The Girl from the Fjords

by Eliza Graham

A breathtaking tale of motherhood, family and survival in war-torn Norway

In the serene beauty of the Norwegian fjords, Asta Nilsen's world is suddenly shattered when German forces invade her homeland. Caring for her ailing father in their remote red cabin while her brother flees to Scotland to join the Allied forces, Asta struggles to survive under the harsh realities of occupation.

When Asta finds herself with child after a brief affair that will forever mark her as a traitor in her neighbours' eyes, she makes the heart-wrenching decision to leave Norway to protect her daughter. But fate has more challenges in store when young Kari is stolen from her and prepared for adoption in Australia.

Spanning the occupied fjords of Norway to the rubble of post-war Germany and the streets of Stockholm, this sweeping novel explores the impossible choices faced during wartime and their lingering consequences. In the chaos of war, can Asta find her daughter and bring her home?

A deeply moving story of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love against the backdrop of one of history's darkest chapters.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Womens Fiction, World War II

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 24, 2025

About the author

Eliza Graham is an Oxfordshire-based UK author whose adult novels reflect her fascination with how historical events affect families..

Reviews

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story, set in Norway during WW2. I’ve not read much about Norway during these times, so this book gave me a different perspective. It follows Asta and her father, living in a remote cabin while her brother is away fighting in Scotland. A German is billeted with them and the story portrays how life was for women in Norway who got romantically involved with a German.

It was a slightly slow start, but picked up pace quite nicely and there was enough going on to keep me interested. I really warmed to the characters and hoped that things would work out well for them.

I wasn’t sure where the story would go, and there were a few twists that I didn’t foresee. The actual war and the fighting wasn’t a huge part of the story, instead it focussed on how life was affected for those just trying to live their lives with the backdrop of war as best they could.

It was tragic, hopeful, moving, heartwarming and sad. It’s an easy 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life in the Norwegian fjords changes rapidly for the Pettersen family when Germany invades and billets one of their men in the Pettersen home.

Author Eliza Graham shows how the civilians of this neutral country reacted to the German invasion and occupation. You’ll learn why Norway was invaded and what it was like to live alongside the German occupiers. The insecurity of occupied living, the acute awareness of powerlessness, and the struggle to make sense of and shape their present situation are ever present in this novel. Graham excels at showing the relationship between the occupier and the occupied.

“Sometimes it’s good to behave as we would do outside war and occupation.”

Lieutenant Max Brandt, who’s been posted in a civilian capacity as an engineer, soon became an integral part of Asta Pettersen’s family life. Max was able to show Asta his humanity and quickly the uncomfortable situation became comfortable … too comfortable. You’ll read about how things changed as the war progressed and put pressure on these two ‘friends’.

Graham allows readers to see Max for who he really is. I was in awe seeing how the two friends completed each other; Max experienced a temporary escape from the demands of his military life and provided a different lens for Asta to view her world. Asta received rations and aid, both at home and for her family. I’d never considered the give-and-take scenario of occupation.

If you are looking for a WW2 novel with a unique setting, fantastic emotional pull, unpredictable twists, and great characterization, this is one to put on your tbr list!

I was gifted this copy by Storm Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Norway scene on the cover is stunning! It grabs your attention and pulls on your emotional core. And the story is equally so. The Girl from the Fjords by Eliza Graham is an incredibly powerful and moving WW2 novel of courage, sacrifice and enduring love. I appreciate the fact that this masterful fiction comes at the enemy occupation scenario from a different angle than most novels of its kind. What if the host falls in love with the German officer she has been forced to billet? What are the consequences? What challenges will this create? Will this woman be seen as a traitor to her own people?

One truth that stands out for me is the fact we cannot judge a whole race of people in one ruthless sweep. (Hitler did that!) But others did the same in their responses. The Nazis regime was horrible but there were Germans who did not approve of what their country was doing. Max was one of them. And when he comes to live with Asta and her father, she is angry at first that their occupier has forced them to take on one of their people. This young officer, Max Brandt, though is quite different from what she expected. After he is billeted to stay in their home, she gradually gets to know him and realises he is one of the good ones. They fall in love, she gets pregnant and then her world begins to change rapidly. The effects of their union puts them in a difficult position. When Max is sent on a work mission and must leave his young daughter and wife for a long period, terrible things happen. During their separation Asta is attacked. She must deal with a jealous family friend and the neighbourhood’s negative response to Asta and Max’s relationship and marriage. This leads her, through her father’s advice, to move far away, but without her daughter. A difficult decision of sacrifice that delivers unexpected consequences. I won’t give away what happens next but it is tragic. I could easily put myself in Asta’s shoes and feel her pain. For she must also experience betrayal of the worst kind: from those closest to her.

There are some interesting characters in this story. A close friend who waivers, a brother who makes some bad decisions and a father whose constant love gives Asta courage to move forward. There is so much to love about this novel and make you weep. Author Eliza taps into our hearts and makes us feel the pain and suffering of these characters. But sometimes their courage, resilience and desire to achieve is misguided or led astray by prejudice— an awful ruler that injures many in its path. Thankfully, forgiveness and love filters through and re-unites broken relationships.

The story moved along at an appropriate pace and the build-up to the ending was extremely tense. But the conclusion was jubilant and freeing. I highly recommend this WW2 novel that will take you to new places in your heart, lift you on a turbulent wave but make you clap for joy at its resolutions. It is beautifully delivered with a riveting plot and endearing characters. I was particularly moved by Max, Asta’s and Kari’s story. War can harden a heart as it did for Arne. Friendship can soften a hurt as it did for Asta. Yet best friends can reunite after bad decisions. And families can heal after betrayal. The Girl from the Fjords delivers all this and more. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Francesca Folinazzo · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
I’ve read plenty of WWII historical fiction but none that takes place in Norway. For that reason, I was drawn to this book. It is a story of love and resilience that also features the topics of loyalty and family bonds. It was a bit slow in some parts and, again, the ending was way too neat, but overall, I liked the book well enough.

[annasbook nookk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Norway in the 1940s, the story is about motherhood, survival, and the scary choices Asta had to make at that time.

Asta was so strong and brave. 💪 At that time, she had to nurse her poorly father in a remote cabin in the fjords. 🏔️

As bad as this was for her, she then becomes pregnant in a forbidden affair… and the story quickly unravels as she faces many challenges. 😢

After being shamed, attacked, and then forced to leave the fjord to keep her baby, the journey becomes even more heartbreaking. 👶💔

The story jumps from Norway, Germany, and Stockholm, with Asta desperately trying to find her little girl. 🌍 I was on the edge of my seat to know the outcome! 😲

As a mother, I could feel how she felt, and it made my heart ache for her. 💔👩‍👧

[CarolinaBookBliss · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Girl From the Fjords offers a unique and emotional perspective on historical fiction, set against the backdrop of WW2.
This was a compelling read with a relatable and likable protagonist who faced some incredible challenges.
The story sheds light on a lesser known aspect of the war, making it all the more impactful. With engaging storytelling and an easy to follow narrative, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a powerful and thought provoking read that I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this Advanced Release Copy.

[Lisa M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Girl from the Fjords focuses on Asta, a young lady living on a farm in Norway during the Nazi occupation. During that time, they are forced to house a young German officer/engineer named Max. Through their constant interactions she learns to love the man--not his nationality or uniform. The rest of the book looks at their life together, their challenges that break them apart, and what finally pulls them back together after the war is over.

*Warning: some sexual content, but not open door. Some language.

I just felt like this book jumped all over the place. I didn't mind it when it was in Asta's POV. But then it jumped to Marte for a random chapter or two, and then Mangus, and Max, Kari....well it was too much.

I was able to set this book down a lot to take a break. It was interesting, but not grab me until it's done interesting.

3 Stars
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC. All opinions are 100% my own.

[PJ]

I really enjoyed this book. Never thought about what went on in Norway during the war… this story gives you an understanding of what life was like in Norway. Likable characters and easy to read.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A 3,5* review rounded up to 4*. I enjoyed this novel quite a lot. To be in love with a German in Norway during the occupation and follow one's heart is definitely not a fairy tale!! What would happen if you get a child and the war is over? How are Norwegian women who had German lovers/husband then treated? What about the child???? Thought provoking reactions I will not judge... The end was in a way satisfying, on the other hand not really realistic... Very interesting and emotionally engaging.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

[Dawn Lawrence Read_with_Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, I’ve never read a WW2 novel based in Norway and it was so interesting. It was sad, devastating, uplifting and full of hope for the future. The beautiful fjord town has been taken over by the Nazis, and the locals have to learn to live with the disruption and changes. Love between a Nazi and a Norwegian is frowned upon so when romance blooms the town turns their back. This story was very thought provoking and emotional, I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend this book it was excellent.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a World War II novel that is a tearjerker then I would suggest picking up this one. I can only imagine the horrible fear that the people of Norway felt when the Nazi's were in occupation duribg the war because when you think about it there was probably a lot of stress because the citizens of Norway were expected to cater to them and obey their rules. Overall this story was very impressive and i'm glad that I took the time to read it.

We are introduced to a young woman named Asta who is doing her best to take care of her father. However, she soon finds herself in trouble when a brief love affair leaves her with child. Due to the judgement from her neighbors she decided to leavr in search of a better life. However, her trip to a new home will come with a lot of twists and turns.

[Bethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

|:: The Girl from the Fjords
By Eliza Graham
Chapter Four Page 52
Part One. Norway, 1942
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

{* Max took the kettle off the range. She hadn't noticed it boiling, distracted by the prospect of so many responsibilities.
“We should let this brew for three or four minutes, that's what my mother does at home”
He found an enamel mug hanging over the sink. She nodded. Max grinned.
“What?”
“I’m suggesting something and you're agreeing without argument.”
“And that surprises you?”
“Sorry, you're understandably worried about your father. I would be the same. Would it reassure you to know the men in the barracks are recovering well?”
She was about to snap back at him, saying they would be younger and have better food, before she reminded herself that she and Papa hadn't been eating too badly at all in the last months, thanks to Max’s supplies.
“It will be alright, Asta.”
“His heart.” she blurted out the words.
“The strain of the infection, it might..”
Better not say the words.*}

​Two people. One magical place. A hundred different reasons for them to stay away from each other, but the heart doesn't care about your situation, where you're from, or what side of history you belong on. It only knows what feels right.

​Even when everything else is wrong.

​Asta Nilsen's life was blown apart by death. Her mother was taken from her far too young, her brother was sent off to war, and her father was very good at hiding the weakness his body had been warning him of. With the holiday home that was usually for the four of them, just two felt wrong.

​It felt as wrong as the war and the situation they found themselves in when Germany arrived and claimed their town one day without warning. The Germans claimed they were there to help fortify the place against the Allies, but rumours circulated of all the travesties they were committing behind enemy lines, in the shadows where no one wanted to look.

​So when word arrived by letter, ordering them to welcome a guest into their home—a visitor who could be there for months, maybe even years—Asta and her father, Petter, had no choice. Their sacred home became an awkward stalemate as Max, a lieutenant of the German army, was thrust into their lives.
​However, not all was as it seemed to be with the young German. Despite her misgivings and obvious disgust at her home being invaded by a "grey worm," a secret tryst and shock pregnancy welcomed baby Kari into their world.

As her once-friendly neighbours and silent friends looked on, Asta was branded a traitor to her kind and was unfairly run out of the home her family shared and the loved ones she had to rip herself away from to protect. ​In Asta's absence, a cruel and daring fate saw a beautiful three-year-old Kari left at a boarding house for children in Stockholm. Will she ever remember who she lost and what was taken from her?

​Growing up and learning about World War II, I think I was insulated by the fact that what happened in my town and the country my whole family is from is safe and well-loved. I was born over 40 years after the war, so what I have learned has been from books, documentaries, films, and research. Even now, I can't really understand the horror that was done and the injustice people suffered.

​I don't think I fully appreciated how not just one man but a whole country of people were able to do that to another human being. That scares me because a lot of those officers and civilians got away with the awful tragedies that affected almost everyone.

​But I had never really thought about this side before: what was it like for Germans who loved their country and felt they needed to be of service to it, but didn't like, want, or agree with what their countrymen were doing?

​Or for countries like Norway, which were invaded and forced to make conversation and work for the Germans while their men were off fighting for their country and dying—while Germans warmed their feet under the family table. This story really struck a chord with me.

​I thought I had read everything I could about World War II. I had seen every story, from the worst to the best, but this one literally had my heart. There were times when I sat up and really didn't want to read on. I was even going to flip to the end at one point because I didn't think this book would end happily. I'm glad I didn't because following Max and Asta's journey from strangers to soulmates was something I will not forget for a long time.

​I'll admit I wanted to chuck my phone at one point. I didn't think I wanted to read anymore—the part about Kari being so young and poor Asta being treated the way she was. I could not, and still do not, want to forgive Arne! Max took a bit of warming up, but I did love Marte, even though I felt like crying when she stayed silent.

​This will be a story that stays with me for a while. It takes someone truly special to write a story like this and make it feel so real and frightening, but also to find joy in one of the blackest moments in mankind. I am in awe and complete amazement at anyone with the talent to write a World War II story. Because it changes you—authors who make you feel something with stories, by evoking emotions with a pen and creative flair are rare and so so special.

Title: The Girl from the Fjords
Author: Eliza Graham
Publish Date: 24/7/25
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Review Score 5/5

A huge thank you to Eliza Graham, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Girl from the Fjords by Eliza Graham is a breathtaking and emotionally charged World War II novel set against the stunning yet treacherous backdrop of Norway’s fjords. Graham masterfully blends historical accuracy with heart-wrenching drama, creating a story that lingers long after the final page.

The narrative follows Asta Nilsen, a young woman whose life is shattered by the German occupation. After her mother’s death and her brother’s departure to fight with the Allies, Asta and her ailing father are forced to billet Max Brandt, a German officer. What begins as suspicion and resentment slowly transforms into a complicated romance, leading to pregnancy, heartbreak, and difficult decisions. Graham doesn’t shy away from exploring the moral complexities of love, loyalty, and survival under occupation, showing that not all soldiers are villains and not all neighbors are allies.

The story is rich with vividly drawn characters. Asta’s resilience, Max’s quiet honor, and Kari’s innocence all resonate deeply. Secondary characters, like the steadfast Marte and Asta’s conflicted brother Arne, add depth and tension, while the fjords themselves become a character of their own, harsh, beautiful, and unforgettable. The pacing balances suspense, romance, and historical intrigue, ensuring that readers remain engaged through both the occupation and the post-war aftermath.

This novel is a moving exploration of courage, sacrifice, and enduring love in one of history’s darkest periods. Graham’s storytelling is immersive, emotional, and unforgettable, making The Girl from the Fjords a standout in historical fiction.

[Charlie Sandino · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very suspenseful book taking us to the Fjords in Norway. It takes place during WWII, the occupation, the resistance as the war is ongoing.
The Storytelling is very good, with interesting characters, plenty of drama and terror caused by the occupation, some people trying to do what they can to help those in trouble. The SS not far away and even those in Norway that are the extended hand of the German soldiers. Asta is in the mountains with her ailing father Petter and is taking care of him. Arne, Asta's brother is off to Scotland, wanting to fight with the allies. Astas's mother recently had passed away from illness. There is also the postmistress Marte, who works at the postoffice and is Asta's closest friend. Asta and her father will have to accept a German soldier Max Brandt coming to live with them. The life in the mountains isn't easy, the fjords and the beautiful description of the scenery is lovely. The reader can definitely picture the Norwegian fjords and surroundings.
The story did have several twist and turns making it very suspenseful, making it not predictable and the pace was good. Many of the happenings were not what they seemed to be, and the fact that several of the characters were from the resistance. All in all a well put together story that doesn't leave the reader without thoughts of what happens next.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this book.
Charlotte N

[lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for allowing me to review this beautiful story set in Norway during the German occupation of the 2nd World War. I am a fan of Eliza Graham's books and this is as well written as the others have been. The characters feel genuine, their fears and anxieties are appropriate for the difficult times. Relationships are challenged. The story moves through to the aftermath of the war and the consequences of the times. The story is written compassionately and with a feel for the concerns of all sides involved. It is an emotional read. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction and romance.

[Enid Pereira · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Girl from the Fjords is an emotional tale of loneliness, heartbreak and survival. Asta who lives with her father in Nazi occupied Norway goes through a tumultuous time once during and after the occupation. Though her relationship with Max causes her a lot of grief, their shared love for each other and their daughter is a heart rending journey.

The simplicity of love written here makes it very believable. Asta's predicament between her love for her country and her German husband is well scripted through the book.

The author did a good job focusing on aspects of the war where innocent people were collateral. The adoption of war children is gut wrenching showcasing the emotional toll it took on millions of people.
Though the ending felt a bit dramatic, the rest of the story was wonderfully written.

I give this book 4 stars.

I thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the E-Arc and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

The unique Norwegian setting of The Girl From the Fjords immediately caught my attention. Its themes of resilience, sacrifice, and love kept me engaged throughout. However, it wasn’t one of my favourites by Eliza Graham, as I found it a bit repetitive and slow at times. Still, it’s an intriguing story set during one of the darkest periods in history. 3 ½ stars
I would like to thank the author, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.
#TheGirlFromTheFjords #NetGalley.

[Lisa A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy Eliza Graham's novels and always look forward to her new releases. This one did not disappoint! Set in Norway, this location offered a different perspective to other WWII books I've read and was a nice change. An emotional story of courage and resilience with a great lineup of characters, twists that I didn't see coming, and historical tidbits throughout... all in all, a very enjoyable read that I looked forward to reading each night.

Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Eliza Graham for an advance copy for review. All opinions are my own.

[Beth Rush · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so interesting to read a WW2 novel where we get to know a German soldier that does not agree with his country’s philosophy. It was especially interesting to hear of all that occurred in the years following the German surrender and how the Germans were treated after the war. I truly feel sorry for all the innocent Germans who weren’t Hitler supporters and then became so reviled. As usual with this author, the characters were very well fleshed out and my feelings for them were all over the map. I just wish there was a Ten Years Later chapter!

[R Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent read shedding light on wartime Norway. It tells the story of a girl who is passionately patriotic and entirely opposed to the Nazi invasion, but her world is turned upside down when she falls in love with. a German engineer billeted in her home. Knowing that it would lead her to being ostracised from her community she marries the invader and has to live with the consequence. The book focuses on the relationships in this small community and has only passing reference to events in the war but explores well the choices people make that make them either a hero or a traitor. While I thought the ending to this book was full of co-incidence such phenomena are not unknown and made a neat ending to a story that gripped your imagination.

[Michelle Cornish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eliza Graham’s The Girl from the Fjords is a stunningly evocative novel that immerses readers in the breathtaking yet brutal world of war-torn Norway. From the opening pages, Graham captures the quiet beauty of the fjords, only to wrench it apart with the harsh realities of occupation, betrayal, and heartbreaking sacrifice.

With vivid historical detail, lyrical prose, and rich emotional depth, The Girl from the Fjords is both intimate and sweeping. Fans of Kristin Hannah, Kate Quinn, and Martha Hall Kelly will find much to love here. This story reminds us that even in history’s darkest hours, the bonds of family and the courage to keep going can light the way forward.

[Nethanja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting story. Asta hadn't planned to fall in love butbit happened anyway, now she was pregnant from the enemy and people are standing up against her. After the was she decides to leave for a while but then her little girl is missing and she doesn't know where her husband is. Can they ever find each other and become the family they wanted.
I really enjoyed this story.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.

[Rhiann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book! The story grabs your attention from the beginning and it pulls on true emotions the whole book through! For me, though the fjords itself were like another character - and it transported me right back there, as I’ve been lucky enough to experience it for myself. Above all this book is an incredibly powerful and moving tale of WWII in Norway and of love, sacrifice and courage.

[Carey Mundy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this WWII historic fiction novel that takes place in Norway. Sara and her father live in a small village on a fjord when a German who has been assigned to live with them. The German, Max, is not a fan of the Nazi regime and they end up in love and with a young child. But as the war grinds to a halt and he is forced to leave, Asta too is forced to make difficult decisions that will change everything. This was a great read!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A different perspective on WW2, set in Norway. Asta and her father have to house a German civilian called Max. Initially, they resent this intrusion, but slowly, the kind young man gains their trust and affection, so much so that Asta and Max fall in love and a baby comes along. What follows is the anger from the locals and after the war ends their displacement. Cruel, sad, and emotionally draining but a worthwhile read.

[Luisa Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting story about the occupation of Norway. For me, this one got more exciting and emotionally engaging when the war ended and each of the characters was left to deal with the aftermath in the best way they could.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author knows how to tell a tale!😍

What a great piece of historical fiction with an embattled romance woven through it! I knew next to nothing about the German occupation of Norway in WWII other than a vaguely remembered reading of John Steinbeck's The Moon is Down when in school over half a century ago. I did not remember anything about the Germany's use of slave labor in the territories, like Norway, that they occupied, or that the Norwegian wartime Prime Minister was so close to Hitler's government. Nor did I really think about what demobilized German troops faced when they were chased out of other European countries and returned to a country carved up by the Allies, especially the sectors ransacked by the Soviets. Max Brandt, the German engineer assigned to reside with Asta and her father, was easy to sympathize with because he is not caught up in the violence and abuses meted out by the Nazi troops.

I loved the way author Eliza Graham educated me through an eminently readable, emotional fictionalized story of one Norwegian family's wartime experience and the chaos and distrust after the Germans had been defeated. Excellent storytelling that educated and moved me. The climax was urgent and exciting and the novel on the whole was one that will stay with me for a while.

Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartbreaking WWII story in Norway. A love affair gone wrong. A sick father. A girl trying to take care of things. I had a lot of tears in my eyes during this story.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the start this grabbed my attention, the heartbreaks throughout the book had me close to tears. The ending was everything you could hope for in a storyline like this.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

This book lacked transitions and strong character development. Disappointed because the premise had such potential.

Listened to audiobook.