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The Viennese Dressmaker: A Haunting Story of Wartime Vienna
From USA Today bestselling author Kathryn Gauci comes a powerful and unforgettable story of one woman's incredible will to survive and protect those she loves against insurmountable odds.
Vienna 1938: Austria's leading couturier, Christina Lehmann, sits at the pinnacle of Viennese society. Her lover, the renowned painter Max Hauser, is at the height of his career. But Max harbors a secret, and it is only a matter of time before the Gestapo finds out. The situation takes a dramatic turn on Kristallnacht, when the pogrom against the Austrian Jews escalates and one of Christina's Jewish seamstresses is brutally murdered.
In order to protect both Max and her couture house, Christina begins a double life, plunging her into the shadowy world of Nazi oppression, fear, and mistrust fueled by ancient hatreds.
As Vienna descends into chaos, hunger, and disillusionment, will her deception be enough to save Max--or will it end in tragedy?
Based on actual events, this is an epic story of courage and resilience. It is the kind of book that wraps around your soul and leaves an impression.
Vienna 1938: Austria's leading couturier, Christina Lehmann, sits at the pinnacle of Viennese society. Her lover, the renowned painter Max Hauser, is at the height of his career. But Max harbors a secret, and it is only a matter of time before the Gestapo finds out. The situation takes a dramatic turn on Kristallnacht, when the pogrom against the Austrian Jews escalates and one of Christina's Jewish seamstresses is brutally murdered.
In order to protect both Max and her couture house, Christina begins a double life, plunging her into the shadowy world of Nazi oppression, fear, and mistrust fueled by ancient hatreds.
As Vienna descends into chaos, hunger, and disillusionment, will her deception be enough to save Max--or will it end in tragedy?
Based on actual events, this is an epic story of courage and resilience. It is the kind of book that wraps around your soul and leaves an impression.
363 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2022
743 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 2, 2022
This is the first book that I have read by Kathryn Gauci but I sincerely hope that it will not be the last one! The story begins with the horror of Kristallnacht, in particular how it affected one small family. As I read, I felt as if I was experiencing the fear that Mirka Rosen and her daughter Hannah experienced as they heard terrible sounds coming from outside often interspersed with screams and then the sheer terror when they heard steps coming up the stairs. Hannah was told to take her sleeping sister up to the attic. Their brother was somewhere out in the night. Hannah hid under their dining table and was terrified to watch as an argument broke out between the men and her mother that led to her seeing the murder of her mother! At this point I was so drawn into the story that I don't think anything could have stopped me from reading further.
Mirka had been a highly respected Jewish seamstress who was employed the famous Viennese Couturier Christina Lehmann. She had been working at home when she was killed and the morning after her lover Max Hauser and an American journalist, Stephen Pembroke arrived and found Malka's body and her two daughters. They brought the girls to Christina's workshop where she made her decision to take them in and see that they were protected in whatever way she could. This was not her first effort to help the Jews, but no doubt it was the riskiest thus far, but as the novel progresses she becomes more and more involved in doing whatever she can to foil the success of the Nazi's even though it put her own life in jeopardy.
As a child, her family had been close with the family of Dieter Klein. He had always been enamoured with Christina though she had not given him any reason to think they would have any future relationship. He is now a high ranking Nazi officer and still holds hope that he can persuade Christina to marry him even though he knows she is in love with Max Hauser, a well known artist who only recently found out that having been raised as a Catholic, he was of half Jewish roots through his mother who had died when he was very young. Because of his feelings for Christina, Dieter does things in the hope that she will be impressed by him, but her greatest fear is what will happen to Max and to all the Jewish children who are trying to leave the country and head to safety.
Gauci includes many painful details of things that happened under Nazi command. In the days before the war actually started, Christina and her family became involved in arranging for the exodus of Jewish children to England via the newly developing Kindertransport. Later Christina's sister had a child with health issues. He was taken to the hospital where Dieter's brother worked and suspicions began to arise as to whether the child was euthanized. Many local people did what they could to help with all of Christina's efforts but over time life become tougher and ultimately Christine was forced into a relationship with Dieter Klein that was tantamount to blackmail. As a reader I could only imagine how awful it must have been. As things became worse, Christina had to lead a double life, pandering to Dieter's wants all the while actively being involved in the Resistance. Her fame as a dressmaker opened doors to her that would have been closed to others and she used that to save lives in whatever ways she could.
Within the novel we follow Christina's story until after the war is ended. The author's own experiences in the area and personal knowledge of fabrics comes through in the details she shares about the fashion industry. She paints a picture of what life was like in Vienna throughout the war and how careful everyone had to be not to arouse the suspicions of the Nazi's who were ever present. Choosing who to trust could have devastating consequences if you were wrong and very few could stand up to the torture that Nazi interrogators inflicted. There are parts of this book that can be quite difficult to read knowing that so many such horrible things happened in life to real human beings.
Does Dieter get his just rewards? Did Max survive? What happened to Mirka's children? What happens to Christina? One can't fit it all into a review but I think readers will find the story very compelling. I know that I read it within the space of 24 hours and found it stirred up so many emotions for me - fear, respect for those who put their lives on the line, sorrow.
Christina is a fictional character, but the events described in the book were based on real individuals and real events that occurred between 1938-1945. We see how the laws of the Nazi's affected everyday life for those who lived there and how slave labour was a very big part of their war machine. Gauci includes a most informative postscript that fills in many of the details she discovered through her excellent research. The Viennese Dressmaker is a story that will stick with me for a very long time.
I received an e-copy of this novel from the author but all opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
Mirka had been a highly respected Jewish seamstress who was employed the famous Viennese Couturier Christina Lehmann. She had been working at home when she was killed and the morning after her lover Max Hauser and an American journalist, Stephen Pembroke arrived and found Malka's body and her two daughters. They brought the girls to Christina's workshop where she made her decision to take them in and see that they were protected in whatever way she could. This was not her first effort to help the Jews, but no doubt it was the riskiest thus far, but as the novel progresses she becomes more and more involved in doing whatever she can to foil the success of the Nazi's even though it put her own life in jeopardy.
As a child, her family had been close with the family of Dieter Klein. He had always been enamoured with Christina though she had not given him any reason to think they would have any future relationship. He is now a high ranking Nazi officer and still holds hope that he can persuade Christina to marry him even though he knows she is in love with Max Hauser, a well known artist who only recently found out that having been raised as a Catholic, he was of half Jewish roots through his mother who had died when he was very young. Because of his feelings for Christina, Dieter does things in the hope that she will be impressed by him, but her greatest fear is what will happen to Max and to all the Jewish children who are trying to leave the country and head to safety.
Gauci includes many painful details of things that happened under Nazi command. In the days before the war actually started, Christina and her family became involved in arranging for the exodus of Jewish children to England via the newly developing Kindertransport. Later Christina's sister had a child with health issues. He was taken to the hospital where Dieter's brother worked and suspicions began to arise as to whether the child was euthanized. Many local people did what they could to help with all of Christina's efforts but over time life become tougher and ultimately Christine was forced into a relationship with Dieter Klein that was tantamount to blackmail. As a reader I could only imagine how awful it must have been. As things became worse, Christina had to lead a double life, pandering to Dieter's wants all the while actively being involved in the Resistance. Her fame as a dressmaker opened doors to her that would have been closed to others and she used that to save lives in whatever ways she could.
Within the novel we follow Christina's story until after the war is ended. The author's own experiences in the area and personal knowledge of fabrics comes through in the details she shares about the fashion industry. She paints a picture of what life was like in Vienna throughout the war and how careful everyone had to be not to arouse the suspicions of the Nazi's who were ever present. Choosing who to trust could have devastating consequences if you were wrong and very few could stand up to the torture that Nazi interrogators inflicted. There are parts of this book that can be quite difficult to read knowing that so many such horrible things happened in life to real human beings.
Does Dieter get his just rewards? Did Max survive? What happened to Mirka's children? What happens to Christina? One can't fit it all into a review but I think readers will find the story very compelling. I know that I read it within the space of 24 hours and found it stirred up so many emotions for me - fear, respect for those who put their lives on the line, sorrow.
Christina is a fictional character, but the events described in the book were based on real individuals and real events that occurred between 1938-1945. We see how the laws of the Nazi's affected everyday life for those who lived there and how slave labour was a very big part of their war machine. Gauci includes a most informative postscript that fills in many of the details she discovered through her excellent research. The Viennese Dressmaker is a story that will stick with me for a very long time.
I received an e-copy of this novel from the author but all opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
February 17, 2022
This deserves more than 5*
Although fiction, this book features many actual events which took place in Vienna and the surrounding areas during World War II, beginning with Kristallnacht.
Christina, a top couturier in Vienna, is faced with a dilemma regarding her lover Max, and does all she possibly can to save and protect him.
A suspenseful, heart-wrenching and haunting story of the atrocities of War, and above all, an enduring love.
Brilliantly written and thoroughly researched, this exceptional story was hard to put down, and I know it will stay with me for a long time.
Kathryn Gauci is an amazing storyteller, and in this book, she has exceeded all of my expectations. I only regret that I couldn't award it with more than 5*.
Very highly recommended for lovers of this genre.
Although fiction, this book features many actual events which took place in Vienna and the surrounding areas during World War II, beginning with Kristallnacht.
Christina, a top couturier in Vienna, is faced with a dilemma regarding her lover Max, and does all she possibly can to save and protect him.
A suspenseful, heart-wrenching and haunting story of the atrocities of War, and above all, an enduring love.
Brilliantly written and thoroughly researched, this exceptional story was hard to put down, and I know it will stay with me for a long time.
Kathryn Gauci is an amazing storyteller, and in this book, she has exceeded all of my expectations. I only regret that I couldn't award it with more than 5*.
Very highly recommended for lovers of this genre.
February 14, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker" is the latest masterpiece by Katheryn Gauci. She has taken me to places I have never been, taught me things I did not know, shown me things I have never seen and placed me in a time in history I had not lived.
When I read Kathryn's work I am transported, this time, to Vienna, Austria from 1938 to 1945. I dine in fine hotels and chic cafes. I travel the breathtaking Austrian countryside. I breathlessly follow and actually live the adventures, the passion, the unyielding love and the terrors of Christina and Max. The stain of Nazi thuggery spreads across a country rich in culture and history, and readers gain a clearer understanding of how it all happened through the lives of a group of diverse characters who allow us into their lives to such a degree that we know them. We laugh and cry with them. We experience the tenderness and the terror right along with them.
I knew when I picked up this book that I would love it. All I had to see was the author's name on the cover.
My expectations were exceeded.
When I read Kathryn's work I am transported, this time, to Vienna, Austria from 1938 to 1945. I dine in fine hotels and chic cafes. I travel the breathtaking Austrian countryside. I breathlessly follow and actually live the adventures, the passion, the unyielding love and the terrors of Christina and Max. The stain of Nazi thuggery spreads across a country rich in culture and history, and readers gain a clearer understanding of how it all happened through the lives of a group of diverse characters who allow us into their lives to such a degree that we know them. We laugh and cry with them. We experience the tenderness and the terror right along with them.
I knew when I picked up this book that I would love it. All I had to see was the author's name on the cover.
My expectations were exceeded.
April 26, 2022
WW2 Austria sets the stage for this well-written, noteworthy drama. Kathryn Gauci’s passion for and professional background in fabric and couture lend an interesting layer to this unique story line. My compliments.
February 28, 2022
Once more, an incredible story from Kathryn Gauci. Beginning in Vienna in 1938, with Kristallnacht 'the night of broken glass'. Of the number of horrors of war we have read, this one takes us into that time when innocence was lost, dreams were shattered and the life of the Viennese people would never be the same.
Christina, a renowned couturier in Vienna and Max, a successful artist are but two of the fascinating characters in this story. Following through from 1938 and into the height of the Nazi domination of this beautiful city, and the terrible events that took place there, I have learned once again things that I have heard about but didn't really know.
Evil...there are so many instances within this story where we can see and experience it. Perhaps one passage, spoken by Christina when she was asked how her evening at a ball hosted by the Nazis went, will stay in my mind...her words: An exquisite hall decked out to perfection, enchanting music, fine wine - and the most despicable men you could wish to meet all together under one roof.
This is a stunning and emotional story by this Author, something I have come to know by reading her work.
Thank you Kathryn, this is another story of courage that I have loved.
I highly recommend this story to other readers who love the genre as I do. This story is based on true events.
Christina, a renowned couturier in Vienna and Max, a successful artist are but two of the fascinating characters in this story. Following through from 1938 and into the height of the Nazi domination of this beautiful city, and the terrible events that took place there, I have learned once again things that I have heard about but didn't really know.
Evil...there are so many instances within this story where we can see and experience it. Perhaps one passage, spoken by Christina when she was asked how her evening at a ball hosted by the Nazis went, will stay in my mind...her words: An exquisite hall decked out to perfection, enchanting music, fine wine - and the most despicable men you could wish to meet all together under one roof.
This is a stunning and emotional story by this Author, something I have come to know by reading her work.
Thank you Kathryn, this is another story of courage that I have loved.
I highly recommend this story to other readers who love the genre as I do. This story is based on true events.
February 14, 2022
Romantic, inspiring, and thrilling
“The Viennese Dressmaker is a WWII novel in all the best traditions of the genre. Deeply touching and captivating, this is a power tale of courage and self-sacrifice under the pressure of unrelenting terror. The brilliantly portrayed characters, breathtaking twists of fate, and a surprise ending will take you on a journey you won’t soon forget. It is meticulously researched. The wealth of authentic details makes it feel like a true story. With its great writing style and accurate picture of that dramatic period in history, it’s a must read. I have no hesitation in recommending this insightful book as I do all other books by this highly gifted author.
“The Viennese Dressmaker is a WWII novel in all the best traditions of the genre. Deeply touching and captivating, this is a power tale of courage and self-sacrifice under the pressure of unrelenting terror. The brilliantly portrayed characters, breathtaking twists of fate, and a surprise ending will take you on a journey you won’t soon forget. It is meticulously researched. The wealth of authentic details makes it feel like a true story. With its great writing style and accurate picture of that dramatic period in history, it’s a must read. I have no hesitation in recommending this insightful book as I do all other books by this highly gifted author.
June 16, 2022
I have read many books on the Second World War, both fiction and nonfiction, but I was not overly familiar with the conflict from the Austrian perspective. Once again, this author has woven fiction through actual events, described characters based on real protagonists and brought Vienna's war experiences into sharp focus. The beauty of the world of high fashion, luscious fabrics, intricate embroidery and exquisite designs contrasts grimly with the harsh reality of hatred, racism, eugenics and the Final Solution - a compelling read.
March 29, 2022
An excellent book - gripping. I'll read more by Kathryn Cauci.
February 26, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker
WWII - Sept 1 1939 - Sept 2 1945
Another superb book by Kathryn Gauci that will haunt you even after you have finished it.
Based on actual events it will shudder your mind as to what mankind is capable of when no holds are barred. The people living under the oppression of the Nazi’s showed strength and resilience in everything they had to live with and do. So much was lost, so much pain in their daily lives, and learning never to trust anyone at all. Starvation, death, brutal beatings, severe cruelty, in the midst of deep love.
Kathryn is truly a seasoned writer, which enables her to paint a thorough picture of what was going on in the lives of Christina and Max. Kathryn’s describes the homes, streets, buildings with such accuracy that you feel like you are there, visiting. The turmoil gives the reader pain as you can feel the depth of destruction that took place during Kristallnacht. It is a love story only impeded by the brutality of war. This book is an education in human deficiencies and self preservation. Her writing can make you cry, worry, and feel pain. This book takes you on an adventure and you don’t want to let go, you cheer and cry for her characters, but don’t want to finish the book because the characters feel so real. Kathryn has a marvellous way of writing with understanding and compassion. Definitely a haunting story I didn’t want to finish. Another triumph for Kathryn Gauci.
WWII - Sept 1 1939 - Sept 2 1945
Another superb book by Kathryn Gauci that will haunt you even after you have finished it.
Based on actual events it will shudder your mind as to what mankind is capable of when no holds are barred. The people living under the oppression of the Nazi’s showed strength and resilience in everything they had to live with and do. So much was lost, so much pain in their daily lives, and learning never to trust anyone at all. Starvation, death, brutal beatings, severe cruelty, in the midst of deep love.
Kathryn is truly a seasoned writer, which enables her to paint a thorough picture of what was going on in the lives of Christina and Max. Kathryn’s describes the homes, streets, buildings with such accuracy that you feel like you are there, visiting. The turmoil gives the reader pain as you can feel the depth of destruction that took place during Kristallnacht. It is a love story only impeded by the brutality of war. This book is an education in human deficiencies and self preservation. Her writing can make you cry, worry, and feel pain. This book takes you on an adventure and you don’t want to let go, you cheer and cry for her characters, but don’t want to finish the book because the characters feel so real. Kathryn has a marvellous way of writing with understanding and compassion. Definitely a haunting story I didn’t want to finish. Another triumph for Kathryn Gauci.
May 4, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker by Kathryn Gauci is set in the 1930s to 1940s in Vienna during Hitler's rise to power. The novel's protagonist, Christina Lehmann is a successful couturier who caters to the Viennese elite. She employs and has among her clients both Jews and Catholics. Mirka, her favorite seamstress is among the hundreds of Jews murdered by Nazis on the night of Kristallnacht or the Night of Broken Glass, a true historical event described vividly at the beginning of the story.
Christina is horrified, yet she is strong and kind, risking her safety to help Mirka's young children. As time progresses, the Nazis close in on Christina's inner circle, including her lover Max who is half-Jewish. Although his secret is known only to a few trusted friends, the Gestapo discovers his true identity. Besotted with Christina is her childhood friend, Dieter Klein, a high-ranking Nazi official who despises Max for winning Christina's heart. Unfortunately, the lovers are torn apart when Max "disappears". When Christina is informed of Max's precarious situation, she is confronted with a nauseating choice: acquiesce to Deiter Klein's amorous proposition or risk losing Max forever.
Author Kathryn Gauci's prose is elegant and vivid, capturing the horrors of the Nazi regime's unconscionable cruelty while contrasting it with the opulent life of the Austrian elite. The novel is studded with meticulous details of Austrian architecture and cuisine and intricate descriptions of aristocratic Viennese women's attire.
The story moves at a measured pace, except in the final few chapters when it picks up tempo. My one criticism - and it is a minor one - is that the protagonist's character does not significantly change during the course of the story, although she definitely rises to the occasion as her life becomes increasingly difficult.
With fascism on the rise in many parts of the world, this novel is a must-read for us to understand why dictators must be stopped. Dictators destroy humanity, not just who they target at the outset.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
Christina is horrified, yet she is strong and kind, risking her safety to help Mirka's young children. As time progresses, the Nazis close in on Christina's inner circle, including her lover Max who is half-Jewish. Although his secret is known only to a few trusted friends, the Gestapo discovers his true identity. Besotted with Christina is her childhood friend, Dieter Klein, a high-ranking Nazi official who despises Max for winning Christina's heart. Unfortunately, the lovers are torn apart when Max "disappears". When Christina is informed of Max's precarious situation, she is confronted with a nauseating choice: acquiesce to Deiter Klein's amorous proposition or risk losing Max forever.
Author Kathryn Gauci's prose is elegant and vivid, capturing the horrors of the Nazi regime's unconscionable cruelty while contrasting it with the opulent life of the Austrian elite. The novel is studded with meticulous details of Austrian architecture and cuisine and intricate descriptions of aristocratic Viennese women's attire.
The story moves at a measured pace, except in the final few chapters when it picks up tempo. My one criticism - and it is a minor one - is that the protagonist's character does not significantly change during the course of the story, although she definitely rises to the occasion as her life becomes increasingly difficult.
With fascism on the rise in many parts of the world, this novel is a must-read for us to understand why dictators must be stopped. Dictators destroy humanity, not just who they target at the outset.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
February 28, 2022
Excellent novel. I learned so much about that period. Love and loss.
I was reading this novel as Ukraine was invaded by Russia so at times it became a bit of a harrowing read. I learned so much about Austria during WW2. As always Kathryn captures your heart and imagination so much so that you feel you are there. The descriptions of a country I have never visited were so vivid I felt I had once been there. The life of the main character reminded me of the saying never judge until you have walked in that persons shoes. What we would do for love and family we hope we never need to find out.
I was reading this novel as Ukraine was invaded by Russia so at times it became a bit of a harrowing read. I learned so much about Austria during WW2. As always Kathryn captures your heart and imagination so much so that you feel you are there. The descriptions of a country I have never visited were so vivid I felt I had once been there. The life of the main character reminded me of the saying never judge until you have walked in that persons shoes. What we would do for love and family we hope we never need to find out.
February 28, 2022
Kathryn has done it again, this is a masterpiece of a book. Her vivid descriptions of the materials used by the seamstresses and designers made you think you were right there in the showroom. I fell head over heels in love with Max - a real man with his own issues. A true love story set against the horror of the Nazis occupation. Loved it. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2022
A haunting story about a Viennese dressmaker who is in love with a Jewish man during WWII. It’s is a story of love and hope set against the brutal actions of the Nazi regime.
May 9, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker is a novel I just had to read - the WWII story with Vienna as a backdrop, high stakes, good versus evil, bravery, and a strong female lead. Now that I've finished the last page of the book, I know this novel will stay with me for a long time.
Ms. Gauci is an extraordinary storyteller. Her writing flows seamlessly through the years of horror and despair and features a most elegant dressmaker. Not only is the dressmaker Christina Lehmann's courage breathtaking in itself as she risks everything for righteousness, kindness, and love, but she is also the epitome of elegance in the social elite of Vienna. I would recommend this novel to those who enjoy well-researched historical fiction with a cast of remarkable characters in a well-described setting. Well done, Ms. Gauci.
Ms. Gauci is an extraordinary storyteller. Her writing flows seamlessly through the years of horror and despair and features a most elegant dressmaker. Not only is the dressmaker Christina Lehmann's courage breathtaking in itself as she risks everything for righteousness, kindness, and love, but she is also the epitome of elegance in the social elite of Vienna. I would recommend this novel to those who enjoy well-researched historical fiction with a cast of remarkable characters in a well-described setting. Well done, Ms. Gauci.
March 13, 2022
Christina Lehmann was the head of a couture house in Vienna in 1939. For quite some time, she has been in love with a man whose mother was Jewish though his father was not, and was raised catholic in a time and place where those of any Jewish ancestry at all are becoming increasingly oppressed. Because of this, Max does not feel it is currently safe for them to marry, and he is unfortunately correct. Under Nazi rule, the country has been becoming an increasingly dangerous place as the war continues to make life worse for those living there who are not part of the Nazi regime.
This book was a very good read, especially considering events taking place in the world today. The author does not shy away from well known events that took place in WWII. Brutality towards those with Jewish ancestry, property seizure, medical experimentation, the killing of those considered weak or imperfect, parents sending their children away to Great Britain via the Kindertransport in an attempt to keep them safe, and many other things. While this book is a work of fiction, historical events and people were necessarily included in the story.
I greatly enjoyed reading this book. It was very well written and the story had me wanting to keep reading to see what would happen next. While the experiences of those sent to concentration camps was not explicitly shown in this book, we are shown gestapo interrogations as well as a good deal of violence (nothing too explicit, but given the period in which this book was written, such things could not be avoided.)
But I think the best of this book was the postscript written by Ms. Gauci. Be sure not to skip that section. It gives a lot of information on the people who inspired many of the characters as well as the places and events. I would highly recommend this book.
This book was a very good read, especially considering events taking place in the world today. The author does not shy away from well known events that took place in WWII. Brutality towards those with Jewish ancestry, property seizure, medical experimentation, the killing of those considered weak or imperfect, parents sending their children away to Great Britain via the Kindertransport in an attempt to keep them safe, and many other things. While this book is a work of fiction, historical events and people were necessarily included in the story.
I greatly enjoyed reading this book. It was very well written and the story had me wanting to keep reading to see what would happen next. While the experiences of those sent to concentration camps was not explicitly shown in this book, we are shown gestapo interrogations as well as a good deal of violence (nothing too explicit, but given the period in which this book was written, such things could not be avoided.)
But I think the best of this book was the postscript written by Ms. Gauci. Be sure not to skip that section. It gives a lot of information on the people who inspired many of the characters as well as the places and events. I would highly recommend this book.
March 16, 2022
Great Great book!!!
April 26, 2022
I loved this book especially for the rich historical detail of the war, the city, the people. My father fled Vienna in January 1939. He spoke of his early life there only in terms of Strauss waltzes and whipped cream, the happy times. Stupid me, too involved with my own life to talk about the war and how he and his family escaped, just in time. Now I search for information, and this book provided such an expansive, personal, human picture. Thank you, Katherine Gauci, for this incredible book.
July 26, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker: A Haunting Story of Wartime Vienna is by Kathryn Gauci. This novel is one which catches the reader by surprise and draws them into the intrigue and suspense of World War II. How can one survive during this time and not be considered a collaborator? Who can you trust?
Christine Lehmann had a successful couture business in Vienna. She employed at least eight seamstresses, some were Jews, and kept them busy. Her clients were among the highest society mavens in Vienna and she even had clients who ordered from other cities. Her sister worked with her and kept the books and the studio going. Her boyfriend, Max, had been by her side for many years; but refused to marry her. He was Jewish, although until the Nazis pointed it out, he didn’t know it. He was raised as a Catholic and knew nothing about his mother who died when he was small. Max felt he would damage her reputation and her business if it came out that he was a Jew.
On the night of Kristallnacht, one of her best seamstresses was killed in her apartment when she refused to give in to the intruders. Her daughter, Hannah, was hiding under the table and heard the entire situation. Her youngest daughter was asleep in the attic and her son had gone out for the night. This seemed to be the start of Christine’s problems as she took custody of the three children. Thus, began her walk down a narrowing path to stay alive and have her business succeed under Nazi rule without collaborating with them.
The book is very good and keeps you glued to it.
Christine Lehmann had a successful couture business in Vienna. She employed at least eight seamstresses, some were Jews, and kept them busy. Her clients were among the highest society mavens in Vienna and she even had clients who ordered from other cities. Her sister worked with her and kept the books and the studio going. Her boyfriend, Max, had been by her side for many years; but refused to marry her. He was Jewish, although until the Nazis pointed it out, he didn’t know it. He was raised as a Catholic and knew nothing about his mother who died when he was small. Max felt he would damage her reputation and her business if it came out that he was a Jew.
On the night of Kristallnacht, one of her best seamstresses was killed in her apartment when she refused to give in to the intruders. Her daughter, Hannah, was hiding under the table and heard the entire situation. Her youngest daughter was asleep in the attic and her son had gone out for the night. This seemed to be the start of Christine’s problems as she took custody of the three children. Thus, began her walk down a narrowing path to stay alive and have her business succeed under Nazi rule without collaborating with them.
The book is very good and keeps you glued to it.
July 24, 2022
THE VIENNESE DRESSMAKER
Kathryn Gauci, author
THE VIENNESE DRESSMAKER is a riveting journey into the prominent and impoverished lives of those living within the grips of WWII, Vienna.
Brimming with fact, fiction, and fashion, Ms. Gauci skillfully draws us in on her golden thread of imagination as she creates a world that brings love and war directly into view.
With layer upon layer of extraordinary story-telling~ the reader will be deeply touched by, and affected by, not only the strength and vulnerabilities of these characters, but their commitment to one another in a time where holding onto hope can unravel in the blink of an eye.
THE VIENNESE DRESSMAKER is a remarkable journey of good vs. evil, and the resilience of the human spirit~ a literary experience that speaks volumes to its reader through the unimaginable, and unforgettable...
I thank the author for creating a most unique narrative of the searing and beautiful~ as it will hold my heart captive for some time to come...
5 Stars
#TheVienneseDressmaker
#KathrynGauci
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Wild Sage Book Blog
Kathryn Gauci, author
THE VIENNESE DRESSMAKER is a riveting journey into the prominent and impoverished lives of those living within the grips of WWII, Vienna.
Brimming with fact, fiction, and fashion, Ms. Gauci skillfully draws us in on her golden thread of imagination as she creates a world that brings love and war directly into view.
With layer upon layer of extraordinary story-telling~ the reader will be deeply touched by, and affected by, not only the strength and vulnerabilities of these characters, but their commitment to one another in a time where holding onto hope can unravel in the blink of an eye.
THE VIENNESE DRESSMAKER is a remarkable journey of good vs. evil, and the resilience of the human spirit~ a literary experience that speaks volumes to its reader through the unimaginable, and unforgettable...
I thank the author for creating a most unique narrative of the searing and beautiful~ as it will hold my heart captive for some time to come...
5 Stars
#TheVienneseDressmaker
#KathrynGauci
#EbonyPublishing
Wild Sage Book Blog
September 14, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker by Kathryn Gauci, with Austria WW2 as a backdrop, is a compelling read. Kathryn has a professional and deep interest in fabrics which is woven through this well-researched story. The characters are compelling, the opening scene drew me in and I kept turning the pages. Beautifully written The Viennese Dressmaker is a fabulous book.
December 8, 2022
haunting review of WWII life in Vienna
Could it happen again probably I think this is a must-read for anyone in these times it glazed over some things that occurred. I think the author might’ve spent a little bit more time dealing with the stallions because they were actually saved by general Patton but overall damn good book.
Could it happen again probably I think this is a must-read for anyone in these times it glazed over some things that occurred. I think the author might’ve spent a little bit more time dealing with the stallions because they were actually saved by general Patton but overall damn good book.
January 21, 2023
Excellent…
This book is so well written and it kept me on edge as I could put it down! My vision of Christina, Karin, Max and even Dieter were in my head! Beck, my God what a true friend who left you thinking Christina was his daughter! You can visualize the good, bad and horror of war! Loved it a terrific read!!!
This book is so well written and it kept me on edge as I could put it down! My vision of Christina, Karin, Max and even Dieter were in my head! Beck, my God what a true friend who left you thinking Christina was his daughter! You can visualize the good, bad and horror of war! Loved it a terrific read!!!
August 10, 2022
Amazing historical novel!
I would recommend this to anyone who loves Wii novels with a lot of intrigue and excitement
I loved and appreciated each of the characters, and how they fit into the story
I would recommend this to anyone who loves Wii novels with a lot of intrigue and excitement
I loved and appreciated each of the characters, and how they fit into the story
March 22, 2023
Another beautiful novel from Kathryn Gauci, who manages to produce people come that to life in her novels. Glad to see that evil is again defeated by goodness in the end, despite her people enduring hardships because of WW2 due the Nazis brutal acts.
August 9, 2023
The Viennese Dressmaker
This is such an interesting storyline. It takes place during the events that were happening during the rise and fall of the Third Reich, with a lot of powerful individuals through the book.
This is such an interesting storyline. It takes place during the events that were happening during the rise and fall of the Third Reich, with a lot of powerful individuals through the book.
June 15, 2022
The Viennese Dressmaker by Kathryn Gauci has received a Chill with a Book Readers' PREMIER Award
www.chillwithabook.com
www.chillwithabook.com
June 26, 2022
The will of one woman to survive and protect
December 6, 2022
I just loved reading this book. It both really reflected the Nazi period and also gave me a feel for Vienna.
January 22, 2023
Great book seeing Vienna pre n post WWII
The characters were will defined and all had a story to tell. Seeing it through their eyes and how they helped others was interesting.
The characters were will defined and all had a story to tell. Seeing it through their eyes and how they helped others was interesting.
July 31, 2023
I read this book in one sitting (one day), as it is so captivating and easy to read (not the subject matter, but the way it is written). I very much liked the main character Christina from the beginning. She is strong, brave, kind, caring, but also vulnerable.
However, I was torn a bit in deciding to give 3 or 4 stars as the book does have a few shortcomings (for me). First, it’s almost two stories in one. The first half of the book focuses solely on the Kindertransport and getting Malka and Hannah out of Vienna and helping Nathan. Once Malka and Hannah are safely in England, they’re almost forgotten for the rest of the story.
The second part of the book is all about Christina helping the resistance, while keeping her fashion house going, hoping Max is still alive and dealing with a lot of personal loss. I would have like the first part to flow a bit into the second half (e.g. maybe a letter from the children occasionally?).
I also found it disappointing that Max, Christina’s great love, who plays such a vital part for the first half of the book, does not appear again once he disappears (for his and Christina’s sake). It felt like killing off a main character in the middle of a movie. That he is mentioned again at the very end of the book was not very satisfying for me as a reader. A proper reunion between Christina and Max would have been desired (not just a reunion that is indicated) and how he handles being a father to Christina’s daughter (considering who the father is).
The inclusion of the baby and how it came about was also not very original (I have read similar storylines in other WWII novels). In order to find out if Max is still alive, Christina has to make the horrible choice to became Dieter’s mistress (a Nazi who is stereotypically described as blonde with blue eyes and an athletic build). And of course even though Christina and Max made love for years without pregnancy, the moment she is forced to become Dieter’s mistress she is pregnant. As said, that part of the story was not very original.
Having said all that, I still think this book is worth reading. It was well researched and I do appreciate that the location of the story was Vienna/Austria. The majority of WWII novels are usually set either in Germany, France or the UK, so it was interesting to read about life during that time in another country and how the war affected people there.
However, I was torn a bit in deciding to give 3 or 4 stars as the book does have a few shortcomings (for me). First, it’s almost two stories in one. The first half of the book focuses solely on the Kindertransport and getting Malka and Hannah out of Vienna and helping Nathan. Once Malka and Hannah are safely in England, they’re almost forgotten for the rest of the story.
The second part of the book is all about Christina helping the resistance, while keeping her fashion house going, hoping Max is still alive and dealing with a lot of personal loss. I would have like the first part to flow a bit into the second half (e.g. maybe a letter from the children occasionally?).
I also found it disappointing that Max, Christina’s great love, who plays such a vital part for the first half of the book, does not appear again once he disappears (for his and Christina’s sake). It felt like killing off a main character in the middle of a movie. That he is mentioned again at the very end of the book was not very satisfying for me as a reader. A proper reunion between Christina and Max would have been desired (not just a reunion that is indicated) and how he handles being a father to Christina’s daughter (considering who the father is).
The inclusion of the baby and how it came about was also not very original (I have read similar storylines in other WWII novels). In order to find out if Max is still alive, Christina has to make the horrible choice to became Dieter’s mistress (a Nazi who is stereotypically described as blonde with blue eyes and an athletic build). And of course even though Christina and Max made love for years without pregnancy, the moment she is forced to become Dieter’s mistress she is pregnant. As said, that part of the story was not very original.
Having said all that, I still think this book is worth reading. It was well researched and I do appreciate that the location of the story was Vienna/Austria. The majority of WWII novels are usually set either in Germany, France or the UK, so it was interesting to read about life during that time in another country and how the war affected people there.
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