Iron Rose

by Lorie H. Nicholes

A young Mormon girl living in Austria through half a century of upheavals demonstrates an iron determination to surmount her peasant beginnings and become a physician.

Genres: Historical Fiction

408 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1999

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is apparently the true story, told as narrative fiction, of the woman Rosa Reiner Edler.

I liked Rosa, and I didn't like Rosa. She was strong, sometimes bullying. She was smart, but as her daughter observed "That's the trouble with terribly intelligent people. They're so used to being correct, that they can't tell when they aren't."

Generally well written, VERY detailed.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, I just read this book that was chosen from my ward book club. (I don't actually ever make it to the book club, but I do try and read the books!) Although the book was quite simply written with VERY poor editing, I am giving it four stars. (yes, I am an eternal optimist when it comes to books). Here's why:

I love historical fiction! Every story in here was TRUE. Some of them hard-to-believe true! On such events that took place in the book, the author put a little asterisk after the event and reminded you at the bottom of the page, "yes, this really happened". She did a good job in changing the characters and adding dialogue to make a wonderful story about the true events.

I had no idea it was a local author and imagine my surprise when lo and behold, out of the blue on page 278 the Mormon missionaries show up! Even though one of the characters does eventually get baptized in the Church, it is portrayed as true to life when she has to renounce the Mormon religion to be able to go back to her beloved private Catholic girls school which will better her future. (I guess I thought she would "choose the right"). I am excited to read the sequel someday.

[Aneesa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say, this will be a biased review, because I know this author personally, and love her dearly. I also heard the story first in PERSON on a four hour drive with the author. So while I read the book, I may have added the previous story to it as I read. That said, this is an incredible story. It truly is, and it is worth reading. Iron Rose is a book full of real life excitement, sorrow, and bare truth. I think it might be hard to find, but you should read it if you can get your hands on it.

[Aleisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aside from the cover and the poor editing, I loved the stories and the fact that they're true! Tragically true in some cases. And I loved the depth and strength of these real people who overcame monumental setbacks, losses, and betrayal. Hannah, Johann, Peter, Rosa, and Hilde among others were incredible in their resilience.

[Mindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved seeing what it was like back during World War II in Austria. The characters had a lot of depth and were well-written. It was based on the life of the author's grandmother, so it was very authentic. Enjoyed it a lot!

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never judge a book by its cover. ;) I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I mean, I actually READ it, not listened to it, ha ha. So if I actually finished it, and in somewhat of a timely manner (a month, bahahaha), that says something!

[Kami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I borrowed these books from my mom. True story set around the time of the World Wars. I enjoyed them, but a lot of hardship and heart-break.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those books that puts life into perspective. The hardships Rosa endured and overcame were overwhelming!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading about people who have lived through WWII. Her story is incredible and she experienced so much.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt like this book was a little slow at first. But, by the end I had a hard time putting it down. Considering that this book is based on a real events, it makes me glad that I live today!

[Gwen Ruebush · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved reading this true story of an incredible life. It left me really wanting to read the next book, but I haven't been able to find it in my library.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, incredible life!

[Rebekah Sheppard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compelling story of human survival and triumph, and extremely well written.