jealous, especially since her crush Max married Margo. This plays out very badly for all concerned.
This is historical fiction and we are now in the midst of WWII.
I would find it difficult as a writer to write about this period, but I appreciate that Kagan does.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the EARC. This is my honest review. I believe is important to read historical fiction such as this, and itbis accessible because you get caught up in the stories of every character, whether you like them or not.
There are so many hateful character in this book, as can be assumed by how many are Nazi's, but Trudy is the worst.
We met Trudy and Margo in book one when they were happily raised as sisters. However, Trudy was always jealous, especially since her crush Max married Margo. This plays out very badly for all concerned.
This is historical fiction and we are now in the midst of WWII.
I would find it difficult as a writer to write about this period, but I appreciate that Kagan does.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the EARC. This is my honest review. I believe is important to read historical fiction such as this, and itbis accessible because you get caught up in the stories of every character, whether you like them or not.
January 10, 2024
Another heart-pounding, tragic saga - the third book in the Margot's Secret series. It may well sweep you off your feet, so beware. The ending of the book appears promise of yet another sequel.
The historical work of fiction is set during WWII depicting the ruthlessness and brutality of Hitler and his Nazi's. In my opinion, this portrayal may be too realistic for some readers, but I feel it is good to know what people went through during that time.
One other caution is that some readers may not wish to read of intimate bedroom scenes. Other than that, it was a very satisfactory read and I hold out for the hope of a fourth-in-the-series book, although I do not know if that is planned.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
January 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
The historical work of fiction is set during WWII depicting the ruthlessness and brutality of Hitler and his Nazi's. In my opinion, this portrayal may be too realistic for some readers, but I feel it is good to know what people went through during that time.
One other caution is that some readers may not wish to read of intimate bedroom scenes. Other than that, it was a very satisfactory read and I hold out for the hope of a fourth-in-the-series book, although I do not know if that is planned.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
January 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
January 19, 2024
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. This is the third book in this series and the first one I’ve read. There was enough background information to help me understand the storyline. The story follows four adults during the Nazi reign of terror in Germany. Margot is married to Max. Her sister, Trudy, is married to an SS officer, Rudolph. Ben is a young Jewish man who is in love with Margot. Trudy is obsessed with Max and wants to take him away from Margot .. after Max murders Rudolph, he must pretend to be interested in Trudy to keep Margot and himself safe. When the truth about Margot’s birth comes out, Margot and Ben must hide from the Nazis and Trudy. This was a very good story about love, defeat, betrayal, sacrifice and suspense. I didn’t realize this was a series when I started the book and I was not happy with the storyline not resolved and needing to read the next book (s) for the conclusion.
January 14, 2024
Margot’s Secret is another emotional experience and the third book in this series written by Roberta Kagan. In all three of the books, we meet normal German citizens who come face to face with dilemmas and circumstances totally beyond their control. Margot’s blood line and heritage become the background for the desperate plight of Margot and Max to save their family. Margot, Max, and Ben do all they can to survive and to save each other. Into this mix we also find Margot’s sister, Trudy, and several Nazi officers. Margot’s sister becomes an adversary and even goes as far as to endanger Erik, Margot’s son. As with the previous books, this series ends in a cliff hanger. I can hardly wait for book 4. I would suggest that the reader start with book 1 and read them all. It is a true adventure story and insight into the power of both love and hate.
January 14, 2024
Margot’s Secret is another emotional experience and the third book in this series written by Roberta Kagan. In all three of the books, we meet normal German citizens who come face to face with dilemmas and circumstances totally beyond their control. Margot’s blood line and heritage become the background for the desperate plight of Margot and Max to save their family. Margot, Max, and Ben do all they can to survive and to save each other. Into this mix we also find Margot’s sister, Trudy, and several Nazi officers. Margot’s sister becomes an adversary and even goes as far as to endanger Erik, Margot’s son. As with the previous books, this series ends in a cliff hanger. I can hardly wait for book 4. I would suggest that the reader start with book 1 and read them all. It is a true adventure story and insight into the power of both love and hate.
January 20, 2024
Suspense, Betrayal Love and Emotion.
This is the third book in the series and the book starts of where the last one left of. This book like the last two and leave you wanting to know what happens next. I love all the characters and the love, betrayal and sacrifice carry on as Margot flees for her life losing her baby but finding refuge with her other love Ben. Max carries on in fear of Margots sister Trudy revealing to the Gestapo what he has done but he worries more what lengths Trudy will go to keeping Max away from her sister Margot. This book is the suspense and emotions of how far the four characters will go to survive for love and betrayal. I cannot wait for the next book in this series by Roberta Kagan. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the third book in the series and the book starts of where the last one left of. This book like the last two and leave you wanting to know what happens next. I love all the characters and the love, betrayal and sacrifice carry on as Margot flees for her life losing her baby but finding refuge with her other love Ben. Max carries on in fear of Margots sister Trudy revealing to the Gestapo what he has done but he worries more what lengths Trudy will go to keeping Max away from her sister Margot. This book is the suspense and emotions of how far the four characters will go to survive for love and betrayal. I cannot wait for the next book in this series by Roberta Kagan. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 29, 2023
This is the 3rd book in the series by Roberta Kagan.
It’s WW2 in Germany, and the Nazis are rounding up Jews to send to concentration camps.
After witnessing her husband, Max, kill her ruthless brother in law, Margot flees the scene. She finds refuge with Ben, her dear Jewish friend, and together they hide in an attic from the Nazis. Margot is missing her husband Max, while also loving Ben.
While the atrocities of the Nazis are described here, we also see the powerful bond of love between Margo and her two men.
The book was engaging. However the ending was quite abrupt, with the author adding “The next installment in the Margot’s Secret is coming soon”.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Book Whisperer for the ARC in return for my honest review.
It’s WW2 in Germany, and the Nazis are rounding up Jews to send to concentration camps.
After witnessing her husband, Max, kill her ruthless brother in law, Margot flees the scene. She finds refuge with Ben, her dear Jewish friend, and together they hide in an attic from the Nazis. Margot is missing her husband Max, while also loving Ben.
While the atrocities of the Nazis are described here, we also see the powerful bond of love between Margo and her two men.
The book was engaging. However the ending was quite abrupt, with the author adding “The next installment in the Margot’s Secret is coming soon”.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Book Whisperer for the ARC in return for my honest review.
December 31, 2023
This was the second of this trilogy that I read, and it held my attention even more than the first. I’m eager for the next one as I have so many lingering questions. Writing the storylines that included thoughts and actions of Nazi party members could not have been mentally easy. Roberta Kagan does a wonderful job showing the personhood of each character. Even the monsters are given names, faces, and storylines. It is a necessary part of whole and I’m thankful she took on that challenge. I received an eARC from NetGalley and the book whisperer so I know I’ll be waiting awhile for the next installment. That should give me time to go read the first in the series.
January 11, 2024
As soon as Kagan releases a new book I read it! This was the third book in the Margot’s Secret series and it was just riveting. Margot is on the run after her young son is euthanized by the Nazis and she miscarries her baby. She finds her former love, Ben and hides with him in the attic of a nice neighbor. Meantime her evil Sister Trudy has embedded herself with Margot’s husband whom she has always coveted. He lets her move in to try and save Margot but it’s a harrowing situation. The story weaves between Ben, Margot and Trudy and the choices they must make during war. Sure hope the 4th book is out soon!
January 13, 2024
Margot’s Secret by Roberta Kagan
I loved reading book three of Roberta Kagan’s latest serious Margot’s Secret.
In this book we learn more about what Trudy’s character is really like and what evils she is capable of, thinking only of herself without any regard for others around her.
I enjoyed this book very much and I cannot wait for the next book in this serious. I cannot wait to see what happens to Margot and Max.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Book Whisperer for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved reading book three of Roberta Kagan’s latest serious Margot’s Secret.
In this book we learn more about what Trudy’s character is really like and what evils she is capable of, thinking only of herself without any regard for others around her.
I enjoyed this book very much and I cannot wait for the next book in this serious. I cannot wait to see what happens to Margot and Max.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Book Whisperer for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2024
Anxious for the next instalment!
Kagan’s books are very engaging page turners. I have read a handful of her books now and enjoyed every one. There is a common theme in all of her books that does kind of irk me, All of her characters that are “the bad guy” are extreme. You don’t see the character slowly start to turn, they just automatically want to kill everyone. That just seems a little unrealistic to me. Especially where sisters are concerned. You may not like your sibling but to automatically want to kill them seems a little far fetched to me,
Kagan’s books are very engaging page turners. I have read a handful of her books now and enjoyed every one. There is a common theme in all of her books that does kind of irk me, All of her characters that are “the bad guy” are extreme. You don’t see the character slowly start to turn, they just automatically want to kill everyone. That just seems a little unrealistic to me. Especially where sisters are concerned. You may not like your sibling but to automatically want to kill them seems a little far fetched to me,
February 28, 2024
Margot’s Secret by Roberta Kagan
I loved reading book three of Roberta Kagan’s latest serious Margot’s Secret.
In this book we learn more about what Trudy’s character is really like and what evils she is capable of, thinking only of herself without any regard for others around her.
I enjoyed this book very much and I cannot wait for the next book in this serious. I cannot wait to see what happens to Margot and Max.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Book Whisperer for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved reading book three of Roberta Kagan’s latest serious Margot’s Secret.
In this book we learn more about what Trudy’s character is really like and what evils she is capable of, thinking only of herself without any regard for others around her.
I enjoyed this book very much and I cannot wait for the next book in this serious. I cannot wait to see what happens to Margot and Max.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Book Whisperer for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2023
This book did absolutely nothing for me. I found it very repetitive, with all of the characters saying and thinking the same things over and over again. The parts where characters were thinking things to themselves as well were also very awkwardly written. I will definitely not be reading any more of this series. Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 4, 2024
Very interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Wonderful characters with depth and substance. I felt every emotion. Rich with historical details relevant to the time period. I was immediately drawn in and held captive from beginning to end. Simply a GREAT read!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
January 11, 2024
Margot's Secret is the third book in a series but can be read as a standalone story. This is a story of a woman doing what she has to do during Hitler’s reign. Margot's sister Trudy tells Margot she is Jewish and sets in motion a dreadful series of events. This book ends abruptly without any resolution, hopefully it's resolved in the fourth book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book, all opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book, all opinions are my own.
January 16, 2024
Roberta Kagan is right up there with the BEST!
I love Roberta Kagan’s books.
Margot’s Secret is one of her best in my opinion.
Her books take me a while to read because being Jewish and knowing about the Holocaust and living in today’s world with all the hatred and antisemitism that still exists today, as I am reading I am imagining that another one can really happen today. That terrifies me.
Being Jewish is not a crime, it is an honor and I am proud to be a Jew.
I just cannot comprehend why we are so hated and have been for thousands of years…
I love Roberta Kagan’s books.
Margot’s Secret is one of her best in my opinion.
Her books take me a while to read because being Jewish and knowing about the Holocaust and living in today’s world with all the hatred and antisemitism that still exists today, as I am reading I am imagining that another one can really happen today. That terrifies me.
Being Jewish is not a crime, it is an honor and I am proud to be a Jew.
I just cannot comprehend why we are so hated and have been for thousands of years…
January 17, 2024
Courtesy of The Book Whisperer and Netgalley, I received the ARC of Margot's Secret by Roberta Kagan, the third book in this WWII historical fiction series. Set mostly in Berlin, this story is emotional and suspenseful, the characters compelling, and the aspects and events related to Nazism are appropriately horrifying. I appreciated the memories of Jewish traditions and food. A page turner that left me wanting to read the next book in this series!
January 2, 2024
A great installment on the Margot story, and I can’t wait for the next one. However, a lot of Roberta Kagen’s female baddies seem to be the same person with different names, they all have the same motivation, selfishness, for what they do to hurt others, I know people are inherently selfish, but was Nazi Germany really populated by selfish, self-centered, jealous women?
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