Vienna on Fire: A WWII Story of Survival

by Don Gabor

Can Greta Kolbe escape Nazi Vienna and reach America before her past and the Gestapo catch up to her?

"Vienna on Fire provides a gripping and historically accurate account of the resilience of the human spirit amid the darkest of times."
—Erin Britton, San Francisco Book Review

In the heart of darkening Europe, amidst the looming war, "Vienna on Fire" by Don Gabor tells the riveting story of Greta Kolbe, an eighteen-year-old Jewish woman whose life was upended when German troops annexed Austria in 1938.

Her peaceful existence is replaced by a nightmare of terror as she, along with Vienna's Jewish community, faces an ordeal of intimidation. Greta's journey of resilience begins as she flees Nazi Vienna to escape arrest for her resistance activities, embarking on a dangerous trek to Holland, with a spiteful ex-suitor and the Gestapo closely trailing her.

Demonstrating awe-inspiring bravery, Greta smuggles diamonds for the German resistance, eludes Hermann Göring's advances, and survives numerous perils, including a harrowing ambush at the German-Dutch border. Her race against time crescendos to a nail-biting climax on the gangplank of a ship bound for New York City, where she must evade her pursuers one last time.

Authored by Don Gabor, known for "How to Start a Conversation and Make Friends," this novel is a poignant tribute to the courage against tyranny, based on his mother's real-life experiences and those who opposed the Third Reich. "Vienna on Fire" is not merely a narrative but an affirmation of the human spirit, inviting readers to witness Greta’s grit, ingenuity, and her relentless pursuit of freedom during Europe’s most forbidding time.

Uncover the courage that defies darkness—secure your copy of 'Vienna on Fire' now and be inspired by this remarkable story of persistence and survival.

"Libraries and readers seeking exceptional portraits of Jewish survivors in general and strong young women who foster different responses to escape and survival, refusing to become victims, will find Vienna on Fire absolutely captivating. It’s powered by strong characters whose perceptions and conflicts are not just realistic, but thoroughly absorbing “you are here” experiences."
--Diane Donovan, Midwest Book Review

Genres: Historical Fiction

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2024

Reviews

[Katie K · Rating 3 out of 5]

Greta Kolbe was such a lovable character. This book truly highlights those who made the choice to do the right thing and help those in need during WWII and without them, stories such as Greta’s wouldn’t be told. Not A+ writing, lots of loose ends which I personally don’t love only because I was so invested in all the characters and their outcomes, but overall I’d recommend for a quick read that highlights the heroes and heroines of WWII and the Resistance and the resilience of one young girl during such heartbreaking and trying times. Beautiful story.

[Cindy Topp · Rating 5 out of 5]

The carefree life Greta Kolbe had known in her beloved city was forever changed with Austria`s annexation to the German Reich and Hitler`s march into Vienna. What follows for her, her family, and, indeed, millions of others touched by the chilling, methodical madness, is incomprehensible. Don Gabor`s narrative is vivid and compelling; his characters guided me with my pulses pounding, and by the time I had finished the book, I knew, I had read something that would remain with me for a very long time, and that not only because my own mother had lived through the exact same period in Vienna. I feel these accounts, no matter from whose pen they flow, need to be told repeatedly. It´s the least we owe the victims, their families, and the courageous people, Jew and Gentile alike, who helped them. You`ll find, if you visit Audible`s website, a wonderful version of “Vienna On Fire” as audiobook. That, too, was a 5-Star purchase.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy from the author through AuthorsXP for free, and am leaving a review voluntarily.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and I was enthralled with the story from the opening paragraphs until the end. I felt like the author's account placed me metaphorically in the middle of events that were happening once Germany annexed Austria in 1938. I was placed on an emotional roller coaster as the tragic events unfolded. I was moved by the determination and bravery displayed by Greta as she resisted the people who had taken over her country. This story made historical events seem more real to me. I thought Gabrielle de Cuir's narration was great, and her performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[Amylynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

exciting!

Omg! I found this author and fell in love with his mom Greta! I’m not sure if my parents ever was exciting as this but geesh! His mom was A true SHE-ro and I wish I knew her! All these stories about the brave men and woman who are against the Nazis and risked their lives… I know many more were murdered… I just am so happy about the ones like Greta who decided not to go meekly to their graves. I honestly wish I had that kind of bravery and strength inside me. If you have any doubts about reading this story .. DON’T! You will be up all night reading and not wanting to even stop to eat it drink or work lol thank you for blessing us with this! Thank you Greta for living!! I wish I knew what happened to her parents though and her uncle!!

[Peter Fasolino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always enjoyed fictionalized characters integrated with historical events. Authors like Gore Vidal have used this technique to bring historical events to life, as seen in the novel "Burr," which provides a fictionalized memoir of Aaron Burr. Similarly, Don Gabor has depicted the Nazi pillage of the Jews in Europe through the character of Greta Kolbe, offering a poignant portrayal of her family's suffering during this dark period in history. It's a story that will leave a lasting impression.

[Fran Seigel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very personal book inspired by the author's mother's bitterly dark yet heroic experiences during and after the Nazi's took over Austria in 1938. A very fast paced read, full of "edge of your seat" close calls and nail-biting triumphs during these painful and tragic times. Grab this book for a very captivating read to enjoy on an upcoming rainy day! Author Don Gabor also enhances our imaginations of the characters with many old photos showing the real-life family history. (Just google the authors name to easily find these photos on the author's website.)

[Kayla Tornello · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed all the historic details about life in Vienna. I also appreciated that many of the characters were inspired by real people. There was certainly plenty of action in this book! The one thing that really bothered me was the implausibility of all the situations in which the main character found herself. She jumped from one impossible scenario to the next. If this had occurred in real life, she would have been dead or sent to a camp early in the story. There were so many parts of the story that I liked, but everything was over the top by the end.

[Lee Wilbur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Historical Fiction

This book is well-written fictional novel which shows up what happened when a young woman tried to escape the Nazis when the German SS and soldiers arrived in force to Vienna, and began arresting (and killing many) Jews. It shows what she probably encountered as a "wanted" refugee trying to escape Austria and get to the coast where she was scheduled to catch a boat to the United States. Well-written and interesting, with plenty of drama to keep your attention!!
Recommend

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the story of Greta's survival. There were instances though where she was very annoying in some of her choices and actions. I enjoyed the historical aspect of the story. The dialogue wasn't always great and seemed almost "too modern" for 1938/39. I thought perhaps we would have found out at the end who was betraying her. Without today's modern technology I found it a little far fetched that Hans could track her and find where she was going so easily.
Still, it was a good story with lots of action and intrigue.

[Kim Ullrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was completely mesmerized with this story and a page turner indeed. This is the tale of a young jewish resistance fighter in Vienna who watches her country and people crumble under nazi occupation. In her efforts to make a difference for the lives of others persecuted as well as her family, she must thwart the Gestapo at every turn. It's a roller coaster of a ride as she tries to reach Amsterdam in time to set sail to America all the while being chased by the SS and a treacherous nazi hell bent on finding her. It was a captivating read.

[webby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving!

The beginnings of WWII in Vienna, Austria. A young woman is thrust into a life she cannot imagine. Her stubbornness keeps her alive, but also puts her into situations that should have been avoided! It is a fictional tale, yet everything that happened is completely plausible. Great read!

[Debbie Trammell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book

This was a fast paced by the seat of your pants book. I am sure in whatever way Don's mother made it to America was very difficult. And I am sure she saw things that could never be unseen. She was a brave woman. I think she just wanted to put it all behind her. She seemed to be a realist. I recommend this novel.

[Barbara H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compelling story, compellingly written

Despite already having read a fair amount about the period, I found the book (including the author's notes at end) both riveting and eye-opening, and instantly craved a sequel, or at the very least another excellent novel by Don Gabor, a communications expert for whom this is the first solo fictional work.

[Miranda Summerset · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 STARS! I love historical fiction and this story is one that instantly sucks you into the character's world & into their lives. I could feel everything Greta was going through & the story had me on the edge of my seat at several points. The audiobook is fantastic & I listened to it in a day. Truly couldn't put it down. A beautiful tale of strength and survival, & I highly recommend it!

[Wende Freeman · Rating 3 out of 5]

not believable

The storyline wasn’t believable. I couldn’t stop reading until I finished but was ready to be done halfway through. The nazi’s chased one woman through several countries. She wasn’t a spy.

[John Bartuska · Rating 3 out of 5]

Why not A Girl from Vienna on the Run???

Good, historical fiction to some extent but that's it, an escape? Only fair writing and unbelievable circumstances. Good idea, weak execution.

[Quanita · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fictional account of a young Jewish woman fighting and fleeing Vienna at the start of WWII. Although fiction, it feels like an autobiography. I felt like I was right next to Greta the whole time. I was gifted this from the author.

[John Flick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Survival

A rather interesting novel about a young Jewish girl dealing with the takeover of Austria by Nazi Germany. Greta had many interesting tales as she fled from the Nazis for a ship to the USA sailing from the Netherlands.

[David M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Non stop suspense.

This book was well written and researched. It was a fast moving easy read that will leave you wondering about many outcomes and decisions, made in an effort to outrun Nazi soldiers.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed it until it got to the part where the main character participated in an orgy at Goring's hunting lodge. This was described into detail and I feel it was not necessary to described everything that went on.

[Mary C Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast Paced Read

Action packed read, but too many nearly impossible escape scenarios, always with the heroine narrowly escaping, but those who helped getting killed.

[Renee Mylander · Rating 5 out of 5]

A family tell their story

A great book that follows the Jews and The Nazis stories. I can say it was a cliff hanger and was hard to put down

[O · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too unrealistic on some parts

VERY unrealistic points in the story! I enjoyed more of the beginning, but 77% in, I found myself rolling my eyes for the umpteenth time.

[David · Rating 2 out of 5]

Full of historical errors

[Rachel Minarick · Rating 2 out of 5]

I

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story with many twists and turns!

[Connie Orr Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good

[Clara Roberts · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is historical fiction about the German Natzis taking over Austria. This is told from the points of view of a young Jewish girl. At times it was a little too graphic for me. The story is told by the son of this Jewish survivor. He has to research the story because it is too painful for his mother to recall. Her parents and grandmother die in the Holocaust. The Jewish girl survives by coming dto America by herself.