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Three Children in Danger: When courage alone stands between life and death
A gripping historical novel about a daring escape from Nazi Germany
The responsibility weighs heavily on the shoulders of twelve-year-old Holger. Ever since their Jewish parents were deported, it has been up to him to hide his younger siblings from the Gestapo.
Countess Sophie finally wants to do more than just talk and joins a resistance network. Her first to take three children to a safe place.
But nowhere in Berlin is safe from danger.
When a bomb hits the hiding place, the members of the network hatch a daring plan to help them escape from the Reich.
The courage of the siblings and their helpers is put to the test as they risk everything to escape the horrors of war.
Will the plan succeed, or will they be discovered before they manage to cross the border into freedom?
Based on the true historical events of the Mission Swedish Furniture.
The responsibility weighs heavily on the shoulders of twelve-year-old Holger. Ever since their Jewish parents were deported, it has been up to him to hide his younger siblings from the Gestapo.
Countess Sophie finally wants to do more than just talk and joins a resistance network. Her first to take three children to a safe place.
But nowhere in Berlin is safe from danger.
When a bomb hits the hiding place, the members of the network hatch a daring plan to help them escape from the Reich.
The courage of the siblings and their helpers is put to the test as they risk everything to escape the horrors of war.
Will the plan succeed, or will they be discovered before they manage to cross the border into freedom?
Based on the true historical events of the Mission Swedish Furniture.
246 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2025
668 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
About the author
Marion Kummerow
116 books419 followersMarion Kummerow was born and raised in Germany, before she set out to "discover the world" and lived in various countries. In 1999 she returned to Germany and settled down in Munich where she's now living with her family.
After dipping her toes with non-fiction books, she finally tackled the project dear to her heart. UNRELENTING is the story about her grandparents, who belonged to the German resistance and fought against the Nazi regime.
It's a book about resilience, love and the courage to stand up and do the right thing.
After dipping her toes with non-fiction books, she finally tackled the project dear to her heart. UNRELENTING is the story about her grandparents, who belonged to the German resistance and fought against the Nazi regime.
It's a book about resilience, love and the courage to stand up and do the right thing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
March 26, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley I got to read this book and really liked it.
Most important for me was the emphasis on Germans helping the Jews against the Nazi regime, don’t read that too often!
Book was well written, good story line and makes you wonder: ‘what would I do”? What would I do if I had to hide and be quiet all the time, would I be joining
The Resistance when death could be the result of that etc.
I can’t wait to read the follow up on this book, because the story is not finished yet!
Most important for me was the emphasis on Germans helping the Jews against the Nazi regime, don’t read that too often!
Book was well written, good story line and makes you wonder: ‘what would I do”? What would I do if I had to hide and be quiet all the time, would I be joining
The Resistance when death could be the result of that etc.
I can’t wait to read the follow up on this book, because the story is not finished yet!
April 3, 2025
I enjoyed it very much!! I love it when historical fiction deals with real people and events! Here, I learned something about Sweden during WWII, how the Swedish parish survived in Berlin at the time as well as what they did to help refuges. The novel is full of tension to be released only at the end. Very well done! This is my second novel by Marion Kummerow, and I will definitely read through all that she has written! I highly recommend this novel as well as the author.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
April 8, 2025
This book is about twelve-year-old Holger, who has to protect his young brother and sister after his parents get deported.
Tension is visible throughout this book, especially when the children’s safe haven is destroyed in a bombing, forcing the resistance to improvise a quick escape plan.
Even though Holger was a young boy, he was adamant and strong.
As a new reader of this author, I really enjoyed it. It was gripping, packed with tension, and, in parts, heartbreaking.
Tension is visible throughout this book, especially when the children’s safe haven is destroyed in a bombing, forcing the resistance to improvise a quick escape plan.
Even though Holger was a young boy, he was adamant and strong.
As a new reader of this author, I really enjoyed it. It was gripping, packed with tension, and, in parts, heartbreaking.
March 23, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
An emotional story with heart, but disjointed.
Three Children in Danger delivers a touching tale of resilience and bravery during one of history’s darkest times. Marion Kummerow brings humanity to the forefront, highlighting the strength of ordinary people faced with extraordinary danger. The characters are sympathetic, and the bond between them is moving. The relationship of the brothers and sister was warm but kind of unrealistic how they survived.
At times, the narrative seemed more focused on telling rather than showing, which made it harder to fully immerse in the tension and stakes. While the historical backdrop is compelling, the execution lacked the depth and polish I was hoping for. There seemed to be two distinct storylines that never connected for me.
Still, it’s a heartfelt read for those interested in WWII fiction and stories of courage in the face of adversity.
An emotional story with heart, but disjointed.
Three Children in Danger delivers a touching tale of resilience and bravery during one of history’s darkest times. Marion Kummerow brings humanity to the forefront, highlighting the strength of ordinary people faced with extraordinary danger. The characters are sympathetic, and the bond between them is moving. The relationship of the brothers and sister was warm but kind of unrealistic how they survived.
At times, the narrative seemed more focused on telling rather than showing, which made it harder to fully immerse in the tension and stakes. While the historical backdrop is compelling, the execution lacked the depth and polish I was hoping for. There seemed to be two distinct storylines that never connected for me.
Still, it’s a heartfelt read for those interested in WWII fiction and stories of courage in the face of adversity.
March 30, 2025
This is unputdownable historical fiction.
The author has knocked another one out of the park! This novel focuses on the efforts of Resistance workers to get three orphaned siblings safely away from the Nazi regime. As with any book about this subject, I never cease to be amazed at the bravery of people and the lengths they would go to to rescue Jews during WW2. Also, at the sheer evil of Jews who would betray their own people…
Memorable Quotes:
“Perwe seemed to have guessed her thoughts. “Don’t worry. We use different methods than the Nazis. No one gets hurt with us. Even though I sometimes wish God would punish criminals in this life already instead of waiting for the Last Judgement.”
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
The author has knocked another one out of the park! This novel focuses on the efforts of Resistance workers to get three orphaned siblings safely away from the Nazi regime. As with any book about this subject, I never cease to be amazed at the bravery of people and the lengths they would go to to rescue Jews during WW2. Also, at the sheer evil of Jews who would betray their own people…
Memorable Quotes:
“Perwe seemed to have guessed her thoughts. “Don’t worry. We use different methods than the Nazis. No one gets hurt with us. Even though I sometimes wish God would punish criminals in this life already instead of waiting for the Last Judgement.”
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
April 4, 2025
Three Children in Danger is a gripping historical novel set during World War II. The story revolves around twelve-year-old Holger, who is responsible for hiding his younger siblings from the Gestapo after their Jewish parents are deported. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Countess Sophie joins a resistance network and takes on the mission of getting the children to safety. The book is filled with suspense and courage as the characters navigate the dangers of Nazi Germany.
This book is engaging and has well-developed characters. The story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring especially the way it tackles complex themes like anti-Semitism, resistance, and freedom. If you love historical fiction set during the Holocaust, then this book is worth a read. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is engaging and has well-developed characters. The story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring especially the way it tackles complex themes like anti-Semitism, resistance, and freedom. If you love historical fiction set during the Holocaust, then this book is worth a read. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 21, 2025
I've read a lot of WWII fiction and while this was certainly less heart-wrenching than other books, I still enjoyed it. I finished it quickly since I was so invested in what was going to happen to the three siblings, whose relationship I adored. What an interesting way that was handled, and I loved the involvement of the Swedish parish. The insider spy was a surprise but showed what life was truly like under Hitler's reign and the choices that people of all backgrounds needed to make.
Thank you to NetGalley, and the publisher The Book Whisperer for a chance to read an ARC of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, and the publisher The Book Whisperer for a chance to read an ARC of this book.
April 2, 2025
Although this is the beginning of a new series, if you've read the German Wives series there are many familiar faces sprinkled throughout this story. This book tells the story of the three Gerber children after their parents were arrested & deported by the SS in Berlin. No worries if you haven't read the other books because this one definitely works on its own merits, highlighting the efforts of German & Swedish resisters to save Jews.
I found it heartbreaking that the children, especially the youngest two, were fearful of each new hiding place because they were worried that their parents wouldn't know where they were. I wondered if it would be kinder if one of the adults told them the truth. I enjoyed the glimpses of familiar characters from the German Wives series, even the horrible Thea!
This sentence will stay with me..."The government only managed to stay in power because the majority of citizens looked the other way when things became uncomfortable." I look forward to the next book.
I found it heartbreaking that the children, especially the youngest two, were fearful of each new hiding place because they were worried that their parents wouldn't know where they were. I wondered if it would be kinder if one of the adults told them the truth. I enjoyed the glimpses of familiar characters from the German Wives series, even the horrible Thea!
This sentence will stay with me..."The government only managed to stay in power because the majority of citizens looked the other way when things became uncomfortable." I look forward to the next book.
April 2, 2025
This book is the first book in a new series by author Marion Kummerow and I was pleased to be offered an ARC from #NetGalley to read. I have read and enjoyed other novels by this author. Opinions expressed are all my own.
As with any book in a continuing series (in this case Escaping the Reich) The author had to begin by introducing us to the key characters around whom the book revolves. In 1942, Holger is a young almost teenage boy, forced into the role of holding what is left of his family (a younger brother and sister) together after their Jewish parents have been sent somewhere unknown by some of Hitler's followers. Without ration cards and in increasingly violent times, they are initially placed with another Jewish couple but before long, they are on their own and unsure where to turn. Through a series of lucky chances, they eventually end up in the hands of some members of the German resistance.
Numerous research skills are evident as the story proceeds and the author introduces the reader to a countess based on the real Maria von Mautzon who was recognized by Yad Vashem for hiding Jews and helping facilitate their escape. She apparently helped over 60 Jewish people and worked with the local pastor of the Swedish Church in Berlin, Erik Perwe , who also helped those in peril of death in the area. This was the kind of story that had me taking side trips to learn more about the story elements presented. I was surprised at one point to hear the word genocide being used in the story. According to my research, it had been developed by the time of the story but was not yet well known or published. Another real element to the story was the use of furniture containers and trains to help people escape to Sweden.
This story was a relatively easy read that gave a realistic depiction of the challenges of the Jewish people and the Germans, especially those Germans who did not go along with Nazi ideology. Certain elements of what they faced are similar to what many are currently facing in our times and it certainly made me stop and think, how would I react if I had to face these choices. I hope I never have to find out, but suspect I will be asking myself this more than once.
The author leaves us with some details hanging and hopefully they will be addressed in future books in this series.
As with any book in a continuing series (in this case Escaping the Reich) The author had to begin by introducing us to the key characters around whom the book revolves. In 1942, Holger is a young almost teenage boy, forced into the role of holding what is left of his family (a younger brother and sister) together after their Jewish parents have been sent somewhere unknown by some of Hitler's followers. Without ration cards and in increasingly violent times, they are initially placed with another Jewish couple but before long, they are on their own and unsure where to turn. Through a series of lucky chances, they eventually end up in the hands of some members of the German resistance.
Numerous research skills are evident as the story proceeds and the author introduces the reader to a countess based on the real Maria von Mautzon who was recognized by Yad Vashem for hiding Jews and helping facilitate their escape. She apparently helped over 60 Jewish people and worked with the local pastor of the Swedish Church in Berlin, Erik Perwe , who also helped those in peril of death in the area. This was the kind of story that had me taking side trips to learn more about the story elements presented. I was surprised at one point to hear the word genocide being used in the story. According to my research, it had been developed by the time of the story but was not yet well known or published. Another real element to the story was the use of furniture containers and trains to help people escape to Sweden.
This story was a relatively easy read that gave a realistic depiction of the challenges of the Jewish people and the Germans, especially those Germans who did not go along with Nazi ideology. Certain elements of what they faced are similar to what many are currently facing in our times and it certainly made me stop and think, how would I react if I had to face these choices. I hope I never have to find out, but suspect I will be asking myself this more than once.
The author leaves us with some details hanging and hopefully they will be addressed in future books in this series.
April 7, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don't know what I was expecting when I started reading this except that there were three Jewish children, Holger, a 12 or 13 year-old boy, Hans, a ten year old boy, and Hertha, a girl of six or seven. I've read other books and seen movies, Sound of Music comes to mind, where people escape the Nazis. These children have lost everyone who they ever depended upon, including their parents who were taken by the Nazis early on in the book. They survived by pure luck.
One of the characters, Baumann, who was working with the minister of the Swedish Victory Church in Berlin, Erik Perwe, discovers the children when he goes to look for a friend who had disappeared. Reverend Perwe was a real person and was active in the underground movement.
Another secondary character in the book, Countess Sophie Borsoi, was based on the real life Maria, Countess of Maltzan. Sophie helped when she could. She had fallen in love with a Jewish man, whose fate was unknown. Marie's lover, Hans Hirschel, survived the war.
Baumann worked for a railroad factory, and one of the Jewish workers, before he was arrested, had converted some of the cars to hiding places. Baumann hid the children in one of them and Sophie took them to the Reverend Perwe as part of her job with the underground.
A plan was devised to smuggle people to Sweden, a neutral country, via the railroad. Swedes, who were returning to their home country from Berlin, would ship their household goods via the railroad. The plan was to remove the goods after the Nazis had inspected the trains and smuggle people in the crates. The first attempt was a failure because someone had informed on them. The only ones arrested were the ones to be smuggled.
We get sort of a happy ending. The children do make it to Sweden, but Hans refuses to adapt to his new homeland. He still believed that his parents were alive and would join them, or take them back to Germany. I would like to see how the children adapt to their new surroundings in maybe a future book. The story is strong enough to stand on its own even without a sequel. I recommend it.
I don't know what I was expecting when I started reading this except that there were three Jewish children, Holger, a 12 or 13 year-old boy, Hans, a ten year old boy, and Hertha, a girl of six or seven. I've read other books and seen movies, Sound of Music comes to mind, where people escape the Nazis. These children have lost everyone who they ever depended upon, including their parents who were taken by the Nazis early on in the book. They survived by pure luck.
One of the characters, Baumann, who was working with the minister of the Swedish Victory Church in Berlin, Erik Perwe, discovers the children when he goes to look for a friend who had disappeared. Reverend Perwe was a real person and was active in the underground movement.
Another secondary character in the book, Countess Sophie Borsoi, was based on the real life Maria, Countess of Maltzan. Sophie helped when she could. She had fallen in love with a Jewish man, whose fate was unknown. Marie's lover, Hans Hirschel, survived the war.
Baumann worked for a railroad factory, and one of the Jewish workers, before he was arrested, had converted some of the cars to hiding places. Baumann hid the children in one of them and Sophie took them to the Reverend Perwe as part of her job with the underground.
A plan was devised to smuggle people to Sweden, a neutral country, via the railroad. Swedes, who were returning to their home country from Berlin, would ship their household goods via the railroad. The plan was to remove the goods after the Nazis had inspected the trains and smuggle people in the crates. The first attempt was a failure because someone had informed on them. The only ones arrested were the ones to be smuggled.
We get sort of a happy ending. The children do make it to Sweden, but Hans refuses to adapt to his new homeland. He still believed that his parents were alive and would join them, or take them back to Germany. I would like to see how the children adapt to their new surroundings in maybe a future book. The story is strong enough to stand on its own even without a sequel. I recommend it.
April 9, 2025
Ten year old Hans, his sister Hertha, who is seven years old, along with their older brother Holgar, are wondering what will happen to them. Their Jewish school has been closed down sometime ago and the SS have raided the building where the family lived in an apartment, they had been hidden in an attic space, but now their parents have been deported and the children will probably never see them again! Now, Holgar at twelve years old must be the head of the family and look after his brother and sister. But things are changing a lot in the area, people don't know who to trust anymore, and everyone is frightened of being found out of hiding anyone in their homes or businesses and especially Jews. But the situation gets more dire as the time goes on. The SS are searching houses looking for Jews and anyone who may be hiding them. The three children have no choice but to go on their own to try and seek help and some form of accommodation, but who can they trust? The people they find do their utmost to protect and care for them, but will it be enough to get them to safety?
A touching, emotional, and in places an unsettling and heartbreaking book by Marion Kummerow, but I absolutely loved it. Through the tension and suspense, there lies hope.
This book is about Operation Swedish Furniture, which, prior to reading this book I knew nothing about. Thanks to the author, this has now been brought to the knowledge of many others. Thanks to Marion Kummerow for a moving story, and I look forward to reading more of this author's work. A great, big five-star read from me.
#MarionKummerow
#Netgalley
#WW2
#Stormpublishing
A touching, emotional, and in places an unsettling and heartbreaking book by Marion Kummerow, but I absolutely loved it. Through the tension and suspense, there lies hope.
This book is about Operation Swedish Furniture, which, prior to reading this book I knew nothing about. Thanks to the author, this has now been brought to the knowledge of many others. Thanks to Marion Kummerow for a moving story, and I look forward to reading more of this author's work. A great, big five-star read from me.
#MarionKummerow
#Netgalley
#WW2
#Stormpublishing
July 18, 2025
In reading Holocaust historical fiction, it is sometimes amazing that the events talked about are based on true events. This is one such book. There were many ways that people were helped in Europe during the Holocaust and many are unbelievable. However, they did happen.
This is the story of three young children who are orphaned when their parents are taken by the SS. The German people who helped them and tried to help them find safe places to stay were ultimately taken as well. Still, the three children kept finding places and people to help them. Eventually, they wound up at the Swedish parish house where they did find help to escape. Their escape was to be nailed in a crate that was supposedly holding furniture from Swedish diplomats who were being sent home from Berlin. Once the crate was inspected by the Germans and placed on a train, the train would be stopped enroute and Jewish refugees placed in the crates and sent on to the coast where they were placed on a ship to Sweden. As soon as possible, the crates were opened on the ship and the inhabitants released and taken on to Sweden. There were many possibilities of mishaps on the way that would lead to their being caught. Betrayal, sudden sounds from the crates at the wrong time, questions over the seals on the crates, or even someone looking to steal valuables. Would this happen to the children?
This is the story of three young children who are orphaned when their parents are taken by the SS. The German people who helped them and tried to help them find safe places to stay were ultimately taken as well. Still, the three children kept finding places and people to help them. Eventually, they wound up at the Swedish parish house where they did find help to escape. Their escape was to be nailed in a crate that was supposedly holding furniture from Swedish diplomats who were being sent home from Berlin. Once the crate was inspected by the Germans and placed on a train, the train would be stopped enroute and Jewish refugees placed in the crates and sent on to the coast where they were placed on a ship to Sweden. As soon as possible, the crates were opened on the ship and the inhabitants released and taken on to Sweden. There were many possibilities of mishaps on the way that would lead to their being caught. Betrayal, sudden sounds from the crates at the wrong time, questions over the seals on the crates, or even someone looking to steal valuables. Would this happen to the children?
August 22, 2025
📖 Title: Three Children in Danger
✍️ Author: Marion Kummerow
⭐️ Rating: (4.5 out of 5)
📅 Date Finished: July 6th, 2025
—————————————————————————
🧵 Quick Summary:
During WWII in Nazi Germany, three Jewish siblings are left to survive on their own after their parents are deported. Twelve-year-old Holger takes on the responsibility of protecting his younger brother and sister, living in constant fear of the Gestapo. Their luck changes when they are discovered by a resistance network led by Countess Sophie, who devises a dangerous plan to help them escape from Berlin and find freedom. The book is a gripping story of courage, sacrifice, and the hope found in the most desperate of circumstances.
💭 What I Loved:
- The realistic mindset of people.
- The multiple points of view
- The children
📌 Favorite Character:
The three children. They were just so real and so vulnerable. They were young enough to still have an innocent view of the world. Especially the little girl.
🗣️ Final Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book. There were people who had some developmental growth through the book. They started seeing things from a different point of view that made them realize how good they had it. I also loved when the points of view crossed paths. Especially when it involved the children. It's not a happy book by any means, but it does provide hope. That matters.
✍️ Author: Marion Kummerow
⭐️ Rating: (4.5 out of 5)
📅 Date Finished: July 6th, 2025
—————————————————————————
🧵 Quick Summary:
During WWII in Nazi Germany, three Jewish siblings are left to survive on their own after their parents are deported. Twelve-year-old Holger takes on the responsibility of protecting his younger brother and sister, living in constant fear of the Gestapo. Their luck changes when they are discovered by a resistance network led by Countess Sophie, who devises a dangerous plan to help them escape from Berlin and find freedom. The book is a gripping story of courage, sacrifice, and the hope found in the most desperate of circumstances.
💭 What I Loved:
- The realistic mindset of people.
- The multiple points of view
- The children
📌 Favorite Character:
The three children. They were just so real and so vulnerable. They were young enough to still have an innocent view of the world. Especially the little girl.
🗣️ Final Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book. There were people who had some developmental growth through the book. They started seeing things from a different point of view that made them realize how good they had it. I also loved when the points of view crossed paths. Especially when it involved the children. It's not a happy book by any means, but it does provide hope. That matters.
March 19, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Three Children in Danger” is a WWII historical fiction book by Marion Kummerow. This book follows three Jewish children whose parents are rounded up by the Gestapo. The children are taken in by friendly adults until one day even those people are rounded up. The three children manage to be found by the underground and eventually become part of “Operation Swedish Furniture.” If, like me, you’ve never heard of this plan, by reading Ms. Kummerow’s Author’s Notes at the end of the book, you learn a bit more about it. Doing an internet search, I had to look up the pastor’s name to find any information - so my reading cap is off to Ms. Kummerow for finding out about this man and the plan. I found the beginning of this book to be a lot of set-up; as this is the first book in a new series it’s not surprising, but I had a number of people’s names to keep track of and, sadly, while one person was used a bit in the end, that person was underused in most of the book that I forgot about them. Overall, this was an interesting book and it was good to learn more about Sweden during WWII.
“Three Children in Danger” is a WWII historical fiction book by Marion Kummerow. This book follows three Jewish children whose parents are rounded up by the Gestapo. The children are taken in by friendly adults until one day even those people are rounded up. The three children manage to be found by the underground and eventually become part of “Operation Swedish Furniture.” If, like me, you’ve never heard of this plan, by reading Ms. Kummerow’s Author’s Notes at the end of the book, you learn a bit more about it. Doing an internet search, I had to look up the pastor’s name to find any information - so my reading cap is off to Ms. Kummerow for finding out about this man and the plan. I found the beginning of this book to be a lot of set-up; as this is the first book in a new series it’s not surprising, but I had a number of people’s names to keep track of and, sadly, while one person was used a bit in the end, that person was underused in most of the book that I forgot about them. Overall, this was an interesting book and it was good to learn more about Sweden during WWII.
April 4, 2025
I read a lot of fiction set during the Second World War, as it's a historical period that fascinates me — but this book is one of the first I’ve come across that explores the German resistance. I truly appreciated the opportunity to discover this perspective.
The story follows three young Jewish children whose parents have been deported, leaving them without news or hope of reunion. As they try to survive and escape the Nazi regime, they are rescued and supported by a branch of the German resistance — an unlikely group made up of diverse characters: a Swedish pastor, a countess, and several workers.
I'm genuinely curious to know what happens next. What becomes of Pastor Perwe? Of Baumann? And most of all, of Sophie and Eugen?
While I really enjoyed the storyline, the narrative style occasionally distanced me from the characters. At times, I felt it relied more on "telling" than "showing," which made it harder to become fully immersed.
That said, I was truly glad to discover this book — the first I’ve read by this author.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read the ARC of this book.
The story follows three young Jewish children whose parents have been deported, leaving them without news or hope of reunion. As they try to survive and escape the Nazi regime, they are rescued and supported by a branch of the German resistance — an unlikely group made up of diverse characters: a Swedish pastor, a countess, and several workers.
I'm genuinely curious to know what happens next. What becomes of Pastor Perwe? Of Baumann? And most of all, of Sophie and Eugen?
While I really enjoyed the storyline, the narrative style occasionally distanced me from the characters. At times, I felt it relied more on "telling" than "showing," which made it harder to become fully immersed.
That said, I was truly glad to discover this book — the first I’ve read by this author.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read the ARC of this book.
March 30, 2025
Three Children in Danger
Based on the true story of Operation Swedish Furniture, this unique story begins in Berlin in 1942. The parents of Holger, Hans, and Hertha are suddenly arrested. “A throbbing pain shot through Holger’s chest, so strong he had to lean forward to avoid toppling over…His parents had been deported to the East, probably never to be seen or heard from again.” (Pg.8)
As the oldest, thirteen-hear-old Holger must protect his siblings in an extremely dangerous environment. While various people including Countess Sophie Borsoi attempt to hide and protect them, the children are in constant danger. Allied bombings are increasing and since the children are Jewish, the gestapo are after them.
From attics to small storage units and even railroad cars, the children hide. Fortunately, a leader of the Underground Resistance group becomes involved. The children are hidden by a member of the anti Nazi network of Berlin’s Swedish Church.
My only complaint is that the book is quite short 203 pages. But alas, this is Book 1 of a series.
Based on the true story of Operation Swedish Furniture, this unique story begins in Berlin in 1942. The parents of Holger, Hans, and Hertha are suddenly arrested. “A throbbing pain shot through Holger’s chest, so strong he had to lean forward to avoid toppling over…His parents had been deported to the East, probably never to be seen or heard from again.” (Pg.8)
As the oldest, thirteen-hear-old Holger must protect his siblings in an extremely dangerous environment. While various people including Countess Sophie Borsoi attempt to hide and protect them, the children are in constant danger. Allied bombings are increasing and since the children are Jewish, the gestapo are after them.
From attics to small storage units and even railroad cars, the children hide. Fortunately, a leader of the Underground Resistance group becomes involved. The children are hidden by a member of the anti Nazi network of Berlin’s Swedish Church.
My only complaint is that the book is quite short 203 pages. But alas, this is Book 1 of a series.
April 2, 2025
Three Children in Danger is a most accurate title for this historical novel by Marion Kummerow. To be a Jewish child in Nazi Germany in Berlin during WWII was dangerous - to be three Jewish siblings who are now without their parents and homeless, is even more dangerous. This is a riveting story of how Holger - age 12, Hans - age 8, and their sister Herther - age 5, seek shelter and safety without being picked up and sent away with other Jews as their parents had been. Of course there are adults in this book - both good and evil - but I won't share any spoilers here. This is the first book in a new series by Marion Kummerow. I recently read her multi-book series titled "Margrete's Story" and was spellbound by Kummerow's storytelling ability as I devoured one book right after the other. Three Children in Danger is an easy, interesting read that I recommend to everyone who enjoys historical fiction set in Europe in the 1940's. I received an ARC from NetGalley but all opinions are my own.
November 20, 2025
Three Children in Danger is one of those WWII stories that hits you in the gut, not because of graphic violence or shock value, but because it centers on the experience of children who are simply trying to survive a world that shouldn’t exist in the first place.
The story follows three Jewish siblings—Holger, Hans, and little Hertha—after the Gestapo takes their parents. They’re left alone in Berlin, hiding in bombed-out buildings, moving from place to place, and hoping someone will help them before the Nazis find them. Parallel to their story is Sophie, a German countess working with a resistance network that wants to smuggle the children to safety. Their lives eventually collide, and that's where the book finds its emotional core.
What stood out most to me is how personal it feels. The fear isn’t abstract—it’s close to the skin. You feel the constant tension of every knock, every stranger, every shadow that might mean discovery. But there’s also warmth: kindness from unexpected places, people risking everything, moments where hope sneaks in despite everything.
The story follows three Jewish siblings—Holger, Hans, and little Hertha—after the Gestapo takes their parents. They’re left alone in Berlin, hiding in bombed-out buildings, moving from place to place, and hoping someone will help them before the Nazis find them. Parallel to their story is Sophie, a German countess working with a resistance network that wants to smuggle the children to safety. Their lives eventually collide, and that's where the book finds its emotional core.
What stood out most to me is how personal it feels. The fear isn’t abstract—it’s close to the skin. You feel the constant tension of every knock, every stranger, every shadow that might mean discovery. But there’s also warmth: kindness from unexpected places, people risking everything, moments where hope sneaks in despite everything.
April 22, 2025
Three Children in Danger by Marion Kummerow is a historical novel set during World War II. The story revolves around twelve-year-old Holger, who is responsible for hiding his younger siblings from the Gestapo after their Jewish parents are deported. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Countess Sophie joins a resistance network and takes on the mission of getting the children to safety. The book is filled with suspense and courage as the characters navigate the dangers of Nazi Germany.
Ms. Kummerow settings are vivid. You can see the church, the attic and outside where the children play. The book has well-developed characters. The children’s characters are endearing and Princess Sophie is memorable. The story is both difficult and inspiring. The themes of freedom, the resistance and anti semitism. If you love historical fiction set during World War II this book is worth a read.
Ms. Kummerow settings are vivid. You can see the church, the attic and outside where the children play. The book has well-developed characters. The children’s characters are endearing and Princess Sophie is memorable. The story is both difficult and inspiring. The themes of freedom, the resistance and anti semitism. If you love historical fiction set during World War II this book is worth a read.
July 4, 2025
The Escape
Wow! This book is a wonderful story of tee Jewish children in Nazi Germany. Their escape from the Nazi’s and their journey to freedom.
Twelve-year-old Holdger, his younger brother Hans and his younger sister Hertha first watch their parents be taken away while hiding then from a hiding place a few months later they watch their friends that took then in be taken away by the Nazi’s.
Holger must somehow get his siblings to safety, but how and who can he trust. This young boy feels like he has the world on his shoulders in his quest to keep his brother and sister safe.
This story will tug at your heart with it’s courage and determination. There is suspense and sadness as well as a bit of happiness as well.
It is a story you should read; I am sure you will love it as much as I did.
I received this book as a gift to read. The review is my own.
Wow! This book is a wonderful story of tee Jewish children in Nazi Germany. Their escape from the Nazi’s and their journey to freedom.
Twelve-year-old Holdger, his younger brother Hans and his younger sister Hertha first watch their parents be taken away while hiding then from a hiding place a few months later they watch their friends that took then in be taken away by the Nazi’s.
Holger must somehow get his siblings to safety, but how and who can he trust. This young boy feels like he has the world on his shoulders in his quest to keep his brother and sister safe.
This story will tug at your heart with it’s courage and determination. There is suspense and sadness as well as a bit of happiness as well.
It is a story you should read; I am sure you will love it as much as I did.
I received this book as a gift to read. The review is my own.
March 26, 2025
This novel is about three Jewish children who are separated from their parents in Nazi Germany and the aid and assistance given to them by anti Nazi Germans during the early 1940s. I was unaware of the existence of a Swedish clerical presence in Germany during the war years and of their assistance in aiding Jewish people in their struggle to escape the oppression by the Nazi regime. The book is easy reading and the depiction of the plight of the children is harrowing— especially the part when the bombing resulted in a fire threatening their lives. The maturity of the children despite their young age is astounding! This book should be required reading in our schools and I thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
March 31, 2025
This book had me hooked! I raced through it, and it felt much shorter than 248 pages. Despite this being my most read genre, I hadn't heard of "Operation Swedish Furniture", so as well as being an addictive, nail biting story, it was also educational.
It took me a little while to get into the writing style, it was a little clunky to begin with, but the story soon took over and I only stopped reading as I had to sleep.
I won't give spoilers, but I was genuinely on the edge of my seat with worry for the three young siblings and the brave resistance workers who were helping them. I can't wait to see what happens to everyone in the next installment, and will be checking out some of Marion's previous books in the meantime.
It took me a little while to get into the writing style, it was a little clunky to begin with, but the story soon took over and I only stopped reading as I had to sleep.
I won't give spoilers, but I was genuinely on the edge of my seat with worry for the three young siblings and the brave resistance workers who were helping them. I can't wait to see what happens to everyone in the next installment, and will be checking out some of Marion's previous books in the meantime.
April 15, 2025
Three Children in Danger is a compelling novel that brings three very different points of view together as Nazi Germany works to extinguish the Jews and freedom in Europe in the 1940s. Told from a Jewish child's perspective, a young, rebellious aristocrat's perspective and from a jaded Communist perspective, the story was much more multifaceted than similar books. There was still the feelings of suspense, danger, but it also evoked thoughtfulness for some of the other people who lived under Hitler's rule. I found the book fascinating; my only gripe being that this book is apparently not a stand alone and will be followed by more in a series.
I received an advance reader copy for free. All opinions are my own.
I received an advance reader copy for free. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2025
This is a story of three young children attempting to escape so many others’ fate during the holocaust, and a deeper look into all those that fought in the resistance.
I read a lot of WWII HF novels, but this is one of the only ones I’ve read from the perspective of three sibling children trying to escape a fate they weren’t able to comprehend.
The writing in this book feels so real. We’re presented with children that truly feel their age in their mannerisms and language.
We’re also presented with German characters that willingly risked their own lives to fight against the Nazi regime. Another great story of how persistence, love and integrity can truly shift the world.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read!
I read a lot of WWII HF novels, but this is one of the only ones I’ve read from the perspective of three sibling children trying to escape a fate they weren’t able to comprehend.
The writing in this book feels so real. We’re presented with children that truly feel their age in their mannerisms and language.
We’re also presented with German characters that willingly risked their own lives to fight against the Nazi regime. Another great story of how persistence, love and integrity can truly shift the world.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read!
March 24, 2025
Three Children in Danger is the first in the series Escaping from The Reich. Set in Berlin and based on true events of one of many escape routes, Mission Swedish Furniture. It is an interesting read, though a little slow to start as it builds the story. I was intrigued by the escape route, which i knew little about. The dedicated and planning from the organisers demonstrated bravery hope, courage, and determination. I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series. 3 ½ stars
I would like to thank the author, Book Whisperer and NetGalley for my free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.
#ThreeChildreninDanger #NetGalley.
I would like to thank the author, Book Whisperer and NetGalley for my free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.
#ThreeChildreninDanger #NetGalley.
April 6, 2025
Another great novel by Marion Kummerow, a master storyteller. I thoroughly enjoyed Three Children in Danger. Marion makes the reader feel the vulnerability of the children, each portrayed with sensitivity for their age and their interaction with the adults that come into their lives.
It is also a tale of courage; the courage of young children to suspend their instinct to play and be carefree, and the courage of adults to hide and protect the children, knowing that if caught it meant death.
It is also the stark reminder that although it is fictionalized, it is history, a history so many in our modern world have forgotten.
It is also a tale of courage; the courage of young children to suspend their instinct to play and be carefree, and the courage of adults to hide and protect the children, knowing that if caught it meant death.
It is also the stark reminder that although it is fictionalized, it is history, a history so many in our modern world have forgotten.
October 12, 2025
Three Children In Danger
A bittersweet story of three Jewish siblings caught up in the insanity of Nazi Germany. Their parents disappeared during a raid along with most of the neighbors. The children were taken in by a former teacher & her husband, until they too were taken away by the SS. The rest of the book follows the children as they hide out, first on their own then with the help of a Swedish Church whose Pastor is part of the Resistance fighters. The story also follows these few Resistance fighters, who come from all walks of life, who were finding ways to meet the needs of those hiding for their lives! Food, shelter, ESCAPE?? Read this book to find out!
A bittersweet story of three Jewish siblings caught up in the insanity of Nazi Germany. Their parents disappeared during a raid along with most of the neighbors. The children were taken in by a former teacher & her husband, until they too were taken away by the SS. The rest of the book follows the children as they hide out, first on their own then with the help of a Swedish Church whose Pastor is part of the Resistance fighters. The story also follows these few Resistance fighters, who come from all walks of life, who were finding ways to meet the needs of those hiding for their lives! Food, shelter, ESCAPE?? Read this book to find out!
March 19, 2025
Holger and his brother and sister are shipped from one house to another as the Gestapo looks for them after their Jewish parents are deported. Always they must be quiet, always they must remain unseen. They end up in a Swedish church but again must be quiet and must not let others see them. A plan by resistance fighters has them shipped in crates to Sweden but again they must be quiet. The story is about the children but also about the brave people who are trying to fight the Germans from inside Germany.
April 5, 2025
Another great Marion Kummerow WWII Historical fiction book
How three children managed to survive in Nazi Germany. The parents arrested and not likely to be still alive. This makes the oldest boy at age 12 responsible for his 8-year-old brother and 5-year-old sister. At times we see what is happening through their eyes. The fears that they are trying to overcome. Having been in various hiding places only to see their protecters arrested. Determination had them hide and then try to find a place they had hidden before. For the readers who have read the series “German Wives” you notice some of the characters appear in this book. This is one of those books that you want to keep on reading.
How three children managed to survive in Nazi Germany. The parents arrested and not likely to be still alive. This makes the oldest boy at age 12 responsible for his 8-year-old brother and 5-year-old sister. At times we see what is happening through their eyes. The fears that they are trying to overcome. Having been in various hiding places only to see their protecters arrested. Determination had them hide and then try to find a place they had hidden before. For the readers who have read the series “German Wives” you notice some of the characters appear in this book. This is one of those books that you want to keep on reading.
April 4, 2025
This was my first book by this author and it was interesting and worked well although it took me a while to get into it. This is a different story for me exploring the Swedish church and what they were doing to help during WW2. I then went through a rabbit hole of investigating more about this. Completely fascinating. The only thing that I would say is that I didnt get the emotion as much as other books but that came from the number of characters and the different subplots.
Will look forward to more.
Will look forward to more.
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