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The White Rose Network
1943, Germany: “I won’t be able to live if anything happens to you,” she whispered into his ear as they said goodbye, not knowing if they would ever see each other again. The White Rose Network brings to life the incredible true story of Sophie Scholl––one of history’s bravest women, who risked everything to lead a revolution against darkness.
Sophie was born to be a rebel, raised by parents who challenged the brutal Nazi regime. Determined to follow in their footsteps, she leaves for university, defying Hitler’s command for women to stay at home.
On her first day in Munich, Sophie’s brother Hans introduces her to his dear friend. When she meets Alexander, with his raven-black hair and brooding eyes, she knows instantly that she isn’t alone. There are more courageous souls like her, who will fight against evil.
Together, and with others who also refuse to back down, they form the White Rose Network. In an underground vault, Sophie and Alexander conspire in whispers, falling in love as they plot against Hitler. Promising her heart to Alexander is the most dangerous act of all––with each risk they take, they get closer to capture.
As snowflakes fall on a frosty February morning, Sophie and her brother scatter Munich University with leaflets calling for resistance: “We will not be silent; we will not leave you in peace!”
But their lives hang in the balance, with the secret police offering a reward to anyone with information on the White Rose Network. It is only a matter of time before the Gestapo closes in… And when Sophie is imprisoned in an interrogation room, staring a Nazi officer in the eye, will she take their secrets to her grave? Will she sacrifice her freedom for love?
Fans of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Alice Network and The Lilac Girls will be completely gripped by this heartbreaking and addictive page-turner. Based on a true story, this inspirational tale shows that, in the face of evil, giving up is not an option…
Sophie was born to be a rebel, raised by parents who challenged the brutal Nazi regime. Determined to follow in their footsteps, she leaves for university, defying Hitler’s command for women to stay at home.
On her first day in Munich, Sophie’s brother Hans introduces her to his dear friend. When she meets Alexander, with his raven-black hair and brooding eyes, she knows instantly that she isn’t alone. There are more courageous souls like her, who will fight against evil.
Together, and with others who also refuse to back down, they form the White Rose Network. In an underground vault, Sophie and Alexander conspire in whispers, falling in love as they plot against Hitler. Promising her heart to Alexander is the most dangerous act of all––with each risk they take, they get closer to capture.
As snowflakes fall on a frosty February morning, Sophie and her brother scatter Munich University with leaflets calling for resistance: “We will not be silent; we will not leave you in peace!”
But their lives hang in the balance, with the secret police offering a reward to anyone with information on the White Rose Network. It is only a matter of time before the Gestapo closes in… And when Sophie is imprisoned in an interrogation room, staring a Nazi officer in the eye, will she take their secrets to her grave? Will she sacrifice her freedom for love?
Fans of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Alice Network and The Lilac Girls will be completely gripped by this heartbreaking and addictive page-turner. Based on a true story, this inspirational tale shows that, in the face of evil, giving up is not an option…
252 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
1935 people are currently reading
5408 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Midwood
43 books1,160 followersEllie Midwood is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning historical fiction author, whose works have been translated into 20 languages. She owes her interest in the history of the Second World War to her grandfather, Junior Sergeant in the 2nd Guards Tank Army of the First Belorussian Front, who began telling her about his experiences on the frontline when she was a young girl. Growing up, her interest in history only deepened and transformed from reading about the war to writing about it. After obtaining her BA in Linguistics, Ellie decided to make writing her full-time career and began working on her first full-length historical novel, "The Girl from Berlin." Ellie is continuously enriching her library with new research material and feeds her passion for WWII and Holocaust history by collecting rare memorabilia and documents.
In her free time, Ellie is a health-obsessed yoga enthusiast, neat freak, adventurer, Nazi Germany history expert, polyglot, philosopher, a proud Jew, and a doggie mama. Ellie lives in New York with her husband and their three dogs.
In her free time, Ellie is a health-obsessed yoga enthusiast, neat freak, adventurer, Nazi Germany history expert, polyglot, philosopher, a proud Jew, and a doggie mama. Ellie lives in New York with her husband and their three dogs.
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June 14, 2022
Rounded down from roughly 3.5 stars ⭐️
The White Rose Network is based on the true story of Sophie, who joins her brother and his friends in their resistance against the Nazi regime. They write and spread leaflets urging the German people to resist and sabotage. But will it be long before the authorities catch up to them?
I absolutely adore Midwoods books. Each one is based on a true story and highlights some of the incredibly brave women from WWII. I absolutely love reading their stories and learning things I never knew before. I always love strong female characters, but what I love about these books is that they are REAL strong females who continue to inspire me. Sophie’s courage and willingness to stand up for what is right really struck a chord with me. Although I didn’t love this quite as much as previous books, I still really enjoyed learning about the White Rose Network which I had no knowledge of previously.
I loved the inclusion of real excerpts from the leaflets, it added a fascinating glimpse into history. The story flicks between the past, following Sophie’s involvement with the network, and her interrogation by the Gestapo. I really enjoyed this style of writing, it felt like I could see the pieces slipping together. However, I wasn’t fond of the romance storyline between Sophie and Alexander. It seemed to detract from the important work they were doing and made both of their characters seem flawed, albeit human. It is my understanding that this romance didn’t actually happen, and for me I would have preferred it to stay that way. That being said, I did love the final message that the new generation can and will continue to resist in place of the White Rose Network. This felt incredibly moving and poignant to me.
I would recommend this author to fans of historical fiction based in WWII. I want to thank Netgalley, Bookouture and Ellie Midwood for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts.
The White Rose Network is based on the true story of Sophie, who joins her brother and his friends in their resistance against the Nazi regime. They write and spread leaflets urging the German people to resist and sabotage. But will it be long before the authorities catch up to them?
I absolutely adore Midwoods books. Each one is based on a true story and highlights some of the incredibly brave women from WWII. I absolutely love reading their stories and learning things I never knew before. I always love strong female characters, but what I love about these books is that they are REAL strong females who continue to inspire me. Sophie’s courage and willingness to stand up for what is right really struck a chord with me. Although I didn’t love this quite as much as previous books, I still really enjoyed learning about the White Rose Network which I had no knowledge of previously.
I loved the inclusion of real excerpts from the leaflets, it added a fascinating glimpse into history. The story flicks between the past, following Sophie’s involvement with the network, and her interrogation by the Gestapo. I really enjoyed this style of writing, it felt like I could see the pieces slipping together. However, I wasn’t fond of the romance storyline between Sophie and Alexander. It seemed to detract from the important work they were doing and made both of their characters seem flawed, albeit human. It is my understanding that this romance didn’t actually happen, and for me I would have preferred it to stay that way. That being said, I did love the final message that the new generation can and will continue to resist in place of the White Rose Network. This felt incredibly moving and poignant to me.
I would recommend this author to fans of historical fiction based in WWII. I want to thank Netgalley, Bookouture and Ellie Midwood for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts.
August 8, 2022
So few resisted the Nazis from within Germany in proportion to the population of the country, but these small numbers also make those that did all the more remarkable in view of the wave they swam against. On one hand, they didn’t allow the relentless indoctrination to warp their minds, and on the other hand, turning passive resistance into active resistance against their own country carries an extra burden: everything to lose and nowhere to go if caught, having passive bystanders or active Nazis in their own families, knowing they’ll be deemed traitors, knowing their activities doom their own kin, knowing their actions could mean the deaths of other Germans…
The White Rose movement was amongst those few. But this novel doesn’t do them justice. Instead, "The White Rose Network" smears the memory and good name of Sophie Scholl, Alexander Schmorell, and Friedrich Hartnagel.
The name of these three people, now deceased and so unable to defend themselves, is dragged through the mud for the sake of playing Ken & Barbie doll for a romance plot that distorts real history, and completely disregards that there are still living members of the Scholl and Hartnagel families to whom it would be extremely hurtful to see this defamatory portrayal of their relatives, as well as the fact that Alexander Schmorell is a canonised saint of the Russian Orthodox Church, which would in turn be offensive to practitioners of this faith as well as still living people related to Schmorell.
Why is this novel defamatory and disrespectful to the memory of said real people? To elaborate is going to be, by necessity, spoilery. So if you’re averse to spoilers, do stop reading now.
The biggest issue is that the author has depicted a completely fabricated and problematic romance between Sophie Scholl and Alexander Schmorell, one that makes everyone involved look terrible and immoral. As per the plot, Sophie falls in love with Schmorell at first sight and is reciprocated. The problem is: she’s engaged to another man. So, what to do with that irksome engagement to Fritz Hartnagel that’s standing in the way of your precious romance writing? Easy! Make brother Hansi disapprove of Fritz, make Fritz be a distant, cold fish, backwardly militaristic, and totally non-understanding of Sophie’s feelings and needs, have him permanently off-stage in the Eastern Front never to be heard of again, and have Sophie rush into Alex’s open arms for a sex scene in-between a White Rose gathering.
Read for yourself:
And the author has Sophie never show but a token remorse after Fritz is supposedly lost with the troops at Stalingrad, having her briefly self-flagellate thinking he’s dead so she can conveniently forget him right away, whilst all this time behaving giddy and starry-eyed about how wonderful and handsome and pro-woman Schurik is compared to that backwards-thinking, goose-stepping soldier Fritz. And what’s more, she and Schmorell openly flaunt their relationship for everyone to see and have romantic escapades, with Midwood adding that Hans, of course, approves of it.
There’s all kinds of problems here. For a start, Sophie did develop a crush on Schmorell, but it was one-sided and never went past that. For the simple reason that Alex: a) never felt anything but friendship towards Sophie, to whom he was not particularly close; b) he also one-sidedly loved someone else, and that woman wasn’t Sophie but Christl’s sister, who is conveniently absent from this book; and c) Schmorell was a honourable person, he seems to have been aware of Sophie’s feelings, and he knew about her and Hartnagel.
Sophie was as principled a person, and her crush notwithstanding, she would never have and never did engage in a disgraceful affair whilst engaged to another man. For Midwood to make her not only girlishly immature around Alex but disregard her proven good character to make her into a cheater who doesn’t hesitate to have sex with another man behind her fiancé’s back is, frankly, slinging mud at the memory of an upstanding woman who lost her life for her principles and in opposition to tyranny. Incredibly, Midwood also has Sophie say, more than once, that she can’t break up with Fritz because breaking up with a fiancé whilst he’s at the front is “dastardly” (author's word). But fucking your brother’s best friend whilst your fiancé is at the front isn’t?
Then, to make the cheating justifiable within the novel, the author has to diminish Hartnagel’s reputation and involvement in Sophie’s life. A classic literary tactic: if you want your character to look good, make the other look bad. The reality is that Hans Scholl didn’t disapprove of Hartnagel as this novel says, why would he? Fritz had been friends with Hans and Werner Scholl since before the war. His relationship with Sophie was stormy at times, they had what he described as “unpleasant” moments, and they had their spats. All that is attested by their letters and other testimony. Omitted from this book is that Sophie could be manipulative, needy, truculent, and depressive, and yet for all their couple problems, she still had so much affection for Hartnagel. Also omitted from this novel is that, the day next to Sophie’s arrival in Munich to study at the university, which is the scene where the author makes Alex flirt with Sophie, Fritz visited her on leave from France, and would visit her again before he was shipped off to the Eastern Front. Hartnagel even gave her money when Sophie asked him for a duplicating machine (for the leaflets) and then asked him for money instead when he said he had no access to means to acquire one (as it had to be through the army). But if you believed this novel, Fritz never bothered to come visit her or do anything for Sophie but write occasional letters.
The novel also omits that, from Sophie’s goodbye letters before her execution, one was for Fritz. The author makes no mention whatsoever of the fact that he wrote to the People’s Court that tried the White Rose to halt the execution until he could go and plead clemency for Sophie, either. That’s the level of affection and care for each other running in their relationship, but in this novel, Fritz never lifts a finger for her, and all thoughts Sophie has before her execution are for Schmorell instead. She is made into an unprincipled cheater who only cares about another unprincipled cheater. And to justify this cheating, the third party’s good name is shredded.
And the irony is that the roles were reversed in reality: Sophie was the one to not like her brother’s then relationship and want another girl for him. Hans Scholl was far more complex and flawed than his sister, flawed and heroic without needing anyone to be denigrated for his elevation, without needing to steal anyone’s portion in the collective effort that was the White Rose.
Which brings me to the second big issue: Sophie’s character and contribution to the resistance are aggrandised at the expense of other members, especially Traute Lafrenz, her brother’s girlfriend before Gisela Schertling, Sophie’s Nazi-sympathiser gal pal from earlier times, who is absent here. The author has Sophie look more determined, more abrasive, and aggressively risk-taking so she looks better and more a heroine from a movie (to compensate for making her a cheater, perhaps?), and makes her do things she never did, like a plan to personally assassinate Hitler, for which she smuggles a gun to a commemoration of the University of Munich’s anniversary where Hitler was supposed to be, and she starts the student riot there by booing the Gauleiter’s crude speech, riot that made waves in Germany at the time for how rare it was. The reality? Sophie wasn’t there. It was Traute and another girl of their circle who were there. Sophie likewise never threw a brick at an SS officer’s car and yelled at it during a ruckus at a shop, and she wasn’t there when the White Rose contacted Falk Harnack forming a link with the Red Orchestra and the Wehrmacht cell of conspirators. Guess who did contribute to not just contacting but creating a new branch of the White Rose outside Munich? Traute Lafrenz. It was also Traute who outwit the Gestapo at her interrogation, and thus got a light sentence. Traute doesn’t deserve her portion of the glory stolen to prop up Sophie as a romance heroine, especially not because, unlike what the author depicted that Sophie never gave any other White Rose members away to the Gestapo, she actually did, and she gave Traute away in her interrogation with Mohr.
To complete, the author does the same to Hans and the other men as well, but the curious pattern here is that it only involves people the author has motive to be partial to: Jews and Russian POWs. The incident of Hans giving food to the Jewish girl and the White Rose boys’ fight with the Nazis guarding Soviet prisoners are romanticised and exaggerated. Hans didn’t grovel before the Jewish girl (he only gave her the food a second time with a flower so she’d accept it), and the White Rose men didn’t fistfight the SS to defend the Russian POWs (they’d have been court-martialled if they did; it was a shouting match where they traded insults). I get it, Punch The Nazi is an attractive trope, it’s certainly part of the appeal of “Inglorious Basterds,” but these are real people whose actions are documented, and to twist their well-intentioned and kind actions to fit personal fantasies of Germans grovelling for forgiveness before the Jews or risking life and limb to fight the SS over the Russians is a deplorable distortion of reality. Let Hans’s noble if small gesture speak for itself, let the boys’ defence of the Red Army prisoners speak for itself; neither needs tacky revenge porn added in.
The third big issue is Robert Mohr, the Gestapo Kriminalobersekretär that interrogated the Scholls, who is so whitewashed he would be proud of it were he to read this. This novel practically takes his self-serving postwar claims at face value and runs with it to give us the character of a long-time Nazi sympathetic to Sophie’s cause and even approving of it, encouraging his own daughter to follow White Rose ideals. And what’s more, Mohr is even actively collaborative with Sophie and her family during her arrest and trial, secretly sending notice to her parents about her arrest (again, stealing the merit from Traute, and Otl Aicher), goes to her trial and mentally disses and mocks the judge cowering at Sophie’s yelling.
For all that this is entitled “The White Rose Network,” it’s a novel that starts and ends with the POV of the perpetrator, and a perpetrator the author wants us to sympathise with to boot. Has nobody thought of how deeply insensitive this is? It never ceases to shock me the absolute lack of self-awareness some authors have about victims of Nazism; there’s even a novel out there that tells a real-life victim’s story from Josef Mengele’s POV and makes him sympathetic. And this novel exhibits the same lack of awareness, the same insensitivity, the same disrespect, because, like in the one with Mengele, this novel kicks the soapbox from under the victim narrating their own experience and hands over the microphone to the perpetrator so the perpetrator can tell the last moments of the victim’s life instead and make it about themselves. It’s the most disgusting form of erasure possible, and the idea that this adds nuance and shows the ��bad guys” are human too doesn’t even start to justify it. This isn't the first time Midwood has whitewashed a Nazi, either.
Mohr didn’t torture Sophie or Hans, but many Gestapo men weren’t the stereotypical Gestapo brutes either; they knew how to trap flies with honey and play mental games. The Good Cop/Bad Cop tactic the Gestapo used so effectively in interrogations needed a “good” cop, after all, and Mohr was the “good” cop only in this context, which in no way diminishes his guilt as a dedicated Gestapo officer. If you pay attention to what his rank was, you see he wasn’t merely a regular foot policeman “just doing his job,” as the author writes. To use the Eichmann just-following-orders excuse for him when the fact is that Mohr arrested and indicted innocent people, and that his indictments sent them to courts that would condemn them to death and imprisonment, is repellent apologia. It’s worth noting, too, that Mohr’s career was a long one, he continued on the job past this incident, so the White Rose were by no means the only people dead or imprisoned because of Mohr & his subordinates. Furthermore, whilst his claim that he tried to save Sophie’s life might be true, the way he tried to “save” her is so comically damning to himself. He offered to “save” her by proposing she rat on people she loved and was loyal to, offered Sophie to save her own skin by condemning to death the brother she adored. What a brilliant plan! What girl in his tender I’m-not-like-other-Gestapo clutches would reject such a sensible offer? So disappointing she did. But at least he tried! So Mohr totally deserves to be portrayed as being on Sophie’s side, though in silence and surreptitiously because he’s too much of a coward, and to have the last words and scene showing him encouraging his own daughter to be a White Rose wannabe! (Sarcasm)
In sum, "The White Rose Network" is a strange and chaotically inconsistent novel. It smears the reputation of good people, but at the same time exaggerates their deeds and steals the merit of others to make them look more heroic and assertive, and at the same time robs them of complexity by deliberately omitting or changing the very real human flaws Sophie and Hans had. That’d be my fourth big issue: things that show them as human and flawed aren’t here. The Scholls were initially drinking in the Nazi ideology alongside millions of youngsters, for example. The Scholls' membership in the Hitlerjugend and Bund Deutscher Mädel wasn’t just a matter of it being compulsory, they volunteered for it, but the author makes Sophie use the tired “It’s mandatory” excuse. Inge Scholl, their sister, tells that her siblings had a row with Robert Scholl over supporting Nazism, because her siblings were initially sympathisers and their father was always opposed. They didn’t merely do the bare minimum in the Nazi youth groups, as both Hans and Sophie rose to leading roles in their respective troops. Did you know Hans was Fähnleinführer in the Hitler Youth, and Sophie was Gruppenführerin in the BDM? So far from the reluctant girl who only did it because she was forced to like she’s portrayed here. However, that they bought the Nazi ideology at first doesn’t diminish their reputation, as it illustrates just how pervasive the indoctrination was. The fact that both were able to escape the ideological quagmire, think for themselves, and steer their course in the opposite direction is what matters. Their moment of realisation that changed their course matters, specifically for Hans because his epiphany led to his founding the White Rose with his friends. If you’re going to depict them realistically, you have to include their mistakes as well, and not whitewash the uncomfortable truths of their life.
There are other issues I had with this novel: the modern language and Americanisms in some of the dialogue, the ahistorical use of “Soph” and “Sash” as nicknames for Germans, and that, having read several of Midwood’s books in a row, all her characters read the same and interchangeable. I have a hard time differentiating between Sophie and Mala Zimetbaum, for example. Samey personality, samey speech, samey mannerisms, same “poisonously sweet” and “feral smile” tropey characterisation, samey tendency to use them to play out revenge fantasies, etc.
The review is very long already, so I won’t exhaust everyone with more. The four aspects already mentioned, I think, make the case for why this novel is far from a good pick if you wish to learn about the remarkable life of Sophie Scholl, her brother, and the White Rose at large. As I said in my opening line, the heroes are so few, so let’s not disrespect their memory and legacy by cynically profiting from a warped and disrespectful rendition of their life for readers that might not know their true story.
The White Rose movement was amongst those few. But this novel doesn’t do them justice. Instead, "The White Rose Network" smears the memory and good name of Sophie Scholl, Alexander Schmorell, and Friedrich Hartnagel.
The name of these three people, now deceased and so unable to defend themselves, is dragged through the mud for the sake of playing Ken & Barbie doll for a romance plot that distorts real history, and completely disregards that there are still living members of the Scholl and Hartnagel families to whom it would be extremely hurtful to see this defamatory portrayal of their relatives, as well as the fact that Alexander Schmorell is a canonised saint of the Russian Orthodox Church, which would in turn be offensive to practitioners of this faith as well as still living people related to Schmorell.
Why is this novel defamatory and disrespectful to the memory of said real people? To elaborate is going to be, by necessity, spoilery. So if you’re averse to spoilers, do stop reading now.
The biggest issue is that the author has depicted a completely fabricated and problematic romance between Sophie Scholl and Alexander Schmorell, one that makes everyone involved look terrible and immoral. As per the plot, Sophie falls in love with Schmorell at first sight and is reciprocated. The problem is: she’s engaged to another man. So, what to do with that irksome engagement to Fritz Hartnagel that’s standing in the way of your precious romance writing? Easy! Make brother Hansi disapprove of Fritz, make Fritz be a distant, cold fish, backwardly militaristic, and totally non-understanding of Sophie’s feelings and needs, have him permanently off-stage in the Eastern Front never to be heard of again, and have Sophie rush into Alex’s open arms for a sex scene in-between a White Rose gathering.
Read for yourself:
And the author has Sophie never show but a token remorse after Fritz is supposedly lost with the troops at Stalingrad, having her briefly self-flagellate thinking he’s dead so she can conveniently forget him right away, whilst all this time behaving giddy and starry-eyed about how wonderful and handsome and pro-woman Schurik is compared to that backwards-thinking, goose-stepping soldier Fritz. And what’s more, she and Schmorell openly flaunt their relationship for everyone to see and have romantic escapades, with Midwood adding that Hans, of course, approves of it.
There’s all kinds of problems here. For a start, Sophie did develop a crush on Schmorell, but it was one-sided and never went past that. For the simple reason that Alex: a) never felt anything but friendship towards Sophie, to whom he was not particularly close; b) he also one-sidedly loved someone else, and that woman wasn’t Sophie but Christl’s sister, who is conveniently absent from this book; and c) Schmorell was a honourable person, he seems to have been aware of Sophie’s feelings, and he knew about her and Hartnagel.
Sophie was as principled a person, and her crush notwithstanding, she would never have and never did engage in a disgraceful affair whilst engaged to another man. For Midwood to make her not only girlishly immature around Alex but disregard her proven good character to make her into a cheater who doesn’t hesitate to have sex with another man behind her fiancé’s back is, frankly, slinging mud at the memory of an upstanding woman who lost her life for her principles and in opposition to tyranny. Incredibly, Midwood also has Sophie say, more than once, that she can’t break up with Fritz because breaking up with a fiancé whilst he’s at the front is “dastardly” (author's word). But fucking your brother’s best friend whilst your fiancé is at the front isn’t?
Then, to make the cheating justifiable within the novel, the author has to diminish Hartnagel’s reputation and involvement in Sophie’s life. A classic literary tactic: if you want your character to look good, make the other look bad. The reality is that Hans Scholl didn’t disapprove of Hartnagel as this novel says, why would he? Fritz had been friends with Hans and Werner Scholl since before the war. His relationship with Sophie was stormy at times, they had what he described as “unpleasant” moments, and they had their spats. All that is attested by their letters and other testimony. Omitted from this book is that Sophie could be manipulative, needy, truculent, and depressive, and yet for all their couple problems, she still had so much affection for Hartnagel. Also omitted from this novel is that, the day next to Sophie’s arrival in Munich to study at the university, which is the scene where the author makes Alex flirt with Sophie, Fritz visited her on leave from France, and would visit her again before he was shipped off to the Eastern Front. Hartnagel even gave her money when Sophie asked him for a duplicating machine (for the leaflets) and then asked him for money instead when he said he had no access to means to acquire one (as it had to be through the army). But if you believed this novel, Fritz never bothered to come visit her or do anything for Sophie but write occasional letters.
The novel also omits that, from Sophie’s goodbye letters before her execution, one was for Fritz. The author makes no mention whatsoever of the fact that he wrote to the People’s Court that tried the White Rose to halt the execution until he could go and plead clemency for Sophie, either. That’s the level of affection and care for each other running in their relationship, but in this novel, Fritz never lifts a finger for her, and all thoughts Sophie has before her execution are for Schmorell instead. She is made into an unprincipled cheater who only cares about another unprincipled cheater. And to justify this cheating, the third party’s good name is shredded.
And the irony is that the roles were reversed in reality: Sophie was the one to not like her brother’s then relationship and want another girl for him. Hans Scholl was far more complex and flawed than his sister, flawed and heroic without needing anyone to be denigrated for his elevation, without needing to steal anyone’s portion in the collective effort that was the White Rose.
Which brings me to the second big issue: Sophie’s character and contribution to the resistance are aggrandised at the expense of other members, especially Traute Lafrenz, her brother’s girlfriend before Gisela Schertling, Sophie’s Nazi-sympathiser gal pal from earlier times, who is absent here. The author has Sophie look more determined, more abrasive, and aggressively risk-taking so she looks better and more a heroine from a movie (to compensate for making her a cheater, perhaps?), and makes her do things she never did, like a plan to personally assassinate Hitler, for which she smuggles a gun to a commemoration of the University of Munich’s anniversary where Hitler was supposed to be, and she starts the student riot there by booing the Gauleiter’s crude speech, riot that made waves in Germany at the time for how rare it was. The reality? Sophie wasn’t there. It was Traute and another girl of their circle who were there. Sophie likewise never threw a brick at an SS officer’s car and yelled at it during a ruckus at a shop, and she wasn’t there when the White Rose contacted Falk Harnack forming a link with the Red Orchestra and the Wehrmacht cell of conspirators. Guess who did contribute to not just contacting but creating a new branch of the White Rose outside Munich? Traute Lafrenz. It was also Traute who outwit the Gestapo at her interrogation, and thus got a light sentence. Traute doesn’t deserve her portion of the glory stolen to prop up Sophie as a romance heroine, especially not because, unlike what the author depicted that Sophie never gave any other White Rose members away to the Gestapo, she actually did, and she gave Traute away in her interrogation with Mohr.
To complete, the author does the same to Hans and the other men as well, but the curious pattern here is that it only involves people the author has motive to be partial to: Jews and Russian POWs. The incident of Hans giving food to the Jewish girl and the White Rose boys’ fight with the Nazis guarding Soviet prisoners are romanticised and exaggerated. Hans didn’t grovel before the Jewish girl (he only gave her the food a second time with a flower so she’d accept it), and the White Rose men didn’t fistfight the SS to defend the Russian POWs (they’d have been court-martialled if they did; it was a shouting match where they traded insults). I get it, Punch The Nazi is an attractive trope, it’s certainly part of the appeal of “Inglorious Basterds,” but these are real people whose actions are documented, and to twist their well-intentioned and kind actions to fit personal fantasies of Germans grovelling for forgiveness before the Jews or risking life and limb to fight the SS over the Russians is a deplorable distortion of reality. Let Hans’s noble if small gesture speak for itself, let the boys’ defence of the Red Army prisoners speak for itself; neither needs tacky revenge porn added in.
The third big issue is Robert Mohr, the Gestapo Kriminalobersekretär that interrogated the Scholls, who is so whitewashed he would be proud of it were he to read this. This novel practically takes his self-serving postwar claims at face value and runs with it to give us the character of a long-time Nazi sympathetic to Sophie’s cause and even approving of it, encouraging his own daughter to follow White Rose ideals. And what’s more, Mohr is even actively collaborative with Sophie and her family during her arrest and trial, secretly sending notice to her parents about her arrest (again, stealing the merit from Traute, and Otl Aicher), goes to her trial and mentally disses and mocks the judge cowering at Sophie’s yelling.
For all that this is entitled “The White Rose Network,” it’s a novel that starts and ends with the POV of the perpetrator, and a perpetrator the author wants us to sympathise with to boot. Has nobody thought of how deeply insensitive this is? It never ceases to shock me the absolute lack of self-awareness some authors have about victims of Nazism; there’s even a novel out there that tells a real-life victim’s story from Josef Mengele’s POV and makes him sympathetic. And this novel exhibits the same lack of awareness, the same insensitivity, the same disrespect, because, like in the one with Mengele, this novel kicks the soapbox from under the victim narrating their own experience and hands over the microphone to the perpetrator so the perpetrator can tell the last moments of the victim’s life instead and make it about themselves. It’s the most disgusting form of erasure possible, and the idea that this adds nuance and shows the ��bad guys” are human too doesn’t even start to justify it. This isn't the first time Midwood has whitewashed a Nazi, either.
Mohr didn’t torture Sophie or Hans, but many Gestapo men weren’t the stereotypical Gestapo brutes either; they knew how to trap flies with honey and play mental games. The Good Cop/Bad Cop tactic the Gestapo used so effectively in interrogations needed a “good” cop, after all, and Mohr was the “good” cop only in this context, which in no way diminishes his guilt as a dedicated Gestapo officer. If you pay attention to what his rank was, you see he wasn’t merely a regular foot policeman “just doing his job,” as the author writes. To use the Eichmann just-following-orders excuse for him when the fact is that Mohr arrested and indicted innocent people, and that his indictments sent them to courts that would condemn them to death and imprisonment, is repellent apologia. It’s worth noting, too, that Mohr’s career was a long one, he continued on the job past this incident, so the White Rose were by no means the only people dead or imprisoned because of Mohr & his subordinates. Furthermore, whilst his claim that he tried to save Sophie’s life might be true, the way he tried to “save” her is so comically damning to himself. He offered to “save” her by proposing she rat on people she loved and was loyal to, offered Sophie to save her own skin by condemning to death the brother she adored. What a brilliant plan! What girl in his tender I’m-not-like-other-Gestapo clutches would reject such a sensible offer? So disappointing she did. But at least he tried! So Mohr totally deserves to be portrayed as being on Sophie’s side, though in silence and surreptitiously because he’s too much of a coward, and to have the last words and scene showing him encouraging his own daughter to be a White Rose wannabe! (Sarcasm)
In sum, "The White Rose Network" is a strange and chaotically inconsistent novel. It smears the reputation of good people, but at the same time exaggerates their deeds and steals the merit of others to make them look more heroic and assertive, and at the same time robs them of complexity by deliberately omitting or changing the very real human flaws Sophie and Hans had. That’d be my fourth big issue: things that show them as human and flawed aren’t here. The Scholls were initially drinking in the Nazi ideology alongside millions of youngsters, for example. The Scholls' membership in the Hitlerjugend and Bund Deutscher Mädel wasn’t just a matter of it being compulsory, they volunteered for it, but the author makes Sophie use the tired “It’s mandatory” excuse. Inge Scholl, their sister, tells that her siblings had a row with Robert Scholl over supporting Nazism, because her siblings were initially sympathisers and their father was always opposed. They didn’t merely do the bare minimum in the Nazi youth groups, as both Hans and Sophie rose to leading roles in their respective troops. Did you know Hans was Fähnleinführer in the Hitler Youth, and Sophie was Gruppenführerin in the BDM? So far from the reluctant girl who only did it because she was forced to like she’s portrayed here. However, that they bought the Nazi ideology at first doesn’t diminish their reputation, as it illustrates just how pervasive the indoctrination was. The fact that both were able to escape the ideological quagmire, think for themselves, and steer their course in the opposite direction is what matters. Their moment of realisation that changed their course matters, specifically for Hans because his epiphany led to his founding the White Rose with his friends. If you’re going to depict them realistically, you have to include their mistakes as well, and not whitewash the uncomfortable truths of their life.
There are other issues I had with this novel: the modern language and Americanisms in some of the dialogue, the ahistorical use of “Soph” and “Sash” as nicknames for Germans, and that, having read several of Midwood’s books in a row, all her characters read the same and interchangeable. I have a hard time differentiating between Sophie and Mala Zimetbaum, for example. Samey personality, samey speech, samey mannerisms, same “poisonously sweet” and “feral smile” tropey characterisation, samey tendency to use them to play out revenge fantasies, etc.
The review is very long already, so I won’t exhaust everyone with more. The four aspects already mentioned, I think, make the case for why this novel is far from a good pick if you wish to learn about the remarkable life of Sophie Scholl, her brother, and the White Rose at large. As I said in my opening line, the heroes are so few, so let’s not disrespect their memory and legacy by cynically profiting from a warped and disrespectful rendition of their life for readers that might not know their true story.
January 5, 2022
4.5 stars
Kriminalkommissar Robert Mohr of the Munich Gestapo is dispatched to investigate pacifist leaflets being distributed at the university. There he finds Hans and Sophia (she prefers Sophie) Scholl who are members of White Rose, a resistance movement growing in numbers in Nazi Germany. The novel backtracks 2 May 1942 with Sophie heading to Munich university to study philosophy in defiance of expectation to breed future Nazis. The Scholl family are benevolent and kind and the siblings humanitarian views emanate there. Sophie joins Hans who is a medic and his friend Alexander Schmorrel with the narrative follows Sophie‘s wholehearted immersion into White Rose.
This is a very inspiring and true story of ‘Die Geschwister Scholl’ and others like Alexander (Shivik) Schmorell and the characterisation is excellent. The author seems to manage to get into their heads and this allows the reader to do so too and she brings them to life before your eyes. The book is very well written with skill and understanding of this inglorious period in German history and storytelling flows. Some of the best scenes in the book of the interrogations between Mohr and Sophie and these are mesmerising as he presents his ‘truth’ versus hers. He emerges as an enigmatic contradiction and I like what the author does with his character. You become completely caught up in it, you pray for the best but know it’ll be the worst. It’s a very moving novel, it breaks your heart that ones so young are so prepared to heroically and nobly sacrifice themselves for the greater good. Their bravery and courage is a beacon in dark times.
I leave the final words to Sophie who utters them in her cell before she dies:-
”Such a beautiful, sunny day and I have to go… But what difference does my death make if our actions arouse thousands of people”
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Kriminalkommissar Robert Mohr of the Munich Gestapo is dispatched to investigate pacifist leaflets being distributed at the university. There he finds Hans and Sophia (she prefers Sophie) Scholl who are members of White Rose, a resistance movement growing in numbers in Nazi Germany. The novel backtracks 2 May 1942 with Sophie heading to Munich university to study philosophy in defiance of expectation to breed future Nazis. The Scholl family are benevolent and kind and the siblings humanitarian views emanate there. Sophie joins Hans who is a medic and his friend Alexander Schmorrel with the narrative follows Sophie‘s wholehearted immersion into White Rose.
This is a very inspiring and true story of ‘Die Geschwister Scholl’ and others like Alexander (Shivik) Schmorell and the characterisation is excellent. The author seems to manage to get into their heads and this allows the reader to do so too and she brings them to life before your eyes. The book is very well written with skill and understanding of this inglorious period in German history and storytelling flows. Some of the best scenes in the book of the interrogations between Mohr and Sophie and these are mesmerising as he presents his ‘truth’ versus hers. He emerges as an enigmatic contradiction and I like what the author does with his character. You become completely caught up in it, you pray for the best but know it’ll be the worst. It’s a very moving novel, it breaks your heart that ones so young are so prepared to heroically and nobly sacrifice themselves for the greater good. Their bravery and courage is a beacon in dark times.
I leave the final words to Sophie who utters them in her cell before she dies:-
”Such a beautiful, sunny day and I have to go… But what difference does my death make if our actions arouse thousands of people”
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
February 11, 2022
3.5★s
It was 1943 when Sophie Scholl joined her brother Hans in Munich so she could attend university, wanting to complete her studies even though Hitler had ordered women were to stay home. But it wasn’t long before Sophie was aware of Hans' involvement in a fledgling group – the White Rose Network – which was defying Hitler, fighting against the cruelty of the Nazi regime in allowing their young men to fight and lose their lives. There were many of the country’s youth who hated Hitler – the White Rose network set about capitalizing on those emotions.
Printing leaflets all over the country, delivering them, dropping them off in areas they’d be most noticed and picked up, Sophie, Hans, Alex, Christoph, Willi and many others, faced the threat of arrest on a daily basis. But it was the biggest drop of all, done solely by Sophie and Hans at the Munich University, which saw their reign come to an end…
The White Rose Network by Ellie Midwood is based on the true story of Sophia Scholl, (please call me Sophie) and her brother Hans, and the telling didn’t appear to do it justice. The bravery and courage of the siblings, their sheer belief in all the White Rose network stood for, and their strength as the ending neared was captured well by the author. But in all that, it felt stilted and a little too political in parts. But I enjoyed the different look at WWII from the voices of German’s youth and their hatred of their leader.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
It was 1943 when Sophie Scholl joined her brother Hans in Munich so she could attend university, wanting to complete her studies even though Hitler had ordered women were to stay home. But it wasn’t long before Sophie was aware of Hans' involvement in a fledgling group – the White Rose Network – which was defying Hitler, fighting against the cruelty of the Nazi regime in allowing their young men to fight and lose their lives. There were many of the country’s youth who hated Hitler – the White Rose network set about capitalizing on those emotions.
Printing leaflets all over the country, delivering them, dropping them off in areas they’d be most noticed and picked up, Sophie, Hans, Alex, Christoph, Willi and many others, faced the threat of arrest on a daily basis. But it was the biggest drop of all, done solely by Sophie and Hans at the Munich University, which saw their reign come to an end…
The White Rose Network by Ellie Midwood is based on the true story of Sophia Scholl, (please call me Sophie) and her brother Hans, and the telling didn’t appear to do it justice. The bravery and courage of the siblings, their sheer belief in all the White Rose network stood for, and their strength as the ending neared was captured well by the author. But in all that, it felt stilted and a little too political in parts. But I enjoyed the different look at WWII from the voices of German’s youth and their hatred of their leader.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2023
Never Forget. That is the theme song, the motto that has us reviewing and re-telling each and every one of these stories from WWII, from the Holocaust, from the murdered Jews and others, to the Resistance, to the Forests, to the Righteous Gentiles. One wonders about why there is such a proliferation of books from this time, and Never Forget is a piece of that. Another piece is asking the question. How could this have happened? Why did people let it happen? We are in early days, but many of us are asking the question about our America. How can this be happening here? The religious fundamentalism, the corruption, the greed, the hatred, the lying, the power, the war on woke? What makes it possible for people to turn a blind eye?
This book, the White Rose Network, tells the story of University Students and others in Germany, who gave their freedom and their lives to fight what was happening. Righteous Gentiles who saw no difference between themselves and the Jews and others that were being harmed. Who gave their lives so that their children and their comrades could live in peace. This is the story of Sophia Scholl, who was stronger than anyone could have imagined today. She literally gave her life to be a part of the change that we temporarily enjoy.
Contrasted against Sophia, is her interrogator Herr Morr, for whom has gotten caught up in the war machine, but does not necessarily condone it all. He is a father, and Sophie reminds him of his own daughter, and in every conversation, about his culpability, and that it is not too late for him to make the right choices. The book is about her, but also about him. How he wrestles with his own choices, as contrasted with hers. The White Network is changing hearts and minds, and we are everywhere, and we will win. The question is, Herr Moss - where will you be?
What I think is fascinating about the proliferation of WWII books, is that each has to find a new angle. That is the angle of this one. The conviction of the youth contrasted with the conflicted and personally perceived helplessness of the Reich. What some of the officers, guards, officials had to do to look the other way, to save even a life. But what we see from this novel and others, is that indeed the Resistance worked. Love and Goodness won out. Not in every occasion, but eventually. And we have to believe in that power again and again. Not without our losses of course, but in my world, conscience always wins. Just look to Marvel Universe, to Harry Potter. There is great sacrifice, but even the most horrific times, consciousness moves forward. And their names should live in memory, siblings Hans and Sophie Scholl.
This book, the White Rose Network, tells the story of University Students and others in Germany, who gave their freedom and their lives to fight what was happening. Righteous Gentiles who saw no difference between themselves and the Jews and others that were being harmed. Who gave their lives so that their children and their comrades could live in peace. This is the story of Sophia Scholl, who was stronger than anyone could have imagined today. She literally gave her life to be a part of the change that we temporarily enjoy.
Contrasted against Sophia, is her interrogator Herr Morr, for whom has gotten caught up in the war machine, but does not necessarily condone it all. He is a father, and Sophie reminds him of his own daughter, and in every conversation, about his culpability, and that it is not too late for him to make the right choices. The book is about her, but also about him. How he wrestles with his own choices, as contrasted with hers. The White Network is changing hearts and minds, and we are everywhere, and we will win. The question is, Herr Moss - where will you be?
What I think is fascinating about the proliferation of WWII books, is that each has to find a new angle. That is the angle of this one. The conviction of the youth contrasted with the conflicted and personally perceived helplessness of the Reich. What some of the officers, guards, officials had to do to look the other way, to save even a life. But what we see from this novel and others, is that indeed the Resistance worked. Love and Goodness won out. Not in every occasion, but eventually. And we have to believe in that power again and again. Not without our losses of course, but in my world, conscience always wins. Just look to Marvel Universe, to Harry Potter. There is great sacrifice, but even the most horrific times, consciousness moves forward. And their names should live in memory, siblings Hans and Sophie Scholl.
March 31, 2022
This book is based on the true story of Sophie Scholl, who along with her brother and a several friends is recognized as being a serious contributor to the marginal resistance movement in Nazi Germany in World War II. Her method was to write, print and distribute subversive material first at the university she attended and later in several other places. Because this is based on the historical record I don’t think I have to put a “spoiler alert” to say her efforts didn’t end well. Recently I heard a lecture about the actual resistance movement in Germany and learned that the reason it was not as successful as in other countries was because it was so disjointed, late and the Nazis in all their official forms were too powerful. And here the story is told of Sophie, one young woman, who believed in the cause of justice as young adult, and because her efforts are true, all the more reason we can only look on her with awe for her exceptional bravery and resolve.
Another reviewer took exception to certain parts of this story which were imagined or not on the historical record, or she felt, exaggerated. Maybe there is some merit to his claim, but I think it must be remembered that this book is classified as “historical fiction” not an official historical document meant as university lecture notes. And if a little romance is put into the story or the protagonist is given a little more credit than she should have, well, so what. I think It makes the story interesting, and because it’s written in such a way it keeps one moving the pages and it gets the basics out to a larger audience who perhaps wouldn’t have known about her. Some curious minds might research further. Often that is the point of well-written and researched historical fiction.
My rating: 4.5
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this book. And thank you Ellie Midwood for telling Sophie Scholl’s story to new generations and keeping her memory alive by doing so.
Another reviewer took exception to certain parts of this story which were imagined or not on the historical record, or she felt, exaggerated. Maybe there is some merit to his claim, but I think it must be remembered that this book is classified as “historical fiction” not an official historical document meant as university lecture notes. And if a little romance is put into the story or the protagonist is given a little more credit than she should have, well, so what. I think It makes the story interesting, and because it’s written in such a way it keeps one moving the pages and it gets the basics out to a larger audience who perhaps wouldn’t have known about her. Some curious minds might research further. Often that is the point of well-written and researched historical fiction.
My rating: 4.5
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this book. And thank you Ellie Midwood for telling Sophie Scholl’s story to new generations and keeping her memory alive by doing so.
January 30, 2022
My Life for Freedom
What a courageous story. This is a story of young students of "The White Rose Network". In the face of great danger they print and distribute leaflets in resistance to Hitler's Nazi regime. They work toward drawing other's into the resistance in a quest to free Germany from Hitler's hold.
Sophie wins the battle to attend college and joins her brother in Munich who is studying to be a doctor. He introduces her to his friend Alexander. She and Alexander are soon a couple and it is not long until she discovers Hans and Alexander's resistance movement called "The White Rose" and becomes part of it as well.
Sophie and Hans Scholl, brother and sister refused to bow down to the Nazi authority. They tirelessly worked to resist in every way they could. As they were arrested and carted off to jail they were smiling as they watched the students scooping up and reading the leaflets they had just distributed.
Even under pressure in an interrogation room or in a prison cell they never back down. Sophie even tries to recruit her interrogator to the side of the resistance. They hold their heads up high and they are proud to give their lives in the cause for freedom.
This is a book of courage and of hope. That there is always resistance even in the most regimented of societies. There are always those willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice to be free.
I enjoyed reading this book and I do recommend it.
Thanks to Ellie Midwood for writing yet another wonderful book, to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
What a courageous story. This is a story of young students of "The White Rose Network". In the face of great danger they print and distribute leaflets in resistance to Hitler's Nazi regime. They work toward drawing other's into the resistance in a quest to free Germany from Hitler's hold.
Sophie wins the battle to attend college and joins her brother in Munich who is studying to be a doctor. He introduces her to his friend Alexander. She and Alexander are soon a couple and it is not long until she discovers Hans and Alexander's resistance movement called "The White Rose" and becomes part of it as well.
Sophie and Hans Scholl, brother and sister refused to bow down to the Nazi authority. They tirelessly worked to resist in every way they could. As they were arrested and carted off to jail they were smiling as they watched the students scooping up and reading the leaflets they had just distributed.
Even under pressure in an interrogation room or in a prison cell they never back down. Sophie even tries to recruit her interrogator to the side of the resistance. They hold their heads up high and they are proud to give their lives in the cause for freedom.
This is a book of courage and of hope. That there is always resistance even in the most regimented of societies. There are always those willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice to be free.
I enjoyed reading this book and I do recommend it.
Thanks to Ellie Midwood for writing yet another wonderful book, to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
January 10, 2022
Based on a true story The White Rose Network is about a brother and sister during the Second World War who are working for the resistance against the Nazi regime.
A story of courage and resilience from young people who believe in freedom.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
A story of courage and resilience from young people who believe in freedom.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2022
A book based on a true story, this tells of Sophie Scholl- a resistance fighter and anti nazi campainer in Germany in World war two. Her parents raised her and her brother to challenge the Nazi regime. She defies them by being one of the 10% of women “ allowed” to go to university. Whilst there she meets Alexander and a friend of her brother and realises that they are not the only ones who won’t demur and go along with the tyranny and propaganda. They form the White Rose Network, an underground group who print leaflets telling of the truth and of liberty inspired by their illegal radio contact to the outside world. One way and another they spread their leaflets and discover a whole host of others along the way who think along the same lines and will stand against the Nazis.
I really enjoyed this and learnt much as I went along. A story of a very brave and determined young woman for whom tradition and acceptance was not tolerated by her thoughts or actions. Where women were told “to have a child each year for the fuhrer and fatherland ” and that their duty was to raise children and look after the kitchen, there were many who despite adhering to wearing dresses (trousers were not allowed) built a movement of determination based on freedom and equal rights. We have much to admire in them.
A stunning book, a stunning story. One inspirational woman.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
February 16, 2022
In this inspiring book based on real life resistance fighter Sophie Scholl, readers are given the remarkable story of how she and her brother did whatever they could to fight the Nazi regime. In fact, they soon formed what was known as the White Rose Network. Even before this incredible fight began Sophie was one of very few women who went to university. Sophie did whatever she could to fight the regime and this included printing and distributing leaflets that told the truth of the tyranny that existed within the regime. She saw the truth behind the propaganda that turned many heads against Jews and other minorities during that time. She chose to take her stand no matter what how difficult her life would become.
Sophie came by her stand quite easily as her parents resisted the brutal nature of the Nazis so this was what she knew. Sophie and her brother Hans were not alone in their fight. In fact they were joined by someone named Alexander as well as several others but during this time of the fight Sophie and Alexander fell in love.
In the story that was unfailingly tragic, Sophie did whatever she could to deliver their message to as many as possible even with the Gestapo close on their tails. In fact, Sophie‘s life became at risk as well as many others. Her stand could mean her life.
While this was a story of courage, of strength, and of hope, it was also a story of great sacrifice. As the story came to a close, Sophie had one last chance to say to deliver her message. ”Such a beautiful, sunny day and I have to go… But what difference does my death make if our actions arouse thousands of people”. No doubt readers of this intense story will have tears pouring down their eyes while at the same time being filled with incredible pride for the strength that Sophie demonstrated.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Sophie came by her stand quite easily as her parents resisted the brutal nature of the Nazis so this was what she knew. Sophie and her brother Hans were not alone in their fight. In fact they were joined by someone named Alexander as well as several others but during this time of the fight Sophie and Alexander fell in love.
In the story that was unfailingly tragic, Sophie did whatever she could to deliver their message to as many as possible even with the Gestapo close on their tails. In fact, Sophie‘s life became at risk as well as many others. Her stand could mean her life.
While this was a story of courage, of strength, and of hope, it was also a story of great sacrifice. As the story came to a close, Sophie had one last chance to say to deliver her message. ”Such a beautiful, sunny day and I have to go… But what difference does my death make if our actions arouse thousands of people”. No doubt readers of this intense story will have tears pouring down their eyes while at the same time being filled with incredible pride for the strength that Sophie demonstrated.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
January 17, 2022
A new standalone novel WWII novel by Ellie Midwood about the White Rose network. I heard about this network from another book by this author so it was very interesting to read more about the courageous young people who were behind it and how they inspired so many people.
The characters really come alive and the story is written with so many wonderful details it s easy to picture.. I loved Sophie, her quick wit and feisty nature made me laugh. The ending off course is so very sad, but their words were not forgotten.
The characters really come alive and the story is written with so many wonderful details it s easy to picture.. I loved Sophie, her quick wit and feisty nature made me laugh. The ending off course is so very sad, but their words were not forgotten.
January 26, 2022
The White Rose Network is a true story about a group of students from the University of Munich, specifically Sophie Scholl and her brother Hans, who defied the thinking and beliefs of the Reich at the time and printed subversive material and distributed printed leaflets for revolt within Germany itself. This was a story I was not familiar with and am so thankful that Ellie Millwood wrote such a beautifully written and masterfully researched book for all of us to read.
Ellie Millwood is one of my absolute favorite WWII authors. The way Millwood navigates through a story has you riveted from beginning to end. I always look forward to reading another of her stories and watch for them as they are released. I believe her books are a must read for historical fiction lovers.
Thank you to #netgalley and #bookouture for allowing me to read the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
Merged review:
The White Rose Network is a true story about a group of students from the University of Munich, specifically Sophie Scholl and her brother Hans, who defied the thinking and beliefs of the Reich at the time and printed subversive material and distributed printed leaflets for revolt within Germany itself. This was a story I was not familiar with and am so thankful that Ellie Millwood wrote such a beautifully written and masterfully researched book for all of us to read.
Ellie Millwood is one of my absolute favorite WWII authors. The way Millwood navigates through a story has you riveted from beginning to end. I always look forward to reading another of her stories and watch for them as they are released. I believe her books are a must read for historical fiction lovers.
Thank you to #netgalley and #bookouture for allowing me to read the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
Ellie Millwood is one of my absolute favorite WWII authors. The way Millwood navigates through a story has you riveted from beginning to end. I always look forward to reading another of her stories and watch for them as they are released. I believe her books are a must read for historical fiction lovers.
Thank you to #netgalley and #bookouture for allowing me to read the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
Merged review:
The White Rose Network is a true story about a group of students from the University of Munich, specifically Sophie Scholl and her brother Hans, who defied the thinking and beliefs of the Reich at the time and printed subversive material and distributed printed leaflets for revolt within Germany itself. This was a story I was not familiar with and am so thankful that Ellie Millwood wrote such a beautifully written and masterfully researched book for all of us to read.
Ellie Millwood is one of my absolute favorite WWII authors. The way Millwood navigates through a story has you riveted from beginning to end. I always look forward to reading another of her stories and watch for them as they are released. I believe her books are a must read for historical fiction lovers.
Thank you to #netgalley and #bookouture for allowing me to read the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
February 11, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The White Rose Network' by Ellie Midwood.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ellie Midwood, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 9th February 2022.
This is the sixth book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'The Girl Who Escaped Auschwitz', 'The Girl In The Striped Dress', 'The Girl Who Survived' 'The Girl On The Platform' and 'The Violinist Of Aushcwitz' which I also recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover, its intriguing synopsis and title and its extremely talented author. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Alice Network and The Lilac Girls will be utterly gripped by this heartbreaking and addictive page-turner.' I am a huge fan of 'The Tattooist Of Aushcwitz' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Ellie and if this is half as good as' The Girl Who Escaped From Auschwitz', 'The Girl Who Survived', 'the Girl In The Striped Dress', 'The Girl On The Platform' and 'The Violinist Of Aushcwitz ' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 25 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set mainly in Munich, Germany 🇩🇪.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Sophie Scholl. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The White Rose Network' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Ellie discusses/includes the persecution of the Jews, murder and death.
Well, what can I say but wow!!! This story is definitely not going to leave my head anytime soon. Firstly I must congratulate Ellie Midwood for yet another extraordinary novel that seriously needs to be made into a movie which I assure would be best selling!!!
This book is very powerful and extremely well written. It is devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. The storyline of this book is based on a true story which is another thing that drew me to read it. It is absolutely rammed with emotions that will make you smile, cry and laugh on the roller-coaster ride to hell that is World War 2 and the persecution and murder of the Jews and many others. Nothing is left out and the author has done an immense amount of research and brings Sophie, Hans, Alex, Will, Traute, Professor Huber and Kriminalkommissar and Mohl's story to life. Sophie, Hans and their comrades are such powerful, strong and kind hearted heroes and I am looking forward to reading more about them. I had never heard of either before reading this but have read 'The Violinist Of Aushcwitz', 'Celia' s Journey', 'The tattooist of Aushcwitz', 'The Girl Who Escaped From Auschwitz,' The Girl Who Survived', 'The librarian of Aushcwitz' and 'The Girl On The Platform' all of which I enjoyed so when I seen this I was intrigued to discover the ongoing of the war through another person's eyes and from a different perspective also. All of Ellie's books that I have read so far are based in holocaust camps, mainly Auschwitz, so I was intrigued when I read this book to see what was going on in Germany and how some brave German's were doing their part to try and stop the slaughter and war by becoming a part of the resistance. I have now also added many books to my wish list thanks to Ellie, her own and ones that she recommends at the end of this story. This story is particularly unique as it is not one I have ever come across before seeing things from the German resistance side of the war. It was also intriguing to see things from Kriminalkommissar Mohr's POV and how he tried to help Sophie.
This book did not disappoint. Some people believe that these stories should not be written but I am a strong believer that these victims earned the right for their stories to be told and to not be forgotten and this book does just that. I loved discovering not just Sophie, Alex and Hans's stories but those who surrounded them also. This amazing group of people who supported and lifted each other up during these dark times and helping them see the light are absolutely... Words can't really describe but I will go with angelic. This book was very hard to read as a whole but there were certain parts that will stay with me for a very long time and that we're soul destroying. What the Nazi's did to these innocent people makes me absolutely sick to my soul. I enjoyed learning about the loves of not only Sophie and Alex but the life's and parts of the resistance that Hans, Will, Christoph, Traute, Professor Huber and Kriminalkommissar Mohr and many more played. I must say that I really did have mixed feelings with Kriminalkommissar Mohr as, although he was trying to help Sophie, he was also a wheel in a killing machine.
Again congratulations Ellie Midwood on all your research and for writing this amazing story of both Libertas and Horro and other resistance members who deserved to have their stories told in a way that did them justice and you have done that. I would say this book is on par with the likes of 'The' diary of Anne Frank' which left me with the same feelings your novel has of not even more emotional. I also want to add that when you finish this book please don't close it but make sure you read Ellie's notes which give all the information about the people the characters in this book are based on and much more. I always read 100% of Ellie's books as the notes and acknowledgements always intrigue me.
Overall an unputdownable, heart wrenching, absolutely beautifully devastating story of lesser known heroes of the war.
Genres covered in this novel include War Story, Romance Novel and Jewish History amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Ellie Midwood, The Tattooist of Aushcwitz, The Librarian of Aushcwitz, 'Celia's Journey', 'The Diary of Anne Frank' and anyone interested in the holocaust and its history.
281 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon (at time of reviewing) which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheWhiteRoseNetwork #Bookouture #EllieMidwood #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@EllieMidwood @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'The White Rose Network' by Ellie Midwood.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ellie Midwood, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 9th February 2022.
This is the sixth book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'The Girl Who Escaped Auschwitz', 'The Girl In The Striped Dress', 'The Girl Who Survived' 'The Girl On The Platform' and 'The Violinist Of Aushcwitz' which I also recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover, its intriguing synopsis and title and its extremely talented author. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Alice Network and The Lilac Girls will be utterly gripped by this heartbreaking and addictive page-turner.' I am a huge fan of 'The Tattooist Of Aushcwitz' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Ellie and if this is half as good as' The Girl Who Escaped From Auschwitz', 'The Girl Who Survived', 'the Girl In The Striped Dress', 'The Girl On The Platform' and 'The Violinist Of Aushcwitz ' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 25 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set mainly in Munich, Germany 🇩🇪.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Sophie Scholl. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The White Rose Network' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Ellie discusses/includes the persecution of the Jews, murder and death.
Well, what can I say but wow!!! This story is definitely not going to leave my head anytime soon. Firstly I must congratulate Ellie Midwood for yet another extraordinary novel that seriously needs to be made into a movie which I assure would be best selling!!!
This book is very powerful and extremely well written. It is devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. The storyline of this book is based on a true story which is another thing that drew me to read it. It is absolutely rammed with emotions that will make you smile, cry and laugh on the roller-coaster ride to hell that is World War 2 and the persecution and murder of the Jews and many others. Nothing is left out and the author has done an immense amount of research and brings Sophie, Hans, Alex, Will, Traute, Professor Huber and Kriminalkommissar and Mohl's story to life. Sophie, Hans and their comrades are such powerful, strong and kind hearted heroes and I am looking forward to reading more about them. I had never heard of either before reading this but have read 'The Violinist Of Aushcwitz', 'Celia' s Journey', 'The tattooist of Aushcwitz', 'The Girl Who Escaped From Auschwitz,' The Girl Who Survived', 'The librarian of Aushcwitz' and 'The Girl On The Platform' all of which I enjoyed so when I seen this I was intrigued to discover the ongoing of the war through another person's eyes and from a different perspective also. All of Ellie's books that I have read so far are based in holocaust camps, mainly Auschwitz, so I was intrigued when I read this book to see what was going on in Germany and how some brave German's were doing their part to try and stop the slaughter and war by becoming a part of the resistance. I have now also added many books to my wish list thanks to Ellie, her own and ones that she recommends at the end of this story. This story is particularly unique as it is not one I have ever come across before seeing things from the German resistance side of the war. It was also intriguing to see things from Kriminalkommissar Mohr's POV and how he tried to help Sophie.
This book did not disappoint. Some people believe that these stories should not be written but I am a strong believer that these victims earned the right for their stories to be told and to not be forgotten and this book does just that. I loved discovering not just Sophie, Alex and Hans's stories but those who surrounded them also. This amazing group of people who supported and lifted each other up during these dark times and helping them see the light are absolutely... Words can't really describe but I will go with angelic. This book was very hard to read as a whole but there were certain parts that will stay with me for a very long time and that we're soul destroying. What the Nazi's did to these innocent people makes me absolutely sick to my soul. I enjoyed learning about the loves of not only Sophie and Alex but the life's and parts of the resistance that Hans, Will, Christoph, Traute, Professor Huber and Kriminalkommissar Mohr and many more played. I must say that I really did have mixed feelings with Kriminalkommissar Mohr as, although he was trying to help Sophie, he was also a wheel in a killing machine.
Again congratulations Ellie Midwood on all your research and for writing this amazing story of both Libertas and Horro and other resistance members who deserved to have their stories told in a way that did them justice and you have done that. I would say this book is on par with the likes of 'The' diary of Anne Frank' which left me with the same feelings your novel has of not even more emotional. I also want to add that when you finish this book please don't close it but make sure you read Ellie's notes which give all the information about the people the characters in this book are based on and much more. I always read 100% of Ellie's books as the notes and acknowledgements always intrigue me.
Overall an unputdownable, heart wrenching, absolutely beautifully devastating story of lesser known heroes of the war.
Genres covered in this novel include War Story, Romance Novel and Jewish History amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Ellie Midwood, The Tattooist of Aushcwitz, The Librarian of Aushcwitz, 'Celia's Journey', 'The Diary of Anne Frank' and anyone interested in the holocaust and its history.
281 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon (at time of reviewing) which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheWhiteRoseNetwork #Bookouture #EllieMidwood #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@EllieMidwood @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
January 23, 2022
Ellie Midwood's "The White Rose Network" is a fictionalized account of Sophie Scholl's involvement in a student resistance against the Nazis in WWII Munich.
When Sophie arrives in Munich in the Spring of 1942 to study at the university, she has no idea that her brother Hans, his best friend Alex, and their fellow students have started publishing leaflets denouncing the Nazis. Sophie, despite being engaged to a Wehrmacht solider, is already a rebel, being one of only ten percent of women allowed to attend university. Her family do not support the Nazi regime, so it is natural that Sophie joins their group, called "The White Rose" and begins writing her own tracts.
Midwood uses contemporary sources and actual quotes which demonstrate the bravery and conviction of these students. Sophie's refusal to condemn the others to save herself, despite the best efforts of her Gestapo interrogator to get her to do so, shows that, even in evil times, there are good people, and it is worth it to try to change things.
It's not an easy read. You know not all of the group will survive the war, and there are definitely uncomfortable parallels to the political climates in several places. The content is rich, though, and Midwood brings each person vividly to life.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy from Bookouture and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
When Sophie arrives in Munich in the Spring of 1942 to study at the university, she has no idea that her brother Hans, his best friend Alex, and their fellow students have started publishing leaflets denouncing the Nazis. Sophie, despite being engaged to a Wehrmacht solider, is already a rebel, being one of only ten percent of women allowed to attend university. Her family do not support the Nazi regime, so it is natural that Sophie joins their group, called "The White Rose" and begins writing her own tracts.
Midwood uses contemporary sources and actual quotes which demonstrate the bravery and conviction of these students. Sophie's refusal to condemn the others to save herself, despite the best efforts of her Gestapo interrogator to get her to do so, shows that, even in evil times, there are good people, and it is worth it to try to change things.
It's not an easy read. You know not all of the group will survive the war, and there are definitely uncomfortable parallels to the political climates in several places. The content is rich, though, and Midwood brings each person vividly to life.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy from Bookouture and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 13, 2022
Happy Release Day, The White Rose Network is OUT NOW!
Another great heroine from Ellie Midwood's books. One of my favorite things about Ellie's books is that she always brings stories that have powerful heroines, all of them always ready to help and bring the enemy to their knees.
This is Sophie's case, a great powerful heroine that came from a powerful family, who were always fighting for a good cause, trying to destroy Hitler and his evil plans.
Sophie didn't want to continue her university studies, she wanted to help her country and many others to win this war. she was already engaged to be married to a man who was fighting in the war, her life was already "planned", but she didn't have the same aspirations and dreams as others, she wanted to help to win this war no matter if that meant to renounce of many things and to join the resistance.
Hans, Alex, and Sophie the main characters of this novel are The members of The White Rose Network a very successful network spreading information about the atrocities the Germans were doing and planning to do, a very important movement during the War.
Robert Mohr the Kriminalkommissar of the Munich Gestapo, was investigating some leaflets being distributed at the university where Sophie used to attend. I felt sorry for Mr. Mohr he was always weak and nervous whenever he was interrogating Sophie. it was as if Mr. Mohr shrank and pale in Sophie's presence but at the same time, I enjoy these scenes because they are the ones that show the powerful strength of Sophie's character around the Nazis.
My favorite moments of this novel were during the interrogation with Mr.Mohr but also whenever Alex and Sophie were nearby.
Many great things make this book so enjoyable, like The Roosevelt speeches, which were so powerful and that we get to read from time to time during the course of the novel.
This was a very suspenseful novel, there was more action, and intriguing moments than the previous novels I've read from Ellie, making The White Rose network a powerful novel just like its characters.
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookoture, and Ellie Midwood for sharing this digital copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Another great heroine from Ellie Midwood's books. One of my favorite things about Ellie's books is that she always brings stories that have powerful heroines, all of them always ready to help and bring the enemy to their knees.
This is Sophie's case, a great powerful heroine that came from a powerful family, who were always fighting for a good cause, trying to destroy Hitler and his evil plans.
Sophie didn't want to continue her university studies, she wanted to help her country and many others to win this war. she was already engaged to be married to a man who was fighting in the war, her life was already "planned", but she didn't have the same aspirations and dreams as others, she wanted to help to win this war no matter if that meant to renounce of many things and to join the resistance.
Hans, Alex, and Sophie the main characters of this novel are The members of The White Rose Network a very successful network spreading information about the atrocities the Germans were doing and planning to do, a very important movement during the War.
Robert Mohr the Kriminalkommissar of the Munich Gestapo, was investigating some leaflets being distributed at the university where Sophie used to attend. I felt sorry for Mr. Mohr he was always weak and nervous whenever he was interrogating Sophie. it was as if Mr. Mohr shrank and pale in Sophie's presence but at the same time, I enjoy these scenes because they are the ones that show the powerful strength of Sophie's character around the Nazis.
My favorite moments of this novel were during the interrogation with Mr.Mohr but also whenever Alex and Sophie were nearby.
Many great things make this book so enjoyable, like The Roosevelt speeches, which were so powerful and that we get to read from time to time during the course of the novel.
This was a very suspenseful novel, there was more action, and intriguing moments than the previous novels I've read from Ellie, making The White Rose network a powerful novel just like its characters.
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookoture, and Ellie Midwood for sharing this digital copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 12, 2022
Germany, 1943, Sophie leaves her home to attend university. She arrives in Munich and her brother Hans introduces her to his best friend Alexander. Sophie is one of many people that refuse to back down from Hitler and his horrible regime. Alexander and Sophie form the White Rose Network. Hiding in underground vaults they, plot against Hitler. Alexander and Sophie begin to fall in love as they work together to go against the regime. The word of the White Rose Network begins making it around campus thru leaflets that were distributed. It isn’t long before the secret police find out about it. The secret police offer a reward for any information on the White Rose Network. When Sophie is captured and imprisoned she is interrogated by the Nazi officers. But Sophie stands up for what she believes and refuses to give in to their demands. I loved this story so much, I almost don’t know what to say. This story was about the courageous heroes that did everything in their power to help others, no matter what the cost. This story was so inspirational and heart wrenching and you will definitely need the Kleenex. I found the story was well researched by the author and so it made it very believable. This heart pounding page-turner is one that will definitely stay with me for a long time, I loved it. This is without a doubt a must read.
Thank you Ellie Midwood for such wonderful story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it’s heart pounding plot twists and turns. This one definitely hits all the emotions. I highly recommend it.
Thank you Ellie Midwood for such wonderful story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it’s heart pounding plot twists and turns. This one definitely hits all the emotions. I highly recommend it.
January 30, 2022
Germany 1942-1943
In the face of evil the bravest will shine...thousands of people are awakened and stirred to action.
This is the incredible true story of Sophie Scholl, a rebellious German girl, who risked everything to lead a revolution against Hitler’s regime. Moving to Munich to live with her brother she felt lucky to attend the university. Along with the same thinking students Sophie became sympathetic to the resistance movement that was slowly taken form among the students. Liberty and freedom was the group’s vision and soon The White Rose Network was in action making pamphlets and secretly delivering them and as they reached farther and wider audiences, Sophie became bold and taking risky decisions...till one day it all came crashing down...someone reported Sophie and her brother Hans to the Gestapo.....
What a heartbreaking story that moves between the group’s activities and Sophie and Hans arrests and trials in 1943. The characters are so realistic it feels as they are beside you narrating their experiences. Alexander Schmorell, Hans Scholl, Willi Graf , Christopher Probts (real people) also play outstanding roles in bringing to life scenes that I simply got caught up in. The history and storytelling flows beautifully and meshes with skill. This is a very moving novel of young people risking their lives for the greater good and by far not an easy read. From the start we know most will not survive the war and most will suffer a terrible ending.
Ms. Midwood is one of my favourite historical fiction authors. Her stories are so riveting and well-done it is hard to pass on them. Kudos to you Ellie for bringing us moments in history told in ways that are not only informative but very captivating.
I had the chance to receive this book from Bookouture via Netgalley for an honest and unbiased review.
In the face of evil the bravest will shine...thousands of people are awakened and stirred to action.
This is the incredible true story of Sophie Scholl, a rebellious German girl, who risked everything to lead a revolution against Hitler’s regime. Moving to Munich to live with her brother she felt lucky to attend the university. Along with the same thinking students Sophie became sympathetic to the resistance movement that was slowly taken form among the students. Liberty and freedom was the group’s vision and soon The White Rose Network was in action making pamphlets and secretly delivering them and as they reached farther and wider audiences, Sophie became bold and taking risky decisions...till one day it all came crashing down...someone reported Sophie and her brother Hans to the Gestapo.....
What a heartbreaking story that moves between the group’s activities and Sophie and Hans arrests and trials in 1943. The characters are so realistic it feels as they are beside you narrating their experiences. Alexander Schmorell, Hans Scholl, Willi Graf , Christopher Probts (real people) also play outstanding roles in bringing to life scenes that I simply got caught up in. The history and storytelling flows beautifully and meshes with skill. This is a very moving novel of young people risking their lives for the greater good and by far not an easy read. From the start we know most will not survive the war and most will suffer a terrible ending.
Ms. Midwood is one of my favourite historical fiction authors. Her stories are so riveting and well-done it is hard to pass on them. Kudos to you Ellie for bringing us moments in history told in ways that are not only informative but very captivating.
I had the chance to receive this book from Bookouture via Netgalley for an honest and unbiased review.
Want to read
March 12, 2022I’m not usually into WWII historical fiction, but this is calling to me!!
January 11, 2022
Sophie and her brother were courageous and young because they fought against the Nazi's, It is a very inspiring and true story. Their willingness to sacrifice themselves, I was in total awe. A beautifully written story. I am a fan of historical fiction I am lucky to have read it.
Thank you Bookoutoure for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is a honest review.
Merged review:
Sophie and her brother were courageous and young because they fought against the Nazi's, It is a very inspiring and true story. Their willingness to sacrifice themselves, I was in total awe. A beautifully written story. I am a fan of historical fiction I am lucky to have read it.
Thank you Bookoutoure for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is a honest review.
Thank you Bookoutoure for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is a honest review.
Merged review:
Sophie and her brother were courageous and young because they fought against the Nazi's, It is a very inspiring and true story. Their willingness to sacrifice themselves, I was in total awe. A beautifully written story. I am a fan of historical fiction I am lucky to have read it.
Thank you Bookoutoure for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is a honest review.
February 4, 2022
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Ellie Midwood's heartbreaking tale #TheWhiteRoseNetwork.
Based on true events, THE WHITE ROSE NETWORK is the fictionalised story of Hans and Sophie Scholl, resistance fighters campaigning against the Nazi fascist regime during Hitler's reign during World War 2. Raised on truth and justice, their parents instilled in them the courage to challenge the injustice which they then found themselves in.
Hans, already in the Wehrmacht as medical aid (so he does not have to spill the blood of another human being), lives in Munich where his sister Sophie would join him as one of the very few women allowed to attend university. Upon moving to Munich, Sophie then meets her brother's friends who thus make up the White Rose network and is excited to join them in the cause, fighting for Germany's freedom. Amongst the friends is Alexander, half Russian and half German, with whom Sophie falls in love with despite being engaged to another away fighting at the Front. This is primarily her story.
Beginning in February 1943 after her capture for distributing a shower of leaflets at the university alongside Hans, Sophie is interrogated by KriminalKommissioner Robert Mohr who, as a vetran in the police, now works as a highly skilled interrogator with the Gestapo. His job is to elicit the truth and the wider expanse of their network. But what he experiences in her presence makes him question himself and his very reason for being there. Sophie is an extraordinary young woman, courageous beyond belief, and is not afraid to stand up for her belief in the injustice facing their country. Their tête-a-têtes in the interrogation room are some of the best scenes in the book as his truths versus hers are challenged creating something of an enigmatic contradiction in its place.
I had heard of Sophie Scholl and the White Rose network before picking up this book, but this story delves deeper into the lives of both Hans and Sophie and the depth of their involvement right up to the end. Although we know how the story ends, it doesn't stop the reader from hoping for the best whilst knowing without a doubt to expect the worst.
An inspirational story of a time long since past but never forgotten, THE WHITE ROSE NETWORK is a tribute of sorts to those men and women who gave up their lives for the social injustices that shrouded their much-loved country through Hitler's fascism. They gave their lives so that Germany may have a better future...in freedom.
As thought-provoking and heartfelt as it was, I found the story itself a little too political...and yet, that is exactly what the White Rose were fighting against. But that is just a reflection of my own personal tastes. It was certainly inspiration and heartfelt, but yes...too political for my tastes. But don't let that dissuade you because it is an incredible story of bravery and courage in the midst of injustice.
However, my favourite part of the entire book is the very last page...revealing that the heart and soul of the White Rose truly lived on.
I would like to thank #EllieMidwood, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheWhiteRoseNetwork in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Based on true events, THE WHITE ROSE NETWORK is the fictionalised story of Hans and Sophie Scholl, resistance fighters campaigning against the Nazi fascist regime during Hitler's reign during World War 2. Raised on truth and justice, their parents instilled in them the courage to challenge the injustice which they then found themselves in.
Hans, already in the Wehrmacht as medical aid (so he does not have to spill the blood of another human being), lives in Munich where his sister Sophie would join him as one of the very few women allowed to attend university. Upon moving to Munich, Sophie then meets her brother's friends who thus make up the White Rose network and is excited to join them in the cause, fighting for Germany's freedom. Amongst the friends is Alexander, half Russian and half German, with whom Sophie falls in love with despite being engaged to another away fighting at the Front. This is primarily her story.
Beginning in February 1943 after her capture for distributing a shower of leaflets at the university alongside Hans, Sophie is interrogated by KriminalKommissioner Robert Mohr who, as a vetran in the police, now works as a highly skilled interrogator with the Gestapo. His job is to elicit the truth and the wider expanse of their network. But what he experiences in her presence makes him question himself and his very reason for being there. Sophie is an extraordinary young woman, courageous beyond belief, and is not afraid to stand up for her belief in the injustice facing their country. Their tête-a-têtes in the interrogation room are some of the best scenes in the book as his truths versus hers are challenged creating something of an enigmatic contradiction in its place.
I had heard of Sophie Scholl and the White Rose network before picking up this book, but this story delves deeper into the lives of both Hans and Sophie and the depth of their involvement right up to the end. Although we know how the story ends, it doesn't stop the reader from hoping for the best whilst knowing without a doubt to expect the worst.
An inspirational story of a time long since past but never forgotten, THE WHITE ROSE NETWORK is a tribute of sorts to those men and women who gave up their lives for the social injustices that shrouded their much-loved country through Hitler's fascism. They gave their lives so that Germany may have a better future...in freedom.
As thought-provoking and heartfelt as it was, I found the story itself a little too political...and yet, that is exactly what the White Rose were fighting against. But that is just a reflection of my own personal tastes. It was certainly inspiration and heartfelt, but yes...too political for my tastes. But don't let that dissuade you because it is an incredible story of bravery and courage in the midst of injustice.
However, my favourite part of the entire book is the very last page...revealing that the heart and soul of the White Rose truly lived on.
I would like to thank #EllieMidwood, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheWhiteRoseNetwork in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
February 25, 2022
The White Rose Network by Ellie Midwood was beautifully written from start to finish. This new book By Ellie is very powerful and extremely well written and based on a true story, and tells us about a young girl called Sophie Scholl who was a resistance fighter and anti nazi campaigner in Germany in World war two.
"Sophie was born to be a rebel, raised by parents who challenged the brutal Nazi regime. Determined to follow in their footsteps, she leaves for university, defying Hitler’s command for women to stay at home."
I am so glad I got a chance to read this book I highly recommend this book and all of Ellie Midwood Books.
Big Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this advanced copy, I am under no obligation to leave my honest review
"Sophie was born to be a rebel, raised by parents who challenged the brutal Nazi regime. Determined to follow in their footsteps, she leaves for university, defying Hitler’s command for women to stay at home."
I am so glad I got a chance to read this book I highly recommend this book and all of Ellie Midwood Books.
Big Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this advanced copy, I am under no obligation to leave my honest review
January 7, 2022
Another enlightening read by Ellie Midwood.
I had heard of The White Rose Network and with thanks to the author and her brilliant research I now know so much more about the courageous men and women who fought for the freedom of their country from the Nazi regime through non violent intellectual resistance.
The book centres around Sophie Scholl a young idealistic University student with her brother Hans and the other members of the White Rose Network who distribute Leaflets and graffiti denouncing the Nazi regime.
It is based on a true story and it is truly a page turner. The inspirational work of the members of the Network will leave you in awe of the bravery of these young people.
“A new war of liberation is about to begin. The better part of the nation will fight on our side. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the protection of individual citizens from the arbitrary will of criminal regimes of violence—these will be the bases of the New Europe.”
I had heard of The White Rose Network and with thanks to the author and her brilliant research I now know so much more about the courageous men and women who fought for the freedom of their country from the Nazi regime through non violent intellectual resistance.
The book centres around Sophie Scholl a young idealistic University student with her brother Hans and the other members of the White Rose Network who distribute Leaflets and graffiti denouncing the Nazi regime.
It is based on a true story and it is truly a page turner. The inspirational work of the members of the Network will leave you in awe of the bravery of these young people.
“A new war of liberation is about to begin. The better part of the nation will fight on our side. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the protection of individual citizens from the arbitrary will of criminal regimes of violence—these will be the bases of the New Europe.”
February 19, 2022
BRAVO! Midwood has crafted a powerful masterpiece! I admired the courage of those involved in the White Rose Network. Their courage is contagious. Freedom rings loudly within these pages. This novel parallels closely to where are currently in America. I highly recommend!
Readers who prefer a clean read, there is profanity.
I borrowed a copy from Kindle Unlimited. I've expressed my honest opinion.
Readers who prefer a clean read, there is profanity.
I borrowed a copy from Kindle Unlimited. I've expressed my honest opinion.
January 31, 2022
This is an interesting read.
Based on a true story The White Rose Network is about a group of students from the University of Munich who distributed leaflets against the regime of the Third Reich.
Sophie joins her brother Hans and his friends to fight against what was happening in Germany and we learn what led to her being questioned about her involvement.
This is a well researched book which really brings the situation to life.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Based on a true story The White Rose Network is about a group of students from the University of Munich who distributed leaflets against the regime of the Third Reich.
Sophie joins her brother Hans and his friends to fight against what was happening in Germany and we learn what led to her being questioned about her involvement.
This is a well researched book which really brings the situation to life.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 30, 2022
"Somebody, after all had to make a start. What we wrote and said is also believed by many others. They just don't dare to express themselves as we did" Quote by Sophie Scholl during her court case
Each time I read an Ellie Midwood novel, I think its my favourite. This one is no different She writes her stories with such passion that you cannot fail to become emotionally involved in the story. Her characters are all strong, resilient and passionate about their cause and she brings their history to life.
In a change from her books about Auschwitz this novel concentrates on Sophie Scholl and her fellow resistance members of The White Rose Network based in Munich during World War 2. Sophie was a student who joined her brother Hans and his friends in denouncing the Nazi regime. The book centres on their story but also Sophies interrogation after her arrest.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this advanced copy, I am under no obligation to leave my honest review
Each time I read an Ellie Midwood novel, I think its my favourite. This one is no different She writes her stories with such passion that you cannot fail to become emotionally involved in the story. Her characters are all strong, resilient and passionate about their cause and she brings their history to life.
In a change from her books about Auschwitz this novel concentrates on Sophie Scholl and her fellow resistance members of The White Rose Network based in Munich during World War 2. Sophie was a student who joined her brother Hans and his friends in denouncing the Nazi regime. The book centres on their story but also Sophies interrogation after her arrest.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this advanced copy, I am under no obligation to leave my honest review
February 27, 2022
WOW!! what a novel!
The White Rose Network Is a truly amazing and inspirational story about the underground network of German youth that secretly printed and distributed leaflets speaking out against the Nazis and also used other secretive ways of fighting against the Nazi oppression in Germany. We follow the lives of Hans and Sophie Scholl in particular, and the others who joined with them, and their dedication to rid Germany of the Nazi scourge. It is an emotional journey into the hearts and minds of these young people and their dedication to the point of death in order to free their country of Nazi rule and power. What makes this novel so real and meaningful is that it is based on facts and history, and the real White Rose.
The White Rose Network Is a truly amazing and inspirational story about the underground network of German youth that secretly printed and distributed leaflets speaking out against the Nazis and also used other secretive ways of fighting against the Nazi oppression in Germany. We follow the lives of Hans and Sophie Scholl in particular, and the others who joined with them, and their dedication to rid Germany of the Nazi scourge. It is an emotional journey into the hearts and minds of these young people and their dedication to the point of death in order to free their country of Nazi rule and power. What makes this novel so real and meaningful is that it is based on facts and history, and the real White Rose.
January 16, 2022
When I open an Ellie Midwood book, I know I’ll be reading a book with a high level of writing. Midwood reads extensively and meticulously researches and it shows in her writing. I always increase my vocabulary and marvel at the variety of her sentence structure. I know I’ll become immersed in a historically correct timeline and connect with authentic feeling characters. Midwood has the ability to intertwine real events and people with fictional characters in a seamless narrative; they almost appear real, they are so well-drawn. Even more than this, Midwood’s characters are in keeping with the timeframe they inhabit. I know I’ll be prompted to do some research on my own. Midwood always piques my curiosity and has me reaching to find out more. I know I’ll be reading about an uncomfortable aspect of war and Midwood will bring the events and the setting to life. She continues to put the horrible events and the brave actions of a few from the past in front of us to ensure that we learn from them and prevent the atrocities from repeating.
I was intrigued with Mohr and the motivation behind his actions, but it was the siblings’ refusal to shift the blame, knowing what lay ahead for them, that moved me the most. Their bravery and willingness to sacrifice for their ideals left me in awe.
Highlighting courage, conviction, and resilience, Midwood brings to light the Scholl siblings’ story and their role in the White Rose network. Readers will appreciate the unique history that Midwood unfolds for them; German citizens who opposed Hitler and took a courageous stand against him. By resisting Hitler and being willing to face the consequences, Sophie Scholl, the icon of resistance, inspires the German nation.
If you are looking for a book to take your breath away and leave you with tears in your eyes, this is it. Thank you for your dedication to preserving history for your readers and your commitment to leave us with a lesson, Ms. Midwood. I always eagerly anticipate your newest release.
I was gifted this advance copy by Ellie Midwood, Bookouture, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I was intrigued with Mohr and the motivation behind his actions, but it was the siblings’ refusal to shift the blame, knowing what lay ahead for them, that moved me the most. Their bravery and willingness to sacrifice for their ideals left me in awe.
Highlighting courage, conviction, and resilience, Midwood brings to light the Scholl siblings’ story and their role in the White Rose network. Readers will appreciate the unique history that Midwood unfolds for them; German citizens who opposed Hitler and took a courageous stand against him. By resisting Hitler and being willing to face the consequences, Sophie Scholl, the icon of resistance, inspires the German nation.
If you are looking for a book to take your breath away and leave you with tears in your eyes, this is it. Thank you for your dedication to preserving history for your readers and your commitment to leave us with a lesson, Ms. Midwood. I always eagerly anticipate your newest release.
I was gifted this advance copy by Ellie Midwood, Bookouture, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 26, 2022
Historical fiction lovers don't want to miss this emotional 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read!
"The White Rose Network" by Ellie Midwood brings tears to your eyes. Reading about Hitler's brutality grips your soul due to the cruelty endured throughout this time in history. According to the author, "The White Rose Network" is fiction based on the accurate account of Sophie Scholl's life. She lives on in history as one of most courageous women to fight against Hitler's regime during the 1940's.
Sophie parents despised living in times ruled by Adolph Hitler. Sophie's father Robert spoke out regularly against the regime, was arrested, and later freed. Sophie grew up strong willed and is determined to fight like her father against the injustice.
Sophie meets a very handsome young man named Alexander. Sophie and Alex form a lifelong bond of love. Together they find a group and embrace a mission to right the horrific wrongs of those being persecuted by the Nazi political control. They form the "White Rose Network" in a secret underground location. Standing up against the Nazi's is extremely dangerous. This is the emotional story of their brave fight.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the honor of reviewing this stunning book. I appreciate reading about the outstanding life of Sophie Scholl as told through the brilliant writing of Elle Midwood. The book will be published February 9, 2022.
"The White Rose Network" by Ellie Midwood brings tears to your eyes. Reading about Hitler's brutality grips your soul due to the cruelty endured throughout this time in history. According to the author, "The White Rose Network" is fiction based on the accurate account of Sophie Scholl's life. She lives on in history as one of most courageous women to fight against Hitler's regime during the 1940's.
Sophie parents despised living in times ruled by Adolph Hitler. Sophie's father Robert spoke out regularly against the regime, was arrested, and later freed. Sophie grew up strong willed and is determined to fight like her father against the injustice.
Sophie meets a very handsome young man named Alexander. Sophie and Alex form a lifelong bond of love. Together they find a group and embrace a mission to right the horrific wrongs of those being persecuted by the Nazi political control. They form the "White Rose Network" in a secret underground location. Standing up against the Nazi's is extremely dangerous. This is the emotional story of their brave fight.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the honor of reviewing this stunning book. I appreciate reading about the outstanding life of Sophie Scholl as told through the brilliant writing of Elle Midwood. The book will be published February 9, 2022.
January 15, 2022
4.5 stars
Sophie and Hans Scholl are known in WWII history as the founders of the White Rose Network - a Munich University based resistance group that challenged the Nazi status quo. I was hesitant to request this title as I am familiar with the story and was afraid of the heart rending, gut wrenching ending. ElliE Midwood drew me in despite my attempts to keep myself apart. I am impressed by her determination to stay as close to the truth as possible, as stated in her author’s note. I appreciated her mentioning her sources and would have loved a more extensive bibliography.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Bookouture for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Sophie and Hans Scholl are known in WWII history as the founders of the White Rose Network - a Munich University based resistance group that challenged the Nazi status quo. I was hesitant to request this title as I am familiar with the story and was afraid of the heart rending, gut wrenching ending. ElliE Midwood drew me in despite my attempts to keep myself apart. I am impressed by her determination to stay as close to the truth as possible, as stated in her author’s note. I appreciated her mentioning her sources and would have loved a more extensive bibliography.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Bookouture for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2022
My eyes have been opened!!! I had heard a bit about the White Rose Network. I now know so much more. I now know of the struggles experienced by those that had to stop them. I now know of the dedication of those that created and printed the pamphlets. They made a major contribution to the war agains Nazism.
There was a lot put on the pages of the story. At times I felt overwhelmed. There was so much going on. I can only hope that others will learn from books like this. I fear if we don't that the horrors will be repeated.
There was a lot put on the pages of the story. At times I felt overwhelmed. There was so much going on. I can only hope that others will learn from books like this. I fear if we don't that the horrors will be repeated.
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