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Far From Home
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Danielle Steel delivers an exciting and moving historical novel about a courageous wife and mother hiding in occupied France.
In July 1944, Arielle von Auspeck arrives at the glamorous Hotel Ritz in occupied Paris. Half French, half German, she is happy to be back in France, where her husband, Gregor, a retired colonel, will join her soon from Germany. Arielle and Gregor have thus far been able to hide their private opposition to Hitler.
Then her world falls apart. She receives word that Gregor was part of Operation Valkyrie, a failed attempt to assassinate Hitler in Poland, and has been shot as a traitor. Now, holding a French passport handed to her by another high-level collaborator, she is whisked away from Paris under cover of darkness for her own safety.
As the Allies storm the beaches, she goes into hiding in a small village in Normandy under an assumed name, unable to contact her adult children. There, she forms a friendship with Sebastien Renaud, whose wife and daughter were deported in 1941, and who eventually reveals himself as a forger in the Resistance. As war rages on, Arielle and Sebastien work for the Resistance and hold out for the time when they can search for their loved ones.
In Far From Home, Danielle Steel captures the devastation of World War II with a sweeping story of family love that transcends impossible odds.
In July 1944, Arielle von Auspeck arrives at the glamorous Hotel Ritz in occupied Paris. Half French, half German, she is happy to be back in France, where her husband, Gregor, a retired colonel, will join her soon from Germany. Arielle and Gregor have thus far been able to hide their private opposition to Hitler.
Then her world falls apart. She receives word that Gregor was part of Operation Valkyrie, a failed attempt to assassinate Hitler in Poland, and has been shot as a traitor. Now, holding a French passport handed to her by another high-level collaborator, she is whisked away from Paris under cover of darkness for her own safety.
As the Allies storm the beaches, she goes into hiding in a small village in Normandy under an assumed name, unable to contact her adult children. There, she forms a friendship with Sebastien Renaud, whose wife and daughter were deported in 1941, and who eventually reveals himself as a forger in the Resistance. As war rages on, Arielle and Sebastien work for the Resistance and hold out for the time when they can search for their loved ones.
In Far From Home, Danielle Steel captures the devastation of World War II with a sweeping story of family love that transcends impossible odds.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2025
1307 people are currently reading
1293 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Steel
911 books16.7k followersDanielle Steel has been hailed as one of the world's bestselling authors, with almost a billion copies of her novels sold. Her many international bestsellers include All That Glitters, Royal, Daddy's Girls, The Wedding Dress, The Numbers Game, Moral Compass, Spy, and other highly acclaimed novels. She is also the author of His Bright Light, the story of her son Nick Traina's life and death; A Gift of Hope, a memoir of her work with the homeless; Expect a Miracle, a book of her favorite quotations for inspiration and comfort; Pure Joy, about the dogs she and her family have loved; and the children's books Pretty Minnie in Paris and Pretty Minnie in Hollywood.
Facebook.com/DanielleSteelOfficial
Instagram: @officialdaniellesteel
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Instagram: @officialdaniellesteel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 348 reviews
March 12, 2025
This book satisfied my "Danielle Steel" addiction. Not her best, but entertaining. The true facts of what occurred in WWII were glossed over, but I didn't expect the author to go into depth about the many horrors and crimes against humanity that were committed. That is not what I expect and/or want from this author. Romance. That is the name of the game that I expect from Danielle Steel. I happily got that. :)
July 30, 2025
Too depressing to finish, so I finished.
March 31, 2025
Awfully written book with no substance. Story line was excellent but characterization could have been so much better. This book could have been amazing if the writing was not so simple. It felt like the author was rushing the story and wanting to finish quickly without lingering on any points or extending the storyline. Would not recommend
March 23, 2025
Beautifully written based on true events on WW2 survival
April 23, 2025
"Evil is never more powerful than good."
April 13, 2025
The last few Danielle Steel books that I have read, I did not feel they were her best books. This book, however I felt was beautifully written. It is about a family who is torn apart by World War II. The setting takes place in Germany and in France. The characters are all very lovable and it’s very sad in places because wives and husbands are killed. Of course, like all of her books things come together at the end and everyone lives happily ever after.
March 5, 2025
Same old Steel formula, perfect woman meets conflict, overcomes, comes back more perfect.
March 7, 2025
In her latest historical novel, Far From Home, #1 New York Times bestselling author Danielle Steel weaves an emotionally charged tapestry of love, loss, and resilience against the treacherous backdrop of World War II. Steel, known for her prolific output and mastery of romantic storytelling, ventures into the complex terrain of Nazi-occupied France with remarkable sensitivity and insight. While the novel follows familiar patterns that Steel's dedicated readers will recognize, it also offers fresh perspectives on the moral complexities faced by those caught between dual identities during wartime.
A Tale of Two Worlds Colliding
The narrative begins in July 1944, introducing us to Arielle von Auspeck, a character whose very existence straddles conflicting worlds. Half-German, half-French, and married to a retired German colonel, Arielle embodies the personal cost of international conflict. Her privileged life in Berlin appears untouched by the ravages of war until her husband Gregor's involvement in the failed Operation Valkyrie—a real historical attempt to assassinate Hitler—shatters everything.
What follows is Arielle's transformation from aristocratic comfort to survival mode as she flees to Normandy with false papers provided by a German commander sympathetic to her husband's cause. Steel excels at capturing this dramatic shift, portraying with convincing detail how Arielle adapts to her new circumstances:
"The decision process went on for days, as Arielle tried on many outfits, and decided which ones were chic enough for Paris. She had a large matching travel hat box, for the hats that went with the dresses. Gregor had booked a first-class compartment for her on the train, with a small room for Monika in the same car. She was only staying until Gregor arrived. And the hotel was sending a chauffeur-driven limousine to meet them. Gregor always saw to it that Arielle had every comfort possible."
This paragraph effectively illustrates Arielle's privileged existence before it's stripped away, making her subsequent struggles all the more poignant.
Character Development That Resonates
Steel's greatest strength in this novel lies in her character development, particularly:
- Arielle - Her evolution from protected aristocrat to self-sufficient survivor highlights the resilience of the human spirit. Her determination to find her children while navigating a dangerous political landscape makes her a compelling protagonist.
- Sebastien Renaud - The French lawyer-turned-forger provides an excellent counterpoint to Arielle. His quiet strength and dedication to using his talents to save lives adds moral complexity to the story.
- Marianna - Arielle's daughter represents the younger generation caught in war's crossfire, forced to grow up too quickly and make difficult choices.
The relationship between Arielle and Sebastien develops organically against their shared losses, avoiding the trap of feeling rushed despite the compressed timeline. Their connection builds from friendship to something deeper with a believable progression that respects their individual grief journeys.
Historical Context and Narrative Impact
Steel demonstrates considerable historical research in her portrayal of occupied France and the mechanisms of the French Resistance. The depiction of everyday life under occupation rings true, from food shortages to the constant fear of being reported to authorities. Particularly effective is her portrayal of the general store where Arielle finds work:
"They had had a steady stream of customers all morning. Olivia took care of them herself, as they all knew her. They asked about Arielle in hushed whispers, and were impressed that Olivia had hired Arielle to assist her. Her creative touches were visible in several areas of the store, and customers commented on how nice it all looked."
This passage illustrates how Steel grounds the larger historical drama in everyday moments and human connections.
Where the Novel Sometimes Falters
Despite its considerable strengths, Far From Home isn't without flaws:
1. Convenient Coincidences - At times, the plot relies on fortuitous encounters that strain credulity, particularly when characters manage to find each other in the chaos of postwar Europe.
2. Simplified Politics - While the novel addresses the moral complexities of the era, some of the political nuances of occupation, collaboration, and resistance are somewhat simplified.
3. Pacing Inconsistencies - The narrative occasionally rushes through important emotional developments, particularly in the final third of the book, where years of separation and grief seem quickly resolved.
4. Predictable Romantic Elements - While the central romance is handled with sensitivity, it follows a somewhat predictable arc that Steel's regular readers will recognize from her other works.
These criticisms, however, don't significantly detract from the novel's overall impact and emotional resonance.
Thematic Richness
Steel explores several powerful themes throughout the narrative:
Identity and Belonging
The question of national identity during wartime forms a central theme. Arielle's struggle with her German and French heritage reflects larger questions about where loyalty should lie when countries are at war. Steel writes poignantly:
"I think I'd use that one. They're going to be less worried about letting French citizens into Germany than trying to figure out who are the good Germans and who are the bad ones, but that's just my guess. I could be wrong."
This line encapsulates the novel's exploration of how identities become weapons during conflict, forcing individuals to hide parts of themselves to survive.
The Resilience of Family Bonds
Despite separation, danger, and uncertainty, the connections between family members—both blood and chosen—provides the emotional backbone of the story. Arielle's determination to reunite with her children and Sebastien's quest to find his daughter highlight the enduring power of parental love.
Moral Courage in Impossible Circumstances
The characters' choices reveal different forms of resistance against evil. While Gregor chooses direct action against Hitler, Arielle and Sebastien demonstrate quieter forms of courage through their Resistance work, showing that heroism takes many forms.
Stylistic Elements
Steel's prose is accessible and emotion-driven, focusing more on character development and plot advancement than literary flourishes. This straightforward approach suits the material, allowing readers to connect directly with the characters' experiences without stylistic barriers.
Dialogue serves as a primary tool for character development and plot exposition. At times, conversations feel slightly formal or explanatory, but they effectively communicate the emotional states of the characters and move the narrative forward.
Final Assessment
Far From Home succeeds as an engaging historical drama that personalizes the vast tragedy of World War II through the experiences of compelling characters. While it occasionally simplifies complex historical realities and relies on convenient plot developments, these elements don't diminish the novel's emotional impact or its exploration of important themes.
Steel deserves particular credit for:
- Creating a protagonist whose dual heritage allows exploration of both sides of the conflict
- Depicting the French Resistance with respect and nuance
- Balancing romance with historical realism
- Capturing the disorientation and grief of families separated by war
For readers interested in similar historical fiction, Anthony Doerr's "All the Light We Cannot See" and Kristin Hannah's "The Nightingale" offer complementary perspectives on occupied France, though with different stylistic approaches.
A Tale of Two Worlds Colliding
The narrative begins in July 1944, introducing us to Arielle von Auspeck, a character whose very existence straddles conflicting worlds. Half-German, half-French, and married to a retired German colonel, Arielle embodies the personal cost of international conflict. Her privileged life in Berlin appears untouched by the ravages of war until her husband Gregor's involvement in the failed Operation Valkyrie—a real historical attempt to assassinate Hitler—shatters everything.
What follows is Arielle's transformation from aristocratic comfort to survival mode as she flees to Normandy with false papers provided by a German commander sympathetic to her husband's cause. Steel excels at capturing this dramatic shift, portraying with convincing detail how Arielle adapts to her new circumstances:
"The decision process went on for days, as Arielle tried on many outfits, and decided which ones were chic enough for Paris. She had a large matching travel hat box, for the hats that went with the dresses. Gregor had booked a first-class compartment for her on the train, with a small room for Monika in the same car. She was only staying until Gregor arrived. And the hotel was sending a chauffeur-driven limousine to meet them. Gregor always saw to it that Arielle had every comfort possible."
This paragraph effectively illustrates Arielle's privileged existence before it's stripped away, making her subsequent struggles all the more poignant.
Character Development That Resonates
Steel's greatest strength in this novel lies in her character development, particularly:
- Arielle - Her evolution from protected aristocrat to self-sufficient survivor highlights the resilience of the human spirit. Her determination to find her children while navigating a dangerous political landscape makes her a compelling protagonist.
- Sebastien Renaud - The French lawyer-turned-forger provides an excellent counterpoint to Arielle. His quiet strength and dedication to using his talents to save lives adds moral complexity to the story.
- Marianna - Arielle's daughter represents the younger generation caught in war's crossfire, forced to grow up too quickly and make difficult choices.
The relationship between Arielle and Sebastien develops organically against their shared losses, avoiding the trap of feeling rushed despite the compressed timeline. Their connection builds from friendship to something deeper with a believable progression that respects their individual grief journeys.
Historical Context and Narrative Impact
Steel demonstrates considerable historical research in her portrayal of occupied France and the mechanisms of the French Resistance. The depiction of everyday life under occupation rings true, from food shortages to the constant fear of being reported to authorities. Particularly effective is her portrayal of the general store where Arielle finds work:
"They had had a steady stream of customers all morning. Olivia took care of them herself, as they all knew her. They asked about Arielle in hushed whispers, and were impressed that Olivia had hired Arielle to assist her. Her creative touches were visible in several areas of the store, and customers commented on how nice it all looked."
This passage illustrates how Steel grounds the larger historical drama in everyday moments and human connections.
Where the Novel Sometimes Falters
Despite its considerable strengths, Far From Home isn't without flaws:
1. Convenient Coincidences - At times, the plot relies on fortuitous encounters that strain credulity, particularly when characters manage to find each other in the chaos of postwar Europe.
2. Simplified Politics - While the novel addresses the moral complexities of the era, some of the political nuances of occupation, collaboration, and resistance are somewhat simplified.
3. Pacing Inconsistencies - The narrative occasionally rushes through important emotional developments, particularly in the final third of the book, where years of separation and grief seem quickly resolved.
4. Predictable Romantic Elements - While the central romance is handled with sensitivity, it follows a somewhat predictable arc that Steel's regular readers will recognize from her other works.
These criticisms, however, don't significantly detract from the novel's overall impact and emotional resonance.
Thematic Richness
Steel explores several powerful themes throughout the narrative:
Identity and Belonging
The question of national identity during wartime forms a central theme. Arielle's struggle with her German and French heritage reflects larger questions about where loyalty should lie when countries are at war. Steel writes poignantly:
"I think I'd use that one. They're going to be less worried about letting French citizens into Germany than trying to figure out who are the good Germans and who are the bad ones, but that's just my guess. I could be wrong."
This line encapsulates the novel's exploration of how identities become weapons during conflict, forcing individuals to hide parts of themselves to survive.
The Resilience of Family Bonds
Despite separation, danger, and uncertainty, the connections between family members—both blood and chosen—provides the emotional backbone of the story. Arielle's determination to reunite with her children and Sebastien's quest to find his daughter highlight the enduring power of parental love.
Moral Courage in Impossible Circumstances
The characters' choices reveal different forms of resistance against evil. While Gregor chooses direct action against Hitler, Arielle and Sebastien demonstrate quieter forms of courage through their Resistance work, showing that heroism takes many forms.
Stylistic Elements
Steel's prose is accessible and emotion-driven, focusing more on character development and plot advancement than literary flourishes. This straightforward approach suits the material, allowing readers to connect directly with the characters' experiences without stylistic barriers.
Dialogue serves as a primary tool for character development and plot exposition. At times, conversations feel slightly formal or explanatory, but they effectively communicate the emotional states of the characters and move the narrative forward.
Final Assessment
Far From Home succeeds as an engaging historical drama that personalizes the vast tragedy of World War II through the experiences of compelling characters. While it occasionally simplifies complex historical realities and relies on convenient plot developments, these elements don't diminish the novel's emotional impact or its exploration of important themes.
Steel deserves particular credit for:
- Creating a protagonist whose dual heritage allows exploration of both sides of the conflict
- Depicting the French Resistance with respect and nuance
- Balancing romance with historical realism
- Capturing the disorientation and grief of families separated by war
For readers interested in similar historical fiction, Anthony Doerr's "All the Light We Cannot See" and Kristin Hannah's "The Nightingale" offer complementary perspectives on occupied France, though with different stylistic approaches.
March 14, 2025
A pretty heavy subject but told in a informative way
March 9, 2025
4.25 stars
March 7, 2025
Decent idea but there was really no particular tension in the storyline
April 1, 2025
The simple, declarative sentence structure and the absolute Mary-Sue protagonist made this one pretty unreadable. It feels like it was written by a thirteen-year-old on wattpad. I usually give books 100 pages to hook me in, but I gave up around page 50. Please, Danielle, I know you're a super experienced author, but please learn about commas, complex sentences, and complex characters. Jesus.
July 21, 2025
It was not a great story I enjoyed reading.!
March 9, 2025
To be transparent, when I commenced the first few chapters, I wasn't sure about this novel. I'm a fan of the author's work but the upper class's entitlement bothered me when others were struggling to make ends meet.
I find Holocaust historical fiction disturbingly heartfelt especially after touring the former camps while living abroad. There's a haunting presence that remains due to the atrocities yet captures the power of the human spirit.
In 1944, Arielle von Auspeck lives a luxurious lifestyle as a German in high society. Traveling to Paris to attend parties and to shop for her winter wardrobe, she expected her husband, to meet her there. While attending a society party, a former military officer pressed papers into her hand and upon reaching her room, she realized it was a French passport in her maiden name. Learning that her husband was part of a failed military coup to assassinate Hitler, Arielle needs to forge a new life for herself to remain safe.
From that point on, the story pens the protagonist's resiliencies and readers will want Arielle to succeed. Danielle Steel fans who prefer her historical fiction titles, you won't be disappointed and makes sure to keep reading o discover how Arielle will fare when she's Far From Home.'
I find Holocaust historical fiction disturbingly heartfelt especially after touring the former camps while living abroad. There's a haunting presence that remains due to the atrocities yet captures the power of the human spirit.
In 1944, Arielle von Auspeck lives a luxurious lifestyle as a German in high society. Traveling to Paris to attend parties and to shop for her winter wardrobe, she expected her husband, to meet her there. While attending a society party, a former military officer pressed papers into her hand and upon reaching her room, she realized it was a French passport in her maiden name. Learning that her husband was part of a failed military coup to assassinate Hitler, Arielle needs to forge a new life for herself to remain safe.
From that point on, the story pens the protagonist's resiliencies and readers will want Arielle to succeed. Danielle Steel fans who prefer her historical fiction titles, you won't be disappointed and makes sure to keep reading o discover how Arielle will fare when she's Far From Home.'
May 5, 2025
I enjoyed this one. WWII was the background story. Love triumphs over evil!
March 30, 2025
Far From Home by Danielle Steel is a historical novel that takes place in 1944. Arielle von Auspeck is a half French and half German wealthy woman. Her husband is part of the assassination attempt of Hilter. Now she is in hiding.
Very interesting and well written account of people hiding from Hilter's men, resistance activities including forgeries and translations.
This is not the standard story line nor writing skill of Danielle Steel in recent time. Far better than in recent years.
Very interesting and well written account of people hiding from Hilter's men, resistance activities including forgeries and translations.
This is not the standard story line nor writing skill of Danielle Steel in recent time. Far better than in recent years.
March 15, 2025
Absolutely loved it such a page turner and a perfect length this author should do more historical fiction
August 23, 2025
I know Ms. Steel’s books are poorly written and repetitive, but this one is particularly dreadful as her WW2 plot lines have more holes than Swiss cheese. 😡
May 19, 2025
This book had the potential to be an amazing storyline. The stories of WW2 survival has always been intriguing to me. But the declarative sentence structure was unbearable. Couldn’t fall in love with the characters because of it and it lacked luster and connection. I do like Danielle Steele and was surprised she shifted her writing style in this book- skip this and try another one.
April 4, 2025
3.5 As popular as I know Steele is, I’m not sure I’ve ever read one of her books.
This book had a great plot but the writing seemed very simplistic. It was almost as if it was an outline for a much longer more detailed and better edited book.
This book had a great plot but the writing seemed very simplistic. It was almost as if it was an outline for a much longer more detailed and better edited book.
March 30, 2025
It was okay. She repeated a lot of information again and again. Not my favorite. Really slow at the end.
April 2, 2025
Felt like chatGPT
October 19, 2025
I read Danielle Steel books to escape the daily grind. I love the historical aspect of her stories. Are they great literature? no, but they are a relaxing read. Who doesn’t love a happy ending? Life isn’t always grand, but it’s nice to escape for a while.
December 8, 2025
loved!!!! a love story from WWII. the plot was so good.. definitely fiction but really could have happened. the holocaust is such a depressing topic, but it’s nice when you hear that good things came of it.. definitely recommend!!
March 16, 2025
This was a great story from beginning to end
March 19, 2025
Emotional story
An emotional story set in Europe at a tumultuous time in the 1930s and 1940s. I believe that Danielle has written a wonderful story, that I highly recommend. Thanks Danielle.
An emotional story set in Europe at a tumultuous time in the 1930s and 1940s. I believe that Danielle has written a wonderful story, that I highly recommend. Thanks Danielle.
March 6, 2025
This book is very moving for many aspects. There are some triggers if you have family that dealt with Hitler time. I got this as an audiobook and finished in 1 day because I had to know what happened. I did shed some tears but was a great book and love how she adds history into the book.
June 28, 2025
Quick read, enjoyable and predictable as expected from a Danielle Steel book. Offers a different perspective on WWll - German citizen resistance viewpoint.
September 9, 2025
If I could give a minus star rating I would. This is the first Danielle Steel book I have read and it was atrocious. Editing is terrible and the book itself is repetitive and out of touch, which is a shame because the story line had so much potential. I won’t be reading anything else by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 348 reviews