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Where David Threw Stones: A Haunting WW2 Tale of Courage, Love, and Redemption
"Welcome to the Brennenbach of Midnight! The Curse Hours have begun."
West Germany, 1968
When ten-year-old David Saidel's parents are murdered by Neo-Nazis, he is sent to live with his grandfather in the anti-Semitic village of Brennenbach. David, miserable and lonely, finds solace in his kindly Grandpa Ernst, who has one strict rule: never go out after midnight.
One night, when David breaks curfew to search for his missing dog, he discovers why Ernst is so serious about his curfew: Brennenbach is cursed. When midnight strikes, the town is thrown back to 1943, the height of Hitler's reign.
During the Curse Hours, the Nazi ghosts that infest Brennebach are just as dangerous as they were in life. They're hunting for David because they think David is the last remaining member of the Kogan family. Whatever happened to the Kogan's caused the Curse, and David and his grandfather won't be safe until he finds a way to end it.
Through the help of a little girl named Maria Rahm, the daughter of a vicious Nazi Lieutenant, he sets out to uncover the truth behind the Kogan's. Can he end the Curse that plagues the town of Brennenbach before it claims another victim?
This spellbinding Historical WW2 Fantasy Novel is a story of a ten-year-old boy's loss, redemption, and ultimate courage. Award-winning author Elyse Hoffman has crafted an expertly woven tale of World War II's horrors. This thrilling story is perfect for readers of Marcus Zusak's "The Book Thief," John Boyne's "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," or Michael Reit's "Beyond the Tracks."
West Germany, 1968
When ten-year-old David Saidel's parents are murdered by Neo-Nazis, he is sent to live with his grandfather in the anti-Semitic village of Brennenbach. David, miserable and lonely, finds solace in his kindly Grandpa Ernst, who has one strict rule: never go out after midnight.
One night, when David breaks curfew to search for his missing dog, he discovers why Ernst is so serious about his curfew: Brennenbach is cursed. When midnight strikes, the town is thrown back to 1943, the height of Hitler's reign.
During the Curse Hours, the Nazi ghosts that infest Brennebach are just as dangerous as they were in life. They're hunting for David because they think David is the last remaining member of the Kogan family. Whatever happened to the Kogan's caused the Curse, and David and his grandfather won't be safe until he finds a way to end it.
Through the help of a little girl named Maria Rahm, the daughter of a vicious Nazi Lieutenant, he sets out to uncover the truth behind the Kogan's. Can he end the Curse that plagues the town of Brennenbach before it claims another victim?
This spellbinding Historical WW2 Fantasy Novel is a story of a ten-year-old boy's loss, redemption, and ultimate courage. Award-winning author Elyse Hoffman has crafted an expertly woven tale of World War II's horrors. This thrilling story is perfect for readers of Marcus Zusak's "The Book Thief," John Boyne's "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," or Michael Reit's "Beyond the Tracks."
444 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 27, 2022
191 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Elyse Hoffman
16 books383 followersElyse Hoffman is an award-winning author who strives to tell historical tales with new twists. Having studied WWII since the age of thirteen and with interests in fantasy and Jewish folklore, she loves to combine them in her writing. Elyse started writing novels at fourteen and finished her first historical fiction work at fifteen. She has published eight books: five in a series called The Barracks of the Holocaust, and three novels, including The Book of Uriel, Where David Threw Stones, and Fracture. In her spare time, she loves to read, work on pretty keyboards, and hang out with her co-authors - her Goldendoodle Ari and her ex-feral cat, Echo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 11, 2022
Some reviews are difficult to write.
This book was part historical fiction, part mystery, and part fantasy. It reminded me a lot of “The Book Thief”, another book that’s hard to review without spoilers. I was mesmerized by both of them, and did not want to stop reading!
My only disappointment in this book was the vulgar language used, frequently. Even for a book written for an adult audience, the constant f-bombs being dropped began to get tiresome; the rating would have been a four or five except for this.
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
This book was part historical fiction, part mystery, and part fantasy. It reminded me a lot of “The Book Thief”, another book that’s hard to review without spoilers. I was mesmerized by both of them, and did not want to stop reading!
My only disappointment in this book was the vulgar language used, frequently. Even for a book written for an adult audience, the constant f-bombs being dropped began to get tiresome; the rating would have been a four or five except for this.
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
October 1, 2022
This book gets an A+ for creativity alone. I just loved the idea that a cursed town could revert to war time every midnight and that it resets each New Year. I haven't read anything like it and it was refreshing.
For a while, I thought this was going to be a 3-star book because I kept getting characters confused and it wasn't always clear to me when we were in the cursed time or regular time. I was fighting to love it and I spent a lot of time confused.
HOWEVER, that ending was fantastic. I honestly didn't see it coming and it made the rest of the story so endearing and raw. I almost want to read it again immediately knowing what I know now to see if it changes the way I view certain relationships or if I'd pick up on something I didn't before.
I feel like this is one I'll be mulling over for a while. I mean that it in a very good way.
For a while, I thought this was going to be a 3-star book because I kept getting characters confused and it wasn't always clear to me when we were in the cursed time or regular time. I was fighting to love it and I spent a lot of time confused.
HOWEVER, that ending was fantastic. I honestly didn't see it coming and it made the rest of the story so endearing and raw. I almost want to read it again immediately knowing what I know now to see if it changes the way I view certain relationships or if I'd pick up on something I didn't before.
I feel like this is one I'll be mulling over for a while. I mean that it in a very good way.
April 13, 2023
The boy that never smiles. It would be an apt name for this book. But, Where David threw stones, depicts the story of ten-year-old David unusually which captures the imagination throughout the story. Though David vowed never to smile, his new friends sure tried everything they could to make him forget the promise.
After David’s parents' accidental death, David had no choice but to live with Herr Ernst, his grandfather on mother’s side. It tells the story of one Jewish boy who discovers a secret that kept WWII’s memories alive within its bosom hauntingly. And Jews away from the town. David soon realised what the secret was and the impact it would have on him as he experience up close the horrors of the war. Despite it all, David’s character flourished within this small town as he became acquainted with the townfolk in ways he didn’t think possible.
Even at this young age, David was not easily manipulated into doing things he believed to be wrong or against his upbringing. With a strict background, he wore his kippah with pride no matter the hateful glares, and ultimately ban to visit the shops. But once he stumbled onto the secret, his purpose for being there became clear. Unwilling friends became comrades, family became strangers, and the story started a life of its own.
“This spellbinding Historical WW2 Fantasy Novel is a story of a ten-year-old boy's loss, redemption, and ultimate courage. Award-winning author Elyse Hoffman has crafted an expertly woven tale of World War II's horrors. This thrilling story is perfect for readers of Marcus Zusak's "The Book Thief," John Boyne's "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," or Michael Reit's "Beyond the Tracks."”
The vivid story telling captures the imagination as it sends you back into a time where no Jew was safe. The propaganda against Jews is an intense hate that moored within the very fabric of the people and the lies they believed almost crippling you. But David’s ways carried a wait that touched even the hardest of hearts and views changed as the secret become real.
Going back in time each night, layered the story with a unique ploy, remarkable characters and dramatic plotlines that felt so real that my heart cramped in pain. Of which Maria Rahm’s young character was my favourite. The children within this book had to grow up fast, as they try to find the truth for themselves and how they were connected to David. No grownup will help or tell them about the curse, and David and his little friend had to unravel every lie spread by Hitler and his cronies. A truth that surpassed the curse and secret and left me speechless.
This is a book I can recommend to every WWII reader. It adds another layer to what we already know about the war and how it affected the nation.
After David’s parents' accidental death, David had no choice but to live with Herr Ernst, his grandfather on mother’s side. It tells the story of one Jewish boy who discovers a secret that kept WWII’s memories alive within its bosom hauntingly. And Jews away from the town. David soon realised what the secret was and the impact it would have on him as he experience up close the horrors of the war. Despite it all, David’s character flourished within this small town as he became acquainted with the townfolk in ways he didn’t think possible.
Even at this young age, David was not easily manipulated into doing things he believed to be wrong or against his upbringing. With a strict background, he wore his kippah with pride no matter the hateful glares, and ultimately ban to visit the shops. But once he stumbled onto the secret, his purpose for being there became clear. Unwilling friends became comrades, family became strangers, and the story started a life of its own.
“This spellbinding Historical WW2 Fantasy Novel is a story of a ten-year-old boy's loss, redemption, and ultimate courage. Award-winning author Elyse Hoffman has crafted an expertly woven tale of World War II's horrors. This thrilling story is perfect for readers of Marcus Zusak's "The Book Thief," John Boyne's "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," or Michael Reit's "Beyond the Tracks."”
The vivid story telling captures the imagination as it sends you back into a time where no Jew was safe. The propaganda against Jews is an intense hate that moored within the very fabric of the people and the lies they believed almost crippling you. But David’s ways carried a wait that touched even the hardest of hearts and views changed as the secret become real.
Going back in time each night, layered the story with a unique ploy, remarkable characters and dramatic plotlines that felt so real that my heart cramped in pain. Of which Maria Rahm’s young character was my favourite. The children within this book had to grow up fast, as they try to find the truth for themselves and how they were connected to David. No grownup will help or tell them about the curse, and David and his little friend had to unravel every lie spread by Hitler and his cronies. A truth that surpassed the curse and secret and left me speechless.
This is a book I can recommend to every WWII reader. It adds another layer to what we already know about the war and how it affected the nation.
October 8, 2022
I read and reviewed this book for a blog tour, so thank you to the blog tour organiser and the author for letting me take part and for providing me with a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Trigger warnings: violence, murder, WWII depictions and mention, mentioned suicide (multiple), bombs, life in wartimes, grief, loss of parents, loss of children, blood, gore, concentrations camps (including the violence, hatred and murders done there), mentions of Auschwitz and Treblinka, violence and hatred against Jews, anti-Semitism, murder, Neo-Nazis, anti-Nazi vigilante murders.
This is a very unique, heart-warming but also heart-wrenching and hard-hitting read. I instantly fell in love with young David Saidel’s character who has made a pact to never smile again since his parents’ murder, especially since he blames himself. This pulled at my heartstrings so much and watching David grow up, open up, realise he was not to blame and finally smile again brought tears to my eye.
I loved the premise of this book as I also love time travel, which this sort of is but not really. More like the town and its inhabitants revert back to 1943 for 5 hours a night. When David discovers this he is utterly shocked but realises why his grandfather gave him a very strict curfew when he arrived in Brennenbach. Even though the town is well into the 1960s, and you would think a lot more liberal after everything that happened during the war and in the fallout, however, when David turns up in town and doesn’t hide his bright ginger hair or his kippah, people immediately lash out and him and spew hate. It was terrible to read these chapters since we all know Jews were completely innocent and weren’t the terrible “vermin” Hitler and his SS men drilled into the world. No people deserved any of the hate and violence that they faced and yet the people of Brennenbach visibly learned nothing of the war as they remained hostile to David for a long time.
I was really surprised by where the plot took us, and quite honestly nearly started sobbing when David revealed the Curse in an extremely tense and dangerous way. I was so worried for him and I just said ‘WHAT?’ ever so loud and my whole family turned and looked at me and I couldn’t get a word out of my mouth. What I will say, because I don’t want to spoil you, is that this book carries a very strong and important message that in the end will leave you a sobbing but also smiling mess on the floor when it all wraps up. I never ever in a million years expected THAT, I did have a theory which was not too far off but still fairly because I had the times wrong in my head, but wow, when I read those lines I just… I don’t think I’ve ever been so speechless all while my head was screaming and running around… I still can’t but WOW. What a plot twist! Incredible!
I loved the characters and so many of them grew on me, first obviously David and his Opa (grandfather), and then Alfons, Milo and a few others. I just had to smile every time David almost did and it was such a pleasure reading about these characters. I could picture them perfectly and found them to be very realistic, very palpable and despite the multiple atrocities we read on page and learn about from the past, found them also very human, especially at the end. As I said, the ending carries a very strong message which has always been important in remembering what happened during WWII and changing the worldview to never let anything like this happen again.
Finally, I thought the writing style was very fluid and just beautiful. It is a really hard book to read at times, but it was also effortless if that makes sense. It just felt right – I’m sure you’ll know what I mean if you’ve read a “just right” kind of book before! Elyse Hoffman is an incredible author with such an amazing talent for writing about these characters, this time, the ideologies and atrocities of the war. She has become an auto-buy author and I’ll sign up to every single subsequent tour Dave hosts for her, and I think you should too!
I gave Where David Threw Stones by Elyse Hoffman 5 stars. When I finished it last night I gave it 4.5 stars, but from sleeping on it and letting my brain get around that reveal and everything else that happened, I realised that for me, this book deserves all the stars and absolutely no less. The author gives a voice to the atrocities of the past, to remind us in the present what our ancestors did or what was done to them, and most importantly gave a voice to Jewish people during the war while bringing forth the message of redemption, courage, forgiveness and peace. It was absolutely stunning.
Trigger warnings: violence, murder, WWII depictions and mention, mentioned suicide (multiple), bombs, life in wartimes, grief, loss of parents, loss of children, blood, gore, concentrations camps (including the violence, hatred and murders done there), mentions of Auschwitz and Treblinka, violence and hatred against Jews, anti-Semitism, murder, Neo-Nazis, anti-Nazi vigilante murders.
This is a very unique, heart-warming but also heart-wrenching and hard-hitting read. I instantly fell in love with young David Saidel’s character who has made a pact to never smile again since his parents’ murder, especially since he blames himself. This pulled at my heartstrings so much and watching David grow up, open up, realise he was not to blame and finally smile again brought tears to my eye.
I loved the premise of this book as I also love time travel, which this sort of is but not really. More like the town and its inhabitants revert back to 1943 for 5 hours a night. When David discovers this he is utterly shocked but realises why his grandfather gave him a very strict curfew when he arrived in Brennenbach. Even though the town is well into the 1960s, and you would think a lot more liberal after everything that happened during the war and in the fallout, however, when David turns up in town and doesn’t hide his bright ginger hair or his kippah, people immediately lash out and him and spew hate. It was terrible to read these chapters since we all know Jews were completely innocent and weren’t the terrible “vermin” Hitler and his SS men drilled into the world. No people deserved any of the hate and violence that they faced and yet the people of Brennenbach visibly learned nothing of the war as they remained hostile to David for a long time.
I was really surprised by where the plot took us, and quite honestly nearly started sobbing when David revealed the Curse in an extremely tense and dangerous way. I was so worried for him and I just said ‘WHAT?’ ever so loud and my whole family turned and looked at me and I couldn’t get a word out of my mouth. What I will say, because I don’t want to spoil you, is that this book carries a very strong and important message that in the end will leave you a sobbing but also smiling mess on the floor when it all wraps up. I never ever in a million years expected THAT, I did have a theory which was not too far off but still fairly because I had the times wrong in my head, but wow, when I read those lines I just… I don’t think I’ve ever been so speechless all while my head was screaming and running around… I still can’t but WOW. What a plot twist! Incredible!
I loved the characters and so many of them grew on me, first obviously David and his Opa (grandfather), and then Alfons, Milo and a few others. I just had to smile every time David almost did and it was such a pleasure reading about these characters. I could picture them perfectly and found them to be very realistic, very palpable and despite the multiple atrocities we read on page and learn about from the past, found them also very human, especially at the end. As I said, the ending carries a very strong message which has always been important in remembering what happened during WWII and changing the worldview to never let anything like this happen again.
Finally, I thought the writing style was very fluid and just beautiful. It is a really hard book to read at times, but it was also effortless if that makes sense. It just felt right – I’m sure you’ll know what I mean if you’ve read a “just right” kind of book before! Elyse Hoffman is an incredible author with such an amazing talent for writing about these characters, this time, the ideologies and atrocities of the war. She has become an auto-buy author and I’ll sign up to every single subsequent tour Dave hosts for her, and I think you should too!
I gave Where David Threw Stones by Elyse Hoffman 5 stars. When I finished it last night I gave it 4.5 stars, but from sleeping on it and letting my brain get around that reveal and everything else that happened, I realised that for me, this book deserves all the stars and absolutely no less. The author gives a voice to the atrocities of the past, to remind us in the present what our ancestors did or what was done to them, and most importantly gave a voice to Jewish people during the war while bringing forth the message of redemption, courage, forgiveness and peace. It was absolutely stunning.
December 17, 2022
“I have a strict curfew. You will be in your room by eleven, asleep at midnight. No arguments…No excuses, no exceptions ever.” – Ernst to David, Ch. 1, Pg. 59, eBook version.
Twenty years after the end of WWII, bogged down with survivor’s guilt, 10-year-old David Saidel is being sent to live with his unknown maternal Grandfather, Ernst, after the murders of his parents, Ruth and Isak. Being moved from Munich to Brennenbach isn’t a walk in the park, this new home is a small, antisemitic village that is not very welcoming to openly Jewish David. Fortunately, his opa (the German word for grandfather) isn’t all that strict, except for one thing: he’s never to leave the house after midnight. No biggie, right? Until it is. And that is where the story truly begins, for David does sneak out one night after their dog, Mozart, does a runner and becomes lost. After being told that he had been seen drinking from the fountain at midnight, David decides to find his dog and bring him home.
“Welcome to the Brennenbach of Midnight! The Curse Hours have begun.”
In his quest to find Mozart, David discovers the village’s secret, when the clock strikes midnight, the village is transported back in time to the village it was in 1943 at the height of Hitler’s reign. This lasts until 5 AM when everything reverts back to the 1960s. During these hours the village’s inhabitants either become their younger selves or take the place of people who lived in the village during Nazi occupation. On top of that, Nazi ghosts walk among them and are every bit as dangerous and despicable as they were when alive. David learns the truth about the village and its inhabitants, what his role is in this curse, and with the help of a new friend – Marie, how to end the curse once and for all.
This is an absolutely fascinating mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and mystery, that meshed well together and told a riveting and unique tale. I make no secret that I love historical fiction, especially when it revolves around WWI and/or WWII. When I saw that there was an opening slot on the book tour for this I jumped at the chance because of how good the synopsis sounded. This did not disappoint! There’s even a twist that was well-played and thrilling.
Like many historical fiction books, this is a long book with a slow opening chapter. That being said, it does pick up as it moves along and becomes more enjoyable. Based on my knowledge, while this is a heavy mix of fact and fiction, fantasy aside, this does seem fairly historically accurate; especially the attitudes towards the Jewish people even twenty years after the war. There is a lot of swearing, anti-Semitism, and other things along those lines, so if that’s not something that you want to read or are comfortable reading about, this may not be for you.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read once I got past the first couple of chapters. It’s very well-written, the plot isn’t convoluted or confusing, the characters are well put together and developed, and everything flows well. Based on this book, I would gladly read more of Hoffman’s books, I enjoy her style and twists on historical fiction.
A big thank you to author Elyse Hoffman and R&RBookTours for a digital copy of this to review.
This review will also be posted on Fathoms Amidst the Lines, Functionally Fictional, and my bookstagram.
Twenty years after the end of WWII, bogged down with survivor’s guilt, 10-year-old David Saidel is being sent to live with his unknown maternal Grandfather, Ernst, after the murders of his parents, Ruth and Isak. Being moved from Munich to Brennenbach isn’t a walk in the park, this new home is a small, antisemitic village that is not very welcoming to openly Jewish David. Fortunately, his opa (the German word for grandfather) isn’t all that strict, except for one thing: he’s never to leave the house after midnight. No biggie, right? Until it is. And that is where the story truly begins, for David does sneak out one night after their dog, Mozart, does a runner and becomes lost. After being told that he had been seen drinking from the fountain at midnight, David decides to find his dog and bring him home.
“Welcome to the Brennenbach of Midnight! The Curse Hours have begun.”
In his quest to find Mozart, David discovers the village’s secret, when the clock strikes midnight, the village is transported back in time to the village it was in 1943 at the height of Hitler’s reign. This lasts until 5 AM when everything reverts back to the 1960s. During these hours the village’s inhabitants either become their younger selves or take the place of people who lived in the village during Nazi occupation. On top of that, Nazi ghosts walk among them and are every bit as dangerous and despicable as they were when alive. David learns the truth about the village and its inhabitants, what his role is in this curse, and with the help of a new friend – Marie, how to end the curse once and for all.
This is an absolutely fascinating mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and mystery, that meshed well together and told a riveting and unique tale. I make no secret that I love historical fiction, especially when it revolves around WWI and/or WWII. When I saw that there was an opening slot on the book tour for this I jumped at the chance because of how good the synopsis sounded. This did not disappoint! There’s even a twist that was well-played and thrilling.
Like many historical fiction books, this is a long book with a slow opening chapter. That being said, it does pick up as it moves along and becomes more enjoyable. Based on my knowledge, while this is a heavy mix of fact and fiction, fantasy aside, this does seem fairly historically accurate; especially the attitudes towards the Jewish people even twenty years after the war. There is a lot of swearing, anti-Semitism, and other things along those lines, so if that’s not something that you want to read or are comfortable reading about, this may not be for you.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read once I got past the first couple of chapters. It’s very well-written, the plot isn’t convoluted or confusing, the characters are well put together and developed, and everything flows well. Based on this book, I would gladly read more of Hoffman’s books, I enjoy her style and twists on historical fiction.
A big thank you to author Elyse Hoffman and R&RBookTours for a digital copy of this to review.
This review will also be posted on Fathoms Amidst the Lines, Functionally Fictional, and my bookstagram.
April 14, 2023
I was given a copy to review via Henry Roi PR for a book tour. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #WhereDavidThrewStones #ElyseHoffman #HenryRoiPR #BookTourReview #HistoricalBook #BookReview
I never like to spoil books I am reviewing if I can help it and while I will try to not spoil this one it will be difficult to discuss the story in detail without doing so. Where David Threw Stones is an historical novel with a fantasy and speculative twist. At times heart-warming and equally heart-wrenching it aims to capture the sentiments of post World War two Germany while seemingly traveling back to those atrocious days.
Our Protagonist is ten year old David Saidel who is sent to live with his grandfather after his parents are killed by Neo-Nazi’s. Vowing to never smile or be happy again, David settles into the very antisemitic village of Brennebach with his grandfather having only one rule, he must not leave the house after eleven and must be asleep by midnight. But one night David breaks this curfew to try and find their missing dog. It is then he realises that between the hours of midnight and 5am the village is cursed to travel back in time to the days of the war. Where the once antisemitic village becomes deadly for the young Jewish boy. But he is determined to find the course and break the curse.
Hoffman cleverly mixes the genres of historical and fantasy fiction to create a beautiful although sometimes distressing story. The characters and melding of past and present is executed perfectly allowing us to slowly piece together what happened in the village and why the curse began. On top of this it is lovely to see the younger characters break the chains of hate and conditioning as they all band together to try and free the village.
The writing style itself was easy to follow and flowed making it easy to read and keep up with what is happening. I have to say I wasn’t sure with the number of characters if it would be easy to keep up with but the way Hoffman wrote made it so it was. I also loved that while this is not in first person we slowly piece together the mysteries with David learning as he does which I think added to my enjoyment. It’s also a testament to Hoffman’s skill that I most definitely did not see the twist at the end coming and I enjoyed it thoroughly even if it was a little heart-wrenching.
This is the second book by Hoffman I have read and I have to say the thing I admire most about their writing is they do not hide the horrors that went on and they do not try and sympathise overly with the ‘bad guys’ but they manage to capture the human nature of the characters. Sometimes these characters get redemption, sometimes not, but we get to see why their potentially bigoted view exists and what created it.
While this is a tough read in some places I can honestly say it is worth it. If you enjoy novels like ‘The Book Thief’ you are sure to enjoy this one.
I never like to spoil books I am reviewing if I can help it and while I will try to not spoil this one it will be difficult to discuss the story in detail without doing so. Where David Threw Stones is an historical novel with a fantasy and speculative twist. At times heart-warming and equally heart-wrenching it aims to capture the sentiments of post World War two Germany while seemingly traveling back to those atrocious days.
Our Protagonist is ten year old David Saidel who is sent to live with his grandfather after his parents are killed by Neo-Nazi’s. Vowing to never smile or be happy again, David settles into the very antisemitic village of Brennebach with his grandfather having only one rule, he must not leave the house after eleven and must be asleep by midnight. But one night David breaks this curfew to try and find their missing dog. It is then he realises that between the hours of midnight and 5am the village is cursed to travel back in time to the days of the war. Where the once antisemitic village becomes deadly for the young Jewish boy. But he is determined to find the course and break the curse.
Hoffman cleverly mixes the genres of historical and fantasy fiction to create a beautiful although sometimes distressing story. The characters and melding of past and present is executed perfectly allowing us to slowly piece together what happened in the village and why the curse began. On top of this it is lovely to see the younger characters break the chains of hate and conditioning as they all band together to try and free the village.
The writing style itself was easy to follow and flowed making it easy to read and keep up with what is happening. I have to say I wasn’t sure with the number of characters if it would be easy to keep up with but the way Hoffman wrote made it so it was. I also loved that while this is not in first person we slowly piece together the mysteries with David learning as he does which I think added to my enjoyment. It’s also a testament to Hoffman’s skill that I most definitely did not see the twist at the end coming and I enjoyed it thoroughly even if it was a little heart-wrenching.
This is the second book by Hoffman I have read and I have to say the thing I admire most about their writing is they do not hide the horrors that went on and they do not try and sympathise overly with the ‘bad guys’ but they manage to capture the human nature of the characters. Sometimes these characters get redemption, sometimes not, but we get to see why their potentially bigoted view exists and what created it.
While this is a tough read in some places I can honestly say it is worth it. If you enjoy novels like ‘The Book Thief’ you are sure to enjoy this one.
December 15, 2022
"I think he was mad because getting hurt is one thing, but being forced to smile when everything hurts is even worse."
West Germany, 1968: When ten year old David Saidel's parents are murdered, he is sent to live with his grandfather in an anti-Semitic village. Miserable and lonely, David finds comfort in his kindly Grandpa Ernst, who has only one strict rule: Never go out after midnight. When David breaks curfew to search for his missing dog, he discovers why Ernst is so serious about his curfew: Brennenbach is cursed. At midnight, the town is thrown back to 1943 at the height of Hitler's reign. The Nazi ghosts in the village are just as dangerous as they were in life. And they are hunting for David, thinking he is the last member of a family they've been ordered to destroy. With the help of a little girl named Maria Rahm, David sets out to end the Curse before it claims more victims.
This book sounded like an amazing read from the moment I read the summary and it did not disappoint. I was hooked from the opening line to the final line. This is a book that can be enjoyed no matter your age. The lessons that can be found in this book are universal: love, courage, and redemption. Ten year old Jewish David finds himself surrounded by Nazi's trying to capture and kill him in the past and a fierce hatred in the present. All because he is Jewish. I mean David even has some self-loathing going on himself. The most heartbreaking thing: he feels like he deserves the hatred and punishment of people.
When I tell you this book left me with chills multiple times, I mean I was emotionally wrecked by this book. I loved every second of it, because it wasn't just a story... it meant something. Hoffman is a master storyteller and you find yourself drawn into the world that is created. The book is a really great example of finding redemption and forgiveness. It is obvious the town has a big secret they are trying to hide, and David's time in the past helps him to uncover the sins of the town. In the process he opens the eyes of those in the present. I think the curse aspect was a cool dynamic, my only wish is that I could have known a little bit more about it. I don't want to give any spoilers so I'll leave it at that. GO READ THIS BOOK!!!
West Germany, 1968: When ten year old David Saidel's parents are murdered, he is sent to live with his grandfather in an anti-Semitic village. Miserable and lonely, David finds comfort in his kindly Grandpa Ernst, who has only one strict rule: Never go out after midnight. When David breaks curfew to search for his missing dog, he discovers why Ernst is so serious about his curfew: Brennenbach is cursed. At midnight, the town is thrown back to 1943 at the height of Hitler's reign. The Nazi ghosts in the village are just as dangerous as they were in life. And they are hunting for David, thinking he is the last member of a family they've been ordered to destroy. With the help of a little girl named Maria Rahm, David sets out to end the Curse before it claims more victims.
This book sounded like an amazing read from the moment I read the summary and it did not disappoint. I was hooked from the opening line to the final line. This is a book that can be enjoyed no matter your age. The lessons that can be found in this book are universal: love, courage, and redemption. Ten year old Jewish David finds himself surrounded by Nazi's trying to capture and kill him in the past and a fierce hatred in the present. All because he is Jewish. I mean David even has some self-loathing going on himself. The most heartbreaking thing: he feels like he deserves the hatred and punishment of people.
When I tell you this book left me with chills multiple times, I mean I was emotionally wrecked by this book. I loved every second of it, because it wasn't just a story... it meant something. Hoffman is a master storyteller and you find yourself drawn into the world that is created. The book is a really great example of finding redemption and forgiveness. It is obvious the town has a big secret they are trying to hide, and David's time in the past helps him to uncover the sins of the town. In the process he opens the eyes of those in the present. I think the curse aspect was a cool dynamic, my only wish is that I could have known a little bit more about it. I don't want to give any spoilers so I'll leave it at that. GO READ THIS BOOK!!!
October 8, 2022
I previously took part in the blog tour for The Book of Uriel by Elyse Hoffman at the end of 2021, and absolutely loved it, so when Dave @ The Write Reads announced the tour for Where David Threw Stones, I immediately jumped at the chance, and I am so glad that I did.
With a shocking opening sentence, and a devastating first chapter, this story immediately has you hooked, and highlights how post war Germany still wasn’t a great deal better for the Jewish community. The hatred was so ingrained that many German people refused to let it go. The murder of David’s parents, and the treatment David receives when he arrives in Brennenbach are perfect examples of this.
We are introduced to some really nasty characters, some of which redeem themselves, and others not so much. But we also get some truly lovely characters too. There were a few very interesting personalities, and Maria and Alfons were particular favourites of mine.
Elyse Hoffman has such a beautiful writing style, and both of her books that I have now read have had a very unique take on the subject of war which I have really enjoyed. Going in to Where David Threw Stones, I was unsure if I would get in to the time travel element, or if it would even work, but it gave this story a whole new layer and depth. I think this is what makes this book really stand out from the crowd.
The twist towards the end of the book totally threw me! I never saw the huge revelation coming, and I still can’t believe it, but once you find out, you do think back and realise that actually there were little hints and signs cleverly slipped in along the way.
This story has you on an emotional rollercoaster, from absolutely heartbreaking moments, to giggling at the anti-Nazi jokes that are slipped in from time to time, to a complete u-turn back to the devastating horrors of Nazi Germany. Incredibly written, powerful, and hard hitting, I highly recommend this to any historical fiction fans. I am looking forward to reading more of Elyse Hoffman’s books in the future.
I give Where David Threw Stones a 5 star rating!
With a shocking opening sentence, and a devastating first chapter, this story immediately has you hooked, and highlights how post war Germany still wasn’t a great deal better for the Jewish community. The hatred was so ingrained that many German people refused to let it go. The murder of David’s parents, and the treatment David receives when he arrives in Brennenbach are perfect examples of this.
We are introduced to some really nasty characters, some of which redeem themselves, and others not so much. But we also get some truly lovely characters too. There were a few very interesting personalities, and Maria and Alfons were particular favourites of mine.
Elyse Hoffman has such a beautiful writing style, and both of her books that I have now read have had a very unique take on the subject of war which I have really enjoyed. Going in to Where David Threw Stones, I was unsure if I would get in to the time travel element, or if it would even work, but it gave this story a whole new layer and depth. I think this is what makes this book really stand out from the crowd.
The twist towards the end of the book totally threw me! I never saw the huge revelation coming, and I still can’t believe it, but once you find out, you do think back and realise that actually there were little hints and signs cleverly slipped in along the way.
This story has you on an emotional rollercoaster, from absolutely heartbreaking moments, to giggling at the anti-Nazi jokes that are slipped in from time to time, to a complete u-turn back to the devastating horrors of Nazi Germany. Incredibly written, powerful, and hard hitting, I highly recommend this to any historical fiction fans. I am looking forward to reading more of Elyse Hoffman’s books in the future.
I give Where David Threw Stones a 5 star rating!
September 25, 2022
Where David Threw Stones
Pub Date 27 Sep 2022
The Book Whisperer
General Fiction (Adult) | Historical Fiction | Teens & YA
I am reviewing a copy of Where David Threw Stones through The Book Whisperer and Netgalley:
This book will transport you back to West Germany in 1968.
After ten year old David Saidel's parents are murdered by Neo-Nazis, he is sent to live with his grandfather in the anti-Semitic village of Brennenbach. David, miserable and lonely, finds solace in his kindly Grandpa Ernst, who has one strict rule: never go out after midnight.
When David breaks curfew to search for his missing dog, he discovers why Ernst is so serious about his curfew: Brennenbach is cursed. When midnight strikes, the town is thrown back to 1943, the height of Hitler's reign.
During the Cursed Hours the Nazi ghosts that infest Brennenbach are just as dangerous as they were in life. They're hunting for David because they think David is the last remaining member of the Kogan family. Whatever happened to the Kogans caused the Curse, and David and his grandfather won't be safe until he finds a way to end it.
Through the help of a little girl named Maria Rahm, the daughter of a vicious Nazi Lieutenant, he sets out to uncover the truth behind the Kogans.
Can he end the Curse that plagues the town of Brennenbach before it claims another victim?
If you are looking for a unique fantasy novel then I highly recommend Where David Threw Stones€!
Five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Pub Date 27 Sep 2022
The Book Whisperer
General Fiction (Adult) | Historical Fiction | Teens & YA
I am reviewing a copy of Where David Threw Stones through The Book Whisperer and Netgalley:
This book will transport you back to West Germany in 1968.
After ten year old David Saidel's parents are murdered by Neo-Nazis, he is sent to live with his grandfather in the anti-Semitic village of Brennenbach. David, miserable and lonely, finds solace in his kindly Grandpa Ernst, who has one strict rule: never go out after midnight.
When David breaks curfew to search for his missing dog, he discovers why Ernst is so serious about his curfew: Brennenbach is cursed. When midnight strikes, the town is thrown back to 1943, the height of Hitler's reign.
During the Cursed Hours the Nazi ghosts that infest Brennenbach are just as dangerous as they were in life. They're hunting for David because they think David is the last remaining member of the Kogan family. Whatever happened to the Kogans caused the Curse, and David and his grandfather won't be safe until he finds a way to end it.
Through the help of a little girl named Maria Rahm, the daughter of a vicious Nazi Lieutenant, he sets out to uncover the truth behind the Kogans.
Can he end the Curse that plagues the town of Brennenbach before it claims another victim?
If you are looking for a unique fantasy novel then I highly recommend Where David Threw Stones€!
Five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
October 5, 2022
Where David Threw Stones is a clever and fascinating fantasy novel which moves between World War 2 and 1968. It has a time travel element that works so well amongst a realistic war time setting and it’s such an emotional and thought-provoking plot.
I have read several books set in WW2 and it’s a topic we teach in schools, so I am familiar with the atrocities committed by soldiers, Hitler and government towards Jewish people. What I was not prepared for when reading this book was seeing how everyday people in the street/towns etc reacted towards Jewish people. I found this aspect really eye-opening and gave me a completely different perspective of the enormity of the hatred and attitudes given.
As well as focussing on the treatment of Jewish people during these times, there are so many themes running through this book; some heart-breaking and some heart-warming.
The opening chapters where we learn about David and what happened to his parents is just devastating. The way David internalises everything and feels about himself and what he deserves is just soul destroying and so hard to read. As David makes some friends and develops relationships the story becomes more hopeful (in-spite of the dark subject matter) and there are uplifting themes of courage and friendship to lighten the tone.
The magical, time travel element adds a great twist on a more sombre tale and really makes this story so unique.
This is such a fabulous book full of unexpected surprises and thought-provoking material. I really recommend it.
I have read several books set in WW2 and it’s a topic we teach in schools, so I am familiar with the atrocities committed by soldiers, Hitler and government towards Jewish people. What I was not prepared for when reading this book was seeing how everyday people in the street/towns etc reacted towards Jewish people. I found this aspect really eye-opening and gave me a completely different perspective of the enormity of the hatred and attitudes given.
As well as focussing on the treatment of Jewish people during these times, there are so many themes running through this book; some heart-breaking and some heart-warming.
The opening chapters where we learn about David and what happened to his parents is just devastating. The way David internalises everything and feels about himself and what he deserves is just soul destroying and so hard to read. As David makes some friends and develops relationships the story becomes more hopeful (in-spite of the dark subject matter) and there are uplifting themes of courage and friendship to lighten the tone.
The magical, time travel element adds a great twist on a more sombre tale and really makes this story so unique.
This is such a fabulous book full of unexpected surprises and thought-provoking material. I really recommend it.
October 3, 2022
The Curse
When David's parents are killed by neo Nazi's he is sent to live with his grandfather whom he never knew. He blames himself for his parent's death as they had to leave early because of him.
When he gets there he is not treated well when they find out he is Jewish. He refuses to hide the fact that he is Jewish. The town is filled with Nazi sympathizers. It is 1968 the war has been over for years.
He does bond with his grandfather's dog Mozart. One day when Mozart goes missing he disobeys his grandfather's rule to never go out at night and goes to look for his dog. He discovers why he shouldn't go out at night and why the village is so pro Nazi. The village is cursed and goes back to 1943 every night.
Now his friend Milo, a young girl Maria and himself must figure out how to break the curse put upon the village when a young Jewish man disappeared. A young man that escaped the Nazi's when his whole family was deported. What happened to David Kogan?
This story has a bit of history, a bit of fantasy, some reckoning and confessions. It has suspense, danger, and the fantasy. I think you will enjoy reading it.
Thanks to Elyse Hoffman for writing a great story, The Book Whisperer for publishing it and NetGalley for providing me with a book to read and review.
When David's parents are killed by neo Nazi's he is sent to live with his grandfather whom he never knew. He blames himself for his parent's death as they had to leave early because of him.
When he gets there he is not treated well when they find out he is Jewish. He refuses to hide the fact that he is Jewish. The town is filled with Nazi sympathizers. It is 1968 the war has been over for years.
He does bond with his grandfather's dog Mozart. One day when Mozart goes missing he disobeys his grandfather's rule to never go out at night and goes to look for his dog. He discovers why he shouldn't go out at night and why the village is so pro Nazi. The village is cursed and goes back to 1943 every night.
Now his friend Milo, a young girl Maria and himself must figure out how to break the curse put upon the village when a young Jewish man disappeared. A young man that escaped the Nazi's when his whole family was deported. What happened to David Kogan?
This story has a bit of history, a bit of fantasy, some reckoning and confessions. It has suspense, danger, and the fantasy. I think you will enjoy reading it.
Thanks to Elyse Hoffman for writing a great story, The Book Whisperer for publishing it and NetGalley for providing me with a book to read and review.
October 25, 2022
For the most part, I enjoyed this novel; it is the story of David Saidel, a boy whose parents died in a car crash, who is sent to live in Brennenbach, with his only living relative, his grandfather - a man David has never met, for reasons he was never given. This novel is historical fiction with a fantasy twist. There is something odd in the town of Brennenbach - something that causes parents to keep their children in from midnight to sunrise, a mystery that no one explains, but which is related to the history of the Nazi occupation of the town during WWII. From midnight to sunrise, Brennanbach becomes the town it was in 1943, with most of the inhabitants becoming either their younger selves, or taking the place of people who lived in the town during Nazi occupation. For the most part, the story is told with an eye toward historical accuracy, or at least as far as the fantasy portion allows, but the one place it falls down is in an excessive, and, in my opinion, historically inaccurate and unnecessary use of modern American profanity, which makes this novel inappropriate for the age group it would otherwise be perfect for, and which caused me to rate the book lower than I would have otherwise.
December 13, 2022
Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝔻𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕕 𝕋𝕙𝕣𝕖𝕨 𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤
𝐄𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐦𝐚𝐧
Historical Fiction
442 Pages
Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
Where David Threw Stones tells David’s story after Nazis murder his parents. He moves in with his grandfather, which sounds nice, but he lives in an area that still hates Jews. As David lives with ghosts from the past, he faces real ghosts as he goes back in time to the era of Nazi control. Will he survive his visits to the past?
Mʸ Tᴴᴼᵁᴳᴴᵀs
Where David Threw Stones is an amazing book of historical fiction and magical realism. I have read many historical fiction books about this time period, but none were mixed with magic as this one is.
This story is unique and makes you climb right into the book, needing to know what happens next. This author makes you feel each emotion as it happens. There are a range of characters, my favorites being David and his Grandpa Ernst.
The story is relatable in some ways. In others, like the Nazi part, it is informational. Everything about Where David Threw Stones is exceptional! You won’t regret reading it!
Thank you to R&R Book Tours and the author for providing this book to read and review.
𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝔻𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕕 𝕋𝕙𝕣𝕖𝕨 𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤
𝐄𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐦𝐚𝐧
Historical Fiction
442 Pages
Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
Where David Threw Stones tells David’s story after Nazis murder his parents. He moves in with his grandfather, which sounds nice, but he lives in an area that still hates Jews. As David lives with ghosts from the past, he faces real ghosts as he goes back in time to the era of Nazi control. Will he survive his visits to the past?
Mʸ Tᴴᴼᵁᴳᴴᵀs
Where David Threw Stones is an amazing book of historical fiction and magical realism. I have read many historical fiction books about this time period, but none were mixed with magic as this one is.
This story is unique and makes you climb right into the book, needing to know what happens next. This author makes you feel each emotion as it happens. There are a range of characters, my favorites being David and his Grandpa Ernst.
The story is relatable in some ways. In others, like the Nazi part, it is informational. Everything about Where David Threw Stones is exceptional! You won’t regret reading it!
Thank you to R&R Book Tours and the author for providing this book to read and review.
December 6, 2022
I have read a lot of books about topics related to the Holocaust. Just when I begin to think I know it all, I come across a book that offers new details or a new perspective. This story takes place in the 1960s in Germany. I was actually about the same age as the main character during this time. Growing up in the US, I remember hearing about the Soviet Union, communism, and the Cold War. As far as I knew, WWII and the Nazis were history. But apparently in Germany, 20 years after WWII ended, issues resulting from that war were definitely not history.
David’s parents die in a car accident after hold over Nazis cut the brake cables of their car. David is sent to live with a grandfather he never knew in a remote village where unrepaired bomb damage from the war and the remains of a concentration camp are ever present reminders. He defies his grandfather’s admonitions and proudly wears his kippah when they go to town. The town’s response leads to the unraveling of a web of animosities, memories, and mysteries.
David’s parents die in a car accident after hold over Nazis cut the brake cables of their car. David is sent to live with a grandfather he never knew in a remote village where unrepaired bomb damage from the war and the remains of a concentration camp are ever present reminders. He defies his grandfather’s admonitions and proudly wears his kippah when they go to town. The town’s response leads to the unraveling of a web of animosities, memories, and mysteries.
April 14, 2023
Forget everything you would normally expect from a World War II historical read. Where David Threw Stones is a completely new and riveting approach with it's fantasy - time travel element. This is like Morris Gleitzman meets Stephen King.
When David's parents are murdered at the hands of anti-semites, he has to move across Germany to live with a grandfather that he doesn't know. Despite being 1968, antisemitism runs rife. David is given very few rules to follow, but the main one is a curfew between midnight and 5am. The reason soon becomes clear. After the hours of midnight, the town reverts to the height of Nazi Germany in the 1940s with soldiers parading around threatening death and persecution to the citizens. David finds himself embroiled in a mission to break the Curse. This is such a compelling read. The ending alone holds such a fantastic twist. Harrowing in places, empowering in others, this is a gripping story. #wheredavidthrewstones #elysehoffman #henryroipr
When David's parents are murdered at the hands of anti-semites, he has to move across Germany to live with a grandfather that he doesn't know. Despite being 1968, antisemitism runs rife. David is given very few rules to follow, but the main one is a curfew between midnight and 5am. The reason soon becomes clear. After the hours of midnight, the town reverts to the height of Nazi Germany in the 1940s with soldiers parading around threatening death and persecution to the citizens. David finds himself embroiled in a mission to break the Curse. This is such a compelling read. The ending alone holds such a fantastic twist. Harrowing in places, empowering in others, this is a gripping story. #wheredavidthrewstones #elysehoffman #henryroipr
December 13, 2022
This book...where to start? When I first began reading, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it. David's guilt weighs so heavily on him, my heart absolutely broke for him. You can feel his sadness and guilt spilling out over the pages. Then, the next thing I knew, I'm chapters deep, my stomach is growling at me, and I'm reluctant to put the book down long enough to go grab a snack. This book will captivate you, and pull you back through time. The characters are real, and you'll absolutely hate some of them. It also highlights that people, just like life, are not all black and white, and hate can pass from one generation to the next. An excellent book overall.
October 3, 2022
This book was such an amazing mix of so many genre. Post WWII, time travel, ghosts, racism (especially against jews), friendships, courage, loss, grandfathers, love, relationships. It also demonstrated that people can change for the better (sometimes).
Being a huge fan of Fiddler on the Roof, and WWII stories, I was aware of the hatred of Jews through out parts of Europe ans Asia, but didn't realize how bad it was.
There are so many twists in the plot, you must read it page by page or you'll miss important information.
Highly recommended. You'll love David!
Being a huge fan of Fiddler on the Roof, and WWII stories, I was aware of the hatred of Jews through out parts of Europe ans Asia, but didn't realize how bad it was.
There are so many twists in the plot, you must read it page by page or you'll miss important information.
Highly recommended. You'll love David!
December 20, 2022
This is the first of Elyse's books I've read, and I loved it. Her writing is so engaging, descriptive, and quite simply beautiful, that it sometimes makes me feel inadequate in my own efforts.
I especially like that she wrote a mix of historical fiction and fantasy. It's refreshing to see a new take on the genre, and I applaud Elyse for doing it in such a mesmerizing way. If you enjoy reading WWII historical fiction and are looking for something a little different, this is the book for you.
I especially like that she wrote a mix of historical fiction and fantasy. It's refreshing to see a new take on the genre, and I applaud Elyse for doing it in such a mesmerizing way. If you enjoy reading WWII historical fiction and are looking for something a little different, this is the book for you.
December 26, 2022
4.5 strakes rounded to 5
Where David Threw Stones is such a unique historical fiction novel including some gripping time travel and fantasy elements. David is sent to live with his grandfather, who he has never met, in the small village of Brennenbach after his parents are murdered in a car accident that he blames himself for.
Unbeknownst to him, there is a curse on the town that brings it back to the midst of WWII every night when the clock strikes midnight and lasts for five hours. David finds solace in his new friend, Maria, and many of the current inhabitants of the town, too. They must fight against the clock to break the curse and bring peace to the village once and for all.
I was captivated by this alluring and rare look into the lives of everyone involved with the Holocaust and one of my favorite parts of the story is the SS officer’s realizations when the curse is broken. It makes me have hope that they would truly have remorse for the atrocities that were carried out.
This is a haunting and poignant story that will make you feel sadness, hopefulness, and joy. This one will stick with me for awhile!
Thank you to R & R Book Tours and Elyse Hoffman for this gifted review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
Where David Threw Stones is such a unique historical fiction novel including some gripping time travel and fantasy elements. David is sent to live with his grandfather, who he has never met, in the small village of Brennenbach after his parents are murdered in a car accident that he blames himself for.
Unbeknownst to him, there is a curse on the town that brings it back to the midst of WWII every night when the clock strikes midnight and lasts for five hours. David finds solace in his new friend, Maria, and many of the current inhabitants of the town, too. They must fight against the clock to break the curse and bring peace to the village once and for all.
I was captivated by this alluring and rare look into the lives of everyone involved with the Holocaust and one of my favorite parts of the story is the SS officer’s realizations when the curse is broken. It makes me have hope that they would truly have remorse for the atrocities that were carried out.
This is a haunting and poignant story that will make you feel sadness, hopefulness, and joy. This one will stick with me for awhile!
Thank you to R & R Book Tours and Elyse Hoffman for this gifted review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
August 18, 2023
The book was very enjoyable and entertaining.
It confronted ant-Semitic prejudice and outright hatred.
Not just in the past, during the NAZI era but in the present.
David the main character always maintained his compassion and integrity.
He never answered hatred for hatred, and so by example eventually won his protagonist’s over.
Well worth the read, gave it 5 stars.
It confronted ant-Semitic prejudice and outright hatred.
Not just in the past, during the NAZI era but in the present.
David the main character always maintained his compassion and integrity.
He never answered hatred for hatred, and so by example eventually won his protagonist’s over.
Well worth the read, gave it 5 stars.
March 3, 2023
Brilliant plot
This book kept me up all night. That must mean it was well written! Confusing in parts but the premise of redemption stands out clearly. Would have been five star except for bad language.
This book kept me up all night. That must mean it was well written! Confusing in parts but the premise of redemption stands out clearly. Would have been five star except for bad language.
March 26, 2023
It's an amazing books that i wish everyone would read to open their eyes. I really loved the story and didn't saw the big plot twist. Amazing!
I just feel that if it was real the world would be a better place in a way.
A really good view on the jewish religion and the hate they received and receive still today. And also how it impacts the Jewish. I feel it is a really important work and should be spread to everyone.
I just feel that if it was real the world would be a better place in a way.
A really good view on the jewish religion and the hate they received and receive still today. And also how it impacts the Jewish. I feel it is a really important work and should be spread to everyone.
March 22, 2023
I was asked to read this as part of a book tour, and the review I am about to make is my own opinion....
I love history, and anything fiction and non-fiction alike on WWII is always a go-to for me. That being said, this book, this author, was amazing!!! There was so much packed into this book, and I felt it all. There was hatred, love, understanding, fear, laughter, tears, and an ending that made you feel complete. I started recommending this before I even finished it. That is how good it was. I hope this review will make you rush on over to Amazon and grab your very own copy.
Happy reading 📚
I love history, and anything fiction and non-fiction alike on WWII is always a go-to for me. That being said, this book, this author, was amazing!!! There was so much packed into this book, and I felt it all. There was hatred, love, understanding, fear, laughter, tears, and an ending that made you feel complete. I started recommending this before I even finished it. That is how good it was. I hope this review will make you rush on over to Amazon and grab your very own copy.
Happy reading 📚
July 14, 2023
You will be entertained and astonished!
The story begins in a traditional way as the story of an orphan boy who goes to live with his grandfather who is a stranger to him. The expected testing period between boy and grandfather takes place. A traditional story until David experiences the "curse" and then nothing in the story is traditional again! What takes place there after makes the reader uneasy yet attracted to the story and what happens ultimately. The abuse of Jews in Germany before, during and even after World War Two is referenced and displayed but the author does emphasize the complicity of the non Jewish Germans through their post war attitude and then by the epilogue using statistics to show how there was a tolerance for Nazis post war and perhaps even a forgiveness. I gave it 4 stars but really 4.5 because it was such an unusual but attractive read. I took away .5 because the post curse events stretched too far and took away from the satisfaction of the outcome.
The story begins in a traditional way as the story of an orphan boy who goes to live with his grandfather who is a stranger to him. The expected testing period between boy and grandfather takes place. A traditional story until David experiences the "curse" and then nothing in the story is traditional again! What takes place there after makes the reader uneasy yet attracted to the story and what happens ultimately. The abuse of Jews in Germany before, during and even after World War Two is referenced and displayed but the author does emphasize the complicity of the non Jewish Germans through their post war attitude and then by the epilogue using statistics to show how there was a tolerance for Nazis post war and perhaps even a forgiveness. I gave it 4 stars but really 4.5 because it was such an unusual but attractive read. I took away .5 because the post curse events stretched too far and took away from the satisfaction of the outcome.
February 15, 2023
This book was unlike any other historically based book I have read in the past. It was imaginative and it kept me wanting more. I enjoyed it.
December 27, 2022
Anne Frank meets Stephen King
Loved this book and it has twists and turns. I couldnt put it down.A bit of a diversion from typical holocaust reads.A highly recommended book.😇
Loved this book and it has twists and turns. I couldnt put it down.A bit of a diversion from typical holocaust reads.A highly recommended book.😇
December 26, 2022
Where David Threw Stones is a beautifully written World War II era based novel by Elyse Hoffman. This harrowing tale reveals a story of love, courage, and redemption. Make zero assumptions as you read this book. The author has packed more than a few surprises in that will catch you off guard and find your jaw on the floor.
Little David Saidel, at the tender age of 10, has lost his parents to the tragedy of murder. By a miracle alone he was spared from the fate of death that took them. Unfortunately, he blames himself for their deaths When he’s sent to live with his only living relative, his Grandpa Ernst, he finds some solace. However, it’s not long before he learns that the village of Brennenbach is full of people who hold a particular viewpoint. He quickly finds himself hated and rejected. But it’s not just him who bears the brunt of this abuse. His grandfather does as well. When David’s pup goes missing, he’s given some information that will lead him to do the one thing his grandfather told him not to do – break curfew. In doing so, he uncovers the town’s dark secret. Will he be able to break the curse that has plagued the town for years?
This book will grab you and keep you page-turning to the very end. Even when you’ve finished this book it will stick with you. Your heart will break for the characters and their suffering. The author will paint vivid pictures that will have you feeling like you could go and visit these places. “Relive” the history buried in the lands by walking it. You’ll hold back tears for the loses experienced, and tears for the healing and repentance that must take place.
For avid readers of historical fiction, this book is a must read. Packed with drama, and realistic characters Where David Threw Stones will be a novel that you won’t soon forget.
This book earns 5 out of 5 stars.
Little David Saidel, at the tender age of 10, has lost his parents to the tragedy of murder. By a miracle alone he was spared from the fate of death that took them. Unfortunately, he blames himself for their deaths When he’s sent to live with his only living relative, his Grandpa Ernst, he finds some solace. However, it’s not long before he learns that the village of Brennenbach is full of people who hold a particular viewpoint. He quickly finds himself hated and rejected. But it’s not just him who bears the brunt of this abuse. His grandfather does as well. When David’s pup goes missing, he’s given some information that will lead him to do the one thing his grandfather told him not to do – break curfew. In doing so, he uncovers the town’s dark secret. Will he be able to break the curse that has plagued the town for years?
This book will grab you and keep you page-turning to the very end. Even when you’ve finished this book it will stick with you. Your heart will break for the characters and their suffering. The author will paint vivid pictures that will have you feeling like you could go and visit these places. “Relive” the history buried in the lands by walking it. You’ll hold back tears for the loses experienced, and tears for the healing and repentance that must take place.
For avid readers of historical fiction, this book is a must read. Packed with drama, and realistic characters Where David Threw Stones will be a novel that you won’t soon forget.
This book earns 5 out of 5 stars.
September 9, 2022
Where David Threw Stones By Elyse Hoffman
This novel creates multiple worlds, taking us back to the end of World War Two, and emphasizing the brutal terrors Jews experienced during the Holocaust. When the book begins, history has moved on, and though ten-year-old David Saidel’s parents have been murdered by the Nazis, he is alive, and now living with his grandfather in what we come to learn is an anti-Semitic village called Brennenbach.
Being a young boy, David finds comfort in his Grandfather’s dog and the presence of the yarmulke his parents gave him. The gift reminds him of them, and thus he always wears it. But when David begins to wander the town, that gift immediately identifies him as a Jew, he then experiencing few acknowledgements, the yarmulke opening him to taunts and stares. When a growing child should be making friends, finding his way despite the loss of his parents, David finds himself greatly challenged. What young boy wouldn’t want to have at least one friend to hang out with, to dream with, to help form a growing identity. As David struggles to find that, his sense of curiosity is also dampened, his grandfather insisting that he never, ever go outside after midnight.
But when his grandfather’s dog, David’s truest friend, goes missing, David forgets the curfew warning and leaves the house to search for him. Thus, he discovers the importance of the curfew: after midnight, it is no longer present time. As punishment, the village finds itself back in 1943, Hitler is still in power and every remaining Jew must be annihilated. Nazi ghosts still walk, live and rule after midnight and they are as evil and dangerous as they were during Hitter’s power. And they are hunting for David—the new Jew in town—who they must now terrorize and eventually kill.
Though this is a story of evil versus good, there were many characters with names that changed after midnight, and thus for me, complicating the flow of the story. And though the writer is intent on reminding us of this evil history, like films that have attempted this in the past, the magical sense of the story dilutes the power of evil. And despite the horrors the writer brings to bear after midnight, that aspect of the novel left this reader feeling hollow and confused. History is history and it’s always a challenge to tinker with it.
This novel creates multiple worlds, taking us back to the end of World War Two, and emphasizing the brutal terrors Jews experienced during the Holocaust. When the book begins, history has moved on, and though ten-year-old David Saidel’s parents have been murdered by the Nazis, he is alive, and now living with his grandfather in what we come to learn is an anti-Semitic village called Brennenbach.
Being a young boy, David finds comfort in his Grandfather’s dog and the presence of the yarmulke his parents gave him. The gift reminds him of them, and thus he always wears it. But when David begins to wander the town, that gift immediately identifies him as a Jew, he then experiencing few acknowledgements, the yarmulke opening him to taunts and stares. When a growing child should be making friends, finding his way despite the loss of his parents, David finds himself greatly challenged. What young boy wouldn’t want to have at least one friend to hang out with, to dream with, to help form a growing identity. As David struggles to find that, his sense of curiosity is also dampened, his grandfather insisting that he never, ever go outside after midnight.
But when his grandfather’s dog, David’s truest friend, goes missing, David forgets the curfew warning and leaves the house to search for him. Thus, he discovers the importance of the curfew: after midnight, it is no longer present time. As punishment, the village finds itself back in 1943, Hitler is still in power and every remaining Jew must be annihilated. Nazi ghosts still walk, live and rule after midnight and they are as evil and dangerous as they were during Hitter’s power. And they are hunting for David—the new Jew in town—who they must now terrorize and eventually kill.
Though this is a story of evil versus good, there were many characters with names that changed after midnight, and thus for me, complicating the flow of the story. And though the writer is intent on reminding us of this evil history, like films that have attempted this in the past, the magical sense of the story dilutes the power of evil. And despite the horrors the writer brings to bear after midnight, that aspect of the novel left this reader feeling hollow and confused. History is history and it’s always a challenge to tinker with it.
April 10, 2023
Review being Where David Threw Stones: A Haunting WW2 Tale of Courage, Love, and Redemption by Elyse Hoffman is one of those treasured reads I plan to read again. The plot takes place 30 years after WW II and is a blend of historical fiction infused with mystery and suspense merged with fantasy to create a captivating WWII story of the cursed German town of Brennenbach. written.
This town is under a curse and reverts back in time to revisit it’s Nazi occupation each night complete with very real SS ghosts. The protagonist, David Saidel, is a 10-year -Jewish boy sent to Brennenbach to live with his grandfather following the death of his parents resulting from an antisemitic crime. Life in Brennenbach delivers haunting secrets, plenty of mysteries, and ghost-like characters who are tangible and dangerous during the curse hours. Amid all this is David and his grandfather both need healing from a haunted past.
I especially enjoyed how Elyse Hoffman captured David’s perspective as he gets to know the grandfather he never met and deals with his grief, guilt, desire to honor his dead parents, and the emotions of trying to make friends amid a climate of hatred and bigotry. Hoffman weaves several plot threads and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, and she brings it all to a rewarding ending well worth the read. I didn’t see it coming. Loved it.
If you’ve read Hoffman’s Book of Uriel, you’ll love this one, too. I didn't want to put it down. Her writing is masterful, subtly blending details that urgently pull multiple plot threads to a satisfying conclusion. I recommend Where David Threw Stones to readers who enjoy WWII fiction, ghost stories, as well as mysteries. I think people who enjoyed reading The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will fall in love with this story. I award this book 5 stars.
As BookHookup, I am a long-time book reviewer and I received Where David Threw Stones as a free review copy and have not been compensated for reviewing or recommending it. This review is posted in collaboration with Black Coffee Book Tours.
This town is under a curse and reverts back in time to revisit it’s Nazi occupation each night complete with very real SS ghosts. The protagonist, David Saidel, is a 10-year -Jewish boy sent to Brennenbach to live with his grandfather following the death of his parents resulting from an antisemitic crime. Life in Brennenbach delivers haunting secrets, plenty of mysteries, and ghost-like characters who are tangible and dangerous during the curse hours. Amid all this is David and his grandfather both need healing from a haunted past.
I especially enjoyed how Elyse Hoffman captured David’s perspective as he gets to know the grandfather he never met and deals with his grief, guilt, desire to honor his dead parents, and the emotions of trying to make friends amid a climate of hatred and bigotry. Hoffman weaves several plot threads and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, and she brings it all to a rewarding ending well worth the read. I didn’t see it coming. Loved it.
If you’ve read Hoffman’s Book of Uriel, you’ll love this one, too. I didn't want to put it down. Her writing is masterful, subtly blending details that urgently pull multiple plot threads to a satisfying conclusion. I recommend Where David Threw Stones to readers who enjoy WWII fiction, ghost stories, as well as mysteries. I think people who enjoyed reading The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will fall in love with this story. I award this book 5 stars.
As BookHookup, I am a long-time book reviewer and I received Where David Threw Stones as a free review copy and have not been compensated for reviewing or recommending it. This review is posted in collaboration with Black Coffee Book Tours.
July 14, 2024
A very interesting take on holocaust experiences. The town where David has come to live with his Opa is cursed, with horrific happenings occurring each night as a result. David, recovering from losing his parents, is determined to be punished for his part in causing their deaths, although he is truly not to blame.
The town is extremely unwelcoming to David’s visible Jewish religion, and he pushes this because of his survivor guilt, wanting to feel some kind of penance. I found this element perplexing as the setting of the book is in the 1960s, and there is little evidence of this.
The town remains in ruins from WWII bombings, and there seems to be minimal description of life as it would have been in this time, although it is true that recovery from the war took decades. The parts of the story that referred to untouched historical artefacts seemed somewhat unlikely to me, although the tale required this to be the case.
I feel as though the present day and cursed hours could have benefited from more of a juxtaposition to show how they suffered, as honestly there was not all that much difference apart from the nazis.
However, the twists that became apparent towards the end were quite unexpected. One twist was quite good, and one was unhappily revealed. I was confused when it all came together as it did, and to be honest, I feel as though one of the main characters was somewhat unbelievable once their true story was uncovered, but it was important for the story to happen the way it did.
The whole curse plot itself was a little unbelievable, but in the end it worked. I would think this could make a very interesting movie if the right people got involved. As another reviewer has pointed out, there is an excessive amount of bad language and really quite a lot of unnecessary anti-Semitic language in it. It did seem over the top and repetitive, and this could be reduced without hindering the storyline.
The town is extremely unwelcoming to David’s visible Jewish religion, and he pushes this because of his survivor guilt, wanting to feel some kind of penance. I found this element perplexing as the setting of the book is in the 1960s, and there is little evidence of this.
The town remains in ruins from WWII bombings, and there seems to be minimal description of life as it would have been in this time, although it is true that recovery from the war took decades. The parts of the story that referred to untouched historical artefacts seemed somewhat unlikely to me, although the tale required this to be the case.
I feel as though the present day and cursed hours could have benefited from more of a juxtaposition to show how they suffered, as honestly there was not all that much difference apart from the nazis.
However, the twists that became apparent towards the end were quite unexpected. One twist was quite good, and one was unhappily revealed. I was confused when it all came together as it did, and to be honest, I feel as though one of the main characters was somewhat unbelievable once their true story was uncovered, but it was important for the story to happen the way it did.
The whole curse plot itself was a little unbelievable, but in the end it worked. I would think this could make a very interesting movie if the right people got involved. As another reviewer has pointed out, there is an excessive amount of bad language and really quite a lot of unnecessary anti-Semitic language in it. It did seem over the top and repetitive, and this could be reduced without hindering the storyline.
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