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Project 613 #1
Fracture
A heart-wrenching WW2 story of forbidden love and torn allegiances.
Franz Keidel is a monsterous SS soldier: loyal, hateful, and devoted to Hitler. With a cold heart, he hunts down his Führer’s enemies, but one fateful mission will fracture his shield of ice.
While hunting for Jews, Franz stumbles across a familiar face: Amos Auman, his childhood friend. Amos is the only source of joy in Franz’s life, but he is also a Jew. Unable to bring himself to kill his friend, Franz vows to protect Amos from his fellow Nazis.
As Franz spends more time with Amos, bringing him food and books, he falls in love with his kind-hearted friend. How could he fall in love with a man, a Jew? How can he continue to hate Jews when a Jew has thawed his icy heart?
And what will Franz do if he has to choose between Amos and his loyalty to Hitler? What choices does he have when he is already beyond redemption?
Franz Keidel is a monsterous SS soldier: loyal, hateful, and devoted to Hitler. With a cold heart, he hunts down his Führer’s enemies, but one fateful mission will fracture his shield of ice.
While hunting for Jews, Franz stumbles across a familiar face: Amos Auman, his childhood friend. Amos is the only source of joy in Franz’s life, but he is also a Jew. Unable to bring himself to kill his friend, Franz vows to protect Amos from his fellow Nazis.
As Franz spends more time with Amos, bringing him food and books, he falls in love with his kind-hearted friend. How could he fall in love with a man, a Jew? How can he continue to hate Jews when a Jew has thawed his icy heart?
And what will Franz do if he has to choose between Amos and his loyalty to Hitler? What choices does he have when he is already beyond redemption?
154 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2022
276 people are currently reading
245 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 49 reviews
October 31, 2022
The Publisher Says: A heart-wrenching WW2 story of forbidden love and torn allegiances.
Franz Keidel is a monsterous SS soldier: loyal, hateful, and devoted to Hitler. With a cold heart, he hunts down his Führer’s enemies, but one fateful mission will fracture his shield of ice.
While hunting for Jews, Franz stumbles across a familiar face: Amos Auman, his childhood friend. Amos is the only source of joy in Franz’s life, but he is also a Jew. Unable to bring himself to kill his friend, Franz vows to protect Amos from his fellow Nazis.
As Franz spends more time with Amos, bringing him food and books, he falls in love with his kind-hearted friend. How could he fall in love with a man, a Jew? How can he continue to hate Jews when a Jew has thawed his icy heart?
And what will Franz do if he has to choose between Amos and his loyalty to Hitler? What choices does he have when he is already beyond redemption?
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: I think a lot of us in the QUILTBAG community have forgotten, or at least not paid much attention to, the fact that Jews who were gay during the Nazi era were doubly endangered by their identities (where do y'all imagine the pink triangle symbol still widely used in our community came from if not a repurposing of a hate symbol?). It's simple, really, to focus on the six-million-dead mantra; there's no such count, either kept or kept alive in the public's awareness, for QUILTBAG or other victims of the eugenic nightmare of Nazi Germany and its eager hench-rats all over conquered Europe.
Amos is doubly blessed, then, as a gay Jew...two targets on his thin shoulders. Franz, abused and brutalized all childhood long, found such refuge as was possible with Amos and his family. But events conspire to separate the boys, as is usual in life. What counts for more with Franz than any memories of happiness is the community and sense of belonging that he finds in the hate-filled and -fueled ideological mob of brutes and bastards that replicate his abusive family...from the inside this time, as he gets to be the abuser instead of the abused.
Meeting fugitive Jew Amos again, knowing it's his friend Amos, and being in the position of power over Amos instead of dependent on him, his family, for such kindness as he ever knew, enables Franz to find a way through the maze of rage and pain he's carried inside for his whole life. He chooses, in a split second, a course of honor and love when he has accepted the course of hatred and violence that come naturally to him. To all humans, really. His decision to lie in order to save Amos's life is the crack in his armor that will lead him to accept the truth about himself and thus about his world. He loves Amos as a friend, he desires Amos as a lover, and he must then reject the lies and distortions he's been embracing as fundamental to his sense of himself to be the self who deserves Amos's return of love.
The first-kiss scene between the young men was very moving.
That might have made the inevitable ending more saddening, more painfully awfully real. One knows this can't, outside the realm of fairy tale, end in Happily Ever After. But the actual events are a gut-punch of reality after a honeymoon of discovery and love. (Side note: The Epilogue wasn't successful to me. It's a full-star deduction for silliness.)
But the four-star rating above should tell you what you need to know about my opinion of the story. It's a shame nothing made by human hands can be perfect, or at least not often, but perfect is the enemy of good. This is a good story told well. If it didn't actually, factually happen this way somewhere, I'll be surprised. And that ain't nothin' in my reading life.
Franz Keidel is a monsterous SS soldier: loyal, hateful, and devoted to Hitler. With a cold heart, he hunts down his Führer’s enemies, but one fateful mission will fracture his shield of ice.
While hunting for Jews, Franz stumbles across a familiar face: Amos Auman, his childhood friend. Amos is the only source of joy in Franz’s life, but he is also a Jew. Unable to bring himself to kill his friend, Franz vows to protect Amos from his fellow Nazis.
As Franz spends more time with Amos, bringing him food and books, he falls in love with his kind-hearted friend. How could he fall in love with a man, a Jew? How can he continue to hate Jews when a Jew has thawed his icy heart?
And what will Franz do if he has to choose between Amos and his loyalty to Hitler? What choices does he have when he is already beyond redemption?
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: I think a lot of us in the QUILTBAG community have forgotten, or at least not paid much attention to, the fact that Jews who were gay during the Nazi era were doubly endangered by their identities (where do y'all imagine the pink triangle symbol still widely used in our community came from if not a repurposing of a hate symbol?). It's simple, really, to focus on the six-million-dead mantra; there's no such count, either kept or kept alive in the public's awareness, for QUILTBAG or other victims of the eugenic nightmare of Nazi Germany and its eager hench-rats all over conquered Europe.
Amos is doubly blessed, then, as a gay Jew...two targets on his thin shoulders. Franz, abused and brutalized all childhood long, found such refuge as was possible with Amos and his family. But events conspire to separate the boys, as is usual in life. What counts for more with Franz than any memories of happiness is the community and sense of belonging that he finds in the hate-filled and -fueled ideological mob of brutes and bastards that replicate his abusive family...from the inside this time, as he gets to be the abuser instead of the abused.
Meeting fugitive Jew Amos again, knowing it's his friend Amos, and being in the position of power over Amos instead of dependent on him, his family, for such kindness as he ever knew, enables Franz to find a way through the maze of rage and pain he's carried inside for his whole life. He chooses, in a split second, a course of honor and love when he has accepted the course of hatred and violence that come naturally to him. To all humans, really. His decision to lie in order to save Amos's life is the crack in his armor that will lead him to accept the truth about himself and thus about his world. He loves Amos as a friend, he desires Amos as a lover, and he must then reject the lies and distortions he's been embracing as fundamental to his sense of himself to be the self who deserves Amos's return of love.
The first-kiss scene between the young men was very moving.
That might have made the inevitable ending more saddening, more painfully awfully real. One knows this can't, outside the realm of fairy tale, end in Happily Ever After. But the actual events are a gut-punch of reality after a honeymoon of discovery and love. (Side note: The Epilogue wasn't successful to me. It's a full-star deduction for silliness.)
But the four-star rating above should tell you what you need to know about my opinion of the story. It's a shame nothing made by human hands can be perfect, or at least not often, but perfect is the enemy of good. This is a good story told well. If it didn't actually, factually happen this way somewhere, I'll be surprised. And that ain't nothin' in my reading life.
October 21, 2022
Forbidden
This is the story of two boys that grow up to be in opposite circumstances although they are best friends as children.
Franz is an SS officer, and Amos is Jewish. One Day Franz is hunting for Jewish to deport them and he runs across Amos hiding in a barn. He saves his life and then he brings him food and books to read.
Eventually the story takes it to an affair between the two of them, and how Franz keeps his friend safe from the Nazi's.
I was not very observant when reading about this book and did not realize this was where it was going. I have read the author's books before and really liked her work so I picked this one because of the author.
It was a good story although I skipped over certain parts of the book that were not something I wished to read. The ending was also a bit odd. The author is a very talented author and I will read more of her books but I will be more careful to read what the book is about next time.
Thanks to Elyse Hoffman the author, to project 613 publishing and to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review a copy of the book.
This is the story of two boys that grow up to be in opposite circumstances although they are best friends as children.
Franz is an SS officer, and Amos is Jewish. One Day Franz is hunting for Jewish to deport them and he runs across Amos hiding in a barn. He saves his life and then he brings him food and books to read.
Eventually the story takes it to an affair between the two of them, and how Franz keeps his friend safe from the Nazi's.
I was not very observant when reading about this book and did not realize this was where it was going. I have read the author's books before and really liked her work so I picked this one because of the author.
It was a good story although I skipped over certain parts of the book that were not something I wished to read. The ending was also a bit odd. The author is a very talented author and I will read more of her books but I will be more careful to read what the book is about next time.
Thanks to Elyse Hoffman the author, to project 613 publishing and to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review a copy of the book.
December 15, 2022
4.5
Book source ~ Tour
Franz Keidel and Amos Auman are childhood best friends. Franz’s life is hell, but Amos does his best to make it better. When Franz is 14 he runs away from his abusive father and joins Hitler’s soldiers eventually becoming an SS soldier who hunts down and kills Jews, absolutely unshakeably confident in his mission for the Führer. But one day when he finds Amos hiding from a search he lies to protect his childhood friend. And that’s when everything changes.
This book will grab your heart, make a fist, and squeeze until there is nothing but a dried up husk left. It’s awful. You have to read it! No, seriously. There are so many feels going on here. The author lifts you up then smashes you down, over and over again and I guarantee you’ll ask for more. Plus, that ending! Oh, my. This is a story that will not leak from my brain any time soon.
Book source ~ Tour
Franz Keidel and Amos Auman are childhood best friends. Franz’s life is hell, but Amos does his best to make it better. When Franz is 14 he runs away from his abusive father and joins Hitler’s soldiers eventually becoming an SS soldier who hunts down and kills Jews, absolutely unshakeably confident in his mission for the Führer. But one day when he finds Amos hiding from a search he lies to protect his childhood friend. And that’s when everything changes.
This book will grab your heart, make a fist, and squeeze until there is nothing but a dried up husk left. It’s awful. You have to read it! No, seriously. There are so many feels going on here. The author lifts you up then smashes you down, over and over again and I guarantee you’ll ask for more. Plus, that ending! Oh, my. This is a story that will not leak from my brain any time soon.
December 13, 2022
Two boys become childhood best friends. Franz lives with an abusive father. Amos knows what’s going on in Franz’s home and does his best to be a support. Years later, Franz is a staunch SS officer loyal to Hitler, who he credits for changing his life. So imagine his surprise upon stumbling into Amos to learn Amos is Jewish. That’s a lot for Franz to reconcile, but a return to their friendship and much more follow.
I’ve read several Hoffman books so far, and this one had a vastly different feel than the others. For one, you don’t feel a sense of closure with the book, as this ends abruptly and feels like a prequel. The book didn’t seem to have an overarching storyline outside the relationship. Lastly, I’m not entirely sure how comfortable I am with a love affair between an SS officer and a Jewish man. I understand the intention was genuine, but nothing will make what Franz has done and continues to do, okay.
However, this quick read will undoubtedly lead to an interesting storyline in future books. I feel there is much in store down the road and a lot for readers to enjoy.
I’ve read several Hoffman books so far, and this one had a vastly different feel than the others. For one, you don’t feel a sense of closure with the book, as this ends abruptly and feels like a prequel. The book didn’t seem to have an overarching storyline outside the relationship. Lastly, I’m not entirely sure how comfortable I am with a love affair between an SS officer and a Jewish man. I understand the intention was genuine, but nothing will make what Franz has done and continues to do, okay.
However, this quick read will undoubtedly lead to an interesting storyline in future books. I feel there is much in store down the road and a lot for readers to enjoy.
December 21, 2022
I’ve previously read The Book of Uriel, and Where David Threw Stones by Elyse Hoffman and absolutely loved them both, which meant that my expectations for Fracture were extremely high.
The story begins with a young Franz Keidel, and his friend Amos Auman. Franz’s father is a vicious bully of a man who regularly beats his son, but Amos is Franz’s strength, his safe place, and his happiness. Little Amos Auman is not afraid to stand up for his friend, even against the monster that is Herr Keidel. Their friendship is strong and true, and friendship can conquer anything, which we see continued as a running theme throughout the entire book.
We then jump forward in time to Germany at war. Franz is now an SS soldier, and gone is the sweet innocent boy from the beginning of the story. He is now a ruthless killer, who would do absolutely anything for Hitler and his country. The transition from the fragile child at the beginning of the story to the monster that follows is really difficult to take in, especially given what he went through as a child, and my feelings towards him were so conflicted. But when Franz uncovers his old friend Amos, who happens to be Jewish, hiding in a barn, everything in Franz’s world is tipped completely upside down.
From there onwards, we follow Franz’s struggle between his duty to his country, his beliefs and views of Jewish people, and his feelings towards his best friend in the world and his desperate need to protect and help him. Things become even more complicated when he realises that he is falling in love with Amos, and now his views on homosexuality are also being challenged by his own feelings. It’s an absolute rollercoaster from beginning to end, and of course there can be no such thing as redemption for Franz after the horrors and crimes that he has committed, because nothing can EVER make up for what he has done. But, when it comes to Amos he does do the right thing, and it shows that love and friendship truly can overcome absolutely anything. Psychologically, this book was a lot to take in.
In regards to characters, Franz is a very complex character with so many layers to unravel. His conflicting feelings and beliefs are the main focus of the storyline. There are some really horrific people in this book, which given the setting and theme of the story you’d expect anyway, many of which I would describe as pure evil. There were a few familiar faces too, such as Edmund and Sigmund Rahm, who both feature in Where David Threw Stones. The two books actually flow quite nicely with each other, and although they are both easily read as standalones, I would recommend reading Fracture, and then reading Where David Threw Stones to follow.
I would say that this is the most controversial of Elyse’s books that I’ve read so far, and it’s probably not to everyone’s liking, but it was certainly unique and I personally really enjoyed it. It was gut wrenching, heart aching, and at times extremely difficult to read. It’s one of those books that has you really thinking about it for weeks after you’ve finished. I love Elyse’s writing style, and I would probably say she is one of my favourite historical fiction writers. I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us in the future.
I give Fracture a 4 star rating!
The story begins with a young Franz Keidel, and his friend Amos Auman. Franz’s father is a vicious bully of a man who regularly beats his son, but Amos is Franz’s strength, his safe place, and his happiness. Little Amos Auman is not afraid to stand up for his friend, even against the monster that is Herr Keidel. Their friendship is strong and true, and friendship can conquer anything, which we see continued as a running theme throughout the entire book.
We then jump forward in time to Germany at war. Franz is now an SS soldier, and gone is the sweet innocent boy from the beginning of the story. He is now a ruthless killer, who would do absolutely anything for Hitler and his country. The transition from the fragile child at the beginning of the story to the monster that follows is really difficult to take in, especially given what he went through as a child, and my feelings towards him were so conflicted. But when Franz uncovers his old friend Amos, who happens to be Jewish, hiding in a barn, everything in Franz’s world is tipped completely upside down.
From there onwards, we follow Franz’s struggle between his duty to his country, his beliefs and views of Jewish people, and his feelings towards his best friend in the world and his desperate need to protect and help him. Things become even more complicated when he realises that he is falling in love with Amos, and now his views on homosexuality are also being challenged by his own feelings. It’s an absolute rollercoaster from beginning to end, and of course there can be no such thing as redemption for Franz after the horrors and crimes that he has committed, because nothing can EVER make up for what he has done. But, when it comes to Amos he does do the right thing, and it shows that love and friendship truly can overcome absolutely anything. Psychologically, this book was a lot to take in.
In regards to characters, Franz is a very complex character with so many layers to unravel. His conflicting feelings and beliefs are the main focus of the storyline. There are some really horrific people in this book, which given the setting and theme of the story you’d expect anyway, many of which I would describe as pure evil. There were a few familiar faces too, such as Edmund and Sigmund Rahm, who both feature in Where David Threw Stones. The two books actually flow quite nicely with each other, and although they are both easily read as standalones, I would recommend reading Fracture, and then reading Where David Threw Stones to follow.
I would say that this is the most controversial of Elyse’s books that I’ve read so far, and it’s probably not to everyone’s liking, but it was certainly unique and I personally really enjoyed it. It was gut wrenching, heart aching, and at times extremely difficult to read. It’s one of those books that has you really thinking about it for weeks after you’ve finished. I love Elyse’s writing style, and I would probably say she is one of my favourite historical fiction writers. I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us in the future.
I give Fracture a 4 star rating!
August 30, 2024
This book has ruined me. And I am not completely sure if it’s a good or bad thing yet
.
What made me want to read it was that it was LGBTQ+ and I am a Jew who had relatives die in the Holocaust. I had never read a book that had talked about what it was like for gay people during the holocaust. I definitely liked that this book could possibly shed a light on that especially since everything I have read is about the obvious: what the holocaust was like for Jews. But no one talks about the other minorities or the other reasons Nazi’s gave to commit murder. So when I started reading, I was excited and a bit hesitant since this is a very touchy subject for me.
I am very happy that I read this. Watching Franz and Amos find each other again and see them just start right where they left off was wonderful. It was very clear that they cared about each other even when they were kids. Even after 10 years apart, they cared deeply for each other. Franz showing his loyalty to Amos by lying to his comrades within the first few seconds of seeing him again made that obvious.
When they finally took the leap and kissed, I felt my heart flutter for them and as their relationship changed into lovers their dialogues made me giggle. But watching Franz wrestle with his beliefs and question everything he had been told was difficult for me. I found myself egging him on hoping he’d realize the truth about the lies he’d been told. But it was beautifully written and shown as he was quite literally breaking in two.
The author truly wrote a beautiful book about brokenness, love, and loyalty. It was raw and intriguing.
The realistic ending (not the epilogue) was the thing that really hit me in the gut. I desperately wanted to see a fairytale ending that only a book can give but I know that the ache I felt after realizing that that was the end meant that this book was good. Only the best books can pull your emotions in every direction. I laughed, I worried, I gasped in shock, felt connected, had butterflies, and felt an ache in my stomach. It has been a long time since a book did this to me. Do not deprive yourself of this book.
Only thing that turned me off was the amount of times “the Jew” or “the Jewish man” was used as a descriptor for Amos. This was a limited third person POV focusing on the conscience of Franz, an SS soldier, so I understand him thinking that way but at the same time it’s clear that to Franz, Amos was different. So the narrator constantly referring to Amos as “the Jew” felt a bit weird and repetitive. I remember thinking, “I get it, he’s Jewish.”
I also was slightly turned off by the cover but I usually prefer illustrations. I felt that the cover gave off the feeling of one of those books that you were required to read in high school. I don’t think it lives up to the wonderful story that it holds. I felt hesitant to read it because the cover made me scared that it was going to be dry, strictly factual, and gloomy.
.
What made me want to read it was that it was LGBTQ+ and I am a Jew who had relatives die in the Holocaust. I had never read a book that had talked about what it was like for gay people during the holocaust. I definitely liked that this book could possibly shed a light on that especially since everything I have read is about the obvious: what the holocaust was like for Jews. But no one talks about the other minorities or the other reasons Nazi’s gave to commit murder. So when I started reading, I was excited and a bit hesitant since this is a very touchy subject for me.
I am very happy that I read this. Watching Franz and Amos find each other again and see them just start right where they left off was wonderful. It was very clear that they cared about each other even when they were kids. Even after 10 years apart, they cared deeply for each other. Franz showing his loyalty to Amos by lying to his comrades within the first few seconds of seeing him again made that obvious.
When they finally took the leap and kissed, I felt my heart flutter for them and as their relationship changed into lovers their dialogues made me giggle. But watching Franz wrestle with his beliefs and question everything he had been told was difficult for me. I found myself egging him on hoping he’d realize the truth about the lies he’d been told. But it was beautifully written and shown as he was quite literally breaking in two.
The author truly wrote a beautiful book about brokenness, love, and loyalty. It was raw and intriguing.
The realistic ending (not the epilogue) was the thing that really hit me in the gut. I desperately wanted to see a fairytale ending that only a book can give but I know that the ache I felt after realizing that that was the end meant that this book was good. Only the best books can pull your emotions in every direction. I laughed, I worried, I gasped in shock, felt connected, had butterflies, and felt an ache in my stomach. It has been a long time since a book did this to me. Do not deprive yourself of this book.
Only thing that turned me off was the amount of times “the Jew” or “the Jewish man” was used as a descriptor for Amos. This was a limited third person POV focusing on the conscience of Franz, an SS soldier, so I understand him thinking that way but at the same time it’s clear that to Franz, Amos was different. So the narrator constantly referring to Amos as “the Jew” felt a bit weird and repetitive. I remember thinking, “I get it, he’s Jewish.”
I also was slightly turned off by the cover but I usually prefer illustrations. I felt that the cover gave off the feeling of one of those books that you were required to read in high school. I don’t think it lives up to the wonderful story that it holds. I felt hesitant to read it because the cover made me scared that it was going to be dry, strictly factual, and gloomy.
December 19, 2022
I’ve read several Hoffman books up until now and have loved them all. Her writing is consistently brilliant. Really top notch stuff, and the writing itself again, as usual, top notch here, however, the story…well I’m just not keen on this one.
I’m just not particularly comfortable with it. I don’t like the idea of a love story between a horrible SS officer and a Jewish man, I don’t like the general vibe, I don’t like that it feels like it was planned and plotted to really push the controversy rather than the story. That's not to say the story isn't well done as one would expect from this HIGHLY TALENTED author, its just ... I don't know.
Yeah, I don’t know. Was going to say 3 stars but 4 stars because it is well written, even though I don’t like the general vibe and I don't want to be unfair. A brilliant author who is going too far down the controversy for controversy rabbit hole for my tastes. At this stage I would love to see her branch out a bit from the holocaust fiction instead of going further and further down the rabbit hole exploring love stories between characters which are just not compatible with love stories in my opinion. This doesn't mean you wouldn't like the book, you may well do, and to be clear I didn't hate it and I respect it and I respect the author's skill even more, this one is just not really for me, though it may be for you.
Got this for a blog tour with TheWriteReads. That has not affected my review
I’m just not particularly comfortable with it. I don’t like the idea of a love story between a horrible SS officer and a Jewish man, I don’t like the general vibe, I don’t like that it feels like it was planned and plotted to really push the controversy rather than the story. That's not to say the story isn't well done as one would expect from this HIGHLY TALENTED author, its just ... I don't know.
Yeah, I don’t know. Was going to say 3 stars but 4 stars because it is well written, even though I don’t like the general vibe and I don't want to be unfair. A brilliant author who is going too far down the controversy for controversy rabbit hole for my tastes. At this stage I would love to see her branch out a bit from the holocaust fiction instead of going further and further down the rabbit hole exploring love stories between characters which are just not compatible with love stories in my opinion. This doesn't mean you wouldn't like the book, you may well do, and to be clear I didn't hate it and I respect it and I respect the author's skill even more, this one is just not really for me, though it may be for you.
Got this for a blog tour with TheWriteReads. That has not affected my review
December 18, 2022
In my opinion, not a good book. I was intrigued by the concept and the blurb, but I felt the execution/direction of the storyline is in questionable taste while the plot has absolutely no depth whatsoever.
March 29, 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. #Fracture #ElyseHoffman #HenryRoiPR #BookTourReview #HistoricalBook #BookReview
Fracture was an interesting story for me. I was captivated by Hoffman’s writing. It was an easy style but kept you engaged. The story itself did keep me interested and while it was incredibly bittersweet I do feel it was well laid out. The ending did come to be a little jarring from the general ‘normal’ historical fiction taking a paranormal twist which I was certainly not expecting.
The story centers really on Franz Keidel who was once an abused child at the hands of his father to now a ruthless SS soldier; loyal, hateful and devoted to Hitler and his views. He hunts down Jews and any other enemies to the Fatherland with ruthlessness but then his world view begins to shake when he comes face to face with his childhood friend Amos Auman, the childhood friend who had been his literal only reason to continue living, his only source a joy but Amos is also a Jew. Unable to kill the one person he cared for he vows to protect Amos from the other SS Soldiers. But nothing is ever easy and the more time the old childhood friends spend together Franz finds himself falling in love with his friend. Bad enough that he is a man, Amos is also a Jew? With everything he has committed his life to beginning to be questioned what will Franz do?
I have to say the relationship between Amos and Franz was beautifully written both the friendship and blossoming romance. Outside of the pair the other characters in the book offer an insight into the horrors of the Holocaust. While it was very descriptive and arguably a little triggering with depictions of violence, torture, child abuse and child murder it was a stark reminder this was what the world that Amos and Franz lived in.
The only thing I did find against this one was the ending. While we find out that both characters will return via the Author’s notes at the end it was a little jarring way to end the way it did. While Franz was obviously the main character Amos had seemingly become almost the same but yet we never really find what happened or how it can all tie together. I am sure this will be wrapped up or explained in future books but has it stood the ending did shock me a bit. Not so much what happened to Franz but switch to a paranormal take. Still this was a good book and I will be looking into more of Hoffmans work.
A few trigger warnings though for those who may pick this up it does involve descriptions of torture, murder, child abuse, child murder. Of course with the historical context it is to be expected but I feel you may need to be in the right headspace to read this one.
Fracture was an interesting story for me. I was captivated by Hoffman’s writing. It was an easy style but kept you engaged. The story itself did keep me interested and while it was incredibly bittersweet I do feel it was well laid out. The ending did come to be a little jarring from the general ‘normal’ historical fiction taking a paranormal twist which I was certainly not expecting.
The story centers really on Franz Keidel who was once an abused child at the hands of his father to now a ruthless SS soldier; loyal, hateful and devoted to Hitler and his views. He hunts down Jews and any other enemies to the Fatherland with ruthlessness but then his world view begins to shake when he comes face to face with his childhood friend Amos Auman, the childhood friend who had been his literal only reason to continue living, his only source a joy but Amos is also a Jew. Unable to kill the one person he cared for he vows to protect Amos from the other SS Soldiers. But nothing is ever easy and the more time the old childhood friends spend together Franz finds himself falling in love with his friend. Bad enough that he is a man, Amos is also a Jew? With everything he has committed his life to beginning to be questioned what will Franz do?
I have to say the relationship between Amos and Franz was beautifully written both the friendship and blossoming romance. Outside of the pair the other characters in the book offer an insight into the horrors of the Holocaust. While it was very descriptive and arguably a little triggering with depictions of violence, torture, child abuse and child murder it was a stark reminder this was what the world that Amos and Franz lived in.
The only thing I did find against this one was the ending. While we find out that both characters will return via the Author’s notes at the end it was a little jarring way to end the way it did. While Franz was obviously the main character Amos had seemingly become almost the same but yet we never really find what happened or how it can all tie together. I am sure this will be wrapped up or explained in future books but has it stood the ending did shock me a bit. Not so much what happened to Franz but switch to a paranormal take. Still this was a good book and I will be looking into more of Hoffmans work.
A few trigger warnings though for those who may pick this up it does involve descriptions of torture, murder, child abuse, child murder. Of course with the historical context it is to be expected but I feel you may need to be in the right headspace to read this one.
March 30, 2023
A WWII story from the POV of a dedicated Nazi SS officer. I don’t think I've read historical fiction from this perspective but I liked how the author did it. The double life that Franz lived and the conflict he faced believing Germans were superior but his Jewish best friend was somehow different od character depth. He was an unlikable character with the thoughts and joy he had about hunting jews, but then when he was with Amos he became more humanized. His childhood also helped understand him more and why he became that way. The story had a little pattern in the way it was structured. Franz went from hunting and torturing Jews to sneaking off to Amos and then it would repeat. The events that happened would be different but the story kind of repeated in that way. I was interested to see what side Franz would eventually take. It was emotional and feels strange to say I enjoyed it overall being the perspective that it was. The epilogue was way out there and a weird way to wrap up after a realistic ending but I was able to look past that.
Thank you @tide.phoenix.coffee for the gifted copy.
Thank you @tide.phoenix.coffee for the gifted copy.
December 26, 2022
In Fracture, Hoffman continues to give us part of the story of the SS brothers, Edmund and Sigmund Rahm. This story takes place prior to the past time frame in Where David Threw Stones.
Franz Keidel is an SS officer that works under the horrible Edmund. Franz grew up with an abusive father and found solace in his best friend, Amos, and his family. When Franz ran away, he lost contact with Amos….until the day the SS officers raid a farm and Franz finds Amos hiding in the barn. To his utmost surprise, Amos never told him that he was Jewish.
While Franz allows Amos to keep hiding and keeps visiting him, we see that true friendship and love can truly overcome even the most evil obstacles. We see the anguish that Franz fights within himself. He is a cruel and viscous man; however, I did find myself sympathizing with him at times. This is truly a unique look into WWII! I am looking forward to more stories about Franz and Amos.
Thank you to R & R Book Tours and Elyse Hoffman for this gifted review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
Franz Keidel is an SS officer that works under the horrible Edmund. Franz grew up with an abusive father and found solace in his best friend, Amos, and his family. When Franz ran away, he lost contact with Amos….until the day the SS officers raid a farm and Franz finds Amos hiding in the barn. To his utmost surprise, Amos never told him that he was Jewish.
While Franz allows Amos to keep hiding and keeps visiting him, we see that true friendship and love can truly overcome even the most evil obstacles. We see the anguish that Franz fights within himself. He is a cruel and viscous man; however, I did find myself sympathizing with him at times. This is truly a unique look into WWII! I am looking forward to more stories about Franz and Amos.
Thank you to R & R Book Tours and Elyse Hoffman for this gifted review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
December 19, 2022
This book was amazing. It starts off innocently enough - a friendship between two boys forged before WWII began. We then jump forward to the midst of the war, and how many things have changed. While nothing can excuse what the SS and Nazis did, this gave us a peek at the motivations behind one person's joining them, and how his beliefs came to be, and were eventually challenged by discovering his life-long friend was in fact Jewish. I loved how much depth the characters had, and appreciated the moments that broke the tension by making me laugh. Hoffman did an excellent job of bringing the whole story to life, and has a unique way of describing things that made this a delight to read. Highly recommend!
February 12, 2023
heartwarming but heartbreaking
This is the story of love and loss in Hitlers Germany. I liked that it dealt with the human aspect and the consequences of forbidden love
This is the story of love and loss in Hitlers Germany. I liked that it dealt with the human aspect and the consequences of forbidden love
December 19, 2022
Controversial opinion I know but I love it when a book crosses a few lines and really makes me use my brain to try and reconcile different thoughts and beliefs and Fracture really did this. It made me feel sympathy and pity for something we’ve been taught not to, it made me feel chilled at the dark depths displayed by some humans and it made me think deep into the psychology of brainwashing and highly influencing vulnerable people. In short – it was absolutely brilliant, heartbreaking and shocking in equal measures. It will not be for everyone, but I found it unique and brave.
Franz is a despicable character but a childhood friend brings out changes in him that really allow the reader to see a different perspective. Franz lives with a serious mantra relating to his childhood and when this was revealed it made so much sense...”if Hitler is wrong, then his father was right” (in his mind). Franz wrestles with such a big dichotomy between his heart and his head and it is gut wrenching. Elyse captures how opposing thoughts and actions can be and this is a reflection on modern, everyday life and how we compartmentalise thoughts and feelings that don’t match what we believe.
Amos is such as sweet character and I adored him. He’s the ying to Franz’s yang and I love how he helped him to realise things. If you strip nationality, and beliefs away – the love story is just beautiful and I was completely rooting for them – until I remembered the circumstances.
Franz’s journey is such an emotionally charged one, filled with a mix of joy, repulsive behaviour and self-loathing. It’s a roller coaster of a journey and I think I felt every single emotion possible.
Elyse is a superbly talented and clever writer. There’s just something about her style that wrings every last emotion from the reader. Even if the subject matter isn’t to your taste – there is no denying how brilliant the characters and atmosphere is written.
The ending was very unexpected but what |I read there is more to come from both Franz and Amos it intrigued me and I cannot wait to find out where the story goes. Until then, I will continue to be haunted by Franz and Amos, their childhoods and how they became who they were. I will continue to ponder nature vs nurture, the impact power can have on a vulnerable mind and how we, as humans, deal with things when we are shown something to not be as we thought.
Franz is a despicable character but a childhood friend brings out changes in him that really allow the reader to see a different perspective. Franz lives with a serious mantra relating to his childhood and when this was revealed it made so much sense...”if Hitler is wrong, then his father was right” (in his mind). Franz wrestles with such a big dichotomy between his heart and his head and it is gut wrenching. Elyse captures how opposing thoughts and actions can be and this is a reflection on modern, everyday life and how we compartmentalise thoughts and feelings that don’t match what we believe.
Amos is such as sweet character and I adored him. He’s the ying to Franz’s yang and I love how he helped him to realise things. If you strip nationality, and beliefs away – the love story is just beautiful and I was completely rooting for them – until I remembered the circumstances.
Franz’s journey is such an emotionally charged one, filled with a mix of joy, repulsive behaviour and self-loathing. It’s a roller coaster of a journey and I think I felt every single emotion possible.
Elyse is a superbly talented and clever writer. There’s just something about her style that wrings every last emotion from the reader. Even if the subject matter isn’t to your taste – there is no denying how brilliant the characters and atmosphere is written.
The ending was very unexpected but what |I read there is more to come from both Franz and Amos it intrigued me and I cannot wait to find out where the story goes. Until then, I will continue to be haunted by Franz and Amos, their childhoods and how they became who they were. I will continue to ponder nature vs nurture, the impact power can have on a vulnerable mind and how we, as humans, deal with things when we are shown something to not be as we thought.
June 3, 2024
This novella hit me like a freight train. It was beautifully written and so hard to read the crazy. Things that happened in the Holocaust are just so heartbreaking but so real. The way that Elyse brings these characters to life. It's incredible. Told from the point of view of a Nazi soilder, this is hard to handle but also spectacular in the fact that we don't get to read very many books told from the enemies perspective. What did they suffer? Were they forced into the things they did? It made me angry, sad and emotional but I really enjoyed it.
August 25, 2023
An unusual thought provoking story of forbidden love and emotional dissonance
This book is told from the viewpoint of an SS officer who was badly a used as a child and ran away from home to serve the Fuhrer. He left behind his one childhood friend, Amos. The friendship he shared with Amos had saved him from committing suicide, but when he ran away he never looked back.
Now many years later Franz serves the SS to the best of his ability without considering the cost until one day, he discovers Amos in hiding and cannot turn him in. Instead he cares for him, provides food and water and a companionship that turns into love.
There is lots of food for thought in this novel as Franz has difficulty being SS when at work and the opposite when with Amos. The novel is not finished which is a drawback. My own preference is for stories that can stand alone.
This book is told from the viewpoint of an SS officer who was badly a used as a child and ran away from home to serve the Fuhrer. He left behind his one childhood friend, Amos. The friendship he shared with Amos had saved him from committing suicide, but when he ran away he never looked back.
Now many years later Franz serves the SS to the best of his ability without considering the cost until one day, he discovers Amos in hiding and cannot turn him in. Instead he cares for him, provides food and water and a companionship that turns into love.
There is lots of food for thought in this novel as Franz has difficulty being SS when at work and the opposite when with Amos. The novel is not finished which is a drawback. My own preference is for stories that can stand alone.
March 30, 2023
Review Fracture by Elyse Hoffman I rate it 4 stars: excellent/ highly recommend.
Thank you to Henry Roi PR, black tide tours and author Elyse Hoffman for the opportunity to review this book.
One of my favourite genres is History, especially true stories from WW2. I have read a great number of stories about people that Hitler thought lesser than human. Stories of survival, stories that include German people helping Jewish people in secret, the stress involved in trying not to get caught. The two different lives they had to live in order to get by.
Fracture of course is a work of fiction but it has elements of truth in it. The cruelty of the SS, the persecution of the Jewish people, as well as homosexuals. This story touches on the emotions of stress, guilt and love. The feeling of being torn in two, the love and loyalty you feel for what you believe in, your country and leader, and the love and loyalty you feel for someone that you know is right and good.
This is a forbidden love story.
Be prepared to become emotionally involved with the characters of this story Franz and Amos as they realise their love for one another is bigger than the war itself.
I really did enjoy this read, but as I read the last few pages I felt lost and wasn’t sure where it was going, then I read the ‘about the author’ page and realised that the fantasy/ supernatural involved takes this story to a whole new level, one that I have never read in this type of historical fiction, as I read further i found out that Franz’s story will continue in future books and that Amos’ story will also continue. So be aware of that, there is more.
Thank you to Henry Roi PR, black tide tours and author Elyse Hoffman for the opportunity to review this book.
One of my favourite genres is History, especially true stories from WW2. I have read a great number of stories about people that Hitler thought lesser than human. Stories of survival, stories that include German people helping Jewish people in secret, the stress involved in trying not to get caught. The two different lives they had to live in order to get by.
Fracture of course is a work of fiction but it has elements of truth in it. The cruelty of the SS, the persecution of the Jewish people, as well as homosexuals. This story touches on the emotions of stress, guilt and love. The feeling of being torn in two, the love and loyalty you feel for what you believe in, your country and leader, and the love and loyalty you feel for someone that you know is right and good.
This is a forbidden love story.
Be prepared to become emotionally involved with the characters of this story Franz and Amos as they realise their love for one another is bigger than the war itself.
I really did enjoy this read, but as I read the last few pages I felt lost and wasn’t sure where it was going, then I read the ‘about the author’ page and realised that the fantasy/ supernatural involved takes this story to a whole new level, one that I have never read in this type of historical fiction, as I read further i found out that Franz’s story will continue in future books and that Amos’ story will also continue. So be aware of that, there is more.
March 29, 2023
TW// mention of suicidal thoughts/intent, abuse, homophobia, rape and torture.
Franz Kiedel hates his life, he feels helpless and afraid of his father and his constant threats of abuse. The days are becoming less and less easier to cope and push through, he just wants to end it all, and be at peace. Amos, his best friend is his shining beacon of light and hope during such dark times, his smile lights him up, and gives him a purpose to stay, tethering him to this world. However, once grown Franz abandons his father to become an officer within the SS ranks. This position gives him something he's never had before, control and power. No longer the helpless and fearful young boy, who watched his best friend take beatings from his father in place of him. He's determined to get high enough in the ranks that he can return home and see his best friend once again. But during a raid, trying to round up the infamous, rebels the Black Foxes, Franz stumbles upon his oldest and dearest friend, who is in hiding from the Nazi's. Facing his biggest and soul tearing dilemma to date, Franz has to choose between the love of his life, or his duty to his regiment.
I really wanted to love this, the premise was so good, but the execution of the story just fell a little flat for me unfortunately. There was just something that didn't click with me, and I'm still trying to work out what that was. I adored Amos, he was such a sweet, gentlehearted man, who never gave up on his best friend, and wanted to show him that he was loved, despite how his father treated him. Franz however, was a different story, now I know he's a Nazi officer, so I understand the fact he's not meant to be likeable but I guess I had high hopes and too much faith in him being redeemable, particularly after he finds Amos again after so long. But of course, he was just as cold and callous with other Jewish people back at the concentration camps in spite of the fact he was constantly shown that his way of thinking was evil and barbaric, he just consistently made excuses for his behaviour.
I also found the plot to be very rushed, I would've liked more of a build up to Amos and Franz's relationship, and their childhood together, and also how their lives continued after being separated until they were once again brought together. With how quickly it progresses, it's hard to feel entirely invested in the relationship and to root for them, as much as I wanted to, it just felt like there wasn't much depth to the characters. I also felt like they didn't stick to their convictions, their attitudes and choices changed so rapidly that it felt like a whirlwind, and I genuinely didn't understand what it was they stood for by the end of it.
On the other hand, this was a hard read at times, hearing about how easily people were brainwashed into believing whatever their dictator pushed, it's truly devastating to remember how easily people can be swayed to change to such drastic and barbaric opinions on fellow human beings. This is actually the first book I've read from the view point of an SS officer, instead of a heroic citizen intent on making a stand, and making a difference, so it was very different but really thought provoking too, particularly when such conflicting feelings and human emotions come up for Franz as his relationship with Amos deepens, and his official duties continue to ramp up.
Overall, this was an okay read, I really wanted to love it because I adore historical fiction, but this one just fell a little flat for me and I couldn't decide whether I enjoyed the ending or not, it was definitely strange, and as I've said I had a lot of lost hope that Franz would redeem himself in some way, although I think personally he deserved his end, it left me a little confused.
Franz Kiedel hates his life, he feels helpless and afraid of his father and his constant threats of abuse. The days are becoming less and less easier to cope and push through, he just wants to end it all, and be at peace. Amos, his best friend is his shining beacon of light and hope during such dark times, his smile lights him up, and gives him a purpose to stay, tethering him to this world. However, once grown Franz abandons his father to become an officer within the SS ranks. This position gives him something he's never had before, control and power. No longer the helpless and fearful young boy, who watched his best friend take beatings from his father in place of him. He's determined to get high enough in the ranks that he can return home and see his best friend once again. But during a raid, trying to round up the infamous, rebels the Black Foxes, Franz stumbles upon his oldest and dearest friend, who is in hiding from the Nazi's. Facing his biggest and soul tearing dilemma to date, Franz has to choose between the love of his life, or his duty to his regiment.
I really wanted to love this, the premise was so good, but the execution of the story just fell a little flat for me unfortunately. There was just something that didn't click with me, and I'm still trying to work out what that was. I adored Amos, he was such a sweet, gentlehearted man, who never gave up on his best friend, and wanted to show him that he was loved, despite how his father treated him. Franz however, was a different story, now I know he's a Nazi officer, so I understand the fact he's not meant to be likeable but I guess I had high hopes and too much faith in him being redeemable, particularly after he finds Amos again after so long. But of course, he was just as cold and callous with other Jewish people back at the concentration camps in spite of the fact he was constantly shown that his way of thinking was evil and barbaric, he just consistently made excuses for his behaviour.
I also found the plot to be very rushed, I would've liked more of a build up to Amos and Franz's relationship, and their childhood together, and also how their lives continued after being separated until they were once again brought together. With how quickly it progresses, it's hard to feel entirely invested in the relationship and to root for them, as much as I wanted to, it just felt like there wasn't much depth to the characters. I also felt like they didn't stick to their convictions, their attitudes and choices changed so rapidly that it felt like a whirlwind, and I genuinely didn't understand what it was they stood for by the end of it.
On the other hand, this was a hard read at times, hearing about how easily people were brainwashed into believing whatever their dictator pushed, it's truly devastating to remember how easily people can be swayed to change to such drastic and barbaric opinions on fellow human beings. This is actually the first book I've read from the view point of an SS officer, instead of a heroic citizen intent on making a stand, and making a difference, so it was very different but really thought provoking too, particularly when such conflicting feelings and human emotions come up for Franz as his relationship with Amos deepens, and his official duties continue to ramp up.
Overall, this was an okay read, I really wanted to love it because I adore historical fiction, but this one just fell a little flat for me and I couldn't decide whether I enjoyed the ending or not, it was definitely strange, and as I've said I had a lot of lost hope that Franz would redeem himself in some way, although I think personally he deserved his end, it left me a little confused.
December 20, 2022
"And no amount of gritting his teeth and mentally declaring that this is different, it's fine, it's not a problem was making the feeling that his soul was being broken apart go away."
Franz Keidel is a perfect SS soldier: loyal, disciplined, and devoted to Hitler With a cold heart, he hunts down his Führer's enemies, but one fateful mission will fracture his shield of ice. While hunting Jews, Franz stumbles across a familiar face: Amos Aumun, his childhood friend. Amos is the only source of joy in Franz's life, but he is also a Jew. Unable to bring himself to kill his friend, Franz vows to protect Amos from his fellow Nazis. As Franz spends more time with Amos, he falls in love with his kind-hearted friend. How could he fall in love with a man, a Jew? How can he continue to hate Jews when a Jew has thawed his icy heart? What will Franz do if he has to choose between love and duty?
This book was a very emotional ride. I mean Franz had a terrible childhood and the only person who ever really showed him compassion was Amos. Fast forward to Nazi Germany, Franz is now an SS officer. On a typical mission to uncover Black Fox members and any hidden Jews, he stumbles upon his old friend hiding in a barn. It is at this moment that Franz first confronts the disconnect between his ideology and his personal beliefs. Franz decides that he will do whatever is necessary to protect Amos. Keep in mind it has been a long time since they've seen one another but Franz feels obligated because Amos gave him so much when they were children.
As the story progresses and the two spend more and more time together, which causes all kinds of trouble for Franz in the work department, a romance develops. I struggled with this because to me the romance that developed between the two of them felt very rushed. I wish it had more time to develop so that I could watch them grow. I also struggled because 90% of their time was Franz hating himself for being in love with a man and a Jew. I just wanted them both to be happy, and Amos always appeared so happy. But Franz was a tormented soul throughout the book.
Now don't get me wrong the author does a marvelous job of showcasing the inner turmoil and struggle of Franz. You can feel alongside him as he is confronted with and tries to compartmentalize loving a Jew, while also hunting down and torturing Jewish people each day. The book was emotional from start to finish and really did not end the way I expected. I don't want to spoil anything but Franz is forced to confront the contradiction in his duty and his love. I just wanted a little more from him in the end. Overall, this book was moving and really begs the question: Does love triumph over all else?
Franz Keidel is a perfect SS soldier: loyal, disciplined, and devoted to Hitler With a cold heart, he hunts down his Führer's enemies, but one fateful mission will fracture his shield of ice. While hunting Jews, Franz stumbles across a familiar face: Amos Aumun, his childhood friend. Amos is the only source of joy in Franz's life, but he is also a Jew. Unable to bring himself to kill his friend, Franz vows to protect Amos from his fellow Nazis. As Franz spends more time with Amos, he falls in love with his kind-hearted friend. How could he fall in love with a man, a Jew? How can he continue to hate Jews when a Jew has thawed his icy heart? What will Franz do if he has to choose between love and duty?
This book was a very emotional ride. I mean Franz had a terrible childhood and the only person who ever really showed him compassion was Amos. Fast forward to Nazi Germany, Franz is now an SS officer. On a typical mission to uncover Black Fox members and any hidden Jews, he stumbles upon his old friend hiding in a barn. It is at this moment that Franz first confronts the disconnect between his ideology and his personal beliefs. Franz decides that he will do whatever is necessary to protect Amos. Keep in mind it has been a long time since they've seen one another but Franz feels obligated because Amos gave him so much when they were children.
As the story progresses and the two spend more and more time together, which causes all kinds of trouble for Franz in the work department, a romance develops. I struggled with this because to me the romance that developed between the two of them felt very rushed. I wish it had more time to develop so that I could watch them grow. I also struggled because 90% of their time was Franz hating himself for being in love with a man and a Jew. I just wanted them both to be happy, and Amos always appeared so happy. But Franz was a tormented soul throughout the book.
Now don't get me wrong the author does a marvelous job of showcasing the inner turmoil and struggle of Franz. You can feel alongside him as he is confronted with and tries to compartmentalize loving a Jew, while also hunting down and torturing Jewish people each day. The book was emotional from start to finish and really did not end the way I expected. I don't want to spoil anything but Franz is forced to confront the contradiction in his duty and his love. I just wanted a little more from him in the end. Overall, this book was moving and really begs the question: Does love triumph over all else?
December 21, 2022
Hoffman’s writing style pulled me in. The honest and direct narrative triggered my emotions, and I dived in with a lot of expectations.
Franz and Amos’s relationship is the central theme, and their intimacy and urgency are well-handled. Even Franz’s turmoil and the risks he takes (though hard to accept and believe) are described well. Amos’s in-depth characterization is very realistic, and I was really invested in him.
Hoffman has tried to pack in too much in too few pages, and we end up with a story going haywire. Child abuse, trauma, war, physical abuse, concentration camp, murder, killings… it’s a bit too much to cover in 100-odd pages. The story is poignantly narrated, but it lacks a comprehensive storyline to justify the setting and time period.
I am a sucker for proper resolutions, and this story’s ending left me wanting. Hoffman does not reveal Amos’s fate and ends the story on a cliffhanger. I was utterly confused with the loose threads, and later I came to know that both Franz and Amos’s stories are part of her upcoming books. I am adding both books to my TBR since I am quite curious to know what life has in store for Franz and Amos.
If the ending was vague, the epilogue is even more dissatisfactory. The author lends a mystical touch to the narrative, and it was a complete show spoiler for me.
Fracture is a raw and hard-hitting story of love, friendship, and turmoil. It could have worked wonders, but unfortunately falls short of expectations.
TW—child abuse, war, killing.
Wordsopedia Rating 3/5
Franz and Amos’s relationship is the central theme, and their intimacy and urgency are well-handled. Even Franz’s turmoil and the risks he takes (though hard to accept and believe) are described well. Amos’s in-depth characterization is very realistic, and I was really invested in him.
Hoffman has tried to pack in too much in too few pages, and we end up with a story going haywire. Child abuse, trauma, war, physical abuse, concentration camp, murder, killings… it’s a bit too much to cover in 100-odd pages. The story is poignantly narrated, but it lacks a comprehensive storyline to justify the setting and time period.
I am a sucker for proper resolutions, and this story’s ending left me wanting. Hoffman does not reveal Amos’s fate and ends the story on a cliffhanger. I was utterly confused with the loose threads, and later I came to know that both Franz and Amos’s stories are part of her upcoming books. I am adding both books to my TBR since I am quite curious to know what life has in store for Franz and Amos.
If the ending was vague, the epilogue is even more dissatisfactory. The author lends a mystical touch to the narrative, and it was a complete show spoiler for me.
Fracture is a raw and hard-hitting story of love, friendship, and turmoil. It could have worked wonders, but unfortunately falls short of expectations.
TW—child abuse, war, killing.
Wordsopedia Rating 3/5
October 3, 2022
I just finished this book and I am trying to come up with a good reason why I would recommend that someone else read it. I will freely admit that maybe I missed the point of it. The "award-winning author" seems to have written many books. The best I can say is that the premise is intriguing--two childhood friends in Germany meet up again during WWII, one is now an SS soldier and the other is a Jew on the run from the Nazis . They become lovers. Then the story falls apart. Perhaps the author realized that she had written herself into a corner--how could this end but badly? For a really well-written take on a similar plot, though, I would recommend John Boyne's The Absolutist--also a very painful book about war (WWI) but brilliantly handled in a way that makes sense both in terms of the plot and emotionally.
In addition to the naturally high angst of the situation, the author here adds in child abuse, torture, the murder of a child, one MC murdering a friend, a concentration camp going up in flames, lots of physical and emotional pain and, very oddly, a totally unsatisfying "mystical' ending in the "afterlife." And that scene (and the book) ends with a snarky comment. And we never do find out what happened to the Jewish MC.
She does a good job with ratcheting up the tension during the lovers' brief honeymoon. But she apparently could not find a way to end the book that made any sense. The reader, at least in my case, is left frustrated and confused.
In addition to the naturally high angst of the situation, the author here adds in child abuse, torture, the murder of a child, one MC murdering a friend, a concentration camp going up in flames, lots of physical and emotional pain and, very oddly, a totally unsatisfying "mystical' ending in the "afterlife." And that scene (and the book) ends with a snarky comment. And we never do find out what happened to the Jewish MC.
She does a good job with ratcheting up the tension during the lovers' brief honeymoon. But she apparently could not find a way to end the book that made any sense. The reader, at least in my case, is left frustrated and confused.
September 26, 2024
A WWII novel about a young German man, Franz, who joins the Nazi SS corps in reaction against his alcoholic abusive father who hated Hitler. He adores Hitler and the Fatherland as giving him something his wretched father never did before he died. He desires to be the perfect SS man, but then events change his outlook. On a raid looking for hidden Jews he finds his only friend from childhood, someone who with his parents had helped him get through his terrible upbringing. He didn't know they were Jewish. Now he decides to try to protect his friend who meant so much to him when he was growing up. The story takes several interesting twists and turns as the two young men come to realize they love each other sexually as well. Franz is the narrator and his soul is tormented by his loyalties and feelings, still wanting to be the best SS man and serve Hitler and yet in love with a Jewish man. The story, which is a short easy read, follows the tormented thoughts of Franz who does evil as an SS man, but harbors a Jew and homosexual protecting them from the Nazi regime. He wrestles with which evil is his worst crime - persecuting Jews or his own sexual desires.
December 2, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is a touching (and forbidden) story of two boys, who are best friends, that grew up together, and would later end up in opposite circumstances.
Our main character, Franz, is an SS Officer (devoted to Hitler), is hunting for Jews (along with his team), when he reunites with his childhood friend, Amos, who we learn is Jewish. Finding him hiding in a barn, he pretends not to see him, thus saving his life. As a result of reuniting with his childhood friend, they resume their friendship and Franz brings him food and (forbidden) books to read.
As their friendship progress, so does their relationship. However, despite his growing feelings for Amos, he still views Jews still in the same image as Hitler (with Amos just being the exception), and while this does not disrupt their relationship, Franz morale wavers, as he separates Amos from the Jews that have been captured. But despite this, he still stands by Hitler's beliefs, claiming that Amos is different.
This is a touching (and forbidden) story of two boys, who are best friends, that grew up together, and would later end up in opposite circumstances.
Our main character, Franz, is an SS Officer (devoted to Hitler), is hunting for Jews (along with his team), when he reunites with his childhood friend, Amos, who we learn is Jewish. Finding him hiding in a barn, he pretends not to see him, thus saving his life. As a result of reuniting with his childhood friend, they resume their friendship and Franz brings him food and (forbidden) books to read.
As their friendship progress, so does their relationship. However, despite his growing feelings for Amos, he still views Jews still in the same image as Hitler (with Amos just being the exception), and while this does not disrupt their relationship, Franz morale wavers, as he separates Amos from the Jews that have been captured. But despite this, he still stands by Hitler's beliefs, claiming that Amos is different.
November 25, 2022
First off, I knew going into this book that it was a MM romance read. I only mention this because I say several other readers mention that they were not aware of this. Although, as far as MM romance books go, this one is on the sweeter side. So, if you are looking to try a MM book, you may want to try this book.
Author, Elyse does a good job of telling Franz and Amos's story. Dealing with the Nazi back in this time was back enough but I can't imagine trying to have a relationship with someone who is supposed to be considered your enemy.
Additionally, I did find this book to be a quick read. I just wished that I could have found myself connecting emotionally better with Franz and Amos. Therefore, I find myself at times not being focused on what I was reading. Although, this is not the last we see of both men. Which I would read the other books featuring these men.
Author, Elyse does a good job of telling Franz and Amos's story. Dealing with the Nazi back in this time was back enough but I can't imagine trying to have a relationship with someone who is supposed to be considered your enemy.
Additionally, I did find this book to be a quick read. I just wished that I could have found myself connecting emotionally better with Franz and Amos. Therefore, I find myself at times not being focused on what I was reading. Although, this is not the last we see of both men. Which I would read the other books featuring these men.
July 9, 2023
Seeing how far this SS man went to protect his friend and lover, I would have sworn that love could ultimately change him and make him a better person. It didn't! And I understand how darkness can take hold of a man's soul, particularly in such cruel and irrational times. That plot twist was both unexpected and brilliant! But the way fantasy gets in the way of Franz's story in the end was a mood killer for me, though it does make me curious whether a future work of the author that continues his story is a fantasy one, or if this is some sort of illusion of his caused by an injury or whatever. One thing is certain: Elyse Hoffman has done it again, leaving me thinking and wanting for more! I am a huge fan of her writing!
March 31, 2023
The soldier Franz Kidel protects Amos Auman, his childhood friend, since he cannot kill the person he loves so much. Amos is a sweetheart, and I really hated Franz at times, but I also had an ambiguous feeling about this character, once most people are not all bad or all good... and I liked him sometimes. The author did a great job of writing about ambiguity. Ambiguous feelings, ambiguous thoughts, choices when the character doesn't have the freedom to really choose... It was a very interesting read. Not a light one, but it is a book that makes people think.
March 28, 2023
An intriguing read! Once I got past the feeling that I was encroaching on the privacy of a couple (totally felt “peeping tom”ish for a bit,) it was just captivating. It’s one of the few that I’d trigger warn for considering the WWII Germany it’s set in and the crimes against humanity that took place which are displayed. The ending, a beautiful twist and awesome cliffhanger. I’ll be checking out the rest of the series.
April 1, 2023
There's no way he can continue to hate Jews when one has softened his hardened heart, right? And will he choose his lover or his patriotic duty if country? On top of thoughtful suspense, this book was an emotional rollercoaster. Franz had no luck as a kid; the only person who gave a crap was Amos. When the SS Officer Franz finds Amos hiding in a barn, he is forced to make incredibly difficult decisions. A love story ensues in the worst war torn, deadly environment imaginable.
January 25, 2024
WWII novel following a few characters dealing with Germany under Hitler.
This is not a WAR novel but a novel about SS officers and those trying
to hide/help Jews.
There are several books in a series that have a few of the characters
in more than one book.
I didn't care for the ending as it was not totally specific/clear what
happened. Can't explain more or will "give away" some of the plot.
This is not a WAR novel but a novel about SS officers and those trying
to hide/help Jews.
There are several books in a series that have a few of the characters
in more than one book.
I didn't care for the ending as it was not totally specific/clear what
happened. Can't explain more or will "give away" some of the plot.
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