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Bring Me Into the Light
In the wreckage of 1930s Berlin, silence was survival. In 1950s Toronto, it’s a prison.
For Anna, the glass-fronted shops and bustling streetcars of postwar Toronto are merely a fresh coat of paint on a haunted house. She has spent years meticulously burying her past beneath the city’s polite rhythms, convinced that what is lost to the rubble stays there. She has survived by becoming a stranger to herself, until a chance meeting unearths the one thing she wasn't prepared to her sister, Gerta, is alive.
But the girl who once skipped over Berlin cobblestones has been replaced by a woman hollowed out by the same shadows Anna tried to outrun. As the sisters reunite, the carefully constructed facade of Anna's new life begins to crack. To find their way back to one another, they must excavate the secrets they kept to stay alive, secrets that now threaten to pull them back into the dark.
Moving between the atmospheric tension of prewar Germany and the burgeoning landscape of mid-century Toronto, Bring Me Into the Light is a visceral exploration of the archaeology of memory. It is a story of how we survive the unthinkable, and the courage it takes to finally speak the truth.
For Anna, the glass-fronted shops and bustling streetcars of postwar Toronto are merely a fresh coat of paint on a haunted house. She has spent years meticulously burying her past beneath the city’s polite rhythms, convinced that what is lost to the rubble stays there. She has survived by becoming a stranger to herself, until a chance meeting unearths the one thing she wasn't prepared to her sister, Gerta, is alive.
But the girl who once skipped over Berlin cobblestones has been replaced by a woman hollowed out by the same shadows Anna tried to outrun. As the sisters reunite, the carefully constructed facade of Anna's new life begins to crack. To find their way back to one another, they must excavate the secrets they kept to stay alive, secrets that now threaten to pull them back into the dark.
Moving between the atmospheric tension of prewar Germany and the burgeoning landscape of mid-century Toronto, Bring Me Into the Light is a visceral exploration of the archaeology of memory. It is a story of how we survive the unthinkable, and the courage it takes to finally speak the truth.
419 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 17, 2026
Great book and very well written. I loved the story and hope to see more from the author. Met him at the kitchener book expo!
August 29, 2026
I can’t decide whether I like Anna or Anneliese, as she used to be known in her childhood, and that’s a good thing, because Ana behaves like real humans do, and not like so many book characters who lack depth and are purely good or purely bad. Anna’s decisions and reactions are sometimes hard to understand, even to her, but that’s one of the reasons I find her story compelling. I paused sometimes while reading, wondering what I would do and how I would behave in her place, if I were faced with the situations she had to face.
I received Bring Me Into the Light through NetGalley and started reading without looking up the author. I was surprised when I realized that the author is not a woman, because Shane Keleher wrote so well from a woman's point of view, and more importantly, from the point of view of a young woman, with trauma, living in a foreign country, and trying to build a new life.
Bring Me Into the Light is not a story you will devour in one evening, nor should you try to do that. Take your time reading it, pausing when you need to reflect on the story, and savor the wonderful, accurate and apt details - colors, patterns, movement, smells, sounds or lack of sound, touch - that make the scenes more whole, and easier to imagine.
I hope Bring Me Into the Light reaches a wide audience because Shane’s writing is beautiful and covers so many important issues - growing up under Nazism and living in Berlin through WWII, immigrant life (and alienation) of a young single woman with very meager salary in the 1950s Toronto, 1950s Canadians’ polite indifference, dealing with PTSD that rears its ugly head at least expected moments like trauma often does, 1950s mental health “treatments”, and last but not least, the danger of being gay both in 1930s Berlin but also in 1950s Toronto.
I also hope the next two books that Shane Keleher writes will be the story of Lily and the story of Martin because I would like to know what happened to them.
I received Bring Me Into the Light through NetGalley and started reading without looking up the author. I was surprised when I realized that the author is not a woman, because Shane Keleher wrote so well from a woman's point of view, and more importantly, from the point of view of a young woman, with trauma, living in a foreign country, and trying to build a new life.
Bring Me Into the Light is not a story you will devour in one evening, nor should you try to do that. Take your time reading it, pausing when you need to reflect on the story, and savor the wonderful, accurate and apt details - colors, patterns, movement, smells, sounds or lack of sound, touch - that make the scenes more whole, and easier to imagine.
I hope Bring Me Into the Light reaches a wide audience because Shane’s writing is beautiful and covers so many important issues - growing up under Nazism and living in Berlin through WWII, immigrant life (and alienation) of a young single woman with very meager salary in the 1950s Toronto, 1950s Canadians’ polite indifference, dealing with PTSD that rears its ugly head at least expected moments like trauma often does, 1950s mental health “treatments”, and last but not least, the danger of being gay both in 1930s Berlin but also in 1950s Toronto.
I also hope the next two books that Shane Keleher writes will be the story of Lily and the story of Martin because I would like to know what happened to them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
**arc review **
A haunting and deeply emotional novel, this story offers a powerful exploration of trauma, guilt, survival, and the long road toward healing. Set partly in Berlin during Hitler’s rise and World War II, the novel follows sisters Annaliese and Gerta as their once-happy lives are destroyed by the Nazis. The author vividly captures the gradual descent from normalcy into fear, showing how even the smallest mistake could lead to devastating consequences under the Gestapo’s rule.
What makes this novel especially compelling is its focus on the aftermath of trauma. Years later in Canada, Annaliese struggles to rebuild her life while believing she has lost her sister forever. The shock of discovering that Gerta is alive and living nearby becomes an emotional turning point that highlights how differently survivors cope with pain and memory. The novel thoughtfully examines themes of loneliness, guilt, and psychological survival, particularly during a time when mental health treatment was still poorly understood.
Beautifully written and emotionally authentic, this book is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Its realistic portrayal of human resilience and the enduring effects of war makes it an unforgettable read that will stay with readers long after the final page.
A haunting and deeply emotional novel, this story offers a powerful exploration of trauma, guilt, survival, and the long road toward healing. Set partly in Berlin during Hitler’s rise and World War II, the novel follows sisters Annaliese and Gerta as their once-happy lives are destroyed by the Nazis. The author vividly captures the gradual descent from normalcy into fear, showing how even the smallest mistake could lead to devastating consequences under the Gestapo’s rule.
What makes this novel especially compelling is its focus on the aftermath of trauma. Years later in Canada, Annaliese struggles to rebuild her life while believing she has lost her sister forever. The shock of discovering that Gerta is alive and living nearby becomes an emotional turning point that highlights how differently survivors cope with pain and memory. The novel thoughtfully examines themes of loneliness, guilt, and psychological survival, particularly during a time when mental health treatment was still poorly understood.
Beautifully written and emotionally authentic, this book is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Its realistic portrayal of human resilience and the enduring effects of war makes it an unforgettable read that will stay with readers long after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A deeply emotional read! This novel illustrates very accurately and truly what trauma may involve: the past, impossible to put into words; the future, unimaginable, scary where loneliness and guilt grips you. Healing? A hope not always fulfilled. Indeed, in the 1970's, psychology and psychiatry were not understood as they are nowadays. Therapy was not particularly adequate either at this time. It felt more like experiment. The concept of guilt, as mentioned above, is a fascinating concept because it is so ankered in our psyche which complicates our psychological development. Where does this emotion come from, when it should not? Very sad indeed. This novel is great because it covers so many human aspects in a realistic and convincing way. I found the timeline set in Canada (as opposed to the WWII timeline) extremely interesting on a human and psychological level. I highly recommend this novel which will move the reader in various ways.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a must-read and a keeper. The author's style of writing is beautiful and touching.
Annaliese and Gerta, two sisters growing up in Berlin during Hitler's reign and World War II, lose everything to the Nazis. Their family members, their home, their lives are destroyed. The author does a wonderful job showing the progression of the years leading up to the war, the descent from a normal happy life to the constant fear of the smallest misstep causing you to be snatched up by the Gestapo. Anneliese even loses Gerta and must rebuild her life from the ground up, thinking she is all alone in the world. Imagine how shocking it must be when while living in Canada in the 1950's she is told that Gerta is living nearby! Anna and Gerta are both handling their past traumas in different ways but the point is they are alive and safe and continuing to carry on despite everything that should have broken them. The ending was so inspirational.
Annaliese and Gerta, two sisters growing up in Berlin during Hitler's reign and World War II, lose everything to the Nazis. Their family members, their home, their lives are destroyed. The author does a wonderful job showing the progression of the years leading up to the war, the descent from a normal happy life to the constant fear of the smallest misstep causing you to be snatched up by the Gestapo. Anneliese even loses Gerta and must rebuild her life from the ground up, thinking she is all alone in the world. Imagine how shocking it must be when while living in Canada in the 1950's she is told that Gerta is living nearby! Anna and Gerta are both handling their past traumas in different ways but the point is they are alive and safe and continuing to carry on despite everything that should have broken them. The ending was so inspirational.
October 5, 2026
Audiobook review: The narration was very good. The voice was pleasant, very easy to understand and an enjoyable listening experience.
Story review: I loved this story. It deals with the horrible Holocaust event and it's effect on the survivors. Anna is doing her best to escape the memories of her and her family's experiences. She is now living in Toronto, has a job but keeps to herself, especially to hide her secrets. I thought her character was believable, her emotions described well but compassionately.
The part when Gerta, her sister, comes back in her life was both wonderful and sad. I had a roller coaster of emotions through out the last part of the book. I loved the ending. If you like emotional family saga historical fiction, then you will like this book.
I was given a free audiobook copy of this story from the author via StoryOrigin. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Story review: I loved this story. It deals with the horrible Holocaust event and it's effect on the survivors. Anna is doing her best to escape the memories of her and her family's experiences. She is now living in Toronto, has a job but keeps to herself, especially to hide her secrets. I thought her character was believable, her emotions described well but compassionately.
The part when Gerta, her sister, comes back in her life was both wonderful and sad. I had a roller coaster of emotions through out the last part of the book. I loved the ending. If you like emotional family saga historical fiction, then you will like this book.
I was given a free audiobook copy of this story from the author via StoryOrigin. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Absolutely astounding. I was totally drawn into this story of two sisters who were lost, then found, then lost and found again. Their lives shattered beyond belief by the horrors of Nazi Germany, one sister escapes to begin life anew far from the trauma she endured. The dark terrors still walk with her every day, and haunt her throughout the night. She eventually manages to achieve some semblance of normality, when a twist of fate brings her missing sister back into her life. There is more sorrow than joy in their reunion, however. Their journey toward healing, despite the odds, is both inspiring and heartbreaking. This is one of the best examples of historical fiction that I've ever read. All of the characters and events are masterfully crafted. I highly recommend!
Review of advance copy
It's been quite a long time for a historical fiction book like this to capture my attention and my heart. Such loveable characters and a storyline thats grips you right from the start. Following the main character in both the past and present, you are able to get a full sense of who she is and why she is. She is relatable with just wanting to escape the past and the trauma. That thought of if I pretend that it doesn't exist, if it is never talked about, then I can be this new person. That maybe the past will eventually disappear from my brain if people only know who I am now. Anna and not Anneliese. I loved this book, thank you for bringing back my love for historical fiction.
Review of advance copy
Bring Me Into the Light by Shane Keleher is a moving historical novel that explores trauma, survival, and the healing power of family. Set between 1930s Berlin and 1950s Toronto, the story follows two sisters whose reunion forces them to confront painful memories they tried to bury. Keleher writes with emotional depth, creating believable characters and a powerful sense of hope despite the darkness they endure. The alternating timelines keep the story engaging while highlighting the lasting effects of war and loss. This is a heartfelt, thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy emotional historical fiction.
September 20, 2026
I love love love the prologue and epilogue. The writing is so beautiful, it gave me chills.
My favorite sub-genre of historical fiction is WWII survival stories. I love that this survivor story is completely different from anything else that I’ve read, so it’s fantastic that the German immigrants have a story that represents what they must have lived through (but no one knows because there’s so few of the stories!)
I love that mental health is touched upon through the story because I think PTSD is so often misunderstood.
The guilt of Anna was heavy and I just wanted to reach out and explain to her character that she doesn’t have to carry this weight.
My favorite sub-genre of historical fiction is WWII survival stories. I love that this survivor story is completely different from anything else that I’ve read, so it’s fantastic that the German immigrants have a story that represents what they must have lived through (but no one knows because there’s so few of the stories!)
I love that mental health is touched upon through the story because I think PTSD is so often misunderstood.
The guilt of Anna was heavy and I just wanted to reach out and explain to her character that she doesn’t have to carry this weight.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've had the pleasure of being a beta reader for Shane for a long time, it's been such a pleasure to be involved in the journey this story has taken. So many stories offer a short, simple explanation of the story of our lives. Shane, instead chooses to draw characters of emotional intensity and depth set against the historic back drop of Toronto. The entwined but often separated journey of Annalise and Greta is told with depth and compassion. This book has been a joy to read in all it's iterations, but this one is the finest. I am so pleased to have been able to come along for the journey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is *chefs kiss*! We go on the journey with Anna through life after world war II, in a time where it was assumed that one could deal with their own traumas on their own. There are so many emotions felt while reading this book, from Anna dealing with her own anxieties, to overthinking while trying to open up with others, then navigating trying to take care of a love one while barely being able to take care of herself, it was such a rollercoaster. This story is worth the read, so touching and thought provoking.
Review of advance copy
There were moments that made this book hard to read. From certain topics to the wording. It takes place at different timeframes between Germany and Canada. Instead of jumping chapters like other authors have, this one is broken into sections to help transition from each time period and how Anna deals with each situation.
Anna was a great main character and shows resilience and strength with how she overcomes many obstacles and trauma. Loved the happy ending! If you enjoy historical fiction books with some romance this is definitely one you will want to read.
Anna was a great main character and shows resilience and strength with how she overcomes many obstacles and trauma. Loved the happy ending! If you enjoy historical fiction books with some romance this is definitely one you will want to read.
October 29, 2026
I absolutely loved listening to Bring Me Into the Light by Shane Keleher. What drew me in was how the story felt like three books in one. The narrative seamlessly moves between prewar Germany, wartime experiences, and postwar Toronto, creating a rich and emotional journey that kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Anna and Gerta's story is heartbreaking, inspiring, and deeply human. The author does a wonderful job of showing how the trauma of the past can linger for decades, while also highlighting the healing power of family, truth, and forgiveness. I found myself completely invested in the sisters' reunion and the secrets they carried for so many years.
I listened to the audiobook version, and Courtney Lanz's narration was fantastic. She brought each character to life with emotion and authenticity, making it easy to become immersed in the story. Her performance added another layer of depth to an already compelling novel.
If you enjoy historical fiction, family sagas, and stories of resilience, I highly recommend this audiobook. It's moving, beautifully written, and unforgettable. I was captivated from start to finish and didn't want it to end. Five stars!
Anna and Gerta's story is heartbreaking, inspiring, and deeply human. The author does a wonderful job of showing how the trauma of the past can linger for decades, while also highlighting the healing power of family, truth, and forgiveness. I found myself completely invested in the sisters' reunion and the secrets they carried for so many years.
I listened to the audiobook version, and Courtney Lanz's narration was fantastic. She brought each character to life with emotion and authenticity, making it easy to become immersed in the story. Her performance added another layer of depth to an already compelling novel.
If you enjoy historical fiction, family sagas, and stories of resilience, I highly recommend this audiobook. It's moving, beautifully written, and unforgettable. I was captivated from start to finish and didn't want it to end. Five stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bring Me Into the Light is a beautifully-written book exploring the archaeology of trauma and healing. The characters really came alive for me. The prose is so incredibly poetic and lyrical and the ending has stayed with me for days. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a story of redemption and survival.
Review of advance copy
Bring Me To The Light by Shane Keleher
The first thing I have to comment on is the author’s innate ability to put feelings into words. To accurately describe how a panic attack feels internally, the complicated feelings of grief and hope simultaneously holding the same space… this novel will resonate with and touch pieces of your heart and soul as you navigate Annaliese’s journey with her.
The first thing I have to comment on is the author’s innate ability to put feelings into words. To accurately describe how a panic attack feels internally, the complicated feelings of grief and hope simultaneously holding the same space… this novel will resonate with and touch pieces of your heart and soul as you navigate Annaliese’s journey with her.
August 30, 2026
Some of the writing was really beautiful but more focus seemed to be on the imagery than the plot. The roommates were introduced as people Anna was wary of, had spent time with reluctantly but then it read like they were just meeting properly so it confused me enough I didn’t feel like I could continue
September 10, 2026
A very powerful read about two sisters who one thought they had lost. She kept secrets to survive and now she needs to try to face those secrets with her sister. You will go on a rollercoaster of a ride of different emotions as you read. See how they deal with the secrets
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a very powerful read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a very powerful read
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Bring Me Into The Light is such a good book, it's deep and the scarring from Anna's past urges her to keep looking for her sister, like she just knew she was alive.
Review of advance copy
Received an advanced copy. Amazing and emotional read. This book will have you feeling all the feels. I absolutely loved it.
November 3, 2026
Wow! This book I couldn’t put down. It was a great read and kept you intrigued and wanting to finish the book!
June 26, 2026
The novel begins in 1951, four years after Anna immigrates to Toronto from Germany. Still traumatized by her wartime experiences, she mostly keeps to herself at home and at work until her two neighbors in the boarding house where she lives befriend her and she meets a nice man at work and begins seeing him. Then an unexpected occurrence comes into her life with the return of her older sister, who she thoughts had died. Her sister, Gerta, is even more traumatized and unstable. How Anna deals with Gerta and with the rest of the life she's made in Toronto is what lies ahead in this book.
The novel's overall theme is experiencing, living with and recovering from trauma, something the author describes in his note as a familiar theme in his own life, though not as a result of living through WWII. The novel is rather long and there are portions that feel more like the author's own essay on trauma and its recovery than the words of a character. But overall, the book is worth reading as a record of an experience we ordinarily don't hear about.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
The novel's overall theme is experiencing, living with and recovering from trauma, something the author describes in his note as a familiar theme in his own life, though not as a result of living through WWII. The novel is rather long and there are portions that feel more like the author's own essay on trauma and its recovery than the words of a character. But overall, the book is worth reading as a record of an experience we ordinarily don't hear about.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews