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World War II #1
Unnachgiebig: Liebe und Widerstand im Zweiten Weltkrieg
Berlin, Germany 1932. In a time of political unrest and strife, one man finds the courage to fight back...
Dr. Wilhem "Q" Quedlin, chemical engineer and inventor, lives for his science. A woman is not in his plans-nor is it to be accused of industrial espionage.
But things get worse from there.
Watching Hitler's rise to power spurns his desire to avoid yet another war that will completely destroy his beloved country. Q makes the conscious decision to fight against what he knows is wrong, even if working against the Nazis could mean certain death for him- and anyone he loves.
Hilde Dremmer has vowed to never love again. But after encountering Q, she wants to give love a second chance.
When Q discloses his resistance plan, it's up to Hilde to choose between her protected life without him or the constant threat of torture if she supports him in his fight against injustice.
She has witnessed enough of the Nazi government's violent acts to be appalled by the new political power, but will this be enough for an ordinary girl to do the extraordinary and stand beside the man she loves in a time of total desolation?
This World War II story is based on the true events of one couple's struggle for happiness while battling a war against their own leaders.
Dr. Wilhem "Q" Quedlin, chemical engineer and inventor, lives for his science. A woman is not in his plans-nor is it to be accused of industrial espionage.
But things get worse from there.
Watching Hitler's rise to power spurns his desire to avoid yet another war that will completely destroy his beloved country. Q makes the conscious decision to fight against what he knows is wrong, even if working against the Nazis could mean certain death for him- and anyone he loves.
Hilde Dremmer has vowed to never love again. But after encountering Q, she wants to give love a second chance.
When Q discloses his resistance plan, it's up to Hilde to choose between her protected life without him or the constant threat of torture if she supports him in his fight against injustice.
She has witnessed enough of the Nazi government's violent acts to be appalled by the new political power, but will this be enough for an ordinary girl to do the extraordinary and stand beside the man she loves in a time of total desolation?
This World War II story is based on the true events of one couple's struggle for happiness while battling a war against their own leaders.
230 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2016
2211 people are currently reading
2229 people want to read
About the author
Marion Kummerow
116 books420 followersMarion Kummerow was born and raised in Germany, before she set out to "discover the world" and lived in various countries. In 1999 she returned to Germany and settled down in Munich where she's now living with her family.
After dipping her toes with non-fiction books, she finally tackled the project dear to her heart. UNRELENTING is the story about her grandparents, who belonged to the German resistance and fought against the Nazi regime.
It's a book about resilience, love and the courage to stand up and do the right thing.
After dipping her toes with non-fiction books, she finally tackled the project dear to her heart. UNRELENTING is the story about her grandparents, who belonged to the German resistance and fought against the Nazi regime.
It's a book about resilience, love and the courage to stand up and do the right thing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
February 27, 2018
“Unrelenting” is a beautifully written story of two young people: a brilliant scientist Dr. Wilhelm “Q” Quedlin and an insurance claim clerk, Hilde. Based on a true story, “Unrelenting” shows the rise of the Nazi Party through their eyes - the feeling of foreboding and danger that starts to suffocate the nation with every passing year, with every new law imposed. While Q was quite an idealistic young man who viewed communism as a perfect regime and therefore decided to start helping the Soviets with certain things (I won’t give away any spoilers here), Hilde was just as passionate about her dislike of the Nazi Party, not only for their racial policies but due to their ideas about “an ideal German woman” that was supposed to be a mother and a wife first and foremost, which went against independent Hilde’s views. Both characters are extremely likable, and I couldn’t help but root for them and their noble cause. The setting of pre-war Germany, the Olympic Games, even the inside of the interrogation cells - everything was presented vividly and made me feel like I was actually there. A wonderful story, which I would highly recommend to all fans of the historical fiction genre. I’ll definitely continue with other books in the series.
December 27, 2016
An engaging, wonderfully-narrated tale.
Unrelenting is the first novel in Marion Kummerow’s World War II Trilogy, spanning the years 1932 - 1936. It is a very special story in that it is a non-fictional account of the author’s remarkable grandparents –– the courageous and unrelenting World War II German resistance fight of Ingeborg and Hansheinrich Kummerow.
In this first story we meet the main characters, following their journeys that brought them together as a married couple. We also learn of the unrest in Europe at this time, and in particular, in Germany, with Adolf Hitler’s election as Chancellor. Following the Great War, the country is suffering political unrest and economic ruin, which Hitler promises to rectify. The author’s grandparents however, are skeptical. The stage is set for the darkness and tragedy that we know will follow.
I was captivated by the moving romance of the author’s grandparents, as well as each one’s personal history. The prose evokes unrest, fear, trepidation and anticipation for another war. For anyone interested in the human stories behind the WWII resistance fighters, I would highly recommend Unrelenting, and I am very much looking forward to the second in the trilogy, Unyielding.
Unrelenting is the first novel in Marion Kummerow’s World War II Trilogy, spanning the years 1932 - 1936. It is a very special story in that it is a non-fictional account of the author’s remarkable grandparents –– the courageous and unrelenting World War II German resistance fight of Ingeborg and Hansheinrich Kummerow.
In this first story we meet the main characters, following their journeys that brought them together as a married couple. We also learn of the unrest in Europe at this time, and in particular, in Germany, with Adolf Hitler’s election as Chancellor. Following the Great War, the country is suffering political unrest and economic ruin, which Hitler promises to rectify. The author’s grandparents however, are skeptical. The stage is set for the darkness and tragedy that we know will follow.
I was captivated by the moving romance of the author’s grandparents, as well as each one’s personal history. The prose evokes unrest, fear, trepidation and anticipation for another war. For anyone interested in the human stories behind the WWII resistance fighters, I would highly recommend Unrelenting, and I am very much looking forward to the second in the trilogy, Unyielding.
June 6, 2019
Good Read
I recommend the book. This book is a true story about the author's German grandparents who lived in pre-war Germany for the duration of this book. The book reads like a set up for the following books in the trilogy. The author's writing mechanics were good, and I thought the author had a particular understanding of how people behaved during the period.
Thank you, Ms. Kummerow, for a good read.
I recommend the book. This book is a true story about the author's German grandparents who lived in pre-war Germany for the duration of this book. The book reads like a set up for the following books in the trilogy. The author's writing mechanics were good, and I thought the author had a particular understanding of how people behaved during the period.
Thank you, Ms. Kummerow, for a good read.
July 25, 2016
Unrelenting: Love and Resistance in Pre-War Germany (World War II Trilogy Book 1) In this first novel in a trilogy about the extraordinary courage of ordinary people in the times of Nazi Germany, love thrives despite the growing evil of Hitler's fanaticism. What is most enlightening is that the story allows readers to take that wished-for "fly-on-the-wall" position through the early development of Nazi Germany, from 1932 to 1936. When we know the horrors Hitler's regime visited upon the people, it's difficult to understand how it happened. The timing of this novel couldn't be more proverbial, for Americans stand at a similar crossroad in this next election. Fear for the future is the big stick now, while economic ruin was Hitler's ace-in-the-hole. There were few jobs and little industrial production. Six million Germans were unemployed, and many were starving. Part of Germany's economic collapse resulted from the continuous reparation payments the Allies demanded from Germany at the end of World War I and the North American Wall Street Crash that boomeranged through Europe in 1929.
From this backdrop the story begins. Dr. Wilhem "Q" Quedlin, chemical engineer and inventor, a naive man who lives for his science is accused of industrial espionage because he has discussed his experimental breakthroughs with Russian scientists. He is fired, but ends up freelancing as a consultant as the Berlin police cannot prove he has given top-secret information to the Russians.
Hilde Dremmer is a free spirit, so free that she doesn't see herself ever getting married. She finds Germany's new government too restrictive. She wants to keep her job as an insurance claims clerk in Berlin but is shocked when her company announces they are downsizing by firing Jews. Her two girlfriends restrain her from speaking out. One night, they attend the theater. "Q" notices her, and she surprises herself to realize she likes him. Will she give up her independence for love?
Meeting her trips up "Q" who never wanted to get married but finds himself so enamored that he can't picture his life without Hilde. Through their courtship, they witness the growing Nazi evil consuming the country, and "Q" wrestles with his conscience. He wants to save his country from another horrible war but he risks himself and everyone he loves if he does. What will "Q" and Hilde decide? Can they retain their integrity living under the Nazi regime?
We won't know until we read the second book in this riveting trilogy about survival in a world gone mad. I can't wait.
From this backdrop the story begins. Dr. Wilhem "Q" Quedlin, chemical engineer and inventor, a naive man who lives for his science is accused of industrial espionage because he has discussed his experimental breakthroughs with Russian scientists. He is fired, but ends up freelancing as a consultant as the Berlin police cannot prove he has given top-secret information to the Russians.
Hilde Dremmer is a free spirit, so free that she doesn't see herself ever getting married. She finds Germany's new government too restrictive. She wants to keep her job as an insurance claims clerk in Berlin but is shocked when her company announces they are downsizing by firing Jews. Her two girlfriends restrain her from speaking out. One night, they attend the theater. "Q" notices her, and she surprises herself to realize she likes him. Will she give up her independence for love?
Meeting her trips up "Q" who never wanted to get married but finds himself so enamored that he can't picture his life without Hilde. Through their courtship, they witness the growing Nazi evil consuming the country, and "Q" wrestles with his conscience. He wants to save his country from another horrible war but he risks himself and everyone he loves if he does. What will "Q" and Hilde decide? Can they retain their integrity living under the Nazi regime?
We won't know until we read the second book in this riveting trilogy about survival in a world gone mad. I can't wait.
December 27, 2018
The title of this book is "Unrelenting" and no other word could better describe the two main characters, Wilhelm (known as Q) and Hilde.
The book begins a year before the Nazis come to power and focuses on the lives of Q and Hilde. Q is a brilliant scientist who has a slightly idealistic view of the Soviet Union and Communism. It is hard as a twenty-first century reader to understand Q's admiration for the ideology, given what we now know, but Ms. Kummerow does a wonderful job of helping the reader see why Q views Communism as positively as he does (as well as hinting he doesn't have a full idea of what life is truly like in the Soviet Union). On the other hand we have Hilde, a young woman struggling with family issues and trying to make sense of the political events surrounding her. Eventually, the two cross paths and while they embark on a romantic relationship together, they can't help but realize the dark path their country is going down.
This book was well written and easy to read, I was able to finish it in just two days, perhaps even less if I hadn't forced myself to stop on occasion. It is easily a book someone could finish in one sitting and a perfect example of "Just one more chapter. Just one more chapter". Ms. Kummerow was able to bring Q and Hilde to life and make the reader sympathize with them and understand their feelings and thoughts during this turbulent time. The pacing of the story was also well done. Even though the book begins in 1932 and ends in 1936, it doesn't feel rushed. The entire story flows well and keeps the reader engaged. Highly recommended.
The book begins a year before the Nazis come to power and focuses on the lives of Q and Hilde. Q is a brilliant scientist who has a slightly idealistic view of the Soviet Union and Communism. It is hard as a twenty-first century reader to understand Q's admiration for the ideology, given what we now know, but Ms. Kummerow does a wonderful job of helping the reader see why Q views Communism as positively as he does (as well as hinting he doesn't have a full idea of what life is truly like in the Soviet Union). On the other hand we have Hilde, a young woman struggling with family issues and trying to make sense of the political events surrounding her. Eventually, the two cross paths and while they embark on a romantic relationship together, they can't help but realize the dark path their country is going down.
This book was well written and easy to read, I was able to finish it in just two days, perhaps even less if I hadn't forced myself to stop on occasion. It is easily a book someone could finish in one sitting and a perfect example of "Just one more chapter. Just one more chapter". Ms. Kummerow was able to bring Q and Hilde to life and make the reader sympathize with them and understand their feelings and thoughts during this turbulent time. The pacing of the story was also well done. Even though the book begins in 1932 and ends in 1936, it doesn't feel rushed. The entire story flows well and keeps the reader engaged. Highly recommended.
August 31, 2018
"The sound literally scared the poop out of the pigeons, and Q could hear the pitter patter of pigeon poop landing on the spectators around him."
Yes, that is an actual line.
I would say 'I rest my case', but I should probably give some further justification for a one star rating amid a plethora of glowing reviews. This novel reads like badly written fanfiction: it's saturated with filter words, stock phrases, endless exposition and what feels like transcribed verbatim lists from textbooks. The characters are flat, bland and the romance is perhaps the most cloying and uninspiring I have ever encountered. I understand that this has been based on a true story so Kummerow was somewhat restricted by historical accuracy, and whilst I respect that and her honourable intentions, this was just not compelling in the slightest. Just because a novel is based on the truth doesn't make it untouchable, so for anyone poised to attack me with that specious argument: your attempts to convert me will be in vain.
Luckily, I got this free in the Kindle Store and then skim read it from the half way mark so I can say that I am relatively unscathed. Ultimately this is a research heavy piece that offers no unique or compelling perspective on an already very well trodden time period.
Yes, that is an actual line.
I would say 'I rest my case', but I should probably give some further justification for a one star rating amid a plethora of glowing reviews. This novel reads like badly written fanfiction: it's saturated with filter words, stock phrases, endless exposition and what feels like transcribed verbatim lists from textbooks. The characters are flat, bland and the romance is perhaps the most cloying and uninspiring I have ever encountered. I understand that this has been based on a true story so Kummerow was somewhat restricted by historical accuracy, and whilst I respect that and her honourable intentions, this was just not compelling in the slightest. Just because a novel is based on the truth doesn't make it untouchable, so for anyone poised to attack me with that specious argument: your attempts to convert me will be in vain.
Luckily, I got this free in the Kindle Store and then skim read it from the half way mark so I can say that I am relatively unscathed. Ultimately this is a research heavy piece that offers no unique or compelling perspective on an already very well trodden time period.
March 13, 2017
**Having just read, what for me was a very lightweight two star novel, I had to come back to this and increase my rating. I stand by my comments below but I think I was a little harsh with the rating given the mediocrity of the one I've just finished.
As an insight into the rise of the Nazi party and Hitler in the 1930's, this novel works well. If you have visited the museums in Berlin you can appreciate why ordinary Germans were desperate to have some sort of stability in their economy and government having suffered years of poverty and numerous power struggles. The Nazis, whilst their methods were horrific, brought that stability for large sections of the population. A mixture of promises and fear convinced many that their only choice was to accept and support the regime.
As a tribute to the author's grandparents the novel is touching and you can't help but like them and worry about their naivety.
However, I did find it difficult to ignore some of the terminology used which just didn't seem to ring true. The use of the word teenager, not in common use until the 1940's, 'gals', etc which just jarred. I appreciate that this is more of a memoir than a novel but the dialogue was a little stilted at times and the book didn't flow in parts.
This is an important and devastating period in all of our histories and I did wonder if It might have worked better as a straight forward biography rather than a fictionalised account.
That said, I was engrossed by the couple and I will read the sequels to find out what happens to these brave people.
My thanks to TBConFB for this copy.
As an insight into the rise of the Nazi party and Hitler in the 1930's, this novel works well. If you have visited the museums in Berlin you can appreciate why ordinary Germans were desperate to have some sort of stability in their economy and government having suffered years of poverty and numerous power struggles. The Nazis, whilst their methods were horrific, brought that stability for large sections of the population. A mixture of promises and fear convinced many that their only choice was to accept and support the regime.
As a tribute to the author's grandparents the novel is touching and you can't help but like them and worry about their naivety.
However, I did find it difficult to ignore some of the terminology used which just didn't seem to ring true. The use of the word teenager, not in common use until the 1940's, 'gals', etc which just jarred. I appreciate that this is more of a memoir than a novel but the dialogue was a little stilted at times and the book didn't flow in parts.
This is an important and devastating period in all of our histories and I did wonder if It might have worked better as a straight forward biography rather than a fictionalised account.
That said, I was engrossed by the couple and I will read the sequels to find out what happens to these brave people.
My thanks to TBConFB for this copy.
February 27, 2018
I have never read any ww2 historical fiction before. This genre is way out of my comfort zone as I hardly reach for general historical fiction either. However, this year I want to reach out to different genres and diversify my reading habits. Therefore, here I am!
And I am SO GLAD I picked this book up, because it's simply... wow!
Many things described in the book left me without words, simply because the actions and circumstances in this time are so cruel and inhumane. It is hard to believe that things had really been like this, living in modern society, but it is the sad truth.
The author tells about the developments that lead to Hitler's seizure of power and why people wanted him to become chancellor. It is unsettling how people blindly put their "trust" in him and followed his lead. The scene where one of Hilde's friends is actually celebrating her "fortunate promotion" made me shake my head in incredulity.
Seeing that there were people able to see clear and that were not brainwashed by Hitler's propaganda was incredibly relieving. I adore Hilde and Q (or the author's grandparents) for being so strong and unrelenting! Their love story is a safe haven amidst all the terror of this time. Seeing them having so many obstacles in their way to happiness and marriage (and such ridiculous obstacles as racial purification even!) was hurtful, but I loved seeing them stay strong together and especially that Hilde decided to marry him even knowing about his secret work!
I am looking forward to the next instalment in this trilogy and I hope that this power-couple will continue opposing the Hitler regime in their own way!
And I am SO GLAD I picked this book up, because it's simply... wow!
Many things described in the book left me without words, simply because the actions and circumstances in this time are so cruel and inhumane. It is hard to believe that things had really been like this, living in modern society, but it is the sad truth.
The author tells about the developments that lead to Hitler's seizure of power and why people wanted him to become chancellor. It is unsettling how people blindly put their "trust" in him and followed his lead. The scene where one of Hilde's friends is actually celebrating her "fortunate promotion" made me shake my head in incredulity.
Seeing that there were people able to see clear and that were not brainwashed by Hitler's propaganda was incredibly relieving. I adore Hilde and Q (or the author's grandparents) for being so strong and unrelenting! Their love story is a safe haven amidst all the terror of this time. Seeing them having so many obstacles in their way to happiness and marriage (and such ridiculous obstacles as racial purification even!) was hurtful, but I loved seeing them stay strong together and especially that Hilde decided to marry him even knowing about his secret work!
I am looking forward to the next instalment in this trilogy and I hope that this power-couple will continue opposing the Hitler regime in their own way!
March 12, 2017
‘Unrelenting’ is the first book in a trilogy which begins in 1932. A decade where Germany began to change and this change was certainly not for the better.
The story of the main characters Wilhelm or ‘Q’ as his friends call him and Hilde is based on the true story of the authors grandparents Ingeborg and Hansheinrich Kummerow. As the book progresses the atmosphere turns dark as the situation in Germany worsens you find yourself hoping that the young couple will come through it together and out the otherside.
I loved this book and read it in the space of 2 days. I will definitely be reading the next two books in the series to find out how the relationship and lives of Hilde and Q develop.
The story of the main characters Wilhelm or ‘Q’ as his friends call him and Hilde is based on the true story of the authors grandparents Ingeborg and Hansheinrich Kummerow. As the book progresses the atmosphere turns dark as the situation in Germany worsens you find yourself hoping that the young couple will come through it together and out the otherside.
I loved this book and read it in the space of 2 days. I will definitely be reading the next two books in the series to find out how the relationship and lives of Hilde and Q develop.
April 1, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
" Kummerow conveys the suspense of living in Berlin at this important time, showing us real people's lives in the midst of historic events."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
" Kummerow conveys the suspense of living in Berlin at this important time, showing us real people's lives in the midst of historic events."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
November 9, 2016
The Early Days
As a citizen of the United States of America I found this book set in Germany between 1932 and 1934 interesting and informative. It is a great romance based on the lives of the author's grandparents. But, it also gives a bird's eye view of the economic and political climate of Germany during those years.
I knew Germany suffered severe inflation, but I did not realize that the American depression also took its toll on Germany. Perhaps because the USA involvement in World War Two didn’t become official until 1941, I did not realize that Hitler’s rise to power began so early. I enjoyed learning about the changes in the political climate in Berlin and the surrounding areas and how it affected the everyday lives of the German people, not just the Jewish citizens.
As a child raised in a nation that strongly opposed communism in the decades following this war, I find it interesting that many Europeans in the 1930’s believed communism was the answer to resisting the Nazi party as opposed to a democracy or, like the United States, a republican form of government. This book hints that this belief was often based on the idealistic rhetoric of everyone being equal. I know this is book one of a trilogy, so it will be interesting to me to learn if the main character, nicknamed “Q,” who believes communism is the better alternative to the Nazi party, maintains his belief as his nation heads into war.
This was a sweet courtship of real people with genuine personal and family problems who resist the increasing restrictions, but learn they must temper their public expression of their opposition. The story was well-written, well-paced and kept me intrigued. For those who want to understand the situation in Germany leading up to World War Two through the eyes of everyday people, this is an excellent book to read.
As a citizen of the United States of America I found this book set in Germany between 1932 and 1934 interesting and informative. It is a great romance based on the lives of the author's grandparents. But, it also gives a bird's eye view of the economic and political climate of Germany during those years.
I knew Germany suffered severe inflation, but I did not realize that the American depression also took its toll on Germany. Perhaps because the USA involvement in World War Two didn’t become official until 1941, I did not realize that Hitler’s rise to power began so early. I enjoyed learning about the changes in the political climate in Berlin and the surrounding areas and how it affected the everyday lives of the German people, not just the Jewish citizens.
As a child raised in a nation that strongly opposed communism in the decades following this war, I find it interesting that many Europeans in the 1930’s believed communism was the answer to resisting the Nazi party as opposed to a democracy or, like the United States, a republican form of government. This book hints that this belief was often based on the idealistic rhetoric of everyone being equal. I know this is book one of a trilogy, so it will be interesting to me to learn if the main character, nicknamed “Q,” who believes communism is the better alternative to the Nazi party, maintains his belief as his nation heads into war.
This was a sweet courtship of real people with genuine personal and family problems who resist the increasing restrictions, but learn they must temper their public expression of their opposition. The story was well-written, well-paced and kept me intrigued. For those who want to understand the situation in Germany leading up to World War Two through the eyes of everyday people, this is an excellent book to read.
February 7, 2017
Unrelenting is the first novel in a trilogy by author Marion Kummerow which details how her grandparents met on the brink of World War II. Part love story, part history read, Kummerow reveals Hitler's ascension to power as seen through the eyes of her grandparents, Dr Wilem "Q" Quedlin and Hilde Dremmer.
My favourite part of the book was getting the perspective of ordinary German citizens as Hitler's fanaticism takes hold over their country. Often people will look back at major world issues and wonder 'How could people have let this happen?'. This book details exactly that and I was equally intrigued and appalled at how smoothly and expeditiously Hitler took hold of Germany and its future. Germany's economy and people were suffering with millions of Germans out of work and many families quite literally starving. This made it easy for Hitler to 'come to the rescue' with his sadistic and xenophobic ideas to make Germany strong again.
This historical aspect was eye-opening and my favourite part of the book. Unfortunately, I found the characters and the relationship between Hilde and Q to be weak. I'm not a big fan of romances but I felt that the courtship was drawn out between these two characters who felt overly naive and needed more complexity to their characters and dialogue.
I think that this is a wonderful tribute that Kummerow has written about her grandparents. I loved being taken into pre-war Germany and having a better understanding about how Hitler could rise to such all-encompassing power using ruthless and unconscionable means to do so. For fans of this book, the story continues in the second book in the series titled 'Unyielding: Love and Resistance in WWII Germany'.
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to Marion Kummerow for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
My favourite part of the book was getting the perspective of ordinary German citizens as Hitler's fanaticism takes hold over their country. Often people will look back at major world issues and wonder 'How could people have let this happen?'. This book details exactly that and I was equally intrigued and appalled at how smoothly and expeditiously Hitler took hold of Germany and its future. Germany's economy and people were suffering with millions of Germans out of work and many families quite literally starving. This made it easy for Hitler to 'come to the rescue' with his sadistic and xenophobic ideas to make Germany strong again.
This historical aspect was eye-opening and my favourite part of the book. Unfortunately, I found the characters and the relationship between Hilde and Q to be weak. I'm not a big fan of romances but I felt that the courtship was drawn out between these two characters who felt overly naive and needed more complexity to their characters and dialogue.
I think that this is a wonderful tribute that Kummerow has written about her grandparents. I loved being taken into pre-war Germany and having a better understanding about how Hitler could rise to such all-encompassing power using ruthless and unconscionable means to do so. For fans of this book, the story continues in the second book in the series titled 'Unyielding: Love and Resistance in WWII Germany'.
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to Marion Kummerow for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2018
Unrelenting by Marion Kummerow is the first book in her World War II Trilogy which is based on the true story of her grandparents. It is a lovely story of a brilliant chemical engineer and an insurance clerk who meet and fall in love as Hitler and the Nazis begin to change the face of Germany. I enjoy historical novels and this one does not disappoint as the reader is able to see the transformation of the German government and the everyday citizen's way of life from Wilhelm or Q as his friends call him, and Hilde's points of view. And as a reader who knows the horrors of WWII from a historical perspective, I found the story a bit suspenseful, wondering when things would turn for the worse for this young couple who both for differing reasons were so against the Nazi party and where their opposition to Nazism might take them. Their journey to marriage was fraught with obstacles due to new laws and regulations and I wondered if they were ever going to be able to be together. Suspense and romance are two of my favorite genres so I found Unrelenting to be captivating. I was given a complimentary copy of the audiobook and James Anderson Foster does a great job with the narration making for an enjoyable listening experience. I am looking forward to reading the following two books in the series to find out more about this courageous young couple and where their journey takes them next.
September 8, 2018
I so enjoyed this book, was surprised to arrive at the end! This book, based on a true story, is very different from what I usually read; I like reading about survivors or spies during WWII but I never actually took the time to read about Germans who opposed Hitler as he came into power in the early '30s & changed what was a democratic Germany into a totally unacceptable dictatorship. This book made me realize how some of the population didn't accept this new ruler nor his ideas but were too scared, in that environment, to do say or anything ... with good reason; it's very easy to be a "Monday morning quarterback" & think we would have acted differently. Although I did find one of the main characters, Q, a bit stubborn & unrealistic in his beliefs on communism by refusing to look into the real way Russia was in those days, hopefully, his opinion will change later on & he will find out more about communism under Lenin & Stalin, by far, not the true definition of communism. This book made me realize that I was not being fair in condemning so many people. Will definitely look for the next book, to see what happens to the author's grandparents.
October 2, 2018
This book is based on the true story of the author’s grandparents. It is about two Germans who manage to fall in love and marry in spite of the tumultuous era when Hitler was just emerging on the scene. Many Germans were opposed to the Nazi regime, and some were even in underground resistance. It was a time when Germans, as well as the Jews, were under suspicion and could be arrested without cause and held indefinitely, or eliminated. It is a compelling precursor to the next book in the series.
February 8, 2017
Meeeeh
Not my favorite book. I found the story bland and simple like a coloring book without color. I like some drama in my fiction, and this book does not provide any. Apart from the occasional Nazi matter of fact cruelty the story does not have any set backs or challenges. I didn't find the the love story satisfying either.
Not my favorite book. I found the story bland and simple like a coloring book without color. I like some drama in my fiction, and this book does not provide any. Apart from the occasional Nazi matter of fact cruelty the story does not have any set backs or challenges. I didn't find the the love story satisfying either.
November 3, 2022
recensione a cura del blog “Libri Magnetici" by Meghan
Berlino 1934, alle soglie dell’affermazione dei nazisti, si muovono le storie di Wilhelm "Q” Quedlin, ingegnere chimico e inventore, e Hilde Dremmer, una giovane donna che lavora nel campo delle assicurazioni.Dopo la Grande Guerra, il paese sta subendo disordini politici ed è in piena rovina economica, quella scena storica che i libri ci raccontano, che Hitler promette di correggere e che invece darà la pagina peggiore della storia del Novecento. Q e Hilde sono entrambi lontani, sia per le ide che per le loro scelte di vita dai nazisti ma lo vedono, lo vivono nella quotidianità che, in quell’anno, porterà all’affermazione definitiva di Hitler.
«Come si poteva mai pensare di penalizzare qualcuno solo per via della razza o dell’etnia? Le persone non dovevano avere la possibilità di essere giudicate per il loro carattere e non per i loro antenati?»
Come ci dice nella prefazione la stessa autrice, il libro è ispirato alla storia vera di suoi nonni, ma la bravura della Kummerow è quella di riuscire a dare due personaggi veri, lontani dall’ideologia distorta dei nazisti: due giovani tedeschi come tanti ce ne erano in quegli anni e che ancora credevano in un futuro privo di guerra e morte. Il loro incontro, infatti, avviene una sera all’uscita di un cinema: Q, da sempre concentrato sulle sue ricerche, si innamora a prima vista, Hilde, che viene da una infanzia piuttosto solitaria, troverà in lui quella persona che la fa sentire sicura e amata.Entrambi si renderanno pienamente conto della spirale di odio e distruzione verso cui sta andando la Germania quando dovranno ripetutamente dimostrare di essere “razza pura e sana”, quando capiranno di non poter più mostrare compassione o pietà per chi è perfetto, e ciò li legherà ulteriormente, anche nella scelta di combattere il nazismo.
«La fissò intensamente negli occhi e lei potè riconoscervi tutto il suo amore e, ancora più in profondità, lo spirito indomabile, la spinta a fare la cosa giusta. Ecco perché si era innamorata di lui, ma sarebbe stata in grado di affrontare la costante minaccia? Avrebbe potuto essere indomabile come lui?»
Interessante e ben sviluppato anche il punto di vista di Q sul comunismo e su come e perché abbia così presa su di lui, poiché noi lettori riusciamo a capire come in quegli anni non ci fosse un quadro vero e reale della vita in Unione Sovietica, così come le sorellastre di Hilde, così piene e rappresentative di quella esaltata e vaneggiante gioventù hitleriana.Il primo volume si conclude quindi alle soglie del matrimonio dei due protagonisti.
Quattro petali e mezzo.
Berlino 1934, alle soglie dell’affermazione dei nazisti, si muovono le storie di Wilhelm "Q” Quedlin, ingegnere chimico e inventore, e Hilde Dremmer, una giovane donna che lavora nel campo delle assicurazioni.Dopo la Grande Guerra, il paese sta subendo disordini politici ed è in piena rovina economica, quella scena storica che i libri ci raccontano, che Hitler promette di correggere e che invece darà la pagina peggiore della storia del Novecento. Q e Hilde sono entrambi lontani, sia per le ide che per le loro scelte di vita dai nazisti ma lo vedono, lo vivono nella quotidianità che, in quell’anno, porterà all’affermazione definitiva di Hitler.
«Come si poteva mai pensare di penalizzare qualcuno solo per via della razza o dell’etnia? Le persone non dovevano avere la possibilità di essere giudicate per il loro carattere e non per i loro antenati?»
Come ci dice nella prefazione la stessa autrice, il libro è ispirato alla storia vera di suoi nonni, ma la bravura della Kummerow è quella di riuscire a dare due personaggi veri, lontani dall’ideologia distorta dei nazisti: due giovani tedeschi come tanti ce ne erano in quegli anni e che ancora credevano in un futuro privo di guerra e morte. Il loro incontro, infatti, avviene una sera all’uscita di un cinema: Q, da sempre concentrato sulle sue ricerche, si innamora a prima vista, Hilde, che viene da una infanzia piuttosto solitaria, troverà in lui quella persona che la fa sentire sicura e amata.Entrambi si renderanno pienamente conto della spirale di odio e distruzione verso cui sta andando la Germania quando dovranno ripetutamente dimostrare di essere “razza pura e sana”, quando capiranno di non poter più mostrare compassione o pietà per chi è perfetto, e ciò li legherà ulteriormente, anche nella scelta di combattere il nazismo.
«La fissò intensamente negli occhi e lei potè riconoscervi tutto il suo amore e, ancora più in profondità, lo spirito indomabile, la spinta a fare la cosa giusta. Ecco perché si era innamorata di lui, ma sarebbe stata in grado di affrontare la costante minaccia? Avrebbe potuto essere indomabile come lui?»
Interessante e ben sviluppato anche il punto di vista di Q sul comunismo e su come e perché abbia così presa su di lui, poiché noi lettori riusciamo a capire come in quegli anni non ci fosse un quadro vero e reale della vita in Unione Sovietica, così come le sorellastre di Hilde, così piene e rappresentative di quella esaltata e vaneggiante gioventù hitleriana.Il primo volume si conclude quindi alle soglie del matrimonio dei due protagonisti.
Quattro petali e mezzo.
June 30, 2023
Unrelenting
This book is a love story. No, it's two lovestories! One, the story of two people who fall in love, & the second the story of a people whose homeland is torn from them & it's entire being is turned upside down & inside out! All of it's soul is wrung out, torn apart, & remade into the Nazi image! The story of a people who are determined to keep the monsters from winning! The characters are believable, the storyline is historically correct, & in fact based upon the Grandparents of the author. Two people I would have loved to have been able to have met! This is a story of WWII & Nazi Germany that isn't told as often as I think it should be! Stereotypically, German's peoples are remembered as Sheep led by Hitler into full out hate, but as with most stereotypes, this is not true. I am certain there were many good, decent, German people who saw Hitler for the megomaniac he was, & resisted in any way they could. In fact, during my time there as a US Army wife, I met men who decades after the war were still grieving because of their being forced into the German Army despite being against it deep in their souls! They felt guilt because they "didn't do enough" to stop Hitler & his plans. I know there must have been so many who felt the same & many of those did whatever they could, small or large to put a dent in Nazi plans! Just as Q did in this book. I recommend this book to anyone who has an affinity for this particular area of WWII history.
This book is a love story. No, it's two lovestories! One, the story of two people who fall in love, & the second the story of a people whose homeland is torn from them & it's entire being is turned upside down & inside out! All of it's soul is wrung out, torn apart, & remade into the Nazi image! The story of a people who are determined to keep the monsters from winning! The characters are believable, the storyline is historically correct, & in fact based upon the Grandparents of the author. Two people I would have loved to have been able to have met! This is a story of WWII & Nazi Germany that isn't told as often as I think it should be! Stereotypically, German's peoples are remembered as Sheep led by Hitler into full out hate, but as with most stereotypes, this is not true. I am certain there were many good, decent, German people who saw Hitler for the megomaniac he was, & resisted in any way they could. In fact, during my time there as a US Army wife, I met men who decades after the war were still grieving because of their being forced into the German Army despite being against it deep in their souls! They felt guilt because they "didn't do enough" to stop Hitler & his plans. I know there must have been so many who felt the same & many of those did whatever they could, small or large to put a dent in Nazi plans! Just as Q did in this book. I recommend this book to anyone who has an affinity for this particular area of WWII history.
February 14, 2018
Urelenting, A Brilliant Book!!
Such an incredible book, that leaves you in tremendous suspense about the outcome. I am afraid to read the next book knowing the horrors of the upcoming war, and yet, how can I not? Such prejudice! Such hate!
I had never understood why the German people allowed the Fuhrer to take power over their people and yield such destructiom, death, fear and angst until I read these powerful passages. Myself living with my lifelong love of 46 years, I can only imagine the pain these two must live, knowing full well that their love may be destroyed upon a whim. If you despise prejudice and judging a person because of pigment in their skin, if rejection of abuse of any living thing lies at the core of your being, if you have any inkling of how a person might love another with the very fiber of their being, this book is for you. A true story of how government lies and hatred and fear could take over every shred of decency and caring in any world, place or time, this is the book for you. I can only pray the persons this book is written about lived long and happy lives, but know history may have claimed them. Thank you Marion Kummerow for a brilliant and breathtaking recounting of love and courage set in the horrors led by Adolph Hitler. May no one of his kind ever be seen on this lifetime or any other. Please Lord.
Such an incredible book, that leaves you in tremendous suspense about the outcome. I am afraid to read the next book knowing the horrors of the upcoming war, and yet, how can I not? Such prejudice! Such hate!
I had never understood why the German people allowed the Fuhrer to take power over their people and yield such destructiom, death, fear and angst until I read these powerful passages. Myself living with my lifelong love of 46 years, I can only imagine the pain these two must live, knowing full well that their love may be destroyed upon a whim. If you despise prejudice and judging a person because of pigment in their skin, if rejection of abuse of any living thing lies at the core of your being, if you have any inkling of how a person might love another with the very fiber of their being, this book is for you. A true story of how government lies and hatred and fear could take over every shred of decency and caring in any world, place or time, this is the book for you. I can only pray the persons this book is written about lived long and happy lives, but know history may have claimed them. Thank you Marion Kummerow for a brilliant and breathtaking recounting of love and courage set in the horrors led by Adolph Hitler. May no one of his kind ever be seen on this lifetime or any other. Please Lord.
October 13, 2016
Summary:
1932, Berlin, Germany
Dr. Wilhem "Q" Quedlin is a chemical engineer and inventor. Science is his world. Early in the story he is accused of industrial espionage. He is interrogated by the Nazis. The job he loved releases him from employment. He becomes determined to make a difference for his nation. He believes the ruling power must be brought to justice.
Hilde Dremmer works in an office. She is a serious girl, and an independent minded girl.
She makes a point to study the current politics of Germany.
A chance meeting brings Q and Hilde together. Their union brings joy, but it also brings a determination triumph over evil.
My Thoughts:
I ordered the paperback copy of the book. When the book arrived, I was disappointed at the small size. The story is 210 pages. However, I was proved wrong about the short amount of pages to be a factor for the story. I have noticed the 2nd book, Unyielding, is 231 pages. I love chunkster size books, and to put both books together in 1 volume is fine for me.
In Unrelenting, the story began quick by introducing the two characters and moving into the story. Their personalities, family dynamics, careers, ideology, and personal convictions make them a perfect pair. It is a beautiful thing when two people become a team with an in-sync mind against oppression.
Unrelenting showed me a different story: German people who were not Jewish, but took up defense against the oppressive Nazi Party.
Unrelenting showed me a love story, but another kind of love story: love and duty to a beloved country.
Unrelenting showed me there were many Germans who were purposely blind to the Nazi Party's venom and murder. These German people were focused on what Hitler could do for them, and not on how he would accomplish his mission.
1932, Berlin, Germany
Dr. Wilhem "Q" Quedlin is a chemical engineer and inventor. Science is his world. Early in the story he is accused of industrial espionage. He is interrogated by the Nazis. The job he loved releases him from employment. He becomes determined to make a difference for his nation. He believes the ruling power must be brought to justice.
Hilde Dremmer works in an office. She is a serious girl, and an independent minded girl.
She makes a point to study the current politics of Germany.
A chance meeting brings Q and Hilde together. Their union brings joy, but it also brings a determination triumph over evil.
My Thoughts:
I ordered the paperback copy of the book. When the book arrived, I was disappointed at the small size. The story is 210 pages. However, I was proved wrong about the short amount of pages to be a factor for the story. I have noticed the 2nd book, Unyielding, is 231 pages. I love chunkster size books, and to put both books together in 1 volume is fine for me.
In Unrelenting, the story began quick by introducing the two characters and moving into the story. Their personalities, family dynamics, careers, ideology, and personal convictions make them a perfect pair. It is a beautiful thing when two people become a team with an in-sync mind against oppression.
Unrelenting showed me a different story: German people who were not Jewish, but took up defense against the oppressive Nazi Party.
Unrelenting showed me a love story, but another kind of love story: love and duty to a beloved country.
Unrelenting showed me there were many Germans who were purposely blind to the Nazi Party's venom and murder. These German people were focused on what Hitler could do for them, and not on how he would accomplish his mission.
September 28, 2018
Set in pre World War II Germany, this unusual love story is bound to fascinate, especially with the knowledge that it is based on real life experiences by the author's grandparents.
Meet Wilhelm Quedlin, Q for short, who has only one love in life: science. He is an inventor, works on gas masks and echo sound systems and would happily have continued to do so, if he hadn't been arrested for industrial espionage. Even though it turns out that the accusations were false, he loses his job and his life turns into a completely different direction. In the midst of Hitler's grab for power, he meets Hilde and all of a sudden there is more to life than science.
Written in a quiet and undramatic style, the author nevertheless unfolds the historic developments in a way that won't leave the reader untouched. The suffocating atmosphere in pre-war Germany is captured perfectly, while the reader hopes and fears with the young couple.
Their personal story is expertly interwoven with well-researched occurrences such as the burning of the Reichstag building or the Olympic Games in Berlin. The craziness of Hitler's racial laws and his tight grasp on the media will certainly get readers thinking and probably answer a few questions about how all of this could have happened.
In the light of a growing right wing movement in Germany using Nazi propaganda today, this book is an important work that might help to open a few eyes and avoid a repetition of history.
Being part one of a three book series, I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
Meet Wilhelm Quedlin, Q for short, who has only one love in life: science. He is an inventor, works on gas masks and echo sound systems and would happily have continued to do so, if he hadn't been arrested for industrial espionage. Even though it turns out that the accusations were false, he loses his job and his life turns into a completely different direction. In the midst of Hitler's grab for power, he meets Hilde and all of a sudden there is more to life than science.
Written in a quiet and undramatic style, the author nevertheless unfolds the historic developments in a way that won't leave the reader untouched. The suffocating atmosphere in pre-war Germany is captured perfectly, while the reader hopes and fears with the young couple.
Their personal story is expertly interwoven with well-researched occurrences such as the burning of the Reichstag building or the Olympic Games in Berlin. The craziness of Hitler's racial laws and his tight grasp on the media will certainly get readers thinking and probably answer a few questions about how all of this could have happened.
In the light of a growing right wing movement in Germany using Nazi propaganda today, this book is an important work that might help to open a few eyes and avoid a repetition of history.
Being part one of a three book series, I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
March 6, 2017
The first of three books about the authors Grandparents who met in Germany just as Hitler was making a name for himself. With the historical facts we see how people were beginning to question the propaganda that was circulating at the time.
The struggle the main couple go through, despite not being Jewish shows us the underlying prejudices that surrounded the lives of 'normal' German people. I can't wait to read the next book.
The struggle the main couple go through, despite not being Jewish shows us the underlying prejudices that surrounded the lives of 'normal' German people. I can't wait to read the next book.
March 25, 2017
A scientist with a secret. A woman estranged from her father. Neither looking for love. Unrelenting is the story of Doctor Wilhelm Quedlin, aka Q, and Hilde Dremmer and how they navigated the challenging terrain of the Nazi regime.
The story begins with Q's arrest. Q and Hilde are likeable characters who face obstacles from those close to them and the Nazi state. Kummerow portrays the regime's idiocy well. An underlying threat of permeates the story.
Unrelenting is the first instalment of a trilogy. I've started the sequel, Unyielding.
May 19, 2018
Scientist Dr. Wilhelm Quedlin works to improve life for everyone, regardless of their class, race, or nationality. Insurance claims clerk Hilde Dremmer believes everyone is created equal. The rise of Hitler's National Socialist party in 1930s Germany challenges them both to reconcile their beliefs with the prevailing political climate.
A poignant, provocative story of love, history, and morality.
A poignant, provocative story of love, history, and morality.
January 31, 2019
What can I say.....I'm an avid reader of all Marion Kummerow's books. Why? Her writing is easy reading, yet descriptive enough to flesh out characters and situations (like watching a movie) without getting bogged down. This book could stand alone, yet by the time I got to the end the characters were endeared to me and I wanted to know more about their lives. If you have some 'me' hours and want to lose yourself in a good book, this one may be worth your while (although you may want to read the trilogy, like me).
May 23, 2019
German resistance wwIi
Having ancestors that came from Germany pre world war two, I found this book intriguing and I. Couldn't put it down. I immediately purchased the second book in the series
Having ancestors that came from Germany pre world war two, I found this book intriguing and I. Couldn't put it down. I immediately purchased the second book in the series
January 26, 2019
Short and sweet, will read the next one in the Trilogy to see where it goes. I like that it’s based on her grandparents.
May 22, 2019
Great book!
May 10, 2019
Intriguing
Even though the book is slow moving, the historical setting and the true love story make for a compelling storyline.
Even though the book is slow moving, the historical setting and the true love story make for a compelling storyline.
May 18, 2019
Well researched WWII romance novel
Based on the author's grandparents, this book shows the power of the Fuhrer over the German people. There is suspense throughout the book as Dr. Quentin 'Q'(a scientist with Russian sympathies) and Hilde (the one he falls in love with)try to everything to keep the Germans from finding out their plans. I hope to read the other 2 books in this trilogy some time.
Based on the author's grandparents, this book shows the power of the Fuhrer over the German people. There is suspense throughout the book as Dr. Quentin 'Q'(a scientist with Russian sympathies) and Hilde (the one he falls in love with)try to everything to keep the Germans from finding out their plans. I hope to read the other 2 books in this trilogy some time.
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