What do you think?
Rate this book
When We Were Innocent
“Dad, you have to tell me the truth. Are you who they say you are? Because I know you can’t be. I know you can’t possibly have done what they’re saying…”
Libby Trent has worked hard to make a good life for herself. She has a happy, messy home in Virginia, full of family and laughter. And a job she’s enormously proud of at a charity helping the disadvantaged, that suits her strong sense of what’s right and wrong.
But everything changes the day she’s contacted by a government official asking questions about a man named Hans Brenner, a Nazi who escaped Germany after the Second World War. A war criminal guilty of the most heinous deeds.
And the man they suspect is Libby’s own father.
She has always known that her father was born in Germany, but what they’re saying is simply impossible. Her frail, elderly father is the sweetest man she knows. With his kind eyes, his tender care, his passion for social justice, he is the person who taught her every value she has… He can’t possibly be the evil man they are saying he was.
But the official is insistent. He says he knows Libby’s father is Hans Brenner, but he tells her they need more evidence for the trial to go ahead—even if it is just a photograph, a letter, or something her father might have kept from those days. And Libby is the one who could find it for them.
Libby knows terrible acts should never go unpunished. But she refuses to believe her father could be guilty, and so she decides to search for something that can prove his innocence. She knows she simply has to find it, because if she can’t…
Then everything she thought she knew about her father, about herself, and even about history may be changed forever.
A totally heartbreaking and powerful story about a daughter’s impossible dilemma and the darkest of family secrets, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Amanda Prowse, and Diane Chamberlain.
Libby Trent has worked hard to make a good life for herself. She has a happy, messy home in Virginia, full of family and laughter. And a job she’s enormously proud of at a charity helping the disadvantaged, that suits her strong sense of what’s right and wrong.
But everything changes the day she’s contacted by a government official asking questions about a man named Hans Brenner, a Nazi who escaped Germany after the Second World War. A war criminal guilty of the most heinous deeds.
And the man they suspect is Libby’s own father.
She has always known that her father was born in Germany, but what they’re saying is simply impossible. Her frail, elderly father is the sweetest man she knows. With his kind eyes, his tender care, his passion for social justice, he is the person who taught her every value she has… He can’t possibly be the evil man they are saying he was.
But the official is insistent. He says he knows Libby’s father is Hans Brenner, but he tells her they need more evidence for the trial to go ahead—even if it is just a photograph, a letter, or something her father might have kept from those days. And Libby is the one who could find it for them.
Libby knows terrible acts should never go unpunished. But she refuses to believe her father could be guilty, and so she decides to search for something that can prove his innocence. She knows she simply has to find it, because if she can’t…
Then everything she thought she knew about her father, about herself, and even about history may be changed forever.
A totally heartbreaking and powerful story about a daughter’s impossible dilemma and the darkest of family secrets, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Amanda Prowse, and Diane Chamberlain.
409 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2022
1680 people are currently reading
1109 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
877 books1,706 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
September 23, 2022
Libby Trent, her husband Tim and their two children, Em and Lucas lived a relatively peaceful life in Virginia, with Libby's ninety six year old father having resided with them for the past ten years. The day a government official knocked on their door was the day the family's lives changed forever. Libby couldn't believe what that official was saying about her father - a father she'd loved all her life, who'd cared for her when her mother had left, had taught her right from wrong, and how to be the best person she could. Libby knew her dad was born in Germany, knew he'd arrived in the United States as a refugee, but what they were saying went against everything she knew of her father.
When We Were Innocent by Kate Hewitt tells the story of innocence, . It was a hard book to read, and is a difficult book to review. Fans of the genre are the ones I recommend this book to.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When We Were Innocent by Kate Hewitt tells the story of innocence, . It was a hard book to read, and is a difficult book to review. Fans of the genre are the ones I recommend this book to.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2022
Simon Baum from the Department of Justice's Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (I do think it was necessary to give all of this information) is certain that Elizabeth Trent's father, Daniel Weiss, is actually Hans Brenner, a Nazi soldier during World War II. Firstly, Elizabeth (Libby) has heard of the Department of Justice, but the Special Department? And they have evidence that her father was a brutal Nazi soldier who worked at the death camp of Sobibor, Poland?
Daniel Weiss is a retired accountant. A gentle man that lives with Libby and her husband and child. Libby could not imagine how he could he possibly be connected to the brutality associated with the second World War, and the death camp housed there in Poland. Not only was Libby sickened and filled with terror at the thought that her father could possibly be the man Simon says that he was, it won't take long for the reader to be filled with similar emotions. In fact, the recounting of that long ago brutality filled me with pain and I had tears of sadness rolling down my face while reading this book.
During much of this book I felt like I was crying with Libby as she desperately tried to prove that her father could not be the man that Simon was looking for. But one thing was made clear - if her father was actually Hans, she felt he should be fully prosecuted for his crimes. Libby was truly an honorable woman, of course she wants all Nazis to pay for their crimes. Therefore, she found herself in an ethical dilemma. Would she help Simon identify her father as Hans Brenner? And would she do what she had to do to have her 96-year-old father prosecuted and imprisoned for his heinous crimes?
The fact that evidence starts to point to the fact that her father hid his crimes for decades, this moral dilemma really plagues Libby. As it stands, she had been living with deep emotional pain for years, as her mother left her in her father when she was a young child. Now with the possibility of losing her father by him going to prison for the rest of his life, it’s almost too much for her to bear. If indeed he is arrested, she knows she will never see him again.
There is another story to be told. The story of Hans Brenner, a young man who wanted to make a name for himself during the War. When Hans got the assignment he was hoping for, he was able to take his younger sister Anni with him as he was her guardian. Anni could tell something was off about the camp where Hans was now assigned. In fact, Sobibor was an extermination camp built and operated by Nazi Germany as part of Operation Reinhard. It was located in the forest near the village of Sobibor in the General Government region of German-occupied Poland.
Would Hans realize the extent of his new duties and would there be anything he could do to not play a role in what would cost thousands their lives? As a reader, I did not want to have sympathy for Hans, not when he was at Sobibor, and not as an old man who was sure to be identified. Libby no doubt realized the revelations that were going to unravel would change her life and the life of her family indefinitely.
Thank you Kate Hewitt for writing such an incredibly impactful novel. This book was highly emotive, devastating all while keeping a tight hold on the smallest thread of hope. As a reader, I felt that I was walking a tight rope of compassion and horror. This is a book that I would highly recommend as I am sure it will make for a lot of deep discussions. In fact, this book is one of my favorite books of 2022 thus far.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Daniel Weiss is a retired accountant. A gentle man that lives with Libby and her husband and child. Libby could not imagine how he could he possibly be connected to the brutality associated with the second World War, and the death camp housed there in Poland. Not only was Libby sickened and filled with terror at the thought that her father could possibly be the man Simon says that he was, it won't take long for the reader to be filled with similar emotions. In fact, the recounting of that long ago brutality filled me with pain and I had tears of sadness rolling down my face while reading this book.
During much of this book I felt like I was crying with Libby as she desperately tried to prove that her father could not be the man that Simon was looking for. But one thing was made clear - if her father was actually Hans, she felt he should be fully prosecuted for his crimes. Libby was truly an honorable woman, of course she wants all Nazis to pay for their crimes. Therefore, she found herself in an ethical dilemma. Would she help Simon identify her father as Hans Brenner? And would she do what she had to do to have her 96-year-old father prosecuted and imprisoned for his heinous crimes?
The fact that evidence starts to point to the fact that her father hid his crimes for decades, this moral dilemma really plagues Libby. As it stands, she had been living with deep emotional pain for years, as her mother left her in her father when she was a young child. Now with the possibility of losing her father by him going to prison for the rest of his life, it’s almost too much for her to bear. If indeed he is arrested, she knows she will never see him again.
There is another story to be told. The story of Hans Brenner, a young man who wanted to make a name for himself during the War. When Hans got the assignment he was hoping for, he was able to take his younger sister Anni with him as he was her guardian. Anni could tell something was off about the camp where Hans was now assigned. In fact, Sobibor was an extermination camp built and operated by Nazi Germany as part of Operation Reinhard. It was located in the forest near the village of Sobibor in the General Government region of German-occupied Poland.
Would Hans realize the extent of his new duties and would there be anything he could do to not play a role in what would cost thousands their lives? As a reader, I did not want to have sympathy for Hans, not when he was at Sobibor, and not as an old man who was sure to be identified. Libby no doubt realized the revelations that were going to unravel would change her life and the life of her family indefinitely.
Thank you Kate Hewitt for writing such an incredibly impactful novel. This book was highly emotive, devastating all while keeping a tight hold on the smallest thread of hope. As a reader, I felt that I was walking a tight rope of compassion and horror. This is a book that I would highly recommend as I am sure it will make for a lot of deep discussions. In fact, this book is one of my favorite books of 2022 thus far.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
September 6, 2022
What would you do if …
someone from the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Department of Justice knocked on your door one day and informed you that there’s a warrant for your father’s arrest for Nazi war crimes perpetrated in Poland during WW2?
Your Dad. A loving man who single-handedly raised you from when you were 4 years old? A man who isn’t capable of hate. A man who has mentioned nothing of this to anyone. Your Dad. The man who taught you to tell the truth. The man who can’t even kill a spider for you.
Did I mention he’s 93 years old?
Oh, the most important part. The officer asks you to help him find incontrovertible proof. WHAT?! Yes, help him put your father on trial by finding proof of his guilt.
What would you do?
Elizabeth Trent faces this agonizing question, and, regardless of her answer, she and her family willl continue to face the fallout from decades of lies. Can you imagine the anguish and the soul-searching involved in having to turn-in your father?
Which camp do you belong to?
Camp One: “Does he really need to pay for these decades-old crimes at his age?”
Camp Two: “Everyone must face the consequences of their actions. That is the nature of justice.”
SPECTACULARLY written, this contender for my most cherished read of 2022 needs to be on every historical fiction readers list. Hewitt knows how to put her readers in the action and you’ll feel every single moment of anguish Elizabeth experiences. Hewitt will show you that every choice we make, whether good or bad, has ripple effects. I will remember this book for a very long time.
“The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” ~ Edmund Burke
I was gifted this advance copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
someone from the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Department of Justice knocked on your door one day and informed you that there’s a warrant for your father’s arrest for Nazi war crimes perpetrated in Poland during WW2?
Your Dad. A loving man who single-handedly raised you from when you were 4 years old? A man who isn’t capable of hate. A man who has mentioned nothing of this to anyone. Your Dad. The man who taught you to tell the truth. The man who can’t even kill a spider for you.
Did I mention he’s 93 years old?
Oh, the most important part. The officer asks you to help him find incontrovertible proof. WHAT?! Yes, help him put your father on trial by finding proof of his guilt.
What would you do?
Elizabeth Trent faces this agonizing question, and, regardless of her answer, she and her family willl continue to face the fallout from decades of lies. Can you imagine the anguish and the soul-searching involved in having to turn-in your father?
Which camp do you belong to?
Camp One: “Does he really need to pay for these decades-old crimes at his age?”
Camp Two: “Everyone must face the consequences of their actions. That is the nature of justice.”
SPECTACULARLY written, this contender for my most cherished read of 2022 needs to be on every historical fiction readers list. Hewitt knows how to put her readers in the action and you’ll feel every single moment of anguish Elizabeth experiences. Hewitt will show you that every choice we make, whether good or bad, has ripple effects. I will remember this book for a very long time.
“The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” ~ Edmund Burke
I was gifted this advance copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 3, 2024
This book was read for a book club and my first by this author. This book was written very well and it tells a story of innocence and being naïve. It introduces an ethical dilemma which would be hard for anyone. It was an emotional read. A great historical fiction read which should be on everyone's TBR list. A 5 star rating from me.
Read
September 16, 2022When We Were Innocent was a heartwrenching read that had me contemplate what I would do if I was in the same situation as the main character. Emotionally gripping, I couldn't put it down!
October 4, 2023
A strong, powerful, and captivating read. I was invested in the story from beginning to end. The horror and barbaric acts committed by Nazi Germany were truly horrific. I thought it interesting how the story addresses the ethical line that Libby, one of the main characters, crosses, especially since it's regarding her father. Heartbreaking story and one that will not forget.
September 25, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'When We Were Innocent' by Kate Hewitt.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Kate Hewitt, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 20th September 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. I have also read 'My Daughter's Mistake' and 'The Child I Never Had' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A totally heartbreaking and powerful story about a daughter’s impossible dilemma and the darkest of family secrets, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Amanda Prowse, and Diane Chamberlain.' I am a fan of all three of these authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a HUGE fan of Kate Hewitt and if this is half as good as 'My Daughter's Mistake' and 'The Child I Never Had' it is bound to be an addictive read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 28 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Virginia, USA 🇺🇸, Stuttgart, Germany 🇩🇪 and Sobibor, Poland 🇵🇱. .
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Libby Trent and Hans Brenner. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'When We Were Innocent' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Kate discusses the persecution of the Jews.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, forgiveness and so much more. It is one of the most thought provoking books I have ever read and I was questioning myself throughout this heartbreaking storyline. I didn't just question myself once about what I would do at the beginning of this book if I was in Libby's position but also what I would have done in both Libby and Han's positions throughout. Kate's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was write next to both Libby and Han's during the present and past. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with them and going through their pain and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying my phone to read it in kindle every chance that I got and I had tears absolutely streaming down my face by the time the Beautiful yet absolutely shocking ending came. I was completely mind blown at the end and just when I thought I had run out of tears they started pouring out again. Kate has clearly done her research on the victims and survivors of the holocaust. Well done Kate as there's nothing much worse that reading a novel filled with silly errors as the author hasn't done any research. I must also say a huge congratulations for bringing Stanislaw Szmajzner's story to life. You have definitely done an amazing job. I had never heard of him before and the fact that you are bringing his name into awareness is absolutely amazing. I will be looking into him as soon as I have finished this review and THAT his because of you!! I have read several fiction books based on the holocaust but this is definitely one of the best I have read and unique in the fact that it is told from both perspectives, from past and present and with the twists at the end!! It definitely gives you something to think about and shows you how much emotion and strength is involved from both the survivors and family of those who are being taken to court for what they have done. I was completely shocked by the twists which I was not expecting at all. It is getting harder and harder to surprise me so congratulations again Kate!!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and it had me in tears by the end and I do not cry easily!!!
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters are strong, realistic and I became completely invested in both Libby and Hans. I felt each of their pain, betrayal, guilt , anger, sorrow and so much more My heart broke for each of them who went through so much. Although it was mainly through Libby and Hans's eyes that the story unfolds there are several many other characters that were affected and my heart went out to including Leo, Daniel, Annie, Tim, Lucas, Em and of course each and everyone of the victims. There were several moments I felt physically sick including one that involved a baby but I am glad that Kate included it in the story as events like that did happen and they should be talked about. In the words of George Santayana and quoted in this book because “those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it". An extremely sad but true quote. My heart went out to Em who was clearly struggling with everything that was going on and the shocking secrets that were discovered which she was struggling with along with being at the tender age of eleven. Although I did feel for her I also felt like screaming at her on many occasions and wish she would just understand what her mum was going through. I felt for Tim as it can't be easy being a Dad or husband in this situation. I've said X as I don't want to spoil the twist for future readers. I also felt for Lucas who had so much going on at such a young age and was also caught in the middle. I won't say anymore about the characters as I don't want to go into too much detail at the risk of spoiling it for other readers but yet again Kate has done another amazing job at bringing each of the characters to life. Well done Kate!!!
Congratulations Kate on an absolutely gorgeous, heartbreaking beautiful book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!! This is why you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, addictive and compelling devastatingly beautiful heartbreaking book!!!
Genres covered in this book include Historical Fiction, Sagas, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical German Fiction, Women's Historical Fiction, Women's Sagas and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Amanda Prowse, Nicholas Sparks, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a tear jerker.
362 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) and £9.99 in paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#WhenWeWereInnocent #Bookouture #KateHewitt #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@KateHewitt @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
Review for 'When We Were Innocent' by Kate Hewitt.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Kate Hewitt, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 20th September 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. I have also read 'My Daughter's Mistake' and 'The Child I Never Had' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A totally heartbreaking and powerful story about a daughter’s impossible dilemma and the darkest of family secrets, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Amanda Prowse, and Diane Chamberlain.' I am a fan of all three of these authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a HUGE fan of Kate Hewitt and if this is half as good as 'My Daughter's Mistake' and 'The Child I Never Had' it is bound to be an addictive read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 28 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Virginia, USA 🇺🇸, Stuttgart, Germany 🇩🇪 and Sobibor, Poland 🇵🇱. .
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Libby Trent and Hans Brenner. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'When We Were Innocent' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Kate discusses the persecution of the Jews.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, forgiveness and so much more. It is one of the most thought provoking books I have ever read and I was questioning myself throughout this heartbreaking storyline. I didn't just question myself once about what I would do at the beginning of this book if I was in Libby's position but also what I would have done in both Libby and Han's positions throughout. Kate's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was write next to both Libby and Han's during the present and past. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with them and going through their pain and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying my phone to read it in kindle every chance that I got and I had tears absolutely streaming down my face by the time the Beautiful yet absolutely shocking ending came. I was completely mind blown at the end and just when I thought I had run out of tears they started pouring out again. Kate has clearly done her research on the victims and survivors of the holocaust. Well done Kate as there's nothing much worse that reading a novel filled with silly errors as the author hasn't done any research. I must also say a huge congratulations for bringing Stanislaw Szmajzner's story to life. You have definitely done an amazing job. I had never heard of him before and the fact that you are bringing his name into awareness is absolutely amazing. I will be looking into him as soon as I have finished this review and THAT his because of you!! I have read several fiction books based on the holocaust but this is definitely one of the best I have read and unique in the fact that it is told from both perspectives, from past and present and with the twists at the end!! It definitely gives you something to think about and shows you how much emotion and strength is involved from both the survivors and family of those who are being taken to court for what they have done. I was completely shocked by the twists which I was not expecting at all. It is getting harder and harder to surprise me so congratulations again Kate!!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and it had me in tears by the end and I do not cry easily!!!
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters are strong, realistic and I became completely invested in both Libby and Hans. I felt each of their pain, betrayal, guilt , anger, sorrow and so much more My heart broke for each of them who went through so much. Although it was mainly through Libby and Hans's eyes that the story unfolds there are several many other characters that were affected and my heart went out to including Leo, Daniel, Annie, Tim, Lucas, Em and of course each and everyone of the victims. There were several moments I felt physically sick including one that involved a baby but I am glad that Kate included it in the story as events like that did happen and they should be talked about. In the words of George Santayana and quoted in this book because “those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it". An extremely sad but true quote. My heart went out to Em who was clearly struggling with everything that was going on and the shocking secrets that were discovered which she was struggling with along with being at the tender age of eleven. Although I did feel for her I also felt like screaming at her on many occasions and wish she would just understand what her mum was going through. I felt for Tim as it can't be easy being a Dad or husband in this situation. I've said X as I don't want to spoil the twist for future readers. I also felt for Lucas who had so much going on at such a young age and was also caught in the middle. I won't say anymore about the characters as I don't want to go into too much detail at the risk of spoiling it for other readers but yet again Kate has done another amazing job at bringing each of the characters to life. Well done Kate!!!
Congratulations Kate on an absolutely gorgeous, heartbreaking beautiful book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!! This is why you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, addictive and compelling devastatingly beautiful heartbreaking book!!!
Genres covered in this book include Historical Fiction, Sagas, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical German Fiction, Women's Historical Fiction, Women's Sagas and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Amanda Prowse, Nicholas Sparks, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a tear jerker.
362 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) and £9.99 in paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#WhenWeWereInnocent #Bookouture #KateHewitt #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@KateHewitt @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
March 11, 2023
Not my first Kate Hewitt novel, but my first historical fiction. I've heard great things about her take on the genre, and after reading this gut-wrench, I fully agree.
Libby Trent grew up with only one parental figure- her father. Although Daniel Weiss remained silent about his younger life, he proved time and time again that he was his daughter's hero. Even now in his late 90's, Daniel is living with Libby and her family with assisted care. To everyone who knows Daniel, he's kind and incapable of harming another human being.
So when a representative from the Department of Justice’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section arrives to talk to Libby about her Dad, she is stunned into disbelief at the claims. Apparently, Daniel Weiss is really Hans Brenner, under investigation for Nazi crimes undertaken in Sobibar, Poland. As an SS officer stationed at the death camp, Brenner watched on as countless Jews were tourtured and ultimately killed by the guard's brutal hands. Although he didn't take part in these horrible acts, he is however facing prosecution for shooting down a prisoner, the real Daniel Weiss. These accusations are soon proven to be true.
Of course, Libby goes into a state of shock at the news. Not only does her feelings towards her Dad change dramatically, Libby also has to deal with the scrunity that follows. And that's whilst supporting her family, preparing for a trial and facing the strong possibility that Hans will be extradited back to Germany to be formally charged. That's quite a lot to be taking on at once and it's little wonder Libby isn't coping well.
Despite the heaviness, Hans's accounts drew me in. Apart from being inexperienced in such a prolific role in the SS, he was also naive at first regarding the proceedings. However, his younger sister Anni is fully aware of the occurrences and in an act of defiance, she rebels so she can befriend the Jewish prisoners.
I do enjoy a well researched historical novel, especially regarding WW2 and the Halocaust. Learning more about this period was a bonus.
A very important yet sensitive read given the topic. Still, the themes of forgiveness and family ties prevail in the darkness of this book.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
Libby Trent grew up with only one parental figure- her father. Although Daniel Weiss remained silent about his younger life, he proved time and time again that he was his daughter's hero. Even now in his late 90's, Daniel is living with Libby and her family with assisted care. To everyone who knows Daniel, he's kind and incapable of harming another human being.
So when a representative from the Department of Justice’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section arrives to talk to Libby about her Dad, she is stunned into disbelief at the claims. Apparently, Daniel Weiss is really Hans Brenner, under investigation for Nazi crimes undertaken in Sobibar, Poland. As an SS officer stationed at the death camp, Brenner watched on as countless Jews were tourtured and ultimately killed by the guard's brutal hands. Although he didn't take part in these horrible acts, he is however facing prosecution for shooting down a prisoner, the real Daniel Weiss. These accusations are soon proven to be true.
Of course, Libby goes into a state of shock at the news. Not only does her feelings towards her Dad change dramatically, Libby also has to deal with the scrunity that follows. And that's whilst supporting her family, preparing for a trial and facing the strong possibility that Hans will be extradited back to Germany to be formally charged. That's quite a lot to be taking on at once and it's little wonder Libby isn't coping well.
Despite the heaviness, Hans's accounts drew me in. Apart from being inexperienced in such a prolific role in the SS, he was also naive at first regarding the proceedings. However, his younger sister Anni is fully aware of the occurrences and in an act of defiance, she rebels so she can befriend the Jewish prisoners.
I do enjoy a well researched historical novel, especially regarding WW2 and the Halocaust. Learning more about this period was a bonus.
A very important yet sensitive read given the topic. Still, the themes of forgiveness and family ties prevail in the darkness of this book.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
September 21, 2022
Reading Stuff 'n' Things
This is a difficult book to review and whilst I can't say I 'enjoyed' it because you can't say that reading about this subject matter is 'enjoyable', I was absolutely captivated and totally invested in the story of Libby and her father.
I am not going to provide a synopsis of this book as the description does this already but what I will say is that this is a totally engrossing story told from dual timelines - the present and the past during World War II.
It is clear that the author has done her research carefully; she weaves historical fact amongst this fictional story very successfully. It is heart-breaking and, at times, a very difficult read but not because of the way it was written more it was what was happening in the story and the dilemmas that Libby and her father faced.
If you enjoy historical fiction from this era, I would certainly recommend this but be prepared to shed a few tears!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of When We Were Innocent.
This is a difficult book to review and whilst I can't say I 'enjoyed' it because you can't say that reading about this subject matter is 'enjoyable', I was absolutely captivated and totally invested in the story of Libby and her father.
I am not going to provide a synopsis of this book as the description does this already but what I will say is that this is a totally engrossing story told from dual timelines - the present and the past during World War II.
It is clear that the author has done her research carefully; she weaves historical fact amongst this fictional story very successfully. It is heart-breaking and, at times, a very difficult read but not because of the way it was written more it was what was happening in the story and the dilemmas that Libby and her father faced.
If you enjoy historical fiction from this era, I would certainly recommend this but be prepared to shed a few tears!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of When We Were Innocent.
November 21, 2022
You love your father with all your heart. But what if he’s not who you think he is? What if he’s kept an unforgiveable secret from you his whole life? A totally heartbreaking and powerful story about a daughter’s impossible dilemma and the darkest of family secrets, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Amanda Prowse, and Diane Chamberlain.
I am a big fan of Kate Hewitt so I always jump at the opportunity to read any of her books when I can, and I am so glad I was able to read this one already. I have loved every book I have read of hers and this one is going to the top of the list. This novel moved me emotionally and deeply, and it lingered with me long after I finished reading it. Thought-provoking, captivating, heartbreaking. You will need your tissues for this one - be ready to feel all the emotions. You will cry, you will shout, you will hurt, you will cry some more. This is a
one of my favorite reads of all times and I highly recommend it, especially if you like historical fiction.
I am a big fan of Kate Hewitt so I always jump at the opportunity to read any of her books when I can, and I am so glad I was able to read this one already. I have loved every book I have read of hers and this one is going to the top of the list. This novel moved me emotionally and deeply, and it lingered with me long after I finished reading it. Thought-provoking, captivating, heartbreaking. You will need your tissues for this one - be ready to feel all the emotions. You will cry, you will shout, you will hurt, you will cry some more. This is a
one of my favorite reads of all times and I highly recommend it, especially if you like historical fiction.
October 17, 2022
When you see a book written by Kate You know its going to be an excellent book, thats beautifully written. Plus, a book that you need to have tissues handy!!!! When We Were Innocent by Kate Hewitt was no different, it was an excellent book and Yes I needed tissues. It's heartbreaking and a haunting story, that covers between two eras, now and the second world war. This book is between Elizabeth - Libby, who is Daniel’s daughter, who lives in the present day; and Daniel (Hans), her who is now 96-year-old father, in 1942. Libby’s world is torn apart when an Officer of the Court comes to her house with the news that her father isn’t who she thinks he is. He was a Nazi and wanted for crimes against humanity........This is when the story starts and WoW what a book this was.
I loved the cover and was perfect for this book. I highly recommend this book I loved it!
Big thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review
I loved the cover and was perfect for this book. I highly recommend this book I loved it!
Big thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review
July 31, 2025
Bardzo dobra pozycja. Czas akcji prowadzony jest dwutorowo, dzieje się w latach współczesnych oraz w latach wojny, są to wspomnienia z Sobiboru. Główna bohaterka zmaga się z prawdą, którą poznaje jako dorosła kobieta, ukazane zostają jej emocje, wątpliwości, moralność, którą pcha ja do podjęcia decyzji. Widzimy z czym zmaga się cała jej rodzina, nastoletnie dzieci oraz mąż, który jest dużym wsparciem dla bohaterki. Jednocześnie powoli poznajemy sylwetkę jej ojca, tytułowego nazisty. A na koniec nic nie jest takie jak myśleliśmy.
September 5, 2022
“Decisions and dilemmas”
This story is told in duel timeline of Libby in present time and Hans, her father, during the war. How will Libby react with finding out a long hidden secret of her fathers?
I have to say, this is a heartbreaking, sad yet uplifting story. When We Were Innocent is based around a true story. Reading stories about the atrocities during WW2 is never easy. This story was so well researched, so thought provoking, so heartbreaking…..I was in tears quite a few times.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in WW2.
Kate Hewitt is one of my favorite authors. Her writing always pulls me in to the point of no return. Once I start a Kate Hewitt book, I can’t stop reading until the very last page. With each book I read by her, I say this is the best book. With that said…..this is my “new” best book written by Kate Hewitt.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Kate Hewitt, for this wonderful opportunity to read this arc for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(Check out my Bookstagram page @shortbookthyme for my reviews)
This story is told in duel timeline of Libby in present time and Hans, her father, during the war. How will Libby react with finding out a long hidden secret of her fathers?
I have to say, this is a heartbreaking, sad yet uplifting story. When We Were Innocent is based around a true story. Reading stories about the atrocities during WW2 is never easy. This story was so well researched, so thought provoking, so heartbreaking…..I was in tears quite a few times.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in WW2.
Kate Hewitt is one of my favorite authors. Her writing always pulls me in to the point of no return. Once I start a Kate Hewitt book, I can’t stop reading until the very last page. With each book I read by her, I say this is the best book. With that said…..this is my “new” best book written by Kate Hewitt.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Kate Hewitt, for this wonderful opportunity to read this arc for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(Check out my Bookstagram page @shortbookthyme for my reviews)
September 26, 2022
An absolute gut wrenching read, what would you do if you found yourself in that situation, such a hard, life changing decision to make.
The story is told in dual timeline with Libby in the present and her father during the war.
Very well written and researched, with historical fact seamlessly intertwined with fiction. It's highly emotive and an absolute page turner.
An amazing story of secrets, family and war.
Many thanks to Bookouture for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story is told in dual timeline with Libby in the present and her father during the war.
Very well written and researched, with historical fact seamlessly intertwined with fiction. It's highly emotive and an absolute page turner.
An amazing story of secrets, family and war.
Many thanks to Bookouture for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 8, 2024
Absolutely brilliant book. Hooked from the start book of the year for me so far. A daughter learning about her father's past, a father forced to relive a past he could not change,
August 14, 2022
To say one enjoys reading about the war isn’t quite the right way to phrase it - but I’ve always had an interest in WW2, probably because it’s usually a bit part of the history curriculum. And I was absolutely captivated by this book. It kept me going right until the end, it was such a poignantly beautiful story, albeit absolutely harrowing at times. I cried, a lot, knowing that this was the reality for so many people, and could almost feel the heartbreak and tension that Libby was feeling about the news that her dad worked at a death camp. It was such a well written book, I loved it! Thanks to netgalley for allowing me early access to read it!
January 9, 2024
In a puddle of tears!
October 15, 2023
Really thought provoking proving that we never know what we will do until we are put into a certain situation. Switches back and forth between present day and WWII. A different perspective than what I normally read. It was sad but really well written.
September 17, 2022
Such a heartfelt book. Brings you to what the Jews and what happened at the camps firsthand to life. Very sad but well written story that tugs at your heart. I feel heavy hearted as I write this. This is a story that will stick with me for awhile.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an early release of this book.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an early release of this book.
October 3, 2022
2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars. This was a good premise but the book was just Ok for me. I found my self skimming the pages looking for the dialogue as the description of the thoughts and inner feelings of Libby got repetitive and mundane.
November 28, 2024
Excellent! Heart-wrenching details but the story is amazing. I liked both storylines and perspectives. Historical fiction. Highly recommend! I’m going to check out another book by this author.
May 9, 2024
Libby zarządza fundacją charytatywną, która wspiera kobiety znajdujące się w ciężkiej sytuacji i pomagam im w podjęciu pracy. Pewnego zwyczajnego dnia otrzymuje telefon od córki, która informuje ją, że przyszła policja i chcą z nią rozmawiać, na temat jej ojca. Gdy tylko dojeżdża na miejsce, dowiaduje się, że jej ukochany tata jest podejrzany o nazistowskie zbrodnie wojenne. Wtedy jej świat legnie w gruzach, nie może w to wszystko uwierzyć, że chodzi o jej ojca, który sam ją wychowywał, który zajmował się jej dziećmi, którego kocha ponad życie.
Libby ma za zadanie udowodnienie, albo że jej ojciec jest niewinny, albo przedstawienie dowodów, że to rzeczywiście chodzi o jej tatę i doprowadzenie go pod sąd.
Co zrobi Libby? Czy znajdzie jakieś dowody? Czego jeszcze dowie się o swoim tacie? A na koniec jaka była prawda?
To już moja trzecia książka autorki i za każdym razem chłonę jej historię jak gąbka. Tym razem było bardzo podobnie.
Główna bohaterka staje przed okropnie trudnym zadaniem, gdy dowiaduje się, że jej ukochany tata podaje się za kogoś innego, przez całe swoje życie nie znała jego prawdziwego imienia i nazwiska. Jest przepełniona złością na ojca za to, że nie powiedział jej prawdy. Chce znaleźć jakąś pamiątkę z tamtych czasów, chce wierzyć, że jej tata wcale nie był w obozie zagłady, że wcale nie był świadkiem i nie uczestniczył w śmierci tysięcy żydów.
Tu z łatwością wyobrażałam sobie, co czuje Libby, bo mną przy czytaniu również targały podobne emocje, z jednej strony jest kochany, jedyny rodzic, który wychowywał ją sam, który zrobiłby dla niej wszystko, jednak z drugiej strony, to ktoś, kto przez tyle lat nie zająknął się nawet słowem na ten temat, ukrywał przed nią swoje prawdziwe imię i nazwisko. Aczkolwiek zupełnie nie mam pojęcia, co ja bym zrobiła ze znalezionymi dowodami.
Historię poznajemy z punktu widzenia Libby czyli teraźniejszości, oraz oczami Hansa Brennera czyli ojca głównej bohaterki z roku 1942.
Jedynie co tak trochę średnio mi się podobało to wątek córki Libby, moim zdaniem był trochę zbędny, a dodatkowo nie poniosła żadnych konsekwencji za swoje zachowanie.
Całą książkę przeczytałam z zapartym tchem, byłam bardzo ciekawa prawdy tego co wydarzyło się w 1942 roku.
Jeżeli jeszcze nie znacie twórczości autorki, a lubicie powieści z tłem historycznym., to koniecznie musicie sięgnąć po tę książkę.
Libby ma za zadanie udowodnienie, albo że jej ojciec jest niewinny, albo przedstawienie dowodów, że to rzeczywiście chodzi o jej tatę i doprowadzenie go pod sąd.
Co zrobi Libby? Czy znajdzie jakieś dowody? Czego jeszcze dowie się o swoim tacie? A na koniec jaka była prawda?
To już moja trzecia książka autorki i za każdym razem chłonę jej historię jak gąbka. Tym razem było bardzo podobnie.
Główna bohaterka staje przed okropnie trudnym zadaniem, gdy dowiaduje się, że jej ukochany tata podaje się za kogoś innego, przez całe swoje życie nie znała jego prawdziwego imienia i nazwiska. Jest przepełniona złością na ojca za to, że nie powiedział jej prawdy. Chce znaleźć jakąś pamiątkę z tamtych czasów, chce wierzyć, że jej tata wcale nie był w obozie zagłady, że wcale nie był świadkiem i nie uczestniczył w śmierci tysięcy żydów.
Tu z łatwością wyobrażałam sobie, co czuje Libby, bo mną przy czytaniu również targały podobne emocje, z jednej strony jest kochany, jedyny rodzic, który wychowywał ją sam, który zrobiłby dla niej wszystko, jednak z drugiej strony, to ktoś, kto przez tyle lat nie zająknął się nawet słowem na ten temat, ukrywał przed nią swoje prawdziwe imię i nazwisko. Aczkolwiek zupełnie nie mam pojęcia, co ja bym zrobiła ze znalezionymi dowodami.
Historię poznajemy z punktu widzenia Libby czyli teraźniejszości, oraz oczami Hansa Brennera czyli ojca głównej bohaterki z roku 1942.
Jedynie co tak trochę średnio mi się podobało to wątek córki Libby, moim zdaniem był trochę zbędny, a dodatkowo nie poniosła żadnych konsekwencji za swoje zachowanie.
Całą książkę przeczytałam z zapartym tchem, byłam bardzo ciekawa prawdy tego co wydarzyło się w 1942 roku.
Jeżeli jeszcze nie znacie twórczości autorki, a lubicie powieści z tłem historycznym., to koniecznie musicie sięgnąć po tę książkę.
September 26, 2022
When We Were Innocent is the first book I read by author Kate Hewitt. I was drawn in by the premise of finding out one's father may have actually be a Nazi war criminal. That is the bombshell dropped on Libby Trent: a Department of Justice official shows up at her door saying her father is living under an assumed name and is responsible for at least one murder, not to mention being complicit in the deaths of many more. Libby can't believe this is possible, considering how close father and daughter have always been and the kind, gentle manner in which he lived his life as she knew it. Of course, there is a lot more to be revealed and the moral dilemma of it all is central to the story.
Libby knew her father emigrated from Germany in 1947, but she thought he worked as an accountant during the war, and her father does not talk about his past. The DOJ official wants Libby to look for evidence of her father's guilt, but she sees it as looking for evidence to clear him. What she finds will change both of their lives irrevocably.
The story was written well, and Libby's emotional turmoil was clear throughout. If I have a complaint, it was that her inner turmoil was explained over and over. I appreciated the dual timeline, with the historical narrative taking place in 1942 when her father was in Germany. We are privy to the circumstances of his life and how it led to his situation. How would any of us have reacted if we were in his shoes? While it's impossible to know, it definitely gives one pause to consider that it is not easy or fair to judge the actions of people who are put in unimaginable circumstances.
I felt connected to the characters, and the story compelled me to continue reading to its gut-wrenching conclusion. This is not an easy book to read, as it contains some graphic violence, but it fits the context.
I will recommend this book to readers who like World War II historical fiction that packs an emotional punch.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Libby knew her father emigrated from Germany in 1947, but she thought he worked as an accountant during the war, and her father does not talk about his past. The DOJ official wants Libby to look for evidence of her father's guilt, but she sees it as looking for evidence to clear him. What she finds will change both of their lives irrevocably.
The story was written well, and Libby's emotional turmoil was clear throughout. If I have a complaint, it was that her inner turmoil was explained over and over. I appreciated the dual timeline, with the historical narrative taking place in 1942 when her father was in Germany. We are privy to the circumstances of his life and how it led to his situation. How would any of us have reacted if we were in his shoes? While it's impossible to know, it definitely gives one pause to consider that it is not easy or fair to judge the actions of people who are put in unimaginable circumstances.
I felt connected to the characters, and the story compelled me to continue reading to its gut-wrenching conclusion. This is not an easy book to read, as it contains some graphic violence, but it fits the context.
I will recommend this book to readers who like World War II historical fiction that packs an emotional punch.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
April 19, 2024
Autorka podejmuje bardzo trudny temat i robi to z typową dla siebie delikatnością i dużym wyczuciem. Co może przeżywać osoba, która dowiaduje się, że ukochany ojciec, opiekuńczy dziadek i człowiek znany ze swojej wyjątkowej łagodności brał udział w największej zbrodni, jaką zna świat? Tego wulkanu emocji doświadcza właśnie Libby, 48-latka, ogromnie przywiązana do swojego ojca kobieta. Proces, który przypomina żałobę, jest drobiazgowo i realistycznie opisany - próby rozmowy i zrozumienia, niedowierzanie i strach, wreszcie wściekłość, krzywda i żal, a wszystko splątane ze sobą w niemożliwy kłąb. Konsekwencje odkrycia prawdziwej tożsamości ojca, a równocześnie teścia i dziadka dotykają całą rodzinę Libby - dorastające dzieci mierzą się z emocjami, które trudno im nawet nazwać. Po raz kolejny jestem pełna podziwu dla kunsztu autorki i jej gruntownego przygotowania z zakresu psychologii.
To ostatnie widać także w drugiej linii czasowej, ponieważ oprócz wydarzeń widzianych oczami dorosłej córki Hansa Brennera czytelnik otrzymuje również perspektywę tytułowego nazisty. 23-letni księgowy zostaje niespodziewanie wcielony w szeregi SS i wysłany do Sobiboru. Pojęcie, co tak naprawdę dzieje się w tym potwornym miejscu nie zajmuje mu dużo czasu, choć wcześniej starannie nie zastanawiał się nad wieloma aspektami traktowania Żydów przez faszystowskie władze. Czytelnik otrzymuje przykład obywatela III Rzeszy, którego zwykła, ludzka moralność zderza się w brutalny sposób ze skutkami retoryki nazistowskiej. Nie umniejszając cierpieniu ludzi, którzy w tym obozie zginęli, autorka skupia uwagę czytelnika na osobie stojącej po przeciwnej stronie. Bez usprawiedliwiania i tłumaczenia pokazuje, jak złożony jest ludzki umysł, kiedy próbuje sobie poradzić z otaczającą go okrutną rzeczywistością.
Książkę czytało się po prostu błyskawicznie, a opisywane wydarzenia i emocje bohaterów mocno na mnie oddziaływały. Obawiałam się trochę tej powieści ze względu na obecność nazistowskiego zbrodniarza i oddanie mu głosu - nie chciałam zbytnio go poznawać, ale niepotrzebnie się niepokoiłam, bo otrzymałam ciekawe, wiarygodne studium charakteru. To kolejna i, mam nadzieję nie ostatnia lekcja historii i ludzi w nią wplecionych od tej autorki. Szczerze polecam!
To ostatnie widać także w drugiej linii czasowej, ponieważ oprócz wydarzeń widzianych oczami dorosłej córki Hansa Brennera czytelnik otrzymuje również perspektywę tytułowego nazisty. 23-letni księgowy zostaje niespodziewanie wcielony w szeregi SS i wysłany do Sobiboru. Pojęcie, co tak naprawdę dzieje się w tym potwornym miejscu nie zajmuje mu dużo czasu, choć wcześniej starannie nie zastanawiał się nad wieloma aspektami traktowania Żydów przez faszystowskie władze. Czytelnik otrzymuje przykład obywatela III Rzeszy, którego zwykła, ludzka moralność zderza się w brutalny sposób ze skutkami retoryki nazistowskiej. Nie umniejszając cierpieniu ludzi, którzy w tym obozie zginęli, autorka skupia uwagę czytelnika na osobie stojącej po przeciwnej stronie. Bez usprawiedliwiania i tłumaczenia pokazuje, jak złożony jest ludzki umysł, kiedy próbuje sobie poradzić z otaczającą go okrutną rzeczywistością.
Książkę czytało się po prostu błyskawicznie, a opisywane wydarzenia i emocje bohaterów mocno na mnie oddziaływały. Obawiałam się trochę tej powieści ze względu na obecność nazistowskiego zbrodniarza i oddanie mu głosu - nie chciałam zbytnio go poznawać, ale niepotrzebnie się niepokoiłam, bo otrzymałam ciekawe, wiarygodne studium charakteru. To kolejna i, mam nadzieję nie ostatnia lekcja historii i ludzi w nią wplecionych od tej autorki. Szczerze polecam!
September 20, 2022
Libby Trent loves her family and is happy with how things are going. She has a loving husband and children and an amazing father who lives with her and her family. But LIbby is contacted by Simon Baum, who is with the Department of Justice’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section. Libby is told that her loving and gentle father, whom she adores, is actually Hans Brenner. Hans Brenner is a war criminal. He escaped from Germany after World War II and went into hiding. Libby rejects the idea, and is in denial that a horrible man that did such despicable acts, could possibly be her loving father. But when she finds an old box hidden in her father’s bedroom she doesn’t want to open it because she doesn’t want to know if it holds the truth. Libby is sure, that depending on what is inside the box will definitely change the course of her life, but will it change for the good or for the bad?
I almost don’t know where to begin about how phenomenal this story was. The mystery intertwined in the story was simply amazing. I was so intrigued by the twist and turns of this book that I couldn’t put it down. Wow, what an amazing and talented author to incorporate historical fiction with mystery in such a manner that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end. The emotions and anticipation of what will happen next will have you gasping for your next breath. This heartbreaking and gripping story had me in tears so many times, and I felt such compassion for Libby. This novel left such an impact on me that I will definitely re-read this one. I devoured this book but the next time I read it, I will savor it. This is definitely a favorite of mine.
Thank you Kate Hewitt for such a wonderful, emotional and completely gripping story. I enjoyed it very much and I absolutely recommend it.
I almost don’t know where to begin about how phenomenal this story was. The mystery intertwined in the story was simply amazing. I was so intrigued by the twist and turns of this book that I couldn’t put it down. Wow, what an amazing and talented author to incorporate historical fiction with mystery in such a manner that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end. The emotions and anticipation of what will happen next will have you gasping for your next breath. This heartbreaking and gripping story had me in tears so many times, and I felt such compassion for Libby. This novel left such an impact on me that I will definitely re-read this one. I devoured this book but the next time I read it, I will savor it. This is definitely a favorite of mine.
Thank you Kate Hewitt for such a wonderful, emotional and completely gripping story. I enjoyed it very much and I absolutely recommend it.
April 28, 2024
Libby Trent całym sercem wierzy w sprawiedliwość. Jej zdaniem każda wina powinna pociągać za sobą karę, a każdy zły występek winien być rozliczony.
Zawsze była szczera i prawa, więc tym bardziej szokuje ją fakt, że policja szuka u niej nazistowskiego zbrodniarza Hansa Brennera, który po drugiej wojnie światowej uciekł do Stanów Zjednoczonych.
Tym mężczyzną, oskarżonym o popełnienie nazistowskich zbrodni wojennych, popełnionych w Polsce podczas drugiej wojny światowej, zdaje się być Daniel Weiss, ojciec Libby. Najmilszy, najłagodniejszy człowiek, jakiego zna. Kochany, troskliwy, opiekuńczy, który zabrał ją do Muzeum Holocaustu w Waszyngtonie, składał darowizny, ożenił się z Żydówką.
To nie może być prawda. To musi być pomyłka.
Jednak kiedy kobieta znajduje w sypialni ojca tajemnicze pudełko wie, że zawartość może zmienić wszystko.
Autorka prowadzi historię na dwóch płaszczyznach czasowych. Współcześnie, w Stananach Zjednoczonych i w 1942 roku w Sobiborze, niemieckim nazistowskim obozie zagłady. Obie dramatyczne i wstrząsające. Obie historie, Libby i Hansa/Daniela pochłonęły mnie bez reszty i od pierwszej strony zastanawiałam się, co ja bym zrobiła.
Czytając, zastanawiałam się, czy patrząc na zło, tkwiąc w piekle na ziemi sam przez to stajesz się zły? Czy nie robiąc nic godzisz się na wyrządzanie krzywdy innym? Ile jest w stanie znieść człowiek? Ile jesteśmy w stanie wybaczyć? Czy byłabym w stanie wydać ukochaną osobę, wiedząc, że dopuściła się złych rzeczy?
Te dylematy moralne były ze mną przez cały czas. Żeby zło zwyciężyło wystarczy, że dobry człowiek nie zrobi nic.
To moje pierwsze spotkanie z autorką i jestem zachwycona, zauroczona i poruszona.
Mimo że "Mój ojciec nazista" jest fikcją literacką, to jednak inspirowana jest prawdziwymi, tragicznymi wydarzeniami.
Koniecznie, ale to KONIECZNIE musicie poznać tę historię!!
Zawsze była szczera i prawa, więc tym bardziej szokuje ją fakt, że policja szuka u niej nazistowskiego zbrodniarza Hansa Brennera, który po drugiej wojnie światowej uciekł do Stanów Zjednoczonych.
Tym mężczyzną, oskarżonym o popełnienie nazistowskich zbrodni wojennych, popełnionych w Polsce podczas drugiej wojny światowej, zdaje się być Daniel Weiss, ojciec Libby. Najmilszy, najłagodniejszy człowiek, jakiego zna. Kochany, troskliwy, opiekuńczy, który zabrał ją do Muzeum Holocaustu w Waszyngtonie, składał darowizny, ożenił się z Żydówką.
To nie może być prawda. To musi być pomyłka.
Jednak kiedy kobieta znajduje w sypialni ojca tajemnicze pudełko wie, że zawartość może zmienić wszystko.
Autorka prowadzi historię na dwóch płaszczyznach czasowych. Współcześnie, w Stananach Zjednoczonych i w 1942 roku w Sobiborze, niemieckim nazistowskim obozie zagłady. Obie dramatyczne i wstrząsające. Obie historie, Libby i Hansa/Daniela pochłonęły mnie bez reszty i od pierwszej strony zastanawiałam się, co ja bym zrobiła.
Czytając, zastanawiałam się, czy patrząc na zło, tkwiąc w piekle na ziemi sam przez to stajesz się zły? Czy nie robiąc nic godzisz się na wyrządzanie krzywdy innym? Ile jest w stanie znieść człowiek? Ile jesteśmy w stanie wybaczyć? Czy byłabym w stanie wydać ukochaną osobę, wiedząc, że dopuściła się złych rzeczy?
Te dylematy moralne były ze mną przez cały czas. Żeby zło zwyciężyło wystarczy, że dobry człowiek nie zrobi nic.
To moje pierwsze spotkanie z autorką i jestem zachwycona, zauroczona i poruszona.
Mimo że "Mój ojciec nazista" jest fikcją literacką, to jednak inspirowana jest prawdziwymi, tragicznymi wydarzeniami.
Koniecznie, ale to KONIECZNIE musicie poznać tę historię!!
September 20, 2022
Libby Weiss lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, with her husband Tim, their two children Lucas and Em, and her 96-year-old father Daniel.
Daniel was originally from Germany, but after the WWII, he emigrated to the States. He got married and had Libby, however, his wife left them when their daughter was small. Libby was very close to her father and always looked up to him.
You can imagine her shock, when one day someone from the Department of Human Rights and Prosecutions appear on her doorstep and announces that during the war, her father was a Nazi who worked at Sobibor Death Camp in Eastern Poland. They also tell her that her father’s real name is Hans Brenner and not Daniel Weiss.
Libby is aghast and denies her father’s involvement, however the Department seems to have evidence, albeit loose ones. They want Libby to search for more evidence to prosecute her father.
Libby decides she will search for information, but only to prove her father’s innocence and not guilt. What will she discover?
I loved this book from start to finish. It explores the themes of culpability and moral guilt.
I enjoyed the dual timeline, especially the one relaying Daniel’s/Hans’s experiences in Germany. You can tell that a great deal of historical research was made by the author – historical figures such as guards and SS members who were at Sobibor during the war appear in the story.
I cannot begin to imagine the mental torment that Libby was going through. I tried to think what I would have done in her situation. Would I inform on my parents? Would I keep their secret safe?
I recommend this book to all fans of historical fiction.
Daniel was originally from Germany, but after the WWII, he emigrated to the States. He got married and had Libby, however, his wife left them when their daughter was small. Libby was very close to her father and always looked up to him.
You can imagine her shock, when one day someone from the Department of Human Rights and Prosecutions appear on her doorstep and announces that during the war, her father was a Nazi who worked at Sobibor Death Camp in Eastern Poland. They also tell her that her father’s real name is Hans Brenner and not Daniel Weiss.
Libby is aghast and denies her father’s involvement, however the Department seems to have evidence, albeit loose ones. They want Libby to search for more evidence to prosecute her father.
Libby decides she will search for information, but only to prove her father’s innocence and not guilt. What will she discover?
I loved this book from start to finish. It explores the themes of culpability and moral guilt.
I enjoyed the dual timeline, especially the one relaying Daniel’s/Hans’s experiences in Germany. You can tell that a great deal of historical research was made by the author – historical figures such as guards and SS members who were at Sobibor during the war appear in the story.
I cannot begin to imagine the mental torment that Libby was going through. I tried to think what I would have done in her situation. Would I inform on my parents? Would I keep their secret safe?
I recommend this book to all fans of historical fiction.
September 22, 2022
This is a great book club book. A lot of chances to talk about what you would and wouldn’t do and what you thought as you read. While my Dad wasn’t born until after the war, he was in the Army and other than knowing he was stationed in West Berlin at Checkpoint Charlie right after the Cuban Missile Crisis, I know nothing of his military time and he is unwilling to speak of it other than our running joke that he had to run five miles before breakfast and me saying I’d skip breakfast.
This book sparked such powerful questions for me. Starting with is Libby’s father Hans Brenner? Should there be a statute of limitations on these war crimes? Would your answer be any different if the person led an exemplary life after that? With Libby’s father being 96, this would have been 70 years ago. Does his guilt rely on how complicit he was? And she was asked to find evidence to help prove he was at the camp. Could you do that to someone you loved? Would your faith in the law outweigh your love? Is there anything a loved one could do to break that bond? I think I could keep going and going.
The book unfolds with Libby in the present learning of her father’s potential war crimes and in the past with Hans Brenner at the extermination camp. It is a powerful read. Here in the US we tend to shy away from teaching of the concentration camps and some schools and governments have even banned Anne Frank, so this is also such an important conversation to have.
This book will stay with me for a long time. And if you read it be sure and let me know if you agree with Libby’s actions and choices. I think I would handle at least part of it differently.
This book sparked such powerful questions for me. Starting with is Libby’s father Hans Brenner? Should there be a statute of limitations on these war crimes? Would your answer be any different if the person led an exemplary life after that? With Libby’s father being 96, this would have been 70 years ago. Does his guilt rely on how complicit he was? And she was asked to find evidence to help prove he was at the camp. Could you do that to someone you loved? Would your faith in the law outweigh your love? Is there anything a loved one could do to break that bond? I think I could keep going and going.
The book unfolds with Libby in the present learning of her father’s potential war crimes and in the past with Hans Brenner at the extermination camp. It is a powerful read. Here in the US we tend to shy away from teaching of the concentration camps and some schools and governments have even banned Anne Frank, so this is also such an important conversation to have.
This book will stay with me for a long time. And if you read it be sure and let me know if you agree with Libby’s actions and choices. I think I would handle at least part of it differently.
September 22, 2022
When We Were Innocent by Kate Hewitt is a powerful book about love and forgiveness. Imagine answering your door to a man from the Justice Department saying that your 96 year-old father was a Nazi war criminal who had worked a Sobibor, a death camp, and he was to be arrested and sent to Germany for trial What would you do next? He also told her his proof was flimsy and he wanted her, Libby, to find more. She was paralyzed. She didn’t know what to do. Talk to her father? The story is told in two eras: today and 1942 in Sobibor. I nearly stopped at the camp portion. I have overdosed on concentration camp stories, but I have faith in Kate Hewitt, so I ventured on. Here we found a man that hated where he was and what he was doing. He is the man we all believed existed in Nazi Germany but don’t see many examples of.
Libby was destroyed. Much of the book was about her internal struggle and Hewitt handled it well. It also touched on the crass and unfeeling approach the press often takes to get a story. It portrays the Justice Department official as a human being, not as the man destroying Libby’s life. The description of Libby’s mother’s inability to love based on her experiences, was poignant and not something commonly made reference to. Libby’s husband, Tim, was not a fully developed character, but he was stalwart, always loving Libby and attempting to be the voice of reason. I was an unbelievably moving story, from first to last. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of When We Were Innocent by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #WhenWeWereInnocent
Libby was destroyed. Much of the book was about her internal struggle and Hewitt handled it well. It also touched on the crass and unfeeling approach the press often takes to get a story. It portrays the Justice Department official as a human being, not as the man destroying Libby’s life. The description of Libby’s mother’s inability to love based on her experiences, was poignant and not something commonly made reference to. Libby’s husband, Tim, was not a fully developed character, but he was stalwart, always loving Libby and attempting to be the voice of reason. I was an unbelievably moving story, from first to last. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of When We Were Innocent by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #WhenWeWereInnocent
October 3, 2022
Kate Hewitt writes the most most amazing, heartwrenching and uplifting books. She has the skill to pull me right in to the moral dilemmas and decisions of all her characters.
When We Were Innocent is told over a dual timeline, by Libby in the present day and Hans, her father, in the second World War. Libby has everything she needs, a husband who loves her, children and an absolute gem of a father who lives with them. The day a stranger knocks on her door with information she can't believe, is the day she begins to attempt to unravel a mystery to prove her fathers innocence, but will she?
A book that takes me back to the second World War and the concentration camps of the past always tears my heart apart. The amount of research Kate Hewitt has done makes it a real and vivid read. Right down to the actual guards who worked in Sobibor Death Camp,and the SS members there.
The dilemma Libby finds herself in had my own mind working overtime too. I wouldn't know what to believe either in her position. I don't even know what I would do. Would I be able to pass evidence on if I found it, or would I pretend it wasn't there?
If this review feels a little vague, it's because I don't like to spoil the impact this story has. Kate Hewitt has written a book that explores the emotions that everyone involved experience. What I took away from this book is that not everything is black and white. Sometimes forgiveness is the strongest thing people can give too.
If you, like me love to read well researched historical fiction I really do recommend When We Were Innocent.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley.
When We Were Innocent is told over a dual timeline, by Libby in the present day and Hans, her father, in the second World War. Libby has everything she needs, a husband who loves her, children and an absolute gem of a father who lives with them. The day a stranger knocks on her door with information she can't believe, is the day she begins to attempt to unravel a mystery to prove her fathers innocence, but will she?
A book that takes me back to the second World War and the concentration camps of the past always tears my heart apart. The amount of research Kate Hewitt has done makes it a real and vivid read. Right down to the actual guards who worked in Sobibor Death Camp,and the SS members there.
The dilemma Libby finds herself in had my own mind working overtime too. I wouldn't know what to believe either in her position. I don't even know what I would do. Would I be able to pass evidence on if I found it, or would I pretend it wasn't there?
If this review feels a little vague, it's because I don't like to spoil the impact this story has. Kate Hewitt has written a book that explores the emotions that everyone involved experience. What I took away from this book is that not everything is black and white. Sometimes forgiveness is the strongest thing people can give too.
If you, like me love to read well researched historical fiction I really do recommend When We Were Innocent.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews