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The Lion's Den #4
The Grand Illusion: A Family Drama in Hitler's Berlin in the 1930s: The Lion's Den Series, Book 4
Berlin 1936—the Grand Illusion has begun.
With the coming of the Olympic Games to Berlin, a false air of civility has taken over as the government extends a welcome to the world. But below the surface, the police state remains, and hundreds of so-called “undesirables” are rounded up and held in a newly constructed concentration camp in the city. In desperation, one of the prisoners reaches out to the Ritter family, and Maureen and her band of subversives will undertake a mission of mercy that could see them all end up as victims of the dreaded Gestapo.
When one of his old war buddies appears in Berlin, Seamus Ritter realizes it’s no coincidence. Soon, he will be enlisted to infiltrate the Nazi establishment and report back to the Americans on the Nazi progress in building the most advanced war machine the world has ever known.
Michael Ritter’s dream has become a reality as he prepares to compete in the 100 meters against the seemingly unbeatable American, Jesse Owens. But at a lavish party on the eve of the games, he meets a beautiful stranger who could upend his life and change his fate.
The Grand Illusion is the fourth novel in a new series by the number one Amazon best-selling author of White Rose, Black Forest , and The Longest Echo, set in Hitler’s Germany in the 1930s. Download it and discover Eoin Dempsey’s books today.
With the coming of the Olympic Games to Berlin, a false air of civility has taken over as the government extends a welcome to the world. But below the surface, the police state remains, and hundreds of so-called “undesirables” are rounded up and held in a newly constructed concentration camp in the city. In desperation, one of the prisoners reaches out to the Ritter family, and Maureen and her band of subversives will undertake a mission of mercy that could see them all end up as victims of the dreaded Gestapo.
When one of his old war buddies appears in Berlin, Seamus Ritter realizes it’s no coincidence. Soon, he will be enlisted to infiltrate the Nazi establishment and report back to the Americans on the Nazi progress in building the most advanced war machine the world has ever known.
Michael Ritter’s dream has become a reality as he prepares to compete in the 100 meters against the seemingly unbeatable American, Jesse Owens. But at a lavish party on the eve of the games, he meets a beautiful stranger who could upend his life and change his fate.
The Grand Illusion is the fourth novel in a new series by the number one Amazon best-selling author of White Rose, Black Forest , and The Longest Echo, set in Hitler’s Germany in the 1930s. Download it and discover Eoin Dempsey’s books today.
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First published July 5, 2022
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About the author
Eoin Dempsey
37 books1,045 followersEoin Dempsey was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1977. He grew up in the beautiful Dublin suburb of Dalkey, where he and his friends would jump into the icy waters of the Irish Sea (during summertime) to prove their manliness. Eoin had a fantastic time attending Blackrock College, where he played rugby (poorly) and did his best to coast his way through. Eoin’s first ambition was to play rugby for Ireland. Due to a lack of talent, he soon abandoned that goal for the more reasoned path of the rock star. He played in bands through his teens and well into his twenties before harsh reality came calling, and his dreams of being the next Keith Moon faded.
Eoin made the ill-reasoned decision to study business in university and was accepted into University College Dublin to study Commerce in 1995. While Eoin did attend college, studying wasn’t his priority there.
He met his beautiful wife, Jill, while traveling to the USA in 1997, though it would be several years before he managed to break her down and they got together as a couple. It was during Eoin’s second stint in the USA, which he spent with his brother in New York City, that he decided to start writing a novel, for the express purpose of impressing women. This effort was met with mixed success. Eoin finished his first novel a year later. The over hundred and fifty rejections he received from publishers didn’t discourage him. He pinned them to his wall. After spending a year in Australia, where he was fired from many jobs, including picking red and green peppers and toiling for scallops miles out to sea on a fishing trawler, he returned home and decided to write again. Another novel followed while he phoned it in at a number of jobs in financial services in Dublin.
By this time Eoin had managed to convince Jill, the girl he’d met in the USA years before to move over to Dublin. She did so in 2004. It was the best negotiation he ever undertook. They were married in 2007. Jill’s more brilliant negotiating skills led Eoin to move to her hometown of Philadelphia in 2008, just in time for the economy to collapse. The plan to live with her parents for a few weeks turned into eighteen months, as Eoin struggled to retain employment in a fractured economy. It was during this time that he wrote FINDING REBECCA, which would go on to be his first published novel and be translated into fourteen different languages.
Eoin and Jill have three beautiful sons, Robbie, who was born in 2015, Sam, born in 2017, and Jack who came in 2019. Eoin enjoys playing with them and marveling at how much more talented they are at the sports that he loves, particularly golf.
Eoin made the ill-reasoned decision to study business in university and was accepted into University College Dublin to study Commerce in 1995. While Eoin did attend college, studying wasn’t his priority there.
He met his beautiful wife, Jill, while traveling to the USA in 1997, though it would be several years before he managed to break her down and they got together as a couple. It was during Eoin’s second stint in the USA, which he spent with his brother in New York City, that he decided to start writing a novel, for the express purpose of impressing women. This effort was met with mixed success. Eoin finished his first novel a year later. The over hundred and fifty rejections he received from publishers didn’t discourage him. He pinned them to his wall. After spending a year in Australia, where he was fired from many jobs, including picking red and green peppers and toiling for scallops miles out to sea on a fishing trawler, he returned home and decided to write again. Another novel followed while he phoned it in at a number of jobs in financial services in Dublin.
By this time Eoin had managed to convince Jill, the girl he’d met in the USA years before to move over to Dublin. She did so in 2004. It was the best negotiation he ever undertook. They were married in 2007. Jill’s more brilliant negotiating skills led Eoin to move to her hometown of Philadelphia in 2008, just in time for the economy to collapse. The plan to live with her parents for a few weeks turned into eighteen months, as Eoin struggled to retain employment in a fractured economy. It was during this time that he wrote FINDING REBECCA, which would go on to be his first published novel and be translated into fourteen different languages.
Eoin and Jill have three beautiful sons, Robbie, who was born in 2015, Sam, born in 2017, and Jack who came in 2019. Eoin enjoys playing with them and marveling at how much more talented they are at the sports that he loves, particularly golf.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 2, 2022
The Grand Illusion by Eoin Dempsey was the fourth book in The Lion’s Den Series. I have read other books by Eoin Dempsey and have enjoyed them but this was the first book I read in this series. I am sure that it would have been preferable to have read the other three books in the series before I read this one but in my opinion, The Grand Illusion, read fine as a stand alone book. The Grand Illusion was well written and impeccably well researched. All the characters were well developed and believable. The title, The Grand Illusion, was perfectly chosen. As journalists, reporters and tourists flocked to Berlin for the 1936 Olympics, Hitler made sure that Berlin, Germany was seen as a thriving, cultured and pleasant city to be living in. He made sure to flaunt his presence and put on a show for the whole world to see. Hitler might have fooled most of the world and the people who came to see the Olympics but a few of its citizens were not fooled in the least. While Hitler spared no expense to put on a good show, the Nazis continued to rid the streets of Berlin of all its “undesirables “. While all the bells and whistles were being delivered, Concentration Camps were being constructed to house the “undesirables” right under the noses of those attending the 1936 Olympics.
This was a family saga that explored different sentiments within one family. It portrayed those that resisted and tried to help those that were being targeted by the Nazis despite the consequences they would probably suffer. . The Grand Illusion showed how the younger generation was being taught to believe unconditionally in Hitler and and the Nazis and resist against their own family’s thoughts and beliefs. The discrimination and treatment of the Roma population by the Nazis was focused on in great detail. This was a book about choosing, courage, trust, friendship, family, allegiance, hope, survival, and love. I enjoyed reading The Grand Illusion by Eoin Dempsey and hope that he decides to write another book in this series. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to The Book Whisper for allowing me to read this ARC digital version of The Grand Illusion through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Publication is set for July 5, 2022.
This was a family saga that explored different sentiments within one family. It portrayed those that resisted and tried to help those that were being targeted by the Nazis despite the consequences they would probably suffer. . The Grand Illusion showed how the younger generation was being taught to believe unconditionally in Hitler and and the Nazis and resist against their own family’s thoughts and beliefs. The discrimination and treatment of the Roma population by the Nazis was focused on in great detail. This was a book about choosing, courage, trust, friendship, family, allegiance, hope, survival, and love. I enjoyed reading The Grand Illusion by Eoin Dempsey and hope that he decides to write another book in this series. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to The Book Whisper for allowing me to read this ARC digital version of The Grand Illusion through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Publication is set for July 5, 2022.
July 11, 2022
I have been absolutely loving this latest series by historical fiction author Eoin Dempsey, set in 1930’s Berlin during the years leading up to WW2. Seamus Ritter brought his children from the US to Berlin in search of a better life. Now Michael Ritter is going to be running in the Olympic games against American sensation Jesse Owens. Maureen Ritter is working with the rebel underground. A younger daughter, Fiona, has fallen in with a Hitler Youth group. The way that Dempsey writes this, the social pressures that all in the family face, is extremely well done. Seamus’s wife Lisa and her daughter are in danger because they’ve discovered they have Jewish grandparents they didn’t know about.
In this fourth book of the series, Willi, a newspaper stand boy who was involved in a previous book where Lisa and Seamus covered up a murder, comes to Seamus because he needs his help. The Nazis are rounding up Roma families and locking them in camps around Berlin. They’re being starved and Willi fears they’ll soon be taken away from the city to who knows where. Maureen (one of my favorite characters) works with the underground and a new character Monika, a love interest for Michael that I very much like, to try to save Willi’s family. I love the way Dempsey has developed these characters with so much heart and does such an outstanding job showing the history of the time period. Every time I see there is a new installment of this series ready, I am so excited to see what is in store for the Ritter family next.
I received a complimentary copy of The Grand Illusion from the author and NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
In this fourth book of the series, Willi, a newspaper stand boy who was involved in a previous book where Lisa and Seamus covered up a murder, comes to Seamus because he needs his help. The Nazis are rounding up Roma families and locking them in camps around Berlin. They’re being starved and Willi fears they’ll soon be taken away from the city to who knows where. Maureen (one of my favorite characters) works with the underground and a new character Monika, a love interest for Michael that I very much like, to try to save Willi’s family. I love the way Dempsey has developed these characters with so much heart and does such an outstanding job showing the history of the time period. Every time I see there is a new installment of this series ready, I am so excited to see what is in store for the Ritter family next.
I received a complimentary copy of The Grand Illusion from the author and NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 21, 2022
We have before us, what appears to be another, ordinary historical fiction novel, set below the European skies, offering typical characters and well-remembered events of WW2, But is that just an illusion? It certainly is!
Best-selling author, Eoin Dempsey, mingles originality, creativity, and keen insight to deliver a time capsule jam-packed with enigmatic realities, that are both unique and mesmerizing! The setting is Berlin, Germany,1936. The author has us in his spell as he weaves subplots back and forth, enticing us to read even faster….heart sprinting. The characters under Dempsey’s wings are believable and diverse. It becomes so easy to love them or hate them. His writing style is natural and engaging.
No matter how much knowledge or possibly experience you possess about WW2, this novel demands your attention at all times. It adds new questioning, and offers the reader deep thoughts about the social, economic, and political waves of this period in time. One reflects on the triumphs and tragedies of the decade. The profiles of a dictator and his horrific puppets breathe in the darkness. Waiting to be cracked, is the façade of an ideal and benevolent country.
Eoin Dempsey fans, will find that this novel meets with the level of superiority, parallel with his previous best seller, “White Rose, Black Forest”! Yes,! It’s bright, quick, stirring, and alive! I do recommend this novel, as it’s no illusion that it screams for attention! If you’re new to this series, selecting this novel first (#4), will certainly allure you into reading this series in its entirety!
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Best-selling author, Eoin Dempsey, mingles originality, creativity, and keen insight to deliver a time capsule jam-packed with enigmatic realities, that are both unique and mesmerizing! The setting is Berlin, Germany,1936. The author has us in his spell as he weaves subplots back and forth, enticing us to read even faster….heart sprinting. The characters under Dempsey’s wings are believable and diverse. It becomes so easy to love them or hate them. His writing style is natural and engaging.
No matter how much knowledge or possibly experience you possess about WW2, this novel demands your attention at all times. It adds new questioning, and offers the reader deep thoughts about the social, economic, and political waves of this period in time. One reflects on the triumphs and tragedies of the decade. The profiles of a dictator and his horrific puppets breathe in the darkness. Waiting to be cracked, is the façade of an ideal and benevolent country.
Eoin Dempsey fans, will find that this novel meets with the level of superiority, parallel with his previous best seller, “White Rose, Black Forest”! Yes,! It’s bright, quick, stirring, and alive! I do recommend this novel, as it’s no illusion that it screams for attention! If you’re new to this series, selecting this novel first (#4), will certainly allure you into reading this series in its entirety!
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2022
Mission of Mercy
A story of how the Nazi's hid their evil deeds during the 1939 Olympics and attempted to look good in the eyes of the world.
While the Olympics is going on and the world's eyes are on the stadium, the Nazi's are building a concentration camp and rounding up those that are undesirable to them such as the Gypsies.
Michael Ritter is a runner for the German team, however, he is American living in Germany and he is not sympathetic to the Nazi's. When he hurts his ankle running and is invited to a party at the American Embassy he meets a beautiful young girl that will change his life as he knows it.
When Seamus Ritter relays information about a desperate family in the new concentration camp he never believes that his daughter will orchestrate an event that will put the life of her brother and herself in danger. This mission turns into a nightmare.
It shows in the story, that not only did the Nazi's cover us what was happening in Germany during the Olympic games, but they indoctrinated the young children pitting child against parent until the parents were no longer able to trust their children with details of their lives.
It was a good story and I did enjoy reading it. I would recommend this story.
Thanks to Eoin Dempsey for writing a great story, to The Book Whisperer for publishing it, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
A story of how the Nazi's hid their evil deeds during the 1939 Olympics and attempted to look good in the eyes of the world.
While the Olympics is going on and the world's eyes are on the stadium, the Nazi's are building a concentration camp and rounding up those that are undesirable to them such as the Gypsies.
Michael Ritter is a runner for the German team, however, he is American living in Germany and he is not sympathetic to the Nazi's. When he hurts his ankle running and is invited to a party at the American Embassy he meets a beautiful young girl that will change his life as he knows it.
When Seamus Ritter relays information about a desperate family in the new concentration camp he never believes that his daughter will orchestrate an event that will put the life of her brother and herself in danger. This mission turns into a nightmare.
It shows in the story, that not only did the Nazi's cover us what was happening in Germany during the Olympic games, but they indoctrinated the young children pitting child against parent until the parents were no longer able to trust their children with details of their lives.
It was a good story and I did enjoy reading it. I would recommend this story.
Thanks to Eoin Dempsey for writing a great story, to The Book Whisperer for publishing it, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
July 13, 2022
Exceedingly well written and clearly exhaustedly researched, Eoin Dempsey’s The Grand Illusion is an absolutely unique must-read for anyone interested in WWII and historical fiction in general.
I don't believe I’ve ever read a novel that focuses on the infamous 1936 Olympic games, but Dempsey’s extensive historical knowledge and wonderful world-building makes the event come to life and reveals the hidden horrors committed by a regime that wanted to fool the world. I didn’t know anything about the Marzahn concentration camp before reading this book, a camp reserved for the persecuted Roma minority who were kicked out of their homes in Berlin in order to ‘beautify’ the city. I’m so glad that I was able to read this book because it’s important to learn about these lesser-known aspects of the Holocaust.
I also absolutely fell in love with the Ritter family---in particular, oddly enough, I loved Fiona’s early chapter where her father was attempting to introduce her to his Jewish friends. Dempsey really had a talent for showing a variety of very different people with very different outlooks, while making every one of them compelling. In all, I highly recommend!
I don't believe I’ve ever read a novel that focuses on the infamous 1936 Olympic games, but Dempsey’s extensive historical knowledge and wonderful world-building makes the event come to life and reveals the hidden horrors committed by a regime that wanted to fool the world. I didn’t know anything about the Marzahn concentration camp before reading this book, a camp reserved for the persecuted Roma minority who were kicked out of their homes in Berlin in order to ‘beautify’ the city. I’m so glad that I was able to read this book because it’s important to learn about these lesser-known aspects of the Holocaust.
I also absolutely fell in love with the Ritter family---in particular, oddly enough, I loved Fiona’s early chapter where her father was attempting to introduce her to his Jewish friends. Dempsey really had a talent for showing a variety of very different people with very different outlooks, while making every one of them compelling. In all, I highly recommend!
July 8, 2022
Great Read(s)
I read the 1st 4 Books of the series back to back. I just could not put them down!! I Read in the AM, The PM, and while getting ready for work
The story line is intriguing and well done. I did not find any punctuation, spelling, or use of words errors—and I do notice. The author even knew how to use the word “myriad” correctly in a sentence. All that is a great help to the flow of the read.
Historically and Geographically sound, as well.
I highly recommend this series. Looking forward to #5
I read the 1st 4 Books of the series back to back. I just could not put them down!! I Read in the AM, The PM, and while getting ready for work
The story line is intriguing and well done. I did not find any punctuation, spelling, or use of words errors—and I do notice. The author even knew how to use the word “myriad” correctly in a sentence. All that is a great help to the flow of the read.
Historically and Geographically sound, as well.
I highly recommend this series. Looking forward to #5
August 19, 2022
It seems that Dempsey is quite a young author, and this fact makes his achievement in this series even greater. It's not perfect, and here and there some things that happen seem a little improbable, but the way he manages to get into the heads of the people of the era, reconstruct actual daily life under the Nazi regime and how things deteriorated step-by-step is amazing in my eyes. And contrary to how this may sound, this and the other books in the series are very readable, suspenseful and engaging. Looking forward to the next installment. Keep them coming!
September 1, 2023
I’m really loving reading these books. When you think the family can’t take anymore, something else goes wrong. I’ll not give any spoilers away but I highly recommend you read this series of books
July 4, 2022
The Grand Illusion is actually the 4th book in The Lion's Den and not having read the other 3 I was a bit worried that i might not follow this book or feel a bit lost. However I found it was all fine as there is enough reference back to keep you on track. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and thought the authors writing style really brought the characters alive. The contrast between those who were accepted in the German regime and those such as Jews, Roma or anyone who didn't fit the bill is quite stark. The experiences are totally different. The shocking treatment of the Roma family is shocking.. I was in tears when they are torn from their home and carted off to an awful camp that they clearly won't be leaving once the glitz and glamour of the Olympics is over.
The Grand Illusion is the perfect name for this book. An Illusion indeed. Clearing the streets of "So called" undesirables to make Nazi Germany appear to be a wonderful place to be, accepting and welcoming.
One character, Fiona, who belongs to the League of German Gils, really makes you see how the young can be drawn in by rhetoric and lies, almost brainwashed. Although Fiona's Step Mother is half Jewish, a mischling, she truly believes that the Jews are bad, devils almost and must be removed. Her father, an American is beside himself and tries to open her eyes. She meets his Jewish friends who make her doubt her strong beliefs but still she goes back to her League of Girls, but with a slightly more open mind and she admits, to herself she is actually there for the outings and good looking boys..
This is a truly compelling and engaging read that I loved from start to finish. An historical novel that shows both sides of the Nazi Germany coin during the mid 30's and the Olympics.. A book that makes you think and takes you on an emotional journey that really challenges you to think and understand just what happened during these years.
The Grand Illusion is the perfect name for this book. An Illusion indeed. Clearing the streets of "So called" undesirables to make Nazi Germany appear to be a wonderful place to be, accepting and welcoming.
One character, Fiona, who belongs to the League of German Gils, really makes you see how the young can be drawn in by rhetoric and lies, almost brainwashed. Although Fiona's Step Mother is half Jewish, a mischling, she truly believes that the Jews are bad, devils almost and must be removed. Her father, an American is beside himself and tries to open her eyes. She meets his Jewish friends who make her doubt her strong beliefs but still she goes back to her League of Girls, but with a slightly more open mind and she admits, to herself she is actually there for the outings and good looking boys..
This is a truly compelling and engaging read that I loved from start to finish. An historical novel that shows both sides of the Nazi Germany coin during the mid 30's and the Olympics.. A book that makes you think and takes you on an emotional journey that really challenges you to think and understand just what happened during these years.
July 2, 2022
The Grand Illusion is the most appropriate title for book 4 in Eoin Dempsey’s the Lion’s Den series. Through the fictional American-born, living in Berlin Ritter family, the actual, successful, and evil efforts of the Nazi Party in the mid-1930’s are exploited in an absolute edge-of-the-chair, page-turning read.
This may very well be the best novel to date from Dempsey following several enjoyable publications. Dempsey has a unique skill to present accurate historical events through fictional characters resulting in learning history and enjoying vivid details through his characters. These reads are far more exciting than my old history classes.
Exposure to the Berlin 1936 Olympics was totally staged and managed by the Nazis for the visiting news reporters and foreign visitors. Horrible atrocities were taking place close by. The visitors were oblivious. Everything was seemingly wonderful. Even a Jewish female athlete was allowed to compete for Germany as a cover up to reality.
A member of the Ritter family is a Nazi Party member; other family members are active in The Resistance. Son Michael attempts to participant in the Olympics on the German team. The father owns a business, along with his Nazi Party member female cousin, supplying arms to the Nazis. They are all dangerously on the edge of tragedy AND they live under the same roof. The dynamics of their involvements create tensions and portray life under a terrifying regime.
How did the Nazis succeed in attracting so much of the population to get onboard with their plan? This book portrays the illusions, lies, use of ideals to convince the young, fear and more to explain what happened. It is history and the past, yes. It is also an eye-opening parallel to what is occurring in Russia and the Ukraine today.
This may very well be the best novel to date from Dempsey following several enjoyable publications. Dempsey has a unique skill to present accurate historical events through fictional characters resulting in learning history and enjoying vivid details through his characters. These reads are far more exciting than my old history classes.
Exposure to the Berlin 1936 Olympics was totally staged and managed by the Nazis for the visiting news reporters and foreign visitors. Horrible atrocities were taking place close by. The visitors were oblivious. Everything was seemingly wonderful. Even a Jewish female athlete was allowed to compete for Germany as a cover up to reality.
A member of the Ritter family is a Nazi Party member; other family members are active in The Resistance. Son Michael attempts to participant in the Olympics on the German team. The father owns a business, along with his Nazi Party member female cousin, supplying arms to the Nazis. They are all dangerously on the edge of tragedy AND they live under the same roof. The dynamics of their involvements create tensions and portray life under a terrifying regime.
How did the Nazis succeed in attracting so much of the population to get onboard with their plan? This book portrays the illusions, lies, use of ideals to convince the young, fear and more to explain what happened. It is history and the past, yes. It is also an eye-opening parallel to what is occurring in Russia and the Ukraine today.
July 1, 2022
The Olympics are being held in Germany and Hitler is putting on a show for the world to see what a wonderful place Germany is. But behind the scenes, this monster is continuing to try to rid Germany of what he perceives to be undesirable people. Seamus and his cousin Helga have turned the factory into an armament manufacturer. Michael’s dream of running in the Olympics is fulfilled. Maureen is involved in the resistance while her younger sister has been brainwashed by the League of German Girls. The period between WW I and WW II are every bit as scary. I will state two quotes from the book and let you form your own opinion. “The tactics used to control the media are working. When lies aren’t questioned anymore, the truth ceases to exist.” “What chance does a youthful impressionable mind have against the onslaught of propaganda young people are subjected to these days?” I look forward to more in this series.
June 30, 2024
What I liked about The Grand Illusion:
I just love Eoin Dempsey! His writing style in The Grand Illusion is spot-on and as always captivating. His ability to blend historical details with compelling plots is unmatched, making him one of my all-time favorite authors in historical fiction. He continuously evolves each character, making them feel so real and relatable. I found myself sympathizing with them throughout their struggles and journeys.
Dempsey has an incredible knack for making Berlin come alive. I felt like I was right there, walking those tense streets alongside the characters. The way he wove in historical details without ever making it feel like a history lesson blew me away. I learned so much about the 1936 Olympics and the Marzahn camp, two topics that became overshadowed as Hitler grew in power.
I am completely invested in each of the characters journey's as they adventure through unchartered territory and the emotional rollercoaster of the current situation in Berlin. Two notable characters in The Grand Illusion for me, were Fiona and Monika. It's been frustrating to watch Fiona become more involved with the Nazi belief as she has gotten older. However, watching her grapple with her beliefs and slowly open her eyes to reality gives me some hope for her future. Readers are also introduced to Monika, who later will become Michael's wife, in The Grand Illusion. Her final appearance excites me because Dempsey is currently writing a new series about her and I'm excited to learn more about her. I can't wait to see what happens next with both Fiona and Monika, as well as the other members of the Ritter family.
What I disliked about The Grand Illusion:
Honestly, I have no complaints about this book. The only difficult part is confronting the harsh historical realities Dempsey portrays. It's unsettling to know these events actually happened, and even more disturbing to realize they could happen again in today's world.
What I think would have made The Grand Illusion better:
As much as I loved The Grand Illusion, I'm left wanting more. I craved additional chapters, deeper character development, and more historical storytelling. I've become so invested in these characters' lives that I'm reluctant to see their story end.
Would I recommend The Grand Illusion by Eoin Dempsey:
I strongly encourage everyone to read The Grand Illusion and the entire series. Dempsey's writing offers a captivating experience while shedding light on historical events and their relevance to current politics. His extensive knowledge brings the past to life, revealing the hidden horrors of a regime intent on deceiving the world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in compelling historical fiction.
****
As the 1936 Olympics approached in Berlin, the Nazis create an illusion of civility while secretly persecuting "undesirables" in a new concentration camp. Seamus Ritter faces a moral challenge that could endanger his family, while his son Michael competes against Jesse Owens, an American runner, in the 100-meter race. Personal and political tensions collide as the Ritters navigate this deceptive atmosphere.
I just love Eoin Dempsey! His writing style in The Grand Illusion is spot-on and as always captivating. His ability to blend historical details with compelling plots is unmatched, making him one of my all-time favorite authors in historical fiction. He continuously evolves each character, making them feel so real and relatable. I found myself sympathizing with them throughout their struggles and journeys.
Dempsey has an incredible knack for making Berlin come alive. I felt like I was right there, walking those tense streets alongside the characters. The way he wove in historical details without ever making it feel like a history lesson blew me away. I learned so much about the 1936 Olympics and the Marzahn camp, two topics that became overshadowed as Hitler grew in power.
I am completely invested in each of the characters journey's as they adventure through unchartered territory and the emotional rollercoaster of the current situation in Berlin. Two notable characters in The Grand Illusion for me, were Fiona and Monika. It's been frustrating to watch Fiona become more involved with the Nazi belief as she has gotten older. However, watching her grapple with her beliefs and slowly open her eyes to reality gives me some hope for her future. Readers are also introduced to Monika, who later will become Michael's wife, in The Grand Illusion. Her final appearance excites me because Dempsey is currently writing a new series about her and I'm excited to learn more about her. I can't wait to see what happens next with both Fiona and Monika, as well as the other members of the Ritter family.
What I disliked about The Grand Illusion:
Honestly, I have no complaints about this book. The only difficult part is confronting the harsh historical realities Dempsey portrays. It's unsettling to know these events actually happened, and even more disturbing to realize they could happen again in today's world.
What I think would have made The Grand Illusion better:
As much as I loved The Grand Illusion, I'm left wanting more. I craved additional chapters, deeper character development, and more historical storytelling. I've become so invested in these characters' lives that I'm reluctant to see their story end.
Would I recommend The Grand Illusion by Eoin Dempsey:
I strongly encourage everyone to read The Grand Illusion and the entire series. Dempsey's writing offers a captivating experience while shedding light on historical events and their relevance to current politics. His extensive knowledge brings the past to life, revealing the hidden horrors of a regime intent on deceiving the world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in compelling historical fiction.
****
As the 1936 Olympics approached in Berlin, the Nazis create an illusion of civility while secretly persecuting "undesirables" in a new concentration camp. Seamus Ritter faces a moral challenge that could endanger his family, while his son Michael competes against Jesse Owens, an American runner, in the 100-meter race. Personal and political tensions collide as the Ritters navigate this deceptive atmosphere.
August 4, 2023
This is Book Four of The Lion's Den Series. It is July 1936 in Berlin during the Olympics. The Ritter Family have been living in Germany for the past four years. Seamus Ritter, the patriarch, is now a successful businessman who co-owns the Munitions Factory with his Nazi cousin. She is not at all comfortable that Seamus has hired a Jew, Gert Bernheim, as the factory manager. In fact, there are numerous Jews employed at the Factory.
Seamus was born and raised in New Jersey to German parents. Each summer the family would return to Germany to stay with Seamus's German grandparents. So naturally Seamus speaks fluent German.
Seamus has four children: Michael, Maureen, Fiona and Connor; and a step daughter, Hannah.
One day a World War One buddy turns up enlisting Seamus's help about spying on the Nazi Government. At this time Hitler is rearming Germany; which is in violation of The Versailles. Treaty.
This buddy saved Seamus' life; so he feels obligated to help in any way. Although Seamus knows the risks are great.
Mr. Dempsey has yet to disappoint this reader on any of his Lion's Dens Series.
Seamus was born and raised in New Jersey to German parents. Each summer the family would return to Germany to stay with Seamus's German grandparents. So naturally Seamus speaks fluent German.
Seamus has four children: Michael, Maureen, Fiona and Connor; and a step daughter, Hannah.
One day a World War One buddy turns up enlisting Seamus's help about spying on the Nazi Government. At this time Hitler is rearming Germany; which is in violation of The Versailles. Treaty.
This buddy saved Seamus' life; so he feels obligated to help in any way. Although Seamus knows the risks are great.
Mr. Dempsey has yet to disappoint this reader on any of his Lion's Dens Series.
October 19, 2022
Book 4 is excellent. The author brings the events to life. You can almost hear the marchers and feel the fear instilled in those not enthralled by Hitler. The Ritter family has risen to be one of the rich families in Berlin but the father still has a conscience. Even while making armaments for the Nazis, he worries that to not do it would jeopardize his workforce which includes Jews, Russians, and other undesirables. His factory was already burned down once. These are well written stories and the characters are well developed. The 1936 Olympics give the perfect opportunity to fool the world. Berlin is the perfect city. But, it is an illusion. As soon as the Olympics end and the foreigners go home, the real crackdowns will begin. Can’t wait for Book 5 to be published. One week to go.
July 2, 2022
This is Book 4 of a saga of a family whose father's origins were in Germany.
The first book starts out in Newark, NJ during the great depression,
and the family after many trials and tribulations moves to Berlin, Germany in 1932.
The family goes from rags to wealth when they move to Germany.
Then the family ends up in a very different environment with the rise of Hitler and continues the story thru 1936 Olympics. You feel like they are sitting in your home relating their life story.
This is so accurate in its details and is a terrific historical novel.
The author has written other books which are also terrific, but this series is A++++.
The first book starts out in Newark, NJ during the great depression,
and the family after many trials and tribulations moves to Berlin, Germany in 1932.
The family goes from rags to wealth when they move to Germany.
Then the family ends up in a very different environment with the rise of Hitler and continues the story thru 1936 Olympics. You feel like they are sitting in your home relating their life story.
This is so accurate in its details and is a terrific historical novel.
The author has written other books which are also terrific, but this series is A++++.
July 18, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
This series of life in Germany as it pumps up for a Third Reich militarizing its youth and preparing concentration camps for the unwanted is intense. Set in the time of the Olympic games we see how Germany hid its intentions from the world during the games. But underneath the peaceful façade war is brewing.
An American family living in Berlin is caught up in the atmosphere. Some in the family embrace the new government, some try to live life as before and some see the underlying evil. Each member deals with their own perception as they see fit.
This series of life in Germany as it pumps up for a Third Reich militarizing its youth and preparing concentration camps for the unwanted is intense. Set in the time of the Olympic games we see how Germany hid its intentions from the world during the games. But underneath the peaceful façade war is brewing.
An American family living in Berlin is caught up in the atmosphere. Some in the family embrace the new government, some try to live life as before and some see the underlying evil. Each member deals with their own perception as they see fit.
July 17, 2022
Can't put down these books!
This pre war family saga highlights what it was like living in Germany as Hitler's regime gained control. It's still frightening to believe how desperately it changed the individuals and the world.
Eoin Dempsey weaves this saga in a way that you can relate to all the characters. You feel their daily lives changing during the power struggle for Nazi control! I can't wait to read book #5 to see where the Ritter family will be and how they are able to survive the Nazis!
This pre war family saga highlights what it was like living in Germany as Hitler's regime gained control. It's still frightening to believe how desperately it changed the individuals and the world.
Eoin Dempsey weaves this saga in a way that you can relate to all the characters. You feel their daily lives changing during the power struggle for Nazi control! I can't wait to read book #5 to see where the Ritter family will be and how they are able to survive the Nazis!
July 30, 2022
Another GREAT Eoin Dempsey book
As with all Eoin Dempsey books, once you start reading the book you can't put it down. The historical setting along with the fictional characters make this a good book for anyone wanting to sense what Germany was like as Hitler began his quest to conquer the world. It's so important to learn from the past so we don't repeat it again. Dempsey's books give you the insight as to how this began to take place in Germany. Truly a very good book. Can't wait for book 5
As with all Eoin Dempsey books, once you start reading the book you can't put it down. The historical setting along with the fictional characters make this a good book for anyone wanting to sense what Germany was like as Hitler began his quest to conquer the world. It's so important to learn from the past so we don't repeat it again. Dempsey's books give you the insight as to how this began to take place in Germany. Truly a very good book. Can't wait for book 5
January 27, 2024
Justice and Injustice
Illusions are great at putting on a hypocrite's preferred perceptions of others. I like how I am able to watch the members of this family grow and achieve certain goals and dreams. It is like watching them discover who they are and experience the joys and trials of growing up while trying to keep their focus on the priority of family while their outward circumstances are trying to divide them.
It is gut wrenching, sorrowful, and exhilarating.
I love the growth and bonding and despair over the mistrust.
Next.
Illusions are great at putting on a hypocrite's preferred perceptions of others. I like how I am able to watch the members of this family grow and achieve certain goals and dreams. It is like watching them discover who they are and experience the joys and trials of growing up while trying to keep their focus on the priority of family while their outward circumstances are trying to divide them.
It is gut wrenching, sorrowful, and exhilarating.
I love the growth and bonding and despair over the mistrust.
Next.
December 29, 2025
The growing dichotomy of Fiona and Maureen’s developing perception of the world kept me reading. It fascinates how just a few years of different life experiences can change a world view so drastically.
Never knew about the Nazi persecution of the gypsy population in ‘36 during the games. Reading how the Sinti persecution started so early and seeing how the future started to take shape was heartbreaking.
Fascinated by the detail given to the 1936, Olympic Games. They really come alive.
Interesting thing having multiple people reflect on their life choices while looking in the mirror. I think we can all relate to doing that.
Ending rescue. Incredible Team effort by a German resistance cell. Makes you think how many small acts of defiance and rescue were done by everyday Germans that the world will never know of.
All in all, this series just keeps plugging along, holding my attention from one book to another with ease.
Never knew about the Nazi persecution of the gypsy population in ‘36 during the games. Reading how the Sinti persecution started so early and seeing how the future started to take shape was heartbreaking.
Fascinated by the detail given to the 1936, Olympic Games. They really come alive.
Interesting thing having multiple people reflect on their life choices while looking in the mirror. I think we can all relate to doing that.
Ending rescue. Incredible Team effort by a German resistance cell. Makes you think how many small acts of defiance and rescue were done by everyday Germans that the world will never know of.
All in all, this series just keeps plugging along, holding my attention from one book to another with ease.
July 15, 2022
Excellent continuation to this series! I truly enjoy the author’s style, attention to detail and perfect summarization of past events in the prior books in the series. If you think the summarization isn’t important, try reading a series where the author doesn’t bother to summarize and books are released over a year apart.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Oh, and since this series is about WW2, and we’re just in 1936, dare I hope that there are nine books to come???
I can’t wait for the next book!
Oh, and since this series is about WW2, and we’re just in 1936, dare I hope that there are nine books to come???
November 1, 2022
Amazing narration from Joff Manning, brings out the tension, and action. Perfect.
This book continues the story of the Ritter family. There are twists and turns you won't see coming as this family continues to navigate Nazi Germany. We find one of the Ritter family is a Nazi Party member, while other family members are active in The Resistance.
Each book in this series gets better and better.
This book continues the story of the Ritter family. There are twists and turns you won't see coming as this family continues to navigate Nazi Germany. We find one of the Ritter family is a Nazi Party member, while other family members are active in The Resistance.
Each book in this series gets better and better.
May 31, 2025
everyone knows the nazi story but not told like this through a family that was deeply involved
The development of characters is so complete that I feel like I know them, very personally. As this is a part of history we all know and are repulsed by, this family is not. Just as many families were not. Unfortunately more were nazis than not. We have a lot to learn about humankind. This series helps us evaluate better.
The development of characters is so complete that I feel like I know them, very personally. As this is a part of history we all know and are repulsed by, this family is not. Just as many families were not. Unfortunately more were nazis than not. We have a lot to learn about humankind. This series helps us evaluate better.
July 12, 2022
when’s the next book
I’ve read all the books so far in this wonderful series the stories grab and it’s Ike your transported back to this part of history , I only found out about this book by accident didn’t know next chapter was out so maybe some advance good news for the next book would be brilliant x
So all I can say is
When Is The Next BOOK !!!!
I’ve read all the books so far in this wonderful series the stories grab and it’s Ike your transported back to this part of history , I only found out about this book by accident didn’t know next chapter was out so maybe some advance good news for the next book would be brilliant x
So all I can say is
When Is The Next BOOK !!!!
July 14, 2022
Great book, series
Absolutely love this series can't wait for next book. This series runs the gamet of love, mystery, history. Eoin is a great story teller and is obvious how much research has gone into this series. Just a common American family in Hitlers Germany, grab a copy of the first book. You will not regret it.
Absolutely love this series can't wait for next book. This series runs the gamet of love, mystery, history. Eoin is a great story teller and is obvious how much research has gone into this series. Just a common American family in Hitlers Germany, grab a copy of the first book. You will not regret it.
August 10, 2022
The story continues
Eoin Dempsey has done it again! The continued story of the Ritter family has left me on the edge of my seat a fourth time and I'm eagerly awaiting the fifth book. There are twists and turns you won't see coming as this family continues to navigate Nazi Germany. Highly recommend this series!
Eoin Dempsey has done it again! The continued story of the Ritter family has left me on the edge of my seat a fourth time and I'm eagerly awaiting the fifth book. There are twists and turns you won't see coming as this family continues to navigate Nazi Germany. Highly recommend this series!
August 29, 2022
The Resistance, the Gestapo, the Concentration and Work Camps, the 1936 Olympics are now very much apart of the every day life the Ritter family will have understand as they move forward with their lives in Germany. Challenges they never believed they would have to experience when they decided to move from America to Germany. The saga continues face the fear and terror of the Nazis.
September 7, 2022
4th book in this series finds the Ritter family at odds in Berlin as the Olympics are to start the summer of 1936. Michael is going g to run against Jesse Owens and the family is splintered Fiona supports the Nazi regime but the rest of the family is struggling with the Nazi Draconian laws. Such a great story and I am sad next book not out for another 6 weeks
October 20, 2022
Enjoyed these books
The first book intrigued me to read about this family and the rocky start they experienced.
I like the characters and I am always looking to read about how anyone survived the terrible tragedy of WWII.
I've read all 4 books and am hoping for the 5th to come out soon.
The first book intrigued me to read about this family and the rocky start they experienced.
I like the characters and I am always looking to read about how anyone survived the terrible tragedy of WWII.
I've read all 4 books and am hoping for the 5th to come out soon.
June 12, 2025
I have enjoyed reading all three in the series and now preparing to read the next book. He is an excellent storyteller and a very easy read. I can invision a movie or TV series based on these books.
I was a child during WW II but too young to know what was really going on. The books are truly a lesson in history.
Thank you Mr.Dempsey.
Jan Sobel
I was a child during WW II but too young to know what was really going on. The books are truly a lesson in history.
Thank you Mr.Dempsey.
Jan Sobel
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