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Between These Walls
In the dying days of WW II on the American occupied side of Germany’s Elbe River, US Army Medical Corps Colonel Samuel Singer comes upon the strafed wreck of a smouldering SS Staff car, with a badly injured driver, nearby a dead German Army officer carrying the ID of a Nazi war criminal, and a young blonde woman, also dead in the back seat.
Forty-three years later, art curator Daniel Singer, the adopted son of Colonel Singer receives a mysterious package—a large brown envelope, sealed with security tape—from West Berlin. He can’t help but think that there’s something important within the envelope. But what?
Daniel’s quest to learn about the package’s contents leads him on a surprising voyage of discovery, including an encounter with the Mossad, Israel’s top secret spy agency. As he searches, he unlocks the history of three families—one American and two German—following them through tumultuous times, from the dying days of WWI to the rise of Adolf Hitler, WWII, the Holocaust, and three Middle East wars.
As Daniel learns about duty, honour, sacrifice, and the familial ties that bind us all, he will be faced with a life-altering choice—and the opportunity to right the most heinous of wrongs.
Forty-three years later, art curator Daniel Singer, the adopted son of Colonel Singer receives a mysterious package—a large brown envelope, sealed with security tape—from West Berlin. He can’t help but think that there’s something important within the envelope. But what?
Daniel’s quest to learn about the package’s contents leads him on a surprising voyage of discovery, including an encounter with the Mossad, Israel’s top secret spy agency. As he searches, he unlocks the history of three families—one American and two German—following them through tumultuous times, from the dying days of WWI to the rise of Adolf Hitler, WWII, the Holocaust, and three Middle East wars.
As Daniel learns about duty, honour, sacrifice, and the familial ties that bind us all, he will be faced with a life-altering choice—and the opportunity to right the most heinous of wrongs.
377 pages, Hardcover
First published January 26, 2020
6 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 13, 2020
Thank you Iread Book Tours and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Between These Walls
By: Michael Newman
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
Between These Walls is a tapestry of historical fiction. Author Michael Newman integrates several seemingly unrelated threads that somehow do intersect to create a bigger picture. Daniel, the man at the center of it all, receives an odd package in the mail, written in German and doesn't think much of it initially. Flash back to Daniel's father in WWII for a different perspective, and the story follows others as well through WWI, WWII and the Middle East for numerous wars. With time jumps, different nationalities and people, a lot is happening in the story. I did lose myself from time to time. Daniel has no idea what is in store for him or what the letter means, and he will venture into the unknown for answers. It's really not something I can easily explain, and I don't want to spoil anything. I'll say this: the story is well written, dramatic, mysterious and meticulously crafted and puzzled out to create something unique and compelling. For historical fiction readers, many time periods are touched on, and various cultures are involved. The story is eclectic but universal in its message of human nature, both good and bad, and the power of love and hope to overcome so much.
Between These Walls
By: Michael Newman
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
Between These Walls is a tapestry of historical fiction. Author Michael Newman integrates several seemingly unrelated threads that somehow do intersect to create a bigger picture. Daniel, the man at the center of it all, receives an odd package in the mail, written in German and doesn't think much of it initially. Flash back to Daniel's father in WWII for a different perspective, and the story follows others as well through WWI, WWII and the Middle East for numerous wars. With time jumps, different nationalities and people, a lot is happening in the story. I did lose myself from time to time. Daniel has no idea what is in store for him or what the letter means, and he will venture into the unknown for answers. It's really not something I can easily explain, and I don't want to spoil anything. I'll say this: the story is well written, dramatic, mysterious and meticulously crafted and puzzled out to create something unique and compelling. For historical fiction readers, many time periods are touched on, and various cultures are involved. The story is eclectic but universal in its message of human nature, both good and bad, and the power of love and hope to overcome so much.
February 7, 2025
Imagine minding your own business when—boom!—a mysterious package from West Berlin lands in your lap. Do you open it? Toss it? Burn it? Well, Daniel Singer rips it open, and let’s just say… his life blows up. *Between These Walls* is a high-stakes mix of historical fiction, spy thriller, and family drama with a side of war crimes. Think Nazi hunters, Mossad agents, long-buried secrets, and one very inconvenient truth that could change everything.
Michael Newman nails the dual timeline storytelling. One moment, you're in 1945 with Colonel Samuel Singer, stumbling upon a wrecked SS car filled with bodies and very bad vibes. The next, you're in 1988, watching Daniel unravel his past way faster than he probably should. The twists? Relentless. The stakes? Through the roof. And just when you think you’ve figured it out—plot twist. Again.
The historical detail is next level. You’re not just reading about war and espionage—you’re in the trenches, navigating Cold War politics, dodging double agents, and questioning everyone’s motives. It’s intense, it’s immersive, and it makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about the past.
If you love books that grab you by the collar and refuse to let go, this one’s for you. It’s fast-paced, brilliantly written, and packed with tension, secrets, and moral dilemmas that’ll have you questioning, What would I do?Daniel’s choices? Risky. The payoff? Explosive.
Michael Newman nails the dual timeline storytelling. One moment, you're in 1945 with Colonel Samuel Singer, stumbling upon a wrecked SS car filled with bodies and very bad vibes. The next, you're in 1988, watching Daniel unravel his past way faster than he probably should. The twists? Relentless. The stakes? Through the roof. And just when you think you’ve figured it out—plot twist. Again.
The historical detail is next level. You’re not just reading about war and espionage—you’re in the trenches, navigating Cold War politics, dodging double agents, and questioning everyone’s motives. It’s intense, it’s immersive, and it makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about the past.
If you love books that grab you by the collar and refuse to let go, this one’s for you. It’s fast-paced, brilliantly written, and packed with tension, secrets, and moral dilemmas that’ll have you questioning, What would I do?Daniel’s choices? Risky. The payoff? Explosive.
May 26, 2020
I have found myself reading outside of my norm as of late. Genres that I would not typically read have been finding their ways into my ‘to be read’ pile.
Between These Walls was most certainly one of those ‘out of my norm’ reads, but I have to admit – I was intrigued from the very start.
I have to admit, I did get a little confused with the dates as several chapters would go back and forth between dates, and on occasion would confuse characters as the date changes also meant character and story changes. I did not find this to detract from the story, but did take me a little longer to read. At times I found myself having to refresh my memory of who was what and at times, recall who was linked to who. Again, I did not find that this detracted from the overall story, just made me slow down to better recall who I was reading about at a given time.
The story starts out with quite the start and leaves me hanging on every word to figure out the beginning. The book itself follows a unique set of different characters, going back and forth from past to a more current setting, intertwining lives and stories.
I never found history to be entertaining or something that interested me, but I did find historical information inside the story that had me reaching to Google and chasing history down a rabbit hole.
Overall, this book was a surprisingly (for me because it is unlike my normal genre) good read that I enjoyed.
Between These Walls was most certainly one of those ‘out of my norm’ reads, but I have to admit – I was intrigued from the very start.
I have to admit, I did get a little confused with the dates as several chapters would go back and forth between dates, and on occasion would confuse characters as the date changes also meant character and story changes. I did not find this to detract from the story, but did take me a little longer to read. At times I found myself having to refresh my memory of who was what and at times, recall who was linked to who. Again, I did not find that this detracted from the overall story, just made me slow down to better recall who I was reading about at a given time.
The story starts out with quite the start and leaves me hanging on every word to figure out the beginning. The book itself follows a unique set of different characters, going back and forth from past to a more current setting, intertwining lives and stories.
I never found history to be entertaining or something that interested me, but I did find historical information inside the story that had me reaching to Google and chasing history down a rabbit hole.
Overall, this book was a surprisingly (for me because it is unlike my normal genre) good read that I enjoyed.
May 29, 2020
Something different for me to read
I admit I am not a fan of reading books about war. It is not my cup of tea. Between The Walls pop my cherry, and I am so glad that I agreed to read this book.
I do not know about Hitler but heard his name, but I was not paying attention. I am so glad that this book gives me the ins and out of his devil ways and his colleagues.
Between These Walls is a beautiful story of survival, defeat, freedom and giving back. It is very emotional as well. I did not cry but almost. My first book of the author and I liked his style of writing. It is very engaging until the last page. I enjoyed reading this book.
I loved that the main character give back what is due to the victims. It really is beautiful to read that scene. It is heartbreaking as well. I really recommend this book if you love to read war and history. This is a must read.
I admit I am not a fan of reading books about war. It is not my cup of tea. Between The Walls pop my cherry, and I am so glad that I agreed to read this book.
I do not know about Hitler but heard his name, but I was not paying attention. I am so glad that this book gives me the ins and out of his devil ways and his colleagues.
Between These Walls is a beautiful story of survival, defeat, freedom and giving back. It is very emotional as well. I did not cry but almost. My first book of the author and I liked his style of writing. It is very engaging until the last page. I enjoyed reading this book.
I loved that the main character give back what is due to the victims. It really is beautiful to read that scene. It is heartbreaking as well. I really recommend this book if you love to read war and history. This is a must read.
May 18, 2020
Between these Walls Takes Readers on a Historical Journey. The author immediately introduces several seemingly unrelated events and characters--in a variety of times and places. The story moves from place to place and role to role--spanning time--and I did find it a little challenging to settle into the author's writing style for a while. Once I settled into the writing and began to watch the characters connect, and the story unfolds--the author was able to take me to other times and places.
Between these Walls Builds a Complex Story. The author does a beautiful job connecting the many elements of his story in a way that made the novel exciting and kept me wondering what the pages would bring. While the novel has a historical focus, it also takes a look at human nature and how the past influences the present.
Would I Recommend Between the Walls by Michael Newman? Fans of historical fiction will love the blend of the history, mystery, and strong, believable characters of Between These Walls. Readers may need a little patience as the characters and storylines build through the beginning, but once those first pieces of the story develop, expect a page-turner. I enjoyed the author's look at history and the research that went into his work--and I enjoyed the human nature aspects of the book as much or more. I would recommend this book to historical fiction fans as well as fans of dramas and mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
Between these Walls Builds a Complex Story. The author does a beautiful job connecting the many elements of his story in a way that made the novel exciting and kept me wondering what the pages would bring. While the novel has a historical focus, it also takes a look at human nature and how the past influences the present.
Would I Recommend Between the Walls by Michael Newman? Fans of historical fiction will love the blend of the history, mystery, and strong, believable characters of Between These Walls. Readers may need a little patience as the characters and storylines build through the beginning, but once those first pieces of the story develop, expect a page-turner. I enjoyed the author's look at history and the research that went into his work--and I enjoyed the human nature aspects of the book as much or more. I would recommend this book to historical fiction fans as well as fans of dramas and mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
May 22, 2020
Daniel, a curator receives an intriguing parcel, which sets off a huge journey of discovery. As we plunge into historical events through the eyes of Daniel, we are thrown into war zone starting from WWI to WWII and three other wars in the ride. Starting off with several threads and several stories, Newman beautifully weaves them all in.
This beautifully written historical fiction novel gives us a vivid glimpse of the lives and challenges during the war times. All concepts and ideologies of goodness and evil are dealt with deftly. I loved the pace - gripping but not overwhelming, and the characterization. Dealing with a plethora of characters must have been a Herculean task, but it's been done very gracefully.
My sincere thanks to Lauren from iRead Book Tours, Friesen Press, and the author Michael Newman, for gifting me with a copy of this wonderful book for an honest review.
This beautifully written historical fiction novel gives us a vivid glimpse of the lives and challenges during the war times. All concepts and ideologies of goodness and evil are dealt with deftly. I loved the pace - gripping but not overwhelming, and the characterization. Dealing with a plethora of characters must have been a Herculean task, but it's been done very gracefully.
My sincere thanks to Lauren from iRead Book Tours, Friesen Press, and the author Michael Newman, for gifting me with a copy of this wonderful book for an honest review.
May 11, 2020
I love historical novels, they take us on a special journey to the past where we get a glimpse of what could have been happening and the people of this time. Between These Walls follows several seemingly unconnected characters from the the end of World War I through to World War II and three wars in the Middle East. It is intense and leaves you on the edge of your seat, never quite knowing what to expect next.
The centre of this story is Daniel – a young man raised in the Jewish faith who very early in the novel receives a mysterious package in the mail filled with documents in German that he does not understand nor particularly seem to interested in. The story then jumps in to his family history and we learn about his Father who served during the war as a surgeon, the relationships he builds during this time that last a lifetime and a discovery he makes near the end of the war. We learn about his past and how his actions bring him into connection with other key characters in this novel both good and bad. It is these connections that are key to the story and how they connect to Daniel. We are witness to horrific acts of evil, acts of kindness and bravery and acts of forgiveness.
I loved every moment of this novel, from the plot to the characters and the way it was written. I did not want to put the novel down, I had to know what happened next and how each evolving story brings us closer to Daniel’s past and future. It is well written and I loved how the story connects characters and events that span several decades. Even though the ending was a mix of hope for the future and pain, it is amazing to see how life and our actions can come full circle. It is a story of hope, faith, bravery in the face of evil and healing that comes with time. It is a definite must read novel, you will not be disappointed.
The centre of this story is Daniel – a young man raised in the Jewish faith who very early in the novel receives a mysterious package in the mail filled with documents in German that he does not understand nor particularly seem to interested in. The story then jumps in to his family history and we learn about his Father who served during the war as a surgeon, the relationships he builds during this time that last a lifetime and a discovery he makes near the end of the war. We learn about his past and how his actions bring him into connection with other key characters in this novel both good and bad. It is these connections that are key to the story and how they connect to Daniel. We are witness to horrific acts of evil, acts of kindness and bravery and acts of forgiveness.
I loved every moment of this novel, from the plot to the characters and the way it was written. I did not want to put the novel down, I had to know what happened next and how each evolving story brings us closer to Daniel’s past and future. It is well written and I loved how the story connects characters and events that span several decades. Even though the ending was a mix of hope for the future and pain, it is amazing to see how life and our actions can come full circle. It is a story of hope, faith, bravery in the face of evil and healing that comes with time. It is a definite must read novel, you will not be disappointed.
May 23, 2020
Full disclosure, Michael is my father. He has a unique personal story that is interwoven within this novel. Between These Walls could read as a non-fiction account of many key points in history dating from 1930’s Germany till the 1988 Lockerbee bombing. However, my father takes these poignant events and uses them to tell a compelling story of family, love, and identity. The story looks at the actions of a few, how they’re interconnected through time and the impact that some choices have on both the present, and the future. Highly recommended
May 14, 2020
Michael Newman’s debut, Between These Walls, is a pretty good read. Readers are introduced to Daniel Singer, the adopted son of a World War II US Army Medical Corps Colonel, Samuel Singer. He receives a mysterious envelope from Germany, forty three years after the World War II. This package takes him on a journey around the world. He discovers more than he would have ever imagined.
I really liked Between These Walls. I do have to admit that it jumped around a little bit that had me confused at first. There is a lot going on within the pages that was hard to understand. But about twenty five perfect of the way through it, I was able to catch on as to what was going on. There is some action, adventure, mystery and suspense. Daniel is left making some difficult decisions and he has to learn some important lessons. I admired his determination, bravery and courage. I liked getting to know him. The plot is no where near being predictable for me. I never knew what was going to happen next. It was exciting and entertaining to go from page to page to see where else the story would go.
I am giving Between These Walls four and a half stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy historical fiction. I hope to see Michael Newman release another exciting novel in the near future. This one is most definitely worth a read and not to be missed.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I really liked Between These Walls. I do have to admit that it jumped around a little bit that had me confused at first. There is a lot going on within the pages that was hard to understand. But about twenty five perfect of the way through it, I was able to catch on as to what was going on. There is some action, adventure, mystery and suspense. Daniel is left making some difficult decisions and he has to learn some important lessons. I admired his determination, bravery and courage. I liked getting to know him. The plot is no where near being predictable for me. I never knew what was going to happen next. It was exciting and entertaining to go from page to page to see where else the story would go.
I am giving Between These Walls four and a half stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy historical fiction. I hope to see Michael Newman release another exciting novel in the near future. This one is most definitely worth a read and not to be missed.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
May 21, 2020
Between These Walls by Michael Newman was a thrilling read! I loved Daniel Singer, I especially liked that he was adopted as it is rare that main characters are. The story itself was great and it stayed true to history with how the author kept the historical facts as accurate as possible in the story. I really enjoyed his writing style with how he brought the pieces together in such a way that I was able to guess at what they meant, but still be surprised by how everything turned out.
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May 10, 2020An excellent read. Many threads, yet the book ensures it starts by getting one involved early, then moves like a freight train to an amazing finish. Surrounded by real events, the credible characters mingle with historical figures, places and events to weave an intense narrative.
October 23, 2025
Wow, what an incredible story. From the very first page, I was hooked. The mix of history, mystery, and emotion kept me turning pages late into the night.
Daniel’s journey to uncover the truth behind that mysterious envelope was so powerful, it felt like I was right there with him, uncovering the layers of the past piece by piece. The way the story connects generations, from the end of WWII to modern times, is beautifully done. You can really feel the weight of history and the pain, love, and duty that tie these families together.
It’s one of those books that makes you think about how the past shapes who we are. Deep, moving, and unforgettabl
Daniel’s journey to uncover the truth behind that mysterious envelope was so powerful, it felt like I was right there with him, uncovering the layers of the past piece by piece. The way the story connects generations, from the end of WWII to modern times, is beautifully done. You can really feel the weight of history and the pain, love, and duty that tie these families together.
It’s one of those books that makes you think about how the past shapes who we are. Deep, moving, and unforgettabl
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October 5, 2020Author Michael Newman has lived many lives, from being the only child of Holocaust survivors, to 12-year-old Hungarian refugee, to self-made real estate magnate in Ontario, Canada. His father’s wartime experiences, including surviving the Mauthausen Nazi death camp, inspired Newman to pen his first novel, BETWEEN THESE WALLS.
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2020/10/05/famil...
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2020/10/05/famil...
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October 30, 2020The book is a reminder of what was possibly the true story of many families. It is well researched and describes many true events. I was kept guessing at how the story would unfold, and was truly surprised at the conclusion. A sequel would be in order to learn how the family involved continued with their life.
December 31, 2021
An eye-opening and enlightening journey! Michael's novel intricately weaves a tale of three families through half a century of tumult. Like life, it is as full of joy as it is a tragic retelling of some of recent history's darkest moments. Well done, and highly recommended for anyone interested in Nazi Germany and the birth of Israel!
October 23, 2025
Between These Walls by Michael Newman is a gripping and atmospheric World War II novel that blends mystery, moral conflict, and human emotion with great skill. A powerful, well-crafted story that lingers long after the last page.
October 24, 2025
This book truly surprised me. I expected a typical WWII story, but it’s so much more than that, it’s about family, silence, and the weight of memory. The transition between wartime Europe and 1980s New York felt seamless. Every scene felt alive. One of the most emotional reads I’ve had this year.
October 24, 2025
A masterpiece. Honest, painful, and deeply moving. Michael Newman weaves history, mystery, and emotion so seamlessly that it feels real. Between These Walls deserves a wide audience one of the best indie novels I’ve ever read.
June 3, 2020
An exceptional novel for a first time writer. Sound research and excellent descriptions of what people endured during the Nazi regime and constantly moving.
October 19, 2025
Well done Michael! Not only a great man, but a great author!
October 21, 2025
Good but sad. It’s one of those stories that remind you how fragile humanity can be. The pacing was uneven, but still a strong book.
October 21, 2025
Its a rear story that combines emotions,history and mystery I learned, I cried, I couldn't stop turning pages
Great job Michael
Great job Michael
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October 21, 2025This book deserves away more attention than it ha gotten
Great job Michael
Great job Michael
October 21, 2025
Started a bit slow, but once I got into it, I couldn’t stop. The WWII parts were intense and detailed. The modern sections added the perfect mystery. Very well written!
October 22, 2025
Great read. I liked Daniel’s character a lot, felt very human.
October 22, 2025
I enjoyed the mix of mystery and history. It’s sad but hopeful. Some parts were heavy, but that’s exactly what made it so good
October 23, 2025
Beautiful story with a lot of heart. Some parts were a bit heavy, but that’s what made it feel real. The ending gave me chills.
October 23, 2025
What a great book this is. Highly recommend
October 23, 2025
coming across Between these walls, was not a mistake at all, it is worth every bit of my time.
October 23, 2025
I love every bit of this book !!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews