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Eleos
“The question of conscience is a matter for the head of the state" - Adolf Eichmann.
The discovery of a valise of old letters written to his Armenian grandfather from an Auschwitz survivor starts Avi Arutiyan on an odyssey to uncover the mystery surrounding his grandfather’s unsolved death. From the killing fields of Anatolia to the trial of Adolf Eichmann, Avi’s quest opens a door into intersecting paths and dark secrets of three families, stretching back to 1915.
The discovery of a valise of old letters written to his Armenian grandfather from an Auschwitz survivor starts Avi Arutiyan on an odyssey to uncover the mystery surrounding his grandfather’s unsolved death. From the killing fields of Anatolia to the trial of Adolf Eichmann, Avi’s quest opens a door into intersecting paths and dark secrets of three families, stretching back to 1915.
472 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2018
1086 people are currently reading
1193 people want to read
About the author
D.R. Bell
9 books38 followers I didn't plan to become a writer. In late 2012 a friend's death prompted me to ask what would be the one thing I regret not doing. I've always been an avid reader but have not had the courage to write. And I made a New Year resolution to write a book. That's how it started.
Since I don't depend on writing for my livelihood, I feel no pressure to "commercialize" my work or to follow "formulas for success." I do hope to say something meaningful and original about human existence. My books are not light reading and not to everyone's liking. I write about serious topics, such as the price of freedom and the corruption of power, a relationship between an individual and a state, tribal (in)tolerances, etc., but wrap them into action-filled stories. Having been born under a totalitarian regime, I'm very sensitive to the kind of power that a modern state wields over an individual. There is one common trait that my books share: the heroes are ordinary people, not superheroes or master detectives. While all my books are entirely fictional, the fiction is always rooted in facts and realities of the current or past events.
Since I don't depend on writing for my livelihood, I feel no pressure to "commercialize" my work or to follow "formulas for success." I do hope to say something meaningful and original about human existence. My books are not light reading and not to everyone's liking. I write about serious topics, such as the price of freedom and the corruption of power, a relationship between an individual and a state, tribal (in)tolerances, etc., but wrap them into action-filled stories. Having been born under a totalitarian regime, I'm very sensitive to the kind of power that a modern state wields over an individual. There is one common trait that my books share: the heroes are ordinary people, not superheroes or master detectives. While all my books are entirely fictional, the fiction is always rooted in facts and realities of the current or past events.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 15, 2019
Let me just start this review off by confessing that there is no way it will do justice to the incredible book that is ELEOS by D.R. Bell. I will try to convey my feelings as best as possible, and try not to overly-gush.
In no way was I prepared for how hard this book would hit me. I've read hundreds of WWII and Holocaust books and ELEOS is the one that truly opened my eyes to the horrors and the injustices that occured during, and then continued after the camps were liberated and throughout the Nazi trials. I learned so much from this book. My husband sure got an earful too as I would read out loud multiple passages or facts from the book. I like to highlight in my eReader as I read - whether it be interesting facts or beautiful quotes, and I swear almost every page there is something highlighted or noted.
It's strange to say that a book about such awful atrocities can be beautiful but it's the writing the makes it so. Bell has an amazing talent for storytelling. When I read Historical Fiction I feel like we honor them by bearing witness to their story and their lives, and what happened to them, and ELEOS did that masterfully. I cannot imagine the amount of research that went into the writing of this book. Bell was able to convey all of that but without making it heavy handed and presenting it in a fascinating way.
This is a book that once you read it you will never forget it. I could not love Bell's writing more and look forward to more historicals from him. Highly, highly recommended.
In no way was I prepared for how hard this book would hit me. I've read hundreds of WWII and Holocaust books and ELEOS is the one that truly opened my eyes to the horrors and the injustices that occured during, and then continued after the camps were liberated and throughout the Nazi trials. I learned so much from this book. My husband sure got an earful too as I would read out loud multiple passages or facts from the book. I like to highlight in my eReader as I read - whether it be interesting facts or beautiful quotes, and I swear almost every page there is something highlighted or noted.
It's strange to say that a book about such awful atrocities can be beautiful but it's the writing the makes it so. Bell has an amazing talent for storytelling. When I read Historical Fiction I feel like we honor them by bearing witness to their story and their lives, and what happened to them, and ELEOS did that masterfully. I cannot imagine the amount of research that went into the writing of this book. Bell was able to convey all of that but without making it heavy handed and presenting it in a fascinating way.
This is a book that once you read it you will never forget it. I could not love Bell's writing more and look forward to more historicals from him. Highly, highly recommended.
December 6, 2018
Again, just like with The Metronome...what a cover and what a story. This book is simply overwhelming. I enjoyed the notes at the end almost as much as the story. I once met a German man at a little "book swap" station around town. He told me that he had just placed some old text books written in German if I was interested. After I told him I was unable to read German he asked what I was putting into the swap. "Just some historical fiction dealing with WWII and the Holocaust if you're interested." I'll never forget his response. He said, "I grew up in Germany and I'm so sick of hearing about that stuff." D.R. Bell shares that this was a common response among Germans for several years after the war.
This book is so good on many levels. I felt connection with Avi and David even though they were years apart. I enjoyed the history and learned a lot of new things. I had never heard of the Armenian Genocide until reading this. I didn't know about Wegner's photos but have looked them up, they are more haunting than Bell describes. I cannot even begin to imagine the amount of research that went into writing this book but it really pays off. This is one of the best books I've read in this genre. If you are into historical fiction along the lines of Steve Berry then read this book. The endnotes are just as fascinating as the story. I really cannot think of enough good things to say about this book. David's story really stuck with me.
To D.R. Bell: thanks for the complimentary copy and keep up the excellent work.
This book is so good on many levels. I felt connection with Avi and David even though they were years apart. I enjoyed the history and learned a lot of new things. I had never heard of the Armenian Genocide until reading this. I didn't know about Wegner's photos but have looked them up, they are more haunting than Bell describes. I cannot even begin to imagine the amount of research that went into writing this book but it really pays off. This is one of the best books I've read in this genre. If you are into historical fiction along the lines of Steve Berry then read this book. The endnotes are just as fascinating as the story. I really cannot think of enough good things to say about this book. David's story really stuck with me.
To D.R. Bell: thanks for the complimentary copy and keep up the excellent work.
November 26, 2018
Wow. This was some heavy stuff.
When a young man named Avi Arutiyan finds some old letters written by a survivor of Auschwitz to his dead grandfather, he is compelled to unravel the truth about the man's death. Thus begins ELEOS by D.R. Bell, a powerful piece of historical fiction that unflinchingly delves into some seriously dark corners of the human soul.
Played out over many years, against the stark backdrops of the Armenian Genocide, the Holocaust, and the trials of a number of inhuman war criminals, Avi gradually discovers a complex web of secrets that ultimately connects three different families.
As I have already noted, ELEOS deals with some very heavy subject matter, but Mr. Bell deftly weaves the true horrors of history with a satisfying and emotional fictional story. This one is gonna stick with me for some time, and I cannot recommend it more highly.
In the interest of full transparency, I was provided with a complimentary copy of ELEOS from Mr. Bell (thank you, kind sir!) and this is my honest review.
When a young man named Avi Arutiyan finds some old letters written by a survivor of Auschwitz to his dead grandfather, he is compelled to unravel the truth about the man's death. Thus begins ELEOS by D.R. Bell, a powerful piece of historical fiction that unflinchingly delves into some seriously dark corners of the human soul.
Played out over many years, against the stark backdrops of the Armenian Genocide, the Holocaust, and the trials of a number of inhuman war criminals, Avi gradually discovers a complex web of secrets that ultimately connects three different families.
As I have already noted, ELEOS deals with some very heavy subject matter, but Mr. Bell deftly weaves the true horrors of history with a satisfying and emotional fictional story. This one is gonna stick with me for some time, and I cannot recommend it more highly.
In the interest of full transparency, I was provided with a complimentary copy of ELEOS from Mr. Bell (thank you, kind sir!) and this is my honest review.
January 9, 2019
extremely well written, and intense, informational (more relevant data of the ww2 atrocities than I have read before). while fictional characters, they are based on true events and people.
so much information here, how was it so easy it was for these crimes to be swept aside. germany had no law against mass murder.
this a must read book, it's not taught in school, we need to stay aware and involved, never stand by and bury your head in the sand. history has a way of repeating itself. I believe if we are well aware of the big picture in history, we will be better able to fend off repeat occurrences
thank you to d r bell for a fine book and many hours of reading - I will visit it again
so much information here, how was it so easy it was for these crimes to be swept aside. germany had no law against mass murder.
this a must read book, it's not taught in school, we need to stay aware and involved, never stand by and bury your head in the sand. history has a way of repeating itself. I believe if we are well aware of the big picture in history, we will be better able to fend off repeat occurrences
thank you to d r bell for a fine book and many hours of reading - I will visit it again
October 30, 2018
I have read most if not all of D.R. Bell's novels--loved all of them. I was so glad when I saw he came out with another one. I didn't realize it was about genocide and the Eichmann trials. This is historical fiction so not everything is exact. At the back of the book the author will clue you in to what really happened and the major players.
It makes comparisons between the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust and the human reactions of the survivors. It also mentions the Cambodian Genocide.
If you have ever met a Holocaust survivor, which I have, you will recognize the anger and guilt they carry with them.
As I was reading this book 11 people were murdered in Pittsburgh Synagogue by, I guess you would call him, a white supremacist.
The author also mentions that a lot of millennial's and younger do not even believe the Holocaust occurred--
I leave you with this thought---
Unless we remember--then history is bound to repeat itself.
It makes comparisons between the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust and the human reactions of the survivors. It also mentions the Cambodian Genocide.
If you have ever met a Holocaust survivor, which I have, you will recognize the anger and guilt they carry with them.
As I was reading this book 11 people were murdered in Pittsburgh Synagogue by, I guess you would call him, a white supremacist.
The author also mentions that a lot of millennial's and younger do not even believe the Holocaust occurred--
I leave you with this thought---
Unless we remember--then history is bound to repeat itself.
December 25, 2018
'Eleos’ was the ancient Greek personification of mercy.
Now it is also the title of a creative non-fiction thriller set against the backdrop of the 1961 Eichmann trial, that relates in lurid, gruesome detail the similarities between the infamous Armenian and Jewish genocides of the 20th century that were allowed to happen barely 25 years apart.
The plot of this multi-stranded tale hinges on one Jewish Holocaust survivor asking another to trace the Nazi SS officer who rescued him from certain death and so deserves to be included in the Yad Vashem Museum Righteous Among the Nations.
One never stops learning. So as a British child of the early fifties, many of the historical events mentioned read like urecognised markers of my own girlhood.
But what caught me short was the evident resentment nurtured by some native-born Israelis towards those who survived the Shoah, either for an assumed lack of resistance to the Nazis or their enforced work in the camp crematoria and as kapos (camp trustees). Is this why many ageing survivors in Israel now live their declining years in penury, despite having borne witness to what happened?
In retrospect, it is clear that many other citizens of immediate post-independent Israel felt that they resided in a third world country; that a restricted job market, a poor standard of living and worries about children facing enforced IDF conscription pushed them back into the Diaspora.
Sadly, it also appears with the benefit of modern hindsight that survivor guilt is not only a psychosis. It may also be something brutally thrust upon one group by others who cannot begin to fathom an existence that remains incomprehensible to anyone who has never lived on ‘Planet Auschwitz’. There, we are told, a skewed and aberrant morality applied.
Again, I previously knew nothing of events like the 1954 Scorpions Pass Massacre or Israel’s unforgivable behaviour at Kafr Kassem on the eve of the 1956 Suez Campaign.
It was also most shocking to discover how much the Nazis learned from the Turks’ evil work in Armenia and therefore profoundly unsettling to know that earlier this year, the Knesset still refused to acknowledge that what happened was genocide..
So as I pondered atrocity piled upon atrocity; read wicked schoolyard Holocaust jokes that would otherwise have author, D R Bell prosecuted for spreading hate, I finally began to understand why - media personnel aside - in December 1963 the trial of Auschwitz criminals at Frankfurt am Main could “not compete with a new British group called the Beatles. Or with Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor getting married”.
Ah, yes, I remember them well!
D R Bell’s Eleos is at once a compelling and troubling yarn overflowing with inconvenient, unimaginable truths writ huge. To suggest that to read the story’s final words is, all differences considered, like the death of a small world, makes it something special.
Now all that’s left is to wonder how the fast shrinking community of real-life survivors will react. Let’s see.
Now it is also the title of a creative non-fiction thriller set against the backdrop of the 1961 Eichmann trial, that relates in lurid, gruesome detail the similarities between the infamous Armenian and Jewish genocides of the 20th century that were allowed to happen barely 25 years apart.
The plot of this multi-stranded tale hinges on one Jewish Holocaust survivor asking another to trace the Nazi SS officer who rescued him from certain death and so deserves to be included in the Yad Vashem Museum Righteous Among the Nations.
One never stops learning. So as a British child of the early fifties, many of the historical events mentioned read like urecognised markers of my own girlhood.
But what caught me short was the evident resentment nurtured by some native-born Israelis towards those who survived the Shoah, either for an assumed lack of resistance to the Nazis or their enforced work in the camp crematoria and as kapos (camp trustees). Is this why many ageing survivors in Israel now live their declining years in penury, despite having borne witness to what happened?
In retrospect, it is clear that many other citizens of immediate post-independent Israel felt that they resided in a third world country; that a restricted job market, a poor standard of living and worries about children facing enforced IDF conscription pushed them back into the Diaspora.
Sadly, it also appears with the benefit of modern hindsight that survivor guilt is not only a psychosis. It may also be something brutally thrust upon one group by others who cannot begin to fathom an existence that remains incomprehensible to anyone who has never lived on ‘Planet Auschwitz’. There, we are told, a skewed and aberrant morality applied.
Again, I previously knew nothing of events like the 1954 Scorpions Pass Massacre or Israel’s unforgivable behaviour at Kafr Kassem on the eve of the 1956 Suez Campaign.
It was also most shocking to discover how much the Nazis learned from the Turks’ evil work in Armenia and therefore profoundly unsettling to know that earlier this year, the Knesset still refused to acknowledge that what happened was genocide..
So as I pondered atrocity piled upon atrocity; read wicked schoolyard Holocaust jokes that would otherwise have author, D R Bell prosecuted for spreading hate, I finally began to understand why - media personnel aside - in December 1963 the trial of Auschwitz criminals at Frankfurt am Main could “not compete with a new British group called the Beatles. Or with Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor getting married”.
Ah, yes, I remember them well!
D R Bell’s Eleos is at once a compelling and troubling yarn overflowing with inconvenient, unimaginable truths writ huge. To suggest that to read the story’s final words is, all differences considered, like the death of a small world, makes it something special.
Now all that’s left is to wonder how the fast shrinking community of real-life survivors will react. Let’s see.
June 29, 2019
This book has a lot going for it in terms of its exploration of two of the worst atrocities of the 20th century – the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide. It takes a serious look at the repercussions of these tragedies, and examines their effects down through the generations. The very nature of evil, the desire for revenge, justice and the impact on ordinary human lives and families, all are tackled here to good effect. It’s a vivid and unflinching look at the very worst that humans can do to one another. Nevertheless, however important the themes and issues it raises, it is a novel and must be judged as such, and I didn’t find it a compelling or satisfactory one. I felt that it was just too ambitious for its own good and tried to cover too much ground. The sheer number of characters made it hard to identify with any one of them in particular. The interweaving plots are just too convoluted and I found the narrative thread hard to follow at times. Because I wasn’t invested in the main storyline, I even found myself bored on occasion. The approach is just too scattergun and complex to make it a satisfying read. A bit of editing and a more concentrated narrative would have improved it.
June 6, 2019
This book is just so wonderfully and artfully done.
One could say that historical fictions of this nature have been done again and again, all beautiful in their own rights, but Eleos is one you have certainly never read anything like before.
The story of Avi, while not the most compelling, is interesting enough to keep you going until we are introduced to David and all the mysteries these two men unveil. There’s action, suspense, romance, loss and longing, told while showing one man’s truth of his time in Auschwitz.
The characters are not all shining, golden heroes. The concept of the “grey zone” that really is clarified towards the end of the story is a great term for how men like David lived their lives and the actions they took. I enjoyed seeing such realistic characters play out, with all their faults and flaws and the things they did that they thought were right. I enjoyed every minute of these stories and this is a definite must-read.
One could say that historical fictions of this nature have been done again and again, all beautiful in their own rights, but Eleos is one you have certainly never read anything like before.
The story of Avi, while not the most compelling, is interesting enough to keep you going until we are introduced to David and all the mysteries these two men unveil. There’s action, suspense, romance, loss and longing, told while showing one man’s truth of his time in Auschwitz.
The characters are not all shining, golden heroes. The concept of the “grey zone” that really is clarified towards the end of the story is a great term for how men like David lived their lives and the actions they took. I enjoyed seeing such realistic characters play out, with all their faults and flaws and the things they did that they thought were right. I enjoyed every minute of these stories and this is a definite must-read.
November 18, 2018
A must read book, more so, given the current turbulent times all over the world. The fine line we all walk against the backdrop of some of the most recent atrocities committed by mankind. Given the right circumstances, as Eleos shows, regular people in any country will justify their monstrous deeds. Hopefully, the more people will read and understand, they'll have a harder time following what's convenient instead of what is RIGHT.
April 30, 2019
A young Armenian man finds an old notebook that was addressed to his late grandfather. He starts reading it and opens the door to the hidden history of three families whose paths intersected during some of the darkest moments of the past century. The story takes you from the Armenian Genocide during World War I to Auschwitz in 1944 and the Eichmann trial in 1961, and concludes after the fall of the Berlin Wall. A powerful historical fiction with a message.
July 31, 2019
100 stars. Kudos to D. R. Bell for taking what must have been an infinite amount of time to research the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide. If you read one book about the Holocaust this must be the one. I was worried about reviewing this book because I could never come up with adequate words to do it justice. Eleos will open your eyes to things you don’t want to know about. How did the survivors of Auschwitz and of the Holocaust really feel? How did society feel about them for living? What role did every country, the United States included, have during the time leading up to and after the Holocaust? How did big corporations like Deutsche Bank support the war effort before and after? Learn about the Auschwitz trials and Eichmann’s trial and how so many Nazi leaders and collaborators were excused for killing thousands of men women and children. Learn about the people that felt it was important to hunt down and prosecute the Nazi leaders after the war. After living through and witnessing the Armenian Genocide in 1915 where 1.5 million people were killed, How did the world let something like this happen again? How does the world continue to let this happen? Many times I find myself reading fast to get to the next book. Eleos is one of those books that you will read slow because you don’t want it to end. From page one to the very last page you will be captivated and horrified. Thank you D.R. Bell for putting this story down on paper, these stories must continue to be told and you have done it better than anyone.
January 22, 2020
Great fictionalization of WWII war crimes. Do you know your history?
This book provides a narrative of the challenges and difficulties of making the case for prosecuting Nazi crimes of WWII.
Appendix includes connections to the fictional characters to the actual people of history. When will we learn from history?
There have been genocides and “racial purification” throughout history. How many thousands of years must pass before we understand that each of us is human...equally good and flawed?
“Those who have no knowledge of history are destined to repeat it”. ( not a direct quote, but you get the gist). Help me teach our children “never forget” !
This book provides a narrative of the challenges and difficulties of making the case for prosecuting Nazi crimes of WWII.
Appendix includes connections to the fictional characters to the actual people of history. When will we learn from history?
There have been genocides and “racial purification” throughout history. How many thousands of years must pass before we understand that each of us is human...equally good and flawed?
“Those who have no knowledge of history are destined to repeat it”. ( not a direct quote, but you get the gist). Help me teach our children “never forget” !
January 11, 2020
I wish I could thank this author
I wish I could thank D.R. Bell for this gripping, complex, intriguing, informative and important book. The subjects of the work are skillfully woven together and give a history lesson in a fascinating work of informed fiction. I had thought I knew a lot about the holocaust and I do, however the meticulous research taught me details, of which I had not previously been aware. What a great way to learn new things. I highly recommend this book just for the amazing and insightful story alone. The history lesson is a fascinating extra!
I wish I could thank D.R. Bell for this gripping, complex, intriguing, informative and important book. The subjects of the work are skillfully woven together and give a history lesson in a fascinating work of informed fiction. I had thought I knew a lot about the holocaust and I do, however the meticulous research taught me details, of which I had not previously been aware. What a great way to learn new things. I highly recommend this book just for the amazing and insightful story alone. The history lesson is a fascinating extra!
June 17, 2019
After recently uncovering a WWII ethnic cleansing story within my own family, I have been reading whatever I can about postwar times to learn as much as I possibly can about the era, struggles, trials, heroes, criminals, and, most importantly, the victims. In Eleos, Avi Arutiyan stumbles upon correspondences written to his grandfather by a Holocaust survivor which sends him on a journey to uncover some rather dark mysteries connecting his own family to another. Sometimes all it takes is something as simple as an old letter to send one’s descendant on such a journey to learn the truth, and I found that quite relatable as a similar situation has happened to me.
Because my knowledge of the Holocaust and postwar events comes from grade school years—which, completely glossed over just about everything important—a majority of what I am hearing and learning is for the first time through my own research and reading. Being unfamiliar with the Armenian Genocide and the postwar trials of Nazis, I struggled to keep up with certain parts of the story. Sometimes a character name was mentioned and I had to go back to see if, how, and when they were mentioned before. I also wished I had read the Author’s Commentary at the end before I began the book itself, just for some context and better understanding of events and people.
The entire novel was beautifully written, however. I enjoyed the way the author weaved the past and present narration, allowing significant characters to tell their version of events as it was unfolding. Certainly, this is one of the most important WWII historical fiction pieces that has been written. While the descriptions of Holocaust atrocities were terribly hard to stomach, it’s a slice of history that needs remembering and the victims never forgotten. I don’t believe I have read a WWII historical fiction novel like this before and it stands out among the others.
Because my knowledge of the Holocaust and postwar events comes from grade school years—which, completely glossed over just about everything important—a majority of what I am hearing and learning is for the first time through my own research and reading. Being unfamiliar with the Armenian Genocide and the postwar trials of Nazis, I struggled to keep up with certain parts of the story. Sometimes a character name was mentioned and I had to go back to see if, how, and when they were mentioned before. I also wished I had read the Author’s Commentary at the end before I began the book itself, just for some context and better understanding of events and people.
The entire novel was beautifully written, however. I enjoyed the way the author weaved the past and present narration, allowing significant characters to tell their version of events as it was unfolding. Certainly, this is one of the most important WWII historical fiction pieces that has been written. While the descriptions of Holocaust atrocities were terribly hard to stomach, it’s a slice of history that needs remembering and the victims never forgotten. I don’t believe I have read a WWII historical fiction novel like this before and it stands out among the others.
July 18, 2019
3.75 stars
This is a novel that juxtaposes the horrors of the holocaust with the less discussed Armenian genocide that preceded WWII. Millions of Armenians were systematically slaughtered by the Turks. The world responded with complete apathy.
The story is told from the viewpoint of a young man whose family was torn apart by the genocide. With flashbacks involving an Auschwitz survivor who knew his grandfather, he pieces together the story of his grandfather’s last crusade to avenge his people against those who murdered them. He eventually meets the daughter of the Jewish man who had decided to seek justice against nazis who were sheltered after the war.
It’s not a happy story but it does provide a reminder that humans have always and will continue to do horrific things to each other. We must constantly be vigilant to what’s happening in the world and stand up for those in need, wherever they come from.
This is a novel that juxtaposes the horrors of the holocaust with the less discussed Armenian genocide that preceded WWII. Millions of Armenians were systematically slaughtered by the Turks. The world responded with complete apathy.
The story is told from the viewpoint of a young man whose family was torn apart by the genocide. With flashbacks involving an Auschwitz survivor who knew his grandfather, he pieces together the story of his grandfather’s last crusade to avenge his people against those who murdered them. He eventually meets the daughter of the Jewish man who had decided to seek justice against nazis who were sheltered after the war.
It’s not a happy story but it does provide a reminder that humans have always and will continue to do horrific things to each other. We must constantly be vigilant to what’s happening in the world and stand up for those in need, wherever they come from.
October 26, 2019
Strikingly profound and heartwrenching all in one
I have an interest in Holocaust history and every time i read a book on its history, it leaves me so sad at human inaction. I felt for David, a survivor who had such guilt for surviving and the lengths he goes to, to find some inner peace. Usually not a fan of the back and forth dating parts of the history in stories but it works well here. Read and live a little of what was "presented" to the world by the oppressors, and the fact that they were not "policed", for want of a better word and how the World closed its eyes for too long.
I have an interest in Holocaust history and every time i read a book on its history, it leaves me so sad at human inaction. I felt for David, a survivor who had such guilt for surviving and the lengths he goes to, to find some inner peace. Usually not a fan of the back and forth dating parts of the history in stories but it works well here. Read and live a little of what was "presented" to the world by the oppressors, and the fact that they were not "policed", for want of a better word and how the World closed its eyes for too long.
April 28, 2019
.
I have read quite a lot of Holocaust literature, but I had some difficulty following everything in this book--multiple characters, multiple generations, countries. The Armenian issues in WW I, was all new to me. If I hadn't read the notes at the end, I would have been totally confused.
I still haven't figured out. How Avi's family fits into all of the narrative.
To a certain degree, all the trials seem futile. The punishments were very inconsequential compared to the crimes.
Lots to think about.
I have read quite a lot of Holocaust literature, but I had some difficulty following everything in this book--multiple characters, multiple generations, countries. The Armenian issues in WW I, was all new to me. If I hadn't read the notes at the end, I would have been totally confused.
I still haven't figured out. How Avi's family fits into all of the narrative.
To a certain degree, all the trials seem futile. The punishments were very inconsequential compared to the crimes.
Lots to think about.
June 24, 2019
Well written novel based on historical events. I was drawn in from the start and this book held my interest to the very end.
April 18, 2019
Powerful fictional story based on facts
A young Armenian American discovers notebooks that lead him and the reader on a journey of discovery beginning with the Armenian holocaust of WWI to the Jewish holocaust of WWII and beyond. And how world leaders across the globe did nothing during or even after the horrific events. Token ‘justice’ was served and except for a few, like Adolf Eichman, were given punishments that were little more than slaps on the wrist.
A young Armenian American discovers notebooks that lead him and the reader on a journey of discovery beginning with the Armenian holocaust of WWI to the Jewish holocaust of WWII and beyond. And how world leaders across the globe did nothing during or even after the horrific events. Token ‘justice’ was served and except for a few, like Adolf Eichman, were given punishments that were little more than slaps on the wrist.
August 14, 2019
D.R. Bell flawlessly intertwined a story of mystery and suspense with some of the most awful atrocities ever to have been inflicted upon humankind. He is a skilled storyteller and researcher. No stone was left unturned and I learned many new facts even though this era in history already featured significantly in my reading. I really enjoyed this book. It’s a must read for everybody particularly those interested in the Holocaust like I am. I look forward to reading more from this author.
January 19, 2020
Amazing read, connecting the Armenian genocide, the Holocaust and their aftermath..
August 9, 2019
A sometimes difficult but worthy and necessary read
In many ways Eleos by D. R. Bell is a difficult book. Not in the writing style, that is elegant in its way, the words flow, the characters and their essence come through. No, it is the subject matter and all of the attendant tributaries, the knowledge that so many people of today's world know little to nothing of the Holocaust or the Armenian Genocide. How is that possible? For an information-at-your-fingertips society it seems especially absurd. It is weight of this subject matter that slowed me down. I needed short breaks from reading to cry, to consider, to pray. What terrible things humans do to one another! What lousy excuses we give and accept! Not only will it happen again, I don't think it has ever stopped.
This information must be shared, it must be taught, without apology, without excuses otherwise it will continue to happen. I know in my own case, what I did learn about the Holocaust, I learned from my parents as a child. I did not learn about the Armenian Genocide until on my own I saw part of a movie on tv; I was unable to contain watching at the time. There was no mention of the latter in school and little of the former. That must change, as uncomfortable as we may be, it must be taught.
But back to the book, it was very affecting. While I don't know that I can say I enjoyed reading about the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide, and the lack of justice, I can say this book is riveting. I would have liked to read more about the Armenian Genocide here but I realize that the story took the author where it took him/her. I was pleased to see how much information was contained in the Notes section at the end of the book. I do wish there had been a section listing the characters (both real and not) with a quick sentence or two explaining something about them. There are a lot of names listed here and I found myself looking up a lot of names, etc. I hope in the future the author may decide to write a book about the Armenian Genocide as I would like to read it. Regardless, I will seek out other books by D. R. Bell as I feel they are a talented historical fiction writer. I consider this book to be a must-read.
In many ways Eleos by D. R. Bell is a difficult book. Not in the writing style, that is elegant in its way, the words flow, the characters and their essence come through. No, it is the subject matter and all of the attendant tributaries, the knowledge that so many people of today's world know little to nothing of the Holocaust or the Armenian Genocide. How is that possible? For an information-at-your-fingertips society it seems especially absurd. It is weight of this subject matter that slowed me down. I needed short breaks from reading to cry, to consider, to pray. What terrible things humans do to one another! What lousy excuses we give and accept! Not only will it happen again, I don't think it has ever stopped.
This information must be shared, it must be taught, without apology, without excuses otherwise it will continue to happen. I know in my own case, what I did learn about the Holocaust, I learned from my parents as a child. I did not learn about the Armenian Genocide until on my own I saw part of a movie on tv; I was unable to contain watching at the time. There was no mention of the latter in school and little of the former. That must change, as uncomfortable as we may be, it must be taught.
But back to the book, it was very affecting. While I don't know that I can say I enjoyed reading about the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide, and the lack of justice, I can say this book is riveting. I would have liked to read more about the Armenian Genocide here but I realize that the story took the author where it took him/her. I was pleased to see how much information was contained in the Notes section at the end of the book. I do wish there had been a section listing the characters (both real and not) with a quick sentence or two explaining something about them. There are a lot of names listed here and I found myself looking up a lot of names, etc. I hope in the future the author may decide to write a book about the Armenian Genocide as I would like to read it. Regardless, I will seek out other books by D. R. Bell as I feel they are a talented historical fiction writer. I consider this book to be a must-read.
June 12, 2020
Author D.R. Bell's narrative is more than appropriate for these current times. Inspired by the trial of Adolph Eichmann, Bell attempts to explore the type of person who would accomplish such deeds, and while he provides ideas there are no easy answers.
Avi Arutiyan inherits a beach house from his Armenian Uncle and during a clean up discovers letters written to his grandfather, an Armenian activist from David Levy, a Holocaust survivor living in Israel. David works for Yad Vashem and in that capacity meets a young man who wants to locate the S.S. officer who saved him.
While wide in scope it really doesn't take much time to delineate the characters and the mysteries that surround them. And in that journey, the reader is asked to consider what average people are capable of, and how evil succeeds. The Allied powers knew of the German concentration camps but did nothing during the war and little for retribution afterwards. The Armenian Holocaust is still in the shadows; the United States recognizing it as such over 100 years after the event. For such things to exist leadership either overlooks or condones. Bell's characters note that "The Americans, the British-they all have their own elites, and elites help each other." Why? Perhaps as another concludes, "the desire to conform, make a profit, gain a promotion."
This is not a hopeful read but one that makes you think and realize that such things do not go away.
Avi Arutiyan inherits a beach house from his Armenian Uncle and during a clean up discovers letters written to his grandfather, an Armenian activist from David Levy, a Holocaust survivor living in Israel. David works for Yad Vashem and in that capacity meets a young man who wants to locate the S.S. officer who saved him.
While wide in scope it really doesn't take much time to delineate the characters and the mysteries that surround them. And in that journey, the reader is asked to consider what average people are capable of, and how evil succeeds. The Allied powers knew of the German concentration camps but did nothing during the war and little for retribution afterwards. The Armenian Holocaust is still in the shadows; the United States recognizing it as such over 100 years after the event. For such things to exist leadership either overlooks or condones. Bell's characters note that "The Americans, the British-they all have their own elites, and elites help each other." Why? Perhaps as another concludes, "the desire to conform, make a profit, gain a promotion."
This is not a hopeful read but one that makes you think and realize that such things do not go away.
April 14, 2020
Difficult material, but very engaging
. Subject matter is little known intrigues and plots involving those who profited from the Holocaust and efforts to eliminate Armenians in the 20th century. The characters were well-drawn .
So important to inform ourselves about our history to help us recognize when it is repeating itself.
It should be required reading.
. Subject matter is little known intrigues and plots involving those who profited from the Holocaust and efforts to eliminate Armenians in the 20th century. The characters were well-drawn .
So important to inform ourselves about our history to help us recognize when it is repeating itself.
It should be required reading.
May 8, 2020
Mesmerizing.
I thought I had read enough about World War II books. But this was much more than that. I learned about history before and after. The research and detail into the characters and times was incredible. Also the explanations at the end were very useful in carrying the story forward. Highly recommend this book.
I thought I had read enough about World War II books. But this was much more than that. I learned about history before and after. The research and detail into the characters and times was incredible. Also the explanations at the end were very useful in carrying the story forward. Highly recommend this book.
May 13, 2020
Excellent
An excellent insight into the war and the long term after affects of it and the knowledge of human psyche it brought to the forefront.
An excellent insight into the war and the long term after affects of it and the knowledge of human psyche it brought to the forefront.
September 12, 2019
This is not a book I can say I enjoyed reading. So many characters, so many scenarios...often hard to follow...BUT I learned so much about the Armenian genocide and the Holocaust that I did not know. If we ever hope history will stop repeating itself, it is imperative that people take the time to read a book like this. Kudos to DR Bell for his hard work in researching this information and making sure that the book is available to all!
April 24, 2019
Great read
Enjoyed this book. Would recommend to anyone with interest in the Holocaust. Lots of twists and turns. I learned a lot.
Enjoyed this book. Would recommend to anyone with interest in the Holocaust. Lots of twists and turns. I learned a lot.
April 17, 2020
This was a very interesting book that had to be difficult to write and an abundant amount of research was needed to do it. I've read other books and accounts of the Holocaust, but none like this one.
May 9, 2021
I'm having a very hard time reviewing this book. Mr. Bell captured the horror of the Holocaust and its aftermath in a way few writers have been able to do.
Having close family who experienced the atrocities of Auschwitz and then the flippant attitude of native Israelis I totally understand the ambivalence and pain of David's life in Israel after the Holocaust. The story is set against the timeframe of the Eichmann trial when the survivors finally feel that they can talk about their experiences.
I knew about the Armenian genocide but I didn't realize how it influenced and connected with Germany. I was glad to hear that President Biden has recognized it as a genocide.
This book was very intense and extremely well written. I highly recommend it.
Having close family who experienced the atrocities of Auschwitz and then the flippant attitude of native Israelis I totally understand the ambivalence and pain of David's life in Israel after the Holocaust. The story is set against the timeframe of the Eichmann trial when the survivors finally feel that they can talk about their experiences.
I knew about the Armenian genocide but I didn't realize how it influenced and connected with Germany. I was glad to hear that President Biden has recognized it as a genocide.
This book was very intense and extremely well written. I highly recommend it.
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