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World War Two Sagas #3
The Lifeline
From the heart of Norway to Shetland in Scotland, one couple fight to overthrow the Nazis…
1942, Nazi-occupied Norway
Schoolteacher Astrid Dahl has always kept out of trouble. But when she is told to teach the fascist Nazi curriculum, she refuses and starts a teacher’s rebellion, persuading eight thousand teachers to go on strike.
The Germans arrest her, and terrified of what punishment her trial might bring, she is forced to go into hiding.
Astrid's boyfriend, Jørgen Nystrøm, has joined the Norwegian Resistance. When his cover is blown he escapes to Shetland where he is taken on as crew for the Shetland Bus; a dangerous clandestine operation of small fishing boats that supply arms and intelligence to war-torn Norway.
In Shetland, hearing Astrid is in trouble, Jørgen sets off through enemy waters to meet her.
But the Nazis have a spy on Shetland and have been tipped off about the Shetland Bus.
With the enemy in pursuit from both directions, will Astrid and Jørgen be able to find each other?
Or will they be separated forever by the brutal Nazi regime?
THE LIFELINE is a moving war & military saga following the separate stories of a young man and woman through the years of the Second World War as they fight for freedom in Norway and the Shetland Islands in Scotland.
1942, Nazi-occupied Norway
Schoolteacher Astrid Dahl has always kept out of trouble. But when she is told to teach the fascist Nazi curriculum, she refuses and starts a teacher’s rebellion, persuading eight thousand teachers to go on strike.
The Germans arrest her, and terrified of what punishment her trial might bring, she is forced to go into hiding.
Astrid's boyfriend, Jørgen Nystrøm, has joined the Norwegian Resistance. When his cover is blown he escapes to Shetland where he is taken on as crew for the Shetland Bus; a dangerous clandestine operation of small fishing boats that supply arms and intelligence to war-torn Norway.
In Shetland, hearing Astrid is in trouble, Jørgen sets off through enemy waters to meet her.
But the Nazis have a spy on Shetland and have been tipped off about the Shetland Bus.
With the enemy in pursuit from both directions, will Astrid and Jørgen be able to find each other?
Or will they be separated forever by the brutal Nazi regime?
THE LIFELINE is a moving war & military saga following the separate stories of a young man and woman through the years of the Second World War as they fight for freedom in Norway and the Shetland Islands in Scotland.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2021
About the author
Deborah Swift
39 books562 followersI am a novelist living in the Lake District in England. I write historical fiction but read widely - contemporary and classic fiction. I choose my books carefully, so I don't read many duds. If I do, they are not reviewed here, as a gesture of respect to other writers.
I blog at my website
www.deborahswift.com
I blog at my website
www.deborahswift.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 30, 2021
Life in Norway WW2 is described movingly with a couple central figures as focal points in demonstrating the difficult, really impossible challenges of surviving the Nazi reign. Harrowing escape attempts and struggles of daily life are difficult to contemplate.
Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited
March 15, 2021
4.5 stars
The Lifeline is a World War Two historical fiction. The story takes place during the 1942 occupation of Norway and follows the lives of two Norwegians: Jørgen Nystrøm a wireless transmitter for the Resistance and Astrid Dahl, a school teacher.
Early in the story Nystrøm becomes wanted by the Nazis and he goes on the run, hoping to get to England via the Shetland Islands. Meanwhile, Astrid turns into an agitator, refusing to follow the new Nazi teaching syllabus while inciting her fellow teachers to protest over the new teaching contracts. Her dissent lands her in trouble with the police and she is forced into hiding.
I liked this story, there was plenty of fear and terror which felt realistic. What went on in the schools and how the teachers tried to resist those changes was particularly interesting, as was the escape route via The Shetland islands, which was followed first by Nystrøm and later by Astrid. I could easily imagine the horrors of the cross-country journey and the fear of reprisals by the Germans against Norwegians found helping refugees or those seen as criminals. The ‘Shetland Bus’ elements were also a first for me, as I had not heard of this before; the men who put their lives on the line each time they went out in the stormy seas were very brave.
I’m really glad that I read this story; it had all the gritty tension that I enjoy in this genre.
The Lifeline is a World War Two historical fiction. The story takes place during the 1942 occupation of Norway and follows the lives of two Norwegians: Jørgen Nystrøm a wireless transmitter for the Resistance and Astrid Dahl, a school teacher.
Early in the story Nystrøm becomes wanted by the Nazis and he goes on the run, hoping to get to England via the Shetland Islands. Meanwhile, Astrid turns into an agitator, refusing to follow the new Nazi teaching syllabus while inciting her fellow teachers to protest over the new teaching contracts. Her dissent lands her in trouble with the police and she is forced into hiding.
I liked this story, there was plenty of fear and terror which felt realistic. What went on in the schools and how the teachers tried to resist those changes was particularly interesting, as was the escape route via The Shetland islands, which was followed first by Nystrøm and later by Astrid. I could easily imagine the horrors of the cross-country journey and the fear of reprisals by the Germans against Norwegians found helping refugees or those seen as criminals. The ‘Shetland Bus’ elements were also a first for me, as I had not heard of this before; the men who put their lives on the line each time they went out in the stormy seas were very brave.
I’m really glad that I read this story; it had all the gritty tension that I enjoy in this genre.
January 20, 2021
I enjoyed this book immensely - there is never a dull moment, with a sense of spine-chilling danger throughout. The action picks up as the book goes on, making it a real page-turner; I read the last 40% in one go (just finished it!).
The book is set in Nazi-Occupied Norway in the early years of WW2. The main characters are a Resistance worker, Jørgen Nystrøm, and his girlfriend, Astrid Dahl. Jørgen's cover is blown early on, and the two are separated. Astrid is a teacher who becomes involved in low-key rebellions against the Nazi regime, but soon finds that she has bitten off more than she can chew, and her only chance of evading transportation to the camps and almost certain death is to join some others in their escape from Oslo.
The story follows Jørgen's hazardous path to the Shetland Islands, where he carries on his work with the British against the Nazis, and Astrid's terrifying journey through Norway, during which there are so many setbacks and dire turns of fate that I was gripped throughout. It is clear that the author's research into the time and place has been extensive, and every aspect of these dangerous few years is completely convincing. Incidentally, I was interested to read that until five or six hundred years ago, Shetland was part of Norway.
If you're a fan of WW2 dramas and nail-biting stories of brave escape, you will love this book - and a round of applause to Ms Swift for not making the romantic minor sub-plot turn out predictably!
The book is set in Nazi-Occupied Norway in the early years of WW2. The main characters are a Resistance worker, Jørgen Nystrøm, and his girlfriend, Astrid Dahl. Jørgen's cover is blown early on, and the two are separated. Astrid is a teacher who becomes involved in low-key rebellions against the Nazi regime, but soon finds that she has bitten off more than she can chew, and her only chance of evading transportation to the camps and almost certain death is to join some others in their escape from Oslo.
The story follows Jørgen's hazardous path to the Shetland Islands, where he carries on his work with the British against the Nazis, and Astrid's terrifying journey through Norway, during which there are so many setbacks and dire turns of fate that I was gripped throughout. It is clear that the author's research into the time and place has been extensive, and every aspect of these dangerous few years is completely convincing. Incidentally, I was interested to read that until five or six hundred years ago, Shetland was part of Norway.
If you're a fan of WW2 dramas and nail-biting stories of brave escape, you will love this book - and a round of applause to Ms Swift for not making the romantic minor sub-plot turn out predictably!
January 6, 2021
Pour yourself a big cup of coffee and grab some waffles, krumkake or lefse, before you start reading this five-star, captivating wartime saga set in Nazi-occupied Norway! You are not going to want to cut short your adventure by stopping for a meal. Trust me.
This is a must-read for historical fiction lovers! Rarely do authors focus on Norway and the Quislings when writing a wartime story. This forgotten about piece of history is brought alive through Deborah Swift’s superb skill: it’s extremely well written with realistic characters and a fast-moving plot. Swift immediately captivated me by appealing to my sense of adventure and maintained my interest throughout the story. Not once did I consider a character’s actions as implausible. I was so immersed in the plot and the adventure propelled me to keep reading to find out about Astrid and Jørgen. Being a teacher, I was shocked at the classroom changes in Norway mandated as a result of Nazi occupation. I struggled alongside Astrid and found myself questioning what I'd do in the same situation. Swift crafted such lifelike characters that I felt like I'd love to have coffee with Astrid and chat about education in Norway.
The unique setting and superb writing are what sets this novel above many others set in the same time period. This has very strong potential for screen adaptation!
This is a new author for me, but I won't hesitate to pick up another one of her novels. The cover of The Lifeline was what initially drew me to this book, but the masterfully written story was what captivated me. I was giddy with excitement when I searched up the author’s website and discovered that all her work seems as exciting as this book. I can’t wait to delve in!
Thank you to Deborah Swift, Sapere Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this 5-star novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is a must-read for historical fiction lovers! Rarely do authors focus on Norway and the Quislings when writing a wartime story. This forgotten about piece of history is brought alive through Deborah Swift’s superb skill: it’s extremely well written with realistic characters and a fast-moving plot. Swift immediately captivated me by appealing to my sense of adventure and maintained my interest throughout the story. Not once did I consider a character’s actions as implausible. I was so immersed in the plot and the adventure propelled me to keep reading to find out about Astrid and Jørgen. Being a teacher, I was shocked at the classroom changes in Norway mandated as a result of Nazi occupation. I struggled alongside Astrid and found myself questioning what I'd do in the same situation. Swift crafted such lifelike characters that I felt like I'd love to have coffee with Astrid and chat about education in Norway.
The unique setting and superb writing are what sets this novel above many others set in the same time period. This has very strong potential for screen adaptation!
This is a new author for me, but I won't hesitate to pick up another one of her novels. The cover of The Lifeline was what initially drew me to this book, but the masterfully written story was what captivated me. I was giddy with excitement when I searched up the author’s website and discovered that all her work seems as exciting as this book. I can’t wait to delve in!
Thank you to Deborah Swift, Sapere Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this 5-star novel in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2021
Having previously read The Occupation, Deborah Swifts’ story about Nazi occupied Jersey, I was sure that this book would give me an accurate picture of what it had been like to live in Norway in the 1940s. Under the government of President Quisling, a Nazi sympathiser, the Gestapo gradually increased their influence on everyday life for the Norwegian people and a Resistance group, Milorg, was established. Our two protagonists, Astrid, a teacher and Jørgen, a member of Milorg reflect very different positions in society. Astrid is independent but rather shy, Jørgen is a confident, popular young man who has already had training for espionage in Britain with the SOE. The two have recently begun a relationship, against Jørgen’s better judgement because he knows as an undercover radio operator he could easily be discovered, but soon after Jørgen disappears, Astrid raises her head above the parapet and has to go into hiding.
Not only does this book show the harsh realities of life under a Nazi regime but it also shows us how Astrid grows as a young woman, taking responsibility for the safety of a young Jewish girl, Sara, and her father, Isaak, and sharing an arduous, dangerous journey with them, across Norway. Meanwhile Jørgen has to deal with a new companion, Karl, an Olympic skier. Can he be trusted? As time goes by and problems mount, can Astrid and Jørgen ever have a future together? The story moves towards a thrilling conclusion and what a wonderful film this would make!
Not only does this book show the harsh realities of life under a Nazi regime but it also shows us how Astrid grows as a young woman, taking responsibility for the safety of a young Jewish girl, Sara, and her father, Isaak, and sharing an arduous, dangerous journey with them, across Norway. Meanwhile Jørgen has to deal with a new companion, Karl, an Olympic skier. Can he be trusted? As time goes by and problems mount, can Astrid and Jørgen ever have a future together? The story moves towards a thrilling conclusion and what a wonderful film this would make!
May 14, 2021
I enjoyed reading the excitement of the action of the journey the two leading characters took. I liked the facts about the different daring missions that the war hero’s took. Some of the verbiage was a little difficult to get by. Maybe if the meaning was attached to the flamboyant wording, I will be able to enjoy the book more.
January 19, 2021
The Lifeline by Deborah Swift is an excellent WWII era historical fiction novel that has it all: action, suspense, romance, and a gripping plot from beginning to end.
I really love how unique this book is in that it sets the story amongst the resistance groups in Norway and the heroic acts that included whisking people away to hopeful safety on the Shetland Bus. I was so drawn in and intrigued by these events that I devoured this book in two days.
I loved Jorgen and Astrid. I enjoyed the complex characters, their respective stories, the alternating points of view, and I loved the plot. It was an excellent read.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Sapere Books for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts immediately.
I really love how unique this book is in that it sets the story amongst the resistance groups in Norway and the heroic acts that included whisking people away to hopeful safety on the Shetland Bus. I was so drawn in and intrigued by these events that I devoured this book in two days.
I loved Jorgen and Astrid. I enjoyed the complex characters, their respective stories, the alternating points of view, and I loved the plot. It was an excellent read.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Sapere Books for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts immediately.
January 8, 2021
Deborah Swift has a smooth, flowing way of bringing the reader into her novels The characters become alive, and the experiences and challenges they have become vivid to the point that you feel as if you are part of the story. The characters are also strong. War makes them braver than they'd ever thought they'd be. One character has a personality that kept me guessing until the very end - is he good or is he bad? Can he be trusted?
I highly recommend The Lifeline. If you enjoy historical fiction with brave resistance people and want to learn something along the way, read this novel.
I highly recommend The Lifeline. If you enjoy historical fiction with brave resistance people and want to learn something along the way, read this novel.
July 7, 2025
I enjoyed my previous Swift novel, so was particularly keen to read one of her older books (newer ones still pending on that mountainous pile!). This story was just as interesting and I liked that I was reading about another different aspect to the Second World War.
We head to Norway and meet Astrid, who is a teacher struggling to keep her job as the Nazi occupation squeezes any freedom of thought on education. Not only that, Jewish people are being rounded up and Astrid knows she must fight against this persecution. Her lover, Jørgen has already been forced to flee the country and soon Astrid finds she has to leave everything she knows in order to stay alive.
The story follows both Jørgen and Astrid. Astrid is trying to stay undetected and with a Jewish friend and his daughter, is forced to sell everything in order to escape. Yet, Swift illustrates that not everyone could be trusted: whilst people claim to help escape the Nazis, some are just in it for the profit. I found Astrid’s story to be full of tension, especially as the young girl adds another layer of vulnerability to an already precarious situation in a country that is gripped by winter.
Jørgen’s story is where the Shetland Bus is detailed. He manages to escape Norway and starts helping the Resistance from the Shetland isles. The “Bus” are the boats that operated in getting people to and from Norway, including shipping weapons, and were constantly under the threat from German boats and aircraft. I liked reading about Jørgen’s character because it showed how far he was willing to go to ensure his own safety and helping others. Furthermore, his new friend, Karl, adds a layer of suspicion to the narrative as, unwittingly, Jørgen has befriended someone who is working for the Nazi’s and determined to bring Jørgen back to Norway.
A story of love and determination, it shows how much people suffered in the war. Beyond the obvious, Swift’s narrative demonstrates the collaboration between countries and how others were so easily influenced by money and potential safety. The fear and terror was palpable and there were scenes where my heart was in my mouth because it was clear things were turning against either Jørgen or Astrid.
Clearly the writer has researched this aspect of the war and I was glad to read about a new aspect. It’s a time of history that is so important and I like discovering such stories that show elements that are not broadly known. The bravery of Astrid, Jørgen and the people they worked with was admirable and I felt this was a read where I learned something too.
With thanks to Sapere books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
We head to Norway and meet Astrid, who is a teacher struggling to keep her job as the Nazi occupation squeezes any freedom of thought on education. Not only that, Jewish people are being rounded up and Astrid knows she must fight against this persecution. Her lover, Jørgen has already been forced to flee the country and soon Astrid finds she has to leave everything she knows in order to stay alive.
The story follows both Jørgen and Astrid. Astrid is trying to stay undetected and with a Jewish friend and his daughter, is forced to sell everything in order to escape. Yet, Swift illustrates that not everyone could be trusted: whilst people claim to help escape the Nazis, some are just in it for the profit. I found Astrid’s story to be full of tension, especially as the young girl adds another layer of vulnerability to an already precarious situation in a country that is gripped by winter.
Jørgen’s story is where the Shetland Bus is detailed. He manages to escape Norway and starts helping the Resistance from the Shetland isles. The “Bus” are the boats that operated in getting people to and from Norway, including shipping weapons, and were constantly under the threat from German boats and aircraft. I liked reading about Jørgen’s character because it showed how far he was willing to go to ensure his own safety and helping others. Furthermore, his new friend, Karl, adds a layer of suspicion to the narrative as, unwittingly, Jørgen has befriended someone who is working for the Nazi’s and determined to bring Jørgen back to Norway.
A story of love and determination, it shows how much people suffered in the war. Beyond the obvious, Swift’s narrative demonstrates the collaboration between countries and how others were so easily influenced by money and potential safety. The fear and terror was palpable and there were scenes where my heart was in my mouth because it was clear things were turning against either Jørgen or Astrid.
Clearly the writer has researched this aspect of the war and I was glad to read about a new aspect. It’s a time of history that is so important and I like discovering such stories that show elements that are not broadly known. The bravery of Astrid, Jørgen and the people they worked with was admirable and I felt this was a read where I learned something too.
With thanks to Sapere books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2021
Books set in World War Two have been very fashionable in recent years, but this is the first I have ever read set in Norway. I have to admit, apart from having heard about Quisling, I knew remarkably little about how the war and the German occupation affected Norway and its people. So I found this book fascinating, and spent almost as much time browsing through Wikipedia for information about the Shetland Bus and the teachers strike as I did reading the book.
But it’s no good a book educating you if it doesn’t also entertain you, and this one had ne gripped and fascinated.
Jorgen, a radio operator for Milorg, the Norwegian resistance, is in love with schoolteacher Astrid. But his cover is blown and, to escape from the Germans, he sets off to ski cross country to the coast, hoping to catch the “Shetland Bus”, one of the ships disguised as fishing trawlers that carried refugees between Norway and the Shetland Islands.
Astrid, meanwhile, is ordered to teach Nazi propaganda and German history instead of the traditional subject matter, and is one of a group of teachers whose refusal to do so led to a national strike. Caught by the Germans helping to run an unofficial school, she goes into hiding and takes in Sara, one of her pupils and her father, Isaak, Jews who are being rounded up for deportation. They, too, decide to try to head for the coast.
Although I found some of the aspects of both journeys a little slow, overall the book is very exciting and fast paced. I would, however, have really appreciated a map of Norway with key points of the journeys marked. Being a country I am so unfamiliar with. combined with the complexity of the journeys and (without wanting to give too much away) escapes, it would have made it easier to get a proper picture in my head of who was going where and how long it would take them.
But it’s no good a book educating you if it doesn’t also entertain you, and this one had ne gripped and fascinated.
Jorgen, a radio operator for Milorg, the Norwegian resistance, is in love with schoolteacher Astrid. But his cover is blown and, to escape from the Germans, he sets off to ski cross country to the coast, hoping to catch the “Shetland Bus”, one of the ships disguised as fishing trawlers that carried refugees between Norway and the Shetland Islands.
Astrid, meanwhile, is ordered to teach Nazi propaganda and German history instead of the traditional subject matter, and is one of a group of teachers whose refusal to do so led to a national strike. Caught by the Germans helping to run an unofficial school, she goes into hiding and takes in Sara, one of her pupils and her father, Isaak, Jews who are being rounded up for deportation. They, too, decide to try to head for the coast.
Although I found some of the aspects of both journeys a little slow, overall the book is very exciting and fast paced. I would, however, have really appreciated a map of Norway with key points of the journeys marked. Being a country I am so unfamiliar with. combined with the complexity of the journeys and (without wanting to give too much away) escapes, it would have made it easier to get a proper picture in my head of who was going where and how long it would take them.
January 23, 2021
1942 in Nazi-occupied Norway schoolteacher Astrid Dahl has always kept out of trouble. But when she is told to teach the fascist Nazi curriculum, she refuses and starts a teacher’s rebellion, persuading eight thousand teachers to go on strike. The Germans arrest her, and terrified of what punishment her trial might bring, she is forced to go into hiding. Astrid's boyfriend, Jørgen Nystrøm, has joined the Norwegian Resistance. When his cover is blown he escapes to Shetland where he is taken on as crew for the Shetland Bus; a dangerous clandestine operation of small fishing boats that supply arms and intelligence to war-torn Norway. In Shetland, hearing Astrid is in trouble, Jørgen sets off through enemy waters to meet her.
But the Nazis have a spy on Shetland and have been tipped off about the Shetland Bus.
This isn’t my usual genre but I thoroughly enjoyed this book & found that once I’d started it I couldn't put it down as I needed to know what happened. A very well written book & the first I’ve read which is set in Norway, I would have liked a map at the start to which I could refer to as I had to keep googling to find places. Strong characters & edge of the seat action had the pages flying by. I loved it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
But the Nazis have a spy on Shetland and have been tipped off about the Shetland Bus.
This isn’t my usual genre but I thoroughly enjoyed this book & found that once I’d started it I couldn't put it down as I needed to know what happened. A very well written book & the first I’ve read which is set in Norway, I would have liked a map at the start to which I could refer to as I had to keep googling to find places. Strong characters & edge of the seat action had the pages flying by. I loved it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 31, 2025
This was so interesting and exciting. Wartime in Norway with the Germans taking over every aspect of the locals stopping people from moving around and having their own point of view. I enjoyed this story very much.
February 1, 2021
Embark on a harrowing journey from Norway to Shetland, escaping death and fighting the Nazis at every turn!
I couldn't put The Lifeline down! The riveting portrayal of the Shetland Bus — a small army of fishing boats that would go into Norway from Shetland, Scotland, to retrieve refugees, deploy Resistance member, and transport military equipment to collect information and be used on the frontlines to defeat the Nazis — and the Norwegian Teacher's Strike — a revolt that led 12,000 teachers to fight against the fascist curriculum the Nazis required to be taught in the schools after their invasion — introduced a new narrative of World War II that I had not heard before. Each chapter took me further into the danger of standing for truth and refusing to back down, despite the threat of losing your life to save countless others!
"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us." E.M Forster
Jørgen Nystrøm has been working with the Resistance as a W/T operator for eighteen months. Hiding in plain sight, he sends transmissions to England so the British army can continue their fight against the Nazis, who have invaded Norway, his homeland. However, when the Nazis get wind of his mission, they pursue Jørgen, forcing him to flee to Shetland and say goodbye to his girlfriend, Astrid, whom he may never see again. No one is to be trusted, but in a war where everyone must fight to survive, Jørgen will learn that sometimes you have to lean on the enemy for life!
"The first law of survival. Keep yourself armed. The second law? Be prepared. But be prepared to change. Being married to any ideology leads to tyranny in the end."
Living a quiet life, Astrid Dahl wasn't planning on joining the Resistance. A teacher at the local school in Oslo, Astrid hoped that things would not change with the Nazi's invasion; but, after Jørgen's disappearance and the Nazi's implementing a fascist curriculum into the schools, Astrid takes action! Recruiting teachers from all over the country, Astrid begins a rebellion against the new school system, refusing to teach Nazi propaganda. Going on strike, she and many other teachers begin to teach their students secretly, providing material to further the children's studies; however, as pressure intensifies and the Nazi's begin to watch Astrid's activities, she has to make a decision. Will she stay in Oslo and take her chances with the Nazis, or will she flee the country to survive?
"Summer would soon be coming and over there, somewhere, lay Shetland; a place of peace, pure air and wide open spaces — an island still free."
The Lifeline had me gripping the edge of my seat from the first page! I don't know about you, but I usually start books hoping that there will be a happy ending; but, with this novel, I wasn't sure what to expect and braced myself for either scenario. The characters were so relatable and realistic that each event made it feel like I was the one in the story!
Would you risk your life to save the ones you love? What would you do if your heart told you not to trust someone even though everyone around you disagreed? Are you capable of taking someone's life if it means saving yourself and others?
There is nothing sweet or lovely about war. It's brutal and will take down anything and anyone that gets in its way; yet, humans continue to fight for what's right, no matter the cost. In all the grit and blood, a light comes out when we work together to stop the enemy. The Lifeline was another narrative that highlighted the bravery of the many individuals who risked their lives to thwart the Nazis. Living and dying for the freedom of humanity is not something to be taken lightly. Each time the choice was raised in The Lifeline, the author did an exceptional job showing the sacrifice and strength that comes when we are forced to fight until our dying breath.
The Lifeline was not only a story based on true events that took place in 1940-42; it is also a wake-up call for us not to allow what happened back then to occur today! We must continue to fight for what is right and not back down when governments and organizations tell us to teach, act, or respond in ways that come against all that we know to be true. Let your voice be heard, and never back down in the face of adversity! Jørgen and Astrid's stories were an inspiration to me and, I believe, will ignite a fire into anyone who picks up this book!
Positive content: 4⭐️
Language: 2⭐️
Sexual content: 2⭐️
Violence: 3⭐️
Age: 15+
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a pre-release copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own!*
I couldn't put The Lifeline down! The riveting portrayal of the Shetland Bus — a small army of fishing boats that would go into Norway from Shetland, Scotland, to retrieve refugees, deploy Resistance member, and transport military equipment to collect information and be used on the frontlines to defeat the Nazis — and the Norwegian Teacher's Strike — a revolt that led 12,000 teachers to fight against the fascist curriculum the Nazis required to be taught in the schools after their invasion — introduced a new narrative of World War II that I had not heard before. Each chapter took me further into the danger of standing for truth and refusing to back down, despite the threat of losing your life to save countless others!
"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us." E.M Forster
Jørgen Nystrøm has been working with the Resistance as a W/T operator for eighteen months. Hiding in plain sight, he sends transmissions to England so the British army can continue their fight against the Nazis, who have invaded Norway, his homeland. However, when the Nazis get wind of his mission, they pursue Jørgen, forcing him to flee to Shetland and say goodbye to his girlfriend, Astrid, whom he may never see again. No one is to be trusted, but in a war where everyone must fight to survive, Jørgen will learn that sometimes you have to lean on the enemy for life!
"The first law of survival. Keep yourself armed. The second law? Be prepared. But be prepared to change. Being married to any ideology leads to tyranny in the end."
Living a quiet life, Astrid Dahl wasn't planning on joining the Resistance. A teacher at the local school in Oslo, Astrid hoped that things would not change with the Nazi's invasion; but, after Jørgen's disappearance and the Nazi's implementing a fascist curriculum into the schools, Astrid takes action! Recruiting teachers from all over the country, Astrid begins a rebellion against the new school system, refusing to teach Nazi propaganda. Going on strike, she and many other teachers begin to teach their students secretly, providing material to further the children's studies; however, as pressure intensifies and the Nazi's begin to watch Astrid's activities, she has to make a decision. Will she stay in Oslo and take her chances with the Nazis, or will she flee the country to survive?
"Summer would soon be coming and over there, somewhere, lay Shetland; a place of peace, pure air and wide open spaces — an island still free."
The Lifeline had me gripping the edge of my seat from the first page! I don't know about you, but I usually start books hoping that there will be a happy ending; but, with this novel, I wasn't sure what to expect and braced myself for either scenario. The characters were so relatable and realistic that each event made it feel like I was the one in the story!
Would you risk your life to save the ones you love? What would you do if your heart told you not to trust someone even though everyone around you disagreed? Are you capable of taking someone's life if it means saving yourself and others?
There is nothing sweet or lovely about war. It's brutal and will take down anything and anyone that gets in its way; yet, humans continue to fight for what's right, no matter the cost. In all the grit and blood, a light comes out when we work together to stop the enemy. The Lifeline was another narrative that highlighted the bravery of the many individuals who risked their lives to thwart the Nazis. Living and dying for the freedom of humanity is not something to be taken lightly. Each time the choice was raised in The Lifeline, the author did an exceptional job showing the sacrifice and strength that comes when we are forced to fight until our dying breath.
The Lifeline was not only a story based on true events that took place in 1940-42; it is also a wake-up call for us not to allow what happened back then to occur today! We must continue to fight for what is right and not back down when governments and organizations tell us to teach, act, or respond in ways that come against all that we know to be true. Let your voice be heard, and never back down in the face of adversity! Jørgen and Astrid's stories were an inspiration to me and, I believe, will ignite a fire into anyone who picks up this book!
Positive content: 4⭐️
Language: 2⭐️
Sexual content: 2⭐️
Violence: 3⭐️
Age: 15+
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a pre-release copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own!*
February 17, 2021
In the stories that have grown up around the heroism of ordinary people in WWII, the ‘little boats of Britain’ and their involvement in the evacuation at Dunkirk is well known. Much less well known is the Shetland Bus, the clandestine cooperative operation between Britain’s SIS and SOE units and the Norwegian resistance.
After the German invasion of Norway in April of 1940, Norwegian fishing vessels began arriving in the remote Shetland Islands, bringing people fleeing the Nazi regime. Many of the captains and crew of these boats - fishermen from the coastal villages of Norway - became part of the ‘Shetland Bus’, making multiple trips back to Norway under cover of night and winter seas to deliver armaments and bring back compromised agents, as well as Norwegians who feared arrest, both Jews and members of the resistance.
In The Lifeline, Deborah Swift tells this story through the experiences of two central characters, Jorgen and Astrid. Jorgen is a member of Milorg, the main Norwegian resistance movement, trained as a radio operator. Astrid is a primary teacher. The novel opens with Jorgen realizing he has been compromised: he must flee, hoping to make the coast and escape to Shetland, leaving Astrid behind.
The story reflects both the terror and tedium of occupation; the tiresome check of papers, the long queues for little food, the casual harassment and random reprisals for resistance, however minor. While Jorgen battles mountains and weather in his long route to the coast, Astrid’s anger at the increasing Nazi encroachment on Norwegian culture and tradition reaches a head when schools are forced to adopt a new curriculum focused on Nazi ideology. She joins those involved in civil disobedience against the Germans. The real history of these events is woven into Astrid’s and Jorgen’s stories competently, without overwhelming the reader.
The risks taken by ordinary people, when even the wearing of an item as innocuous as a bobble hat could mean arrest, are reflected in Astrid’s experiences, while the dangers faced by the members of Milorg are given life in Jorgen. He has been joined in his flight to the coast by another man: can he be trusted? When Astrid, now a fugitive herself, chooses to aid the family of one of her students, the Jewish girl Sarah, their paths begin to converge on Shetland.
Swift paints a picture of immense bravery, both physical and mental, from men and women caught up in a war not of their making. We care about these characters, both the fictional ones and the historical ones; they are rounded and real, with doubts and fears and mistakes. War changes them in ways they do not expect, leading to an ending a little different than what might have been expected.
Recommended for readers of character-driven WWII stories, or anyone who wants to know more about this little-known piece of history.
Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
After the German invasion of Norway in April of 1940, Norwegian fishing vessels began arriving in the remote Shetland Islands, bringing people fleeing the Nazi regime. Many of the captains and crew of these boats - fishermen from the coastal villages of Norway - became part of the ‘Shetland Bus’, making multiple trips back to Norway under cover of night and winter seas to deliver armaments and bring back compromised agents, as well as Norwegians who feared arrest, both Jews and members of the resistance.
In The Lifeline, Deborah Swift tells this story through the experiences of two central characters, Jorgen and Astrid. Jorgen is a member of Milorg, the main Norwegian resistance movement, trained as a radio operator. Astrid is a primary teacher. The novel opens with Jorgen realizing he has been compromised: he must flee, hoping to make the coast and escape to Shetland, leaving Astrid behind.
The story reflects both the terror and tedium of occupation; the tiresome check of papers, the long queues for little food, the casual harassment and random reprisals for resistance, however minor. While Jorgen battles mountains and weather in his long route to the coast, Astrid’s anger at the increasing Nazi encroachment on Norwegian culture and tradition reaches a head when schools are forced to adopt a new curriculum focused on Nazi ideology. She joins those involved in civil disobedience against the Germans. The real history of these events is woven into Astrid’s and Jorgen’s stories competently, without overwhelming the reader.
The risks taken by ordinary people, when even the wearing of an item as innocuous as a bobble hat could mean arrest, are reflected in Astrid’s experiences, while the dangers faced by the members of Milorg are given life in Jorgen. He has been joined in his flight to the coast by another man: can he be trusted? When Astrid, now a fugitive herself, chooses to aid the family of one of her students, the Jewish girl Sarah, their paths begin to converge on Shetland.
Swift paints a picture of immense bravery, both physical and mental, from men and women caught up in a war not of their making. We care about these characters, both the fictional ones and the historical ones; they are rounded and real, with doubts and fears and mistakes. War changes them in ways they do not expect, leading to an ending a little different than what might have been expected.
Recommended for readers of character-driven WWII stories, or anyone who wants to know more about this little-known piece of history.
Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
October 27, 2022
I enjoy reading historical fiction books that take place during WWII. This one was a completely different focus from most of the books I’ve read. Set in Norway and the Shetland Islands in Scotland, you will learn about the Norwegian resistance. I continue to be amazed at the individuals who were willing to sacrifice everything to fight against the horrors of Hitler’s regime. I had never heard of the “Shetland bus” and the way the ships undertook the dangers they faced from the Nazis who would exact punishment for anyone helping the refugees and the stormy seas they traversed. This story had a lot of gripping the page tension. I was physically exhausted by the time I had read the last word. This is one that will lead me to doing more research on this part of WWII. That’s a sign of a good book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Sapere Books for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sapere Books for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
December 12, 2021
A brilliant and suspenseful read.
Gosh, I just loved this book, and didn't want it to end.
War torn Norway; the teachers resistance of Nazi curriculum; the Shetland Bus, a clandestine group that smuggled refugees across to mainland Shetland, and so much more, make this a suspenseful and heart-wrenching story.
Deborah Swift's writes an exceptionally powerful story, and I cannot recommend this one highly enough.
Gosh, I just loved this book, and didn't want it to end.
War torn Norway; the teachers resistance of Nazi curriculum; the Shetland Bus, a clandestine group that smuggled refugees across to mainland Shetland, and so much more, make this a suspenseful and heart-wrenching story.
Deborah Swift's writes an exceptionally powerful story, and I cannot recommend this one highly enough.
March 28, 2021
This was my first encounter with the works of Deborah Swift, but I understand she is the author of other WWII related novels. If The Lifeline is anything to go by, then I will certainly be looking out for other books from this lady. Although a work of fiction, the book weaves a great adventure story into a background of what actually went on, during the middle part of the war, in Nazi occupied Norway. Starting off in 1942 Oslo, we are introduced to Astrid Dahl (an elementary school teacher) and Jørgen Nystrøm (an ex-university friend) with whom Astrid is now romantically involved. Jørgen, who works for the state-run gas company, is also a member of the Norwegian resistance (the Milorg) and, having been trained in England by the Special Operations Executive (SOE), he is now involved in sending Milorg messages to London from a ski-lodge owned by the Ski Club of which he and Astrid are members. Norwegian collaboration with the Nazis in Norway was led by the fascist Vidkun Quisling, who became Prime Minister following the Nazi occupation in 1940. The Quislings, as they became known, supported the Nazi regime and also participated in their “Final Solution” the genocidal program targeting Jews. Once Jørgen’s illicit activities are suspected the story concentrates on his attempts to get away from Oslo, the Nazis and the Quisling controlled police (The Hird) who are on his trail, with the help of Milorg members who are active in helping Jewish families get out of Norway. In his absence Astrid also gets involved with the revolution by the country's school teachers against the Quisling backed (fascist) Teachers League. She also tries to help a Jewish family, which results in her being sacked from her job. Perhaps with Jørgen in mind, she decides to flee the country and teams up with the Jewish family she had previously helped and together they also set off on the Milorg run escape route. Another thread of this captivating story introduces what became known as the Shetland Bus, this being the nickname of a clandestine special operations group that made a permanent link between mainland Shetland in Scotland and German-occupied Norway using a fleet of heavily disguised fishing boats. This “bus service” was in operation from 1941 until the end of the war, and was responsible for supporting the Milorg agents in Norway with weapons, radios and other supplies and helping those escaping from the Nazis. All in all, the adventures of Astrid and Jørgen, both in occupied Norway and eventually in Scotland, both having used the Shetland Bus, are very well constructed with highly believable characters. The story moves at a good pace throughout the book and provides a chilling and fascinating insight of what life must have been like in Nazi occupied Norway. If you have any interest in the second world war and enjoy a well written adventure story, this book will not disappoint. I am very grateful to Sapere Books for providing me a copy for review.
August 8, 2021
The Lifeline: A war time saga set in Nazi-occupied Norway: World War Two Sagas is by Deborah Swift. This book is set in Norway and Shetland, Scotland. It is the story of spies, refugees, rescuers, Nazis, and teachers. All of the incidents could easily have happened and most likely did during the war.
Astrid Dahl was skiing to a ski hut to meet Jorgen Nystrom. She planned to fix a meal for them and have it ready when he showed up. They had met in school and become reacquainted later. Instead of being there before him, she saw he was already there. To make sure it was him, she peeked in the window and saw him on a radio. He caught a glimpse of her and drew his pistol to shoot; but stopped in time. Then he had to tell her he was working for the Resistance, the Milog, sending messages. He couldn’t tell her more for her safety. On his way home, later, he realized he was being followed and had been found out. He knew he had to get out of Norway immediately. He set out across the mountains on skis to get to the shore and catch a boat to Shetland. What he doesn’t’ know is that he is being followed by ex-Olympian champion skier Karl Brevik who has orders to find him and follow him to find the escape route out of Norway. Will he see through Karl’s friendship?
Astrid had no idea that he had gone until she found her father’s compass in her mail. She had just given it to Jorgen. She had no time to worry about him as she and the other teachers in her school had just been told they had to teach the Nazi ideology to their students. She refused as did others and she was behind the idea to write a letter and have teachers sign it refusing to teach against what their contracts said. It worked for a little while. However, the letter writing was traced to her and she was now under watch by the Gestapo. As she gets deeper into resisting the Nazis so as to teach as she knew was proper, she begins to be followed and watched by the Gestapo as well.
As Astrid finds herself becoming more involved with the resistance and with others who are being harassed by the Gestapo, she finds herself needing to get out of Norway. However, she has no idea how to go about it. Who can help?
Astrid Dahl was skiing to a ski hut to meet Jorgen Nystrom. She planned to fix a meal for them and have it ready when he showed up. They had met in school and become reacquainted later. Instead of being there before him, she saw he was already there. To make sure it was him, she peeked in the window and saw him on a radio. He caught a glimpse of her and drew his pistol to shoot; but stopped in time. Then he had to tell her he was working for the Resistance, the Milog, sending messages. He couldn’t tell her more for her safety. On his way home, later, he realized he was being followed and had been found out. He knew he had to get out of Norway immediately. He set out across the mountains on skis to get to the shore and catch a boat to Shetland. What he doesn’t’ know is that he is being followed by ex-Olympian champion skier Karl Brevik who has orders to find him and follow him to find the escape route out of Norway. Will he see through Karl’s friendship?
Astrid had no idea that he had gone until she found her father’s compass in her mail. She had just given it to Jorgen. She had no time to worry about him as she and the other teachers in her school had just been told they had to teach the Nazi ideology to their students. She refused as did others and she was behind the idea to write a letter and have teachers sign it refusing to teach against what their contracts said. It worked for a little while. However, the letter writing was traced to her and she was now under watch by the Gestapo. As she gets deeper into resisting the Nazis so as to teach as she knew was proper, she begins to be followed and watched by the Gestapo as well.
As Astrid finds herself becoming more involved with the resistance and with others who are being harassed by the Gestapo, she finds herself needing to get out of Norway. However, she has no idea how to go about it. Who can help?
June 11, 2021
Escaping the horrors of Nazi domination in Norway
This is a book of significance in its depiction of the miseries suffered by ordinary Norwegians subjected to all manner of humiliation and deprivation during the Nazi occupation, aided and abetted by quislings, fellow Norwegians willing to collaborate for their own skins or profit. Often people did not know who believed what, or who they dare trust. Often individuals were faced with horrible moral decisions, as did the leading characters in this story and the decisions had consequences with which the individuals would have to live afterwards. There are strong love interests and they do have relevance to the plots but the grit in this book is the resilience and compassion of some citizens and the erosion of values in others in the face of fear and peril. The story is told from the viewpoints of two characters, a young couple separated by events and each facing their individual fears and dangers; they hold the book together but it is the survival of far more than their relationship which is the real battle being fought.
Not the fault of the author, the cover which gives dominance to a lovely Norwegian lady is misleading as is its categorising as a saga. This is not a gentle romance. It is the story of several people, including a Jewish father and daughter and wanted resistance men battling against the increasingly invasive and evil Nazi domination of Norway, and teachers battling to defy Nazi propaganda in the classroom. The title is not very instructive either and could have made more of the ‘Shetland Bus’ run, fishing boats taking arms and supplies into Norway and returning with refugees and escaping SOE agents and their information. Even the picture of the fishing boat is disappointingly bland. For safety the runs were usually carried in the worst of winter weather, because the Germans were constantly on the lookout for them. Read the book. It is exciting and revealing, beautifully written and far deeper than is hinted on the cover.
This is a book of significance in its depiction of the miseries suffered by ordinary Norwegians subjected to all manner of humiliation and deprivation during the Nazi occupation, aided and abetted by quislings, fellow Norwegians willing to collaborate for their own skins or profit. Often people did not know who believed what, or who they dare trust. Often individuals were faced with horrible moral decisions, as did the leading characters in this story and the decisions had consequences with which the individuals would have to live afterwards. There are strong love interests and they do have relevance to the plots but the grit in this book is the resilience and compassion of some citizens and the erosion of values in others in the face of fear and peril. The story is told from the viewpoints of two characters, a young couple separated by events and each facing their individual fears and dangers; they hold the book together but it is the survival of far more than their relationship which is the real battle being fought.
Not the fault of the author, the cover which gives dominance to a lovely Norwegian lady is misleading as is its categorising as a saga. This is not a gentle romance. It is the story of several people, including a Jewish father and daughter and wanted resistance men battling against the increasingly invasive and evil Nazi domination of Norway, and teachers battling to defy Nazi propaganda in the classroom. The title is not very instructive either and could have made more of the ‘Shetland Bus’ run, fishing boats taking arms and supplies into Norway and returning with refugees and escaping SOE agents and their information. Even the picture of the fishing boat is disappointingly bland. For safety the runs were usually carried in the worst of winter weather, because the Germans were constantly on the lookout for them. Read the book. It is exciting and revealing, beautifully written and far deeper than is hinted on the cover.
January 24, 2021
There is a double meaning in the title. The boats sent to and from the Shetland Islands to Norway - are a line of supplies for the Norwegian resistance, and also, as the story develops, the agents and the boats become a lifeline for people trying to escape the nazi occupation of Norway.
The story enters on two people who become involved in the resistance - Jorgen a special operations agent gathering intelligence for the British, and Astrid, a young teacher. There is a budding romance here, but Jorgen has to flee Norway when his cover is blown, and Astrid begins to resist the nazi indoctrination of school children, endangering herself in the process. She eventually has to flee Norway with Sara, her favorite student, who is Jewish, and Sara’s father, Isaak. Both Jorgen and Astrid make their way separately to the coast to pick up points to get a boat to safety in the Shetland Islands.
During their exciting adventures, which just keep coming and coming, we see the wide variety of Norwegians coping with the occupation: resistance fighters and their helpers, greedy profiteers, and evil and kind soldiers. Throughout it all is the creeping sense of menace, because one doesn’t know who to trust or who could be a “quisling”, a traitor to his country secretly supporting the nazis.
Inserted into the story is Karl, who befriends Jorgen in order to spy on him for the nazis. He does save Jorgen’s life, but Jorgen is suspicious of him, sensing that something is not quite right,
The characters are all very human. Even the heroic ones admit to fear at times. There are also romantic complications which get sorted out at the end. This book is very exciting, fast-moving and well-written, with characters you care about. It would make a great movie.
The story enters on two people who become involved in the resistance - Jorgen a special operations agent gathering intelligence for the British, and Astrid, a young teacher. There is a budding romance here, but Jorgen has to flee Norway when his cover is blown, and Astrid begins to resist the nazi indoctrination of school children, endangering herself in the process. She eventually has to flee Norway with Sara, her favorite student, who is Jewish, and Sara’s father, Isaak. Both Jorgen and Astrid make their way separately to the coast to pick up points to get a boat to safety in the Shetland Islands.
During their exciting adventures, which just keep coming and coming, we see the wide variety of Norwegians coping with the occupation: resistance fighters and their helpers, greedy profiteers, and evil and kind soldiers. Throughout it all is the creeping sense of menace, because one doesn’t know who to trust or who could be a “quisling”, a traitor to his country secretly supporting the nazis.
Inserted into the story is Karl, who befriends Jorgen in order to spy on him for the nazis. He does save Jorgen’s life, but Jorgen is suspicious of him, sensing that something is not quite right,
The characters are all very human. Even the heroic ones admit to fear at times. There are also romantic complications which get sorted out at the end. This book is very exciting, fast-moving and well-written, with characters you care about. It would make a great movie.
January 18, 2021
First, thanks to Sapere Books for a copy of The Lifeline to review. Historical fiction books set in WWII against the nazis are very popular and in fashion lately; This was a new author for me to read, and though normally I really love reading historical fiction, I couldn’t connect with this book or the major characters.
The book is setting in 1942 WWII German-occupied Norway and the Shetland Islands. There are two narrative strands, one following Jørgen, the other following Astrid. The two of them are in an undefined romantic relationship at the beginning of the book. Astrid discovers that Jørgen is part of the Norwegian resistance and does radio transmissions for the British Soon after, they find Jørgen out and he needs to leave the country, and he sets off on an arduous journey toward the Norwegian coast where the so-called Shetland Bus operates. Fishing boats that are operating between Shetland and Norway, carrying refugees, ammunition, agents, etc are taking Jørgen to safety whilst Astrid gets involved in the Teacher‘s Strike and therefore becomes a thorn in the eye if the occupying forces. The question is- what will happen to Astrid as she gets more and more involved with the resistance?
I really liked the setting and was hoping for more tension when the climax of the story is happening. The author does an outstanding job in bringing the setting of the story to life, which makes it a fun read, but I was hoping for more suspense myself.
The book is setting in 1942 WWII German-occupied Norway and the Shetland Islands. There are two narrative strands, one following Jørgen, the other following Astrid. The two of them are in an undefined romantic relationship at the beginning of the book. Astrid discovers that Jørgen is part of the Norwegian resistance and does radio transmissions for the British Soon after, they find Jørgen out and he needs to leave the country, and he sets off on an arduous journey toward the Norwegian coast where the so-called Shetland Bus operates. Fishing boats that are operating between Shetland and Norway, carrying refugees, ammunition, agents, etc are taking Jørgen to safety whilst Astrid gets involved in the Teacher‘s Strike and therefore becomes a thorn in the eye if the occupying forces. The question is- what will happen to Astrid as she gets more and more involved with the resistance?
I really liked the setting and was hoping for more tension when the climax of the story is happening. The author does an outstanding job in bringing the setting of the story to life, which makes it a fun read, but I was hoping for more suspense myself.
March 26, 2021
The coragious people who did this..
This book is in WW2..and the Germans trying to take over the people of Norway. The story is fictitious but the Shetland Bus is true.
It starts of with Astrid, a dedicated teacher and her boyfriend Jogen who sends messages to the Shetland Bus an Island close to Schotland using a Radio Transmitter.
Jogen finds he has to leave and get to Shetland Bus as the Germans have knowledge of what he's doing.
He leaves Astrid behind teaching, it soon comes apparent that the Germans are taking over what the children should be learning. Astrid fights it as much as she can, untill it's impossible for her to work.
The story follows Jogen who is caught up with another skier,
Karl who is an Olympian champion of Skier and he is butJogen doesn't trust him.
While Astrid finds she has to move out and find a new place, she's lucky and does but still in terrible trouble she and a friend Isaak and 10 years old daughter Sara, who Astrid taught at school find themselves moving on but trust is very hard to find except themselves. So a journey start for the 3 of them.
This book makes you realise how hard it was to travel in cold and snow weather conditions and always looking out for trouble and leaving everything you love behind for your life and freedom.
A Highly recommended read.
This book is in WW2..and the Germans trying to take over the people of Norway. The story is fictitious but the Shetland Bus is true.
It starts of with Astrid, a dedicated teacher and her boyfriend Jogen who sends messages to the Shetland Bus an Island close to Schotland using a Radio Transmitter.
Jogen finds he has to leave and get to Shetland Bus as the Germans have knowledge of what he's doing.
He leaves Astrid behind teaching, it soon comes apparent that the Germans are taking over what the children should be learning. Astrid fights it as much as she can, untill it's impossible for her to work.
The story follows Jogen who is caught up with another skier,
Karl who is an Olympian champion of Skier and he is butJogen doesn't trust him.
While Astrid finds she has to move out and find a new place, she's lucky and does but still in terrible trouble she and a friend Isaak and 10 years old daughter Sara, who Astrid taught at school find themselves moving on but trust is very hard to find except themselves. So a journey start for the 3 of them.
This book makes you realise how hard it was to travel in cold and snow weather conditions and always looking out for trouble and leaving everything you love behind for your life and freedom.
A Highly recommended read.
January 14, 2021
The book is set in 1942 WWII German-occupied Norway as well as the Shetland Islands. There’s two narrative strands, one following Jørgen the other following Astrid. The two of them are in an undefined romantic relationship at the beginning of the book. Astrid accidentally discovers that Jørgen is part of the Norwegian resistance and does radio transmissions for the British. Soon after, Jørgen is found out and he needs to leave the country, not able to take Astrid with him. He sets off on a difficult journey toward the Norwegian coast where the so called Shetland Bus operates. Fishing boats that are operating between Shetland and Norway, carrying refugees, ammunition’s, agents,etc are taking Jørgen to safety whilst Astrid gets involved in the Teacher‘s Strike and therefore becomes a thorn in the eye if the occupying forces. The question is- what will happen to Astrid as she gets more and more involved with the resistance? Will she and Jørgen ever see each other again? And what about Astrid's pupil Sara and her father, who came to Norway from Germany in order to escape Hitler?
I read this book in one sitting and was so fascinated with the narrative and the characters and the entire operation of the Shetland Bus- which I have never heard of before. The characters are complex, they grow and make mistakes and are well-written. The narrative is well-paced and I really enjoyed this book and am happy to have learned so much about the occupation of Norway too.
I read this book in one sitting and was so fascinated with the narrative and the characters and the entire operation of the Shetland Bus- which I have never heard of before. The characters are complex, they grow and make mistakes and are well-written. The narrative is well-paced and I really enjoyed this book and am happy to have learned so much about the occupation of Norway too.
January 5, 2021
This novel is so realistic that I could see members of our own family in it. Norway has always been a magical place where our family lived until some came to live in Wisconsin and the Dakotas during the Great Worldwide Depression. (One of us even did time in a concentration camp in Denmark.)
I find it amazing how the novels about that war and the German occupation rarely focus on Norway and the Quizlings. This tale breaks out of that mold and reminds us that others were made to suffer because of one country's megalomaniac.
The publisher's blurb is well done and stops just short of detailing the horror of the executions. Did I like the book? That's not the wording I'd choose, but it is exceptionally well written without graphically detailing the horrors.
I requested and received a temporary free ebook copy from Sapere Books via NetGalley. Thank you.
I bought an ebook copy to keep even before finishing it.
I find it amazing how the novels about that war and the German occupation rarely focus on Norway and the Quizlings. This tale breaks out of that mold and reminds us that others were made to suffer because of one country's megalomaniac.
The publisher's blurb is well done and stops just short of detailing the horror of the executions. Did I like the book? That's not the wording I'd choose, but it is exceptionally well written without graphically detailing the horrors.
I requested and received a temporary free ebook copy from Sapere Books via NetGalley. Thank you.
I bought an ebook copy to keep even before finishing it.
January 24, 2021
Terrific action from the first page as Jørgen, a W/T operator for the resistance in Norway, is detected and has to flee for his life, not knowing who to trust during his journey to reach the Shetland Bus. Meanwhile, his girlfriend Astrid becomes involved in the Norwegian teachers strike and the consequences of this lead her into working with the civilian resistance. She too is forced to flee Norway in the company of a Jewish father and daughter, who narrowly avoided being taken for deportation.
Interwoven with Jørgen and Astrid’s stories is the story of life in occupied Norway and its people, especially those who connect with Jørgen and Astrid before, after and during their escapes. The motives of these people: patriotism, fear, love, greed, jealousy and more, all have an effect on the story and greatly add to the suspense and drama. A very enjoyable book, thoroughly recommended.
Thanks to Sapere Books for a copy to review
Interwoven with Jørgen and Astrid’s stories is the story of life in occupied Norway and its people, especially those who connect with Jørgen and Astrid before, after and during their escapes. The motives of these people: patriotism, fear, love, greed, jealousy and more, all have an effect on the story and greatly add to the suspense and drama. A very enjoyable book, thoroughly recommended.
Thanks to Sapere Books for a copy to review
January 10, 2021
As so many non-fiction and fiction books centred around World War 2 appear every year, I wonder if we will reach saturation point. But this romantic novel offers a different angle, offering Occupied Norway and the Shetland Islands as the background to this tale. Without wanting to spoil the plot, story takes in the 1942 Norwegian teachers strike, the plight of Jews in hiding who are forced to go on the run, the standard themes of resistance, betrayal , some double-crossing. How under the pressures of occupation, a population can display both heroism and idealism along side the most vicious , self serving ambition. Which is part of the dynamic of World War 2 fiction generally. The story unfolds well and not always easy to protect. Recommended.
January 16, 2021
A great book!!
I loved this book!! Right from the start it was gripping and moved at a fast pace through the entire book. It really grabbed me and kept me reading and not wanting to stop. I read while my tea steeped. I read while I fixed dinner. I just read at every opportunity. The scenes and characters were riveting!! What was going to happen next!? I was frustrated wanting a certain character to wake up to what was happening and angered at the brutality of another. It just got better and better. The author did a great job of making it all happen and brought it all together in a satisfying ending. Certain aspects are based on historical fact which always makes the book better in my mind. It’s very well done.
pamarella
PRCS
I loved this book!! Right from the start it was gripping and moved at a fast pace through the entire book. It really grabbed me and kept me reading and not wanting to stop. I read while my tea steeped. I read while I fixed dinner. I just read at every opportunity. The scenes and characters were riveting!! What was going to happen next!? I was frustrated wanting a certain character to wake up to what was happening and angered at the brutality of another. It just got better and better. The author did a great job of making it all happen and brought it all together in a satisfying ending. Certain aspects are based on historical fact which always makes the book better in my mind. It’s very well done.
pamarella
PRCS
February 10, 2021
First, thanks to Sapere Books for a copy of The Lifeline to review. I’ve read many books about the resistance in WW11, but this was the first one set in Nazi occupied Norway, and I really enjoyed this book. Learning something new adds another level to my enjoyment of a novel, and this met that brief. The two main characters, Astrid and Jorgen are well developed and took me with them on their journeys in this frightening time. Jorgen’s journey to Shetland and the subsequent dangers there kept me on the edge of my seat. Astrid’s stand against the Germans was equally as nail biting. Overall, I found this to be an excellent read, and will happily read other books by Deborah Swift.
February 22, 2021
Thank you to Sapere books for this ARC.
Thank you for opening my eyes to a part of WWII that I never knew about - and I have read a lot of WWII fiction. This story shows how Norway was affected by German occupation during the war. I feel that is a country very rarely mentioned and it was interesting to read about the relationship with Scotland and how they fought against the Germans.
This book was a page turner for me and I found the characters both likeable and contemptable. Some scenes were difficult to read as in any war story. I thought the ending was well done and while no surprises it was a good conclusion.
Thank you for opening my eyes to a part of WWII that I never knew about - and I have read a lot of WWII fiction. This story shows how Norway was affected by German occupation during the war. I feel that is a country very rarely mentioned and it was interesting to read about the relationship with Scotland and how they fought against the Germans.
This book was a page turner for me and I found the characters both likeable and contemptable. Some scenes were difficult to read as in any war story. I thought the ending was well done and while no surprises it was a good conclusion.
April 22, 2021
A book that touches the heart and draws you in, making you feel like you are right there in 1942!
I didn’t want this book to end. I felt like I was on this journey with the characters Astrid & Jørgen. Every detail made this book come alive, I could vividly picture the storms and the perils they were facing along the way. You can easily imagine yourself as the character in this novel; how you might have felt and what your decision might have been in the situations they found themselves in. A truly moving book that shows human compassion, how ordinary people will risk their lives for others and human nature to never give up hope.
I didn’t want this book to end. I felt like I was on this journey with the characters Astrid & Jørgen. Every detail made this book come alive, I could vividly picture the storms and the perils they were facing along the way. You can easily imagine yourself as the character in this novel; how you might have felt and what your decision might have been in the situations they found themselves in. A truly moving book that shows human compassion, how ordinary people will risk their lives for others and human nature to never give up hope.
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