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The Emerald Sisters #1
The Girl on the Boat
Germany, 1939: “Quickly, take this emerald. This was my late mother’s gem, and it will keep you safe. And I promise, we will all meet again in Paris…”
When Sophie Weiss boards the SS St Louis, she has no reason to stay in Germany. The Nazis have taken everything from her, and her only hope is escape. But when she meets fellow Jewish refugees Rosa, Hannah and Rachel on board, the friendship they form gives Sophie hope that there can be happiness in her future, after all.
But their worst fears are realized when the boat is refused entry at a port they thought would be safe. Terrified of being sent back to Europe, the women cling together and desperately wait for news. At last, word reaches the ship that a friend of Sophie’s father is willing to take her in — but there is only room for her. Quickly, Sophie unpicks the lining of her coat, revealing her late mother’s emerald hidden in the lining. She hands a piece of the precious stone to each of her friends, and the women promise to meet in Paris when this nightmare is over.
Watching the SS St Louis grow smaller on the horizon, Sophie’s heart breaks. How can she embrace her freedom when those she loves face an unknown fate? And what can she do to help them? Gripping her emerald with a fierce determination, she fixes her eyes on the boat: I will find a way to help you, no matter what…
This is the first book in the unmissable Emerald Sisters series that follows the incredible stories of four brave young women, as they each forge their futures against the backdrop of the Second World War. Perfect for fans of Roberta Kagan, Kristin Harmel and Kate Quinn.
When Sophie Weiss boards the SS St Louis, she has no reason to stay in Germany. The Nazis have taken everything from her, and her only hope is escape. But when she meets fellow Jewish refugees Rosa, Hannah and Rachel on board, the friendship they form gives Sophie hope that there can be happiness in her future, after all.
But their worst fears are realized when the boat is refused entry at a port they thought would be safe. Terrified of being sent back to Europe, the women cling together and desperately wait for news. At last, word reaches the ship that a friend of Sophie’s father is willing to take her in — but there is only room for her. Quickly, Sophie unpicks the lining of her coat, revealing her late mother’s emerald hidden in the lining. She hands a piece of the precious stone to each of her friends, and the women promise to meet in Paris when this nightmare is over.
Watching the SS St Louis grow smaller on the horizon, Sophie’s heart breaks. How can she embrace her freedom when those she loves face an unknown fate? And what can she do to help them? Gripping her emerald with a fierce determination, she fixes her eyes on the boat: I will find a way to help you, no matter what…
This is the first book in the unmissable Emerald Sisters series that follows the incredible stories of four brave young women, as they each forge their futures against the backdrop of the Second World War. Perfect for fans of Roberta Kagan, Kristin Harmel and Kate Quinn.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2024
5658 people are currently reading
1455 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
875 books1,689 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
February 10, 2024
The Girl on the Boat is the first of a four-book series, The Emerald Sisters, about four women aboard the SS St. Louis, a ship of Jewish refugees from Germany that was turned away from North America in 1939.
The perfect combination of inspiration from a true story and Hewitt’s emotive writing style, this book captured my attention from start to finish.
“To the future, to Havana, and to us. Four friends forever!”
Rosa Herzelfeld, Rachel Blau, Hannah Stone and Sophie Weiss were all on the SS St. Louis in May 1939 journeying from Hamburg, Germany to Havana, Cuba. All four were Jewish or Mischlinge and excited about the opportunity of a new life. None of them could have predicted that so much heartache was still on the horizon.
Shared experiences meant that when they met, they became instant friends and supported each other through the traumatic experience of being a Jew during wartime. Just before they were to arrive in Havana Sophie gave each of them one quarter section of an emerald and they made a pact that when the war was over, they’d meet on June 17th at 4 pm in Henry’s by the Eiffel Tower.
“I want us each to have a piece. A talisman of sorts. And when we’re together again - and we will be - we’ll fit the pieces back together. We’ll be whole again.”
All four are cast to the four winds and settle in England, France, Netherlands and America. This is Sophie’s story about the passage on the cruiseliner and her experience in America.
It was interesting to see the parallels the author drew between the segregation of the Jews in Europe and the Blacks in America. I was shocked at the reason that America wouldn’t accept refugees, was amazed at what passengers had to give up to ensure passage, and had never considered that a nightly suicide watch was necessary on the SS St. Louis. My tastebuds were tantalized with discussions of “thick slices of delicious Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.”
I am eagerly awaiting Rosa, Rachel and Hannah’s stories.
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The perfect combination of inspiration from a true story and Hewitt’s emotive writing style, this book captured my attention from start to finish.
“To the future, to Havana, and to us. Four friends forever!”
Rosa Herzelfeld, Rachel Blau, Hannah Stone and Sophie Weiss were all on the SS St. Louis in May 1939 journeying from Hamburg, Germany to Havana, Cuba. All four were Jewish or Mischlinge and excited about the opportunity of a new life. None of them could have predicted that so much heartache was still on the horizon.
Shared experiences meant that when they met, they became instant friends and supported each other through the traumatic experience of being a Jew during wartime. Just before they were to arrive in Havana Sophie gave each of them one quarter section of an emerald and they made a pact that when the war was over, they’d meet on June 17th at 4 pm in Henry’s by the Eiffel Tower.
“I want us each to have a piece. A talisman of sorts. And when we’re together again - and we will be - we’ll fit the pieces back together. We’ll be whole again.”
All four are cast to the four winds and settle in England, France, Netherlands and America. This is Sophie’s story about the passage on the cruiseliner and her experience in America.
It was interesting to see the parallels the author drew between the segregation of the Jews in Europe and the Blacks in America. I was shocked at the reason that America wouldn’t accept refugees, was amazed at what passengers had to give up to ensure passage, and had never considered that a nightly suicide watch was necessary on the SS St. Louis. My tastebuds were tantalized with discussions of “thick slices of delicious Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.”
I am eagerly awaiting Rosa, Rachel and Hannah’s stories.
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 4, 2024
Sophie Weiss, her father and stepmother, and young brother Heinrich, all boarded the SS Louis, heading for safety and Cuba. It was 1939 and Germany was allowing some Jewish people to leave its shores to start a new life. Sophie and her family were going to the United States after they arrived in Cuba and although nervous, were sure they would make it successfully. Sophie's father was mired in depression after what he'd been through, and they were doing all they could to keep his spirits up. But on their arrival in Cuba, the government wouldn't allow the Jews to enter their country, even though they all had signed visas. Contact from a friend of her father from the US gave Sophie a ticket to fly to Washington. But how could she go without her family? How could she leave her new friends behind?
While on the ship, Sophie had met three other Jewish women - Rosa, who was travelling with her parents; Hannah and her little sister Lotte; Rachel and her fragile husband Franz - and they'd formed a close friendship. Sophie used her father's jewellry tools and broke an emerald into four pieces; a difficult job but she was determined. Giving her friends a sliver of the emerald each, the now named Emerald Sisters vowed to meet one year after the war ended, in a cafe in Paris. Would it happen? Would they all survive? And when would the war end?
The Girl on the Boat is the exceptional 1st episode in The Emerald Sisters series by prolific author Kate Hewitt and I loved it. I couldn't put it down, and when I reached the end, I wanted #2 ready to read now! Sophie's three year journey in the US was fraught with difficulty as she struggled on her own, knowing no one. But gradually she settled into a routine and made a couple of friends, found a job and somewhere to live. I can't wait to continue with the story, and find out which of the four friends' story is next. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
While on the ship, Sophie had met three other Jewish women - Rosa, who was travelling with her parents; Hannah and her little sister Lotte; Rachel and her fragile husband Franz - and they'd formed a close friendship. Sophie used her father's jewellry tools and broke an emerald into four pieces; a difficult job but she was determined. Giving her friends a sliver of the emerald each, the now named Emerald Sisters vowed to meet one year after the war ended, in a cafe in Paris. Would it happen? Would they all survive? And when would the war end?
The Girl on the Boat is the exceptional 1st episode in The Emerald Sisters series by prolific author Kate Hewitt and I loved it. I couldn't put it down, and when I reached the end, I wanted #2 ready to read now! Sophie's three year journey in the US was fraught with difficulty as she struggled on her own, knowing no one. But gradually she settled into a routine and made a couple of friends, found a job and somewhere to live. I can't wait to continue with the story, and find out which of the four friends' story is next. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2024
The Girl on the Boat is told from Sophie’s point of view. She is a Jewish refugee who, along with her family, fled from Germany after the terrible Kristallnacht pogrom in 1938. This was before the annihilation of the Jewish people was a well known fact, even to many Jews themselves.
I was surprised to learn this. I hadn’t known that the Nazi’s let any of them go. Sadly, many countries sent them away, refusing to assist them due to vicious propaganda. It was on one of these boats that Sophie befriended 3 other girls. All fleeing for their lives.
I immediately liked Sophie. She has strong character and even though she’s terrified she is able to be a support to her family. Unfortunately all the girls end up separated from each other and their families. Before being spread across the globe Sophie shares a piece of an emerald with each girl, vowing to remember each other and meet again.
Sophie ends up all alone in America. Much of the story is about her struggle to survive alone with her only wish to be united with her family. She ends up receiving help from a black woman and it was this relationship that brings to light the similarities between black and Jewish racism. Something I would have never thought of.
Sophie does a lot of ruminating about how bad she feels to have the privilege of being in America while her family is suffering. She dwells on it constantly. I felt like author really wanted me to imagine how it would feel.
Sophie finally finds some stability and plans for her future and that’s where this novel ends on a cliffhanger.
One of the major plot points of the story is the conspiracy theory that the United States knew of the attack on Pearl Harbor but allowed it to happen to convince American people to support the war. I hadn’t hear of this before so it caused me to do additional research.
Overall, I liked the book and learned some new things. As for the blurb on the Goodreads page, this book reads more like Kristin Harmel rather than Kate Quinn. To me, Kate Quinn’s books are on the adult side where Kristin Harmel’s are young adult.
TW: attempted rape, racism, suicide misogyny
Many thanks to Kate Hewitt and Bookouture for the ARC via NetGalley!!
I was surprised to learn this. I hadn’t known that the Nazi’s let any of them go. Sadly, many countries sent them away, refusing to assist them due to vicious propaganda. It was on one of these boats that Sophie befriended 3 other girls. All fleeing for their lives.
I immediately liked Sophie. She has strong character and even though she’s terrified she is able to be a support to her family. Unfortunately all the girls end up separated from each other and their families. Before being spread across the globe Sophie shares a piece of an emerald with each girl, vowing to remember each other and meet again.
Sophie ends up all alone in America. Much of the story is about her struggle to survive alone with her only wish to be united with her family. She ends up receiving help from a black woman and it was this relationship that brings to light the similarities between black and Jewish racism. Something I would have never thought of.
Sophie does a lot of ruminating about how bad she feels to have the privilege of being in America while her family is suffering. She dwells on it constantly. I felt like author really wanted me to imagine how it would feel.
Sophie finally finds some stability and plans for her future and that’s where this novel ends on a cliffhanger.
One of the major plot points of the story is the conspiracy theory that the United States knew of the attack on Pearl Harbor but allowed it to happen to convince American people to support the war. I hadn’t hear of this before so it caused me to do additional research.
Overall, I liked the book and learned some new things. As for the blurb on the Goodreads page, this book reads more like Kristin Harmel rather than Kate Quinn. To me, Kate Quinn’s books are on the adult side where Kristin Harmel’s are young adult.
TW: attempted rape, racism, suicide misogyny
Many thanks to Kate Hewitt and Bookouture for the ARC via NetGalley!!
February 7, 2024
Fist in a series and based on the true story of the SS St Louis that left Hamburg, Germany in 1939 with one thousand Jews on board, it is a beautifully told story of friendship and determination as we meet four young woman, Sophie, Rosa, Hannah and Rachel, this book is Sophie’s story and it is so very good.
Sophie arrives in Hamburg with her father, step-mother and young half-brother she is filled with hope that their lives will turn around in Havana and being away from The Nazis is just what her father and their family needs.
When she meets three other young woman she is thrilled that she now has friends and plans are made to enjoy this boat trip and that at the end they will meet for cocktails together ready to start a new life but things don’t go the way they planned when the ship is refused entry to Havana, her step mother insists that Sophie leave the ship and go to Washington and where a friend of her father’s is willing to take her in, it is the last thing she wants but she must go, she breaks up an emerald that belonged to her mother into four pieces and all girls have a piece with a plan to meet up in a Paris café one year after the war.
Sophie gets on with her life in Washington, finding work and making new friends as war breaks out in Europe, it has not been easy for her being a Jew and wishing America would join the war, but she goes on worrying about her family and friends who are now in countries affected by war. When she is asked to take on a new role where she works she jumps at the chance to do her bit for the war effort she is determined to help no matter what.
This is an emotional story, I loved Sophie, everything she has gone through and still she cares and stays strong, I am eagerly awaiting book two now and continue this awesome story, I do highly recommend this one to any reader who loved a fabulous historical fiction.
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
Sophie arrives in Hamburg with her father, step-mother and young half-brother she is filled with hope that their lives will turn around in Havana and being away from The Nazis is just what her father and their family needs.
When she meets three other young woman she is thrilled that she now has friends and plans are made to enjoy this boat trip and that at the end they will meet for cocktails together ready to start a new life but things don’t go the way they planned when the ship is refused entry to Havana, her step mother insists that Sophie leave the ship and go to Washington and where a friend of her father’s is willing to take her in, it is the last thing she wants but she must go, she breaks up an emerald that belonged to her mother into four pieces and all girls have a piece with a plan to meet up in a Paris café one year after the war.
Sophie gets on with her life in Washington, finding work and making new friends as war breaks out in Europe, it has not been easy for her being a Jew and wishing America would join the war, but she goes on worrying about her family and friends who are now in countries affected by war. When she is asked to take on a new role where she works she jumps at the chance to do her bit for the war effort she is determined to help no matter what.
This is an emotional story, I loved Sophie, everything she has gone through and still she cares and stays strong, I am eagerly awaiting book two now and continue this awesome story, I do highly recommend this one to any reader who loved a fabulous historical fiction.
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
February 27, 2024
The Girl on the Boat, by Kate Hewitt, gives us the story of a young woman and her family hoping to escape Nazi Germany right before the start of World War II. The daughter is able to complete the journey while the rest of her family returns to a turbulent Europe. This is the first book in a series and I will look forward to the sequel. Recommended.
April 1, 2024
The Girl on the Boat by Kate Hewitt is the first book in the brilliant new The Emerald Sisters series and I loved it. This book is set in Germany in 1939, Germany was allowing a few Jewish people to leave its shores to start a new promising life. Sophie Weiss and her family boards the SS St Louis to the United States, as they have no reason to stay in Germany. The Nazis have taken everything from them, and their only hope is escape. Sophie meets fellow Jewish refugees Rosa, Hannah and Rachel on board, the friendship they form gives Sophie hope that there can be happiness in her future, after all.
This journey to their new life was hard, tiring and long, their worst fears is about to happen, when their boat is refused entry at a port they thought would be safe to go to. Panic and being terrified of being sent back to Europe, the women cling together and desperately wait for news.
Then, at last, word reaches the ship that a friend of Sophie’s father is willing to take her in — but there is only room for her.
Sophie, has something that is so precious with her, quickly she unpicks the lining of her coat, revealing her late mother’s emerald hidden in the lining. She hands a piece of the precious stone to each of her friends, and the women promise to meet in Paris when this nightmare is over.
Watching the SS St Louis grow smaller on the horizon, Sophie’s heart begins to break.
How can she embrace her freedom when those she loves face an unknown fate?
What can she do to help them? Gripping her emerald with a fierce determination, she fixes her eyes on the boat: I will find a way to help you, no matter what…..........
This book is beautifully written and you will be gripped from the beginning till the end.
I highly recommend this book......another 5 star book from Kate.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
This journey to their new life was hard, tiring and long, their worst fears is about to happen, when their boat is refused entry at a port they thought would be safe to go to. Panic and being terrified of being sent back to Europe, the women cling together and desperately wait for news.
Then, at last, word reaches the ship that a friend of Sophie’s father is willing to take her in — but there is only room for her.
Sophie, has something that is so precious with her, quickly she unpicks the lining of her coat, revealing her late mother’s emerald hidden in the lining. She hands a piece of the precious stone to each of her friends, and the women promise to meet in Paris when this nightmare is over.
Watching the SS St Louis grow smaller on the horizon, Sophie’s heart begins to break.
How can she embrace her freedom when those she loves face an unknown fate?
What can she do to help them? Gripping her emerald with a fierce determination, she fixes her eyes on the boat: I will find a way to help you, no matter what…..........
This book is beautifully written and you will be gripped from the beginning till the end.
I highly recommend this book......another 5 star book from Kate.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2024
The Girl on the Boat by Kate Hewitt is the first in the Emerald Sisters series which is set initially as the world is on the brink of the outbreak of World War Two and then goes further on to detail the first few years of the war. There is a brief prologue but one with plenty to sink your teeth into sets the scene but it left me with a burning question which only made me want to get on with reading the story.
May 1939 and the world is on the brink of war as Hitler seems determined to continue invading countries and gaining land not to mention the persecution of Jews in Germany has been ramping up with each passing year that he is in power. Sophie Weiss and her family are about to board the cruise liner the SS. St.Louis docked at Hamburg which is carrying thousands of Jewish refugees across the Atlantic to Cuba where they can then make their way onwards to America. The new German society as created by Hitler has no place for Sophie and her family and with visas granted they are hoping for an improved standard of living free from absurd and restrictive laws. All Sophie can dream about is the new and wonderful life that awaits her in America.
Sophie is travelling with her father Josef, stepmother Margarete and five year old brother Heinrich. But for all intents and purposes Sophie is the leader of the family. The one that holds it together when times are tough as her father, a former Jewish lawyer, falls apart following his capture and incarceration for two weeks by the Nazi’s. As they begin their journey across the ocean and adjust to life onboard, Heinrich’s physical and mental state rapidly decline to very dangerous levels as paranoia sets in. But perhaps what he is feeling, saying and believing may very well be true and the panic he feels is justified. Sophie is a fighter and this only truly became apparent I would say in the second half of the book. In some ways she was very naïve that once they were on the boat she felt that things would be ok for her family and their future would be secured in America but the further they travel the more she starts to come to her senses and she realises that prejudice, hatred and anti Semitism follow them where ever they go.
I did feel the sections of the story that focused on the journey over were too long and I was just waiting for them to arrive in order to see what would happen next. Yes,it did serve the purpose of introducing us to three other young women of different backgrounds yet all united with Sophie through their religion but I felt it could have been shorter allowing for other sections of the book to be longer. Sophie makes friends and forms a deep bond with Rosa, who is travelling with her parents but she holds very different opinions from them. She is confident, assured and filled with courage and audacity. Rachel is travelling with her husband Franz who has been recently released from Dachau. He is traumatised and struggles to communicate or exist on a daily basis. Finally, there is Hannah with her sister Lotte who are hoping to reunite with their father in Cuba.
But as they reach Cuban shores things turn from bad to worse as there are delays with disembarking and after weeks they are forced to turn around having never touched foreign soil. But before this occurs Sophie is given the chance to leave thanks to an old acquaintance of her fathers who lives in Washington. Sophie wrestles with her conscience but Margarete forces her to go in the hopes that they will all soon be reunited. An emerald once belonging to her mother is treasured by Sophie and she cracks it into four shards giving each girl one to act as a talisman.The women are separated but agree to meet in Paris in June a year after the war ends. That’s if it ever will and if it does who will be victorious in the fight of good against evil.
When Sophie arrives in Washington she is broken and distraught as she feels immense guilt that she was the one to get off the ship and her family members and friends were left behind. She feels lost and untethered as she now potentially has the life that she has craved but at what cost? Staying with the Tyler’s soon proves not all that she was promised and circumstances change for Sophie and this is where I felt she started to become more independent and the fighter began to emerge from within her. During this time in Washington, I thought the author drew fantastic comparisons between the racial segregation the black community was facing with the similar circumstances the Jewish people were facing in Germany. It wasn’t in your face but well thought out and moulded in well with the overall themes and issues being explored.
Having a good chunk of the book set in America was brilliant because I found I gained a lot of information and a new perspective as to how America viewed the war when it began and how they were very reluctant to join in. When times are tough as they are for Sophie she can’t understand why the U.S is not jumping straight in to assist the British and it made me realise how truly alone the Brits were for a significant time in their fight against Hitler.
There are snatches of information given as to what has happened to Sophie’s family and the other women but I’m glad details were scant as I will wait, although impatiently, for the future books for this to be explored in further detail. Sophie certainly grows and matures throughout the later half of the book and although she goes through a life changing experience I do think she emerges all the better for it as it only served to fuel the fire within her for the next stage of her journey. A role she undertakes is never one I thought she would accept at the start of the book and I was dying to know more and that’s partly why I was disappointed with the abrupt ending.
The Girl on the Boat was a promising start to the Emerald Sisters series but I found it ended very abruptly at the 77% mark when I was reading this on my Kindle. I’m used to books finishing around the 90% mark but I thought this was just a bit too much to finish so early. The overall concept of the book in that the focus will be on four young girls, each assigned to a different place and we will follow their adventures and trials and tribulations during the war years is brilliant and clever. Initially, I thought would each book follow a different girl but the way this one ended now I’m not so sure as there is so much more to learn and discover with Sophie as she has entered a pivotal and exciting yet dangerous time in her life. To be honest, I wanted to read more of this so I was left slightly confused and perplexed as to whether book two will continue off from the very end point of book one or whether Hannah, Rachel or Rosa will be the focus?
There is so much that could potentially happen and there is a lot of scope to play with so I am very eager to see in what direction Kate Hewitt will take things. I also love the fact that given the brief prologue which set the scene for the books as a whole, well there was one statement there that I am dying to know the answers to and circumstances around but I know that I won’t get a definitive answers perhaps right until the very last book and that’s what will keep me coming back to read more about the Emerald Sisters. I really do hope that we get the next instalment at some point this year as I very much felt that the ending left the reader on a precipice of very exciting and treacherous times ahead.
May 1939 and the world is on the brink of war as Hitler seems determined to continue invading countries and gaining land not to mention the persecution of Jews in Germany has been ramping up with each passing year that he is in power. Sophie Weiss and her family are about to board the cruise liner the SS. St.Louis docked at Hamburg which is carrying thousands of Jewish refugees across the Atlantic to Cuba where they can then make their way onwards to America. The new German society as created by Hitler has no place for Sophie and her family and with visas granted they are hoping for an improved standard of living free from absurd and restrictive laws. All Sophie can dream about is the new and wonderful life that awaits her in America.
Sophie is travelling with her father Josef, stepmother Margarete and five year old brother Heinrich. But for all intents and purposes Sophie is the leader of the family. The one that holds it together when times are tough as her father, a former Jewish lawyer, falls apart following his capture and incarceration for two weeks by the Nazi’s. As they begin their journey across the ocean and adjust to life onboard, Heinrich’s physical and mental state rapidly decline to very dangerous levels as paranoia sets in. But perhaps what he is feeling, saying and believing may very well be true and the panic he feels is justified. Sophie is a fighter and this only truly became apparent I would say in the second half of the book. In some ways she was very naïve that once they were on the boat she felt that things would be ok for her family and their future would be secured in America but the further they travel the more she starts to come to her senses and she realises that prejudice, hatred and anti Semitism follow them where ever they go.
I did feel the sections of the story that focused on the journey over were too long and I was just waiting for them to arrive in order to see what would happen next. Yes,it did serve the purpose of introducing us to three other young women of different backgrounds yet all united with Sophie through their religion but I felt it could have been shorter allowing for other sections of the book to be longer. Sophie makes friends and forms a deep bond with Rosa, who is travelling with her parents but she holds very different opinions from them. She is confident, assured and filled with courage and audacity. Rachel is travelling with her husband Franz who has been recently released from Dachau. He is traumatised and struggles to communicate or exist on a daily basis. Finally, there is Hannah with her sister Lotte who are hoping to reunite with their father in Cuba.
But as they reach Cuban shores things turn from bad to worse as there are delays with disembarking and after weeks they are forced to turn around having never touched foreign soil. But before this occurs Sophie is given the chance to leave thanks to an old acquaintance of her fathers who lives in Washington. Sophie wrestles with her conscience but Margarete forces her to go in the hopes that they will all soon be reunited. An emerald once belonging to her mother is treasured by Sophie and she cracks it into four shards giving each girl one to act as a talisman.The women are separated but agree to meet in Paris in June a year after the war ends. That’s if it ever will and if it does who will be victorious in the fight of good against evil.
When Sophie arrives in Washington she is broken and distraught as she feels immense guilt that she was the one to get off the ship and her family members and friends were left behind. She feels lost and untethered as she now potentially has the life that she has craved but at what cost? Staying with the Tyler’s soon proves not all that she was promised and circumstances change for Sophie and this is where I felt she started to become more independent and the fighter began to emerge from within her. During this time in Washington, I thought the author drew fantastic comparisons between the racial segregation the black community was facing with the similar circumstances the Jewish people were facing in Germany. It wasn’t in your face but well thought out and moulded in well with the overall themes and issues being explored.
Having a good chunk of the book set in America was brilliant because I found I gained a lot of information and a new perspective as to how America viewed the war when it began and how they were very reluctant to join in. When times are tough as they are for Sophie she can’t understand why the U.S is not jumping straight in to assist the British and it made me realise how truly alone the Brits were for a significant time in their fight against Hitler.
There are snatches of information given as to what has happened to Sophie’s family and the other women but I’m glad details were scant as I will wait, although impatiently, for the future books for this to be explored in further detail. Sophie certainly grows and matures throughout the later half of the book and although she goes through a life changing experience I do think she emerges all the better for it as it only served to fuel the fire within her for the next stage of her journey. A role she undertakes is never one I thought she would accept at the start of the book and I was dying to know more and that’s partly why I was disappointed with the abrupt ending.
The Girl on the Boat was a promising start to the Emerald Sisters series but I found it ended very abruptly at the 77% mark when I was reading this on my Kindle. I’m used to books finishing around the 90% mark but I thought this was just a bit too much to finish so early. The overall concept of the book in that the focus will be on four young girls, each assigned to a different place and we will follow their adventures and trials and tribulations during the war years is brilliant and clever. Initially, I thought would each book follow a different girl but the way this one ended now I’m not so sure as there is so much more to learn and discover with Sophie as she has entered a pivotal and exciting yet dangerous time in her life. To be honest, I wanted to read more of this so I was left slightly confused and perplexed as to whether book two will continue off from the very end point of book one or whether Hannah, Rachel or Rosa will be the focus?
There is so much that could potentially happen and there is a lot of scope to play with so I am very eager to see in what direction Kate Hewitt will take things. I also love the fact that given the brief prologue which set the scene for the books as a whole, well there was one statement there that I am dying to know the answers to and circumstances around but I know that I won’t get a definitive answers perhaps right until the very last book and that’s what will keep me coming back to read more about the Emerald Sisters. I really do hope that we get the next instalment at some point this year as I very much felt that the ending left the reader on a precipice of very exciting and treacherous times ahead.
January 16, 2024
A Great start to a new series. I fell in love with the emerald sisters. And I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Minus was the ending.
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
February 7, 2024
Sophie and her family are leaving Germany and hopefully landing in Cuba or America. Life however has other plans.
I thought this was a good start in this new series.
I did think it ended a bit abruptly. I’m looking forward to learning more of Sophie and her friends journey.
I thought this was a good start in this new series.
I did think it ended a bit abruptly. I’m looking forward to learning more of Sophie and her friends journey.
June 26, 2025
I enjoyed reading this heart-wrenching story of war, the horrible results caused by it, and yet the beauty of family and friends connection, and unexpected love found in the most unexpected ways. The story is well done, clean, memorable and keeps one reading to the end. What I didn't like so much was that the end came so quickly at 80% on my Kindle, which really took me by surprise. The other 20% was a prologue and a few opening chapters of the next book in the series. This tactic I guess may work in encouraging readers to continue reading into the series; however, it generally doesn't work for me because my reading list is so long, and when I read a book, I like to feel that it is a complete story without leaving me hanging. If I decide to read the 'free chapters' at the end of one book leading into the next one, and then don't get the next book in the series soon after, then when I do start to read the next book from the beginning, I often think "Oh, I have read this one already", and leave it for another one. If I want to read a whole series, I often wait until I have all the books and then do a reading marathon.
I do enjoy reading Kate Hewitt books.
I do enjoy reading Kate Hewitt books.
January 23, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, it is a totally unforgettable book which stirred so many different emotions. Excellent 1st book in a new series, can’t wait for the next instalment.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Bookouture for the early read
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Bookouture for the early read
February 8, 2024
The Nazi’s have taken over more areas of Germany, and so many families have been ripped apart. Sophie Weiss is among the many that have lost everything. Her only hope for survival is to escape and leave behind the homeland she once knew and loved. She boards the SS St Louis destined for a bright future and a safer place to live. While on board she meets fellow Jewish refugees and immediately befriends Rosa, Hannah and Rachel. Then their worst fears surface when the SS St Louis is refused entry to the port. Their fear is that if they can’t dock then they will be sent back to Germany. Then Sophia finally receives news that a friend of her father’s will take her in, but she is the only one. Sophia is devastated and heart broken knowing that she has to send her new friends back. Hidden in the lining of her coat is a beautiful emerald that belonged to her late mother. She gives each of the girls a piece of the beautiful gem with the promise to each other that they will meet in Paris as soon as the war comes to an end.
The Girl on the Boat written by author Kate Hewitt is a phenomenal a novel. I am a huge fan of author Kate Hewitt as she is an auto-buy author for me. I loved the storyline and especially Sophia. She had such a big heart and compassion for strangers that were in the same situation. Rosa, Hannah and Rachel were equally lovable, they were so young and trusting of Sophia. I was heartbroken and yet I was encouraged by the hope that they all had, the hope of the War ending and the hope of a better life afterwards. Keep the tissue box close by because you will surely need it. This unputdownable gem of a read is definitely a favorite of mine. I loved everything about this story from cover to cover. I was hooked from the very first page. I was very happy to see that this the first installment of the new Emerald Sisters Series. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I highly recommend this ten star read.
The Girl on the Boat written by author Kate Hewitt is a phenomenal a novel. I am a huge fan of author Kate Hewitt as she is an auto-buy author for me. I loved the storyline and especially Sophia. She had such a big heart and compassion for strangers that were in the same situation. Rosa, Hannah and Rachel were equally lovable, they were so young and trusting of Sophia. I was heartbroken and yet I was encouraged by the hope that they all had, the hope of the War ending and the hope of a better life afterwards. Keep the tissue box close by because you will surely need it. This unputdownable gem of a read is definitely a favorite of mine. I loved everything about this story from cover to cover. I was hooked from the very first page. I was very happy to see that this the first installment of the new Emerald Sisters Series. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I highly recommend this ten star read.
December 30, 2023
This book hooks the reader immediately, with the prologue opening in Paris, in June 1946 at a cafe where the four "emerald sisters" had promised each other to meet on this particular day and time. Three of them show up and we learn that one didn't survive the war. No names are given. Absolutely brilliant writing!
Next, we set sail on the SS St. Louis, the doomed ship with 1000 Jews fleeing Germany and it is here we meet all four young women who will ultimately be the emerald sisters. It's heartbreaking and shameful to read about their voyage. This first book follows Sophie to D.C., one of only a handful of passengers to get off the ship in Havana. She is shocked by the segregation policies in America, as they are so similar to what the Jews experienced in Germany. I was shocked reading the very same political language being used then by Americans who didn't want to be involved in a war in Europe and the political rhetoric in America today. The America First Committee was virulently anti-Jewish, parroting Hitler's hate speech. I was so absorbed in the story that I didn't realize that the book was coming to an end. Since this is the first book in a new series, it ends in 1942...YIKES! I still don't know who survived so I hope the next book is released very soon. I may have to reread this one while I wait because it is that good. You don't want to miss this outstanding book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are my own.
Next, we set sail on the SS St. Louis, the doomed ship with 1000 Jews fleeing Germany and it is here we meet all four young women who will ultimately be the emerald sisters. It's heartbreaking and shameful to read about their voyage. This first book follows Sophie to D.C., one of only a handful of passengers to get off the ship in Havana. She is shocked by the segregation policies in America, as they are so similar to what the Jews experienced in Germany. I was shocked reading the very same political language being used then by Americans who didn't want to be involved in a war in Europe and the political rhetoric in America today. The America First Committee was virulently anti-Jewish, parroting Hitler's hate speech. I was so absorbed in the story that I didn't realize that the book was coming to an end. Since this is the first book in a new series, it ends in 1942...YIKES! I still don't know who survived so I hope the next book is released very soon. I may have to reread this one while I wait because it is that good. You don't want to miss this outstanding book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are my own.
January 19, 2024
Thank you, #NetGalley and #Bookoutoure, for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
In 1939, Sophie Weiss and her family, along with other German Jewish refugees who had made arrangements to flee from the growing tensions with the Nazis, boarded the SS St. Louis heading for Cuba. While on the ship, Sophie met Rosa, Hannah, and Rachel, who instantly became her friends in the most unlikely of times. However, once they arrived at Cuban waters, the government of Cuba refused most of the ship's passengers and left them questioning their fate. Sophie's stepmother forced her to depart to the United States with the assurance that they would all be reunited. With a heavy heart, Sophie bid her friends goodbye, parting each of them with a piece from her mother's emerald. As Sophie ventures into America, all alone and barely 19, she soon realizes that wherever she goes, evil manifests through manipulative individuals and instances of racial discrimination. Sophie tries to free herself from guilt but hopes to reunite with her family and friends. However, rumors of an impending war and the imminent extermination of Jews will forever change the course of her life.
What draws me in most about historical fiction is its ability to transport readers to the past without the tedious nature of an academic read. Hewitt's writing is more straightforward but not without elaborate descriptions. It's more sensible when telling a fictional story hinged on factual details. But as I leaf through its slow-burn pages, I am not as enthralled as I thought, considering this genre can easily break me into tears. I eagerly anticipated some emotional catharsis pouring out; instead, the book ended flat, bereft of a satisfying closure. I knew this book was the first in a series depicting the individual lives of the four Jewish girls, but it felt anticlimactic. You'll know what I mean once you've read the book's prologue.
"The Girl on the Boat" is my second read from the author. While I marveled at her first book, "The Last Stars in the Sky," this one left me high and dry. I sensed that the author aimed to craft a compelling narrative that spans diverse events, ranging from the SS St. Louis voyage to Jewish persecution and the Pearl Harbor Bombing—a feat that I find impressive. Still, the execution felt like a bland recounting of collective experiences. It could have been the writing that lacked emotional depth for me. The repeated scenes highlighting Sophie's burden of guilt and her conflicting emotions might have been the cause. Or maybe I find that Sophie - what with being the protagonist - lacks character development. Throughout the novel, I had to endure her persistent sense of guilt that while she was ensconced in a safe country like America, all her friends and family were dispersed across Europe, directly invaded by the Germans. While her emotions are valid, I was hopeful for a compelling character arc - the turning point to decide how her role will impact the entire narrative. Instead, as the plot (almost) thickens, the book ends with nothing short of a cliffhanger - one that doesn't entirely compel me to wait for the sequel.
In 1939, Sophie Weiss and her family, along with other German Jewish refugees who had made arrangements to flee from the growing tensions with the Nazis, boarded the SS St. Louis heading for Cuba. While on the ship, Sophie met Rosa, Hannah, and Rachel, who instantly became her friends in the most unlikely of times. However, once they arrived at Cuban waters, the government of Cuba refused most of the ship's passengers and left them questioning their fate. Sophie's stepmother forced her to depart to the United States with the assurance that they would all be reunited. With a heavy heart, Sophie bid her friends goodbye, parting each of them with a piece from her mother's emerald. As Sophie ventures into America, all alone and barely 19, she soon realizes that wherever she goes, evil manifests through manipulative individuals and instances of racial discrimination. Sophie tries to free herself from guilt but hopes to reunite with her family and friends. However, rumors of an impending war and the imminent extermination of Jews will forever change the course of her life.
What draws me in most about historical fiction is its ability to transport readers to the past without the tedious nature of an academic read. Hewitt's writing is more straightforward but not without elaborate descriptions. It's more sensible when telling a fictional story hinged on factual details. But as I leaf through its slow-burn pages, I am not as enthralled as I thought, considering this genre can easily break me into tears. I eagerly anticipated some emotional catharsis pouring out; instead, the book ended flat, bereft of a satisfying closure. I knew this book was the first in a series depicting the individual lives of the four Jewish girls, but it felt anticlimactic. You'll know what I mean once you've read the book's prologue.
"The Girl on the Boat" is my second read from the author. While I marveled at her first book, "The Last Stars in the Sky," this one left me high and dry. I sensed that the author aimed to craft a compelling narrative that spans diverse events, ranging from the SS St. Louis voyage to Jewish persecution and the Pearl Harbor Bombing—a feat that I find impressive. Still, the execution felt like a bland recounting of collective experiences. It could have been the writing that lacked emotional depth for me. The repeated scenes highlighting Sophie's burden of guilt and her conflicting emotions might have been the cause. Or maybe I find that Sophie - what with being the protagonist - lacks character development. Throughout the novel, I had to endure her persistent sense of guilt that while she was ensconced in a safe country like America, all her friends and family were dispersed across Europe, directly invaded by the Germans. While her emotions are valid, I was hopeful for a compelling character arc - the turning point to decide how her role will impact the entire narrative. Instead, as the plot (almost) thickens, the book ends with nothing short of a cliffhanger - one that doesn't entirely compel me to wait for the sequel.
February 2, 2024
Note: Thank you to NetGalley, Bookoutre, and Kate Hewitt for the advanced reader copy of the book. This review will also be posted on NetGalley. What follows is my unbiased review of the book.
There are so many historical fiction books out there for the period of the Second World War, it’s hard to find a new angle. Perhaps The Girl on the Boat isn’t quite a new angle, but there’s a good perspective here that’s different than many of the rest and is a good beginning to a promising series of books.
Sophie Weiss is a German Jew in the 1930s. She and her family make a plan to leave Germany, boarding the S.S. St. Louis with other German Jews. Their destination is Havana, and then, hopefully, the United States. On board the ship, Sophie makes friends with three female refugees close to her own age. Rosa, Hannah, and Rachel each have their own stories for how they arrived there. The trip to Havana is enjoyable, but when they arrive, there is a problem. The Gestapo have already been to Havana stirring up anti-Semitic sentiment.
Sophie’s father has contacts in America and manages to get her off the ship. Before she leaves, she splits one of her late mother’s emeralds into four pieces, and the girls promise to meet up after the war is over in Paris. Sophie goes to Washington DC, the guest of a friend of her fathers who, it turns out, is a lech. She makes her own way, working for a Jewish refugee organization, but she’s loaded with survivor’s guilt and finds it hard to have any sort of life.
To read my full review, please go to: https://thoughtsfromthemountaintop.co...
There are so many historical fiction books out there for the period of the Second World War, it’s hard to find a new angle. Perhaps The Girl on the Boat isn’t quite a new angle, but there’s a good perspective here that’s different than many of the rest and is a good beginning to a promising series of books.
Sophie Weiss is a German Jew in the 1930s. She and her family make a plan to leave Germany, boarding the S.S. St. Louis with other German Jews. Their destination is Havana, and then, hopefully, the United States. On board the ship, Sophie makes friends with three female refugees close to her own age. Rosa, Hannah, and Rachel each have their own stories for how they arrived there. The trip to Havana is enjoyable, but when they arrive, there is a problem. The Gestapo have already been to Havana stirring up anti-Semitic sentiment.
Sophie’s father has contacts in America and manages to get her off the ship. Before she leaves, she splits one of her late mother’s emeralds into four pieces, and the girls promise to meet up after the war is over in Paris. Sophie goes to Washington DC, the guest of a friend of her fathers who, it turns out, is a lech. She makes her own way, working for a Jewish refugee organization, but she’s loaded with survivor’s guilt and finds it hard to have any sort of life.
To read my full review, please go to: https://thoughtsfromthemountaintop.co...
February 6, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance reader copy of this book.**
This book opens with Sophie Weiss and her family preparing to board the St Louis and head for freedom in Havana. On board Sophie meets three other Jewish women and they become fast friends, bonding over the injustices they have presumably left behind and the excitement they feel for the next chapter of their lives, away from Germany and the Nazi regime.
Once the boat reaches Havana they are turned away. Sophie’s stepmother and her father use their connections to get Sophie off the boat and to Washington safely, but she must leave everyone else behind. This book follows Sophie as she navigates this unfamiliar country on her own.
I’ve read a lot of WWII fiction but never from the POV of a character that was in America. I really enjoyed the story, and the writing made it easy to put myself in Sophie’s shoes, and to feel what she felt. The guilt at leaving everyone behind, while still wanting to honor her family by living the life they wanted her to have.
I did think there would be multiple POV’s but I’m assuming the rest of the books will tell the other girls stories. The ending was quite abrupt, which was disappointing, but I will definitely be looking out for the rest of the series as they are released.
This book opens with Sophie Weiss and her family preparing to board the St Louis and head for freedom in Havana. On board Sophie meets three other Jewish women and they become fast friends, bonding over the injustices they have presumably left behind and the excitement they feel for the next chapter of their lives, away from Germany and the Nazi regime.
Once the boat reaches Havana they are turned away. Sophie’s stepmother and her father use their connections to get Sophie off the boat and to Washington safely, but she must leave everyone else behind. This book follows Sophie as she navigates this unfamiliar country on her own.
I’ve read a lot of WWII fiction but never from the POV of a character that was in America. I really enjoyed the story, and the writing made it easy to put myself in Sophie’s shoes, and to feel what she felt. The guilt at leaving everyone behind, while still wanting to honor her family by living the life they wanted her to have.
I did think there would be multiple POV’s but I’m assuming the rest of the books will tell the other girls stories. The ending was quite abrupt, which was disappointing, but I will definitely be looking out for the rest of the series as they are released.
June 24, 2025
This was a different aspect of WWII for me. A group of Jewish people “escape” on a cruise liner prior to the war beginning headed to Cuba. Things don’t go as planned though. This story focused on Sophie who ends up in America separated from her family and friends. As she navigates life in America she finds Jewish people are not the only ones who are treated unfairly. I would enjoy reading the next book as this is a series that features each of the friends Sophie made on the cruise ship and their hopes of reconnecting.
March 31, 2024
Wasnt sure about this to start with then just as it got really interesting it was the end...or rather I have to wait for rest of series to be published..,grr
July 4, 2025
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would! And left on a cliff hanger so will have to get the second book
August 11, 2025
ended by needing to read the next book
January 31, 2024
Captivating, well written and historically enlightening. The book (not the story) seemed to end rather abruptly and left me hanging. I’m looking forward to the next instalments of The Emerald Sisters.
Thank You to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Kate Hewitt for the opportunity to enjoy reading this ARC.
Thank You to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Kate Hewitt for the opportunity to enjoy reading this ARC.
August 9, 2025
Repetitive, simple writing. The book was predictable and boring. The “exciting” scenes lacked emotion. I will not be reading the rest of the series.
March 4, 2024
The Girl On The Boat is the first installment of a four part series about four young women who set sail as Jewish refugees on the SS St Louis en route to Cuba. Fleeing Nazi persecution, these women form a unique bond on the journey, one that they promise to never let go of despite not knowing what’s ahead of them.
The first installment is Sophie’s story. She’s fleeing Germany with her father, step mother and little brother. Her life has been somewhat sheltered since the Night of Broken Glass, she has no real friends until she meets Rosa, Hannah and Rachel on board the St Louis. But when Cuba refuses entry to the refugees, Sophie is miraculously granted a reprieve and is allowed to leave the ship thanks to an old friend of her father’s in America. The guilt she leaves with is something she carries on her shoulders every day, especially when there is so much uncertainty for those she cares about. Sophie finds work and friends in a Jewish community center in Washington DC. A chance encounter with a naval employee offers her an opportunity to do more for the war effort and she soon finds herself heading back to Europe undercover.
I throughly enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read the next installment of this series! Thanks so much to NetGalley, Bookouture and Kate Hewitt for an early glimpse at this lovely story!
The first installment is Sophie’s story. She’s fleeing Germany with her father, step mother and little brother. Her life has been somewhat sheltered since the Night of Broken Glass, she has no real friends until she meets Rosa, Hannah and Rachel on board the St Louis. But when Cuba refuses entry to the refugees, Sophie is miraculously granted a reprieve and is allowed to leave the ship thanks to an old friend of her father’s in America. The guilt she leaves with is something she carries on her shoulders every day, especially when there is so much uncertainty for those she cares about. Sophie finds work and friends in a Jewish community center in Washington DC. A chance encounter with a naval employee offers her an opportunity to do more for the war effort and she soon finds herself heading back to Europe undercover.
I throughly enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read the next installment of this series! Thanks so much to NetGalley, Bookouture and Kate Hewitt for an early glimpse at this lovely story!
July 26, 2025
Disappointing
I wasnt keen on this boo,. It had the potential to be good but wasn't.
It tells the story of a family of Jews who trying to escape the Nazi regime by boarding a boat bound for Cub
A very boring reada
I wasnt keen on this boo,. It had the potential to be good but wasn't.
It tells the story of a family of Jews who trying to escape the Nazi regime by boarding a boat bound for Cub
A very boring reada
February 8, 2024
The Girl on the Boat is the first of a WW II series by Kate Hewitt which begins in the queue to board the ill-fated SS St Louis traveling from Germany to Cuba, but never allowed to dock or allow its passengers to disembark. While on the boat, four young women pledge their friendship and when one is allowed to board a police boat and taken to a small airplane, Sophie is distraught and the other three are torn between envy and despair. Sophie is picked up by a chauffeur and taken to a mansion, the home of a supposed friend of her father. The maid there is kindly but she doesn’t meet the residents until later. Neither of them appear to care about one another or her. She stays for several days, knowing she had to do something, but what? The decision is taken out of her hands when, after a party, the man of he house, drunk, follows her to her bedroom. She is saved by his wife, but is bluntly told she needs to leave. She is saved by the kindly maid who takes her to a relative who owns a boarding house. She then makes her way to the Jewish Community Center where she hopes to find work. Meanwhile she helps out at the boarding house and sleeps in the attic with the daughter of the cook. She eventually gets a job and is moved up to paid tenant. Her life moves forward, including a young naval office from Wisconsin with whom she falls in love. Her life moves forward but she never forgets her friends and family and watches the news carefully.
Sophie is a terrific character. She is a German Jew but was lucky to escape and now she wants to help in the war effort. She finds a spot working for the war office but discovers there is more to it than meets the eye. She continues to worry as she faces some hatred for Jews even here in the US and watches a the negroes seem to be in the same situation as Jews had been in Germany. The trouble with reading books like this is that you know where it is heading. It is history. And it is in the opening pages of the book. We just don’t know who or why. It is an enticing read. The story of the St Louis is heartbreaking, as are the feelings of the American government and the American people. It is easy to forget how we acted in this most crucial time in history. In many ways we have as much to be ashamed of as we have to be proud of. This type of historical fiction is the purview of Hewitt. It is an excellent read.
I was invited to read The Girl on the Boat by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #TheGirlOnTheBoat
Sophie is a terrific character. She is a German Jew but was lucky to escape and now she wants to help in the war effort. She finds a spot working for the war office but discovers there is more to it than meets the eye. She continues to worry as she faces some hatred for Jews even here in the US and watches a the negroes seem to be in the same situation as Jews had been in Germany. The trouble with reading books like this is that you know where it is heading. It is history. And it is in the opening pages of the book. We just don’t know who or why. It is an enticing read. The story of the St Louis is heartbreaking, as are the feelings of the American government and the American people. It is easy to forget how we acted in this most crucial time in history. In many ways we have as much to be ashamed of as we have to be proud of. This type of historical fiction is the purview of Hewitt. It is an excellent read.
I was invited to read The Girl on the Boat by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #TheGirlOnTheBoat
November 17, 2025
What It’s About
Set in 1939, The Girl on the Boat follows Sophie Weiss and three fellow Jewish refugees—Rosa, Hannah, and Rachel—aboard the SS St. Louis, a ship seeking safe harbor as Europe descends into war. As their futures grow more uncertain, Sophie breaks her late mother’s emerald into four pieces, giving one to each friend as a promise: that they will survive and one day reunite in Paris.
The novel explores themes of displacement, resilience, and the deep bonds formed in crisis, all set against the heartbreaking true backdrop of a ship turned away from safety.
Review:
The author delivers a moving and emotionally rich beginning to the Emerald Sisters series. The historical setting is compelling, and the friendships formed aboard the ship are the heart of the story. However, the novel ends without resolution, leaving major character arcs open and pushing readers toward the next books for closure. While this mirrors the uncertainty of the time, it may feel frustrating—especially for those who prefer standalone novels.
My rating:
Plot 3.5 out of 5 Star
The premise is gripping and the historical backdrop adds weight, but the story stops short of resolution, making it feel more like a setup than a complete story.
Character Development 4.0 out of 5 Star
Sophie and her companions are emotionally engaging, with believable dynamics and depth. Their journeys feel real, even if unfinished.
Themes & Message 4.0 out of 5 Star
The emerald symbolism and focus on hope, survival, and connection are meaningful. While the themes are well handled, they may feel familiar to readers of WWII fiction.
Writing Style 3.0 out of 5 star
Straightforward and clear, with moments of emotional resonance. It gets the job done, but lacks the lyrical or atmospheric touch that might elevate it.
Enjoyment 3.0 out of 5 Star
The story is moving and thought-provoking, but its intensity and unresolved ending may leave some readers feeling emotionally stuck or wanting more closure..
Overall 3.5 out of 5 Star
A heartfelt and well-crafted beginning to a series, rich in emotion and history. Just be aware—it doesn’t wrap up neatly, so it’s best for readers ready to follow the full journey.
Recommended for readers of:
Historical Fiction with emotional depth and character-driven narratives, especially those open to multi-book arcs.
Set in 1939, The Girl on the Boat follows Sophie Weiss and three fellow Jewish refugees—Rosa, Hannah, and Rachel—aboard the SS St. Louis, a ship seeking safe harbor as Europe descends into war. As their futures grow more uncertain, Sophie breaks her late mother’s emerald into four pieces, giving one to each friend as a promise: that they will survive and one day reunite in Paris.
The novel explores themes of displacement, resilience, and the deep bonds formed in crisis, all set against the heartbreaking true backdrop of a ship turned away from safety.
Review:
The author delivers a moving and emotionally rich beginning to the Emerald Sisters series. The historical setting is compelling, and the friendships formed aboard the ship are the heart of the story. However, the novel ends without resolution, leaving major character arcs open and pushing readers toward the next books for closure. While this mirrors the uncertainty of the time, it may feel frustrating—especially for those who prefer standalone novels.
My rating:
Plot 3.5 out of 5 Star
The premise is gripping and the historical backdrop adds weight, but the story stops short of resolution, making it feel more like a setup than a complete story.
Character Development 4.0 out of 5 Star
Sophie and her companions are emotionally engaging, with believable dynamics and depth. Their journeys feel real, even if unfinished.
Themes & Message 4.0 out of 5 Star
The emerald symbolism and focus on hope, survival, and connection are meaningful. While the themes are well handled, they may feel familiar to readers of WWII fiction.
Writing Style 3.0 out of 5 star
Straightforward and clear, with moments of emotional resonance. It gets the job done, but lacks the lyrical or atmospheric touch that might elevate it.
Enjoyment 3.0 out of 5 Star
The story is moving and thought-provoking, but its intensity and unresolved ending may leave some readers feeling emotionally stuck or wanting more closure..
Overall 3.5 out of 5 Star
A heartfelt and well-crafted beginning to a series, rich in emotion and history. Just be aware—it doesn’t wrap up neatly, so it’s best for readers ready to follow the full journey.
Recommended for readers of:
Historical Fiction with emotional depth and character-driven narratives, especially those open to multi-book arcs.
November 9, 2024
Readers will be completely blown away by Kate Hewitt’s latest entrancing historical novel, The Girl on the Boat.
Sophie Weiss has no reason to remain in Germany. Forlorn, heartbroken and devastated, Sophie boards the SS St Louis desperate for escape after the Nazi had taken everything from her. Devoid of hope and full of anguish and sorrow, Sophie doesn’t see much reason to go on – until she befriends fellow Jewish passengers Hannah, Rosa and Rachel on board. Their friendship makes Sophie believe that there could be happiness in her future despite of the many challenges ahead.
When the four women’s worst fears are realized and their ship is refused entry at a port they thought would be safe, they are all terrified of being sent back to Europe. Salvation comes in the form of an old friend’s of Sophie’s father who offers to take her in. But if she accepts his offer, Sophie would have to leave her friends behind as there is only room for her. Quickly, Sophie takes the emerald her mother had given her and gives each of her friends a piece with a promise to meet in Paris when this nightmare is over.
Sophie has been given a second chance, but how can she embrace her freedom when her friends have been left facing an uncertain fate? Sophie vows to do everything she possibly can to help her friends – even if it means making the ultimate sacrifice and paying the highest price of all.
Kate Hewitt is a master storyteller who writes unforgettable novels of love, friendship, courage and hope that never fail to hit the spot and The Girl on the Boat is no different. A stunning wartime tale packed with pathos and emotions about the ties that bind and the power of friendship with a terrific heroine, The Girl on the Boat is another superb historical novel from the talented Kate Hewitt readers will never forget.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sophie Weiss has no reason to remain in Germany. Forlorn, heartbroken and devastated, Sophie boards the SS St Louis desperate for escape after the Nazi had taken everything from her. Devoid of hope and full of anguish and sorrow, Sophie doesn’t see much reason to go on – until she befriends fellow Jewish passengers Hannah, Rosa and Rachel on board. Their friendship makes Sophie believe that there could be happiness in her future despite of the many challenges ahead.
When the four women’s worst fears are realized and their ship is refused entry at a port they thought would be safe, they are all terrified of being sent back to Europe. Salvation comes in the form of an old friend’s of Sophie’s father who offers to take her in. But if she accepts his offer, Sophie would have to leave her friends behind as there is only room for her. Quickly, Sophie takes the emerald her mother had given her and gives each of her friends a piece with a promise to meet in Paris when this nightmare is over.
Sophie has been given a second chance, but how can she embrace her freedom when her friends have been left facing an uncertain fate? Sophie vows to do everything she possibly can to help her friends – even if it means making the ultimate sacrifice and paying the highest price of all.
Kate Hewitt is a master storyteller who writes unforgettable novels of love, friendship, courage and hope that never fail to hit the spot and The Girl on the Boat is no different. A stunning wartime tale packed with pathos and emotions about the ties that bind and the power of friendship with a terrific heroine, The Girl on the Boat is another superb historical novel from the talented Kate Hewitt readers will never forget.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 27, 2023
The Girl On The Boat by Kate Hewitt is a powerful historical novel that completely consumed me. It is the first book in The Emerald Sisters series which promises to be fabulous.
The action is set from 1939 – 1942 as we travel from Germany to New York. As the story opens, we ‘hear’ from after the war in the prologue. We know the time and the place and we ‘hear’ the outcome for several characters but we have questions – questions which will follow us through the series. I am assuming all answers will be revealed in the final book – I can’t wait but I’ll have to!
We follow a Jewish family as they board a ship, with other Jewish families, fleeing Germany for Cuba. Alliances are formed on board, and promises made to meet up in Paris one year after the war ends.
We ‘see’ the damage inflicted mentally on physically tortured souls. Men, who were the heads of families, are reduced to mere shells. It is the women who have to step up and become strong.
The novel follows a character to New York. Here, different problems are encountered.
We see that racial prejudice and injustice exists in America too. Here, people are judged by the colour of their skin and not the content of their character. This horrifies the character who fled Germany as she believed she was in the land of the free.
Tension builds as the months tick down. The reader knows that Pearl Harbor in December 1941 is approaching. There is nothing we can do about it. We cannot stop time nor warn the characters. We are passengers in the story heading to a moment in time.
All the characters are well drawn. They elicit a variety of responses from the reader.
As the novel ends, we are perfectly poised for book number two which I cannot wait to read.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set from 1939 – 1942 as we travel from Germany to New York. As the story opens, we ‘hear’ from after the war in the prologue. We know the time and the place and we ‘hear’ the outcome for several characters but we have questions – questions which will follow us through the series. I am assuming all answers will be revealed in the final book – I can’t wait but I’ll have to!
We follow a Jewish family as they board a ship, with other Jewish families, fleeing Germany for Cuba. Alliances are formed on board, and promises made to meet up in Paris one year after the war ends.
We ‘see’ the damage inflicted mentally on physically tortured souls. Men, who were the heads of families, are reduced to mere shells. It is the women who have to step up and become strong.
The novel follows a character to New York. Here, different problems are encountered.
We see that racial prejudice and injustice exists in America too. Here, people are judged by the colour of their skin and not the content of their character. This horrifies the character who fled Germany as she believed she was in the land of the free.
Tension builds as the months tick down. The reader knows that Pearl Harbor in December 1941 is approaching. There is nothing we can do about it. We cannot stop time nor warn the characters. We are passengers in the story heading to a moment in time.
All the characters are well drawn. They elicit a variety of responses from the reader.
As the novel ends, we are perfectly poised for book number two which I cannot wait to read.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
April 30, 2024
Sophia's Escape
A story of the St. Louis, the last ship to leave Berlin during the reign of the Nazi's. Headed to Cuba it was denied entry at Cuba leaving several thousand Jewish refugees nowhere to go.
This first book in the Emerald Sister series is the story of three young Jewish women that meet on the St. Louis and befriend each other. Sophia, Rachel, Hannah and Rosa. Sophia has an emerald her grandmother gave her. She splits it in four pieces and gives on to each of the girls and keeps the other herself. They promise that they will meet at a cafe named Henri's after the war in Paris.
Sophia gets a chance to go to America and leaves the St. Louis leaving her friends behind. She is excited about going to America, but she is guilty because her family and friends are left behind.
This book is the story of the friendship of the girls and the voyage from Germany to Cuba. It then focuses on Sophia and her time in America. She soon finds her benefactors are not as they seem and is on her own in a strange country. It is the story of how she survives and makes a life for herself while worrying about her friends and family.
It was an interesting book, I liked hearing about the St. Louis and the refugees on board. I am now awaiting the stories of the other girls on the boat.
Thanks to one of my favorite author's Kate Hewitt for bringing the story to life and writing yet another great Historical Fiction Series. Thanks to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
A story of the St. Louis, the last ship to leave Berlin during the reign of the Nazi's. Headed to Cuba it was denied entry at Cuba leaving several thousand Jewish refugees nowhere to go.
This first book in the Emerald Sister series is the story of three young Jewish women that meet on the St. Louis and befriend each other. Sophia, Rachel, Hannah and Rosa. Sophia has an emerald her grandmother gave her. She splits it in four pieces and gives on to each of the girls and keeps the other herself. They promise that they will meet at a cafe named Henri's after the war in Paris.
Sophia gets a chance to go to America and leaves the St. Louis leaving her friends behind. She is excited about going to America, but she is guilty because her family and friends are left behind.
This book is the story of the friendship of the girls and the voyage from Germany to Cuba. It then focuses on Sophia and her time in America. She soon finds her benefactors are not as they seem and is on her own in a strange country. It is the story of how she survives and makes a life for herself while worrying about her friends and family.
It was an interesting book, I liked hearing about the St. Louis and the refugees on board. I am now awaiting the stories of the other girls on the boat.
Thanks to one of my favorite author's Kate Hewitt for bringing the story to life and writing yet another great Historical Fiction Series. Thanks to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
February 8, 2024
THE GIRL ON THE BOAT is the first novel in rhe Emerald Sisters series by KATE HEWITT. I cannot recommend the book highly enough and am looking forward to the next one!
Kate Hewitt is one of my favourite authors, for her interesting and inspirational stories, and her characters, whose emotions are semsitively and realistically portrayed.
The Girl on the Boat starts in 1939 in Hamburg with Sophie Weiss, her father Jacob, her stepmother Margarete and half brother Heinrich, boarding the SS St Louis for Cuba and then the United States. These Jews who have been badly treated in Germany are, for the most part, well treated on the ocean liner and are full of hope until they are not allowed to dock in Cuba. Margarete arranges for Sophie to get to the States and Sophie is devastated at leaving her family and three friends behind to an unknown fate. She is filled with guilt and feels selfish. She breaks an emerald that belonged to her mother into four and the girls make a pact to meet up in Paris after the war…….
There is so much more to the story which deals with anti-semitism, not only in Europe but also in the States, where racial prejudice is rife, but I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
Kate Hewitt is one of my favourite authors, for her interesting and inspirational stories, and her characters, whose emotions are semsitively and realistically portrayed.
The Girl on the Boat starts in 1939 in Hamburg with Sophie Weiss, her father Jacob, her stepmother Margarete and half brother Heinrich, boarding the SS St Louis for Cuba and then the United States. These Jews who have been badly treated in Germany are, for the most part, well treated on the ocean liner and are full of hope until they are not allowed to dock in Cuba. Margarete arranges for Sophie to get to the States and Sophie is devastated at leaving her family and three friends behind to an unknown fate. She is filled with guilt and feels selfish. She breaks an emerald that belonged to her mother into four and the girls make a pact to meet up in Paris after the war…….
There is so much more to the story which deals with anti-semitism, not only in Europe but also in the States, where racial prejudice is rife, but I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
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