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A Jewish Family Saga #1
Not In America
"Jews drink the blood of Christian babies. They use it for their rituals. They are evil and they consort with the devil."
This heinous slander is called the "Blood Libel. And it is a slander the Jews have lived with for more than a thousand years.
Four-year-old Evelyn Wilson goes missing in a small town in upstate New York in 1928. Instantly, old prejudices claw to the surface. As a frenzy of panic and bloodlust overwhelms all reason, the community turns on the Schatzman family.
A terrible witch hunt follows.
The Schatzmans' young son is accused of horrifying crimes.
As their life in America falls apart, leaving nothing but anguish and devastation, some of the Schatzmans return home to Berlin.
But Germany in the 1930s is no safe harbor.
Based on actual events, Not in America explores hidden hatreds, simmering resentments, and the short path separating civilization from horrific violence.
Read this moving historical fiction novel of grief, bravery, and incredible resilience right now!
This heinous slander is called the "Blood Libel. And it is a slander the Jews have lived with for more than a thousand years.
Four-year-old Evelyn Wilson goes missing in a small town in upstate New York in 1928. Instantly, old prejudices claw to the surface. As a frenzy of panic and bloodlust overwhelms all reason, the community turns on the Schatzman family.
A terrible witch hunt follows.
The Schatzmans' young son is accused of horrifying crimes.
As their life in America falls apart, leaving nothing but anguish and devastation, some of the Schatzmans return home to Berlin.
But Germany in the 1930s is no safe harbor.
Based on actual events, Not in America explores hidden hatreds, simmering resentments, and the short path separating civilization from horrific violence.
Read this moving historical fiction novel of grief, bravery, and incredible resilience right now!
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2020
819 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Roberta Kagan
70 books643 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 52 reviews
November 18, 2020
An excellent book about Jewish life in America.
I loved reading this story as I was young in Holland during the war. We have often harbored Jewish people and I know of their struggles.The characters were well chosen and I loved Sam and his love affair. I will look for the next book in this Saga.
I loved reading this story as I was young in Holland during the war. We have often harbored Jewish people and I know of their struggles.The characters were well chosen and I loved Sam and his love affair. I will look for the next book in this Saga.
August 11, 2020
Another wonderful book from Roberta Kagan
This is another wonderful story from Roberta. I could not put the book down and can hardly wait for book two
This is another wonderful story from Roberta. I could not put the book down and can hardly wait for book two
August 9, 2020
I have read a dozen or more of Roberta Kagan’s books. She is a great story teller. I am not a fan of cliffhangers which some of her series tend to be, but I love her characters so much, I really don’t mind. Instead of taking place in Europe, where most of her stories take place, this one is in New York in the early part of the 1900’s. Instead of Nazis, this story deals with the KKK. But, I have a feeling that the next book in this series will take us to Germany. Most of her stories are love stories, kind of like Romeo and Juliet. Jew/non Jew. I honestly can’t wait until the next part.
June 4, 2023
Great Start
I'm a big fan of this author and was excited to start this new series. Once again she does not disappoint. Wonderfully rich characters and a fast paced story. Perfect balance between dialogue and narrative. Highly anticipating the next book.
I'm a big fan of this author and was excited to start this new series. Once again she does not disappoint. Wonderfully rich characters and a fast paced story. Perfect balance between dialogue and narrative. Highly anticipating the next book.
August 31, 2020
Excellent book
Roberta all your books are suberb, I have enjoyed everyone. Can't wait till the next one in this series. About the blood libel...could it happen again in America...yes it certainly could more so I think in a small area but, time in ripe now in our country for all bad things to happen. Boy how I wanted to get in the book and tell Goldie not to go to Berlin...she will be very lucky to get out alive. This book is very emotional and moving. I highly recommend it to others who have read your books and anyone who enjoys a well written novel.
Roberta all your books are suberb, I have enjoyed everyone. Can't wait till the next one in this series. About the blood libel...could it happen again in America...yes it certainly could more so I think in a small area but, time in ripe now in our country for all bad things to happen. Boy how I wanted to get in the book and tell Goldie not to go to Berlin...she will be very lucky to get out alive. This book is very emotional and moving. I highly recommend it to others who have read your books and anyone who enjoys a well written novel.
August 28, 2020
Interesting read on a different time and place than usual
I liked the book very much, but the editing needs to be corrected. Some of the book was repetitive. The time frame, the KKK, life on the Lower East Side, the characters were well drawn. I’m anxious to read the next volume.
I liked the book very much, but the editing needs to be corrected. Some of the book was repetitive. The time frame, the KKK, life on the Lower East Side, the characters were well drawn. I’m anxious to read the next volume.
August 2, 2020
Another great book by Roberta Kagan
The book starts out with a kidnapping of an innocent
Child. There is a lot of..heartache,but there are
good times and a lot of tenderness and love
In the book.
The book starts out with a kidnapping of an innocent
Child. There is a lot of..heartache,but there are
good times and a lot of tenderness and love
In the book.
August 9, 2020
Not In America
Roberta Kagan is one of my favorite authors. This book was no exception, one of her best. Set in America in the late 1920’s this book shows how the Jewish people had to live and the hardships they faced.
Roberta Kagan is one of my favorite authors. This book was no exception, one of her best. Set in America in the late 1920’s this book shows how the Jewish people had to live and the hardships they faced.
August 3, 2020
I love all Roberta Kagan books!
August 8, 2020
This author never disappoints. And writes books in “series” so I’m anxiously waiting for the next book!
August 9, 2020
A well deserved 5 star review for this latest book from Roberta Kagan I can't wait for the 2nd book I the series to see what awaits the family in the war years.
Read
August 11, 2020Kagan has done it again!
Loved this story except how it ended—I wanted more and now I have to wait for the next book. I read this in 2 days as I could could not put it down!
Loved this story except how it ended—I wanted more and now I have to wait for the next book. I read this in 2 days as I could could not put it down!
October 29, 2020
Antisemitism in 20th Century America
This is an enlightening book. It is also loosely based on the true story of blood libel accusations against Jews in a small New York town. The tale begins in 1929 and shows the distrust that gentiles showed toward Jews. As with any good story, there are characters that are good and those that are evil. This book is well worth the time it takes to read. You will think about this story.long after the book is finished.
This is an enlightening book. It is also loosely based on the true story of blood libel accusations against Jews in a small New York town. The tale begins in 1929 and shows the distrust that gentiles showed toward Jews. As with any good story, there are characters that are good and those that are evil. This book is well worth the time it takes to read. You will think about this story.long after the book is finished.
October 28, 2020
A Jew in America going into the Great Depression
This was a new way to look at the history of the US as it relates to the Jews and American life. There were monsters living even then, and human nature is on full display. I enjoy the character development that Roberta Kagan is able to write, and her stories.
This was a new way to look at the history of the US as it relates to the Jews and American life. There were monsters living even then, and human nature is on full display. I enjoy the character development that Roberta Kagan is able to write, and her stories.
August 21, 2020
I am a big fan of Roberta Kagan and loved this book. As her other novels, this is no great literary masterpiece but a simply written story that draws you in. Sam, the main character is certainly flawed and far from smart...about as far as you can get. There were times I wanted to reach out and smack him, but I couldn't help but love him. I was surprised to learn the early incident that kicked off the story was based on factual events (the town of Medina was an altered name). None of the early issues were a surprise based on the year (1928) and it could still happen today (in light of the KKK at Charlottesville, Va, etc). I finished the book in a few days but am angry the story just stopped in the middle of an important moment. Ms Kagan has a history of turning her novels into TV type programs that leave you with a cliff hanger until the next season...or next novel. I hope I don't have to wait too long for the follow-up.
April 29, 2022
Roberta does it again!
I have read most of Roberta Kagen’s Series of books and there is not one I wouldn’t give 5 stars! Her stories offer an incredible insight into being Jewish around World War II. The unbearable pain, disdain, violence and grief most Jews endured. All of the books do give a glimpse of courage, hope, love and the incredible survival instinct that is inherent, or should be, in us all. I truly believe her books should be used in teaching the young about the Holocaust, as it is not just about the numbers that were lost by the unspeakable acts of the Nazi’s, but these are real people’s stories - told in such a heartfelt and human way, you can’t stop reading. I absolutely love her stories!
I have read most of Roberta Kagen’s Series of books and there is not one I wouldn’t give 5 stars! Her stories offer an incredible insight into being Jewish around World War II. The unbearable pain, disdain, violence and grief most Jews endured. All of the books do give a glimpse of courage, hope, love and the incredible survival instinct that is inherent, or should be, in us all. I truly believe her books should be used in teaching the young about the Holocaust, as it is not just about the numbers that were lost by the unspeakable acts of the Nazi’s, but these are real people’s stories - told in such a heartfelt and human way, you can’t stop reading. I absolutely love her stories!
December 7, 2023
This is an important book for our time and Roberta Kagan is an important author and a must read.
This book elegantly shows how hatred and bigotry grows. Thru lies, spreading fear, keeping people uneducated. While the story takes place almost 90 years in the past, it's story reads like today's headlines.
There are a lot of Yiddish words and phrases. I found these very comforting, but Ms. Kagan does a good job of explaining them for people who do not know there meaning.
My goal for next year is to read a good part of Ms. Kagan's catalogue. Looks like it's going to be a very interesting year.
This book elegantly shows how hatred and bigotry grows. Thru lies, spreading fear, keeping people uneducated. While the story takes place almost 90 years in the past, it's story reads like today's headlines.
There are a lot of Yiddish words and phrases. I found these very comforting, but Ms. Kagan does a good job of explaining them for people who do not know there meaning.
My goal for next year is to read a good part of Ms. Kagan's catalogue. Looks like it's going to be a very interesting year.
May 21, 2021
Not My Usual Style of Book
This book is a laughing by way from the usual style I like and read. However, I decided to give it a go. The storyline is good. The writing is stilted, lacks the sort of detail I usually enjoy. The whole book paints an accurate picture of an era in the US that is uncomfortable and challenging. I recommend you read this book and consider the series to make yourself aware that Black Lives Matter has a history.
This book is a laughing by way from the usual style I like and read. However, I decided to give it a go. The storyline is good. The writing is stilted, lacks the sort of detail I usually enjoy. The whole book paints an accurate picture of an era in the US that is uncomfortable and challenging. I recommend you read this book and consider the series to make yourself aware that Black Lives Matter has a history.
June 29, 2021
Jean38no
I enjoyed this book. The author brought out anti-semitism in America . It’s ironic considering that the majority of people in America except for the native People came from Europe. Most to have a better life in America. Many bringing the old prejudices that they have had toward one another for thousands of years. The struggles of this one family all because of a Romeo and Juliet love story that happened to the children of the family.
I enjoyed this book. The author brought out anti-semitism in America . It’s ironic considering that the majority of people in America except for the native People came from Europe. Most to have a better life in America. Many bringing the old prejudices that they have had toward one another for thousands of years. The struggles of this one family all because of a Romeo and Juliet love story that happened to the children of the family.
November 17, 2022
I must admit after reading the first few chapters of this book, I almost put it down & walked away -- something I rarely do. The beginning is so dark with some pretty twisted family dynamics, but shortly after those chapters the focus turns to other characters who hook your interest & reel you into an incredible journey through their life in America that I couldn't put down. Can't wait to start Book 2 in this series. Highly recommend ed!!
January 24, 2021
Once you start reading you will not put it down!
One of the best book I have read in a very long time. Roberta Kagan has just become one of my favorite authors. I will be sure to read ALL her books. Sam and Chana were meant for each other. Can't wait to see where it goes from here.
One of the best book I have read in a very long time. Roberta Kagan has just become one of my favorite authors. I will be sure to read ALL her books. Sam and Chana were meant for each other. Can't wait to see where it goes from here.
September 19, 2021
My Musings
I enjoyed the book and I like the characters. This book is unique and it's a great look at life during the prohibition. Although I am not fond of cliffhangers, I knew that before it ended so I accepted it better than I usually do. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. Happy reading!
I enjoyed the book and I like the characters. This book is unique and it's a great look at life during the prohibition. Although I am not fond of cliffhangers, I knew that before it ended so I accepted it better than I usually do. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. Happy reading!
January 2, 2022
all night read
Don’t start this book unless you have time to finish it, can’t help but turn the next page. More seriously, the story of Jewish persecution is illustrated in heart wrenching examples that are unfortunately most likely based on real happenings. This is a story of survival, love and determination in the midst of poverty and unbelievable circumstances.
Don’t start this book unless you have time to finish it, can’t help but turn the next page. More seriously, the story of Jewish persecution is illustrated in heart wrenching examples that are unfortunately most likely based on real happenings. This is a story of survival, love and determination in the midst of poverty and unbelievable circumstances.
April 4, 2022
Persecution in America.
Another five star page turner from a brilliant author. All the ingredients for a gripping story are present once again. A forbidden love affair, underhand plotting against jews, the struggles of a Jewish family to find a sense of belonging and vivid characters. This book ends on a cliffhanger, so on to book two in the saga.
Another five star page turner from a brilliant author. All the ingredients for a gripping story are present once again. A forbidden love affair, underhand plotting against jews, the struggles of a Jewish family to find a sense of belonging and vivid characters. This book ends on a cliffhanger, so on to book two in the saga.
June 8, 2021
Good series.
It was a good beginning for this series. I read the second book first and then the second book. Im looking forward to jumping to the 3rd book now and see what happens!
It was a good beginning for this series. I read the second book first and then the second book. Im looking forward to jumping to the 3rd book now and see what happens!
September 9, 2022
Bigotry in America in the 1920.
In a small town in upstate NY Jews and Gentiles lived in a tenuous calm while KKK hatred ran silent until a little girl was abducted snd a young Jewish man was blamed. A very fast paced story of love lost.
In a small town in upstate NY Jews and Gentiles lived in a tenuous calm while KKK hatred ran silent until a little girl was abducted snd a young Jewish man was blamed. A very fast paced story of love lost.
July 21, 2023
Fast the Past Embrace the Future
Wicked fast pace, unexpected twists. Cringe worthy you'll love and hate the character's brilliant and forgiving. It's a page Turner can't wait to see what happens next!
Wicked fast pace, unexpected twists. Cringe worthy you'll love and hate the character's brilliant and forgiving. It's a page Turner can't wait to see what happens next!
June 9, 2024
Good story.
I love learning about people's lives that are different from mine. This story is about a Jewish family who struggles during the war. I would recommend this to anyone. I'm definitely going to read the second book of this saga.
I love learning about people's lives that are different from mine. This story is about a Jewish family who struggles during the war. I would recommend this to anyone. I'm definitely going to read the second book of this saga.
May 5, 2021
First in four book series. Follows several Jewish family members and their lives in America and Europe. Starts before WWII .... explores the discrimination against Jews before and during WWII.
May 16, 2021
Loved this book!
XOXO. I can’t wait for Book 2. This ended too abruptly at the end. Now I want more! Easy reading.
XOXO. I can’t wait for Book 2. This ended too abruptly at the end. Now I want more! Easy reading.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews