Esther's Children

by Caroline Beecham

From the picturesque streets of pre-war Vienna to Britain's atmospheric cities in the grip of war, Esther's Children is the perfect read for fans of Kate Quinn's The Alice Network, and Kelly Rimmer's The Warsaw Orphan.

Inspired by the extraordinary life of Esther Simpson, Esther's Children is a powerful novel of love and courage.

Austria, 1936: Esther 'Tess' Simpson works for a British organisation that rescues academics from the cruel Fascist and anti-Semitic regimes taking hold in Europe. On a dangerous trip to Vienna to help bring aid to Europe's threatened Jewish scholars, Esther meets Harry Singer, a young Jewish academic and musician.

Tess works tirelessly to rescue at-risk academics and scientists from across Europe, trying to find positions for them in Britain and America. In 1938, she secures employment for Harry at Imperial College, London, their love affair intensifying as the world heads into war; yet they are separated once again as Britain moves to intern European refugees.

With Harry detained on the Isle of Man while still waiting for news of his parents, Esther and the Society plead with the government for the interned scientists' release. When Harry is eventually liberated, his future with Esther is by no means secure as he faces an impossible choice.

Confronting the horrific dangers of World War Two with remarkable integrity and bravery, Esther Simpson is revealed as an exceptional heroine.

Praise for Finding Eadie:

'A riveting, heart-stopping read that features fascinating insight into London's wartime publishing world.' - Woman's Day

'[Beecham's] characters are likeable and real, her writing is engaging and the subject matter is gripping.' - The Weekly Times

'This moving story of Alice's fearless pursuit of her baby contains all the ingredients of a spy thriller … A wonderful page-turner with great relevance for our times.' - The Chronicle

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, World War II

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 3, 2022

About the author

Caroline is the author of four historical fiction novels; Maggie's Kitchen, Eleanor's Secret, Finding Eadie (published as When We Meet Again in North America) and Esther's Children, and also a novelisation, Rainbow. She has 20 years experience as a writer and producer in film and television and has worked on a documentary about Princess Diana lookalikes, a series about journeys to the ends of the earth, as well as a feature film about finding the end of the rainbow. While she has done none of these things herself, she has discovered that she loves to write and to share lesser-known histories; and in particular those of pioneering women whose lives she reimagines through fiction. Caroline studied the craft of novel writing at the Faber Academy in 2012 and has a MA in Film & Television and a MA in Creative Writing. She currently lives in Sydney, Australia with her husband and two teenage sons.

Reviews

[Colin Baldwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are many inspiring stories from WWII, and this is another.

Caroline Beecham’s skills in research have certainly paid off.

‘Esther’s Children’ is fine historical fiction with an embedded love story.
The protagonist, Esther Simpson, is based on a real person, adding authenticity and extra interest.
Through her actions and dedication we are given a glimpse into the sacrifices and dangers faced by those who wished to help persecuted academics and artists escape Europe as the clouds of war moved in.

The music components certainly enhanced my enjoyment of this read.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was 1936 when Esther Simpson journeyed once again from Britain to Vienna, in her quest to rescue Jews who were beginning to feel pressure from the Nazis. Esther worked for a British company called the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning, where they contacted and helped people who were most in need. And at that moment it was the Jewish people who needed help. Esther was a Quaker and had dedicated herself to pacifism; her empathy and need to protect people ran through her veins.

With Esther’s love of music and ability to play herself, she met the talented violinist Harry Singer on this trip. As she came to know him, she also met with Harry’s parents – all three of them Jews. Harry’s father was a well-respected academic and Esther was confident in her ability to achieve grants for all three of the Singer family. But Otto didn’t want to leave his beloved Vienna and was sure he’d be fine. Harry wouldn’t leave without his parents, so they were at a stalemate. Finally in 1938, Harry arrived in London – the plan was for his parents to follow. But with the war hitting Britain, the bombings of London had the government scrambling to detain European refugees and Harry, along with many others, spent time on the Isle of Man before being released. What would be the outcome for this brave young woman, Esther Simpson, and the man she’d come to love?

Esther’s Children by Aussie author Caroline Beecham is based on the true story of the remarkable Esther Simpson, her achievements, and the famous people she helped along the way. She worked tirelessly throughout her life to establish work and connections for refugee academics – if you google her, you’ll be able to read about her extraordinary life. I’ve loved this author’s past historical novels and this one was no exception. Highly recommended.

With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Esther Simpson, born of Jewish parents, has changed her surname from its Jewish origin, leaving her freer to pursue her work. She is now a Quaker and therefore a pacifist. She works for the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning, a British company. It is far more than just a job to her . She has a deep concern for people and helping rescue Jews from the threatening Fascist and anti Semitic regime. On a trip to Vienna in 1936, Esther, known to her family and friends as Tess, meets and falls in love with Harry Singer. Harry is also a talented musician as well as a Jewish academic. Tess tries to help his parents and other scientists and academics find places in Britain and America. In 1938 she finally secures a place for Harry at Imperial College. But then the war escalates and they are separated, as Britain interns European refugees on the Isle of Man. Will they ever get back to each other?
This is based on the real person of Esther Simpson and her activities with refugees, though the author tells us Harry is fictional . In the end Esther and Harry are faced with a costly choice that could affect their whole lives.
Having read three of this author's other books and loved them, I was thrilled to win an ARC from Allen&Unwin to read and review. Thanks A&U. I was so looking forward to reading it. And it is a very good read, It is obvious a lot of research went into the writing of this book. It gives a clear picture of the times of World War 2. I had to admit I had never heard of Esther Simpson and her exploits before, so that was all new to me and very interesting It also contains a lot of information about classical music and violinists which would be more relevant to those who are violin and classical music fans, which I am not. That aside, this book is definitely well worth reading.
And yet... yet I didn't quite enjoy it as much as I expected. War stories are not one of my favourite reading list and I had recently read another, so perhaps I am just warred out for the time being. It was because I so loved Eleanor's Secret and Finding Eadie by this author that I was tempted to want to read this one. And I am glad I did, even though I found myself skimming a bit at times. So would I recommend it? Definitely. Don't let my negative biases deter you from giving it a go. Many people I am sure will absolutely love this book.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written story and it tells the story of Esther Simpson, the woman who worked tirelessly for a British Organisation, The Society for the Protection of Science and Learning to save as many at risk academics, scientists and scholars throughout Europe from the growing anti-Semitic and Fascist regimes, a truly remarkable story.

It is 1936 and things are getting dangerous throughout Europe, Esther decides to visit Austria to see if she can meet academics in need of getting out of Europe and heading to England to make new lives and help with working in the universities there. Esther meets Harry Singer a talented musician as well as a physicist when she tries to talk to his father about taking refuge in England.

Esther is also a violinist as is Harry and soon they are getting very close, but he will not leave without his parents, and Esther returns home but does not stop doing what she can to save Harry and his parents. With war getting closer in 1938 Harry comes to England, hoping his parents will follow soon he and Esther get closer and their love grows amid bombings in England, Harry is working at a college until the British government decided to intern the aliens.

Esther never gives up on getting him and the many other hundreds of refugees out of the camp and finally it happens but Harry has found out his parents have made it to America and he wants to be with them but he also wants to marry Esther, what will Esther do leave the work that she loves and her family behind for Harry or stay and help many more needy refugees?

This story takes in so much that happened in this terrible time and shows what a strong, caring and loving woman Esther Simpson was, she referred to all of the people she helped men and woman as her children and become friends with so many of them, I loved learning about her and her life, this is a story that I would highly recommend to any reader who loves some fact and fiction added together and turned into a beautiful story.

My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.

[Gloria (Ms. G's Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️4 Stars⭐️
Esther's Children by Caroline Beechamis an inspiring story that is based on real life heroine Esther (Tess) Simpson, set place during World War II.

1936 - Esther works for a society that helps to arrange grants and safe passage to Britain for refugee scholars and academics in Europe. Applications grew in number as the Nazi Party grew in power and Esther would write thousands of letters in the hope to secure freedom for these scholars.

On a ‘dangerous’ trip to Vienna for work Esther meets Harry Singer a young Jewish musician and academic and they fall in love. She manages to secure employment for Harry and he arrives in London but later they are separated when the Britain government interned all the European refugees to The Isle of Man as they were considered a threat. Meanwhile Esther tries to plead with the government to release Harry and others like him.

Esther also had a passion for classical music as an occasional performance violinist so this part of her life is also featured in the story.

Esther was a remarkable and dedicated woman her empathy towards others and her belief in humanity was astounding and she rescued thousands of refugees during the course of her work.

It was interesting so learning about the refugee scientists that Britain gained because of the war and the things they came to invent.

This book isn’t a speedy read, it was complex in parts but overall it was a fascinating read for lovers of historical fiction.

There is a special feature in the book! Scan the QR code in the book for 🎼 🎶🎻’𝙴𝚜𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛’𝚜 𝙿𝚕𝚊𝚢𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝’ which features some of pieces that Esther performed in the novel and in real life. How cool is that!

Publication Date 03 May 2022
Publisher Allen & Unwin

Thank you so much Allen & Unwin Australia for sending me a copy of the book

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Allen and Unwin for sending me this book to review.

I throughly enjoyed this book. Incredibly well written in a way which showed how people lived and experienced life during time of war. The way the writer detailed in the book in both fact and fiction made it an absolute joy to read.

It was interesting to read about the life of Esther Simpson and with the addition of the fictitious Harry Singer and his family gave an added interest to the story.

I shall be reading more of this authors books.

[Amanda - Mrs B's Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...

👨‍🎓An incredible Second World War fiction novel, inspired by true events and a real-life figure, Esther’s Children is the fourth release from Sydney based writer Caroline Beecham. A story of self-sacrifice, salvation, persecution, protection, danger, preservation and love, this is a moving narrative of one woman’s extraordinary fight against the Nazi regime in World War Two.

👨‍🎓Yet another truly admirable story of courage and pure determination in the shadow of the war, Esther’s Children is the most current release from historical fiction novelist Caroline Beecham. I am embarrassed to say I was not aware of Esther Simpson or her amazing work rescuing so many Jewish academics during the wartime era. I’m so glad Caroline Beecham was able to honour this incredible human in the form of this narrative. Making Esther’s story accessible and highly engaging, we as an audience are privy to Esther’s battles, successes, triumphs and efforts to save so many important scholars at a very dangerous time in history. Meticulous research, a well rooted time period, thoroughly interesting characters and a full-bodied plot fills the pages of Esther’s Children. I especially loved the inclusion of the about Esther Simpson section, background page, acknowledgements, resources and finally Esther’s playlist, which was added to the back of the book. The highlight for me was two page spread that outlined exactly who the academics were that Esther saved and what their achievements were thanks to her help. I am forever grateful to Caroline Beecham for bringing us Esther Simpson’s heroic story.

🙏Thank you to the team at @allenandunwin for a copy of this book for review.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Esther's Children by Caroline Beecham

Synopsis /

Austria, 1936: Esther 'Tess' Simpson works for a British organisation that rescues academics from the cruel Fascist and anti-Semitic regimes taking hold in Europe. On a dangerous trip to Vienna to help bring aid to Europe's threatened Jewish scholars, Esther meets Harry Singer, a young Jewish academic and musician.

Tess works tirelessly to rescue at-risk academics and scientists from across Europe, trying to find positions for them in Britain and America. In 1938, she secures employment for Harry at Imperial College, London, their love affair intensifying as the world heads into war, yet they are separated once again as Britain moves to intern European refugees.

With Harry detained on the Isle of Man while still waiting for news of his parents, Esther and the Society plead with the government for the interned scientists' release. When Harry is eventually liberated, his future with Esther is by no means secure as he faces an impossible choice.

Confronting the horrific dangers of World War Two with remarkable integrity and bravery, Esther Simpson is revealed as an exceptional heroine.

My Thoughts /

First and foremost, a huge thank you to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

For those of you wanting to get a different take on the usual WWII trope, you might care to pick up this little gem - Esther's Children by Australian author, Caroline Beecham.

Although Esther's Children is a work of fiction, it is inspired by the extraordinary life of Esther Simpson. She worked for the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning, a British organisation that, in the 1930s and 1940s helped to rescue thousands of academics and scholars with Jewish ancestry from the Nazis by helping them find employment in Britain or in other safe countries. Sixteen of them went on to become Nobel Prize winners.

Esther Simpson, born Esther Sinovitch, was born on 31 July 1903, in Leeds, Yorkshire, to Jewish parents - Ilya and Sora Liba Sinovitch. Her parents, as Jewish immigrants, fled the pogroms in Lithuania.

Ilya Sinovitch was also an educated man who had sought refuge in another country, and he had found it — not with the career he had worked so hard for, but at least with a home where he had raised his children without fear of persecution. Shouldn't everyone be entitled to that?

She was the youngest of her four siblings and was raised in a lower-middle-class family. She attended the Leeds Girls' Modern School and then the University of Leeds from 1921 to 1925 on a scholarship where she was awarded a first class degree in Modern Languages. Simpson was fluent in German and French, in addition to her native English.

From 1933, Esther Simpson was the assistant secretary to a charitable British organisation called the Academic Assistance Council (AAC). Her work involved organising transport for refugee academics from Germany who had been barred from working by the Nazi government. To put it simply, Esther Simpson dedicated her life to helping others.

On 30 January 1933, Adolf Hitler had become chancellor of Germany; a few months later, the Nazi Party had barred Jewish Germans from government employment, leaving over a thousand university teachers and researchers out of work.

In 1936, the Council was renamed the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning. Though their unspoken aim never wavered - to rescue scholars from Hitler. On a trip to Vienna to help bring aid to Europe's threatened Jewish scholars, Esther meets Harry Singer, a young Jewish academic and musician.

In 1938, Tess secures employment for Harry at the Imperial College in London - their love affair blossoming as the world heads further into war. With bombs falling in London, the government scrambled to detain European refugees, and once again Tess and Harry found themselves separated as Britain moved to intern European refugees.

…many in the western world were learning about it: the creation of the Nazi Volksgemeinschaft, the communities based on so-called racial purity that the Nazis had enforced, the boycott of Jewish businesses, the thefts of homes and valuables, the work camps and experiments.

Harry was eventually detained alongside other Jewish scientists, mathematicians, musicians and scholars on the Isle of Man. Both Esther and the Society plead with the government for the interned scientists' release.

"If the committee pleases, I would like to read from a speech that Professor Einstein gave at the Royal Albert Hall at the inception of our Society in 1933"….Einstein said, "We are concerned not merely with the technical problem of securing and maintaining peace, but also with the important task of education and enlightenment. If we want to resist the powers which threaten to suppress intellectual and individual freedom we must keep clearly before us what is at stake and what we owe to that freedom which our ancestors have won for us after hard struggles".

When Harry is eventually liberated, his future with Esther is by no means secure as he faces an impossible choice. To relocate to the United States with his parents or stay in London with Esther.

Beecham's account of the life of Esther Simpson flows effortlessly from beginning to end. It's obvious that Esther worked tirelessly throughout her life to establish work and connections for refugee academics - which she considered her children. The writing was mesmerizing and honestly, now that I've finished, all I want to do is go back and re-read this book again.

To give you some insight into what sort of woman Esther Simpson was, in 1966 all of 'Esther's children' came together and collected enough money to buy her, her own flat in Belsize Park and she then moved the SPSL offices into her spare room. She was awarded the OBE in 1956; the French Government made her Officier d’Académie; and, after her retirement in 1966, she received two honorary doctorates, including one from Leeds in 1989. Esther Simpson died on 19 November 1996.

[Veronica ⭐️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Caroline Beecham has delivered another honourable novel with Esther's Children; a work of fiction inspired by the life of Esther Simpson (1903 - 1996).

I loved that this story was based on the life of a real person, Esther Simpson, who through her tireless work saved the lives of many German Jews in her work for The Society for the Protection of Science and Learning. The society endeavoured to secure grants and work, in Britain, for academic refugees.

"On our shoulders rests the future of many of Europe's finest minds...."

Caroline Beecham's writing is exquisite and I found it easy to picture Esther and her colleagues. However, I didn't quite connect with the story the way I did with her previous novels. I found myself wanting more of Harry's story, Esther's love interest and a refugee himself. I was interested in his life in Vienna, the changing face of the city, then in the internment camp where aliens who were classed as a risk to British security were held.
Esther Simpson was an amazing woman, risking her own life and foregoing a family of her own to help many men and women who went on to achieve greatness in their field and I feel Caroline Beecham has done her story proud in Esther's Children.
*I received a copy from the publisher

[Craig and Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
I have learnt a lot more about the war by reading many books by authors who share anecdotes of the period.
Ensuring the dedication and determination of so many does not go unseen.
World War Two had many heroes and insurmountable losses.
In the 1930’s a change was sweeping through parts of Europe, a hatred and vilification of Jews was becoming policy.
Hitler and his thugs were systematically stripping the rights and dignity’s of its Jewish populace, including scientific and medical brain power.
Esther Simpson worked for a British organisation that endeavoured to relocate Jewish specialists from the dangerous situation they lived in well before the war erupted.
Repatriation to the safer haven of Britain.
Meeting the son of Austrian candidates changes her life as she successfully gets him to Britain.
A round up of alien citizens at the start of the war was a measure to protect the home front but done in a panic that resulted in Jewish refugees being interned.
Esther worked tirelessly to free many of her refugees from this plight including Harry.
Her passion to rescue those with academic prowess has the potential to deny her ultimate happiness.
Another fascinating piece of the WW2 jigsaw has been added in this well written and interesting book.
One would have hoped war and its destruction would have been a lesson learnt but clearly not.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Esther's Children by Caroline Beecham is a brilliant story set mostly in Austria and England in World War Two.

It's a story based on the true events of Esther 'Tess' Simpson who helped refugees during the war and became well-known for her work and achievements.

Violin 🎻 and classical music 🎶 weave their way through the novel and a chance meeting with a Violinist takes place distracting Tess from her work.

Their paths cross throughout the story but the war disrupts their relationship.

I enjoyed the train rides through the Austrian Alps, the apple strudel and linzer torte all making it a really good story and setting.

Esther's Children by Caroline Beecham is a beautiful story set in hard times.

I would like to thank Allen and Unwin publishers as well as Good Reading Magazine for my Review Copy.

[Unseen Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of Esther's Children from Allen & Unwin Australia to review.

Rating of 4.25.

Prepare to read about one of the more unique experiences of World War II with an excellent and moving historical drama, Esther’s Children by fantastic Australian author Caroline Beecham.

This was a rather great read from Caroline Beecham, who once again plumbs the highs and lows of history’s greatest struggle to produce an excellent read. Beecham, who has written several other intriguing historical dramas, including 2020's Finding Eadie, is a talented Australian author whose novels usually feature an intriguing hook around World War II. Her latest novel, Esther’s Children, is probably my favourite one of her books so far, and tells another powerful and intense story about love, survival, and the evils committed during war time.

In Esther’s Children, Beecham has written a particularly clever and compelling story that follows the life of real historical figure Esther Simpson. Adding in some fictional and dramatic details, Esther’s Children turns into a multi-year tale that showcases Esther’s work as she attempts to rescue academics from Nazi controlled countries in the lead-up to the war and beyond. In particular, it follows her interactions with fictional character/love interest Harry Singer, as she attempts to get him out of Vienna and into England. This forms the basis for an intense and heartbreaking story as these two ill-fated lovers are forced to ] contend with the obstacles placed before them, including the encroaching war, the machinations of the Nazis, the bureaucracy surrounding asylum seekers coming to England, and subsequent prejudice faced even after Harry has reached safety. Told using a split perspective between Esther and Harry, you get an intense inside look at both characters as they attempt to overcome the odds keeping them apart, while also experiencing some of the horrors brought on by the Nazis and others, with the reader hit by constant frustration at everything that happens to these characters. This entire story moves at a brisk and intense pace, and you will be swiftly drawn into the clever and touching narrative that is driven by these two characters’ experiences. The way everything turns out is both poignant and heartbreaking, and I felt that this was a great and captivating read.

Esther’s Children’s dramatic story is greatly enhanced by the captivating and fascinating historical details that Beecham has set it around. The author has clearly done a ton of research to pull her story together, and I was very impressed with some of the unique elements it contains. Not only do you have some fantastic, if very disturbing, depictions of the Nazi movement taking over Austria, but the story goes out of its way to highlight the work done to get certain (primarily Jewish) academics out of Europe. Focusing on the work of Esther Simpson, a unique figure from history who I was pleased to learn a lot about in this novel, you see the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning attempt to help these academics emigrate and find them jobs in England's educational and government settings. This novel really focuses on the impact that Esther had for many famous academics (her children, many of whom appear in the plot) and I found it fascinating to learn about her work and the people she helped.

However, I personally thought that the most fascinating historical aspect of this book was the subsequent imprisonment of these scholars and scientists by the English once the war broke out. I must admit that I was unaware of just how widespread and unfair the interment of German nationals in England was during the war, and I was very surprised to find out that so many refugees and fleeing Jews were also incarcerated in places like the Isle of Man, often alongside Nazi sympathisers. Shown directly through the eyes of one of her protagonists, Beecham paints a pretty grim picture of the terrible life that these incarcerated people would have experienced, and it was pretty heartbreaking to see all these people who had already lost everything get locked up by the country they were trying to help. I really appreciated the powerful emotional weight that the author loaded into all the historical scenes, and they really work to expand on the dramatic and romance elements of the entire novel. I cannot wait to see what unique historical element Beecham will explore in her future novels, but I am sure it will be fascinating.

Overall, Esther’s Children is a particularly powerful and captivating read that really highlights Caroline Beecham’s great skill as a historical drama author. Expertly combining intriguing and dark elements of history with a dramatic tale of love, loss and regret, Esther’s Children becomes harder and harder to put down as the story progresses and you are drawn into the character driven narrative. An excellent historical drama that is really worth checking out.

An abridged version of this review ran in the Canberra Weekly on 19 May 2022:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2022/06/16/...

For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/

[✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Allen and Unwin for my review copy.

We all know about Oskar Schindler and his list, but how many of us have heard of Esther "Tess" Simpson and the work she did getting Jewish artists and scholars to out of Germany, Austria and the like?

*raises hand* I will admit that I had never heard of her, and she is one of many, so so many whose stories need to be told and out there so more of us know about them.

I was engrossed in the tale that Ms Beecham has given us. I found myself googling things as they came up in the story, needed to know more about the story behind what was happening in the book.

In fact, I have spent as much time reading about Tess as I did reading the book. I love when a story gets to me like that.

A great combination of true story and fiction, I was intrigued and enthralled all at the same time.

This was my first Caroline Beecham story, and I will be reading more by her in the future

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful novel of love and courage based on a true story.The Council for At-Risk Academics is a charitable British organisation dedicated to assisting academics in immediate danger,those forced into exile,and many who choose to remain in their home countries despite the serious risks they face.The organisation was founded in April 1933 by William Beveridge as the Academic Assistance Council,to assist academics who were forced to flee the Nazi regime.In 1936 it was consolidated and renamed the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning.The council was formed of 41 men and women active in British intellectual activities,and had as assistant secretary,the redoubtable Esther Simpson.Archibald Vivian Hill,a notable British physiologist,was Vice President.
Esther Simpson OBE (31 July 1903-19 November 1996)was an English humanitarian.She worked tirelessly throughout her life to establish work and connections for refugee academics.Her work combined affection with toughness.She described her work as the "academic equivalent of the kindertransport programme."Esther Simpson,known as Tess to her friends,was best known for being a devoted lobbyist and organiser for the AAC.She worked closely with scholarly immigrants such as Leo Szilard and with several organisations to promote the acceptance of refugees.Esther Simpson was born Esther Sinovitch in Leeds,Yorkshire to Jewish parents,who immigrated to England to escape Russian pogroms.She was fluent in German and French.Simpson was deeply attached to her work and never married or had children.She was aware that refugee organisations couldn't do everything,but she wanted to help in any way that she could.Simpson's lifelong passion was music and she was a gifted violinist.Esther Simpson helped save many scientists, philosophers,historians,artists,musicians and architects,who would go on to contribute to intellectual and cultural life throughout the world.These included 16 Nobel Prize Laureates,and a slew of fellows of the Royal Society and British Academy.She formed friendships with many of her "children".She considered the people she helped to be her family.The scholars in turn,cared deeply for her.

[Ashleigh McCabe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wasn’t a huge fan of the writing, was leaning more to a 2.5 star, so was stuck between 2 and 3. Gave it 3 for what I learnt from it about the internment of refugee ‘aliens’ and the work of Esther Simpson (Sinovitch)

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story captured me from the very first pages. It's inspired by a true story and so beautifully written and well researched that I was instantly invested in Esther and Harry and what happened to them. I liked that there was so much I discovered that I didn't know and the settings were transporting, moving between London and Vienna, and Cambridge and the Isle of Man.

I also loved how Esther and Harry's relationship developed so sensitively and they communicated through music as well as language. The playlist at the back of the book with the Spotify QR was a lovely surprise and I can now listen to the pieces too and the story stays alive.

I can't wait for Caroline's next book!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an interesting story about a brave woman (Esther) highlighting the sacrifices and achievements of little known characters, especially women during World War Two and also the plight of refugees.

Esther's story is beautifully woven with real life events and characters and has colourful, evocative descriptions, especially of Vienna on the eve of war.

Thankyou to Allen and Unwin for the advance copy.

[Johnlydon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating novel that had me hooked from the start - but that's not all The real beauty of this book is the masterful storytelling of a poignant and meaningful untold story of wartime and humanity - love this book

[Edward · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a terrific historical novel about an exceptional woman, Esther Simpson. Simpson worked for the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning (SPSL) in the United Kingdom. The SPSL worked to rescue scholars who were being persecuted in the home country for their religious or political beliefs. Great work was done by this woman and this Society before and during World War II, rescuing many brilliant men and women from the Nazis. Simpson's work was recognised later in life with many honorary degrees and she received the Order of the British Empire. This novel is a compelling read about an extraordinary woman.

[Lorraine Bassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read, so very sad on so many levels. A must read !

[Sam Still Reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

Esther’s Children weaves a historical novel around a lesser known, real life historical figure in Esther Simpson. Simpson was integral as part for the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning, doing a lot of the groundwork for scholars and scientists in countries at war or at risk of persecution to move of safer environments. Much of her work was done in the 1930s and 1940s as the Nazis increased their strength and it’s this period that the novel focuses on.

Simpson is no stranger to persecution, being Jewish and her parents fleeing Europe for England some years earlier. Esther has a passion, almost a calling, for ensuring that the academics at risk have the references and work they need to emigrate to countries where they can continue their work without fear. It’s on a trip to Austria where she meets the fictional Harry Singer. Both he and his parents are fantastic candidates to be taken under the wing of the Society, but his father holds out. Meanwhile, Austria is becoming more dangerous and Esther and Harry are caught in the crossfire. It’s enough for Harry to relent and begin the process to continue his work in England, but not his parents. Harry and Esther fall in love, but as World War II begins, some in England are getting cold feet about the European refugees in their midst. Harry is sent to an internment camp, and Esther must continue her work under increasingly trying circumstances.

Once again, Caroline Beecham has excelled in her research, bringing Esther, the Society and the treatment of refugees in English internment camps to life. She clearly demonstrates on the page Esther’s dedication to her ‘children’, often at the sake of all else going on. Adding Harry as a character experiencing the interment camps highlights the way the refugees were treated with suspicion and sometimes worse. There is also a lot of detail about classical music, which is Esther and Harry’s release. (I must admit this is not my thing, so I skimmed these sections). While the character of Esther was admirable in her pursuit to offer safety to academic refugees, I must admit that I got a little bored with her focus, important as it was. Harry, perhaps because he was fictional and more liberties could be taken with his character, was much more interesting and daring in his observations and ideas. However, the history was fascinating and I’m glad that I could gain insight into history I may have stayed ignorant of otherwise.

Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy of this book. My review is honest.

http://samstillreading.wordpress.com

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Esther’s Children by Caroline Beecham

Esther’s Children by Caroline Beecham is a story brimming with lasting love, great sacrifice and a passion for saving others. Of course, there is a romance at its heart and a heroine’s drive to save the man she loves and his parents. This relationship, though wonderful, is severely tested by trying circumstances and admirable ambitions that lead to unexpected complications.

This story, based on a real figure in history named Esther Simpson, is beautifully written in accomplished prose. The topic, a fight for freedom, is a painful journey set in a time filled with twisted control and harrowing prejudice. The author, though, handles it all with great sensitivity. I felt as though I was there in the scenes with the characters. My heart ached with the challenges Esther continually faced in trying to free those who were bound by or under threat of Nazi rule.

I knew little of Esther Simpson’s life before Caroline’s novel shone a light on this admirable woman. I feel I am seeing her life now in a more personal way through the power of fiction. Esther worked tirelessly for the British organisation the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning to rescue some of the brightest minds of the world from the Nazis, many of which were Jewish academics and scholars and many who went on to win Nobel Prizes. She helped them find employment in ‘safe’ locations such as Britain and America. When you look on her work in this light, its importance is high on the list. It is easy to see the value of her relentless dedication as a major contribution to the ongoing advancements of genius minds. Of course, due to the nature of her missions, there would inevitably be obstacles and moments wrought with danger. Some of which were of great political and personal magnitude. But her courage seemingly never faltered.

Besides being a dedicated rescuer of great minds, Esther was also a proficient musician and her gift infuses the story with a special ingredient. Although some of her colleagues felt her talent was a great tool to use to get close to people in power so that she could influence them to soften and open up to her requests. In understanding her character qualities, I don’t think she was comfortable with this idea and may have seen it as an act of deception. But it did put her in places where she could assist those she sought to free. It also was where she met a man, Harry, (another a musician - a violinist ) who became very special to her throughout her life. This man, radiated with a warmth she could not resist. He was also unusual in that he was happy to play with female musicians. This was a rare occurrence because men at the time, even the educated ones, did not believe in doing so. But Harry was different. Esther and he grew very close and their journey together became both heart-warming and sad. I felt Caroline provided a wonderful depiction of their relationship and its importance. It certainly drew out the tears and tissues!

Esther’s Children is a deeply touching and tender story where love rises above pain and binds the threads of hope to an anchor of determination. It is based on a real individual in history who deserves to be remembered and I think author Caroline Beecham has done an exceptional job in giving us a memorable and triumphant story. May the proof of Esther’s actions continue to inspire hope and courage in the persecuted today. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Brooke Alice (brookes.bookstagram) · Rating 3 out of 5]

TW: holocaust themes, war, antisemitism, abuse.

I really enjoyed the concept of Esther Simpson, her backstory, and the incredible work she did throughout her life to protect and support Jewish people. It took me a while to understand the title of this book, realising that her children they are referring to, are all the people she helped flee war torn Europe during WWII to start a better life in the UK or the US. Esther's determination, wit and strength to push through as many Jewish people for academic positions, scholarships and employment opportunities outside of Europe was incredible, and it was wonderful as well to see a woman at the forefront pushing to help from a different lens. Most of the historical fiction I have read is usually those based in the war torn country itself, so this was a breath of fresh air to have a different perspective and storyline.

This book is loosely based off Esther Simpson's actual life, which makes it that much more touching to know that her service to these families did occur, and she helped so many families flee persecution and ultimate death. A beautifully written book. I would've probably rated it higher, if I hadn't had just read another historical fiction right before this one which pipped this one at the post. Rounded up to 3 1/2 stars.

Thanks to Harlequin for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Renee Hermansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Esther Simpson was a heroine during World War Two, working for a British organisation to rescue academics and scientists from across Europe and secure them positions in England. She put her whole heart into her job and put herself in high risk situations to help others.

While in Austria she meets Harry and the love affair begins while the rest of the world starts falling apart. They are faced with many choices throughout the story to secure their future together or separately.

This book is so interesting, the characters so real and I learnt a lot about organisations in that time and I learnt that many of the refugees were interned for fear of working for the other side. Even Harry spent time locked up as Esther tried tirelessly to get them all freedom again.

Excellent read and well researched by the author. I highly recommend as it had me hooked.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace and Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fascinating book. Esther's Children is based on a real person, who was working for a British organisation in the mid 1930s, that rescued academics and scientists from a Europe that was heading towards war. It is a bit of a spy thriller and a World War Two love story with the occasional twist that will keep you reading.
I love books at are based on real events and people. They broaden your knowledge and make you curious to search for more information.

[Sarah Hawthorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another fascinating insight from Caroline Beecham into the life of an unsung hero of WW2. Based on the real-life work of Esther Simpson, Esther’s Children is an amazing story of how she fearlessly worked to help academics and scientists with Jewish heritage escape the Nazi regime - and with a touching love story as a backdrop. Caroline’s writing is so engaging that it compels one to keep turning the page. I devoured it! I’ve loved all her books, and this was no exception.

[Kate thebooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a moving historical fiction novel shedding light on the rescue of academics in Europe. It always amazes me what people did for others during this time.

I am so glad that authors like Caroline Beecham write these stories and celebrate the lives of such extraordinary people.

Another must read for all historical fiction fans.

[Mary Churchill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and informative really enjoyed this book

[Alison Hydes · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent story of bravery in WW2 rescuing academics of Jewish descent.

[Diane Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really enjoying the historical fiction by this author.