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The Wartime Chocolate Maker
Poland, 1943. I inhale the rich caramel scent as I carefully tuck a folded slip of paper under the delicate chocolates. My heart races as the door opens, and I lock eyes with my childhood sweetheart. If he found one of the secret messages hidden in every box of my creations, my life and my family would be in terrible danger…
Working in her father’s chocolate factory, Kasia risks her life every day hiding notes vital to the Polish resistance in the carefully packaged boxes. The information tucked beneath the truffles is crucial to freeing her country and her family from the Nazis. But each of her recipes is sent out under the watchful eyes of her boss, Sebastian—the man who broke her heart.
She has never been able to reconcile the kind, sweet boy she once adored with the man now allied with the Germans. Yet the more time she spends around him, the more he seems to hint at sympathizing with the resistance. And the risk of revealing everything to him seems to shrink day by day.
Until one coded message hidden among the rich chocolate makes her fear for her mother and brother’s lives. And though she’s on the factory floor with a group of fellow resistance women, she can’t let on what she knows. Because her network has been betrayed.
As she searches the faces of those closest to her for any sign of guilt, her eyes meet Sebastian’s, full of care and concern. With time running out, Kasia wonders if she can trust him with this deadly secret? Or are the soldiers already on their way to arrest her?
Working in her father’s chocolate factory, Kasia risks her life every day hiding notes vital to the Polish resistance in the carefully packaged boxes. The information tucked beneath the truffles is crucial to freeing her country and her family from the Nazis. But each of her recipes is sent out under the watchful eyes of her boss, Sebastian—the man who broke her heart.
She has never been able to reconcile the kind, sweet boy she once adored with the man now allied with the Germans. Yet the more time she spends around him, the more he seems to hint at sympathizing with the resistance. And the risk of revealing everything to him seems to shrink day by day.
Until one coded message hidden among the rich chocolate makes her fear for her mother and brother’s lives. And though she’s on the factory floor with a group of fellow resistance women, she can’t let on what she knows. Because her network has been betrayed.
As she searches the faces of those closest to her for any sign of guilt, her eyes meet Sebastian’s, full of care and concern. With time running out, Kasia wonders if she can trust him with this deadly secret? Or are the soldiers already on their way to arrest her?
282 pages, Paperback
First published March 18, 2025
999 people are currently reading
886 people want to read
About the author
Gosia Nealon
6 books119 followersWhile Gosia Nealon is a proud New Yorker, she was born and raised in Poland. Her journey to the Big Apple revealed a wealth of cultural differences, but also the values that connect us all. Like the fierce desire to protect family, find love, and ultimately, discover who we are and why we’re here.
Gosia’s award-winning short stories have always delved into life’s biggest questions, but it was the drama, sacrifice, and tragedy of WWII that led her to pen her debut novel, "The Last Sketch."
Growing up in Poland, Gosia heard many firsthand accounts of the war, told from a perspective rarely captured in mainstream literature. She was compelled to breathe life into Wanda and Finn, two young people falling in love in the midst of the most terrifying conflict of our time.
When Gosia isn’t tapping away at her laptop, she’s often walking the streets of New York. With her husband and three young sons in tow, they search for the most succulent pierogi, transporting them back to the cobbled streets of her childhood.
Gosia’s award-winning short stories have always delved into life’s biggest questions, but it was the drama, sacrifice, and tragedy of WWII that led her to pen her debut novel, "The Last Sketch."
Growing up in Poland, Gosia heard many firsthand accounts of the war, told from a perspective rarely captured in mainstream literature. She was compelled to breathe life into Wanda and Finn, two young people falling in love in the midst of the most terrifying conflict of our time.
When Gosia isn’t tapping away at her laptop, she’s often walking the streets of New York. With her husband and three young sons in tow, they search for the most succulent pierogi, transporting them back to the cobbled streets of her childhood.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 21, 2025
1943 sweeps in changes for Gdansk and the Hartmann family and they are forced to do things they never thought they’d do. They owned a chocolate-making factory at a time in history when chocolate was considered a luxury item and not essential for the war effort. Struggling to make ends meet, Mr. Hartmann aligns himself with the enemy so that while production was limited, he still profited. The fear of losing everything he’d worked for moved him to agree to focus on manufacturing chocolate for the sole use of the Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe.
Nealon shows how fear changes people, how pretending becomes self-preservation, and how the different shades of love carry people through the dark days of history.
Her characters are pulled in so many directions as they deal with Hitler’s cruelties, Stalin’s brainwashing, malicious blackmailing and false friendships.
I appreciated learning about Kashubian traditions and food, and how the use of Pertitin benefitted Hilter on and off the battlefield.
Fraulein Katharina Hartmann shows readers that even in war the most effective way to fight isn’t on the open battlefield. You’ll have to read to uncover her battle plan. This 5-star historical fiction highlighting the Jewel of Baltic and the Polish resistance shows how love and hope can rise out of the rubble of broken people and broken buildings.
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Nealon shows how fear changes people, how pretending becomes self-preservation, and how the different shades of love carry people through the dark days of history.
Her characters are pulled in so many directions as they deal with Hitler’s cruelties, Stalin’s brainwashing, malicious blackmailing and false friendships.
I appreciated learning about Kashubian traditions and food, and how the use of Pertitin benefitted Hilter on and off the battlefield.
Fraulein Katharina Hartmann shows readers that even in war the most effective way to fight isn’t on the open battlefield. You’ll have to read to uncover her battle plan. This 5-star historical fiction highlighting the Jewel of Baltic and the Polish resistance shows how love and hope can rise out of the rubble of broken people and broken buildings.
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 7, 2025
have hears so many great reviews about this book. But I did not get completely invested in this book. I liked the Main characters, especially the older Main characters in this book. They were strong. But some parts felt a little bit too rushed, it did not go into depth. But still glad i read it. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
March 12, 2025
The Wartime Chocolate Maker is a story about a female chocolate maker during WWII.
I enjoyed this book, and I do give it a 4 star rating. I don't know how historically accurate the book is, I would need to do some more research to really know if the activities in the book happened or at least were semi accurate. I do know there is at least 1 passage that I don't feel was accurate, and that was when one of the characters is at a concentration camp, and mentions how "this camp did not give them tattoos like Auschwitz". I do not think that anyone in the world knew what was going on at the various concentration camps except the people in them, and the Nazis working at them, not until after the war was over. But I also feel that the author knows this, and was just making the comment more as a reference, because the reader would understand, I believe there was a Polish resistance army, and that is what this book is mainly based on. The FMC Kasia, works at her late father's chocolate factory, and delivers chocolates to the German soldiers. Because of her work, she is able to overhear information that she then passes onto the Polish resistance. Kasia is German and Polish, her father having been German and her mother Polish. Luckily for her family, when her father died, a benefactor named Sebastien, looks out for the family. Sebastien and Kasia were supposed to get married years ago, but Kasia fled as she was not ready for marriage at the time. Now, even though Kasia cannot figure out what side Sebastien is on, she has to allow his advances to keep her family safe.
I will make a couple complaints, I don't feel the blurb for this story, is the best description of what it is about. I don't want to write any spoilers, but Sebastien is not the only MMC in the story, and you would not guess that from the blurb. The other complaint I have is I didn't really know what the purpose of the story was. Yes, Kasia gathered information that she passed to the resistance, but beyond that, and the hope for the end of the war and a reuniting with someone she met in the resistance, I never really could figure out the end goal or point of the story. So, it truly was just a story, vs having any kind of expected set of events.
The entire story, I was waiting for bad things to happen, because, well it is a Polish family in WWII. There were definitely some tragic events within the story, and reading it was uncomfortable. And what I mean by uncomfortable is experiencing through reading, the way these non-German people had to live their lives to survive during that time. Even once the Soviets had taken over the city, it still wasn't safe for a while, and I just can't, and don't want to imagine having lived through such a tragic and horrible war.
I do recommend this book, if you enjoy WWII historical fiction, even with my complaints, I did feel it was a good read.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author for an advanced copy of this book.
I enjoyed this book, and I do give it a 4 star rating. I don't know how historically accurate the book is, I would need to do some more research to really know if the activities in the book happened or at least were semi accurate. I do know there is at least 1 passage that I don't feel was accurate, and that was when one of the characters is at a concentration camp, and mentions how "this camp did not give them tattoos like Auschwitz". I do not think that anyone in the world knew what was going on at the various concentration camps except the people in them, and the Nazis working at them, not until after the war was over. But I also feel that the author knows this, and was just making the comment more as a reference, because the reader would understand, I believe there was a Polish resistance army, and that is what this book is mainly based on. The FMC Kasia, works at her late father's chocolate factory, and delivers chocolates to the German soldiers. Because of her work, she is able to overhear information that she then passes onto the Polish resistance. Kasia is German and Polish, her father having been German and her mother Polish. Luckily for her family, when her father died, a benefactor named Sebastien, looks out for the family. Sebastien and Kasia were supposed to get married years ago, but Kasia fled as she was not ready for marriage at the time. Now, even though Kasia cannot figure out what side Sebastien is on, she has to allow his advances to keep her family safe.
I will make a couple complaints, I don't feel the blurb for this story, is the best description of what it is about. I don't want to write any spoilers, but Sebastien is not the only MMC in the story, and you would not guess that from the blurb. The other complaint I have is I didn't really know what the purpose of the story was. Yes, Kasia gathered information that she passed to the resistance, but beyond that, and the hope for the end of the war and a reuniting with someone she met in the resistance, I never really could figure out the end goal or point of the story. So, it truly was just a story, vs having any kind of expected set of events.
The entire story, I was waiting for bad things to happen, because, well it is a Polish family in WWII. There were definitely some tragic events within the story, and reading it was uncomfortable. And what I mean by uncomfortable is experiencing through reading, the way these non-German people had to live their lives to survive during that time. Even once the Soviets had taken over the city, it still wasn't safe for a while, and I just can't, and don't want to imagine having lived through such a tragic and horrible war.
I do recommend this book, if you enjoy WWII historical fiction, even with my complaints, I did feel it was a good read.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author for an advanced copy of this book.
March 23, 2025
World War II rages on across Europe, and so many people live in harms way. Kasia works in her father’s chocolate factory. She risks her life every time she hides notes in the boxes filled with the amazing chocolates. The notes help the Polish resistance. Kasia knows the risk she is taking with every box of chocolates that is delivered.
When her network is compromised, she hides in plain sight, working on the chocolate factory’s floor. She continues her mission for the resistance, and she worries for the safety of not just herself but also her mother and brother.
The Wartime Chocolate Maker, written by author Gosia Nealon, is a wonderful story of hope and heartbreak. I was completely heartbroken, and as the tears ran down my face, I was speechless. This story really came to life, and not only had me reaching for the Kleenex, but I had to have some chocolate. Nealon is a masterful storyteller.
This book is a definite must-read for all historical fiction fans. This author reels you in from the very first page and doesn’t let you go until the last page is read. I highly recommend this fantastic book.
When her network is compromised, she hides in plain sight, working on the chocolate factory’s floor. She continues her mission for the resistance, and she worries for the safety of not just herself but also her mother and brother.
The Wartime Chocolate Maker, written by author Gosia Nealon, is a wonderful story of hope and heartbreak. I was completely heartbroken, and as the tears ran down my face, I was speechless. This story really came to life, and not only had me reaching for the Kleenex, but I had to have some chocolate. Nealon is a masterful storyteller.
This book is a definite must-read for all historical fiction fans. This author reels you in from the very first page and doesn’t let you go until the last page is read. I highly recommend this fantastic book.
January 27, 2025
Just wow! This book set in WW2 Poland/Germany is totally riveting, I could not put it down. It’s so full of heartbreak, sorrow, fear, love and hope. I can only imagine what these people went through during WW2 and this book gave me a good idea of how hard life would be many. It felt real and accurate to the time. This is my first book by this author and it will certainly not be the last. I love the writing style, it really drew me in, emotionally threw me around a bit and then spit me out. It was powerful, though provoking and horrible but always there was hope. Really loved this book, totally deserves 5 stars.
March 19, 2025
It has been quite some time since I read a WWII historical fiction novel, due to the devastating feelings I experienced while watching the movie Schindler‘s List, but The Wartime Chocolate Maker was the perfect book to bring me back to the genre. This sensitive read highlights the well-known fact that during World War II, Jews were taken to camps either for imprisonment or extermination. So reading this latest book by Gosia Nealon had an impact on me from the very beginning.
Kasia was from two worlds, born to both Polish and Jewish parents. For her protection, she was sent to live with her aunt. But now, Kasia is forced to work at her own father‘s chocolate factory ostensibly to portray her support for the Third Reich. As difficult as this is for Kasia, being in her father‘s factory, with him now deceased, has her torn when it comes to how she felt about him.
Kasia is not just going along with her forced employment, she is also involved with the Polish Resistance and is helping as many Jews as possible. One strong feeling that came from reading this book was how many dealt with the difficulties of having the will to live due to the brutal treatment they endured. All the while, Kasia struggles to protect her younger brother and her mother, even though it seems that someone is using her brother to get information to her. Walking on a tight rope has become Kasia’s life. She continues to struggle for optimism and deals with confusing emotional feelings. This touching story was a very good read and will be with me for a long time.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Kasia was from two worlds, born to both Polish and Jewish parents. For her protection, she was sent to live with her aunt. But now, Kasia is forced to work at her own father‘s chocolate factory ostensibly to portray her support for the Third Reich. As difficult as this is for Kasia, being in her father‘s factory, with him now deceased, has her torn when it comes to how she felt about him.
Kasia is not just going along with her forced employment, she is also involved with the Polish Resistance and is helping as many Jews as possible. One strong feeling that came from reading this book was how many dealt with the difficulties of having the will to live due to the brutal treatment they endured. All the while, Kasia struggles to protect her younger brother and her mother, even though it seems that someone is using her brother to get information to her. Walking on a tight rope has become Kasia’s life. She continues to struggle for optimism and deals with confusing emotional feelings. This touching story was a very good read and will be with me for a long time.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
March 1, 2025
I am in awe of the Gosia Nealon and her story telling. Reading the title, you would think it was a simple story. That is so far from the truth. Katharina, had fled to Warsaw after her father was working on an arranged marriage for her. Upon his death she returns to help her mother and brother.
Things are different now. Sebastian, the man she was supposed to marry, is now incharge of the chocolate factory her father owned. Making it worse, he now lives next door to her mom. Sebastian is a member of the Nazi party. Katharina was in the resistance in warsaw. She will continue her work in Gdańsk.
The author has the reader follow along as Katharina works for the resistance gathering information from the Germans she delivers chocolates. We watch as she dances around Sebastian's advances and the extremes he will go to in order to make her his. She will risk his ire to spend time with Felek, a man from her past.
Experience the occupation. Struggle to live in the time of war. Witness the destruction. See how the war creates strange friendships and the obliteration of social classes. Question if the saviors are really saviors or just as bad. Sympathize with Felek when the worst happens. Celebrate when the Nazis are defeated.
The twists left me speechless. Revelations had me fuming. Loss and cruelty had me in tears. The defeat of the Nazi regime had me screaming with joy. The story reminding me of the devastation left me crying long after I closed the book.
Things are different now. Sebastian, the man she was supposed to marry, is now incharge of the chocolate factory her father owned. Making it worse, he now lives next door to her mom. Sebastian is a member of the Nazi party. Katharina was in the resistance in warsaw. She will continue her work in Gdańsk.
The author has the reader follow along as Katharina works for the resistance gathering information from the Germans she delivers chocolates. We watch as she dances around Sebastian's advances and the extremes he will go to in order to make her his. She will risk his ire to spend time with Felek, a man from her past.
Experience the occupation. Struggle to live in the time of war. Witness the destruction. See how the war creates strange friendships and the obliteration of social classes. Question if the saviors are really saviors or just as bad. Sympathize with Felek when the worst happens. Celebrate when the Nazis are defeated.
The twists left me speechless. Revelations had me fuming. Loss and cruelty had me in tears. The defeat of the Nazi regime had me screaming with joy. The story reminding me of the devastation left me crying long after I closed the book.
September 14, 2025
Page turner.
For chocolate lovers
For chocolate lovers
March 2, 2025
"The Wartime Chocolate Maker" is a powerful and gripping historical novel that captivated me from the very first page. Kasia’s story is filled with bravery, the tension of working under enemy scrutiny, and a heartbreaking love story, making it an emotional read. With lives at stake and raw emotions intertwined with suspense, I found myself turning pages late into the night. If you love historical fiction, this book is a must-read!
April 28, 2025
Gosia Nealon’s “The Wartime Chocolate Maker” is a compelling and heartfelt tale set against the backdrop of WWII. Katharina, the brave protagonist, deftly navigates the perilous line between her secret involvement with the Polish resistance and her daily life working at her late father’s chocolate factory. Nealon masterfully combines suspense, courage, and resilience in a story that sweetens the darkness of war with moments of hope and humanity. I absolutely loved the idea of dual narrative and the epilogue had me in tears. A beautifully written homage to bravery and the enduring power of resistance, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and inspiring stories. Five huge stars!
January 30, 2025
Kasia is half German & half Polish work at her father's chocolate factory in Poland in WWII. She hides notes to support the Polish resistance in chocolate boxes, but she is under watch by Sebastian, her former lover, current boss & he sides with the Germans. Despite this, she continues to support the resistance even if it puts her life on the line.
I was intrigued by the story from the start with putting secret notes in chocolate boxes to support the resistance as espionage grew during this time period. The dual point of view gives you an insight of the main characters' thoughts as WWII passes. It shows how ordinary citizens helped with the effort without being on the battlefield. The novel focuses on the themes of the struggles of loyalty, identity, staying true to your beliefs, supporting your family and forgiveness. Fans of historical fiction, especially ones focusing on WWII, will enjoy The Wartime Chocolate Maker.
Thank you Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was intrigued by the story from the start with putting secret notes in chocolate boxes to support the resistance as espionage grew during this time period. The dual point of view gives you an insight of the main characters' thoughts as WWII passes. It shows how ordinary citizens helped with the effort without being on the battlefield. The novel focuses on the themes of the struggles of loyalty, identity, staying true to your beliefs, supporting your family and forgiveness. Fans of historical fiction, especially ones focusing on WWII, will enjoy The Wartime Chocolate Maker.
Thank you Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2025
Absolutely brilliant story from start to finish.
March 3, 2025
#TheWartimeChocolateMaker #NetGalley
Thank you to Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I picked this book as I was intrigued by the title alone. I expected a rich, immersive story centered around chocolate—how it was made, how it was instrumental for the resistance movement, and how it was used as a powerful tool to uncover confidential matters and secrets and pass them along from one point to another. Unfortunately, the book did not deliver on these expectations. While the premise was interesting and some characters were well-developed, inconsistencies in historical accuracy, and missed opportunities made this an average to below-average read for me. The novel did not immerse me in the world of wartime chocolate-making, and the plot felt disconnected from the realities of the time.
One of the first things that stood out was the inconsistent approach to translating phrases. The book provides both Polish and English translations for the four ideologies and some other common words, yet the Latin phrase on the Long Market arch is only given in English.
The phrase "fold my lips" was used too many times and is a phrase that I had never heard before reading this book. Examples:
- I fold my lips
- mouth folds into self-amusement
- allowing her mouth to fold into a warm smile
- Every time I read that phrase, I could imagine someone physically folding a pair of lips like one folds an item of clothing
- So many ways to effectively describe someone’s lips curling into a smile or someone going silent.
There are some inconsistencies in the plot that I could not get over:
- For instance, Kasia goes to Neugarten because they called in with an order, but once there, she goes from door to door offering chocolate for sale. That feels contradictory.
- Sara’s story about her family perishing at Treblinka raises questions about historical accuracy. From everything else I’ve read in the past, the term "extermination camp" might not have been widely used at the time, and many people—including those in Nazi-controlled areas—were unaware of the full extent of the Holocaust. In I Escaped from Auschwitz, Rudolf Vrba details how outsiders had limited knowledge of what was happening inside the camps. Similarly, when discussing Stutthof, Kasia mentions the number system and how it wasn’t tattooed like in Auschwitz—how would she have known that? This suggests an awareness that doesn’t align with historical reality.
- Another historical inconsistency is the reference to "Keep Calm" posters, which were a British wartime propaganda campaign. Their presence in this context feels misplaced.
- The use of the word "karma" also stood out. While it is a familiar term today, it’s worth questioning whether it was commonly known in wartime Poland or Germany. The phrase "karma will get him on its own" seems more modern than appropriate for the time.
- The delivery of chocolate to the SS office by three girls on a weekly basis was another odd element. Why was so much chocolate being consumed there, and why was an outsider allowed into their building so frequently? Given the paranoia of the time, this open-door policy for a chocolate vendor felt unrealistic.
- In my opinion the major missed opportunity in this story was the Chocolate itself.
- For a book titled The Wartime Chocolate Maker, chocolate was disappointingly underdeveloped as a central element. The author could have made it a character in itself—describing the silkiness, the richness, the combinations that brought out new flavors. There was a great opportunity to explore how chocolate-making had to adapt due to ingredient shortages and how creative solutions led to unexpected yet delightful results. Instead, all I recall from the book, 15 days after finishing it, is a few lines about blending beans and certain varieties pairing well with vanilla or caramel. A stronger focus on the craft of chocolate-making would have added a rich and sensory depth to the novel.
- Kasia's interactions with Abt also raise questions. At one point, she considers asking Abt about Felek. Was she so comfortable with him that she thought she could just casually ask about a resistance fighter without raising suspicion? Her confidence in Abt’s willingness to overlook resistance activity—just for chocolates—feels unrealistic. In a time of intense scrutiny and fear, it seems improbable that such a request would go unnoticed or unpunished.
- The fight with death chapter lacked originality, and the subsequent conversation with the doctor felt unnecessary. When she asked, "Can I ask you something?" I assumed she was going to inquire about her father. Instead, the conversation took an odd, unconvincing turn that added little to the plot.
- A recurring issue is the way the book presents wartime Poland. The story often feels as though it was written with the benefit of hindsight rather than an authentic representation of that time period. There’s an overall sense that the characters know too much about the war’s outcome and what was happening in other locations, rather than reacting with the uncertainty and limited knowledge that would have been prevalent at the time.
- Furthermore, the lack of urgency and suspicion surrounding Kasia’s suspected resistance involvement is baffling. It’s hard to believe that Sebastian or Nazi officers like Bruno would be so willing to ignore their knowledge of her activities in Warsaw (even if unconfirmed) just because she made chocolates.
The word "the" was omitted in many sentences and I'm hoping that was just because it was an ARC and that these will be cleaned-up before final publication. Not posting examples here for this reason.
Final Thoughts: Overall, The Wartime Chocolate Maker struggles with historical authenticity, logical consistency, and writing clarity. While some characters are well-developed, they could have used more depth. The book feels like a modern interpretation of wartime events rather than a story genuinely set in that era. Additionally, the book missed a great opportunity to make chocolate a more integral element. While the premise had potential, the execution left much to be desired.
I've read some truly amazing World War II books, and when I picked this one up, I was sure it would be part of that list. Unfortunately, I was left disappointed, and it actually pains me to give this a low rating.
Thank you to Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I picked this book as I was intrigued by the title alone. I expected a rich, immersive story centered around chocolate—how it was made, how it was instrumental for the resistance movement, and how it was used as a powerful tool to uncover confidential matters and secrets and pass them along from one point to another. Unfortunately, the book did not deliver on these expectations. While the premise was interesting and some characters were well-developed, inconsistencies in historical accuracy, and missed opportunities made this an average to below-average read for me. The novel did not immerse me in the world of wartime chocolate-making, and the plot felt disconnected from the realities of the time.
One of the first things that stood out was the inconsistent approach to translating phrases. The book provides both Polish and English translations for the four ideologies and some other common words, yet the Latin phrase on the Long Market arch is only given in English.
The phrase "fold my lips" was used too many times and is a phrase that I had never heard before reading this book. Examples:
- I fold my lips
- mouth folds into self-amusement
- allowing her mouth to fold into a warm smile
- Every time I read that phrase, I could imagine someone physically folding a pair of lips like one folds an item of clothing
- So many ways to effectively describe someone’s lips curling into a smile or someone going silent.
There are some inconsistencies in the plot that I could not get over:
- For instance, Kasia goes to Neugarten because they called in with an order, but once there, she goes from door to door offering chocolate for sale. That feels contradictory.
- Sara’s story about her family perishing at Treblinka raises questions about historical accuracy. From everything else I’ve read in the past, the term "extermination camp" might not have been widely used at the time, and many people—including those in Nazi-controlled areas—were unaware of the full extent of the Holocaust. In I Escaped from Auschwitz, Rudolf Vrba details how outsiders had limited knowledge of what was happening inside the camps. Similarly, when discussing Stutthof, Kasia mentions the number system and how it wasn’t tattooed like in Auschwitz—how would she have known that? This suggests an awareness that doesn’t align with historical reality.
- Another historical inconsistency is the reference to "Keep Calm" posters, which were a British wartime propaganda campaign. Their presence in this context feels misplaced.
- The use of the word "karma" also stood out. While it is a familiar term today, it’s worth questioning whether it was commonly known in wartime Poland or Germany. The phrase "karma will get him on its own" seems more modern than appropriate for the time.
- The delivery of chocolate to the SS office by three girls on a weekly basis was another odd element. Why was so much chocolate being consumed there, and why was an outsider allowed into their building so frequently? Given the paranoia of the time, this open-door policy for a chocolate vendor felt unrealistic.
- In my opinion the major missed opportunity in this story was the Chocolate itself.
- For a book titled The Wartime Chocolate Maker, chocolate was disappointingly underdeveloped as a central element. The author could have made it a character in itself—describing the silkiness, the richness, the combinations that brought out new flavors. There was a great opportunity to explore how chocolate-making had to adapt due to ingredient shortages and how creative solutions led to unexpected yet delightful results. Instead, all I recall from the book, 15 days after finishing it, is a few lines about blending beans and certain varieties pairing well with vanilla or caramel. A stronger focus on the craft of chocolate-making would have added a rich and sensory depth to the novel.
- Kasia's interactions with Abt also raise questions. At one point, she considers asking Abt about Felek. Was she so comfortable with him that she thought she could just casually ask about a resistance fighter without raising suspicion? Her confidence in Abt’s willingness to overlook resistance activity—just for chocolates—feels unrealistic. In a time of intense scrutiny and fear, it seems improbable that such a request would go unnoticed or unpunished.
- The fight with death chapter lacked originality, and the subsequent conversation with the doctor felt unnecessary. When she asked, "Can I ask you something?" I assumed she was going to inquire about her father. Instead, the conversation took an odd, unconvincing turn that added little to the plot.
- A recurring issue is the way the book presents wartime Poland. The story often feels as though it was written with the benefit of hindsight rather than an authentic representation of that time period. There’s an overall sense that the characters know too much about the war’s outcome and what was happening in other locations, rather than reacting with the uncertainty and limited knowledge that would have been prevalent at the time.
- Furthermore, the lack of urgency and suspicion surrounding Kasia’s suspected resistance involvement is baffling. It’s hard to believe that Sebastian or Nazi officers like Bruno would be so willing to ignore their knowledge of her activities in Warsaw (even if unconfirmed) just because she made chocolates.
The word "the" was omitted in many sentences and I'm hoping that was just because it was an ARC and that these will be cleaned-up before final publication. Not posting examples here for this reason.
Final Thoughts: Overall, The Wartime Chocolate Maker struggles with historical authenticity, logical consistency, and writing clarity. While some characters are well-developed, they could have used more depth. The book feels like a modern interpretation of wartime events rather than a story genuinely set in that era. Additionally, the book missed a great opportunity to make chocolate a more integral element. While the premise had potential, the execution left much to be desired.
I've read some truly amazing World War II books, and when I picked this one up, I was sure it would be part of that list. Unfortunately, I was left disappointed, and it actually pains me to give this a low rating.
March 25, 2025
The Wartime Chocolate Maker is the new book from Gosia Nealon which follows Kasia and her family during the German occupation of Poland specifically her home town Gdansk. It’s June 1943 and Kasia has returned from Warsaw where she has spent several years living with her Aunt following a disagreement with her father. Her father has recently passed away and she purposefully missed the funeral but she knows her mother and younger brother need her now. The opportunity for reconciliation with her father will now never present itself and overtime this eats away at Kasia. She still can’t believe that her father turned despite being German (her mother is Polish) against what the family stood for and started supporting the German movement which has overtaken their beautiful city and in many ways the running of the family chocolate factory. Throughout the book she tries to decipher whether it was all a front or was his head really turned? It’s a conundrum amidst many that she must face.
Times are tough for the people of Poland. Their lives have been irrevocably changed but throughout it all Kasia grows as a person. She is compassionate towards other and uses her intelligence carefully. She takes a wise approach to situations but I felt she threaded a fine line. I was always fearful that the work she continued for the Resistance movement when she returned to the city would be discovered and the worst fate would befall her. Her hardworking nature saw her start work at the factory but her father’s business partner Sebastian Richter was in my mind someone not to be trusted.It was like he always had ulterior motives.
Kasia was wary of him given he was the root cause of her having to leave her family. The issues from that time still have their roots firmly set in 1943. Sebastian really tried to worm his way into her life. I found him to be sneaky and underhand but Kasia’s mother could only see good in him. Kasia had to pretend to be someone she was not when she was around him and as she began to see a bigger game developing she showed cunning and had her wits about to start playing it well but again I was anxious that she would be discovered. She works in the factory as a way of proving her loyalty to the Reich even though she detests everything that it stands for but at the same time she can gleam bits of information that might help her fellow members in the Resistance with their big plans.
I found I needed a bit more tension, unease and suspense throughout the book. Yes, there were moments when dangerous events occurred but they were too brief. I wanted things to escalate and reach a dramatic climax but this didn’t occur. What I did enjoy was reading chapters from Felek’s point of view. He had been arrested, terrorised and interrogated by the Gestapo in Warsaw but freed by the Resistance. Making his way to the Resistance group in Gdansk he was determined to continue to do his bit. I would have loved to have discovered a bit about his background and family as there wasn’t anything mentioned about that at all. He disappears for periods of the book and again it would have been brilliant to read about what his missions entailed. Yes, there were a few very brief pages detailing a significant event that occurred for him towards the last quarter of the book but again not enough detail was given. The same could be said for the epilogue. The story ended then we had the epilogue and I felt it didn’t feel in the blanks enough.
Overall, throughout I just had the feeling of needing more regarding several aspects. I did enjoy the mentions of characters from previous books and I found myself seeking them out.The feelings that develop between Kasia and Felek although they need to be kept hidden for fear of what Sebastian would do if he found out did feel real. They trusted one another and as they were part of a bigger group working towards one common goal they shared common goals and viewpoints. In a way they were kindred spirits whom I wished the war had not affected their lives so that they could be together always. Instead, daily Kasia and Felek navigate a world where danger lurks around every corner and there are hard times for all the characters involved.
The Wartime Chocolate Maker was a slow burner of a book that takes some time to get going and when it does it is only for a short time. This one was a bit of a mixed bag for me as I felt it was more of an observation of the period rather than a real, solid specific plot that the reader could get their teeth into. Yes, for the most part the details of the time and what the people were going through was present but I felt it needed more. There was a lot covered but I felt it flitted between characters too much and that events were mentioned and swiftly dealt with but they needed more exploration and development. This is not a bad book by any means but it just wouldn’t be my favourite from this author and the chocolate aspect in my mind was under utilised as there was so much potential there. Overall, an interesting and somewhat enjoyable read but not the best in the historical fiction genre that I have read so far this year.
Times are tough for the people of Poland. Their lives have been irrevocably changed but throughout it all Kasia grows as a person. She is compassionate towards other and uses her intelligence carefully. She takes a wise approach to situations but I felt she threaded a fine line. I was always fearful that the work she continued for the Resistance movement when she returned to the city would be discovered and the worst fate would befall her. Her hardworking nature saw her start work at the factory but her father’s business partner Sebastian Richter was in my mind someone not to be trusted.It was like he always had ulterior motives.
Kasia was wary of him given he was the root cause of her having to leave her family. The issues from that time still have their roots firmly set in 1943. Sebastian really tried to worm his way into her life. I found him to be sneaky and underhand but Kasia’s mother could only see good in him. Kasia had to pretend to be someone she was not when she was around him and as she began to see a bigger game developing she showed cunning and had her wits about to start playing it well but again I was anxious that she would be discovered. She works in the factory as a way of proving her loyalty to the Reich even though she detests everything that it stands for but at the same time she can gleam bits of information that might help her fellow members in the Resistance with their big plans.
I found I needed a bit more tension, unease and suspense throughout the book. Yes, there were moments when dangerous events occurred but they were too brief. I wanted things to escalate and reach a dramatic climax but this didn’t occur. What I did enjoy was reading chapters from Felek’s point of view. He had been arrested, terrorised and interrogated by the Gestapo in Warsaw but freed by the Resistance. Making his way to the Resistance group in Gdansk he was determined to continue to do his bit. I would have loved to have discovered a bit about his background and family as there wasn’t anything mentioned about that at all. He disappears for periods of the book and again it would have been brilliant to read about what his missions entailed. Yes, there were a few very brief pages detailing a significant event that occurred for him towards the last quarter of the book but again not enough detail was given. The same could be said for the epilogue. The story ended then we had the epilogue and I felt it didn’t feel in the blanks enough.
Overall, throughout I just had the feeling of needing more regarding several aspects. I did enjoy the mentions of characters from previous books and I found myself seeking them out.The feelings that develop between Kasia and Felek although they need to be kept hidden for fear of what Sebastian would do if he found out did feel real. They trusted one another and as they were part of a bigger group working towards one common goal they shared common goals and viewpoints. In a way they were kindred spirits whom I wished the war had not affected their lives so that they could be together always. Instead, daily Kasia and Felek navigate a world where danger lurks around every corner and there are hard times for all the characters involved.
The Wartime Chocolate Maker was a slow burner of a book that takes some time to get going and when it does it is only for a short time. This one was a bit of a mixed bag for me as I felt it was more of an observation of the period rather than a real, solid specific plot that the reader could get their teeth into. Yes, for the most part the details of the time and what the people were going through was present but I felt it needed more. There was a lot covered but I felt it flitted between characters too much and that events were mentioned and swiftly dealt with but they needed more exploration and development. This is not a bad book by any means but it just wouldn’t be my favourite from this author and the chocolate aspect in my mind was under utilised as there was so much potential there. Overall, an interesting and somewhat enjoyable read but not the best in the historical fiction genre that I have read so far this year.
February 21, 2025
This book had me craving chocolate on multiple occasions. Kasia's father owns a chocolate factory in Poland. After her father passes away, she moves back to help her mother and brother along with the factory. While she was away, she worked for the Polish Resistance. When she returned to her hometown, she was able to help with the Resistance by passing messages along in chocolate wrappers and simply keeping her ears open while making chocolate deliveries to German officials. Sebastian is the technical owner of the chocolate factory after Kasia's father dies. To keep her family in good graces, Kasia has been pretending to be in love with Sebastian for over a year.
Felek is also working for the Polish Resistance. Felek and Kasia have seen each other in passing over the last couple of years, but one night they kiss. They then realize they love each other. This part felt very sudden. The ending in general also felt very rushed. I almost think things were tied up in too pretty of a bow at the end.
SPOILER BELOW...
I almost wish Felek died at the camp. It just would have been more realistic. I think I would have liked the book more if he had died. For Kasia to have been shot by Sebastian for not loving her at the end, and to survive it. Then for Felek to be sent on a death march and not die even though the Germans were trying to cover up their sins by killing them all off. It just felt too unrealistic for me. I also was hoping at the end of the book, the author was going to have an Author's Note explaining how this book was based off a chocolate factory in Poland during that time. I thought it would have been very clever for the Resistance to smuggle messages in candy wrappers and have spies with their deliveries, but nothing was said about it being based on a true story. I LOVE it when these type of stories are based on someone's life.
Felek is also working for the Polish Resistance. Felek and Kasia have seen each other in passing over the last couple of years, but one night they kiss. They then realize they love each other. This part felt very sudden. The ending in general also felt very rushed. I almost think things were tied up in too pretty of a bow at the end.
SPOILER BELOW...
I almost wish Felek died at the camp. It just would have been more realistic. I think I would have liked the book more if he had died. For Kasia to have been shot by Sebastian for not loving her at the end, and to survive it. Then for Felek to be sent on a death march and not die even though the Germans were trying to cover up their sins by killing them all off. It just felt too unrealistic for me. I also was hoping at the end of the book, the author was going to have an Author's Note explaining how this book was based off a chocolate factory in Poland during that time. I thought it would have been very clever for the Resistance to smuggle messages in candy wrappers and have spies with their deliveries, but nothing was said about it being based on a true story. I LOVE it when these type of stories are based on someone's life.
March 20, 2025
I haven't read a historical fiction in a while and so it was good to be reading historical fiction once again. The Wartime Chocolate Maker is a historical fiction, based during WWII the time when Germans were occupying Poland in 1943 and the work of the Polish resistance movement.
Kasia is half-German half Polish. When her father died, Kasia inherited his chocolate making factory. She has to work alongside Sebastien who was actually her father's trusted aide and who harbors feelings towards Kasia. But Kasia is interested in Felek, who is involved in the Polish Resistance Movement and through him, Kasia gets involved in the resistance movement as well. The story is about Kasia''s romance with Felek and Felek's sacrifice to resist against the German occupation in Poland.
This was a very moving story. I do like the small romance that brewed between Kasia and Felek in the story. And as someone in the reviews mentioned, there might be some inconsistencies with the actual account of what happened in real. For example, no one knew the existence of Auschwitz until the Soviets liberated the camp in January 1945 and so the prisoners mentioning about Auschwitz was a bit inaccurate. And even though Kasia maybe half German, I read that even Polish people struggled to live comfortably during the Nazi occupation in Poland. The title of the book is Chocolate Maker and I thought I missed some point about Chocolate in the story. I am not sure if this was based on a real life account or maybe fictional although I would have more enjoyed the book if this was based on a true story.
This was a great historical read and the writing was great but could have done some more research so would have made the whole story realistic. Overall 4 stars.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
Kasia is half-German half Polish. When her father died, Kasia inherited his chocolate making factory. She has to work alongside Sebastien who was actually her father's trusted aide and who harbors feelings towards Kasia. But Kasia is interested in Felek, who is involved in the Polish Resistance Movement and through him, Kasia gets involved in the resistance movement as well. The story is about Kasia''s romance with Felek and Felek's sacrifice to resist against the German occupation in Poland.
This was a very moving story. I do like the small romance that brewed between Kasia and Felek in the story. And as someone in the reviews mentioned, there might be some inconsistencies with the actual account of what happened in real. For example, no one knew the existence of Auschwitz until the Soviets liberated the camp in January 1945 and so the prisoners mentioning about Auschwitz was a bit inaccurate. And even though Kasia maybe half German, I read that even Polish people struggled to live comfortably during the Nazi occupation in Poland. The title of the book is Chocolate Maker and I thought I missed some point about Chocolate in the story. I am not sure if this was based on a real life account or maybe fictional although I would have more enjoyed the book if this was based on a true story.
This was a great historical read and the writing was great but could have done some more research so would have made the whole story realistic. Overall 4 stars.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
January 1, 2026
Another sterling effort from Nealon, this time set mostly in Gdańsk, a city with which I’m very familiar. It’s a beautiful city, unless you’re driving. The traffic is scandalous 🤣
This story is about Kasia, a half-German, half-Polish young woman, who returns home when her father dies. She helps with the chocolate factory the Germans have taken from her family and given to her father’s business partner- with her mother being Polish they will not allow the family to keep it.
I liked the idea of secret messages in the confectionery, as Kasia helps the resistance. And would it be a Nealon novel without a complex romance element to it? Another facet to these books is also the very clear message that, for Poland, the end of WW2 was not liberation. It was out of the frying pan and into the fire. Nealon is one of the only authors writing WW2 fiction that makes this very clear.
Nealon’s stories are about hope, love and family. I feel like this one touched more on the grey areas- the motivation of self-preservation (and especially the safety of those we love) can compel people to do some awful things. Family, sacrifice and the struggle to maintain values in impossible circumstances are also common themes.
I’m a big fan of Nealon’s books, they’re exactly my sort of thing and I enjoy her prose and structure. I’m not a fan of romance at all and, whilst her books have elements of that which are important to the plot, they’re not central. It’s really historical fiction with romantic parts.
A lot of character development in this one, too. Nealon’s characters never end the book as the same people who started it. Always great for plot and pace.
If you don’t know Nealon, she’s similar to Mandy Robotham or Suzanne Kelman and often draws comparisons to Heather Morris.
This story is about Kasia, a half-German, half-Polish young woman, who returns home when her father dies. She helps with the chocolate factory the Germans have taken from her family and given to her father’s business partner- with her mother being Polish they will not allow the family to keep it.
I liked the idea of secret messages in the confectionery, as Kasia helps the resistance. And would it be a Nealon novel without a complex romance element to it? Another facet to these books is also the very clear message that, for Poland, the end of WW2 was not liberation. It was out of the frying pan and into the fire. Nealon is one of the only authors writing WW2 fiction that makes this very clear.
Nealon’s stories are about hope, love and family. I feel like this one touched more on the grey areas- the motivation of self-preservation (and especially the safety of those we love) can compel people to do some awful things. Family, sacrifice and the struggle to maintain values in impossible circumstances are also common themes.
I’m a big fan of Nealon’s books, they’re exactly my sort of thing and I enjoy her prose and structure. I’m not a fan of romance at all and, whilst her books have elements of that which are important to the plot, they’re not central. It’s really historical fiction with romantic parts.
A lot of character development in this one, too. Nealon’s characters never end the book as the same people who started it. Always great for plot and pace.
If you don’t know Nealon, she’s similar to Mandy Robotham or Suzanne Kelman and often draws comparisons to Heather Morris.
January 29, 2025
Gosia Nealon continues to shine a spotlight on Poland during World War II with another stellar novel. The setting of Gdansk is fascinating because historically it was more German than Polish. Its ethnic population was 80% German and 20% Polish although this didn't necessarily guarantee support for Hitler. The heroine, Kasia the chocolate maker, struggles with this split identity because her father was German and her mother is Polish yet she doesn't hesitate to join the Resistance against the Nazis.
Gosia Nealon's books immerse the reader in Polish culture with intricate descriptions of food that will have your mouth watering, historical references, and folklore. This story isn't about flashy spies or Resistance fighters parachuting behind enemy lines. Instead, it highlights the strength of family and friendships, compassion, and holding strong to your values in the face of great evil. Even in the darkest times, nothing is more powerful than love. "Love doesn't cease to exist, unlike material things or everything else. True love shines through eternity. In the end, it's all that matters." These are people doing whatever they can to weaken the German occupation and survive without losing their humanity. As Kasia says, "When the war ends, I want to look in the mirror without shame, I want to pass on the right values to my children." I loved this newest book even though I ate too much chocolate and depleted my supply of tissues while reading it. It will be released on March 21, 2025.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
Gosia Nealon's books immerse the reader in Polish culture with intricate descriptions of food that will have your mouth watering, historical references, and folklore. This story isn't about flashy spies or Resistance fighters parachuting behind enemy lines. Instead, it highlights the strength of family and friendships, compassion, and holding strong to your values in the face of great evil. Even in the darkest times, nothing is more powerful than love. "Love doesn't cease to exist, unlike material things or everything else. True love shines through eternity. In the end, it's all that matters." These are people doing whatever they can to weaken the German occupation and survive without losing their humanity. As Kasia says, "When the war ends, I want to look in the mirror without shame, I want to pass on the right values to my children." I loved this newest book even though I ate too much chocolate and depleted my supply of tissues while reading it. It will be released on March 21, 2025.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
July 29, 2025
At times, historical fiction tends to sound the same over and over. I’ve found that with the number I’ve been reading, they seem to follow a pattern. It doesn’t mean the story is bad, but it does tend to be rather predictable for fans of the genre.
The Wartime Chocolate Maker appealed to me because I never dreamed of a chocolate factory being able to operate in Gdansk during the Second World War. However, I researched it a bit, and yes, there were chocolate factories in German-held territories that continued to operate. The chocolates were given to Luftwaffe pilots and crew in order to keep them awake during missions. The story depicted here is quite plausible.
Kasia Hartmann returns home to her native Gdansk following her father’s death. The two had an argument a few years before that ended with her leaving home to live with an aunt in Warsaw. With just her mother and younger brother, Kornel, at home now, it’s up to Kasia to step in and run the family’s chocolate factory. Her father was German and her mother is Polish. The family chocolate factory has remained open due to her father’s ingratiating himself with the occupying forces, his German background, and his new business partner, Sebastien. Kasia dreads going to work with Sebastien, but when she first encounters him, he is quite charming. It helps that he’s easy on the eyes as well. In order to keep things running smoothly both at the factory and for her family at home, Kasia allows Sebastien to romance her.
To read my complete review, please go to The Wartime Chocolate Maker by Gosia Nealon – Life and Love in Gdansk During WWII
The Wartime Chocolate Maker appealed to me because I never dreamed of a chocolate factory being able to operate in Gdansk during the Second World War. However, I researched it a bit, and yes, there were chocolate factories in German-held territories that continued to operate. The chocolates were given to Luftwaffe pilots and crew in order to keep them awake during missions. The story depicted here is quite plausible.
Kasia Hartmann returns home to her native Gdansk following her father’s death. The two had an argument a few years before that ended with her leaving home to live with an aunt in Warsaw. With just her mother and younger brother, Kornel, at home now, it’s up to Kasia to step in and run the family’s chocolate factory. Her father was German and her mother is Polish. The family chocolate factory has remained open due to her father’s ingratiating himself with the occupying forces, his German background, and his new business partner, Sebastien. Kasia dreads going to work with Sebastien, but when she first encounters him, he is quite charming. It helps that he’s easy on the eyes as well. In order to keep things running smoothly both at the factory and for her family at home, Kasia allows Sebastien to romance her.
To read my complete review, please go to The Wartime Chocolate Maker by Gosia Nealon – Life and Love in Gdansk During WWII
March 6, 2025
I have read every book by Gosia Nealon and The Wartime Chocolate Maker is by far my favorite! Gosia brings the true heart of Poland and the Polish resistance alive in this novel that is packed full of bravery, love, resistance, courage, and determination. Gosia takes us back in time to World War II as Poland suffers under the Nazi regime.
Gosia tells the story of Kasia, as she returns to her hometown of Gdansk after living in Warsaw after the death of her father. As she returns, she’s faced with a town plagued with Nazi’s, her fellow countrymen barely getting by, and her fathers factory being ran by Sebastian - the man she was supposed to have married but she ran away from many years ago. As Sebastian spouts Nazi rhetoric and tries to manipulate Kasia into being with him again, Kasia uses her position as working alongside Sebastian in the chocolate factory to work for the resistance and smuggle information. Sebastian tries to sweep Kasia off her feet, but her heart belongs to her fellow resistance member Felek.
Gosia paints a clear and vivid picture of what life was truly like for Polish people during this time. She also showcases their resilience, love of country, fearlessness, and grit by the strong and admirable characteristics she’s created in Kasia’s character.
For WWII historical fiction lovers, this is a must read!
Gosia tells the story of Kasia, as she returns to her hometown of Gdansk after living in Warsaw after the death of her father. As she returns, she’s faced with a town plagued with Nazi’s, her fellow countrymen barely getting by, and her fathers factory being ran by Sebastian - the man she was supposed to have married but she ran away from many years ago. As Sebastian spouts Nazi rhetoric and tries to manipulate Kasia into being with him again, Kasia uses her position as working alongside Sebastian in the chocolate factory to work for the resistance and smuggle information. Sebastian tries to sweep Kasia off her feet, but her heart belongs to her fellow resistance member Felek.
Gosia paints a clear and vivid picture of what life was truly like for Polish people during this time. She also showcases their resilience, love of country, fearlessness, and grit by the strong and admirable characteristics she’s created in Kasia’s character.
For WWII historical fiction lovers, this is a must read!
October 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
The Wartime Chocolate Maker is a tender, sensory-rich story about endurance, love, and the ways people hold on to beauty when the world around them is breaking. Set during World War II, the novel follows a young woman who inherits her family’s small chocolate shop just as the war begins to change everything, rations, relationships, and what it means to hope. As soldiers come and go, and the village shifts under the weight of loss and fear, she continues to craft chocolate from what little she has, offering sweetness and comfort to those who’ve forgotten what peace tastes like.
The story unfolds gently, alternating between personal heartbreak and quiet moments of courage. What I loved most was how Quinn uses the act of chocolate making as a form of resistance, each recipe and ribboned box becomes a small rebellion against despair. The characters feel deeply real, their choices shaped by duty, love, and the longing for normalcy in a world turned upside down.
The pacing is steady, the writing elegant without being showy. There are passages that read like memory, soft, deliberate, and full of sensory texture. My only wish was to spend a little more time with some of the secondary voices that flicker in and out of the story, but the emotional core remains steady and sincere throughout.
This is a novel for readers who appreciate quiet strength and small mercies. It reminds us that even when everything else is rationed, kindness and creativity don’t have to be.
The Wartime Chocolate Maker is a tender, sensory-rich story about endurance, love, and the ways people hold on to beauty when the world around them is breaking. Set during World War II, the novel follows a young woman who inherits her family’s small chocolate shop just as the war begins to change everything, rations, relationships, and what it means to hope. As soldiers come and go, and the village shifts under the weight of loss and fear, she continues to craft chocolate from what little she has, offering sweetness and comfort to those who’ve forgotten what peace tastes like.
The story unfolds gently, alternating between personal heartbreak and quiet moments of courage. What I loved most was how Quinn uses the act of chocolate making as a form of resistance, each recipe and ribboned box becomes a small rebellion against despair. The characters feel deeply real, their choices shaped by duty, love, and the longing for normalcy in a world turned upside down.
The pacing is steady, the writing elegant without being showy. There are passages that read like memory, soft, deliberate, and full of sensory texture. My only wish was to spend a little more time with some of the secondary voices that flicker in and out of the story, but the emotional core remains steady and sincere throughout.
This is a novel for readers who appreciate quiet strength and small mercies. It reminds us that even when everything else is rationed, kindness and creativity don’t have to be.
February 6, 2025
The Wartime chocolate maker was a beautifully written story of the polish spirit during WWII.
My favorite characters had to be Kornel and Zofia:
Kornel for his innocence as a child and having to deal with a changing landscape, having to learn to keep secrets and eventually loss.
Zofia for her mission to reunite with her lost husband and how some polish resistance fighters were there on a suicide mission because they were afraid to do it themselves. And when it came down to it she faced her fears of suicide instead of giving up the secrets of the resistance.
I would have loved to learn more about how they shared secret messages through the chocolates. How certain secrets were passed down through writing. Was it a mix of polish words or codes? Did the embroidery have a secret meaning when she talked about the origin of colors?
While I understand the importance of the romance between Katherina and Sebastian as a ploy, I do feel the explicit detailing in how she felt slightly detracted from the importance of her espionage work.
Great read and a gripping story from start to finish.
My favorite characters had to be Kornel and Zofia:
Kornel for his innocence as a child and having to deal with a changing landscape, having to learn to keep secrets and eventually loss.
Zofia for her mission to reunite with her lost husband and how some polish resistance fighters were there on a suicide mission because they were afraid to do it themselves. And when it came down to it she faced her fears of suicide instead of giving up the secrets of the resistance.
I would have loved to learn more about how they shared secret messages through the chocolates. How certain secrets were passed down through writing. Was it a mix of polish words or codes? Did the embroidery have a secret meaning when she talked about the origin of colors?
While I understand the importance of the romance between Katherina and Sebastian as a ploy, I do feel the explicit detailing in how she felt slightly detracted from the importance of her espionage work.
Great read and a gripping story from start to finish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“The Wartime Chocolate Maker” is a historical fiction WWII book by Gosia Nealon. I thought the idea behind this book was interesting - Kasia, working in her father’s chocolate factory in Poland, hides notes supporting the Polish resistance in chocolate boxes. This book is told in dual points of view, that of Felix and Kasia. While this book highlighted the role Gdansk (a town in Poland that, historically, was more German than Polish) along with some of the history of Poland, this book didn’t hold my attention as much as Ms. Nealon’s other book “Codebreaker Girl.” I found myself skimming sections and not really learning anything new. I wish that the author’s note had explained a bit more about how she got her idea for this book (she mentioned Gdansk chocolate). This wasn’t the best WWII fiction book for me, but I will definitely read Ms. Nealson’s next WWII book, based upon my enjoyment of her previous book.
“The Wartime Chocolate Maker” is a historical fiction WWII book by Gosia Nealon. I thought the idea behind this book was interesting - Kasia, working in her father’s chocolate factory in Poland, hides notes supporting the Polish resistance in chocolate boxes. This book is told in dual points of view, that of Felix and Kasia. While this book highlighted the role Gdansk (a town in Poland that, historically, was more German than Polish) along with some of the history of Poland, this book didn’t hold my attention as much as Ms. Nealon’s other book “Codebreaker Girl.” I found myself skimming sections and not really learning anything new. I wish that the author’s note had explained a bit more about how she got her idea for this book (she mentioned Gdansk chocolate). This wasn’t the best WWII fiction book for me, but I will definitely read Ms. Nealson’s next WWII book, based upon my enjoyment of her previous book.
March 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC!
Kasia and Felek have a heartbreaking story, stuck in Poland trying to help the Polish Resistance during WW2. It’s a really moving story, though at times certain plot lines seem to just get dropped. Kasia was a frustratingly complex character, but I just couldn’t get behind her infatuation with Sebastian through half of the book. The man worshipped the Nazis, had a picture of Hitler, and routinely threatened her and her family while claiming to be their protector. Blackmail is not protection, but Kasia has to endure a lot just to protect her family, especially her little brother.
I appreciated the description of the horrors of what happened after the Soviet Union liberated Poland, and how, for many, it only shifted the responsibility of tragedy from one place to another.
It wasn’t my favorite WW2 historical fiction, but the perspective of a chocolatier was one I hadn’t read before, so overall I enjoyed it.
Kasia and Felek have a heartbreaking story, stuck in Poland trying to help the Polish Resistance during WW2. It’s a really moving story, though at times certain plot lines seem to just get dropped. Kasia was a frustratingly complex character, but I just couldn’t get behind her infatuation with Sebastian through half of the book. The man worshipped the Nazis, had a picture of Hitler, and routinely threatened her and her family while claiming to be their protector. Blackmail is not protection, but Kasia has to endure a lot just to protect her family, especially her little brother.
I appreciated the description of the horrors of what happened after the Soviet Union liberated Poland, and how, for many, it only shifted the responsibility of tragedy from one place to another.
It wasn’t my favorite WW2 historical fiction, but the perspective of a chocolatier was one I hadn’t read before, so overall I enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2025
Kasia was raised working with her father in the family chocolate factory in Poland. She ran away from home when he wanted her to marry his partner at the chocolate factory towards the start of WWII. After he passed away she returned home to work in the factory with Sebastian, who is her family's protector but she's not sure if she can trust him. She's working with the Polish resistance to smuggle information through the chocolates.
I enjoyed this historical fiction story which took place in Poland. This was an intriguing story about working for the resistance, and dealing with having to pretend who you are to get along in a difficult political climate. It also dealt with the aftermath of WWII in Poland and going from being occupied by Germans to being liberated and having to deal with the communist regime and still not having much freedom.
Thanks @bookouture, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.
I enjoyed this historical fiction story which took place in Poland. This was an intriguing story about working for the resistance, and dealing with having to pretend who you are to get along in a difficult political climate. It also dealt with the aftermath of WWII in Poland and going from being occupied by Germans to being liberated and having to deal with the communist regime and still not having much freedom.
Thanks @bookouture, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.
March 26, 2025
I was looking forward to reading this! Being Polish, I gravitate to historical fiction novels set in Poland (usually during WWII). I was excited to read this because it was set in a city (Gdańsk) that isn't the normal setting for these books (Warsaw or sometimes Kraków). I was so excited to read about chocolate and how that was used to help the Polish Resistance.
Anyways, I think that the blurb is a bit misleading. I found the dual POV to be distracting. I wish chocolate was the main focal point of this book. The storytelling itself was great- beautifully written- but some parts were historically inaccurate. Overall, I was invested and couldn't put the book down.
This being said, would I read another one of Gosia's books? Yes, because I liked her writing style. I just wish there was more editing and maybe expanding on some of the major points as some parts seemed rushed (even though this book is 312 pages long).
Thank you to Net Galley for the eARC.
Anyways, I think that the blurb is a bit misleading. I found the dual POV to be distracting. I wish chocolate was the main focal point of this book. The storytelling itself was great- beautifully written- but some parts were historically inaccurate. Overall, I was invested and couldn't put the book down.
This being said, would I read another one of Gosia's books? Yes, because I liked her writing style. I just wish there was more editing and maybe expanding on some of the major points as some parts seemed rushed (even though this book is 312 pages long).
Thank you to Net Galley for the eARC.
May 21, 2025
Like almost all of Europe, the Polish countrysides were sufffering the consequences of War. Kasia was working at her family’s chocolate factory along side a German partner, Sebastian who she has history with.
She must be very careful because she is a part of the Polish resistance and cannot afford to get caught. Under the guise of her work, she uncovers secrets of the Nazis and passes them on, all the while trying her best to protect friends, family and colleagues.
She loses her heart to a fellow fighter and is heartbroken when she hears he has been arrested.
It’s a long game of survival and smarts, that she has to play for herself and those who depend on her.
I liked the setting of the book, but it wasn’t as intense as I am used to reading. I found Kasia smart yet naive and somewhat lucky to have survived. It felt a little like a scratch on the surface kind of book. The harder stories were never spoken off.
She must be very careful because she is a part of the Polish resistance and cannot afford to get caught. Under the guise of her work, she uncovers secrets of the Nazis and passes them on, all the while trying her best to protect friends, family and colleagues.
She loses her heart to a fellow fighter and is heartbroken when she hears he has been arrested.
It’s a long game of survival and smarts, that she has to play for herself and those who depend on her.
I liked the setting of the book, but it wasn’t as intense as I am used to reading. I found Kasia smart yet naive and somewhat lucky to have survived. It felt a little like a scratch on the surface kind of book. The harder stories were never spoken off.
March 22, 2025
THE WARTIME CHOCOLATE MAKER, by Gosia Nealon, is a captivating historical novel that unfolds in German-occupied Poland during WWII. It immerses us in Kasia's world, a part of the underground resistance movement, as she navigates life at her family's chocolate factory in Gdańsk.
This is a compelling narrative that unfolds like an unpredictable thriller. It skillfully blends historical accuracy with vivid character dynamics. The plot is a rollercoaster of unforeseen turns, keeping the reader on the edge, wondering about the fate of Kasia, Felek, and the other characters. While the ending may feel rushed, it does not detract from the overall experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all historical fiction enthusiasts!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC. This book is my Gosia Nealon's first, but not my last!
This is a compelling narrative that unfolds like an unpredictable thriller. It skillfully blends historical accuracy with vivid character dynamics. The plot is a rollercoaster of unforeseen turns, keeping the reader on the edge, wondering about the fate of Kasia, Felek, and the other characters. While the ending may feel rushed, it does not detract from the overall experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all historical fiction enthusiasts!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC. This book is my Gosia Nealon's first, but not my last!
March 18, 2025
The Wartime Chocolate Maker reflects just how powerful love, compassion and courage can be in horrific circumstances. The array of characters were the highlight of this story - their strength, resilience, loyalty, bravery and determination to survive really shines through the pages.
I felt fully transported to Gdansk whilst reading this book. The author beautifully describes the Polish culture, the food, the history and the city architecture.
Do read the author’s notes and acknowledgements at the end for a little insight into the history of chocolate in Gdansk and also her inspiration for this novel.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the publisher, Bookouture. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I felt fully transported to Gdansk whilst reading this book. The author beautifully describes the Polish culture, the food, the history and the city architecture.
Do read the author’s notes and acknowledgements at the end for a little insight into the history of chocolate in Gdansk and also her inspiration for this novel.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the publisher, Bookouture. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 22, 2025
Oh my goodness what a wonderful book it had everything romance, intrigue and tension.
Kasia has returned to work in her Father’s chocolate factory with his business partner. Her Father has recently died and she came back to support her Mother and brother. Sebastian who owns the factory jointly with Kasia family supports is hiding something he is in love with Kasia. Kasia helped Felek a Polish resistance in escaping and she keeps meeting him.
I found it very interesting to read about how the Polish people were with the Germans and the intrigue that went on you wondered how they coped with the Germans. The characters were very strong and worked well together. It was sad in places and had enjoyable in other bits of the book.
Certainly would recommend this book.
Kasia has returned to work in her Father’s chocolate factory with his business partner. Her Father has recently died and she came back to support her Mother and brother. Sebastian who owns the factory jointly with Kasia family supports is hiding something he is in love with Kasia. Kasia helped Felek a Polish resistance in escaping and she keeps meeting him.
I found it very interesting to read about how the Polish people were with the Germans and the intrigue that went on you wondered how they coped with the Germans. The characters were very strong and worked well together. It was sad in places and had enjoyable in other bits of the book.
Certainly would recommend this book.
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