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The Lion's Den #6
The Reckoning
Berlin/Paris, 1938/1939—The Day of Reckoning has arrived for the Ritter Family.
With the horrors of the Nazi regime becoming more apparent by the day, Maureen Ritter decides to remain in Paris. There, she meets a disturbed young man who will change the course of history and set the match to a firestorm that will engulf the innocent Jews still in Germany.
Fiona Ritter’s devotion to the Führer will be tested when the nightmare of Kristallnacht consumes Berlin. The foundations she built her life upon these last six years will be shaken as she witnesses the horrific violence and destruction wrought that fateful night.
With the situation in Germany coming to a head, Seamus will be forced to reevaluate the life he’s created for himself and his children in Hitler’s Reich. With time running out to get his Jewish workers to safety, he will be faced with impossible choices. And as the pressures grow, he will be forced to run not just for his own life, but for the lives of everyone he holds most dear.
THE RECKONING is the sixth and final novel in a new series by the #1 Amazon bestselling author of WHITE ROSE, BLACK FOREST, and THE LONGEST ECHO, set in Hitler’s Germany in the 1930s. Download it and discover Eoin Dempsey’s books today.
With the horrors of the Nazi regime becoming more apparent by the day, Maureen Ritter decides to remain in Paris. There, she meets a disturbed young man who will change the course of history and set the match to a firestorm that will engulf the innocent Jews still in Germany.
Fiona Ritter’s devotion to the Führer will be tested when the nightmare of Kristallnacht consumes Berlin. The foundations she built her life upon these last six years will be shaken as she witnesses the horrific violence and destruction wrought that fateful night.
With the situation in Germany coming to a head, Seamus will be forced to reevaluate the life he’s created for himself and his children in Hitler’s Reich. With time running out to get his Jewish workers to safety, he will be faced with impossible choices. And as the pressures grow, he will be forced to run not just for his own life, but for the lives of everyone he holds most dear.
THE RECKONING is the sixth and final novel in a new series by the #1 Amazon bestselling author of WHITE ROSE, BLACK FOREST, and THE LONGEST ECHO, set in Hitler’s Germany in the 1930s. Download it and discover Eoin Dempsey’s books today.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2023
505 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Eoin Dempsey
37 books1,049 followersEoin Dempsey was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1977. He grew up in the beautiful Dublin suburb of Dalkey, where he and his friends would jump into the icy waters of the Irish Sea (during summertime) to prove their manliness. Eoin had a fantastic time attending Blackrock College, where he played rugby (poorly) and did his best to coast his way through. Eoin’s first ambition was to play rugby for Ireland. Due to a lack of talent, he soon abandoned that goal for the more reasoned path of the rock star. He played in bands through his teens and well into his twenties before harsh reality came calling, and his dreams of being the next Keith Moon faded.
Eoin made the ill-reasoned decision to study business in university and was accepted into University College Dublin to study Commerce in 1995. While Eoin did attend college, studying wasn’t his priority there.
He met his beautiful wife, Jill, while traveling to the USA in 1997, though it would be several years before he managed to break her down and they got together as a couple. It was during Eoin’s second stint in the USA, which he spent with his brother in New York City, that he decided to start writing a novel, for the express purpose of impressing women. This effort was met with mixed success. Eoin finished his first novel a year later. The over hundred and fifty rejections he received from publishers didn’t discourage him. He pinned them to his wall. After spending a year in Australia, where he was fired from many jobs, including picking red and green peppers and toiling for scallops miles out to sea on a fishing trawler, he returned home and decided to write again. Another novel followed while he phoned it in at a number of jobs in financial services in Dublin.
By this time Eoin had managed to convince Jill, the girl he’d met in the USA years before to move over to Dublin. She did so in 2004. It was the best negotiation he ever undertook. They were married in 2007. Jill’s more brilliant negotiating skills led Eoin to move to her hometown of Philadelphia in 2008, just in time for the economy to collapse. The plan to live with her parents for a few weeks turned into eighteen months, as Eoin struggled to retain employment in a fractured economy. It was during this time that he wrote FINDING REBECCA, which would go on to be his first published novel and be translated into fourteen different languages.
Eoin and Jill have three beautiful sons, Robbie, who was born in 2015, Sam, born in 2017, and Jack who came in 2019. Eoin enjoys playing with them and marveling at how much more talented they are at the sports that he loves, particularly golf.
Eoin made the ill-reasoned decision to study business in university and was accepted into University College Dublin to study Commerce in 1995. While Eoin did attend college, studying wasn’t his priority there.
He met his beautiful wife, Jill, while traveling to the USA in 1997, though it would be several years before he managed to break her down and they got together as a couple. It was during Eoin’s second stint in the USA, which he spent with his brother in New York City, that he decided to start writing a novel, for the express purpose of impressing women. This effort was met with mixed success. Eoin finished his first novel a year later. The over hundred and fifty rejections he received from publishers didn’t discourage him. He pinned them to his wall. After spending a year in Australia, where he was fired from many jobs, including picking red and green peppers and toiling for scallops miles out to sea on a fishing trawler, he returned home and decided to write again. Another novel followed while he phoned it in at a number of jobs in financial services in Dublin.
By this time Eoin had managed to convince Jill, the girl he’d met in the USA years before to move over to Dublin. She did so in 2004. It was the best negotiation he ever undertook. They were married in 2007. Jill’s more brilliant negotiating skills led Eoin to move to her hometown of Philadelphia in 2008, just in time for the economy to collapse. The plan to live with her parents for a few weeks turned into eighteen months, as Eoin struggled to retain employment in a fractured economy. It was during this time that he wrote FINDING REBECCA, which would go on to be his first published novel and be translated into fourteen different languages.
Eoin and Jill have three beautiful sons, Robbie, who was born in 2015, Sam, born in 2017, and Jack who came in 2019. Eoin enjoys playing with them and marveling at how much more talented they are at the sports that he loves, particularly golf.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 9, 2023
What a wonderful, heart-wrenching, exciting ending to the series!
I'm so happy I found out about this series and was delighted to discover that the author plans a new one starring Maureen. I'm a Jew and a descendant of Holocaust survivors, and I don't think I've ever understood what Kristallnacht really felt like till I read this book. Other parts of the novel and the entire series helped me understand what everyday life must have been like during the period from the Nazi party's first steps to the beginning of WWII. I'm not quite sure how Dempsey managed this, but obviously his research was comprehensive and deep.
I really can't recommend this series enough. It may not be a literary masterpiece, but it is intelligent, informative, highly engrossing and suspenseful. Keep them coming, Demps!
I'm so happy I found out about this series and was delighted to discover that the author plans a new one starring Maureen. I'm a Jew and a descendant of Holocaust survivors, and I don't think I've ever understood what Kristallnacht really felt like till I read this book. Other parts of the novel and the entire series helped me understand what everyday life must have been like during the period from the Nazi party's first steps to the beginning of WWII. I'm not quite sure how Dempsey managed this, but obviously his research was comprehensive and deep.
I really can't recommend this series enough. It may not be a literary masterpiece, but it is intelligent, informative, highly engrossing and suspenseful. Keep them coming, Demps!
November 14, 2023
Unfortunately for fans of "The Lion's Den" Series, this novel will be the last. Mr. Dempsey's next series will feature Seamus Ritter's eldest daughter, Maureen, in post World War Two.
The story picks up in Berlin/Paris during 1938-39. War is imminent in Europe. Seamus decides to help his Jewish employees at the Ritter Factory escape to other countries. But obstacles are a plenty. First, what to do with his company, that was left to him by his late uncle. Seamus shares ownership with the factory with his dire hard, Nazi cousin, Helga.
After Kristallnacht, the Nazis make it increasingly difficult, in not impossible, for the Jews to move out of Germany.
Seamus and his daughter, Maureen, who lives in Paris, devise a plan that may just work: smuggle the Jewish factory employees out of Germany through the mountains into France. Time is of the essence. Maureen hires a French guide to help with this escape. But it is now or never; winter is setting in.
This latest Lion Den Series is part history; with continuing suspense and intrigue.
The story picks up in Berlin/Paris during 1938-39. War is imminent in Europe. Seamus decides to help his Jewish employees at the Ritter Factory escape to other countries. But obstacles are a plenty. First, what to do with his company, that was left to him by his late uncle. Seamus shares ownership with the factory with his dire hard, Nazi cousin, Helga.
After Kristallnacht, the Nazis make it increasingly difficult, in not impossible, for the Jews to move out of Germany.
Seamus and his daughter, Maureen, who lives in Paris, devise a plan that may just work: smuggle the Jewish factory employees out of Germany through the mountains into France. Time is of the essence. Maureen hires a French guide to help with this escape. But it is now or never; winter is setting in.
This latest Lion Den Series is part history; with continuing suspense and intrigue.
February 23, 2023
I finished the Lion's Den series and was glad to have read them all! I must review Dempsey's list of books b/c I thought I'd read them all but my count was 12 books. Goodreads says there are 14!
I am well informed about the Holocaust through reading and volunteering for years for the Holocaust Council at Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ. I have known many Survivors. The reason for mentioning this is that I felt the author really did his research. I knew about the student who murdered the diplomat. The events surrounding Kristallnacht were what I knew. Dempsey added his fictional story but I recognized Kristallnacht.
The character development was gradual throughout the novels. Seamus's life was complicated but he acted in ways to save both his family and his Jewish employees. We saw throughout the books his struggles and conflicts leading to seemingly impossible choices he needed to make.
Also, people during WWII did what they needed to do to stay alive. Dempsey portrayed examples of bravery, survival and risks. After having read the six books in this series, I felt invested in the characters. I've come to know them and how they have evolved with the changing times. At times, I felt as though I were witnessing their struggles first hand. Kudos to Eoin Dempsey!
I am looking forward to the forthcoming series about Maureen.
Now, I'm going to check the list of Eoin Dempsey's books to see if I missed reading any of them!
I am well informed about the Holocaust through reading and volunteering for years for the Holocaust Council at Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ. I have known many Survivors. The reason for mentioning this is that I felt the author really did his research. I knew about the student who murdered the diplomat. The events surrounding Kristallnacht were what I knew. Dempsey added his fictional story but I recognized Kristallnacht.
The character development was gradual throughout the novels. Seamus's life was complicated but he acted in ways to save both his family and his Jewish employees. We saw throughout the books his struggles and conflicts leading to seemingly impossible choices he needed to make.
Also, people during WWII did what they needed to do to stay alive. Dempsey portrayed examples of bravery, survival and risks. After having read the six books in this series, I felt invested in the characters. I've come to know them and how they have evolved with the changing times. At times, I felt as though I were witnessing their struggles first hand. Kudos to Eoin Dempsey!
I am looking forward to the forthcoming series about Maureen.
Now, I'm going to check the list of Eoin Dempsey's books to see if I missed reading any of them!
October 23, 2023
I enjoyed the narration of Joff Manning, who brings out the suspense and action.
Seamus is determined to keep the Jews who work in his factory safe from what is happening in Germany. n Paris , Lisa and Hannah are living in Paris, so is Maureen. Michael and Monica have moved to New York . Each facing dangers and fighting in there own fights. You can feel the pain of the time.
Seamus is determined to keep the Jews who work in his factory safe from what is happening in Germany. n Paris , Lisa and Hannah are living in Paris, so is Maureen. Michael and Monica have moved to New York . Each facing dangers and fighting in there own fights. You can feel the pain of the time.
January 24, 2023
The Reckoning concludes Eoin Dempsey’s The Lion’s Den series as a complete and exciting read. It portrays the history of the rise of the Nazis in Germany through the personal experiences of each member of the fictional Ritter family and individuals who become very real and personal. Each chapter becomes more of a page turner than the previous chapter.
Every member of the Ritter family, maybe 8 including spouses, live on the edge of becoming victims of the powerful Nazi movement in some way. The growth of Hitler’s influence has always been questionable. How could one person gather the support of an entire nation to rally with him, defining themselves as the superior Aryan race, and define the Jews as an inferior population who are a drag on society and must be eradicated? (It is upsetting for me to write that, and I didn’t use the despicable adjectives the Nazis used.)
I worked in Germany and see it as a country of civilized, good people. And yet, Hitler rallied enough of the population to commit unspeakable atrocities. Insight into the techniques successfully used by the Nazis is vividly portrayed through the Ritter family, their personal relationships with others as well as how they experience their own life under the Hitler regime. The good German people were incapable – fearful – of resisting the horrible movement unveiling in their daily lives.
The Reckoning portrays actual historical events with clarity and exploitation of the methods used. Youth in much of history are so influenced by ideals which they embrace with enthusiasm, support with great energies and yet do not see the lies intermingled with the ideals.
It is a comfortably written novel for me and is sprinkled with interesting $100 words which I highlight while reading on my Kindle Fire for a popup definition, i.e.: lebensraum.
I was as fearful for the Ritter family as though they were my own in this most exciting series!
Eoin, please apply your creative talents and energies to exploit more of this time in history.
Every member of the Ritter family, maybe 8 including spouses, live on the edge of becoming victims of the powerful Nazi movement in some way. The growth of Hitler’s influence has always been questionable. How could one person gather the support of an entire nation to rally with him, defining themselves as the superior Aryan race, and define the Jews as an inferior population who are a drag on society and must be eradicated? (It is upsetting for me to write that, and I didn’t use the despicable adjectives the Nazis used.)
I worked in Germany and see it as a country of civilized, good people. And yet, Hitler rallied enough of the population to commit unspeakable atrocities. Insight into the techniques successfully used by the Nazis is vividly portrayed through the Ritter family, their personal relationships with others as well as how they experience their own life under the Hitler regime. The good German people were incapable – fearful – of resisting the horrible movement unveiling in their daily lives.
The Reckoning portrays actual historical events with clarity and exploitation of the methods used. Youth in much of history are so influenced by ideals which they embrace with enthusiasm, support with great energies and yet do not see the lies intermingled with the ideals.
It is a comfortably written novel for me and is sprinkled with interesting $100 words which I highlight while reading on my Kindle Fire for a popup definition, i.e.: lebensraum.
I was as fearful for the Ritter family as though they were my own in this most exciting series!
Eoin, please apply your creative talents and energies to exploit more of this time in history.
January 31, 2023
The great ending
This was a fantastic ending to an extraordinary series. I have followed The Lions Den series since book one and I fell in love with the Ritter Family from the very first page. The author, Eoin Dempsey, magnificently created such impressive and intriguing characters. No matter which character a chapter followed, it was always unputdownable. For Historical Fiction lovers, if you haven’t read the Lions Den series, I strongly suggest that you do. It follows the American Ritter Family as they move from America to Berlin, Germany in 1932. The series follows their time in Berlin from 1932-1939 as the family experiences raising young, impressionable children in Nazi Germany, the coming of age of the eldest Ritter children and their joining of resistance networks, and the patriarch, Seamus, finding his new wife Lisa and building a life together. They navigate through anti-semitism, hatred, murder, corruption, and so much more during their time. Each characters experience is so well-written, you will fall in love with each character and their story, guaranteed!
This book was a perfect ending to their journey and I am so excited that one of the main characters, Maureen, is getting a well-deserved spin-off of her own! Eoin Dempsey is a remarkable and truly talented writer and I am eager to read future books and series by him! This is definitely a must read.
This was a fantastic ending to an extraordinary series. I have followed The Lions Den series since book one and I fell in love with the Ritter Family from the very first page. The author, Eoin Dempsey, magnificently created such impressive and intriguing characters. No matter which character a chapter followed, it was always unputdownable. For Historical Fiction lovers, if you haven’t read the Lions Den series, I strongly suggest that you do. It follows the American Ritter Family as they move from America to Berlin, Germany in 1932. The series follows their time in Berlin from 1932-1939 as the family experiences raising young, impressionable children in Nazi Germany, the coming of age of the eldest Ritter children and their joining of resistance networks, and the patriarch, Seamus, finding his new wife Lisa and building a life together. They navigate through anti-semitism, hatred, murder, corruption, and so much more during their time. Each characters experience is so well-written, you will fall in love with each character and their story, guaranteed!
This book was a perfect ending to their journey and I am so excited that one of the main characters, Maureen, is getting a well-deserved spin-off of her own! Eoin Dempsey is a remarkable and truly talented writer and I am eager to read future books and series by him! This is definitely a must read.
January 10, 2023
Want to climb inside a time machine headed into the past during the onset of WW2, to experience historical events for yourself ? When an author makes this possible….jump aboard!
Best-selling author, Eoin Dempsey, makes it possible for his readers to visit the 1939 of Berlin and Paris, in his latest release, The Reckoning. Those familiar with this author, expect to be emerged in a good read….and there is no disappointment! As the title infers, this historical fiction presents the coming to fruition of all that is family fragmenting and earth-shattering, due to the onset of war.
Throughout chapters, the author keeps the dialogue believable, and the action is tense. Become mesmerized by the sights and sounds of Kristallnacht, a significant and explosive facet of WW2. This historical date, becomes a reality we share with the callous, the innocent, and the brave.
This title will be the last for this series of six. It will be sad to let go of these appealing characters, which over this series, have come to hold our affection and attention.
Thanks is extended to the author and BookFunnel for an advance review copy.
Best-selling author, Eoin Dempsey, makes it possible for his readers to visit the 1939 of Berlin and Paris, in his latest release, The Reckoning. Those familiar with this author, expect to be emerged in a good read….and there is no disappointment! As the title infers, this historical fiction presents the coming to fruition of all that is family fragmenting and earth-shattering, due to the onset of war.
Throughout chapters, the author keeps the dialogue believable, and the action is tense. Become mesmerized by the sights and sounds of Kristallnacht, a significant and explosive facet of WW2. This historical date, becomes a reality we share with the callous, the innocent, and the brave.
This title will be the last for this series of six. It will be sad to let go of these appealing characters, which over this series, have come to hold our affection and attention.
Thanks is extended to the author and BookFunnel for an advance review copy.
February 13, 2023
It says a lot for Eoin Dempsey's skill as a storyteller that I have waited avidly for each book in his Lion's Den series. This final volume, The Reckoning, was as heartstopping and satisfying as the five that came before it.
These novels are best read in series order, as we follow the characters through their ups and downs during pre-war Nazi Germany.
The thread that runs through them all and binds them together, and to us, their readers, is heart.
Despite the darkest of settings, and horrific events, the main characters are relatably human - flawed but good people. I particularly enjoy the roles played by strong, courageous women, one of whom is set to have a series devoted to her.
Well done, Mr Dempsey!
These novels are best read in series order, as we follow the characters through their ups and downs during pre-war Nazi Germany.
The thread that runs through them all and binds them together, and to us, their readers, is heart.
Despite the darkest of settings, and horrific events, the main characters are relatably human - flawed but good people. I particularly enjoy the roles played by strong, courageous women, one of whom is set to have a series devoted to her.
Well done, Mr Dempsey!
January 25, 2023
Excellent
This review covers all 6 books in the Lion's Den series. This was a wonderful series. It covers the lives of an American family beginning in 1932 when the US was in the throes of the Depression. An unexpected job offer from a relative takes them to Germany. The story line revolves around their lives during Hitler's rise to power from 1932 until the beginning of WW2 in1939. This was a different book for me given it's setting & timeline. The characters are well developed. There is plenty of suspense. I highly recommend these 6 novels. Looking forward to the next series.
This review covers all 6 books in the Lion's Den series. This was a wonderful series. It covers the lives of an American family beginning in 1932 when the US was in the throes of the Depression. An unexpected job offer from a relative takes them to Germany. The story line revolves around their lives during Hitler's rise to power from 1932 until the beginning of WW2 in1939. This was a different book for me given it's setting & timeline. The characters are well developed. There is plenty of suspense. I highly recommend these 6 novels. Looking forward to the next series.
March 3, 2023
The Lion’s Den Series, Book 6 The Reckoning, by Eoin Dempsey. A great ending for a very intriguing series. The series follows a family from New York to Berlin to work with a relative to run a manufacturing plant. As the Nazi’s come to power, the plant becomes a munitions plant and makes bullets and weapons for war. The six books are about the father, Seamus Ritter, his 4 children, and their lives in Berlin until 1939 when they leave for America. It is a very good and well written set of books. The good thing is the length of each book is less than 300 pages so you don’t have to set aside a week of your life to read each one. Enjoy!
January 25, 2023
I have loved this series and this was the final book in it. The Ritter family is separated - Seamus and his son and youngest daughter remain in Berlin in the final years of the 1930’s and are faced with the rise of the Nazis. His wife and remainder of his children have left for France and are facing their own difficulties there. The day of reckoning is coming and tough decisions will have to be made if the family is to survive. I am sorry to see the series come to an end but happy the story will continue in a new series. Highly recommend
January 27, 2023
Wonderful Conclusion To An Unforgettable Series
I have enjoyed Eoin Dempsey’s writing ever since I read Finding Rebecca several years ago. The Ritter family series is top-notch and I eagerly awaited each installment. The final volume is no exception. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened to each of them and simply couldn’t put the book down through the countless surprises and plot twists. I look forward to reading Maureen’s series when it is released!
I have enjoyed Eoin Dempsey’s writing ever since I read Finding Rebecca several years ago. The Ritter family series is top-notch and I eagerly awaited each installment. The final volume is no exception. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened to each of them and simply couldn’t put the book down through the countless surprises and plot twists. I look forward to reading Maureen’s series when it is released!
February 11, 2023
What a brillant series I have read. Absolutely gob smacked! The final book The Reckoning was heart stopping in many parts and I was unable to put down. The whole series helped me understand how the Germans really had no way to avoid the Nazi’s and could not see the horrors that one man in his madness could destroy a country and the people.
Highly recommend and will be looking forward to Maureen’s story when released. Thankyou Mr Dempsey for a wonderful series, love your work!
Highly recommend and will be looking forward to Maureen’s story when released. Thankyou Mr Dempsey for a wonderful series, love your work!
January 15, 2023
I love his writing style and subject matter. This series was very enlightening in regards to my poor knowledge of WWII. I thoroughly enjoyed every character, the expansive news of their personalities was amazing. I can't wait for the next series. This is an author that makes you want to read everything he's written!!!
January 25, 2023
Wow! I can’t say much else because of spoilers, but this book had me on the edge of my seat!! I read it all day, the minute it downloaded, just finished it. Best line of the book? “Maureen will return, with her own series!” I really want to see this story continue until the end of the war. And I’d love to see Seamus get control of his factory and home in western-controlled Betlin, I hope!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2023
Wonderful book/series
I read this book in a couple of sittings could not put it down. Eoin has a masterful way with words. It is evident he has done alot of research!. Can't wait for Mareen's books. I highly recommend this series if you are interested in W W 2 and an American family who had a different take on things!
I read this book in a couple of sittings could not put it down. Eoin has a masterful way with words. It is evident he has done alot of research!. Can't wait for Mareen's books. I highly recommend this series if you are interested in W W 2 and an American family who had a different take on things!
January 27, 2023
A Great Accomplishment
The kind of series one can't escape from. When you have time you are drawn to this continuing saga, and once again you open the book to see what happens. The books are that good.
When reading this series the world around me stopped and I was transported back in history. Please send email when Maureen's adventure continues.
The kind of series one can't escape from. When you have time you are drawn to this continuing saga, and once again you open the book to see what happens. The books are that good.
When reading this series the world around me stopped and I was transported back in history. Please send email when Maureen's adventure continues.
January 29, 2023
Moving series
I have now completed the entire series, and thoroughly enjoyed all six books. Mr. Dempsey is a accomplished author, and the storyline never wandered. It was at times exciting, and othertimes incredibly sad, as that time in history actually was. I am looking forward to reading the next chapters in Maureen Ritters life!
I have now completed the entire series, and thoroughly enjoyed all six books. Mr. Dempsey is a accomplished author, and the storyline never wandered. It was at times exciting, and othertimes incredibly sad, as that time in history actually was. I am looking forward to reading the next chapters in Maureen Ritters life!
June 21, 2023
I can't say that I actually enjoyed reading this book..
This book was so well written that you felt you were actually there. It was not pleasant reading in places but you knew that there would be drama and hope villagers thing would work out well in the end.
It was compulsive reading.
This book was so well written that you felt you were actually there. It was not pleasant reading in places but you knew that there would be drama and hope villagers thing would work out well in the end.
It was compulsive reading.
January 27, 2023
This series is a must read.
Eoin Dempsey is a fantastic historical fiction writer. This Lions Den series I could not put down. I now have read all of Dempsey’s books and my only regret is that there are no more, at this moment…
Eoin Dempsey is a fantastic historical fiction writer. This Lions Den series I could not put down. I now have read all of Dempsey’s books and my only regret is that there are no more, at this moment…
February 1, 2023
Excellent series!!
All six books of this series are excellent! As a history enthusiast, I would say that Eoin Dempsey hit the nail on the head. As an avid reader, I would say that this series is one that you can't put down.
All six books of this series are excellent! As a history enthusiast, I would say that Eoin Dempsey hit the nail on the head. As an avid reader, I would say that this series is one that you can't put down.
February 2, 2023
great
A super book being someone who loves history I really admire any person who stopped Hitlers decision to rid Germany of the Jewish faith. There are many courageous people who helped and kept people away from the camps lest we forget .
A super book being someone who loves history I really admire any person who stopped Hitlers decision to rid Germany of the Jewish faith. There are many courageous people who helped and kept people away from the camps lest we forget .
March 4, 2023
I loved all the books in the Lions Den series. Great characters and good storylines. I was totally immersed in the books. It was interesting to view the Nazis rise to power from the German people’s point of view and how society at large was affected by the manipulations of Hitler and his cohorts.
March 14, 2023
A Wonderful Series
I do not usually read any book series. I am so happy I started this one. I enjoyed each one. I looked forward to the next one and actually was sad when I completed the 6th book.
I love this author.
I do not usually read any book series. I am so happy I started this one. I enjoyed each one. I looked forward to the next one and actually was sad when I completed the 6th book.
I love this author.
July 12, 2023
The Lion’s Den Series
My spouse turned me on to this series. I couldn’t hardly put it down!! Great story with great characters. This, so far is one of the best stories I have read. I would totally recommend this series to family and friends.
My spouse turned me on to this series. I couldn’t hardly put it down!! Great story with great characters. This, so far is one of the best stories I have read. I would totally recommend this series to family and friends.
August 20, 2023
Not really a series type of girl
With that being said this entire series was awesome, kept me interested and kept me looking forward to next book. So far I have read all of this authors books and can honestly say he’s quickly becoming one of my favorites!
With that being said this entire series was awesome, kept me interested and kept me looking forward to next book. So far I have read all of this authors books and can honestly say he’s quickly becoming one of my favorites!
July 16, 2024
OMG!!! The Reckoning and the entire series of The Lion's Den exceeded my expectations.
What I liked about The Reckoning:
From the first page of The Reckoning to the last, I was on the edge of my seat. The suspense had my heart racing, and the drama kept me emotionally invested throughout. It's bittersweet to see this incredible series come to an end, but I'm thrilled that Eoin has expanded the universe with a series around Maureen and now Monika.
I can't emphasize enough how much I love Eoin Dempsey's writing. His style just clicks with me, and I find myself completely lost in his words. The way he blends historical details into his plots is simply masterful. I've read a lot of historical fiction, and I can confidently say that Dempsey is in a league of his own.
What really sets his work apart for me is the character development. Eoin Dempsey continuously evolves each character, making them feel incredibly real and relatable. I found myself sympathizing with them throughout their joys, sorrows, and everything in between. His talent for bringing characters to life made me feel as though I was walking in their shoes. I became fully invested in each character's journey, holding my breath as they ventured into uncharted territory.
What I disliked about The Reckoning:
I have no complaints about the book itself. However, Eoin's historical fiction books can be a shock to the system. Not only is it difficult to confront the harsh historical realities portrayed throughout the series, but what truly disturbs me is recognizing how similar circumstances could arise today. This eye-opening read has profoundly shifted my view on both history and current affairs, emphasizing the crucial need to learn from our past.
What I think would have made The Reckoning better:
Eoin's writing has me completely hooked. With every page I turned, I found myself falling deeper into the world he's created, to the point where I'm now left yearning for more. The characters have become so real to me that I can't bear to say goodbye. I caught myself wishing for just one more chapter, one more glimpse into their lives, one more historical revelation. This series isn't just a read—it was an experience that I'm not ready to let go of.
Would I recommend The Reckoning by Eoin Dempsey:
Eoin Dempsey's The Lion's Den series is a must-read that'll keep you glued to the pages. His storytelling is exceptional, blending captivating narratives with eye-opening historical insights that feel startlingly relevant to today's world. Dempsey's deep knowledge brings the past to life, revealing the dark underbelly of regimes built on deception. It's not just entertaining—it's a perspective-altering experience that'll have you eagerly awaiting his next book. Don't miss out on this series!
****
In 1938-1939 Berlin and Paris, the Ritter family faces a reckoning as Nazi horrors escalate. Maureen stays in Paris, encountering a troubled youth who'll spark events affecting German Jews. In Berlin, Fiona's Nazi loyalty is shaken by Kristallnacht's violence. Seamus struggles to save his Jewish workers and protect his family as time runs out, forcing difficult choices and a desperate flight for survival. This pivotal period tests the Ritters' beliefs, loyalties, and will to survive in a rapidly deteriorating Nazi Germany.
What I liked about The Reckoning:
From the first page of The Reckoning to the last, I was on the edge of my seat. The suspense had my heart racing, and the drama kept me emotionally invested throughout. It's bittersweet to see this incredible series come to an end, but I'm thrilled that Eoin has expanded the universe with a series around Maureen and now Monika.
I can't emphasize enough how much I love Eoin Dempsey's writing. His style just clicks with me, and I find myself completely lost in his words. The way he blends historical details into his plots is simply masterful. I've read a lot of historical fiction, and I can confidently say that Dempsey is in a league of his own.
What really sets his work apart for me is the character development. Eoin Dempsey continuously evolves each character, making them feel incredibly real and relatable. I found myself sympathizing with them throughout their joys, sorrows, and everything in between. His talent for bringing characters to life made me feel as though I was walking in their shoes. I became fully invested in each character's journey, holding my breath as they ventured into uncharted territory.
What I disliked about The Reckoning:
I have no complaints about the book itself. However, Eoin's historical fiction books can be a shock to the system. Not only is it difficult to confront the harsh historical realities portrayed throughout the series, but what truly disturbs me is recognizing how similar circumstances could arise today. This eye-opening read has profoundly shifted my view on both history and current affairs, emphasizing the crucial need to learn from our past.
What I think would have made The Reckoning better:
Eoin's writing has me completely hooked. With every page I turned, I found myself falling deeper into the world he's created, to the point where I'm now left yearning for more. The characters have become so real to me that I can't bear to say goodbye. I caught myself wishing for just one more chapter, one more glimpse into their lives, one more historical revelation. This series isn't just a read—it was an experience that I'm not ready to let go of.
Would I recommend The Reckoning by Eoin Dempsey:
Eoin Dempsey's The Lion's Den series is a must-read that'll keep you glued to the pages. His storytelling is exceptional, blending captivating narratives with eye-opening historical insights that feel startlingly relevant to today's world. Dempsey's deep knowledge brings the past to life, revealing the dark underbelly of regimes built on deception. It's not just entertaining—it's a perspective-altering experience that'll have you eagerly awaiting his next book. Don't miss out on this series!
****
In 1938-1939 Berlin and Paris, the Ritter family faces a reckoning as Nazi horrors escalate. Maureen stays in Paris, encountering a troubled youth who'll spark events affecting German Jews. In Berlin, Fiona's Nazi loyalty is shaken by Kristallnacht's violence. Seamus struggles to save his Jewish workers and protect his family as time runs out, forcing difficult choices and a desperate flight for survival. This pivotal period tests the Ritters' beliefs, loyalties, and will to survive in a rapidly deteriorating Nazi Germany.
January 23, 2023
This is Book 6 of a saga of the Ritter family, whose father's origins were in Germany.
The first book starts out in Newark, NJ during the great depression.
The family after many trials and tribulations moves to Berlin, Germany in 1932. The family goes from rags to wealth when they move to Germany.
Then the family ends up in a very different environment with the rise of Hitler and The Nazi regime. The story continues thru 1936 Olympics. Part of the family moved to Paris for safety reasons. You feel like they are sitting in your home relating their life story.
In this 6th book the family gets reunited after Kristallnacht and make life altering decisions as the saga continues. While this is the last book in the series, it is not the end of the story. Seamus Ritter’s, the main character, daughter’s role in saving people in Europe is about to be written.
I am looking forward to their continuing history, as with this book and the prior ones you feel like you are connected to the characters and hope all goes well for them.
The accuracy of the details in these books makes you feel like you were there during this time period. They are all terrific historical novels.
The author has written other books which are also terrific, but this series is A++++.
April 14, 2023
This is book 6 (final) of the Lion's Den Series. This series was remarkably well written and completely engrossing. It follows a family's lives beginning in poverty in the Depression in America, then a life of great wealth in Germany. The early days of Hitler coming into power was described in very real, believable words. You felt as it must have been in Germany. I admit, I was reluctant to read further after the 1st book knowing what history had in store. But the character development, the view of life through Seamus (the father), a daughter who was a Resistance fighter, another daughter caught up in the Nazi "truth", the son who strived to be an Olympian, Jewish workers,.... and so much more. I was unable to put down the books. No spoilers - but I was thrilled to learn there will be more coming featuring Maureen, the Resistance fighter! I'm so glad Amazon Kindle Unlimited made these books available. I read "The Longest Echo" by Eoin Dempsey some years ago, and recommended to my book club. Everyone loved the book. I would highly recommend to all....
June 25, 2025
This review is really focused on the complete Lion’s Den series not just book #6.
The author gets off to a little bit of a slow start in book one ( a little repetitivlely introspective with Seamus his main character) but eventually decisions are made and the Ritter family are off and running.
A lot of great historical detail for anyone who is interested in the Weimar Republic and Hitler’s rise to power mostly in personal and family details which impacted everyday people in their daily lives. I have a fair knowledge of the period and found that the author wove many historical figures in to the series and you get perspectives from so many aspects os society, business, culture, youth, antisemitism etc. I read the series in a continuum so it was like a saga.
I was sorry not to see some notes in the Kindle edition by the author on how he got so interested in the period and how he does his research, travel, books, interviews, diaries etc.
The books are not dense and therefore move right along with good pacing.
I really enjoyed the series and definitely recommend it.
The author gets off to a little bit of a slow start in book one ( a little repetitivlely introspective with Seamus his main character) but eventually decisions are made and the Ritter family are off and running.
A lot of great historical detail for anyone who is interested in the Weimar Republic and Hitler’s rise to power mostly in personal and family details which impacted everyday people in their daily lives. I have a fair knowledge of the period and found that the author wove many historical figures in to the series and you get perspectives from so many aspects os society, business, culture, youth, antisemitism etc. I read the series in a continuum so it was like a saga.
I was sorry not to see some notes in the Kindle edition by the author on how he got so interested in the period and how he does his research, travel, books, interviews, diaries etc.
The books are not dense and therefore move right along with good pacing.
I really enjoyed the series and definitely recommend it.
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