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Orphans of War Series #1
Orphans of War
Amsterdam, 1941
Their whole world is about to shatter.
German forces have invaded the Netherlands, but the Dutch are trying desperately to believe it won't be that bad. Meanwhile, Nazis openly terrorize Jewish people on the streets. Rumors of bone-chilling violence are getting harder to ignore.
Christiaan, a man of passion and principle, joins the resistance. He risks everything to shield the oppressed and fight for the freedom of his beloved nation.
Floris is a man with a plan. Promoted to the Bureau of Jewish Affairs, he becomes instrumental in organizing transports to Nazi death camps.
Floris's wife, Nora, discovers his unspeakable atrocities as Nazi aggression grows more brutal. Defying him, she joins the fight to rescue orphans from the terror of the transport trains and to save them from the same fate.
The Reich's grip on Amsterdam tightens. These three will find themselves in the middle of a maelstrom that will change the course of history. As ambition, fear, and desperation collide, no one is safe.
Not the Jewish.
Not the Dutch.
Not even the powers-that-be.
"Orphans of War" is the breathless first installment in the heart-wrenching "Dutch Resistance" trilogy. Enter the terrifying world of 1940s Europe, where the only thing eclipsing the violence of the regime is the bravery of the heroes and heroines of the resistance.
Their whole world is about to shatter.
German forces have invaded the Netherlands, but the Dutch are trying desperately to believe it won't be that bad. Meanwhile, Nazis openly terrorize Jewish people on the streets. Rumors of bone-chilling violence are getting harder to ignore.
Christiaan, a man of passion and principle, joins the resistance. He risks everything to shield the oppressed and fight for the freedom of his beloved nation.
Floris is a man with a plan. Promoted to the Bureau of Jewish Affairs, he becomes instrumental in organizing transports to Nazi death camps.
Floris's wife, Nora, discovers his unspeakable atrocities as Nazi aggression grows more brutal. Defying him, she joins the fight to rescue orphans from the terror of the transport trains and to save them from the same fate.
The Reich's grip on Amsterdam tightens. These three will find themselves in the middle of a maelstrom that will change the course of history. As ambition, fear, and desperation collide, no one is safe.
Not the Jewish.
Not the Dutch.
Not even the powers-that-be.
"Orphans of War" is the breathless first installment in the heart-wrenching "Dutch Resistance" trilogy. Enter the terrifying world of 1940s Europe, where the only thing eclipsing the violence of the regime is the bravery of the heroes and heroines of the resistance.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2022
806 people are currently reading
2251 people want to read
About the author
Michael Reit
14 books428 followersMichael Reit writes page-turning historical fiction. His books focus on lesser-known events and people in World War II Europe.
Born in the Netherlands, he now lives in beautiful Vienna, Austria, with his partner Esther and daughter Bibi. You can connect through michaelreit.com or Facebook (Michael Reit Author).
Born in the Netherlands, he now lives in beautiful Vienna, Austria, with his partner Esther and daughter Bibi. You can connect through michaelreit.com or Facebook (Michael Reit Author).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
August 30, 2022
Orphans of War by Michael Reit was a historical fiction novel based on true events, people and places. This was the third book that I had read by Michael Reit. I read his first two books, Beyond the Tracks and Warsaw Fury and not only enjoyed reading them but came away smarter by reading them. The same held true for Orphans of War. As in Michael Reit’s previous two books I enjoyed how he expertly blended fact with fiction. The development of the fictional characters mixed with people who actually existed was flawless and quite believable. I had a hard time putting this book down once I started reading it. I was very invested in both the plot and the characters.
In Michael Reit’s author’s note, he shared that he wanted to write about the role of the NSD collaborators in the Netherlands after a conversation he had with a friend about them. These police officers were more than willing to turn against their own people to help the Nazis during World War II. Many of the officers of the NSD saw the Nazis as being victorious at the end of the war and they wanted to be on the winning side. As a result, not only was there rampant corruption present throughout the Dutch police force, many of these officers thought that there was nothing wrong with stealing from the affluent Jews they turned over to the Nazis for deportation. These corrupt police officers would return to the houses the Jews were forced to vacate and take jewelry, cash or any valuable items they could find that were left behind. They got rich and the Jews were deported and faced death. Orphans of War spoke to the hardships of war the people of Amsterdam faced like the food shortages and the personal struggles they had to manipulate. It explored the lives of two brothers. Floris, a notorious bounty hunter police officer who was as corrupt as they came. He was also an alcoholic and physically and verbally abused his wife, Nora and was disliked by all his neighbors. It was hard to like anything about Floris. Floris had not always been like this but the war had definitely hardened him. Christiaan, Floris’s younger brother, was the complete opposite of his older brother. He was passive and kindhearted, saw the good in people and always wanted to lend a helping hand when someone needed it. Christiaan was a tram driver and loved his job because it gave him the opportunity to interact with lots of people. As the Nazi presence became increasingly more and more dangerous for the people of Amsterdam, Christiaan joined the resistance to help the Jews of Amsterdam in any way he could.
Orphan’s of War not only showed the corruption within the Dutch police force, it also focused on the jobs of the hardened police officers that went out of their way to help the Nazis find Jews that were hiding so the Nazis could make their quotas for their deportations. Nora, Floris’s wife, joined the resistance after she could no longer support her abusive and corrupt husband. At first, Nora passed on information about raids Floris mentioned so the resistance could move those people before the raids occurred. Later, Nora helped to smuggle innocent Jewish children out from the Crèche at Plantage Middellaan. The Crèche was the designated holding area from which Jewish children were deported. The Nazis separated parents from their children. Children were held in one building and their parents were held in a building across the street from where their children were being held. It was believed that If the babies and young children did not perish on the cattle cars that transported them to the camps, then they would surely be murdered upon arrival at the camps. The brave, determined and courageous Henriette Pimentel was in charge of the Crèche and oversaw the smuggling operation of Jewish children. Nora and others like her helped hundreds of Jewish children escape their certain fate if they were chosen for deportation. Henriette Pimentel worked closely with the Jewish Council to find new homes for these children. The risks Nora and people like her took to save these children were selfless and courageous.
There were also people like Bet van Beeren whose generosity and courage greatly helped the resistance as well. She owned a bar, Cafe ‘t Mandje, located in the red light district of Amsterdam, that was off limits to Germans. Bet, a friend of Christiaan, hid Jews in her basement and stored some of the weapons for the resistance above her bar. Bet helped Christiaan hide the young Jewish woman, Lisa, Christiaan was falling in love with.. Nora and Bet feared for both Christiaan’s and Lisa’s lives. They both helped and persuaded them to leave Amsterdam and try and get to Switzerland. Would Christiaan and Lisa be able to safely navigate their way to Switzerland and cross the borders? Will Nora be safe in Amsterdam under Floris’s watchful and mistrustful eye? Could Nora use some of the stolen money Floris had pilfered from the Jews to help Christiaan and Lisa escape from Amsterdam? Would Nora be safe if Floris discovered her act?
I really enjoyed reading Orphans of War by Michael Reit. It was exciting to find out that Michel Reit’s Orphan of War was just the first book in an anticipated trilogy. This is the first trilogy he has written. All of his other books were stand alone books. I am excited to continue following these characters. Orphans of War focused on aspects of World War II that I was not aware of. I love to learn new things about this time period. This is a book that I highly recommend.
Thank you to Book Whisperer for allowing me to read this ARC of Orphans of War by Michael Reit through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Publication is set for September 8, 2022.
In Michael Reit’s author’s note, he shared that he wanted to write about the role of the NSD collaborators in the Netherlands after a conversation he had with a friend about them. These police officers were more than willing to turn against their own people to help the Nazis during World War II. Many of the officers of the NSD saw the Nazis as being victorious at the end of the war and they wanted to be on the winning side. As a result, not only was there rampant corruption present throughout the Dutch police force, many of these officers thought that there was nothing wrong with stealing from the affluent Jews they turned over to the Nazis for deportation. These corrupt police officers would return to the houses the Jews were forced to vacate and take jewelry, cash or any valuable items they could find that were left behind. They got rich and the Jews were deported and faced death. Orphans of War spoke to the hardships of war the people of Amsterdam faced like the food shortages and the personal struggles they had to manipulate. It explored the lives of two brothers. Floris, a notorious bounty hunter police officer who was as corrupt as they came. He was also an alcoholic and physically and verbally abused his wife, Nora and was disliked by all his neighbors. It was hard to like anything about Floris. Floris had not always been like this but the war had definitely hardened him. Christiaan, Floris’s younger brother, was the complete opposite of his older brother. He was passive and kindhearted, saw the good in people and always wanted to lend a helping hand when someone needed it. Christiaan was a tram driver and loved his job because it gave him the opportunity to interact with lots of people. As the Nazi presence became increasingly more and more dangerous for the people of Amsterdam, Christiaan joined the resistance to help the Jews of Amsterdam in any way he could.
Orphan’s of War not only showed the corruption within the Dutch police force, it also focused on the jobs of the hardened police officers that went out of their way to help the Nazis find Jews that were hiding so the Nazis could make their quotas for their deportations. Nora, Floris’s wife, joined the resistance after she could no longer support her abusive and corrupt husband. At first, Nora passed on information about raids Floris mentioned so the resistance could move those people before the raids occurred. Later, Nora helped to smuggle innocent Jewish children out from the Crèche at Plantage Middellaan. The Crèche was the designated holding area from which Jewish children were deported. The Nazis separated parents from their children. Children were held in one building and their parents were held in a building across the street from where their children were being held. It was believed that If the babies and young children did not perish on the cattle cars that transported them to the camps, then they would surely be murdered upon arrival at the camps. The brave, determined and courageous Henriette Pimentel was in charge of the Crèche and oversaw the smuggling operation of Jewish children. Nora and others like her helped hundreds of Jewish children escape their certain fate if they were chosen for deportation. Henriette Pimentel worked closely with the Jewish Council to find new homes for these children. The risks Nora and people like her took to save these children were selfless and courageous.
There were also people like Bet van Beeren whose generosity and courage greatly helped the resistance as well. She owned a bar, Cafe ‘t Mandje, located in the red light district of Amsterdam, that was off limits to Germans. Bet, a friend of Christiaan, hid Jews in her basement and stored some of the weapons for the resistance above her bar. Bet helped Christiaan hide the young Jewish woman, Lisa, Christiaan was falling in love with.. Nora and Bet feared for both Christiaan’s and Lisa’s lives. They both helped and persuaded them to leave Amsterdam and try and get to Switzerland. Would Christiaan and Lisa be able to safely navigate their way to Switzerland and cross the borders? Will Nora be safe in Amsterdam under Floris’s watchful and mistrustful eye? Could Nora use some of the stolen money Floris had pilfered from the Jews to help Christiaan and Lisa escape from Amsterdam? Would Nora be safe if Floris discovered her act?
I really enjoyed reading Orphans of War by Michael Reit. It was exciting to find out that Michel Reit’s Orphan of War was just the first book in an anticipated trilogy. This is the first trilogy he has written. All of his other books were stand alone books. I am excited to continue following these characters. Orphans of War focused on aspects of World War II that I was not aware of. I love to learn new things about this time period. This is a book that I highly recommend.
Thank you to Book Whisperer for allowing me to read this ARC of Orphans of War by Michael Reit through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Publication is set for September 8, 2022.
September 8, 2022
INTERESTING AND ENGAGING PLOT, BUT SADLY LACKING IN EMOTIONAL DEPTH
I have been delaying writing this review for more than two weeks. Mainly because I really wanted to like this more than I actually did. Reit's first two books were amazing and I really enjoyed it. So I went into this one with very high hopes. And while I definitely did like this book, it didn't thrill me as much as the two previous ones did. The plot is engaging, the characters interesting. But the emotional depth (that Reit has in spades in his other books) was just not quite there. Which really did weigh down the overall experience for me, as the subject matter was very emotionally fraught. So there was a real disconnect for me there, sadly. But with that said, it was still a good book and I am definitely not done with Reit's writing.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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I have been delaying writing this review for more than two weeks. Mainly because I really wanted to like this more than I actually did. Reit's first two books were amazing and I really enjoyed it. So I went into this one with very high hopes. And while I definitely did like this book, it didn't thrill me as much as the two previous ones did. The plot is engaging, the characters interesting. But the emotional depth (that Reit has in spades in his other books) was just not quite there. Which really did weigh down the overall experience for me, as the subject matter was very emotionally fraught. So there was a real disconnect for me there, sadly. But with that said, it was still a good book and I am definitely not done with Reit's writing.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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July 10, 2022
An intriguing story of division In World War 2. The story follows a husband. his wife and brother on opposing lines of the nazi occupation. Flo a police officer sides with the German and Nazi officers and does what he feels is his part to aid in the capture of Jews in hiding. His brother however, is helping to aid the resistance and recruits Flos wife to his cause. However things start unraveling, Flo is onto his brother who must use his ally friends to smuggle him into Switzerland with help from Flos wife. Flo is then onto her and is able to catch her red handed but is apprehended himself.
I enjoyed this take on the occupation from different perspectives. It makes you think what you would have done. I enjoyed that there were real people and events tied into this fictional story.
I recommend this book to world War 2 and history readers.
I enjoyed this take on the occupation from different perspectives. It makes you think what you would have done. I enjoyed that there were real people and events tied into this fictional story.
I recommend this book to world War 2 and history readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2022
Book #1 in the “Dutch Resistance” trilogy
Amsterdam 1941
This is a wrenching tale of resistance and bravery. This fictional story of 3 individuals that in each their ways faced the bone- chilling violence of the Nazi regime. No one is safe: not the Jewish not even the Dutch.
The players:
Christiaan risks everything to help his beloved nation. He is a member of the resistance and his passion for the oppressed as no boundary.
On the other hand his brother, Floris, an official to the Jewish Affairs, is one of the organizers in relocating the Jewish population to Nazi death camps.
Nora, Floris’s wife, defies her husband by joining the fight to recues orphans from the terror and saving them.
The plot and my thoughts:
We are transported back in time where two brothers find themselves on very different sides of the Nazi occupation. Flo does is part by hunting and capturing Jews in hiding while his brother and Flo’s wife secretly help the resistance. As we follow them in their involvement we witness the incredible organization the resistance had across the country and how dangerous their everyday life was. Suspicion and betrayal was a way of life...no one was safe...even from your own brother even your own husband. Beautifully written to give us a sense of apprehension and fear, Mr. Reit gave us characters that expressed those sentiments to a tee.
Although a slow moving story it is nevertheless a page-turner I had no trouble with. Staying with it was not challenging. No graphic scenes although lots innuendos and scary moments. We do become invested in the lives especially when Christiaan escapes Amsterdam. I wanted him so much to succeed. Mr. Reit strikes a good balance describing War time and the personal struggles people had to endure.
This story has more to offer than I am describing. I only give you a snippet of what to expect. I leave it to you to enjoy as much as I did.
This is very satisfying read.
I received a copy from the publisher “The Book Whisperer” via Netgalley
Amsterdam 1941
This is a wrenching tale of resistance and bravery. This fictional story of 3 individuals that in each their ways faced the bone- chilling violence of the Nazi regime. No one is safe: not the Jewish not even the Dutch.
The players:
Christiaan risks everything to help his beloved nation. He is a member of the resistance and his passion for the oppressed as no boundary.
On the other hand his brother, Floris, an official to the Jewish Affairs, is one of the organizers in relocating the Jewish population to Nazi death camps.
Nora, Floris’s wife, defies her husband by joining the fight to recues orphans from the terror and saving them.
The plot and my thoughts:
We are transported back in time where two brothers find themselves on very different sides of the Nazi occupation. Flo does is part by hunting and capturing Jews in hiding while his brother and Flo’s wife secretly help the resistance. As we follow them in their involvement we witness the incredible organization the resistance had across the country and how dangerous their everyday life was. Suspicion and betrayal was a way of life...no one was safe...even from your own brother even your own husband. Beautifully written to give us a sense of apprehension and fear, Mr. Reit gave us characters that expressed those sentiments to a tee.
Although a slow moving story it is nevertheless a page-turner I had no trouble with. Staying with it was not challenging. No graphic scenes although lots innuendos and scary moments. We do become invested in the lives especially when Christiaan escapes Amsterdam. I wanted him so much to succeed. Mr. Reit strikes a good balance describing War time and the personal struggles people had to endure.
This story has more to offer than I am describing. I only give you a snippet of what to expect. I leave it to you to enjoy as much as I did.
This is very satisfying read.
I received a copy from the publisher “The Book Whisperer” via Netgalley
August 22, 2022
Set during WWII, superb Orphans of War is the first instalment of the Dutch Resistance series. Germans have occupied the Netherlands and opinions are split on their occupation and goals. Many believe they are on the winning side by supporting the Nazis and others form the Resistance knowing what the Nazis are doing to the Jews is abhorrent and appalling. This book is about (in)humanity, sorrow, loyalties, love, family and hope.
Christiaan is a tram driver and sees firsthand the happenings in the streets as Nazis brazenly torment, humiliate and kill Jews. His compassion moves him to join the Resistance which envelops him in constant grave danger. His brother Floris, however, is a ruthless Nazi supporter and believes Jews are subhuman and the root of all problems. His job is to seek them out, as many as possible, and arrange transport to ship them to death camps. He also believes he is doing the right thing. His wife Nora is disgusted by what she sees happening to the Jews at the hands of her husband and joins the Resistance. Not only is her job smuggling children who would otherwise certainly die dangerous but hiding it from her abusive Jew-hating husband makes it doubly so. The twists and turns are incredible and kept me curious and riveted. Some characters are despicable, others very likeable.
The story based on true events such as orphan smuggling and escaping the clutches of Nazis is fascinating and yanked on my heartstrings. Knowing it happened to human beings is gut wrenching. WWII Historical Fiction is one of my favourite eras to read and learn about and Orphans of War particularly drew me in. I was intrigued by the behind-the-scenes movements and bravery in impossible situations. So much time and effort went into rescues and resisting the Nazis by making their persecution more difficult to achieve.
Though not easy to read in places, this book highlights important subjects. It would appeal especially to Historical Fiction readers and those who wish to learn more about the Netherlands during this harrowing time in history.
My sincere thank you to Michael Reit and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this intensely moving and unforgettable book. It is a standout. I am eagerly awaiting the next in the trilogy!
Christiaan is a tram driver and sees firsthand the happenings in the streets as Nazis brazenly torment, humiliate and kill Jews. His compassion moves him to join the Resistance which envelops him in constant grave danger. His brother Floris, however, is a ruthless Nazi supporter and believes Jews are subhuman and the root of all problems. His job is to seek them out, as many as possible, and arrange transport to ship them to death camps. He also believes he is doing the right thing. His wife Nora is disgusted by what she sees happening to the Jews at the hands of her husband and joins the Resistance. Not only is her job smuggling children who would otherwise certainly die dangerous but hiding it from her abusive Jew-hating husband makes it doubly so. The twists and turns are incredible and kept me curious and riveted. Some characters are despicable, others very likeable.
The story based on true events such as orphan smuggling and escaping the clutches of Nazis is fascinating and yanked on my heartstrings. Knowing it happened to human beings is gut wrenching. WWII Historical Fiction is one of my favourite eras to read and learn about and Orphans of War particularly drew me in. I was intrigued by the behind-the-scenes movements and bravery in impossible situations. So much time and effort went into rescues and resisting the Nazis by making their persecution more difficult to achieve.
Though not easy to read in places, this book highlights important subjects. It would appeal especially to Historical Fiction readers and those who wish to learn more about the Netherlands during this harrowing time in history.
My sincere thank you to Michael Reit and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this intensely moving and unforgettable book. It is a standout. I am eagerly awaiting the next in the trilogy!
October 1, 2022
I appreciate the author's effort to enlighten the Dutch Resistance during the rise of Nazi Germany.
But I felt this story lacked depth and had a familiar plot line. I didnt engage emotionally with the characters and wanted to learn more about them. The romance didnt feel genuine. Some of the events that take place felt implausible.
But I felt this story lacked depth and had a familiar plot line. I didnt engage emotionally with the characters and wanted to learn more about them. The romance didnt feel genuine. Some of the events that take place felt implausible.
October 28, 2022
The Policeman’s Wife
This is a story of the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam. The policeman Floris that worked with the Nazis to catch Jews for deportation, his brother Christiaan the tram driver that worked for the resistance and wife Nora who smuggled Jewish children out from under the noses of the Nazi’s to save their lives. Nora also relayed information she heard from her husband to the resistance through his brother.
When Floris becomes suspicious and realizes what might be going on Christiaan must flea Amsterdam for Switzerland. With Nora’s help Christiaan and a Jewish girl flee Amsterdam.
Meanwhile, Nora is in great danger from Floris as he begins to realize what has happened.
It is a story of great courage amidst life threatening danger and breathtaking excitement and suspense. I was literally holding my breath through parts of the book.
This is a great story, it will keep you turning the pages. Now I can ‘t wait for the next story from this author.
Thanks to Michael Reit for writing a great story and publishing it. Thanks as well to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
January 9, 2026
Pretty good book. I was between 3 and 4 stars so maybe I would give it a 3.5. I felt like it started off pretty slow so it took me a while to get into, but i rated it a 4 because once i got about halfway, i wanted to keep reading and was invested in the characters! It is a trilogy so the book did not fully end and it appears to lead into the next one which i plan to read next. The writing was a bit underwhelming, idk if that makes sense, but i just didn’t love the authors style. I still love historical fiction and am curious how the characters stories end so I’ll definitely continue the trilogy. I wish the book was a little more action packed and would do a better job at expanding on the characters relationships since I feel like there was a ton of time to do so. Overall, it was a good read and I would maybe recommend for readers who like historical fiction and are getting into reading!
September 18, 2022
Title: Orphans of War
Author: Michael Reit
Release Date: September 8th, 2022
Page Count: 311
Start Date: September 1st, 2022
Finish Date: September 17th, 2022
Review:
Story: I want to give some warnings about this story so that people can go in with the knowledge they will have to read them. Besides the obvious horrors of the things that happened during WW2. This also includes domestic violence and public violence and bullying. I really enjoyed this story very much. I felt like I was actually there and viewing everything from all points of view. I felt horrified by certain people in the story. I also found myself rooting on the people who were just so amazing.
Characters: This book is told in three different points of view. We have Christiaan who joins the resistance because he wants to do something to stand for the wrongs that are happening around him. We have Floris, Christiaan's brother, who is an officer helping bring in the Jewish families for the Nazis to send away to "work camp". Finally, we have Nora, Floris' wife. She's tired of everybody looking at her with disgust because of what it is that her husband does. Eventually she decides to stop being ashamed and start taking action. She joins Christiaan in the resistance.
Critiques: None
Final Thoughts: This book was very emotionally gripping. I can't explain how much it made me think. I went through so many emotions. I was so horrified by things. My heart broke for people. I also find it interesting that no matter what "side" you're on, you think you're right. The beliefs that you're standing strong for is right in your eyes and your heart. At least for people who actually feel compassion and empathy anyway. I definitely recommend this book fully. I can't think of what else to say. I think I may have to go back and reread this again one day to see if it still hits me as hard.
Author: Michael Reit
Release Date: September 8th, 2022
Page Count: 311
Start Date: September 1st, 2022
Finish Date: September 17th, 2022
Review:
Story: I want to give some warnings about this story so that people can go in with the knowledge they will have to read them. Besides the obvious horrors of the things that happened during WW2. This also includes domestic violence and public violence and bullying. I really enjoyed this story very much. I felt like I was actually there and viewing everything from all points of view. I felt horrified by certain people in the story. I also found myself rooting on the people who were just so amazing.
Characters: This book is told in three different points of view. We have Christiaan who joins the resistance because he wants to do something to stand for the wrongs that are happening around him. We have Floris, Christiaan's brother, who is an officer helping bring in the Jewish families for the Nazis to send away to "work camp". Finally, we have Nora, Floris' wife. She's tired of everybody looking at her with disgust because of what it is that her husband does. Eventually she decides to stop being ashamed and start taking action. She joins Christiaan in the resistance.
Critiques: None
Final Thoughts: This book was very emotionally gripping. I can't explain how much it made me think. I went through so many emotions. I was so horrified by things. My heart broke for people. I also find it interesting that no matter what "side" you're on, you think you're right. The beliefs that you're standing strong for is right in your eyes and your heart. At least for people who actually feel compassion and empathy anyway. I definitely recommend this book fully. I can't think of what else to say. I think I may have to go back and reread this again one day to see if it still hits me as hard.
August 21, 2022
Ik heb een Advance Readers Copy gekregen van #netgalley en #Bookfunnel in ruil voor een eerlijk review.
Een fictief verhaal dat zich afspeelt in het Amsterdamse gedurende de Tweede Wereldoorlog. In het verhaal volgen we twee broers (Floris en Christiaan) en Nora, de vrouw van Floris. Hoewel het broers zijn, zijn Floris en Christiaan elkaars tegenpolen. Floris werkt voor de politie en is een NSB-er die voor het Bureau werkt en huizen van gearresteerde Joden plundert. Christiaan werkt als trambestuurder en rolt langzaam het verzet in.
Christiaan betrekt Nora bij het illegale werk als hij haar vraagt om voor hem te gaan spioneren en informatie die zij via hem hoort door te spelen. Floris komt hier echter achter en Christiaan moet vluchten, samen met Lisa, een ondergedoken Joods meisje. Met geld dat Nora van haar man heeft gestolen reizen Christiaan en Lisa naar Zwitserland. Intussen smokkelt Nora af en toe kinderen uit de Joodsche Creche om ze zo te redden van een zekere dood.
Een mooi geschreven verhaal, losjes gebaseerd op de waarheid. Boek had niet veel echte actie, en dat was jammer. Het idee van de 'Orphans' kwam nog niet echt uit de verf. Misschien dat het in andere delen uit deze trilogie nog gaat komen. Het einde was voorspelbaar, en de personages waren voor mij niet echt sprekend, ondanks dat toch 3.5 sterren.
Voor wie meer wil lezen over de Joodsche Creche, is het boek 'De Creche' van Ellie van Rijn een aanrader.
Een fictief verhaal dat zich afspeelt in het Amsterdamse gedurende de Tweede Wereldoorlog. In het verhaal volgen we twee broers (Floris en Christiaan) en Nora, de vrouw van Floris. Hoewel het broers zijn, zijn Floris en Christiaan elkaars tegenpolen. Floris werkt voor de politie en is een NSB-er die voor het Bureau werkt en huizen van gearresteerde Joden plundert. Christiaan werkt als trambestuurder en rolt langzaam het verzet in.
Christiaan betrekt Nora bij het illegale werk als hij haar vraagt om voor hem te gaan spioneren en informatie die zij via hem hoort door te spelen. Floris komt hier echter achter en Christiaan moet vluchten, samen met Lisa, een ondergedoken Joods meisje. Met geld dat Nora van haar man heeft gestolen reizen Christiaan en Lisa naar Zwitserland. Intussen smokkelt Nora af en toe kinderen uit de Joodsche Creche om ze zo te redden van een zekere dood.
Een mooi geschreven verhaal, losjes gebaseerd op de waarheid. Boek had niet veel echte actie, en dat was jammer. Het idee van de 'Orphans' kwam nog niet echt uit de verf. Misschien dat het in andere delen uit deze trilogie nog gaat komen. Het einde was voorspelbaar, en de personages waren voor mij niet echt sprekend, ondanks dat toch 3.5 sterren.
Voor wie meer wil lezen over de Joodsche Creche, is het boek 'De Creche' van Ellie van Rijn een aanrader.
September 6, 2022
“Orphans of War” is the beginning of a trilogy set in Amsterdam during WWII. If you want a book that will captivate you and leave you smarter, this story is for you!
It focuses on a Dutch soldier Floris, who turned Jews over to the Germans, his wife and brother. I like how the author wrote about “the bad guy” from a first person point of view. I always wonder what makes a person do such evil things. Greed seems to be a common motivator. I look forward to read more about Nora, Floria’s wife and Christiaan, his brother. Many thanks to NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#OrphansofWar #NetGalley
It focuses on a Dutch soldier Floris, who turned Jews over to the Germans, his wife and brother. I like how the author wrote about “the bad guy” from a first person point of view. I always wonder what makes a person do such evil things. Greed seems to be a common motivator. I look forward to read more about Nora, Floria’s wife and Christiaan, his brother. Many thanks to NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#OrphansofWar #NetGalley
December 14, 2025
It's World War II in the Netherlands. Christian is tormented by what is happening to the Jews in his country and joins the Resistance. His brother, Floris, is ruthless and wants to rid his country of the Jews and joins the Nazis as a member of the Bureau of Jewish Affairs. His wife, Nora, is sick at what Floris is doing and joins the Resistance where she helps orphans escape transportation. What will happen to each of these family members as war escalates and they try their hardest to succeed in their choice during this horrific war.
Well written and a very interesting look at the Netherlands and the roll this country played in World War II.
Well written and a very interesting look at the Netherlands and the roll this country played in World War II.
July 24, 2024
Book 26: Orphans of War
I chose this book because it’s set in Nazi-occupied Holland … which is the same period I’m writing my book in.
I enjoyed the descriptions of Amsterdam and reading one of the ways we, as writers, can fictionalise facts. That was fascinating for me!
I was surprised to read about two real resistance women who have also inspired my story - even though my fictionalised account is different. It felt bizarre, but also exciting to see incredible women from the past inspire those who come after them for decades to come.
Historically this book is well-researched and there were moments where I was truly gripped. I missed really engaging deeply emotionally with the characters at pivotal moments of the story, but I still enjoyed it.
I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
8/10
#bookreview
#historicalfiction
#michaelreit
I chose this book because it’s set in Nazi-occupied Holland … which is the same period I’m writing my book in.
I enjoyed the descriptions of Amsterdam and reading one of the ways we, as writers, can fictionalise facts. That was fascinating for me!
I was surprised to read about two real resistance women who have also inspired my story - even though my fictionalised account is different. It felt bizarre, but also exciting to see incredible women from the past inspire those who come after them for decades to come.
Historically this book is well-researched and there were moments where I was truly gripped. I missed really engaging deeply emotionally with the characters at pivotal moments of the story, but I still enjoyed it.
I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
8/10
#bookreview
#historicalfiction
#michaelreit
July 26, 2025
Exceptional writing. I became committed to finishing this book quickly because of the storyline and how well it meshed with books I had previously read about the Netherlands during WWII. There was one book that was a compilation of journals kept by collaborators and resistance fighters that was quite explicit about the actions of the resistance. Michael did an excellent job in portraying his characters to fit what I already knew from reading the journals. I can't wait to start the second of this trilogy "They Bled Orange".
June 17, 2024
Trilogy. First of 3 books.
January 3, 2025
Fascinating tale about the Dutch resistance. Happy to learn (in the author’s note) that there is a sequel.
Read
June 18, 2025Very good but so very sad what people do to each other
July 1, 2025
A little slow until the last few parts of the book. I enjoyed multiple character’s plot lines and viewpoints!
March 10, 2026
An amazing book from start to finish Michael reit is an excellent writer! Already picked up book number 2 and have the last one also! Couldn’t put it down! You start to get into the characters heads and what they must of gone through
October 15, 2022
I love books dealing with WWII. I read everything I can get my hands on. I thought this book sounded interesting, telling of the Dutch resistance to the Nazi occupation of their country. It is a different avenue, one less explored in the books written today than say of the Nazi occupation of Paris where there are loads and loads of books centered there.
There are three main characters, Christiaan, who is a good, upstanding man, one of strong moral convictions and lives by his principles. He is not swayed to the Nazi way of thinking and does not join the Party. He risks his life to fight for the freedom of his fellow countryman.
Then there is Floris, a Dutch policeman on the city force. Floris is a member of the party and his every action is motivated by one thing-getting ahead, advancing in the party. He becomes fanatical in his quest for power and recognition and becomes responsible for transporting many of his country's citizens to their deaths in the camps.
Then there is Floris's wife, Nora who finds out the horrible deeds performed by her husband. Defying him, Nora joins the resistance helping to get orphans out and transported to safety.,
Great storyline overall, but there is something lacking. The characters seemed very two dimensional, they lack a certain depth, there is no spark to them, nothing that catches the reader's emotions and connects with them. Without that connection the story just falls flat.
I am sorry this could be a great book for some, just not for me.
Thank you to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
There are three main characters, Christiaan, who is a good, upstanding man, one of strong moral convictions and lives by his principles. He is not swayed to the Nazi way of thinking and does not join the Party. He risks his life to fight for the freedom of his fellow countryman.
Then there is Floris, a Dutch policeman on the city force. Floris is a member of the party and his every action is motivated by one thing-getting ahead, advancing in the party. He becomes fanatical in his quest for power and recognition and becomes responsible for transporting many of his country's citizens to their deaths in the camps.
Then there is Floris's wife, Nora who finds out the horrible deeds performed by her husband. Defying him, Nora joins the resistance helping to get orphans out and transported to safety.,
Great storyline overall, but there is something lacking. The characters seemed very two dimensional, they lack a certain depth, there is no spark to them, nothing that catches the reader's emotions and connects with them. Without that connection the story just falls flat.
I am sorry this could be a great book for some, just not for me.
Thank you to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
September 25, 2022
Wonderful book
So much love and courage in one town. It makes you wonder if I could have done half of what these people did. And it would be wonderful for this book to continue there is so much more to be explored. I highly recommend this book. It is well written and well thought out. Pick it up today you will not be disappointed.
So much love and courage in one town. It makes you wonder if I could have done half of what these people did. And it would be wonderful for this book to continue there is so much more to be explored. I highly recommend this book. It is well written and well thought out. Pick it up today you will not be disappointed.
August 24, 2024
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s the first in the Dutch Resistance Trilogy. The main characters are Christiaan and his brother, Floris, and their wives, Lisa and Nora. All are involved in the Resistance save Floris. Floris will stop at nothing to rise to power in the Bureau of Jewish Affairs. Before the war he belonged to the NSD. He is a formidable antagonist and every time the author switched back to what he was up to, the tension rose.
I wasn’t acutely aware of the role the NSD played in collaborating with the Germans in the rounding up of the Jews for transport to the camps. How these men could betray their own citizens is just heartbreaking. It seemed there was no one with whom the Jews could trust and just when you really feel the hopelessness of their fate, up pops little cells of the Resistance.
This trilogy is really about the bravery of those men and women who risked their lives over and over again, to get the Jewish people to safety. You will read of the harrowing train rides across countries with no real papers to show at the check points. You will read of Jews crossing countries while hanging on to the undercarriage of the train, or crossing borders in wide open fields with the border guards at their heels. Some make it, some don’t. You will be impressed at the great network of people across the country who open their homes to hide the Jews until the key person in the network can move them down the line ever closer to the border.
The Dutch Resistance was an elaborate labyrinth of people working together at all levels to save their countrymen. Reit really brings this out in all the little harrowing details of this huge humanitarian effort. Truly, this book is a must read.
Note: I gave this book 5 stars. It deserved it, however, if you are interested in reading more in-depth accounts of these “runners of the Resistance” you really must read Sullivan’s books, Beneath a Scarlet Sky and This Tender Land. I have reviewed both books here in my Goodreads account if you’re interested.
I wasn’t acutely aware of the role the NSD played in collaborating with the Germans in the rounding up of the Jews for transport to the camps. How these men could betray their own citizens is just heartbreaking. It seemed there was no one with whom the Jews could trust and just when you really feel the hopelessness of their fate, up pops little cells of the Resistance.
This trilogy is really about the bravery of those men and women who risked their lives over and over again, to get the Jewish people to safety. You will read of the harrowing train rides across countries with no real papers to show at the check points. You will read of Jews crossing countries while hanging on to the undercarriage of the train, or crossing borders in wide open fields with the border guards at their heels. Some make it, some don’t. You will be impressed at the great network of people across the country who open their homes to hide the Jews until the key person in the network can move them down the line ever closer to the border.
The Dutch Resistance was an elaborate labyrinth of people working together at all levels to save their countrymen. Reit really brings this out in all the little harrowing details of this huge humanitarian effort. Truly, this book is a must read.
Note: I gave this book 5 stars. It deserved it, however, if you are interested in reading more in-depth accounts of these “runners of the Resistance” you really must read Sullivan’s books, Beneath a Scarlet Sky and This Tender Land. I have reviewed both books here in my Goodreads account if you’re interested.
August 3, 2022
Michael Reit takes us to Amsterdam during WWII. The Nazis enjoy the occupation of other countries. The citizens of Amsterdam watched helplessly as their towns were stripped of jewelry, art, and food. They suffered severe rationing and constant terror. The Nazis underestimated the anger people would have when they lost everything. The story centers around a husband, Floris, his wife, Nora, and his brother, Christiaan. Each character will have their values tested as they see the repetitive brutality of the occupiers. Floris is a member of the local police and will be seduced by the Nazi promises of power and wealth. Is he a believer or does he enjoy the perceived importance he now has? Nora will see the transformation of Floris and must decide whether she can support his new mission. From the beginning, Christiaan abhors the occupation. As he witnesses more and more terrorism, he will quickly decide where his loyalty lies.
The goal of the Resistance is to frustrate the Nazis. They make it difficult for the Nazis to carry out their mission of taking over Europe. The main characters all reach a breaking point at some time. What will they do when they reach this point? Because these characters are so relatable, it is easy to empathize with them. You become more invested in their lives with each page turned. Reit strikes a good balance in describing war-torn Amsterdam. As the story unfolds, and if you stop reading, you have to remind yourself of where you are after being in the midst of war.
This book is one that fans of Reit or WWII stories will find very satisfying.
The goal of the Resistance is to frustrate the Nazis. They make it difficult for the Nazis to carry out their mission of taking over Europe. The main characters all reach a breaking point at some time. What will they do when they reach this point? Because these characters are so relatable, it is easy to empathize with them. You become more invested in their lives with each page turned. Reit strikes a good balance in describing war-torn Amsterdam. As the story unfolds, and if you stop reading, you have to remind yourself of where you are after being in the midst of war.
This book is one that fans of Reit or WWII stories will find very satisfying.
September 1, 2022
It truly has been a long time since I have sparked such emotion while reading a historical novel like Orphans of War!
This novel takes place during WWII and is told from three points of views…
Floris is an absolutely disgusting human being who “hunts” Jewish people and those who try to help them. As he moves his way up the ranks of the police bureau, he really starts to change into a greedy monster. Not only does he receive compensation for each Jewish person that he turns over to the Nazi regime but he raids/steals from their houses once they are captured.
Christiaan, Floris’s younger brother, is a sweet and caring man with opposite views of his brother. Chris is a tram driver who stands up for what he believes in even if it puts himself at risk of trouble. He joins the resistance to save as many people as he can in the Jewish community. He transports families to safe houses and delivers food coupons to the host families in order to keep them fed while in hiding.
Nora, Floris’s wife, was disgusted when she found out what her husband was doing. She often questioned him which typically led to a beating. Christiaan came to her with a proposition to also join the resistance by helping to get the Jewish children to safety.
There are lots of twists and turns in this book. While it is a true page turner, I did have a hard time reading when it was Floris who was telling his story. Even though I knew the content of this book, I was thoroughly sickened by his actions. I absolutely LOVED Christiaan. I was secretly rooting for him and Nora to get together. Nora was a godsend! What she did for those children was amazing! This is the first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it! I look forward to reading the sequels of this series!
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in this time period. There are definite triggers in this book but it is so worth the read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Michael Reit for the opportunity to read this Advance Reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review!
This novel takes place during WWII and is told from three points of views…
Floris is an absolutely disgusting human being who “hunts” Jewish people and those who try to help them. As he moves his way up the ranks of the police bureau, he really starts to change into a greedy monster. Not only does he receive compensation for each Jewish person that he turns over to the Nazi regime but he raids/steals from their houses once they are captured.
Christiaan, Floris’s younger brother, is a sweet and caring man with opposite views of his brother. Chris is a tram driver who stands up for what he believes in even if it puts himself at risk of trouble. He joins the resistance to save as many people as he can in the Jewish community. He transports families to safe houses and delivers food coupons to the host families in order to keep them fed while in hiding.
Nora, Floris’s wife, was disgusted when she found out what her husband was doing. She often questioned him which typically led to a beating. Christiaan came to her with a proposition to also join the resistance by helping to get the Jewish children to safety.
There are lots of twists and turns in this book. While it is a true page turner, I did have a hard time reading when it was Floris who was telling his story. Even though I knew the content of this book, I was thoroughly sickened by his actions. I absolutely LOVED Christiaan. I was secretly rooting for him and Nora to get together. Nora was a godsend! What she did for those children was amazing! This is the first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it! I look forward to reading the sequels of this series!
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in this time period. There are definite triggers in this book but it is so worth the read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Michael Reit for the opportunity to read this Advance Reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review!
September 16, 2024
This book was yet another historical fiction novel for me about World War II and the Holocaust. It is the first of three books in the Orphans of War Series and I will definitely read the other two. I listened to this one on Audible and give it 5* for all three categories; overall, performance, and story.
Set in Amsterdam 1941, with the German forces invading the Netherlands, the Dutch are trying to believe that it won't be so bad until they realize that the Nazis are openly terrorizing the Jewish people on the streets. It's not long before bloodcurdling violence begins and tensions ins Amsterdam dramatically increases. Two brothers split on their beliefs and find themselves in the middle of the action. Christiaan joins the Resistance while his brother Floris, a policeman, is promoted to the Bureau of Jewish Affairs and become pivotal in the hunting down of Jews. Floris' wife Nora believes as Christiaan does and eventually starts helping the Resistance. This is where I will leave you in hopes that you will give this book a try.
Orphans of War was extremely well researched and I had me deeply engaged emotionally with the characters. A real page turner. Well done Michael Reit. Can't wait to read book two They Bled Orange. Highly recommend.
Set in Amsterdam 1941, with the German forces invading the Netherlands, the Dutch are trying to believe that it won't be so bad until they realize that the Nazis are openly terrorizing the Jewish people on the streets. It's not long before bloodcurdling violence begins and tensions ins Amsterdam dramatically increases. Two brothers split on their beliefs and find themselves in the middle of the action. Christiaan joins the Resistance while his brother Floris, a policeman, is promoted to the Bureau of Jewish Affairs and become pivotal in the hunting down of Jews. Floris' wife Nora believes as Christiaan does and eventually starts helping the Resistance. This is where I will leave you in hopes that you will give this book a try.
Orphans of War was extremely well researched and I had me deeply engaged emotionally with the characters. A real page turner. Well done Michael Reit. Can't wait to read book two They Bled Orange. Highly recommend.
August 15, 2022
This is the third book I have read written by this author and I have to say, this book did not disappoint me.
This time, the story is set in the Netherlands when the Nazis invaded the Dutch in 1942. The story follows about three people--Floris who was being promoted as an officer to oversee the transportation of the Jews, Nora, Floris' wife who tries to be dutiful and is appalled the way Nazis treat the Jews and Christiaan, Floris' brother who is involved in the resistance of saving the Jews and the children.
The author does a good job of drawing the reader into the story, making the reader feel like they are the part of the 1940's Netherlands. The ending was what actually drew me, how Christiaan and Lisa escaped from Amsterdam and moving to Switzerland. Despite the fact that it was a fiction, it still feels emotional and heartbreaking to read that these events did actually happen in real life. The Dutch are one of those who had strong resistance group against the Nazis and Christiaan was involved in the resistance movement. You can see that though most Dutch people resisted against the Nazi rule, there were people like Floris who only seemed to care for his position. Overall, this was truly an emotional and touching story. Worth five stars.
Many thanks to the author for inviting me to read and review the book. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
This time, the story is set in the Netherlands when the Nazis invaded the Dutch in 1942. The story follows about three people--Floris who was being promoted as an officer to oversee the transportation of the Jews, Nora, Floris' wife who tries to be dutiful and is appalled the way Nazis treat the Jews and Christiaan, Floris' brother who is involved in the resistance of saving the Jews and the children.
The author does a good job of drawing the reader into the story, making the reader feel like they are the part of the 1940's Netherlands. The ending was what actually drew me, how Christiaan and Lisa escaped from Amsterdam and moving to Switzerland. Despite the fact that it was a fiction, it still feels emotional and heartbreaking to read that these events did actually happen in real life. The Dutch are one of those who had strong resistance group against the Nazis and Christiaan was involved in the resistance movement. You can see that though most Dutch people resisted against the Nazi rule, there were people like Floris who only seemed to care for his position. Overall, this was truly an emotional and touching story. Worth five stars.
Many thanks to the author for inviting me to read and review the book. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
July 3, 2025
I have been studying the people od Europe in the WW2 era for over 40 years. We had neighbors who had been in the camps in California, and a history teacher at our school had been in Auschwitz. When I got to college, my psych prof had walked from the Czech Republich to Belgium with her little brother. She had then been hidden in the false bottom.of a farm wagon and taken to Portugal and hidden until they got passage to America.
When my husband and I were newlyweds, our downstairs neighbor had been in 3 different camps. She was the the only one left of her family, so for the two years we lived there, she "adopted" us.
I was intrigued when I read the small blurb about this and the other two books in the series. I hoped they would be a."good read" and I am pleased to say it lived up to my expectations. Switching between the three main characters, gave a good broad picture of the situation in Amsterdam from multiple viewpoints. That was a nice touch.
I have a granddaughter who is 11, but who reads at a 12th grade level. She is always curious about my history books, and while this one doesn't ignore the facts of the terrible situation, it doesn't dwell on the horrors. I think it would be all right for a younger reader if there is an adult at the ready to answer, explain and clarify anything that they might not understand.
I'm excited to read the next two books in this series and then the three from the next series that I bought. 10 out of 10 for this one.
When my husband and I were newlyweds, our downstairs neighbor had been in 3 different camps. She was the the only one left of her family, so for the two years we lived there, she "adopted" us.
I was intrigued when I read the small blurb about this and the other two books in the series. I hoped they would be a."good read" and I am pleased to say it lived up to my expectations. Switching between the three main characters, gave a good broad picture of the situation in Amsterdam from multiple viewpoints. That was a nice touch.
I have a granddaughter who is 11, but who reads at a 12th grade level. She is always curious about my history books, and while this one doesn't ignore the facts of the terrible situation, it doesn't dwell on the horrors. I think it would be all right for a younger reader if there is an adult at the ready to answer, explain and clarify anything that they might not understand.
I'm excited to read the next two books in this series and then the three from the next series that I bought. 10 out of 10 for this one.
July 21, 2022
Have you been searching for a well-crafted WW2 novel that is suspenseful and inspiring?
Best Selling Author, Michael Reit, allows his readers a taste of the common folk of Amsterdam during the 1940’s. But a closer look reveals that some of these people are not so common. In fact, they are quite extraordinary and heroic!
Outweighed and outnumbered by the biting hand of the Nazi regime, there appears to be no sign of people going back to a normal way of life. Across neighborhoods, people secretly work in resistance of Hitler, selflessly taking steps that could possibly save the lives of thousands.
In his latest novel, Reit intuitively paints before us, the lives of a few heroes of the resistance. We become connected to the characters thanks to the author’s vivid palette of descriptive phrases and crisp dialogue. The plot is quick and loaded with twists and turns. The reader is continually held in shades of inspired suspense.
There is a rhythm connecting Reit’s passages that make the reader flow swiftly from chapter to chapter. Tension and concern are constantly present.
The author’s books get better and better. Looks like Michael Reit has another winner!
Orphans of War is one of those books readers will want to become a series!
Thanks extended to Michael Reit and BookFunnel for this Advance Review Copy.
August 12, 2022
I loved the Orphans of War. I have been a student of WW2 my entire life and have always been intrigued by how frequently citizens of a country become collaborators after their homeland is overrun. This a story that delves into several “normal” people and how the circumstances of war and occupation change their lives forever. The four main characters are very well developed and embody the conflicts and struggles that all citizens of an occupied country are presented with as the German occupation of the Netherlands attempts to strangle them. The author is able to show through his characters how each feels compelled to react to this wartime situation in their own way. It shows clearly how the Resistance fought to create problems for the Germans in every way they could. He also shows how members of the Amsterdam Police Force were torn about whether to support the enemy or work against them. It is especially interesting to see how many citizen helped to hide the Jewish attempting escape or by actually being part of a network that were able to get the “wanted” out of the country through intricate and ingenious methods without being captured themselves. It is obvious that THE ORPHANS OF WAR was very well researched and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in WW2 or even an appreciation of the lengths people will go to for their ultimate survival.
June 29, 2024
Orphans of War by Michael Reit is a wonderful historical fiction of the plight of Jews in Holland and the Resistance who helped them survive and/or escape from the Nazi invaders. The story circles around a Dutch policeman, Floris; his wife, Nora; and his brother, Christiaan, a member of the resistance. With the arrival of the Germans, Floris has changed from the man who helped Nora escape life in a brothel to love and marry her, to an angry man who is rapidly becoming more devoted to the German propaganda and helps track down and capture hidden Jews. He becomes abusive to his wife which comes to the attention of his brother. Christiaan is a more gentle and loving man who cannot handle seeing the underdog being abused. He joins the Resistance to help others survive only to find himself in extreme danger as he tries to help Jews to safety. After living life under the fist of Floris, Nora comes into her own as she risks her life to rescue Jewish children and become a spy on her own husband. This book brings the true stories of the Resistance during World War II in Holland to life and helps the reader try to understand the circumstances and dangers of trying to keep Jews from dying under the Nazi fists. I am very glad this has a sequel to find out more about these characters.
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