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Bold, Bright Spirit: a compelling story of courage and resilience in World War II
Nine-year-old Oscar Rosenfeld chases his runaway kitten, delighted to be outdoors after months of being cooped up in a small Viennese apartment. His parents and sister Miriam race after him in alarm. He immediately runs into two policemen who catch hold of him. But they have no intention of returning him safely to his family. Their faces contort in disgust and rage. For Oscar has Down’s Syndrome and as such is targeted by the Nazis for extermination. Oscar’s parents fight to save him, their father is killed and their mother is beaten to the ground. Her last words to Miriam are to take Oscar and flee.Miriam is only fourteen years old, a young, unworldly Jewish girl in a regime which considers her an enemy. She is traumatised and alone but swiftly makes a desperate and courageous decision. She and Oscar embark on a journey across the continent to an aunt they have never seen. It calls on all of her remarkable intelligence, resourcefulness and determination, all her boldness and spirit. Every step they take is dogged by the menace of an ever-expanding Nazi empire.She finds her aunt in Athens but all too soon the Nazis conquer Greece. Miriam and Oscar escape to Crete but within days have to flee again, eventually reaching safety in Egypt. But finally, when she believes that that they are safe, Miriam agrees to return to Germany to discover the secret of the Nazi’s terror weapons. And there she discovers something that will haunt her for ever.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2020
215 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Martin Lake
44 books148 followersHello, I'm Martin Lake. I've been writing fiction since the age of eleven when our inventive English teacher Mr Johnson asked us to imagine that we were a Guy on a Guy Fawkes bonfire. I discovered the thrill of words and character.
My favourite authors when I was young were historical novelists like Rosemary Sutcliff and Henry Treece and a galaxy of science fiction writers. Later on I discovered the Flashman novels by George McDonald Fraser which I still consider the best of historical fiction.
I studied English Literature and History at UEA.
I have written all my life and had my first success with another story about 5th November, 'The Guy Fawkes Contest.' This was broadcast on radio and I spent more than my fee on celebrating my success.
Then one morning; revelation. I love writing and I love history. I decided to combine the two and wrote a novel about the Elizabethan spy network. There was some interest in this from publishers but not enough and it languishes still in a drawer.
I had a bad accident and could no longer drive nor turn over a paper-back book without dropping it and having to ask my wife to pick it up. My wife bought me an e-reader and shortly afterwards I discovered that I could self-publish my novels.
That was it. My life-long ambition was about to take off.
I have a series of novels set in the years following the Norman Invasion of England: The Flame of Resistance, Triumph and Catastrophe, Blood of Ironside and In Search of Glory.
I have also written four novels about the Viking Invasions of England: Wolves of War, To the Death, Land of Blood and Water and Blood Enemy.
Outcasts is about the fall of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Third Crusade.
ALove Most Dangerous and the sequel Very Like a Queen tell the tale of Alice Petherton, a mistress of King Henry VIII.
I have four World War Two novels: Cry of the Heart and Ties of the Heart and Brave, Bold Spirit and The Turn of the Tide.
You can find my blog at martinlakewriting.wordpress.com
Twitter @martinlake14.
Email: martinlake14@gmail.com
My favourite authors when I was young were historical novelists like Rosemary Sutcliff and Henry Treece and a galaxy of science fiction writers. Later on I discovered the Flashman novels by George McDonald Fraser which I still consider the best of historical fiction.
I studied English Literature and History at UEA.
I have written all my life and had my first success with another story about 5th November, 'The Guy Fawkes Contest.' This was broadcast on radio and I spent more than my fee on celebrating my success.
Then one morning; revelation. I love writing and I love history. I decided to combine the two and wrote a novel about the Elizabethan spy network. There was some interest in this from publishers but not enough and it languishes still in a drawer.
I had a bad accident and could no longer drive nor turn over a paper-back book without dropping it and having to ask my wife to pick it up. My wife bought me an e-reader and shortly afterwards I discovered that I could self-publish my novels.
That was it. My life-long ambition was about to take off.
I have a series of novels set in the years following the Norman Invasion of England: The Flame of Resistance, Triumph and Catastrophe, Blood of Ironside and In Search of Glory.
I have also written four novels about the Viking Invasions of England: Wolves of War, To the Death, Land of Blood and Water and Blood Enemy.
Outcasts is about the fall of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Third Crusade.
ALove Most Dangerous and the sequel Very Like a Queen tell the tale of Alice Petherton, a mistress of King Henry VIII.
I have four World War Two novels: Cry of the Heart and Ties of the Heart and Brave, Bold Spirit and The Turn of the Tide.
You can find my blog at martinlakewriting.wordpress.com
Twitter @martinlake14.
Email: martinlake14@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 18, 2021
Almost unbelievable what one young girl can survive
Miriam, a young Jewish girl, along with her mentally challenged young brother, escape Austria and her journey involves much travail and danger, but she gets them to safety each time it looks impossible. She speaks multiple languages because she is able to learn languages quickly and she is a genius who retains what
she learns. Her goal in life becomes to do all she can to help beat Hitler and the Nazis. I wasn’t ready for the book to end.
Miriam, a young Jewish girl, along with her mentally challenged young brother, escape Austria and her journey involves much travail and danger, but she gets them to safety each time it looks impossible. She speaks multiple languages because she is able to learn languages quickly and she is a genius who retains what
she learns. Her goal in life becomes to do all she can to help beat Hitler and the Nazis. I wasn’t ready for the book to end.
March 24, 2021
This is the first of Martin Lake's books I have read and I would definitely recommend it. The story of a gutsy Austrian Jewish teenager and her young brother during the start of Jewish persecution by the Nazis is gripping and authentic. The book is fast-paced and absorbing, characters quickly and skilfully sketched in, then fleshed out psychologically and emotionally as we travel with them. As the plot progresses we are introduced to new locations and an ever-changing cast of fully realised characters without ever losing sight of the main protagonist, Miriam, who has to use all her resources to avoid capture by the Nazis for herself and her brother who has Down's Syndrome. Don't be misled by the somewhat sentimental picture on the cover. There are scenes from the start which may disturb some people, but this is a novel which uses a filter of truth to tell its story and given what the Nazis were capable of, how could it be otherwise? Miriam's optimism, courage and intelligence helps the reader throughout to stay rooted to her cause.
December 23, 2020
What a fantastic story! It captured me from the start and kept my attention to the end. Would love to read continuing books.
The book is well written although there were a few incidents where words were omitted or other errors slipped by the proof readers. These errors are minor, but they do interrupt the flow of the story. If they can be corrected, it would improve the book so much.
I look forward to reading more novels written by Martin Lake.
The book is well written although there were a few incidents where words were omitted or other errors slipped by the proof readers. These errors are minor, but they do interrupt the flow of the story. If they can be corrected, it would improve the book so much.
I look forward to reading more novels written by Martin Lake.
January 5, 2021
Hatred is so hard to understand when it’s directed toward a people just because they are Jewish, Gods chosen people
The spirit and will to survive is all a person can have sometimes to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Miriam is an amazing young woman with a brilliant mind which she uses for good to triumph over evil, loved this book.
The spirit and will to survive is all a person can have sometimes to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Miriam is an amazing young woman with a brilliant mind which she uses for good to triumph over evil, loved this book.
February 9, 2021
Excellent Novel About Unheralded Bravery
This is a wonderful book.about a young,Viennese woman who was only twelve,when she saw her father killed and her mother badly injured by a sadistic,German policeman.
They were looking for her little brother Oscar,who was retarded.The Germans had they found
him,would have taken.him.away to be used for experiments or killed him,thinking that the small,damaged child didn't deserve to live or breathe the same air they did.
When her mother saw what was happening to her father,she told Mariam to run and to take Oscar with.her and that now,she would always be responsible for him.
Mariam,whom Oscar called Mimmy took this very serious,even though Oscar was a handful and kept crying for his mother.
They ran and hid all over Europe,staying with friends occasionally, but mostly.kind strangers.
The girl was a very quick study,in fact her teacher before the Holocaust & after thought she was a genius and she ended up working for the Military,deciphering documents,as she spoke eight languages.
They later found a home with a couple of sisters,who eventually adopted them.
There is so much,I could tell about this novel,as it's one of the best books about the war,that I've read in awhile.
This isn't a romantic,type story as so many of the WWII novels are,but,this one makes you realize how much,these people,suffered and lost and will make you, wonder would you or I have had the same sense of responsibility,to take care of one of our siblings,when we were still a very young person ourselves and keep them safe and happy ?
This story has a lot of depth with some really.unforgettable characters, "Martin Lake" has written a beautiful story
"Bold,Bright Spirit."
He also has others that sound really.good,that I hope to enjoy reading soon.
This is a wonderful book.about a young,Viennese woman who was only twelve,when she saw her father killed and her mother badly injured by a sadistic,German policeman.
They were looking for her little brother Oscar,who was retarded.The Germans had they found
him,would have taken.him.away to be used for experiments or killed him,thinking that the small,damaged child didn't deserve to live or breathe the same air they did.
When her mother saw what was happening to her father,she told Mariam to run and to take Oscar with.her and that now,she would always be responsible for him.
Mariam,whom Oscar called Mimmy took this very serious,even though Oscar was a handful and kept crying for his mother.
They ran and hid all over Europe,staying with friends occasionally, but mostly.kind strangers.
The girl was a very quick study,in fact her teacher before the Holocaust & after thought she was a genius and she ended up working for the Military,deciphering documents,as she spoke eight languages.
They later found a home with a couple of sisters,who eventually adopted them.
There is so much,I could tell about this novel,as it's one of the best books about the war,that I've read in awhile.
This isn't a romantic,type story as so many of the WWII novels are,but,this one makes you realize how much,these people,suffered and lost and will make you, wonder would you or I have had the same sense of responsibility,to take care of one of our siblings,when we were still a very young person ourselves and keep them safe and happy ?
This story has a lot of depth with some really.unforgettable characters, "Martin Lake" has written a beautiful story
"Bold,Bright Spirit."
He also has others that sound really.good,that I hope to enjoy reading soon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2026
Bold Bright Spirit by Martin Lake is a wonderful and compelling read. The story draws you in from the beginning with its warmth, depth, and thoughtful storytelling. Lake creates characters that feel real and engaging, and the narrative unfolds in a way that keeps you invested and curious about what comes next.
What stands out most is the sense of heart and resilience that runs throughout the book. It’s uplifting without being simplistic, and reflective without feeling heavy — a balance that makes it both enjoyable and meaningful. The writing is clear and vivid, allowing readers to easily connect with the themes and emotions woven through the story.
Overall, Bold Bright Spirit is a memorable and rewarding book that leaves you feeling inspired. I would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt and engaging read.
October 26, 2023
Excellent Book
This novel make WW II personal.it brings to life the horrors and bravery of the times and the war.
Anyone who thinks that Germany during WW II had a soul, will see how mistaken they are.
The book does candy coat the treatment of Jews.
It does show the determination of the people who were able to sacrifice everything to defeat Germany.
It does bring out the prejudice of men toward women. What their attitudes of superiority cost both personally and professionally . Refusals to change their mindset was dangerous.
This novel make WW II personal.it brings to life the horrors and bravery of the times and the war.
Anyone who thinks that Germany during WW II had a soul, will see how mistaken they are.
The book does candy coat the treatment of Jews.
It does show the determination of the people who were able to sacrifice everything to defeat Germany.
It does bring out the prejudice of men toward women. What their attitudes of superiority cost both personally and professionally . Refusals to change their mindset was dangerous.
July 12, 2021
A great story
This is a very interesting story about like the book says Of courage and resiliens Book about a young Jewish girl whose parents were killed right a Nazis and she had Young brother Who had down syndrome. I read this book in 2 days it I couldn't put it down it was a great book and an Intriguing story I would recommend this book to wahoo like to read about world war II
This is a very interesting story about like the book says Of courage and resiliens Book about a young Jewish girl whose parents were killed right a Nazis and she had Young brother Who had down syndrome. I read this book in 2 days it I couldn't put it down it was a great book and an Intriguing story I would recommend this book to wahoo like to read about world war II
April 25, 2021
Wow! What a good read. I wasn't expecting much from the title but was pleasantly surprised. Lots of twists and turns. Definitely had me right from the start. So much that I read I have to struggle to finish and sometimes I just don't.
Read this you will love it. I am not giving the story away. It is too good.
Read this you will love it. I am not giving the story away. It is too good.
April 29, 2021
Suspenseful
The narrative flows through so many settings and countries. The reader feels like he is traveling on the train with Miriam. We get small glimpses of the brutality that went on in maxi held territories. How many bright, extremely smart people were murdered by the Nazis? No one will ever know the potential that was not allowed to unfold and flourish!
The narrative flows through so many settings and countries. The reader feels like he is traveling on the train with Miriam. We get small glimpses of the brutality that went on in maxi held territories. How many bright, extremely smart people were murdered by the Nazis? No one will ever know the potential that was not allowed to unfold and flourish!
December 20, 2020
Incredible story
This compelling story drew me in and I finished it in a day. It weaves in real history with a cast of interesting people and fascinating places. Reading it was like watching a movie. I would so appreciate a sequel!
This compelling story drew me in and I finished it in a day. It weaves in real history with a cast of interesting people and fascinating places. Reading it was like watching a movie. I would so appreciate a sequel!
July 25, 2021
Interesting
Maria's experiences are amazing. Her loses are heartbreaking but in spite of them she is strong. The things she accomplishes are amazing almost to the point of unbelievable.
Maria's experiences are amazing. Her loses are heartbreaking but in spite of them she is strong. The things she accomplishes are amazing almost to the point of unbelievable.
May 4, 2025
This was an interesting read. I listened to it on Audible. I liked the main character very much. Her name is Miriam. She goes to many countries that I never thought of what it was like in those places at the time of World War II. Well written and I recommend if you like history
May 8, 2021
Good storyline
However I found the story and characters to be unbelievable. Story had too many problems and twists and turns that could not be believed.
However I found the story and characters to be unbelievable. Story had too many problems and twists and turns that could not be believed.
May 30, 2021
YA
Interesting story but not written very well. Writer gives facts, trying to inject emotional content, but falls well short of his aim. Story also very slow due to lack of skill.
Interesting story but not written very well. Writer gives facts, trying to inject emotional content, but falls well short of his aim. Story also very slow due to lack of skill.
March 14, 2021
A "C" on the grading scale
While the ties to history held my interest, I found the number and extent of the young girl's experience over-the-top. They would have been more credible if she was older.
And I can't remember ever reading a book with such poor proofreading and editing--starting on the first few faves when she was age 15 then 16 within 2 or 3 pages.
So it was OK but not a "couldn't put it down" read.
While the ties to history held my interest, I found the number and extent of the young girl's experience over-the-top. They would have been more credible if she was older.
And I can't remember ever reading a book with such poor proofreading and editing--starting on the first few faves when she was age 15 then 16 within 2 or 3 pages.
So it was OK but not a "couldn't put it down" read.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews