Det glemte brev

by Jillian Cantor

I Østrig i 1938 må den unge Kristoff overtage sin jødiske mesters virke med at lave frimærker til tyskerne, da mester forsvinder under Krystalnatten. Selv om Kristoff sætter sit liv på spil, hjælper han den østrigske modstandsbevægelse med at lave falske identitetspapirer til jødiske familier. Da han midt i krigens brutale kaos forelsker sig hovedkulds i mesters datter Elena, må han finde en måde at redde hende og sig selv på.

I 1989 i Los Angeles støder Katie Nelson på sin fars frimærkesamling og sender den til vurdering hos eksperten Benjamin, som opdager et sjældent østrigsk frimærke fra 1940'erne på et brev, der aldrig er blevet afsendt. Katies far har Alzheimer's, så for at finde svar på, hvor det mystiske brev kommer fra, rejser Katie til Berlin, hvor muren netop er faldet. Her bliver hun konfronteret med en familiehistorie fuld af lidenskab og tragedie, der går på tværs af kontinenter og generationer.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, World War II, Historical, Romance, Audiobook, Holocaust

304 pages, Paperback

First published June 13, 2017

About the author

Jillian Cantor is the USA Today and internationally bestselling author of fifteen novels for teens and adults, which have been chosen for LibraryReads, Indie Next, Amazon Best of the Month, and have been translated into 15 languages. Born and raised in a suburb of Philadelphia, Cantor currently lives in Arizona with her husband and two sons.

Reviews

[Jennifer Masterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have goosebumps right now! Hands down "The Lost Letter" is my favorite book of 2017 and I'm not a big fan of historical fiction! If I could give this novel 10 stars I would! "The Lost Letter" has all the feels, beautiful writing, and a fantastic story!

There are two storylines in this novel. Part of this book takes place in 1989 and the other part takes place in 1938.

In one storyline Katie lives in California and is the daughter of a stamp collector. It's 1989 and she comes upon an unopened letter with an unusual stamp on it. She is going through a divorce and her father is living in a home due to his late stage of Alzheimer's.

In the other storyline it's 1938 and The Faber Family is living in Austria. They are a Jewish family. Kristoff, is Frederick Faber's apprentice. He is learning to be a stamp engraver. He eventually finds himself falling in love with one of Frederick's daughters and becomes involved in the resistance.

These two storylines eventually come together. The author, Jillian Cantor, does a fantastic job of making this happen, smoothly.

I listened to the audio version. It's fabulous! The narrators are terrific. I highly recommend this version if you enjoy audio!

By the way, I think this would make for a great book group discussion. I also think it would make a great movie! Do not miss out on this book! It's wonderful!

Highly highly recommended!!!

[Angela M · Rating 4 out of 5]

A letter written in 1939 is found 50 years later and it was definitely worth waiting until the end of this story to learn its content. Katie Nelson's father is in a nursing home and is losing his memory. He has collected stamps as long as she can remember, always telling her about the gem that could be found . When she takes his collection to a stamp dealer to be evaluated, the unopened letter with a stamp that catches the dealer's attention is found and is the gem of this story. This is where Katie's journey to the past begins with her efforts to discover the story behind the unopened letter and the Austrian stamp. I've read a good number of WWII novels but there is always so much to learn. In this novel it was the stamps, the postage stamps, and the way letters and the stamps became a means of aiding in the resistance. It wasn't just sending the messages but how stamp engraving tools and skills were used to forge papers to save Jews from the Nazis in Austria.

In these dual story line books, I don't always find a meaningful enough connection but that is not the case here. The links between past and present are beautiful and perfectly executed. I also appreciate so much and am many times touched when an author tells us what their inspiration was for the book . That seed, that one idea that through the author's imagination comes to fruition. A letter she sent to her grandmother, saved for many years and found after her grandmother's death - the remembrance of it and its significance . A different kind of letter found than the one in the novel but yet sparking her creativity for this beautiful novel.

I also loved that in a note, Jillian Cantor, helps us separate the truth from the fiction:
"All of the characters in this novel, including Ted, are fictional, but many ideas in the book are rooted not just in my own personal experience, with watching my grandmother's memory decline, but also in real historical events. Though all the stamps and the engravers in this book are fictional, there were real engravers who took part in the resistance ." That's one of the things that made this story so meaningful for me. As always I'm taken by the strength and courage of the Nazi resistance and of course always heartbroken about the Holocaust, what happened to the millions in the camps , the millions killed and the impact of it on those who survived it. Another reminder that we cannot forget.

Thanks to my Goodreads friend, Diane. I would have missed this if I hadn't read her review.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Riverhead/Penguin Random House and Edelweiss.

[Diane S ☔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her father had been an avid stamp collector his entire life, Katie fondly remembers going with him to resale shops and garage sales, as he searched for unusual stamps. Now in a memory care unit, regressing to the past, Katie takes his collection to an appraiser to see if there are any hidden gems. A letter is found, unopened, addressed to a Miss Faber, bearing an unusual stamp. This will be the impetus for a search that will take us back to Austria in 1938, and to an Jewish engraver, his daughters and his young non Jewish apprentice.

A new take on the importance of using stamps to send messages by the resistance and though this story was slow to seduce, it includes so much history that I was wondering over. Of course the sympathetic characters eventually won me over as did the clarity of the writing, and the seamless weaving of historical events. Dual story line but had no trouble following and in fact enjoyed both, one set in Austria and the other set during and shortly after the Berlin Wall was finally taken down.

The author chronicles what is fact and how she came up with the idea for this novel, in her end note.. The Lost art of letter writing, so rare in this electronic age, but meant so much in the past. Left a record we won't be leaving, left traces when the people involved were gone. Wonder how we will be remembered​, if at all? The ending is conclusive and satisfying if a little too sentimental, but then again there weren't very many happy endings in the Holocaust.

ARC from publisher.
Publishes June 13th by Riverhead books.

[Debbie W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Presently using a popular writing technique, this book's dual-timeline occurs during WWII Austria to modern-day Los Angeles.
I loved:
(a) the likable, believable characters (they really touched my emotions);
(b) the fast-paced plot, even as each chapter switched from past to present;
(c) that it's a moving love story (in more ways than one) without being hokey or insipid;
(d) that it has the right amount of description without being too suffocating;
(e) that it's a real page-turner (who needs to eat?!?); and,
(f) the story-line involving postage stamp collecting (aka philately) which touched me personally since I used to collect stamps as a youngster alongside my parents.

A wonderful historic fictional story with an intriguing premise! Highly recommend!

[Jennifer Blankfein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Jillian Cantor truly knows how to draw a reader in...I could not put down this beautifully written book!  At the end of every chapter my heart was pounding in anticipation.  The Lost Letter is two compelling stories artfully woven together and destined to intertwine at the end.  The first takes place in the late 1930s Austria, and is about the Fabers, a Jewish family.  The father is an engraver and he has a young, non Jewish apprentice, Kristoff, living with them to learn the trade. Kristoff becomes smitten with the older daughter, Elena, a bit of a rebel, who is secretly learning to engrave stamps in the night.  When the war reaches their small town, the Fabers are in danger and Elena along with Kristoff become part of the Austrian resistance, using stamps to communicate right under the noses of the Nazis.  The desperation of making it through this horrible time and the hopefulness of love are palpable as the characters secretly help others escape while biding their time.

In late 1980s Los Angeles, a philatelist (stamp collector) is battling dementia and is living in an Alzheimer's memory unit.  His daughter, Katie, is going through a divorce, sorting through her dad's belongings and is getting his stamp collection appraised with the hope of finding a hidden gem.   An unusual stamp is found on an unopened letter which leads her on a quest for answers.  This fascinating journey takes Kate back to the 1930s Austria as she learns about the war, Austrian resistance and her father's past.

The Lost Letter is historical fiction at its best; dual storylines, wonderful relationships, information about use of the stamp during wartime, paired with incredible storytelling by author Jillian Cantor makes this one of my favorite books this year! I am so thankful to have received an advance review copy of this book from the Great Thought's Ninja Review Team. All opinions are my own.


For my book reviews and recommendations please sign up for my blog https://booknationbyjen.wordpress.com

[Suzanne Leopold (Suzy Approved Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate Nelson grew up with a father who was an avid stamp collector. He is currently in a nursing home, and Kate decides to take his large collection to be appraised. During the review an unusual Austrian World War II stamp on a sealed letter is discovered. Kate, along with the appraiser, investigate the history behind the stamp and the origins of the letter.

Kristoff grew up in an Austrian orphanage and is an apprentice at a stamp engraver in 1938. His employer, the Farber family, are deeply religious Jews. Kristoff works hard to learn his trade and does his best to assimilate into the local way of life. He becomes very attached to the family, especially one of the daughters named Elena. When the Nazi invasion makes it to their small town, Kristoff’s skills and allegiances are challenged as he is asked to design stamps for the Nazi party.

This historical novel is about love and survival during World War II. It alternates between stories set in 1989, Los Angeles and 1938, Austria. It is a touching book about sacrifice and resilience. Jillian Cantor does a wonderful job of blending two time periods together in this beautiful book.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars → Three words: beautiful, moving, and bittersweet. This book is a unique tale of the Austrian Resistance during World War II, centering around the love story between the daughter of a Jewish stamp maker and his apprentice. THE LOST LETTER is really historical fiction within historical fiction; the story alternates between the fall of the Berlin Wall (late 80s/early 90s) and the German invasion of Austria (late 1930s).

In 1989, Katie Nelson, whose life has been upended by her divorce and caring for an ailing father, finds a curious stamp on a letter from the World War II era in her father’s extensive stamp collection. With the help of an appraiser named Benjamin, Katie is able to uncover the story behind the mysterious letter.

I enjoyed this book very much, and was intrigued by both Katie and Benjamin in 1989, and Elena and Kristoff in 1939. What secrets did the stamp and letter hold? This book was a lovely blend of mystery, romance, and history. I do love vintage stamps, and this book gave readers a look at the intricacies of stamp engraving, and how they were miniature works of art. Highly recommended!

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Penguin’s First to Read Program in exchange for an honest review.

[Cheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

”And you, of tender years,
Can't know the fears that your elders grew by,
And so please help them with your youth,
They seek the truth before they can die.”
--- “Teach Your Children” – lyrics by Graham Nash

Katie Nelson, living in L.A., is on the verge of divorce, although she hasn’t shared that information with her family, yet. She’s just moved her father into assisted living facility due to his Alzheimer’s, her husband growing more distant in the months she spent taking care of her father before then.

As a child, Katie often accompanied her father on his endless quests for stamps, always looking for ”a gem”. Thrift shops, garage sales, estate sales, they went looking for those gems, finding beauty in the ordinary. She didn’t really understand it, didn’t understand what about it excited him so much, but she loved being a part of it, being with him.

”Once we took a family trip to DC and saw the Hope Diamond at the Smithsonian, he turned to me and said: That’s what I’m looking for, Kate. Though I doubted my father would ever find it in the thrift stores of Southern California.”

But she doesn’t see them that way, and now that her father has given her his entire stamp collection, boxes and boxes of envelopes, stamps, she isn’t sure what to do with it. She makes calls and eventually goes to the office of the only stamp dealer who returned her call, Benjamin Grossman. He tells her to give him a week or two, and he’ll let her know if there is anything of value, or of interest, among the boxes.

In 1938 Austria, Frederick Faber, known throughout Austria for his engraving skills and artistry, has just hired Kristoff as his latest apprentice. Kristoff has long admired Faber’s work, so he considers this opportunity to learn from the hands of Frederick Faber, a gift. He will be paid, five schilling a week, but will also receive room and board with the family in their home. The family consisting of Frederick, his wife, and their two daughters: Elena, seventeen, one year younger than Kristoff, and Miriam, thirteen.

Kristoff’s room was in the attic, so it was cold, even bundled under two blankets it was hard to stay warm. Still, it was far better than the orphanage he grew up in, after his birth mother left him on the steps of the orphanage.

Frederick is getting on in age, and his hands have begun to shake occasionally, but Kristoff feels it is taking him longer to perfect his engraving than it should. He has begun to feel as though these people are his family, he loves waking up and seeing the woods outside the house, of having such wonderful food prepared at the end of each day. He enjoys the time he spends with the family, and sketches Elena’s pictures when he is not working. He enjoys partaking in their Jewish rituals, feels at peace, accepted.

In 1989 Los Angeles, when Benjamin Grossman contacts Katie to let her know that he thinks he may have found something of interest, a sealed letter with an unusual stamp, he helps her try to track down more information. Katie wants to find this person, if possible, to make sure they get this letter that has been waiting for them all these years.

In November of 1989, Katie’s grandmother is celebrating East Germany’s announcement of the opening of the Berlin Wall. Another historic moment, particularly for Katie’s grandmother who was born in East Germany, and had waited, praying that someday she would be able to return there to see the places she recalled as a child.

Eventually, these stories merge over time, but I wasn’t in any hurry to get there, because this really is a lovely story. It incorporates the stories of those postage stamp engravers who became a part of resistance movements during World War II, how certain stamps were designed to assist the resistance, how engravers were able to use their skills to provide forgeries that assisted others in leaving for life in safer countries.

I could not – I did not put this book down until I was finished reading the story, the transitions between 1938 Austria and 1989 Los Angeles were very fluid, it never dragged or felt disconnected.

The Author’s Note contained some additional information that you should make sure to read once you finish the story. I loved her personal addition of a letter she sent to her grandmother, saved by her grandmother, had inspired this story. It reminded me of the letter my grandmother sent to me, which I received days after I had learned of her death. A divine message.

”Don't you ever ask them why, if they told you, you will cry,
So just look at them and sigh and know they love you.”
--“Teach Your Children, lyrics – Graham Nash

[Cindy Burnett (Thoughts from a Page) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Letter is one of the best books that I have read this year. Jillian Cantor writes an intriguing and fascinating tale of Austrian resistance to the Nazis highlighting the innovative ways resistance workers used to evacuate Jews from Austria. I collected stamps as a child so the storyline focusing on stamp engraving and its use during World War 2 to aid the resistance completely captivated me. Cantor uses a dual timeline format, World War 2 and the present, and ties them together so well. Sometimes dual storylines end up a bit convoluted or implausible towards the end to make the two story lines come together. Cantor blends the two stories perfectly and seamlessly. I highly, highly recommend The Lost Letter; it is absolutely fantastic. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Gemma · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good and moving story, a light read despite its WW2 backdrop. Everything in the narrative focuses on one central mystery, an unopened letter with a striking stamp. However I had some problems with how it’s told, mostly the very ordinary nature of the prose. I think this is largely a question of taste. I’m not a great fan of simple unimaginative writing. There wasn’t a single sentence in this book that I couldn’t have written myself and I want more from people who write for a living. I suppose if an author doesn’t describe things very well you’re compelled as the reader to imagine the things yourself and I understand the attraction of this. Sometimes over-elaborate description can be annoying, as if the author is trying to seize control of your imagination. Interestingly the book I’m currently reading, The Zookeeper’s wife, is, so far at least, guilty of this trait. If this is underwritten the Zookeeper’s Wife is probably overwritten. It’s also a story where romance is dominant and I’m not a great fan of romance fiction. All in all a bit too tidy, fluffy and light for my taste.

[Elyse Walters · Rating 3 out of 5]

From the Publisher’s Summary:
“A historical novel of love and survival inspired by real resistance workers during WWII Austria and the mysterious love letter that connects generations of Jewish families. A heartbreaking, heartwarming story for fans of “The Women in the Castle”, “Lilac Girls”, and “Sarah’s Key”.
I AGREE with the blurb description. I enjoyed this story....but if I’m honest....I enjoyed the three books mentioned above a little more.

The Publisher’s Summary was also quoted as saying:
“A gorgeous and thrilling novel...Perfect for book clubs and fans of “The Nightingale”.....
I wasn’t a huge fan of “The Nightingale”, by Kirsten Hannah, as most readers were....
which was one of the reasons I didn’t read this book sooner. ( but I owned a copy)...
I was testing out a few of the books I owned.... and this novel held my attention right away - so I kept reading.,

I loved the book called “The Hours Count”, by Jill Cantor ...I enjoyed it A LOT!!!....
But....I wasn’t thrilled with Jill Cantor’s book called “Margot” at all..
I read “In Another Time”, by Cantor, with mixed feelings.

“The Lost Letter”, has received the highest rating from all other books by Cantor....so I hoping I’d love this as much as “The Hours Count”....
Not AS MUCH, ‘but close’!!!!

Jill Cantor gives us two storylines:
In Austria, 1938, Kristoff, a non Jew, orphaned as a child, is an apprentice to a Jewish stamp engraver: Mr. Faber. Faber is the head of his family - married - with adult kids.
Kristoff’s lives with the family.....loves the wife’s cooking - the siblings - loves feeling part of their family. His heart is throbbing for Elena - (from afar).... and he continues to improve with his stamp engraving skills.
Elena won’t give Kristoff a second look at the beginning of this story. She’s down right rude to Krisroff.
But.....ha.....things change. Eventually the feelings soon become mutual. Elena was also ‘secretly’ working in her father’s shop - during the sleeping hours at night - training herself as a philatelist.
Elena and Kristoff worked side by side each other at night when the rest of the family was sleeping. Trust and love develops between them.
Then the war reaches their community. The entire family becomes part of the resistance.
Kristoff is forced to engrave stamps for the Germans.....and as the brutal chaos of the war develops, Kristoff has to find a way to save himself and Elena.

In Los Angeles, California, 1989, we meet Katie Nelson. Her husband has left and wants her to sign the divorce papers he sent her. Her father has Alzheimer’s disease.....and is in nursing home. Katie’s father was an avid stamp collector.
Katie goes through her father’s stamp collection and takes it to an appraiser: Benjamin...... who discovered an unusual stamp on a love letter.
Katie and Benjamin journey together to uncover the story behind the letter.....one that’s passionate and tragic.

What I liked about this story was the concepts and history.
I also liked learning more about the vintage stamps themselves.
BUT....the writing felt flat to me. I enjoyed getting to know the characters - but I wasn’t emotionally pulled in to them naturally.

So, overall...I liked it. Liking it is liking it. I’m still glad I read it....
Ha....but some of you know how nutty I get in reviews when I LOVE *LOVE* a book.

As I said....I *LIKED* this one. Good enough.

3.4 rating

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an entertaining, well-written, dual timeline, WWII historical fiction novel. It is fast paced with likable and engaging characters, heartbreak, romance, supportive family, mystery, a fascinating quest, and a gratifying conclusion. I listened to the audio book, and the narrators, Betsy Struxness, Jennifer Rubins, George Newbern, and Allyson Ryan do an outstanding job voicing the characters. Many thanks to Goodreads friends, Debbie W., Annette, and Darla, whose glowing reviews piqued my interest in reading this amazing novel.

[Mary Kubica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore everything that Jillian Cantor has written, but The Lost Letter is quite possibly my favorite of her books. I love the dual storylines, the rich, relatable characters and the poignant story of a WWII stamp engraver and his surprising bond to a young woman living in more modern times. A must read!

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical fiction "lite" along the lines of "The Nightingale." If you liked that, you will definitely want to read this. I read it in one day and it kept me engrossed. A good Sunday lazy day read.

[Melissa Crytzer Fry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely my favorite book by Jillian Cantor, who seems a natural at her first dual-narrative novel. Taking place in 1938 Austria and in 1990s Los Angeles, this book has a little bit of everything: a mystery, a father-daughter relationship, a love story, and fascinating insight about a little-known resistance tool during WWII – the postage stamp.

I was immediately drawn in and, quite honestly, caught off guard at my emotional response. I shouldn’t have been surprised, as Katie’s father is suffering Alzheimer’s, and my father is suffering from dementia (and I am going home, soon, to see him). So Katie’s emotions each time she visits her father -- and her apprehension -- I could well understand. I loved that we also learned in the Author’s Note that this part of the storyline grew from Cantor’s own experience with her grandmother’s Alzheimer’s battle.

I feel authors sometimes miss the mark in connecting dual storylines, and that one story often feels stronger than the other. But in this book, I was equally engaged in both, and they fit seamlessly together – i.e. it didn’t feel like one story was simply ‘thrown in’ to serve a plot point.

I also enjoyed the scenes on Coronado Island – a place I visited for the first time in recent years and fell equally in love with. I could picture the area Cantor described. But, more than that, I enjoyed the twists and turns the story took, the surprising reveals, and the unique glimpse into a WWII story that we haven’t heard. Stories of resilience, with love and family sprinkled in, will always have a spot in my heart.

Definitely looking forward to the author’s upcoming In Another Time! Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this one.

[RoseMary Achey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Letter won't be lost for long. This well written dual time novel will soon be on every book club's 2017 and 2018 reading list.

We move between 1938 occupied Austria and 1989 Los Angeles. In Austria we follow the story of a Jewish Stamp engraver, his family and apprentice. In Los Angeles, a young woman caring for her elderly father suffering from late stage Alzheimers discovers a unique Austrian postage stamps while sorting his belongings.

Examples of Landscape and Landmark Postage Stamps From 1939 Occupied Austria

The story weaves effortlessly between the two time periods and although you know the stories will eventually intersect, author Cantor does an excellent job of keeping readers engaged. The characters and narrative is pitch perfect. The ending will provide readers with appropriate closure and a high level of satisfaction.

The Lost Letter is scheduled to be published on June 13, 2017. Get this one on your reading list now and expect a 5 star read.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com

This beautiful story is told through dual perspectives and they flow together absolutely perfectly. Kristoff’s story is an heartbreaking tale of love, loss and perseverance and Katie’s had some parallel themes as well. The two narratives were separately engaging in their own way and I was truly enraptured by both stories. Kristoff lived in a time of despair and fear, but he still managed to cling to hope and love. Katie is experiencing her own tough time as she is in the process of divorcing her husband while dealing with the loss of her father’s mental faculties as he struggles with memory loss. Both were equally well drawn and I grew to care about them deeply by the end. These two separate tales merge in a way that was poignant and wonderfully romantic.

I was pleasantly surprised by how engrossed I became in Kristoff’s story, especially as he trained to become a stamp engraver. This is a topic that I know next to nothing about, but it’s oddly interesting and beautiful. It was mainly so compelling to learn about how secret messages were used in the stamps as part of the resistance to Nazi Germany, the resourcefulness is an inspiration.

Cantor has a really evocative, gorgeous writing style that truly swept me away. Being reminded of the power and beauty of good old fashioned letter writing was so touching, especially in today’s day and age of a technology hungry world. This was such a romantic, epic love story that truly touched my heart, I’ll be thinking of the characters for months to come. It would be an ideal pick for any book club as there are many thought provoking themes to discuss and ponder.

[Pam Jenoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of historical fiction set during World War II, you will love this remarkable story of a woman in the present day who finds a mysterious stamp collection, which leads to a heart-wrenching story of a Jewish stamp engraver and the woman he loves.

[Bkwmlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jillian Cantor’s The Lost Letter is an exquisite book! From the very first page, I was drawn into the story and could not put the book down – I ended up finishing the book in 1 day, which is a first for me given my busy schedule nowadays. The story is told via a dual narrative in alternating chapters – one narrative takes place in Los Angeles in 1989 and the other in Austria right before and during the Nazi occupation in 1938/1939. In the present day, Katie Nelson is a thirty-something journalist who finds herself dealing with a sudden divorce just as she is trying to come to terms with having to put her beloved father Ted into a nursing home when he is no longer able to take care of himself due to Alzheimer’s. Ted was an avid stamp collector his entire life and as a child, Katie always accompanied her father to thrift shops and yard sales to search for what he called the “Hope Diamond” of stamps. When her father leaves his collection in her care prior to entering the memory care facility, Katie decides to take the collection to a stamp dealer to get it appraised in the hopes of helping her father find any “hidden gems” that might be amongst the stamps, but also because she wanted to preserve the happy childhood she had with both her parents (her mother passed away when she was in college). Together with the stamp dealer Benjamin – a young man with a tragic past of his own – Katie finds an old letter with an unusual stamp dating back to WWII era and thinking that might be the “Hope Diamond” that Ted has been looking for, the two of them set out on a search to trace the origins of the stamp and the letter.

In the second narrative, we are taken back in time to 1938, Austria, which is on the verge of Nazi invasion. Frederick Faber is a renowned Jewish stamp engraver who takes in a non-Jewish orphan, Kristoff Mueller, as his apprentice. Kristoff grows attached to the Faber family, who accepts him as one of their own, and he eventually falls in love with the eldest of the Faber sisters, Elena. When Frederick suddenly disappears after the Nazis occupy Austria, Kristoff takes up his promise to his beloved teacher to watch over the family and continue on with the engraving business as long as he could. Kristoff is eventually forced to engrave stamps for the German government that has taken over, however at the same time, he also works secretly with Elena and other members of the Austrian resistance to forge papers in the hopes of getting as many people out of the country as possible. When the work becomes too dangerous, they must eventually figure out a way to save themselves. Kristoff and Elena’s story is one of love and survival in the midst of a brutal war, made especially poignant given the Faber family’s Jewish background.

I love the way the author wove the two narratives together, done brilliantly in such a way that both stories converge seamlessly in the latter half of the book, with a surprise that I totally did not see coming. As a history fanatic, I also love the rich historical context that the author was able to incorporate into both narratives – whether it was the historical background on the war or details about the stamp-making process, it was all presented in a way that was accessible to someone like me who doesn’t have the slightest clue about stamp collecting, let alone the actual creation of stamps. Like Katie at the beginning of the story, I’ve always looked at stamps as merely a small piece of printed paper with designs on it that is needed to transport mail from one place to another, but don’t have much significance outside of that. Now after reading this book, I can’t help but look at stamps differently – maybe not deep thought or analysis but at least wonder about the story behind them.

This was also one of those rare instances where I liked nearly all of the characters in the book. Whether it was Katie and Benjamin in the first narrative or Kristoff and Elena in the second one, I found myself rooting for all the characters (the main ones as well as side characters) and wishing, hoping, that they would all have good endings, even though I knew that might not be possible due to the story being about WWII and the Holocaust. Much of the story that took place in Austria was heartbreaking and even though the parts that took place in present day were less so, both stories still moved me emotionally – the ending itself was heart-wrenching, but at the same time, satisfying.

It’s not often that I give a 5 star rating, but this book absolutely deserves it! Structurally, this book combined beautiful storytelling with a well thought-out plot and compelling, likable, well-developed characters – no easy task, especially when the historical elements are added in there (and again woven in seamlessly). There aren’t a whole lot of books out there that are able to move me emotionally these days, but this book definitely did. In fact, I am still thinking about the story even now and am compelled to go back and re-read certain sections to pick up on some “clues” knowing what I know now – this rarely ever happens with books I read so for that alone, it deserves high marks! Highly recommended read, especially for those who love well-written historical fiction.

Received advance reader’s copy from Riverhead Books via Penguin First-to-Read program.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK, I can't get this book off my mind.... BUT OH WHAT a book. Usually, I am not big on "love" stories but this one... set my heart on edge. A beautifully crafted plot, with dynamic characters, Cantor will carry you away.

This historical fiction with a unique twist and an amazingly smart plot was just.... different. Yeah, it was smart and everything seemed dead on historically...... no matter what timeline you enjoyed best... they were both well done and about love, loss, danger, parents, children, loyalty, and care.

The dual timeline started in Austria in 1938 and L A in 1989. Kristoff, an orphan who found a family and a career until the Germans invaded. He couldn't see how life would go on without them and he feared he will lose them all, especially Elena, the daughter of his mentor. He was an apprentice to a Jewish stamp engraver and when the Germans come is forced into hiding while Kristoff and Elena, forge papers to get him out of the country.

In L. A. in 1989, Katie Nelson is losing her love, actually, he has already left the marriage and filed for divorce. All she has to do is sign the papers. She misses her husband and her father, Ted, who can no longer remember day to day, and sometimes not even Katie. Looking for a connection to her father she takes his lifetime stamp collection to be evaluated by Benjamin Grossman. Ben finds a stamp, inside down, making it a love letter

The mystery goes from here. The characters are well developed, and you can't help but engage with them as they struggle in the commonalities of life.

5 Stars

Happy Reading!

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read this page-turner over the weekend and highly recommend it.

The story is set in two time periods, the break of WWII 1938-1939 in Austria and present time 1989-1990 Los Angeles.

In Austria, Kristoff, a street artist, leaves Vienna for a small town of Grotsburg as soon as he learns about Frederick Faber, known for engraving throughout Austria, is looking for a new apprentice. Once orphan, now with Faber’s family, he finds warmth he’s never known and cherishes it dearly. But his happiness is shaken when Germans enter and annex Austria.

In Los Angeles, Katie reminiscence on her childhood spent with her father searching thrift shops and yard sales for stamps every week. Once her father is at a nursing home losing his short memory to Alzheimer, she takes his stamp collection to a stamp dealer to have it appraised. When the appraiser finds a letter with an unusual stamp, it puts them both on a search for two Faber girls.

This story doesn’t go through WWII, but it brings not much known aspect of how creative resistance groups had to get to pass messages. It involved communication through poems by changing words and later by stamps.

“A heartbreaking, heartwarming historical novel of love and survival inspired by real resistance workers during WWII in Austria, and the mysterious love letter that connects generations of Jewish families.”

@Facebook: Best Historical Fiction

[Marilyn C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

[Letty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous book!! It is a beautiful and also heartbreaking story told in dual storylines that takes place in 1938-1939 Austria at the beginning of WWII, and in 1989 Los Angeles, California. I was captivated by the story and the history of stamp engraving and how it played an important role during the war. This was something I was not familiar with until I read this book. Loved all of the main characters, and the ending had me in tears. Jillian Cantor's research and writing is absolutely amazing. The Lost Letter is going on my 2017 Favorites book list and also my all-time favorites list. This is definitely a book that should not be missed. I so very highly recommend it.

I received an advance reader's copy from the Great Thought's Ninja Review Team through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Marialyce · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars rounded up to 3

This was a nice tale about love and the effect World War 2 had upon people and especially the father of the main protagonist, Katie. It was reminiscent of the many stories that have been written about love and loss.

While I did like the concept, that of a long lost letter and more importantly the stamp that was affixed to it, I felt the writing was somewhat lacking. The circumstances related in the book seemed contrived and honestly hard to fathom.

This was a case where I loved the concept but was not so much in love with the mediocre writing.

[Stephanie Anze · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Kristoff becomes an apprentice to Frederick Faber, a Jewish stamp engraver, he moves into his house. As he is being taught by Frederick, he becomes involved in his family life and though of German descent, feels very much at home there. Even though he gets along with most members of the family, Elena (one of Frederick´s daughters) is a challenge but as the war intensifies so does their relationship. Fastforward fifty years, Katie is going through a divorce and while cleaning her home comes across her dad´s stamp collection. She takes it to be appraised thinking that maybe there is an unusual stamp and finds there is one unlike the others. Its a stamp that will bridge the past and present.

Set in Austria in 1938 the novel deals with WWII and the resistance. The novel follows Kristoff as he sets out to become a stamp engraver. Frederick Faber is a master at his craft and at first, Kristoff is slow to pick it up. One night, he sneaks into the shop to get extra practice, finds Elena there and discovers that she too has a talent for engraving. This sets the tone for their relationship. When the Germans take over and Kristoff has no choice than to work with them, he also covertly works with Elena to forge stamps and papers. In Los Angeles, fifty years later, Katie takes her father´s stamp collection to be appraised and one stamp on an unopened love letter stands out. There is a design hidden in the image that should not be there. I enjoyed the dual storylines and the historical background. To think that so much could be conveyed through a stamp. I also very much liked how the story developed and was surprised at its reveal. As I enjoy WWII-based narratives, this was a good read. A tender and beautiful story.

[Justina Neliubšienė · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nebūna tik vienos pabaigos, vieno atsakymo, vieno žmogaus, kuris gali mus padaryti laimingus ar nelaimingus. Galbūt mes galime pradėti viską iš naujo, tapti kitokiais žmonėmis.
Be galo įdomus, įtraukiantis, jaukus ir šiltas romanas.❤️

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

To start this book has been sitting on my shelf for years and I'm sorry it took me so long to read it!
It's been awhile since I've picked up a historical fiction novel about WWII let alone the Holocaust. This book also brought with it a breath of fresh air because it covered a new form of resistance that I had never known about before. I never would've guessed that stamps were used to hide messages, or the tools of a stamp engraver were used to forge passports and papers saving Jewish families from the Nazis. The bravery of the people who worked to save lives during this time never ceases to amaze me.

The Plot: Jumping between 1938-1939 Austria and 1989-1900 Los Angeles, this story follows Katie a daughter who is taking care of her ailing father, who is in a memory care unit. Her whole life she has known her father as an avid stamp collector and when she brings her father's stamp collection to have it appraised by Benjamin, one stamp catches his eye and thus the story begins. The journey also reveals a lot more about Katie's father than she ever knew. Through this stamp the reader meets Kristoff who is an apprentice to Frederick Fader a Jewish engraver of stamps along with Fader's family including his wife and two daughters. What ensues is a heartwarming but also a heartbreaking story about love, survival and the lengths people go for their family.

I couldn't put this book down, and even though I've read so many books about WWII and the Holocaust before I always learn something new. I'm glad I picked this book up to read and highly recommend it.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A while back, I read The Transformation of Things by Jillian Cantor. I was impressed by it and thought she had a strong writing talent. Since then, she has come out with a few historical fiction novels that I’ve been meaning to read. After hearing rave reviews for The Lost Letter, I decided to add it to my queue right away. Jillian managed to “wow” me once again!

The Lost Letter was definitely a page turner. I was annoyed when I had to get back to real life because it meant having to put the bookmark back in. As soon as I had a chance, I got right back to where I left off and continued to read until I was finished.

Throughout the story, I found myself genuinely caring about the characters and what happened to them. I liked that the “present” was set in 1989. It was a simpler time and the characters had to find out information in different ways instead of just going on the Internet. I was a pre-teen in 1989, so it was interesting to see what life was like through adult eyes back then. I was jealous of Katie’s job, getting to review movies that came out during that time. I also had late-eighties songs going through my head.

Regarding the past, I liked that it focused on something other than a concentration camp. I know the Holocaust was a horrible time, but it was nice to focus on stamp engraving and Kristoff’s relationship with the Faber family, as well as how people resisted the Nazi regime. I wish there had been pictures of what the stamp engraving process looked like. I had a hard time understanding that process and what it entailed. Did they produce an actual postage stamp, or was it something they pressed in ink and then marked on a letter?

As an avid reader, I was able to figure out a few mysteries on my own, after enough clues were present. However, I was surprised by a lot of what was revealed and even forgot to breathe in some parts. I did feel that the story wrapped up too neatly, but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment. I also enjoyed the Jewish aspects and could practically taste Mrs. Faber’s challah.

I definitely recommend The Lost Letter and need to go back and add Jillian’s previous historical fiction novels to my queue!

My dream movie cast:
Kristoff: Luke Benward
Elena: Ella Wahlestedt
Katie: Gillian Jacobs
Benjamin: Jesse Eisenberg

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a solid 4 stars for me and I think this book has been my favorite 4 star book in a long while. This had many things that I liked: family history, mystery, historical fiction, WWII...all of these I enjoy reading. So combine them into a single story, and I am in with both feet.

I liked the two MCs. They were strong but yet had flaws that kept them grounded. Some of the other supportive characters were a little thin, but I think the overall sweetness, seemed to gloss over that. Even with that, this was an enjoyable read for my day.

[Cynthia Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor had me enthralled from the first page to the last. Flashing back and forth between the time of Hitler’s invasion of Austria in 1938 and the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989, an intricate story of parallel lives and struggles emerges. The author does a fantastic job of fleshing out the scenes of war-torn Europe and the Kristallnacht, the horrible night when anyone of Jewish heritage was sought out, killed or sent to work camps, never to be seen again.

In the face of such terror, those who are brave enough to fight the Germans risk everything to help get others to safety. Jewish Elena, daughter of a prominent stamp engraver, fears nothing as she and her father’s German apprentice forge documents and stamps, allowing others to flee to freedom.

Fifty years later in Los Angeles, Katie struggles as her life seems to implode all around her. With her mother dead, the care of her father falls to her. As Alzheimer’s erodes his mind, and the past and present blur, she has no choice but to put him into a special care facility. Feeling neglected and putout due to lack of attention, Katie’s husband unceremoniously tells her he wants a divorce and moves out.

Running from the very first scene of the book to the last, postage stamps become the common thread throughout the story. They are the means to salvation. They are also the key to the past. And everything that happens in this incredibly rich, compelling tale is bound together in a flawless narrative that held me fascinated. I have read very few books that are this perfectly pulled together. I can’t recommend it enough. It will inspire, entertain, frighten and surprise you. And most of all, it will warm your heart.