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The Keeper of Lost Daughters
The moment Lidia laid eyes on the abandoned baby on her doorstep, she knew she would risk everything to protect her forever.
1941, Krakow. Lidia Sobieska hears a knock on the door and is shocked to find a baby in a basket on her doorstep. Attached to the basket is a letter from the baby’s mother, begging to save her daughter Suzanne from the Nazis. Always wanting children of her own but unable to conceive, Lidia knows there is only one right thing to do. She names the baby Sophie and vows to do everything she can to love and protect her.
As living conditions in Krakow worsen and food rations dwindle, Sophie becomes Lidia’s light. Witnessing the inhumane conditions of the nearby ghetto, Lidia is determined to do what she can to save more lives. With help from the local priest, she adopts Eva Diamant, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl in need of a safe home. As the girls form a new family, Lidia will go to extreme lengths to conceal her daughters’ real identities and get them through the war.
1946. It’s been years since Lidia had to fear for her girls, until a sudden knock on the door threatens to change their lives forever. On her doorstep stands a man who calls himself Adam Altman, claiming to be Sophie’s biological father. His story is full of horror and bravery, and he has gone through hell to retrieve his daughter. But Lidia did not risk everything for a stranger to tear apart her family. She will not give up her daughter without a fight.
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a poignant story of motherhood, courage, and the power of finding the light during the darkest time in history. Fans of Kelly Rimmer, Ellie Midwood, and Anna Stuart will be captivated by this emotional and inspiring page-turner.
1941, Krakow. Lidia Sobieska hears a knock on the door and is shocked to find a baby in a basket on her doorstep. Attached to the basket is a letter from the baby’s mother, begging to save her daughter Suzanne from the Nazis. Always wanting children of her own but unable to conceive, Lidia knows there is only one right thing to do. She names the baby Sophie and vows to do everything she can to love and protect her.
As living conditions in Krakow worsen and food rations dwindle, Sophie becomes Lidia’s light. Witnessing the inhumane conditions of the nearby ghetto, Lidia is determined to do what she can to save more lives. With help from the local priest, she adopts Eva Diamant, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl in need of a safe home. As the girls form a new family, Lidia will go to extreme lengths to conceal her daughters’ real identities and get them through the war.
1946. It’s been years since Lidia had to fear for her girls, until a sudden knock on the door threatens to change their lives forever. On her doorstep stands a man who calls himself Adam Altman, claiming to be Sophie’s biological father. His story is full of horror and bravery, and he has gone through hell to retrieve his daughter. But Lidia did not risk everything for a stranger to tear apart her family. She will not give up her daughter without a fight.
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a poignant story of motherhood, courage, and the power of finding the light during the darkest time in history. Fans of Kelly Rimmer, Ellie Midwood, and Anna Stuart will be captivated by this emotional and inspiring page-turner.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2025
1144 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 17, 2025
Even though I've read many books about the Holocaust and Poland during World War II, The Keeper of Lost Daughters provided plenty of new information for me to absorb. This story is set in Kraków under Nazi occupation and is told through the voices of two families, one Catholic and the other Jewish. They are connected by a baby girl, given up by the Jewish mother and accepted by the Catholic woman. The author describes in great detail the conditions in the Jewish ghetto in Krakow. It is graphic, grim, and difficult to read, which is why you must. The story continues after the war is over and the Soviet Union occupies Poland. I was unaware of the violence and continued persecution faced by Polish Jews who survived the camps. I knew how the Soviets felt, but the behavior of the Christian Poles was unfathomable.
Although this is historical fiction, it's the humanity of the characters that won my heart. The generosity of spirit and willingness to forgive in the hope of a better life for their daughters was inspiring. The friendship between the rabbi and the priest felt completely genuine. I love it when a character is a booklover like Lidia, whose favorite book was Anne of Green Gables. I learned that the book was beloved in Poland, so much so that soldiers were given copies of the novel before they were sent to defend their country. How cool is that? If you are a WW II historical fiction fan, you'll love this one.
Although this is historical fiction, it's the humanity of the characters that won my heart. The generosity of spirit and willingness to forgive in the hope of a better life for their daughters was inspiring. The friendship between the rabbi and the priest felt completely genuine. I love it when a character is a booklover like Lidia, whose favorite book was Anne of Green Gables. I learned that the book was beloved in Poland, so much so that soldiers were given copies of the novel before they were sent to defend their country. How cool is that? If you are a WW II historical fiction fan, you'll love this one.
June 22, 2025
Ended too soon.
The only negative thing I can say is the book ended a touch too soon. Wish there had been a chapter of them coming to America. Otherwise it’s a fantastic book.
The only negative thing I can say is the book ended a touch too soon. Wish there had been a chapter of them coming to America. Otherwise it’s a fantastic book.
October 3, 2025
Let me begin this with, I have been waiting for years to be able to write a book review for my sister’s novels. I have been one of the lucky Alpha and Beta readers for her many works over the years, including the debut novel, The Keeper of Lost Daughters.
I have not taken this lightly, so here we go!
SYNOPSIS:
The moment Lidia laid eyes on the abandoned baby on her doorstep, she knew she would risk everything to protect her forever.
1941, Krakow. Lidia Sobieska hears a knock on the door and is shocked to find a baby in a basket on her doorstep. Attached to the basket is a letter from the baby’s mother, begging to save her daughter Suzanne from the Nazis. Always wanting children of her own but unable to conceive, Lidia knows there is only one right thing to do. She names the baby Sophie and vows to do everything she can to love and protect her.
As living conditions in Krakow worsen and food rations dwindle, Sophie becomes Lidia’s light. Witnessing the inhumane conditions of the nearby ghetto, Lidia is determined to do what she can to save more lives. With help from the local priest, she adopts Eva Diamant, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl in need of a safe home. As the girls form a new family, Lidia will go to extreme lengths to conceal her daughters’ real identities and get them through the war.
1946. It’s been years since Lidia had to fear for her girls, until a sudden knock on the door threatens to change their lives forever. On her doorstep stands a man who calls himself Adam Altman, claiming to be Sophie’s biological father. His story is full of horror and bravery, and he has gone through hell to retrieve his daughter. But Lidia did not risk everything for a stranger to tear apart her family. She will not give up her daughter without a fight.
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a poignant story of motherhood, courage, and the power of finding the light during the darkest time in history. Fans of Kelly Rimmer, Ellie Midwood, and Anna Stuart will be captivated by this emotional and inspiring page-turner.
My Thoughts: :: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS::
Lidia Sobieska is a layered, brave and fearless character who does the unthinkable in war torn and Nazi occupied Poland. When a Jewish child is surrendered to her on her property, she honors the mother’s wishes. I am not as educated on Polish history, but I know that it was very common for Gentile Christians to turn in Jews at any given chance. Europe was extremely anti-Semitic, it still is truthfully. But Lidia and her husband Tadeusz took in the baby they rename Sophie and this little Jewish baby becomes the child Lidia thought she would never have. And she decided she would do anything to protect her.
The opening is a most unusual or unique scene, where (not a spoiler as it’s in the beginning) Adam comes to reclaim his daughter. I forgot the beginning because I became engrossed with how Lidia was constantly walking on eggshells around the Nazi occupiers. What I believe is so crucial to this story, one that often gets forgotten, is that there is nothing black and white about war. Lidia’s dear friend a priest helps to hide and place Jewish children throughout the war. We find out a German officer is morally gray, not totally pure and not totally terrible, who aids both sides. Lidia herself isn’t perfect either, she prays and hopes the best for Sophie’s parents, but is not willing to part with the girl who has become every bit her daughter. It’s selfish, but understandable.
Her life is turned upside down when her husband died, leaving her alone with Sofie in the harsh world. The only person she knew she could rely on, was just gone. I think we can all relate to that on some level. Soon her life is too busy to think about her grief as she takes in a Jewish girl, Ewa. The three ladies fight to survive as the Reich is falling and the rise of Soviet control threatens them.
Adam is a intriguing character and his story is partly what took me so long to get through the story. It was ugly and grotesque because that is exactly what the Nazi’s did! Mina, his wife and Sophie’s mother, is an artist and referred to as ‘bohemian’ but it is Adam who is a bit of the dreamer. Heartbroken because his wife gave their daughter Suzanne (Sophie) up without his permission, his one goal is to be reunited. Even when he is in the bowels of Auschwitz with his father figure Rabbi Rosenweig, who is sort of the angel on Adam’s shoulder for lack of a better term, keeping Adam grounded and keeping Adam going even.
His journey back to Suzanne/Sophie was brutal, but he fought to get back to her, but his fight doesn’t end there. He will have to fight to keep his daughter now that Mrs. Sobieska refuses to give her up. After many arguments, harsh words, and let’s face it stubborness and selfishness, it is brought to the Priest and Rabbi Rosenweig (I was so happy to know he survived, other than Adam I wanted to see him have something good. I loved his character so much.) with the two little girls, give the pair an ultimatum or – the judgment of Solomon. If they keep on fighting like they are, it will tear Sophie apart. The clergy and children have a solution: Lidia and Adam marry and so they can all love Sophie together.
Following their story was bittersweet of second love and healing, and learning that just because you loved someone so fiercely once doesn’t mean you can’t love again. Along with the hellish parts of this period, this novel also focuses on love and healing. And these two help each other heal in a way they never thought would be possible. I was rooting for them by the end and in my mind, they’re safe in North America, or as safe as they can be.
As I said, I was one of the lucky alpha and beta readers for Veronica’s works over the years, including this particular novel. I believe she told me she wrote it after coming back from her trip to Poland where she walked the same locations, including Auschwitz, that are featured in the novel.
War has a way of bringing out true colors in people, this story is no different. Not everyone is good, not everyone is bad. While some people are capable of cruelty to some, they’re also capable of kindness as well. People are complex. War is complex. We think we can judge people for how they acted, but do we know how we would act if we were in their shoes? I feel like The Keeper of Lost Daughters does a wonderful job of portraying the ugliness as well as the beautiful rebirth that can happen from war.
I purchased my copies back in June upon release, it took me three months to finish. I had to keep putting it down because the subject matter mirrors modern day USA so much it became painful. By the time I reached the final chapter, I couldn’t help think, oh how I wanted Sophie and Ewa to not know what the country they fled to had become.
While, I am entirely biased, I loved this story. Not because my sister wrote it, but because it’s not shy about what happened 80 years ago or how close to home this hits.
I’m honored to give this 5*****
You can get your copy on anywhere books are sold and it is also available on Kindle Unlimited.
I have not taken this lightly, so here we go!
SYNOPSIS:
The moment Lidia laid eyes on the abandoned baby on her doorstep, she knew she would risk everything to protect her forever.
1941, Krakow. Lidia Sobieska hears a knock on the door and is shocked to find a baby in a basket on her doorstep. Attached to the basket is a letter from the baby’s mother, begging to save her daughter Suzanne from the Nazis. Always wanting children of her own but unable to conceive, Lidia knows there is only one right thing to do. She names the baby Sophie and vows to do everything she can to love and protect her.
As living conditions in Krakow worsen and food rations dwindle, Sophie becomes Lidia’s light. Witnessing the inhumane conditions of the nearby ghetto, Lidia is determined to do what she can to save more lives. With help from the local priest, she adopts Eva Diamant, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl in need of a safe home. As the girls form a new family, Lidia will go to extreme lengths to conceal her daughters’ real identities and get them through the war.
1946. It’s been years since Lidia had to fear for her girls, until a sudden knock on the door threatens to change their lives forever. On her doorstep stands a man who calls himself Adam Altman, claiming to be Sophie’s biological father. His story is full of horror and bravery, and he has gone through hell to retrieve his daughter. But Lidia did not risk everything for a stranger to tear apart her family. She will not give up her daughter without a fight.
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a poignant story of motherhood, courage, and the power of finding the light during the darkest time in history. Fans of Kelly Rimmer, Ellie Midwood, and Anna Stuart will be captivated by this emotional and inspiring page-turner.
My Thoughts: :: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS::
Lidia Sobieska is a layered, brave and fearless character who does the unthinkable in war torn and Nazi occupied Poland. When a Jewish child is surrendered to her on her property, she honors the mother’s wishes. I am not as educated on Polish history, but I know that it was very common for Gentile Christians to turn in Jews at any given chance. Europe was extremely anti-Semitic, it still is truthfully. But Lidia and her husband Tadeusz took in the baby they rename Sophie and this little Jewish baby becomes the child Lidia thought she would never have. And she decided she would do anything to protect her.
The opening is a most unusual or unique scene, where (not a spoiler as it’s in the beginning) Adam comes to reclaim his daughter. I forgot the beginning because I became engrossed with how Lidia was constantly walking on eggshells around the Nazi occupiers. What I believe is so crucial to this story, one that often gets forgotten, is that there is nothing black and white about war. Lidia’s dear friend a priest helps to hide and place Jewish children throughout the war. We find out a German officer is morally gray, not totally pure and not totally terrible, who aids both sides. Lidia herself isn’t perfect either, she prays and hopes the best for Sophie’s parents, but is not willing to part with the girl who has become every bit her daughter. It’s selfish, but understandable.
Her life is turned upside down when her husband died, leaving her alone with Sofie in the harsh world. The only person she knew she could rely on, was just gone. I think we can all relate to that on some level. Soon her life is too busy to think about her grief as she takes in a Jewish girl, Ewa. The three ladies fight to survive as the Reich is falling and the rise of Soviet control threatens them.
Adam is a intriguing character and his story is partly what took me so long to get through the story. It was ugly and grotesque because that is exactly what the Nazi’s did! Mina, his wife and Sophie’s mother, is an artist and referred to as ‘bohemian’ but it is Adam who is a bit of the dreamer. Heartbroken because his wife gave their daughter Suzanne (Sophie) up without his permission, his one goal is to be reunited. Even when he is in the bowels of Auschwitz with his father figure Rabbi Rosenweig, who is sort of the angel on Adam’s shoulder for lack of a better term, keeping Adam grounded and keeping Adam going even.
His journey back to Suzanne/Sophie was brutal, but he fought to get back to her, but his fight doesn’t end there. He will have to fight to keep his daughter now that Mrs. Sobieska refuses to give her up. After many arguments, harsh words, and let’s face it stubborness and selfishness, it is brought to the Priest and Rabbi Rosenweig (I was so happy to know he survived, other than Adam I wanted to see him have something good. I loved his character so much.) with the two little girls, give the pair an ultimatum or – the judgment of Solomon. If they keep on fighting like they are, it will tear Sophie apart. The clergy and children have a solution: Lidia and Adam marry and so they can all love Sophie together.
Following their story was bittersweet of second love and healing, and learning that just because you loved someone so fiercely once doesn’t mean you can’t love again. Along with the hellish parts of this period, this novel also focuses on love and healing. And these two help each other heal in a way they never thought would be possible. I was rooting for them by the end and in my mind, they’re safe in North America, or as safe as they can be.
As I said, I was one of the lucky alpha and beta readers for Veronica’s works over the years, including this particular novel. I believe she told me she wrote it after coming back from her trip to Poland where she walked the same locations, including Auschwitz, that are featured in the novel.
War has a way of bringing out true colors in people, this story is no different. Not everyone is good, not everyone is bad. While some people are capable of cruelty to some, they’re also capable of kindness as well. People are complex. War is complex. We think we can judge people for how they acted, but do we know how we would act if we were in their shoes? I feel like The Keeper of Lost Daughters does a wonderful job of portraying the ugliness as well as the beautiful rebirth that can happen from war.
I purchased my copies back in June upon release, it took me three months to finish. I had to keep putting it down because the subject matter mirrors modern day USA so much it became painful. By the time I reached the final chapter, I couldn’t help think, oh how I wanted Sophie and Ewa to not know what the country they fled to had become.
While, I am entirely biased, I loved this story. Not because my sister wrote it, but because it’s not shy about what happened 80 years ago or how close to home this hits.
I’m honored to give this 5*****
You can get your copy on anywhere books are sold and it is also available on Kindle Unlimited.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2025
this book may be fiction but very realistic to what we have heard over the years about Auschwitz and what the Jewish people have been put through
This book was so realistic I’m sure the author did everything she could to go back and find the facts of what happened to the Jewish people. I know for sure for me that this was eye-opening. I truly believe this book is as close as it can be to knowing the true story behind what the Jewish people went through. We have all heard the stories of these people, but how sad that has become to reading about it. I will certainly want to read any other books that this author has written.
This book was so realistic I’m sure the author did everything she could to go back and find the facts of what happened to the Jewish people. I know for sure for me that this was eye-opening. I truly believe this book is as close as it can be to knowing the true story behind what the Jewish people went through. We have all heard the stories of these people, but how sad that has become to reading about it. I will certainly want to read any other books that this author has written.
October 2, 2025
Another great read
September 24, 2025
I loved this book. Absolutely felt like I was in the midst of WWII. I cannot wait to see more from this author!
August 2, 2025
Life under oppression
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a story of what it was like living under Nazi oppression in Poland during World War II, and particularly if you were Jewish. The story follows a Jewish man and a Polish woman, and two young girls. The overall story is filled with pain and suffering, including the conditions in the concentration camps, and the constant fear of torture, beatings and death in the camps. There are also the ongoing attacks on the Jews and those who hide and protect them.
This is also a story of hope, and also dealing with all the mental turmoil war and fear can bring.
I found this story insightful into how people caught up in the Nazi terror were dealt with so many conflicting emotions, leaving them to question faith, and turning back on principles that in better times have been rock solid.
The story did seem to go on too long, and there was so much description and narrative. I would have liked more dialogue. I also found, on a lesser note, that the proofreading of the book could have been a lot better before it went to print. Overall it is a good story to read.
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a story of what it was like living under Nazi oppression in Poland during World War II, and particularly if you were Jewish. The story follows a Jewish man and a Polish woman, and two young girls. The overall story is filled with pain and suffering, including the conditions in the concentration camps, and the constant fear of torture, beatings and death in the camps. There are also the ongoing attacks on the Jews and those who hide and protect them.
This is also a story of hope, and also dealing with all the mental turmoil war and fear can bring.
I found this story insightful into how people caught up in the Nazi terror were dealt with so many conflicting emotions, leaving them to question faith, and turning back on principles that in better times have been rock solid.
The story did seem to go on too long, and there was so much description and narrative. I would have liked more dialogue. I also found, on a lesser note, that the proofreading of the book could have been a lot better before it went to print. Overall it is a good story to read.
July 25, 2025
I had to space out reading this over a couple of weeks, because WWII stories can gut me from the inside, and some of this took place in a concentration camp, so I was overwhelmed at times with sadness. But I liked both of the main characters -- two broken people who somehow find each other and create a gentle little romance after both experience trauma. Lidia is a woman struggling to come to terms with an abusive past, and Adam is a temperamental Jewish man grappling with unbearable loss. Though it's hard to read at times, it's a beautiful little romance all about healing, coming to terms with one's self-perceived "dirtyness" or "ugliness" and finding a way forward. Beautiful.
August 1, 2025
Comfort in the horror of war
It was sometimes difficult reading about the terrible things that happened during the war. Many suffered and died. The survivors endured through fear and hardships maintaining hope for the future. They loved someone and because of that and the kindness they shared, they were able to live. This story is a tribute to human strength and the power over hate.
It was sometimes difficult reading about the terrible things that happened during the war. Many suffered and died. The survivors endured through fear and hardships maintaining hope for the future. They loved someone and because of that and the kindness they shared, they were able to live. This story is a tribute to human strength and the power over hate.
October 2, 2025
Riveting and Engrossing
I appreciated this book for many reasons, it told a narrative with true human emotions. The characters were complex and flawed with humanity and life experiences. It was not just typical characters or your typical WW2 survival story it was that and more. I highly recommend this book.
I appreciated this book for many reasons, it told a narrative with true human emotions. The characters were complex and flawed with humanity and life experiences. It was not just typical characters or your typical WW2 survival story it was that and more. I highly recommend this book.
July 18, 2025
It is the best book ever read. I would suggest this book to everyone.
August 17, 2025
What love and hatred are mixed
A war is hatred mixed up Mind's are twisted too people not seeing and blotting out what in front of them even after the memories don't change a young woman has to move forward children must be loved to show them this is not how the future must be
A war is hatred mixed up Mind's are twisted too people not seeing and blotting out what in front of them even after the memories don't change a young woman has to move forward children must be loved to show them this is not how the future must be
September 14, 2025
What a great book
I loved this book and the story line could
not have been better. Parts were hard too read to think of what the Jews really had to go through, it brought tears to my eyes. Please read.
I loved this book and the story line could
not have been better. Parts were hard too read to think of what the Jews really had to go through, it brought tears to my eyes. Please read.
July 13, 2025
Heartbreaking
Truly heartbreaking. An emotional read from start to finish. What makes it worse is that these things actually happened. Would highly recommend.
Truly heartbreaking. An emotional read from start to finish. What makes it worse is that these things actually happened. Would highly recommend.
August 17, 2025
great read
I truly enjoyed this book. The strength amongst them helped them get through the times. I had a hard time putting it down. Enjoy!!!
I truly enjoyed this book. The strength amongst them helped them get through the times. I had a hard time putting it down. Enjoy!!!
October 28, 2025
Triumph over Evil
A heart breaking story with a beautiful ending... may we never forget the evil and be part of making this world better.
A heart breaking story with a beautiful ending... may we never forget the evil and be part of making this world better.
November 2, 2025
This isn't my typical read but this story pulled at my heartstrings. I had to stop reading to cry multiple times. This is a story of love, struggle and healing through the worst experiences and what you are willing to do to survive.
"Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it." George Santayana
This is a poignant read in our current times.
"Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it." George Santayana
This is a poignant read in our current times.
July 30, 2025
Life after WW2
This WW2 novel was not only heart felt but educational. I didn't realize how life was still horrific for jews after being liberated in 1945. Many were denied their property and children after surviving the camps. I can't recommend this book enough! I also hope the author writes a sequel!
This WW2 novel was not only heart felt but educational. I didn't realize how life was still horrific for jews after being liberated in 1945. Many were denied their property and children after surviving the camps. I can't recommend this book enough! I also hope the author writes a sequel!
September 2, 2025
Keeper of lost daughters
An excellent read to lose yourself in. Seeing both sides of Polish and Jewish relationships was an eye opener.
A very addictive book.
An excellent read to lose yourself in. Seeing both sides of Polish and Jewish relationships was an eye opener.
A very addictive book.
September 25, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. Fascinating to read about Poland during the war
October 15, 2025
Wonderful book
I wish I had the words to give justice to this wonderful book but I am afraid I don't!
The only criticism I have though is that it ended !
I wish I had the words to give justice to this wonderful book but I am afraid I don't!
The only criticism I have though is that it ended !
August 20, 2025
A book that you’ll always remember
A heartfelt saga of love, loss, suffering and new beginnings. Two couples lose their spouses during the second world war. The catholic couple took in a Jewish baby left at their doorstep, while the Jewish couple were separated and sent to a concentration camp. It’s a book that truly touched my heart.
A heartfelt saga of love, loss, suffering and new beginnings. Two couples lose their spouses during the second world war. The catholic couple took in a Jewish baby left at their doorstep, while the Jewish couple were separated and sent to a concentration camp. It’s a book that truly touched my heart.
August 4, 2025
An excellent book
Although there were many heartbreaking stories in this book it was well written and I loved it.
It tells the stories of a Christian and Jewish family in Poland during WW2.
It is fascinating to read their stories. The Jews end up in Auscwitch while the Christians face ther own challenges.
Against all odds they find love.
Although there were many heartbreaking stories in this book it was well written and I loved it.
It tells the stories of a Christian and Jewish family in Poland during WW2.
It is fascinating to read their stories. The Jews end up in Auscwitch while the Christians face ther own challenges.
Against all odds they find love.
June 7, 2025
On one level, The Keeper of Lost Daughters is a universal story of parental love, emotional survival, and the struggle to be one's best self. But because it is set in Nazi-occupied Poland, the stakes are much higher, the pressure excruciating, and the outcome never assured.
Leigh’s short stories have been widely published, and one can see why: her characters feel real and unique, flawed but appealing. It’s a testament to her literary gifts that she keeps the reader turning the pages as the two storylines unfold against the backdrop of the war, occupation, and its aftermath. And because of Leigh's exceptional and detailed knowledge of Polish WWII history, the reader gets a clear sense that her protagonists' pain is a microcosm of what was a national agony.
Sometimes Leigh's way with words left me in awe, such as this excerpt from one of the later chapters:
“Poland had traded the Swastika for the Sickle and Hammer, Hitler for Stalin, Nazism for Communism, the Wolf for the Bear. The Nazis had only wanted them for a thousand years, but the Soviets wanted them for forever.”
I couldn’t put The Keeper of Lost Daughters down and can’t recommend it highly enough.
Leigh’s short stories have been widely published, and one can see why: her characters feel real and unique, flawed but appealing. It’s a testament to her literary gifts that she keeps the reader turning the pages as the two storylines unfold against the backdrop of the war, occupation, and its aftermath. And because of Leigh's exceptional and detailed knowledge of Polish WWII history, the reader gets a clear sense that her protagonists' pain is a microcosm of what was a national agony.
Sometimes Leigh's way with words left me in awe, such as this excerpt from one of the later chapters:
“Poland had traded the Swastika for the Sickle and Hammer, Hitler for Stalin, Nazism for Communism, the Wolf for the Bear. The Nazis had only wanted them for a thousand years, but the Soviets wanted them for forever.”
I couldn’t put The Keeper of Lost Daughters down and can’t recommend it highly enough.
July 5, 2025
The Keeper of Lost Daughters is the debut novel by Veronica Leigh and takes place in Poland during WWII. Readers are first introduced to Lidia Sobieska on the day that Adam Altman knocks on the door, claiming to be the birth father of her adopted daughter.
This book takes an unflinching look at the tragedy of war through these two families, as they try to survive for their own sake, and the child they both love. I admire Leigh for not holding back on the details of war or the concentration camps. Those sections were obviously well researched, as was life in Poland in the 1940s. Other conflicts related to personal tragedy and mental health play a part in the plot as well, and function as a reminder that those who lived through the war still had to cope with their pre-existing problems.
What I loved most about this book is the love that both families have for this one little girl, and how her mere existence gave them hope in dark times. I also enjoyed the side characters that populated the story, and the unlikely friendships formed in the midst of hardship.
My only criticism is that the book needed better editing. There are multiple typos and minor errors throughout. I still enjoyed the book very much, and I’m looking forward to Veronica Leigh’s next book.
This book takes an unflinching look at the tragedy of war through these two families, as they try to survive for their own sake, and the child they both love. I admire Leigh for not holding back on the details of war or the concentration camps. Those sections were obviously well researched, as was life in Poland in the 1940s. Other conflicts related to personal tragedy and mental health play a part in the plot as well, and function as a reminder that those who lived through the war still had to cope with their pre-existing problems.
What I loved most about this book is the love that both families have for this one little girl, and how her mere existence gave them hope in dark times. I also enjoyed the side characters that populated the story, and the unlikely friendships formed in the midst of hardship.
My only criticism is that the book needed better editing. There are multiple typos and minor errors throughout. I still enjoyed the book very much, and I’m looking forward to Veronica Leigh’s next book.
September 2, 2025
Loved the book but as others mentioned it ends very abruptly. It was almost as if the author just got tiered of the story and said, The End! If it hadn’t been for that I would have given it 5 stars
August 31, 2025
ON KINDLE
October 21, 2025
poorly edited
While this was a good story, I do not understand how a book can be published with so many obvious mistakes in it.
While this was a good story, I do not understand how a book can be published with so many obvious mistakes in it.
October 16, 2025
This was a great story and gave insights I had not previously learned about this time in history for the people of Poland. The let down was the writing. Some phrases just did not make sense, grammar, editing etc otherwise a good read.
October 25, 2025
EXCELLENT
A very moving story it had lots of information about what it must have been to live in Poland during the war especially for Jews
A very moving story it had lots of information about what it must have been to live in Poland during the war especially for Jews
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