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A Jewish Family Saga #2
They Never Saw It Coming
Goldie Schatzman is nearing forty, but she is behaving like a reckless teenager, and every day she is descending deeper into a dark web.
Since her return home to Berlin, she has reconnected with her childhood friend, Leni, a free spirit who has swept Goldie into the Weimar lifestyle that is overflowing with artists and writers, but also with debauchery. Goldie had spent the last nineteen years living a dull life with a spiritless husband. And now she has been set free, completely abandoning any sense of morals she once had.
As Goldie’s daughter, Alma, is coming of marriageable age, her grandparents are determined to find her a suitable match. But will Goldie's life of depravity hurt Alma’s chances to find a Jewish husband from a good family? And all the while the SA, a preclude to the Nazi SS, is gaining strength.
Germany is a hotbed of political unrest.
Leaving a nightclub one night, Goldie finds herself caught in the middle of a demonstration that has turned violent. She is rescued by Felix, a member of the SA, who is immediately charmed by her blonde hair and Aryan appearance. Goldie is living a lie, and her secrets are bound to catch up with her. A girl, who she’d scorned in the past, is now a proud member of the Nazi Party and still carries a deep-seated vendetta against Goldie.
On the other side of the Atlantic, Sam, Goldie's son, is thriving with the Jewish mob in Manhattan; however, he has made a terrible mistake. He has destroyed the trust of the woman he believes is his bashert. He knows he cannot live without her, and he is desperately trying to find a way to win her heart. And Izzy, the man who Sam once called his best friend, is now his worst enemy. They are both in love with the same woman, and the competition between them could easily result in death.
Then Sam receives word that something has happened in Germany, and he must accompany his father on a journey across the ocean. He is afraid that if he leaves before his beloved accepts his proposal, he might lose her forever.
Since her return home to Berlin, she has reconnected with her childhood friend, Leni, a free spirit who has swept Goldie into the Weimar lifestyle that is overflowing with artists and writers, but also with debauchery. Goldie had spent the last nineteen years living a dull life with a spiritless husband. And now she has been set free, completely abandoning any sense of morals she once had.
As Goldie’s daughter, Alma, is coming of marriageable age, her grandparents are determined to find her a suitable match. But will Goldie's life of depravity hurt Alma’s chances to find a Jewish husband from a good family? And all the while the SA, a preclude to the Nazi SS, is gaining strength.
Germany is a hotbed of political unrest.
Leaving a nightclub one night, Goldie finds herself caught in the middle of a demonstration that has turned violent. She is rescued by Felix, a member of the SA, who is immediately charmed by her blonde hair and Aryan appearance. Goldie is living a lie, and her secrets are bound to catch up with her. A girl, who she’d scorned in the past, is now a proud member of the Nazi Party and still carries a deep-seated vendetta against Goldie.
On the other side of the Atlantic, Sam, Goldie's son, is thriving with the Jewish mob in Manhattan; however, he has made a terrible mistake. He has destroyed the trust of the woman he believes is his bashert. He knows he cannot live without her, and he is desperately trying to find a way to win her heart. And Izzy, the man who Sam once called his best friend, is now his worst enemy. They are both in love with the same woman, and the competition between them could easily result in death.
Then Sam receives word that something has happened in Germany, and he must accompany his father on a journey across the ocean. He is afraid that if he leaves before his beloved accepts his proposal, he might lose her forever.
468 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 25, 2020
806 people are currently reading
465 people want to read
About the author
Roberta Kagan
72 books651 followersI’m an American writer of Jewish and Romany decent. I write Historical Fiction and Historical Romance, most of which is set during the holocaust. Although I never discount the horrors of the time period, the main focus of my work is on ordinary people who prove to be strong heroic characters in unfathomable circumstances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 5, 2020
Interesting but writing is a little juvenile, perhaps target should be toward YA.
Otherwise was a ok read.
Otherwise was a ok read.
November 3, 2020
Roberta Kagan has written yet another masterpiece! "They Never Saw it Coming" is book two of the current series, and this one grabbed hold of me and wouldn't let go. I found myself thinking about, caring about and agonizing over the decisions her characters were making even when I wasn't reading. Roberta brought them to life and made their lives part of mine.
The history intertwined in the story of these people comes to life in a way that the reader is better able to understand and actually experience what hapoened in Germany during the 1930s.
Roberta Kagan has created a Time Machine . When we enter, we experience events, not just witness them. We are completely involved.
Roberta has also redefined the term, "Cliff Hanger"! I shall crawl and scratch to get my hands on Book Three of this series!
The history intertwined in the story of these people comes to life in a way that the reader is better able to understand and actually experience what hapoened in Germany during the 1930s.
Roberta Kagan has created a Time Machine . When we enter, we experience events, not just witness them. We are completely involved.
Roberta has also redefined the term, "Cliff Hanger"! I shall crawl and scratch to get my hands on Book Three of this series!
Want to read
May 18, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/18/2021)! 🎁
November 11, 2022
Book #2 in “A Jewish Family Saga”
1930’s Berlin
The story in very few words:
After spending 19 years of her life in America with a spineless and boring husband Goldie nearing forty returns home to Berlin where she reconnects with her childhood friend Leni, a free spirit who guides Goldie into a life of debauchery. While at the other end of the Atlantic, Sam, her son, is thriving with the Jewish mob in Manhattan. When he receives word that something has happened to his mother, he sets out with his father to Germany.
My thoughts:
We have two stories: one in Germany and the other in Manhattan. We go back and for between the pond....Two different styles of living.
While the events leading up to WW11 are part of the story the lifestyle in Berlin at the time is well played out: such as the cabaret and the free spirited people. At first I was intrigued and was looking forward to Goldie’s behaviour but what she did turned out to be very repetitive and rather on the dull side. Although we have a lot of debauchery such as excess drinking, swearing, drugs and sex galore but making this interesting or even captivating is the big question: maybe for some yes and others no. There are a lot of irresponsible people in this book. While on the other side of the pond we are deep into the mop crime world: robbing and killings and kidnapping.... Till the two world merges and comes crashing down....
I am a fan of the author and have read a few of her books but this one as a weak storyline and is not the quality writing style of her later books. It typically deals with the daily events in the lives of the same group of characters: a real soap-opera.
Of course this story ends in a cliff-hanger to open the door to book#3...
1930’s Berlin
The story in very few words:
After spending 19 years of her life in America with a spineless and boring husband Goldie nearing forty returns home to Berlin where she reconnects with her childhood friend Leni, a free spirit who guides Goldie into a life of debauchery. While at the other end of the Atlantic, Sam, her son, is thriving with the Jewish mob in Manhattan. When he receives word that something has happened to his mother, he sets out with his father to Germany.
My thoughts:
We have two stories: one in Germany and the other in Manhattan. We go back and for between the pond....Two different styles of living.
While the events leading up to WW11 are part of the story the lifestyle in Berlin at the time is well played out: such as the cabaret and the free spirited people. At first I was intrigued and was looking forward to Goldie’s behaviour but what she did turned out to be very repetitive and rather on the dull side. Although we have a lot of debauchery such as excess drinking, swearing, drugs and sex galore but making this interesting or even captivating is the big question: maybe for some yes and others no. There are a lot of irresponsible people in this book. While on the other side of the pond we are deep into the mop crime world: robbing and killings and kidnapping.... Till the two world merges and comes crashing down....
I am a fan of the author and have read a few of her books but this one as a weak storyline and is not the quality writing style of her later books. It typically deals with the daily events in the lives of the same group of characters: a real soap-opera.
Of course this story ends in a cliff-hanger to open the door to book#3...
September 20, 2023
Easy enjoyable listen….not taking a break…onto the next in series!
December 4, 2020
I absolutely adore reading Roberta Kagan’s stories. This was a little disappointing. They Never Saw It Coming. “It” never came in this book. Her books have cliff hangers but not totally “what?!” This one was a cliff hanger with a “what?!”! and I didn’t like that one bit! I might read the next one...or not. Depending on the price. Sorry, Roberta.
May 23, 2021
Good character development
I started reading this book, not realizing it was part of a series. I might have considered continuing reading the series, if the well developed characters weren't so decadent and self-centered! I felt compelled to read something uplifting and admirable, something with characters that you want to get to know better. Other than a grandmother in Germany, and a sweet granddaughter, named Alma, the characters were self-indulgent, stubborn, self-centered, spiteful, decadedent, emotionally confused or weak minded. The dregs of humanity don't really make for enjoyable reading. It read very much like a soap opera; giving bits of several human drama stories, jumping back and forth between them. Although I have read many author's that use this multiple mini-plot style, for me it is engaging only when the most of the main characters are appealing , not repulsive, foolish and down right depressing! I just didn't want to keep reading about all these mostly sick and pathetic people.
I started reading this book, not realizing it was part of a series. I might have considered continuing reading the series, if the well developed characters weren't so decadent and self-centered! I felt compelled to read something uplifting and admirable, something with characters that you want to get to know better. Other than a grandmother in Germany, and a sweet granddaughter, named Alma, the characters were self-indulgent, stubborn, self-centered, spiteful, decadedent, emotionally confused or weak minded. The dregs of humanity don't really make for enjoyable reading. It read very much like a soap opera; giving bits of several human drama stories, jumping back and forth between them. Although I have read many author's that use this multiple mini-plot style, for me it is engaging only when the most of the main characters are appealing , not repulsive, foolish and down right depressing! I just didn't want to keep reading about all these mostly sick and pathetic people.
November 27, 2021
Even though the title makes it clear, this is book 2 of a series. I had no idea... rushed into it. And it was fantastic reading. I kept on expecting WWII to come but of course this is a lead up, covering a typical (well, not really) pre WWII German Jewish family with a daughter leaving for the USA...
Really well written, good story, not too slow, not too fast paced, plausible and gives a great impression of how life was being Jewish as Hitler started to exert his influence on German society.
Now I enthusiastically purchased the third book and am enjoying reading it even more. I fear I will have to read the first one later too, which is what I should have started with and which would have made me enjoy book 2 even more...
Really well written, good story, not too slow, not too fast paced, plausible and gives a great impression of how life was being Jewish as Hitler started to exert his influence on German society.
Now I enthusiastically purchased the third book and am enjoying reading it even more. I fear I will have to read the first one later too, which is what I should have started with and which would have made me enjoy book 2 even more...
February 1, 2024
Book two of four from one of Roberta Kagan’s Jewish sagas.
So, the saga continues.
Sam’s mother and sister are now in Germany with the grandparents. His mother has gone off the rails drinking and smoking and taking drugs. His sister has bonded well with her grandparents and they’ve made a match in marriage for her.
Sam’s father now has a job in a bakery in Delaney Street. And Sam continues to work for the mafia bootlegging whiskey.
When a letter arrives from Sam’s grandparents in Germany about their mother needing her husband, both Sam and Irving sail to Germany.
antisemitism and the uprising of naziism. Golda, Sam’s mother is so high on drugs and sleeping with men, it breaks Irving’s heart. Literally.
So, the saga continues.
Sam’s mother and sister are now in Germany with the grandparents. His mother has gone off the rails drinking and smoking and taking drugs. His sister has bonded well with her grandparents and they’ve made a match in marriage for her.
Sam’s father now has a job in a bakery in Delaney Street. And Sam continues to work for the mafia bootlegging whiskey.
When a letter arrives from Sam’s grandparents in Germany about their mother needing her husband, both Sam and Irving sail to Germany.
antisemitism and the uprising of naziism. Golda, Sam’s mother is so high on drugs and sleeping with men, it breaks Irving’s heart. Literally.
August 9, 2025
I cared about the characters initially, but it jumped around too often. I was very interested in the plight of Luisa, but then way too many other characters entered into it. It was choppy. I didn't expect it to "be continued," but my bad, that was on me. I'm not interested in continuing the series because at the end I just didn't care about any of the characters.
I think if there was anything interesting about it was scant; and could have been explored more, and that was the historical context. Much is said about pre-war Germany, little about what lead up to it.
Overall a disappointment that I forced myself to finish.
I think if there was anything interesting about it was scant; and could have been explored more, and that was the historical context. Much is said about pre-war Germany, little about what lead up to it.
Overall a disappointment that I forced myself to finish.
May 23, 2021
I got hooked on Roberta Kagan when I happened upon the first Love Detrick book for free on Bookbub. I have read and loved most of her books/series. I hated giving 2 stars but this book just fell flat for me. The characters were weak, the plot plodding and predictable and maybe most importantly for me—-I didn’t learn anything. Roberta’s books are wonderful sources of historical fiction and this particular one just didn’t measure up. I’m skipping this series but can’t recommend the others highly enough!
May 24, 2021
Immature
The plot for this book is excellent. It has great potential. Unfortunately, that potential isn’t realized? and what we’re left with is a story that could have been written by a teenager. There is little variation in sentence structure, with a multitude of short, choppy sentences. Dialogue is the same. I kept reading in hopes that there would be improvement, but it didn’t happen. The ending is a cliffhanger, so it’s not a standalone book. I just don’t think I can bear another one.
The plot for this book is excellent. It has great potential. Unfortunately, that potential isn’t realized? and what we’re left with is a story that could have been written by a teenager. There is little variation in sentence structure, with a multitude of short, choppy sentences. Dialogue is the same. I kept reading in hopes that there would be improvement, but it didn’t happen. The ending is a cliffhanger, so it’s not a standalone book. I just don’t think I can bear another one.
October 30, 2020
An American Jewish Gangster
Sam makes a new life for himself when his sister and mother go to Germany. The Berlin of the era between World Wars must have been full of booze, drugs and sex. This story is well thought out and the characters are realistic; some likable and others not so much. Love her stories!
Sam makes a new life for himself when his sister and mother go to Germany. The Berlin of the era between World Wars must have been full of booze, drugs and sex. This story is well thought out and the characters are realistic; some likable and others not so much. Love her stories!
November 19, 2020
Another amazing beautiful book.
Boo k 2 in this series is just as good as the first one. Now I need to read the next so I can finish this story. The characters are so real and lovable and down to earth. Samuel is a strong person and he has finally found his true love. Very well written and entertaining .
Boo k 2 in this series is just as good as the first one. Now I need to read the next so I can finish this story. The characters are so real and lovable and down to earth. Samuel is a strong person and he has finally found his true love. Very well written and entertaining .
June 1, 2021
Fire the proof reader! Then retire the author. Unbearable. Written by 9th grader. First it's1929,_then next chapter it's1930, continuing next chapter it's 1929; makes no sense other than writer and proofreader are not in sync. Glad I didn't pay to read this, and better yet, I didn't buy/read her first book in a Jewish saga. Disgraceful, poor porno.
June 14, 2021
I only read this book because I kind of wanted to see what happened to these people after the first book. But it was more like not being able to look away from an accident. The language was so simplistic I felt my intelligence being insulted. Sam is incredibly shallow and unaware. I can’t believe this writer is actually popular.
July 31, 2021
Love all of Roberta Kagan’s books.
I can never put her books down from beginning to end! Her writing draws you into the story and I can never wait to get to the next chapter! I especially love her books that span the centuries and give us the true flavor of the times of which she is writing!
I can never put her books down from beginning to end! Her writing draws you into the story and I can never wait to get to the next chapter! I especially love her books that span the centuries and give us the true flavor of the times of which she is writing!
August 8, 2023
Germany v. America
Often times we look at pre World War Two Germany through the lens of the Nazis, this book offers a view from the streets. In addition we forget that while the world was poised for war, the still young USA was learning to stand on the global stage. This backdrop provides an ongoing picture of the struggles the characters face.
Often times we look at pre World War Two Germany through the lens of the Nazis, this book offers a view from the streets. In addition we forget that while the world was poised for war, the still young USA was learning to stand on the global stage. This backdrop provides an ongoing picture of the struggles the characters face.
November 2, 2020
High anticipation!
I am on the edge of my seat in anticipation of the next book in this saga. The series is absolutely fantastic, and the ending was so abrupt that I cannot wait to get to Book 3.
Amazingly well written as have been all the others of Roberta Kagan. Great read!
I am on the edge of my seat in anticipation of the next book in this saga. The series is absolutely fantastic, and the ending was so abrupt that I cannot wait to get to Book 3.
Amazingly well written as have been all the others of Roberta Kagan. Great read!
November 19, 2020
Unexpected
This was a well written book. I have other books by this author and enjoyed them also. This period of history is one of my favorites and this author portrays it well. I am looking forward to the next book.
This was a well written book. I have other books by this author and enjoyed them also. This period of history is one of my favorites and this author portrays it well. I am looking forward to the next book.
December 31, 2020
A different perspective
I really enjoyed this story, which gives me a different perspective on the years leading up to World War Two in both America and Germany. I have read several stories written by Roberta and look forward to reading more in this series. Thanks.
I really enjoyed this story, which gives me a different perspective on the years leading up to World War Two in both America and Germany. I have read several stories written by Roberta and look forward to reading more in this series. Thanks.
January 15, 2021
Another winner
Your books are always so wonderful, and it is always apparent how much work you put into them. This series is especilly good and filled with so much knowledge on a little known subject.
Your books are always so wonderful, and it is always apparent how much work you put into them. This series is especilly good and filled with so much knowledge on a little known subject.
January 29, 2021
What next!!??
I love the way Roberta Kagan ends her stories in this saga. Keeps you on the edge of you seat and wanting more. Will be starting the next book as soon as I write this. A must read!
I love the way Roberta Kagan ends her stories in this saga. Keeps you on the edge of you seat and wanting more. Will be starting the next book as soon as I write this. A must read!
May 25, 2021
Not Usually My Style of Book
Having read the first in the series and reviewed it, admitting it is not to my style, I read book two. Good plot, good strong characters. Reflects what I know of the era. Looking forward to book 3.
Having read the first in the series and reviewed it, admitting it is not to my style, I read book two. Good plot, good strong characters. Reflects what I know of the era. Looking forward to book 3.
June 6, 2021
No ending to this book!
I enjoyed the book right up to the ending, which was not an ending. I don't give high ratings to cheats like this. It's fine to continue a story but it's not fine to end in this way. Spare me any more of these books.
I enjoyed the book right up to the ending, which was not an ending. I don't give high ratings to cheats like this. It's fine to continue a story but it's not fine to end in this way. Spare me any more of these books.
August 9, 2021
Good Read
Maybe young readers would like this book. The book was chopped off at the last page leaving me with no resolution and a little mad at the book and the author.
Thank you, Ms. Kagan, for the read.
Maybe young readers would like this book. The book was chopped off at the last page leaving me with no resolution and a little mad at the book and the author.
Thank you, Ms. Kagan, for the read.
January 10, 2022
Sam and Chana
This book is the second of a saga series , the main characters are Sam and Chana, two Jewish people in love in the 1930’s. Excellent story line and true to life emotions.
This book is the second of a saga series , the main characters are Sam and Chana, two Jewish people in love in the 1930’s. Excellent story line and true to life emotions.
January 16, 2022
Life is never easy
I really liked this book because it have me a view of a Jewish view of life I really recommend this book because it is very personal and I have come to understand how their life was harder than people know
I really liked this book because it have me a view of a Jewish view of life I really recommend this book because it is very personal and I have come to understand how their life was harder than people know
March 12, 2022
Very dragged out story characters all seem to revolve around sex and story goes off track what happened to the set up ?nothing more was mentioned !!
The only good bit was at the end when something interesting happens !!
The only good bit was at the end when something interesting happens !!
March 14, 2022
Poorly written
This book went from one protagonist to the next throughout the entire book. Nothing flowed smoothly. If the last two in this series are like this one, I won't read them.
This book went from one protagonist to the next throughout the entire book. Nothing flowed smoothly. If the last two in this series are like this one, I won't read them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews